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Joe Biden was hounded for his age-related gaffes, but Trump’s increasingly strange behavior has largely been ignored Trump’s Public Comments Raise Renewed Concerns Over Mental Fitness in Second Term Washington, D.C. – August 2025 President Donald Trump is once again facing scrutiny over his mental sharpness following a string of unusual public remarks and factual misstatements during recent official appearances. In July, while on an overseas visit to the UK, Trump abruptly changed the subject during a meeting with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, launching into an unprompted speech about wind turbines. “We will not allow a windmill to be built in the United States. They’re killing us. They’re killing the beauty of our scenery,” he said, later adding that wind turbines were disturbing whales and killing birds—claims that lack scientific backing. The moment was one of several recent examples prompting renewed public and expert concern about Trump’s cognitive condition during his second term. At age 79, the president has frequently veered off-topic during speeches, meetings, and interviews. Earlier this summer, he spent over ten minutes at a cabinet meeting discussing furniture and light fixtures, rather than the scheduled topics of global conflict and domestic crises. Mental health professionals observing his behavior have cited signs such as sudden digressions, confusion over facts, and a pattern of confabulation—where real memories are combined with fictional details. Dr. Harry Segal, a lecturer in psychology and psychiatry at Cornell and Weill Cornell Medicine, said Trump often changes topics “without self-regulation or a coherent narrative.” In another widely noted moment last month, Trump claimed that his late uncle, Dr. John Trump, had taught domestic terrorist Ted Kaczynski at MIT. The claim is not possible—Kaczynski never attended MIT, and John Trump died in 1985, more than a decade before Kaczynski’s identity was publicly revealed. Trump also made unverified claims about U.S. foreign aid. Speaking about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, he said the United States had provided $60 million in aid “two weeks ago,” and suggested no other countries had contributed. However, no official record of such a recent U.S. donation exists, while both the UK and the European Union have provided tens of millions in aid to Gaza over the past two months. Despite the growing list of public missteps, the White House has pushed back on the criticism. Spokesperson Liz Huston called concerns about Trump’s mental acuity “politically motivated attacks,” and described the president as “mentally sharp and working tirelessly for the American people.” Supporters have also defended Trump. Congressman Ronny Jackson, a former White House physician, described Trump as “the healthiest and most mentally fit president this country has ever had.” Another physician, Dr. Sean Barbabella, issued a statement in April affirming that Trump “exhibits excellent cognitive and physical health.” Still, mental health experts outside the administration have expressed growing concern. Dr. Richard A. Friedman, a professor of psychiatry at Weill Cornell, said Trump's public behavior—including rambling speech, off-topic answers, and repetition—would typically warrant a full neuropsychiatric assessment. Psychologist Dr. John Gartner, who has studied Trump’s public communication for years, said the president's verbal and cognitive decline is marked compared to footage from past decades. “He used to speak in organized, structured thoughts. Now he often struggles to complete a single thought coherently.” The issue has drawn comparisons to former President Joe Biden, whose own public missteps during the 2024 campaign led to widespread speculation about his fitness for office and contributed to his decision not to seek re-election. As the Trump administration continues into its second year of this term, questions about the president’s cognitive state are becoming harder to ignore. Lawmakers and commentators from both parties are now openly discussing the implications for leadership, policy, and national security. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Analysis by Adam Cabbatt - The Guardian 2025-08-04

Discover the Spirit of Southeast Asia! Informative and engaging: It offers a well-researched and engaging exploration of the history, culture, and customs associated with these celebrations. Perfect for travelers and enthusiasts: The book is ideal for anyone interested in travel, cultural studies, or simply curious about the joyous heart of Southeast Asia. “Festivals of Southeast Asia” is a vibrant journey through the heart of six Southeast Asian countries—Thailand, Indonesia, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Myanmar. With over 250 captivating photographs and rare insights, this beautifully crafted book unveils nearly 50 traditional festivals, their deep cultural roots, and their ancient connections with India. A must-read for heritage lovers, travelers, researchers, students, and curious minds seeking to understand the rhythm, rituals, and stories that shape this diverse region. Ramayana Footprints In Southeast Asian Culture and Heritage. Tracing the Timeless Journey of the Ramayana Across Asia “Ramayana Footprints in South-East Asian Culture and Heritage” by Anita Bose is a compelling exploration of how one of India’s greatest epics transcended borders to shape the art, rituals, literature, and spiritual landscapes of Southeast Asia. From Thailand to Indonesia, Cambodia to Laos, Vietnam to Myanmar, this richly researched book uncovers the unique local expressions of the Ramayana—through temple reliefs, masked dance dramas, folklore, and sacred festivals—while revealing their deep-rooted connections with Indian traditions. A must-read for scholars, travelers, cultural enthusiasts, and anyone interested in Asia’s shared spiritual heritage, this book offers a rare window into the cross-cultural journey of an epic that continues to inspire millions. Books are available at ASIA BOOKS and Kinokuniya in Thailand . Also at Tsutaya Book in Cambodia . About the Author Anita Bose is an Indian author, heritage researcher, and talented artist, Guide of National Museum Bangkok, Educator based in Southeast Asia. Her work explores the deep cultural and spiritual ties between India and Southeast Asia through festivals, epics, folklore, and visual traditions. She is the author of the best-selling book “Festivals of Southeast Asia” and “Ramayana Footprints in South-East Asian Culture and Heritage” . She has been honored with the Bengal Pride Global Award by UK Parliament members at the House of Commons, Fox Story India’s 100 Most Influential Women Award, and the Deepotsav Award by Hon’ble Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for her contribution to cultural preservation. AITA BOSE REEL 2 FINAL 4.0.mp4 Spomsored article.

The shocking alleged crimes were brought into the spotlight after videos circulated on TikTok PARIS — A 26-year-old neonatal nurse has been charged with child sex abuse in France after allegedly filming herself mistreating babies at a Paris-area hospital and sharing the sick footage with her boyfriend. The shocking case has rocked the nation and triggered protests at the André Grégoire Hospital in Montreuil, where the woman worked exclusively in the neonatal intensive care unit. Outrage erupted after disturbing videos surfaced on TikTok, warning of “a scandal in a hospital in the 93rd arrondissement.” Shortly after, the nurse reportedly walked into a police station and confessed, implicating her 28-year-old partner in the abuse. Investigators say the pair exchanged explicit videos of the crimes between December 2024 and January 2025. At least two infant victims have so far been identified from the footage. The nurse now faces charges of sexually assaulting minors and distributing child abuse material. Her boyfriend is accused of complicity in the abuse. The footage, which allegedly leaked onto social media, prompted widespread disgust online and on the streets. Furious demonstrators, including parents, stormed the hospital on Saturday demanding answers. They were peacefully removed, but their questions went unanswered. In response, the hospital group Grand Paris Nord-Est confirmed the nurse had been suspended and condemned her alleged actions as a “serious personal failing.” They stressed the abuse was not reflective of hospital practices. Authorities have placed both suspects under judicial supervision, despite calls for pre-trial detention. The investigation is ongoing. Families who gave birth at the facility—even as far back as a year ago—have reportedly been flooding the hospital with calls, fearing the worst. The case has sparked a firestorm of public anger and horror in France, with many demanding stricter safeguards for newborn care. Adapted by ASEAN Now 2025-08-03

Despite calls from the Arab League to disarm, Hamas says it refuses to do so until an independent Palestinian state is established. By that the terrorist group means it will never disarm, because it knows that no Palestinian state will ever be established. Certainly not the state they envisage, which is a far cry from the two-state solution that Starmer, Macron and Carney seem to have in mind. Hamas want a one-state solution, an Islamic State encompassing the entirety of Israel, Gaza and the West Bank. Hence their slogan “from the river to the sea”, mouthed incessantly on university campuses and the streets of our cities by uncomprehending hordes. Hamas’s founding charter demands the annihilation of Israel and the death of Jews everywhere. Despite a cosmetic “revision” and English language statements made to fool Westerners, this has never been repudiated and remains their unwavering goal. The leadership of Hamas are vicious, bloodthirsty terrorists, many of them multi millionaires enriched by decades stealing aid meant for the people of Gaza. But they are far from being fools. They understand that Israel will never surrender to them and they will never have the military power to drive the Israelis out. Their best shot was October 7 in 2023, which was supposed to be supported by an invasion by Hezbollah from the north and backed by rocket fire from Iran’s other “ring of fire” terrorist proxies. They murdered, raped, tortured, kidnapped and burned but failed to achieve what they intended. Instead their actions drove Gaza to ruin and decimated their own fighting strength. But they will fight on fanatically for as long as they are physically able to do so. Hamas is a miniature version of al-Qaeda. Like Hamas, Bin Laden sought an Islamic caliphate, but on a global scale. And like Hamas, he didn’t expect to achieve it in his life-time or even for generations. He saw his role as killing, destruction and economic damage. The purpose was to demoralise the West and “apostate” Muslim regimes, creating strife and division around the world until eventually the caliphate would be established. Hamas and Iran’s other regional proxies have a similar intent, though the ayatollahs in Tehran sought to speed things up by developing nuclear weapons. Although their tactics and public-facing rhetoric are different, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas’s Fatah party have pretty much the same objective as Hamas. That’s why the US State Department recently sanctioned them for funding and supporting terrorism and inculcating violent jihad into their population. Israel has no choice but to continue to suppress terrorism in the West Bank, in which Hamas is also heavily involved, to prevent the territory going the way of Gaza. Likewise in Gaza itself there is no political solution; Hamas can be dealt with only by military destruction. That means continuing the war until they are no longer a threat. That might include fostering internal military opposition, which is being tried, and forcing the leadership out of Gaza to a country willing to take them, which is also being planned. Starmer, Macron and Carney’s demands that Israel ends the war on pain of recognition of a Palestinian state means the fighting is likely to go on longer. Not only do these politicians encourage and empower Hamas for the immediate fight, they also validate their terrorist tactics. Unfortunately the leaders of Britain, France and Germany are not breaking new ground in their miscalculations. For decades, in the face of violence against Israel, the first resort of the professional peace processors, politicians, diplomats and UN officials has been to appease the aggressors and attack and vilify Israel, demanding concessions while never demanding anything of their enemies. At the same time they have perverted international law to paint Israel as the oppressors and those who oppose them as the victims. That has led to Hamas intensifying and developing their human shield tactics knowing Israel will be branded baby-killers. That is also why Hamas, in cahoots with the UN, have weaponised hunger in Gaza leading to a successful propaganda campaign falsely accusing Israel of yet more war crimes. This, often disgracefully utilising photographs of young children suffering from unrelated genetic medical conditions to falsely show starvation, is among the most powerful levers applied to push Keir Starmer into his recent actions against Israel. After visiting Gaza, US Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff confirmed yesterday that “There is hardship and shortage, but no starvation”. The shameful truth is that Starmer, Macron and Carney do have sufficient insight into the same reality as Witkoff, but lack the moral courage to stand up against the hurricane of lies about starvation, unlawful killing and the other trumped up charges against Israel. In each case their priority is to appease the anti-Israel mobs among their own electorates. Their eyes are not on aiding an ally under pressure or the dire consequences at home of encouraging jihadism abroad, but on the ballot boxes. Richard Kemp @ The Telegraph/ 03 August 2025 1:47pm BST

Campaigners plan to protest in such numbers that criminal justice system will be overloaded Pro-Palestine Protesters Plan Mass Defiance of UK Terror Laws Thousands of pro-Palestinian activists are preparing to openly defy UK terror laws in a coordinated push to overwhelm police and challenge the recent ban on the group Palestine Action, The Telegraph has revealed. Campaigners from far-Left organisations and sections of the Muslim community are urging mass attendance at a protest on Saturday, with plans to publicly express support for the now-proscribed group — an act punishable by up to 14 years in prison under the Terrorism Act 2000. Since July 5, over 200 people have already been arrested for showing support for Palestine Action. Now, activists are aiming to flood the criminal justice system in what they call a mass act of civil resistance. The planned protests — focused in Westminster, but mirrored in towns and cities nationwide — pose a major test for Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, as the government grapples with a 25-year court backlog and a growing prison overcrowding crisis. Plot Exposed After Birmingham Meeting The Telegraph uncovered the plan after attending a Cage International event in Birmingham, where former Guantanamo detainee Moazzam Begg rallied support for the protest. “I urge everybody to join the action on August 9,” said Begg. “Those from the Muslim community… we must engage our leaders. There is strength in numbers. Stop being cowards — cowards never win battles.” Roughly 30 to 40 attendees joined the meeting, many wearing Palestinian keffiyehs and waving flags. Organisers pitched the gathering as a strategic planning session to “liberate Palestine, crush Zionism and end genocide in Gaza.” Angie Zelter, of Defend Our Juries, another group backing the action, told the audience: “We must face down the rising tide of fascism in Britain.” She said some now see terrorism arrests as a badge of honour. Leaked Briefing Warns of Legal Risk A briefing document obtained by The Telegraph confirms the campaign's legal risks, stating: But the paper argues the government likely lacks the resources or political will to arrest and prosecute hundreds more protesters: Supporters believe that sheer numbers could force the government to back down, claiming that arresting another 500 people on top of the current 200 detainees would overwhelm the criminal justice system. With tensions rising, Saturday's protest is shaping up to be a direct confrontation not only with police, but with the entire structure of UK counter-terror law. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Source The Telegraph 2025-08-04

A Sudanese asylum seeker living in a taxpayer-funded hotel has been charged with trying to kidnap a 10-year-old girl — right in front of her father. Edris Abdelrazig, 30, was arrested on July 13 after allegedly attempting to lure the young girl away near a park in Stockport, Greater Manchester.Shockingly, Abdelrazig was living in a £100-a-night, three-star hotel in Wilmslow, Cheshire, funded by the Home Office to house asylum seekers. He allegedly travelled two miles from the hotel to Walnut Tree Playing Field, where prosecutors claim he tried to abduct the girl while her father was with her. Police swooped on the scene and arrested him on the spot. Abdelrazig appeared before magistrates on July 15 and has since been remanded in custody, with a court date set for August 26 at Manchester Crown Court. The case has sparked renewed anger over the government’s handling of the asylum system, with critics slamming the cost of migrant accommodation and questioning vetting procedures. Starmer’s Digital ID Plan Resurfaces Amid Migrant Chaos The shocking case comes as Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is reportedly seriously considering a national digital ID system to crack down on illegal immigration and improve access to public services. Downing Street is said to be exploring plans to assign every individual a unique digital identifier — not a physical card, but something akin to the NHS app — to check eligibility for work, healthcare, housing, and more. Starmer, known as a tech advocate during his days as Director of Public Prosecutions, has long pushed for modernising government systems. Support for the proposal is said to be growing rapidly inside Cabinet. A major Tony Blair Institute paper, commissioned by Starmer’s top aide Morgan McSweeney, argues digital ID is key to reducing illegal immigration and easing pressure on overstretched services. Insiders claim the idea has already won over big hitters like Health Secretary Wes Streeting, Technology Secretary Peter Kyle, and Chancellor of the Duchy Pat McFadden. One senior Labour figure told The Times: Another added: A digital ID system was last used in Britain during WWII but was scrapped in 1952. Now, amid rising public concern over immigration and pressure from Reform UK, Labour appears ready to bring it back — this time in digital form. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Source Daily Mail 2025-08-04

One in 20 Residents Now Migrants in Parts of UK A population boom driven by record immigration has sent shockwaves across England and Wales — with new figures revealing that in some areas, one in every 20 residents only arrived in the country last year. The latest Office for National Statistics (ONS) data paints a stark picture of Britain’s rapidly shifting demographics. In just 12 months to mid-2024, the population of England and Wales surged by more than 700,000 — the second-largest increase since World War II — with immigration accounting for the vast majority of the rise. Only one of 318 councils saw more people leave than arrive. In most places, the numbers were firmly in the plus column. London’s Newham Borough Tops the List Newham saw a staggering 17,200 newcomers in a single year, meaning new arrivals now make up 4.6% of the borough’s population — that’s roughly one in 20 people. Luton (4.3%) and Coventry (4.2%) aren’t far behind. While Birmingham saw the highest raw number of new arrivals (38,700), its population of 1.2 million dilutes the visible impact. Contrast that with the City of London, where despite having just 15,000 residents, 10.8% arrived from abroad last year. Only South Holland in Lincolnshire recorded a net decline — with 695 emigrating and just 557 moving in. A Nation Transformed – And Struggling to Cope Critics warn Britain’s infrastructure is buckling under the strain. Schools, hospitals, housing and transport are all feeling the heat. And despite a modest natural population rise of just under 30,000 (births minus deaths), immigration delivered over a million new arrivals. Subtract 450,000 who left, and that’s a net gain of 550,000 migrants. Robert Bates, of the Centre for Migration Control, didn’t hold back: He demanded an overhaul of the visa system, a block on welfare access for foreign nationals, and urgent investment in British skills and jobs. Tories, Reform, and Labour Trade Blows Reform UK’s Nigel Farage blasted the figures as “disastrous for the quality of life of everyone in the country.” Shadow Home Office minister Katie Lam warned the UK is “rising at an unsustainable pace”, adding: Migration Watch UK boss Alp Mehmet said: He also warned the UK could see a white British minority “within 30–35 years” unless immigration is brought under control. Starmer’s Crackdown – or Just More Chaos? Home Secretary Yvette Cooper turned the spotlight on the Tories, saying: Labour’s immigration crackdown includes: Raising the skills threshold for entry Tougher English language requirements A 10-year wait for citizenship Automatic deportation for certain crimes Sir Keir Starmer also signed a “one in, one out” migrant deal with French President Emmanuel Macron — a swap plan to ease pressure in the Channel. But critics say it lacks ambition and won't solve the small boats crisis. The Labour leader stirred controversy in May with a fiery warning that Britain risked becoming an “island of strangers” — a comment that drew comparisons to Enoch Powell’s infamous “Rivers of Blood” speech. Starmer later said he “deeply regretted” the phrasing, though polls show most Brits weren’t offended. ONS: ‘Figures May Overlap’ The ONS cautioned that some population categories may blur — for instance, someone could be both an immigrant and an internal migrant, or pass away shortly after arrival, complicating the totals. Still, the direction of travel is clear: Britain is changing fast — and not everyone is on board. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Source Daily Mail 2025-08-04

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Meloni’s Migrant Plan Slammed by EU Court — Fury as Judges ‘Erase’ Italian Sovereignty ROME — Giorgia Meloni’s war on illegal immigration has just hit a wall — a big, bureaucratic, Brussels-sized wall. Her controversial migrant plan, involving offshore processing centres in Albania, has been slapped down by Europe’s top judges — and she’s not taking it quietly. The Italian Prime Minister is fuming after the European Court of Justice ruled that her government must justify why it considers certain countries “safe” to deport migrants to — and allow challenges to those claims. In short: migrants can't just be bundled off to Albanian holding camps without a proper legal explanation. Meloni’s deal with Albania — hailed by her government as a bold solution to the migration crisis — aimed to fast-track asylum claims from nationals of so-called "safe" countries like Bangladesh and Egypt. But the courts weren’t convinced. Three groups of migrants were already shipped off to Albania between October and January, but legal chaos soon followed. Italian judges argued that simply declaring a country “safe” wasn’t enough, especially if human rights protections only applied to part of its population. The result? Her flagship immigration crackdown stalled in its tracks. The row exploded when two Bangladeshi migrants, rescued in Italian waters but taken to Albania for processing, challenged the very basis of their removal. The court sided with them. On Friday, the ECJ issued its judgement: “EU law does not preclude a member state from designating a third country as a safe country of origin ... provided that that designation can be subject to effective judicial review.” Translation: you can’t just wave migrants off to Albania on a whim — there has to be legal process and transparency. Meloni’s camp hit back hard. “This decision weakens policies to combat mass illegal immigration,” her office fumed, accusing Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Express 2025-08-02

‘We Are Dying Slowly’: Gaza Teeters on the Brink as Starvation Strikes GAZA — Starvation, chaos, and despair — that’s the grim new normal in Gaza, where desperate families are crying out for help as famine tightens its deadly grip. After months of warnings, UN-backed experts confirmed what Gazans have long known: the worst-case scenario is here. Famine isn’t looming — it’s landed. “All my children have lost almost half their body weight,” said Jamil Mughari, 38, from Maghazi. His five-year-old daughter now weighs just 11kg. His son Mohammad is, in his words, “skin and bones.” Mughari himself has dropped from 85kg to just 55. “I feel dizzy on the street,” he said. “Sometimes I shiver, but I force myself to stay upright.” This week, the horror deepened. The Palestinian death toll officially passed 60,000. But locals say the true figure — especially including those buried beneath Israeli airstrikes — is much higher. And now, hunger is becoming just as lethal as bombs and bullets. On Tuesday, the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) confirmed the disaster: “The worst-case scenario of famine is currently playing out in the Gaza Strip.” They called for an immediate ceasefire to stop the “catastrophic human suffering.” But for Gaza’s 2.2 million people, surviving hunger is now a daily fight. Aid is trickling in, but Israel’s tight restrictions have turned food into a black-market commodity — hoarded by the armed, sold at prices the poor can't touch. “We go a week or more without flour,” said Mughari. “Sometimes all we eat is lentils — if we’re lucky. Sometimes we drink water just to feel full.” He and his family have fled their home seven times since the war began — hunted by airstrikes, cornered by famine. “Soup kitchens are only in some camps,” he said. “And even then, people with weapons hijack the trucks and sell the food. The poor? We starve.” There are only four distribution points open daily — and just for a few frantic minutes. Hungry crowds, chaos, and worse — Israeli fire has turned these food lines into battlegrounds. Many have died just trying to eat. Mansoura Fadl al-Helou, a 58-year-old widow, is too weak to queue. Her only son wants to help, but she won’t let him risk it. “He might never come back,” she said. “The army shoots at the crowds. I’d rather go hungry than lose my son.” Her sentiment is echoed across the Strip. “I’ve had open-heart surgery. My kids are all under 12. We can’t even risk trying,” Mughari said. “I try to stay strong for them, but we’ve sent countless messages to the world. No one moves. We are dying slowly. Please — save us.” In Deir al-Balah, Abu al-Abed watches his children waste away. “My 14-year-old daughter’s ribcage is visible. My sons and daughters are dizzy from hunger. If I’m this weak, how must they feel?” With no income, no aid, and sky-high prices, families can’t survive. “Inflation is worse than in Europe,” he said. “Soup kitchens are gone. No one helps.” He no longer believes in slogans from the West. “All that talk of human rights was a lie,” he said bitterly. “If we’d asked them to save animals, they would’ve done it. But we’re Palestinians — no one cares. Not the Arabs, not the Muslims, not the Christians. No one.” The IPC report sparked a flicker of hope. But after months of silence, few expect action. “We’ve been starving for ages,” said al-Helou. “Maybe this message will wake the world up. Maybe.” And as for Britain’s pledge to recognise Palestine in September if no ceasefire is reached? “I don’t see how that helps,” she said flatly. “What kind of state has no sovereignty, no right to defend itself? Recognition means nothing if it’s just symbolic. We want a real state — with rights, protection, and dignity.” Until then, Gaza waits. Starving, pleading, and slowly dying — while the world watches. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Gaurdian 2025-08-02

Furious Poles have taken to the streets in protest as anti-migrant anger explodes across the country following the brutal killing of a young woman — allegedly by a Venezuelan national. The 24-year-old victim was stabbed to death while walking through a park in Torun, sparking a wave of outrage and fuelling claims the country is being "flooded" with illegal migrants. Thousands joined a silent march in her memory, demanding a crackdown on immigration. The shocking murder has become a flashpoint in a nation already on edge, with marches erupting from Krakow to Walbrzych as far-right voices claim locals are being “humiliated” and “terrorised” in their own country. “The nation has had enough of what's happening,” said Danuta, a 60-year-old protester in Krakow. “We're living under terror, being humiliated. Our borders aren't sealed — so we have to defend them ourselves.” Since March, Poland has suspended the right to claim asylum in a bid to stop migrants arriving, but that hasn’t stopped public fury from spiralling. Protesters are now patrolling borders themselves — spurred on by online rumours that Germany has been secretly pushing migrants back into Poland. That speculation, though unproven, has triggered border controls with Germany and Lithuania, initially set for 30 days but likely to be extended. Warsaw imposed the measures after Berlin made similar moves earlier this year, hoping to stem the flow of asylum seekers. Under EU law, migrants can legally be returned to the country where they first entered the bloc — but critics say the system is being abused, and that Poland is unfairly carrying the burden. Adding fuel to the fire, another migrant — this time from Paraguay — was accused of taking photos of children at a playground in Walbrzych. Although police later confirmed there was nothing suspicious on his phone, the damage was done. The man was attacked by two locals, and a furious mob stormed the hostel where he and around 50 others were staying. The political temperature is rising too. Krakow MP Konrad Berkowicz sparked fury by telling Polish radio: “Xenophobia is an important element of our national unity. The West has stifled it, and now they have rapes and terrorism. We should cherish it.” His inflammatory remarks come as data reveals Poland’s foreign-born population is actually tiny compared to the UK — just 2.2% in 2023, versus 15.4% in Britain, according to the OECD. But for many migrants already in Poland, life has become increasingly hostile. “Elmi Abdi,” a Somali refugee who fled war and built a life in Poland, told Al Jazeera: “Today, migrants are seen as responsible for all of Poland’s problems. We are scapegoats, even though we pay taxes, work, and try to integrate. It’s heartbreaking.” With far-right rhetoric intensifying and violent incidents on the rise, Poland now finds itself on a knife-edge — as the migrant crisis ignites deeper divisions than ever before. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Express 2025-08-02

A massive mushroom cloud lit up the Russian skyline after a Ukrainian drone blitz rocked a key oil refinery in the early hours of Saturday — in a fiery strike that’s left Putin reeling. The Novokuybyshevsk oil plant in Samara — a major supplier of aviation fuel for Russian warplanes — was engulfed in a colossal fireball after a direct hit, with flames shooting 590ft into the air, according to Ukrainian sources. Boasting on Telegram, Ukraine’s Exilenova+ channel claimed the inferno was "the size of 109 Putins" — cheekily measuring the Russian leader at 5ft 5in. It’s part of a dramatic wave of overnight Ukrainian attacks targeting Russia’s war machine — from oil depots and radar stations to airfields and defence plants — just days after ex-U.S. President Donald Trump moved nuclear submarines closer to Russian waters, following fresh war threats from Kremlin hardliner Dmitry Medvedev. The coordinated assault saw: Ryazan oil refinery — vital for Moscow’s fuel supply — erupt in flames. Primorsko-Akhtarsk airfield, in the Krasnodar region, blaze near facilities used for drone attacks on Ukraine. A major radar station near Feodosia in occupied Crimea struck, including military unit 66571 — home to radio stations housed in enormous dome structures, one the size of a nine-storey block. Tepe-Oba mountain range, also in Crimea, left burning after strikes. The Electropribor plant in Penza hit by Ukrainian drones, with reports of eight explosions before the facility — which produces encrypted comms gear for Putin’s army — went up in flames. One woman was confirmed dead. A radar factory in Penza also took damage — its second strike in just three days. Rostov region also came under fire, with at least one fatality reported. The onslaught comes amid a deepening war of words between Medvedev and Trump, raising fears of escalation. Medvedev — a close Putin ally and former Russian president — recently warned that conflict with the U.S. could become “inevitable.” With Ukraine showing it can strike deep inside Russia and target the backbone of its military infrastructure, Saturday’s attacks mark one of the most aggressive and symbolic blows yet. And with multiple fires still raging, questions are growing over the Kremlin’s ability to defend its own soil — as the war enters a dangerous new phase. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Express 2025-08-02

Tensions erupted on the south coast as rival protesters clashed outside a Southsea hotel housing asylum seekers — amid a growing nationwide backlash against migrant accommodation. Crowds gathered outside the Royal Beach Hotel on Thursday evening (August 1), with anti-migrant demonstrators waving flags and demanding the hotel be shut down. Just metres away, counter-protesters from Stand Up to Racism Portsmouth held banners reading "Refugees Welcome", sparking a tense face-off. The Southsea stand-off was one of several protests across the South of England on the same day, with similar scenes unfolding in Portsmouth, Southampton, and Bournemouth — all targeting sites currently being used to house migrants while their asylum claims are processed. The unrest comes hot on the heels of recent protests in Epping, Essex, where locals have repeatedly demanded the closure of The Bell Inn — a hotel that’s been used on and off for asylum accommodation over the past five years. Elsewhere in the capital, The Britannia International Hotel in London’s swanky Canary Wharf was surrounded by a ring of steel last month after demonstrators descended on the site, furious that the luxury four-star property had been repurposed for migrant use. In Hampshire, frustration is also boiling over in Waterlooville, where protesters hit the streets on Wednesday opposing plans to house asylum seekers above town centre shops. Residents warned the move could lead to “mayhem”, with thousands reportedly objecting. Back in Southsea, this week’s protests follow two earlier demonstrations last month. The most recent, held on July 26, passed peacefully, with police officers managing to keep rival groups apart. A Hampshire Police spokesperson said, “The protest was peaceful and passed without any incidents reported to police during the event. Our priority with protests is always public safety. We aim to balance the rights of lawful protest with the rights of the wider public to go about their daily lives free from disruption.” But a previous protest saw arrests. A 64-year-old man was detained on suspicion of possessing an offensive weapon, while another man, 40, was arrested for a racially aggravated public order offence, according to the Portsmouth News. Police also slapped a dispersal order on the area to prevent violence. The Royal Beach Hotel, a grand Victorian building opened in 1866 and once billed as a “visitor paradise”, was first reported to be housing asylum seekers in April 2022. At the time, it was set to be used until at least August of that year — but three years on, it remains a flashpoint. The venue was previously targeted by far-right group Britain First in 2022, who filmed at the site as part of what they called an “exposé”. The group was founded by a former BNP politician. Responding to the tensions, local Lib Dem councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson urged compassion: “Southsea’s residents should welcome those in need of the hotel’s services.” However, plans to end the site’s use for asylum seekers are already in motion. The hotel is currently wrapped in scaffolding, with major work underway to convert it into housing. Portsmouth City Council has already approved planning permission for the redevelopment. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Daily Mail 2025-08-02

Depends entirely on the location, city,town, village etc

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Speakers as such are old fashioned and most use a "soundbar" now. Like this.......https://s.lazada.co.th/s.B8U8Q. Search Lazada for one you like , search "pc soundbar"

968edfdf0261cdfe2eb0671513e170d5.mp4

REFER TO TOPIC IN WORLD NEWS.

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Not a matter of the Pub, MOVED.....

No matter where you are in the capital, no area is spared from dashing cafes that have sprouted up across the city One thing tourists (and locals) love to do in Bangkok is café-hopping. With an ever-growing list of new and trendy cafes popping up all the time, you’ll never run out of places to explore. No matter where you are in the capital, no area is spared from dashing cafes that have sprouted up across the city as of late. So, if you’re eager to try something new, here are some of the best (relatively) new cafes in Bangkok for 2025. CULT Thailand, Ruamrudee Location: 125/26 Ruamrudee 3 Alley (near BTS Ploenchit) Opening Hours: Daily, 9am to 6pm CULT Thailand is part wellness bar, part supplement boutique, and part coffee shop. The Ruamrudee venue has become a hotspot thanks to its mirrored aesthetic and health-focused menu. Imagine marine collagen matcha, chia puddings, and adaptogen-packed lattes. Every drink and dish on their menu is made to support wellbeing without compromising on flavour. Their signature Moon From Mars latte combines vanilla-fermented espresso with nutrient-rich adaptogens. Their superfood smoothie bowls are also unmissable, with paleo brownies and coconut-based chia parfaits catering to all dietary needs, vegan, gluten-free, keto, you name it. Dusha Cafe, Surasak Location: SVL House, 35 Surasak Rd. (BTS Surasak Exit 1) Opening Hours: Daily, 8am to 8pm A Phuket favourite now in Sathorn, Dusha is a stylish coffee spot with a touch of vintage flair. Expect serious coffee credentials here with SCA-certified baristas brewing beans from Thai micro-roasters. The Long Love Story cold brew is a crowd favourite, and the bakery counter is packed with croissants and cookies. The cafe blends dark wood, soft jazz, and Italianate marble for a nostalgic yet modern feel. Their seasonal menus spotlight rotating local ingredients, with plans to launch an all-day brunch menu soon. Dusha often hosts DJ sets on weekends, adding a lively touch of chill house to their refined ambience. Walden Woods Bangkok, Ekkamai Location: Ekkamai Soi 12 (walk from BTS Ekkamai + short moto ride) Opening Hours: 9am to 6pm, closed on weekends A minimalist vibe imported straight from Kyoto, Walden Woods Bangkok is completed with raw plaster walls, indoor gardens, and slow-brew filter coffee, perfect for the quieter moments. Their soft-serve with espresso and gourmet hot dogs are unusual standouts. Inspired by the writings of Henry David Thoreau, Walden Woods leans into the theme of simplicity and reflection. Natural light floods the space, highlighting raw concrete and wooden textures. Here, slow life is the name of the game, and you are encouraged to take your time. No loud music, no rushed service, just a peaceful cafe experience that feels worlds away from Bangkok’s chaos. Get Some Coffee, Lang Suan Location: 87 B1, Lumphini, Pathum Wan (Close to Ratchadamri BTS) Opening Hours: Daily, 7.30am to 9pm From Korea’s speciality scene to Thailand’s capital, Get Some Coffee brings a slice of Korean coffee know-how to Bangkok. Initially launched in Seoul in 2016, it’s now buzzing in the Big Mango with a simple yet sophisticated menu. The menu offers classic espresso-based staples alongside more inventive brews, all roasted to highlight bean quality. Every day coffee lovers and purists alike will find a favourite here, from precise cortados to soft, velvety flat whites. Dessert lovers will especially appreciate their offerings, often described as “not too sweet,” with hints of homemade style. Pralet Thailand, Ekkamai Corner Location: M Floor, Ekkamai Corner Mall (BTS Ekkamai) Opening Hours: Daily, 10am to 7pm Singapore’s cult sourdough doughnut brand has arrived in Bangkok, with a branch in Ekkamai corner, and it’s already seeing long queues. Their square-shaped doughnuts fly off the shelves quickly! So don’t miss out. Their signature flavour comes from the fermented dough, and the menu rotates limited-time flavours announced on Instagram. There’s limited seating, so most opt for takeaway. Their drinks, like cold brew lemonade, are the perfect contrast to their doughnut. Who can turn down creative Thai twists on familiar Singaporean classics? Sips Cafe & Bar, Sathorn Location: 100/1 Naradhiwas Rd., Sathorn Nakorn Tower (BTS Chong Nonsi) Opening Hours: Daily, 8am to 9pm Equal parts cafe, cocktail bar and restaurant, Sips transitions from brunch to bar as the day goes on. With Doi Chang espresso drinks in the morning and yuzu negronis in the evening, it’s a great all-day hangout in Sathorn. By day, it’s filled with co-workers and brunch-goers; by night, the lights dim and cocktail shakers come out. Helmed by the former chef of Sarnies, Sips infuses Singaporean tea culture into their Thai-Western fusion bites. Their tom yum alfredo and Thai green curry pasta are just the kind of comfort-fusion Bangkok does best. Ripple Coffee Roasters, Wong Sawang Location: Soi Wong Sawang 29 (Near Wong Sawang MRT) Opening Hours: Weekdays, 8am to 5pm | Weekends, 8am to 6pm As a garden-style space, Ripple is known for its koi ponds, bamboo decor, and flight sets of light and dark roasts. Their motto is “Every cup, a Ripple of happiness,” but this happiness isn’t limited to drinks only, as their food and dessert menu also stand out as stars of the show. It’s one of the few places in northern Bangkok offering this level of coffee curation. Their rotating blends are roasted in-house, and the staff guide customers through tasting notes. The choice is not always easy: sit inside surrounded by cedar panels or outside by the pond, but nevertheless, the vibe is always calming, serene, and Instagram-worthy. BeanBoys, Ramintra Location: The Ground, Pradit Manutham Rd Opening Hours: Weekdays, 8am to 5pm | Weekends, 9am to 6pm BeanBoys is distinct for its orange brick architecture and garden cafe layout, making you feel right at home. Their signature drinks are crafted with experimental flair, such as the Dirty White topped with brown sugar cream, and citrusy espresso sodas served over sparkling tonic. From cosy reading corners to wide communal tables, BeanBoys is designed as a multi-purpose space: think studying, chatting, or enjoying slow coffee moments. With a rotating pastry menu and a pet-friendly zone, it’s clear why BeanBoys has quickly become a favourite among Ramintra’s coffee fans. Two Men Bagel House, Silom Location: 39 Soi Yam Rak, off Sala Daeng Rd (Short walk from BTS Sala Daeng) Opening Hours: Daily, 7.15am to 4pm Another of Singapore’s beloved bagel brands has arrived in Bangkok, and this time, with cheeky murals, hefty bagel stacks, and a loyal following. The Bangkok shop mirrors its Singapore sibling’s loud-and-proud attitude. From breakfast bombs, cheesy melts, and rotating monthly specials, one thing pairs perfectly with their bagels: Coffee. As a note for large groups, their shop is compact and fills fast, but worth the wait for what may be the city’s best bagel fix. Sponsored

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