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WASHINGTON — In a striking move, President Trump on Tuesday revoked the security clearances of attorneys from the law firm Covington & Burling who provided pro bono legal services to former special counsel Jack Smith. Smith had previously prosecuted Trump in two federal criminal cases that were ultimately cut short before reaching trial. Trump criticized what he called the "weaponization" of the legal system, accusing law firms of using pro bono work to obstruct government functions. “The weaponization of our system by law firms, even pro bono work they’re doing just in order to clog up government, stop government, and nobody knows about it more than me, and hopefully that’ll never happen again,” he said. At one point, Trump cut off a reporter attempting to ask about U.S. troop deployments in Europe. “Wait, I just want to savor this one, please,” he said before holding up the pen he had used to sign the order. “Who would like this pen? Why don’t you send it to Jack Smith? A deranged person.” Covington & Burling did not immediately respond to requests for comment. A disclosure from Smith’s office on January 10 revealed that he had received $140,000 in free legal services from the firm. Politico reported that at least two attorneys, Peter Koski and Lanny Breuer, had represented Smith. The memorandum signed by Trump formally revokes the clearances of “Koski and all members, partners, and employees of Covington & Burling LLP who assisted former Special Counsel Jack Smith during his time as Special Counsel, pending a review and determination of their roles and responsibilities.” Smith had successfully secured federal indictments against Trump in 2023 while the former president was campaigning for a return to the White House. However, those cases were effectively halted before going to trial after Trump’s reelection. Based on a report by NYP 2025-02-24

New research suggests that Stonehenge may have been more than a center for solar worship—it might also have served as a fertility temple. A recent study of a fallen stone at the site indicates that it may have been deliberately sculpted to resemble a giant phallus, adding another layer of symbolism to the ancient monument. Professor Terence Meaden, an archaeologist and retired physicist, has conducted a detailed analysis of the stone, which is now partially buried. His findings suggest that when the stone was still upright, it would have stood at 2.6 meters, featuring a distinctively shaped 80-centimeter bulbous tip, resembling an erect male organ. According to Professor Meaden, prehistoric craftsmen appear to have removed as much as 200,000 cubic centimeters of stone to enhance its phallic form. "When the phallic stone was in its original upright position on the main solar solstice axis of the monument, it would have blocked any view of the winter-solstice sunset for observers approaching along that probably sacred axis. Instead, they would have witnessed the great stone penis, framed between the two uprights and lintel of what would have been Stonehenge’s largest single structure, the so-called Great Trilithon, standing immediately behind it. The phallic stone would then have been wonderfully backlit by the Sun as the glowing solar disc descended to the horizon," said Professor Meaden. Pictured here (lying partly buried in the ground) is Stonehenge’s ‘stone 67’ which Professor Meaden is proposing was deliberately shaped to resemble a penis. At its far end is it’s bulbous tip (it’s probable glans). And below it’s bulbous end, the shaft of the phallus appears to have been deliberately ‘slimmed down’ to make it less bulbous than the glans. The stone to the right is the fallen lintel from the Great Trilithon While no other large phallic standing stones have been identified at Stonehenge, small carved stone phalluses from the same era have been discovered just two miles from the site. Similar symbols have been important in many ancient cultures, particularly in Europe and Asia, where they were often associated with fertility rites. The stone, previously labeled as "Stone 67" by archaeologists, occupied a central position in the monument’s design, directly aligned with both the midsummer sunrise and midwinter sunset. The only other stone within the circle following that same alignment is the Altar Stone, a six-tonne rock transported from northern Scotland. Unlike the other stones at the site, there is evidence suggesting that the Altar Stone was never intended to stand upright. Professor Meaden theorizes that the Altar Stone may represent female fertility, forming a symbolic pair with the phallic-shaped Stone 67. The significant effort invested in transporting the Altar Stone from a distant location further underscores its importance. If the two stones were meant to embody male and female principles, they could symbolize a solar and lunar deity or a union between the Sun and Mother Earth. Such pairings were common in ancient belief systems, where male solar gods were often associated with female lunar or earth deities. During winter solstice rituals, the phallic stone would have been dramatically backlit by the setting sun, marking the year’s shortest day and symbolizing the Sun’s death and rebirth. This alignment may have played a central role in ceremonies at Stonehenge, reinforcing its possible function as a fertility temple intertwined with celestial cycles. Based on a report by The Independent 2025-02-27

A Sydney-based nurse has been charged after a video surfaced on social media in which she claimed she would refuse medical treatment to Israeli patients. Sarah Abu Lebdeh, 26, has been stood down from her position and is now facing serious legal consequences. Lebdeh was arrested on Tuesday night at Sutherland Police Station and has been charged with three Commonwealth offences: threatening violence to a group, using a carriage service to threaten to kill, and using a carriage service to menace, harass, or offend. Commissioner Webb highlighted the complexity of the investigation, noting that detectives had worked tirelessly to collect evidence from overseas within just 13 days. "I don't think I would have ever imagined that an investigation of that complexity, across the other side of the world, would be done in such a short time," she said. Speaking on ABC Radio Sydney, Commissioner Webb stated that while no evidence had been found to indicate any harm had come to patients at the hospital, NSW Health was conducting its own internal investigation. She described the case as "not straightforward," explaining that "given the nature of this offending, where we had two people here in NSW and the recording made overseas, it's been a complex investigation across borders." Webb further elaborated on the challenges posed by the case, saying, "[There] has been a lot of work by investigators and support from overseas jurisdictions to get the statement from the influencer and have it converted to English and admissible in court. So not straightforward, and that's why we've gone with Commonwealth offences, through the advice of the Commonwealth DPP." Lebdeh's arrest marks the 14th made under Strike Force Pearl, an operation targeting hate crimes. Authorities have laid a total of 76 charges under the operation. This case comes shortly after Australia passed stricter laws against hate crimes in response to a rise in antisemitic attacks. Recent months have seen multiple incidents involving arson, graffiti, and vandalism targeting Jewish homes, vehicles, and synagogues across the country. In January, authorities discovered a caravan in New South Wales packed with power gel explosives, which police warned had the potential to cause a "mass casualty event." The find was accompanied by a document containing antisemitic sentiments and a list of Jewish targets in Sydney. As Lebdeh awaits her court appearance, the case continues to draw significant attention, underscoring the broader concerns around rising antisemitic incidents and the enforcement of hate crime laws in Australia. Based on a report by ABC News 2025-02-27 Related Topics Australian Nurses Suspended Over Hate Speech Antisemitic Video as Investigation Unfolds

An external review has found that the BBC failed to respond to concerns about Tim Westwood’s “bullying and misogynistic behaviour” during his tenure as a Radio 1 DJ. The investigation, led by Gemma White KC, concluded that the corporation should have recognized the possibility that Westwood “might present a risk to young women and girls.” Following the report’s findings, the BBC Board issued an apology, acknowledging that the organization had “missed opportunities that might have led to action.” In a statement, the board admitted, “The organisation fell short and failed people – including our own staff – who had a right to expect better from us.” Westwood, who worked as a presenter for BBC Radio 1 and 1Xtra between 1994 and 2013, is currently under investigation by the Metropolitan Police over multiple allegations of historical sexual abuse. He has strongly denied any accusations of criminal or inappropriate behaviour. The review was prompted by historical allegations made in 2022, with more than 120 individuals contributing evidence. While the report stated that there was “no widespread or significant BBC knowledge of allegations or concerns about predatory sexual behaviour by Mr Westwood,” it highlighted that the corporation failed to recognize and act upon warning signs. “The report finds that there was no widespread or significant BBC knowledge of allegations or concerns about predatory sexual behaviour by Mr Westwood. It is clear, however, that there were instances where the organisation missed opportunities that might have led to action. Allegations were treated in isolation rather than being brought together. Had this happened, the BBC may have seen a pattern of behaviour that it could have acted on,” the BBC Board stated. The corporation admitted that, beyond matters of criminality—now under police investigation—it had failed to take adequate steps when concerns were raised about Westwood’s behaviour. “There is evidence of bullying and misogynistic behaviour on the part of Mr Westwood and the plain fact is that his general conduct was entirely incompatible with BBC values – not just now, but then,” the statement added. The findings highlight serious failings in the corporation’s handling of concerns about Westwood, raising questions about how allegations of inappropriate behaviour were overlooked at the time. Based on a report by The Telegraph 2025-02-27 Related Topics: Whistleblower Claims Gregg Wallace's Inappropriate Behavior Went Unchecked by BBC

Protests erupted outside Maersk’s headquarters in Copenhagen on Monday, February 24, as climate activist Greta Thunberg joined demonstrators demanding that the shipping giant sever its ties with Israel’s military supply chain. The demonstration, which saw activists blocking the entrance to the company’s offices, quickly escalated as Danish police moved in, using batons and tear gas to disperse the crowd. Despite the protests, Maersk defended its actions, insisting that the shipments in question do not contain weapons or ammunition. Instead, the company described them as “military-related equipment” transported under a US-Israel security cooperation programme. “The cargo has been screened and complies with applicable laws,” Maersk stated in response to the allegations. As tensions outside the headquarters grew, police initially attempted to negotiate with the protesters. However, when dialogue failed, authorities opted to use force, citing the demonstration's location on private property. “We tried using dialogue to get the protesters to leave the area,” a police spokesperson explained. “It’s a private area. And in the end, the dialogue stopped and then we had to use the necessary means to remove the protesters from the area.” Thunberg and 19 other activists were ultimately arrested during the protest, highlighting the growing intersection of climate activism and political advocacy in global conflicts. Based on a report by Euro News 2025-02-24

Taiwanese authorities are investigating a potential "gray zone" operation by China after detaining the Chinese crew of a vessel suspected of cutting an undersea fiber optic cable linking Taiwan and the Penghu islands. The vessel, registered under Togo and named Hong Tai 168, was intercepted by Taiwan's coast guard (CGA) on Tuesday following suspicions of its involvement in the severance. Taiwan's Ministry of Digital Affairs assured the public that the incident did not lead to a disruption in communication services, as data traffic was promptly rerouted through alternative cables. Nevertheless, the coast guard has classified the event as a possible "gray zone" activity—a term referring to aggressive actions that fall short of open warfare. The Taiwanese government has vowed to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter. This development coincides with recent diplomatic tensions between China and the United States regarding Taiwan’s political status. Last week, Chinese officials voiced discontent over changes made to the U.S. State Department’s website, which removed language explicitly opposing Taiwan's independence. The omission, which first occurred under the administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump, led Chinese authorities to demand that the U.S. "immediately correct its wrongdoing," stating that the change "sends a wrong signal to the Taiwan independence forces." In response, the U.S. State Department affirmed in a statement to NBC News that its stance on Taiwan’s independence remains unchanged. As Taiwan continues to investigate the severed cable incident, questions persist regarding whether this was a deliberate act of sabotage or an accident. The situation adds another layer of complexity to cross-strait relations, which have been increasingly strained amid rising geopolitical tensions. Based on a report by USA Today 2025-02-27

The theft of a solid gold lavatory worth £4.8 million from Blenheim Palace was carried out in a meticulously planned operation that took just five minutes, a court has heard. Five men stand accused of stealing the 18-carat gold artwork, titled *America*, created by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan. The fully functioning toilet had been installed only days before its disappearance in September 2019. They smashed through locked wooden gates, drove across a field to the palace’s front steps, and broke in through a window. Once inside, they headed directly to the cubicle where the toilet was installed, broke down its wooden door, unplumbed the fixture, and made their escape—all within a matter of minutes. Water poured from the severed pipes as they fled. The court heard that sledgehammers were abandoned at the scene. Despite investigations, the golden toilet has never been recovered and is believed to have been melted down and sold in parts. One of the accused, Michael Jones, 39, from Oxford, pleaded not guilty in January to stealing the artwork. Prosecutors allege that he was involved in reconnaissance, having taken a photograph of the lavatory the day before the burglary. Two other defendants, Frederick Sines, 36, also known as Frederick Doe, from Winkfield, Windsor, Berkshire, and Bora Guccuk, 41, from west London, deny conspiracy to transfer criminal property. The prosecution claims they assisted another suspect, James Sheen, in selling portions of the stolen gold in the weeks after the heist. Sheen, 40, from Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, has already pleaded guilty to burglary, conspiracy to transfer criminal property, and one count of transferring criminal property. His guilty plea was entered at Oxford Crown Court in April 2024. "The work of art was never recovered. It appears to have been split up into smaller amounts of gold and never recovered," Christopher said. The case continues as the court examines the evidence surrounding one of the most brazen art heists in recent history. Based on a report by The Times 2025-02-24

BP is set to announce a major shift in its strategy by significantly reducing investments in renewable energy and instead focusing on ramping up oil and gas production. The decision comes amid mounting pressure from investors who have been dissatisfied with BP’s lower profits and share prices compared to its competitors. The energy giant’s expected announcement follows similar moves by Shell and Norwegian firm Equinor, both of which have already scaled back their commitments to green energy. Meanwhile, in the United States, former President Donald Trump's "drill baby drill" rhetoric has spurred renewed enthusiasm for fossil fuel investments, steering the industry further away from low-carbon projects. BP had once positioned itself as a leader in transitioning towards cleaner energy. Five years ago, it set ambitious targets to cut oil and gas production by 40% by 2030 while ramping up renewable energy investments. However, in 2023, the company softened that commitment, reducing the target to a 25% cut. Now, BP is expected to abandon the target entirely and confirm it is slashing its investment in renewables by more than half. Chief Executive Murray Auchincloss has described the shift as a "fundamental reset." Auchincloss faces pressure from certain shareholders, including the influential activist group Elliott Management, which has taken a nearly £4bn stake in BP’s £70bn business. The firm has been advocating for increased investments in oil and gas to drive profitability. In 2024, BP’s net income fell to $8.9bn (£7.2bn), a steep decline from the $13.8bn reported the previous year. Since former CEO Bernard Looney unveiled BP’s original transition strategy in 2020, the company has delivered total shareholder returns—including dividends—of 36% over five years. However, this lags far behind its competitors, with Shell returning 82% and ExxonMobil an impressive 160% in the same period. BP’s underperformance has led to speculation that it could become a takeover target or even consider moving its primary stock market listing to the United States, where oil and gas companies often command higher valuations. Despite the growing momentum behind the shift, not all shareholders are in favor of abandoning BP’s previous green energy commitments. Last week, a coalition of 48 investors urged BP to allow them a vote on any plans to alter its renewable energy strategy. A spokesperson for Royal London Asset Management, one of the signatories, stated: "As long-term shareholders, we recognise BP's past efforts toward energy transition but remain concerned about the company's continued investment in fossil fuel expansion." Environmental groups have also expressed outrage, warning that BP will face significant resistance if it moves forward with prioritizing fossil fuels. Greenpeace UK has cautioned that the company should brace for "pushback and challenge at every turn if it doubles down on fossil fuels—not just from green campaigners but from its own shareholders." Senior climate adviser Charlie Kronick highlighted potential policy risks, stating: "Government policies will also need to prioritise renewable power, and as extreme weather puts pressure on insurance models—policymakers will be looking to fossil fuel profits as a way to fund extreme weather recovery. BP might want to seriously put the brakes on this U-turn." Business leader Sir Ian Cheshire, who has held executive positions at companies such as Kingfisher and Barclays, questioned whether BP’s strategy will stand the test of time. "I do wonder whether this sort of decision will look right in 10 years," he said, emphasizing that the transition to renewables is still inevitable. "The climate change issue has not gone away, the science hasn’t changed," Cheshire added, suggesting that BP’s pivot to fossil fuels could be short-sighted in the long run. As BP unveils its new strategy, the debate over its long-term direction is likely to intensify. While some investors welcome the move towards higher fossil fuel profits, others warn that abandoning renewable commitments could prove risky in an era of growing climate concerns and shifting regulatory landscapes. Based on a report by BBC 2025-02-27

@MalcolmB enough of this off topic trolling with your obsession for bashing Israelis. This topic is not about them. Any more of the same and it will be more than posts removed. No more leeway today.

Troll post making unsubstainiated claims removed @Chomper Higgot

@Gottfrid a highly racist and hateful post of your removed.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has unveiled plans to raise the UK’s defence spending to 2.5% of national income by 2027, a move coming as peace negotiations over the war in Ukraine gain traction. To finance the increase, Starmer announced cuts to the UK’s international aid budget, currently set at 0.5% of gross national income, reducing it to 0.3% in the same period. 'Biggest sustained increase in defence spending since the end of the Cold War' – Starmer announces 2.5 per cent of GDP for defence spending by 2027. Previously, Starmer had indicated that the government would map out a pathway to spending 2.5% of GDP on defence by the next general election, contingent on a review of national security needs. However, rapid diplomatic developments—driven in part by Trump’s push to end the Ukraine war—have brought a sense of urgency to the decision-making process. It remains uncertain whether this increase will satisfy Trump, who has been vocal in demanding that European NATO allies contribute closer to 5% of their GDP to defence. NATO guidelines currently call for a minimum of 2%, though the alliance’s newly appointed leader, Mark Rutte, recently suggested that members should aim for "north of 3%." Based on a report by BBC | X 2025-02-26

A federal judge has declined to immediately reinstate The Associated Press’s access to key White House spaces, including the Oval Office, amid an ongoing dispute between the Trump administration and the wire service over its refusal to adopt the term “Gulf of America” in its stylebook. The decision comes as the AP challenges what it describes as government retaliation against the press. U.S. District Judge Trevor McFadden, appointed by Trump during his first term, ruled that the AP had not demonstrated a likelihood of success on the merits, emphasizing that more legal arguments are needed before a decision can be made. “Given the stakes” for both parties, he scheduled an expedited hearing for March 20 to consider the matter further. In response, the AP reiterated its commitment to press freedom, stating, “We look forward to our next hearing on March 20 where we will continue to stand for the right of the press and the public to speak freely without government retaliation. This is a fundamental American freedom.” The AP claims that the White House’s decision to bar its reporters from certain events, including those in the Oval Office and on Air Force One, stems from its refusal to comply with the administration’s push for an “official government vocabulary.” The White House, in turn, argues that the president has the right to determine which reporters receive access, particularly those who he believes will accurately convey his message to the public. The AP’s lawsuit, filed last week against three White House officials, challenges what it calls a “targeted attack” on its editorial independence. According to court filings, the restrictions began on February 11, initially preventing AP print journalists from attending Oval Office events. Since then, AP photographers have also been barred, and further access to broader press events has been restricted. Charles Tobin, an attorney representing the AP, described the administration’s actions as an attempt to pressure the wire service into “changing the national vocabulary.” He argued that while the president has the right to decline AP’s questions, he cannot lawfully block the organization from participating in the White House press pool. “The ground seems to keep shifting,” Tobin said, referring to the widening scope of AP’s access restrictions. Judge McFadden raised questions about the role of the White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA) in determining press access, suggesting it was “a little odd” for the White House to be bound by an external organization’s decisions. At one point, he even floated the idea that the administration could “decide to throw out” the WHCA altogether. Justice Department lawyer Brian Hudak, defending the White House, argued that the president has the authority to determine who receives “special access” to him and noted that AP has historically enjoyed an advantageous position, with permanent pool assignments for one photographer and one print reporter. Hudak also asserted that the First Amendment guarantees the right to publish news, but not the right to gather it. He further contended that the White House could, if it wished, dismantle the current press pool system altogether and instead grant access on an event-by-event basis. White House Deputy Chief of Staff Taylor Budowich, one of the officials named in the lawsuit, defended the administration’s actions, saying that AP’s refusal to adopt the term “Gulf of America” reflected a broader commitment to “misinformation.” “While their right to irresponsible and dishonest reporting is protected by the First Amendment, it does not ensure their privilege of unfettered access to limited spaces, like the Oval Office and Air Force One,” Budowich said. The AP, a widely recognized nonpartisan news agency, has long been relied upon by media organizations for standardized reporting guidelines. Its stylebook continues to use “Gulf of Mexico” to describe the body of water in question, stating that the name is widely understood both in the U.S. and internationally. However, it also notes Trump’s decision to rename it “Gulf of America” after taking office. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, also named in the lawsuit, dismissed the AP’s challenge during a recent speech at the Conservative Political Action Conference, declaring, “We’ll see them in court.” She added that the administration believes it is “in the right in this position,” signaling that it intends to continue defending its actions as the case proceeds. Based on a report by The Hill 2025-02-24

Woman chained up in basement, raped and forced to eat and drink from dog bowl for 3 months: ‘Kept begging desperately for help’. A woman was chained up in a basement and repeatedly raped and forced to eat and drink “like a dog” from a bowl in a house of horrors in the Czech Republic, authorities say. The 27-year-old victim, who escaped with a chain still around her neck, had her head shaved and was heinously tortured and starved to the point that she looked like she was “from a concentration camp,” a resident told local outlet iDNES.cz. “It’s horrible. I never would have dreamed that something like this could happen here,” another local told the Czech publication Zatecky Denik, speaking from the village of Sirem, about 30 miles northwest of the capital of Prague and once home to the country’s most famous literary figure, Franz Kafka. She was miraculously able to escape at night last week when her captor wasn’t home and she fled to a nearby neighbor. “I was woken up by the doorbell at three in the morning,” the resident told iDNES.cz. “I looked out the window, and there was a young woman standing there. I was terribly scared. She looked miserable. “I took her inside, she collapsed, cried and kept begging desperately for help,” the neighbor added to Zatecky Denik. “She said that her acquaintance raped her, tied her up with a chain, starved her and tortured her. He only occasionally gave her water and food in bowls like a dog.” Another resident told iDNES, “She had a chain around her neck, and it was bone and skin like from a concentration camp.” Police spokesman Kamil Marek told reporters, “In connection with this case, we arrested a 40-year-old man and subsequently charged him with the crimes of deprivation of personal liberty, rape, and extortion.” The suspect remains in custody, as he is considered a flight risk because of his regular travels across the border as a truck driver, authorities said. Czech media reported that the man had previously abused and tortured another woman at the house four years ago after luring her there with the promise of a job. He was jailed for three years for rape and deprivation of liberty before being released early on probation in 2022 after appealing. “I knew the defendant through my aunt, whom he was dating,” the female victim in that case told a local court at the time. “He approached me saying I could work as a hostess. I was unemployed, I was looking forward to having [a job]. We agreed that he would pick me up at home and that I would go to his place to take some photos and sign a contract.” Instead, the 22-year-old woman had a dog mask put on her head and was hung from chains on all fours and given electric shocks, she said. A female accomplice reportedly helped Karel N. with his crimes. If found guilty of the latest offenses, he faces up to 12 years in prison. In the unspeakable case of Fritzl, he held his own daughter hostage in a basement dungeon for 24 years and repeatedly raped her, fathering seven children with her, before his horrific crimes were uncovered in 2008. Based on a report by NYP 2025-02-26

Imagine boarding a train in London and stepping out in New York just 54 minutes later. While this might sound like something out of a sci-fi novel, a proposed Transatlantic Tunnel claims it could make this a reality. Backed by Elon Musk, this ambitious concept would allow passengers to travel the 3,400-mile (5,470 km) journey at astonishing speeds. However, the convenience comes with an eye-watering price tag—an estimated $19 trillion (£15 trillion), which is more than five times the UK's total gross domestic product. Musk has fueled excitement by suggesting that his tunnel-digging venture, The Boring Company, could complete the project for "1000-times less money." The technology behind such a tunnel is not entirely new. Using vacuum tubes and magnetically levitating trains, engineers believe they could eliminate almost all friction, allowing trains to reach speeds exceeding 3,000 mph (4,800 kmph). The result? A journey so smooth you wouldn't even spill your coffee. While this might seem like a futuristic dream, the idea of a transatlantic tunnel has been around for more than a century. The first known proposal appeared in an 1895 story by Michel Verne, son of the famed sci-fi writer Jules Verne. Titled *Un Express de l’Avenir* (*An Express of the Future*), it described a high-speed underwater connection between Europe and America. In 1913, German author Bernhard Kellerman wrote *Der Tunnel* (*The Tunnel*), which later inspired the 1935 English-language film *Transatlantic Tunnel*. In the early 20th century, the pioneering engineer Robert H. Goddard—credited with inventing the first liquid-fueled rocket—received patents for tunnel designs that hinted at this high-speed future. However, it is only in recent decades that advancing technology has made such an endeavor seem plausible. Two key innovations are bringing the Transatlantic Tunnel closer to reality. The first is magnetic levitation (maglev) trains, which use powerful electromagnets to lift the train off the tracks. This eliminates direct contact with the rails, significantly reducing friction and allowing for unprecedented speeds. Maglev trains are already operational in countries like Japan, Germany, and China, where they are considered the future of high-speed transport. China, in particular, is expanding its maglev network, with ambitions for passenger trains traveling over 621 miles (1,000 km) per hour—approaching the cruising speed of a Boeing 737. Currently, China has two operational maglev lines: the Changsha Maglev, which reaches 62 mph (101 kmph), and the Shanghai Maglev, which hits 268 mph (431 kmph). While impressive, these speeds are still far from what would be needed for a transatlantic journey in under an hour. That’s where the second crucial innovation comes in: vacuum tunnels. Instead of running trains on open-air tracks, they would travel inside enclosed tubes with the air pumped out, drastically reducing air resistance. This "hyperloop" design could allow trains to reach speeds exceeding 600 mph (965 kmph), far surpassing any current railway system. Elon Musk has long been an advocate for hyperloop technology, even proposing a vacuum-sealed tunnel between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Although the concept is still in its early stages, recent breakthroughs suggest that such a system is not entirely out of reach. While a $19 trillion transatlantic tunnel remains an enormous challenge, the combination of maglev and hyperloop technology could, one day, transform global travel. If realized, it could redefine transportation as we know it—bringing the world closer together in ways once thought impossible. Based on a report by Daily Mail 2025-02-26

Tara Reade, a former Democratic staffer who accused President Joe Biden of sexual assault, has escalated her legal battle against the Biden administration, increasing her lawsuit’s damages to $100 million. The amended complaint, filed on February 24 with the FBI’s legal counsel in Washington, alleges that the FBI, the Department of Justice (DOJ), former U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland, and former FBI Director Christopher Wray violated her state and federal constitutional rights. Reade initially filed a tort claim covering the period between April 4, 2019, and January 20, 2025, but never received a formal response from the DOJ. Originally seeking $10 million, she has now increased the demand tenfold. "I think the lawsuit's going to just kind of show the Deep State; how the Biden administration was able to manipulate Western media pretty well using money and other means," Reade told *Newsweek*, referencing the controversy surrounding Hunter Biden's laptop. She further stated that the lawsuit demands an investigation into the alleged third-degree sexual assault and hopes it will help clear her name. Citing standard legal practice, an FBI spokesperson declined to comment on the ongoing litigation. Reade, who previously worked as an aide to Biden when he was a U.S. senator from Delaware, made headlines in 2020 when she accused him of assaulting her in a Senate corridor in 1993. Biden has consistently denied the allegations, and his administration has pushed back against Reade’s claims. Former White House Deputy Press Secretary Andrew Bates dismissed her as "an aspiring Russian citizen" who had aligned with a foreign government. Her attorney, Jonathan Levy, told *Newsweek* that they delayed amending and refiling the complaint until Kash Patel was confirmed as FBI Director, which happened last Thursday. Levy pointed to former President Donald Trump’s recent executive order aimed at "ending the weaponization of the federal government," suggesting that this move could help bring attention to Reade’s case. "The Biden administration appeared to be hands-off, at least as far as responding to any kind of legal process or request," Levy explained. "President Trump signing the anti-weaponization executive order is a big change. The idea is to investigate and bring some light onto the weaponization that occurred toward influencing the presidential campaigns, as well as to go after whistleblowers connected with the Biden family." Levy noted that the decision to increase the damages sought was influenced by the legal precedents set in cases like writer E. Jean Carroll’s defamation lawsuit against Trump. Carroll was awarded $5 million in damages in 2023 after a jury found Trump liable for sexual abuse and defamation, and an additional $83.3 million in January 2024. "We probably had too low of a number there to begin with," Levy admitted. "Looking at similar cases, like E. Jean Carroll, this seems like a more appropriate figure. Also, we're now naming Merrick Garland as a defendant." Reade, who left the U.S. for Moscow in May 2023, was granted expedited asylum in Russia later that year. She now works as a contributor for RT (formerly Russia Today), a state-funded media outlet. Her lawsuit claims that the government played a role in tarnishing her reputation by portraying her as a "Russian agent" and unlawfully surveilling her. She alleges that her communications and financial records were seized and that she faced numerous death threats, leading to severe emotional distress and anxiety. A separate civil rights complaint filed to the DOJ in 2023 accused the FBI of investigating her under the guise of "Operation Cassandra," even as she sought their protection from threats. Despite vocal support from Republican figures such as Matt Gaetz, Marjorie Taylor Greene, and Nancy Mace on social media, Reade expressed frustration that no congressional Republicans had directly assisted her. However, she remains hopeful that figures like Patel, Attorney General Pam Bondi, and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard will take an interest in her case. "My hope is that because the weaponization in my case was so egregious, it will come to their attention and for their benefit," Reade stated. "But if they choose not to, they choose not to. I really am hopeful that they will prioritize citizens that have been targeted like I was, and I'm not the only one. But I am the only one right now that I know of that's actually pursuing damages in a lawsuit with the DOJ and FBI, to open my files and have them expunged." Based on a report by Newsweek 2025-02-26

Portraits of Winston Churchill have been taken down from Parliament following Labour’s landslide victory in the general election, The Telegraph has revealed. Drawings, prints, and photographs of the Second World War leader were removed after the arrival of new MPs in Westminster last year. Churchill’s legacy has come under scrutiny in recent years, with some historians and activists arguing that he was a racist imperialist and bore responsibility for the Bengal famine. Five images of the former prime minister were removed from various parts of the parliamentary estate, particularly in areas housing MPs' offices. One notable photograph, which was taken down from Portcullis House, depicted Churchill standing at the Cenotaph in 1945. Other prominent historical figures have also had their portraits removed, including the Duke of Wellington. These artworks are part of the Parliamentary Art Collection, which consists of around 10,000 pieces available for MPs to display in their offices. The collection underwent an audit in 2020 following the Black Lives Matter protests, with the Speaker’s advisory committee on works of art compiling a dossier identifying historical figures considered controversial due to links to slavery or racism. Several artworks listed in this dossier were removed after the election, which saw Labour gain 211 seats and 335 new MPs enter Parliament. Some think tanks described this intake as the most racially diverse in history. Following the July 4 election, five portraits of William Gladstone, the four-time Liberal prime minister, were also taken down. Gladstone’s father had been a slave owner and received compensation upon the abolition of slavery. Simultaneously, five images of Oliver Cromwell were removed, as he was listed in the audit as someone who “supported slavery, had financial or family interests in the transatlantic slave trade and slavery.” Similarly, a portrait of Lord Liverpool, a Tory prime minister, was taken down after being listed in the same category. Three portraits of the Duke of Wellington were removed a week after the election, despite him not being explicitly mentioned in the dossier. His contributions to colonial expansion in India were cited as reasons for his removal. Additionally, a portrait of William Wilberforce, a renowned abolitionist, was taken down. Other figures whose depictions were removed include Lord Salisbury, Victorian prime minister; poet John Milton; Charles I; and Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Most of these artworks were taken from office buildings such as Portcullis House, Derby Gate, and the Norman Shaw building, all of which are outside the main Palace of Westminster and serve as workspaces for MPs. It is understood that these pieces have now been placed in storage. However, within the Palace of Westminster itself, which operates under a different system, multiple statues and paintings of Churchill remain in place. The display and placement of artwork in the House of Commons is managed by the Heritage Collections Team and the Speaker’s advisory committee on works of art. While some pieces are integrated into the architecture of the Palace and hold more permanent positions, others are subject to rotation, though not necessarily influenced by individual MPs. This development follows reports by The Telegraph that Sir Keir Starmer removed a portrait of William Shakespeare from No 10, along with images of Elizabeth I, Sir Walter Raleigh, and Margaret Thatcher. Additionally, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has reportedly taken down portraits of historical leaders such as David Lloyd George and Benjamin Disraeli from No 11, replacing them with works commemorating lockdown. Based on a report by The Telegraph 2025-02-26

Following the Democratic Party’s defeat in the 2024 election, donors are holding back funds, frustrated by what they see as a lack of vision and effective strategy. As the party struggles to regroup after Kamala Harris’s loss to Donald Trump, financial backers—from bundlers to grassroots supporters—are expressing deep dissatisfaction with the state of Democratic leadership. "I’ll be blunt here: The Democratic Party is f‑‑‑ing terrible. Plain and simple," said one major Democratic donor. "In fact, it doesn’t get much worse." Another donor shared a similar sentiment: "They want us to spend money, and for what? For no message, no organization, no forward thinking. … The thing that’s clear to a lot of us is that the party never really learned its lesson in 2016. They worked off the same playbook and the same ineffective strategies and to what end?" Many donors feel misled by party leaders, particularly during the 2024 campaign cycle. Until the June debate, they had been assured that President Joe Biden was capable of defeating Trump again. However, when Biden’s poor debate performance raised serious concerns about his age and ability, donors felt betrayed. Even after Harris took over as the Democratic nominee, financial backers poured significant resources into a campaign that ultimately relied on outdated strategies. Harris’s loss left morale among Democrats at an all-time low. "This is worse than 2016," said the first donor. "Our party is so weak and so diminished." Steve Schale, who directed the pro-Biden super PAC Unite the Country, acknowledged the frustration. While some donor reluctance stems from post-election fatigue, he admitted, "There is genuine frustration." "I’ve talked to a number of donors who just don’t have a lot of confidence after 2024 and want to see how people are thinking about issues differently," Schale said. "Donors are taking calls, but they’re asking harder questions, which I think is a good thing. Frankly, a lot of donors I’ve talked to don’t think their voice mattered in 2024, so I’ve been doing more listening than talking." Douglas Wilson, a political consultant in North Carolina, noted that many donors remain hesitant to contribute freely again. With Democrats out of power, their ability to enact meaningful change is limited. According to Wilson, some donors feel that Democratic leaders in Congress are not "fighting back hard enough" for major reforms. "This is having a trickle-down effect," Wilson said. "Grassroots donors want to see more fight and less text message requests asking for contributions." A Democratic National Committee strategist echoed these concerns, saying uncertainty about the party’s direction is discouraging high-level donors from giving. Some believe Democrats cannot defeat Trump-style candidates, prompting them to withhold financial support. "Folks are saying right now, ‘What’s the Democratic Party to me as an investment?’ I’m hearing from DNC members—they don’t really believe where we’re at right now. They don’t believe that we can counter Trump, so why lose dollars?" the strategist said. Others argue that Democrats should shift away from relying on major donors and instead focus on small-dollar contributions. Many believe the party needs to rebuild credibility with working-class voters, who have grown increasingly wary of corporate influence. Some moderates even suggest adopting the grassroots fundraising model popularized by Senator Bernie Sanders. "If corporations and big donors are now rejecting the party, where else can they go for money if they’re not doing it the Bernie Sanders way?" the strategist added. Schale predicts that Democratic fundraising will look different in future cycles, with more groups raising smaller sums rather than relying on a single super PAC or the DNC. "I believe we will see more groups raising smaller numbers, as donors look to invest in different things," he said. "I think this is healthy, as we learned in 2020 when a ton of groups were at the table." Jamal Simmons, a Democratic strategist, believes donors will eventually return to the party as Trump’s policies become more aggressive toward progressive values. However, he acknowledges that many are still processing the emotional aftermath of the campaign. "For a lot of Democrats, it’s like we had a heartbreak and one way to deal with heartbreak is to curl up on your couch and eat ice cream," Simmons said. "But one way that will help them get over the heartbreak is how infuriating the new guy is." As the 2026 election cycle approaches, Simmons expects donors to reengage, particularly if the party can present more compelling candidates. "Democrats like to be inspired, so having more inspirational candidates will make that easier," he said. Based on a report by The Hill 2025-02-26

Apple announced on Monday its plans to support the development of a 250,000-square-foot facility in Texas by 2026, dedicated to manufacturing artificial intelligence servers. This initiative will coincide with the addition of approximately 20,000 research and development jobs across the United States. As part of a broader investment strategy, Apple revealed its intention to spend $500 billion in the U.S. over the next four years. This figure encompasses expenditures ranging from purchases from American suppliers to domestic film production for Apple TV+. However, the company did not specify how much of this budget was already earmarked for its current U.S. supply base, which includes companies such as Corning, the manufacturer of iPhone glass in Kentucky. The decision to bolster domestic investments follows reports that Apple CEO Tim Cook recently met with former President Donald Trump. The meeting came amid concerns that Apple products assembled in China could be subject to a 10% tariff imposed by Trump earlier this month. In the past, Apple had secured exemptions from tariffs on Chinese imports during Trump's first term. This latest financial commitment mirrors a previous announcement made during Trump's first administration, in which Apple committed to spending $350 billion over five years. While the majority of Apple’s products continue to be assembled abroad, key components are still produced in the U.S. Chips for Apple devices are manufactured domestically by companies such as Broadcom, SkyWorks Solutions, and Qorvo. Additionally, Apple recently commenced mass production of its own chip designs at an Arizona factory owned by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC). One of Trump’s significant industrial policy moves during his first term was attracting TSMC to Arizona and championing legislation that led to the CHIPS Act, which aims to enhance semiconductor production in the U.S. Apple’s latest announcement aligns with these efforts, as the company will partner with Hon Hai Precision Industry, commonly known as Foxconn, to construct the Houston-based server manufacturing facility. These servers, which are integral to Apple Intelligence—Apple’s suite of AI-driven features—are currently produced outside the United States. Apple also stated that it would expand its Advanced Manufacturing Fund from $5 billion to $10 billion. Part of this expansion includes a "multibillion-dollar commitment from Apple to produce advanced silicon" at TSMC's Arizona facility. While the company did not disclose the specifics of its agreement with TSMC, it has previously used this fund to help suppliers develop the necessary infrastructure to meet Apple’s production demands. Furthermore, Apple announced plans to establish a manufacturing academy in Michigan. This initiative will offer free courses in areas such as project management and manufacturing process optimization. The academy will be staffed by Apple engineers in collaboration with local university professionals, with the goal of supporting small and mid-sized manufacturing firms. Apple’s continued investment in American manufacturing and technology underscores its efforts to strengthen its domestic supply chain while advancing AI-driven innovations. Based on a report by Reuters 2025-02-24

The BBC is facing more intense scrutiny following allegations that taxpayer money may have been paid to Hamas during the production of a controversial documentary about Gaza. Kemi Badenoch, the Tory leader, has called for an independent inquiry into what she described as “potential collusion” with the terrorist group. The demand comes after it was revealed that *Gaza: How To Survive A Warzone* was presented by the son of a Hamas minister. Initially, the BBC defended keeping the documentary available with a disclaimer, describing it as an “invaluable testament” to Palestinian experiences during the war. However, the broadcaster has since removed it from iPlayer, citing the need for “further due diligence” regarding its collaboration with Hoyo Films, the production company responsible for the film. Badenoch has urged the BBC to launch a full-scale independent investigation into both the documentary’s production and wider accusations of “systemic BBC bias against Israel.” She warned that if the corporation fails to demonstrate “true impartiality,” the Conservative Party may withdraw its support for the licence fee. “It’s funded by us. We are paying for the BBC to promote a Radical Islamic Terrorist organization.” The controversy deepened when *The Telegraph* uncovered social media posts from Hatem Rawagh, a cameraman credited in the documentary, who appeared to celebrate the October 7 Hamas attacks. In one tweet, he shared a video of a gunman killing an Israeli soldier, urging people to watch it “a million” times. On the day of the attack, he referenced the 1973 Yom Kippur War, writing: “Whoever missed Oct 6 [1973] in Egypt ... Oct 7 is happening [now] in Palestine.” The following day, he shared footage from the Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas, showing a gunman shooting an Israeli at the Gaza border. These revelations have intensified calls for transparency regarding the BBC’s editorial standards and financial dealings. As the government pressures the broadcaster for answers, the BBC now faces mounting demands to prove its commitment to impartiality and journalistic integrity. Based on a report by The Telegraph 2025-02-26 Related Topics: BBC Faces Fresh Backlash Over Alleged Gaza Documentary Cover-Up BBC Doc Features Son Of Hamas Leader but Fails to Disclose to Viewers

Dan Bongino, a vocal podcast host and former Secret Service agent, has been appointed as the FBI’s deputy director, marking a striking departure from tradition. Bongino, who has never worked at the bureau, has long criticized it, frequently calling it "irredeemably corrupt." His selection signals the direction Kash Patel, a staunch Trump ally, envisions for the agency. Following the announcement, Patel took to X to celebrate the appointment, writing, “I am proud to welcome Dan Bongino as the next Deputy Director of the FBI — a warrior and lifelong public servant. With Pam Bondi as our new Attorney General, we are assembling a team focused on restoring public trust, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring justice is served.” Bongino himself has been a controversial figure in conservative media. A former New York police officer, he left the Secret Service over a decade ago, citing dysfunction within the agency. Since then, he has become a high-profile commentator, running unsuccessfully for political office multiple times and launching a widely popular pro-Trump podcast in 2015. Through his platform, Bongino has been a relentless critic of the FBI. He has frequently alleged, without evidence, that the 2020 election was stolen from Donald Trump and has suggested the bureau deliberately failed to identify the suspect behind the January 2021 pipe bomb placements outside the Democratic and Republican National Committee headquarters. “You think there are legitimate people with character running the FBI? Huh? That’s hilarious,” Bongino declared on his podcast in August 2022. “The FBI is entirely corrupted at the management level, and it’s filtering down now even into some at the in the rank and file.” His new role gives him significant influence in an agency he has spent years attacking. Traditionally, the deputy director position has been reserved for career FBI officials with extensive experience within the bureau. Bongino’s appointment breaks that precedent, raising questions about the direction the agency will take under Patel’s leadership. Ray Batvinis, a retired FBI counterintelligence officer and historian, noted the unprecedented nature of the decision. “The bureau has never had someone from the outside come in as a deputy director. Never,” he said. “I believe [Bongino] has a steep — possibly insurmountable — learning curve.” The FBI has not commented on Bongino’s hiring, but his selection strongly signals the kind of leadership Patel intends to implement—one that aligns with Trump’s vision of overhauling the agency from within. Based on a report by WP 2025-02-24

Pakistan’s latest and most expensive airport, New Gwadar International Airport, stands completed but unused, with no passengers and no planes in sight. The $240 million project, entirely financed by China, remains an enigma, as there is no clear indication of when it will become operational. Located in the coastal city of Gwadar, the airport was finished in October 2024, a striking contrast to the surrounding Balochistan province, which remains one of the country’s most impoverished and volatile regions. Over the past decade, China has invested heavily in Balochistan and Gwadar as part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a multibillion-dollar initiative linking China’s western Xinjiang province to the Arabian Sea. Authorities have touted the project as transformational, yet signs of improvement in Gwadar remain minimal. The city still lacks a connection to the national power grid, relying on electricity from neighboring Iran and solar panels. Clean drinking water remains scarce. For a city of only 90,000 residents, an airport designed to accommodate 400,000 passengers annually seems far from a pressing need. “This airport is not for Pakistan or Gwadar,” said Azeem Khalid, an expert in Pakistan-China relations. “It is for China, so they can have secure access for their citizens to Gwadar and Balochistan.” Gwadar is a quiet but charming city, known for its friendly locals and beautiful beaches that see an influx of visitors during public holidays. However, many still perceive it as difficult or unsafe to visit. Currently, only one commercial flight route operates from Gwadar’s domestic airport, offering limited service to Karachi three times a week. There are no direct flights to Quetta, the provincial capital of Balochistan, or Islamabad, the national capital. The coastal highway, while scenic, has minimal facilities. For decades, the Baloch insurgency has cast a shadow over the region, with thousands reported missing—those who speak out against exploitation or injustice risk being detained on suspicions of ties to armed groups, according to locals. Activists claim forced disappearances and torture are common, though the government denies these allegations. Hashim, a resident of Gwadar, wants to see CPEC succeed and provide opportunities for young people. However, progress has been elusive. “When someone has something to eat, then why would he choose to go on the wrong path,” he said. “It is not a good thing to upset people.” Militant violence in Balochistan declined following a 2014 government counterinsurgency but saw a resurgence after 2021. Attacks have steadily increased since the Pakistani Taliban ended its ceasefire with the government in November 2022, emboldening groups like the outlawed Baloch Liberation Army. Security concerns delayed the airport’s inauguration, with officials fearing its mountainous surroundings could serve as a launching point for attacks. Instead of a grand opening, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chinese Premier Li Qiang hosted a virtual inauguration ceremony. The inaugural flight was kept closed to the public and media. Local frustration over the project has only grown. Abdul Ghafoor Hoth, district president of the Balochistan Awami Party, revealed that not a single resident of Gwadar was employed at the airport—“not even as a watchman.” For now, the gleaming new airport remains a symbol of unfulfilled promises, standing empty while the people of Gwadar continue to struggle with daily hardships. Based on a report by CNN 2025-02-26

Households across the UK are bracing for another increase in energy costs as the regulator Ofgem has announced that the energy price cap will rise by 6.4% from April. This means the average annual energy bill will climb to £1,849, a figure that has exceeded analysts’ predictions. The government and campaigners have called the hike “worrying” “You made a promise Energy Bills would come down” Now UK Energy prices set to rise by a whopping 6.4% come April. More business will go bust, more people will be broke & freezing. The repeated price hikes have led to widespread frustration, with campaign groups urging the government to step up support for struggling households. Simon Francis, coordinator of the End Fuel Poverty Coalition, emphasized the importance of targeted assistance, particularly for vulnerable consumers. “Ministers are right to be focused on improving the Warm Home Discount scheme and on energy debt, which continues at record levels because households have to find more even money to use the same amount of energy,” he said. Caroline Simpson, campaign manager at Warm This Winter, called the increase “devastating” and placed blame on energy companies profiting from the crisis. She argued that firms such as Centrica and Norwegian-owned Equinor, the UK’s largest gas supplier, are capitalizing on high prices while millions struggle. “It is therefore crucial that the government presses on with plans to fix this broken system and boost our energy security by rapidly increasing our supply of homegrown clean energy to free us from expensive gas and bring down bills for everyone for good,” she said. Tim Jarvis, Ofgem’s markets director general, acknowledged the difficulties consumers face, calling the rise “very unwelcome.” He explained that the regulator was forced to act due to substantial increases in wholesale gas prices. “This is further evidence, to be honest, that we need to move away from that reliance on international gas and start looking at domestically generated energy,” he told Sky News Breakfast presenter Wilfred Frost. Jarvis reiterated Ofgem’s full support for the government’s target to transition to clean power by 2030, calling the goal “realistic.” “It’s a big push. It’s one of the government’s missions. And so we are putting everything we can into it. We need to move away from being a price taker. And I think being able to rely on our own domestically generated, cleaner energy will mean that we’ll see much more stable prices in the future,” he stated. Looking ahead, Jarvis warned that predicting energy prices for the summer remains uncertain due to market volatility. “We often see quite minor things significantly changing prices because overall there is a shortage of supply on gas,” he said. “So we are hopeful. But it is very dangerous, I think, to make predictions.” As millions of households prepare for higher bills, the debate over the UK’s long-term energy strategy continues, with growing calls for a shift away from fossil fuels and towards more affordable, sustainable power sources. Based on a report by Sky News 2025-02-26

Reminder of the topic: Pai's Big Bust: 7 Tourists Nabbed for Public Cannabis Use The crackdown led to the arrest of tourists from several countries: one from the UK, two from the Netherlands, one from the US, two from Spain, and one from Israel, according to a police spokesperson.

Off topic post removed @MalcolmB you've already had one Jew/Israeli trolling topic locked today. If you carry on the same rhetoric you will have some further time out to read the rules. 15. You will not discriminate or post slurs, degrading or overly negative comments on the basis of race, gender, age, religion, ethnicity, nationality, disability, medical history, marriage, civil partnership, pregnancy, maternity, paternity, gender identity, sexual orientation or any other irrelevant factor.