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@SMIAI a flame and baiting post has been removed. You need to stop now!

@cambion a post has been removed. 7. Do not quote more than three multiple nested quotes. Only quote the person you are replying to, and only quote the relevant section that you are discussing. A separate members post with multiple off topic images has been removed.

Second time I've had to remove your off topic image @Will B Good

Trump’s Battle Isn't Against Democracy—It’s Against the Power Brokers Who Claimed It Donald Trump’s aggressive pushback against the Washington establishment is being framed by critics as an attack on democracy itself, but a closer look reveals a very different picture. What’s happening isn’t the destruction of democratic institutions—it’s the dismantling of a decades-old oligarchy that seized control of them. The backlash from the Beltway’s entrenched class shows just how threatened they feel. These so-called defenders of democracy are suffering what can only be described as political shell shock. In the modern era, no incoming administration has taken such a decisive and relentless stand against the political uniparty—those elites who have entrenched themselves in the machinery of American governance. For years, their authority went unchallenged. Now, Trump’s refusal to play by their rules has prompted a furious reaction. Rather than face the real issue—the exposure of their own overreach—they accuse him of authoritarianism and claim he poses a threat to democratic norms. The irony, as many have noted, is almost too much to bear. CNN recently published a lengthy and ominously titled article, “Trump is using the power of government to punish opponents.” The report suggests Trump is stretching presidential powers in an “unprecedented” manner to target political enemies and undermine independent institutions. “His actions,” the article warns, “are paralyzing institutions that stand as pillars of America’s independent civic society.” But let’s examine those claims. Is Trump weaponizing lawfare to jail his opponents? Is he censoring the press, curbing academic freedom, or compromising judicial independence? The answer to all of those questions is no. In reality, Trump is doing the opposite. He is taking aim at a political elite that has monopolized power within these institutions for decades. The measures he’s enacted are aimed at loosening their grip—not tightening his own. Among the most cited offenses: Trump has revoked federal contracts and security clearances from law firms that engaged in politically motivated harassment suits against him. These same groups tried to block him from the ballot in the last election. They even pursued legal maneuvers aimed at incarcerating him before voters had a chance to cast their ballots. Now, those who sought to deny voters a choice are outraged that Trump is pushing back. Several firms have reached multi-million dollar settlements and offered pro-bono services to the Trump administration, hoping to avoid further scrutiny. Another so-called authoritarian overreach was Trump’s pressure on Columbia University and similar institutions over their failure to address anti-Israel protests and harassment of Jewish students. Trump threatened to pull $400 million in federal funding unless universities enacted stricter rules on protests, banned masks, held student groups accountable, empowered law enforcement, and reviewed Middle East studies programs. Columbia ultimately agreed to the demands. Former university president Lee Bollinger called it “the most serious intrusion into academic freedom and autonomy” he could remember. But to many Americans, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, this wasn’t an intrusion but a necessary correction. “America grants visas to foreign students to come and study and get a degree,” said Rubio, “not to become a social activist that tears up our university campuses.” Trump’s reevaluation of media access is also portrayed as a danger to democratic norms. In truth, he simply shifted influence away from legacy media outlets—whose credibility has plummeted—and opened the door for alternative platforms that now command public trust. This isn't an assault on press freedom; it's a rebalancing of access and accountability. Finally, Trump’s attempts to root out waste and inefficiency in the executive branch, including his campaign promise to appoint Elon Musk to lead a Department of Government Efficiency, are now being challenged in court. Bureaucrats claim this effort is an attempt to “bend U.S. institutions to his will.” But the reality is straightforward: Trump is asking government employees to follow the directives of the executive branch—the very branch they work for. What we’re witnessing isn’t a breakdown of democracy. It’s the first real effort in generations to return democratic institutions to the people by stripping power from a cloistered elite. The deep state got comfortable calling the shots. Now, their hysterical resistance to change is revealing just how absurd their claims really are. Based on a report by The Hill 2025-04-19

Swastikas at NY GOP Headquarters Condemned as a “Vile Act of Political Hatred” In an act that has sparked bipartisan condemnation, the New York Republican Party’s headquarters in Albany was targeted in what party leaders are calling a deliberate and hateful attack. Printed images of swastikas were found duct-taped to the windows and doors of the building early Thursday morning, prompting a police investigation and widespread outrage. Albany police confirmed that they are looking into the incident as a potential hate crime after discovering the symbols—emblems of the Nazi regime—displayed prominently across the GOP state headquarters. Photos revealed black swastikas, printed on white paper with red borders, taped to various parts of the building. Another printed sheet, also affixed to the wall, carried a chilling message: “If this is not what you stand for, prove it.” New York GOP Chair Ed Cox did not mince words in response to the vandalism. “A vandal duct taped swastikas to our doors and windows—symbols of genocidal evil, meant to intimidate and silence. This is not only an attack on our party, it is also an attack on the values of civil discourse, democracy and decency,” Cox said in a public statement. He further called on top Democratic leaders in the state, including Governor Kathy Hochul, Attorney General Letitia James, and U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, to speak out against the incident and condemn the use of hateful symbolism in political discourse. Governor Hochul responded via social media, expressing strong disapproval of the act. “This is unacceptable. No one should ever resort to violence or vandalism to make a political point,” she tweeted. Attorney General James echoed the sentiment, urging unity against all forms of hatred. “Defacing any institution, across any political party, house of worship, or anywhere else with antisemitic hate or hate of any kind is wrong. All New Yorkers should reject these hateful acts to the fullest extent,” she posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. Republican leaders also reacted strongly. House Republican Leadership Chair Elise Stefanik called for full legal accountability for those responsible. “We must ensure that this vicious criminal who perpetrated this heinous crime is prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” she said. While authorities continue their investigation, the incident has become a flashpoint in the broader debate about the limits of political expression and the importance of civility in a deeply divided climate. The use of Nazi imagery, a symbol synonymous with genocide and hate, has struck a particularly sensitive nerve across party lines and serves as a grim reminder of the dangers of political extremism. As leaders on both sides of the aisle condemn the attack, the hope remains that this disturbing act will galvanize a renewed commitment to respectful discourse and a firm rejection of hate in any form. Based on a report by NYP 2025-04-19

The United States military has confirmed it carried out an airstrike targeting a fuel terminal at the Red Sea port of Ras Isa in Yemen, a site controlled by the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels. The operation marks the latest in a series of escalating military actions aimed at curbing the group's capabilities and financial resources. According to the U.S. military, the strike was intended to disrupt the Houthis’ access to essential fuel supplies and diminish the funding pipeline that supports their operations. “The aim of the attack on the Red Sea port of Ras Isa was to restrict supplies and funds for the Iranian-backed movement,” the U.S. military stated. However, Houthi officials reported a heavy human toll, claiming that at least 70 people were killed in the strike, including several paramedics who were responding to the initial blast. Some 171 others were wounded, the health ministry said Friday. The group did not provide details on how the casualties were distributed or whether the site housed non-military personnel at the time. Despite these claims, U.S. officials have not publicly addressed the reported death toll. As noted by Reuters, “U.S. officials did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the death toll provided by the Houthi media.” The strike comes just weeks after the United States significantly ramped up its military campaign against Houthi positions in Yemen. The increase in attacks is a direct response to the Houthis’ continued targeting of commercial vessels in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. These assaults, which began in October 2023 following the outbreak of war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, have had a notable impact on global shipping. The Houthis, who say their attacks are a show of solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, have succeeded in sinking vessels and disrupting one of the world’s most vital trade corridors. The Red Sea, which connects to the Suez Canal, accounts for nearly 15% of all seaborne trade. As a result of the danger posed by Houthi attacks, many international shipping companies have rerouted their vessels to avoid the area, significantly increasing transportation costs and delivery times. In an unusual twist, one recent U.S. military operation in Yemen was inadvertently revealed through a Signal chat group after a journalist was mistakenly added to a private conversation among senior officials. This accidental disclosure added a layer of intrigue to what is already a complex and volatile situation. The U.S. has maintained that its actions are a measured response to threats against international shipping and regional stability. Still, the rising death toll and the potential for further escalation highlight the delicate balance between military intervention and humanitarian concerns in an already fragile region. Destruction of Houthi Controlled Ras Isa Fuel Port USCENTCOM The Houthis have continued to benefit economically and militarily from countries and companies that provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization. The Iran-backed Houthis use fuel to sustain their military operations, as a weapon of control, and to benefit economically from embezzling the profits from the import. This fuel should be legitimately supplied to the people of Yemen. Despite the Foreign Terrorist Designation that went into effect on 05 April, ships have continued to supply fuel via the port of Ras Isa. Profits from these illegal sales are directly funding and sustaining Houthi terrorist efforts. Today, US forces took action to eliminate this source of fuel for the Iran-backed Houthi terrorists and deprive them of illegal revenue that has funded Houthi efforts to terrorize the entire region for over 10 years. The objective of these strikes was to degrade the economic source of power of the Houthis, who continue to exploit and bring great pain upon their fellow countrymen. This strike was not intended to harm the people of Yemen, who rightly want to throw off the yoke of Houthi subjugation and live peacefully. The Houthis, their Iranian masters, and those who knowingly aid and abet their terrorist actions should be put on notice that the world will not accept illicit smuggling of fuel and war material to a terrorist organization. Based on a report by BBC | CNN | X 2025-04-18 Related Topics: Trump Warns Israel Would Lead Strike if Iran Refuses to Abandon Nuclear Ambitions Iran Withdraws Support from Houthis Amid Intensified US Airstrikes US deploys “overwhelming lethal force” against Houthis in Yemen

A controversial campaign video circulating in the lead-up to next month’s local elections in Wycombe has drawn sharp criticism from senior political figures and raised concerns over potential breaches of UK electoral law. The video, aimed at Muslim voters, promotes certain candidates based on their stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and uses overt religious messaging, including the phrase “Allah sees everything,” to influence voter behaviour. The video highlights 81 Buckinghamshire county council candidates, distinguishing between those who support the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement and those who do not. Eighteen candidates who pledged to “support and promote divestment from companies involved in human rights violations” are marked with green ticks. In contrast, 63 others who either opposed the boycott or did not respond to inquiries are labelled with red crosses. Text at the start of the video reads: “Think before you vote! It’s clear who is supporting genocide and subservient to their masters. There are those that are against it, have morals and are not scared to support the oppressed. Don’t just vote because they are Muslim.” It ends with a stark warning: “Think before you vote. Separate the clout seekers from humans who will make a difference. Don’t sell your soul as Allah sees everything.” The video bears the logos of the High Wycombe branch of the Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC) and the national pressure group Palestine on the Ballot. However, the PSC has publicly denied any involvement in producing the clip. A spokesperson from the High Wycombe branch stated, “This video was not produced by our branch, and we have no knowledge of who created it. It does contain some screenshots of legitimate questions that our High Wycombe branch has asked of all candidates standing in the upcoming local elections, along with their responses.” The video’s use of religious language and its attempt to influence voters on spiritual grounds has sparked concern that it may fall foul of the Elections Act 2022, which prohibits “undue spiritual influence” — a criminal offence carrying a maximum prison sentence of two years. Kemi Badenoch, leader of the Conservative Party, strongly condemned the video, calling it “evil Islamist sectarianism.” Speaking to The Telegraph, she said, “Conservatives will never succumb or kowtow to this evil Islamist sectarianism, which destroys lives all around the world. It is evil, make no mistake, and it stands against everything we believe in. Every day millions of people flee countries where this sort of politics is practised. It does not belong in Britain and threatens our democracy and our way of life.” Steve Baker, former Conservative MP for Wycombe and a former minister of state for Northern Ireland, echoed these concerns, drawing parallels between the video and the dangers of religiously divided politics. “As a former minister of state for Northern Ireland, I’ve seen the legacy of sectarian religious politics – it is not a healthy place to go,” he said. “If you’re amongst those who are promoting it, stop it please. You’re not even serving the people of Gaza.” Baker added a direct message to local Muslim voters: “If you’re a local British Muslim, please know that voting on religious lines is not helping that cause, and far from it, it’s harming your own position in the United Kingdom.” Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, also weighed in, claiming the video confirms his warnings about religiously influenced voting blocs. “This is sectarian politics, as I predicted. Do they realise these are local elections?” he asked. According to the 2021 census, around 7 percent of Buckinghamshire's population identifies as Muslim — slightly above the national average. Of the 18 candidates endorsed in the video, eight are Liberal Democrats, eight are independents, and two are Conservatives. Labour, which suffered losses in past elections due to pro-Palestinian independent challengers, has faced declining Muslim support following the October 7 Hamas attacks and the ensuing war in Gaza. Adding to the atmosphere, a group called The Muslim Vote, which advocates for pro-Gaza positions in British elections, stated in a recent social media clip: “We will organise on every front. We will play the game but from now on we play to win,” indicating plans to target “100 seats” in the next general election. Labour, the Liberal Democrats and the Green Party were contacted for comment regarding the video but had not responded at the time of publication. Based on a report by The Telegraph 2025-04-19

Biden's Surprise Visit to Harvard Marred by Protests, Gaffes, and Ice Cream Slip Former President Joe Biden’s attempt to quietly visit Harvard University turned into anything but a discreet affair, drawing protests, controversy, and media scrutiny. What was meant to be a low-key event at the prestigious Ivy League school quickly unraveled into a public spectacle as students protested, Biden stumbled over key geopolitical facts, and even dropped his ice cream on the floor. The 82-year-old president appeared at Harvard’s Kennedy School to speak with a group of roughly 50 students as part of an event reportedly planned weeks in advance. The visit was organized with an air of secrecy, with students only told they were invited to hear from a “special guest.” However, the element of surprise was swiftly undercut, both by circumstances on campus and by Biden’s own performance. Outside the venue, a dozen pro-Palestinian protesters from a group called Harvard Out of Occupied Palestine made their presence felt. Armed with drums, bells, and loud chants, they disrupted the quiet atmosphere the organizers had hoped for. The protesters shouted, “Biden, Biden, you can’t hide. You’re committing genocide,” making it impossible to ignore the growing tensions on campus surrounding U.S. policy in the Middle East. The backdrop to Biden’s visit added to the tension. Harvard is currently under pressure from the Trump administration, which has frozen $2.2 billion in funding and is threatening the university’s tax-exempt status. In a broader push to address what it calls rising antisemitism on campus, the administration has demanded that Harvard abandon DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) policies, identify activist groups, and accept an independent audit of its academic standards. So far, the university has not agreed to these terms. Biden’s visit was not without its moments of controversy. During his speech, he reportedly confused Ukraine with Iraq while discussing the ongoing war with Russia. His long-time adviser and now Harvard resident fellow Mike Donilon had to step in to correct him. The incident echoed the kind of missteps that plagued Biden’s presidential campaign and ultimately contributed to his decision to bow out of the re-election race following a disastrous debate performance against Donald Trump. Adding to the awkwardness, Biden dropped a melting ice cream bar on the floor after biting into it, according to the Harvard Crimson. While seemingly trivial, the moment was symbolic of the general tone of the visit—an attempt at connection that ended up making headlines for all the wrong reasons. Despite the distractions, Biden praised the university in his remarks to students, saying, “Harvard stepped up in a way no one else has. You should be really thankful.” His comments likely referred to the university’s role in national discourse and possibly its handling of complex political issues, though neither Harvard officials nor Biden’s spokesperson provided further comment about the event. What was intended as a quiet, inspiring appearance ended up drawing unwanted attention—underscoring once again how the spotlight never strays far from the aging former president, even when the event is meant to fly under the radar. Based on a report by The Daily Beast 2025-04-19

Police Strip Search Policy for Trans Women Shifts Following Supreme Court Ruling Trans women in the custody of British Transport Police (BTP) will now be subject to strip searches by male officers rather than female, following a landmark Supreme Court ruling that defines "woman" under the Equality Act 2010 as referring to biological sex. The decision has prompted BTP to adopt a temporary policy in line with the court’s interpretation while further guidance is developed. A spokesperson for the BTP Authority told Sky News, “Under previous policy, we had advised that someone with a gender recognition certificate (GRC) may be searched in accordance with their acquired sex. However, as an interim position while we digest today’s judgment, we have advised our officers that any same sex searches in custody are to be undertaken in accordance with the biological birth sex of the detainee.” This interim change marks a significant shift from previous BTP guidelines. In September last year, the force had clarified that strip searches would be conducted by officers who shared the same sex as shown on a detainee’s birth certificate or GRC. At the time, trans women with a GRC were permitted to conduct strip searches on female detainees. Trans-identifying officers without a GRC, however, were not allowed to perform such searches. Strip searches, as defined by BTP, involve the exposure of buttocks, genitalia, and female breasts and go beyond the removal of outer garments like jackets, gloves, or footwear. The policy came under legal scrutiny when the campaign group Sex Matters launched a judicial review in the High Court, arguing that the guidance posed risks to both detainees and officers. “The policy puts detainees at risk of sexual harassment and sexual assault,” the group said, citing Article 3 of the European Convention on Human Rights, which prohibits torture and inhuman or degrading treatment. They also expressed concern that the policy “puts female officers in a humiliating and dangerous position, as they may be pressured to search trans-identified men.” In the wake of the Supreme Court’s ruling, public bodies across the UK are being urged to review their guidance on implementing equality law. Government minister Karin Smyth confirmed that public institutions have been advised to assess their current policies. “Obviously, public bodies have been asked to look at their own guidance,” she said. “And we will do that very, very carefully.” However, Smyth also cautioned against rushed or inflammatory responses to the ruling, urging agencies not to make statements “that may alarm people,” and to take the time to review their protocols thoughtfully. Baroness Kishwer Falkner, chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), stated that the judgment brings clarity to the issue. “There is no confusion now,” she said. Falkner also noted that the NHS will need to revise its 2019 policy, which currently allows transgender patients to be placed on single-sex wards that correspond with their gender identity. As institutions and legal experts continue to examine the broader implications of the ruling, the BTP’s new interim policy represents one of the earliest and most concrete responses to a decision that is expected to reshape how gender and sex are treated under UK equality law. Based on a report by Sky News 2025-04-19 Related Topic: UK Supreme Court Rules ‘Woman’ Means Biological Female, in Landmark Decision

Clooney and Silver Reveal Their Democratic Favorites for 2028: AOC, Wes Moore, and the Battle for the Party’s Future Actor George Clooney and political analyst Nate Silver have each weighed in on who they see as the future face of the Democratic Party, laying out their predictions for the 2028 presidential race. While Clooney has thrown his support behind Maryland Governor Wes Moore, Silver is leaning toward progressive Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez as the most likely nominee. “He’s a proper leader.” George Clooney reveals his choice for the 2028 Democratic presidential nominee: Maryland Governor Wes Moore. Clooney, who played a notable role in encouraging President Joe Biden to step aside from the 2024 race, appeared on CNN and praised Moore’s leadership qualities, particularly highlighting his response to the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore in 2023. “I think he is the guy who has handled this tragedy in Baltimore beautifully,” Clooney said. “He has two tours of duty in Afghanistan, active duty. He speaks sort of beautifully. He’s smart. He ran a hedge fund. He ran the Robin Hood Foundation. He’s a proper leader.” The actor didn’t stop there. “I’m a Kentucky guy, I like him, he’s a good guy… And he’s won in a red state,” Clooney said of Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, while also mentioning Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. But it was Moore who stood out. “Who I think is levitating above that is Wes Moore,” he emphasized. “I like him a lot. I think he could be someone we could all join in behind. We have to find somebody rather soon because the Republicans are running through government and doing their thing. So it’s our job now to put together a proper team to stand up because we’re right now polling very poorly.” He added, “We say Democrats fall in love and Republicans fall in line. Although I think Republicans have fallen in love a little bit with Trump.” Meanwhile, in his “Silver Bulletin” newsletter, Nate Silver offered his own take. Alongside political commentator Galen Druke, Silver singled out Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez as his top pick for 2028. “She was going to be my first pick… Because of some of the polling; because she has this kind of progressive lane, probably not to herself; because she is younger and media savvy,” Silver said. “I mean, look, in polls, if she were to try to primary Chuck Schumer, she is now ahead in those polls, and New York Democrats are actually a pretty moderate bloc.” Druke shared the sentiment, pointing to Ocasio-Cortez’s strong polling and broad appeal. “In a Yale poll just out this week, AOC has the highest net favorability rating of any of the Democrats that they asked about,” he said. “She has broad appeal across the Democratic Party and there’s a lot of people who could potentially get on board with her.” Druke also stressed that Ocasio-Cortez has “very fervent support,” something he believes will be crucial in a crowded 2028 field. “I think a lot of people are gonna run in 2028, and it’s going to be a contest for attention and getting those sort of people who might be in your boat to turn out and stay with you through thick and thin, and I think that’s Ocasio-Cortez,” said Druke. “The media is kind of obsessed with her, and they’re going to follow her every move, which means she will be able to keep the attention on her throughout the primary process.” While Silver wasn’t sure she would actually run, Druke disagreed. “I think she’s gonna run,” he said, citing her recent “Fight Oligarchy” tour and her strategic messaging. “She has learned a lot as a politician since those early days of opposing Amazon, and especially those early days of the 'Abolish ICE' stuff that was very unpopular ultimately.” Druke noted that Ocasio-Cortez now focuses her message on economic inequality and critiques of Donald Trump’s ties to billionaires. “She’s not forced to talk about identity all the time because she’s sort of self-evidently different from any of the … white guys running, and she doesn’t have to prove her bona fides there,” he said. “At the same time, I think progressives have learned [to] stick to the economic message because what you have to say about those social and cultural state of affairs in America broadly isn’t popular, and I think she knows that.” Both Silver and Druke named Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro as their second most likely Democratic nominee, while Druke placed Kamala Harris third and Silver pointed to New Jersey Senator Cory Booker. As the 2028 race starts to take shape in the minds of political insiders and public figures, names like Wes Moore and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez are emerging as defining contenders, each representing distinct paths for the future of the Democratic Party. Based on a report by The Independent 2025-04-19 Related Topics: George Clooney Says Speaking Out Against Biden’s 2024 Campaign was his ‘civic duty’

Trump Confirms Return Visit to UK at King Charles’s Invitation U.S. President Donald Trump has confirmed he will travel to the United Kingdom in September, following a personal invitation from King Charles III. Calling the monarch his "friend," Trump described the upcoming trip as an "honour" and expressed admiration for the royal family and the country. “I was invited by the King and the great country … It is beautiful,” Trump stated during a press briefing in the Oval Office on Thursday. “It is the second time it has happened to one person. The reason is we have two separate terms and it’s an honour to be a friend of King Charles and the family, William.” The King suggested that the first visit could be more informal, perhaps at Balmoral Castle or Dumfries House in Scotland. He proposed that this meeting might take place during one of Trump’s visits to his Turnberry golf course, located along Scotland’s western coast. This potential meeting would be used to discuss the specifics of a larger, more ceremonial occasion. Trump is reportedly interested in returning to Windsor Castle, where he once had a formal audience with the late Queen Elizabeth II. According to The Telegraph, UK officials have been informed that Trump would prefer a more grandiose setting than the secluded Scottish residences. During his presidency, Trump made a state visit to the UK in June 2019 to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings. That trip included a military-focused ceremony with Queen Elizabeth and a formal dinner hosted by then-Prince Charles at Winfield House, the official residence of the U.S. ambassador to the UK. In his recent letter, King Charles expressed warm memories of Trump’s prior visits. He wrote that he remembered those moments “with great fondness,” and touched on a shared commitment to “the breadth of challenges across the world” and “the values which matter so much to us all.” If confirmed, the upcoming visit would mark a historic return for Trump, making him one of the few figures to receive multiple state visit invitations — a move that underscores the unique and evolving relationship between him and the British monarchy. Based on a report by The Times 2025-04-19

Trump Warns of US Withdrawal from Ukraine Peace Efforts Amid Stalled Negotiations President Donald Trump has signaled that the United States may abandon its efforts to mediate peace between Russia and Ukraine if negotiations continue to stall. Speaking from the Oval Office on Friday, Trump emphasized that the US was committed to ending the conflict quickly, but warned that further engagement would be reconsidered if progress remained elusive. “We’re talking about here people dying. We’re going to get it stopped, ideally,” Trump said. “Now if, for some reason, one of the two parties makes it very difficult, we’re just going to say, ‘You’re foolish, you’re fools, you’re horrible people,’ and we’re going to just take a pass.” Trump did not give a fixed deadline for a truce but made it clear that the window for US involvement was narrowing. His remarks echoed earlier warnings from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who expressed growing frustration with the lack of advancement in ceasefire discussions. “We’re not going to continue with this endeavour for weeks and months on end,” Rubio stated. “The US had other priorities to focus on.” Rubio, who had met with European leaders in Paris the previous day to discuss possible pathways to peace, further underscored the urgency of the situation. “We need to determine very quickly now—and I’m talking about a matter of days—whether or not this is doable,” he said. “If it’s not going to happen, then we’re just going to move on.” The US administration initially believed it could broker a swift resolution to the war, which began when Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. However, the hope for a speedy ceasefire has waned as diplomatic efforts have repeatedly hit roadblocks, with Washington blaming both sides for the impasse. Russia, for its part, has imposed strict conditions on any potential ceasefire, making negotiations particularly difficult. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov acknowledged the challenges, stating that “the negotiations taking place are quite difficult.” He added, “The Russian side is striving to reach a peace settlement in this conflict, to ensure its own interests, and is open to dialogue.” Meanwhile, the violence on the ground continues. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that two people were killed on Friday following a barrage of Russian missile strikes. In a post on X, Zelensky condemned the attacks, which come as diplomatic channels remain gridlocked. Despite the grim outlook, there were glimmers of cautious optimism. US Vice President JD Vance, who met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Rome on Friday, suggested there might still be hope for an end to the conflict. “I want to update the prime minister on some of the negotiations between Russia, Ukraine, and also some of the things that have happened even in the past 24 hours,” Vance said. “I won’t prejudge them, but we do feel optimistic that we can hopefully bring this war—this very brutal war—to a close.” In a separate development, Ukraine and the United States have made initial progress toward a new minerals deal, which had previously been derailed. A memorandum of intent was signed on Thursday outlining plans to create an investment fund for Ukraine’s reconstruction as part of a broader economic partnership. The memo, released by the Ukrainian government, stated that both countries aim to finalize the agreement by April 26. Based on a report by The Daily Mail 2025-04-19

A rambling post full of false claims and misinformation along with a baiting post asking the same question once it had already been answered has been removed @Jeff the Chef

Undercover Sting Foils Rolex Robbers in Mayfair as Gang Targets Police by Mistake A group of so-called "Rolex rippers" were dramatically arrested in London’s Mayfair after they mistakenly targeted a pair of undercover police officers posing as a wealthy couple. The incident, which unfolded on October 10, 2024, was caught on CCTV and has since been revealed as part of a wider operation to tackle a spate of high-end watch robberies in the capital. The plainclothes officers, referred to only as A and B, were strategically placed in Berkeley Square wearing designer clothing and accessories, including replica luxury watches, to attract and catch criminals in the act. As they walked through the square, 21-year-old Yakob Harket pounced, ripping a fake Patek Philippe Rose Gold watch from the female officer’s wrist. Although the watch was dropped and quickly recovered, the attempt triggered an immediate and coordinated response from other nearby officers. One officer, dressed in a suit, slipped while attempting to detain Harket, who momentarily escaped, but he was soon arrested. Two of his accomplices were caught at the scene, while others fled. Harket later admitted to robbery at Southwark Crown Court. His accomplice, 34-year-old Mohammed Naas, denied the charges but was convicted of robbery by a jury after a three-day trial. Two additional gang members, Yanis Amri, 37, and Adel Mohamdi, 31, were found guilty in their absence after fleeing prior to the court proceedings. Warrants have now been issued for their arrests. During the trial, prosecutor Henry Laidlaw explained, “The undercover officers, referred to as A and B, were tasked with walking around while posing as a wealthy couple. He [Harket] ripped the Patek Philippe watch off her wrist but dropped it, so it was recovered.” He added, “You will have seen there, there were a large number of plain clothes officers who sprang into action. Mohamadi and Naas were arrested right next to the offence.” Footage presented in court showed the officers being followed from Berkeley Square to Hays Mews by the suspects. Naas, in his defence, claimed he had woken up at a friend’s house on Edgware Road, had lunch, and later went to Tottenham Court Road to buy cigarettes. He alleged that he had only bumped into Mohamdi and that they had ended up in Shepherd’s Market after meeting for coffee. “Mr Naas said the robbery happened right in front of him. He said he knew Harket but they had never had a conversation,” said Laidlaw. However, the prosecution revealed that Naas had been in regular contact with Harket in the months leading up to the robbery. Laidlaw told jurors, “The prosecution's case, as evidenced by the phone, is he knew Harket well and had a lot of communication in the months leading up to the robbery. Phones were downloaded and a number of internet searches had been made by Naas on 9 October for Richard Mille watches.” He concluded, “Mr Naas did exactly what he was required to do, make sure they were under observation at all times. It is the prosecution's case that Naas was an essential cog in a machine and played a knowing and willing part in the robbery.” Sentencing for Harket has been adjourned until June 2, 2024, while the hunt continues for Mohamdi and Amri. In a separate case earlier this week, 28-year-old Algerian national Anis Benemri was jailed for 32 months after he robbed tourist Karl Christian Septien of his £250,000 “Bubba Watson” watch in front of his children outside the Novikov Restaurant on Berkeley Street. A Metropolitan Police spokesperson commented, “Tackling violent crime is one of the Met's priorities and we are determined to reduce the number of robberies. Uniform and plain clothes officers proactively patrol robbery hotspots to identify offences taking place, but more importantly to help prevent and deter offenders from committing robberies in the first place.” Based on a report by The Daily Mail 2025-04-18

Israel Vows to Keep Troops in Security Zones Across Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria Israeli troops will remain stationed indefinitely in security buffer zones across Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, according to Israel's Defence Minister, Israel Katz. His remarks mark a clear shift in Israel's long-term military strategy amid ongoing regional tensions. Katz stated that Israeli forces "will remain in the security zones as a buffer between the enemy and [Israeli] communities in any temporary or permanent situation in Gaza - as in Lebanon and Syria." The declaration confirms Israel's intention to maintain its military footprint beyond the recent hostilities, regardless of whether a lasting peace agreement is achieved. Over the past several weeks, Israeli forces have intensified operations in Gaza, capturing more than half of the territory in an effort to pressure Hamas into releasing hostages. This renewed military campaign followed the collapse of a temporary ceasefire. Currently, 59 hostages remain in Gaza, with 24 believed to be alive. Many others were released during earlier ceasefire arrangements or through negotiated deals. Katz emphasized a shift in Israel's military doctrine, saying "unlike in the past" the Israeli Defence Forces are "not evacuating areas that have been cleared and seized." This reflects a strategic decision to hold territory indefinitely, aimed at preventing future attacks and ensuring greater security for Israeli civilians. Israel has adopted a similar approach in Lebanon, where it continues to occupy select areas despite a truce reached with Hezbollah last year. The continued presence of Israeli troops has drawn criticism from Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, who said Israel's actions are "hindering" the Lebanese army’s ability to fully deploy in accordance with the ceasefire terms negotiated between the two sides. A comparable security buffer has also been established in southern Syria, where Israeli forces moved in following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime in December. Israel maintains that its control of these strategic zones is essential to safeguarding its northern borders from hostile activity. Israel argues that such measures are necessary to prevent a recurrence of the devastating October 7, 2023, attack, in which militants crossed into southern Israel, killing 1,200 people, most of them civilians, and kidnapping around 250. That incident served as the catalyst for the current conflict and continues to shape Israeli military policy. Katz’s announcement underscores Israel's commitment to a defensive posture rooted in territorial control, signaling that these buffer zones are likely to remain a permanent feature of the regional landscape. Based on a report by Sky News 2025-04-18

Kremlin Spy Chief Warns of ‘Preemptive’ Moves Against NATO Amid Rising Tensions Russia and Belarus are preparing to take preemptive action against NATO countries, according to the head of Russia’s foreign intelligence service, who accused European powers of dangerously escalating the war in Ukraine. Sergei Naryshkin, the chief of Russia’s SVR intelligence agency and a former KGB officer, made the provocative claim during talks in Minsk with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko. "We feel and see that European countries, especially France, Britain and Germany, are increasing the level of escalation around the Ukrainian conflict, so we need to act preemptively. We are ready for this," said Naryshkin. He did not offer specific evidence for what he described as increased NATO military activity near Russian and Belarusian borders. Belarus remains Moscow’s closest ally in Europe and has already served as a launchpad for Russian attacks on Ukraine. The Kremlin has also deployed tactical nuclear weapons within Belarus, further solidifying their strategic military alliance. Naryshkin’s comments come amid growing Western concern over a shadow war believed to be waged by Russian and Belarusian operatives across Europe. Western intelligence officials say agents from both nations have been linked to numerous acts of sabotage and arson since President Vladimir Putin launched the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Sir Richard Moore, head of Britain’s foreign intelligence service, described Russia’s sabotage campaign as “staggeringly reckless.” Targets have included cargo planes, commercial warehouses, retail shops, and even critical infrastructure like underwater cables. Russian intelligence agencies are also said to be behind cyberattacks and electronic interference efforts aimed at destabilizing European governments and eroding support for Ukraine. According to a recent analysis by the Center for Strategic and International Studies, the number of Russian sabotage attempts nearly tripled between 2023 and 2024, after having already quadrupled from the previous year. “Despite the increase in Russian attacks, western countries have not developed an effective strategy to counter these attacks,” the report warned. It also noted that acts of sabotage allow the Kremlin to engage in coercive actions that fall below the threshold of open warfare—minimizing the risk of direct military retaliation. While the GRU, Russia’s military intelligence service, is believed to lead these operations, the SVR and the FSB—Russia’s domestic security service previously headed by Putin—are also implicated. However, not all attacks have been conducted by Russian nationals. In the UK, a 20-year-old British man admitted to setting fire to a Ukrainian-owned business in East London on Moscow’s behalf. Earlier this month, a Romanian man was arrested in connection with a blaze at a DHL facility in Birmingham, believed to be caused by a Russian-made incendiary device. In Lithuania, a 17-year-old Ukrainian refugee, Daniil Bardadim, was charged with terrorism after allegedly setting fire to an Ikea store in Vilnius. Authorities claim he was promised a BMW and approximately $11,000 for the act. It remains unclear whether Bardadim was aware that he may have been acting under Moscow’s influence. Interestingly, no such sabotage attacks have been reported in Hungary or Serbia—two of Russia’s most reliable European allies aside from Belarus. This pattern has raised further suspicions about the Kremlin’s selective strategy in targeting only those nations firmly aligned with NATO. Naryshkin’s latest statements underscore a growing sense of confrontation between Russia, its allies, and Western powers. As rhetoric and covert operations escalate, the line between hybrid warfare and open conflict continues to blur—leaving Europe facing an increasingly volatile and uncertain security landscape. Based on a report by The Times 2025-04-18

When Diversity Becomes Discrimination: The Hidden Cost of Identity Quotas in British Institutions The push for diversity in Britain’s public sector has reached a critical tipping point, with accusations that anti-white racism has become just as embedded as trans rights advocacy. In the pursuit of inclusion, vital institutions like the NHS, the police, and the Armed Forces are accused of abandoning merit in favour of identity—at great cost to efficiency, safety, and public trust. A hospital consultant, Amir, shared his dismay about diversity-based hiring practices in the NHS. According to him, British-trained doctors and nurses are increasingly passed over in favour of less qualified overseas candidates, simply to meet diversity quotas. He reflects on how difficult it was to gain entry into medical school in India 25 years ago, saying, “Indian doctors were the best of the best.” But today, he claims, places can be bought. “Everything has a price tag,” he explains. “Not just undergraduate degrees; postgraduate degrees as well.” When Amir was asked for his reaction to reports that NHS trusts were rigging interview shortlists to favour ethnic minority candidates, he replied with unfiltered frustration: “Utter despair, total disaster. Driven by woke managers, consultants have no input into the selection process. Command of the English language no longer a prerequisite.” That statement alone should alarm anyone who values patient safety. The road to becoming a doctor in the UK is long and grueling. Students must earn top A-level grades and endure years of rigorous training. Yet, some of the best are finding that their hard-earned qualifications aren’t enough—especially if they are white or privately educated. The result? Highly trained British doctors are heading abroad, with countries like Australia benefiting from our loss. Medical negligence claims against the NHS reached a staggering £2.8 billion in 2023–24, up £180 million from the previous year. In this context, hiring the best candidates should be an obvious priority. But the influence of “race-based hiring policies” seems to trump all else, driven by what some call a performative DEI culture. Amir notes that “ignorance and incompetence need be no drawback for candidates who have the correct ethnicity.” A friend in finance jokes that her own children—well-educated and white—would be last in line for graduate training roles. Her most recent intern, she admits, was appallingly unfit for client-facing work, but ticked the right boxes for inclusion. Meanwhile, a police recruitment process left one gifted young woman so disillusioned by its focus on diversity that she quit before she even got started. These policies aren’t limited to hospitals and offices. The RAF’s diversity initiative famously backfired when it couldn’t find enough capable pilots and had to recall previously rejected applicants—many of them white men. A recent Army advert showed a Muslim soldier praying during manoeuvres, while others looked on approvingly. “I thought it was a spoof at first,” the writer remarks, questioning whether this image might deter those who simply want to serve their country. Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, recently dismissed reports that white applicants had been blocked from applying to the police, calling them “incredibly misleading.” Yet in 2023, Chief Constable John Robins supported positive discrimination, stating that candidates from under-represented groups should “move forward” ahead of their white counterparts. The rationale? “Systemic issues around applications.” For critics, this isn’t just misguided policy—it’s dangerous. Discriminating against white candidates in roles that involve life-and-death responsibilities, like medicine or national security, could be seen as treasonous. Yet, HR departments across the UK are allegedly empowered by the Equality Act 2010 to apply “positive action,” with devastating results. As one former senior police officer described the policy: “idiotic.” This madness, as Amir describes it, ultimately demoralizes white British candidates and insults capable minority professionals who earned their place on merit. While he praises some “top of the class” radiologists from India, he remains uneasy about others who secured places via family wealth. The silence surrounding these policies is eerily similar to the way trans rights activism spread, where objecting became taboo. Even as Health Secretary Wes Streeting criticized “misguided” DEI programs that promoted “anti-whiteness,” the NHS continues to endorse strategies like the Rooney Rule—imported from American football—where ethnic minorities must be shortlisted for interviews regardless of qualifications. The ultimate question is not whether diversity should be celebrated—it should. But when inclusion becomes exclusion, when merit is sacrificed at the altar of identity, everyone pays the price. As the article wryly concludes, “I don’t fancy Crispin Good-Chap’s chances if he’s up against a non-binary, blue-haired person who identifies as a brain surgeon, do you?” Based on a report by The Telegraph 2025-04-18

Jordan Uncovers Muslim Brotherhood Cell Plotting Rocket and Drone Attacks Jordanian authorities announced Tuesday the arrest of 16 individuals linked to the Muslim Brotherhood who allegedly plotted a series of attacks using rockets and drones within the kingdom. The suspects were reportedly trained and financed in Lebanon, and security forces had been tracking their activities since 2021. According to a Jordanian security source, the head of the cell was based in Lebanon and trained several members of the group. The Muslim Brotherhood, a long-standing opposition group in Jordan, is known for its affiliation with Hamas, a designated terrorist organization by multiple countries. Authorities say that at least one rocket was ready for launch when the operation was dismantled. The plot comes amid heightened tensions in Jordan fueled by the war in Gaza, which erupted following the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack on southern Israel that killed approximately 1,200 people and resulted in 251 hostages being taken. Jordan, a US-backed kingdom with a sizable Palestinian population, has seen waves of anti-government protests allegedly incited by both Hamas and the Muslim Brotherhood during the ongoing conflict. In a public statement, Jordan’s General Intelligence Department said it uncovered a rocket manufacturing facility along with a drone production workshop. These were part of “the plot aimed at harming national security, sowing chaos and causing material destruction inside the kingdom.” Jordanian officials also released a video showing the suspects’ confessions and confirmed that the individuals have been referred to the state security court for prosecution. Government spokesman Mohammad Momani detailed that rockets were discovered in a secret location on the outskirts of Amman. These weapons, which were being locally produced, had an estimated range of three to five kilometers and were intended for attacks within Jordan’s borders. A security source revealed that authorities discovered dozens of rockets in the hideout, indicating the scale of the planned assault. Amer Al Sabaileh, a leading security analyst, told Reuters that the plan represented a notable evolution in tactics. “This means a complete change in the way the Muslim Brotherhood are dealing with Jordan and targeting its security,” Al Sabaileh explained. Jordan has historically been considered one of the more stable countries in the region. However, it has had its share of threats to national security. The kingdom expelled Hamas in 1999 and has regularly cracked down on activities it deems as destabilizing. In May of the previous year, Jordanian authorities reported intercepting an arms shipment from Iran—Hamas’s chief supporter—en route through Syria to the Muslim Brotherhood in Jordan. While Jordan maintains internal stability, the foiled plot is a stark reminder of the external and internal pressures the kingdom faces in an increasingly volatile region. Based on a report by Reuters 2025-04-18

George Clooney Says Speaking Out Against Biden’s 2024 Campaign Was His Duty, Not a Bold Move Oscar-winning actor and longtime Democratic supporter George Clooney has opened up about his controversial call for President Joe Biden to step aside from the 2024 presidential race, saying he felt it was his “civic duty” to speak out, even if it wasn’t popular. “Well, I don’t know if it was brave,” Clooney said during an interview with CNN’s Jake Tapper on Wednesday, reflecting on the op-ed he penned for The New York Times in July 2024. “It was a civic duty.” Clooney acknowledged that some people remain upset with him for publishing the piece, but he stands by his decision. The actor revealed that what compelled him to write the op-ed was witnessing fellow Democrats remain silent or dishonest about Biden’s evident decline in both physical and mental sharpness. Clooney described the version of Biden he met during a June fundraiser as markedly different from the man he had known during previous years. “When I saw people on my side of the street, not telling the truth, I thought that was time,” he said. Clooney, 63, co-hosted a major fundraiser for Biden just weeks before the op-ed was published, helping raise around $30 million. However, the event reportedly became a turning point for him. Biden froze up on stage and had to be guided off by former President Barack Obama, an incident that Clooney alluded to in his writing. “[T]he one battle he cannot win is the fight against time,” Clooney wrote in the op-ed. “None of us can.” He didn’t hold back in describing the stark change he saw in the president. “It’s devastating to say it, but the Joe Biden I was with three weeks ago at the fund-raiser was not the Joe ‘big F-ing deal’ Biden of 2010,” he wrote. “He wasn’t even the Joe Biden of 2020. He was the same man we all witnessed at the debate.” The op-ed directly addressed the Democratic Party’s attempts to downplay Biden’s lackluster performance at the June 27, 2024 debate against Donald Trump, calling on lawmakers and party leaders to stop pretending otherwise. “Stop telling us that 51 million people didn’t see what we just saw,” Clooney demanded. “We are not going to win in November with this president.” Though the Biden campaign reportedly tried to dissuade Clooney from publishing the piece, it went live — and just weeks later, on July 21, 2024, Biden officially ended his re-election campaign. When Tapper asked if he was still facing backlash for the op-ed, Clooney admitted, “Some people, sure. It’s okay.” He defended his right to speak out, regardless of how it was received. “You know, listen, the idea of freedom of speech, you know, the specific idea of it is, you know – you can’t demand freedom of speech and then say, but don’t say bad things about me,” Clooney said. “Well, that’s the deal.” “You have to take a stand if you believe in it, take a stance, stand for it, and then deal with the consequences. That’s the rules.” Based on a report by NYP 2025-04-18

Driver Survives 40ft Plunge from Unfinished Bridge After Following Google Maps A 61-year-old man in Indonesia miraculously survived a dramatic plunge off an unfinished overpass after following confusing directions from Google Maps, leading to a terrifying fall captured on CCTV. Rudie Heru Komandono was behind the wheel when his car veered past a concrete security barrier and sped off the edge of a half-built flyover in East Java on April 9. The vehicle dropped nearly 40 feet before crashing onto a busy three-lane highway below, narrowly avoiding oncoming traffic. Surveillance footage shows the shocking moment the car sailed through the air and landed with a violent impact in the middle of the road, scattering debris as startled drivers nearby swerved to avoid a pile-up. Komandono later explained to the press that he had been relying on Google Maps for navigation at the time. According to reports, the app had attempted to re-route him away from the unfinished bridge, but a series of rapidly changing directions left him disoriented. “The road suddenly became dark and there were no other cars,” Komandono recalled. “Then I realised there was a problem when the car started falling and crashed on the ground.” Astonishingly, both Komandono and his passenger, 47-year-old Endang Sri Wahyuni, escaped the wreck with only minor injuries. However, the experience has clearly shaken Wahyuni, who told reporters that she has no plans to ride in a car with Komandono again. The incident has sparked renewed scrutiny of digital navigation apps and their reliability in rapidly developing or less clearly mapped areas, particularly in regions where construction zones may not be clearly marked. Despite the app reportedly trying to reroute the vehicle, the driver’s moment of confusion proved nearly fatal. Local authorities are investigating the circumstances around the incident, and questions remain about whether clearer signage or physical barriers could have prevented the accident. Meanwhile, Komandono is recovering from his injuries and likely reflecting on a night that could have ended very differently. Based on a report by The Independent 2025-04-18

What began as a traffic stop turned into a deadly and dramatic confrontation involving DeShawn Leeth, a man once hailed as a community advocate who was ultimately gunned down after a violent series of events. Leeth, 30, who had previously served time for home invasions but later founded a youth nonprofit, was fatally shot after stealing a police vehicle and leading officers on a high-speed chase across state lines. According to law enforcement, the chaos unfolded on Friday when Ohio State Troopers responded to a vehicle crash. When they approached Leeth, the situation escalated rapidly. Bodycam footage obtained by CBS shows Leeth aggressively confronting the trooper. “Next time you touch me, you gonna die, next time you touch me, you gonna die,” Leeth can be heard shouting repeatedly. The officer attempted to subdue Leeth with a stun gun, but it failed. A struggle ensued, with Leeth delivering blows and ultimately overpowering the trooper. During the altercation, he was heard growling, “I’m stronger than you!” as he forced the officer to the ground. The bodycam was knocked off in the scuffle, and a bystander intervened, urging Leeth to release the trooper. Once free, Leeth jumped into the trooper’s cruiser and took off down the Ohio Turnpike. The subsequent 11-minute chase was captured by the stolen vehicle’s dash cam. Leeth drove erratically, weaving between cars at dangerously high speeds. Throughout the pursuit, he muttered to himself, declaring he “rebuked” anyone in front of or behind him. Pennsylvania State Police eventually intercepted him in North Sewickley Township. Using a tactical maneuver, they struck the stolen cruiser, causing it to spin out of control, hit the median, and crash down an embankment. The vehicle flipped multiple times before coming to rest on its roof. Amazingly, Leeth survived the crash and was pulled from the wreck by troopers. But the situation took another violent turn as Leeth once again lashed out, attempting to fight the officers trying to help him. It was at that moment that law enforcement opened fire, killing him on the scene. Leeth’s death marks a grim end to what some saw as a story of redemption. At 18, he was incarcerated for his role in two home invasions. Years later, he became involved in a faith-based rehabilitation group while in prison and went on to found Underdawg Nation, a nonprofit focused on steering young people away from crime. His efforts gained recognition within his community, where he was seen as a positive force trying to inspire change. In the wake of his death, a GoFundMe campaign created by his family has raised nearly $13,000. The fundraiser described Leeth as someone who “lived to inspire change.” It added, “He was a pillar of hope, a champion for the overlooked, and a beacon of unwavering faith. He lived to uplift others, to pour into his community, and to reflect God’s love in everything he did.” Based on a report by The Daily Mail 2025-04-18

Letitia James Hosts High-Dollar Fundraiser Amid Federal Scrutiny Over Property Claims New York Attorney General Letitia James is pushing forward with her 2026 re-election campaign by launching a high-profile fundraiser, despite facing serious allegations related to mortgage and residency fraud. The event, scheduled for Tuesday evening from 5:30 to 7 p.m., is calling for donations ranging from $500 to as much as $18,000—the maximum contribution legally allowed under New York campaign finance law. The invitation, which includes a photo of James encircled by a rainbow gay pride flag, emphasizes her progressive credentials and determination to continue her work. The fundraiser will be held at the home of activists Rod Grozier and Rob Smith. Smith, the founder and CEO of The Phluid Project, a company known for its gender-neutral clothing line, is a prominent figure in left-wing activist circles. On the event’s ActBlue page, organizers stated, “Letitia James is fighting for our rights every single day. This is our opportunity to show Letitia that we have her back.” The push for campaign cash comes on the heels of a federal criminal referral involving the Attorney General. She is accused of making false claims about her primary residence in official documents related to a property purchase in Norfolk, Virginia. According to a document reviewed by The Post, James signed paperwork in August 2023 asserting, “I intend to occupy this property as my principal residence.” At the time, James was already serving as New York’s Attorney General and also owned a residence in Brooklyn. This claim could be problematic, as New York law mandates that its attorneys general must reside in the state for at least five years prior to election and while holding office. James purchased the Virginia property with her niece, further complicating her legal standing. The Post also reported that several individuals living near the Virginia property stated they had never seen James at the home. Federal Housing Finance Agency Director William Pulte outlined the accusations in a letter addressed to U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche. The letter not only focused on the Virginia residence but also highlighted discrepancies regarding a building James owns in Brooklyn. She reportedly claimed the building contains four apartments, though city records indicate it actually has five. That distinction could affect mortgage terms, as buildings with four or fewer units are eligible for more favorable loan conditions. Pulte noted these issues could amount to criminal charges such as wire fraud, mail fraud, bank fraud, and making false statements to a financial institution. James’ office has fired back at what it called “weaponization of the federal government” by the Trump administration, a statement that reflects the AG’s longstanding adversarial relationship with former President Donald Trump and his allies. However, the office did not offer a direct rebuttal to the specific allegations detailed in the referral. As of yet, there has been no response from James' team regarding media inquiries about the fundraiser. Nonetheless, the event is moving forward, indicating that James is determined to stay on the political offensive, even as questions about her real estate dealings continue to swirl. Based on a report by NYP 2025-04-18

UPDATE: Kilmar Abrego Garcia and MS-13 allegations Kilmar Abrego Garcia, an immigrant from El Salvador, is at the center of a heated debate following accusations by the White House linking him to the notorious MS-13 gang. While the government has declared that Abrego Garcia will "never live" in the United States again, the man himself has denied any affiliation with the gang and has not been convicted of any crime. Despite the public and political uproar, many questions about his alleged ties to MS-13 remain unanswered. According to court documents, Abrego Garcia entered the U.S. illegally in 2012. His first brush with law enforcement occurred in March 2019 when he and three others were detained in a Home Depot parking lot in Hyattsville, Maryland. Officers claimed the group was loitering and identified Abrego Garcia and two others as MS-13 members. The basis for this identification came from a “Gang Field Interview Sheet,” which noted that Abrego Garcia was wearing a Chicago Bulls hat and a hoodie featuring presidents with rolls of money covering their eyes, ears, and mouths. Police wrote that such attire was “indicative of the Hispanic gang culture,” asserting that the Bulls logo specifically suggested membership in MS-13. Steven Dudley, a journalist and expert on MS-13, offered a more cautious interpretation. While acknowledging that the Chicago Bulls logo had, at times, been adopted as a symbol by the gang, he stressed that this doesn’t prove membership. “Any assertions about gang affiliation would need to be corroborated with testimony, criminal history, and other corroborating evidence,” Dudley explained. Police also claimed that a “proven and reliable source” had informed them that Abrego Garcia was part of MS-13’s “westerns clique,” holding the rank of “chequeo.” However, Dudley clarified that “chequeo” is not an actual rank, but a term used for recruits who have not yet been initiated. Nevertheless, the judge presiding over Abrego Garcia’s 2019 case found enough evidence—based on the confidential source—to conclude that he was affiliated with the gang, a finding later upheld by another judge. This resulted in his being denied bail. During this time, he filed for asylum to avoid deportation to El Salvador, claiming his family had been targeted by Barrio-18, a rival gang. In October 2019, he was granted a "withholding of removal" order—an immigration status that stopped his deportation due to the likelihood of harm if returned to El Salvador. His legal team stated that this was based on a “well-founded” fear of persecution, citing previous threats and extortion attempts by Barrio-18. Since then, Abrego Garcia has remained in the U.S. under this protective status, attending all required check-ins with immigration authorities without any reported issues. Separate allegations have also surfaced. In 2021, his wife, Jennifer Vasquez Sura, filed a protective order alleging domestic abuse. However, she later stated that she chose not to pursue legal action and that they worked through the matter privately, including attending counseling. Most recently, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt accused Abrego Garcia of being involved in human trafficking. This claim appeared to stem from a report by the conservative news outlet The Tennessee Star, which stated that he was stopped by a Tennessee highway patrol officer in December 2022 while transporting seven passengers. The report, citing unnamed sources, said the FBI was contacted, but Abrego Garcia and the passengers were later released. The BBC has not independently verified this report and has reached out to authorities for comment. Based on a report by BBC Verify 2025-04-18

Meloni and Trump Signal Hope for US-EU Trade Deal Amid Tariff Tensions From the moment she arrived at the White House, Giorgia Meloni was warmly welcomed. Trump called her a "great prime minister" and said she had "taken Europe by storm". The high-profile meeting at the White House, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed strong optimism about the prospects of a renewed trade agreement between the United States and the European Union. Though tangible policy outcomes were limited, Meloni did succeed in persuading Trump to accept an invitation to Rome. She hopes this future visit will serve as a platform for dialogue between Trump and key European figures, potentially including Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission. Such a meeting could prove pivotal in mending transatlantic tensions and reinforcing European voices ahead of a possible second Trump term. Meloni also took the opportunity to highlight her government's domestic achievements. “I'm proud of sitting here as prime minister of an Italy that today has a very good situation—a stable country, a reliable country,” she said. She cited falling inflation and improved employment figures as signs of progress, before turning to Trump with a grin and saying, “Forgive me if I promote my country, but you're a businessman and you understand me.” Trump responded with a broad smile. In her post-meeting remarks, Meloni didn’t shy away from ideological themes either. She criticized what she termed “woke ideology” and reaffirmed her government’s stance in the “war against illegal migration,” underscoring her alignment with Trump on cultural and security matters. The next stop on Meloni’s diplomatic push will be her meeting with U.S. Vice President JD Vance in Rome, further cementing her growing influence in transatlantic politics. Whether or not a trade deal materializes in the near future, her visit to Washington has clearly elevated her profile as a key player in shaping the future of EU-U.S. relations. Based on a report by BBC 2025-04-18

Signs of Life on Distant Ocean Planet Raise Hopes for Alien Discovery In what scientists are calling a groundbreaking moment in the search for extraterrestrial life, a planet located 124 light years from Earth has shown remarkable signs that it could be inhabited. K2-18b, a so-called "hycean" world—meaning it has a hydrogen-rich atmosphere and a surface entirely covered by liquid water—may be teeming with microscopic life. Researchers analyzing data from NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) report with 99.7 per cent certainty that at least one gas has been detected in the planet’s atmosphere that, on Earth, is exclusively produced by living organisms. “These are the first hints we are seeing of an alien world that is possibly inhabited,” said a Cambridge astrophysicist, describing the finding as an “astounding” leap forward. “It was astounding … it was an incredible realisation seeing the results emerge,” he continued, calling the discovery “a shock to the system” and “a very fundamental advancement in our search for life.” The gases in question—dimethyl sulphide (DMS) and dimethyl disulphide (DMDS)—are composed of carbon, hydrogen, and sulphur. On Earth, these compounds are primarily produced by living organisms such as photosynthetic plankton, certain bacteria, seaweeds, and plants. DMS, in particular, is commonly released when marine plankton become stressed. What makes the finding so significant is that these gases decay within hours after being produced. For them to exist in such detectable concentrations—at least ten parts per million in K2-18b’s atmosphere—they must be continuously replenished, something scientists believe is unlikely to occur without biological activity. K2-18b orbits the star K2-18 in the constellation Leo. It is 2.6 times the radius of Earth and completes one orbit every 33 days, comfortably within the habitable zone of its star. The planet’s composition—especially its hydrogen-rich atmosphere and global ocean—makes it an ideal candidate for harboring life. According to a study published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters, “DMS and DMDS are both molecules uniquely produced by life on Earth and predicted as promising biosignatures in habitable exoplanets.” The first signs of DMS were observed by JWST in 2023, alongside carbon dioxide and methane, though initial confidence levels varied widely. However, recent observations using a different JWST instrument that captures mid-infrared light have confirmed the presence of DMS with 99.7 per cent certainty. Dr Michael Steinke, a DMS expert from the University of Essex who was not involved in the study, remarked that the combination of water, methane, and DMS in the planet’s atmosphere seems to “tick quite a few boxes” in identifying K2-18b as a prime location in the ongoing search for life beyond Earth. The discovery propels K2-18b ahead of nearer celestial bodies like Mars, Europa, and Enceladus, the latter two being icy moons of Jupiter and Saturn, which have also shown promise due to their subsurface oceans. Now, however, it appears that a distant, water-covered world in the constellation of Leo might become humanity’s most compelling lead in the quest to answer the age-old question: are we alone in the universe? Based on a report by The Times 2025-04-18