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The UK government is under growing pressure to cease providing financial aid to Pakistan amid accusations that the country is obstructing the deportation of convicted child sex offenders from Britain. Former Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick has strongly criticized the ongoing aid to Pakistan, claiming it is being misused while Islamabad refuses to accept deported criminals. This controversy revolves around the inability to deport grooming gang leaders from Rochdale and other areas, who were found guilty of exploiting and abusing young white girls. Jenrick expressed his outrage, stating, "It's shameful that Pakistan is abusing our generosity and madness that the Government isn't doing something about it." He advocated for stripping dual nationals of their UK citizenship and deporting them without exceptions, adding, "These sick and twisted individuals should never set foot on British soil again." Pakistan has been a significant recipient of UK aid, receiving over £1 billion in the last decade. Yet, the refusal to accept deported offenders, including prominent figures like Adil Khan and Qari Abdul Rauf, has intensified calls for the UK to leverage its aid and visa policies. Khan and Rauf, both part of a notorious gang that terrorized young girls for two years, remain in the UK despite being ordered for deportation due to Pakistan's stance. Khan, convicted of child trafficking and serving four years of an eight-year sentence, and Rauf, serving three and a half years out of six, have both attempted to avoid deportation by renouncing their Pakistani citizenship. Immigration judges dismissed these maneuvers, stating it would be "relatively easy" for the men to regain their status in Pakistan. Judges Charlotte Welsh and Siew Ling Yoke, while upholding the deportation orders, noted Khan's "breathtaking lack of remorse" and highlighted the strong public interest in removing them from the UK. Despite the legal rulings, Khan and Rauf continue to live and work in the UK, much to the dismay of their victims and the community. Rauf, reportedly employed by a takeaway delivery company, remains a conspicuous presence in Rochdale, where his presence has sparked public outrage. One local mother lamented, "Nobody can believe that monster is still here after what he did to those young girls. It's disgusting. What is the country coming to? Why is he still here?" The Home Office has not disclosed the exact number of UK-based criminals Pakistan has declined to accept, fueling further frustration and calls for transparency. Jenrick has previously emphasized the necessity of making foreign aid contingent on a country’s cooperation with deportation orders. The situation has escalated into a broader debate on balancing humanitarian aid with stringent immigration policies and the accountability of recipient nations. The case of Rauf, Khan, and potentially others, remaining in the UK due to Pakistan's refusal, underscores a critical impasse in international deportation protocols and raises questions about the future of UK aid to non-cooperative countries. Based on a report by Daily Mail 2024-01-14 Related Topics: The Silenced Truth: How Political Correctness Delayed Justice for Grooming Victims Britons Overwhelmingly Support a New Grooming Gang Inquiry Romanian Grooming Gang Convicted of Sexually Exploiting Women in Dundee Ethnicity of Grooming Gangs, Says Whistleblower’s Aide Grooming Networks Persist in Oxford, Warns Former Investigator Convicted Rochdale Grooming Gang Leader Still in the Town & not Deported Starmer Condemns 'Lies and Misinformation' Over Child Sexual Abuse UK Ex-MP Claims Grooming Gang Ethnicity Was Suppressed to Protect Votes Elon Musk Advocates for Tommy Robinson’s Release Amid Criticism of UK Leadership Kemi Badenoch Urges National Inquiry into UK Grooming Scandal

The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, has postponed the release of her new Netflix series, *With Love, Meghan*, in response to the devastating wildfires currently ravaging California. The decision was announced by Netflix, citing Meghan's desire to prioritize the needs of those affected by the disaster in her home state. *With Love, Meghan* promises to blend practical advice with heartfelt conversations, as Meghan shares her personal tips on cooking, gardening, and hosting. The series aims to embrace "playfulness over perfection" and demonstrate how beauty can be found in unexpected moments. The Duchess, alongside her friends, will offer viewers a hands-on approach to creating memorable experiences, encouraging them to get involved. This announcement follows the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's visit to a meal distribution site for wildfire victims last Friday, where they hugged residents and spoke with emergency crews. Living in Montecito, near Santa Barbara, just 90 miles from Los Angeles, the couple has been actively supporting relief efforts. Their contributions have included donations of clothing, children’s items, and other essential supplies for those affected by the fires. Meghan's decision to delay her series underscores her commitment to her home state and the ongoing crisis, prioritizing compassion and support over personal projects during this challenging time for many Californians. Based on a report by Daily Telegraph 2024-01-14

In a remarkable discovery at Dewars Farm Quarry in Oxfordshire, England, scientists have unearthed nearly 200 dinosaur footprints dating back 166 million years to the Middle Jurassic Period. This extensive track site, nicknamed the "dinosaur highway," is the largest of its kind in the United Kingdom and provides a unique window into the lives of the prehistoric giants that roamed the area. The find was initially made in 2023 when quarry worker Gary Johnson noticed unusual bumps on the ground while extracting limestone. This led to a collaborative excavation effort involving around 100 volunteers from the University of Birmingham and the University of Oxford. The team spent a week in June meticulously uncovering and recording the tracks, which hold significant scientific value. The discovery coincides with the 200th anniversary of the Megalosaurus, the first dinosaur species ever described, which was also found in Oxfordshire in 1824. "There’s a really long legacy in this area of exciting dinosaur tracks and body fossils," said Kirsty Edgar, a professor of micropaleontology at the University of Birmingham. These newly uncovered tracks connect to a previously discovered path at the same quarry in 1997, now inaccessible. Advances in technology, however, will allow researchers to extract new insights from the current find. The tracks reveal details about the dinosaurs' movements, speeds, and social behavior. Most of the creatures, including larger theropods such as the Megalosaurus, appeared to be moving northeast at an average speed of 5 kilometers per hour, a pace comparable to human walking speed. Analysis of the footprints suggests that the Megalosaurus, a predator, intersected paths with sauropods, large herbivores, as they moved through the area. "This theropod seemed to be moving at a leisurely pace, as indicated by the footprints," explained researcher Tanner. The intersecting paths hint at predator-prey interactions and suggest these dinosaurs may have been navigating along the shoreline, possibly to find food or avoid obstacles. The site’s preservation was made possible by the unique environmental conditions of the Jurassic Period. Soft sediment, combined with just the right amount of water, created the perfect medium for capturing and conserving the footprints. Edgar likened the ancient environment to the Florida Keys, with its carbonate mud banks and proximity to water. A subsequent storm likely covered the tracks quickly, shielding them from erosion and preserving them for millions of years. Unlike fossilized bones, which can be transported from their original location, footprints remain where they were made, offering invaluable insights into the daily lives of dinosaurs. Tracks can reveal group dynamics, predator-prey interactions, and how these creatures adapted to environmental changes. "It’s like a snapshot into the day of the dinosaurs’ life, and what they were doing," Edgar said. This discovery not only sheds light on the behavior and ecology of Jurassic dinosaurs but also underscores the importance of preserving and studying such ancient sites. The "dinosaur highway" at Dewars Farm Quarry stands as a testament to the enduring fascination with these prehistoric giants and the stories their footprints continue to tell. Based on a report by CNN 2024-01-14

Malala Yousafzai, the Nobel Peace Prize laureate and advocate for girls’ education, has strongly criticized the Taliban government in Afghanistan, accusing them of fundamentally disregarding the humanity of women and girls. Speaking at an international summit on girls’ education in Islamic countries, hosted in Islamabad by Pakistan, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and the Muslim World League, Ms. Yousafzai urged Muslim leaders to challenge the Taliban’s oppressive policies. “Simply put, the Taliban in Afghanistan do not see women as human beings,” she stated. She emphasized that the Taliban’s actions, which include barring women and girls from accessing education and work, are antithetical to Islamic teachings. “There is nothing Islamic about the Taliban's policies,” she declared. At the age of 15, Ms. Yousafzai survived a near-fatal attack by a Pakistan Taliban gunman who targeted her for advocating girls’ education. Now 27, she expressed joy at being back in her homeland, Pakistan, where the summit was held. “I am overwhelmed and happy to be back in my home country,” she said. Since the 2012 attack, she has only returned to Pakistan a few times, making her first visit in 2018. During her address, she accused the Taliban of creating “a system of gender apartheid” in Afghanistan, where women and girls are systematically punished for defying restrictive laws. “The Taliban are punishing women and girls who dare to break their obscure laws by beating them up, detaining them, and harming them,” she said. She further condemned the Taliban’s justifications, saying, “They cloak their crimes in cultural and religious justification but actually go against everything our faith stands for.” The Taliban government did not respond to a BBC request for comment regarding Ms. Yousafzai’s statements. In the past, they have claimed to respect women’s rights as defined by their interpretation of Afghan culture and Islamic law. Despite being invited to the summit, the Taliban leaders did not attend. Since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2021, their government has not been formally recognized by any foreign state. Western governments have repeatedly criticized their policies that restrict women’s rights, including barring girls from secondary and higher education. Afghanistan now stands as the only country in the world where girls are entirely banned from education beyond grade six. “Afghanistan is the only country in the world where girls are completely banned from education beyond grade six,” Ms. Yousafzai reiterated. The Taliban has promised to reopen schools for girls once certain conditions, such as aligning curricula with their interpretation of Islam, are met. However, these promises remain unfulfilled. In December, the Taliban further restricted women’s access to education by banning them from training as midwives and nurses, closing off their last opportunities for higher education. Ms. Yousafzai also highlighted the broader risks to girls’ education worldwide, mentioning how crises in countries such as Afghanistan, Yemen, and Sudan have stolen the future of countless girls. She criticized Israel’s actions in Gaza, stating they had “decimated the entire education system.” She concluded with a plea for collective action: “We must call out the worst violations of girls’ rights to education. The futures of millions of girls are at risk, and their entire potential is being stolen.” Based on a report by BBC 2024-01-14

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has come under scrutiny as the UK grapples with volatile markets and a difficult economic landscape. Despite mounting pressure, Health Secretary Wes Streeting urged the public to remain patient, stating, “People need to give her time.” Streeting highlighted the considerable challenges Reeves has faced in her role, declaring, “Nothing in the last six months has shaken my conviction that economic growth is the number one priority.” Streeting emphasized the chancellor’s efforts to move away from economic orthodoxy, which he said has dominated for over a decade. He praised Reeves for her role in building Labour’s economic credibility, adding, “Without Rachel's leadership, we wouldn’t have won the last general election either. She built Labour's economic credibility out of the ashes they were left in after the Corbyn leadership.” Speaking at the Jewish Labour Movement's annual conference, Streeting acknowledged the tough decisions Reeves and her deputy, Darren Jones, must make. “They have the hardest job of all because they have to make those choices across every bit of government spending,” he noted, stressing the cabinet's responsibility to balance economic reform with fiscal restraint. International Development Minister Anneliese Dodds echoed Streeting’s sentiments, expressing confidence in Reeves’s long-term vision. She pointed to the chancellor’s focus on evidence-based policies and highlighted initiatives such as a new fiscal system, the Industrial Strategy Council, and record investment levels under her leadership. “When we look at the evidence, we can see that the UK government has a chancellor who is very clear about the long-term plan for our country,” Dodds said. Reeves’s tenure has not been without criticism. Opposition parties have accused her of avoiding tough questions, with former Prime Minister Boris Johnson stating she should “make her way to HR and collect her P45.” However, Reeves has remained steadfast, reaffirming her commitment to economic stability and growth. During her recent trip to China, she reiterated that her October budget would focus on returning the UK to fiscal health, stating, “Growth is the number one mission of this government.” Reports suggest that Reeves may implement deeper spending cuts than initially planned, with welfare reductions also under consideration. While these measures may prove controversial, supporters argue they are necessary to ensure the country’s economic recovery. As Dodds noted, “It’s really important for us to focus on those fundamentals… And we can already see the benefit of that, frankly, in terms of the UK’s reputation when it comes to public finances, but economic management more generally.” As Reeves continues to navigate these challenges, the call from her colleagues for patience and understanding underscores the immense weight of her role. Streeting’s message encapsulates the cabinet’s stance: “I have total confidence in the leadership that Rachel's providing… because all of us have to deliver economic growth for our country.” Based on a report by Sky News 2024-01-14

A few posts removed aimed at derailing the thread. please read the topic: The Silenced Truth: How Political Correctness Delayed Justice for Grooming Victims A Channel 4 movie that was delayed because of its subject matter not about sexual abuse crimes by white people. @Neeranam if I have to remove one more post from you in this topic you will also be getting time off.

A curious phenomenon has emerged as dozens of British women report noticeable breast enlargement after receiving COVID vaccines. This revelation comes just days after startling images of a 19-year-old Canadian woman showed her breasts quadrupling in size—a reaction experts attribute to the Pfizer vaccine, coining the term 'Pfizer boob job.' Data from the UK's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) reveals 33 cases of breast enlargement linked to the Pfizer vaccine. Additionally, 11 British women reported similar changes after the AstraZeneca jab, while four noted the same reaction following Moderna's vaccine. These instances were documented through the Yellow Card system, which relies on patient reports that have yet to be medically verified. Experts caution that these unexpected bodily changes might coincidentally align with vaccination, rather than result from it. However, some doctors argue that a plausible link exists. A recent medical report from the University of Toronto delves into a young woman's case, theorizing that an immune response triggered by the vaccine could have led to abnormal cell growth in her breasts. This report details how the Canadian woman, initially a B cup, experienced a progression to a triple G cup size within six months after two doses of the Pfizer vaccine. The rapid growth began with tingling and slight enlargement post the first dose in September 2022 and accelerated following the second dose. The condition, known as gigantomastia, is characterized by extreme breast enlargement and is exceedingly rare. Researchers are still investigating the triggers, with some cases linked to hormonal imbalances or specific drug reactions. The Toronto medics suggest the possibility of the vaccine inducing a rare condition called pseudoangiomatous stromal hyperplasia (PASH), where myofibroblasts in breast tissue grow excessively, forming benign lumps. PASH is poorly understood, with only around 200 documented cases and no previous vaccine connections. Further examinations of the woman revealed slightly swollen lymph nodes and dense blood vessels in the armpit region, attributed to the enlarged breast tissue. Biopsies confirmed PASH as the cause of her breast growth. Despite undergoing steroid and antibiotic treatment, the swelling persisted, prompting her to opt for a breast reduction to return to a DD size 11 months post-vaccination. She later underwent another procedure to correct asymmetry, ultimately reducing her size back to a B cup. While the temporal association between the vaccine and PASH appears suggestive, the experts emphasize that causality cannot be definitively established without further research. They advocate for additional investigation into the link between COVID-19 vaccines and unusual reactions like PASH and breast hypertrophy. They also criticized healthcare providers who dismissed the patient's concerns, stressing that ignoring such issues could undermine trust in medical relationships. In a related finding from 2021, researchers at the University of Pennsylvania noted that COVID vaccines could cause swollen lymph nodes in the armpit, potentially leading to abnormal mammogram and ultrasound results. British health authorities have acknowledged this possibility and advised medical staff to investigate any abnormal scan findings as potential breast cancer symptoms rather than dismissing them as vaccine reactions. Based on a report by Daily Mail 2024-01-14

A post and link that was posted twice by the same poster has been removed.

A oversize text block image cross posted over multiple topics has been removed @Will B Good along with a couple of trolling posts

Kemi Badenoch, leader of the Conservative Party, has urged Prime Minister Keir Starmer to dismiss Treasury Minister Tulip Siddiq following allegations linking her to a corruption scandal in Bangladesh. Siddiq has been named in an investigation into claims that her family embezzled as much as £3.9 billion from infrastructure funds during Sheikh Hasina’s tenure as Bangladeshi prime minister. "It's time for Keir Starmer to sack Tulip Siddiq," Badenoch declared in a post on X, accusing the prime minister of appointing "his personal friend as anti-corruption minister" despite corruption accusations against her. The controversy stems from comments made by Muhammad Yunus, Bangladesh's new leader, who called for Siddiq to apologise. Yunus alleged that Siddiq had resided in London properties linked to her aunt, Sheikh Hasina, the former prime minister of Bangladesh now under investigation for corruption. Yunus also suggested that the properties be investigated and returned to Bangladesh if obtained through what he described as "plain robbery." Siddiq has denied any wrongdoing and referred herself to the prime minister’s standards adviser, Sir Laurie Magnus, for an independent review. "I am clear that I have done nothing wrong," she wrote in a letter to Magnus. Downing Street confirmed that Magnus would undertake a "fact-finding" exercise to determine if further action, including an expanded investigation, was warranted. The allegations have placed Siddiq under intense scrutiny, particularly given her role as economic secretary to the Treasury. She is tasked with combating economic crime, money laundering, and illicit finance. Badenoch criticized her continued presence in government, calling her a "distraction when the government should be focused on dealing with the financial problems it has created." Badenoch also pointed to concerns raised by the Bangladeshi government over Siddiq's alleged ties to the regime of Sheikh Hasina. Hasina, who led Bangladesh for over two decades, has been accused by the new government of multiple crimes, including corruption and suppressing dissent. In an interview with the *Sunday Times*, Yunus reiterated his government’s commitment to recovering misappropriated funds and holding those involved accountable. Despite the mounting allegations, Starmer expressed his support for Siddiq, stating she had "acted entirely properly" by referring herself for investigation. However, calls for her resignation continue to grow as critics question her ability to serve in her current role amid the controversy. In her letter to Magnus, Siddiq maintained her innocence and criticized media reports about her financial affairs as inaccurate. "I would like you to independently establish the facts about these matters," she wrote. The investigation is set to determine whether Siddiq’s family ties to Sheikh Hasina and the ongoing probe in Bangladesh warrant further scrutiny in the UK. For now, Siddiq remains in her position. Based on a report by BBC | X 2024-01-13 Related Topic: Keir Starmer’s Ties to Bangladesh Raise Questions Amid Controversy

In a profound reflection on the dangers of misinformation, Pope Francis recently attributed the assassination attempts on President-elect Donald Trump to the pervasive spread of "fake news." In his annual "state of the world" address to the diplomatic corps accredited to the Holy See, the pontiff emphasized the destructive power of false information in creating societal division and distrust. According to the Catholic News Agency, Pope Francis delivered his remarks on Thursday, highlighting the significant role that misinformation played in the alarming events of 2024, where Trump was targeted twice. He stated, “This phenomenon generates false images of reality, a climate of suspicion that foments hate, undermines people’s sense of security, and compromises civil coexistence and the stability of entire nations.” He cited the attacks on Trump and the chairman of the government of the Slovak Republic as tragic manifestations of this issue. The first assassination attempt on Trump occurred in Butler, Pennsylvania, during a campaign rally last July. The assailant, Thomas Crooks, fired an AR-15 rifle, with a bullet narrowly missing Trump’s skull by less than an inch, grazing his ear instead. The incident resulted in the death of rallygoer Corey Comperatore and injuries to two others in the crowd. Similarly, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico was critically wounded in May after being shot while greeting supporters, a stark reminder of the global reach of this escalating violence. Pope Francis underscored how polarized societies, exacerbated by misinformation and media bias, contribute to these violent acts. He said, “We see increasingly polarized societies marked by a general sense of fear and distrust of others and of the future, which is aggravated by the continuous creation and spread of ‘fake news.’” The Pope acknowledged that the term "fake news," popularized by Trump, reflects a serious concern as it "distorts facts and perceptions," further deepening societal divides. In his speech, Pope Francis declared 2025 as a special "Jubilee" year, centering on the theme of hope. He urged humanity to heal the fractures that have led to such violent attempts, advocating for a collective reassessment of the ties that connect individuals and political communities. “My prayerful hope for this new year is that the jubilee may represent for everyone, Christians and non-Christians alike, an opportunity also to rethink the relationships that bind us to one another,” he said. Through his address, Pope Francis called for a unified effort to combat the spread of misinformation and to foster a more trusting and cohesive society, hoping to prevent further tragedies stemming from unfounded fears and false narratives. Based on a report by NYP 2024-01-13

Rachel Reeves, often dubbed "Rachel from Accounts," has reached a critical juncture. With her policies under intense scrutiny and market trust waning, many believe it's time for her to face the consequences—whether that means collecting her P45 or seeking solace in China, a country perceived as ideologically closer to her. Since Labour's rise to power last July, business confidence in the UK has taken a significant hit. When Reeves and Starmer assumed control, they inherited the fastest-growing economy in the G7. However, their approach, reminiscent of Jeremy Corbyn's governance rather than Tony Blair's, has alienated wealth creators both domestically and internationally. The global financial markets, well-informed and vigilant, have not been impressed by the duo’s governance, which appears overly aligned with union interests and a leftward tilt. The financial world is keenly aware of Labour’s decisions. The inflationary pay awards for train drivers and doctors did not go unnoticed, especially since these raises came without corresponding productivity improvements in the public sector. This, combined with the decision to halt the planned reduction of 66,000 Whitehall jobs, signaled a retreat from essential governmental reforms, further unsettling the markets. Trust, a vital currency in economic circles, has eroded as Reeves’ actions seemed to signal a commitment to old-fashioned, high-tax governance. Reeves’ stance on independent schools has drawn particular ire. Her social media activity suggests a satisfaction in the decline of fee-paying schools, which have been harshly affected by Labour’s imposition of a 20% VAT on their fees. This policy stands out in Europe and has led to the closure of many storied institutions, a move that seems more punitive than pragmatic. The closures bring no tax benefit and only add pressure to the state education system, a move many view as ideologically driven rather than fiscally sound. Trust in Reeves has further deteriorated due to her perceived dishonesty. In the last General Election, she and Starmer promised not to raise taxes on working people, a pledge that resonated deeply with British businesses. Yet, this promise was swiftly broken with an October Budget that introduced a £25 billion hike in National Insurance, a direct hit to private sector workers. This Budget exacerbated an already dire situation, discouraging investment and halting job creation. The resulting economic slowdown has ironically led to lower tax revenues, perpetuating a cycle of economic distress. Inflation remains stubbornly high, exacerbated by Labour’s policies, and precludes the possibility of reducing domestic interest rates to stimulate growth. Reeves now faces a dire choice: cut spending and risk the ire of her backbenchers, or raise taxes again, further stifling economic activity. Both options are fraught with peril and threaten to deepen the ongoing economic malaise. Ultimately, the blame for this predicament falls squarely on Reeves. Her fiscal misjudgments and lack of a coherent growth strategy have undermined market confidence. The private sector, a cornerstone of national prosperity, feels neglected and demoralized. As the economic indicators flash red at the dawn of 2025, it’s evident that Reeves’ approach has faltered. The calls for her resignation grow louder, suggesting it’s time for Rachel from Accounts to step aside. Whether Starmer can recover from this debacle remains to be seen, but a new Chancellor may be a necessary first step in restoring faith in Labour's economic management. Based on a report by Daily Mail 2024-01-13

Donald Trump, the U.S. president-elect, has announced that preparations are underway for a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Although no specific timeline has been disclosed, Trump expressed optimism about the talks during a statement at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. "He wants to meet, and we are setting it up," Trump said, adding that the discussions are part of a broader effort to address the ongoing war in Ukraine. The Kremlin has responded positively to the prospect of a meeting, though it confirmed that no concrete arrangements have been finalized. Trump has frequently voiced his intention to bring an end to the conflict in Ukraine soon after assuming office on January 20. He has also questioned the extent of U.S. military and financial assistance to Kyiv, suggesting a re-evaluation of current policies. "President Putin wants to meet," Trump reiterated on Thursday. "He has said that even publicly, and we have to get that war over with. That's a bloody mess." Ukraine has taken note of these developments, with a spokesperson for the foreign ministry stating that high-level talks between Kyiv and the incoming U.S. administration are anticipated after the inauguration. This would potentially include a meeting between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. To advance his plans for resolving the conflict, Trump has tapped retired Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg, a former national security adviser, as a special envoy to Ukraine and Russia for his second administration. Kellogg has outlined a vision for U.S. involvement in a research paper published by the America First Policy Institute. In his proposal, Kellogg suggested that future U.S. aid to Ukraine should be conditional on Kyiv’s willingness to participate in peace talks with Moscow. However, the paper also recommended continuing aid to Ukraine if Moscow refused to engage in negotiations. Zelensky has previously expressed cautious optimism about Trump’s approach to the conflict. Following Trump’s election victory in November, Zelensky remarked that he believed the war might "end sooner" under Trump’s leadership. The Ukrainian president noted that he and Trump had a "constructive exchange" during a phone call but did not reveal whether Trump had set any specific terms regarding potential discussions with Russia. As diplomatic efforts unfold, the international community will watch closely to see whether Trump’s approach can achieve the peace that has long eluded Ukraine and Russia. Based on a report by BBC 2024-01-13

Over two decades ago, I witnessed the production of a groundbreaking documentary that sought to expose a dark and painful truth. Titled *Edge Of The City*, the film followed the work of Bradford Social Services and became the first major TV report to confront the systematic grooming of young white girls by predominantly Asian men. However, what should have been a catalyst for action against these heinous crimes became a target of intense criticism, accusations of racism, and political maneuvering. In May 2004, Channel 4, under mounting pressure from interest groups, lobbyists, and law enforcement warnings about potential community tensions, pulled the documentary just before its scheduled broadcast. It would not air until August of that year, after the dust of the local elections had settled. "Political correctness has caused these terrible crimes to go unchecked for far too long," I believe. The decision to delay the broadcast was not just a missed opportunity; it set back efforts to combat grooming gangs by at least a decade, with devastating consequences for thousands of victims. The documentary, which highlighted the experiences of two teenage girls groomed by abusers, was so contentious that parts of it were nearly excluded from the final cut. Social workers feared a public backlash, and West Yorkshire Police warned the program could incite unrest. Meanwhile, the British National Party (BNP) seized on the issue, treating the film as a propaganda tool to galvanize white working-class dissent. The backlash was fierce, with Channel 4 being accused of fueling racism and aiding the far-Right. The documentary was even dubbed the "BNP Sex Row Film." Yet, every allegation in *Edge Of The City* has since been vindicated. The crimes it exposed were real, their impact harrowing, and their existence undeniable. Despite this, society’s response has been sluggish and fraught with denial. The liberal Left, alongside figures like Sir Keir Starmer, has often branded those who draw attention to grooming gangs as aligned with a "racist agenda." This tactic has effectively stifled meaningful debate and hindered justice. Few perpetrators have faced legal consequences, and even fewer officials in positions of authority have been held accountable for their failure to act. How many lives could have been spared trauma, abuse, and heartbreak if the warnings in 2004 had been taken seriously? In the years following *Edge Of The City*, mainstream media remained largely silent on the issue. The *Daily Mail*’s Sue Reid was one of the first journalists to confront the scandal with her 2010 report, *"Predatory gangs, middle-class girls forced into the sex trade and a very troubling taboo."* The BBC later tackled the topic with the 2017 drama *Three Girls*, based on the Rochdale child sex abuse ring. Yet these efforts came long after countless victims had suffered in silence. The failure to act decisively when the truth first emerged allowed these crimes to persist unchecked, creating a legacy of shattered lives. A national inquiry is urgently needed to understand how such a scandal was allowed to fester in plain sight of the police, social services, and political leaders. Without confronting these failures, society risks repeating them. There is nothing "far-Right" about seeking justice for victims or demanding accountability for those who turned a blind eye. The facts must be allowed to speak for themselves, untainted by fear of political backlash or accusations of racism. For more than 20 years, the voices of vulnerable children have been ignored. We cannot allow the same tactics of deflection and denial to silence the truth any longer. The fight for justice is not a matter of politics but of basic humanity. Based on a report by Daily Mail 2024-01-13 Related Topics: Britons Overwhelmingly Support a New Grooming Gang Inquiry Romanian Grooming Gang Convicted of Sexually Exploiting Women in Dundee Ethnicity of Grooming Gangs, Says Whistleblower’s Aide Grooming Networks Persist in Oxford, Warns Former Investigator Convicted Rochdale Grooming Gang Leader Still in the Town & not Deported Starmer Condemns 'Lies and Misinformation' Over Child Sexual Abuse UK Ex-MP Claims Grooming Gang Ethnicity Was Suppressed to Protect Votes Elon Musk Advocates for Tommy Robinson’s Release Amid Criticism of UK Leadership Kemi Badenoch Urges National Inquiry into UK Grooming Scandal

Sydney has been rocked by a series of anti-Semitic attacks, with two synagogues and other properties vandalized in acts condemned as both hateful and deeply alarming. Early Saturday morning, the Newtown Synagogue in Sydney's Inner West was targeted by two individuals who spray-painted offensive graffiti on the building and its fence. Police believe the perpetrators also attempted to set the premises on fire before fleeing the scene. The shocking incident comes just a day after swastikas and anti-Semitic slurs were scrawled on the Southern Sydney Synagogue in Allawah, prompting widespread outrage. Police later released CCTV images of two suspects in connection with the Newtown Synagogue attack, describing one as wearing a black hooded jumper with white writing, black tracksuit pants, and white shoes, while the other wore a black spray jacket with a white emblem, gloves, and white Asics shoes. Both were seen on distinctive vehicles—one on a black motorized scooter and the other on a white and black mountain bike. A spokesperson for NSW Police said an investigation into these incidents was underway, highlighting the seriousness of hate crimes. "The NSW Police Force takes hate crimes seriously and encourages anyone who is the victim of a hate crime or witnesses a hate crime to report the matter to police. It is important that the community and police continue to work together to make NSW a safer place for everyone," they stated. The attacks extended beyond the synagogues. A house in Queens Park, along with five cars and a trailer, was also defaced with offensive graffiti. Similarly, a poster in Marrickville was vandalized with hateful remarks, which authorities are treating as a separate incident. Dr. Dvir Abramovich, head of the Anti-Defamation Commission, condemned the attacks in the strongest terms, calling them an affront to the values of the nation. "To defile a synagogue—a place of worship, hope, and sanctuary—with the ultimate emblem of genocide and evil is nothing short of an attack on the very heart of our nation," he said. “These swastikas, painted in malice, are not just symbols — they are bullets aimed at the soul of the Jewish community,” Dr. Abramovich continued. He noted the additional pain for Holocaust survivors in Australia who now face seeing the symbols of their tormentors desecrate their places of worship. "This isn’t just graffiti — it’s a gut-wrenching reminder that the same hatred that fueled the extermination camps is still alive and kicking. And make no mistake: this isn’t just a Jewish issue. This is an Australian issue. Because an attack on one community is an attack on all of us.” Premier Chris Minns echoed these sentiments, labeling the acts “monstrous and appalling.” He affirmed the government's commitment to combating hate. "Our message is clear—these acts designed to intimidate and divide will not work. These people are determined to divide our community, but they will fail." Southern Sydney Synagogue president George Foster described the graffiti as deeply distressing, warning that such acts could escalate beyond vandalism. “The theory is it may not stop with just graffiti, it could move to violence, which has happened in other countries,” Foster said, reflecting the concern of many in the Jewish community. These incidents highlight a disturbing rise in anti-Semitic acts, leaving many to question the safety of vulnerable communities. As investigations continue, the call for unity and vigilance grows louder, with a collective determination to ensure such hate has no place in Australia. Based on a report by News.Com.Au 2024-01-13

Meta and Amazon have joined a growing list of American corporations retreating from diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, citing shifting legal and political landscapes. This trend reflects a broader rollback of such programs across corporate America, as companies face mounting conservative criticism and potential legal risks. Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, recently announced significant changes to its diversity strategies. The company’s decision impacts hiring, supplier selection, and employee training. In a memo to staff, Meta attributed the move to a "shifting legal and policy landscape." This follows Meta’s earlier decision to discontinue a fact-checking program that had faced criticism from Republicans, including President-elect Donald Trump. Meta stated that while it will continue seeking diverse talent, it is ending its current approach of selecting candidates from specific pools. The company also plans to halt partnerships with “diverse” suppliers and will instead concentrate on working with small and medium-sized businesses. Furthermore, it will replace its "equity and inclusion" training with programs aimed at mitigating bias universally, regardless of participants’ backgrounds. Amazon has also taken steps to restructure its DEI efforts. In a December memo, Candi Castleberry, Amazon’s Vice President of Inclusive Experiences and Technology, announced plans to phase out “outdated programs and materials” related to representation and inclusion by the end of 2024. "Rather than have individual groups build programs, we are focusing on programs with proven outcomes — and we also aim to foster a more truly inclusive culture," Castleberry stated in the memo, which was first reported by Bloomberg. Other major corporations, including Walmart and McDonald’s, have similarly scaled back their diversity initiatives. Financial firms like JPMorgan Chase and BlackRock have recently withdrawn from groups addressing climate change risks, further highlighting the trend of companies moving away from progressive activism. The rollback of DEI programs has accelerated in the wake of heightened conservative scrutiny. Prominent brands such as Bud Light and Target have faced boycotts and backlash for their efforts to support LGBTQ communities, while Republican leaders have targeted companies like Disney and BlackRock for what they term "woke" practices. Many DEI efforts were initially implemented following the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests sparked by George Floyd’s murder. However, recent court rulings have emboldened critics of such programs. In 2023, the Supreme Court struck down affirmative action in college admissions, effectively barring private universities from considering race in their decisions. Additionally, a federal appeals court invalidated a Nasdaq rule requiring listed companies to include at least one woman, racial minority, or LGBTQ person on their boards or explain the absence. Meta’s and Amazon’s announcements have elicited mixed reactions, with some applauding the shifts as a move toward merit-based practices, while others view them as a retreat from commitments to diversity and inclusion. Based on a report by BBC 2024-01-13

Tom Homan, the former acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement and now President-elect Donald Trump’s appointee to oversee what has been described as “the largest deportation operation in American history,” has floated a controversial new idea: a hotline for Americans to report migrants suspected of criminal activity. During an interview with NBC News, Homan discussed the potential for such a hotline, calling it a “fresh idea” that could give Americans an outlet to address issues like human trafficking and forced labor. “I want a place where American citizens can call and report,” Homan explained. He emphasized the hotline's potential role in combating serious crimes, saying, “We need to take care of the American people. We need to make sure they have an outlet to help report child traffickers, forced labor traffickers. We want to give them an opportunity to be a part of the fix.” Homan has been vocal about his support for mass deportations of migrants who have committed crimes while in the United States illegally. He described the strategy as critical to the nation’s well-being, stating, “I think mass deportation and results of mass deportation are more important to this country than anything. I don’t put a price on all these young women who’ve been raped and murdered. I don’t put a price on our national security.” In addition to the hotline, Homan revealed plans to address the challenges posed by the Darien Gap, a treacherous 70-mile stretch of jungle in Panama that serves as a key smuggling route between South and Central America. More than 530,000 migrants reportedly used the route last year, making it a significant concern for U.S. border security. “It needs to happen,” Homan said about the possibility of shutting down the Darien Gap. “Shutting down the Darien Gap is going to protect our national security. It’s going to save thousands of lives.” Homan also indicated that the Trump administration would work closely with foreign governments to tackle illegal crossings in this region. “We’re going to work with the foreign government,” he said, emphasizing collaboration as a key component of the strategy. Panama’s Security Minister Frank Abrego had previously highlighted the importance of U.S. involvement in curbing migration through the Darien Gap. While Panama’s immigration authorities reported a 40% decrease in crossings, Abrego expressed concerns about maintaining this progress without continued support. “We want the Trump administration to realize that its border is actually here at the Darien Gap and to see how complicated that area is,” Abrego told the Wall Street Journal, urging attention to the broader implications of border security. “We are still concerned,” he added. Homan’s proposals reflect the administration’s broader commitment to tightening immigration policies and addressing the complex issues surrounding illegal migration. As the transition unfolds, these ideas are sure to spark significant debate on their feasibility and potential impact. Based on a report by NYP 2024-01-13

Recent scrutiny has surrounded Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza, reportedly one of the few remaining operational hospitals in the area. The debate highlights the complex intersection of international humanitarian law and the realities of modern warfare, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel. International Humanitarian Law grants hospitals special protections during wartime. Article 8(2) of the Rome Statute explicitly prohibits “intentionally directing attacks against” hospitals unless they are used for military purposes. Similarly, Article 11 of the Second Protocol to the Geneva Conventions mandates the protection of medical units “at all times,” but this protection is forfeited if these facilities are “used to commit hostile acts.” Israel has consistently recognized and adhered to these principles, even as Hamas flagrantly violates them. Hamas has long been criticized for embedding its operations within civilian infrastructure, including hospitals. The group’s strategy involves using hospitals as command centers, weapons caches, and bases for combatants, thereby endangering the lives of civilians and medical staff. Kamal Adwan Hospital exemplifies this pattern. According to Israeli reports, the facility has been turned into a military staging ground. Over 240 Hamas operatives, including individuals disguised as patients, have been apprehended there. Weapons, including firearms and explosives, were also discovered. Among those detained were senior figures, such as the hospital’s director, Hussam Abu Safiya, suspected of being a Hamas leader, and 15 individuals linked to the October 7 Massacre. Under these conditions, the hospital ceased to qualify for its protected status under international law and became a legitimate target for military operations. Despite this, Israel has upheld its obligation to follow the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution. Israel’s objectives remain twofold: dismantling Hamas' military capabilities and rescuing the remaining hostages held by the group. In its operation at Kamal Adwan Hospital, Israel relied on precise intelligence and undertook extensive precautions to minimize civilian harm. Notably, 450 patients, caregivers, and medical staff were evacuated before the operation. Medical supplies, food, and fuel were delivered to ensure the hospital’s continued essential functioning. The absence of significant civilian casualties further underscores Israel’s efforts to mitigate harm. Nevertheless, international bodies, including the World Health Organization (WHO), have voiced concerns about the state of Gaza’s healthcare system. Following the operation, the WHO stated that “The systematic dismantling of the health system in Gaza is a death sentence for tens of thousands of Palestinians in need of health care.” However, the organization has yet to condemn Hamas for its systematic use of hospitals for military purposes. The global community must hold Hamas accountable for jeopardizing civilian lives and dismantling Gaza’s healthcare infrastructure. While Israel continues to supply aid and support to remaining hospitals, including field facilities, Hamas exploits these resources for its military agenda, perpetuating civilian suffering. Outrage over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza should be directed at Hamas, whose illegal and unconscionable tactics turn protected spaces into theaters of war. Only by addressing these violations can the safety and dignity of civilians in Gaza be safeguarded. Based on a report by The Hill 2024-01-13

In an unprecedented climate milestone, 2024 has been declared the hottest year on Earth since record-keeping began in 1880. This announcement by NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) marks the second consecutive year that global temperature records have been shattered. Previously, 2023 held the title of the planet’s warmest year on record. In 2024, the Earth’s temperature was approximately 2.65 degrees Fahrenheit (1.47 degrees Celsius) higher than the average from the mid-19th century, a period between 1850 and 1900, as estimated by NASA scientists. Although the warming was widespread, there were regional variations. North America, Europe, Africa, and South America all experienced their warmest years on record, while Asia and the Arctic had their second-warmest year. The broader trend is undeniable: the planet’s ten hottest years since 1850 have all occurred in the past decade, as reported by NOAA. This new record follows a year filled with climate extremes. From June 2023 to August 2024, Earth experienced 15 consecutive months of record-breaking temperatures, described by NASA scientists as an “unprecedented heat streak.” Gavin Schmidt, director of the NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies, highlighted this pattern, saying, “The pattern of warming that you see is, in fact, very close to what models have predicted for many years, and we are now seeing very, very clearly.” The extreme heat of 2024 was exacerbated by El Niño, a natural climate phenomenon associated with warmer-than-usual waters in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. El Niño typically intensifies the baseline warming caused by human-induced climate change, increasing the likelihood and severity of temperature extremes. Russell Vose, chief of the monitoring and assessment branch at NOAA’s National Centers for Environmental Information, pointed to several extreme heat events in 2024. In Mexico, a severe heat wave in May and June resulted in over 100 fatalities. In Phoenix, Arizona, the city endured a record 113 consecutive days with triple-digit temperatures, far surpassing the previous record of 76 days set in 1993. As the planet continues to warm at an alarming rate, these records serve as a critical call to action for addressing climate change on a global scale. Based on a report by NBC 2024-01-13

Elon Musk's recent tweets on his social media platform, X, are reportedly under examination by the UK Government's counter-extremism officers. This intensified monitoring follows a series of inflammatory posts by Musk, the world's richest man, targeting the UK Government and its handling of grooming gangs. The Mirror reported that the Home Office unit is closely analyzing Musk's messages to assess the potential risks they pose to Britain. A government source confirmed the heightened vigilance, stating, "We keep a close eye on how disinformation and hate can proliferate, including online." The scrutiny comes in the wake of Musk’s aggressive criticisms on X, particularly aimed at Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and other senior ministers over Labour’s decision to reject a new national inquiry into grooming gangs. Sir Keir Starmer has accused Musk of "spreading lies and misinformation" to his massive following of 210 million. Musk's posts have reignited the debate around grooming gangs, prompting both Tory leader Kemi Badenoch and Reform UK's Nigel Farage to renew calls for a national inquiry. The controversy intensified after the Government declined Oldham Council's request for a Whitehall-led inquiry, opting instead for a locally led investigation. This decision has been a focal point of Musk's criticism, drawing sharp rebukes from government officials. In response, Labour MP Jess Phillips has dismissed Musk's comments as "ridiculous" during a series of TV interviews. She accused Musk of having no understanding of the issue and warned that his spread of disinformation was "endangering" her. Despite the attacks, Phillips vowed to "suck it up," emphasizing that her experience paled compared to what abuse victims endure. Jonathan Hall, the independent reviewer of state threats legislation, weighed in on the situation, describing Musk’s actions as a "canary in the coalmine moment" for the UK. Speaking to *The Times*, Hall highlighted the need for society to adapt to the "new reality" of social media’s influence on public discourse. He pointed out that while Musk’s tweets may spread falsehoods, they do not constitute foreign interference since Musk is not acting on behalf of the US. Hall elaborated, “If you had malign intervention by a state, there's no reason to think at the moment we would be any less affected unless the system matures.” He emphasized the significant impact of Musk's posts on UK politics, saying, “This one intervention by a powerful foreign individual has entirely dictated the political weather in the UK. It is having real impact on ministers, on the Opposition, and on political campaigning.” While the 2024 election did not witness foreign interference, Hall warned that Musk’s actions demonstrate the potential power of external influences on UK politics. The Home Office has yet to comment on the reported investigation into Musk’s tweets. Based on a report by Daily Mail 2024-01-13

Sir Keir Starmer, the prime minister, finds himself embroiled in a controversy tied to his anti-corruption minister, Tulip Siddiq, after revelations about his long-standing connections with Bangladesh’s Awami League, led by her aunt, Sheikh Hasina. These connections have sparked scrutiny, particularly after Siddiq referred herself to the prime minister's standards adviser following reports that she was gifted a £700,000 London flat by a supporter of the Awami League. Sheikh Hasina, the deposed leader of Bangladesh, was ousted in August last year following a student-led uprising against her regime, accused of brutality and corruption. Despite this, Hasina celebrated the Awami League’s strong ties with Labour after Starmer's election as prime minister. UK-based members of the Awami League actively supported Labour in the last general election. Starmer, 62, has maintained his relationship with Hasina, 77, and her party, despite consistent warnings from human rights organizations about extrajudicial killings and substantial corruption under her regime. His connections, while garnering support from Britain’s 700,000-strong Bangladeshi community, also threaten to entangle Labour in the shadow of Hasina's alleged corrupt practices. In a recent social gathering in London, Starmer conversed with Anwaruzzaman Chowdhury, the UK general secretary of the Awami League. Chowdhury, the exiled mayor of Sylhet City Corporation in northeast Bangladesh, mentioned they discussed "the current situation." Similarly, Chowdhury had met Sadiq Khan, London’s Labour mayor, in June last year to explore ways to enhance ties between the two cities. Starmer's presence was noted at the reopening of a restaurant in his constituency, owned by Abdul Karim Nazim, an executive member of the Awami League in the UK, who also owns the £2.1 million home where Siddiq resides in Finchley, north London. Nazim was honored as a “commercially important person” by the Bangladeshi government and appointed vice-chairman of a bank linked to the Awami League. The relationship between Labour and the Awami League is historic, tracing back to Bangladesh's war of independence, with Siddiq’s grandfather, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, emerging as the country’s founding president in 1971. In a 2012 Commons speech, then Labour MP Jim Fitzpatrick referred to the Awami League as a “sister” party. Starmer's connection to Bangladesh includes a visit nine months after he became an MP, accompanied by Sir Stephen Timms and Steven Reed, on a tour that included Sylhet. Labour Friends of Bangladesh funded his trip, which included presenting Hasina with a signed painting of the Houses of Parliament. In September 2022, Starmer met Hasina at her London residence during Queen Elizabeth II's funeral, expressing satisfaction over the growing political participation of the Bangladeshi community in the UK. Siddiq’s family has retained close ties with the Awami League, with her sister, Azmina, receiving a £650,000 London flat from a close adviser of their aunt. Their family home, valued at £1.4 million, is owned by a top official of a major Bangladeshi conglomerate whose father served in Hasina’s government. Siddiq’s brother, Radwan, and her sister are trustees of the Centre for Research and Information, an Awami League-affiliated think tank criticized by Meta for disseminating fake news. Bangladesh's anti-corruption commission has launched an investigation into Siddiq's potential involvement in the embezzlement of £3.9 billion from a nuclear power plant, with allegations that much of the stolen funds were sent to the UK. Siddiq, pictured with her aunt and President Putin in 2013, has denied facilitating any deals with Moscow for the project. Meanwhile, anti-money laundering officials in Bangladesh have requested bank account details for Siddiq and her family members. Iftekhar Zaman, executive director of Transparency International in Bangladesh, described Hasina's regime as a "kleptocracy" and suggested Siddiq should step down to avoid conflicts of interest. Siddiq, after news of the gifted flat broke, stated: “Any suggestion that Tulip Siddiq’s ownership of this property, or any other property, is in any way linked to support for the Awami League would be categorically wrong.” She expressed confidence in her innocence while requesting an independent review of the allegations by Sir Laurie Magnus, the prime minister’s adviser on ministerial interests. A Labour source defended the party's engagement with global figures, emphasizing the long-standing ties between the UK and Bangladesh in areas such as trade and security, and noted that such meetings do not equate to policy endorsements. Based on a report by The Times 2024-01-13 Related Topics: Calls for PM to Dismiss Tulip Siddiq Over Corruption Allegations Intensify

Britain is facing a critical gas shortage, with less than a week's worth of supplies remaining in storage. The country's largest gas supplier, Centrica, has sounded the alarm following a harsh winter and the cessation of Russian gas pipelines through Ukraine. "The ongoing colder-than-usual conditions in the UK combined with the end of Russian gas pipeline supplies through Ukraine on December 31, 2024, has meant that gas inventory levels across the UK are down," a Centrica spokesman said. He further explained, "As of January 9, 2025, UK storage sites are 26 per cent lower than last year's inventory at the same time, leaving them around half full. This means the UK has less than a week of gas demand in store." This situation has been exacerbated by an early winter onset and persistently high gas prices, which have hampered efforts to replenish storage levels during the festive season. Despite the alarming figures, a No 10 spokesman reassured the public: "We are confident we will have a sufficient gas supply and electricity capacity to meet demand this winter, due to our diverse and resilient energy system. We speak regularly with the national energy system operator to monitor our energy security and ensure they have all tools at their disposal if needed to secure our supply." However, the UK is not alone in this predicament. European gas storage levels have also dipped, now at 69 per cent capacity compared to 84 per cent the previous year. The UK's "highly limited" storage capacity makes it particularly vulnerable, as a few cold days can severely deplete reserves. Natasha Fielding of Argus Media highlighted the challenge: "The UK has other options besides storage to draw in more supply over cold spells, so we do not have a security of supply scare on our hands… The real issue is that UK gas must be priced at a premium to the EU to attract higher imports, and the EU itself has a tight supply-demand balance right now." Chris O’Shea, Centrica’s chief executive, emphasized the importance of energy storage: "Energy storage is what keeps the lights on and homes warm when the sun doesn’t shine and the wind doesn’t blow, so investing in our storage capacity makes perfect economic sense. We need to think of storage as a very valuable insurance policy. We are an outlier from the rest of Europe when it comes to the role of storage in our energy system and we are now seeing the implications of that." The coldest night in 15 years was recorded in Altnaharra, a hamlet in Sutherland, where temperatures plummeted to minus 14.5C. This was the coldest January night since 2010 when temperatures dropped below minus 15C multiple times, including minus 22.3C on January 8 in the same area. More freezing temperatures are anticipated in the coming days, further straining the UK's gas reserves. Based on a report by Daily Telegraph 2024-01-13

Ukrainian forces have captured two injured North Korean soldiers in Russia's Kursk Oblast, President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Saturday. The soldiers, now in Kyiv under the custody of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), are receiving medical treatment, Zelensky confirmed. The president expressed his gratitude to Ukrainian paratroopers and Special Operations Forces for successfully completing what he described as a challenging mission. He claimed that Russian and North Korean forces often execute wounded North Koreans to conceal their involvement in Russia's war against Ukraine, making this capture an extraordinary achievement. According to a statement from Ukrainian intelligence, the prisoners were taken into custody on January 9. The statement emphasized that they were immediately provided with medical care in accordance with the Geneva Convention and are being held under conditions that align with international law. Communication with the captured soldiers has posed challenges, as neither speaks Ukrainian, Russian, nor English. Ukrainian authorities have relied on interpreters fluent in Korean, working in collaboration with South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS). In a statement shared on Telegram and X, Zelensky revealed that the captured soldiers are cooperating with SBU investigators. He instructed the SBU to allow journalists access to the prisoners, stating, "The world needs to know the truth about what is happening." The president also shared photos of the detainees, one of whom possessed a red Russian military ID card. The document listed the place of birth as Turan in Russia's Tuva Republic near Mongolia. However, Ukrainian intelligence suspects these documents were falsified. The SBU reported that one of the soldiers claimed he had received the Russian-issued ID during the autumn of 2024, following a week-long interoperability training session involving North Korean units. He allegedly stated that he was under the impression he was attending training, not preparing for active combat in Ukraine. Born in 2005, he said he has served as a rifleman in the North Korean military since 2021. The second detainee, who sustained an injured jaw, provided some responses in writing. He is believed to have been born in 1999 and has served as a scout sniper for North Korea since 2016. The Geneva Convention mandates that prisoner interrogations must be conducted in a language they understand and that detainees must be shielded from public curiosity. Ukrainian officials have asserted that they are adhering to these standards. Zelensky’s office released a statement suggesting that Russia has been attempting to disguise the presence of North Korean troops by issuing them documents linked to territories like Tuva. "But these people are actually Koreans, they are from North Korea," the statement clarified. This revelation follows reports of North Korean military involvement in Ukraine, which Moscow has not explicitly denied. Last year, Russian President Vladimir Putin described the use of North Korean troops as a "sovereign decision." In December, South Korea's intelligence agency reported the death of another North Korean soldier who had been captured alive by Ukrainian forces. The White House has also noted that North Korean troops in the conflict have experienced significant casualties. The SBU continues its investigation into the involvement of North Korean forces in Russia’s war against Ukraine under Article 437 of the Ukrainian Criminal Code, which pertains to the planning and waging of aggressive war. Based on a report by BBC 2024-01-13

An antisemitic slur @Highball along with an unapproved weblink and troll posts has been removed along with replies. The topic here is: House Approves Sanctions on ICC Over Netanyahu Arrest Warrant Not re education camps in China

A few bickering and trolling posts along with replies have been removed.