A second Ukrainian drone strike on January 14th further damaged the oil depot at the Kristal plant in Engels, Russia, causing a four-day fire. The attack, confirmed by Ukraine’s General Staff, resulted in the deaths of two emergency responders and significant damage to fuel storage, reducing Russian military logistical capabilities. Governor Busargin reported the fire is largely contained, despite ongoing emergency response efforts and citizen complaints about smoke. The strike reportedly destroyed three and damaged six fuel tanks, impacting nearly 800,000 tons of storage capacity.
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GM’s recent agreement to a five-year ban on selling drivers’ location data has sparked a firestorm of criticism and concern. The initial reaction, focusing on the temporary nature of the ban, highlights a deep distrust of the company’s intentions. Many see a five-year moratorium as simply a delay, allowing GM to continue this practice after the public outcry subsides. The implication is that, after this period, the company may again monetize this sensitive information, leading to potential exploitation and privacy violations.
The anger stems partly from the perceived shady practices of selling private customer data to insurance companies, resulting in increased premiums or even insurance denials.… Continue reading
Donald Trump Jr.’s recent Greenland visit included a lunch with individuals wearing “Make America Great Again” hats, but the hotel’s CEO claims these were not supporters but rather homeless people invited for a free meal. The CEO stated many had never been to the hotel before and were unaware of Trump Jr.’s identity until after the lunch. Trump Jr.’s spokesperson denied these claims, deeming them “beyond the pale ridiculous.” Subsequent events involved individuals distributing $100 bills while wearing MAGA hats, raising further concerns about the nature of Trump Jr.’s visit and its impact.
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The European Commission has expanded its investigation into X’s recommendation algorithm, demanding internal documents detailing recent changes and future modifications. This follows complaints alleging the algorithm’s promotion of far-right content, particularly from Germany’s Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which Elon Musk publicly supports. The investigation includes requests for information on content moderation and amplification practices. The Commission insists the probe is independent of political considerations, aiming to ensure compliance with EU legislation promoting a fair and democratic online environment. X has yet to comment.
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Prominent Supreme Court attorney and SCOTUSblog co-founder Tom Goldstein was indicted on federal tax evasion charges, accused of failing to declare millions in poker winnings from 2016 to 2021. The indictment alleges he used his law firm’s funds to pay gambling debts and made false statements to mortgage lenders, totaling over $5.3 million in unpaid taxes. Goldstein, who has a notable legal career including representing Al Gore in *Bush v. Gore*, pleads not guilty and plans to vigorously contest the charges. The indictment also details alleged misuse of firm funds for personal expenses, including the payment of expenses for multiple women.
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Under the Online Safety Act, all UK websites hosting pornographic content, including social media platforms, must implement robust age verification by July. This Ofcom mandate, prompted by research showing widespread underage exposure to online pornography, requires methods like photo ID or credit card checks. While some support the move as essential for safer online spaces, concerns remain that stricter verification will drive users to unregulated, potentially more harmful, online areas. The new rules also affect sites using AI to generate pornography, requiring immediate implementation of age checks.
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President Biden declared the Equal Rights Amendment ratified, asserting that the necessary 38 states had voted in favor, despite past legal challenges and rescinded approvals. This action, intended to enshrine equal rights for women in the Constitution, relies on the American Bar Association’s interpretation that ratification deadlines are unenforceable. However, the Archivist of the United States has previously stated that certification is legally impossible, setting the stage for a likely court battle. The move comes as Biden uses his final days in office to enact numerous executive actions, some of which may be easily reversed by the incoming administration.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood