January 2025

US Sanctions Force Chinese Banks to Halt Payments to Russia

Increased US sanctions targeting Gazprombank and numerous intermediary companies supplying Russia have severely impacted Russian-Chinese trade payments. Chinese banks, wary of US actions and potential violations, are delaying and scrutinizing yuan-denominated transactions, creating significant payment hurdles for Russian exporters. This cautious approach by Chinese financial institutions follows the blacklisting of approximately 100 companies, including some Chinese firms, for allegedly circumventing sanctions. The resulting payment delays and increased scrutiny contributed to a 7% decline in Russian exports during the final quarter of 2024.

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Trump Blames DEI for Plane Crash, Sparks Outrage

Following a deadly mid-air collision that killed 67 people, President Trump blamed the accident on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies implemented by previous administrations. He asserted that these policies led to the hiring of unqualified air traffic controllers, citing articles suggesting a focus on hiring individuals with disabilities within the FAA. Trump, along with Vice President Vance and Defense Secretary Hegseth, criticized these policies, claiming they prioritized diversity over competence. The president pledged to prevent future incidents under his leadership, while a House Transportation member urged restraint before a full investigation.

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Michigan Priest Defrocked for Nazi Salute

The Anglican Catholic Church revoked the priestly license of Calvin Robinson, priest-in-charge of St. Paul’s Anglican Catholic Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan, for mimicking Elon Musk’s straight-arm gesture, which many interpreted as a Nazi salute. Robinson performed the gesture at the National Pro-Life Summit after quoting Musk, claiming it was a joke. The Church stated that Robinson’s actions, despite his denials, were harmful and trivialized the Holocaust. This decision follows prior warnings to Robinson about his online behavior.

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Democratic Governors Slam Schumer’s Weak Response to Trump

Democratic governors criticized Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer for insufficiently resisting Donald Trump’s agenda and cabinet nominees, urging a more aggressive public opposition strategy. The governors, including Pritzker and Healey, specifically called for stronger Senate votes against nominees like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Tulsi Gabbard. Schumer countered that Democrats had already hampered the confirmations of Hegseth and Kennedy, citing the recent reversal of a controversial federal funding freeze as evidence of Democratic effectiveness. However, differing opinions emerged on messaging, with some advocating a focus on the practical impacts of Trump’s policies on ordinary Americans rather than solely on democratic principles.

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WWII Soldier’s Remains Identified After Decades

U.S. Army Pfc. Robert L. Bryant, missing since World War II following Operation Avalanche in Italy, has been accounted for. His remains, discovered in 1947 and initially unidentified, were recently analyzed using anthropological, dental, and DNA evidence, confirming his identity. This identification was aided by historical research and assistance from various organizations. Bryant will receive a proper burial in April 2025, and a rosette will be placed next to his name on the Walls of the Missing.

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Trump and Musk Accused of Purging Veterans From Government

The Trump administration, employing a plan reminiscent of Elon Musk’s actions at Twitter, is forcing federal employees, disproportionately veterans, to resign or face termination. This “deferred resignation” scheme, offering eight months’ pay in exchange for immediate resignation, is a coercive tactic disguised as a voluntary buyout. The plan, which targets agencies crucial to national security and veteran care, threatens to leave many veterans jobless and without recourse, while its purported cost savings are vastly inflated. This action is viewed not as efficiency reform, but as a politically motivated purge designed to weaken the civil service.

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100,000 Demand Trump Impeachment Inquiry

Impeach Trump Again, a nonpartisan campaign, has collected over 100,000 signatures supporting an impeachment investigation into President Trump. The petition cites numerous alleged offenses, including violations of the Emoluments Clauses, unlawful campaign practices, and pardoning January 6th insurrectionists. New grounds for impeachment have been added, encompassing abuses of power since his inauguration, such as the abuse of pardon power and unconstitutional firings. The campaign emphasizes the need for congressional accountability in response to these alleged actions.

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Warner Questions Gabbard’s Spy Chief Qualifications

Warner’s assertion that Tulsi Gabbard may be so unqualified she can’t legally serve as spy chief highlights a significant concern regarding her nomination. The law establishing the Director of National Intelligence position explicitly requires extensive national security expertise. Gabbard’s background, while including military service, notably lacks formal experience within the U.S. intelligence community. This raises serious questions about her preparedness to oversee numerous spy agencies and manage a budget exceeding $100 billion.

This lack of direct experience contrasts sharply with the immense responsibilities of the DNI role. The position demands a deep understanding of intelligence gathering, analysis, and dissemination, as well as intricate knowledge of international relations and national security threats.… Continue reading

IDF Confirms Killing of Hamas Terrorist Who Kidnapped Soldier Naama Levy

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) recently revealed that Muhammad Abu Aseed, the Hamas terrorist filmed dragging Naama Levy into captivity on October 7th, 2023, was killed in a drone strike approximately four months ago.

This revelation, kept secret until the release of all seven female Israeli soldiers held hostage by Hamas, underscores the significant efforts undertaken by the IDF following the devastating October 7th attacks. The video of the abduction, showing Abu Aseed dragging the injured Levy by her hair, became a chilling symbol of the brutality inflicted that day. The targeted elimination of Abu Aseed represents a measure of justice and retribution for this horrific act.… Continue reading