A whistleblower accused the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) of exfiltrating sensitive data from the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), including disabling security monitoring systems. A subsequent login attempt from a user with a Russian IP address, using a newly created DOGE email account and correct NLRB credentials, was blocked but highlights potential security vulnerabilities. The whistleblower provided forensic evidence and alleges DOGE employed tactics resembling those of foreign hackers, raising serious national security concerns. These accusations are not isolated, with multiple reports suggesting widespread data exfiltration by DOGE across various agencies. The situation is further complicated by Elon Musk’s dual roles in government and at companies under NLRB investigation.
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In a recent interview, US Vice President JD Vance urged European nations to exhibit greater independence from the United States, critiquing their historical role as “vassals.” He specifically cited the Iraq War, suggesting stronger European opposition could have prevented the conflict’s negative consequences. While acknowledging some European nations correctly opposed the war, Vance believes a more robust, unified stance would have been beneficial. This call for greater European autonomy follows previous criticisms of European defense spending and immigration policies.
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Following Elon Musk’s acquisition, X’s UK revenue plummeted 66.3% to £69.1 million in 2023, resulting in a significant profit decrease. This downturn is attributed to reduced advertising spending due to brand safety and content moderation concerns. The company’s UK workforce also experienced substantial cuts, falling from 399 to 114 employees. Despite these challenges, X’s overall value has since recovered, and a new AI-focused subsidiary, X.AI London, was recently established.
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Judge Paula Xinis is considering holding the Trump administration in contempt of court for failing to facilitate the return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was mistakenly deported to El Salvador. Despite a Supreme Court ruling deeming the deportation illegal and ordering the administration’s cooperation, the government has provided insufficient evidence of its efforts to comply. The judge ordered depositions from relevant officials and the submission of further documentation, threatening additional sanctions for non-compliance. The administration claims it would facilitate Abrego Garcia’s return if he presented himself at a port of entry, a position disputed by the judge given the Salvadoran president’s public refusal to return him.
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A small business owner’s TikTok plea for help, citing bankruptcy due to Trump-era tariffs on Chinese alloy wheels, was met with harsh criticism. Many commenters reveled in his misfortune, highlighting the consequences of his vote for Trump. The owner’s subsequent video expressed outrage at this schadenfreude, arguing that judging individuals solely on their vote is inhumane. However, critics countered with accusations of hypocrisy and economic naiveté, pointing to Trump’s policies and the owner’s own political choices.
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The Canadian Association of University Teachers (CAUT) advises its members against non-essential travel to the United States due to increased border scrutiny and reports of Canadians facing difficulties. The warning particularly targets academics from countries with strained U.S. relations, those critical of the Trump administration, and transgender individuals. Concerns exist regarding the potential compromise of sensitive research data during border searches. The CAUT will maintain this advisory until political screening at the border ceases and confidential information is better protected.
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Between January 1 and April 9, 2025, over 85,000 visas were issued by the Chinese Embassy in India, significantly boosting people-to-people ties. This increase follows several visa relaxations, including eliminating online appointment requirements, biometric exemptions for short-term visitors, reduced fees, and faster processing times. The move is seen as a soft power initiative to foster goodwill, particularly amidst ongoing border tensions. Simultaneously, China emphasized the importance of strong India-China economic and trade relations, advocating for multilateralism against protectionist trade practices.
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Following a meeting between EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič and US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, the EU expressed frustration over the lack of concrete US proposals for removing reciprocal tariffs. The EU reiterated its offer to eliminate all industrial goods tariffs, emphasizing the need for a reciprocal commitment from the US. While the US previously cited various trade grievances, it has yet to clearly define its desired outcome in these negotiations. The EU maintains its position on food safety standards and will continue pursuing a resolution within the 90-day timeframe.
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A coalition of U.S. universities, including Brown, Princeton, MIT, and Caltech, filed a lawsuit against the Department of Energy (DOE) to challenge new funding restrictions. The DOE’s policy, which caps indirect research costs at 15 percent, threatens to cut $405 million in annual spending and jeopardize numerous vital research projects. This action follows a similar NIH policy change, already blocked by a federal judge, and represents growing university pushback against perceived federal overreach. The lawsuit argues the 15 percent cap will severely damage scientific research and the nation’s global leadership in innovation.
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In response to a question regarding the legality of the president’s plan to deport incarcerated criminals, Bondi offered an unsupported assertion that the initiative would decrease crime and that these individuals would face maximum sentencing. However, this plan is likely illegal, violating federal law and potentially several constitutional amendments. The core issue lies in the illegality of deporting U.S. citizens, regardless of their criminal history. Such a plan would require significant legal reform, and is unlikely to be implemented.
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John Q. Hosedrinker