Elon Musk’s role within the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is shifting. While he will officially leave his post in May, he will maintain a reduced, primarily remote, involvement, dedicating a few days a week to the department. His staff will remain in place, continuing their work despite criticism of DOGE’s performance. This transition allows Musk to refocus on his business ventures, aligning with his previously stated intentions.
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During an interview, President Trump repeatedly claimed that Kilmar Abrego Garcia, mistakenly deported to El Salvador, had “MS-13” tattooed on his knuckles, despite evidence showing the tattoos were misinterpreted and digitally altered to support this claim. The interviewer, Terry Moran, repeatedly attempted to shift the conversation to other topics, but Trump refused, accusing Moran of being unfair and contributing to distrust in the news media. Experts and Abrego Garcia’s family deny any gang affiliation. Trump’s insistence on the “MS-13” claim, even after Moran pointed out the photo manipulation, dominated the interview.
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France has formally accused Russia’s military intelligence, specifically the GRU’s APT28 group (also known as Fancy Bear), of conducting a wide-ranging cyberattack campaign targeting French interests. This campaign included the 2017 hacking of Emmanuel Macron’s presidential campaign, the 2015 attack on TV5Monde, and recent intrusions into organizations involved in the 2024 Paris Olympics and various other sectors. The attacks, which aimed to manipulate public opinion and gather strategic intelligence, have been ongoing since at least 2021. France, in conjunction with international partners, vows to counter this malicious cyber activity.
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Following a move from Maryland, Marisa and her family were subjected to a raid by agents identifying themselves as U.S. Marshals, ICE, and FBI. Despite repeatedly stating their U.S. citizenship, the family was forcibly removed from their home in their underwear, their house ransacked, and belongings seized. Marisa was left destitute, lacking funds for basic necessities like food and transportation, highlighting the devastating impact of the raid. The agents disregarded her pleas for assistance and the family’s clear citizenship.
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The European Parliament’s decision to resume engagement with China follows the lifting of sanctions imposed on five MEPs in 2021. This resumption, however, is not without caveats, as significant concerns remain regarding China’s trade practices, including market distortions and restrictive access barriers. Despite the renewed dialogue, MEPs maintain their critical stance on China’s human rights record and industrial policies. Obstacles to a positive EU-China trade relationship persist, necessitating further discussions on these key issues.
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President Zelensky warned of potential Russian military aggression this summer, disguised as joint military exercises with Belarus, citing historical precedent. These exercises, particularly Zapad 2025, could serve as cover for assembling offensive forces, mirroring the lead-up to the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Commander-in-Chief Syrskyi corroborated this assessment, highlighting the use of exercises for covert troop relocation and concentration. Zelensky’s concerns extend beyond Ukraine, with previous warnings of potential Russian offensives against NATO countries.
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President Trump’s administration is characterized by widespread disregard for the rule of law, demonstrated through the appointment of unqualified loyalists, the elimination of government accountability, and the weaponization of his power against political opponents. His actions include bypassing the cabinet to fire federal employees, pardoning January 6th rioters, and targeting those who oppose him, including judges and institutions. Furthermore, Trump has shown blatant disregard for international relations, engaging in aggressive and harmful actions toward allies and trading partners. His pursuit of a third term, despite constitutional limitations, underscores his belief in being above the law and his insatiable desire for power.
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President Trump removed Doug Emhoff and eleven other Biden appointees from the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council’s Board of Trustees. Emhoff, who is Jewish, condemned the move as a dangerous politicization of Holocaust remembrance. The dismissals included prominent figures like Ron Klain and Susan Rice, impacting the council’s composition. The White House stated that President Trump intends to appoint new members supportive of Israel. Presidential appointees typically serve five-year terms.
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Following a U.S. request for assistance, Iraqi authorities arrested an ISIS member suspected of inciting the deadly Bourbon Street attack on New Year’s Day. The suspect’s alleged role involved inciting the attack perpetrated by Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a U.S. Army veteran who died in a subsequent shootout. While the Iraqi suspect will face prosecution under anti-terrorism laws, the FBI maintains that Jabbar acted alone in carrying out the attack, which resulted in 14 fatalities and numerous injuries. The ongoing investigation continues to encourage public cooperation in providing any further relevant information.
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During a recent rally, Donald Trump declared his intention to control both domestic and global affairs if re-elected. This statement was met with a contrasting response from Canada’s new Prime Minister, although the specifics of that response were not detailed. The juxtaposition highlights a significant divergence in approaches to international relations and leadership styles. Further details regarding the Prime Minister’s counterpoint are expected to emerge. The differing viewpoints underscore a potential shift in North American political dynamics.
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John Q. Hosedrinker