A Ukrainian attack on the Kerch Bridge, connecting Russia to Crimea, was confirmed by the Kremlin, although they claim the bridge remains operational despite video evidence of an underwater explosion. Ukraine’s SBU claimed responsibility, stating they mined the bridge’s underwater supports causing significant damage. This marks the third attack on the strategically vital bridge since 2022, highlighting its importance for Russian military supply lines and its symbolic value as a representation of Russia’s annexation of Crimea. The SBU described the attack as a continuation of their efforts to disrupt Russian operations in Ukrainian territory.
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Following a New York Times exposé detailing his personal life, including alleged extensive drug use during a political campaign, Elon Musk vehemently denied the claims on X. The article cited sources and evidence, including photos and private messages, to support its reporting of Musk’s alleged use of ketamine, ecstasy, and psychedelic mushrooms. Separately, Musk is also accused of physically assaulting Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Despite these various allegations, Musk maintains he is not currently using drugs.
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Severe understaffing at National Weather Service (NWS) offices in central and south Florida, coupled with a near 20% reduction in weather balloon launches, is degrading forecast quality. These cuts also threaten NOAA Hurricane Hunter aircraft operations, potentially resulting in significantly reduced reconnaissance missions. This lack of crucial data collection may leave forecasters with incomplete information on hurricane strength before landfall. The consequences of these budget reductions represent a multi-generational setback for American science and weather forecasting capabilities.
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Elon Musk’s recent barrage of online posts targeting Donald Trump has ignited a firestorm of discussion. It seems Musk is actively distancing himself from the former president, a move many interpret as a calculated attempt to salvage his plummeting public image and the fortunes of Tesla. The timing certainly suggests a strategic shift, with the Tesla stock struggling and Musk needing a way to regain investor confidence.
This sudden about-face after months of apparent alignment with Trump is striking. Many are skeptical, suspecting a cynical PR maneuver designed to appeal to a broader audience, perhaps even those previously alienated by his association with the former president.… Continue reading
A new US$1 billion Development Policy Operation (DPO) loan agreement is being finalized between Ukraine’s Ministry of Finance and the World Bank. This loan, supplementing the approximately US$3.5 billion received in 2024 through similar agreements, will directly support Ukraine’s budget and crucial reforms. Key reforms include a July 2025 launch of a consolidated social assistance program providing UAH 4,500 monthly to eligible citizens. The agreement’s terms should be finalized by June, with World Bank board approval expected in November.
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Following Ukraine’s audacious “Spiderweb” operation, which targeted Russian air bases and resulted in significant damage to strategic bombers and other aircraft, China urged all parties to de-escalate the conflict. This operation, described as having a “Pearl Harbor”-like impact, reportedly destroyed 41 Russian aircraft, causing an estimated $7 billion in damages. China’s call for de-escalation emphasizes avoiding conflict escalation, preventing battlefield expansion, and refraining from inflammatory actions. Beijing continues to engage with the international community to promote a peaceful resolution.
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Ukraine’s HUR has obtained over 4.4 GB of internal data from Russia’s Tupolev aircraft manufacturer, including personnel files, correspondence, and meeting minutes. This cyber operation follows a recent drone attack that significantly damaged Russia’s strategic bomber fleet. The acquired data exposes details about engineers maintaining Tu-95 and Tu-160 bombers, crucial components of Russia’s nuclear triad. The combined cyber and physical attacks represent a substantial setback for Russia’s long-range air capabilities. The compromised data’s significance is undeniable, providing Ukraine with significant intelligence advantages.
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Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered the renaming of the USNS Harvey Milk, a Navy ship named after the prominent gay rights activist, sparking outrage from veterans groups who deem it a deliberate insult to LGBTQ+ service members. The decision, part of a broader effort to align military assets with the administration’s priorities, is reportedly part of a larger review targeting other vessels named after prominent figures in civil rights. A Pentagon spokesperson stated that the renaming will ensure alignment with the Commander-in-Chief’s objectives and a focus on the “warrior ethos”. This action follows previous moves by Hegseth to remove books from the Naval Academy and aligns with the administration’s broader approach to DEI initiatives.
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Rick Wilson, a Republican strategist, voiced concerns about President Trump’s cognitive decline, citing observable deteriorations in speech, memory, and coherence. He compared Trump’s current state to his previous performances, noting a significant difference. While the White House physician declared Trump in excellent health, Wilson highlighted his age and lifestyle as potential factors hindering his ability to complete a second term. Wilson predicts internal conflict within the Republican party to select a successor should Trump’s health significantly worsen.
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A young Democrat, Keishan Scott, recently achieved a landslide victory in a South Carolina election, a stunning upset in a district strongly associated with Senator Lindsey Graham. This win is significant not only for its margin but also for its location, effectively a victory in Graham’s political backyard.
The scale of Scott’s win is remarkable, showcasing a significant shift in voter sentiment. The details of the specific district and the extent of the victory margin aren’t provided, but the sheer magnitude of the “landslide” suggests a substantial rejection of the incumbent’s political position or party affiliation.
The victory is even more surprising given the political landscape of South Carolina, a state generally considered a Republican stronghold.… Continue reading