Columbia University has disciplined over 70 students for their involvement in pro-Palestinian protests, including those at Butler Library and during alumni weekend. Sanctions include probation, suspensions (ranging from one to three years), degree revocations, and expulsions. The university stated these actions were necessary to address disruptions to academic activities, and the crackdown follows the implementation of new policies agreed upon with the Trump administration, including adjusted disciplinary processes and a ban on masks at protests in most cases. These recent actions echo similar disciplinary measures from last year’s protests, reflecting the university’s efforts to manage the impact of student activism on campus.
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An investigation reveals that Russian authorities are actively involving children in the design and testing of drones for the war in Ukraine. This involvement begins with seemingly innocuous video games and progresses to advanced competitions, with talented students being recruited by defense companies. Teenagers have been found to be modeling drone components for major enterprises, often encouraged to conceal the military applications of their projects. Furthermore, children have been shown constructing kamikaze drones in factories, violating international conventions. This initiative is part of a broader effort to boost Russia’s drone production, a crucial element of its war effort.
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On July 22, Ukraine launched a series of drone attacks across Russia, with Moscow reporting that its air defenses intercepted numerous drones. One of the confirmed targets was the Novokuybyshevsk Petrochemical Company in Samara Oblast, a facility crucial for producing explosives used in Russian military operations. The governor of Samara reported no casualties or damage, but confirmed temporary restrictions on mobile internet. The attacks included one near Moscow, marking the sixth consecutive night of drone strikes on the capital.
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Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes has threatened to arrest former President Jair Bolsonaro for violating restrictions on his social media appearances. The judge cited a video shared by Bolsonaro’s son as a breach of the ban, which could lead to “immediate imprisonment” if a satisfactory explanation is not provided. Bolsonaro is currently on trial for allegedly plotting a coup, facing restrictions including a curfew, surveillance, and an ankle tag. Furthermore, these actions are closely followed by former ally Donald Trump, who has denounced the trial, adding to the tension between the two countries.
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House Republicans on the Rules Committee have halted legislative business in the chamber to avoid voting on Democratic amendments that would force the release of files related to Jeffrey Epstein. This action, taken to evade potential votes on Epstein-related documents, effectively shuts down the House until after the August recess. The move comes as the White House faces increasing scrutiny over its handling of the Epstein case and potential involvement by President Trump, with Republicans fearing being perceived as protecting the truth. This has led to internal dissent and calls for transparency, as well as a potential showdown over House leadership.
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Interim U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey, Alina Habba, has been replaced by a deputy, Desiree Leigh Grace, following the expiration of her 120-day term, as per an order signed by the Chief Judge. This transition has been met with criticism from Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, who claims Habba’s term isn’t over yet and that the replacement is politically motivated. Habba, who previously represented Donald Trump, faced scrutiny for her actions in office, including her decision to charge Rep. LaMonica McIver. While Trump nominated Habba to the position permanently, her nomination has yet to move forward in the Senate.
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Ken Pagurek, the head of FEMA’s Urban Search and Rescue branch, resigned after a delayed response to the Texas floods, citing frustration with the administration’s efforts to dismantle the agency. The delay in deploying FEMA’s resources was caused by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s requirement for personal approval of contracts over $100,000. This bureaucratic hurdle caused significant delays in the delivery of essential resources. FEMA is now rolling out a new internal review process aimed at speeding up the approval of “lifesaving” resources during disasters, although it is unclear if this will solve the initial problems.
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Hunter Biden delivered a scathing rebuke of prominent figures within the Democratic Party, including George Clooney, James Carville, and David Axelrod. He criticized their influence and questioned their right to challenge his father’s presidency, emphasizing the President’s extensive political achievements. Biden also disparaged the Pod Save America hosts, dismissing their credentials and alleged reliance on their association with Barack Obama. The younger Biden defended his father’s record, highlighting his successful Senate career, legislative accomplishments, and electoral victories.
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In an effort to shift focus away from his association with Jeffrey Epstein, President Trump has escalated attacks against political opponents, suggesting they should be prosecuted. Trump specifically called out former President Obama, accusing him of treason and attempting to steal the 2016 election, echoing a conspiracy theory. Obama’s office swiftly responded, dismissing these claims as “outrageous” and a weak attempt at distraction, while emphasizing the widely accepted conclusion that Russia interfered in the 2016 election. The president’s focus on these disproven theories coincides with increased scrutiny of his relationship with Epstein and attempts by his administration to bury the story.
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Vice President J.D. Vance reportedly revealed to comedian Tim Dillon during a dinner that the files connected to Jeffrey Epstein primarily contain commercial pornography, downplaying the existence of compromising videos of powerful figures. This information was shared on Dillon’s podcast, which featured Alex Jones, with Dillon questioning the shifting narrative and suggesting a cover-up given the initial demands for file release. The Department of Justice and FBI have denied a “client list” and stated no further arrests will be made, which is at odds with statements made by Bondi. Dillon and other figures were previously very outspoken about the need to release the files, making the perceived shift in tone suspicious, leading to speculation of a cover-up.
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John Q. Hosedrinker