The Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, Europe’s largest, has been disconnected from the power grid for seven consecutive days, marking the longest outage since Russia seized the facility. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned of a critical situation, citing Russian shelling as the cause for preventing the restoration of power lines needed to cool the reactors. The head of the IAEA, Rafael Grossi, stated there was no immediate danger as long as diesel generators remained operational but that the situation was not sustainable. Grossi is working with both sides to reconnect the plant to the grid and has urged that essential repairs be made.
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The US Department of State released the 2025 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) report, detailing human trafficking conditions in the US and over 185 countries, after delays and congressional pressure. The report, published without the customary introduction from the Secretary of State, includes the designation of Cambodia as a “state sponsor” of trafficking. The document also criticizes countries like Brazil, South Africa, and Israel, while omitting a section on LGBTQ+ victims that was terminated. This quiet release coincides with broader concerns about the Trump administration’s commitment to anti-trafficking efforts and related funding.
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Italy’s Navy, as the news reports, will be pulling back from the Gaza flotilla once it gets within 150 nautical miles of the shore, a decision made public by the Italian defense ministry. The whole idea is to avoid any potential conflict and uphold the legality of the blockade, a position that seems pretty straightforward. The statement from the ministry, which was published on Tuesday, made it clear that the accompanying Italian frigate would cease its escort duties at this predefined boundary. It also highlighted that several warnings had already been issued to the activists, with the final one scheduled for around midnight GMT, the time when the flotilla was expected to reach the specified distance.… Continue reading
Ted Cruz accidentally urging lawmakers to “stop attacking pedophiles” is, without a doubt, a striking statement, and one that immediately raises eyebrows. It’s hard to imagine this being a simple verbal stumble, especially coming from someone with the legal training and public speaking experience that Senator Cruz possesses. When you consider the context, with the examples he gave of actions everyone should agree on, like stopping murder and rape, the inclusion of “stop attacking pedophiles” is jarring and demands scrutiny.
The immediate reaction is almost disbelief, followed by a deep dive into the intent behind the words. The sheer audacity of the statement, regardless of the motivation, is staggering.… Continue reading
Over the weekend, youth-led demonstrations erupted in numerous Moroccan cities, marking some of the largest anti-government protests in years. Protesters voiced strong disapproval of government priorities, specifically criticizing investments in international sporting events while neglecting healthcare and education. Security forces responded with arrests in several cities, with the Moroccan Association for Human Rights reporting over 120 arrests. The protests, largely organized via social media by a leaderless movement, were fueled by anger over declining public services, and inspired by similar youth-led movements.
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A senior Hamas official has stated that the group is likely to reject the Trump peace plan for Gaza, as it is perceived to prioritize Israel’s interests and neglect Palestinian needs. Key concerns include the requirement to disarm and hand over hostages, which are seen as detrimental to their bargaining position. The group also objects to the potential deployment of an International Stabilisation Force, viewing it as a form of occupation. Furthermore, statements from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding the plan, appear to contradict the framework’s stipulations.
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Texas’ Department of Public Safety has ceased issuing commercial driver licenses (CDLs) and commercial learner permits (CLPs) to DACA recipients, refugees, and individuals granted asylum, effective immediately. This decision follows a new federal rule tightening CDL eligibility for non-citizens and stems from audits revealing ineligible CDL issuance nationwide. Applicants in these categories will be unable to proceed with testing until services are reinstated. The state’s action goes further than the federal rule, which only limits eligibility to non-citizens with employment-based visas.
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The judge denied Sean Combs’ attempt to overturn his conviction days before his sentencing. Federal prosecutors are recommending at least 11 years in prison for Combs’ conviction on two counts of transportation for the purposes of prostitution, emphasizing his lack of remorse and the victims’ fear. The prosecution cited his violent behavior and abuse, including that of Cassie Ventura, while defense attorneys are calling the recommendation “draconian”. Several people who were previously associated with Combs, including Ventura and Mia, submitted letters hoping the sentencing reflects the harm he has caused and provides justice.
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Anti-LGBTQ+ GOP Rep. calls for public execution of pro-LGBTQ+ Democratic congresswoman. He was outraged by a video of her calling for “non-violent resistance” to the president. It’s honestly just mind-boggling to consider a scenario where a sitting member of Congress, a Republican no less, openly calls for the public execution of a fellow congresswoman, a Democrat, and the reasoning stems from her advocating for “non-violent resistance.” The sheer audacity, the blatant disregard for democratic principles, it’s just… shocking. The irony practically drips from this situation: someone, specifically a representative, is advocating for the ultimate act of violence – taking a life – while feigning outrage over a call for non-violent action.… Continue reading
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood