Trump says he’d ‘rather not’ extend Affordable Care Act subsidies, and it’s a decision that’s already sparking a lot of thought. The core of it seems to be a reluctance to continue the financial support that helps people afford health insurance through the ACA, often called Obamacare. His reasoning seems to center on a desire to either dismantle the ACA entirely or replace it with something he can brand as “Trumpcare.” This sentiment raises some immediate questions, and a whole lot of frustrations.
The crux of the matter is that these subsidies directly impact people’s ability to access healthcare. Cutting them off would likely lead to higher premiums and potentially leave many individuals struggling to afford or even access the care they need.… Continue reading
President Donald Trump’s approval ratings have dipped into negative territory across all major polling aggregators, a first for his presidency. The New York Times’ aggregator shows an average disapproval rating of 55 percent. A recent J.L. Partners poll indicated 49 percent disapproval, while even Rasmussen Reports, known for leaning Republican, showed a negative rating, with 51 percent disapproval.
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Speaking with the BBC, Ahmed, a shopkeeper who has since fled Mali, recounted his brutal experience with Wagner forces in Nampala in August 2024. Accused of harboring connections with jihadists, Ahmed was detained, tortured through waterboarding and beatings, and repeatedly interrogated about his boss’s whereabouts. After enduring the torture, Ahmed was placed in a toilet block with other locals and subsequently taken back for another round of interrogation where he was threatened with beheading. Ultimately, he was left in a kitchen with two other men who had also been detained.
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A recent New York Times article reported on Donald Trump’s potential signs of aging and reduced workload during his second term. In response, Trump publicly criticized the article and one of its authors on Truth Social, disputing the claims of declining energy and mental acuity. The article noted a significant decrease in Trump’s public appearances compared to his first term and included observations about his physical appearance. Despite the article’s findings and Trump’s own contradictory statements, the White House has maintained the president’s health is exceptional.
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Amidst global uncertainties and rising tensions, France is considering the reintroduction of a voluntary military service, a project that has been under review for several months. President Macron might announce this initiative, possibly as early as Thursday, emphasizing the need for a strong nation with a collective ability to respond to potential threats. The proposed service, which could involve 10,000 to 50,000 individuals annually, is seen as a way to enhance national cohesion and create a pool of mobilizable people. This plan is backed by some politicians, and it also calls for an uncertain future for the Universal National Service (SNU).
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In the face of growing tensions with the US, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has vowed to defend his government against any attempt at overthrow. The US has been conducting military strikes against vessels suspected of drug trafficking, with Venezuela and Cuba accusing the US of seeking a violent regime change. Maduro’s administration claims US actions are economically motivated, seeking control of Venezuela’s resources. Despite not recognizing Maduro as the leader, the US has designated Venezuela’s Cartel de los Soles as a foreign terrorist organization, with the former Trump administration deputy secretary of defense saying that the official position of the US government is not regime change, but Mr. Trump would like to see that happen in Venezuela.
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American volunteers and veterans assisting Ukraine are expressing dismay and embarrassment over Donald Trump’s continued influence and actions regarding the war effort. A leaked 28-point peace plan, reportedly drafted by a Trump envoy, has been widely criticized as echoing Vladimir Putin’s demands and betraying Ukraine. This plan reportedly includes significant concessions that would cede territory and compromise Ukraine’s sovereignty, causing anger among those dedicated to supporting the country. Some believe that the US government is motivated by financial gain.
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In early 2022, Ukraine’s request to Elon Musk on X resulted in the swift deployment of Starlink terminals, providing crucial battlefield communication. Russia attempted to jam the signals, but SpaceX’s software updates and constellation reconfiguration thwarted their efforts. This success has prompted significant concern, particularly in Beijing, regarding the challenge of achieving electromagnetic dominance in the face of adaptable satellite systems like Starlink. A new Chinese study details the PLA’s potential strategies to neutralize such resilient communication networks.
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The Epstein estate is disputing claims that it is not cooperating with the FBI ahead of the release of the Epstein files. FBI Director Kash Patel stated the estate had refused to share information with the government, but a lawyer for the estate denied any such requests had been made. The estate maintained it has cooperated with lawful requests, including providing over 20,000 pages of documents to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. President Trump signed the “Epstein Files Transparency Act,” mandating the release of unclassified documents within 30 days.
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In the wake of peace negotiations, President Trump dispatched an agent to Moscow to meet with Putin. While Trump is reportedly hesitant to meet with Ukrainian President Zelensky until a deal is finalized, the Ukrainian leader is eager to discuss “sensitive points” in the proposal and has expressed willingness to meet with Trump. Disagreements remain, though a revised 19-point proposal has emerged. Despite ongoing discussions and a coalition of international leaders working towards a resolution, both sides exchanged fire overnight with air raids and attacks.
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Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker