Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has appealed to OPEC for assistance in countering escalating threats from the United States, accusing the US of seeking to seize Venezuela’s substantial oil reserves. Maduro formally denounced the potential use of military force against Venezuela, expressing concern over the growing US military presence in the Caribbean. This appeal follows a statement by former President Donald Trump, who declared Venezuela’s airspace closed, a move Caracas deemed a “colonialist threat.” Maduro’s plea to OPEC highlights concerns regarding the stability of the international energy market and the potential impact of US actions on oil-producing countries.
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International outcry persists over Russia’s actions in Ukraine, including the abduction of Ukrainian children and attacks on civilians, leading to investigations into over 178,000 alleged Russian crimes. A UN commission has found that Russian authorities committed crimes against humanity. European Union officials emphasize the necessity of holding Russia accountable, warning that allowing impunity would invite further aggression and invasion. The EU is also working towards establishing a special tribunal to prosecute Russian leaders for their actions.
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The Oxford University Press has declared “rage bait” as its Word of the Year for 2025. This term describes content strategically designed to provoke anger and outrage online, a tactic that has tripled in usage in the last year. Rage bait aims to boost engagement on websites and social media platforms, much like clickbait, but with a specific focus on eliciting negative emotions. The selection highlights a shift in online manipulation, as platforms increasingly exploit and influence user emotions.
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A prominent conservative voice, Andrew C. McCarthy, has condemned Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s actions in a Caribbean drug boat strike as potentially a war crime. McCarthy argues that the order to kill survivors of the initial strike, even if the administration claims armed conflict, violates the laws of war. Furthermore, McCarthy highlights that Hegseth’s defense on social media failed to address the report’s specific assertions. Senators have pledged oversight into the incident, while legal experts like Todd Huntley have labeled the attack as murder.
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Ukraine’s interceptor drone downs Russia’s jet-propelled Shahed UAV in historic first. That’s the headline, and frankly, it’s a game changer. We’re talking about a significant shift in the ongoing conflict, a moment that highlights the rapid evolution of warfare. It’s exhilarating and, frankly, a little unnerving all at once. The fact that a Ukrainian drone has successfully taken down a jet-powered Shahed is a testament to their ingenuity and adaptability in the face of a brutal adversary. It underscores the Ukrainian spirit, the ability to innovate and outmaneuver a foe despite the seemingly lopsided resources. It also raises the stakes, introducing a new level of sophistication to the aerial battles unfolding.… Continue reading
The MAGA coalition is reportedly collapsing, with the departure of key figures like Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene and others in the media, signaling a potential loss of political power for President Trump. This fracturing could be further exacerbated if Democrats gain control of the House after the midterm elections, leading to investigations into Trump’s actions. The situation could create opportunities for Republicans who distance themselves from the former president.
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Several political analysts and former officials expressed concerns regarding Donald Trump and the Republican party’s actions and rhetoric. Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell warned of a Democratic majority and potential subpoenas, while others discussed Trump’s actions in Venezuela, suggesting it was unpopular and could lead to an illegal war. Trump’s low approval rating and handling of multiple scandals were also criticized. Finally, the changing nature of the Republican party, along with Trump’s perceived untouchability, was a key talking point.
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Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, daughter of former South African president Jacob Zuma, has resigned as an MP amid accusations of recruiting 17 South African men to fight for Russia in Ukraine under false pretenses. The men were allegedly told they would be training as bodyguards for Zuma’s MK party. While cooperating with a police investigation, Zuma-Sambudla claimed she was a victim of deception, denying knowledge of combat, and alleging that her involvement was for a legitimate training course. South African authorities are investigating the situation, with reports indicating the men were lured to join mercenary forces.
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The Pentagon’s investigation into Senator Mark Kelly, a retired Navy fighter pilot, over a video concerning “illegal orders” has sparked debate among legal experts. Some argue the Pentagon is misinterpreting military law, while others claim a sitting member of Congress cannot be prosecuted. Despite the investigation, Kelly maintains his actions as a senator are protected, and that he will not be deterred from his duties. Military law experts suggest the case could be dismissed, and question if military law can be applied in this situation. Furthermore, constitutional protections, rooted in the separation of powers, may shield Kelly from this investigation.
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Ukrainian soldiers reject Trump peace plan as “real capitulation,” and frankly, that’s not a surprise. Imagine dedicating years, shedding blood, and witnessing the devastation of your homeland, only to be told to surrender a significant portion of what you’ve fought to defend. It’s an affront, an insult, and a complete dismissal of the sacrifices made. From their perspective, and rightfully so, any peace plan that demands territorial concessions or jeopardizes their sovereignty is nothing short of capitulation.
This isn’t about some abstract political maneuvering; it’s about the very essence of their nation. These soldiers are defending not just land, but also the dignity of their people, the memory of those lost, and the future they envision for their country.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood