A Chinese submarine drone, marked “HY-119,” was discovered off the coast of the Philippines, raising concerns about national security. The drone, described as a torpedo-shaped underwater navigation and communication system, was unarmed but capable of monitoring and reconnaissance. This incident follows recent escalations in the South China Sea, including Chinese coast guard vessels using water cannons against a Philippine vessel, and a Russian submarine transit. The U.S. has a defense treaty obligation to the Philippines, increasing the potential for further military involvement in the region.
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Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s involvement in the 2019 Samoan measles outbreak, which followed a vaccination pause after a tragic vaccine-related accident, has been debated. While not solely responsible for the low vaccination rates, Kennedy’s engagement with Samoan anti-vaccine activists, his promotion of their misinformation, and his meetings with Samoan government officials lend credence to claims he exacerbated the crisis. His denials of involvement are contradicted by evidence of his actions before, during, and after the epidemic. Ultimately, the outbreak stemmed from multiple factors, but Kennedy’s actions demonstrably contributed to the spread of vaccine hesitancy.
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A criminal investigation in Ukraine is underway, targeting alleged desertion and abuse of power within the 155th Mechanised Brigade, a unit partly trained by France. Hundreds of soldiers reportedly deserted, with allegations of poor management and a commander’s replacement shortly before combat deployment. The investigation, encompassing articles 426-1 and 408 of the Ukrainian Criminal Code, is ongoing. Claims of desertion during both training in France and before combat deployment have been made public.
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The resurgence of scurvy in France, particularly impacting poorer children, is a stark reminder of the deep inequalities within even wealthy nations. It’s a shocking development, highlighting how readily preventable diseases can reappear when basic needs aren’t met. The fact that this is happening in a country like France, not typically associated with widespread malnutrition, underscores the seriousness of the issue.
This isn’t an isolated incident; reports of increased scurvy and rickets are emerging from other developed nations like the UK and Canada. The common thread seems to be a growing food insecurity crisis, disproportionately affecting vulnerable families. While food banks exist, they are often overwhelmed by demand and lack the fresh, nutrient-rich food necessary to combat deficiencies like scurvy.… Continue reading
A gunman in Cetinje, Montenegro, fatally shot twelve people, including two children, before killing himself, resulting in a national tragedy. The incident, following a bar brawl, prompted Prime Minister Milojko Spajić to consider a nationwide weapons ban. Police reported the shooter, Aco Martinović, had a history of violent behavior and illegal weapons possession, and the victims included family members and acquaintances. The government declared three days of national mourning following this second mass shooting in Cetinje within three years.
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Apple will pay $95 million to settle a class-action lawsuit alleging its Siri assistant illegally recorded and shared users’ private conversations with third parties, such as advertisers. The settlement, covering a class period from September 2014 to December 2024, includes payouts of up to $20 per Siri-enabled device. While Apple denies wrongdoing, the plaintiffs claim unintentional Siri activations led to the unauthorized recording and targeted advertising. A similar lawsuit against Google is currently pending.
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Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy’s proposal to mandate full-time, in-office work for federal employees, framed as a government efficiency measure, contrasts sharply with economic data. While some large companies have reduced remote work options, remote work remains prevalent, stabilizing at 25-30% of workdays since January 2023. Experts cite the significant profitability of hybrid work models for companies due to sustained productivity and reduced employee turnover costs. The proposed policy, therefore, may inadvertently serve as a cost-effective method of workforce reduction.
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Vice President Kamala Harris will swear in a new class of Senators, many of whom previously spread false and defamatory claims about her during the recent election cycle. These Senators, including those who mocked her name and falsely accused her of various actions, will now participate in ceremonies presided over by the very person they attacked. This situation, while difficult, is a common experience for Vice Presidents, particularly those who have run for president. Harris, however, faces the added sting of seeing her fiercest critics gain power after a hard-fought election. Despite the unpleasant circumstances, Harris understands this is a standard part of the political process.
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South Korean investigators initiated the arrest of suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol at his Seoul residence, acting on an issued warrant. This follows Yoon’s failed attempt to impose martial law and subsequent impeachment. The arrest, if successful, would make Yoon the first sitting president to be detained, facing charges of insurrection, a crime carrying potentially severe penalties. Investigators have 48 hours to determine whether to formally charge him or release him. Tensions remain high as supporters clashed with police outside the residence.
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One hundred and twenty commandos from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) conducted a daring raid deep inside Syrian territory, targeting an Iranian missile factory. The operation, codenamed “Operation Many Ways,” aimed to dismantle an underground facility nestled within the Scientific Studies and Research Center (SSRC) in Masyaf, Syria. This location, over 200 kilometers from the Israeli border, was crucial for the production of precision-guided missiles intended for Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Assad regime.
The facility, known internally as “Deep Layer,” was situated within a mountain, making it a challenging target. While not yet fully operational, the IDF asserts that the facility was nearing completion, with at least two missiles already successfully tested and rocket engines in mass production.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood