Following recent discussions, Russian aide Yuri Ushakov stated that a durable peace in Ukraine is unattainable without addressing territorial matters according to the “Anchorage formula.” Ushakov emphasized Russia’s alleged interest in a political and diplomatic resolution, yet asserted that military operations would continue until their objectives are met on the battlefield, where Russia maintains the strategic initiative. The talks, lasting over three and a half hours, involved Vladimir Putin and US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff at the Kremlin.
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California becomes the first state to join the WHO disease network after the US exit, and it sparks some seriously interesting thoughts. It feels like a significant moment, a ripple effect that could potentially change the landscape of how states interact with global health initiatives, especially after the US stepped away. Honestly, it’s pretty bold, and it’s no surprise that California, with its massive economy and global connections, is leading the charge. You can already sense the anticipation – will other states follow suit?
The immediate reaction to this is a mix of excitement and a little bit of “what does this mean?”… Continue reading
General Roman Polko, former commander of Poland’s GROM special forces, has strongly condemned Donald Trump’s comments questioning the frontline military contributions of America’s allies. Polko, who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, called Trump a “coward” for his remarks. Polish officials, including Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski and Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, have also refuted Trump’s claims and highlighted Poland’s significant military contributions, including casualties suffered in both Afghanistan and Iraq. The criticism comes amid broader tensions regarding Trump’s stance on NATO and his attempts to take control of Greenland.
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Tánaiste Simon Harris has unequivocally stated Ireland’s opposition to participating in Donald Trump’s proposed Board of Peace, citing concerns about its potential composition. The board’s proposed membership, which reportedly includes figures like Vladimir Putin and Benjamin Netanyahu, is viewed as problematic. Harris also noted that Trump had “backed down” over Greenland following a response from the EU. Therefore, Ireland will not be participating in the board.
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The second group, comprised of corporate leaders and business executives, chooses silence due to fear of retribution or the desire for tax cuts, evident in their financial support of Trump. Right-wing media outlets, acting as Trump’s propaganda arms, are driven by a combination of financial gain and genuine hatred of liberals, leading them to defend Trump while demonizing the opposition. Finally, the MAGA faithful encompasses a range of supporters, including soft supporters with diverse motivations who don’t necessarily view Trump as a savior.
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The Department of Justice (DOJ) announced a policy change on January 21, 2026, ceasing criminal charges for Clean Air Act violations related to diesel emissions tampering, often called “tuning” or “deletes.” This shift in enforcement, targeting practices like removing emissions control devices, follows a commitment to efficient resource use and avoiding over-criminalization. While criminal charges are no longer pursued, civil penalties for these violations may still be issued in partnership with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This decision follows the pardon of a mechanic charged with Clean Air Act violations in November 2025, which also inspired legislative attempts, such as the “Diesel Truck Liberation Act,” that ultimately did not pass.
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In a surprising move, three Las Vegas hotels have begun accepting the Canadian dollar at par, offering a significant advantage to Canadian travelers. This initiative allows guests to avoid currency exchange fees, essentially receiving a 1:1 conversion rate for their Canadian dollars. The hotels believe this policy will attract more Canadian tourists and boost their overall revenue. This decision reflects a growing trend of businesses adapting to attract international visitors and cater to their financial preferences.
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In response to an ICE surge in Minnesota, community leaders, faith leaders, and labor unions organized a “Day of Truth & Freedom” protest, featuring a “no work, no school, no shopping” blackout. The protest, spurred by the killing of an unarmed woman by a federal immigration officer, demands ICE’s removal from Minnesota, accountability for the officer, an end to ICE funding, and investigations into human rights violations. Hundreds of businesses and cultural institutions closed in solidarity, with thousands expected to participate in the action despite dangerously cold weather. The University of Minnesota’s labor unions called for the university system to shutdown to allow students and workers to participate. The Department of Homeland Security responded that they have made over 3,000 arrests in the state over the last six weeks.
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Witness Ben Bozeman reported witnessing five cars surround a man, with ICE agents allegedly threatening him with a taser before detaining him. According to Bozeman, the agents then left the detainee’s car running with its windows down and his corrections uniform visible in the back seat. This scene was described as jarring and threatening by Bozeman. City officials criticized the actions, with one calling the police work “bush league.”
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In a surprising turn of events, federal immigration authorities deported Jeson Nelon Presilla Flores, a suspect in a $100 million jewelry heist, to South America in December, despite facing federal charges and potential prison time. Flores, who pleaded not guilty to charges related to the 2022 theft of valuable jewelry from a Brinks truck, opted for voluntary departure during an immigration hearing. Prosecutors, who were unaware of Flores’ immigration proceedings, are now seeking to keep the charges against him open, while his attorney is trying to dismiss them. This unusual situation has left prosecutors, the jewelry companies, and legal experts questioning how Flores was deported before his criminal trial.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood
ICE Agents Arrest Black Corrections Officer in Maine, Sheriff Outraged
Witness Ben Bozeman reported witnessing five cars surround a man, with ICE agents allegedly threatening him with a taser before detaining him. According to Bozeman, the agents then left the detainee’s car running with its windows down and his corrections uniform visible in the back seat. This scene was described as jarring and threatening by Bozeman. City officials criticized the actions, with one calling the police work “bush league.”
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