A CBS News/YouGov poll reveals that only 4% of Americans support Russia in its war against Ukraine, while 52% back Ukraine. Despite this, 51% approve of President Trump’s handling of the conflict, although opinions are divided on whether his actions favor Russia (46%) or both sides equally (43%). This follows a contentious Oval Office meeting between Trump and President Zelensky, where Trump criticized Zelensky’s unwillingness to negotiate. The poll also highlights a significant portion of Republicans (41%) viewing Russia favorably.
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Despite anticipated increased costs from new tariffs, Chipotle CEO Scott Boatwright announced the company will absorb these inflationary pressures and maintain current consumer pricing. This decision stems from Chipotle’s strong economic model and a desire to avoid potentially permanent price increases for customers. Boatwright remains optimistic about the company’s future, citing plans for significant expansion and the implementation of a new AI tool, Ava Cado, to streamline hiring. While acknowledging recent challenges, including slower sales growth, Boatwright emphasized the company’s commitment to delivering value to consumers.
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Dr. Sanjeev Kumar, a Memphis gynecologist, faces federal charges including enticing individuals across state lines for illegal sexual activity, along with adulteration and misbranding of medical devices, and healthcare fraud. The indictment alleges Kumar performed unnecessary procedures on patients using unsanitary, reused medical devices while billing Medicare and Medicaid fraudulently. This spanned from September 2019 to June 2024, with authorities suggesting the number of affected patients may be higher. Kumar’s actions, according to Acting U.S. Attorney Fondren, constituted predatory behavior under the guise of medical examinations.
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Following a contentious White House meeting, President Trump has halted all military aid to Ukraine, pending a demonstration of genuine commitment to peace from Ukrainian leadership. This decision comes after Trump engaged in direct negotiations with Putin, excluding Ukraine, and pressured Zelensky to sign a minerals deal. The aid freeze encompasses all equipment, even that en route, and has been met with concern from European allies and celebration from Russia. The pause reflects a significant shift in US foreign policy, potentially thawing relations with Russia.
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Pope Francis experienced two episodes of acute respiratory failure due to significant mucus buildup in his airways, necessitating two bronchoscopies to remove secretions and supplemental oxygen. While alert and cooperative, his prognosis remains reserved, with doctors emphasizing the crucial next few days for his recovery from pneumonia. The pope’s condition is described as complex, highlighting the potential for further respiratory crises and the need for a lengthy convalescence period, even if he stabilizes.
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Fort Benning, Georgia, will revert to its original name, honoring World War I soldier Cpl. Fred G. Benning, a Distinguished Service Cross recipient, instead of the Confederate general it was previously named for. This follows the recent renaming of Fort Liberty, North Carolina, back to Fort Bragg. The decision reverses a 2023 renaming to Fort Moore, which honored Lt. Gen. Harold “Hal” Moore and his wife Julia. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth cited Cpl. Benning’s heroism and stated the Army will honor the Moores’ legacy separately.
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Democratic politicians misunderstand the economic anxieties of working-class and even upper-middle-class Americans, focusing too much on donors instead of voters. The party needs to prioritize policies that directly improve workers’ lives, such as expanding overtime pay, and communicate these policies effectively, avoiding language that sounds condescending or like charity. This requires actively engaging with working-class communities and listening to their concerns, even if those concerns challenge current party narratives. Ultimately, a generational effort is needed to rebuild the party’s relationship with working-class Americans, centering the dignity of work in all its actions.
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President Trump issued a stark warning to President Zelensky, urging him to accept a peace deal with Russia to avoid potential annihilation. Trump criticized Zelensky’s lack of appreciation for U.S. aid and suggested a swift resolution is achievable, hinting at dire consequences for Zelensky should he refuse. This pressure follows a contentious Oval Office meeting and Zelensky’s statement that a peace deal remains distant, prompting Trump to further escalate his criticism on social media. While the U.S. has provided substantial aid, concerns remain among European allies regarding a peace deal without continued U.S. military support. A proposed rare earth minerals deal is intended to partially offset U.S. costs, but its sufficiency as a replacement for direct military aid is debated.
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A Dallas judge rejected Attorney General Ken Paxton’s attempt to block Proposition R, which decriminalizes up to four ounces of marijuana in the city. This follows similar lawsuits filed by Paxton against Austin, San Marcos, and Denton, all of which were unsuccessful. Proposition R, passed overwhelmingly by Dallas voters, prevents police from using the smell of marijuana as probable cause for searches. The case will proceed to trial on August 11th. Supporters argue the proposition addresses the disproportionate criminalization of minority residents for marijuana possession.
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Following Donald Trump’s criticism of Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Czech citizens dramatically increased donations to Ukrainian aid organizations, exceeding €2.9 million for “Gift for Putin” alone. This unprecedented surge enabled the crowdfunding of a Black Hawk helicopter for Ukraine, highlighting a national outpouring of support. The increased funding reflects Czech solidarity with Ukraine, amplified by shared historical experiences and opposition to perceived injustice. This grassroots movement complements the Czech government’s continued military and political backing of Ukraine.
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John Q. Hosedrinker