Approximately 300 National Guard troops were deployed to Los Angeles by President Trump, marking the first such deployment without a governor’s request in decades. This action, taken amidst protests against immigration enforcement, followed days of clashes between demonstrators and federal agents, resulting in arrests and the use of tear gas. Governor Newsom and Mayor Bass criticized the deployment as an overreaction, while the Trump administration justified it as a necessary response to quell unrest and protect federal facilities. The deployment has sparked significant political debate, with some viewing it as an overreach of presidential power.
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Following a major Russian air assault on Kharkiv involving drones, bombs, and missiles, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy urged the United States for an immediate response to Ukraine’s request for Patriot air defense systems. Zelenskyy emphasized the need for concrete action, not just words, to bolster Ukraine’s defenses against ongoing Russian attacks on civilian areas. A recent Ukrainian delegation to Washington discussed arms purchases, but Congress reportedly favors continued direct US military aid. This plea comes amidst ongoing Russian attacks and President Trump’s calls for Kyiv-Moscow negotiations.
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French President Emmanuel Macron will visit Greenland on June 15th, meeting with Greenland’s and Denmark’s prime ministers. This visit follows recent U.S. expressions of interest in acquiring Greenland, prompting concerns about the island’s sovereignty. The trip demonstrates European Union solidarity with Greenland and Denmark in the face of these geopolitical challenges. Discussions will focus on regional security, economic development, climate change, and energy.
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British news photographer Nick Stern, based in Los Angeles, requires emergency surgery after being injured during a protest against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Paramount. Stern sustained a significant leg wound, believed to be caused by a non-lethal round fired by law enforcement during the demonstration, which involved approximately 350-400 protesters and a large police response. The Sheriff’s department stated the protest turned violent, prompting the use of tear gas and other munitions in crowd control. Stern’s injury, initially feared to be from a live round due to the severity of the wound, is now confirmed to be from a non-lethal projectile.
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President Zelenskyy asserts that a Russian cessation of hostilities is imminent, contingent upon the United States enacting stringent sanctions against Russia. He emphasizes the need for strong US support, coupled with European unity, to pressure Putin into ending the war. Zelenskyy believes the US possesses the necessary leverage to achieve this, urging President Trump to utilize economic sanctions, arms packages, and diplomatic pressure to halt the conflict. Ukraine fully supports all US-initiated peace proposals.
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Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo expressed concern over a weakened US Russia sanctions bill, urging its swift and complete passage to pressure Vladimir Putin into negotiations. Reports indicate President Trump is influencing the Senate to soften the legislation, which could impose a 500% tariff on countries continuing to import Russian resources. Orpo plans to discuss this at the upcoming NATO summit, emphasizing the need for immediate action. The bill, spearheaded by Senators Graham and Blumenthal, is currently subject to negotiations with the White House.
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President Zelenskyy revealed that a planned delivery of 20,000 US missiles crucial for combating Russian Shahed drones has been diverted to the Middle East. This redirection, impacting Ukraine’s drone defense capabilities, reportedly occurred under the previous US administration. The missiles utilized specialized technology and were considered essential to Ukraine’s defense strategy. Zelenskyy expressed concern over this development, highlighting the resulting challenges in countering the ongoing drone threat.
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Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, has threatened to use any necessary force to prevent the *Madleen*, a ship carrying climate activist Greta Thunberg and other activists, from reaching Gaza. The *Madleen*, which departed from Sicily, aims to deliver humanitarian aid and challenge Israel’s sea blockade. Katz’s statement follows a previous failed attempt by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, and comes amidst warnings of a humanitarian crisis in Gaza due to ongoing conflict and blockades. The activists’ planned arrival in Gaza’s territorial waters is anticipated this coming Sunday.
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A second Trump administration has swiftly and severely damaged the United States, exceeding even the most pessimistic predictions. His “MAGAnomics” policies, particularly extreme tariffs, have crippled trade, causing inflation and potential widespread economic collapse. Simultaneously, drastic cuts to social programs are exacerbating poverty, while the dismantling of government institutions threatens essential services. Furthermore, a systematic assault on scientific research and intellectual inquiry is permanently undermining American leadership in these crucial areas.
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The Israeli defense minister, Israel Katz, has ordered the military to prevent Greta Thunberg’s aid boat, the *Madleen*, from reaching Gaza, threatening to use “any means necessary.” The vessel, carrying food and medical supplies, aims to breach Israel’s Gaza blockade. Katz directly addressed Thunberg, accusing her and her fellow activists of being anti-Semitic and Hamas propagandists. Israel asserts its actions are to prevent blockade violations and aid to terrorist organizations.
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John Q. Hosedrinker