President Zelensky firmly rejected Russia’s territorial demands, stating Ukraine will not withdraw troops from its own land. These demands, reiterated in Istanbul negotiations, included ceding Crimea and four eastern oblasts, even though Russia doesn’t fully control them. Russia’s maximalist position, including eliminating the “root causes” of the war, remains unchanged, while Ukraine continues to push for a full, unconditional ceasefire, a position supported by President Trump but causing friction with European allies. Despite this, no new U.S. sanctions against Russia have been enacted.
Read More
A rare phone call between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump yielded contrasting interpretations. While Trump lauded the conversation as “excellent” and predicted imminent ceasefire negotiations, Putin, while acknowledging a “meaningful and frank” discussion, refused a US-proposed 30-day unconditional ceasefire. Putin reiterated Russia’s maximalist war aims, centering on addressing what he termed the “root causes” of the conflict, which include significant concessions from Ukraine. Despite Zelenskyy’s call for a full ceasefire and stronger sanctions against Russia if negotiations fail, no significant breakthrough emerged from the call.
Read More
The Department of Justice has settled a wrongful death lawsuit filed on behalf of Ashli Babbitt’s estate for nearly $5 million. The suit alleged negligence by U.S. Capitol Police Lt. Michael Byrd, who shot and killed Babbitt during the January 6th Capitol riot. While the Capitol Police cleared Byrd of misconduct, the settlement concludes the civil case. This decision has drawn criticism from U.S. Capitol Police Chief Tom Manger, who expressed his disappointment with the settlement. The incident surrounding Babbitt’s death has become a focal point for supporters of former President Trump.
Read More
A federal judge ruled the Trump administration’s takeover of the U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) unlawful, declaring the administration’s actions null and void. The Department of Government Efficiency’s forceful seizure of USIP, including the firing of staff and transfer of property, violated the law by disregarding USIP’s independent, congressionally-approved status. Judge Beryl Howell sided with former USIP board members and the president, who had sued the administration. The judge’s decision prevents the administration from further dismantling the organization.
Read More
A French Senate investigation revealed a government cover-up of Nestle’s use of banned treatments in its Perrier and other mineral water brands. The report details how the highest levels of the French state, including the Elysee Palace, authorized microfiltration despite EU regulations prohibiting treatments altering natural mineral water. This authorization, despite knowledge of Nestle’s years-long deception, allowed Nestle to avoid legal action after paying a €2 million fine. The cover-up involved deliberate strategies to maintain a lack of transparency with both national and European authorities.
Read More
Following Bruce Springsteen’s criticism of the Trump administration, Trump called for a “major investigation” into celebrity campaign appearances for Kamala Harris, alleging illegal in-kind contributions. This centers on payments made to the production companies of Springsteen, Beyoncé, Oprah Winfrey, and Bono, raising questions about FEC interpretations of campaign event performances. While some payments are documented, claims of exorbitant personal payments to the performers are unsubstantiated, with some celebrities denying receiving personal compensation. The FEC has yet to respond to Trump’s call for an investigation.
Read More
CILAS’s new HELMA-LP portable laser rifle, showcased at SOFINS, offers a unique solution for close-to-medium range engagements. Building upon the larger HELMA-P system, the HELMA-LP’s portability allows for stealthy neutralization of enemy electronics, sensors, and surveillance equipment. Its potential application in Ukraine is significant, offering a silent and precise countermeasure against drones and other threats, potentially disrupting Russian electronic warfare capabilities. The HELMA-LP’s ability to disable enemy assets without collateral damage could prove invaluable in urban and trench warfare.
Read More
The U.S. State Department has closed its Office of Palestinian Affairs in Jerusalem, effectively eliminating a dedicated diplomatic channel between the Palestinians and Washington. This action, implemented on May 16, 2025, merges the office’s functions into the U.S. embassy in Jerusalem, a move reflecting a return to the Trump administration’s approach. The closure comes amidst escalating violence in Gaza and despite ongoing talks between U.S. officials and Hamas regarding a ceasefire and humanitarian aid. The office’s dissolution leaves Palestinian affairs under the purview of the U.S. ambassador to Israel, who has previously expressed skepticism about Palestinian identity.
Read More
The post alleges that Kamala Harris illegally purchased endorsements disguised as entertainment payments, inflating her campaign appearances. This action is deemed corrupt and unlawful, exploiting systemic weaknesses. The accusations follow large payments to Beyoncé and Oprah’s production companies, totaling $1.165 million, which came under scrutiny after Harris’s electoral loss. The author contrasts this with claims of impropriety from others, notably mentioning Trump’s business dealings. Ultimately, the post calls for a Justice Department investigation.
Read More
The Supreme Court sided with the Trump administration, halting a lower court’s injunction that preserved Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for approximately 350,000 Venezuelans. This decision potentially exposes these individuals to deportation, overturning a ruling by a San Francisco judge who cited the significant disruption and economic impact of ending TPS. The Supreme Court offered no explanation for its ruling, a common practice in emergency appeals. This action follows similar recent appeals by the Trump administration concerning immigration, demonstrating an aggressive push to limit immigration protections.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker