A former FBI agent alleges that Russia’s GRU targeted Elon Musk for exploitation, aiming to leverage his personal vulnerabilities—including his lifestyle—for blackmail and potential influence. This alleged operation, according to the agent, involved gathering compromising information to sway Musk’s actions. The agent’s claims are supported by reports of Musk’s direct contact with Vladimir Putin. However, the agent himself faces federal charges for disclosing confidential information.
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A large-scale rescue operation was launched following a severe avalanche on the Eiger mountain in the Swiss Alps on Saturday. Seven ski tourers were caught in the midday avalanche, resulting in two fatalities. One victim died at the scene, while another succumbed to injuries at the hospital. Despite the initial report that all buried individuals were rescued, two ultimately perished.
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Negotiations between the UK and EU are nearing completion on a deal granting British citizens access to European e-gates, potentially significantly reducing airport wait times. This agreement, part of broader UK-EU summit talks, would eliminate the current two-queue system at many European airports. While a new EU entry/exit system requiring biometric data is forthcoming, this e-gate access would offer immediate improvements for British travelers. Other ongoing discussions include easing visa requirements for touring artists and a potential veterinary agreement to benefit the agricultural sector.
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On Saturday, President Trump shared a video on Truth Social alleging that the Clintons were responsible for the deaths of several individuals, including John F. Kennedy Jr. and Vince Foster. The video promotes the debunked “Clinton Body Bags” conspiracy theory, connecting the Clintons to deaths ruled accidental, suicidal, or resulting from unrelated criminal activity. Fact-checkers have long discredited this theory, yet the video’s origin remains unknown. The White House and Clinton representatives have yet to respond to requests for comment.
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President Trump vehemently criticized the Supreme Court’s temporary block on his administration’s use of the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to expedite migrant deportations. This followed a 7-2 Supreme Court decision citing insufficient due process afforded to migrants facing deportation. Trump, amplifying a suggestion from an advisor, shared a post proposing the release of “terrorists” near the homes of justices. This action came after the administration ignored a court order to return a deported man, Kilmar Abrego Garcia, to the United States. The president’s response underscores his frustration with judicial oversight of his immigration policies.
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Former US President Donald Trump announced plans for a Monday phone call with Vladimir Putin to discuss ending the Ukraine conflict, aiming to halt the ongoing violence. This call, confirmed by the Kremlin, will reportedly be followed by conversations with President Zelenskyy and NATO leaders. While a previous face-to-face meeting between Trump and Putin was proposed but declined, this phone call follows earlier discussions on the subject and seeks to facilitate a ceasefire. The initiative comes amidst ongoing international efforts to resolve the conflict, including recent talks in Istanbul.
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At the University of Minnesota’s law school graduation, Governor Tim Walz, the 2024 Democratic vice presidential nominee, decried President Trump’s actions as a national emergency, citing violations of the rule of law including immigration crackdowns and acceptance of gifts from foreign entities. Walz urged graduating lawyers to uphold their oaths and resist abuses of power, criticizing both Trump and “feckless” law firms complicit in his actions. The White House responded by criticizing Walz’s record as governor and his association with the Harris/Biden administration. Walz’s speech reflects a broader Democratic debate about effectively countering the Trump administration.
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In 2025, Denmark will manage approximately €830 million in EU funds—sourced from seized Russian assets—to procure Ukrainian-produced military equipment. This builds upon the “Danish Model,” which successfully channeled €400 million in 2024 for similar purposes, garnering international acclaim. The approach prioritizes strengthening Ukraine’s defense industry by funding local production, ensuring timely delivery of needed supplies, and fostering long-term capacity building. Denmark’s commitment extends beyond 2025, with a pledged DKK 3 billion allocated through 2027, and acting as an implementing agent for several other nations.
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Kazakhstan’s recently announced massive rare earth metal deposit, potentially ranking among the world’s top three, has generated significant excitement. Located in the Karagandy region, this discovery—estimated at 935,400 tons—could dramatically alter global supply chains for these vital metals used in various technologies. The announcement, timed strategically before a key EU-Central Asia summit, aims to attract foreign investment and partnerships for development. However, successful extraction requires substantial investment, advanced technology, and careful environmental consideration.
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Severe tornadoes ripped through Missouri and Kentucky, leaving approximately 140,000 properties without power and causing significant structural damage. At least 38 injuries were reported in St. Louis alone, with fatalities resulting from building collapses. Search and rescue efforts are ongoing in heavily impacted areas, alongside the imposition of a nighttime curfew to ensure public safety. The storms, part of a broader severe weather system affecting the central and eastern US, struck a region known for its susceptibility to tornadoes.
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John Q. Hosedrinker