Malta’s controversial “golden passport” program, allowing citizenship for investment, has granted passports to at least seven individuals subsequently sanctioned by the US, EU, or Ukraine for their ties to Russia’s war. This includes sanctioned Russian businessman Albert Avdolyan, who obtained citizenship in 2015. While at least one passport has been revoked following a criminal conviction, the program’s continued operation has prompted the European Commission to file a lawsuit against Malta, arguing it undermines the integrity of EU citizenship. The court ruling is pending.
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Despite claiming $160 billion in savings, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has incurred significant costs. A nonpartisan analysis estimates $135 billion in taxpayer expenses this fiscal year due to employee leave, rehires, and productivity losses stemming from DOGE’s actions. These costs, which exclude legal fees and lost tax revenue, are projected to increase. While DOGE anticipates long-term savings, critics argue the short-term costs outweigh any potential benefits, particularly considering the substantial economic ripple effects of reduced funding in key sectors.
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Pakistan’s Finance Minister Aurangzeb announced a request for a $1.4 billion loan from China, alongside plans for a 10 billion yuan Panda Bond issuance by year’s end. Simultaneously, a new IMF program under a Climate Financing model, totaling $1.3 billion, is anticipated for approval in early May, supplementing a current $7 billion program. The Minister projects 3% economic growth this fiscal year, rising to 4-5% next year and potentially 6% thereafter. However, strained relations with India are cited as negatively impacting bilateral trade.
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Measles cases have surged to 884 across 29 states in 2025, fueled by a growing anti-vaccine sentiment echoing Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s views. This increase includes outbreaks in at least six states, with Texas reporting the majority of cases. Tragically, three deaths, including two children, have been attributed to the disease—the first measles-related deaths in over a decade. The low vaccination rate among those infected (only 2 percent received the recommended MMR vaccine) underscores the severity of the situation and aligns with predictions of a potential measles resurgence.
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Donald Trump’s second term has been marked by erratic behavior and increasingly unbelievable actions, including a public plea to Vladimir Putin and fantastical proposals regarding Canada and Gaza. His erratic foreign policy, characterized by contradictory actions and a lack of serious international engagement, has rendered him a global embarrassment, even as he holds immense power. This lack of seriousness, exemplified by his unrealistic ambitions, has led to a global perception of him as a hapless loser, despite his considerable power and potential to cause further harm. The world largely views Trump’s presidency as a self-inflicted wound, a boon for centrist politicians globally, and a source of embarrassment for fellow right-wing populists.
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A new ABC News/Washington Post/Ipsos poll reveals President Trump’s 100-day approval rating at a historic low of 39%, significantly lower than any president in the past 80 years. This disapproval stems from widespread public opposition to numerous policies and considerable economic anxiety, including prevalent recession fears. Despite this, Trump maintains a higher level of public trust than Congressional Democrats in handling national issues. The poll also highlights strong negative public sentiment towards several specific administration initiatives and actions.
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During a meeting with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, European Commission President von der Leyen reaffirmed the EU’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s pursuit of a just and lasting peace through negotiations. Zelenskyy also met with US President Trump, who suggested a need for a different approach to peace negotiations with Putin, possibly involving sanctions. Further bilateral meetings with French President Macron and UK Prime Minister Starmer took place, though specifics remain undisclosed. These meetings underscore the ongoing international diplomatic efforts surrounding the war in Ukraine.
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Recent federal cuts have resulted in staffing shortages at local Social Security offices, leading to longer processing times and increased workloads. Union representatives report significant claim reductions in Schenectady and Middletown offices due to these losses. The situation is further complicated by newly implemented anti-fraud measures requiring in-person visits for services previously handled remotely. This confluence of factors is causing significant delays and increased difficulty for beneficiaries seeking assistance.
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The White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA) dinner, traditionally attended by the president, proceeded without Donald Trump’s presence, highlighting the strained relationship between the current administration and the press. Journalists used the event to defend their profession against accusations of being “the enemy of the people,” emphasizing their commitment to accuracy and the public trust. While awards recognized journalistic excellence, a notable acceptance speech acknowledged shortcomings in covering President Biden’s health, underscoring the ongoing need for self-reflection within the media. The subdued affair, lacking the usual celebrity presence, underscored the current political climate’s impact on the event’s traditional celebratory tone.
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President Trump’s approval rating currently stands at 41%, significantly lower than his predecessor’s at any point in their term and 19 points below his own starting rating. His net approval is -13, with disapproval highest among independents, younger voters, women, and minority groups. Conversely, strong Republican support maintains a sizeable approval segment. This contrasts sharply with historical presidential rankings, where Trump himself falls below even presidents he has previously criticized.
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John Q. Hosedrinker