Despite reports that the Pentagon was considering punitive measures against NATO members, including the potential suspension of Spain’s membership, a NATO official confirmed that the alliance’s founding treaty does not provide for such actions. Spain had faced criticism from the Trump administration for refusing to permit the use of its military bases and airspace for strikes against Iran, and for opposing an increase in defense spending. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez reiterated Spain’s commitment to NATO and international law, while the country continues to provide significant military and financial support to Ukraine.
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Following Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s request for an inspector general review of a renovation project criticized by then-President Trump, Inspector General Pirro initially pursued a criminal probe. However, Pirro has now announced the closure of her investigation, stating she has directed her office to do so as the IG undertakes its inquiry. Pirro indicated she will not hesitate to restart a criminal investigation if the facts warrant it, while the IG spokesperson confirmed the ongoing evaluation of the building renovation project and its subsequent public and congressional release.
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During a Senate hearing, Senator Bernie Sanders challenged Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s rejection of germ theory, a fundamental scientific principle. Kennedy defended his stance, which aligns with a discarded terrain theory suggesting disease stems from bodily imbalances rather than specific pathogens. This denial of germ theory, though a cornerstone of Kennedy’s health advocacy and movement, has been largely underreported. Kennedy’s focus on diet, lifestyle, and environmental factors in lieu of germ theory shapes his public health priorities and policy proposals.
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House Republicans have proposed significant cuts to vital food assistance programs, including $200 million for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). This legislation, part of an appropriations bill for the USDA, would reduce funding for fruit and vegetable benefits, impacting an estimated 5.4 million individuals, and would also significantly cut the Food for Peace program, affecting global hunger relief efforts. These proposed reductions come at a time of rising food costs and existing economic strain on vulnerable populations, threatening to deepen America’s hunger crisis and disproportionately affect families and children.
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Members of the House Oversight Committee have reportedly discussed the possibility of President Trump granting a pardon to Ghislaine Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year sentence for sex trafficking. This discussion emerged as the committee investigates Jeffrey Epstein and the handling of related documents, with some members considering Maxwell’s cooperation in exchange for clemency. However, Committee Chairman James Comer has publicly stated his opposition to any pardon, though he confirmed that some members were indeed considering the idea. Democrats on the committee have strongly denounced the notion of pardoning Maxwell, deeming it an outrageous proposal that disrespects survivors, while President Trump has not ruled out the possibility.
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During a visit to Kyiv, Prince Harry urged the United States to demonstrate leadership and honor its international obligations regarding global security and strategic stability. Following these remarks, Donald Trump stated that the Duke of Sussex was not representing the United Kingdom’s stance. Trump further asserted that he himself was more aligned with the UK’s perspective than Prince Harry.
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At an informal EU summit in Cyprus, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk remarked that “for the first time in years there are no Russians in the room.” This statement was understood as a veiled reference to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who did not attend the meeting. Orbán’s absence follows his election defeat, marking his departure from office after sixteen years. The article also notes that the EU flag will be re-displayed at the Hungarian parliament, a move not seen in over a decade.
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A former social media manager is suing MrBeast’s production company, alleging she was fired after returning from maternity leave and endured years of sexual harassment and gender bias. The lawsuit claims the company violated federal law by terminating her employment upon her return from protected leave. Beast Industries disputes these claims, calling the lawsuit a “clout-chasing complaint” based on falsehoods, stating the employee’s position was eliminated due to a team reorganization. The company also provided evidence suggesting the former employee was aware of company policies regarding family leave.
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To combat the proliferation of AI-generated profiles, Tinder is implementing a new identity verification system in partnership with World. This system utilizes iris scans to confirm users are human, with verified individuals receiving a “proof of humanity” badge on their profiles. The initiative aims to increase user confidence in the authenticity of online connections and follows successful testing in Japan. As part of the rollout, Tinder users will be offered five free profile “boosts” upon completing the verification process.
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Democratic lawmakers have strongly criticized the Pentagon’s decision to award a $24 million contract to Foundation Future Industries, a robotics startup where Eric Trump serves as chief strategy adviser. This contract, intended for testing humanoid robots, has ignited accusations of corruption and ethical concerns, with critics suggesting the Trump family is profiting from the presidency. Lawmakers have publicly decried the deal, with some labeling it “corruption in plain sight” and others highlighting the perceived benefit to the Trump family amidst ongoing international conflict.
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John Q. Hosedrinker