World News

Russia-Funded Influencer Added to White House Press Pool

Right-wing influencer Tim Pool, who received payments from a Russian-funded media company, Tenet Media, to promote Kremlin narratives, has been granted access to the White House press pool. This decision follows the White House’s removal of the D.C. press corps’ authority to select pool members, opening the door to pro-administration figures while simultaneously barring the Associated Press. Pool’s inclusion, despite allegations of unknowingly participating in a Russian propaganda scheme, raises concerns about journalistic integrity and access to the President. The AP, excluded for refusing to comply with White House demands, now faces limited access, relying on less experienced reporters and potentially biased influencers for coverage.

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Engels Air Base Raid Costs Russia $960 Million, Disrupts Bomber Operations

On March 20th, a Ukrainian drone strike on the Engels airbase destroyed 96 Kh-101 cruise missiles, representing two months of production and costing Russia an estimated $960 million. This attack, the third on Engels in ten weeks, targeted missiles intended for use against Ukrainian cities. While the damage inflicted is substantial, the long-term military effectiveness of these deep strikes remains questionable, with analysis suggesting many previous attacks on munitions depots had limited impact. Ukraine’s current reliance on its own deep-strike arsenal, while impressive, may not be sufficient for sustained attacks on key Russian infrastructure.

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Putin Demands Zelensky’s Removal, Intensifies Ukraine Assault

This article, produced by AFP, discusses [insert the article’s main topic here]. Key findings include [mention 1-2 key findings or arguments]. The article highlights the significance of [mention the significance or impact of the findings]. Further details and analysis are available at AFP.com. The Barron’s news department did not participate in the creation of this content.

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Putin’s Arctic War Threat: A Trump-Russia Gambit?

Amid rising Arctic tensions, Vladimir Putin has announced plans to increase Russia’s military presence in the region, citing concerns over US ambitions regarding Greenland. Putin views the US’s interest in Greenland, historically rooted and currently manifested in Vice President Vance’s visit, as a serious threat. He emphasized that Russia will defend its interests, highlighting growing geopolitical competition and NATO’s increasing focus on the Arctic. This follows US claims of needing Greenland for national security and potential military action to gain control, provoking strong condemnation from Greenland and Denmark.

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Israeli Soldier Claims IDF Ordered Use of Palestinians as Human Shields

An Israeli soldier, speaking anonymously, alleges that he was ordered by his commander to use Palestinian civilians as human shields during operations in Gaza, a practice reportedly called the “mosquito protocol.” This soldier’s testimony, corroborated by other whistleblowers through the organization Breaking the Silence, claims the use of civilians to check for explosives in buildings was widespread policy. While the IDF denies using human shields and requests more information for investigation, similar accounts of using Palestinians as human shields have also emerged from the occupied West Bank. The IDF’s actions in both Gaza and the West Bank have resulted in numerous civilian casualties and widespread displacement.

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Global Anti-Musk Protests Target Tesla Showrooms

A global “Tesla Takedown” is planned for Saturday, encompassing over 200 protests at Tesla locations worldwide, fueled by opposition to Elon Musk’s perceived actions within the US government. Organizers aim to pressure Musk by urging consumers to boycott Tesla products, divest from Tesla stock, and participate in the demonstrations. These protests, which have already significantly impacted Tesla’s financial performance and Musk’s net worth, are framed as a non-violent response to Musk’s alleged government overreach. The movement sharply distinguishes itself from violent attacks on Tesla showrooms, which are condemned by organizers.

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Danish Boycott of US Goods: Anger Over Trump Fuels Trade Shift

Driven by President Trump’s repeated threats to annex Greenland, tens of thousands of Danes are boycotting American goods and services. This grassroots movement, fueled by a sense of alienation from a former ally, manifests in avoiding everything from candy containing Californian almonds to popular streaming services. The boycott reflects a broader shift in Danish sentiment, with the population feeling threatened by the U.S. administration’s actions and rhetoric. This consumer activism puts pressure on the Danish government to adopt a stronger stance against the United States, while simultaneously boosting demand for European-made alternatives.

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Myanmar Earthquake: 7.7 Magnitude Quake Causes Widespread Damage, Fears of High Casualties

A magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck central Myanmar, causing widespread destruction and a rising death toll exceeding 144, with hundreds more injured. The quake’s impact extended across Southeast Asia, from rural Myanmar villages embroiled in civil war to Bangkok’s high-rises, resulting in building collapses and significant damage. Myanmar, already grappling with years of conflict and a weak infrastructure, faces immense challenges in disaster response, contrasting sharply with better-equipped neighboring countries like Thailand. The situation is further complicated by limited communication and access in conflict zones within Myanmar, hindering rescue efforts and aid delivery.

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Pikachu: Unexpected Symbol of Turkish Resistance

Anti-Erdogan protests in Turkey, sparked by the politically motivated arrest and disqualification of mayoral rival Ekrem Imamoglu, saw unexpected participation from a Pikachu-costumed protester who became a viral symbol of resistance. The demonstration, which resulted in approximately 1900 arrests and several journalist detentions, also featured other costumed figures. Police used water cannons and riot gear to disperse the crowds, with even some officers reportedly posing for pictures with the Pikachu protestor. The protests highlight growing dissent against President Erdoğan’s actions.

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Sweden’s Military Buildup: NATO, Russia, and a Looming World War?

Sweden announced its largest military rearmament plan since the Cold War, involving a €27 billion investment to reach 3.5% of GDP in defense spending by 2030. This includes €2.31 billion for new defense materiel (2026-2028), a €8.86 million investment to combat hybrid threats, and an increased €3.69 billion military aid package for Ukraine. A key component focuses on bolstering northern defenses with two new mechanized brigades for subarctic warfare, operational by 2028. The plan is partially funded through loans and was agreed upon with the Sweden Democrats.

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