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Gazprom reported a staggering net loss of 1.076 trillion rubles ($13.1 billion) in 2024, primarily due to the loss of the European market following the Ukraine invasion. This represents a significant decline from its 2023 loss of 629 billion rubles ($7.6 billion), despite a slight revenue increase. Contributing factors include decreased gas exports to the EU, falling subsidiary share prices, and increased tax burdens. The company is responding to its financial crisis with cost-cutting measures, including staff reductions.
The Trump administration’s release of 64,000 unredacted JFK assassination files inadvertently exposed the personal information of hundreds of Americans, including Social Security numbers. This action prompted outrage from former government officials whose data was compromised, citing risks of identity theft and threats. While the White House acknowledged the error and initiated a response plan with the National Archives and Social Security Administration, the release yielded no significant new revelations about the assassination itself. Critics condemned the release as reckless and unprofessional, highlighting the potential harm inflicted on individuals without sufficient consideration.
In December 2023, a one-year-old Taiwanese boy, Kai Kai, died from alleged torture inflicted by his foster carers, the Liu sisters. Kai Kai suffered severe injuries, including blackened genitals, missing nails, and multiple bone fractures, resulting in public outrage and over 300 protestors demanding harsher penalties, including the death penalty. The Liu sisters initially confessed but later retracted their statements, claiming the injuries were accidental. An investigation is also underway into potential negligence by social workers.
NATO is reportedly planning to request a substantial increase in military capacity from its European members and Canada – a 30% boost, to be precise. This significant ask underscores a growing sense of urgency regarding global security and the need for a strengthened collective defense. The impetus for this request is clear: the current geopolitical landscape demands a more robust response to potential threats.
This proposed increase in military spending isn’t just about throwing money at the problem; it’s about strategic investment and modernization. Modernizing existing equipment is crucial, prioritizing cutting-edge technology such as advanced radar systems. But it also necessitates a considerable investment in new capabilities, ensuring that equipment is fit for purpose in the current conflict environment.… Continue reading
Sweden’s Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard affirmed the legitimacy of US criticism regarding European defense spending, highlighting Sweden’s doubled military investment over four years. She emphasized judging Russia’s actions, not words, in the ongoing Ukraine conflict, advocating for continued support of Ukraine to negotiate from a position of strength. Stenergard expressed hope for a just and lasting peace, stressing the need for increased pressure on Russia through sanctions and reduced oil price caps. Finally, she underscored the importance of a rules-based international order, particularly in the face of challenges posed by China’s actions in the Indo-Pacific region.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, the former Democratic vice-presidential nominee, lightheartedly revealed he monitors Tesla’s plummeting stock price for a mood boost, referencing the company’s CEO, Elon Musk. This comment, made during a Wisconsin speech and shared on TikTok, follows increased boycotts and protests against Tesla. Musk responded to Walz’s joke on X, highlighting the contrast in their reactions to perceived setbacks. Tesla’s stock decline is largely attributed to investor concerns stemming from Musk’s controversial political actions and statements.
Following US-brokered talks, both Zelensky and Putin have, in principle, agreed to a ceasefire, though implementation remains stalled due to conflicting conditions. While Putin agreed to halt strikes on energy infrastructure, such attacks continue from both sides. Zelensky, rejecting US ownership of Ukrainian nuclear plants, nonetheless expressed openness to US investment in their modernization, particularly at the Zaporizhzhia plant. He firmly rejected territorial concessions, including Crimea, and stipulated a land and sea ceasefire as the initial step toward ending Russian aggression.
Jerce Reyes Barrios, a Venezuelan professional soccer player and asylum seeker, was deported to El Salvador under the Alien Enemies Act despite lacking a criminal record and presenting evidence of political persecution. Immigration officials based their deportation order on a misinterpreted social media photo and a soccer-themed tattoo, alleging gang affiliation with the Tren de Aragua. This deportation occurred despite a federal judge temporarily blocking the use of the Alien Enemies Act for such deportations. His attorney and family have since lost contact with him, leaving his current status unknown.
Musk’s access to highly classified US war plans concerning a potential conflict with China is deeply unsettling. The sheer audacity of granting such sensitive information to a private citizen, let alone one with Elon Musk’s controversial history and extensive business ties to China, raises serious national security concerns. This decision completely bypasses standard vetting procedures, raising questions about the integrity of our security processes and the judgment of those involved.
The lack of a proper background check is particularly alarming, given well-documented concerns regarding Musk’s past substance use. This raises significant questions about the competence and potential vulnerabilities within the government’s security apparatus.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood