The Africa Corps, a new Russian military unit in Mali that replaced the Wagner mercenary group, is reportedly perpetrating abuses mirroring Wagner’s tactics, including rapes and beheadings, according to refugees. Civilians fleeing the conflict described indiscriminate killings and sexual violence, with some reporting the removal of organs from victims. Despite the change in name, the methods and personnel remain largely the same, leading legal experts to assert that the Russian government is directly responsible for these actions. The escalating violence has left many civilians feeling trapped, as they are targeted by both the Africa Corps and affiliated Malian forces.
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In a recent statement, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reiterated his firm stance against ceding any territory to Russia, despite pressure from the U.S. and its proposed peace plan. Zelenskyy’s refusal comes as European allies continue to support Ukraine, holding talks with leaders to secure a just and lasting ceasefire. Meanwhile, Russia continues its attacks, with both sides engaging in aerial strikes, including drone attacks on infrastructure. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant damage and casualties on both sides of the border.
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Recent reports indicate that Russia is increasing its reliance on India for both labor and military support, specifically concerning drone production for use in the ongoing war. High-ranking Russian officials have publicly discussed plans for localized drone production in India and a new labor mobility agreement to bring in an unlimited number of Indian workers. This expansion of cooperation comes as India faces economic challenges due to its relationship with Russia, including increased tariffs from the US and the EU. Furthermore, India is reportedly considering the purchase of Russian fighter jets and missile defense systems, alongside leasing a nuclear attack submarine.
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In a ruling on Monday, a federal judge invalidated President Trump’s executive order that blocked wind energy projects, citing its “arbitrary and capricious” nature and violation of U.S. law. Judge Patti Saris sided with a coalition of 17 states and Washington, D.C., who challenged the order that paused leasing and permitting for wind energy projects. The states argued that Trump lacked the authority to halt project permitting, which jeopardized their economies, energy mix, and climate goals. The decision was hailed as a victory for renewable energy and green jobs, with the ruling allowing projects to proceed based on their merits.
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The outgoing Dutch government has approved an extra €700 million in aid for Ukraine for next year. This funding comes from unspent funds within other ministries, including the Defence Equipment Budget Fund and the Foreign Ministry. While the Netherlands already provides substantial annual aid, including €3.5 billion, the new allocation addresses a proposal to bolster the 2026 budget after €2 billion from next year’s budget was spent this year. Despite initial reluctance from Prime Minister Dick Schoof, the cabinet yielded to parliamentary pressure and also warned of challenges finding additional funds in the budget next year, underscoring the complexities of continued support.
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In a recent New York Times op-ed, Representative Nancy Mace criticized Speaker Mike Johnson’s leadership style, citing restricted lawmaking processes and a lack of transparency within the House. Mace, who has increasingly distanced herself from Republican leadership, condemned Johnson’s control, arguing it has led to limited results and ineffective governance. She also expressed concerns about the treatment of women in the House Republican conference. Mace’s criticisms reflect a broader discontent among Republicans, including those who have resorted to discharge petitions to bypass leadership and push for votes on specific legislation.
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Negotiations to end the Ukraine war are at a critical stage, according to Sir Keir Starmer, as discussions proceed to release approximately £100 billion in frozen Russian assets to aid Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s war effort. Zelenskyy met with Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Downing Street to discuss peace talks, emphasizing the need for unity between Europe, Ukraine, and the United States. A deal to free up the assets held in European bank accounts is expected soon, potentially allowing Ukraine to continue its fight or fund reconstruction efforts. Donald Trump expressed some disappointment in Zelenskyy, while Russia has shown support.
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The CIA employed the Confinement Box, a horrific torture method, in post-9/11 black sites, subjecting detainees like Abu Zubaydah to prolonged periods in coffin-sized boxes. Now, a similar practice has been identified at the Alligator Alcatraz detention facility in Florida, where migrants are confined in small, cage-like structures as punishment, reminiscent of the CIA’s methods. This mirroring of torture techniques, stemming from the lack of accountability for the original architects, raises concerns about the persistence of inhumane treatment and the need for immediate criminal investigations into such practices. The article connects this to mass surveillance and its potential for abuse in Palestine, and the cover-up of civilian killings.
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President Trump indicated he may impose significant tariffs on Canadian fertilizer to boost domestic production, addressing rising costs for American farmers due to the ongoing trade war. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins stated the administration is working on plans to increase U.S. fertilizer production and lower prices. This follows concerns from both Canadian and U.S. farmers about higher fertilizer costs. In response, Trump announced a $12 billion aid package for farmers, aiming to offer financial support and help them lower food prices for American families.
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Former Spokane City Council President Ben Stuckart pleaded guilty to a felony charge of impeding immigration officers after participating in a protest to prevent the transport of two legal immigrants to a detention center. The incident stemmed from a Facebook post by Stuckart calling for action regarding the detention of the two immigrants, who were part of a government-regulated humanitarian program, resulting in a large protest where individuals blocked law enforcement vehicles. Following the protest, Stuckart and eight others faced federal charges, with Stuckart potentially avoiding jail time if he adheres to release conditions. The case, which drew national attention, also led to controversy within the Justice Department and the resignation of the Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington.
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John Q. Hosedrinker
Former Spokane Council President Guilty Plea Sparks Outrage, Praised for Actions Against ICE
Former Spokane City Council President Ben Stuckart pleaded guilty to a felony charge of impeding immigration officers after participating in a protest to prevent the transport of two legal immigrants to a detention center. The incident stemmed from a Facebook post by Stuckart calling for action regarding the detention of the two immigrants, who were part of a government-regulated humanitarian program, resulting in a large protest where individuals blocked law enforcement vehicles. Following the protest, Stuckart and eight others faced federal charges, with Stuckart potentially avoiding jail time if he adheres to release conditions. The case, which drew national attention, also led to controversy within the Justice Department and the resignation of the Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington.
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