The Independent’s reporting examines the significant taxpayer-funded costs associated with Donald Trump’s frequent golfing, particularly during his second term. HuffPost analysis reveals that Trump has spent approximately $71 million on golf-related travel and security so far this year, with the potential to reach $300 million by the end of his term. These costs are primarily driven by the use of Air Force One and extensive security measures at his golf resorts like Mar-a-Lago. While Trump has used golf to build relationships with world leaders, the expenses far exceed those of other presidents.
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During a recent gaggle aboard Air Force One, President Trump responded to questions regarding his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, specifically addressing Epstein’s claim that Trump was aware of his alleged sex trafficking activities. Trump deflected these inquiries, instead focusing on Epstein’s associations with other powerful figures like Bill Clinton and Larry Summers. When a reporter attempted a follow-up question about the released Epstein files, Trump abruptly cut her off, silencing her before taking a question from another journalist. This incident adds to a pattern of the president avoiding direct answers about his past relationship with Epstein.
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Seventeen transgender members of the U.S. Air Force and Space Force have filed a lawsuit alleging the Air Force unlawfully revoked their approved retirement orders. The plaintiffs, with 15-18 years of service, were granted retirement dates, but those orders were rescinded following the Trump administration’s transgender military ban. The complaint argues the reversal violated the Air Force’s own rules, as the orders were valid and revocation should only occur in narrow circumstances that did not apply. The lawsuit seeks reinstatement of the original retirement orders, restoration of benefits, and compensation for lost pay.
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During a refueling stop in Qatar, President Trump was joined aboard Air Force One by the Emir of Qatar, who insisted on meeting with the president. The two leaders praised their collaboration, particularly Qatar’s role in recent Middle East peace efforts, with Trump highlighting their work together. This meeting comes amid scrutiny of Trump’s close ties with the Qatari government, including the recent acceptance of a $400 million jet, and contrasts sharply with his earlier criticisms and support of a blockade against the country.
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The JAS 39 Gripen is considered an ideal fighter jet for Ukraine, especially given its design for operating in environments similar to those in the ongoing war. Sweden and Ukraine signed a letter of intent to potentially export up to 150 Gripen E fighter jets, a modern variant with advanced capabilities, which would significantly upgrade Ukraine’s air force. The Gripen’s ability to operate from austere airstrips and require minimal maintenance makes it well-suited to the demands of dispersed air operations. While funding is still unclear, Ukrainian pilots have already begun training on the aircraft, with the first deliveries potentially occurring as early as next year.
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On Tuesday morning, two Norwegian F-35 fighter jets were dispatched to intercept a Russian Il-20 reconnaissance aircraft over the Barents Sea, resulting in sonic booms that were heard and felt by residents of Alta. The Norwegian Air Force confirmed that the F-35s were scrambled under the Quick Reaction Alert program to identify and monitor the Russian aircraft operating in international airspace north of Finnmark. This operation is considered routine, as Russian reconnaissance aircraft often patrol near NATO borders, prompting allied air forces to regularly monitor such activity. Furthermore, there have been discussions within NATO regarding new rules of engagement, potentially allowing member states to shoot down Russian aircraft that carry missiles without warning if they enter allied airspace.
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Following a politically charged speech by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Air Force Global Strike Command head Gen. Thomas Bussiere announced his retirement. The timing of Bussiere’s departure, coming after Hegseth’s meeting where he seemingly pressured senior officers to resign, has sparked speculation within the Pentagon. This abrupt exit, along with the earlier retirement announcement of Gen. David Allvin, signals significant high-level changes within the Air Force. As a result, the Trump administration has nominated Gen. Kenneth Wilsbach to serve as the next Chief of Staff.
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Following recent conflict, Iran has received Russian MiG-29 fighter jets as an interim solution to strengthen its aging air force, with more advanced Sukhoi Su-35 jets anticipated. These acquisitions signal a broader effort to rapidly modernize aerial capabilities and address vulnerabilities exposed during conflict. The arrival of these jets, along with additional air defense systems, are seen as a strategic move to improve Iran’s military strength. This is intended to increase their leverage in diplomatic negotiations and potentially reshape the regional balance of power.
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President Trump, during a flight back from the UK, told White House pool reporters he hoped they had a safe flight, adding, “You know why I say that? Because I’m on the flight.” This comment followed a “minor hydraulic issue” that caused an emergency landing of Marine One, the presidential helicopter, earlier in the day. This incident marked the second aircraft-related issue during Trump’s trip, as Air Force One previously had a close call with a Spirit Airlines jet. The White House Correspondents’ Association organizes press pools to ensure media transparency during presidential events.
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On Tuesday, a Spirit Airlines flight en route to Boston received repeated warnings from air traffic control to change course due to its proximity to Air Force One, which was carrying President Donald Trump. The controller’s instructions, captured in LiveATC audio, included urgent commands to turn away from the presidential aircraft’s path. Despite the directives, a source confirmed that the required separation between the two planes was maintained. Spirit Airlines stated that the flight followed all procedures and landed safely, emphasizing their commitment to safety.
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John Q. Hosedrinker
Trump: Safe Flight Wishes for Reporters Only Due to His Presence
President Trump, during a flight back from the UK, told White House pool reporters he hoped they had a safe flight, adding, “You know why I say that? Because I’m on the flight.” This comment followed a “minor hydraulic issue” that caused an emergency landing of Marine One, the presidential helicopter, earlier in the day. This incident marked the second aircraft-related issue during Trump’s trip, as Air Force One previously had a close call with a Spirit Airlines jet. The White House Correspondents’ Association organizes press pools to ensure media transparency during presidential events.
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