The UK government has outlined its legal justification for permitting the US to utilize its bases. The statement affirms that international law allows the UK and its allies to employ or support the use of force. This is permissible when self-defense is the sole viable response to an ongoing armed attack, and the force applied is both necessary and proportionate.
Following the killing of Alex Pretti by federal agents in Minneapolis, niche, left-leaning gun advocacy groups are reporting a surge in demand for firearm training. Increased interest in gun ownership is fueled by the actions of the Trump administration, leading to many on the left considering getting armed. The incident has shifted the views of some, resulting in sold-out classes and increased membership in various gun organizations. Fear of government overreach and a perceived power imbalance are cited as primary motivators for this trend, with some drawing comparisons to historical instances of selective gun rights support.
On Thursday, a Border Patrol agent shot two individuals in Portland, Oregon, following a traffic stop. The Department of Homeland Security stated the agent acted in self-defense after the driver attempted to use the vehicle as a weapon. The driver, Luis David Nino-Moncada, has been charged with aggravated assault of a federal officer, and authorities allege both individuals are associated with the Tren de Aragua gang. The incident sparked immediate backlash from local officials, with the Oregon Attorney General launching an investigation, and calls for federal agencies to cease operations in the city. The FBI is leading the investigation with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
A resurgent group identifying as the Black Panther Party for Self-Defense has become more active in Philadelphia amid increased federal agent presence. Trained by surviving members of the original party, the group, led by National Chairman Paul Birdsong, attended an anti-ICE protest while carrying firearms, which they say are legally permitted. The group also holds regular free food programs in North Philadelphia, funded by members and community donations. This recent activity follows the killing of Renee Nicole Good by an ICE agent, and the group aims to see ICE abolished and the Trump administration held accountable.
A recently released cellphone video, filmed by the ICE officer who fatally shot Renee Nicole Good, challenges the U.S. government’s claim that the shooting was justified self-defense. The video, obtained by Alpha News, shows Good interacting calmly with the officer before the shooting. The footage depicts the officer stepping away from the SUV’s path of travel before opening fire, contradicting the official narrative. In her first public statements, Good’s wife described her as peaceful, rejecting the administration’s portrayal.
Kentucky State University released a statement following the grand jury’s decision not to indict Jacob Bard in connection with the fatal shooting. The university expressed continued mourning for the loss of life and a commitment to supporting the campus community. The university stated that it would continue cooperating with law enforcement and reinforcing safety measures. Counseling and support resources remain available to students, faculty, and staff.
The White House confirmed Admiral Frank M. Bradley ordered the second strike on the alleged drug-carrying vessel in the Caribbean, which resulted in the death of two survivors. This confirmation follows reports and allegations that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth commanded military personnel to “kill everybody” on board. While Leavitt stated Bradley was within his authority, the Pentagon’s Law of War Manual prohibits attacking the wounded, sick, or shipwrecked. This incident has led to increased scrutiny, with members of Congress and experts calling for investigations into potential war crimes amidst growing questions about the Trump administration’s lethal campaign.
Prosecutors in the US have charged a homeowner who fatally shot a cleaning crew member who mistakenly arrived at his home. The delay in charging was due to consideration of Indiana’s “stand your ground” law, but authorities determined the homeowner’s actions were not protected under it. The victim, Maria Florinda Rios Perez, was shot through the door, and the suspect did not call the police before opening fire. This incident echoes similar cases, such as the shooting of Ralph Yarl and Kaylin Gillis, highlighting the complexities of such laws.
A 36-year-old man, Luke Charles Simonson, has been charged with murder in the shooting death of 45-year-old Timothy Grosdidier at a South Anchorage sports complex. The incident occurred in the parking lot during an argument between parents, allegedly sparked by a near-miss involving a child. Accounts vary, but the charging document states Simonson admitted to shooting Grosdidier, claiming self-defense after feeling threatened. However, witness testimony and dashboard camera footage reportedly contradict this, indicating Simonson immediately shot Grosdidier without warning as he approached the truck.
John Q. Hosedrinker
Arizona AG: Stand Your Ground Law Could Protect Residents Who Shoot Masked ICE Agents
Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes stated that residents could potentially use lethal force against masked ICE agents under the state’s “Stand Your Ground” law if they perceive an imminent threat to their lives. Mayes emphasized that this law allows for self-defense using lethal force in situations where a person reasonably believes their life is in danger on their property. She noted concerns about masked federal officers with limited identification, questioning how residents could distinguish them from potential threats. While acknowledging the law’s implications, Mayes clarified she was not advocating for violence, but rather explaining the current legal framework.
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