Protests have erupted in Venice against Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez’s upcoming lavish three-day wedding, expected to host around 200 guests, including many high-profile celebrities. Activists, including Greenpeace, are demonstrating against the event, citing concerns over low taxes paid by billionaires and the environmental impact of their lifestyles, with some even saying the wedding is a slap in the face to local residents. Despite the expected economic boost the wedding might provide, some residents are determined to disrupt the event, which will reportedly take place on the island of San Giorgio. It’s estimated that over 90 private jets will arrive for the wedding which comes at the height of tourism season.
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A Russian drone strike severely damaged the New Safe Confinement (NSC) at Chernobyl, impacting 50% of the northern roof and other critical areas. Greenpeace’s assessment reveals significant structural damage, including to the crane system, compromising the NSC’s functionality. Water and snow ingress pose further corrosion risks. Repairs may require the NSC’s costly relocation and reconstruction, mirroring the initial project’s massive expense.
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A North Dakota jury awarded Energy Transfer $660 million in its lawsuit against Greenpeace, finding the environmental group liable for defamation and other claims related to 2016-2017 Dakota Access Pipeline protests. Greenpeace denies the claims, asserting the lawsuit aims to suppress peaceful protest and free speech, a concern echoed by constitutional rights experts. The verdict, which Greenpeace plans to appeal, raises significant concerns about the chilling effect on activism and the fairness of the trial given the jury’s composition and alleged bias. The case is viewed by many as a Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation (SLAPP), intended to silence critics.
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Two Russian tankers, carrying fuel for the Russian navy, sank in the Kerch Strait, spilling an estimated 4,300 tonnes of fuel oil. This incident, following a twelve-day period with deactivated tracking systems, threatens a significant environmental catastrophe in the Black and Azov Seas, an area already vulnerable to such disasters. The spill’s impact depends on the oil type and weather conditions, with potential for extensive shoreline damage. Greenpeace Ukraine is monitoring the situation, while rescue efforts are ongoing for the crews.
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John Q. Hosedrinker