Two U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress bombers were observed flying within the Maiquetía Flight Information Region near Venezuela, prompting speculation about a show of force amidst rising tensions. The aircraft, visible on flight-tracking sites, repeatedly circled within the Venezuelan-controlled airspace, with the flight coinciding with a diverted deportation flight and following former President Trump’s remarks about a U.S. strike. While these flights are common training missions, this particular patrol’s proximity to Venezuela and public visibility suggests a deliberate message of U.S. reach and readiness. The B-52, a long-range strategic bomber, is capable of carrying a massive payload of weapons, and can fly over 8,000 miles, without refueling.
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In a Friday press conference held at the Pentagon, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a new agreement with Qatar to build a Qatari Emiri Air Force facility at the Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho. The facility will facilitate joint training exercises between Qatari and American military personnel, specifically with a contingent of Qatari F-15 fighter jets. This initiative aims to enhance combined training, increase lethality, and improve interoperability between the two nations. The agreement marks another step in strengthening the partnership between the U.S. and Qatar.
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The U.S. Air Force has implemented a policy denying early retirement to transgender service members with 15-18 years of service, forcing them out without benefits. This decision, made after careful review of individual applications, comes as transgender service members face expulsion under the Trump administration’s policies. The change means these individuals are now faced with the option of separation payments or involuntary removal from service. This decision is seen as a betrayal of commitment to these service members, with severe financial consequences. Lawsuits challenging this policy are expected.
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The U.S. Air Force reversed previously approved early retirements for transgender service members with 15-18 years of service, citing the “Prioritizing Military Excellence and Readiness” policy. This decision voids retirement dates granted under the Temporary Early Retirement Authority (TERA), leaving affected personnel facing involuntary separation and loss of benefits. The Air Force offered “voluntary” separation with enhanced pay, however, the deadline to elect this option had already passed. This action, according to advocates, specifically targets trans personnel impacted by the current military ban.
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John Q. Hosedrinker