Senator Bernie Sanders’ attempts to block the sale of American arms to Israel failed in the Senate, with all Republicans and some Democrats voting against the resolutions. Despite the failure, a majority of Senate Democrats supported the resolutions, which aimed to halt the sale of bombs, guidance kits, and assault rifles. The votes garnered significantly more Democratic support than previous efforts, highlighting a shift in sentiment regarding U.S. military aid to Israel. Supporters of the resolutions emphasized the need to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the growing public disapproval of Israel’s actions.
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The US Treasury Department, under the direction of Donald Trump, imposed sanctions on Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, accusing him of human rights abuses and a political “witch-hunt”. Simultaneously, the US announced 50% tariffs on Brazilian imports, citing the government’s persecution of former president Jair Bolsonaro and his supporters. These actions, viewed as a direct attack on Brazilian democracy, were celebrated by Bolsonaro’s allies and condemned by members of President Lula da Silva’s government, who saw them as foreign interference in their justice system. Legal experts and human rights activists have expressed outrage and astonishment at the use of Magnitsky sanctions, typically reserved for severe human rights violators, against a judge in Brazil.
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The United States has lifted sanctions on several entities and individuals linked to Myanmar’s ruling generals, prompting concerns from human rights groups and politicians. These delistings include companies previously sanctioned for their ties to military-owned firms and arms production, such as KT Services & Logistics and Myanmar Chemical and Machinery Company. The US Treasury stated the removals were routine, but critics argue the decision undermines efforts to hold the military regime accountable, especially given the ongoing civil war and the junta’s deadly attacks on civilians. Despite the removals, the US continues to maintain sanctions against key figures and state-owned banks, recognizing that financial restrictions remain a critical tool to limit the regime’s access to foreign currency.
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State Department starts firing more than 1,350 workers in Trumps shake-up of diplomatic corps, and it’s hard not to feel a sense of bewilderment mixed with a dash of… well, something akin to dread, as these things often do. This is a big move, a massive personnel shake-up within the very heart of the nation’s foreign policy apparatus. The implications are vast, and it feels like we’re still trying to fully grasp the scope of the changes.
This whole situation seems to be happening in a swirling vortex of other, equally concerning news. The Epstein files are a hot topic. You know, the ones everyone’s talking about.… Continue reading
US awareness of the reported death of an American after a beating by Israeli settlers is now a stark reality, and it’s a situation that demands careful consideration. The initial reports, which seem to be accurate, depict a brutal event: an American citizen, allegedly beaten to death by Israeli settlers. The details are horrific, and the fact that an American life has been taken in this manner is undeniably serious. It’s a situation the US State Department has acknowledged, though their response, so far, has been measured.
The initial reaction from the State Department, as described, is one of acknowledging the reports and respecting the privacy of the victim’s family.… Continue reading
Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene has announced her intentions to block additional military aid to Israel. Speaking on the “War Room” podcast, Greene emphasized that Israel, already a nuclear-armed nation, receives substantial annual aid from the United States and does not require further funding. She stated that the proposed $500 million in additional aid should instead be allocated for the defense of the American people. This stance aligns with Greene’s consistent opposition to foreign intervention, previously seen in her criticism of aid packages to Ukraine and Israel.
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The Pentagon’s unexpected halt of weapon transfers to Ukraine, including air defense missiles and precision munitions, has raised concerns among US allies and officials. This decision, reportedly driven by Pentagon policy chief Elbridge Colby and a small group of advisors, was made without consulting the State Department, US embassy in Kyiv, or other key players. The pause has led to internal divisions within the White House and prompted reactions from both the Ukrainian President and members of Congress. The withheld shipments include Patriot missiles, Hellfire missiles, and thousands of Howitzer rounds, while Russian forces continue their attacks on Ukrainian territories.
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During a press conference at the NATO summit, President Trump suggested the possibility of Putin invading other countries, while also stating he believes the Russian leader is “misguided”. Trump indicated he’s in regular contact with Putin, who offered to help with the Middle East conflict. Although Trump previously stated he would negotiate an end to the Ukrainian invasion within 24 hours, he now deems such negotiations “more difficult”. Finally, Trump confirmed a “good” meeting with Zelenskyy and would “see” if the US would supply Ukraine with Patriot systems.
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The Trump administration has discussed offering Iran significant incentives to return to the negotiating table, including potentially providing $20-$30 billion for a civilian nuclear program. These talks have occurred even amidst military strikes between Iran and Israel, with the US emphasizing that any agreement would require zero Iranian uranium enrichment. Preliminary proposals also involve easing sanctions and allowing Iran access to billions of dollars in frozen funds. US officials are seeking a “comprehensive peace agreement,” with the terms being discussed through regional intermediaries.
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Iran’s supreme leader’s plea for more assistance from Putin following the US strikes highlights a critical juncture in the complex geopolitical landscape. The request underscores Iran’s vulnerability and its dwindling options in the face of escalating tensions. It also exposes the limitations of the Russo-Iranian partnership, revealing a relationship far less robust than previously perceived.
The situation is further complicated by Russia’s own precarious position. Deeply entangled in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Russia’s military resources are stretched thin, its economy battered, and its international standing considerably weakened. Providing substantial military aid to Iran would be a significant undertaking, diverting crucial resources away from the Ukrainian front and potentially incurring further international condemnation.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood