Gjenerali dhe katër persona të tjerë ndodheshin në bord të një avioni, që po fluturonte nga kryeqyteti turk, Ankara, drejt Tripolit.

Ministri i Brendshëm turk, Ali Yerlikaya, njoftoi në X (Twitter) se sinjali me avionin e biznesit u humb rreth orës 20:52 lokale (17:52 GMT), rreth 42 minuta pas ngritjes nga aeroporti i Ankarasë.

Avioni i destinuar për Tripoli kishte bërë një kërkesë për ulje emergjente para se të humbiste kontaktin.

Nëse në udhëzimin e vitit 2018 theksi ishte te përdorimi i buletineve tradicionale dhe vendosja e pragjeve relativisht të ulëta minimale, udhëzimi i ri jo vetëm që zgjeron burimet e referencës, por edhe rrit në mënyrë të drejtpërdrejtë bazën mbi të cilën llogariten detyrimet doganore.

Për autoveturat, rritja e çmimeve minimale është e dukshme në të gjitha kategoritë e cilindratës.

Në udhëzimin e vitit 2018, për automjetet deri në 1400 cc vlera minimale e zhdoganimit ishte 130 mijë lekë, ndërsa me udhëzimin e ri kjo vlerë rritet në 162.5 mijë lekë, ose rreth 25% më shumë.

Për kategorinë mbi 1400–1900 cc, pragu minimal kalon nga 200 mijë lekë në 250 mijë lekë, duke reflektuar sërish një rritje prej rreth 25%. E njëjta logjikë vijon edhe për cilindratat më të larta: nga 325 mijë lekë në 406 mijë lekë për segmentin 1900–2500 cc, nga 400 mijë lekë në 500 mijë lekë për 2500–3000 cc, nga 500 mijë lekë në 625 mijë lekë për 3000–4500 cc dhe nga 800 mijë lekë në 1 milion lekë për automjetet mbi 4500 cc.

Në të gjitha rastet, rritja është konsistente dhe tregon një indeksim të qartë të vlerave minimale, në përputhje me çmimet aktuale të tregut.

E njëjta tendencë vërehet edhe për kamionçinat, furgonët dhe kamionët.

Në udhëzimin e vitit 2018, për mjetet deri në 1.5 tonë pragu minimal ishte 400 mijë lekë, ndërsa udhëzimi i ri e çon këtë vlerë në 500 mijë lekë. Për segmentin 1.5–3.5 tonë, vlera minimale rritet nga 600 mijë lekë në 750 mijë lekë, ndërsa për mjetet 3.5–10 tonë nga 850 mijë lekë në rreth 1.06 milion lekë.

Për kamionët 10–15 tonë, pragu rritet nga 1 milion lekë në 1.25 milion lekë dhe për ata mbi 15 tonë nga 1.2 milion lekë në 1.5 milion lekë. Edhe këtu, rritjet janë të konsiderueshme dhe në disa raste i afrohen ose tejkalojnë nivelin 25%.

Në terma praktikë, kjo do të thotë se zhdoganimi i automjeteve, veçanërisht i atyre të përdorura dhe me vit prodhimi më të hershëm, bëhet mbi baza më të larta vlerësimi krahasuar me udhëzimin e vitit 2018. Ndërsa më parë ekzistonte një hapësirë më e madhe për deklarime pranë kufijve minimalë, udhëzimi i ri e ngushton ndjeshëm këtë hapësirë, duke e afruar vlerën doganore me çmimet reale të tregjeve evropiane.

Në këtë mënyrë, rritja e çmimeve të zhdoganimit nuk është thjesht nominale, por përfaqëson një ndryshim të qartë të filozofisë së vlerësimit, me synim forcimin e kontrollit fiskal dhe uljen e nënvlerësimit në importin e automjeteve./ekofin.al

Si ishte:

Si ndryshon:

Grupi i parë i studentëve u subvencionuan tre ditë para raundit të dytë të zgjedhjeve lokale që ishin mbajtur më 9 nëntor.

Atëkohë, studentët u njoftuan përmes një mesazhi në numrat e tyre të telefonit për alokimin e mjeteve.

“Të dashur studentë, më lejoni të ju uroj vitin e ri akademik me lajmin e mirë se ju jeni kualifikuar si përfitues të shtesës së njëhershme prej 100 EUR. Me qeverinë tonë, studentët gjithmonë do ta kenë mbështetjen e shtetit. I juaji, Albin Kurti, kryeministër në detyrë i Republikës së Kosovës”, thuhej në mesazhin telefonik.

Vendimi për subvencionimin me nga 100 euro për studentët ishte marr në tetor të këtij viti, ku ishte njoftuar se përfitues janë mbi 40 mijë studentë.

Videoja tregon momente tensioni dhe dhune, ndërsa ajo duket e pafuqishme për t’u mbrojtur përballë sulmit.Suada Muça është një personazh i njohur në rrjetet sociale, veçanërisht në TikTok, ku prej kohësh ka qenë në qendër të vëmendjes për përmbajtjet e saj, por edhe për debatet dhe polemikat që kanë shoqëruar prezencën e saj online.

Megjithatë, pavarësisht diskutimeve publike, dhuna fizike mbetet e pajustifikueshme.Deri në këto momente nuk ka një reagim zyrtar nga vetë Suada, as ndonjë njoftim nga autoritetet lidhur me ngjarjen.

Nga pamjet që po qarkullojnë në rrjetet sociale, duket se situata ka nisur pas një batute të Juxhinit, e cila nuk është pritur aspak mirë nga Iliri. Ky i fundit reagoi menjëherë me nervozizëm, duke u ngritur nga vendi dhe duke tentuar t’i afrohet për ta goditur, por u ndal në kohë nga banorët e tjerë që ndërhynë për të shmangur përshkallëzimin e konfliktit.

Në kulmin e tensionit, Ilir Vrenozi dëgjohet duke bërtitur me tone të larta:

“Nuk tallet dot kush me mua, ik zhduku!”, duke e bërë situatën edhe më të rëndë emocionalisht brenda shtëpisë.

Ironikisht, kjo përplasje ndodhi vetëm pak orë pasi Juxhini ishte futur në lojë. Gjatë hyrjes së tij, Iliri e kishte pritur me përqafim dhe ngrohtësi, një detaj që e bën edhe më të papritur dhe të komentuar ndryshimin e menjëhershëm të raportit mes tyre brenda më pak se 24 orësh.

Fakti që të dy banorët janë nga Korça ka shtuar edhe më shumë reagimet dhe komentet në rrjet, ku ndjekësit po pyesin se çfarë e shkaktoi realisht këtë shpërthim të fortë.

Mbetet për t’u parë nëse produksioni i Big Brother VIP Albania do të ndërhyjë me masa disiplinore apo nëse kjo ngjarje do të ndikojë në rrugëtimin e dy banorëve në vazhdim të lojës.

SHIKO VIDEON KETU

Jan Emerick Rosyszewski, ambasador në Paris që nga viti 2022, u arrestua të martën me të mbërritur në Aeroportin Frederic Chopin të Varshavës dhe dha një deklaratë para hetuesve nga Byroja Qendrore Kundër Korrupsionit (CBA), sipas gazetës online Goniec.pl.

Sikorski ka vendosur ta shkarkojë atë nga detyrat e tij derisa të sqarohen dyshimet” rreth përfshirjes së tij në këtë rast, tha një zëdhënës i ministrisë për agjencinë e lajmeve PAP. Ndërkohë, zëvendësi i Rociszewski-t, Wieslaw Tarka, po merr detyrën e kreut të misionit diplomatik të Polonisë në Paris.

Përveç diplomatit, çështja përfshin zyrtarë të lartë qeveritarë dhe ish-deputetë nga partia konservatore Ligj dhe Drejtësi (PiS).

Të dyshuarit besohet se kanë marrë pjesë ose kanë përfituar nga dhënia e diplomave MBA (Master në Administrim Biznesi) nga një universitet privat i themeluar nga njëri prej tyre. Qëllimi ishte t’u mundësohej mbajtësve të këtyre diplomave të emëroheshin në pozicione kyçe në shërbimin publik.

Ambasadori mohon çdo përfshirje në mashtrim.

Sipas CV-së së tij zyrtare, ai studioi në Varshavë, Lublin, Poloni, dhe në Institutin e Studimeve Politike të Parisit, dhe zotëron një “MBA Ekzekutive”. Në të kaluarën, ai ka mbajtur pozicione të larta në shumë banka, kompani sigurimesh dhe shërbime financiare, duke përfshirë AXA dhe BNP Paribas. Ai ishte gjithashtu nënkryetar dhe më pas kryetar i bordit të drejtorëve të bankës polake PKO Bank Polski.

“Po ecja poshtë, po ikja në shtëpi, ishte ora 11 e gjysmë të natës dhe kur dëgjoj të qara fëmije dhe gjithmonë tani duke menduar se vijnë qytetarët, ndalojnë makinën aty, lënë fëmijët dhe shkojnë te varret. Thërriste ky fëmija, o ba hajde se kam frikë, sa afrohesha unë, ikte pak më larg ky zëri”, tregoi varrmihësi.

Pas kësaj, Astriti rrëfeu për Euronews, se dëgjoi edhe të atij, që i thoshte fëmijës “mos ki frikë se jam këtu afër.”

Varrmihësi më pas ndezi një cigare dhe zërat nuk u dëgjuan më.

Sipas tij, dosje të reja pritet të dalin në dritë nga SPAK, ku do të tregojnë shtetin e vërtetë paralel.

“Fatkeqësisht dosja e AKSHI-it është vetëm fillimi, do të ketë dosje të tjera që do të tregojnë se mund të ketë një shtet paralel.

Nuk është vetëm kjo dosje, nuk ka lidhje kjo dosje me sistemin ku është përzier krimi i organizuar me politikën.

Dosje të tjera që tregojnë bashkëpunim të organeve ligjzbatuese me krimin do të dalin në ditët në vazhdim. Është një process që nuk ndalet. Në SPAK pëshpëritet në gjuhë të huaj”, tha Beçi.

Eugen Beçi: Fatkeqësisht dosja e AKSHI-it është vetëm fillimi, do të ketë dosje të tjera që do të tregojnë se mund të ketë një shtet paralel.

Nuk është vetëm kjo dosje, nuk ka lidhje kjo dosje me sistemin ku është përzier krimi i organizuar me politikën.

Dosje të tjera që tregojnë bashkëpunim të organeve ligjzbatuese me krimin do të dalin në ditët në vazhdim. Është një process që nuk ndalet. Në SPAK pëshpëritet në gjuhë të huaj.

Përmes një vendimi të marrë këtë të mërkurë, qeveria ka caktuar këtë datë si ditë pushimi, për shkak se vjen si zgjatje e festës së Krishtlindjes.

Duke qenë se Administrata më 25dhjetor, e cila është festë zyrtare do të jetë pushim, atëhere është vendosur që dhe dita pasuese e Krishtlindjeve të jetë pushim për ta.

Në këtë mënyrë, punonjësit e administratës përfitojnë dy ditë rresht pushimi dhe fundjava, ndërsa institucionet publike do t’i rikthehen normalisht aktivitetit të hënën.

Por ky vendim i marre per te plotesuar qejfet e administrates shteterore, normalisht prek cdo qytetar, pasi vec administrates, pushim do te jene edhe gjithe institucionet e tjera ne vend, si dhe bankat.

Megjithate, per qeverine Rama eshte e rendesishme te shperblehen me pushime punonjesit e administrates dhe jo hallet qe mund tu behen grumbull qytetareve ne fund te ketij viti.

Menjëherë pas njoftimit për një aksident rrugor, në Sukth, ku një automjet ishte përplasur me disa pemë, shërbimet e Policisë Rrugore shkuan në vendngjarje, për të kryer veprimet procedurale të nevojshme.

Në vijim, iu bë test alkooli, drejtuesit të automjetit, shtetasit Alfred Dumi, 32 vjeç, rezultat i të cilit, herën e dyte ishte 1.29 mg/l.

Nga verifikimet e mëtejshme rezultoi se 32-vjeçari ishte aktualisht në kërkim, sepse Gjykata e Tiranës, në vitin 2024, e ka dënuar me 2 vjet burgim, për veprën penale “Krijimi i skemave të mashtrimit lidhur me tatimin mbi vlerën e shtuar”.

“I ndaluari, para 3 vjetësh, lëshoi fatura fiktive te subjekti tregtar që administronte, me qëllim shmangien e TVSh-së. Subjekti i 32-vjeçarit dhe 12 të tjera, duke shmangur detyrimin tatimor, i shkaktuan shtetit, 300.000.000 lekë dëm”, njofton Policia e Durrësit.

Në vitin 2022, viznesmeni Alfred Dumi ka administruar një subjekt, për llogari të të cilit janë lëshuar fatura fiktive, me qëllim shmangien e detyrimeve tatimore.

Nga aksidenti u dëmtua lehtë, pasagjeri në automjetin që drejtonte 32-vjeçari. Në përfundim të veprimeve procedurale, shtetasi Alfred Dumi u vu në pranga dhe do t’i dorëzohet Policisë së Tiranës, për kryerjen e veprimeve të mëtejshme.

Ndërkaq, materialet procedurale në lidhje me aksidentin në Sukth iu referuan Prokurorisë së Durrësit për veprime të mëtejshme procedurale.

“NATO është në luftë me Rusinë. Kjo është e qartë dhe nuk ka nevojë për ndonjë konfirmim shtesë,” deklaroi Peskov. Kjo deklaratë erdhi pasi Polonia kërkoi krijimin e një zone ndalim-fluturimi mbi Ukrainë, si pasojë e një incidenti me dronë rusë që hynë në hapësirën ajrore polake.

Peskov argumentoi se Aleanca është e përfshirë në mënyrë aktive në konflikt përmes mbështetjes së drejtpërdrejtë dhe të tërthortë që i ofron qeverisë së Kievit. Ai përmendi furnizimin me armë, trajnimet ushtarake dhe mbështetjen teknologjike si prova të kësaj përfshirjeje. Sipas tij, kjo mbështetje e ka bërë NATO-n një palë aktive në luftë, duke e shndërruar konfliktin në një përballje të drejtpërdrejtë.

Deklarata e Peskov shfaq qasjen e fortë të Kremlinit përballë mbështetjes perëndimore për Ukrainën, duke e konsideruar këtë ndihmë si një akt të drejtpërdrejtë armiqësor.

Nga ana tjetër, NATO ka theksuar vazhdimisht se ndihma për Ukrainën synon mbrojtjen e sovranitetit të saj dhe se Aleanca nuk ka trupa në terren në Ukrainë, duke u përpjekur të shmangë një konfrontim të drejtpërdrejtë. Kjo retorikë e dyanshme thekson thellësinë e ndarjes mes Rusisë dhe Perëndimit.

Lajmi është konfirmuar nga Policia e Kosovës për rajonin e Pejës.

Sipas zëdhënësit të policisë, trupi është lokalizuar rreth orës 13:30 në fshatin Grabanicë. Viktima është gjetur rreth 13 kilometra larg urës së fshatit dhe vdekja është konstatuar nga ekipi mjekësor në vendngjarje.

Policia ka njoftuar gjithashtu se familjarët e gruas e kishin raportuar zhdukjen e saj mbrëmjen e së shtunës, pasi ajo ishte larguar nga shtëpia dhe nuk kishin informacion për vendndodhjen e saj.

Hetimet për rastin po vazhdojnë, ndërsa priten rezultatet e autopsisë për të përcaktuar rrethanat e vdekjes./Top Channel

Dashi
Dhjetori vendos gjithçka në lëvizje për ty, Dash! Nis me Hënën e plotë te Binjakët, duke të ndihmuar të pastrosh mendjen ndërsa sjell një të vërtetë të shumëpritur, qoftë përmes një bisede, apo një ideje që më në fund po kuptohet.

Ndërsa planetët grumbullohen në Shigjetar (dhe shtëpinë tënde të nëntë), je i inkurajuar të mendosh më gjerë, të mësosh diçka të re ose të rezervosh atë udhëtimin për të cilin ke folur gjatë gjithë vitit. Por me Marsin dhe Diellin në konflikt me Saturnin në shtëpinë tënde të 12-të sekreteve (8, 16, 20 dhjetor), mund të përjetosh momente dyshimi ose lodhjeje.

Neptuni gjithashtu kthehet drejt më 10 dhjetor, duke larguar mjegullën rreth asaj që të ka lodhur. Por një kthesë e papritur e ngjarjeve (financiare ose romantike) rreth 10 dhjetorit mund të shkaktojë një shpenzim të papritur ose një bisedë shumë të sinqertë financiare me partnerin, falë kundërshtimit Mërkur-Uran.

Pastaj vjen rritja: Marsi dhe Afërdita hyjnë në Bricjap (15 dhe 24 dhjetor) dhe shtëpia jote e 10-të e karrierës dhe publikimit merr fokus, duke të të shtyrë drejt ambicies, njohjes dhe përgjegjësisë. Hëna e re më 19 dhjetor gjithashtu nxjerr në pah një vizion afatgjatë për të cilin je gati të angazhohesh, ndoshta diçka që të çliron ose të mëson diçka të rëndësishme.

Binjakët
Vëmendja është mbi ty! Dhjetori mund të jetë veçanërisht personal për ty, sepse përveçse sektori i marrëdhënieve është i ndriçuar, do të ketë një Hënë të plotë në shenjën tënde më 4 dhjetor.

Ky moment ndriçimi të vendos në skenën kryesore, qoftë përmes një zbulimi apo një mundësie për të riprezantuar veten. Diçka tek ty po ndryshon, ndoshta ndryshon pamjen, nis një projekt ose më në fund thua atë që ke pasur në mendje gjithë vitin.

Me kaq shumë veprim në shtëpinë tënde të shtatë të lidhjeve, muaji i jep rëndësi marrëdhënieve të të gjitha llojeve: romantike, bashkëpunëtorët në punë ose ish-partnerët që rikthehen me kohë të papritur. Planetari yt udhëheqës, Mërkuri, gjithashtu do të jetë në kundërshti me Uranin më 10 dhjetor, që mund të sjellë mesazhe të papritura.

Ndërkohë, çështjet e karrierës po zgjidhen në sfond, veçanërisht me Neptunin që kthehet drejt më 10 dhjetor, duke të të ndihmuar të kuptosh atë që ka qenë konfuzuese për ty.

Energjia e marrëdhënieve shtohet në mes të muajit, ndërsa Mërkuri dhe Marsi bashkohen në sektorin tënd të marrëdhënieve, duke shtyrë të kesh biseda më të thella ose ndoshta të marrësh angazhime që kërkojnë të dalësh nga zona e rehatisë. Duke qenë se kjo ndodh në kohën e duhur për Hënën e re në Shigjetar më 19 dhjetor, shënohet një kapitull i ri në marrëdhëniet e tua.

Virgjëresha
Dhjetori sjell ndryshime të fuqishme, Virgjëreshë! Fillon me Hënën e plotë në Binjakë më 4 dhjetor, që aktivizon shtëpinë tënde të 10-të të autoritetit dhe karrierës, duke sjellë një arritje, meritë ose përparim profesional. Ky mund të duket si lavdërim nga shefi ose mbyllja e një projekti të gjatë.

Një grumbull planetësh në Shigjetar (dhe shtëpia jote e katërt) gjithashtu do të të tërheqë vëmendjen drejt familjes dhe themeleve emocionale që po ushqen ndërsa viti mbyllet.

Kundërshtimi i Mërkurit me Uranin më 10 dhjetor mund të sjellë lajme surprizë, si plane udhëtimesh ose ndryshime të papritura në dinamikën familjare. Neptuni që kthehet në pozicion të drejtë po atë ditë, duke larguar konfuzionin rreth një partneriteti ose lidhjeje të ngushtë, për të të ndihmuar të kuptosh ku përfundon fantazia dhe fillon realiteti.

Në mes të muajit, favorizohesh ndërsa Marsi hyn në Bricjap (15 dhjetor), i ndjekur nga Dielli dhe Afërdita (21 dhe 24 dhjetor), duke aktivizuar shtëpinë tënde të pestë të dashurisë, pasionit, kreativitetit dhe shprehjes së vetvetes.

Kjo mund të shpjegojë pse papritmas ndihesh më i lehtë, flirtues dhe më i frymëzuar se kurrë. Më 19 dhjetor, Hëna e re në Shigjetar fton të rifreskosh hapësirën e jetesës ose të vendosësh kufij që bëjnë jetën personale më të balancuar.

Shigjetari
Ky është një muaj ripërtëritjeje kozmike, Shigjetar! Gëzuar ditëlindjen dhe gëzuar një tjetër udhëtim rreth Diellit! Ky muaj vjen me dekorime, momente të lumtura dhe disa të vërteta të forta.

Nis me Hënën e plotë në Binjakë më 4 dhjetor, duke aktivizuar shtëpinë tënde të shtatë të angazhimeve, marrëveshjeve dhe njerëzve të tjerë, duke sjellë qartësi në një partneritet të rëndësishëm. Mund të ndihesh i/e prirur të përcaktosh marrëdhënien dhe të kesh një bisedë të sinqertë për hapat e ardhshëm.

Ki parasysh se Marsi, planeti i energjisë, veprimit, pasionit dhe afirmimit, po kalon në shenjën tënde, gjë që të bën më guximtar, më i dukshëm dhe me lëvizje të shpejtë. Megjithatë, Marsi duke bashkëpunuar me Saturnin më 8 dhjetor, të bën të ndihesh i detyruar të ndalësh hapin, ndoshta mjaftueshëm për të përballuar një çështje familjare ose një situatë emocionale që kërkon vëmendje.

Neptuni gjithashtu kthehet drejt më 10 dhjetor, duke larguar mjegullën rreth situatës së jetesës ose dinamikës familjare, për të të ndihmuar të kuptosh çfarë është emocionalisht e sigurt ndërsa hyn në Vitin e Ri.

Një ndryshim i papritur në rutinën ose orarin e punës rreth të njëjtës kohë (kur Mërkuri është në kundërshti me Uranin) mund të të trondisë për pak, por sapo Mërkuri të hyjë sërish në shenjën tënde më 11 dhjetor, do të rikuperosh shpejt besimin.

Pastaj vjen momenti i rilindjes: Hëna e re në shenjën tënde më 19 dhjetor, që shënon një kapitull personal të ri, ideal për të rifreskuar pamjen, bërë një njoftim të rëndësishëm ose për të marrë një rol që përputhet më shumë me atë version që i prezanton botës.

Por bizneset janë të shqetësuara për kostot shtesë që do ju vinë në drejtim të sigurimeve shoqërore dhe shëndetësore të punonjësve pas kësaj periudhe.

“Nga janari 2026 paga minimale do të jetë 500 euro.” Nga punëtorët e fabrikave e rrobaqepëset te shitëset, kamerierët apo punëtorët e ndërtimit… cilido i punësuar në Shqipëri nga fillim-viti i ardhshëm do të paguhet me jo më pak se 50 mijë lekë. Paga minimale do të rritet me 10 mijë lekë.

Premtimi i qeverisë gjatë fushatës elektorale për zgjedhjet e 11 majit është përfshirë në programin qeverisës të socialistëve për t’u zbatuar nga 1 janari 2026.

“Është një tregues pozitiv, sepse rritja e pagës minimale prek drejtpërdrejt shtresat më të brishta të tregut të punës. Nga ana tjetër, duhet parë me kujdes ndikimi që kjo rritje mund të ketë mbi bizneset e vogla, kostot e tyre dhe rrezikun për rritje të informalitetit. Pra, është një hap i rëndësishëm social, por duhet shoqëruar edhe me politika mbështetëse”, theksoi Erion Muça, pedagog, ekspert i tregut të punës.

Për gjithë vitin 2026 dhe deri në gjysmën e 2027-s, do të jetë shteti që do të paguajë kontributet për diferencën mes 40 dhe 50 mijë lekë, në mënyrë që të mos rëndohet as punëdhënësi as punëmarrësi.

“Kjo është më shumë pjesë e propagandës sesa një politikë e mirëfilltë zhvillimi. Rritja e pagës minimale pa një analizë të plotë të produktivitetit dhe të kostove të biznesit mund të sjellë pasoja të kundërta, si mbyllje vendesh pune apo shtim të punësimit informal. Pa reforma strukturore, një vend si Shqipëria e ka të vështirë të garojë me rajonin vetëm me vendime të tilla politike”, u shpreh Zef Preçi, ekspert për ekonominë.

Megjithëse qeveria zotohet të mbulojë efektet që do të prodhojë rritja e pagës minimale për 18 muajt e parë, bizneset janë të shqetësuara për kostot shtesë që do ju vinë në drejtim të sigurimeve shoqërore dhe shëndetësore të punonjësve pas kësaj periudhe.

“Rritja e pagës minimale ashtu edhe pagat e tjera në rrjedhë, dhe kjo rrit kostot e operimit për kompanitë si e imja. Për 18 muajt e parë, shteti mbulon kontributet, por pas kësaj periudhe ne do të ndjejmë presion mbi bilancin dhe do të duhet të rimendojmë strategjitë e punësimit dhe investimit”, tha Florian Zekja, sipërmarrës në sektorin e manifakturës.

Aktualisht Shqipëria është vendi i parafundit në Ballkanin Perëndimor duke lënë pas vetëm Kosovën në drejtim të pagës minimale. Në Rajon kryesojë Mali i Zi dhe Serbia me respektivisht 670 dhe 618 euro, ndjekur nga Maqedonia e Veriut dhe Bosnje-Hercegovina./a2cnn

Momentet e fùndít të jetës, Shpati i kaloi në Itali, aty ku ndòdhej së báshkù me Selvijen për të kurùar të birin, Roelin. U deshën disa ditë që trupi i artistit të árrínte në Tetovë dhe më 30 nëntor u mbájt edhe ceremonia mortore, ku familjarë, miq, të afërm dhe të gjíthë ata që e njohën e nderuan në lamtumirën e fùndít.

Së fùndmi, Ahmed Kalaja ka bërë një dekláratë në rrjètet sòcíale, ku ka akùzuar mediat se nuk kanë treguar të vërtetën rreth asáj se kush u mor me transportimin e trupit të Shpatit për në Tetovë.

Sipas tij, ka qenë Mariglen Shehai, babai i Amarit, ai që është márrë me të gjítha shërbimet párá dhe pas vdèkjes së këngëtarit, si edhe me transportimin e trupit të tij.

 “Mediat nuk thanë të vërtetën krýesore se:
Mariglen Shehaj babai i Amarit. Vllai ynë Mariglen Shehaj është márrë me të gjítha shërbimet párá edhe pas vdèkjes së si edhe teansportimin e tij për në Tetovë. Zoti e shpërbleftë. Gjest madhështor. Mbarësi e Bekime e Udhëzím. Amin!
Nuk mohojmë áktin qe mùnd të ketë kontribues të tjerë për efekte proçeduriale ndërsa të mirat matreale ( shpenzímet) jane hèdhùr nga vellai ne fjale. Natën!” shkruan Ahmed Kalaja.

Gjykata Kushtetuese sqaron se pas analizimit fillestar, Kolegji vendosi që çështja t’i kalojë Mbledhjes së Gjyqtarëve, e cila do të vlerësojë nëse plotësohen të gjitha kriteret e pranueshmërisë për ta dërguar atë në seancë plenare apo jo.

NJOFTIM PËR SHTYP

Në vijim të njoftimit të mëparshëm për çështjen me kërkues Kryeministri i Republikës së Shqipërisë, Gjykata bën me dije si vijon: Kolegji i Gjykatës u mblodh sot në datën 02.12.2025, sipas planifikimit, për shqyrtimin paraprak të kërkesës. Kolegji vendosi kalimin e çështjes në Mbledhjen e Gjyqtarëve për të vlerësuar nëse plotësohen bashkërisht të gjitha kriteret e pranueshmërisë së saj për shqyrtim në seancë plenare në përputhje me nenin 31 të ligjit organik të Gjykatës Kushtetuese dhe nenin 24 të Rregullores për Procedurat Gjyqësore. Vendimmarrja e Mbledhjes së Gjyqtarëve do të njoftohet rregullisht në faqen zyrtare të Gjykatës Kushtetuese.

Reagimi i Ramës

Ndërkohë në një reagim kryeministri Edi Rama ka theksuar se është mbështetës i drejtësisë, ndërsa rithekson edhe një herë se nuk ka një rast të dytë në botë ku një prokuror dhe një gjykatës, i shkallës së parë të pezullojnë nga detyra një anëtar qeverie.

“Fjalët e shumta janë fukarallëk, gjeni një rast të dytë në botë ku një prokuror dhe një gjykatës – për më tepër edhe i shkallës së parë fare – pezullojnë nga detyra një anëtar qeverie! Se të më thoni që kjo qenka kaq normale, paçka se s’është parë kurrë, askund, në botën demokratike, është njësoj si të më thoni se drejtësia qenka normale vetëm në Shqipëri! E pra, pavarësisht se nga dita 1 kam qenë, jam e do të jem mbështetësi më i paepur i Reformës dhe Pavarësisë së Drejtësisë, këtë risi botërore të drejtësisë sonë të re, unë nuk e quaj dot asgjë tjetër përveçse një nga ato rrëzimet e fëmijës kur sapo ka mësuar të eci. Me ndryshimin që kur fëmija i vërtetë rrëzohet, lëndon vetëm vetveten, ndërsa kur drejtësia rrëshqet kështu si këtë herë, cënon parimet kushtetuese, prish balancën mes pushteteve të pavarura dhe ndërhyn brutalisht në procesin qeverisës.

Le të jemi të qartë: Qëllimi i lartë i luftës kundër korrupsionit nuk e justifikon përdorimin e asnjë mjeti të gabuar dhe historia e vendeve që kanë kaluar më parë nga kjo rrugë e domosdoshme, na mëson se justifikimi i mjeteve të gabuara për hir të qëllimit madhor, e kthen kurën me mjete të tilla, në një të keqe edhe më të madhe se sa vetë sëmundja që thuhet se këto mjete po kurojnë. Ky mësim nuk duhet harruar kurrësesi. Nga askush”, shkroi Rama.

Pezullimi

Gjykata e Posaçme vendosi që ta pezullonte Ballukun nga detyra dhe të ndalonte udhëtimin jashtë vendit, duke i bllokuar pasaportën.

Ajo u mor e pandehur disa javë më parë për akuzën e shkeljes së barazisë në tendera pasi akuzohet se ka manipuluar dy tendera me vlerë 210 milionë euro, së bashku me vartësit e saj më të ngushtë, Evis Berberi, Gentian Gjyli dhe Erald Elezi, duke favorizuar kompanitë fituese.

Kryeministri pretendon se me vemdimin e pezullimit të Ballukut, gjykata ka shkelur kompetencat e tij si kryeministër dhe prej dy ditësh ka rritur presionin publik ndaj Gjykatës Kushtetuese, duke kërkuar një vendimmarrje në favor të tij.

“Nëse pezullimi i një ministri nga një prokuror dhe gjykatës sot do të legjitimohej si një e drejtë e ligjshme e drejtësisë, atëherë shtrirja e krahut të gjyqësorit përtej kufirit ndarës me ekzekutivin dhe me vetë jetën politike do krijonte precedent unikal, të rrezikshëm dhe kërcënues, sepse duke i hapur rrugë presioneve politike ndaj qeverisë, destabilizimit institucional dhe manipulimit të ekzekutivit nëpërmjet procesve penale, do ndodhte diçka që është e panjohur në Europë,” tha Rama të hënën gjatë një video-mesazhi.

Rama e ka justifikuar ankimin në Kushtetuese si një betejë për pavarësinë e pushtetit ekzekutiv dhe mbrojtjen e kompetencave kryeministrore.

Hetimet per Ballukun

Prokuroria sqaron se nga hetimet janë evidentuar shkelje të barazisë së pjesëmarrësve në tendera dhe ankande publike, në kuadër të dy procedurave të rëndësishme prokurimi.

Në tenderin me objekt ndërtimin e Tunelit të Llogarasë, pjesë e seksionit rrugor Orikum-Himarë, me fond limit më shumë se 18.9 miliardë lekë pa TVSH, të zhvilluar nga ministria e Infrastrukturës dhe Energjisë, janë evidentuar veprime të kundraligjshme të pandehurës Belinda Balluku, e cila në cilësinë e ministrit të Infrastrukturës dhe Energjisë ka ndjekur dhe orientuar në vijimësi procedurën e këtij prokurimi publik, prej fazës përgatitore, e deri në momentin e lidhjes së kontratës me operatorin ekonomik fitues.

“E pandehura Belinda Balluku, në bashkëpunim me anëtarët e Komisionit të Vlerësimit të Ofertave, të pandehurit; Evis Berberi, Gentian Gjyli, Erald Elezi, Jetmira Dervishi dhe Mirzeta Kashnica, kanë paracaktuar fituesin e kësaj procedure prokurimi, kanë krijuar avantazhe dhe privilegje të padrejta për bashkimin e operatorëve ekonomikë fitues ‘I….dhe A…..’”, citohet në njoftim.

Po ashtu, shpjegohet se në kohën e kryerjes së veprimeve, i pandehuri Evis Berberi ka mbajtur funksionin si drejtor i Përgjithshëm i Autoritetit Rrugor Shqiptar; Erald Elezi ka qenë drejtor i Drejtorisë së Planifikimit Strategjik dhe Operacioneve në Autoritetin Rrugor Shqiptar; Gentian Gjyli si drejtor i Drejtorisë së Ndërtimit dhe i Mirëmbajtjes në Autoritetin Rrugor Shqiptar, ndërsa të pandehurat Jetmira Dervishi dhe Mirzeta Kashnica kanë qenë specialist të nivelit të Lartë në Ministrinë e Infrastrukturës dhe Energjisë.

Tenderi i dytë në të cilin Balluku është gjetur përgjegjëse është ai i Lotit 4 të Unazës së Jashtme Tiranë në vitin 2021, me fond limit 2 miliardë lekë pa TVSH, të zhvilluar nga ARRSH. Sipas SPAK, ka rezultuar se dhe në këtë rast, Balluku ka ndjekur dhe orientuar në vijimësi procedurën e këtij prokurimi publik të zhvilluar nga ARRSH, institucion në varësi të ministrisë që ajo drejton.

Edhe në këtë rast, Balluku akuzohet se në bashkëpunim me Berberin, tre anëtarët e njësisë së prokurimit, shtetasit J.Ç, A.K. e D.Xh, si dhe anëtarët e Komisionit të Vlerësimit të Ofertave, Erald Elezi, K.K. e M.Sh., kanë paracaktuar fituesin e tenderit duke krijuar avantazhe dhe privilegje të padrejta për bashkimin e operatorëve ekonomikë të shpallur fitues.

1. Employer-Sponsored Defined Contribution Plans

These are the most widely used retirement plans and include 401(k), 403(b), and 457(b) accounts. Contributions are typically deducted automatically from your paycheck and receive favorable tax treatment.

A traditional 401(k) is funded with pre-tax dollars and taxed upon withdrawal.

A Roth 401(k) is funded with after-tax dollars but allows tax-free growth and withdrawals in retirement.

Advantages:

Automatic and effortless saving

Employer matching contributions (essentially free money)

Access to a broad range of investment options

Drawbacks:

Early withdrawals usually trigger penalties

Limited control over the investment menu chosen by your employer

2. 403(b) and 457(b) Plans

403(b) Plans are designed for educators, nonprofit workers, and certain public-sector employees. They function similarly to 401(k)s, offering both traditional and Roth options with strong tax benefits, though investment choices may be limited.

457(b) Plans are available to government and select nonprofit employees. A key advantage is that withdrawals can be made before age 59½ without the usual early withdrawal penalties. However, these plans often lack employer matching and have restricted access rules.

3. Retirement Accounts for the Self-Employed and Business Owners

Self-employed individuals and small business owners have access to powerful retirement tools with higher contribution limits:

SEP IRA: Primarily funded by the employer (or self-employed individual), allowing contributions of up to 25% of compensation or $70,000 in 2025.

Solo 401(k): Designed for sole proprietors and married business partners, allowing combined employer and employee contributions up to approximately $70,000, with additional catch-up contributions for those over 50.

SIMPLE IRA: Easier to administer with modest contribution limits and mandatory employer matching.

These options offer superior tax advantages but require more administrative oversight.

4. Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs)

Traditional IRA: Contributions may be tax-deductible, but withdrawals are taxed as ordinary income in retirement.

Roth IRA: Contributions are made after-tax, but qualified withdrawals are completely tax-free. Roth IRAs also allow greater flexibility, including penalty-free access to contributions. Income limits may apply.

5. Traditional Pensions and Specialized Retirement Plans

Defined-Benefit Pensions: These guarantee a fixed monthly income for life and require no investment management from the employee. However, they are less portable and rely on the long-term stability of the employer.

Other Options: These include annuities, cash-balance plans, and deferred compensation programs that offer varying degrees of income security and tax treatment.

Choosing the Right Retirement Strategy

Many financial advisors recommend this sequence:

First, contribute enough to your employer plan to capture the full employer match.

Next, fund an IRA (Traditional or Roth, depending on your tax situation).

Then, return to your employer plan and maximize contributions if possible.

This layered approach creates tax-efficient and diversified retirement savings.

Why Using Multiple Accounts Matters

Diversifying across different account types—such as a 401(k), a Roth IRA, and taxable investment accounts—offers key advantages:

Access to both tax-deferred and tax-free retirement income

Greater flexibility in managing withdrawals and tax exposure

Improved liquidity through taxable investment accounts

Retirement Options for Freelancers and Small Business Owners

For entrepreneurs, SEP IRAs, SIMPLE IRAs, and Solo 401(k)s provide powerful tax-advantaged opportunities with higher savings limits and greater control over investments and contribution levels.

Final Thoughts

Employer-sponsored plans are excellent for automatic saving and employer matching.

IRAs provide greater personalization and strategic tax benefits—especially Roth accounts.

Self-employed retirement plans can dramatically accelerate wealth accumulation.

Combining multiple account types improves tax efficiency and financial flexibility.

While pensions and annuities are less common today, they can still offer valuable guaranteed income.

Sipas mediave, dyshimet për krizë në çift janë nxitur nga fakti se dyshja, sipas tyre, nuk e ndjekin më njëri-tjetrin në “Instagram” dhe se kanë fshirë fotot e përbashkëta, veprime këto që u interpretuan si fundi i lidhjes së tyre. Megjithatë, një verifikim i shpejtë tregon se ky informacion nuk qëndron.

Si Bora, ashtu edhe Donaldi, vazhdojnë të jenë në listën e ndjekësve të njëri-tjetrit në platformën e “Instagram”-it. Për të hedhur poshtë plotësisht zërat, Bora Zemani së fundmi ka shpërndarë në llogarinë e saj personale në “Instagram” një nga projektet e fundit të Donald Veshajt.

Ky veprim i fundit i moderatores konfirmon qartë se romanca mes dyshes vazhdon të jetë e fortë, duke hedhur poshtë zërat se marrëdhënia e tyre ka përfunduar. Dyshja prej kohësh ka preferuar që të mos shfaqet së bashku në publik, duke preferuar që të fokusohen në karrierat e tyre.

Nga njëra anë Bora vijon në ekran, sakaq Donaldi ka preferuar që të jetë larg ekranit, duke vazhduar me krijimet e tij në skulpturë, pikturë, por edhe arkitekturë. Megjithatë, shpeshherë në rrjetet sociale, çifti na ka dhënë copëza nga e përditshmja e tyre që është plot romancë.

Moderatorja Bora Zemani dhe aktori i humorit Donald Veshaj kanë marrë vëmendjen e fansave vetëm pak kohë më parë me disa foto të shkrepura në krahë të njëri-tjetrit.

Çifti i cili bëri bujë me romancën e tyre, jo më larg se dy vite më parë, janë parë më të dashuruar se kurrë teksa pozojnë ëmbëlsisht para kamerës. Herë duke u përqafuar e herë duke vallëzuar, dyshja kanë postuar momente të lumtura të cilat nuk kanë kaluar pa u vënë re nga ndjekësit.

Bora ka folur publikisht për këtë raport, duke prekur edhe një temë, që ndjekësit e shumtë që kjo dyshe ka mezi po e presin. Ajo mes tjerash ka folur edhe për dasmën, pasi u tha se do të jetë në vitin e ardhshëm.

Unë nuk e shoh si një gjë kaq të rëndësishme se nuk më bën ndonjë ndryshim shumë të madh, e martuar apo e pamartuar me Dondaldin. Ne jetojmë bashkë, e shijojmë marrëdhënien tonë në të gjitha drejtimet kështu që nuk është se do më ndryshonte diçka në raportin tonë një martesë”, – u shpreh ajo.

Ferdinandi deklaron se kishte dy vite e gjysmë pa folur me vëllanë e tij, për shkak se bashkëshortja e Anestit nuk e lejonte të kishte kontakt me familjen. Ai pohon se marrëdhënia mes çiftit kishte kohë që ishte përkeqësuar dhe se gruaja e viktimës e kishte shprehur hapur mosdashjen ndaj tij.

“E kemi ditur më përpara, nuk shkonin mirë. Ajo thoshte ‘nuk e dua burrin, merreni ju, bëni çfarë të doni’. Ka thënë vetë ‘unë nuk e dua’. Vëllai punonte. Ata kanë dy vajza,” – u shpreh ai.

Lajmin për vrasjen makabre Ferdinand Rama e mori nga kunata, e cila telefonoi gruan e tij në Greqi dhe i komunikoi se Anesti kishte ndërruar jetë.

“Lajmëroi gruan time në telefon dhe i tha se Anesti ka vdekur,” – kujton ai me tronditje.

Për gjendjen shëndetësore të të ndjerit, Ferdinand Rama thotë se informohej përmes një vëllai tjetër, pasi kontaktet direkte i kishte të ndërprera.

“Më thoshte është mirë, por pak i dobët, ka pak kollë.”

Dëshmia e tij përforcon dyshimet se në familjen Rama ka pasur probleme të thella që mund të kenë kontribuar në përshkallëzimin drejt krimit. Gruaja e viktimës dyshohet se ka bashkëpunuar me të bijën për të inskenuar ngjarjen si aksidentale dhe është aktualisht e shoqëruar nga policia për hetime të mëtejshme.

Ngjarja makabre në Fier ka tronditur opinionin publik dhe ka rikthyer në qendër të vëmendjes dramën e heshtur që ndodh pas mureve të shtëpive, aty ku shpesh problemet familjare lihen në harresë derisa është tepër vonë.

Raporti i fundit, i përfunduar në janar të vitit 2025, thekson se spitali nuk plotëson ende kushtet bazë për një trajtim të denjë të të sëmurëve, edhe pse numri i rasteve të reja është në rritje. Mungesa e shtretërve dhe poltronave mbetet një ndër problemet kryesore, duke pamundësuar shtrimin në kohë të pacientëve në nevojë.

Kontrolli i Lartë i Shtetit i kërkon spitalit që të marrë masa urgjente për të përmirësuar kapacitetet pritëse dhe për të krijuar ambiente të përshtatshme për terapinë e pacientëve onkologjikë. Mungesa e stafit mjekësor dhe infermieror është një tjetër problem që ndikon direkt në rritjen e kohës së pritjes dhe në cilësinë e shërbimit.

Në raportin e KLSH-së vihet në dukje se shumë prej dhomave të pacientëve janë të dëmtuara nga lagështira, ndërsa sistemi i kondicionimit nuk funksionon në pjesë të mëdha të godinës. Veçanërisht shqetësuese është gjendja e katit nëntokë të spitalit, i cili në vend që të jetë hapësirë funksionale për shërbime mjekësore, është kthyer në një magazinë për pajisje të vjetra dhe të amortizuara. Institucioni kërkon ndërhyrje të menjëhershme për pastrim, dezinfektim dhe rikonstruksion të këtij kati.

Një boshllëk i madh mbetet edhe mungesa e njësisë së kujdesit paliativ – e domosdoshme për ata pacientë që ndodhen në fazat e avancuara të sëmundjes. Edhe pse një rekomandim për ngritjen e saj u dha që në vitin 2023, deri më sot ekziston vetëm një grup pune në nivel ministrie, ndërsa njësia vetë nuk është funksionalizuar.

Sipas të dhënave zyrtare, sëmundjet tumorale përbëjnë shkakun e tretë më të shpeshtë të vdekjeve në vend, duke zënë 15.3% të totalit. Megjithatë, KLSH ngre shqetësimin për mungesën e një baze të unifikuar të të dhënave, pasi institucione të ndryshme raportojnë shifra që shpesh bien ndesh me njëra-tjetrën. Kjo e bën të vështirë vlerësimin real të situatës epidemiologjike.

Kontrolli i Lartë i Shtetit i bën thirrje Ministrisë së Shëndetësisë, QSUT-së, ISHP-së dhe spitaleve rajonale që të bashkëpunojnë për të krijuar një regjistër kombëtar funksional dhe të përditësuar për rastet e reja me kancer dhe ecurinë e tyre klinike. Vetëm përmes një sistemi të besueshëm të informacionit, mund të ndërtohen politika të qarta për përballimin e kësaj sëmundjeje që po prek çdo vit mijëra shqiptarë.

Situata problematike nga temperaturat e larta do të jenë në Elbasan dhe Berat ku termometri do të ngjitet serish deri në 40 gradë Celcius.

Orët e vona të mbrëmjes do të sjellin vranësira të lehta e kalimtare vetëm në zonat Verilindore dhe Juglindore.

Temperaturat e ajrit do të rriten sërisht në mëngjes dhe në mesditë duke luhatur vlerat ditore nga nga 10°C vlera më e ulët e shënuar në Pukë deri në 40°C vlera maksimale e cila do të shënohet në Elbasan.

Balla sqaron se ruhet 24 orë nga Policia e Shtetit dhe se skema për atentatin ndaj tij ishte e ngjashme me ato ndaj dy prokuroreve të tjera, njëra në Lushnje dhe tjetra në SPAK.

Në intervistë, Balla ndalet edhe te përvoja si prokuror në Lushnje gjatë vitit 1997, përplasja me Prokurorin e Përgjithshëm të kohës, zgjedhja e Altin Dumanit në krye të SPAK-ut dhe ndikimi i Ambasadës Amerikane në këtë proces.

Ai flet hapur për atë që e cilëson si deformim të Reformës në Drejtësi, për përjashtimin e tij nga sistemi nga Ina Rama, Sokol Çomo dhe Rezarta Shultz, si dhe për vendimmarrje të dyfishta gjatë vettingut, ku sipas tij u larguan njerëz të ndershëm dhe mbetën të korruptuar.

Për më shumë detaje dhe zbardhje ekskluzive, intervista mund të ndiqet në platformat zyrtare të “Ma Shqip me Flamur Vezaj”.

Por rrjedha e fortë dhe mungesa e kushteve të sigurisë bënë që larja të kthehej në një tragjedi të rëndë. Të miturit nuk arritën të dilnin më në breg, pavarësisht përpjekjeve të banorëve të zonës dhe forcave të emergjencës që mbërritën menjëherë në vendngjarje. Trupat e pajetë të dy fëmijëve u gjetën pak më vonë në një kanal të lumit më poshtë, duke konfirmuar fatin e tyre tragjik.

Ngjarja ka tronditur komunitetin lokal dhe ka sjellë edhe një herë në vëmendje mungesën e masave mbrojtëse në zonat ku fëmijët shpesh lëvizin të pashoqëruar dhe të pambrojtur. Familja e tyre dhe banorët janë të shokuar nga humbja e parakohshme e dy jetëve të njoma, në një pasdite që duhej të ishte e zakonshme.p>

Autoritetet kanë nisur hetimet për të zbardhur rrethanat e plota të kësaj tragjedie.
 

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Sipas Ramës, për të realizuar këtë qëllim, do të nevojitet një transformim i thellë i Agjencisë së Inovacionit, më shumë sensibilizim dhe përfshirje e të gjitha institucioneve përkatëse, ndërkohë që teknologjia ekzistuese e bën plotësisht të mundur këtë tranzicion. Ai tha se Shqipëria ka potencialin të çlirohet nga “një barrë pluhuri dhe ferrash në jetën e përditshme” përmes digjitalizimit të plotë të transaksioneve financiare, duke shtuar se dokumentet e ardhshme të politikës teknologjike duhet të jenë të lirshme, kreative dhe pa kufizime të panevojshme.

Në vijim të takimeve për “Shqipërinë 2030”, Rama u ndal edhe tek sfidat për integrimin europian, por sidomos tek nevoja për ta përshpejtuar ritmin e zhvillimit teknologjik në vend. Ai kritikoi hapur bankat e nivelit të dytë, duke i akuzuar për prapambetje që, sipas tij, po kërcënon progresin e sektorit të inovacionit. Megjithëse legjislacioni përkatës është miratuar dhe instrumentet ligjore ekzistojnë, Rama shprehu zhgënjim për ngurrimin e bankave për të ecur me të njëjtin ritëm si zhvillimet teknologjike.

Duke ndarë edhe eksperiencat nga bashkëpunimet me inovatorë vendas, ai theksoi se është njohur me ide dhe projekte premtuese, përfshirë një qendër mendimi novator dhe një sërë eventesh që pritet të realizohen në të ardhmen. Sipas tij, fokusi do të jetë në sektorët kyç si ndërtimi dhe turizmi, ndërkohë që qeveria do të përpiqet të krijojë një urë më të fortë komunikimi me sektorin bankar për të kapërcyer vonesat që po frenojnë progresin teknologjik në vend.

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PROF.DR. ELMAS LECI

“Në një rrëfim të gjatë dhe të ngarkuar me kujtime të rënda, gjenerali Halim Ramohito, një prej figurave ushtarake që e ka ndjerë drejtëpërdrejt goditjen e regjimit të Enver Hoxhës, ndalet te marrëdhëniet me Kinën dhe roli i ndihmës së saj ushtarake në mbajtjen në këmbë të Ushtrisë shqiptare në vitet më të vështira. Ai përmend një letër që Mao Ce Duni i dërgon Enverit, ku e akuzon për mosmirënjohje, duke i kujtuar se ndihma e dhënë ishte e sinqertë dhe nuk meritonte një trajtim kaq përçmues. Sipas tij, pavarësisht retorikës së Hoxhës, ndihmat kineze ishin jetike dhe u zbatuan me përpikëri në çdo aspekt, veçanërisht në atë ushtarak. Me buxhetin e vogël të shtetit shqiptar, nuk mund të sigurohej asgjë më shumë sesa pagat dhe shpenzimet minimale të kuadrove, ndërkohë që armatimet e rënda dhe logjistika moderne vinin në sasi të mëdha nga Kina. Gjithçka që ndërtohej, nga betonimi i bunkerëve te riparimi i motorëve të avionëve luftarakë, ishte mbështetur nga ndihmat teknike dhe financiare të kinezëve.

Ai rrëfen se megjithë kontributin e jashtëzakonshëm të Kinës, Enver Hoxha filloi ta përçmonte këtë ndihmë, duke e konsideruar si detyrë të Pekinit dhe duke pretenduar se gjithçka ishte paguar deri në një. Në realitet, sipas Ramohitos, këto ndihma ishin të pallogaritshme në vlerë dhe vinin pa kusht, në një kohë kur Shqipëria ishte braktisur nga Traktati i Varshavës dhe kishte ndërprerë çdo lidhje me Bashkimin Sovjetik. Pas vitit 1968, kur Shqipëria u shkëput zyrtarisht nga ky traktat, nevoja për armë u bë edhe më emergjente dhe Kina ishte e vetmja aleate që ofronte gjithçka, nga raketat e deri te tanket dhe avionët luftarakë. Gjeneralët shqiptarë, që kishin qenë pjesë e delegacioneve në Pekin, konfirmojnë se lista e kërkesave që Hoxha i dërgoi Mao Ce Dunit në vitin 1975 ishte kolosale dhe përfshinte armatime të çdo lloji, anije luftarake, helikopterë, madje edhe furnizime për ndërtimin e fabrikave të riparimit dhe prodhimit në Shqipëri.

Në këtë sfond, ai përmend edhe cinizmin me të cilin Hoxha kërkonte ndihma, ndërkohë që paralelisht sulmonte dhe dënonte ushtarakët shqiptarë me akuza të rënda për sabotim. Ndërkohë, kinezët investuan në fabrika armatimi, uzina riparimi për tanke dhe avionë, e madje edhe në prodhimin e municioneve. Gjithçka, sipas Ramohitos, u bë me bindjen se Shqipëria duhej të ishte në gjendje të mbronte veten në rast ndonjë sulmi të jashtëm, duke qenë se Kina, për shkak të largësisë, nuk mund të ndërhynte drejtpërdrejt në ndonjë konflikt të armatosur.

Por nuk mungojnë edhe kontrastet: ndërsa Kina ndihmonte për modernizimin e ushtrisë, Enver Hoxha, i frikësuar nga fuqizimi i kuadrove, futi praktika ideologjike të frymëzuara nga revolucioni kulturor, si heqja e gradave, emërimi i komisarëve politikë dhe përfshirja e kuadrove në punë fizike. Këto masa çuan në dobësimin e hierarkisë dhe disiplinës ushtarake, ndërkohë që vetë Kina, në vitet ’80, i braktisi këto eksperimente dhe i riktheu gradat dhe strukturat klasike të komandimit. Shqipëria, përkundrazi, mbeti pa grada deri në vitin 1992.

Gjithë ky bashkëpunim me Kinën, siç dëshmojnë vetë oficerët dhe dokumentet zyrtare, ishte një përpjekje e sinqertë e një vendi të madh për të ndihmuar një vend të vogël që kërkonte të mbijetonte ushtarakisht në një mjedis armiqësor. Kinezët nuk kërkuan asnjëherë këshilltarë ushtarakë në ushtrinë shqiptare, por ndihmuan aty ku kishte nevojë reale, qoftë në prodhimin vendas të armatimit, qoftë në stacione komunikimi apo riparimi teknik. Në fund, mbetet e qartë se ndihmat kineze nuk ishin as të pakta, as të kushtëzuara, por të mëdha, të sinqerta dhe të pashlyera, dhe mënyra se si u trajtuan nga udhëheqja shqiptare mbetet një ndër momentet më të errëta të diplomacisë së asaj kohe.

*Autori, Drejtor Ekzekutiv Instituti i Sigurisë e Mbrojtjes

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Pamjet, të cilat janë dërguar nga një qytetar përmes JOQ, tregojnë qartë momentin në të cilin çifti, pa asnjë ndjenjë turpi apo respekti për ambientin publik dhe të pranishmit e mundshëm, shfrytëzon errësirën e natës për të kryer aktin në rërë, fare pranë shezlloneve të pushuesve.

“Përshëndetje JOQ, ja në Lungomare në Vlorë shiko çfarë bëhet, tek çadrat e bashkisë po kryejnë marr–hënie. Nuk kanë lekë për hotel mesa duket…”, shkruan qytetari i revoltuar.

Ngjarja ka shkaktuar reagime të shumta, sidomos mes familjarëve dhe kalimtarëve që frekuentojnë zonën gjatë orëve të mbrëmjes për shëtitje apo pushim. Mungesa e kontrollit dhe patrullimit në zonat publike është kthyer në një shqetësim të përhershëm, veçanërisht gjatë sezonit turistik.

Qytetarët kërkojnë që autoritetet vendore dhe policia bashkiake të marrin masa për të garantuar rendin dhe etikën në hapësirat publike, në mënyrë që Vlorës të mos i mbeten vetëm emri dhe flamuri, por edhe dinjiteti si qytet turistik.

“This is not a nice business,” Trump told reporters before boarding Marine One. “We’re going to teach them [immigrants] how to run away from an alligator if they escape prison. Don’t run in a straight line — run like this,” he said, gesturing in a zig-zag motion. “And you know what? Your chances go up by about 1%.”

Chuckling, he added, “Not a good day.”

‘Alligator Alcatraz’ in the Swamp
The new detention center, officially located at the Dade-Collier Training and Transition Airport near Ochopee, sits about 55 miles west of Miami — and right in the heart of alligator country. The facility consists of tents and trailers originally intended for emergency disaster response. Inside, bunk beds are separated by chain-link fencing.

Trump arrived at the site shortly after 11 a.m. alongside DHS Secretary Kristi Noem and was greeted by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis before touring the compound.

“We’ll have a lot of people who decide to deport themselves once they see ‘Alligator Alcatraz,’” DeSantis said. “No one’s going anywhere — not with those alligators out there.”

The name was coined by DeSantis and Homeland Security officials, leaning into the Everglades’ notorious landscape as a natural security barrier.

A Harsh Message for a Harsh Facility
Critics have raised concerns about placing detainees in such a hostile environment, given Florida’s brutal heat, dangerous wildlife, and exposure to hurricanes. But Trump administration officials have downplayed those risks — or, more precisely, turned them into part of the deterrence.

“People don’t have to come here,” Noem told reporters inside one of the tents. “They can self-deport.”

Similar sentiments have come from other GOP figures.

“They can’t get caught in a hurricane if they self-deport,” quipped Florida GOP executive director Bill Helmich in a post on X.

Trump’s Vision, Florida’s Execution
Though the facility has Florida’s backing, DeSantis emphasized that it was a Trump administration initiative.

“We had a request from the federal government to do it, and so ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ it is,” DeSantis said last week. “From a security perspective, if someone escapes — well, there’s a lot of alligators out there they’ll have to get past.”

Whether the image of alligator-infested swampland as a prison perimeter strikes fear, controversy, or both — it’s clear the Trump administration is leaning hard into symbolism and spectacle.

And as Trump continues to highlight border security heading into the next election cycle, the Everglades may now serve as the backdrop for one of the boldest — and most controversial — immigration deterrents yet.

While Sen. Pete Ricketts, R-Neb., was presiding over the chamber, Schumer raised a point of order targeting lines three to five on the bill’s first page, which read:

“SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill Act.’”

Schumer argued the title violated Section 313 B1A of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974, commonly known as the Byrd Rule, which bars “extraneous” provisions in reconciliation bills. Ricketts sustained the objection, effectively removing the name from the legislation.

“This is not a ‘big, beautiful bill’ at all,” Schumer told reporters afterward. “It’s now called ‘the act’ — but what it really is, is the ‘Big Ugly Betrayal,’ and the American people know it.”

Schumer didn’t hold back, warning that the bill’s impacts would be long-lasting and devastating:

“Tens of millions will lose health insurance. Millions of jobs will vanish. People will get sick and die. Kids will go hungry. And the national debt will explode to unprecedented levels.”

He went on to cite the retirement of Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., who announced he would not seek re-election rather than support what Schumer called a “catastrophic” vote for his constituents.

Asked whether he intended the name change to antagonize Trump, Schumer replied:

“I didn’t even think of Trump. I thought of the truth. If you lose your health insurance, if you lose your job in clean energy, or if you can’t feed your kid on $5 a day — there’s nothing ‘beautiful’ about that.”

Narrow Passage After All-Night Session
Despite fierce Democratic opposition, Trump’s bill passed the Senate early Tuesday morning in a 51-50 vote after an all-night vote-a-rama. Vice President JD Vance cast the tiebreaking vote.

Every Democrat voted against the bill, joined by Republicans Rand Paul (Ky.), Susan Collins (Maine), and Thom Tillis (N.C.).

Vance defended the package as a win for working Americans.

“Massive tax cuts, especially no tax on tips and overtime. And most importantly, big money for border security,” Vance posted on social media. “This is a big win for the American people.”

He also echoed comments made by longtime GOP strategist Roger Stone, who pushed back on concerns over the bill’s projected $3.3 trillion addition to the deficit:

“Federal revenues spiked after the 2017 Trump tax cuts, just like after Reagan and JFK,” Stone wrote. “The deficit is caused by overspending — which we’re addressing through rescission bills. And by the way, the CBO is always wrong.”

Progressives Cry Foul
Democrats were quick to condemn the bill’s passage.

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., wrote on X:

“JD Vance was the deciding vote to cut Medicaid across the country. An absolute and utter betrayal of working families.”

Despite early hesitation, Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, ultimately backed the bill after GOP leaders included Alaska-specific carveouts to secure her vote.

What’s Next
The legislation now heads back to the House, where lawmakers must reconcile differences between the House and Senate versions — particularly around Medicaid provisions. Republican leaders are racing to finalize the bill and deliver it to President Trump’s desk by July 4.

If they succeed, the fireworks won’t just be in the sky — they’ll be on Capitol Hill, too.

Eliasard Moneus received the sentence on Tuesday from Tippecanoe Superior Court Judge Steve Meyer, following his May guilty plea to one count of murder and one count of attempted murder. According to court records, he was given 62 years for the murder of his infant son, Jacob Moneus, and 30 years for the attempted murder of his wife, Edlie Moneus. The sentences will be served consecutively.

During the sentencing hearing, prosecutors detailed the horrifying circumstances surrounding the crime, which occurred in August 2024.

“It doesn’t really get worse than this,” said Tippecanoe County Deputy Prosecutor Elyse Madigan, as reported by the Journal & Courier. “A father put his 3-month-old son face down in a bucket of laundry detergent, sealed the lid, left his son to die, and then went to the next room and viciously attacked the baby’s mother.”

Madigan told the court that Moneus admitted to committing the crime to “teach his wife a lesson” about disrespecting men. Jacob died from asphyxiation, having swallowed approximately 100 milliliters of detergent before drowning.

“The defendant said repeatedly he didn’t care what the consequences were,” Madigan continued. “He could not live without teaching Edlie a lesson, and he didn’t care if he spent the rest of his life in prison — which is exactly where he belongs.”

Speaking through a French Creole interpreter, Moneus offered an apology for his actions, but Judge Meyer dismissed the gesture.

“You killed your own child,” the judge said. “This is one of the most grotesque murders I have ever had to see. The thought of putting a 3-month-old upside down into a bucket of laundry detergent is unimaginable.”

According to a probable cause affidavit, police were first alerted on August 10, 2024, when Moneus’ wife arrived at a local hospital with a fractured skull. She told authorities that her husband had assaulted her with a tire iron or wrench and then fled their home with their infant son.

When Lafayette Police responded to the residence, they found signs of a violent struggle, including blood spatter. However, the baby was missing.

Moneus was arrested the following day but initially told detectives he did not know where his son was. On August 11, a further search of the couple’s home uncovered Jacob’s body inside a sealed orange bucket filled with dark liquid, positioned next to the kitchen trash can.

An autopsy later confirmed that Jacob died of asphyxiation after being submerged in the detergent-filled container.

Caught off guard, Mills responded to a pointed question — “Is sniffing cocaine at work a human right?” — with a stunned, “What the f—?” before walking away without offering an answer. A follow-up question — “How much more does an eight-ball cost with inflation?” — was also ignored.

The exchange, captured on video and shared with Fox News Digital, resurfaced just as a recently unearthed memo from the U.S. Department of Justice contradicts Mills’ decades-old narrative that she was the target of a politically charged smear campaign.

A Case Reopened by History
Back in the early 1990s, Mills — then a district attorney in Maine — came under investigation by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the DEA, and Maine’s Bureau of Intergovernmental Drug Enforcement (BIDE) after a drug suspect alleged she had used cocaine. Although no charges were filed, Mills consistently maintained that the probe lacked merit and was retribution for her criticism of BIDE’s overzealous enforcement tactics.

In fact, Mills and two other Maine DAs publicly accused BIDE in 1990 of inflating arrest stats by targeting low-level drug offenders, a stance she believed made her a political target.

“Maine apparently has a secret police force at work that can ruin the reputation of any who opposes it,” she told the Portland Press Herald in 1991.

But a 1995 memo from the DOJ’s Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) — addressed to the deputy attorney general, where Merrick Garland was then serving as principal associate — tells a different story.

According to the memo, federal investigators found no misconduct by any state or federal agency involved in the Mills case. Her claims that she was targeted for political reasons, that witnesses were coerced, or that information was leaked to the press — all were found to be unsubstantiated.

“The USAO in Maine conducted a proper investigation of serious allegations; no misconduct of any kind can fairly be attributed to any member of that office,” the DOJ concluded.

Media Leak, Libel Suit, and Biden’s Intervention
The case first gained public attention in 1990 when WCSH-TV reported that Mills was under investigation by a federal grand jury, citing law enforcement sources. Mills subsequently sued the reporter for libel and slander, alleging improper leaks by BIDE agents — though court records related to that lawsuit were disposed of in 2015.

In January 1992, then-Senator Joe Biden intervened, requesting that DOJ/OPR examine allegations that the Maine U.S. Attorney’s Office had mishandled the investigation and intimidated witnesses. That request followed a letter from two Maine lawmakers, Patrick Paradis and N. Paul Gauvreau, who alleged the misconduct went beyond BIDE and implicated federal authorities.

Despite this high-profile attention, the DOJ ultimately cleared all involved agencies of any wrongdoing.

Still, Mills continued to claim she had been smeared for speaking out.

“It’s awfully coincidental this investigation was leaked shortly after my comments about BIDE,” she said in 1991. “It sets a very bad precedent when a prosecutor has to look over their shoulder every time they put someone in jail.”

No Comment from Mills’ Office
Fox News Digital reached out to Mills’ office several times for comment on the DOJ memo, but received no response.

This isn’t the first time Mills has accused others of politically driven investigations. Earlier this year, she charged President Donald Trump with launching a “politically directed investigation” into Maine’s Department of Education. That accusation came just days after Mills and Trump clashed at a White House meeting of the National Governors Association, where the president warned her to enforce his executive order barring biological males from women’s sports or risk losing federal funding.

“We’ll see you in court,” Mills replied — and that’s where the legal battle now sits.

A Senate Bid on the Horizon?
With Mills term-limited as governor in 2026, political observers are eyeing her as a potential challenger to longtime Republican Senator Susan Collins. Though Mills claimed in April that she has “no plans to run for another office,” she also added that “things change week to week, month to month.”

With questions about her past resurfacing and DOJ records now contradicting her longtime defense, any political ambitions she may have could face renewed scrutiny.

But admiration for a leader should never translate into blind allegiance.

And nothing makes that clearer than Trump’s turbulent rapport with Elon Musk — the outspoken former head of the Department of Government Efficiency and a frequent critic of the so-called One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBB).

(Also worth mentioning: Trump’s long-standing resistance to fiscal conservatives who warn about America’s skyrocketing debt — which, let’s be honest, is a problem that’s not going away on its own.)

Now, this isn’t about praising Musk. He’s no saint in this saga. He’s had his missteps, and his clashes with Trump haven’t always been elegant.

But the issue isn’t Musk himself — it’s the message he’s pushing. And that’s why Trump’s latest dig at him was so disappointing.

During a press briefing on Tuesday, Trump was asked about Musk’s renewed opposition to the OBBB.

One reporter asked bluntly:
“Are you going to deport Elon Musk?”

The president, caught off guard, replied:
“I don’t know. I mean, we’ll have to take a look. We might have to put DOGE on Elon.”

He added:
“You know what DOGE is? DOGE is the monster that might have to go back and eat Elon. Wouldn’t that be terrible?”

Was Trump joking? Almost certainly. That won’t stop the legacy media from pouncing on the soundbite like it’s a national scandal.

It’s worth pointing out that Musk — whose company Tesla would presumably benefit from EV subsidies — has repeatedly denied Trump’s claim that his opposition to the bill stems from cuts to those subsidies.

Still, none of this changes a fundamental truth: Elon Musk, as a U.S. citizen since 2002, has every right to voice concerns — especially when it comes to America’s unsustainable fiscal trajectory.

Even if Musk were voicing radical left-wing ideas (which he isn’t), he would still be entitled to do so — without facing the specter of deportation.

To be clear, Trump didn’t do anything scandalous with that offhand comment. But the optics of hinting at deportation over policy criticism? Unnecessary, and unhelpful.

Trump and his supporters have every right to defend the OBBB if they believe it’s critical to America’s future. That’s part of the democratic process.

But disagreement with a bill — no matter how “big” or “beautiful” it may be — is not grounds for removing someone from the country.

Agreeing with a president’s agenda has never been a condition for citizenship in the United States. And it shouldn’t start now.

🔥🔥 Reporter: Are you going to deport Elon Musk?

Trump: We'll have to take a look. We might have to put DOGE on Elon. You know what DOGE is, the monster that might have to go back and eat Elon, wouldn't that be terrible. He gets a lot of subsidies. pic.twitter.com/CwIHLykUab

— Breaking911 (@Breaking911) July 1, 2025

Though no official declaration has been made, Russian General Apti Alaudinov—a top ally of President Vladimir Putin—declared last month that “the third world war has already begun.” In a chilling statement, Alaudinov urged the Kremlin to mobilize up to one million troops, warning that the conflict is already shifting into a new and more dangerous phase.

“We need to prepare at least half a million people in advance,” Alaudinov said. “But realistically, one million. We must start preparing them for the fact that the war has already begun… World War 3.”

His remarks come amid intensifying clashes between Iran and Israel, with Iran being one of Russia’s closest strategic partners. Alaudinov framed the ongoing conflict as part of a broader global struggle, calling for unity within Russia to deter any adversaries from following the path taken against other nations—most notably, Iran.

“No one should dare to play with us as they did with others,” he warned. “We must unite at every level.”

Meanwhile, in the United Kingdom, concerns have also surged—particularly regarding nuclear threats. In a newly released National Security Strategy, Prime Minister Keir Starmer cautioned that the nuclear threat facing the UK and its allies is “once again growing.”

“This challenge may prove more complex than during the Cold War,” the strategy reads. “We now face a world with more nuclear-capable states, the spread of disruptive technologies, and a breakdown in global arms control agreements.”

The warning has left many citizens wondering how to prepare for a worst-case scenario—especially in the event of blackouts, infrastructure failures, or even attacks.

The UK government’s “Prepare” campaign now advises households to stock up on essentials that may seem minor but could prove lifesaving in a crisis. Among them: a wind-up radio.

“There might be updates communicated by radio during a power cut,” the guidance explains. “A car radio can be used, but in severe weather or conflict scenarios, it’s safer to remain indoors.”

Citizens are also encouraged to write down local and national radio frequencies in case internet and power services go down.

Another item to consider? A wind-up flashlight—a reliable light source that doesn’t rely on batteries or electricity, especially in long-term blackout situations.

While most of the world hopes to avoid global war, rhetoric from powerful officials and military preparations paint a darker picture. Whether these warnings are premature or prescient, world leaders and civilians alike are increasingly aware: the rules of peace are shifting—and so is the world order.

During a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania last year, then-candidate Trump was grazed by a bullet fired by 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks. The assailant killed one audience member and critically injured two others before he was taken out by the Secret Service’s elite Counter Sniper Team. Trump, bleeding from the ear, famously raised a defiant fist in the air as he was rushed off stage—a moment that quickly went viral and rallied MAGA supporters nationwide.

In the aftermath, Trump appeared in public with a large bandage over his ear, and supporters mimicked the look as a badge of solidarity. But now, less than a year later, images of his seemingly pristine ear have sparked a fresh wave of conspiracy theories online.

Critics on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) are comparing older photos of Trump’s ear from 2018 with recent close-ups taken in 2025, questioning how the President’s cartilage could appear so flawless.

“Ear cartilage generally does NOT regrow,” one user declared.
Another chimed in: “This might be the biggest scam ever. No follow-up from mainstream media. Just silence and acceptance.”
A third wrote, “He couldn’t even commit to actually injuring his ear to make it believable. Think about that. The cognitive dissonance is deafening.”

Some are even asking AI for answers. One user claimed Elon Musk’s chatbot responded:

“The ear’s appearance in 2025 images may reflect natural healing, not staging. While cartilage doesn’t regrow, misinformation and recycled images fuel skepticism without real evidence.”

Of course, the more level-headed voices online point out that Trump is a billionaire with access to the world’s top plastic surgeons. Cartilage reconstruction is not only possible—it’s been practiced for decades. Lab-grown ears, cartilage implants, and regenerative medicine have advanced to the point where recreating an ear, especially for someone with Trump’s resources, is entirely feasible.

“You don’t think the best surgeons in the world can fix an ear? Come on,” one commenter mocked.

Still, this hasn’t stopped the internet from running wild with speculation—just as it has with previous theories, including claims that Melania Trump has a body double or was secretly signaling distress via Morse code.

In the end, while the idea of a “fake shooting” may thrill certain corners of the internet, it doesn’t hold up under scrutiny. With photographic evidence of the shooting, eyewitness accounts, and a dead would-be assassin, experts say this conspiracy is likely headed straight for the “debunked” file.

But as history shows, in the age of viral content and distrust in media, no conspiracy ever truly dies—it just mutates.

Ear cartilage generally does NOT regrow. pic.twitter.com/CCSPqQrXUu

— Joe G (@EastEndJoe) June 30, 2025

Tatsuki, who authored the cult-favorite manga The Future I Saw in 1999, claimed she’s had prophetic visions since the 1980s. Several of her past predictions — including specific dates — have reportedly come true, bolstering her cult following. But it’s her depiction of the “boiling ocean” in southern Japan that has recently captured public attention, especially following a 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28.

That real-world tremor sent anxiety levels soaring. In the days that followed, Japanese authorities released new worst-case scenario models for a mega-quake in the Nankai Trough, and the Chinese Embassy in Tokyo issued a notice advising citizens to stay alert and consider safer travel arrangements. That combination was enough to set off a cascade of travel cancellations, especially from Hong Kong.

Flight bookings have dropped to 83%, according to NDTV, and at least two major Hong Kong-based airlines have cut back routes to Japan. Tokushima’s Tourism Promotion Division called the sudden wave of cancellations “surprising” and lamented that “such rumors” had driven so many people away.

But scientists are urging calm — and common sense.

“There is no scientific method today that allows us to predict the precise time or location of an earthquake,” said Professor Sekiya Naoya of the University of Tokyo, in a statement to NHK. “This is fear-mongering, not science.”

Kimiro Meguro, a disaster mitigation engineering professor at Tokyo University, echoed the skepticism. “A manga from decades ago cannot forecast a major seismic event,” he told This Week in Asia. “These rumors only heighten public anxiety and can be harmful in other ways.”

Adding to the frenzy, a feng shui expert in Hong Kong recently echoed concerns about a July earthquake in Japan — further fueling speculation. But experts warn that the viral spread of unverified predictions, especially across social media, is doing real harm to Japan’s economy and public confidence.

Miyagi Governor Yoshihiro Murai weighed in on the situation, criticizing the way superstition has been allowed to steer public behavior. “It’s a serious problem when information without scientific backing goes viral and impacts our tourism industry,” he said.

As July 5 approaches, many are watching and waiting — some with curiosity, others with dread. But experts stress the importance of relying on science, not superstition.

For now, Tatsuki’s so-called “prophecy” remains just that: a rumor. And like many before it, time will be the ultimate judge.

Kelly Kuabala, a single mom raising her son Jack, found herself overwhelmed with emotion after checking her Ring app and catching a touching moment between herself and her little boy. What started as a quick hello turned into a viral-worthy exchange of love.

Kelly, who works full time, says she uses the doorbell camera as a way to stay connected while away from home. “It gives me a sense of security, but also lets me feel a little closer to Jack during the day,” she tells PEOPLE. “We make the most of the time we do have together.”

Their usual routine is packed with love and activity: “We wake up, I drink my coffee, he eats breakfast, then we play a game — maybe a board game or some Mario Kart — before heading out to school and work,” Kelly says. “If it’s our day off, we go to the pool, take a short hike, play baseball, or head to karate class. We always end the day with a bath and making dinner together.”

And while Kelly tries to maximize every moment at home, some days she’s away — which is when Jack is looked after by loving relatives like his grandmother.

One afternoon while Jack was home with his grandma, Kelly spotted a motion alert from her Ring app and decided to say hi through the camera’s two-way talk feature.

What she heard in return made her stop everything.

“You better be really quick because I really miss you,” Jack said sweetly to the camera.

Kelly says she’s used the camera to chat with him before, but this moment was special. “This was the first time he’s said something that sweet on camera. I had to save it,” she says. “It was too cute not to.”

For a mom juggling a demanding job and raising a child on her own, the video struck a chord. “It means the world to me to have little moments like this. Being a single mom — the only active parent in his life — I carry guilt sometimes for not being around more,” she admits. “So to know he misses me and wants to be with me, even when I’m not there, it just makes me feel incredibly loved.”

Jack’s grandma, who was briefly occupied letting the family dog outside, later saw the video and was just as touched. “She said it melted her heart,” Kelly shares. “She told me Jack talks about how much he loves me all the time, and hearing him say it out loud like that was just so precious.”

And for Kelly, it was more than just a cute video — it was a powerful reminder of the bond she and her son share, no matter the distance.

But in a dramatic twist, it wasn’t police who found Katlyn. According to a criminal complaint obtained by PEOPLE, it was her sister, Harper Lane, who tracked down the grim scene and alerted authorities.

Lane first reported Katlyn missing on June 20 after she failed to answer their usual daily call. The sisters shared their locations through the Life360 app, and Harper noticed that Katlyn’s location hadn’t updated since the previous day — setting off alarm bells.

Local Hemlock Township police began the initial investigation, speaking to family and friends, but the case was turned over to Pennsylvania State Police two days later with no breakthroughs.

Vincent Harp was brought in for questioning on June 23. According to the complaint, his timeline of events surrounding his wife’s disappearance was riddled with gaps and inconsistencies. He allegedly omitted key locations he had visited and failed to mention interactions with Katlyn.

In the days that followed, troopers uncovered surveillance footage of Vincent at a Sunoco gas station on June 20 — the day Katlyn vanished — asking for gloves. He also sold a utility vehicle on June 24, just a day after speaking with investigators.

That same vehicle was tested and returned a presumptive positive for human blood, the complaint states.

Even more telling was security footage showing Vincent driving his pickup truck on June 20 with a green metal box — the very one Katlyn would later be found in — in the truck bed.

On June 29, the investigation took a sharp turn — thanks to Harper Lane’s relentless efforts. While searching a 40-acre, forested property once owned by Vincent, she stumbled upon a green metal box approximately 180 yards from a cliffside.

She immediately called troopers, who arrived and cut the lock. Inside were human remains. A tattoo confirmed the identity: it was Katlyn Harp.

Cell phone records later placed Vincent in the area of the property twice on June 21, the day after Katlyn disappeared.

Vincent Harp was arrested hours after Lane’s discovery. He has been charged with:
Criminal homicide
Abuse of a corpse
Tampering with physical evidence

He was arraigned Sunday evening and denied bail. He does not currently have legal representation and is due back in court on July 14.

While law enforcement pieced together the puzzle, it was Harper Lane’s determination that ultimately led to her sister’s recovery — and her brother-in-law’s arrest.

Her courage in the face of loss gave a grieving family the answers they needed, and brought a horrifying story to light.

In an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, Lindy Li — once a prominent Democratic fundraiser and member of the DNC’s National Finance Committee — described what she called a deliberate campaign to prop up a cognitively failing president while others “pulled the strings” behind the scenes.

“Joe Biden was complicit, but he wasn’t in control. There were puppet masters — and Jill Biden was the ringmaster,” Li alleged. “What she did, in my opinion, was outright elder abuse. No question.”

A House Subpoena and a Power Behind the Throne
The accusations arrive just days after House Oversight Chairman James Comer (R-KY) issued a subpoena to Anthony Bernal — a longtime senior aide to Jill Biden — demanding his testimony over his alleged role in shielding the public from Biden’s deteriorating mental state.

Bernal had initially agreed to appear voluntarily, but reversed course after the White House waived executive privilege, sparking outrage from committee members.

Li didn’t hold back when asked about Bernal.

“I watched him run the White House like a monarch,” she said. “He dodged the subpoena, but he won’t dodge history. His name is going to be infamous.”

According to Li, Bernal — who also served as Jill Biden’s chief of staff — operated more as the de facto leader of the East Wing than as a traditional advisor, following the First Lady “like a dog.” His influence reportedly expanded as Jill Biden increasingly stepped into her husband’s public and political roles.

“Jill Ran the White House”
Li claimed that Jill Biden, not the President, was calling many of the shots during Biden’s tenure, especially when the president was kept off the campaign trail in 2024.

“Jill loved the attention. That’s why she was on the cover of Vogue three times,” Li said. “When Joe couldn’t make it to events, she’d show up instead — acting like the candidate, or even the president. She was in charge.”

Asked why President Biden decided to seek re-election despite mounting concerns over his cognitive fitness, Li was blunt:

“Two people wanted him to run again — Jill and Hunter. Jill wanted the power, and Hunter wanted the legal protection. His freedom was at stake.”

The Autopen, Tanden, and a “Cover-Up”
Li also implicated other senior White House figures, including counselor Steve Ricchetti, advisor Anita Dunn, strategist Mike Donilon, and Deputy Chief of Staff Bruce Reed, calling them the real operators behind the scenes.

She reserved special criticism for Neera Tanden, Biden’s former domestic policy advisor, who recently testified before the House about her role in authorizing use of the autopen — an automatic signature device used to sign official documents on Biden’s behalf.

Tanden defended the practice, but Li called it part of a broader effort to “mask the president’s inability to perform basic duties.”

“Tanden’s smug comment — ‘I answered every question’ — sounded just like Jill Biden last year, right after Joe’s disastrous debate,” Li said. “I was there. Jill said, ‘You answered every question!’ It was all spin. The campaign managers even claimed Biden couldn’t drop out because of campaign finance laws. They lied to protect the illusion.”

Fallout and Defections
Li, who formally left the Democratic Party in late 2024, said she’s faced backlash from former colleagues and donors for going public — but she insists the American people deserve the truth.

“The Democratic Party went to astonishing lengths to hide Biden’s condition,” she said. “This wasn’t just denial. It was a coordinated cover-up.”

And for those still defending the administration, Li offered a sharp warning:

“The country didn’t elect Jill Biden, or Anthony Bernal, or Neera Tanden. But those were the people making the decisions. The American public was deceived.”

When Fox News Digital reached out to Biden officials for comment, one former aide reportedly replied:

“Who is Lindy Li?”

With investigations ramping up, that question may soon be answered on a much bigger stage.

The only two senators to vote against the legislation were Democrats Ed Markey of Massachusetts and Bernie Sanders of Vermont, both of whom expressed concern about the potential weakening of safety and environmental protections.

The bill — formally titled the ADVANCE Act — was attached to a widely supported reauthorization of federal grant programs that support firefighter training and equipment. Having now cleared both chambers of Congress, it will be sent to President Donald Trump’s desk for signing, where it is expected to become law within days.

A New Era for Nuclear Power
The centerpiece of the legislation is its broad initiative to streamline the nuclear plant licensing process. It directs the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to fast-track approvals for advanced reactors, reduce exorbitant licensing fees that have historically hindered private sector development, and significantly expedite environmental impact assessments.

Supporters argue that this approach is essential for both national energy security and the global fight against climate change. “Nuclear energy is clean, reliable, and crucial to our long-term energy independence,” said Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), a lead sponsor of the bill. “This legislation removes outdated barriers and allows the U.S. to compete globally in nuclear innovation.”

Among the bill’s key provisions:

Streamlined regulatory pathways for next-generation nuclear technologies.

Reduced application and licensing fees to encourage private investment.

Incentives for converting existing fossil fuel sites into nuclear energy hubs.

Modernized environmental review processes to eliminate delays.

Renewed focus on workforce development and nuclear education.

Senator John Barrasso (R-WY), another co-sponsor, said the bill sends a clear message that “America is serious about leading the world in clean, safe nuclear energy.”

Nuclear’s Role in a Carbon-Free Future
Currently, the United States operates 93 commercial nuclear reactors across 28 states, producing roughly 20% of the country’s electricity and over 50% of its carbon-free power. With increased pressure to reduce carbon emissions, many experts have called for an expansion of nuclear power alongside renewables like solar and wind.

“The climate crisis requires bold solutions,” said Sen. Tom Carper (D-DE), who helped shepherd the bill through committee. “This bipartisan legislation recognizes that we can’t get to net-zero without a strong nuclear backbone.”

Supporters also point to nuclear energy’s role in bolstering the electric grid, especially as power demands rise with electric vehicle adoption and electrification of homes and industry.

Dissent and Caution
Despite broad support, the bill has not escaped criticism. Senators Markey and Sanders, both longtime skeptics of nuclear energy, argued that the legislation places too much trust in industry self-regulation and fails to adequately address unresolved issues like radioactive waste disposal and reactor decommissioning.

“Nuclear power is not the answer to our energy challenges,” said Sen. Sanders. “It’s dangerous, expensive, and diverts attention from safer, cleaner technologies.”

Environmental groups have raised alarms as well, warning that the bill could lead to a relaxation of safety standards. They argue that by fast-tracking projects and trimming environmental reviews, the legislation risks creating loopholes that could compromise public health or environmental integrity.

The Road Ahead
While President Trump has not yet issued a formal statement on the bill, members of his administration have indicated strong support. The Department of Energy has already launched initiatives to invest in small modular reactors (SMRs) and next-generation nuclear fuel cycles, and this bill would provide legislative momentum behind those efforts.

If signed into law as expected, the measure will give the NRC a mandate to overhaul its permitting structure within 18 months. Experts say that could lead to a new wave of nuclear development, including advanced reactors, microreactors, and even fusion pilot plants in the coming decade.

As the U.S. faces growing international competition from countries like China and Russia in nuclear technology, many see the bill as not only an energy strategy, but a geopolitical one.

“This is not just about power,” Sen. Capito said. “It’s about leadership — scientific, environmental, and strategic. The future of energy leadership is nuclear, and the United States intends to lead.”

The executive order, signed on Trump’s first day of his second term in January, redefines the long-accepted reading of the Citizenship Clause, declaring that children born in the United States to parents who are not lawful residents will no longer automatically be granted U.S. citizenship. The order was immediately met with legal challenges across multiple jurisdictions, and lower federal courts quickly blocked its enforcement. Appeals courts upheld those decisions, leading the Justice Department to file an emergency petition with the high court.

In a rare move, the Supreme Court agreed to fast-track the case, scheduling oral arguments outside its standard calendar — a sign of the legal and political weight this case carries. The outcome may fundamentally alter the legal foundation of citizenship in America.

At the heart of the legal battle is the interpretation of the 14th Amendment’s Citizenship Clause, which states: “All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States.” For more than a century, courts have interpreted this to mean that virtually all individuals born on U.S. soil are automatically citizens — including the children of undocumented immigrants, visa holders, and even tourists.

President Trump and his legal team argue that the original intent of the 14th Amendment, ratified in 1868, was to guarantee citizenship to formerly enslaved individuals — not to extend it to those whose presence in the country is unauthorized. “The framers never envisioned a system where someone could cross our border illegally or on a vacation and deliver a child who instantly becomes a citizen,” Trump said in a recent press briefing. “That was never the purpose.”

The Trump administration has further argued that individuals who are not lawfully present in the United States remain under the jurisdiction of their home countries and therefore do not meet the “subject to the jurisdiction” requirement of the amendment. “The United States cannot extend citizenship to people whose allegiance lies elsewhere and who have no lawful status within our borders,” Solicitor General Paul Danson wrote in the government’s brief to the court.

Critics of the executive order, including immigration advocacy groups, constitutional scholars, and several state attorneys general, have blasted the measure as both legally flawed and morally reprehensible. They argue that it violates over 100 years of settled legal precedent, including the Supreme Court’s 1898 decision in United States v. Wong Kim Ark, which held that a child born in the U.S. to non-citizen Chinese immigrants was a citizen under the 14th Amendment.

“This order not only attacks our constitutional principles but targets the most vulnerable,” said attorney Rachel Hernandez of the Center for Constitutional Rights. “We cannot allow political agendas to dismantle the foundations of American citizenship.”

Meanwhile, legal scholars remain divided. Some prominent originalists and constitutional conservatives have expressed support for Trump’s interpretation, arguing that the Wong Kim Ark precedent was narrow and limited in scope. Others caution that overturning birthright citizenship could trigger a cascade of legal complications, including the potential statelessness of thousands of American-born individuals.

The case, which will likely be decided in late June, could have sweeping implications beyond immigration policy. It could influence future debates over federalism, executive power, and the interpretation of constitutional text.

With a conservative supermajority on the Court and several justices known for their interest in originalist jurisprudence, the outcome remains uncertain — but the stakes couldn’t be higher.

The lawsuit, filed by the free speech advocacy group Speech First, argued that the university’s bias response system—which allows anonymous complaints and the possibility of disciplinary action—chills students’ speech and violates their First Amendment rights. The group contended that such systems are increasingly used by colleges to discourage dissent and controversial opinions without instituting explicit speech codes.

Although the Court refused to hear the case, Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito dissented, saying the issue warrants urgent attention.

“Speech First has raised serious concerns,” Thomas wrote. “Many universities operate similar bias response teams. Yet students’ ability to challenge these potentially unconstitutional regimes now varies depending on where they live.”

Alito agreed, warning that the Court’s inaction contributes to a “constitutional patchwork” where student speech protections differ across jurisdictions.

The decision not to hear the case is a setback for Speech First, which had hoped the Indiana University lawsuit would provide a definitive ruling on whether these campus teams cross constitutional lines.

“Bias response teams are often used to deter speech that’s disfavored by administrators,” said Speech First president Nicole Neily in a statement. “They operate in the shadows—chilling expression without formally banning it. That’s a dangerous workaround.”

With the Court’s refusal to intervene, bias response programs will likely remain intact on many campuses—at least for now.

Speaking on Fox News, Gingrich blasted Democrats for, in his words, abandoning solutions in favor of performative outrage. “They have no policies that work, so all they have left is anger,” he said. “That anger has turned into lawlessness and attacks on our institutions, including the presidency.”

Gingrich also defended Elon Musk, calling him “a public servant in his own right” for his work during Trump’s first term, including collaborations on government efficiency and innovation. He criticized House Democrats for refusing to even applaud bipartisan victories. “It’s not about Trump anymore. It’s about whether you’re willing to acknowledge anything good for the country.”

The former Speaker pointed to polling showing deep public distrust in government. “Eighty-two percent of Americans believe the system is corrupt. Democrats are aligning themselves with bureaucracy, waste, and dysfunction—and it’s costing them support.”

Polling expert Matt Towery echoed those concerns, warning that the Democratic Party is veering toward political extremism reminiscent of its disastrous 1972 platform. “They’re obsessed with Trump. But every minute they spend demonizing him instead of talking about inflation, the border, or energy prices, they’re alienating working-class voters.”

A recent Politico report supports those claims, revealing that congressional Democrats now have lower approval ratings among their own base than Republicans—a historic first.

Gingrich concluded with a stark warning: “This kind of reckless rhetoric isn’t just politically stupid—it’s dangerous. And if they keep it up, they may not just lose an election. They may lose the country’s trust for good.”

The decision underscores the enduring rift between Trump and the White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA), a relationship marked by frequent clashes over media coverage and accusations of bias.

Trump’s administration has also tightened control over press access in recent months, reportedly barring the Associated Press from pool rotation after disputes over coverage tone.

During his previous term, Trump famously mocked the press with his own “Fake News Awards” as a rebuttal to the Correspondents’ Dinner. His team now calls the event a “left-wing echo chamber” rather than a celebration of journalism.

Further controversy surrounded this year’s dinner when comedian Amber Ruffin was removed as host following backlash over past political remarks. Trump allies claim her removal was “too little, too late,” pointing to what they describe as the event’s “inherent liberal slant.”

Amid this backdrop, a recent CNN report revealed a surprising political shift: for the first time in years, Republican voters are now tied with Democrats in polling on which party best represents the interests of ordinary Americans—a signal that Trump’s populist messaging may be resonating more broadly than before.

As political lines harden and media scrutiny intensifies, Trump’s continued absence from the dinner reflects not just a personal protest, but a broader campaign against what he and his supporters view as institutional media partisanship.

During his multi-day trip abroad, President Trump participated in high-stakes discussions with NATO leaders, including Secretary General Mark Rutte. In a now widely circulated press conference, Trump responded to the abrupt collapse of a temporary ceasefire between Israel and Iran with typical flair, saying the two nations “don’t know what the f**k they’re doing,” and likening the situation to “two kids in a schoolyard.”

Rutte chimed in moments later with a quip that instantly made waves: “Daddy has to sometimes use strong language to get it stopped,” he said with a grin, cementing the nickname that would follow Trump for the rest of his trip.

But it was Trump’s formal visit to Dutch royalty that grabbed international attention for an entirely different reason.

While posing for photos at Huis ten Bosch Palace alongside Queen Máxima and King Willem-Alexander, a video clip surfaced showing Queen Máxima appearing to mimic the President’s mouth movements after he said “thank you.” The moment—reminiscent of a scene from The Office—went viral in hours, with viewers on X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok questioning whether the Queen had just made fun of Trump to his face.

“WAIT A MINUTE WAS QUEEN MAXIMA OF THE NETHERLANDS MIMICKING DONALD TRUMP?” one user wrote.

Another added: “Queen Maxima mimicking Trump’s mouth movements really got me. That’s comedy gold.”

However, Queen Máxima has since publicly denied any intention of mocking the U.S. President. In a statement to Dutch outlet AD, she explained that she was simply thanking someone off-camera who had helped coordinate the royal reception. She also described her meeting with President Trump as “a pleasant experience.”

Princess Amalia, the couple’s 21-year-old daughter, shared her own impressions of the visit, calling the opportunity to meet the U.S. President “really cool.” Amalia, along with her younger sisters, Princess Alexia (20) and Princess Ariane (18), joined their parents for the official photo session with Trump.

Power Plays and Posture: Experts Weigh In
Beyond the viral mimicry moment, body language experts found another striking detail in Trump’s palace visit—his commanding posture upon arrival. According to analyst Darren Stanton, who spoke on behalf of Genting Casino, Trump projected dominance from the moment he stepped out of his motorcade.

“He walked like a cowboy entering a saloon,” Stanton said. “Feet spread apart, hands on hips—he was making himself appear as large as possible. It was a classic alpha stance, meant to assert his authority and mark his territory.”

The handshake between Trump and King Willem-Alexander also drew attention for what Stanton described as a “power move” meant to signal control in the high-profile diplomatic encounter.

While the NATO summit centered on defense alliances and global strategy, it was these candid—and sometimes comedic—moments that stole the spotlight during Trump’s visit to the Netherlands. Whether it’s being dubbed “Daddy” or being seemingly mimicked by a queen, the President once again proved that no international summit is ever short of spectacle when he’s involved.

According to sources cited by Fox News, the detainees include individuals with prior criminal convictions—including drug trafficking, weapons violations, and domestic violence. These developments are unfolding against the backdrop of an escalating border crisis, with critics pointing to lax vetting procedures under the Biden administration as a critical vulnerability in national security.

“This isn’t just about border policy anymore,” said one former border enforcement agent. “This is a question of how many threats we’ve already let in.”

Notable Arrests Linked to Iranian Military and Extremist Networks
Among those arrested is Ribvar Karimi, a former sniper in the Iranian military, who entered the U.S. on a K-1 visa intended for foreign fiancés of American citizens. Karimi failed to change his immigration status after entering the country and was detained in Locust, Alabama, while carrying identification linked to the Iranian army.

In a separate case, Mehran Makari Sahel, a former member of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) with admitted ties to Hezbollah, was arrested in St. Paul, Minnesota. His detention came during a multi-state ICE operation targeting sanctuary cities across eight states—part of a broader enforcement campaign aimed at rooting out suspected terrorists operating within the United States.

“We are no longer waiting for an attack to act,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). “We’re going after threats proactively—before innocent Americans are harmed.”

Deportation Challenges — and a New Legal Pathway
The crackdown comes amid a recent Supreme Court ruling that allows for the deportation of individuals to third-party countries, a key development that could help expedite removals for detainees who cannot be sent directly to Iran due to strained diplomatic ties.

While Iran and the U.S. have no formal repatriation agreement, the new ruling provides a legal avenue for ICE to remove high-risk individuals more swiftly, potentially to countries willing to accept them under humanitarian or bilateral arrangements.

Trump’s Cease-Fire Holds, but Threat Levels Remain High
Despite President Trump’s recent cease-fire announcement with Iran, U.S. counterterrorism agencies remain on elevated alert, with continued surveillance of domestic threats potentially linked to Iranian operatives. National security officials are especially focused on the possibility of sleeper cells activated in retaliation for the nuclear strikes.

Federal agents are also working closely with foreign intelligence partners to trace the entry paths and affiliations of detainees, many of whom arrived through legal channels or blended into the migrant surge at the southern border.

Political Ramifications and Public Reaction
The arrests are already fueling renewed calls for stricter immigration controls, especially from conservative lawmakers and security hawks who have criticized the administration’s failure to vet high-risk individuals entering the country.

“This is what happens when you open the floodgates at the border,” said Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene. “Terrorists are walking into our country — and ICE is left to clean up the mess.”

As public anxiety grows and the national conversation pivots sharply toward homeland security, ICE officials have vowed to intensify operations in the coming weeks, warning that more arrests are likely imminent.

“We’re not going to let America be caught off guard,” McLaughlin said. “We’re taking every threat seriously — and acting before it’s too late.”

Speaking to reporters outside Trump Tower on Monday, Trump took direct aim at Mamdani, a democratic socialist and outspoken advocate for working-class policies, calling the 33-year-old “a pure communist” and “a danger to the economic survival of America’s greatest city.”

“He wants to turn Manhattan into Venezuela,” Trump said. “If he becomes mayor and tries to implement his lunatic ideas — no police, free everything, tax everyone — he won’t get a dime from Washington. Not while I’m calling the shots.”

Mamdani Responds: “This is about the people, not the powerful”
In a defiant response posted to X (formerly Twitter), Mamdani shrugged off Trump’s remarks, accusing the former president of “resorting to authoritarian threats because he’s afraid of a New York that finally puts working people first.”

“I’m not a communist. I’m a New Yorker who believes in rent justice, free public transit, and taxing billionaires who’ve been robbing this city blind for decades,” Mamdani said. “Trump’s tantrum won’t stop us. The days of politics being bought by fear are over.”

Mamdani, currently a State Assembly member from Queens, recently pulled off a stunning upset in the Democratic mayoral primary, defeating a longtime party stalwart backed by the city’s political machine. His platform includes rent freezes, fare-free subways and buses, taxing vacant luxury units, and reimagining public safety — proposals that have energized young and marginalized voters, while unnerving party elites and big donors.

NYC Caught in Crossfire
Trump’s comments have sent shockwaves through the city’s political establishment. New York City relies on federal funding for everything from public housing and education to infrastructure and emergency services. Experts warn that even the threat of a federal funding freeze could jeopardize programs serving millions of residents.

“This isn’t just political rhetoric — it’s a direct attack on the stability of our city,” said Councilmember Jennifer Gutierrez, a Mamdani ally. “Trump is trying to hold New York hostage because someone he doesn’t like won a democratic election.”

But others in the Democratic establishment have been more cautious. Some have quietly expressed concern about Mamdani’s ability to build consensus across the city’s diverse and often divided constituencies.

A Broader Battle
Trump’s threats have national implications. By targeting Mamdani — who is among the first elected officials in the U.S. to openly identify as a democratic socialist since Bernie Sanders — Trump is clearly signaling that he intends to wage a war on progressive urban governance.

Political analysts say the showdown between Trump and Mamdani could become a defining moment in the 2026 midterms and beyond, shaping the future of both the Democratic Party and America’s largest city.

“For Trump, this is red meat for his base — attacking socialism, attacking New York, and trying to reassert control,” said political strategist Lena McMillan. “For Mamdani, it’s an opportunity to frame the fight as one between people and power.”

What’s Next?
The stakes are enormous. If Mamdani wins the general election in November, a collision course with Washington seems inevitable — especially if Trump regains influence over the federal budget or returns to the White House in 2028. Mamdani’s team says they are preparing legal strategies to challenge any retaliatory cuts to funding, while continuing to organize a grassroots campaign built around solidarity, equity, and justice.

In the meantime, New Yorkers are left watching a high-stakes power struggle unfold — one that could redefine the relationship between progressive cities and federal power for years to come.

Whyte, who had built a social media following of over 100,000 on TikTok under the username @hi.imchrys, was fatally shot on June 12 at Long Branch Beach in New Jersey. He was found with a single gunshot wound and pronounced dead at the scene by responding officers around 8:58 p.m., according to the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office.

Authorities have since charged two suspects — an underage male and 18-year-old Dwayne Exilus — for their alleged roles in the deadly incident.

Due to his age, the juvenile’s name has not been released. He is currently being held at a juvenile detention facility and faces multiple serious charges, including murder, conspiracy to commit unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and hindering apprehension.

Exilus, 18, has been charged with second-degree conspiracy to commit unlawful possession of a handgun, second-degree unlawful possession of a weapon, third-degree hindering, and fourth-degree possession of a prohibited weapon.

Whyte had shared two TikTok videos on the day of his death. In one clip, he reclines in a beach chair with a message reading, “Stay away from ppl that ignore you until they need you.” In his final post, he lounges in a striped blue beach chair, wearing a pastel pink swimsuit, and pans the camera to show the lively crowd on the beach. He tagged the location with #longbranch.

The investigation into the shooting remains ongoing, and authorities have not yet released further details about the motive or how the suspects are connected to Whyte.

Whyte’s sudden death has left fans and the social media community stunned, with many paying tribute to the young content creator known for his humor and candid posts

Initial reports confirmed that at least 34 bodies were pulled from the rubble, while two additional victims who were transported to local hospitals later succumbed to their injuries. As of Tuesday, July 1, Reuters reported the death toll had climbed to 39, citing updates from local authorities.

The explosion tore through the Sigachi facility — a plant known for manufacturing microcrystalline cellulose, a key ingredient in pharmaceutical production. According to police, over 140 workers were inside the building at the time of the explosion, which caused a full structural collapse.

“We are still clearing the debris,” said G.V. Narayana Rao, Director of Telangana’s Fire Disaster Response Service. “Only once the site is fully cleared will we know if any more victims are trapped underneath.”

In addition to those killed, nearly three dozen employees were hospitalized with burn injuries and other trauma. District official P. Pravinya told Al Jazeera that at least 25 of the recovered bodies remain unidentified due to the severity of the burns.

Telangana Health Minister Damodar Raja Narasimha said a special medical team has been deployed to conduct DNA tests on the remains. “As the bodies were badly burned and mutilated, we’re relying on forensic identification,” he said.

The state government has launched a formal investigation into the explosion and has formed a committee to determine its cause. Sigachi Industries has yet to release a statement identifying what triggered the blast, but the company announced it would suspend operations at the site for 90 days, citing serious damage to its core manufacturing infrastructure.

According to the company’s website, Sigachi Industries is the world’s largest producer of microcrystalline cellulose — a substance commonly used as a binder in tablet medications. In a filing with the Bombay Stock Exchange on Monday, the company said it would conduct a full assessment of the damage.

PEOPLE has reached out to Sigachi Industries for comment but has not received a response. Attempts to contact the Telangana Fire Disaster Response agency were also unsuccessful.

As rescue crews continue to sift through the rubble, the tragedy has reignited concerns over industrial safety standards in India’s fast-growing chemical and pharmaceutical sectors — where outdated equipment, lax oversight, and insufficient worker protections have previously contributed to deadly accidents.

“DOGE is the monster that might have to go back and eat Elon. Wouldn’t that be terrible?” Trump said, flashing a grin to reporters outside the White House before departing for a tour of a new migrant detention facility in the Florida Everglades. “He gets a lot of subsidies. But Elon was very upset that the EV mandate is going to be terminated.”

Trump’s comments followed a reporter’s question about whether he might consider deporting Musk, a native of South Africa. The president shrugged, saying: “I don’t know, we’ll have to take a look.”

The clash marks a dramatic breakdown in what was once a close political alliance. Musk previously served as a senior adviser in Trump’s government efficiency team, attending Cabinet meetings and helping shape policies on energy and tech. But things soured after Trump signed legislation this month repealing California’s electric vehicle mandates and eliminating emissions regulations that directly impact Tesla.

“When you look at it… not everybody wants an electric car,” Trump said Tuesday. “I don’t want an electric car. I want maybe gasoline. Maybe electric, maybe a hybrid. Maybe someday a hydrogen. But hydrogen blows up — so maybe not.”

Musk Fires Back, Hints at New Party
Musk, who has been lobbying Republican lawmakers to kill the “Big Beautiful Bill,” responded to Trump’s comments with a cryptic post on X (formerly Twitter): “So tempting to escalate this. So, so tempting. But I will refrain for now.”

The Tesla and SpaceX CEO has intensified his efforts in recent days, warning that the bill — a major piece of Trump’s second-term agenda — would inflate the national debt by $5 trillion and devastate industries of the future. On Monday, Musk posted a meme of Pinocchio on fire, slamming lawmakers who support the bill as liars and pledging to back primary challenges against them.

“This is the largest debt ceiling hike in U.S. history,” Musk wrote. “If you vote for this, your face will be on this poster in the primaries.”

The memo, issued by Assistant Attorney General Brett Shumate on June 11, instructs U.S. attorneys to “prioritize and maximally pursue denaturalization proceedings in all cases permitted by law and supported by the evidence.” Shumate specifically names individuals with ties to terrorism, espionage, war crimes, and organized crime as top priorities, alongside those convicted of serious offenses such as human trafficking, child exploitation, and large-scale financial fraud.

“The benefits of civil denaturalization include the government’s ability to revoke the citizenship of individuals who engaged in war crimes, extrajudicial killings, or serious human rights abuses; remove naturalized criminals and gang members; and prevent terrorists from returning to U.S. soil or using a U.S. passport,” Shumate wrote in the memo.

Under federal law, the DOJ may seek to revoke U.S. citizenship if naturalization was “illegally procured” or obtained through “willful misrepresentation or concealment of a material fact.”

Shumate’s directive identifies ten categories of individuals as denaturalization targets, including:

Those with ties to terrorist networks or espionage.

Individuals involved in child sexual exploitation or sex trafficking.

Those convicted of violent crimes or gang-related activity.

Perpetrators of financial crimes involving federal programs, such as PPP loan fraud or Medicare fraud.

Members or associates of transnational criminal organizations and drug cartels.

Individuals who defrauded private citizens, companies, or institutions.

The memo arrives amid renewed focus within the Trump-aligned Justice Department to shift resources in the Civil Division toward denaturalization efforts and away from Biden-era Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. It reflects an administration-wide push to crack down on immigration fraud and remove foreign-born individuals deemed dangerous or dishonest.

Only two days after the memo’s release, the DOJ announced it had successfully denaturalized a man convicted of collecting and distributing child sexual abuse material — signaling the administration’s intent to move swiftly and decisively under the new policy.

While civil denaturalization does not carry criminal penalties, it strips the individual of U.S. citizenship and renders them subject to deportation.

Critics warn the memo could pave the way for politicized overreach or discourage naturalized citizens from fully integrating. But DOJ officials insist the focus is squarely on individuals who gained citizenship unlawfully and who pose an ongoing threat.

“This is about protecting American communities and ensuring that citizenship remains a sacred trust,” a senior Justice Department official said.

The move underscores the Trump administration’s broader law-and-order platform heading into the next election cycle — and signals that citizenship fraud is now squarely in the federal government’s crosshairs.

“This marks the largest coordinated healthcare fraud takedown in the history of the Department of Justice,” Galeotti declared at a press conference.

A DOJ press release revealed that 29 individuals were charged with alleged connections to transnational criminal organizations, submitting over $12 billion in false claims to U.S. health insurance programs.

Another 74 individuals, including 44 licensed medical professionals, were indicted across 58 cases for allegedly distributing 15 million opioid pills and other controlled substances. Among them, five individuals tied to a Texas pharmacy are accused of unlawfully dispensing over 3 million pills of opioids like oxycodone, hydrocodone, and carisoprodol, which were then sold on the streets.

Further, 49 defendants were charged with submitting more than $1.17 billion in fraudulent Medicare claims. An additional 170 individuals face charges for various schemes involving $1.84 billion in false claims to Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurers for diagnostic tests, medical visits, and unnecessary treatments, often in exchange for kickbacks and bribes.

Attorney General Pamela Bondi emphasized the scale of the crackdown: “This record-setting Health Care Fraud Takedown delivers justice to criminal actors who prey upon our most vulnerable citizens and steal from hardworking American taxpayers.”

In one chilling case, three defendants in Arizona allegedly conspired to apply medically unnecessary skin grafts known as “amniotic wound allografts” on elderly Medicare recipients, including terminally ill hospice patients. One nurse practitioner reportedly performed the procedure on patients just days from death, despite its invasive nature. Galeotti called it part of a broader $1 billion fraud scheme that robbed patients of “dignity and peace” in their final days.

A DOJ official identified skin graft scams as an emerging fraud trend, with providers billing over $1,000 per square centimeter.

The DOJ’s release outlined the breadth of the operation, spanning the U.S. and involving 324 individuals. Defendants include medical professionals, 25 of whom are doctors, as well as medical supply company owners.

One operation, dubbed “Operation Gold Rush,” targeted a transnational criminal network that allegedly laundered $10 billion through a scheme involving catheters. Authorities say the perpetrators used stolen identities and confidential health data to file false Medicare claims. Nineteen individuals were indicted, with twelve arrests already made, including four in Estonia and seven at U.S. entry points.

The DOJ’s healthcare fraud unit led the initiative, with Galeotti announcing the launch of a new “fusion center” to streamline data-sharing among agencies investigating healthcare fraud.

Dr. Mehmet Oz, Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, joined Galeotti at the press conference to urge the public to report fraud. “We need your help,” Oz said. “Over half of the fraud against our government is in healthcare.”

The DOJ reiterated its commitment to combating abuse in the healthcare system and called on whistleblowers to come forward with information that could aid ongoing investigations.

TMZ Sports has learned that NFL icon Adrian Peterson and his poker nemesis Joe “Baby Joe” Castaneda have officially received an offer to settle their differences not with chips and cards — but with fists and gloves.

Damon Feldman, the mastermind behind Celebrity Boxing, is throwing down the gauntlet. After witnessing video of the two men nearly coming to blows during a card game at a Houston social club in May, Feldman is eager to turn the tension into ticket sales.

“You can’t just battle it out on the street anymore,” Feldman said in a video message directed at the duo. “Let’s take that to the ring — Adrian Peterson vs. Baby Joe. No poker. Boxing!”

So far, Castaneda is game. He told TMZ last week he’s more than willing to square off — if the price is right.

Peterson, however, remains a bit of a wild card. The former MVP hasn’t commented publicly on the offer, but he’s no stranger to the ring. Fans may remember his high-profile bout against fellow NFL star Le’Veon Bell back in September 2022 — a fight that ended with Peterson on the canvas after a brutal KO.

Still, Feldman is convinced a sanctioned celebrity fight between the two would be a hit. “Come on,” he said. “Let’s do it. The fans want to see it.”

Whether the offer leads to contracts and training camps is still unclear, but one thing’s for sure: the feud between AP and Baby Joe has outgrown the felt.

Stay tuned — this poker beef may soon come with a ringside seat.

In classic Trump fashion, the former president didn’t hold back, mocking Musk’s dependence on government subsidies and threatening to sic his former departments on him. “Elon may get more subsidy than any human being in history, by far,” Trump wrote. “Without subsidies, Elon would probably have to close up shop and head back home to South Africa.”

Trump then took it a step further — dragging SpaceX, Tesla, and even DOGE into the mix. “No more Rocket launches, Satellites, or Electric Car Production, and our Country would save a FORTUNE,” he warned. “Perhaps we should have DOGE take a good, hard look at this? BIG MONEY TO BE SAVED!!!”

The outburst comes in response to Musk’s weekend posts on X, where he lambasted Trump’s legislative agenda. Musk warned that the “Big Beautiful Bill” — which outlines sweeping changes in taxes, healthcare, energy, and immigration — would inflict “immense strategic harm” on the U.S. economy and “destroy millions of jobs.”

Musk also accused Trump of pushing outdated economic models, arguing the bill props up “industries of the past while severely damaging industries of the future.” He went further on Monday night, threatening to form a new political party if the bill passes — deriding the GOP as the “PORKY PIG PARTY” and calling supporters of the legislation “liars.”

In true Musk fashion, his social media assault included memes — one featuring Pinocchio with his pants on fire, underscoring what he called “blatant lies” about the bill’s fiscal impact. Musk claims it will increase the deficit by $5 trillion.

This isn’t the first clash between the mogul and the MAGA chief. Just weeks ago, Musk publicly broke ranks with Trump over crypto policy and government regulation. The friction intensified when Musk distanced himself from DOGE (the Department of Government Efficiency), a Trump-era initiative that once had his vocal support.

In return, Trump fired back, claiming Musk’s tech empire exists only because of federal handouts and warning he could cut those lifelines. Musk, undeterred, even claimed credit for helping Trump win the 2024 election — a claim that 47 quickly rejected.

Though Trump once said Musk “wasn’t on his mind,” Monday’s barrage suggests otherwise.

As the political temperature rises and the bill inches closer to a congressional vote, the war of words between Trump and Musk is no longer just a personal spat — it’s a proxy battle for the future of American industry, influence, and ideology.

Stay tuned. This one’s only getting louder.

In a revealing conversation at the Qatar Economic Forum, Trump Jr. offered his clearest hints yet about his long-term political aspirations. While stopping short of making any formal declaration, he admitted feeling a growing “calling” toward a political future — including, possibly, a run for the White House after what he confidently described as his father’s second term.

“I feel like I have a calling,” Trump Jr. said. “I genuinely care. I want to make sure that my kids and their kids live in the same country that I got to live in.” But he also acknowledged the heavy toll that public life and political warfare have taken on his family. “Do you want to drag other members of your family into it?” he asked, alluding to the relentless scrutiny and criticism that comes with carrying the Trump name.

Trump Jr.’s comments come at a time when speculation around the GOP’s post-Trump era is already in full swing — even as the 45th president pursues another term. Though Donald Jr. has never held elected office, he’s become a prominent conservative voice in American politics. His influence in Republican circles has only grown, particularly among younger voters and the party’s populist base.

Beyond campaigning aggressively for his father, Trump Jr. has carved out his own political identity. He’s taken high-profile stances on cultural and economic issues, championed “anti-woke” financial strategies, and co-founded 1789 Capital, an investment firm aimed at countering ESG (environmental, social, and governance) investing practices, which he and others on the right have denounced as leftist corporate overreach.

He also played a behind-the-scenes role in recent political maneuvers — notably throwing his support behind Senator J.D. Vance as a vice-presidential pick, and influencing possible future cabinet appointments should his father return to office.

Political insiders say these moves signal more than just ideological alignment — they reflect preparation. As one GOP strategist recently told The Hill, “Donald Trump Jr. is clearly positioning himself for a major role in the Republican Party’s future, whether that’s in 2028 or beyond.”

Still, Trump Jr. remains cautious. “It’s a real sacrifice,” he said of public office. “It’s not just about you — it’s about every member of your family being dragged through the mud.”

For now, he insists his focus remains on helping secure victory for President Trump in the 2024 election. But with the elder Trump’s influence continuing to define the Republican Party, the idea of a Trump political dynasty doesn’t seem far-fetched — and Donald Trump Jr. may be next in line to carry that torch.

Whether he chooses to step into the political arena as a candidate remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Donald Trump Jr. is not ruling it out.

During the inquest, Coroner Elizabeth Gray said Benedict died of food-induced anaphylaxis. He also had a history of chronic asthma, which may have complicated the emergency response.

“Benedict was five years old at the time of his death,” Gray said. “He suffered from asthma and a number of allergies, including milk and egg.”

According to testimony, Benedict had stayed home from school on November 30, 2021, after vomiting the night before. He returned to school the next morning and ate a biscuit from home, after which he vomited again around 10:30 a.m. and was sent outside. There, he collapsed.

A teaching assistant trained in first aid administered an adrenaline auto-injector, but Benedict did not respond. CPR was initiated until emergency services arrived. He was later pronounced dead at Peterborough City Hospital.

Initially, a post-mortem examination attributed his death to asthma. But Dr. Emilia Wawrzkowicz, a pediatric consultant, challenged that conclusion.

“I strongly believed it was anaphylaxis,” she told the inquest. “There was never any suggestion of airway compromise typical of an asthma attack.”

As a result, Benedict’s official cause of death was corrected to food-induced anaphylaxis, according to the area coroner.

Benedict’s mother, Helen Blythe, 37, shared that vomiting was typically the first sign of her son’s allergic reactions, though the progression varied. She noted that the family had provided the school with a detailed allergy management plan, outlining how to respond in case of a reaction.

“I was terrified when the school called to say he was unwell,” she said.

Speaking through tears, Helen described her son as a bright, compassionate child who navigated his condition with quiet strength.

“He lived with allergies and chronic asthma, and sometimes that meant missing out — on birthday parties, on snacks other children could eat, on ice creams from the ice cream van — but he never let it define him,” she told the court.

“His superpower was his kind heart, and it’s that kindness that is so missing from our lives.”

Barnack Primary School has not publicly commented on the incident.

The inquest shines a renewed spotlight on school allergy protocols, raising difficult questions about emergency preparedness and the importance of clear, enforced response plans for children with life-threatening allergies.

According to the Wayne County District Attorney’s Office, Sherman Devaughn Jones, 46, and Sampaguita L. Jones, 41, were indicted last week, months after Owen died in September 2024 from pneumonia that was allegedly left untreated for weeks.

In a chilling court statement, Erin Wilmoth, lead prosecutor on the case, told Judge William Burton that Owen’s death was not sudden — it was a slow, painful deterioration caused by gross neglect and systemic abuse.

“This child suffered,” Wilmoth said. “And he suffered for a long time.”

An autopsy revealed Owen’s right lung had collapsed under the weight of a chest cavity filled with pus, a direct result of the untreated infection. But the horror didn’t end there.

Wilmoth detailed disturbing findings from the coroner: scars, bruises, scratches, and discoloration covered Owen’s body from head to toe. The damage was so extensive that the medical examiner declined to count the number of visible scars.

The boy was reportedly emaciated, underweight with a severely protruding stomach, and had sustained multiple healing and acute fractures, including to his ribs, pelvis, elbow, scapula, arms, and hands — evidence prosecutors say points to long-term, repeated physical abuse.

“The list goes on,” Wilmoth told the court grimly.

Adding to the alleged horror, the prosecution claimed Owen was isolated from the outside world, kept hidden indoors, and often locked in his bedroom to conceal the visible signs of abuse. Being homeschooled, Owen had no access to teachers, nurses, or regular wellness checks that might have exposed the abuse sooner.

According to Wilmoth, Child Protective Services (CPS) was alerted to concerns in June 2023, when a relative reported fears for Owen’s safety. However, CPS reportedly declined to open an investigation, a decision that may now come under intense scrutiny.

The prosecution argues the couple deliberately ignored the child’s worsening symptoms of illness and failed to seek medical help — a choice that led to his death.

“They never took him to receive care,” Wilmoth said. “They ignored it as his condition worsened by the day.”

Defense attorneys pointed to CPS’s inaction as a sign that authorities initially found no serious risk. But both defendants were remanded into custody pending further legal proceedings.

The case has shocked the Detroit community and raised broader questions about the failure of child protection systems to intervene. Prosecutors are expected to lean heavily on the autopsy report as the cornerstone of their case when the trial begins.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.

Cheshire Constabulary confirmed on Monday, June 30, that the arrests were made in connection with the actions—or inactions—of leadership at the Countess of Chester Hospital during 2015 and 2016, the same years Letby carried out her killing spree in the neonatal unit.

“These arrests relate to individuals who formed part of the hospital’s senior leadership team at the time,” said Detective Superintendent Paul Hughes in a statement to PEOPLE. “It is important to stress that these arrests do not affect Lucy Letby’s convictions for multiple counts of murder and attempted murder.”

All three individuals have since been released on bail as the investigation continues.

Letby, a neonatal nurse, was convicted in August 2023 of murdering seven newborns and attempting to kill six more while working at the hospital. In a separate retrial in July 2024, she was found guilty of the attempted murder of an eighth baby, a girl, and received her 15th life sentence. Letby has consistently denied all charges.

In October 2023, following the conclusion of Letby’s initial trial, authorities opened a corporate manslaughter investigation focused on the leadership of the Countess of Chester Hospital. According to police, the probe is examining whether senior officials failed in their duty of care amid a noticeable spike in infant deaths and unexplained collapses.

“The scope of the investigation was expanded in March 2025 to include gross negligence manslaughter, which targets the potentially reckless decisions or inaction of specific individuals,” said the statement from Cheshire Constabulary.

The broader inquiry now encompasses both the Countess of Chester Hospital and Liverpool Women’s Hospital, covering neonatal incidents from 2012 to 2016.

The statement emphasized that these charges relate to individual responsibility, distinguishing them from corporate manslaughter, which involves systemic failings within an organization.

Letby was first arrested in 2018 and detained twice more in subsequent years. During her trial, which began in October 2022, colleagues testified about her unusual behavior, and the prosecution argued she had deliberately injected infants with air and milk in fatal doses. The case exposed serious concerns about how hospital management responded—or failed to respond—to alarming patterns in the unit.

“This remains an ongoing and highly sensitive investigation,” police added, warning that timelines remain uncertain as detectives continue to sift through extensive evidence and witness testimony.

This story is developing and will be updated as new information emerges.

Shakur was dressed in a Versace silk shirt and a heavy gold chain, his presence commanding even among the neon glare of the Strip. Just hours earlier, following a Mike Tyson fight at the MGM Grand, Tupac had been involved in a violent beatdown of Orlando “Baby Lane” Anderson — a reputed South Side Compton Crip — in the casino lobby. The tension was thick. The air was charged.

Trailing close behind them was a convoy of about ten cars — Death Row’s entourage, riding like a shadowy caravan through the city. Then, at the intersection of Flamingo Road and Koval Lane, a white Cadillac pulled up to their right. Within seconds, the night erupted in gunfire.

According to court documents filed by Clark County prosecutors in July 2024, Anderson, positioned in the front seat, wasn’t in the right position to shoot. Instead, he allegedly passed a Glock .40-caliber handgun to DeAndre “Big Dre” Smith, sitting in the backseat. Smith opened fire — 13 rounds in total. Four hit Tupac: one to the chest, one to the arm, and two to the thigh. Suge Knight was grazed by shrapnel but survived.

Ironically, Tupac — who often wore a bulletproof vest — wasn’t wearing one that night.

Inside the car, the unreleased track “Never Had a Friend Like Me” played faintly, as chaos closed in. “Tupac is my favorite person in the world,” Knight says now, speaking from California’s Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility, where he’s serving a 28-year sentence for a separate manslaughter case. “It changed me forever. A part of me died with him. He didn’t have to go like that.”

For nearly three decades, no one was held accountable. The crime happened at one of the most surveilled intersections in America — in front of dozens of witnesses and surrounded by security teams. But despite the visibility, the case went cold. Many speculated that fear, influence, and unspoken allegiances kept key figures protected.

That changed in September 2023. Duane “Keefe D” Davis — a former Crips shot-caller and the last known surviving occupant of the Cadillac — was arrested and charged with orchestrating Tupac’s murder. Prosecutors say Davis was the ringleader, the one who directed the ambush.

But that was only the beginning.

In July 2024, a bombshell court filing unearthed a 2009 police interview in which Davis, then cooperating as a confidential informant, not only implicated himself — but also pointed the finger directly at Sean “Diddy” Combs. Davis claimed Combs, then known as “Puffy,” was furious with Shakur’s constant attacks — both lyrical and personal — and wanted him gone.

According to the DEA and DOJ, Davis alleged in a separate 2008 conversation that Combs told him he “needed to get rid of Knight and Shakur” and offered him $1 million to “handle the problem.”

Knight, now 60, doesn’t flinch at the suggestion. “I end up with a bullet an inch in my skull,” he says, “and everybody knows where that money came from. Look — Pac wanted the truth. And if something smells like sh–, looks like sh–, then it’s sh–.”

To date, Combs has not been charged with any connection to Tupac’s killing. A spokesperson for the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department reiterated in July 2024: “Sean Combs has never been considered a suspect in the Tupac Shakur homicide investigation.”

Still, Combs faces his own storm: a slew of unrelated federal charges including sex trafficking, racketeering, and conspiracy to promote prostitution. His trial in New York is expected to begin in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile, Davis has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder and remains behind bars. His attorneys now argue that new witness testimony places him in Los Angeles — 300 miles from the scene — at the time of the shooting. Prosecutors, however, continue to lean heavily on his own confessions, especially those published in his 2019 memoir Compton Street Legend.

As for Knight, the memories of that night in Vegas refuse to fade.

“It was supposed to be a night to celebrate. Tyson won. Pac was alive, laughing, talking about music,” Knight says, voice cracking. “Then the light turned red. And everything turned black.”

Twenty-nine years later, hip-hop still mourns Tupac — and the world continues to chase the truth through a fog of blood, betrayal, and silence.

The landmark verdict marks the resolution of what has been called the “longest-running cold case” ever to go to trial in Britain. Sentenced at Bristol Crown Court, Headley—now in his nineties—was finally held accountable for a brutal crime committed when he was in his early thirties.

Louisa Dunne, a widowed mother of two born more than 130 years ago, was found dead inside her home in Bristol on a June morning in 1967. Her neighbors grew concerned when she failed to appear on her front doorstep, where she was known to stand each morning. Upon entering her home, they made a horrifying discovery: Dunne had been sexually assaulted and murdered.

At the time, investigators collected vital forensic evidence, including semen on intimate swabs and clothing, as well as a palm print found on a rear window. However, with no eyewitnesses and the limitations of forensic science in the 1960s—decades before DNA testing was even possible—the case quickly went cold. Despite an intensive investigation that included 19,000 palm print comparisons and over 8,000 house-to-house inquiries, no suspect was ever arrested.

For 57 years, Dunne’s family lived without answers. Meanwhile, Headley lived undisturbed just outside the cluster of houses where the crime occurred.

That changed in 2024, when a cold case review utilized modern forensic advancements to revisit the old evidence. New DNA analysis finally matched Headley to the biological samples collected in 1967. Even more damning, the palm print lifted from Dunne’s window decades earlier was confirmed to be his.

Detective Inspector Dave Marchant, who led the modern investigation for Avon and Somerset Police, recounted his reaction to the forensic breakthrough. “I had to read the email several times to believe it. Once it sunk in, it was ‘game on.’ We were going to get justice.”

The investigation drew upon both cutting-edge DNA technology and the exhaustive work of the original investigators. “This was a blend of new and old forensic techniques,” DI Marchant explained. “While DNA was the breakthrough, the meticulous work done back then made it possible.”

Headley was arrested at his home in Ipswich in November 2024. During the trial, it was revealed that he had previously served prison time for two separate rapes committed approximately a decade after Dunne’s murder—both involving elderly women attacked in their homes.

Prosecutor Anna Vigars KC highlighted a pattern in Headley’s violent behavior. “He broke into homes at night, targeting vulnerable elderly women, and subjected them to rape while threatening or using violence.”

For Louisa Dunne’s surviving family, the verdict brought long-awaited justice—but also reopened old emotional wounds. Her granddaughter, Mary Dainton, spoke with deep reflection after the sentencing.

“Louisa’s brutal death cast a long shadow over our family,” Dainton said. “My mother never recovered from the trauma. Friends and neighbors withdrew, and the stigma surrounding rape and murder isolated us. For years, I couldn’t speak about it.”

Dainton added that the recent developments stirred emotions she hadn’t expected. “It’s fallen to me to speak for those who are no longer here. It’s heartbreaking that the people who loved Louisa the most didn’t live to see this day. But I am grateful that justice—though delayed—has finally arrived.”

The resolution of the Dunne case stands as a testament to the power of forensic science and the unwavering dedication of investigators. It also adds to a growing list of cold cases being solved across the globe, particularly in the United States and the UK, where DNA breakthroughs are helping families find closure decades after crimes were committed.

For Mary Dainton and what remains of Louisa Dunne’s legacy, the message is clear: no matter how much time passes, justice can still prevail.

The 23-year-old appeared on the June 29 episode of Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, where she spoke candidly about her mother’s mounting financial troubles and the evolving dynamics within the family. Ariana revealed that she’s been helping her mother cover household expenses and other family-related costs.

“The only time my mom asks me for money is if it’s regarding the bills or something she needs for the kids,” Ariana told Cohen. “And then she pays me back when she can.”

Ariana also acknowledged that she’s not the only one lending a hand — her older sister, 28-year-old Brielle Biermann, has also helped their mother financially.

Cohen, 57, pressed further, asking Ariana whether she harbored any resentment toward Zolciak due to the family’s current financial challenges. Ariana responded with calm conviction.

“My mom, no matter what, will be my best friend forever,” she said. “And money should never ruin a relationship with your family. You can always make more money. I have my mom, and that’s all that matters.”

Ariana declined to comment on recent speculation surrounding Zolciak’s alleged gambling habits — a topic that has fueled tabloid headlines and social media gossip in recent months. Instead, she shifted focus to her own complicated relationship with her adoptive father, Kroy Biermann.

“I think it goes in waves,” Ariana said when asked where things stand with Kroy, 39. “It depends on what motion he’s filing this week throughout this insane divorce.”

When Cohen asked if Kroy had legally adopted her, Ariana confirmed that he had. “Yeah. He will always be my dad no matter what. It’s just a tough situation right now.”

The divorce battle between Kim and Kroy has only grown more intense since their split. Earlier this year, in April, the former couple was forcibly removed from their Alpharetta, Georgia mansion by U.S. Marshals — three months after the property had sold for $2.8 million, according to court records. The home, once showcased prominently during Zolciak’s time on The Real Housewives of Atlanta, had become a symbol of both wealth and conflict as the couple’s marriage unraveled.

According to a writ of possession filed on April 9, Zolciak and Kroy were officially “ejected” from the residence, marking a dramatic turning point in their already messy legal battle.

Zolciak and Kroy share four biological children — Kroy “KJ” Jr., 14, Kash, 12, and 11-year-old twins Kaia and Kane — along with Ariana and Brielle, whom Kroy legally adopted after marrying Kim in 2011.

Though their family has been fractured by legal drama, financial tension, and media scrutiny, Ariana emphasized her commitment to standing by her mother.

“She’s my mom,” Ariana said simply. “And no matter what’s going on, I’m going to be there for her.”

Online chatter has reignited with fresh intensity as amateur sleuths, conspiracy theorists, and self-declared “experts” dissect the latest images of Trump, comparing them meticulously with older photos to question a central detail: the condition of his ear.

The theory? That Trump was either replaced by a body double or that the entire assassination attempt was staged. Yes, seriously.

The latest frenzy began after Trump appeared in public donning his signature red “Make America Great Again” cap, with no visible damage to the ear that was reportedly grazed by a bullet during the July 2024 rally in Pennsylvania — a chilling moment caught on camera when a gunman opened fire, killing one attendee and critically injuring two others.

The assailant, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, used an AR-15-style rifle and fired from a rooftop. He was neutralized on the scene by the U.S. Secret Service, who acted swiftly to shield Trump.

In the hours and days following the attack, Trump was photographed with a bloodied face and a bandage over his ear. The wound, while not life-threatening, became symbolic of what supporters dubbed the president’s “miraculous survival.”

But now, some social media users on X (formerly Twitter) are crying foul. A viral post by user @EastEndJoe, garnering over 20,000 likes, questioned how Trump’s ear could appear so intact just months after the incident. “Ear cartilage generally does NOT regrow,” the post claimed, accompanied by side-by-side images of Trump’s ear pre- and post-attack.

That was enough to unleash a wave of comments, with users calling the injury “fake,” the shooting a “psyop,” and even suggesting that Trump had been replaced. “Likely the biggest scam ever,” one comment read. “They used this to manipulate voters with fake heroism,” another user alleged.

Others went further, reviving an older conspiracy that Trump — like his wife Melania before him — may have been swapped out with a body double. “Look at the ears. Not the same man,” read one popular post.

But for every wild theory, there were just as many voices pushing back….

In the photo, the 55-year-old journalist appears relaxed and glowing, without a trace of television makeup or studio lighting. Her skin is fresh, her eyes bright, and her smile genuine — a rare glimpse of authenticity in an industry often defined by perfection. And the response? Nothing short of overwhelming. Thousands of admirers took to social media to celebrate her “real beauty,” calling the photo “empowering,” “refreshing,” and “a breath of fresh air.”

For Reid, whose career has been built on credibility, confidence, and compassion, the image is more than a snapshot — it’s a statement. As one of British television’s most trusted and enduring figures, she’s long been admired for her fearless interviews and grounded presence. Now, with this quiet act of vulnerability, she’s showing that strength can also mean stripping back the mask.

In an age of heavy filters and impossible beauty standards, Reid’s decision to share her makeup-free face at 55 is striking a deep chord with women of all ages. Many applauded her for showing what aging truly looks like — not hidden behind concealer or retouched beyond recognition, but embraced with grace and pride.

“She’s leading by example,” wrote one follower. “Not just in journalism, but in how to age with dignity and confidence.”

Another put it simply: “This is what 55 really looks like. And it’s absolutely beautiful.”

Susanna Reid may be off-camera in this photo, but she’s sending one of her most powerful messages yet — that real beauty lies not in perfection, but in presence. And the nation is listening.

The bill, once seen as a sure thing for passage under GOP control, has now run into turbulence after three Republican senators — Thom Tillis of North Carolina, Rand Paul of Kentucky, and Ron Johnson of Wisconsin — broke ranks to vote against it. Their defection has left the legislation teetering on the edge, triggering a full-court press from the White House to lock in every last vote and pull the bill over the finish line.

At the core of the legislative chaos is a recent ruling from the Senate parliamentarian, who determined that a key set of Medicaid reforms included in the bill violate reconciliation rules. Under Senate procedure, budget reconciliation allows certain bills to pass with a simple majority, but only if all provisions have a direct budgetary impact. The parliamentarian’s decision has now forced GOP leaders to either revise the legislation or risk losing critical support from moderate Republicans and procedural legitimacy.

Despite the internal dissent, Senate Majority Leader John Thune struck an optimistic tone on Monday, telling reporters that the party remains “laser-focused on delivering results by the July 4th deadline.” However, behind the scenes, frantic negotiations are underway as Republican leadership weighs last-minute edits to satisfy both the rules and the hardliners within their ranks.

Vice President Vance’s arrival on the Hill comes amid growing tension and high stakes. If he casts the tie-breaking vote, it would mark one of the most consequential interventions by a vice president in recent Senate history — not only rescuing Trump’s signature legislation but potentially altering the political narrative heading into the 2026 midterms.

The White House has underscored the urgency of passing the bill, branding it a foundational pillar of Trump’s second term. In a statement issued Tuesday morning, press secretary Karoline Leavitt said, “The American people elected President Trump to secure our border, grow our economy, and strengthen our military. This bill delivers on all fronts. It’s time for Congress to do its job.”

Still, Democrats have vowed to fight the bill tooth and nail, criticizing what they describe as giveaways to the wealthy and cuts to social programs masquerading as fiscal reform. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer slammed the legislation as “a Trojan horse for dismantling healthcare protections and funneling taxpayer money to billionaire donors.”

As the final vote looms and the chamber braces for Vance’s pivotal appearance, both sides are preparing for what could be a watershed moment in the Trump era — one that could shape not only policy, but the political trajectory of Washington for years to come.

Initially introduced in 2024, the DST aimed to levy a 3% tax on revenues earned by multinational digital corporations such as Amazon, Google, Meta, and Apple from Canadian users. The policy was projected to generate roughly $2 billion in annual tax revenue and was designed to apply to companies with global revenues exceeding €750 million and Canadian digital revenues over CA$20 million. Supporters argued that the tax would ensure tech giants paid their fair share in countries where they profited from local consumers without maintaining a significant physical presence.

However, the initiative quickly sparked backlash south of the border. President Trump sharply criticized the DST as a discriminatory measure against American industry, accusing Canada of attempting to “shake down” U.S. innovation leaders while benefiting from free trade arrangements. In a bold retaliatory move, the Trump administration suspended all ongoing trade negotiations with Canada, warning of potential tariffs or broader economic consequences if the tax went forward.

Faced with escalating tensions and potential fallout for the Canadian economy, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced the decision to abandon the DST early on the morning of June 30. “We are committed to strong and stable economic relations with the United States, our largest trading partner,” Carney stated in a press conference. “This step is necessary to restore momentum in vital trade talks and avoid further damage to cross-border cooperation.”

Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne confirmed that not only would the government halt DST collection immediately, but it would also introduce legislation to formally repeal the measure. Champagne emphasized that while Canada continues to believe in the principle of taxing digital services fairly, the country will now shift its focus toward working with international partners on a coordinated global framework—particularly through the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

“This is not a retreat, but a recalibration,” Champagne said. “Canada remains committed to ensuring digital economy giants contribute fairly, but we also recognize that unilateral measures can risk unintended economic consequences.”

The rollback is already being interpreted as a strategic concession to smooth over trade relations with Washington. Canadian officials expressed hope that the decision would pave the way for renewed negotiations and help solidify a broader bilateral agreement by the targeted date of July 21, 2025.

In Washington, the White House welcomed the move. A spokesperson for President Trump called it “a wise and necessary course correction,” adding that the administration would “evaluate Canada’s goodwill in the coming trade discussions.”

Analysts note that this development could have wider implications beyond North America. Several European countries had previously paused their own digital tax plans amid concerns over U.S. retaliation and in hopes of a unified global solution. Canada’s reversal may now be seen as a signal that such measures are politically and economically untenable without broader international alignment.

For now, Canada’s reversal offers a temporary easing of tensions in an increasingly volatile digital trade environment. But with tech regulation, taxation, and global trade all at the forefront of 21st-century diplomacy, the debate is far from over.

Given the nature of their cargo, strict safety measures are in place to minimize the risk of fire, explosion, or chemical exposure during transit. One of the simplest yet most crucial components of a tanker truck’s safety system is a grounding chain — a length of metal chain that hangs from the rear or undercarriage of the truck and drags along the ground during movement.

At first glance, the chain might appear incidental or even obsolete. But its purpose is scientifically sound and vitally important: it provides a path for static electricity to safely discharge into the ground. As the truck travels, friction between its tires and the road, as well as the movement of liquid within the tank, can cause a buildup of static electricity.

If this electrical charge is not properly dissipated, it could result in a spark — a small, seemingly harmless event that, in the presence of flammable vapors, could ignite a devastating fire or explosion.

Historically, tragic accidents stemming from static-induced fires led regulators and industry experts to better understand the dangers posed by ungrounded tanker trucks.

As a result, the use of grounding mechanisms like the trailing chain became standard practice in the transportation of combustible materials. The principle is simple: the dragging chain maintains constant contact with the earth, allowing any accumulated static charge to bleed off safely as the truck moves. It’s an inexpensive, low-tech solution to a high-risk problem — and one that has proven effective for decades.

Today, modern regulations not only require grounding chains but also endorse additional safety mechanisms such as static grounding reels, anti-static additives in fuels, and specialized grounding points used during loading and unloading at fuel depots.

While some newer technologies aim to enhance or replace the grounding chain, it remains in widespread use because of its reliability, ease of maintenance, and consistent performance under a variety of road and weather conditions.

Despite occasional misconceptions — such as the belief that the chain is decorative or intended to reduce road noise — its real function is rooted in physics and fire safety. Trucking companies conduct regular inspections to ensure that the chain is intact, securely mounted, and sufficiently long to maintain contact with the road surface.

In the end, this often-overlooked piece of metal plays a frontline role in public safety. While the driver may be trained in handling emergencies, and the truck itself may be built to withstand collisions or rollovers, it is this unassuming chain — quietly sparking against the asphalt — that may prevent the worst from ever happening. It stands as a testament to the idea that sometimes, the most important safety features are the ones that are barely noticed at all.

The comments came after Daily Wire reporter Mary Margaret Olohan asked Leavitt to address a recent CNN segment on the app, especially in light of Department of Homeland Security (DHS) data showing a staggering 500% rise in assaults on ICE agents. Leavitt said she hadn’t yet seen the full segment but made her position clear.

“Surely, it sounds like this would be an incitement of further violence against our ICE officers,” Leavitt stated. “As you noted, we’re seeing a surge in attacks on law enforcement — brave men and women who are simply doing their jobs, removing threats from our communities.”

Leavitt went on to suggest that media outlets like CNN should show more responsibility when reporting on tools that, in her view, could undermine law enforcement and public safety.

“This is something we, as Americans — including the journalists who live in these cities where criminal illegal aliens hide — should be concerned about. We should be grateful for the officers keeping us safe,” she said. “If CNN is promoting an app that facilitates hostility toward law enforcement, that’s not just irresponsible — it’s unacceptable.”

In response, CNN defended its reporting, saying it had simply covered a publicly available app that is gaining attention nationwide.

“CNN reported on a publicly available app, which is generating attention across the United States, and reached out to ICE for comment prior to publication,” a network spokesperson told Fox News Digital. “After CNN published its reporting, ICE posted a response, which is now included in the story.”

The ICE response came from Acting Director Todd Lyons, who condemned the app’s implications. “ICEBlock basically paints a target on federal law enforcement officers’ backs,” he said. “Our officers are already facing a 500% increase in assaults.”

CNN’s segment included an interview with the app’s creator, Joshua Aaron, who described ICEBlock as a digital tool to resist what he called unjust deportation efforts. Drawing a provocative historical comparison, Aaron claimed the current immigration enforcement climate is reminiscent of Nazi Germany.

“We’re literally watching history repeat itself,” Aaron told CNN.

Though Aaron insisted that his intent is not to promote violence, critics remain skeptical. The app allows users to anonymously report ICE sightings within a five-mile radius, limits reports to one every five minutes, and automatically deletes all sightings after four hours. According to Aaron, these safeguards are designed to prevent spam and abuse.

Additionally, ICEBlock includes a built-in warning urging users not to interfere with officers or incite violence.

“The use of this app is for information and notification purposes only,” the disclaimer reads. “It is not to be used for the purposes of inciting violence or interfering with law enforcement.”

Still, critics — including ICE officials and members of the White House — warn that the app’s very existence could embolden anti-law enforcement sentiment at a time when assaults against officers are already surging.

The controversy underscores the widening rift between tech activism, immigration policy, and public safety — and raises new questions about the role media outlets play in spotlighting tools that walk a fine line between resistance and risk.

Testifying in Manhattan federal court on Friday, May 16, Ventura — now more than eight months pregnant — recounted in harrowing detail how Combs allegedly used his power and control to manipulate every aspect of her life, from her career to her body.

“I had to do Freak Offs,” Ventura said through tears, during re-direct questioning. “His mood affected my whole life — my career, how I felt about myself, my self-worth.” She testified that whenever Combs wanted one of these so-called “Freak Offs,” she was expected to drop everything. Her work, her life, and her independence would be put on hold.

According to Ventura, preparing for the Freak Offs became part of a twisted routine. She described meticulously grooming herself, setting up rooms, and arranging for other women — often escorts — to be present. “He introduced me to a world I didn’t know or understand at the time,” she said.

Ventura’s emotional breakdown came during a particularly devastating moment in court. Prosecutor Emily Johnson asked her, “Would you give that money back if it meant you never had to have Freak Offs?”

Ventura began to cry again, pausing before answering: “If I never had to have Freak Offs, I would have agency and autonomy. I wouldn’t have had to work so hard to get it back.”

This was a reference to the civil lawsuit she filed against Combs in 2023, in which she accused him of rape, repeated physical abuse, and years of manipulation. That lawsuit, she confirmed on the stand earlier in the week, was settled for $20 million — a sum that has since become a point of contention. The defense has suggested Ventura was financially motivated, noting that she canceled a music tour shortly after the settlement. Ventura refuted that narrative, explaining she was emotionally overwhelmed and wanted to focus on her children.

Her testimony became even more harrowing as she revealed that she had been forced to participate in Freak Offs even while suffering from a urinary tract infection. She also claimed she was assaulted more than once during these encounters — which she described as something she felt compelled to endure in order to preserve her relationship with Combs.

Throughout the trial, Ventura has emerged as the prosecution’s most powerful witness. Since taking the stand on Tuesday, May 13, she has painted a chilling portrait of a decade-long relationship marked by fear, surveillance, and alleged psychological and sexual abuse. She told the jury that Combs would isolate her, monitor her movements, and threaten to release compromising videos if she disobeyed or tried to leave.

Combs is currently facing a series of serious federal charges, including sex trafficking, racketeering, and the interstate transportation of individuals for the purposes of prostitution. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

As the trial unfolds, Ventura’s testimony has become a focal point, offering a rare, firsthand glimpse into the inner world of one of the most powerful men in music — and the control she says he wielded behind closed doors.

The disturbing incident unfolded on Sunday, June 29, when firefighters responded to a brush fire reported around 1:30 p.m. on Canfield Mountain in Coeur d’Alene, about 30 miles east of Spokane, Washington. But what seemed like a routine emergency quickly turned into a deadly ambush.

Around 2 p.m., as the crew began efforts to contain the blaze, gunfire erupted. According to Kootenai County Sheriff Robert Norris, the responders were deliberately targeted by a shooter who officials now believe may have started the fire as a trap. Two firefighters were fatally shot at the scene, and a third was rushed to a local hospital in stable but critical condition.

By 3:16 p.m., law enforcement — which had mobilized over 300 officers including SWAT teams and tactical units — tracked a cell phone signal to a remote spot on Canfield Mountain. There, they discovered the suspected shooter dead beside a firearm. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the man died by suicide or in a confrontation with police.

“We do believe he started the fire, and it was totally intentional,” Sheriff Norris said at a press conference. He described the situation as “an ambush” and called it “very, very rare” for such violence to erupt in a rural setting.

At the height of the incident, nearby residents were ordered to shelter in place as authorities searched the wooded area for the gunman. That order has since been lifted, though Kootenai County Emergency Management urged locals to remain alert, as the wildfire continues to pose a danger and could require additional evacuations.

Roughly 20 acres of Canfield Mountain were burned before firefighting efforts were interrupted by the attack. Investigators are still working to determine if the original 911 call reporting the fire came from the suspected shooter himself.

The identity of the alleged gunman has not yet been released, and officials are withholding further details about the weapon found at the scene until the coroner’s office completes its investigation.

Idaho Governor Brad Little condemned the attack in a statement posted to X (formerly Twitter), writing:

“Multiple heroic firefighters were attacked today while responding to a fire in North Idaho. This is a heinous direct assault on our brave firefighters. I ask all Idahoans to pray for them and their families as we wait to learn more. Teresa and I are heartbroken.”

He also urged the public to avoid the area to allow authorities and emergency crews to continue their work safely.

As of now, the motive behind the attack remains unclear. The sheriff’s office and local fire and rescue teams have not issued additional updates, and an active investigation is ongoing.

The crash unfolded Saturday afternoon along Interstate 20 near Terrell, when Alexis Osmani Gonzalez-Companioni allegedly fell asleep behind the wheel of his 18-wheeler. According to police reports and eyewitness accounts, the truck plowed full-speed into the back of a pickup truck carrying five passengers, triggering a chain-reaction collision involving multiple other vehicles, including two more semis and three passenger cars.

Four of the five people in the pickup were killed instantly. A fifth victim, traveling in a nearby Jeep Compass, also died after one of the trucks jackknifed and slammed into the vehicle. The remaining pickup passenger was airlifted in critical condition to a local hospital.

Gonzalez-Companioni has now been charged with five counts of manslaughter and one count of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. He remains in custody at Kaufman County Jail, according to PEOPLE and official court records.

Initial investigations indicate traffic had slowed ahead of the driver — but Gonzalez-Companioni didn’t notice because he had reportedly dozed off, Texas Department of Public Safety officials said. The result was an explosive crash that shook the highway and nearby neighborhoods.

Corinne Mulcahy, a resident of a nearby RV park, described the horrific moment to WFAA: “That bang was just incredible. The truck came out of nowhere and slammed into everything.” She said the chaos unfolded in seconds, leaving a line of crushed vehicles and emergency responders scrambling.

The Terrell Volunteer Fire Department called it a “mass casualty” scene, and authorities say it could have been even worse if traffic hadn’t already been slowing.

As the investigation continues, questions are mounting about how a fatigued driver ended up behind the wheel of a massive vehicle during peak traffic hours — and what safety protocols, if any, were ignored.

Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims, but families are already calling for accountability and reform to prevent another tragedy like this from happening again.

The details of the case are both tragic and horrifying. Jaxsynn, a child with autism, died after being submerged in a bathtub filled with scalding water. Initially, authorities were led to believe the death may have been accidental.

According to court documents, Jaxsynn’s mother, Lana Harasymczuk, told first responders that her son had been alone in the bathroom and had likely tripped and fallen into the tub. But when officers arrived, they found inconsistencies in her account — Jaxsynn was lying next to the bathtub, completely dry, and his body felt unusually warm.

The truth began to unravel after the autopsy. The medical examiner determined the cause of death was hyperthermia, caused by exposure to extreme heat, and ruled the manner of death a homicide.

The report revealed the boy’s body temperature was 102 degrees Fahrenheit at the time of his death and that he had extensive bruising across his face and torso, suggesting a history of abuse.

Faced with the evidence, Lana allegedly changed her story. She reportedly admitted to police that her husband had been alone in the bathroom with Jaxsynn moments before the boy was found unresponsive.

She also revealed, according to investigators, that Kristopher regularly beat both Jaxsynn and her other son — a 6-year-old — using a metal spatula as a weapon. These revelations cast a new and disturbing light on what prosecutors argued was a prolonged pattern of violent discipline masked as parenting.

The abuse was not unknown to others close to the family. During the investigation, Child Protective Services spoke with the biological father of the two boys.

He presented photos taken just two days after Jaxsynn’s death that showed red welts and deep bruises on the body of his surviving son. According to an affidavit,

the father claimed those injuries were inflicted by Harasymczuk and described a pattern of violence that included not just beatings, but also forcing the children to perform wall sits, pushing them to the ground, and forcing them down into the bathtub.

On Wednesday, June 25, the Philadelphia Police Department (PPD) announced the arrests of Charles Sumpter, 67, and Fleitte Newell, 44, in connection with the deadly blaze.

Both have been charged with multiple counts of murder, arson, and related offenses stemming from the June 13 fire that killed 31-year-old Ashley Thompson, her 6-year-old son Assad Thompson, and her 4-year-old daughter Alaya Thompson-Newell.

According to a police statement, emergency crews responded to the scene shortly before 5 a.m. at a rowhome on the 2500 block of North Corlies Street. When firefighters arrived, they found the building fully engulfed in flames, forcing them to battle intense heat and smoke in their desperate attempt to reach the victims.

“While firefighters worked to extinguish the fire, five individuals were discovered inside the residence,” the police report read.
Thompson was found deceased on the second floor, while her children were rushed to a local hospital, where both later succumbed to their injuries.

The fire has since been determined to be an act of arson, and investigators believe the motive may have stemmed from a long-running family dispute over the ownership and control of the house.

Sherry Jackson, a 54-year-old woman who survived the fire, was able to escape with another child and has told reporters she believes the fire was no accident. Jackson is the sister of suspect Fleitte Newell, and she told NBC 10 that the two had been embroiled in an ongoing feud about the property for over a year. “She told me she would burn the house down with me in it,” Jackson told the outlet. “I reported the threat, but no one did anything.”

According to 6ABC, both Newell and Sumpter were interviewed by investigators on the day of the fire but were not taken into custody until more than 10 days later, after police obtained enough evidence to issue arrest warrants.

The gunman has been identified as 20-year-old Wess Roley, according to law enforcement sources cited by the Associated Press, The New York Times, NBC News, and CNN. He was found dead near the scene with a weapon beside him shortly after the shooting. Investigators are still working to determine whether he died by suicide or was killed during an exchange of gunfire.

Authorities believe Roley intentionally started the fire to lure first responders to the area before opening fire just after 2 p.m. Tactical teams and helicopters were dispatched immediately, and residents nearby were ordered to shelter in place.

“This was a total ambush,” said Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris during a press briefing. “These firefighters did not have a chance.”

A Shocking Turn
According to Roley’s grandfather, Dale Roley, the suspect had previously expressed admiration for firefighters and had even considered becoming one himself. He was reportedly employed in the tree service industry and, according to family members, had dreams of joining the firefighting profession.

“As far as I know, he was actually pursuing it,” Dale told NBC News.
“He loved firefighters. He respected law enforcement. It didn’t make sense that he would do this. Maybe he got rejected or something.”

Authorities have not yet disclosed a motive and say Roley appeared to have acted alone. Using cellphone data, investigators located his body at approximately 3:15 p.m., not far from the original shooting scene.

The Victims
As of Sunday night, the names of the two slain firefighters have not been released, pending family notifications. A third firefighter who was injured remains hospitalized in stable condition, according to CNN.

The tragedy has left both the local firefighting community and law enforcement in shock, especially given the calculated nature of the attack.

The investigation is ongoing, with officials vowing to uncover what led to this horrific act.

Taking to his platform, X, late Saturday night, Musk torched the nearly 1,000-page Senate draft, unofficially dubbed the “Big, Beautiful Bill”, accusing it of prioritizing dying industries while gutting the country’s economic future.

“The latest Senate draft bill will destroy millions of jobs in America and cause immense strategic harm to our country!” Musk posted. “Utterly insane and destructive. It gives handouts to industries of the past while severely damaging industries of the future.”

Musk’s outrage centers on provisions in the bill that would raise taxes on renewable energy projects, including wind and solar, that don’t meet strict U.S. sourcing requirements. He reposted analysis from Jesse D. Jenkins, a leading energy systems engineer, who warned that the bill would cripple clean energy development by imposing near-impossible conditions on projects using any Chinese materials.

Musk Breaks With GOP Leadership
This isn’t just policy criticism—Musk’s remarks signal a deeper fracture between himself and the Trump-aligned Republican establishment.

Having previously served as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) under Trump before a reported fallout, Musk has since become one of the most vocal critics of the party’s fiscal direction.

He called the legislation “political suicide” for Republicans and blasted the debt implications, writing:

“This bill raises the debt ceiling by $5 TRILLION, the biggest increase in history, putting America in the fast lane to debt slavery!”

Musk has been sounding the alarm for weeks. Earlier in June, he labeled the House version of the proposal a “disgusting abomination” and urged followers to flood congressional offices with calls, warning:

“Bankrupting America is not OK! KILL THE BILL.”

Dividing the Right
Despite Republican efforts to push the bill forward—culminating in a narrow 51–49 Senate vote to advance the legislation—opposition is growing both inside and outside the party.

Senator Rand Paul joined Musk in expressing alarm over the debt impact.

“Not that we should govern by poll,” Paul posted Saturday, “but it’s very clear people don’t want this extreme amount of debt and reckless spending.”

Democrats, who oppose the bill, retaliated with a procedural delay, forcing a full reading of the nearly 940-page document, grinding Senate activity to a halt for hours.

“Who Wants This?”
Reinforcing Musk’s claims, Jenkins noted that the bill is wildly unpopular across multiple industries:

“The country’s automakers don’t want it. Electric utilities don’t want it. Data center developers don’t want it. Manufacturers in energy-intensive industries don’t want it.”

Yet the bill moves forward, with Trump reportedly pushing for it to be signed into law by July 4, branding it a patriotic “reset” for the American economy.

Whether Musk’s vocal opposition can shift momentum remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: he’s drawn a very public line in the sand—and he’s daring the GOP to cross it.

The incident unfolded off the coast of Naples, where the young boy had been playing in the water on his inflatable float. But strong winds and powerful currents quickly carried him far from shore—out of reach and into open sea.

In a desperate attempt to save him, the boy’s grandmother dove into the water, only to be swept away herself by the same unforgiving currents.

Fortunately, both the child and his grandmother were rescued in a dramatic operation carried out by the Italian Coastguard. The young boy clung to his lilo with all his strength until help arrived. A brave coastguard swam out from a boat using a flotation ring to reach the boy and bring him back to safety.

“I want to thank you for saving my son and my mum,” said the boy’s father, Gioacchino D’Angelo. “Hats off to you. Thank you so much!”

According to the Italian Coastguard, the grandmother was located and rescued roughly two miles from Castellammare di Stabia, emphasizing how quickly the situation escalated. Officials used the moment to issue a stark warning:

“We urge the utmost caution and remind the public to avoid using inflatable mattresses, flotation devices, or small dinghies in strong winds.”

Footage from the rescue shows the boy still sitting atop his lilo as the coastguard reached him. After bringing him aboard the rescue vessel, the officer even paused to take a celebratory selfie with the boy and his grandmother. To top it off, the young adventurer was invited to sit at the front of the boat—a small reward for surviving such a frightening ordeal.

“It turns out a decent lilo can actually save your life,” one rescuer remarked.

Following their rescue, both the boy and his grandmother were handed over to emergency medical personnel, and the grandfather, who had remained on the beach, also received medical assistance due to the shock. Fortunately, none of them were seriously harmed.

The incident comes just days after another child-related scare at sea, in which a young girl reportedly fell from the fourth deck of a Disney cruise ship. Her father leapt in after her, keeping her afloat until a rescue team intervened. In that case as well, quick action prevented a potential tragedy.

In both situations, luck, courage, and swift response combined to bring about a happy ending—but not without a sobering reminder of just how dangerous the sea can be.

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According to a new Emerson College Poll, only 45% of respondents approve of the way Trump is handling the presidency, while 46% disapprove, and 9% remain unsure. Even more troubling for the administration, 45% believe the country is on the wrong track.

Meanwhile, a separate poll from Quinnipiac University earlier this month paints an even bleaker picture: just 38% of Americans approve of Trump’s performance in office—the lowest approval rating for a sitting president in decades.

As the numbers dip, some Trump supporters are taking to Reddit to openly discuss a once-unthinkable topic: what would it take for them to stop supporting Trump?

One user posed the question bluntly:

“Trump supporters: what is a red line that, if crossed, would make you stop supporting Trump?”

The responses were illuminating—and in some cases, deeply personal.

“I asked my dad, who’s as hardcore a Trump supporter as it gets,” one user shared. “He said if Trump actually cuts Medicaid or Social Security, that would be it. That’s his red line.”

Others noted that for their families, it’s not what Trump does—but what he doesn’t do that would push them away.

“I asked my parents the same thing,” one commenter wrote. “Their red line is basically Trump supporting anything that even resembles liberal policy. National healthcare, wealth taxes, unions, environmental regulation, voter protections, inclusive immigration. To them, liberalism is evil—it has to be destroyed.”

That response struck a nerve, with another user calling it “freaking disturbing.”

Some former supporters say they’ve already had enough—and point to January 6, 2021, as the turning point.

“I voted for Trump in 2020,” one former backer admitted. “But January 6 was my red line. That day showed a complete contempt for democracy. Since then, I’ve reevaluated everything—I now consider myself a moderate Democrat.”

Others cited more recent developments, including Trump’s strained relationship with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, particularly following their chaotic meeting in February.

“I know some Republicans who supported Trump until today,” wrote another commenter. “After that disgraceful meeting with Zelensky, they completely flipped.”

As Trump pushes forward with bold budget-slashing goals and a combative stance against federal programs and regulations, it appears that his support is becoming more conditional—even among his most devoted followers.

Whether these conversations reflect a larger shift in Trump’s base remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the red lines are starting to show.

The outlandish claim came via Musk’s social media platform, X (formerly Twitter), where he frequently engages with followers, shares memes, and—on occasion—drops bizarre tidbits about himself. The latest revelation follows a string of headline-grabbing moves by Musk this year, including his public endorsement of President Donald Trump during the 2024 election.

After Trump’s return to the White House, Musk was tapped to lead a new initiative called the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)—an unofficial but high-profile effort aimed at identifying and eliminating waste across federal agencies. Musk has vowed to cut $2 trillion from the federal budget, promising that the reforms would “send shockwaves through the system.”

But in between memes and policy promises, Musk decided to offer what may be the strangest “full disclosure” yet.

It started when Musk posted a meme about a neighbor waking him at 2:30 a.m. One user replied:

“You don’t sleep because you’re a vampire?”

The comment referenced an old tweet from Musk himself:

“Full disclosure, I’m actually a 3,000-year-old vampire. It’s such a trial assuming all these false identities over the centuries!”

Musk didn’t deny it—instead, he doubled down.

“I’m a time-traveling vampire,” he replied, before casually adding, “also an alien.”

Naturally, the internet lit up.

One user joked: “ELON WHY ARE YOU STILL AWAKE?”
Another wrote: “Elon has memes on standby for every occasion, I swear.”
A third chimed in: “Nice to know Elon also suffers from insomnia like the rest of us mortals.”

While the self-proclaimed alien vampire continues to dominate social media, his role at DOGE has drawn serious attention in Washington.

Trump, speaking at a rally, praised Musk’s no-nonsense approach:

“I don’t think I can get him full-time because he’s a little busy launching rockets and building electric cars. But he said the waste in this country is crazy—and we’re going to get Elon Musk to be our cost-cutter.”

Musk’s assignment isn’t permanent. The Department of Government Efficiency is set to conclude its work on July 4, 2026, symbolically wrapping up on the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. According to Trump, the timing is no accident—it’s meant to be a “gift” to the nation in the form of a leaner, more efficient federal government.

So, whether or not Elon Musk really is a centuries-old extraterrestrial vampire, he’s certainly got his fangs into government reform—and the country, it seems, is along for the ride.

Deputy Dalton Swanger of the Knox County Sheriff’s Office was responding to a 911 call reporting gunfire in a residential neighborhood in Powell, near Knoxville, on the night of June 21. Accompanied by fellow officers and a camera crew from the popular television series, Swanger attempted to apprehend 44-year-old Christopher Hensley, who had fled into a wooded area behind his home.

Bodycam and broadcast audio captured officers shouting “Sheriff’s Office!” as they moved in with weapons drawn, believing Hensley may have been armed. As they closed in, Hensley reportedly began yelling obscenities—and moments later, Swanger suddenly collapsed to the ground.

According to On Patrol: Live co-host Tom Rizzo, the studio fell silent as the horrifying scene unfolded live on air.

“His mates dragged him to safety to render aid. As Dalton tried to stand, he said, ‘I’m going to be heavy,’” Rizzo recalled in a heartfelt Facebook post.

Swanger was rushed to the hospital and placed in intensive care with a severe head injury believed to have been caused by a blow to the head with a rock. His condition remains critical but stable, according to updates from the Knox County Sheriff’s Office.

The suspect, Christopher Hensley, was quickly apprehended and now faces multiple charges, including:

Attempted second-degree murder

Aggravated assault on a first responder

Domestic assault

Possession of a firearm with intent to go armed

Manufacturing, delivery, and possession of a controlled substance

A GoFundMe campaign created to support Deputy Swanger and his family during his recovery has already raised over $75,000. The fundraiser notes that the deputy, who often worked multiple jobs, is now unable to do so, and his family is also facing lost income and unexpected expenses.

“Deputy Swanger has dedicated his life to protecting our community,” the page reads. “Now it’s our turn to stand by him and his loved ones in their time of need.”

In a recent update, the Sheriff’s Office stated:

“Deputy Swanger remains in the Trauma ICU; his condition is critical but stable. Visitors are restricted to allow him the rest he needs.”

Sheriff Tom Spangler vowed to seek justice, saying:

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Deputy Swanger and his family during this challenging time. We are fully committed to investigating this attack and using every resource available to ensure the person responsible is held accountable.”

The shocking incident, aired live, has sent ripples through law enforcement communities nationwide, serving as a stark reminder of the dangers officers face each day—even when the cameras are rolling.

Earlier this week, the United States confirmed it had launched missiles targeting three Iranian nuclear facilities, following Israel’s strikes on June 13. The strikes came amid accusations that Iran was advancing its nuclear weapons program. Though a ceasefire has since been reinstated—despite accusations from Israel that Iran violated it—the global community remains on edge.

In light of these developments, investigative journalist and author Annie Jacobsen, a leading voice on nuclear threats, has identified two countries she believes offer the best shot at survival should nuclear war break out: Australia and New Zealand.

Speaking on The Diary of a CEO podcast, Jacobsen explained why the Southern Hemisphere, particularly these two nations, could be humanity’s last safe haven in a post-nuclear world.

“Places like Iowa and Ukraine would be just snow for 10 years,” Jacobsen said, referring to the effects of a nuclear winter. “So agriculture would fail, and when agriculture fails, people just die.”

The devastation wouldn’t just be from bombs, she warned, but from the collapse of global food systems, environmental fallout, and radiation poisoning.

“The ozone layer will be so damaged that people won’t even be able to go outside,” she said. “Most will be forced to live underground, battling for scarce food—except, potentially, in New Zealand and Australia.”

Why these two countries? Jacobsen points to their geographic isolation and Southern Hemisphere location, which would spare them from the worst of the nuclear fallout and allow them to continue agriculture, at least to some degree.

She referenced a 2022 study by Professor Owen Toon, a prominent researcher of nuclear winter, who concluded that up to 5 billion people would die from the aftermath of a large-scale nuclear war—primarily due to famine, not the initial blasts.

“If the population is around eight billion,” Jacobsen said, “that leaves three billion survivors. And if you want to be one of them, according to Toon, you’d want to be in New Zealand or Australia.”

The Nuclear Map of the U.S.: Where You Don’t Want to Be
Closer to home, Newsweek and Scientific American analyzed U.S. nuclear vulnerability based on proximity to missile silos and strategic military targets.

The worst places to be? States with a high concentration of ICBM (Intercontinental Ballistic Missile) silos, such as:
Montana
Wyoming
Nebraska
North Dakota
Colorado

According to Scientific American, each missile silo would be targeted with one or more nuclear warheads, capable of creating “gargantuan fireballs” and devastating shockwaves that would obliterate surrounding areas.

So where are the safest spots in the U.S.? Newsweek lists the following states as being furthest from expected impact zones:
Maine
New Hampshire
Vermont
Massachusetts
Rhode Island
Connecticut
New York
New Jersey
Pennsylvania
Delaware
Maryland
Washington, D.C.
Virginia
West Virginia
North Carolina
South Carolina
Georgia
Florida
Alabama
Mississippi
Tennessee
Kentucky
Ohio
Indiana
Michigan
While no place is entirely safe in a full-scale nuclear conflict, these regions are believed to be furthest from direct hits.

Final Thought
The idea of nuclear war is chilling, and while governments may debate strategy and diplomacy, individuals are left wondering what they would do if the unthinkable happened. According to experts like Jacobsen and Toon, the key to survival may not lie in bunkers or stockpiles—but in geography.

And if worst comes to worst, it might just be time to book that one-way ticket to New Zealand.

The former—and now 47th—President of the United States is no stranger to wild rumors, but a new wave of speculation gained traction online after a peculiar photo emerged from the NATO summit in The Hague on June 24. The image shows Trump standing alongside other world leaders, including King Willem-Alexander and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan—yet something about it seemed “off” to some viewers.

Despite officially being listed as 6’3″ and 224 lbs during his most recent physical earlier this year, Trump appeared noticeably shorter than expected in the group photo—especially when standing next to the Dutch monarch (reportedly 6’2″) and Erdoğan (around 6’0″). Instead of towering above them, as some anticipated, Trump seemed to shrink into the background.

That’s all it took for social media to erupt.

“That… that is not Trump,” one Twitter user wrote.
“Obviously not the real one. Not tall enough,” said another.
“When I saw the video, I was wondering why he looked so much shorter,” added a third.
One even called the entire scene “creepy.”

Some conspiracy theorists humorously referred to the man in the image as “Mini Trump,” suggesting he was a double sent to attend the event while the real president was allegedly elsewhere. It’s a theory that echoes past online claims about Melania Trump, who has long been rumored (without evidence) to have used a lookalike for public appearances during her time as First Lady.

Still, as amusing as these claims may be, more grounded observers offered a far simpler explanation: optics and perspective.

Several pointed out that differences in camera angles, footwear, posture, and proximity to the camera can significantly impact how someone appears in a photograph—especially in group shots where everyone isn’t perfectly aligned.

“I think he just looks short here because the King of the Netherlands is 6’5. Let’s not get carried away,” one skeptical Twitter user posted (though the King is officially listed at 6’2″).

Others noted that varying shoe soles, especially among world leaders who often wear custom or lifted footwear, can easily create the illusion of different heights. A slight lean forward or backward, a tilt in the ground, or standing slightly behind another person can all make a big difference visually.

In the photo, Trump stands just slightly behind the others, and his posture appears more relaxed, which could add to the perceived height difference.

Despite the rational explanations, the conspiracy theory has gained enough traction that UNILAD has reached out to the White House for comment. As of now, no official response has been issued.

Whether it was just a trick of the lens or something more theatrical, the photo has certainly reignited a favorite online pastime: analyzing every pixel of Donald Trump’s public appearances.

And while most serious observers roll their eyes at the body double theory, one thing is certain—wherever Trump goes, speculation follows.

After racking up millions in real estate before entering politics, the President decided to launch a smartphone and mobile service.

The gold-colored T1 device is set to retail for $499, and when it was announced by the Trump Organization earlier this month, it was claimed that the smartphone would be ‘made in the USA’.

In fact, the company’s website clearly states: “Our MADE IN THE USA’ T1 Phone’ is available for pre-order now.”

Trump has hailed the importance of reviving manufacturing jobs in America, or in other words, he wants to make America make things again.

This was a key reason for his reciprocal tariffs on so-called’ Liberation Day’, with Trump saying at the time that the tariffs would encourage US consumers to buy more goods that were made in America.

However, the reference on the website, which stated where the phone would be produced, has been removed completely, a change which was first noted by The Verge.

The new tagline for the device is ‘Premium Performance. Proudly American’ and the website says the device is ‘designed with American values in mind’ and there are ‘American hands behind every device’. An ‘American-Proud Design’ is also listed as a key feature.

It is unclear if the phone will actually be manufactured in America, which does not come as a surprise to industry experts.

When the gadget was announced this month, experts told CNBC that they believed it would likely be made in China by a local third-party company. This is because America lacks an advanced supply chain for building smartphones, and components would still need to be shipped from overseas, even if they did.

However, Trump Mobile Spokesperson Chris Walker did tell the publication: “T1 phones are proudly being made in America. Speculation to the contrary is simply inaccurate.”

People on Reddit had a few things to say about the apparent change.

One person wrote: “That’s honestly funnier because lots of things say “designed in America” but this doesn’t even go that far.”

Another said it was ‘so crazy’, while someone else commented: “How is this even a thing, it’s so stupid.”

The T1 phone will be available in August, and a phone plan for $47.45 a month will also be offered.

“Trump Mobile is going to change the game, we’re building on the movement to put America first, and we will deliver the highest levels of quality and service,” Donald Trump Jr. said.

“Our company is based right here in the United States because we know it’s what our customers want and deserve.”

With President Donald Trump ordering airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear sites just last week—and Russian President Vladimir Putin continuing his war in Ukraine—speculation about potential nuclear flashpoints is intensifying. Trump has also stirred tensions with trade confrontations involving Canada, Mexico, and especially China, whose military power and strained relations with the U.S. raise serious concern.

Now, Professor Alex Wellerstein, a nuclear historian at the Stevens Institute of Technology, has shared with the Daily Mail a list of 15 U.S. cities he believes could be primary targets if America’s adversaries were to launch a nuclear strike.

“If the adversary is Russia and the goal is to disable U.S. retaliation, they’ll go after command centers and ICBM sites,” Wellerstein explained. “But if the attacker is a rogue nation or terrorist group, they may go for symbolic or densely populated locations instead.”

Here are the U.S. cities Wellerstein warns could be in the crosshairs:

1. Great Falls, Montana
Population: 60,422
It may seem unlikely, but Great Falls could be an early target. The city is near Malmstrom Air Force Base, which oversees hundreds of nuclear missile silos—a strategic priority for any major enemy. Though Montana is vast and sparsely populated, its military value makes it vulnerable.

2. Cheyenne, Wyoming
Population: 65,168
Despite its small size, Cheyenne is home to Francis E. Warren Air Force Base, a key nuclear command and control site. If a nuclear exchange began, this quiet capital city could be wiped off the map within minutes.

3. Ogden & Clearfield, Utah
Combined Population: 121,737
Just north of Salt Lake City, these twin cities sit beside Hill Air Force Base, another vital U.S. nuclear operations center. Their military significance makes them high on the list of potential targets.

4. Shreveport, Louisiana
Population: 177,959
Shreveport hosts Barksdale Air Force Base, home to B-52 bombers capable of launching nuclear attacks. Its close proximity to residential neighborhoods would make any strike catastrophic for civilians.

5. Honolulu, Hawaii
Population: 341,778
Hawaii’s capital is a strategic military hub and has long been on the radar since the infamous Pearl Harbor attack. Its naval and air force installations, as well as its location between Asia and the mainland U.S., make it a likely target in any Pacific conflict.

6. Omaha, Nebraska
Population: 483,335
Offutt Air Force Base, just outside Omaha, has historically played a central role in nuclear command during the Cold War and remains a crucial site in U.S. strategic defense.

7. Colorado Springs, Colorado
Population: 488,664
Nestled at the foot of the Rockies, this city houses NORAD (North American Aerospace Defense Command), responsible for overseeing the security of U.S. and Canadian airspace. Its military role and central location put it at serious risk.

8. Albuquerque, New Mexico
Population: 560,274
Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque manages one of the largest stockpiles of nuclear weapons in the country, making it an obvious target in a nuclear conflict.

9. Washington, D.C.
Population: 678,972
Home to the President, Congress, the Pentagon, and countless federal agencies, the nation’s capital would be among the first cities struck in any coordinated attack.

10. Seattle, Washington
Population: 737,015
Near Seattle lies Naval Base Kitsap, which hosts strategic submarines and nuclear warheads. The city’s critical role in tech and shipping, combined with its difficult geography for evacuation, adds to its vulnerability.

11. San Francisco, California
Population: 873,965
Though not home to a major nuclear base, San Francisco’s importance in finance, tech, and politics makes it a symbolic target. A strike here would have devastating global economic consequences.

12. Houston, Texas
Population: 2.3 million
A sprawling economic powerhouse and energy hub, Houston’s destruction would be a massive blow to the U.S. economy. It’s also home to NASA’s Johnson Space Center.

13. Chicago, Illinois
Population (City): 2.6 million
Population (Metro): Over 9.6 million
The Midwest’s economic engine, Chicago’s proximity to Lake Michigan would turn any nuclear strike into an environmental disaster on top of the human toll.

14. Los Angeles, California
Population: 3.8 million
LA is the heart of America’s entertainment industry, a global cultural symbol, and a city with immense economic power. Its destruction would send shockwaves through global media and commerce.

15. New York City, New York
Population: 8.8 million
The ultimate target. As the largest city in the U.S. and a global capital for finance, media, diplomacy, and culture, NYC would be a symbolic and strategic bullseye in any nuclear confrontation.

Wellerstein’s grim list isn’t a prediction—but rather a reminder of the fragile balance of power in today’s tense global climate. While many of the cities are home to critical military infrastructure, others are targeted purely for their symbolic value or dense populations.

In a world where conflict looms and diplomacy seems increasingly frail, this list is a chilling wake-up call: nuclear war wouldn’t just be about strategy—it would be about devastation.

The 24-year-old athlete experienced a rather unfortunate and very public wardrobe malfunction mid-race, accidentally exposing himself to the cameras and the crowd as he sprinted down the track.

Robinson’s shorts failed him early in the race, and despite several desperate attempts to adjust and cover up while hurdling at top speed, he was unable to fully contain the situation. Cameras caught him repeatedly trying to fix the issue — all while maintaining his lead.

Remarkably, Robinson didn’t let the incident throw him off his stride. He not only finished the race, but won it with a time of 48.05 seconds — just 0.10 seconds shy of his personal best. In true showman style, he capped it all off with a celebratory somersault and a smile at the finish line.

A commentator during the race maintained a surprising level of composure while addressing the awkward incident:

“Congratulations to Chris Robinson for battling a problem that does emerge occasionally — various parts of their equipment failure can make it very awkward.

“That was a stunning effort to be out in front, very nearly a personal best with those adjustments going on. Constant man-handling going on with the left hand, but boy, he just stayed in front, dipping at the line and getting home in the lead.”

Not all broadcasters were quick enough to censor the live footage, leading some viewers to get more of a glimpse than they bargained for — both during the race and in the replays.

World Athletics commentator Tim Hutchings also weighed in post-race:

“That’s a brilliant run by the American, to be constantly adjusting certain parts of his equipment — and possibly his anatomy — down the home straight.

“He hit that ninth hurdle hard. He was having an equipment failure there. I think that’s probably the politest way to put it. There hasn’t been time to censor them.”

Despite the unexpected exposure, Robinson appeared unfazed and took the incident in good humor. And while the world may remember this race for more than just his athletic performance, it’s clear he handled the entire ordeal like a true professional — and a champion.

The beloved social media star, 30, documented his life along with his wife Shay Martin since 2020 following his terminal cancer diagnosis.

In the new video, Tanner addressed their 455,000 Instagram followers, saying: “Hey, it’s me, Tanner. If you are watching this, I am dead,” before saying that his last message will be ‘lighthearted’.

Tanner went on to say he had a ‘heck of a life’ and revealed he decided to make a goodbye video announcing his death about a year ago.

“Life was awesome. I really enjoyed it while I was here,” he shared.

“Hopefully, I believe there’s something after this. I’m excited to meet those people, and hopefully we’re hanging out now and making fun of all you nerds.”

Followers have left tributes in the comment section of the video, with one person writing: “The most special human. Rest in peace sweet Tanner. Sending love and prayers to everyone left behind, especially Shay and your beautiful baby girl.”

Another commenter wrote: “Sending prayers to you and your little girl. Heaven just gained the best angel. Love you.”

And a third Instagram user shared: “I’m so sorry Shay my thoughts and prayers are with you.”

Tanner was diagnosed with colon cancer when he was 25, and was told three years later that the illness could not be cured. Doctors said he had between two and five years left to live.

In the time between November 2020 and October 2024, Tanner underwent more than 50 rounds of chemotherapy and radiation, and six major surgeries, People reports. The couple grew an audience by using social media to keep a diary of sorts of their bucket list adventures following the heartbreaking prognosis Tanner received.

They flew to Ireland to renew their vows, visited Disney World, and went on vacation in Mexico and Italy. Tanner was a huge Star Wars fan and he managed to meet Luke Skywalker actor Mark Hamil. The caption for Tanner’s final video even includes a Star Wars reference.

“May the force be with you from our angel force ghost,” it reads.

“I think it’s important to talk about death, especially for other people in my situation,” Tanner told People in October last year. “This is something you want to prep for. You don’t want your spouse to have to plan your funeral and maybe not even have enough money to do so.”

Part of the prep involved working with a death doula, a person who helped the couple with end-of-life planning.

Shay announced in a TikTok post shared in November that she was pregnant, and she gave birth to their daughter AmyLou on May 15, 2025.

Speaking about their decision to have a baby, a caption on a TikTok video announcing the baby news read: “Cancer has taken so much from us. I know you wanted to be a dad so badly, but I got to see you be the best dog dad. We tried IVF and planned to have a baby, but sepsis and your cancer progressing prevented us. Until now.”

After reportedly retreating to a secure bunker amid rising tensions with the U.S. and Israel, Iran’s supreme leader reemerged with a message posted to social media on Wednesday (June 26), declaring that the United States had failed in its military operation.

“My congratulations on our dear Iran’s victory over the U.S. regime,” Khamenei wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “The U.S. regime entered the war directly because it felt that if it didn’t, the Zionist regime would be completely destroyed. It entered the war in an effort to save that regime but achieved nothing.”

In a follow-up post, Khamenei added:

“The Islamic Republic delivered a heavy slap to the U.S.’s face. It attacked and inflicted damage on the Al-Udeid Air Base, which is one of the key U.S. bases in the region.”

The Iranian airstrike on the Qatar-based Al-Udeid airbase took place on Monday (June 23), in direct retaliation for the U.S. assault dubbed “Operation Midnight Hammer.” While Iran claims damage was inflicted, no casualties have been reported thus far.

In a televised statement shortly after his social media post, Khamenei dismissed President Trump’s boasting over the operation, calling his comments “unusually exaggerated.” According to the BBC, Khamenei said the American strikes “failed to achieve anything significant.”

That assessment echoes reports suggesting the U.S. strike may not have been as effective as claimed. A preliminary analysis obtained by CNN from the Defense Intelligence Agency reportedly indicated that Iran’s enriched uranium stockpiles remained largely intact.

President Trump responded with characteristic fury, blasting the reports as disinformation.

“FAKE NEWS CNN, TOGETHER WITH THE FAILING NEW YORK TIMES, HAVE TEAMED UP IN AN ATTEMPT TO DEMEAN ONE OF THE MOST SUCCESSFUL MILITARY STRIKES IN HISTORY,” Trump fumed on Truth Social.

“THE NUCLEAR SITES IN IRAN ARE COMPLETELY DESTROYED! BOTH THE TIMES AND CNN ARE GETTING SLAMMED BY THE PUBLIC!”

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt backed Trump’s position, calling the leak of the DIA report “flat-out wrong.”

“This is a coordinated effort to undermine President Trump and discredit the incredible work of our fighter pilots,” she said in a press briefing. “Everyone knows what happens when you drop fourteen 30,000-pound bombs perfectly on target: total obliteration.”

Despite Trump’s assurances, the international community remains cautious. While Washington insists the mission achieved its goal of crippling Iran’s nuclear capabilities, Tehran’s continued threats and retaliatory actions suggest the region may be far from stable.

For now, Khamenei’s claims of “victory” appear aimed more at rallying domestic support than reflecting any strategic upper hand. But in a conflict where perception is power, both sides are fighting just as fiercely with words as with weapons.

Lea Hughes, 38, from east London, first noticed a small lump in her right breast back in 2015. At just 29 years old, she wasted no time and sought medical advice. But the response she received was far from reassuring.

“The doctor told me I just had ‘lumpy boobs.’ I’d never even heard that term before,” Lea recalled. “I didn’t qualify for further testing. That was it.”

But Lea didn’t forget the lump. Two years later, while trying on a bikini, she noticed a shadow cast by the same lump—and saw that it had turned into a noticeable dimple. Alarmed, she contacted her doctor again.

This time, she was referred directly to hospital. After a mammogram, ultrasound, and biopsy, the results confirmed what she feared: it was breast cancer.

But by then, the disease had already begun its deadly spread.

“They did a breast MRI and saw a shadow on my liver. More scans followed—PETs, bone scans—and within weeks, they told me it had spread to my liver and bones. I was diagnosed with incurable stage four cancer on Friday the 13th, April 2018.”

Lea began aggressive treatment and underwent a single mastectomy in 2022. She received chemotherapy and, by May 2024, her doctors believed the cancer was under control. Her treatments were halted.

But the reprieve was short-lived.

A routine scan months later revealed her liver tumors were growing again—and worse, the cancer had reached her brain.

“It’s always in the back of your mind with stage four breast cancer—that it might spread to your brain. But I had no symptoms at all. I didn’t expect it then,” she said.

Since then, Lea has endured further rounds of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. The physical toll has been brutal.

“I’m 5ft 10in and dropped to just 7 stone (98 lbs). I couldn’t hold myself up. I was wasting away,” she said. “I shaved my head when I started losing my hair. I didn’t recognize myself anymore. It was heartbreaking.”

In March 2025, scans confirmed that the cancer had spread again—this time to her lungs. She is now undergoing her sixth course of chemotherapy and is in a race against time to access a potentially life-saving drug called Enhertu.

While Enhertu is available on the NHS for certain types of breast cancer, it isn’t approved in Lea’s case due to the cancer’s presence in her brain. Without government funding, the treatment costs more than £10,000 ($13,745) per cycle.

Still, Lea is determined to fight. She’s launched a fundraiser to help cover the cost of the drug, which has shown promising results in trials for patients with both breast and brain metastases.

“I don’t have a choice,” she said. “I just have to get on with it and keep fighting.”

Her story is a sobering reminder of the importance of early detection—and the devastating consequences of being ignored.

The message, revealed earlier this week, followed Trump’s controversial order to launch air strikes against Iran’s nuclear facilities over the weekend. The decision, which reignited tensions in the Middle East, drew a mix of praise and concern from world leaders. Supporters hailed it as a bold step to deter Iran’s nuclear ambitions, while others warned it could escalate into a broader conflict.

Among the vocal supporters was Rutte, who texted Trump directly to commend his actions.

“Congratulations and thank you for your decisive action in Iran, that was truly extraordinary, and something no one else dared to do. It makes us all safer,” Rutte’s message read, according to The Telegraph.

The message didn’t stop there. Rutte went on to applaud Trump’s influence at the NATO summit currently underway in the Netherlands.

“You are flying into another big success in The Hague this evening. It wasn’t easy but we’ve got them all signed onto 5 percent!”

The “5 percent” refers to a monumental shift in NATO policy: every member state has now agreed to commit five percent of their Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to defense spending over the next decade—a sharp increase from the previously contested two percent goal.

Rutte’s message continued with an unmistakably glowing tone:

“You will achieve something NO American president in decades could get done. Europe is going to pay in a BIG way, as they should, and it will be your win.”

Today, NATO leaders confirmed the new defense commitment. The five percent threshold will become the new standard across the alliance, including all European member states.

“For too long, one ally, the United States, carried too much of the burden. That changes today,” Rutte declared to fellow summit attendees.

Trump hailed the agreement as “a great victory for everybody,” crediting his administration’s relentless push for equitable defense spending.

When asked about his text being made public, Rutte downplayed the controversy, telling reporters there was nothing confidential in the message and that it reflected a shared diplomatic victory.

“Without President Trump,” Rutte added, “even the two percent target would never have been reached.”

Still, critics argue that making private diplomatic exchanges public—even those filled with praise—sets a troubling precedent. In typical Trump fashion, however, the move seems calculated to send a message: he’s not just rewriting global defense policy—he’s rewriting the playbook on diplomacy itself.

The clip, posted on official social media channels, shows highlights from President Donald Trump’s recent visit to the Netherlands for the NATO summit. Set to Usher’s 2010 hit “Hey Daddy (Daddy’s Home)”, the video appears to lean into a strange and now-infamous moment that occurred during the summit.

During the press conference, Trump delivered a blunt take on escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, saying the two nations “don’t know what the f**k they are doing,” and likening their conflict to “two kids in a schoolyard.” NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte chimed in with a comment that instantly lit up the internet:

“And then Daddy has to sometimes use strong language to get it stopped.”

Though Rutte later clarified that he wasn’t calling Trump “Daddy,” the label stuck—and the White House, surprisingly, seems to have embraced it.

The video montage features Trump grinning, shaking hands with Dutch royals, and posing for cameras—all timed perfectly to the lyrics of Usher’s “Daddy’s Home.”

Reactions online were swift and polarizing.

“Ok that’s weird,” one user posted on X (formerly Twitter).
“I refuse to believe this is the real White House account,” wrote another, assuming it was parody.
“What did I just watch?” asked one viewer, while others assumed the video came from a satirical page.

But not everyone was horrified.

“Absolutely epic! Whoever runs this page deserves a raise,” one user declared.
“This is the funniest White House ever,” another replied, with a laughing emoji barrage.
“Kudos to the social media team—iconic,” read another comment.

Whether viewed as bold meme-worthy trolling or an embarrassing misstep, the video has undeniably struck a chord. With the 2024 campaign in full swing, one thing is certain: the Trump-era White House is leaning into the chaos—and having a little too much fun doing it.

What’s your verdict: cringe-worthy or cleverly chaotic?

Jordan’s execution was carried out at 6:16 p.m. local time, marking Mississippi’s first in two years. Despite numerous appeals and legal maneuvers to have his sentence commuted to life in prison, Jordan ultimately faced the punishment he had eluded for nearly half a century.

On the day of the crime, Jordan had called the Gulf National Bank in Gulfport, where Charles Marter—Edwina’s husband—worked, confirming that he was at the office. With Edwina home alone, Jordan went to their residence, kidnapped her, and later shot her dead in a wooded area. Investigators believe Jordan intended to demand a $50,000 ransom but killed Edwina before any exchange could take place.

In an emotional statement delivered before the execution, Edwina Marter’s family spoke about their lasting pain. Her nephew, Keith De Gruy, reading on behalf of her surviving husband and sons, said:

“Nothing will bring back our mom, sister, aunt, and friend. Nothing will ever change what Jordan took from us 49 years ago.”
He continued:
“Jordan tried desperately to change his ruling so he could simply die in prison. We never had that option. He took Edwina’s life and never considered those of us left behind.”

Edwina’s sons were just 10 and 3 years old when their mother was murdered.

Before his death, Jordan addressed the victim’s family with a disturbing blend of remorse and eerie finality:

“First, I would like to thank everyone for a humane way of doing this. I want to apologize to the victim’s family. I will see you on the other side, all of you.”

His final meal included chicken tenders, French fries, strawberry ice cream, and a root beer float.

Jordan’s execution was only the third in Mississippi over the past decade, a stark contrast to states like Florida, where executions remain more frequent. Just this year, Florida has already executed seven death row inmates, the most recent being Thomas Lee Gudinas, who raped and murdered 27-year-old Michelle McGrath in 1994. Like Jordan, Gudinas had spent decades awaiting his fate on death row.

Jordan’s death closes a chapter in one of Mississippi’s longest-running capital punishment cases, but for the Marter family, the grief remains as raw as it was in 1976.

Trump traveled to the Netherlands this week to attend the annual NATO meeting, which took place on June 24–25. As part of his diplomatic visit, he stopped by Huis ten Bosch Palace to meet with King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima. The trio posed for photos during the president’s visit, with Trump smiling broadly and offering a trademark thumbs-up gesture to the cameras.

However, what seemed like a routine photo op has sparked viral speculation. In a short video clip circulating online, Queen Máxima appears to mimic Trump’s mouth movements after he says “thank you.” She then glances directly into the camera in a moment reminiscent of the mockumentary style of The Office — prompting an immediate camera zoom-out.

While it’s unclear whether the Queen intended the gesture to be mocking, social media has been quick to weigh in.

“Queen Máxima mimicking Trump’s mouth movements really got me,” one user wrote.
“Poor lady just earned herself an entire Truth Social post,” joked another.
“WAIT A MINUTE—WAS QUEEN MÁXIMA OF THE NETHERLANDS MIMICKING DONALD TRUMP?” a third exclaimed.

Some praised the Queen for the apparent moment of subtle defiance, calling it humorous and even bold.

“This is hilarious,” one commenter said. “I’ve never been a fan of our stiff monarchy, but Queen Máxima rocks it. Treat him like a baby!”

Others, however, were less amused — calling the behavior disrespectful and unbecoming of a royal.

“What an unprofessional and petty thing to do,” one user posted. “Not only for someone of her position, but for any adult. I hope this gets back to President Trump — and it will. It always does.”

In response to the viral moment, body language expert Darren Stanton, speaking on behalf of Genting Casino, weighed in on the dynamic observed in the press photos.

“In the image featuring President Trump, King Willem-Alexander, and Queen Máxima, the Queen appears to assert the most dominant presence. While the King is seen displaying a self-soothing gesture by covering his abdomen, Queen Máxima is turned toward Trump and mirrors his posture — suggesting she may be trying to exert subtle control in the interaction.”

Whether the gesture was intentional mockery, an awkward moment, or something lost in translation, Queen Máxima has unintentionally stirred global commentary — all during what should have been a routine diplomatic photo call.

Known for her tireless devotion to rescuing and rehabilitating animals, Raines was widely admired for her selflessness and described by many as a “superhero” for her unwavering commitment to creatures in need.

Tragically, her husband Ethan confirmed that Mikayla died by suicide following years of online harassment and emotional suffering. In a heartbreaking video posted to her Instagram, Ethan shared the deep pain his wife endured from constant attacks—some from strangers, others from fellow animal sanctuaries, and even individuals she once considered friends.

“Being the sensitive soul that she was, Mikayla took it all to heart,” he said tearfully. “And it hurt her; it hurt her a lot.”

Mikayla first began working with animals as a teenager, volunteering with a wildlife rehabilitator before launching Save A Fox in 2016 at just 20 years old. Based in Minnesota, the nonprofit has since grown into one of the most recognized fox rescue organizations in the world.

Her work earned her a devoted online following: more than 560,000 Instagram followers, 3 million TikTok fans, and over 2.4 million YouTube subscribers. But despite her online success, Mikayla often put her own needs aside—skipping sleep, meals, or even showers—when an animal needed help, her husband recalled.

“She would do anything to save them—foxes, birds, reptiles, sheep, squirrels—you name it,” Ethan said. “Mikayla was the brightest example of what someone can achieve when they put their heart into something.”

The couple shared a young daughter, Freya. Ethan described Mikayla as a “wonderful wife” and a “caring mother” whose death has left their daughter devastated. “The first thing Freya wanted every morning was her mommy,” he said, choking back tears.

Ethan also spoke candidly about the intense emotional toll Mikayla faced. She lived with autism, depression, borderline personality disorder, and other mental health challenges—conditions that gave her deep empathy but also left her vulnerable to criticism and cruelty.

“She felt like the whole world had turned against her,” Ethan said. “Her sensitivity made her an incredible caregiver—but it also meant she absorbed every hurtful word.”

After finding Mikayla unresponsive, Ethan attempted CPR for 15 minutes. “Half of me is gone,” he said. “And Freya is heartbroken.”

The announcement of Mikayla’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief and love across social media. In the caption accompanying the Instagram video, Ethan wrote:

“Mikayla was truly the most amazing and inspiring individual I have ever known. Not having her here makes everything feel empty. I feel broken. But I will continue her dream and I hope to have your support going forward so we can do good in her name.”

Fellow animal sanctuaries and fans around the world are paying tribute to Mikayla’s legacy. One sanctuary wrote, “This is so tragic. So many foxes in our care are here because of Mikayla’s dedication. We will carry a small part of her light with us.”

Another tribute described her death as a “cataclysmic loss.” A third commenter added, “She loved [foxes] so deeply, it was as if she could speak their language.”

Unveiled against a backdrop of stubborn inflation, post-pandemic economic fatigue, and widespread cost-of-living concerns, Trump’s plan is being pitched as a populist blueprint to “put money back where it belongs: in the hands of the people.” According to the administration, these tax revisions are tailored to benefit workers in service-sector jobs, retirees on fixed incomes, and everyday Americans hustling to make ends meet.

Key Highlights of the Trump Tax Plan

1. No Taxes on Tips, Social Security, or Overtime Pay
At the heart of the proposal is the elimination of federal taxes on gratuities—an unprecedented move that would give restaurant staff, barbers, hotel workers, and others in tip-based roles a long-awaited boost. Trump’s campaign has branded this a “historic win for America’s service workforce.”

Additionally, the plan would end the taxation of Social Security benefits, a longstanding grievance among seniors who paid into the system for decades only to be taxed again upon retirement. The administration claims this would deliver substantial relief to millions of elderly Americans.

Taxes on overtime pay would also be scrapped, with the goal of encouraging hard work without punishing workers with higher tax burdens when they go the extra mile.

2. Closing the Carried Interest Loophole
In a move designed to appeal to populist and bipartisan sentiments, Trump is also targeting the notorious carried interest loophole, which allows hedge fund managers and private equity executives to pay far lower tax rates on investment profits than ordinary income earners.

Despite promising to eliminate the loophole in 2016, it remained largely untouched during Trump’s first term. This time, his team says the plan includes a “no-excuses crackdown” to ensure that high-income investors pay their fair share.

3. Extending the 2017 Tax Cuts
Trump’s proposal also seeks to permanently extend the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), which is set to expire in 2025. The TCJA lowered individual and corporate tax rates, doubled the standard deduction, and was credited by supporters with driving pre-pandemic economic growth.

Trump argues that allowing the cuts to lapse would trigger an automatic tax hike for millions of American households and small businesses. His plan aims to lock in those benefits for the long haul.

4. Slashing the Corporate Tax Rate to 15%
Perhaps the most controversial element is Trump’s call to lower the corporate tax rate from 21% to 15%. His administration believes the move will supercharge business investment, bring jobs back to the U.S., and make American companies more globally competitive.

Opponents, however, warn this could hand billions in additional tax savings to large corporations and widen the gap between the rich and the rest. Trump allies counter that lower corporate taxes will stimulate growth, raise wages, and boost productivity across the board.

Winners, Losers, and the Road Ahead

Supporters of the plan say it represents a lifeline for working Americans squeezed by rising costs, and a long-overdue challenge to the tax privileges of Wall Street elites. Critics, however, argue the plan could balloon the federal deficit and provide an outsized windfall to corporations and the wealthy.

The proposal’s fate in Congress remains uncertain, with Democrats expected to oppose it and some Republicans potentially split on elements like the corporate tax cut and carried interest repeal.

Still, Trump’s team is confident: “This is not just a tax plan,” Leavitt said at the press briefing, “it’s a promise kept to America’s workers.”

Whether it passes or not, it sets the tone for the coming economic debate—and for Trump’s broader 2025 campaign message: fight for the forgotten American worker, and take on the rigged system that never plays fair.

Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-Texas) pressed Bondi on whether the Department of Justice had data on how many Iranian nationals currently in the U.S. have been convicted of crimes.

Bondi acknowledged she didn’t have a specific number but pointed to a troubling figure: more than 1,000 Iranian nationals reportedly crossed the U.S. border illegally during the last administration.

“And I can tell you,” Bondi said, “we are on high alert, and everyone is looking at that very closely.” Bondi’s testimony came just one day after the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a bulletin warning that the ongoing Iran conflict has created a “heightened threat environment” inside the United States.

The DHS warned of the risk of “independent mobilization to violence” by individuals in the U.S. should Iranian leadership issue any directive, as well as potential cyberattacks and a surge in antisemitic incidents.

According to a senior Customs and Border Protection (CBP) official, 1,504 Iranian nationals have been apprehended at the southern border during President Joe Biden’s term, with 729 of them released into the U.S. — a figure that has alarmed both lawmakers and national security experts.

Sleeper Cell Concerns and Growing Scrutiny
Gonzales also raised concerns about the potential presence of Iranian “sleeper cells” within the country — a chilling prospect that Bondi declined to elaborate on during the public hearing.

“I cannot talk about that in this setting,” she said, suggesting the issue may be classified or under active investigation.

The exchange took place during a hearing focused on the Department of Justice’s proposed budget for the next fiscal year, but the conversation quickly turned toward national security as tensions between Iran, Israel, and the United States reached new heights following a dramatic weekend of military escalation.

A Fairytale Beginning in Venice
After months of swirling rumors, speculation, and silence, it’s now confirmed: Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez are tying the knot in Venice. Dispelling reports of a $600 million Aspen winter wedding, Venice Mayor Luigi Brugnaro issued a statement confirming the couple’s Italian nuptials and reassuring locals that the event would be discreet and respectful.

“The many speculations and fake news circulating about Jeff Bezos’ wedding are completely unfounded,” Brugnaro wrote, noting that only 200 guests will attend and the celebration is being carefully coordinated to avoid disrupting the historic city.

A Celebration Fueled by Local Flavor
According to the Associated Press, the Bezos-Sánchez wedding is committed to supporting the Venetian economy, with 80% of the wedding provisions sourced locally. That includes:

Pastry goody bags from Rosa Salva, Venice’s oldest and most revered bakery.
Handblown Murano glass gifts by the artisan studio Laguna B, known for vibrant, bespoke creations.
Charitable donations in lieu of wedding gifts, as per the couple’s wishes.

“It’s prestigious that a couple like this, who can go anywhere in the world, are getting married in the city,” said Rosa Salva, adding that an event of this scale — if thoughtfully planned — represents “responsible tourism.”

The Venue(s): Yacht, Island, or Both?
While Bezos and Sánchez haven’t publicly confirmed their wedding venue, several possibilities have emerged:

Koru, Bezos’ $500 million superyacht, remains a top contender, especially given its size and past use for glamorous events.
San Giorgio Maggiore, a scenic island with a centuries-old church and breathtaking views, has also been floated as a potential location.
The couple also reportedly toured Scuola Grande della Misericordia, a majestic waterfront structure with deep roots in Venetian culture.

Adding to the mystery, guests are expected to stay at a string of five-star hotels, including the Aman Venice — where George and Amal Clooney wed in 2014 — as well as The Gritti Palace, The St. Regis, Belmond Hotel Cipriani, and Hotel Danieli, some of which were booked entirely for the occasion.

The shooting took place in the city of Brandon, just 10 miles east of Jackson, and has left an entire community in shock — particularly because it unfolded in a public setting and reportedly in front of children.

The victim, Kianna Jackson, 25, of Pearl, Mississippi, was described by loved ones as a devoted mother, beloved daughter, sister, and friend. According to Brandon Police Chief Joseph French, Jackson was shot and killed inside the McDonald’s located on Stribling Lane shortly before 7:00 p.m. local time.

The suspect, identified as Jhonterryes Dampier, 27, of Mendenhall, allegedly entered the fast-food restaurant, opened fire, and shot Jackson in front of several witnesses, including employees and customers. Moments later, Dampier turned the gun on himself, sustaining what police described as a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Emergency responders rushed both individuals to the hospital. Jackson was pronounced dead at the scene, while Dampier was listed in critical condition and transported for emergency treatment. He died two days later, on Wednesday, June 18, as a result of his injuries.

Authorities have described the incident as domestic in nature, and family members confirmed to local outlets that Jackson and Dampier shared two young children together — a 5-year-old daughter and a 3-year-old son.

The violence erupted in the early hours of Sunday morning in the quiet village of Goult, located in the Provence region, when four masked gunmen stormed a private wedding celebration and opened fire on guests, according to reports from CBS News, BBC, and the French newspaper Le Parisien.

Officials say the bride was killed instantly in what local authorities describe as a meticulously planned and targeted attack. Goult Mayor Didier Perello told reporters the shooting bore all the hallmarks of a premeditated ambush.

Among the three wounded were the groom, the bride’s sister, and a 13-year-old child whose relation to the couple remains unclear. The child is reportedly in stable condition, but the full extent of the injuries has not been disclosed.

In a desperate attempt to escape, the groom reportedly tried to flee the scene by car, with the bride and the injured teen inside. During the escape, he is said to have run over one of the attackers, killing the gunman instantly. That suspect’s identity has not yet been made public.

The remaining three assailants fled, triggering a large-scale manhunt involving dozens of officers and aerial surveillance, including helicopters, according to BBC News. By Sunday evening, two of the suspects had been apprehended. The fourth remains at large as authorities intensify their search.

While police have not released details about the suspects or the motive behind the attack, early statements suggest the shooting may be linked to drug-related violence, according to BBC. Sources told Le Parisien that both the groom and the bride’s sister are known to law enforcement and have extensive criminal histories, lending further weight to theories that the shooting was not random.

In a chilling update, the Avignon prosecutor’s office has now opened a formal investigation, classifying the incident as “murder and attempted murder by an organized gang,” according to Le Figaro. This designation indicates a serious criminal conspiracy and could result in sweeping charges for those involved.

The normally serene village of Goult has been left shaken by the daylight execution-style violence, with locals and officials reeling from the sheer brutality of the attack. Police have increased patrols in the area, and the wedding venue remains cordoned off as investigators continue to gather evidence.

As the search continues for the final suspect, authorities are calling on anyone with information about the gunmen or the attack to come forward. Meanwhile, France grapples with yet another shocking display of gang-related violence breaching public life — this time at a wedding meant to celebrate love, not end in bloodshed.

Police say Jarrod Mitchell was arrested hours after the triple homicide, which occurred in the early hours of Saturday, June 22. According to a press release from the Bryant Police Department (BPD), officers were called to the scene around 7:30 a.m. after the sister’s husband returned home from a night shift and discovered the gruesome crime.

All three victims — whose names are being withheld by authorities pending full notification of relatives — were pronounced dead at the scene. Each had sustained fatal gunshot wounds, police confirmed.

In a chilling detail, investigators revealed that three young children were present in the home at the time of the killings, though miraculously, none were harmed. Authorities have not confirmed the relationship of the children to the victims but stated that they are now in safe custody.

The Bryant Police Department noted that there were no signs of forced entry or indication of a home invasion, raising suspicions early on that the crime may have been committed by someone familiar with the victims.

Within eight hours, Mitchell was taken into custody and booked into the Saline County Detention Center, where he remains held without bail, according to jail records. His first court appearance is expected in the coming days.

According to sources close to the case, Combs’ attorneys have opted not to call any witnesses once the prosecution formally rests on Tuesday, June 23. The defense’s decision to forgo presenting a case of its own has raised eyebrows — but former federal prosecutor Mark D. Chutkow tells PEOPLE the move is both calculated and smart.

“A big gamble” to testify
“It would be a big gamble for Diddy to take the stand,” Chutkow explains. “Even though the prosecution has introduced a mountain of evidence of bad acts by charging this case as a racketeering conspiracy, the prosecution would be able to pile on even more damaging evidence during cross-examination.”

Combs, 54, is facing a battery of serious federal charges, including sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation to engage in prostitution — charges that stem from a sweeping investigation into alleged abuse and coercion spanning more than a decade. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges and maintains his innocence.

Throughout the government’s case, prosecutors have called a total of 34 witnesses — including several alleged victims — to testify about a sprawling operation they say was run and maintained by Combs to exploit and abuse women. The prosecution has also introduced text messages, travel records, financial documents, and video footage to bolster its claims.

But rather than attempt to directly rebut the prosecution’s narrative with their own slate of witnesses, Combs’ defense is leaning on its cross-examinations and the burden of proof that remains squarely on the government.

“No witnesses, no risk — just reasonable doubt”
Chutkow says the choice not to call any witnesses gives the defense an opportunity to drive home the core legal principle of reasonable doubt.

“The decision not to call any witnesses will allow his team to argue to the jury during closing arguments that there was simply no need to waste the jury’s time,” he says. “The defense will argue that they’ve already poked significant holes in the government’s case through cross-examination, and that the prosecution hasn’t met its burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt.” He adds that this approach also allows the defense to highlight the presumption of innocence that the jury is instructed to afford every defendant.

Jake Rosencranz, a recent groom and Colorado native, was enjoying his honeymoon with his wife at New Smyrna Beach on Friday, June 20, when he was hit by a sudden bolt of lightning.

The strike occurred just before 12:30 p.m. local time as Rosencranz stood in ankle-deep water, according to reports from WESH and The Daytona Beach News-Journal, citing Volusia County Beach Safety officials.

Eyewitnesses described a horrific and surreal scene. “It was pretty terrifying,” said Patrick Eichstaedt, who witnessed the incident and spoke with WSVN. “One moment, everything was calm. The next, it was chaos.”

The force of the lightning knocked Rosencranz unconscious on the spot. A nearby nurse sprang into action and immediately began administering CPR. A lifeguard stationed over 300 feet away was quickly alerted and joined the effort as emergency responders rushed to the scene.

Rosencranz was rushed to a local hospital in critical condition, unresponsive and severely injured from the strike. Despite hours of medical intervention and lifesaving attempts, he succumbed to his injuries the following morning, local outlets reported.

In a somber message posted to Facebook, Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood extended heartfelt condolences to the grieving widow.

“So sorry for the tragic loss of a young man here on a delayed honeymoon with his wife,” Chitwood wrote. “At 29 years old, he should have had many more anniversaries with her for years to come.”

The sheriff also praised the swift and tireless efforts of the first responders and medical teams who fought to save Rosencranz’s life.

Emergency crews responded to a distress call on Saturday evening, June 21, just before 7 p.m. local time, after reports surfaced that a man and his young son had disappeared beneath the surface of the river while riding an inflatable inner tube near Broad Boulevard, in the area of Gorge Metro Park.

Despite extensive search efforts, the boy’s body was not located until the following morning, Sunday, June 22. He was pronounced dead at the scene shortly before 9:30 a.m., according to the Akron Fire Department. His body was then transferred to the Summit County Medical Examiner’s Office for further examination.

Chief investigator Gary Guenther identified the victim as 5-year-old Braxton Cross. Authorities say the search for Braxton’s father is ongoing and has entered its third day. Search teams resumed operations on Monday, June 23, at 8 a.m., with officials stating they are “fully committed to locating and recovering the missing individual.”

Dr. Jonathan Brown, who holds the Alwaleed bin Talal Chair of Islamic Civilization at Georgetown’s prestigious School of Foreign Service, ignited outrage online on Sunday with a thread that many perceived as sympathetic to Iran and dismissive of the dangers posed to American military personnel.

“I’m not an expert, but I assume Iran could still get a bomb easily,” Brown wrote in the post, which quickly went viral. “I hope Iran does some symbolic strike on a base, then everyone stops.”

The professor’s remarks came less than 24 hours after President Donald Trump ordered a series of precision strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, a move intended to cripple Iran’s weapons development infrastructure and de-escalate the threat posed to regional allies, especially Israel.

The Pentagon has confirmed that no U.S. casualties were reported and that the strikes were “targeted and successful.”

Brown’s post, however, quickly spiraled beyond that initial statement. He continued with a tirade that veered into explicit language and mockery of pro-Israel groups and analysts:

“CONGRATULATIONS TO EVERYONE! It has been fully agreed by and between Israel and Iran that there will be a Complete and Total CEASEFIRE (in approximately 6 hours from now, when Israel and Iran have wound down and completed their in-progress, final missions!) for 12 hours, at which point the War will be considered, ENDED!” Trump wrote in a jubilant post.

According to Trump, the ceasefire will be implemented in coordinated phases:

Iran will initiate the ceasefire first,

Israel will follow at the 12-hour mark,

and the official end of the 12 Day War will be recognized globally after 24 hours.

Praising both nations, Trump applauded the “Stamina, Courage, and Intelligence” shown by their leadership in reaching this resolution.

“This is a war that could have lasted years and destroyed the entire Middle East — but it didn’t, and it never will!” Trump declared. “God bless Israel, God bless Iran, God bless the Middle East, God bless the United States of America, and GOD BLESS THE WORLD!” he concluded.

The incident occurred on the afternoon of Saturday, June 21, at the Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum in Seminole, according to reports from CBS affiliate KWTV, NBC affiliate KFOR, and ABC affiliate KOCO.

The child, identified as Ryker Corona, was taking part in a museum event when he was severely injured in a sudden flash fire.

According to museum officials, the accident happened during an indoor activity involving a s’mores-making station, which had been set up as part of a summer celebration. The equipment reportedly included a grill and hand sanitizer — a dangerous combination that may have contributed to the explosion.

Makala Pevehouse, a close friend of Ryker’s family, told KWTV that the boy had just been handed a s’more by his mother when the fire erupted. “And at first, you just see, like…big flames,” recalled another witness, Daycee Phillips. “Then I looked down and the little boy’s on the floor, flopping around, trying to put himself out.”

The tragic accident occurred late Tuesday night, June 17, on the Kamehameha Highway in O‘ahu. According to reports from KHON, HawaiiNewsNow, and the Honolulu Star-Advertiser, a 28-year-old woman was driving with three female passengers when their vehicle veered across the center line and collided head-on with another car traveling in the opposite direction.

Authorities told KHON that the vehicle carrying the four women was traveling at a high rate of speed prior to the crash. The impact was so severe that the car overturned and came to rest on top of the other vehicle.

Emergency responders arrived to find the 28-year-old driver and a 19-year-old passenger deceased at the scene.

The two remaining passengers, another 28-year-old woman and a second 19-year-old, suffered life-threatening injuries and were rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition.

The other vehicle involved was being driven by a 17-year-old girl who was alone at the time of the collision. Miraculously, she sustained only minor injuries and was reported to be in good condition following the crash.

Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the accident, but initial findings point to excessive speed as a likely contributing factor. The names of the victims have not yet been publicly released, pending notification of their families.

The crash marks yet another tragic incident on Hawaii’s roads and has sparked renewed calls for caution and safer driving practices, particularly along the often dangerous stretches of Kamehameha Highway.

By the end of the day, Mallory couldn’t distinguish between hot and cold, whether she was washing her hands, holding a drink, or stepping into the shower. Alarmed, she rushed to the emergency room. Within 24 hours, she was choking on food and tripping over her own feet. Just nine days later, Mallory was completely paralyzed and dependent on a ventilator to breathe.

Her eventual diagnosis: Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare and potentially life-threatening autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nervous system. According to the Mayo Clinic, GBS can cause muscle weakness, sensory loss, and in severe cases, full paralysis.

“I was very confused and scared as to what was going on with my body,” says Wilkerson, who had never heard of GBS before. “I had so many questions, but I couldn’t ask them — I was intubated, unable to talk, move, or breathe on my own. It was terrifying.”

Contrary to what many might believe about paralysis, Mallory says she could still feel everything — including intense pain. “I always thought if you were paralyzed, you didn’t feel anything. But I was in excruciating pain the entire time.”

For three agonizing months, Mallory remained on a ventilator. Doctors warned her family that hers was among the worst cases they had ever seen and that she might never walk again. Her parents chose not to tell her that prognosis — a decision Mallory now credits for helping her maintain hope.

“Iran has officially responded to our Obliteration of their Nuclear Facilities with a very weak response, which we expected, and have very effectively countered,” Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social Monday afternoon. “There have been 14 missiles fired — 13 were knocked down, and 1 was ‘set free,’ because it was headed in a nonthreatening direction.”

Trump emphasized that no American personnel were injured and damage was minimal. “I am pleased to report that NO Americans were harmed, and hardly any damage was done,” he said. “Most importantly, they’ve gotten it all out of their ‘system,’ and there will, hopefully, be no further HATE.”

The former president also thanked Iran for what he described as an early warning that allowed the U.S. to prepare and avoid casualties. “Perhaps Iran can now proceed to Peace and Harmony in the Region, and I will enthusiastically encourage Israel to do the same,” Trump added. “Thank you for your attention to this matter!”

His comments come amid heightened tensions following the U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear infrastructure over the weekend — a move Trump has described as necessary to prevent Iran from becoming a nuclear threat.

According to a wrongful death lawsuit filed by the family, Abraham’s mother called 911 in the early hours of the morning, desperately seeking help for her son.

A fire crew arrived within ten minutes—but instead of transporting the child to the hospital, they allegedly minimized the severity of the situation and told his mother that emergency care wasn’t necessary.

The lawsuit claims the crew told her she was “overreacting” and assured her that seizures were common in children, advising her to simply administer over-the-counter medication like Tylenol or ibuprofen. The responders reportedly stayed at the scene for only ten minutes before leaving.

Five hours later, Abraham was found unresponsive. Another 911 call was made, and this time, the child was transported to the hospital—but it was too late. Abraham did not survive.

According to the lawsuit, the emergency responders failed to conduct even the most basic medical evaluations during the first visit, including checking Abraham’s vital signs or taking his temperature. The family’s attorney, Breann Slack, argued that this lack of proper assessment contributed directly to the child’s preventable death.

According to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, 21-year-old Destiny Campos and 38-year-old Jeremy Fancher were staying at a Days Inn & Suites on Rancho Mission Drive in the Mission Bend area when emergency responders were called on May 26, 2024.

Paramedics arrived at Room 111 around 1 p.m. and found infant Brookelynn Fancher unresponsive inside a drawer in the hotel room. Despite efforts to revive her, she was pronounced dead at the scene.

Following an extensive investigation, both parents were arrested and charged with murder. In a statement posted to social media, Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez called the case filled with “horrific details.”

According to a criminal complaint, the couple routinely placed Brookelynn inside a hotel drawer — closing it and stuffing towels around the edges — so they could sleep or engage in other activities without being disturbed by the baby’s cries.

Campos allegedly told investigators that Fancher found the child’s screams to be “piercing” and that he often shoved a bottle in her mouth just to quiet her down. She added that Fancher sometimes shut the drawer completely and used a towel to keep it sealed, preventing the infant from kicking it open.

According to the Brazos County District Attorney’s Office, 35-year-old Andrew Gutierrez was convicted of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon in connection with the January 2024 attack, during which he beat the expectant mother unconscious and threatened to kill her unborn child.

The DA’s office said Gutierrez locked the woman inside his RV in Bryan, Texas — roughly 100 miles east of Austin — and chillingly told her, “Welcome to Hell House,” before launching into a violent, sustained assault.

The victim, who was 11 weeks pregnant at the time, was found severely injured after police responded to a disconnected 911 call from the residence. Upon arrival, officers discovered the woman in dire condition, requiring immediate medical assistance. Paramedics documented extensive bruising and swelling to her face, chest, and abdomen — clear indicators of a prolonged and brutal beating.

In her statement to police, the woman described how an argument with Gutierrez escalated into horror. He locked her in the RV and declared his sinister welcome, then grabbed her by the hair and began repeatedly punching her in the face and stomach.

According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred around 6 p.m. on Saturday, June 14, when 33-year-old Ryne Leist of Temperance entered the residence of Gwendolyn Smith in Bedford Township.

Leist, who previously served as a volunteer coach at a local bowling alley, allegedly shot Smith multiple times before taking his own life, Sheriff Troy Goodnough confirmed during a press conference held on Wednesday, June 18.

Smith’s stepfather made the heartbreaking discovery after returning home that evening, finding both his stepdaughter and Leist dead inside the house.

The nature of the relationship between Leist and Smith remains unclear. Sheriff Goodnough noted that while the two had been in communication as recently as five days prior to the shooting, “the victim did not consider their relationship to be romantic.” Investigators have not yet determined a motive, though Smith’s stepfather offered insight into the disturbing dynamic in a Facebook comment shared on June 16, referencing messages his daughter had received from Leist.

“I’ve seen enough of the emails he sent my daughter before he killed her to know it’s not speculation,” he wrote. “He deserves to rot in a special hell.”

According to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, deputies were dispatched to the 12000 block of Orchid Lane just before 11 p.m. on June 21, 2025, after receiving multiple reports of gunfire erupting in the neighborhood.

When deputies arrived on scene, they discovered a teenage victim near the intersection of Hemlock Avenue and Orchid Lane suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. As they secured the area and began their investigation, deputies quickly located four additional teen victims nearby who had also been shot.

All five teenagers were transported to local hospitals with what authorities described as “life-threatening injuries.” A sixth victim, later determined to be connected to the same shooting incident, was taken separately to a hospital. The sheriff’s office confirmed that all six victims were between the ages of 14 and 18.

Preliminary reports indicate that the shooting took place during a gathering in a parking lot — a gathering that quickly turned into chaos as gunfire erupted, sending attendees fleeing for cover.

Investigators have not yet released details about the motive for the shooting or whether the victims were specifically targeted. The sheriff’s department has also not said how many shooters may have been involved.

According to an arrest citation obtained by PEOPLE, officers from the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) were dispatched to a home on Wilson Avenue just after noon on June 19, following a report that a child had been struck in the head with a hammer.

When officers arrived at the scene, they discovered the young girl with catastrophic injuries — including multiple skull fractures and brain hemorrhaging.

The child was rushed to a nearby hospital, where she remains in critical condition four days after the assault. Due to the severity of her injuries, the LMPD’s homicide unit was called in to take over the investigation.

Later that same day, police arrested 40-year-old Zeinab Abdi, the child’s mother, on charges of attempted murder. According to the arrest report, the girl’s older brother witnessed the attack and provided a chilling account of what occurred. He told detectives that after the assault, as he physically restrained his mother, she allegedly said, “Let me finish her,” and tried to return to the injured child.