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News Timeline
— Papal Election Deadlock Sparks Global Suspense Black smoke rises over St Peter’s Square as Catholic cardinals remain divided, delaying the new pope’s selection and increasing worldwide anticipation
— Ford Suspends Guidance The automaker warns of a $15 billion hit from tariffs, citing trade tensions under President Trump as a key factor, raising concerns over market stability and earnings
BRITAIN SLAMS Door on Radical EFF Leader: Outrage as Malema Banned from UK
— Julius Malema, head of South Africa’s far-left Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), was blocked from entering Britain just hours before his flight. He planned to speak at Cambridge University but says the UK gave him “no real reason” for denying his visa. Malema called the move “unacceptable and spineless,” claiming it was meant to silence him.
The EFF blasted Britain’s decision, accusing officials of using red tape to shut down criticism of Western policies. The party blames their leader’s tough talk against British colonial history and anti-Israel comments for the ban.
Malema also wanted to visit Queen Elizabeth’s grave, saying it would help bring “justice and peace” for Africans hurt by colonialism. The EFF claims old grudges from the Royal Family over past criticism may have influenced the decision.
Britain has a history of keeping out controversial figures who threaten public order or stir up division. This latest move sends a clear message that radical voices pushing hate will not get a free pass on British soil.
MEMPHIS COPS Acquitted: Outrage Erupts as Federal Reserve Stuns Markets
— Five Memphis police officers were found not guilty in the Tyre Nichols case on May 8, 2025. The verdict set off anger among activists and brought back debates about police accountability. Civil rights groups are now demanding new justice reforms.
On the same day, the Federal Reserve shocked Wall Street with an unexpected move. Experts say this is tied to trade tensions that started under Trump’s leadership. Investors are growing nervous about the economy as election season nears.
Rumors of Donald Trump seeking a third term have stirred up more controversy. His push for Social Security changes has upset many and even drawn criticism from the Supreme Court. These fights over laws and policies are adding to America’s political divide.
In Rome, Vatican cardinals failed to pick a new pope after their first vote ended in a deadlock. This religious standoff is making headlines worldwide and could impact politics far beyond church walls.
POPE VOTE Shocker: Cardinals Deadlocked as World Waits in Suspense
— Black smoke rose above St. Peter’s Square Wednesday night. Catholic cardinals could not agree on a new pope after their first vote, leaving millions watching and waiting for answers.
A total of 133 cardinals from 66 countries gathered behind closed doors. They are cut off from the outside world and must keep everything secret or risk excommunication.
The cardinals spent the night at the Santa Marta guesthouse. On Thursday morning, they attended a private mass before getting ready for another round of voting.
If no one gets a two-thirds majority in the next ballot, more votes will follow until someone is chosen. This process can take days, just like when Benedict XVI and Francis were elected. The world now waits to see who will lead 1.4 billion Catholics next.
— Technical glitch causes website downtime Users face frustration as the platform fails to load content, leading to delays and inconvenience
US-UKRAINE POLICY Shocker: Ambassador Quits as Trump Team Demands Results
— Bridget Brink, the US Ambassador to Ukraine since 2022, has stepped down. The State Department confirmed her exit as the Trump administration signals a new direction in dealing with Ukraine.
The White House is now pushing for stronger talks with Russia. Military and economic aid will be used as bargaining chips instead of blank checks. Officials say they want real progress, not endless promises.
A recent minerals deal between the US and Ukraine shows this new approach in action. Trump’s tough stance on trade and law-and-order is shaping every decision on foreign policy.
With Brink gone, America’s role in Ukraine is changing fast. The Trump team wants peace through strength — using smart deals instead of getting stuck in another forever war.
REFORM UK’S EARTHSHAKING WIN: Voters Reject Old Parties in Historic Election
— Nigel Farage celebrated Friday night as his REFORM UK party scored big wins in local elections across England. Reform took control of ten councils, won two mayor races, a parliamentary byelection, and grabbed 677 council seats. The BBC said if these results happened nationwide, Reform could lead the next government.
Farage called it a “Reformquake” and told supporters this was a “truly historic landmark” for Britain. For decades, Labour and Conservatives have ruled politics. Now both parties are stunned by Reform’s surge.
Farage promised real change for local government. He warned council workers focused on “climate change initiatives or diversity equity and inclusion” to look for new jobs. Reform campaigned hard on national issues like stopping illegal migration and ending taxpayer-funded migrant housing.
Voters fed up with establishment politics backed Reform’s message. Farage says the party will use this momentum to push even harder at the next General Election — hoping to make history once again.
— UPS to lay off 20,000 workers and close 73 buildings amid tariff uncertainties The cost-cutting measures aim to save $35 billion as market volatility impacts Amazon’s logistics volume
— UPS to Cut 20,000 Jobs and Close 73 Facilities Amid Economic Uncertainty The company cites reduced Amazon shipping volumes and tariffs, including a 145% Chinese goods tariff effective May 2, as reasons for the restructuring
REFORM UK SHOCKS Nation as Voters Reject Old Parties
— Nigel Farage’s REFORM UK is shaking up the 2025 local elections in England. More voters are turning away from Labour and the Conservatives. Pollster Sir John Curtice says support for both main parties has dropped below half, with Reform UK ready to grab a big share of votes.
Labour is facing chaos under Prime Minister Keir Starmer. High-profile members like MP Rosie Duffield have quit, saying party leaders care more about “greed and power” than working families. Over 20 Labour councillors in Nottinghamshire have also resigned, blaming lost traditional values.
Rishi Sunak’s Conservatives are struggling too. People are upset about rising living costs and poor public services. If the party suffers heavy losses, Sunak could face calls to step down — though any surprise wins might help him stay until the next general election.
Reform UK is running more candidates than any other party and focusing on former Labour areas by talking tough on mass migration. Tech billionaire Bassim Haidar just gave £1 million to Reform UK, calling Farage “the leader who can bring this country back to glory” while slamming Conservative tax policies as left-wing.;
BRITAIN’S Election Quake: Voters Reject Old Parties, Farage Surges
— Britain’s 2025 local elections sent shockwaves through the country. Fed up with rising costs and crime, voters turned away from both Labour and Conservative parties. Nigel Farage’s Reform UK made big gains in working-class areas and put forward more candidates than anyone else.
Labour is now in chaos after several top members quit. The Conservatives are getting blamed for higher prices and failing public services. A new voter ID law has people arguing about whether voting is still fair.
Elsewhere, tragedy struck Illinois when a car crash killed four children at an after-school camp. Police say it was a heartbreaking accident — not an attack.
In the U.S., officials deported Venezuelan migrants to Caracas using a rarely used wartime law. This sparked outrage from activists on both sides of the border.
France saw Marine Le Pen convicted of embezzlement and banned from politics for five years. She says it’s all political payback as her party faces trouble before the 2027 election.
REFORM Party SHOCKS Britain: Voters Abandon Old Parties in Desperate Move
— Britain’s two main parties are losing their grip. Sir John Curtice, a top pollster, says the country’s political system is breaking down as five parties now fight for votes. Nigel Farage’s REFORM Party is gaining support from both Labour and Conservative voters fed up with the status quo.
Recent polls show REFORM surging as people worry about rising costs and unchecked migration. Fewer than half of voters plan to back Labour or the Conservatives — a record low. Curtice predicts REFORM could win hundreds of seats in Thursday’s local elections, even though they’ve never run such a big campaign before.
REFORM has put forward more candidates than any other party this time — a major win for their team. They’re focusing on working-class communities who feel left behind by Labour’s new focus on city elites and multicultural policies.
This election is the first big challenge for Prime Minister Keir Starmer since his left-wing government took power last July. Only about a third of councils are voting now, with many elections delayed until next year.;
UK TAXPAYERS FORCED to PAY as Migrants Snag Homes — Young Brits Left Behind
— British taxpayers will now foot the bill for more homes to house asylum seekers, while many young Britons can’t afford a place of their own. Serco, a government contractor, is offering landlords taxpayer-backed rental deals that last up to five years. The company promises on-time rent and covers all maintenance, utilities, and council tax.
Housing migrants in private homes costs less than hotels—£14 per day compared to £145 — but critics warn this plan could make it even harder for British citizens to find housing. One housing executive told The Telegraph it’s “an unfair way” that takes away accommodation from locals who need it most.
Right now, around 65,700 migrants get government housing support — the highest number in ten years. Still, 38,000 are stuck in hotels at a cost of £5.5 million every day. Labour promised to cut illegal crossings and hotel stays but Channel arrivals are up 45% over last year.
This news drops just before local elections — the first big test for Labour since taking power last July — and raises tough questions about where the government stands on immigration and helping its own people find homes.
UK TECH GIANTS Slammed: Heartbroken Parents Demand Action as Crime Soars
— Grieving parents across the UK are pleading with tech companies to do more to keep kids safe online. Their voices grow louder as social media and digital platforms face criticism for not protecting children. Conservatives have long warned about the dangers of letting Big Tech go unchecked.
Reform UK is in hot water after some candidates posted offensive material online. The backlash puts extra pressure on the party as it tries to win over voters before the next election.
Crime is also rising fast in Britain. New data shows personal theft in England and Wales jumped by 22%. Many families now worry if police are doing enough to keep their neighborhoods safe.
Other news includes warnings about methanol poisoning, new rules expected on sex-based rights, a ban on sending video game controllers to Russia, and a mini heatwave set to bring the hottest weather of the year.
NEW JERSEY Wildfire Chaos: Thousands Flee Homes as Inferno Rages
— A raging wildfire in Ocean County, New Jersey, has scorched more than 13,000 acres since Tuesday. About 5,000 people had to leave their homes as thick smoke spread across the area. Part of the Garden State Parkway was shut down for safety.
Firefighters are battling the flames and helping families who had to evacuate. Air quality warnings have gone up for nearby towns.
This is one of the worst wildfires New Jersey has seen in years. The cause is still unknown, and officials are urging everyone to obey evacuation orders.
For live updates and video coverage, visit: https://lifeline.news/video-for-news?video=wildfirenew-jersey-devastating-2025-04-24
LE PEN Shocked by Conviction as Trump Unleashes Bold Trade Blitz
— Marine Le Pen, the leader of France’s National Rally party, has been convicted of misusing European Parliament funds. She was given a four-year sentence, with two years suspended and the rest served at home under electronic monitoring. This ruling blocks her from running in France’s 2027 presidential race, ending her hopes for another campaign.
French officials claim there is no political motive behind Le Pen’s conviction. Still, many in France are calling it a political earthquake that could shake up the country’s future.
At the same time, President Donald Trump announced tough new tariffs on foreign cars and auto parts coming into America. The 25% tariffs start April 3 and are part of Trump’s plan to bring back U.S. auto jobs and manufacturing strength.
Trump called April 2 “Liberation Day” for American industry and hinted he might negotiate with other countries after the tariffs begin. The markets have reacted with caution as people debate how these bold moves will affect global trade in the long run.
PUTIN’S Fake Ceasefire Sparks Outrage As Attacks Rock Ukraine
— Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a 30-hour Easter ceasefire, but deadly attacks still hit the Kherson region. Ukrainian officials say three people were killed and three more hurt during what was supposed to be a truce. The head of Kherson’s administration, Oleksandr Prokudin, shared these numbers with the public.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Russia of breaking the ceasefire over 2,900 times. He said Russian forces kept up shelling and drone strikes along the front lines. Zelenskyy told his people that “actions always speak louder than words” and promised Ukraine would only stay silent if Russia did too.
Russia’s Defense Ministry pushed back, blaming Ukraine for 4,900 violations instead. They claimed Moscow’s troops “strictly observed the ceasefire.” But as soon as midnight hit and the truce ended, fighting picked right back up across both sides.
Putin says he’ll only agree to a real ceasefire if Western countries stop sending weapons to Kyiv and if Ukraine stops calling up new soldiers — terms Ukraine flatly rejects. With both sides pointing fingers and refusing to budge, this war looks far from over.
UK ENERGY THEFT Surge: Families Desperate as Bills Spike and Dangers Grow
— Energy theft is exploding across the UK as families battle record-high bills in 2025. Reports from Crimestoppers show more people are tampering with meters or making illegal hookups. The latest government price cap hike and the cost-of-living crisis are pushing many to take risky steps just to keep the lights on.
Experts say this is not just about money — it’s a real danger. Messing with gas lines or meters can cause deadly fires and explosions, putting whole neighborhoods at risk. There have already been tragic deaths linked to these desperate acts.
The financial toll is massive too. Stolen energy now costs an estimated £1.5 billion each year, while total energy debt in Britain has soared to a record £3.9 billion — more than double what it was before the crisis.
Lawmakers say urgent action is needed, like better home insulation and lower rates for struggling families. Critics argue current government help isn’t enough, warning that without stronger action, both public safety and the UK’s entire energy system could be in trouble.
POPE FRANCIS Death Shock: World Stunned as Global News Stalls
— The world is standing still after the death of POPE FRANCIS. Business leaders worldwide have sent their condolences, but there are no major international events making headlines.
Most news outlets have shifted focus to U.S. stories, like the Arizona Department of Corrections investigation and Harvard’s lawsuit against the Trump administration. These are not global stories and offer little for those wanting international updates.
Outside of ongoing coverage about Pope Francis’s passing, there is almost no movement on the world stage. Anyone hoping for big news from abroad will have to wait until something new breaks.
RETAIL CHAOS: Forever 21 and Joann Shut Doors as Ollie’S Surges Forward
— Forever 21 is heading for its second bankruptcy and plans to shutter about 200 U.S. stores. Once a mall favorite, the chain has struggled to keep up with online shopping and new trends. Closures have already begun in states like Michigan, New York, and California. Joann Fabrics is closing all its locations after filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Even their website has shut down because of high demand during clearance sales. Many shoppers are upset about store policies as hundreds of sites get ready to close. While others shrink, Ollie’s Bargain Outlet is on the rise. The discount chain will grab up to 100 Big Lots store leases as Big Lots faces its own financial troubles. Ollie’s expects to open around 75 new outlets in 2025 — much faster than usual. Retailers are feeling the heat from online competition and a shaky economy. Walgreens and Kohl’s are also closing hundreds of stores as more Americans turn away from old-school shopping habits.
TRUMP’S “Liberation DAY” Shocks Markets: Wall Street Reels as Tariffs Spark Global Showdown
— President Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs have rocked the markets. The Dow dropped more than 2,000 points on some days. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq both fell into bear market territory. These tariffs, reaching up to 125% for some countries, are the highest seen in a hundred years. China, the EU, and Japan are feeling the pain most. China hit back with its own tariffs on American goods. Japan’s finance minister warned of global trouble ahead. Still, US officials say they’re hopeful about future trade talks. Big companies are taking hits too. CarMax shares sank after weak earnings reports. Nvidia tumbled more than 20% from its high point this year. UnitedHealth lowered its profit forecast because Medicare costs keep rising. Experts think this wild ride will last until trade fights settle down. Some industries are holding up better than others under pressure. The Federal Reserve might cut rates three times this year if things get worse — some warn a financial crisis could happen if tariff chaos continues much longer.
FSU SHOOTING Horror: Campus Fears Surge as Crime Crisis Grows
— A gunman opened fire at Florida State University on April 17, killing two and injuring six. The suspect, Phoenix Ikner, is the stepson of a local sheriff’s deputy. He used a gun registered to his stepmother. Police have not shared a motive yet, but Ikner is in custody as the investigation continues. Students hid in classrooms for five minutes while shots rang out. Now, the campus is grieving and demanding answers about how this could happen. Violent crime isn’t just a campus problem — it’s rising across America. In South Carolina, an inmate was executed by firing squad for two murders from 2004 — a rare punishment these days. In Texas, police charged a teen with fatally stabbing another student. International news adds to growing concerns about safety and law enforcement. An American pastor kidnapped in South Africa was rescued after police used deadly force against his captors. Meanwhile, U.S. immigration policies face new questions after deportation mistakes led a senator to visit El Salvador — sparking debate over how best to protect Americans at home and abroad.
TRUMP’S Bold Harvard Threat Ignites Fury as Political Violence Surges
— Former President Donald Trump is taking a hard stand against Harvard University. He wants to strip its tax-exempt status and freeze $2.2 billion in federal funds unless the school ends DEI programs and works with immigration officials. Barack Obama called Trump’s plan “unlawful,” but many conservatives see it as a needed pushback against elite institutions. In Pennsylvania, Governor Josh Shapiro’s home was set on fire in an arson attack while his family was inside. This comes after last year’s attempt on Trump’s life, raising alarms about growing political violence across the country. The suspect in the arson case was let out on bail despite a violent past, leading many to question law enforcement choices. Meanwhile, France is facing its own political storm. Marine Le Pen, leader of the far-right movement, has been convicted of embezzlement and banned from running for president until 2030. Le Pen says she is being targeted by her opponents to keep her out of power. Americans are worried about rising crime and chaos in their cities. National Guard troops have been sent into areas hit by youth crime and violence. The nation remains divided over issues like immigration policy, abortion laws, transgender rights, and how federal money should be spent — all while political tensions keep rising.
RUSSIAN MISSILE Strike: Ukraine Mourns as 34 Lives Lost
— A RUSSIAN missile strike in Ukraine’s Sumy region has taken the lives of at least 34 people. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy condemned the attack, calling it terrorism and urging a strong international response. He asked the United States and European nations to take decisive action against Moscow.
This tragic event raises tensions amid ongoing ceasefire talks between Ukraine and Russia. Both countries have accused each other of breaking agreements meant to protect energy infrastructure, making diplomatic efforts more difficult.
Zelenskiy stressed the need for stronger diplomatic pressure on Russia during a CBS News interview, highlighting the urgency for global intervention in this escalating crisis.
FOREIGN STUDENTS as Pawns: How Hamas Manipulates US Campuses
— Al-Ketbi warns that foreign students are being manipulated by terrorist groups like Hamas, backed by Iran. His comments follow the arrest of Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian-born Columbia University graduate facing deportation for pro-Hamas activities. Khalil’s case highlights how extremist groups exploit U.S. immigration laws to infiltrate society.
Khalil is accused of being a Hamas sympathizer with anti-American views, linked to violent campus activities at Columbia University. Videos show him urging protesters to “destroy” and “explode the heads of Zionists.” Al-Ketbi warns this is part of a pattern where foreign students act as proxies for hostile regimes like Iran on American campuses.
Student groups such as Columbia University’s Apartheid Divest and Students for Justice in Palestine are cited as platforms spreading antisemitic or pro-terrorism discourse under humanitarian pretenses. Al-Ketbi emphasizes that these organizations often mask their true intentions behind human rights activism while promoting dangerous ideologies.
He argues that U.S. academic institutions are vulnerable due to inadequate vetting and misuse of free speech protections. Universities must prevent political or terrorist exploitation to safeguard against these threats, according to Al-Ketbi’s analysis in the Saudi outlet Elaph translated by MEMRI.
CANADA’S Carney Rallies European Allies Amid US Turmoil
— Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney arrived in Paris to meet French President Emmanuel Macron. He’s working to strengthen ties as tensions rise with the Trump administration. This is Carney’s first official foreign trip since taking office on March 14. His schedule also includes meetings in London with U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and King Charles III, highlighting Canada’s historical links to Europe.
During his swearing-in, Carney stressed Canada’s unique identity separate from the United States, dismissing any idea of joining the U.S. This follows President Trump’s tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum and remarks about Canada as a potential 51st state. These actions have sparked frustration in Canada, leading to calls for boycotts of American goods.
A senior Canadian official noted that Carney’s European visit aims to bolster partnerships with London and Paris amid current U.S. challenges. The trip includes a stop at Notre-Dame Cathedral before talks at the Palais Élysée, though Macron may avoid a joint press conference to sidestep conflict with Trump by not openly siding with Canada.
Before returning home, Carney plans to visit Canada’s Arctic region to emphasize national security and sovereignty there. He is expected to call for a federal election soon after his return, ahead of Parliament resuming sessions in Ottawa.
GLOBAL News LULL: Why the World is Quiet Right Now
— Currently, there are no significant breaking news stories outside the United States and United Kingdom. This lack of major events highlights a temporary lull in global headlines.
Readers looking for updates from other regions might need to check back later or explore different topics for the latest developments.
Stay informed by keeping an eye on reliable sources, as situations can change rapidly across the globe.
MACRON and STARMER’S Bold Move: Joining Zelensky in Washington?
— The French government is thinking about sending President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to Washington D.C. with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. French spokesman Sophie Primas mentioned this plan, hinting it could happen soon. However, Macron’s team later clarified that no trip is planned "at this stage.
Reports reveal frustration in London and Paris over Zelensky’s recent White House visit. European sources suggest Zelensky needs more than a mineral deal to win U.S. support against Russia again. The leaders’ possible visit might aim to boost Ukraine’s position in talks with the U.S. administration.
Despite political differences, Starmer has engaged well with President Trump, securing benefits for the UK like avoiding tariffs and modestly increasing defense budgets. This success might influence the decision to join Zelensky on his next trip to Washington D.C., hoping for better negotiation results with the U.S.;
MACRON’S PEACE Plea: Could a Ukraine Truce Be Weeks Away?
— French President Emmanuel Macron announced that a truce in Ukraine could be reached soon. He made this statement during a United Nations meeting amid rising tensions between Russia and Ukraine. Macron’s call for diplomacy has sparked mixed reactions from European leaders and U.S. officials, revealing strategic divides.
Macron stressed the need for Europe to unite while managing complex relations with the U.S. His suggestion of a truce brings hope for peace talks, though skepticism remains due to entrenched positions on both sides.
European leaders showed cautious optimism about Macron’s comments, while U.S. officials stayed reserved, reflecting differing commitments to military aid for Ukraine.
The call for a ceasefire comes as the conflict worsens, leading to severe humanitarian crises and significant geopolitical consequences in recent months.
MACRON PLEADS With Trump: Stand Strong Against Putin
— French President Emmanuel Macron is urging former President Donald Trump to stand firm against Russian President Vladimir Putin. Macron’s comments come as he prepares to meet Trump on the third anniversary of the Ukraine war. He warns that showing weakness to Putin could harm credibility with China.
Macron wants Trump to include European leaders in U.S.-Russia talks, according to AFP. Trump’s willingness to engage with Putin without Europe has worried many there. Macron argues that Russia is a serious threat and stresses the need for a united response.
Trump’s openness for diplomacy with Putin has unsettled European nations, who have struggled for three years without peace with Russia. Macron is working hard to align Europe in response to Washington’s policy change, insisting Europe must act together against Russia’s military power.
Macron claims his visit represents all of Europe after talks with various continental leaders. His efforts highlight Europe’s urgency regarding Russia’s aggressive stance and the need for coordinated international action against it.
UK JUDGE’S BOLD Decision Stirs Controversy: Palestinian Family Gains Entry
— A Palestinian family, displaced by an Israeli airstrike in Gaza, applied to enter the U.K. under the Ukraine Family Scheme. Although not Ukrainian, they sought a compassionate interpretation of the law. The British Home Office initially rejected their application last May.
The family appealed to an immigration tribunal judge, who also rejected their case. However, an upper tribunal judge later upheld their appeal in January, citing the European Convention on Human Rights’ “right to family life.” This decision sparked criticism from many in the British political establishment.
Critics argue that allowing this exception could lead to a flood of similar cases from Gaza and accuse judges of overstepping by altering government policy without authority. Shadow home secretary Chris Philp emphasized that judges should not create new schemes based on broad interpretations of human rights law.
Judge Hugo Norton-Taylor defended his ruling by highlighting the severe risks faced by the family’s youngest children if they remained in Gaza. He dismissed concerns about opening floodgates, asserting that his decision was based solely on this case’s unique circumstances and facts.
UK PARTIES CLASH Over Child SEX Gang Inquiry: A Nation’s Outrage
— The UK’s Labour and Conservative parties are locked in a fierce debate over who is responsible for the decades-long scandal of child grooming gangs. Tory leader Kemi Badenoch has called for a new national inquiry, stressing the need to tackle ongoing issues. She highlighted that thousands of victims remain unrecognized in many towns, with no full understanding of the crisis.
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage backed Badenoch’s call but criticized her past inaction on the issue as Minister for Women and Equalities. He noted she never met any victims during her time in office. Reform colleague Rupert Lowe demanded immediate deportation of Pakistani nationals involved and raised concerns about unanswered questions regarding the scale of abuse.
The discussion has reached Parliament, igniting blame between Labour and Conservatives over their roles while in power. Both parties accuse each other of failing to act decisively against predominantly Pakistani grooming gangs over the last 40 years. The debate highlights a shared failure to protect vulnerable children from systematic abuse, leaving many questions unresolved about how deep this crisis runs across UK towns and cities.
MICHAEL RAPAPORT Shocks Fans: Admits Trump Was Right on Israel and Economy
— Actor Michael Rapaport, known for his harsh criticism of Donald Trump, has recently changed his tune on two key issues. Speaking on Sage Steele’s podcast, Rapaport admitted he was wrong about Trump’s handling of the economy and Israel.
Rapaport had previously called Trump derogatory names and criticized him daily. However, he now acknowledges that Trump supported Israel effectively and weakened Iran’s terror financing capabilities.
“I was wrong,” Rapaport confessed, noting that while he still dislikes some of Trump’s behavior, he can’t deny the positive outcomes in these areas. This admission marks a significant shift in Rapaport’s stance on the former president.
POPULIST PVV Surge: Historic Gains in European Parliament
— The Party for Freedom (PVV) is set to secure at least seven seats in the European Parliament, according to exit polls. This marks a significant gain from zero seats in 2019. Ipsos estimates show this as the largest gain for any Dutch party and a historic high for PVV.
Despite this success, the Green Left and Labour Party alliance is predicted to win eight seats, one fewer than their combined total in 2019. Geert Wilders expressed optimism about potentially gaining an additional seat when official results are released. He stated, “We have never had seven seats before… We are by far the biggest winner.”
Wilders believes this result signals a broader trend across Europe against mass migration policies. He said that Eurosceptical voices will grow stronger within the European Parliament, sending a clear message to Brussels elites.
Tom Van Grieken of Belgium’s Vlaams Belang echoed Wilders’ sentiment, calling it a “very hopeful signal” for similar parties across Europe. He noted that what happened in the Netherlands could also happen in Flanders on Sunday.
ANC on SHAKY Ground: South Africa’s Opposition Parties Gaining Momentum
— Recent polling data indicates a potential shift in South Africa’s political scene, the likes of which haven’t been seen since 1994. The ruling party, the African National Congress (ANC), has experienced a decline in support from 44% to 39% since November 2022.
On the other hand, the opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) has seen its share rise from 23% to a notable 27%. A newcomer on the scene, the MK Party, has made an impressive debut with a surprising 13%, while support for the radical Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party has dwindled to just 10%.
This changing landscape could potentially pave the way for DA to form a majority coalition with other parties excluding ANC and EFF. This tactic proved successful in Cape Town’s municipal elections back in 2006. Despite ANC’s historical appeal due to its instrumental role in ending apartheid, ongoing issues such as electricity and water shortages, high crime rates, and rampant corruption have strained voters’ loyalty.
The shifting political climate suggests that voters are seeking change and are willing to look beyond traditional party lines. This could lead to significant changes in South Africa’s political landscape moving forward.
ETHICS In QUESTION: Biden Under Scrutiny as Hunter’s Investigations Intensify
— The ongoing investigations into Hunter Biden have begun to cast a significant shadow over President Joe Biden. The Justice Department, along with Republican members of Congress, are closely examining the president’s son for his alleged involvement in a criminal scheme with then-Vice President Biden. This comes alongside separate gun charges following the collapse of a plea deal on tax charges.
A recent poll indicates that 35% of U.S. adults believe the president has acted illegally, while 33% suspect unethical conduct. The investigation is spearheaded by House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer (R-KY) and House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan (R-OH). Their goal is to establish a connection between Hunter’s business dealings with a Ukrainian oil and gas firm and his father during his vice presidency.
Hunter Biden has been indicted by special counsel David Weiss in relation to a gun purchase in October 2018. He stands accused of violating orders prohibiting drug users from owning guns and has pleaded not guilty to all three counts against him. There are clear differences in perception across party lines: only 8% of Democrats believe the president is guilty of crimes related to his son’s activities, compared with 65% of Republicans.
As these investigations and indictments continue, they fuel growing controversy around the Bidens. This raises serious concerns about ethics at the
AMERICAN CAVER Trapped: Unfolding Drama in Turkish Cave as Rescue Operation Faces Challenges
— Mark Dickey, a seasoned American caver and researcher, is trapped deep within Turkey’s Morca cave. Located in the formidable Taurus Mountains, the cave has become Dickey’s unexpected prison nearly 1,000 meters below its entrance. During an expedition with fellow Americans, Dickey fell ill with severe stomach bleeding.
Despite receiving on-site medical attention from rescuers including a Hungarian doctor, his extraction from the constricted cave could take weeks. The complexity of the situation is due to both his condition and the challenging environment of the cold cave.
In a video message shared by Turkey’s communications directorate, Dickey expressed heartfelt gratitude towards both the caving community and Turkish government for their rapid response. He believes their efforts have been life-saving. While he appears alert in the video footage, he stressed that his internal recovery is still ongoing.
According to his affiliated New Jersey-based rescue group, Dickey has stopped vomiting and has been able to eat for the first time in days. However, what caused this sudden illness remains a mystery. The rescue operation continues under demanding conditions requiring multiple teams and constant medical care.
UKRAINE’S Defense Shake-Up: Zelenskyy UNVEILS Umerov as New Leader Amid WAR Scandal
— In a significant turn of events, Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, declared a leadership overhaul in the Defense Ministry on Sunday. The incumbent, Oleksii Reznikov, will step aside, making way for Rustem Umerov, a notable Crimean Tatar politician. This change comes after “more than 550 days of full-scale war”.
President Zelenskyy highlighted the necessity for “new approaches” and “different formats of interaction” with the military and society as the driving factors behind the leadership change. Umerov, who currently presides over Ukraine’s State Property Fund, is a familiar figure to the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine’s parliament. He has played a pivotal role in evacuating citizens from territories under Russian control.
The leadership transition comes amidst a cloud of scrutiny over the Defense Ministry’s procurement practices. Investigative journalists exposed that military jackets were being bought at an exorbitant $86 per unit, a stark contrast from the customary $29 price tag.
France RIOTS Wind Down After Teen’s Shooting
— After five days of chaos, the riots in France have finally begun to subside. Tensions remain high as President Emmanuel Macron has instructed the interior ministry to maintain a strong police presence on the streets. The riots erupted following the shooting of a teenager, Nahel M, by police during a traffic stop.
On Monday, local mayors urged citizens to hold rallies outside town halls to voice opposition against the violence and destruction. Patrick Jarry, the mayor of Nahel’s hometown, Nanterre, expressed relief at the calming situation but stressed the importance of not forgetting the incident that led to the unrest.
Later, hundreds gathered at a rally in L’Haÿ-les-Roses, showing support for Mayor Vincent Jeanbrun, whose house was attacked by rioters. The mob fired rockets at his escaping family, injuring his wife and one of their children.
The riots have inflicted damage costing millions of euros to the public transport system in the Paris region.
Macron Condemns ‘INEXCUSABLE’ Police Shooting Amid Rising Protests
— France is on edge as protests erupt after a teen was shot dead by police in a Paris suburb. The government is deploying 2,000 riot police in response. President Macron has condemned the incident as “inexcusable.” Initial police reports claimed self-defense, but a circulating video contradicts this account.
EXPLOSION Rocks Central Paris: Dozens Injured, Investigation Underway
— A devastating explosion in Paris left 37 injured, including four in serious condition. The blast originated in a building accommodating a design school and the Catholic education system headquarters on Rue Saint-Jacques. As firefighters battled the initial blaze and authorities established a perimeter, a strong scent of gas lingered, triggering speculation of the explosion’s source.
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BRITAIN’S Election Shockwave: Reform UK Surges As Voters Reject OLD Guard
— Britain’s 2025 local elections could change everything. Across England, people are voting for thousands of council seats and six mayoral offices. The top issues are the economy, crime, and housing. Many voters have lost faith in both Labour and the Conservatives.
Labour is falling apart under Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. MP Rosie Duffield quit, saying party leaders care more about “greed and power” than regular families. Over 20 Labour councillors in Nottinghamshire also walked out, accusing Starmer of abandoning traditional values.
The Conservatives are struggling too. Rishi Sunak’s party faces angry voters upset about rising costs and poor public services. If the losses pile up, pressure on Sunak to resign will only grow.
Reform UK sees a big chance here. Nigel Farage’s party is running more candidates than any other group and focusing on working-class areas that used to be safe for Labour. If Reform UK wins big, it could shake up British politics like never before — forcing both main parties to rethink their futures before the next general election.