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‘Concerned’: Alarming note issued by Brisbane Council ‘Concerned’: Alarming note issued by Brisbane Council Tents in a well established homeless encampment in inner city Brisbane have been slapped with eviction notices by the local council, while landscaping works occur around their dwellings. The Brisbane City Council have plastered stickers on tents in Musgrave Park, located in South Brisbane, warning owners that if they were not collected by May 7, they may be confiscated or disposed of. Camera IconTents in a well established homeless encampment in inner city Brisbane have been slapped with eviction notices by the local council, while landscaping works occur around their tents. NewsWire / Glenn Campbell Credit: News Corp Australia “If you need help with housing options, please contact the Safe Communities Team on (07) 3403 8888,” the notice said. The park is currently undergoing works in preparation to host the Paniyiri Festival held from Saturday May 17 to Monday May 19. Throughout the festival, the park will be temporarily fenced off to the public, and only those who have purchased a ticket will be allowed access. Camera IconBrisbane City Council have plastered stickers on tents in Musgrave Park, located in South Brisbane, warning owners that if they were not collected by May 7, they may be confiscated or disposed of. NewsWire / Glenn Campbell Credit: News Corp Australia A Brisbane City Council spokesperson said the move-on orders aligned with a new approach to homelessness in the city outlined in March, and were unrelated to the festival. “Brisbane residents have grown increasingly concerned about the violence, drug use and anti-social behaviour occurring in tent encampments in parks,” they said. “As a result, we’re taking a calm, measured and considered approach with the Department of Housing, Police and Queensland Health to get people out of dangerous encampments and into safe accommodation.” The homeless encampment at Musgrave Park has received widespread attention after multiple attempts to remove the tent city by Brisbane City Council failed. In March this year, Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner outlined a new policy whereby in instances where people camping in parks refuse accommodation or assistance, they would be asked to move on within 24 hours. Camera IconA Brisbane City Council spokesperson said the move-on orders aligned with a new approach to homelessness in the city outlined in March, and were unrelated to a festival taking place in the location. NewsWire / Glenn Campbell Credit: News Corp Australia At the time, Mr Schrinner said he believed most campers were “homeless by choice”. He said that the people in the homeless encampments refused assistance from the Council and other organisations during ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, and that accommodation was available to them. Greens Councillor Tina Massey said the removal of vulnerable people from Musgrave Park ahead of this year’s Paniyiri festival marked a “harsh and regressive shift” from the inclusive planning of previous years. “Dutton’s vision for Australia continues right here in Brisbane under the cruel leadership of Lord Mayor Schrinner,” she said. “I urge the Lord Mayor and Premier to stop criminalising homelessness and start investing in real solutions. We need more social and affordable housing, not more fines and forced relocations.” Greens Senator Larissa Waters urged the Lord Mayor to reconsider his approach to tackling homelessness in Brisbane. “It is appalling The Lord Mayor of Brisbane is striking vulnerable people sleeping rough with this heartless policy. “Criminalising poverty is never a solution to poverty. What people without homes need are homes. “We have the tools to really fix the crisis in this country and the Greens urge all levels of government to use them.” Camera IconHomeless tents in Musgrave park under a removal order as Brisbane City Council conducts works. NewsWire / Glenn Campbell Credit: News Corp Australia A spokesperson from local charity Northwest Community Group said Brisbane City Council and event organisers for the Greek Food Festival have not adequately provided support to those who are being relocated for the events. “The festival is an annual event, usually they have a special area put aside for people experiencing homelessness but this year they are just kicking everyone out,” they said. The Northwest Community Group has organised a sit-in at the Park on Wednesday May 7, calling for event organisers to consider the needs of the homeless people who will be forced to relocate. “People were left in the dark about what was going to happen and where they were meant to go,” a post to the group’s social media said. “The festival footprint maps were not finalised until the day the fences went up, and they were never shared.” Camera IconHomeless encampments along the Brisbane River under the Riverside Expressway. NewsWire / Glenn Campbell Credit: News Corp Australia In October last year, Brisbane City Council cut the electricity to two homeless tent cities at Musgrave Park and Kurilpa Point Park, leaving them without access to power outlets or barbecues. At the time, Greens Councillor Trina Massey said: “This callous act denied people sleeping rough the ability to cook food on BBQs or charge their phones – possibly leading to missed calls with offers of housing from the Department of Housing.” “The removal of power has already made our parks less safe for all community members. Rough sleepers are now resorting to potentially much more dangerous gas based equipment to enable them to cook meals, the most basic of human rights,” she said. “I’ve already been told that a gas canister has exploded.” Source link #Concerned #Alarming #note #issued #Brisbane #Council Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

India Strikes, Pakistan Responds, Claims Of Aircraft Losses Mount (Updated) India Strikes, Pakistan Responds, Claims Of Aircraft Losses Mount (Updated) India says it has struck nine targets inside Pakistani-controlled Kashmir and Pakistan proper. Pakistani forces subsequently launched some degree of retaliatory attacks. Fears that all-out fighting between the two nuclear-armed nations could erupt have been building since a deadly attack on tourists in the Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir region in April. Readers can first get up to speed on how the situation had already been deteriorating here. The latest updates to this story can be found at the bottom. Indian authorities have blamed the Pakistanis for the terrorist attack near Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir on April 22, which left 26 dead and 20 wounded. Officials in Pakistan have denied those allegations. A terrorist group called The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), claimed responsibility. TRF and LeT are both opposed to Indian control of the long-disputed Kashmir region. A map centered on Pahalgam offering a general overview of the disputed Kashmir region. Indian strikes today targeted Pakistani-controlled parts of Kashmir, as well as adjacent areas in Pakistan proper. Google Maps India has launched #OperationSindoor striking multiple targets within Pakistan, hitting “terror linked infrastructure” – Pakistan is retaliating, has shut down its airspace – Intense crossfire is being reported at the Line of Control, targets sourced from Indian media below pic.twitter.com/WqEgkbzcPA — Damien Symon (@detresfa_) May 6, 2025 “A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched ‘OPERATION SINDOOR’, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed. Altogether, nine (9) sites have been targeted,” according to a statement from India’s Ministry of Defense. “Our actions have been focused, measured, and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution.” Indian MoD “These steps come in the wake of the barbaric Pahalgam terrorist attack in which 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen were murdered. We are living up to the commitment that those responsible for this attack will be held accountable,” the statement added. What platforms and munitions were employed in India’s attacks are unclear. Pakistani authorities have described them as being launched from “within India’s airspace.” The exact nature of what India struck is also not clear. Sites in Kotli, Ahmadpur East, Muzaffarabad, Bagh, and Muridke were reportedly targeted. Ahmadpur East and Muridke are both in undisputed Pakistani territory. �� India Hits Pakistan ���� �� ���� India claims it struck terror targets near the border and in Pakistani Kashmir. Pakistan says the missiles hit civilian areas instead. These are the locations that were hit. pic.twitter.com/3KWyTBXdwL — Clash Report (@clashreport) May 6, 2025 There are reports that a madrassa, or Islamic school, in the Bahawalpur district of Pakistan’s Punjab region, where Ahmadpur East is situated, tied to Maulana Masood Azhar was among the targets. Azhar is the founder of another Pakistan-based terrorist organization, Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). Pakistani authorities have said that at least three people, including one child, were killed in the Indian attack on Bahawalpur, according to Reuters. Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency has alleged ties to both JeM and LeT. India has launched nine missile strikes into Pakistan. One of the targets is a mosque in Bahawalpur linked to Maulana Masood Azhar, the founder and leader of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), an Islamist terrorist group primarily active in Indian Kashmir. pic.twitter.com/9NnMNg7zR1 — Imtiaz Mahmood (@ImtiazMadmood) May 6, 2025 Pakistan security source says at least one child killed in attack and two injured near Bahawalpur- Reuters — Idrees Ali (@idreesali114) May 6, 2025 Pakistani authorities immediately vowed to respond to what they described as “a shameful and cowardly” Indian operation that targeted civilians. There were subsequent reports of Pakistani forces responding to India’s operation, but the extent of the retaliation so far is unclear. Indian authorities have confirmed Pakistani artillery fire into areas of Indian-controlled Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistani media outlets have reported strikes targeting Indian military outposts in the region, but that remains unconfirmed. Pakistan again violates the Ceasefire Agreement by firing Artillery in Bhimber Gali in Poonch- Rajauri area.#IndianArmy is responding appropriately in a caliberated manner. pic.twitter.com/Bo7Cf8ISzn — ADG PI – INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) May 6, 2025 Pakistan army and air force retaliating with “befitting reply” to Indian attack on Pakistan, state media reports [Hidden Content] — Factal News (@factal) May 6, 2025 A Pakistani official, speaking on national media, stated that retaliation is currently underway both on the ground and in the air. [Hidden Content] — Levent Kemal (@leventkemaI) May 6, 2025 BREAKING: Pakistani media now claiming that Pakistani forces have destroyed a brigade HQ of Indian forces. — FJ (@Natsecjeff) May 6, 2025 Pakistani authorities have also claimed to have shot down two Indian combat jets, but no hard evidence of this has yet emerged. Some imagery circulating online now claiming to show wreckage of the aircraft has been confirmed to be old and unrelated. Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, the Director-General of Inter-Services Public Relations for the Pakistani Army, just told CNN that Pakistan has shot down a pair of Indian Air Force fighter jets near the border between India and Pakistan. So far there is no evidence of these… — OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) May 6, 2025 his image is not recent nor does it show a IAF jet that was shot by Pakistan – Per reports from Septmeber 2nd, 2024, it showcases a MiG-29 fighter jet of the Indian Air Force (IAF) that had crashed in Barmer, Rajasthan, India. pic.twitter.com/12DkYkJRao — Tal Hagin (@talhagin) May 6, 2025 A state of emergency has now been declared in Pakistan’s Punjab province. Pakistan has also closed its airspace to commercial and other civilian air traffic for at least a ******* of 48 hours following India’s operation. A number of airliners that were airborne when the strikes began had to divert. Non-Pakistani aircraft—both to Pakistan airports and overflights—appear to be diverting, while Pakistani airlines are continuing to their destinations at this time. pic.twitter.com/8Hb2LcKYK4 — Flightradar24 (@flightradar24) May 6, 2025 This is the most significant fighting between India and Pakistan since 2019, which was also touched off by a limited Indian operation targeting sites in Pakistan following a terrorist attack. That confrontation occurred during President Donald Trump’s first term, and Mike Pompeo, who was Secretary of State at the time, has since said that there were serious concerns about that conflict escalating into a nuclear exchange. “It’s a shame. We just heard about it,” Trump said when asked about the situation today. “I just hope it ends very quickly.” “The cunning enemy has carried out cowardly attacks on five locations in Pakistan. Pakistan has every right to respond forcefully to this act of war imposed by India, and a forceful response is being given,” Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has now written in a post on X. “The entire nation stands with the Pakistani armed forces, and the morale and spirit of the entire Pakistani nation are high. The Pakistani nation and the Pakistani armed forces know how to deal with the enemy. We will never allow the enemy to succeed in their nefarious goals.” A statement from Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif following tonight’s strikes by the Indian Air Force against Pakistani Territory: “The cunning enemy has carried out cowardly attacks on five locations in Pakistan. Pakistan has every right to respond forcefully to this act… pic.twitter.com/yaD7sV1rFj — OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) May 6, 2025 It is already Wednesday morning in South Asia, and Pakistani authorities are reportedly set to hold an urgent top-level national security meeting. BREAKING: – Pakistan summons urgent natsec meeting in the morning. – Punjab province declares emergency. — FJ (@Natsecjeff) May 6, 2025 While India has framed Operation Sindoor as limited and “non-escalatory,” it remains to be seen how the new fighting that has erupted between it and Pakistan will now evolve. Update: 7:25 PM EST – India’s Embassy in the United States has put out an additional statement regarding Operation Sindoor. It notes that India’s National Security Advisor, Ajit Doval, spoke directly with interim U.S. National Security Advisor and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio about the actions taken. “India’s actions have been focused and precise. They were measured, responsible, and designed to be non-escalatory in nature,” the statement adds. “No Pakistani civilian, economic, or military targets have been hit. Only known terror camps were targeted.” There are reports that Rubio is also in contact with his Pakistani counterpart. U.S. National Security Advisor and Secretary of State Marco Rubio held talks with Pakistan’s NSA and ISI Chief Lt. Gen. Asim Malik regarding India’s strike on Pakistan. — Levent Kemal (@leventkemaI) May 6, 2025 Pakistan’s Foreign Minister has now also put out a formal statement referring to India’s operation as an “unprovoked and blatant act of war” and saying his country “reserves the right to respond appropriately at a time and place of its choosing.” Claims about Indian losses of crewed combat jets and drones continue to grow, but so far remain unconfirmed. NEW: Pakistan says 5 Indian planes shot down, soldiers taken prisoner. Source: Bloomberg — Clash Report (@clashreport) May 6, 2025 There remains no independent visual confirmation of Pakistan’s escalating claims that it has downed five Indian jets. However, India has not issued an official denial either. pic.twitter.com/arZBCbjARg — Levent Kemal (@leventkemaI) May 6, 2025 Casualties as a result of Operation Sindoor have risen to eight dead and 35 injured, with at least two other individuals missing, according to Pakistani authorities. Pakistan Army Spox: 8 Pakistanis killed, 35 injured, 2 missing In 6 locations, 24 impacts have occurred using different weapons. — Clash Report (@clashreport) May 6, 2025 Unconfirmed footage claiming to show Pakistani artillery strikes on Indian positions is now emerging. �� پاکستانی فوج ہندوستانی ملٹری پوسٹس کو کامیابی سے نشانہ بناتے ہوئے۔ pic.twitter.com/3HJRAq3ZR2 — Eagle Eye (@zarrar_11PK) May 6, 2025 United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres “calls for maximum military restraint from both countries,” U.N. spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric has told the BBC. “The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan.” Update: 10:18 PM EST – Video has emerged that may point to the loss of at least one Indian combat jet. The footage, which is said to have been shot in Indian’s Punjab region, looks to show the remains of a French-made MICA missile. The Indian Air Force acquired radar and infrared-homing versions of the MICA in the mid-2010s, originally to arm Mirage 2000 fighters. India’s newer Rafales can also employ these missiles. In 2020, the Indian Air Force also reportedly conducted a test launch of a MICA from one of its Russian-made Su-30MKI Flankers, but there are no indications that this is now an operational combination. Pakistan does not have the MICA in its inventory. Could also be a Mirage 2000, rumor that it was brought down over India, so likely an Air to Air kill. But who knows. Both sides lie about these things. — Steven (@McBaine146) May 7, 2025 Pakistani authorities have now claimed specifically have downed three Indian Rafales, as well as one Su-30MKI and one MiG-29, as well as various drones. Asked by Reuters how Pakistan had responded, like the Prime Minister said, the spokesperson said: “I’m telling you, the Pakistani Air Force has taken down the attacking aircraft.” — Idrees Ali (@idreesali114) May 7, 2025 Media outlets in India have also now reported that the Indian Air Force lost at least three combat jets in the course of Operation Sindoor. Reuters has also now reported that an Indian combat jet “crashed” for unspecified reasons somewhere in Jammu and Kashmir, and that its pilot was injured and taken to the hospital. IndiaTV reports that at least three Indian fighter jets have crashed tonight inside of India, with all of the ****** sites having been secured by the Indian Air Force. — OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) May 7, 2025 Contact the author: *****@*****.tld Source link #India #Strikes #Pakistan #Responds #Claims #Aircraft #Losses #Mount #Updated Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Trump’s team is finally meeting with China. The future of the global economy is riding on its success – CNN Trump’s team is finally meeting with China. The future of the global economy is riding on its success – CNN Trump’s team is finally meeting with China. The future of the global economy is riding on its success CNNMorning Bid: US, China move towards trade talks, but a deal seems distant ReutersTrump officials Bessent and Greer to meet with ******** counterparts on trade, economic issues CNBCTariffs: US and China to start talks over trade war this week BBCU.S. and China to Hold First Trade Talks Since Trump’s Tariffs The New York Times Source link #Trumps #team #finally #meeting #China #future #global #economy #riding #success #CNN Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Trump is not behaving like a Republican president “Trump is not behaving like a Republican president” Nick Robinson Today programme presenter BBC In an exclusive and remarkably candid interview – the first since he left office – Joe Biden discusses what he really thinks of his successor’s first 100 days, plus his fears for the future if the Atlantic Alliance collapses It is hard to believe that the man I greet in the Delaware hotel where he launched his political career more than half a century ago was the “leader of the free world” little over 100 days ago. Joe Biden is still surrounded by all the trappings of power – the ****** SUVs, the security guys with curly earpieces, the sniffer dogs sent ahead to sweep the room for explosives. And yet he has spent the last three months watching much of what he believes in being swept away by his successor. Donald Trump has deployed the name Biden again and again – it is his political weapon of choice. One recent analysis showed that Trump said or wrote the name Biden at least 580 times in those first 100 days in office. Having claimed that rises in share prices were “Trump’s stock market” at work, he later blamed sharp falls in share prices on “Biden’s stock market”. Until this week, President Biden himself (former presidents keep their titles after they leave office) has largely observed the convention that former presidents do not criticise their predecessors at the start of their time in office. But from the moment we shake hands it is clear that he is determined to have his say too. Biden calls Nato’s promise to defend every inch of its territory “a sacred obligation” In a dark blue suit, the former president arrives smiling and relaxed but with the determined air of a man on a mission. It’s his first interview since leaving the White House, and he seems most angry about Donald Trump’s treatment of America’s allies – in particular Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelensky. “I found it beneath America, the way that took place,” he says of the explosive Oval Office row between Trump and Zelensky in February. “And the way we talk about now that, ‘it’s the Gulf of America’, ‘maybe we’re going to have to take back Panama’, ‘maybe we need to acquire Greenland, ‘maybe Canada should be a [51st state].’ What the hell’s going on here? “What President ever talks like that? That’s not who we are. We’re about freedom, democracy, opportunity – not about confiscation.” After just over 100 action-packed days of Trump there was no shortage of targets for President Biden to choose from. But his main concern appears to be on the international stage, rather than the domestic one: that is, the threat he believes now faces the alliance between the United States and Europe which, as he puts it, secured peace, freedom and democracy for eight decades. “Grave concerns” about the Atlantic Alliance Just before our interview, which took place days before the 80th anniversary of VE Day, Biden took a large gold coin out of his pocket and pressed it into my hand. It was a souvenir of last year’s D-Day commemoration. Biden believes that the speech he delivered on that beach in Normandy is one of his most important. In it, he declared that the men who fought and died “knew – beyond any doubt – that there are things worth fighting and dying for”. I ask him whether he feels that message about sacrifice is in danger of being forgotten in America. Not by the people, he replies but, yes, by the leadership. It is, he says, a “grave concern” that the Atlantic Alliance is seen to be dying. “I think it would change the modern history of the world if that occurs,” he argues. “We’re the only nation in a position to have the capacity to bring people together, [to] lead the world. Otherwise you’re going to have China and the former Soviet Union, Russia, stepping up.” Reuters Biden argues that Trump’s approach could send a dangerous message to Europe, suggesting it’s time to give in to Russia Now more than ever before that Alliance is being questioned. One leading former NATO figure told the BBC this week that the VE Day celebrations felt more like a ********. President Trump has complained that the United States is being “ripped off” by her allies, Vice President JD Vance has said that America is “bailing out” Europe whilst Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has insisted that Europe is “free-loading”. Biden calls the pledge all members of Nato – the Atlantic Alliance – make “to defend each and every inch of Nato territory with the full force of our collective power” a “sacred obligation”. “I fear that our allies around the world are going to begin to doubt whether we’re going to stay where we’ve always been for the last 80 years,” Biden says. Under his presidency, both Finland and Sweden joined Nato – something he thinks made the alliance stronger. “We did all that – and in four years we’ve got a guy who wants to walk away from it all. “I’m worried that Europe is going to lose confidence in the certainty of America, and the leadership of America in the world, to deal with not only Nato, but other matters that are of consequence.” Biden, the “addled old man”? I meet President Biden in the place he has called home since he was a boy, the city of Wilmington in Delaware. It is an hour and a half Amtrak train ride from Washington DC, a journey he has been making for 50 years since becoming a Senator at the age of just 30. He has spent more years in government than any other president. He was 82 when he left the Oval Office. His age has invited no end of scrutiny – an “at times addled old man” is how the journalists Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson describe him in their book, Original Sin: President Biden’s Decline, Its Cover-Up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again. His calamitous live TV debate performance last June prompted further questions, as Biden stumbled over his words, lost his thread mid-sentence and boasted, somewhat bafflingly, that “We finally beat Medicare!”. He withdrew from the election campaign soon after. Reuters Biden’s live TV debate performance last June raised questions as he stumbled over words and appeared to lose his train of thought Today, Biden is still warm and charismatic, with the folksy charm that made him an election winner but he is a much slower, quieter and more hesitant version of the leader he was once. Meeting with him in person, I found it hard to imagine he could have served for another four years in the White House, taking him closer to the age of 90. I ask Biden if he’s now had to think again about his decisions last year. He pulled out of the presidential race just 107 days before election day, leaving Kamala Harris limited time to put together her own campaign. “I don’t think it would have mattered,” he says. “We left at a time when we had a good candidate, she was fully funded. “What we had set out to do, no-one thought we could do,” he continues. “And we had become so successful in our agenda, it was hard to say, ‘No, I’m going to stop now’… It was a hard decision.” One he regrets? Surely withdrawing earlier could have given someone else a greater chance? “No, I think it was the right decision.” He pauses. “I think that… Well, it was just a difficult decision.” Trump is “not behaving like a Republican president” Biden says he went into politics to fight injustice and to this day has lost none of his appetite for the fight. Last year at the D-Day celebrations he warned: “We’re living in a time when democracy is more at risk across the world than at any point since the end of World War Two.” Today, he expands on this: “Look at the number of European leaders and European countries that are wondering, Well what do I do now? What’s the best route for me to take? Can I rely on the United States? Are they going to be there?” “Instead of democracy expanding around the world, [it’s] receding. Democracy – every generation has to fight for it.” Penske Media via Getty Images Biden says he went into politics to fight injustice Speaking in Chicago recently, Biden declared that “nobody’s king” in America. I asked him if he thinks President Trump is behaving more like a monarch than a constitutionally limited president. He chooses his reply carefully. “He’s not behaving like a Republican president,” he says. Though later in our interview, Biden admits he’s less worried about the future of US democracy than he used to be, “because I think the Republican Party is waking up to what Trump is about”. “Anybody who thinks Putin’s going to stop is foolish” President Biden relished his role as the leading figure in Nato, deploying normally top secret intelligence to tell a sceptical world back in 2022 that Vladimir Putin was about to launch a full scale invasion of Ukraine. Since taking office President Trump has charted a different course, telling Ukraine that it must consider giving up territory to Russia if it wants the war to end. “It is modern day appeasement,” Biden says of Trump’s approach. Putin, he says, sees Ukraine as “part of Mother Russia. He believes he has historical rights to Ukraine… He can’t stand the fact that […] the Soviet Union has collapsed. And anybody who thinks he’s going to stop is just foolish.” He fears that Trump’s approach might signal to other European countries that it’s time to give in to Russia. Biden on Ukraine: ‘We gave them everything they needed to provide for their independence’ Yet Biden has faced accusations against him concerning the Ukraine War. Some in Kyiv and her allies, as well as some in the ***, claim that he gave President Zelensky just enough support to resist invasion but not enough to defeat Russia, perhaps out of fear that Putin would consider using nuclear weapons if cornered. When Putin was asked point blank on TV this week whether he would use nuclear weapons to win the war, he declared that he hoped that they would “not be necessary,” adding that he had the means to bring the war to what he called his “logical conclusion”. I point out to Biden that it has been argued that he didn’t have the courage to go all the way to give Ukraine the weapons it needed – to let Ukraine win. “We gave them [Ukraine] everything they needed to provide for their independence,” Biden argues. “And we were prepared to respond more aggressively if in fact Putin moved again.” He says he was keen to avoid the prospect of “World War Three, with nuclear powers,” adding: “And we did avoid it. “What would Putin do if things got really tough for him?” he continues. “Threaten the use of tactical nuclear weapons. This is not a game or roulette.” Biden’s belief in the Atlantic Alliance of the last living President born during World War Two is clearly undiminished. When he first arrived in the Oval Office, Biden hung a portrait of America’s wartime leader Franklin D. Roosevelt on the wall. He was born two and a half years after the defeat of the Nazis into the world FDR helped to create – a world of American global leadership and solidarity. But the United States voted to reject Biden’s policies and values and instead to endorse Donald Trump’s call to put America First. The world is changing from what people like Joe Biden have taken for granted. “Every generation has to fight to maintain democracy, every one,” Biden says. “Every one’s going to be challenged. “We’ve done it well for the last 80 years. And I’m worried there’s the loss of understanding of the consequences of that.” This interview broadcasts on BBC Radio 4’s Today on 7 May. You can hear it later on BBC Sounds. Listen to the full version on Political Thinking with Nick Robinson: The Joe Biden One, also on BBC Sounds. BBC InDepth is the home on the website and app for the best analysis, with fresh perspectives that challenge assumptions and deep reporting on the biggest issues of the day. And we showcase thought-provoking content from across BBC Sounds and iPlayer too. You can send us your feedback on the InDepth section by clicking on the button below. Source link #Trump #behaving #Republican #president Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Regional town reeling after big brand's factory closure Regional town reeling after big brand's factory closure Hundreds of workers in a regional town are facing an uncertain future, with a Bega Cheese manufacturing site to shut its doors. Source link #Regional #town #reeling #big #brand039s #factory #closure Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

I can hear the badgers, I can smell the badgers – but where are they? I can hear the badgers, I can smell the badgers – but where are they? I’ve been waiting for a good time to go badger watching at an old, old sett I’ve known for 20 years. I’m hoping for a first sight of this year’s cubs, which begin to emerge around now. An evening after rain is best, before the nettles get too high. In damp ground, the worms might be up and badgers love to forage those, but we haven’t had significant rain in weeks. Tonight will have to do. I settle against the broad, rough trunk of a favourite oak. The evening is perfectly still, the sun has gone down in a deepening blue sky. The flattened state of the bluebells indicates that the cubs have been out and playing. Housework has also taken place, as two piles of bedding lie airing between the sett entrances, waiting to be taken in. They are mostly composed of wild garlic leaves that double up as fly repellent. The sett has a clean, in-use smell: the cool cathedral scent of scraped chalk earth, the green bacon whiff of claw-shredded elder bark, a warm muskiness. I am relieved to see the sett still active, though badgers do well here. The birdsong falls away until there is just a mistle thrush and an up-late cuckoo. Pheasants roost noisily in a chorus of stuttered coughing, then all is quiet but for tawny owls. Soon enough the noises begin: a bumping underfoot, a subterranean knocking-about. Muffled whickering, nasal growls. It is almost too dark to see. My night-adjusted vision is making tree branches imprint on the sky like blinked lightning, and the pale patches of lichen on tree trunks seem to detach themselves and float. An image of a badger’s striped face seems to appear – but turns out to be the twin flowering stems of yellow archangel. From down below, more bumps and bickers. Without the promise of worms to feed on, I don’t think the cubs are allowed out to play. Finally, a sow badger emerges, shakes off a bloom of chalk dust and ****** off into the darkness as if she’s escaped, with one shoe on, from the debris of a party. • Under the Changing Skies: The Best of the Guardian’s Country Diary, 2018-2024 is published by Guardian Faber; order at guardianbookshop.com and get a 15% discount Source link #hear #badgers #smell #badgers Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Test your knowledge of the papal conclave Test your knowledge of the papal conclave Are you ready for the conclave that will select the next pope? Take our quiz to see how you stack up with other Times readers. Source link #Test #knowledge #papal #conclave Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

CATL likely to offer less than 10% discount for $5 billion Hong Kong listing: Reuters CATL likely to offer less than 10% discount for $5 billion Hong Kong listing: Reuters CATL booth is seen during the 21st Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition (Auto Shanghai 2025) at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) on April 26, 2025 in Shanghai, China. Vcg | Visual China Group | Getty Images Prospective investors in ******** battery giant CATL’s Hong Kong listing to raise about $5 billion have been told the stock may be sold at a discount of less than 10% to the company’s Shenzhen-listed shares, according to three sources with direct knowledge of the matter. The discount offered could be around mid-single digits, two of the sources added. CATL is meeting investors ahead of launching the book building for the deal next week that could be the largest new share ***** in Hong Kong for four years. Investors are pushing CATL to price the Hong Kong shares at least a 10% discount to the Shenzhen-traded stock, one of the sources and a fourth person told Reuters. The pricing has not been finalized, the sources said. CATL wants to have cornerstone and anchor investors subscribe for around half the shares to be sold in the deal, two of the sources added. The sources could not be named discussing information that has not yet been made public. CATL did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Reuters. CATL shares were trading 2.33% higher on Wednesday at 237.08 yuan. However, the stock has fallen nearly 11% this year. China’s CSI300 index was up nearly 0.5%. Hong Kong shares typically trade at a discount compared to mainland stocks. Investors are usually offered stock at a cheaper price in offshore listings like this as an incentive to buy into the share offering. Midea Group priced its Hong Kong shares at about a 20% discount when it raised $4 billion in a listing in September last year. The battery giant’s listing would be the largest in Hong Kong since 2021, when Kuaishou Technology raised $6.2 billion in an initial public offering. CATL has previously said in a regulatory filing that part of the funds raised will be used to build a 7.3 billion-euro ($8.28 billion) battery plant in Hungary. Source link #CATL #offer #discount #billion #Hong #Kong #listing #Reuters Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

World leaders call for calm after India strikes Pakistan following attack in Kashmir – Axios World leaders call for calm after India strikes Pakistan following attack in Kashmir – Axios World leaders call for calm after India strikes Pakistan following attack in Kashmir AxiosIndia Strikes Pakistan Two Weeks After Kashmir Terrorist Attack The New York Times70 Terrorists Killed In Operation Sindoor At Terror Camps In Pakistan: Sources NDTVIndia fires missiles into Pakistan, killing at least 19, officials say CBS NewsTrump calls rising India-Pakistan tensions a shame Reuters Source link #World #leaders #call #calm #India #strikes #Pakistan #attack #Kashmir #Axios Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Helicopter posed 'elevated risk' to 'four good men' Helicopter posed 'elevated risk' to 'four good men' A former army aviation commander has been grilled at an inquiry over why a risky helicopter was not swapped out before a ****** that killed “four good men”. Source link #Helicopter #posed #039elevated #risk039 #039four #good #men039 Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Tesla launches cheaper Model Y vehicle in the US Tesla launches cheaper Model Y vehicle in the US (Reuters) – Tesla launched a cheaper version of its Model Y vehicle in the United States on Tuesday. The new long range rear-wheel drive version costs about $44,990, before a $7,500 federal tax credit, the electric vehicle maker’s website showed. Including the tax credit, the new vehicle will cost $37,490. Reuters previously reported that Tesla’s plans for an affordable car included a stripped-down version of its best-selling electric SUV, but the production launch had been delayed. Tesla’s Model Y long range all-wheel drive version in the U.S. did not see any cost adjustment and is priced at $48,990. Tesla’s quarterly sales plunged 13% to the weakest in nearly three years, hurt by a backlash against CEO Elon Musk’s politics and rising global competition. The company is scheduled to report second-quarter earnings in July. (This story has been corrected to say that Tesla will report second-quarter earnings, not third-quarter, and in July, not on July 23, in paragraph 6) (Reporting by Disha Mishra in Bengaluru; Editing by Alan Barona) Source link #Tesla #launches #cheaper #Model #vehicle Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

China central bank eases policy ahead of US trade meeting – Yahoo Finance China central bank eases policy ahead of US trade meeting – Yahoo Finance China central bank eases policy ahead of US trade meeting Yahoo FinanceChina announces sweeping measures to ease policy in bid to shore up trade-war hit economy CNBCChina Lowers Rates and Makes Bank Lending Easier in Response to Tariffs WSJChina Cuts Interest Rates to Shore Up Economy Hit by Trade War The New York TimesChina injects ‘tactical’ monetary stimulus ahead of US trade meeting Reuters Source link #China #central #bank #eases #policy #ahead #trade #meeting #Yahoo #Finance Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Criminals who skip sentencing could face two more years in jail Criminals who skip sentencing could face two more years in jail Criminals who refuse to attend sentencing in England and Wales could face an additional two years in prison, under a new bill to be introduced to Parliament on Wednesday. Additional powers for judges to punish offenders absent from sentencing will mean they cannot “opt out” of justice, victims’ families have said. “It is not about punishment through force – but about ensuring that perpetrators cannot remove themselves from the consequences of their actions,” said the families of murdered primary school teacher Sabina Nessa, law graduate Zara Aleena and mother-of-three Jan Mustafa. All of their loved ones’ killers did not attend their sentencing hearings, prompting calls to change the law. The bill will only become law once it has been approved by MPs and the House of Lords. Powers already exist to compel people to attend court but they are often not used. New measures under the Victims and Courts Bill could apply to any case in the Crown Court, including those who attend proceedings but are removed from court for disruptive behaviour – like Southport killer Axel Rudakubana. Offenders already facing whole life orders could be confined to their cells and be stripped of privileges, like extra gym time, under the new bill. In a joint statement, the victims’ families said the development was a “step in the right direction, and that new punishments indicated “this change is being taken seriously”. “It gives families a moment of recognition and a form of reparation. It is a moment of reckoning for the convicted,” they added. In January, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer promised to follow through on the legislation – initiated by the previous Conservative government – after meeting Cheryl Korbel. Her daughter, Olivia Pratt-Korbel, was shot dead in her home in August 2022, aged nine. Thomas Cashman, the gunman who killed Olivia, did not attend court to be jailed for 42 years. Anneliese Midgley, Ms Korbel’s MP, said: “This law is down in no small part to my constituent Cheryl Korbel. I am so proud of her.” “Sentencing is not just a legal formality; it is the culmination of justice. That’s why it’s so important that justice is not only done, but seen to be done.” Justice Minister Alex Davies-Jones said: “I would like to thank the remarkable families of Olivia Pratt-Korbel, Jan Mustafa, Sabina Nessa and Zara Aleena and countless others who have campaigned tirelessly for offenders to have to face the reality of their crimes by attending their sentencing.” “Justice isn’t optional – we’ll make sure criminals face their victims,” she added. Source link #Criminals #skip #sentencing #face #years #jail Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

NRL deal ‘very, very close’, Premier Roger Cook says as he rules out HBF Park upgrade as part of talks NRL deal ‘very, very close’, Premier Roger Cook says as he rules out HBF Park upgrade as part of talks Roger Cook has dismissed reports the Government has agreed to a $200 million redevelopment of HBF Park as part of a deal with the NRL for a WA side. Amid feverish speculation about the status of negotiations, the Premier will join NRL bosses Peter V’Landys and Andrew Abdo to formally announce the Perth Bears at HBF Park tomorrow. Reports from the east coast claim the deal is now worth $65 million in support for a grassroots league, and includes a $200 million redevelopment of HBF Park. “This is about growing sport in Western Australia. It’s about growing the economy in Western Australia. It’s about growing the opportunity for people to follow a Western *********** team in the NRL,” he said. “It does not involve significant conversations around infrastructure or around particular dollars going to the NRL. “We always look to see what we need to do to make sure that our sports infrastructure is fit for purpose but that is not the subject of a conversation with the NRL. “Obviously, they’ve looked at our facilities. They made the note that some of our facilities at HBF Park are actually better than a lot of the pitches that they play on the east coast.” While refusing to confirm whether a deal had been agreed to — despite reports suggesting the Government and the League had done so — Mr Cook would only say the parties were “very close”. “I can confirm that the conversations have have continued over the last 48 hours. I can confirm that those conversations have been very positive,” he said. “Those conversations are very, very positive, and they’re very, very close. “I cannot confirm the numbers, and when we are in a position to do so, we will make that completely transparent and available to the WA public.” Asked about the role of Freshwater Strategy — the consultant and pollster who has faced questions over its role in the Liberal Party’s electoral rout over the weekend — Mr Cook said it informed the private-led, failed bid for a team. “I’m not familiar with the detail of the document, but my understanding was it was used to inform the private bid to the NRL in the early stages of this conversation, and that took place in the second half of last year,” he said. “My teams have been looking at it and they probably referred to that document to get some guidance. “Obviously, we’ve done a range of work and analysis ourselves to understand the scope and and the opportunities associated with this agreement.” Source link #NRL #deal #close #Premier #Roger #Cook #rules #HBF #Park #upgrade #part #talks Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

China, in response to CIA videos, warns of measures against ‘infiltration, sabotage’ China, in response to CIA videos, warns of measures against ‘infiltration, sabotage’ BEIJING (Reuters) – China warned on Tuesday it would take necessary measures to crack down on “infiltration and sabotage activities of foreign anti-China forces”, days after the CIA released videos aimed at enticing ******** officials to leak secrets to the U.S. The U.S. intelligence agency last week posted two short ********-language videos to its social media accounts depicting fictional scenes in which a senior ******** official and a more junior government worker with access to classified information become disillusioned with China’s system and approach the CIA. A ******** foreign ministry spokesperson called the videos a “damning confession” of the CIA’s efforts in “stealing” other countries’ secrets. “The U.S. not only maliciously smears and attacks China, but also blatantly deceives and lures ******** personnel to turn to its side, and even directly targets ******** government officials,” spokesperson Lin Jian told a regular press briefing when asked about the videos. “This is a serious violation of China’s national interests and a naked political provocation.” Beijing’s warning came as the two countries vow to step up counterintelligence efforts amid mutual accusations of espionage. Last month, China’s state security ministry publicised the case of a government employee selling state secrets, secretly recording internal meetings and stealing confidential files, after reaching out to a foreign spy agency via email. The employee was caught before she could leave the country, the ministry said in a video posted to its social media account. It did not name the foreign intelligence agency. In October, the CIA launched a drive to recruit new informants in China, Iran and North Korea by posting instructions online on how to securely contact the agency, following what it said was successful efforts to enlist Russians. Russia, China, Iran and North Korea are known within the U.S. intelligence community as “hard targets” – countries whose governments are difficult to penetrate. (Reporting by Beijing Newsroom; Editing by Muralikumar Anantharaman and Raju Gopalakrishnan) Source link #China #response #CIA #videos #warns #measures #infiltration #sabotage Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Stephen Curry injury: Warriors lose superstar for remainder of Game 1 with strained left hamstring – CBS Sports Stephen Curry injury: Warriors lose superstar for remainder of Game 1 with strained left hamstring – CBS Sports Stephen Curry injury: Warriors lose superstar for remainder of Game 1 with strained left hamstring CBS SportsWarriors’ Curry (hamstring) ruled out of Game 1 ESPNOverreactions to Early 2025 NBA Playoffs Round 2 Comebacks, Steph Curry Injury, More Bleacher ReportNBA playoffs: Warriors hang on to beat Timberwolves in Game 1 after losing Stephen Curry to hamstring injury Yahoo SportsWarriors’ Game 1 win over Timberwolves helps road teams make NBA playoff history NBC Sports Bay Area & California Source link #Stephen #Curry #injury #Warriors #lose #superstar #remainder #Game #strained #left #hamstring #CBS #Sports Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Providers aren’t waiting till July – NBN plan prices have already increased Providers aren’t waiting till July – NBN plan prices have already increased We recently reported that NBN Co is set to increase wholesale costs to internet service providers (ISPs) in July, which will more than likely increase the costs of the best NBN plans. Well, it seems a couple of ISPs have jumped the gun and raised their prices a little earlier than expected, with costs increasing by as much as AU$10 p/m, depending on the speed tier. At the moment, we’ve only noticed these increases from Exetel and Superloop – two of our longstanding favourite providers here at TechRadar – and they affect plans from NBN 25 through to NBN 250. Superloop’s NBN 1000 plan is, for now, unaffected. You may like Not only has the timing of these increases come as a bit of a shock, but the AU$10 p/m increase on both providers’ popular NBN 100 plans is also much more than we’d speculated. We’ve also noticed that both providers now charge the same as each other. Previously Exetel was the cheaper of the two, but that’s no longer the case. It’s not a complete surprise, however, considering the two are sister companies. Here’s how Exetel and Superloop NBN plans have been affected. We’ve only taken into account the ongoing cost following introductory discounts. Swipe to scroll horizontally Header Cell – Column 0 Before After Exetel: NBN 25NBN 50NBN 100NBN 250 AU$63.99AU$79.99AU$84.99AU$98.99 AU$72AU$85AU$95AU$104 Superloop: NBN 25NBN 50NBN 100NBN 250NBN 1000 AU$69AU$81AU$89AU$99AU$109 AU$72AU$85AU$95AU$104AU$109 Will other providers increase costs early? As we’ve said, we’ve only noticed Exetel and Superloop as being the only two providers to increase costs. Other ISPs may soon follow suit rather than wait until the new financial year to implement their expected price hikes. Sign up for breaking news, reviews, opinion, top tech deals, and more. What to do now? Given we can’t guarantee what Australia’s ISPs will do leading up to the increased wholesale costs, we would recommend taking a look at your current NBN plan and deciding if you want to switch to lock in a cheaper price for at least six months (the majority of NBN providers currently offer a six-month discount which will have to be honoured). We’ve picked out a recommended NBN plan for each speed tier below. Do note that in order to sign-up for an NBN 250 or NBN 1000 plan, you’ll need either a fibre to the premises (FTTP) or hybrid fibre coaxial (HFC) fixed-line connection. If you don’t, then you may be eligible for a free fibre upgrade, and most NBN providers will be able to handle the installation process for you. Of course, these are our top recommendations at the time of writing. We’ll be keeping a close eye on NBN plan prices over the coming days and weeks to see if any other price hikes are implemented. You might also like Source link #Providers #arent #waiting #July #NBN #plan #prices #increased Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Russians remember WW2 with victory on their minds Russians remember WW2 with victory on their minds Steve Rosenberg BBC Russia editor BBC Eighty miles from Moscow, a park echoes to the sound of explosions and gunfire. As plumes of thick grey smoke rise into the air, the Red Army storms across a bridge and battles for control of a tiny island. More Soviet soldiers are arriving by boat from across a lake. Once on the island they tear down a swastika and replace it with the hammer and sickle of the Soviet Union. Victory. A large crowd is watching from the safety of the shore. What they’re witnessing is an historical re-enactment of one of the final battles for Berlin in 1945. It led to the capitulation of Nazi Germany and what Moscow still refers to as The Great Victory. The battle for Berlin, unfolding in front of me in the town of Dubna, is one of many events in Russia for the 80th anniversary of the Soviet victory in World War Two. Katya’s grandfather died in World War Two. Today her son is fighting in Ukraine The anniversary is receiving enormous attention in a country where the national idea is built very much around the notion of Russia as victor and victim. “I’m here because my grandfather fought in this war,” one of the spectators, Katya, tells me. “He went missing near Berlin. Much later we found out he’d been killed in January 1945.” Eighty years on Katya’s son is fighting in Ukraine. “My son is in a war now. He’s in the ‘special military operation’,” she tells me. “He volunteered. I tried to talk him out of it. But he hasn’t listened to anyone since he was a kid. ‘I’m my own tsar,’ he told me. ‘Go fight, then, if you’re a tsar,’ I replied. He and his friend went together. His friend was killed.” Katya’s family history is a story of different generations fighting on the front line. But in very different circumstances. In 1941, Hitler’s Germany invaded the Soviet Union to try to conquer the world’s largest country and secure world domination. Soviet soldiers (Katya’s grandfather among them) fought to liberate their country from the Nazis. Victory for Moscow came at an enormous human cost: more than 27 million Soviet citizens were killed in what is known here as the Great Fatherland or Great Patriotic War. The Moscow metro has two special “victory trains” But in 2022 it was Russia that launched a large-scale invasion – of its neighbour. What the Kremlin still calls a “special military operation” was widely seen as an attempt to force Ukraine back into Russia’s geo-political orbit. In March 2022, the UN General Assembly overwhelmingly adopted a resolution condemning Russia’s “aggression.” And yet the Russian authorities portray the war in Ukraine as a continuation of World War Two. The official narrative here creates a parallel reality, in which Russia once again is fighting Nazism and fascism, in Ukraine and across Europe. Russia, the country which invaded Ukraine, presents itself as the victim of external aggression. “Historically and sociologically, victory in the Great Patriotic War was always a cornerstone of Russian united consciousness,” Novaya Gazeta columnist Andrei Kolesnikov explains, “because there is no glue for the nation: only this event. It was always so, from Brezhnev’s time until now. “But what’s happening now is something special. Now the Great Patriotic War is presented as just the first step in our permanent war with the West, against ‘Eurofascism.’ The Special Military Operation as the continuation of the Great Patriotic War: this is something new.” In Russia, television plays a key role in spreading the official message that Europe couldn’t be trusted then and cannot be trusted now. Recently, on Russian TV, I saw a documentary entitled “Europe Against Russia. Hitler’s Crusaders”. It was about how European countries had collaborated with the Nazis during World War Two. No mention of the 1939 non-aggression pact between Hitler and Stalin: under its secret protocol Germany and the USSR had carved up spheres of influence in eastern Europe. Last month a Russian TV presenter launched a tirade against ******* Chancellor Friedrich Merz, a staunch supporter of military support to Ukraine. The talk show host called Germany’s leader “a Nazi scumbag” for comments about Russia. Addressing the Chancellor directly, the anchor said that Russians “hold you and your comrades responsible for the killing of 27 million Soviet citizens.” A new monument in the town Khimki shows a soldier from World War Two and a soldier fighting in Ukraine Iconography underpins the ideology. In the town of Khimki, near Moscow, a recently unveiled monument depicts a Red Army soldier side by side with a Russian who is fighting in Ukraine. Framed photos of Russian soldiers killed in Ukraine have been placed below the two fighter figures. An inscription reads: “By preserving the past we defend the future!” Wars past and present: brought together in bronze. In the run up to Victory Day, Russia has been awash with reminders of The Great Victory. Last month a Soyuz rocket decorated to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany blasted off from the Baikonur cosmodrome. Back down on earth, at a maternity hospital in the Siberian city of Kemerovo, newborn babies are being dressed in miniature Red Army caps and capes. On its Telegram channel, the hospital explained that battle clothes for babies served “as a reminder of links between the generations, the courage of the defenders of the Fatherland and of how even the tiniest Russian citizen is part of a big history.” In Moscow, the Russian word for ‘Victory’ – ‘Pobeda’ – is everywhere: on giant billboards, on posters in shop windows, even stuck to the side of road-sweepers. Underground, special “victory trains” on the Moscow Metro have been decked out with World War Two imagery and the words: “Be proud!” and “Remember!” Tanks have been rolling down Moscow’s main street, Tverskaya, at rehearsals for the big 9 May parade on Red Square. In Soviet times, after 1945, military parades on Victory Day were rare. Under Vladimir Putin they have become a key element of what is now Russia’s most sacred national holiday – a day not only for remembering the victims of World War Two, but for showcasing Russian military power and to unite the people around the idea of Russia as an unbeatable nation. The USSR was, indeed, victorious in the Great Patriotic War. But eighty years on, and despite confident pronouncements by Russian officials, victory eludes Moscow in Ukraine. The Kremlin’s “special military operation” was only expected to last a few days, a few weeks maximum. After more than three years of war – and huge casualties on both sides – it’s still unclear how and when the fighting will end. Fyodor Melnikov lost his brother to war The Kremlin says 29 world leaders, including China’s Xi Jinping, will be attending the Victory Day parade. According to Moscow, Serbia’s President Aleksandar Vucic and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico will be visiting Russia for the commemorations. Ensuring security for the military parade and guests on Red Square will already have been a top priority for the Kremlin. Even more so after two consecutive nights of Ukrainian drone attacks targeting Moscow. Back in Dubna, ******* resistance has crumbled and the Red Army is in full control. The re-enactment is over. Some of the spectators here believe the official portrayal of Russia as a besieged fortress threatened by the West. “Both Britain and America have betrayed us and threaten us,” Lidiya tells me. “But we are resilient. You cannot defeat Russia.” When I talk to 98-year-old Fyodor Melnikov, he doesn’t get into politics. The military show has sparked painful memories for him. Fyodor’s brother was killed in the Great Patriotic War. “War is a terrifying thing,” Fyodor tells me. “People should be allowed to live freely. Let them work, let them live their lives, let them die naturally.” Fyodor has written a poem about his late brother, about war. He recites it for me. In translation it sounds like this: “A uniform I never wore, A battle I never saw. But in my mind’s eye I see My brother going off to war. The only thing he said to me Before he went was this: ‘Live, little brother, be well.’ I will bring victory home.” On Friday, along with the whole of Russia, Fyodor Melnikov will be celebrating the 80th anniversary of The Great Victory of 1945. But it will be a day for remembering, too: friends and family who never returned. A day for acknowledging the cost of war. Source link #Russians #remember #WW2 #victory #minds Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE Price Reportedly Leaks; May Debut With Same Specifications as Galaxy Z Flip 6 Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE Price Reportedly Leaks; May Debut With Same Specifications as Galaxy Z Flip 6 Alongside its newest foldables, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and the Galaxy Z Flip 7, Samsung has been rumoured to introduce a more affordable version of its clamshell-style foldable phone during this year’s Galaxy Unpacked. Pricing and specifications of the purported handset, dubbed the Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE, have been leaked, as per a report. It may come with a similar-sized cover screen as the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and will likely have a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor under the hood. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE Price (Expected) According to a report by the Greek publication TechManiacs, the purported Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE may be priced under EUR 1,000 (roughly Rs. 96,000). This potentially puts the phone in a similar territory as the current flagship Galaxy Z Flip 6, which starts at EUR 899 (roughly Rs. 86,000) for the 12GB + 256GB configuration. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE Specifications (Expected) The purported Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE is rumoured to have a 6.7-inch LTPO Super AMOLED 2X internal screen with a 120Hz refresh rate. Its cover screen could measure 3.4 inches diagonally. Rumoured design of the purported Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE Photo Credit: TechManiacs The phone is reported to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC, Qualcomm’s flagship chipset from 2023. It is likely to be complemented by 12GB of RAM. For optics, Samsung could equip the purported Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE with a dual rear camera system, including 50-megapixel primary camera and a 12-megapixel ultra-wide-angle lens. It may also have a 10-megapixel selfie shooter. All three cameras are slated to come with 4K 60fps video recording support. The phone may pack a 4,000mAh battery with 25W (wired) and 15W (wireless) charging capabilities. It is speculated to debut with an IP48 ingress protection rating. If this leak turns out to be accurate, it hints towards the Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE being simply a rebranded version of the flagship Galaxy Z Flip 6 which debuted last year. More details are likely to surface as the phone’s launch nears. Source link #Samsung #Galaxy #Flip #Price #Reportedly #Leaks #Debut #Specifications #Galaxy #Flip Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Super Rugby Pacific: Western Force make just one change to starting line-up against the Brumbies Super Rugby Pacific: Western Force make just one change to starting line-up against the Brumbies Western Force have made just one change to their starting line-up, but revamped their bench for the do-or-die clash with the Brumbies at HBF Park on Saturday. Source link #Super #Rugby #Pacific #Western #Force #change #starting #lineup #Brumbies Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

‘We don’t know yet if they can cross the blood-brain barrier’ ‘We don’t know yet if they can cross the blood-brain barrier’ Tiny pieces of plastic might be aging us from the inside out. A new scientific review published in Food and Chemical Toxicology suggests that microplastics and nanoplastics may accelerate aging at the cellular level. Scientists are investigating how these particles, found in water, food, and dust, affect the body over time. What’s happening? These plastic particles are so small that they can enter the body through eating, breathing, or skin contact. To find out their impact on human health, researchers analyzed numerous studies and reports on the subject. They found that microplastics and nanoplastics can disrupt cell function and make them less efficient. Specifically, they may interfere with cell mitochondria, which give cells energy, Medical News Today explained. Mitochondria also play a big role in how we age, as another study detailed. When they stop working the way they should, it can affect how the body manages energy and stress. That extra strain can wear down cells over time and raise the risk of age-related health problems such as heart disease and memory loss. Why is this research important? Understanding the link between plastic and health can help protect people from long-term harm. However, experts are still learning exactly how microplastics and nanoplastics can influence aging and age-related disease. “We know that they are there and are transported throughout the body, but we don’t know yet if they can cross the blood-brain barrier,” said Sherri Mason, an environmental chemist and microplastics expert, per Earth.com. If they can cross that barrier, they could increase the risk of cognitive issues and dementia, Nature explained. With more research like this, scientists may be able to identify how microplastics and nanoplastics put already vulnerable people, including older adults and those with chronic health issues, even more at risk. Over time, this could spark the creation of new medical screening tools and public health policies to slow or prevent aging tied to plastic exposure. Watch now: How bad is a gas stove for your home’s indoor air quality?What’s being done about microplastics and nanoplastics? This study is far from the first conducted on microplastics and nanoplastics. New research found that microplastics reduced blood flow to the brains of mice, and another study suggests that inhaling microplastics exposes humans to a spectrum of respiratory disorders. Experts are pointing out the many environmental and health hazards associated with plastic. Unfortunately, these plastic particles are everywhere. In the environment, microplastics pollute oceans, soil, and waterways, harming wildlife and ecosystems. In response to growing concerns surrounding plastic, some governments and communities have taken action to limit plastic pollution and microplastic exposure. For example, European Union member states have banned certain single-use plastics, per the European Commission, and Montgomery County, Maryland, is considering a plastic bag ban for stores. You can also make a difference at home by committing to using less plastic. Store food in glass containers and avoid microwaving food in plastic containers to limit your exposure. Join our free newsletter for easy tips to save more and waste less, and don’t miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. Source link #dont #cross #bloodbrain #barrier Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

China’s central bank cuts key interest rate as US tariffs threaten economy – AP News China’s central bank cuts key interest rate as US tariffs threaten economy – AP News China’s central bank cuts key interest rate as US tariffs threaten economy AP NewsChina announces sweeping measures to ease policy in bid to shore up trade-war hit economy CNBCChina Cuts Interest Rates to Shore Up Economy Hit by Trade War The New York TimesChina Lowers Rates and Makes Bank Lending Easier in Response to Tariffs WSJChina’s Financial Officials to Hold Briefing Amid Tariff Threat Bloomberg.com Source link #Chinas #central #bank #cuts #key #interest #rate #tariffs #threaten #economy #News Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Stranger who approached two children at Alkimos shopping centre arrested and charged with assault Stranger who approached two children at Alkimos shopping centre arrested and charged with assault A man accused of approaching two children at a shopping centre in Perth’s north, allegedly grabbing one of them by the arm, has been arrested. Source link #Stranger #approached #children #Alkimos #shopping #centre #arrested #charged #assault Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

‘More than the effect of ice ages’ ‘More than the effect of ice ages’ A new scientific study revealed that Earth’s North and South Poles could shift by more than 89 feet by the year 2100. Melting ice due to our planet’s overheating is moving these geographic poles, possibly affecting spacecraft and satellite navigation. What’s happening? As Live Science reported, rising temperatures are melting glaciers and sheets of ice, causing water to be redistributed worldwide. This movement is shifting Earth’s axis of rotation and relocating its poles. Federal Institute of Technology Zurich researchers made these assessments after studying Earth’s polar motion and the impacts of melting ice. They examined various optimistic and pessimistic climatic scenarios between now and 2100, publishing their report in Geophysical Research Letters. The primary factor in these shifts is melting ice sheets in Greenland, followed by ice melt in the Antarctic and global glaciers. “This effect is somewhat surpassing the effect of glacial isostatic adjustment, which is the effect of solid Earth rebound after the termination of the last ice age,” study co-author Mostafa Kiani Shahvandi explained to Live Science. “… This means that what humans have done has somewhat shifted the pole more than the effect of ice ages.” Watch now: Giant snails invading New York City?Why are Earth’s polar shifts important? The researchers’ findings are significant because they demonstrate the catastrophic effects of human activities on our planet. Human-induced climate change is supercharging extreme weather events and changing the geography and movement of Earth. While extreme weather events have always existed, rising global temperatures are making them more powerful and dangerous. Studies such as this help dispel myths that the climate crisis isn’t real or impacting us now. There are also broader implications for the safety and efficiency of satellite and spacecraft navigation. Experts use Earth’s rotational axis as a reference point to map a spacecraft’s location. With the axis shifting over time, it could be more challenging to determine accurately where spacecraft are flying. In their report, the researchers also noted the concerns of sea level changes and Earth’s surface deformation due to polar motion changes. What’s being done about Earth’s geographic changes? The team recommended further examination of paleoclimate data to assess how Earth’s North and South Poles have shifted during past climatic changes over millions of years. This information could help us understand the scale of human impact on Earth’s poles. Future studies may also help scientists and governments plan for satellite navigation adaptations and enhance disaster preparedness responses. As an individual, you can do your part to mitigate the impacts on our changing planet by educating yourself about critical climate issues and sharing what you learn with others. You can also set a good example for others by living a clean, green, sustainable life. Examples include taking public transportation instead of driving, researching community solar programs, and donating to climate causes that are important to you. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don’t miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. Source link #effect #ice #ages Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

'Boardwalk Empire' Star Michael Pitt Arrested for ******* Abuse – TMZ 'Boardwalk Empire' Star Michael Pitt Arrested for ******* Abuse – TMZ ‘Boardwalk Empire’ Star Michael Pitt Arrested for ******* Abuse TMZ‘Boardwalk Empire’ star Michael Pitt ********* assaulted, strangled ex-girlfriend and attacked her with cinderblock, Brooklyn DA alleges New York Post‘Dawson’s Creek’ Star Michael Pitt Arrested for Alleged ******* Abuse: Reports Us Weekly’Boardwalk Empire’ Star Arrested For Strangulation and ******* Abuse parade.comMichael Pitt accused of assault with cement block Yahoo Movies *** Source link #039Boardwalk #Empire039 #Star #Michael #Pitt #Arrested #******* #Abuse #TMZ Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]