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Can the tide turn on the English Channel migrant boat crossings? Can the tide turn on the English Channel migrant boat crossings? Getty Images On France’s northern coast, they call the people smuggling and dangerous dinghies phenomenon, La Crise Migratoire. But do the *** and France now have a chance of consigning the small boats to history? Somewhat eclipsed by events this week in Washington, Yvette Cooper became the first British home secretary in five years to go to the French coast to see for herself how £540m of British taxpayers’ money is being used to tackle people smuggling gangs. She was the guest of her French counterpart, interior minister Bruno Retailleau. The fact that he invited his British opposite number to the frontline of a deeply sensitive problem for both countries speaks volumes. Rather than slinging English Channel mud at each other, this diplomatic rapprochement began with a warm embrace in the cold morning air of Le Touquet airport – and ended with both feeling they may be on the verge of breakthroughs. In the first seven weeks of this year, successful crossings have been down by 41% on the same ******* of 2024. As the weather improves, both governments know that could be reversed. The optimism comes not from the daily statistics, but what the French and British believe is an increasingly slick coastal operation that may be making it harder for people smugglers to offer crossings to migrants making their way to the coast. The Conservatives maintain there is no real deterrent to come to the Channel – because the government cancelled the deeply controversial Rwanda plan. And everyone who works with refugees says that people in genuine need of protection will have to turn to smugglers until the *** comes up with safe routes for them. Yvette Cooper and her French counterpart Bruno Retailleur inspecting the troops on the people smuggling frontline The roots of the feeling that things could now change were planted in the 2018 Sandhurst Treaty, signed when the Conservative’s Theresa May was prime minister. The *** promised that year to fund coastal security operations against smugglers and this year Paris will receive around £172m. Tough negotiations are continuing over what happens from 2027. On Thursday, Cooper saw what that cash is buying: boots on the ground and an awful lot of kit and technology. The French have 1,200 security personnel deployable daily on coastal smuggler operations. Some 730 of them are paid for by the British. At the local headquarters of the Gendarmerie Nationale, the military police teams now wear a Nato-like “Mission Small Boat” sleeve badge. The official badge of the Mission Small Boat Gendarmie units They put on a good show for their British visitors – and told some grim stories of shoreline violence and rescues – but the real action is beyond the parade ground. French pilots are now in the air most days, using thermal cameras to spot migrants in the dunes. Drones move rapidly over wild coastline, providing pictures back to small mobile units of officers in military-grade beach buggies. All of this kit and other tools aim to stop three things from coming together: migrants, the flimsy dinghies and the low-powered engines to power a crossing. The engines and low-grade vessels are brought at speed in vans from up to four hours away in Germany. The migrants meet the gear, assemble it and put to sea in minutes. Getty Images A drone handset screen shows a thermal image of the group The French say their teams have become more adept at reaching dinghies and destroying them in the dunes, but the migrants try to repel the police with missiles until they’ve launched. This places the French police in a bind: They are trying to save lives. They cannot shoot people just because they are desperate. So this is a daily race. But here’s why both sides think things may move their way. The average number of migrants per boat is now often up to 100 people. The cramming suggests the gangs are moving to fewer launches because that’s easier to evade detection. Launch locations began to include estuaries a staggering 60km away from the Dover Strait – so the police countered with barrages and dams – and now they’re gathering intelligence from train stations about how the migrants are moving around the region. So the gangs changed again and are now opting for “taxi boats”. Quite simply, one or two migrants get the craft quietly into the water and then pick up others as they wait offshore in the surf. It’s pictures of these craft struggling to get out of the waves on the Pas de Calais’ beautiful and wild beaches that have enraged the French as much as the British and led many to ask why the police don’t just stop them. France’s relatively new interior minister told me this week he now wants to change complex maritime rules to allow his land-based units to intercept these taxi-boats as they sit in shallow waters. This is what the British have asked the French to do for years. He is also proposing a new offence of ******** residence – but beach push-backs could be the game changer: no boats means no business – and that means no profit. All of that is a big if – but it is not the only tactic now potentially bearing down on the gangs. The ***’s National Crime Agency understands better than before how gangs bring the boats and engines from Germany to France. If the intelligence on these vans can get to the French in time, the Gendarmes can intercept and destroy the cargo. British pounds bought this drone (or parts of it) Waterway blockaded: No way to the sea for dinghies Germany meanwhile has agreed to make it a crime to facilitate ******** immigration to the ***. That is a really big deal because it would mean police could raid the warehouses storing the dinghies. Bulgaria customs officials have shown that existing laws can be used to seize consignment of dinghies as they enter the EU from Turkey – and the icing on the cake for the British would be China seize the cheap engines which have no place in the legitimate maritime market. The two sides are talking, but there’s nothing confirmed there yet. While those conversations continue, the ***’s legal plans to criminalise actions that prepare the way for a crossing – such as funding, advertising and other logistical arrangements – will go through Parliament. Another key feature in the package means jail for anyone endangers lives at sea by attacking the police units on the French beaches or obstructs a rescue. If La Crise Migratoire is going to end, all of these individual initiatives, legal reforms and technological solutions need to work together. But there is genuine optimism that this could be the year when things begin to change. Source link #tide #turn #English #Channel #migrant #boat #crossings Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Struggling Valladolid earns rare point against 10 men Struggling Valladolid earns rare point against 10 men Real Valladolid have snapped a six-game losing streak by drawing at home with 10-man Las Palmas 1-1 in La Liga. Las Palmas were on top from the start and took the lead in the 22nd minute when Sandro Ramírez’s shot deflected in past goalkeeper Karl Hein. But the dynamic changed seven minutes later when Las Palmas’s Scotland defender Scott McKenna was shown a straight red card for bodychecking Valladolid’s Anuar Tuhami as he ran through on goal. Valladolid pushed forward for an equaliser but it took the team with La Liga’s poorest offence until the 62nd minute to get the breakthrough. Substitute Juanmi Latasa headed a knock down into the net from close range. Valladolid, owned by former Brazil striker Ronaldo, remained rooted to the bottom of La Liga, six points adrift of second-from-bottom Alaves. “We’ll keep believing until it is mathematically impossible,” Latasa said of the team’s survival hopes. “I wish people could see how we work.” Source link #Struggling #Valladolid #earns #rare #point #men Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Director of finance for Augusta County Schools killed in Tinkling Spring Road ****** Director of finance for Augusta County Schools killed in Tinkling Spring Road ****** FISHERSVILLE — Virginia State Police have released the name of the victim killed in a two-vehicle ****** Thursday in Augusta County. Police said Mark E. Lotts, 67, of Stuarts Draft, died Thursday in a ****** that took place in the 1400 block of Tinkling Spring Road. The incident occurred shortly before 12:30 p.m. Lotts was the executive director of business and finance for Augusta County Public Schools. “Today is a difficult day for our ACPS family and community,” the school division said in a statement released Friday afternoon. “Mr. Lotts was admired and cherished by everyone who knew him. His love and dedication to Augusta County Schools were unmatched as a professional, colleague, and friend. Mr. Lotts was highly regarded in his role due to his abilities to form a budget that reflected the priorities of the division. He will be sorely missed. We ask all to please keep Mr. Lotts’ family in your thoughts and prayers.” Police said Lotts was driving a 2001 BMW 325i and headed south on Tinkling Spring Road when it crossed the centerline and struck a 2017 Dodge Ram 2500 pickup going in the opposite direction. The BMW went off of the right side of the road. Police said Lotts, who was wearing a seat belt, died at the scene. It was initially reported that the driver of the pickup was taken to UVA Health in Charlottesville with minor injuries. However, police said Friday that the pickup driver, 26-year-old Kevin L. Harris of Stuarts Draft, had serious injuries. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to police. (This story was updated to add new information.) More: Survivalist store coming to Staunton. White’s Wayside for *****. Bojangles teams with Wilson Elementary: BUSINESS BEAT More: Edgewood sidewalk project gets thumbs up from Staunton Council. Roundabout not quite as smooth. More: ***: Staunton man facing child porn charges involving two teenage victims Brad Zinn is the cops, courts and breaking news reporter at The News Leader. Have a news tip? Or something that needs investigating? You can email reporter Brad Zinn (he/him) at *****@*****.tld. You can also follow him on X (formerly Twitter) This article originally appeared on Staunton News Leader: VSP release name of victim killed in Thursday ****** Source link #Director #finance #Augusta #County #Schools #killed #Tinkling #Spring #Road #****** Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

In Texas Measles Outbreak, Signs of a Riskier Future for Children – The New York Times In Texas Measles Outbreak, Signs of a Riskier Future for Children – The New York Times In Texas Measles Outbreak, Signs of a Riskier Future for Children The New York TimesAn unvaccinated Austin infant is confirmed to have measles AxiosTexas leaders quiet amid the biggest measles outbreak in decades The Texas Tribune Source link #Texas #Measles #Outbreak #Signs #Riskier #Future #Children #York #Times Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Breakers out to regain pride, begin new WNCL legacy Breakers out to regain pride, begin new WNCL legacy NSW veteran Sarah Coyte makes no secret of the fact a grand-final win on Sunday over Queensland would mean more than her first six WNCL titles with the state. “Just for the sheer fact that NSW have spent the last four or five years rebuilding,” Coyte told AAP. Coyte, at age 33, is one of the last remaining members of NSW’s days as the powerhouse of women’s domestic cricket. The seamer won six competitions with the state between 2010 and 2015, as part of the Breakers’ record run of 10 straight titles in the 2000s and 2010s. So dominant were the Breakers in the early days of the 50-over WNCL, they claimed 20 of the first 23 competitions and finished runners-up in the other three. “Back when NSW kept winning, it was just an expectation, because we had all the big names,” Coyte said. “The program has completely changed since then. You don’t have as many big names, the *********** team have always got something on. “Now we have to fight and work so hard for it, and it shows.” Coyte is no stranger to winning. On leaving NSW for South Australia in 2015-16, she broke NSW’s streak with a title there. Another two came in Tasmania, with the seamer now gunning for a 10th WNCL title in 13 full seasons separated by a mid-career break. “It would be the ultimate. It would mean everything for NSW to be back at the top,” the former Australia bowler said. “Not just for me but for Cricket NSW to be back after having to rebuild.” The changed nature of the WNCL means Sunday’s final features no *********** players, with Queensland’s Georgia Voll the last to leave for India and the WPL on Friday. But that does open the door for other players to eye off lifelong dreams. For table-toppers Queensland, up to six of their XI will hunt a first title after losing to Tasmania in last year’s decider. For NSW, a new generation wants success after finishing fifth and sixth for the past two years. And for the likes of senior Breakers quick Sammy Jo Johnson and spinner Sam Bates, a title shot awaits after NSW’s dominance was a double-edged sword as teenagers. Knowing only of NSW’s stars winning, both were forced to move to Queensland and ACT respectively for a chance before returning in recent years. “The goal for me growing up was to play for NSW,” Johnson said. “That’s all I dreamt about, I just wanted to wear a baggy blue. “But Queensland gave me an opportunity, and I wouldn’t have made a name for myself if I didn’t go chase it somewhere else.” Now, they know the chance awaits for NSW to create a new legacy on Sunday. “The history is very rich, but the cool thing about this group is we’ve forged our own path,” Johnson said. “We’ve gone through the struggles. We’ve had so many injuries … We’ve had to go through the grind.” Source link #Breakers #regain #pride #WNCL #legacy Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Zelenskyy breaks silence on social media after fiery Oval Office exchange with Trump: ‘Thank you America’ Zelenskyy breaks silence on social media after fiery Oval Office exchange with Trump: ‘Thank you America’ Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reacted publicly for the first time since his Oval Office blowup with President Donald Trump on Friday with a social media post thanking the United States. “Thank you America, thank you for your support, thank you for this visit,” Zelenskyy posted on X. “Thank you @POTUS. Congress, and the American people. Ukraine needs just and lasting peace, and we are working exactly for that.” The post was Zelenskyy’s first comment since a meeting with Trump and Vice President JD Vance turned into a shouting match at the White House with the three leaders arguing over what “cards” Ukraine holds and whether Zelenskyy has shown enough gratitude to the United States. A scheduled press conference on Friday was canceled after the heated exchange and Zelenskyy was seen briskly exiting the White House into an awaiting car and driving away. Trump, Vance And Zelenskyy Spar Over Russian War In Tense Exchange: ‘Very Disrespectful’ TUNE IN: BRET BAIER INTERVIEWS ZELENSKYY ON ‘SPECIAL REPORT,’ 6 PM ET ON FOX NEWS Read On The Fox News App A scheduled press conference on Friday was canceled after the heated exchange and Zelenskyy was seen briskly exiting the White House into an awaiting car and driving away. “Mr. President, with respect, I think it’s disrespectful for you to come into the Oval Office to try to litigate this in front of the American media,” Vance told Zelenskyy. “Right now, you guys are going around and forcing conscripts to the front lines, because you have manpower problems. You should be thanking the president for bringing it, to bring it into this country.” Zelenskyy later said that under war, “everybody has problems, even you” and that the U.S. would feel the war “in the future.” Trump Says Zelenskyy Can ‘Come Back When He Is Ready For Peace’ After Fiery White House Exchange Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky gives a press conference in Kyiv on February 26, 2025 “You don’t know that,” Trump responded as Zelenskyy said “God bless you” to Trump. “Don’t tell us what we’re going to feel. We’re trying to solve a problem. Don’t tell us what we’re going to feel,” Trump continued. At one point, Trump pointed at Zelenskyy and told him that what he’s doing is “very disrespectful” to the United States. After the exchange, it was announced that a scheduled press conference had been canceled, and Zelenskyy was seen briskly leaving the White House with no word on the mineral rights deal that had been expected to be signed on Friday. “We had a very meaningful meeting in the White House today,” Trump posted on Truth Social after the meeting. “Much was learned that could never be understood without conversation under such fire and pressure. It’s amazing what comes out through emotion, and I have determined that President Zelenskyy is not ready for Peace if America is involved, because he feels our involvement gives him a big advantage in negotiations. I don’t want advantage, I want PEACE. He disrespected the United States of America in its cherished Oval Office. He can come back when he is ready for Peace.” Original article source: Zelenskyy breaks silence on social media after fiery Oval Office exchange with Trump: ‘Thank you America’ Source link #Zelenskyy #breaks #silence #social #media #fiery #Oval #Office #exchange #Trump #America Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Iowa governor signs nation’s first bill removing transgender civil rights protections – The Hill Iowa governor signs nation’s first bill removing transgender civil rights protections – The Hill Iowa governor signs nation’s first bill removing transgender civil rights protections The HillIowa lawmakers vote to remove trans people’s civil rights protections The Washington PostIowa Moves to Eliminate Trans Rights, and Zelensky Heads to the White House The New York Times Source link #Iowa #governor #signs #nations #bill #removing #transgender #civil #rights #protections #Hill Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Watch: Moment Zelensky walks out of White House Watch: Moment Zelensky walks out of White House The president ignored the questions that were shouted as he was leaving the White House. Source link #Watch #Moment #Zelensky #walks #White #House Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

$50 million Pan Pacific Perth makeover revealed $50 million Pan Pacific Perth makeover revealed It’s been a long time coming. After nearly two years gutting the Pan Pacific Perth, extensive renovations at the 1970s-built hotel are approaching their highly anticipated end. The CBD property opened as the Sheraton Hotel in 1973, before relaunching as Pan Pacific Perth in 2011. However, as time progressed and design trends evolved, the five-star hotel’s interiors naturally became dated. That was, until general manager Paul Flett arrived in 2022 and knocked the first domino down to embark on a top-to-tail refurbishment starting in May 2023. The resurrection has come at a cost for the Singapore hotel group, which has spent more than $50 million. It’s not hard to notice the fruits of its labours though. A total of 488 rooms have been renovated with exceptional attention to detail, across 390 guest rooms and 96 suites, including the convention-level ballrooms and exclusive Pacific Club lounge. The aesthetic tone of its redesign has taken inspiration from Western Australia’s natural beauty and blended it with the hotel group’s Asian cultural heritage — from carpets depicting an abstract bird’s-eye view of Rottnest Island to Singaporean-style wallpaper designs in the club lounge. Camera IconThe Pan Pacific Perth has had an extensive renovation. Credit: Joel Barbitta In light of the hotel’s glow-up nearing completion, I take the chance to experience its new era with a hosted overnight stay. Eager to assess if the Adelaide Terrace property has left its “dated COVID hotel” reputation in the past, I check in early at midday, and step into the lobby with keen curiosity. I cast an eye over the entrance area’s unquestionably sleek interior. Blue and yellow design accents pay homage to the sand and sea of the State’s vast coastline, and tables made of reconstituted plastic ocean waste sit next to furniture featuring recycled denim in a nod to the hotel’s sustainability efforts. Camera IconComplimentary robes. Credit: Megan French It’s proof luxury doesn’t have to be new — it can be thoughtfully crafted from recycled materials while maintaining glamorous appeal. Guests who check in on Friday evenings are welcomed with a complimentary sparkling wine *********, which is a lovely sentiment (though I don’t see why it should be exclusive to a certain day). Interestingly, I’m told the majority of their guests are domestic travellers, making up nearly 80 per cent of Pan Pacific Perth’s patrons in 2024. My glowing first impressions shine even brighter when I’m shown up to my Pacific Club River View Suite, boasting views across the Swan. I can see a sweeping view of Perth from Kings Park to Optus Stadium, the Perth Hills in the distance, and boats scattered across the river. If you’d like to view this content, please adjust your Cookie Settings. To find out more about how we use cookies, please see our Cookie Guide. The room is elegantly decorated with modern furniture, and locally shot printed photographs hangs on the walls. This calibre of room style will set guests back about $670 per night, depending on the time of booking. I am shown the standard deluxe room and can confidently say it equals the premier suite in terms of interior decadence and spaciousness. Though it has a smaller square footage, it isn’t cramped, and is styled well while averaging a lower price of $350 per night. Undoubtedly my favourite part of the hotel is the exclusive Pacific Club Lounge, the place from which I am currently writing this. Camera IconThe Pacific Club Lounge at Pan Pacific Perth. Credit: Megan French If Pan Pacific’s goal is “graceful luxury”, it’****** the nail on the head. Located on the seventh floor and open to both club and suite guests, the lounge is a setting of quiet tranquillity amid the chaos of the city. Camera IconThe Pacific Club Lounge at Pan Pacific Perth. Credit: Megan French The Pacific Club Lounge is open from 6.30am-8.30pm daily, and includes complimentary breakfast, afternoon tea and coffee refreshments, evening drinks and canapes. As far as eateries go, there’s no need to wander out into the city if a guest is not so inclined, as there are several venues to choose from. Peruvian restaurant UMA takes pole position for its flavoursome offerings. For full transparency, I have now formed an addiction to pan de yema, a sweet egg-yolk bread served with whipped feta and garlic dip. This exquisite dish is part of the restaurant’s Journey Through Peru experience, featuring a chef’s selection of dishes over five courses from the a la carte menu. It changes daily under the guidance of executive chef Xerxes Bodhanwala, for $125 per person. Camera IconThe UMA Peruvian restaurant at Pan Pacific Perth. Credit: Dion Robeson Wine enthusiasts can head to Mas Vino Wine Bar, stocking a selection of *********** and international wines curated by expert sommeliers. For a more casual drink, Hill Street Bar in the lobby has a laid-back atmosphere, serving up *********** classics (I’m talking chicken parmigiana and the sort). Then there’s Monty’s breakfast buffet, accessible to the public and not just staying guests. I’m impressed with the variety as I stroll around the island buffet. There’s everything from cold meats, yoghurt and granola for light eaters, to options for those wanting to set themselves up for the day with a hot breakfast of hash browns, baked beans, eggs and sausages — the lot. It’s a standard buffet, and the barista coffee is sensational. The fact it stocks caramel syrup was impressive to start, but as I took a sip of my oat caramel cappuccino, I realised it was one of the best I had ever had. I’d even go so far as to say next time I’m in the city I’ll **** in for a takeaway version. Camera IconA delightful coffee at Monty’s. Credit: Megan French Afterwards, I check out the buffet offerings upstairs in the Lounge. It’s pretty much the same, with additional options including chicken curry bao buns and pork Cumberland bites. Camera IconMegan French enjoys her stay at Pan Pacific Perth. Credit: Megan French Pan Pacific Perth was the first hotel to certify its restaurants in the Buy West Eat Best program, and it is excellent to know the food is fresh and supporting local producers. So the food is delicious, and the rooms are stylish. But what makes the Pan Pacific a five-star destination is its immaculate service team. Whether it was a cleaner in the hallway, a chef restocking the breakfast buffet, or the guest experiences manager on the front desk, there was not one member of staff who didn’t greet me with a warm smile. Yes, it’s $50m well spent sprucing up the place, but Pan Pacific’s friendliness of service takes home the gold medal — for me, at least. + Megan French was a guest of Pan Pacific Perth. They have not influenced this story, or read it before publication. Source link #million #Pan #Pacific #Perth #makeover #revealed Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Zelenskyy-Trump feud started with a fashion dig Zelenskyy-Trump feud started with a fashion dig WASHINGTON – It was an undignified spectacle all around. As soon as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emerged out of his motorcade at the West Wing, President Donald Trump immediately took a dig at his sartorial choice. Outfitted in a ****** sweatshirt featuring an embroidered Ukrainian trident, ****** slacks and boots, he was substantially underdressed in comparison to Trump, who was wearing a suit and tie. “You’re all dressed up today,” Trump said sarcastically. President Donald Trump and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy got into a heated exchange during their meeting in the Oval Office. It all quickly went downhill from there. After a heated exchange in the Oval Office, Zelenskyy would later depart without signing an “economic partnership” deal he had travelled 5,000 miles to seal. Zelenskyy, whose country was invaded by Russia three years ago, has been a known casual dresser. He often favors olive green crewnecks with cargo pants and combat boots, a signal to the world that his country is still at war. In December, he wore a similar outfit for the reopening ceremony of the Notre Dame cathedral in Paris as well as for his meeting with then President-elect Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron at Élysée Palace. During his tête-à-tête with Trump in the Oval Office, a member of the press asked him why he was not wearing a suit while visiting the “highest level” office in the country. Since Russia invaded in February 2022, Zelenskyy has been the face of Ukrainian resistance, notably for his visibility online and his pleas to other countries for support. When Russian state media began spreading misinformation that Zelenskyy had fled Kyiv, Zelenskyy filmed himself in the streets of the capital saying that he would not leave Ukraine. He also declined the U.S. invitation to help him evacuate the city, saying “The fight is here; I need ammunition, not a ride.” “Why don’t you wear a suit?,” he said. “A lot of Americans have problems with you not respecting the office.” Zelenskyy said he’ll “wear the costume after the war is finished.” Then he told the reporter; “Maybe I’ll wear something like yours or something better,” he said, eliciting laughter. “Maybe something cheaper.” Minutes later, the meeting devolved into a shouting match between Vice President JD Vance, Trump and Zelenskyy. The U.S. president and vice president accused Zelenskyy of not being grateful for American support for Ukraine. The conversation became particularly charged when Trump accused the Ukrainian president of prolonging the war while being in a weak diplomatic position and using American resources. “You don’t have the cards right now. You’re gambling with the lives of millions of people. You’re gambling with World War III,” Trump said. “What you’re doing is very disrespectful to the country that’s backed you.” Soon after, a planned lunch and a bilateral meeting was canceled and Zelenskyy was seen leaving the White House. The deal he had come to sign, giving America access to rare earths in his country, was left on the table. Trump has demanded access to rare minerals as a compensation for American military support. “He disrespected the United States of America in its cherished Oval Office. He can come back when he is ready for Peace,” Trump said in a statement. Swapna Venugopal Ramaswamy is a White House Correspondent for USA TODAY. You can follow her on X @SwapnaVenugopal This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: No suit, no lunch and one ‘disrespectful’ meeting Source link #ZelenskyyTrump #feud #started #fashion #dig Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

The Great Emboldening – The Atlantic The Great Emboldening – The Atlantic The Great Emboldening The AtlanticBezos Orders Washington Post Opinion Section to Embrace ‘Personal Liberties and Free Markets’ The New York TimesOpinion | Here’s the real threat to ‘personal liberties and free markets’ The Washington PostTrump says he had dinner with Bezos week of Washington Post changes Axios Source link #Great #Emboldening #Atlantic Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Trump administration USAID “chaos” hits American manufacturer of product that saves babies’ lives Trump administration USAID “chaos” hits American manufacturer of product that saves babies’ lives When Navyn Salem received a letter Wednesday terminating the federal government’s contract with her Rhode Island company Edesia, she halted its production line, which makes a life-saving paste for severely malnourished babies. A day later she received an email, just a few short sentences, rescinding the contract’s termination. The reversal failed to put her mind at ease. “This is what our everyday looks like. The government is in a state of chaos,” Salem said. “And the way that we see that is 24 hours ago, we had a contract terminated, and 10 minutes ago [the termination] was rescinded.” Undated photo of Navyn Salem at her Rhode Island company Edesia, which makes a life-saving paste for severely malnourished babies. Photo provided by Navyn Salem In the weeks since Elon Musk, an adviser to President Trump and the richest person in the world, began targeting the State Department agency USAID for closure, disruptions to the supply chain and services for a variety of global life-saving causes have faltered. While Salem’s contract has remained active, except for most of Wednesday, she said the hollowing out of USAID — with nearly all of its staff suddenly placed on leave or outright fired — has caused growing disarray. Most pressing, she said, is that the USAID-operated payment system she relies on “has been down for weeks.” Warehouse for Edesia, a Rhode Island company that produces a life-saving paste for severely malnourished babies. Photo provided by Navyn Salem That’s created unparalleled uncertainty that is spreading from her business of 150 employees to her American suppliers — farmers across 25 states — and the U.S. ocean liners she uses to ship hundreds of metric tons of Edesia’s Plumpy’Nut therapeutic paste, and finally, to the international organizations that distribute it to children staving off death. “Everybody who is caught up in this time of chaos with massive uncertainty is worried. Everybody is,” Salem said. Navyn Salem’s Rhode Island-based company, Edesia, makes a life-saving paste for severely malnourished babies. Photo provided by Navyn Salem Plumpy’Nut is classified as a ready-to-use therapeutic food, prescribed for the treatment of severe acute malnutrition in children as young as six months old. It’s a peanut-based paste that includes vitamins, minerals and F-100 milk powder, in accordance with World Health Organization guidelines. Edesia says it produces 800 metric tons of Plumpy’Nut and other foods used to treat malnutrition every week. Salem believes ultimately that her company’s goal of protecting children aligns with Trump administration priorities. “We have a strong belief that our mission will be protected, that these funds will be there, but I can’t promise that to anyone.” Salem said she agrees that USAID could be operated more efficiently, and she has ideas from years of work with the agency. She faces the same dilemma, whether she wants to propose solutions or simply try to process payments. “Who should I call?” She asked. “I have been offering suggestions for years, and now is the time for someone to listen, if I can just find someone who will pick up the phone.” A State Department spokesperson said Thursday that it had ended more than 90% of its USAID contracts, retaining only those that it believes make America stronger, safer and more prosperous. The agency’s cuts are part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to drastically shrink the federal workforce and budget. Each packet of Plumpy’Nut produced by Edesia is printed with the phrase “from the American people” printed on it. Salem said the message to the desperate parents and caretakers of malnourished children is an important part of her company’s mission. “They will never, ever forget that it was the American people who were there for them in their biggest time of crisis,” Salem said. She and others who run organizations associated with USAID told CBS News another global superpower is poised to step in if the United States retreats from corners of the world where it provides support for crucial medical care: China. “This is an incredibly strong use of soft power to deliver a food, a specialized food to people in their biggest time of need,” Salem said. Graham Kates Graham Kates is an investigative reporter covering criminal justice, privacy issues and information security for CBS News Digital. Contact Graham at *****@*****.tld or *****@*****.tld Source link #Trump #administration #USAID #chaos #hits #American #manufacturer #product #saves #babies #lives Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Starmer speaks to Trump and Zelensky following White House row Starmer speaks to Trump and Zelensky following White House row Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has spoken to US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky after a meeting between the two leaders in Washington descended into a row about US support for Ukraine. A statement from No 10 on Friday night confirmed the prime minister had spoken with the US and Ukrainian presidents and that he retained “unwavering support for Ukraine”. Zelensky was welcomed to the White House by Trump, but the cordial meeting quickly descended into a shouting match in the Oval Office as Trump told his Ukrainian counterpart to be more thankful for US aid and accused him of “gambling with World War Three”. Zelensky is due in the *** on Sunday as Sir Keir hosts a summit of European leaders to discuss an end to the the war between Ukraine and Russia. A No 10 spokesperson said: “The prime minister has tonight spoken to both President Trump and President Zelensky. “He retains unwavering support for Ukraine, and is doing all he can to find a path forward to a lasting peace based on sovereignty and security for Ukraine. “The prime minister looks forward to hosting international leaders on Sunday including President Zelensky.” In the heated clash at the White House, both Trump and Zelensky interrupted each other repeatedly during what was supposed to be a prelude to the two leaders signing a minerals deal. US Vice President JD Vance, sat alongside others in the room, was also involved. A press conference scheduled to take place later in the day was cancelled, and Zelensky left the White House before the minerals agreement could be signed. Sir Keir had met with Trump in the Oval Office the day prior, in which the pair agreed to begin work on a new US-*** trade deal. The prime minister also came bearing a letter from King Charles III inviting Trump to a state visit. There had been speculation that Sir Keir had also gone into the meeting to seek a US Security “backstop” in a European peace plan for the war in Ukraine, however the US president stopped short of confirming such a commitment. Trump had previously criticised Sir Keir and French President Emmanuel Macron, who he met with on Monday, of having “done nothing” to seek an end to the war in Ukraine. Source link #Starmer #speaks #Trump #Zelensky #White #House #row Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Armand Duplantis sets 11th pole vault world record Armand Duplantis sets 11th pole vault world record Sweden’s Armand Duplantis has soared 6.27m to shatter the world pole vault record for a staggering 11th time at the All Star Perche meet in Clermont-Ferrand. The two-times Olympic and world champion cleared the record height on his first attempt to break his previous global mark of 6.26m set in Silesia in August, sparking track-side fireworks that lit up the arena. Emmanouil Karalis was second with a Greek record clearance of 6.02m as six men cleared 5.91m or higher for the first time in a single competition. The 25-year-old Duplantis – who earlier in the day released his first song “Bop” under his nickname “Mondo” – easily cleared heights of 5.65m, 5.91m, 6.02m, and 6.07m and with the victory secured, he had the bar raised to 6.27m for his world-record attempt. “Hope y’all like it,” Duplantis wrote in an Instagram post about his song. Duplantis has bettered the world record by a centimetre 11 times, dating back to 2020. He has broken his global mark four times in the last 11 months alone. Renaud Lavillenie of France held the world record of 6.16m, set in 2014, before the Swedish star kicked off his onslaught. Source link #Armand #Duplantis #sets #11th #pole #vault #world #record Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Investors may be badly underestimating this long-term tailwind for Nvidia Investors may be badly underestimating this long-term tailwind for Nvidia Listen and subscribe to Opening Bid on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you find your favorite podcasts. Short-term-minded Nvidia (NVDA) investors may have forgotten something in their race to dump the stock after earnings this week: the long-term profit tailwind of sovereign artificial intelligence. “I think that you’re going to hear a lot more about these infrastructure build-outs from nation-states,” a16z generator partner and Mistral AI board member Anjney Midha said on Yahoo Finance’s Opening Bid podcast (see video above or listen below). “Sometimes these are lagging indicators. It might be underreported on — it just takes a while for people to realize that nation-state priorities are then turning into enterprise budgets.” This embedded content is not available in your region. The build-out of AI infrastructure by major countries is beginning to take form in large numbers. Earlier this month, the European Union earmarked 200 billion euros for investment in AI, including a new European fund of 20 billion euros for AI gigafactories. OpenAI, Oracle (ORCL), and Softbank (SFTBY) said in late January they would invest up to $500 billion in the coming years in an AI infrastructure project called Stargate. At the core of these build-outs will be high-powered chips made by AI leader Nvidia, experts say. Read more: How does Nvidia make money? Nvidia has said Canada, Denmark, and Indonesia have announced initiatives to develop sovereign AI infrastructure powered by its AI chips. “We think AI models are critical national infrastructure,” Midha added. “We think these AI factories that turn tokens into intelligence [are] critical national infrastructure. And I see that segment accelerating.” While sovereign AI represents a long-term profit opportunity for Nvidia, in the near term, the stock could take its cue from a mixed first quarter outlook shared this week. In its earnings release on Wednesday evening, Nvidia said it expects gross profit margins of 70.6% to 71% in the first quarter as it contends with the production ramp-up of its new Blackwell chip. The margin outlook of 71% is “a little concerning,” Benchmark Company managing director and senior research analyst Cody Acree said on Yahoo Finance’s Market Domination. “I think that’s indicative of more pricing pressure, more competition from AMD (AMD), and more price sensitivity at their customers as they’re investing their own dollars to create their own ASICs [application-specific integrated circuits].” After toggling between gains and losses on Thursday, Nvidia stock closed down 8.48%. The stock rose slightly in premarket trading on Friday. Story Continues Source link #Investors #badly #underestimating #longterm #tailwind #Nvidia Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

‘Not good for both sides’ ‘Not good for both sides’ Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky speaks during an interview with Fox News Chief Political Anchor Bret Baier on Special Report With Bret Baier at the Fox News studios on Feb. 28, 2025 in Washington, DC. Win McNamee | Getty Images Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Friday evening repeatedly refused in a Fox News interview to apologize for his stunning Oval Office clash with President Donald Trump hours earlier. But Zelenskyy said, “This kind of spat is not good for both sides.” The Ukrainian leader told Fox News’ Brett Baier that “it will be difficult for us” to defend his country from Russian military forces if Trump discontinues aid to Ukraine. “That’s why we’re here,” Zelenskyy said. “It will be difficult without your support.” “Your people help to save our people,” he later said. He said he regretted his loud argument with Trump and Vice President JD Vance was televised, and in front of reporters. “We are thankful and sorry for this. I mean this, we wanted very much to have strong relations,” Zelenskyy said. Pressed by Baier if he should apologize to Trump, Zelenskyy said, “I think that we have to be very open and very honest.” “And I’m not sure that we did something bad,” Zelenskyy said. Asked if he believed that his relationship with Trump could be salvaged, the Ukrainian leader said, “Yes, of course.” Shortly before the interview, Trump said Zelenskyy had “overplayed his hand.” “He’s looking for something that I’m not looking for,” Trump told reporters outside the White House. “He’s looking to go on and fight, fight, fight. We’re looking to end the death.” This is breaking news. Please refresh for updates. Source link #good #sides Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Zelensky, Seeking a Diplomatic Victory With Trump, Leaves With a Debacle Zelensky, Seeking a Diplomatic Victory With Trump, Leaves With a Debacle It was meant to be a moment of triumph for President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine, a chance after weeks of maneuvering for an Oval Office meeting to demonstrate American backing in Europe’s bloodiest war in generations. Instead, the meeting unraveled into insults. Mr. Zelensky, who had stayed in his country to fight against a Russian onslaught and who rallied much of the world to support Ukraine, was left shaking his head as President Trump said he trusted Russia to uphold a cease-fire. He was berated by Mr. Trump and Vice President JD Vance as “disrespectful” for arguing that Russia posed a threat beyond Ukraine. At times, a corner of Mr. Zelensky’s lip curled as the American leaders rebuked him and downplayed the prospects of aid to his army, which is locked in vicious trench warfare with Russia. Mr. Trump, who raised his voice at times, scolded Mr. Zelensky, saying, “you don’t have the cards.” Mr. Zelensky responded, “I’m not playing cards.” The upbraiding in the Oval Office came at a critical juncture in the war, with Ukraine striving to keep Russia at bay in battles of attrition in the country’s east and the Trump administration opening cease-fire talks directly with President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia. Mr. Zelensky at no point backed away from what he has called Ukraine’s critical national interests, laying these out as a seat at the table in cease-fire talks; air defenses to protect Ukrainian cities and power plants; and U.S. military backup for a proposed, European-led peacekeeping force. But it was unclear where Mr. Zelensky’s curdled relationship with Mr. Trump leaves Ukraine, which had relied heavily on American support over the last three years, and which had tried for weeks to broker a mineral rights deal that would satisfy the Trump administration. What was clear, from the start of the diplomatic visit to its abrupt finish, were the signs of antipathy between Mr. Zelensky and the Trump administration. Mr. Zelensky, who says he does not wear a suit to show solidarity with his soldiers, wore the simple, military-style clothing he usually wears at official events. When he arrived at the White House, Mr. Trump told reporters, “he’s all dressed up today!” Later, in the Oval Office, a reporter for the right-wing One America News asked Mr. Zelensky about it, saying, “Do you own a suit? A lot of Americans have problems with you not respecting the dignity of this office.” Mr. Zelensky, a former comedic actor, jabbed back, saying he would wear a suit after the war ended. “Maybe something like yours?” he added. “Maybe something better, I don’t know.” The confrontation with Mr. Trump cut the meeting short, canceled the signing of the highly touted deal for Ukrainian mineral rights, and left Ukraine seemingly on the precipice of losing the support of its most powerful backer. In its diplomacy, Ukraine had hoped to engage with the United States in a cease-fire process that would progress on two tracks, with the Trump administration talking separately to Russia and Ukraine. The minerals deal — whose expected signing was Mr. Zelensky’s reason for visiting — was intended to open a path for the U.S.-Ukrainian branch of these talks, while providing Mr. Trump a rationale for any spending related to securing a cease-fire. Before leaving Kyiv, Mr. Zelensky had noted Ukraine’s positions that he wanted the Trump administration to support. The Ukrainian army, he said, would not lay down its arms unless it had assurances a cease-fire would hold, and Ukraine would insist on maintaining its army in combat readiness at “maximum numbers” rather than accept caps on its forces. Militarily, Ukraine does not appear to be at imminent risk of a major defeat, at least by the standards of past close calls, including the Russian army’s advance to the outskirts of the capital, Kyiv, in the first days of the war. Russia’s initial attack put Mr. Zelensky’s presidential office within about 12 miles of enemy troops. Ukraine has sufficient ammunition to last through April or May without additional American supplies, military analysts have said. Ukraine depends on the United States for Patriot air-defense missiles, which are the only system capable of intercepting Russian ballistic missiles, such as the Kinzhal hypersonic missiles that have been fired at Kyiv. Western assistance, including from the United States, with satellite surveillance and rocket artillery has given Ukraine an edge. But Ukraine’s reliance on American ammunition, howitzers and armored vehicles has faded, as Ukraine’s arms production has ramped up and exploding drones, also made domestically, have surpassed all other weapons in lethality. In a flurry of diplomacy before the meeting in Washington, Mr. Zelensky had sought to shore up European support. He was scheduled to attend a summit of 18 European leaders on Sunday in London, where European pledges of aid were expected. It was unclear whether the heated exchange in the Oval Office would prompt European leaders to expand their backing for Ukraine. The public scolding by the U.S. president was a remarkable pivot point for a leader who two years ago drew standing applause from both Republicans and Democrats in Congress. But his style was more or less effective, even if it rankled some observers. Mr. Zelensky’s theatrical, emotional communication served Ukraine well in the dramatic, early months of the war, helping to lift spirits at home and bring in aid from allies. Later, it drew grumbles and led at one point to a British defense secretary saying he should show gratitude. Mr. Zelensky arrived in Washington after a long and rocky negotiation to grant half the Ukrainian government’s future revenue from natural resources to a partly U.S.-controlled fund. Mr. Zelensky had pushed back on the deal’s terms, prompting Mr. Trump to say falsely that Ukraine had started the war. Mr. Zelensky shot back that Mr. Trump lived in a bubble of “disinformation.” . Mr. Zelensky’s showmanship in pushing for a better deal prompted some head-scratching in Ukraine, where some asked why he would risk antagonizing a mercurial leader like Mr. Trump. Mr. Zelensky went into the meeting on Friday carrying photographs of war victims, clearly ready to argue Ukraine’s points again. Instead, Friday’s encounter will be sure to unnerve millions of already exhausted Ukrainians at risk of shifting front lines and missile attacks. Mr. Zelensky has long tried to walk a fine line with Mr. Trump, who has repeatedly praised Mr. Putin and who, during his first term, pushed Ukraine to help tarnish his political rival, leading to his first impeachment. For months, Mr. Zelensky has tried to avoid angering the leader of a vital ally but standing firm when he felt he had no choice, such as on Mr. Trump’s claim about the war’s start. The approach had won both praise and criticism from politicians inside Ukraine — and brought a bump in popularity for Mr. Zelensky, who was seen as standing up to bullying, insults and falsehoods about a conflict that is raw, personal and immediate for Ukrainians. But Mr. Zelensky’s approach clearly didn’t work on Friday. At the meeting, he showed Mr. Trump photographs of Ukrainian prisoners of war who, he said, had been abused in Russia, making a point that the war is about more than the potential profit of natural resources. The photographs were not visible to members of the press. But Ukrainian prisoners of war have returned from Russian prisons as haunting, rail-thin figures covered in bruises. It was a sharp departure from what Prime Minister Keir Starmer of Britain presented to Mr. Trump a day earlier: an elegant letter of invitation from King Charles to attend a royal banquet. During the mineral agreement talks in Kyiv, Mr. Zelensky’s chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, had pressed for a White House signing of the agreement, according to a person familiar with the negotiations. Mr. Zelensky had seen the meeting as a diplomatic success — demonstrating that Mr. Trump would meet with him first, and President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia second. The Trump administration’s envoy to Ukraine for cease-fire talks, Keith Kellogg, had advised against a White House meeting, but the Ukrainian negotiators insisted, the person said. After Friday’s diplomatic debacle, the mineral deal and cease-fire talks alike appear to be stymied. During the exchange in the White House, the two leaders debated a key area of dispute: whether a cease-fire should come before a deal on security guarantees. Mr. Trump said enforcement for a cease-fire is just “2 percent” of the task of ending the war. Mr. Zelensky has insisted that Mr. Putin cannot be trusted and that guarantees are needed, calling them a cornerstone for the future peace of Ukraine. “We will never agree without a security guarantee,” he said. Source link #Zelensky #Seeking #Diplomatic #Victory #Trump #Leaves #Debacle Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Jury finds Illinois landlord guilty of *******, hate crime in 2023 attack on ************ American boy – CNN Jury finds Illinois landlord guilty of *******, hate crime in 2023 attack on ************ American boy – CNN Jury finds Illinois landlord guilty of *******, hate crime in 2023 attack on ************ American boy CNNPlainfield landlord guilty of all charges in slaying of ******* boy, stabbing of boy’s mother CBS NewsJury Convicts Landlord in Fatal Stabbing of ************ American Boy The New York TimesLandlord on trial for 6-year-old’s ******* ‘was afraid they were going to do ****** on me’ Chicago Sun-Times Source link #Jury #finds #Illinois #landlord #guilty #******* #hate #crime #attack #************ #American #boy #CNN Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

First British tourists allowed back into North Korea tell BBC what they saw First British tourists allowed back into North Korea tell BBC what they saw Jean Mackenzie Seoul correspondent Joe Smith The local guides have to follow a strict, pre-approved schedule – which on this tour included a visit to a new, fully stocked pharmacy Don’t insult the leaders. Don’t insult the ideology. And don’t judge. These are the rules tour guides read out to Western tourists as they prepare to drive across the border into North Korea, arguably the most secretive and repressive country in the world. Then there is the practical information. No phone signal, no internet, no cash machines. “The North Koreans aren’t robots. They have opinions, goals, and a sense of humour. And in our briefing we encourage people to listen to and understand them,” says Rowan Beard, who runs Young Pioneer Tours, one of two Western companies which resumed trips to the country last week, after a five-year hiatus. Rowan Beard/Young Pioneer Tours Rowan and a handful of other tour leaders have been allowed to restart operations North Korea sealed its borders at the outset of the pandemic, shutting out diplomats, aid workers and travellers, and making it nearly impossible to know what was happening there. Since then, it has further isolated itself from most of the world, relying on support from Russia and China. Many doubted whether Westerners would ever be allowed back. But after years of cajoling and several false starts, Rowan and some other tour leaders were given the green light to restart operations. He pulled together a group of eager travellers in just five hours, desperate to not miss the opportunity. Most were vloggers and travel addicts, some wanting to tick the final country off their list, along with the odd North Korea enthusiast. Last Thursday the tourists, from the ***, France, Germany and Australia, drove over the border from China into the remote area of Rason for a four-night trip. Joe Smith Tourists from the ***, France, Germany and Australia drove over the border for a four-night trip Among them was 28-year-old British YouTuber Mike O’Kennedy. Even with its reputation, he was startled by the extreme level of control. As with all trips to North Korea, the tourists were escorted by local guides, who followed a strict, pre-approved schedule. It included carefully choreographed trips to a beer factory, a school, and a new, fully stocked pharmacy. Ben Weston, one of the tour leaders from Suffolk, likened visiting North Korea to “being on a school trip”. “You can’t leave the hotel without the guides,” he said. “A couple of times I even had to let them know when I wanted to use the bathroom,” said Mike. “I’ve never had to do that anywhere in the world.” Despite the chaperoning, Mike was able to spot snippets of real life. “Everyone was working, it didn’t feel like anyone was just hanging out. That was kind of bleak to see.” On his trip to the school, a group of eight-year-olds performed a dance to animations of ballistic missiles hitting targets. A video of the spectacle shows girls and boys with red neckties, singing, while explosions flare on a screen behind them. Mike O’Kennedy Mike saw a group of eight-year-olds performing a dance to animations of ballistic missiles For now, tourists are being kept well away from the capital Pyongyang. Greg Vaczi from Koryo Tours, the other tour company allowed back in, admits the current itinerary lacks the “big-hitting monuments” of Pyongyang. He suspects authorities have chosen Rason as their guinea pig because the area is relatively contained and easy to control. Set up as a special economic zone, to trial new financial policies, it operates as a mini capitalist enclave inside an otherwise socialist state. ******** businesspeople run joint enterprises with North Koreans, and can travel in and out fairly freely. Joe Smith, a seasoned North Korea traveller and former writer for the specialist North Korea platform NK News, was there on his third trip. “I feel like the more times you visit the less you know. Each time you get a little peek behind the curtain, which just leaves you with more questions,” he said. Joe’s highlight was a surprise off-agenda visit to a luxury goods market, where people were selling jeans and perfumes, along with fake Louis Vuitton handbags and Japanese washing machines, probably imported from China. Here, the tourists were not allowed to take photos – an attempt to hide this consumer bubble from the rest of the country, they suspected. “This was the only place people weren’t expecting us,” Joe said. “It felt messy and real; a place North Koreans actually go. I loved it.” Joe Smith Joe has visited North Korea four times But according to the experienced tour leaders, the group’s movements were more restricted than on previous trips, with fewer opportunities to wander the streets, pop into a barbershop or supermarket, and talk to locals. Covid was often cited as the reason, said Greg from Koryo Tours. “On the surface they are still concerned. Our luggage was disinfected at the border, our temperatures were taken, and about 50% of people are still wearing masks.” Greg cannot work out whether the fear is genuine, or an excuse to control people. It is thought Covid hit North Korea hard, though it is difficult to know the extent of the suffering. Local guides repeated the government line that the virus entered the country in a balloon sent over from South Korea, and was swiftly eradicated in 90 days. But Rowan, who has been to North Korea more than 100 times, sensed that Rason had been impacted by the tough Covid regulations. A lot of ******** businesses had closed, he said, and their workers had left. Even Joe, the experienced North Korea traveller, commented on how dilapidated the buildings were. “Places were dimly lit and there was no heating, apart from in our hotel rooms,” he said, noting a trip to a cold, dark and deserted art gallery. “It felt like they opened the doors just for us.” Mike O’Kennedy Some tourists thought Rason – the area they visited – looked dilapidated, with “awful” roads and run-down buildings The regime’s photographs might make North Korea look clean and shiny, Joe said, but in person you realise “the roads are awful, the pavements are wobbly, and the buildings are weirdly constructed”. His hotel room was old-fashioned and filthy, he said, resembling “his grandma’s living room”. The whole window was cracked. “They’ve had five years to fix things. North Koreans are so sensitive about what they show tourists. If this is the best they can show, I dread to think what else is out there”, he said. Most of the country is kept well hidden, with more than four in 10 people believed to be undernourished and needing help. Joe Smith Joe said his hotel room resembled “his grandma’s living room” One of the few chances tourists in North Korea get to interact with local people is through their guides, who sometimes speak English. On these recent trips they were surprisingly well-informed, despite the regime’s intense propaganda machine and information blockade. This is probably because they speak to the ******** businesspeople who come and go, said Greg. They knew about Trump’s tariffs and the war in Ukraine – even that North Korean troops were involved. But when Joe showed a photo from Syria, his guide was unaware President Assad had been toppled. “I carefully explained that sometimes when people don’t like their leader, they rise up and force them out, and at first he didn’t believe me.” Such conversations need to be delicately handled. Strict laws prevent North Koreans from speaking freely. Ask or reveal too much and the tourists might put their guide or themselves at risk. Mike O’Kennedy Mike said that conversations with the guides about international politics had to be handled carefully Mike admits there were times this made him nervous. On a trip to a North Korea-Russia Friendship House, he was invited to write in the visitors’ book. “I went blank and wrote something like ‘I wish the world peace.’ Afterwards my guide told me that was an inappropriate thing to write. That made me paranoid,” he said. “Generally, the guides did a great job of making us feel safe. There were just a couple of moments when I thought, this is bizarre.” For Greg from Koryo Tours, these interactions bring a deeper purpose to North Korea tourism: “North Koreans get the chance to engage with foreigners. This allows them to come up with new ideas, which, in a country this closed, is so important.” But tourism to North Korea is contentious, especially as travellers have been allowed back before aid workers and most Western diplomats, including the ***’s. Critics, including Joanna Hosaniak from the Citizens Alliance for North Korean Human Rights, argue these trips mainly benefit the regime. “This is not like tourism in other poor countries, where local people benefit from the extra income. The vast majority of the population don’t know these tourists exist. Their money goes to the state and ultimately towards its military,” she said. One conversation has stuck in YouTuber Mike’s head. During his trip to the school, he was surprised when a girl, after meeting him, said she hoped to visit the *** one day. “I didn’t have the heart to tell her that her chances were very, very slim,” he said. Source link #British #tourists #allowed #North #Korea #BBC Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Marco Asensio: Former Real Madrid player shining at Aston Villa Marco Asensio: Former Real Madrid player shining at Aston Villa Asensio is not the only player who is flourishing since moving to Aston Villa, with Rashford appearing to be putting behind him a difficult season at Manchester United with a strong start to life in the Midlands. Rashford had been struggling for form at Old Trafford and found himself out of the picture under Ruben Amorim. But the move to Villa and playing alongside Asensio appears to bringing him back to his best. Since his debut on 9 February, Rashford has created more chances in all competitions than any other Premier League player (13). Against Cardiff, Rashford created six chances for Aston Villa, equalling the most he ever created in any of his 426 matches for Manchester United (six vs Wigan in January 2024). He has yet to score, although given his performances so far that will surely come sooner rather than later. “Aston Villa have given him a lifeline,” former Arsenal striker Ian Wright said on ITV Sport. “It seems to have come to an end at Manchester United. He needed to rebuild his confidence, he is 27 and has to show he has a lot to give. Villa have given him a good opportunity. “Things could be very exciting here at Aston Villa with this new exciting Aston Villa forward line.” With a Champions League last-16 game at Club Brugge up next, Emery believes Asensio and Rashford maintaining their form is key to Villa achieving their ambitions this season. “We need [Asensio] and we need Rashford,” he said. “We need the players who joined in the last window. We need the players coming back from injury. Every player will be necessary for the matches in the next weeks and months. “Now we focus on the Champions League. We are there and we have to enjoy it and compete.” Source link #Marco #Asensio #Real #Madrid #player #shining #Aston #Villa Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

European leaders show support for Zelenskiy after clash European leaders show support for Zelenskiy after clash European leaders have lined up to show solidarity with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, after he came under attack from US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance in a stunning White House confrontation. Within a short time, prime ministers and presidents from the north, south, east and west of the continent posted on social media in support of Zelenskiy and Ukraine in the war against Russia’s invasion, following the extraordinary clash. While they did not directly criticise the US president, their comments made clear they stood by Kyiv – highlighting a major rift between traditional allies the United States and Europe over the war since Trump returned to office. “There is an aggressor: Russia. There is a people who are under attack: Ukraine,” French President Emmanuel Macron, who visited Trump this week, posted on X on Friday. “Respect to those who, since the beginning, have been fighting. Because they are fighting for their dignity, their independence, for their children and for the security of Europe,” Macron added. Earlier, Trump had accused Zelenskiy of disrespecting the United States. The two leaders had been expected to conclude a deal on exploiting Ukraine’s mineral resources but Zelenskiy left the White House without signing the agreement. Trump also said Zelenskiy was not ready for peace. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk was among the first to show his support for Zelenskiy and Ukraine on social media, telling them: “You are not alone.” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa – the European Union’s two top officials – told Zelenskiy in a joint post: “Your dignity honors the bravery of the Ukrainian people.” “Be strong, be brave, be fearless. You are never alone,” they said. “We will continue working with you for a just and lasting peace.” ******* Chancellor Olaf Scholz said: “Nobody wants peace more than the Ukrainians do.” ******* conservative leader Friedrich Merz, Scholz’s likely successor after his party won last Sunday’s general election, posted: “We stand with #Ukraine in good and in testing times. We must never confuse aggressor and victim in this terrible war.” Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who has supported Ukraine but also has strong ties to Trump, sought to strike a balance in her response. She suggested a summit involving the United States, European nations and allies to discuss how “to deal with the great challenges of today, starting with Ukraine.” “Every division of the West makes us all weaker and favours those who would like to see the decline of our civilisation,” Meloni said in a statement. By contrast, European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas – a former prime minister of Estonia – was blunt in declaring her view that Washington could no longer lead the free world. “Today, it became clear that the free world needs a new leader. It’s up to us, Europeans, to take this challenge,” she said. “We will step up our support to Ukraine so that they can continue to fight back the aggressor.” Leaders from Belgium, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Finland, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden were also among those expressing support for Ukraine. However, Hungarian nationalist Prime Minister Viktor Orban, a Trump ally, backed the US president. “Strong men make peace, weak men make war,” he posted on X. “Today President @realDonaldTrump stood bravely for peace. Even if it was difficult for many to digest. Thank you, Mr. President!” Source link #European #leaders #show #support #Zelenskiy #clash Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

February fallout, China stocks, bitcoin drop: Market Takeaways February fallout, China stocks, bitcoin drop: Market Takeaways February was a challenging month for equities as all three of the market averages (^DJI, ^IXIC, ^GSPC) saw monthly declines, with the S&P 500 experiencing its worst month since December. Yahoo Finance Markets and Data Editor Jared Blikre joins Asking for a Trend host Josh Lipton to discuss the psychological factors affecting investors — such as loss aversion — while also looking ahead to March seasonality trends, strong performances from ******** stocks like Alibaba (BABA), and the uncertain future of bitcoin (BTC-USD) following a significant drop. To watch more expert insights and analysis on the latest market action, check out more Asking for a Trend here. This post was written by Josh ****** Source link #February #fallout #China #stocks #bitcoin #drop #Market #Takeaways Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Kennedy proposes scrapping public comment on major US health policies – Reuters.com Kennedy proposes scrapping public comment on major US health policies – Reuters.com Kennedy proposes scrapping public comment on major US health policies Reuters.comRFK Jr. moves to eliminate public comment on HHS decisions STATRFK Jr. rolls back transparency policy on Medicaid and NIH changes CBS NewsRFK Jr. issues rule barring public comment on HHS rulemaking The HillHHS scraps transparency practices for policymaking Modern Healthcare Source link #Kennedy #proposes #scrapping #public #comment #major #health #policies #Reuters.com Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

‘Not good for both sides’ ‘Not good for both sides’ Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky speaks during an interview with Fox News Chief Political Anchor Bret Baier on Special Report With Bret Baier at the Fox News studios on Feb. 28, 2025 in Washington, DC. Win McNamee | Getty Images Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Friday evening repeatedly refused during a Fox News interview to apologize for his stunning Oval Office clash with President Donald Trump. But Zelenskyy said, “This kind of spat is not good for both sides.” The Ukrainian leader told Fox News’ Brett Baier that “it will be difficult for us” to defend his country from Russian military forces if Trump discontinues aid to Ukraine. “That’s why we’re here,” Zelenskyy said. “It will be difficult without your support.” This is breaking news. Please refresh for updates. Source link #good #sides Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Fiorentina snaps three-game losing streak with victory Fiorentina snaps three-game losing streak with victory Fiorentina recorded their first win in four games when a first-half goal from Robin Gosens was enough to beat lowly Lecce 1-0 in Serie A. The ******* defender put in a thumping header after nine minutes on Friday, connecting with a deep cross from Brazilian full back Dodô. Fiorentina should have made sure of the victory after 73 minutes but Lucas Beltrán’s penalty, given after a handball in the box, hit the upright. Beltrans also had another shot hit the woodwork in the final minutes. Fiorentina moved into sixth place and Lecce remained 16th, four points above the relegation zone and without a win in four games. Source link #Fiorentina #snaps #threegame #losing #streak #victory Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]