News Trending War

Ukraine war: Kyiv hit by biggest drone attack since war began

By 329 0

Kyiv experienced its most significant drone attack since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, according to the city’s mayor. The assault, consisting of over 75 Iranian-made Shahed drones, targeted the capital from the north and east. Despite the city’s air defenses successfully intercepting 74 drones, explosions and the sound of air defenses echoed through Kyiv for more than six hours. The Shahed drones, viewed as a cost-effective alternative to Russia’s diminishing missile stocks, are slower but distinctive due to their wingspan.

The attack caused damage to buildings, including a kindergarten, and left at least five people injured, including an 11-year-old child. Fortunately, there were no reported fatalities. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky denounced the strikes as an intentional act of terror, vowing to continue uniting the world against Russian aggression. The assault coincided with Ukraine’s commemoration of the 1932-1933 Holodomor famine, adding symbolic weight to the event.

The possibility of Russia targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, a tactic used in the past, materialized as 16,000 homes in central Kyiv lost power. While Moscow’s previous attempts to deprive Ukrainians of essential resources failed, causing authorities to rapidly repair damaged infrastructure, the impact of such strikes remains significant. Despite ongoing improvements in Ukraine’s air defenses, attacks like these continue to cause destruction, instill fear, and disrupt the lives of its residents.

Picture Courtesy: Google/images are subject to copyright

News Trending

Giulia Cecchettin’s killing sparks Italian reckoning over femicide

By 376 0

The recent tragic killing of 22-year-old Giulia Cecchettin in Italy by her ex-boyfriend has ignited a national conversation about violence against women. Giulia was on the verge of graduating in biomedical engineering when she disappeared with her ex-boyfriend Filippo Turetta. Subsequent CCTV footage revealed her brutal murder, with Turetta assaulting her in a car park, using duct tape to silence her, and ultimately fatally attacking her in an industrial area.

This incident has fueled public outrage and grief, prompting widespread protests, vigils, and discussions about the pervasive issue of violence against women in Italy. The case has drawn attention to the deeply entrenched patriarchal attitudes in the country, with many women expressing concerns about the normalization of controlling and violent behavior by men.

Giulia’s killing is part of a larger pattern, as data from the Italian interior ministry indicates that 106 women have been killed in Italy this year, with 55 allegedly by a partner or ex-partner. The incident has led to an increase in calls to Italy’s anti-violence hotline.

The tragic event has also prompted discussions about the broader societal issues contributing to gender-based violence. Some argue that the resentment of women’s independence is a significant factor in toxic relationships, where violent men struggle with their partners’ success.

Filippo Turetta, who studied the same subject as Giulia, was arrested in Germany after a week-long international manhunt. Despite not being formally charged yet, he is set to be extradited to Italy. The case has brought attention to the need for societal change, with calls for educational campaigns and legislative measures to combat misogynistic violence.

Giulia’s sister highlighted the responsibility of men in addressing the patriarchal norms that contribute to gender-based violence. The outcry has led to unanimous approval by the Italian Senate for new legislation strengthening measures against gender violence, including stricter restraining orders and increased surveillance on perpetrators.

Despite these developments, critics argue that more needs to be done to combat the deeply rooted problem of gender-based violence in Italy. The incident has sparked hope among advocates that the widespread anger and demand for change will lead to a transformative shift in Italian society.

Picture Courtesy: Google/images are subject to copyright

News Trending

Russian authorities crack down on abortion access amid demographic crisis

By 331 0

Russian authorities are implementing measures to restrict access to abortions in an effort to address the country’s demographic crisis. These measures include criminalizing attempts to persuade women to have abortions and pressuring private clinics to cease performing the procedure. The anti-abortion campaign, supported by the Russian Orthodox Church, has been criticized by feminist groups who argue that it endangers women’s lives.

Russia’s population has remained stagnant for over 20 years, with concerns about the impact on military recruitment and the economy. The high number of abortions, with almost a third of Russian women reporting having had one, is identified as a key factor contributing to the demographic crisis. The government, backed by the church, aims to discourage abortions through informal means, including guidelines for healthcare professionals to dissuade women and restrictions on the sale of abortion-inducing medication.

Financial incentives are being offered to pregnant women and those who give birth, and private clinics are facing pressure to stop offering abortion services. Some regions have implemented fines for attempting to persuade a pregnant woman to have an abortion, and there are fears that the anti-abortion campaign may lead to an increase in unsafe, illegal procedures, as well as negatively impacting women’s health by discouraging safer medical abortions.

Picture Courtesy: Google/images are subject to copyright

News Trending

Dublin riot sees clashes with police after five hurt in stabbings

By 297 0

A knife attack in Dublin has left a five-year-old girl, a woman in her 30s, and a man in his 40s seriously injured. The incident occurred outside Gaelscoil Choláiste Mhuire school on Parnell Square East in the city center, prompting subsequent violence, including vehicle fires and shop looting.

The suspected attacker, identified as an Irish citizen who has lived in the country for 20 years, is now a person of interest in the ongoing investigation. Irish police have indicated that they are not actively searching for other individuals at this time and are pursuing a definite line of inquiry.

The disorder that followed the attack was attributed by the head of An Garda Síochána (Irish police), Drew Harris, to a “lunatic, hooligan faction driven by a far-right ideology.” More than 400 officers were deployed to maintain order, and riot police were called in as protesters gathered in the area near the crime scene.

The streets are reported to be mainly calm now, with no serious injuries resulting from the subsequent violence. However, Chief Superintendent Patrick McMenamin attributed the disorder to “gratuitous thuggery,” and several incidents of attacks on officers were reported. The exact number of arrests made remains unclear.

The unrest centered on several streets in Dublin city center, including O’Connell Street, where vehicles were set on fire, including at least one police car, a tram, and a bus. Additionally, a shop on O’Connell Street was looted, and the windows of other stores were smashed.

Trinity College, located nearby, went into lockdown, closing all gates to its campus due to the disturbances. Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar announced the deployment of extra police resources in response to the situation, expressing shock at the knife attack and cautioning against misinformation circulating on social media.

Despite the ongoing investigation, the motive for the attack remains unclear, as stated by Drew Harris, who urged the public to “act responsibly.” The Irish President, Michael D Higgins, expressed his thoughts for the affected children and families, condemning the incident and discouraging its use for agendas that oppose social inclusion.

In response to the attack, the Irish National Teachers’ Organisation (INTO) expressed solidarity with the Gaelscoil Choláiste Mhuire school community, describing the incident as horrendous and emphasizing support for those affected.

Picture Courtesy: Google/images are subject to copyright

News Trending

Jamie Foxx accused of sexual assault at NYC rooftop bar in 2015

By 308 0

A woman has filed a lawsuit against Jamie Foxx, accusing the renowned actor of sexually assaulting her at a New York City restaurant eight years ago. The legal action alleges that Foxx, whose real name is Eric Marlon Bishop, inappropriately touched the unnamed woman after she approached him for a photo. Foxx’s representatives have yet to provide a response to the BBC’s request for comment on the matter.

The incident is said to have taken place in the early morning hours of August 26, 2015, at Catch NYC. According to the lawsuit, Foxx, appearing intoxicated, complimented the woman on her appearance, led her to a secluded area of the restaurant, and proceeded to touch her breasts and put his hands in her underwear without her consent. The situation reportedly concluded when the woman’s friend intervened.

In addition to suing Foxx, the accuser is seeking damages from the restaurant and bar owner, Mark Birnbaum, who was allegedly seated with Foxx shortly before the incident. The lawsuit claims that Birnbaum and the restaurant’s staff breached their duty of care by failing to protect the plaintiff. Mark Birnbaum has not yet responded to inquiries from the BBC.

The legal action asserts that the woman continues to endure severe emotional distress, anxiety, humiliation, embarrassment, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other physical and emotional damages as a result of the alleged assault. Notably, this lawsuit is filed just days before the expiration of the New York Adult Survivors Act, allowing victims of sex crimes to pursue legal action even after the statute of limitations has lapsed. The act has been previously invoked in cases involving public figures like Donald Trump, Sean Combs, Bill Cosby, Cuba Gooding Jr, and Russell Brand. Despite the serious accusations, Jamie Foxx has remained silent on the matter as the legal proceedings unfold.

Picture Courtesy: Google/images are subject to copyright

News Trending

Dutch election: Anti-Islam populist Geert Wilders wins dramatic victory

By 319 0

Geert Wilders, a veteran anti-Islam populist leader, has achieved a significant victory in the Dutch general election, securing 37 seats for his Freedom Party (PVV) after 25 years in parliament. This outcome has shaken Dutch politics and is anticipated to have repercussions across Europe. Despite his success, Wilders needs to form a coalition government by persuading other parties to join him, aiming for a total of 76 seats in the 150-seat parliament.

Wilders capitalized on public frustration regarding migration issues, promising to “close borders.” However, he temporarily shelved his proposal to ban the Koran. In his victory speech, Wilders expressed the desire to govern and acknowledged the substantial responsibility that comes with the support he received.

Before the election, major parties had ruled out participating in a Wilders-led government due to his far-right policies. However, the scale of his victory may prompt reconsideration. The left-wing alliance under Frans Timmermans came in second with 25 seats, rejecting any collaboration with a Wilders-led government.

The third-placed VVD, a center-right liberal party led by Dilan Yesilgöz, and a new party formed by whistleblower MP Pieter Omtzigt in fourth, remain potential coalition partners. While Yesilgöz previously stated she would not serve in a Wilders-led cabinet, she did not rule out working with him. Omtzigt, initially hesitant, now expresses willingness to cooperate.

Wilders’ victory has garnered praise from nationalist and far-right leaders across Europe. He advocates for a referendum to leave the EU, known as “Nexit,” although this may face resistance from potential coalition partners.

During the campaign, Wilders softened his anti-Islam rhetoric, focusing on issues such as migration. He strategically deferred policies like banning mosques and Islamic schools. The campaign capitalized on dissatisfaction with the previous government’s collapse over asylum rules.

Migration emerged as a key theme, with Wilders vowing to address a “tsunami of asylum and immigration.” Net migration into the Netherlands surged to over 220,000, exacerbated by a shortage of 390,000 homes.

Despite the shock of Wilders’ victory, challenges lie ahead in forming a government, particularly due to his far-right stance. The international precedent suggests that excluding radical right-wing parties may diminish their influence.

In conclusion, Geert Wilders’ triumph in the Dutch general election has political implications for the country and echoes across Europe, with the formation of a coalition government presenting a complex task for the populist leader.

Picture courtesy: Google/images are subject to copyright

News Trending

Russian actress killed in Ukrainian strike while performing to soldiers

By 387 0

A Russian actress, Polina Menshikh, lost her life during a Ukrainian shelling incident that targeted a dance hall in occupied Ukraine on November 19. She was reportedly performing for Russian troops at the time. The strike resulted in the deaths of approximately 20 Russian soldiers, according to Ukrainian reports. Despite this, Russian authorities have not issued any official statements on the matter.

Ms. Menshikh was delivering a performance in a local dance hall, which could accommodate around 150 people, according to local reports. A video circulating on social media purportedly captures the moment of the strike. In the footage, Ms. Menshikh is seen on stage singing and playing the guitar before an explosion occurs, plunging the hall into darkness. Unfortunately, she succumbed to her injuries in the hospital.

The incident unfolded around 60 kilometers (37 miles) from the front line, specifically in the village of Kumachove, located in the Donetsk region. This region has been under Russian occupation since 2014, and areas like Avdiika and Bakhmut have witnessed intense fighting in recent months.

The Ukrainian army spokesperson confirmed the media reports of the strike, providing additional context to the tragic event. Meanwhile, a theatre studio in St. Petersburg associated with Ms. Menshikh announced that an upcoming performance, a play she had previously directed, would be dedicated to her memory.

In response to the incident, Russian pro-war bloggers criticized the organization of the show. They argued that concentrating a large number of soldiers in one place made it an obvious target for Ukrainian strikes, highlighting the risks associated with such gatherings in conflict zones.

Picture Courtesy: Google/images are subject to copyright

News Technology Trending

Binance chief Changpeng Zhao pleads guilty to money laundering charges

By 417 0

Changpeng Zhao, the CEO of Binance, has stepped down from his position after pleading guilty to money laundering violations. In a statement on the platform X, Zhao acknowledged his mistakes, stating, “I made mistakes, and I must take responsibility. This is best for our community, for Binance, and for myself.”

The U.S. Justice Department has imposed penalties and forfeitures of $4.3 billion on Binance, citing the exchange’s involvement in helping users bypass sanctions worldwide. Binance is accused of facilitating transactions totaling nearly $900 million between U.S. and Iranian users, as well as enabling transactions involving users in Syria and the Russian-occupied Ukrainian regions of Crimea, Donetsk, and Luhansk.

The Justice Department highlighted Binance’s role in making it easy for criminals and terrorists to move money. It revealed that between August 2017 and April 2022, approximately $106 million in bitcoin was directly transferred to Binance.com wallets from Hydra, a popular Russian darknet marketplace associated with criminal activities.

As part of the settlement, Binance is now required to report suspicious activity to federal authorities, aiding criminal investigations into cybercrime and terrorism financing. Richard Teng, the head of regional markets at Binance, has been appointed as the new CEO.

Changpeng Zhao, a prominent figure in the cryptocurrency industry, expressed the emotional difficulty of letting go in his farewell post on X. Earlier in March, U.S. regulators sought to ban Binance, alleging illegal operations in the country. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) accused Binance of breaking U.S. financial laws, including rules against money laundering.

In June, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filed another lawsuit against Binance, accusing the company and Zhao of disregarding investor protection rules to continue operating in the U.S. Binance vowed to defend itself vigorously against these allegations. The legal actions against Binance come amid increased scrutiny of the cryptocurrency industry by U.S. authorities.

Picture Courtesy: Google/images are subject to copyright

Entertainment News Trending

Dire Straits star Mark Knopfler to auction Brothers In Arms guitars

By 361 0

Dire Straits star Mark Knopfler is preparing to auction over 120 of his guitars and amps, with a notable 25% of the proceeds earmarked for charitable causes. Among the instruments up for sale is the iconic 1983 Les Paul that Knopfler used to record hits like “Money For Nothing” and played on stage at Live Aid in 1985. The auction, scheduled for January at Christie’s in London, spans the entirety of Knopfler’s illustrious 50-year career, offering fans a chance to own a piece of music history.

The collection boasts a range of guitars, including the revered 1959 Gibson Les Paul with a sunburst finish, often referred to as the “Holy Grail of electric guitars.” This particular instrument carries an estimated value between £300,000 to £500,000. In keeping with Knopfler’s diverse musical influences, the auction also includes more accessible items, such as a mandolin once owned by blues legend Yank Rachell, with an estimated value of £300 to £500. Knopfler expressed his appreciation for both the expensive and more affordable instruments, stating, “I like the cheap ones as much as the expensive ones.”

Mark Knopfler, considered one of the greatest guitar virtuosos of all time, shared his sentiment about parting with his beloved instruments, citing his age as a primary factor. The 74-year-old musician emphasized his desire for the guitars to find new owners who will play and appreciate them, rather than being confined to cases. Knopfler’s guitars have been companions throughout his career, contributing to the distinctive sound of Dire Straits and his solo work.

Reflecting on his lifelong connection with the guitar, Knopfler reminisced about his childhood fascination with the instrument, inspired by the likes of Elvis Presley and Hank Marvin of The Shadows. His journey began with a Spanish guitar plucked off the wall of a shop in Newcastle, England, where he spent hours dreaming of owning his own instrument. Despite initially yearning for a Fiesta Red Fender Stratocaster, he received a twin-pickup Höfner Super Solid, sparking a lifelong love affair with the instrument.

The decision to part with his cherished guitars, including the first lot—a twin-pickup Höfner Super Solid—is rooted in practicality. Knopfler acknowledged owning around 20 guitars for recording purposes, leaving approximately 100 others that won’t see much play. Despite the bittersweet farewell, he emphasized having enough guitars left to continue playing and creating music. The guitars will be on display in New York and London before the auction, allowing fans to witness these iconic instruments up close.

Mark Knopfler’s illustrious career began with the formation of Dire Straits in 1977, and the band achieved widespread success with albums like “Brothers in Arms.” Beyond his role in Dire Straits, Knopfler engaged in session work for notable artists, contributed to film soundtracks, and forged a successful solo career. Known for his fluid and cinematic guitar solos, he downplayed his technical prowess, attributing his success to songwriting and storytelling. The auction proceeds will benefit charities such as the Red Cross, Tusk, and Brave Hearts of the North East, showcasing Knopfler’s commitment to philanthropy even as he bids farewell to some of his most cherished possessions.

Picture Courtesy: Google/images are subject to cooyright

News Trending

Jamala: Ukrainian Eurovision winner added to Russia’s wanted list

By 316 0

Ukrainian Eurovision song contest winner Jamala, whose real name is Susana Jamaladinova, has been added to Russia’s wanted list, according to state media. The accusations against her include spreading fake information about the Russian armed forces, a charge often used by the Kremlin against those critical of Russia’s actions. Jamala, known for openly criticizing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, was placed on the wanted list last month. The independent Russian human rights website Mediazona reported this, and details of the listing became widely known on Monday.

Russian breaking news Telegram channel Shot claimed that Jamala was added to the list for posting alleged “fakes” about atrocities in the Ukrainian town of Bucha in 2022. The Kremlin has denied responsibility for the Bucha massacre, despite evidence indicating Russian forces’ involvement. Jamala, currently in Australia after fleeing Ukraine with her family following the invasion, responded to the news by posting a photo of herself in front of the Sydney Opera House with a link to an article about it and a facepalm emoji.

Jamala won Eurovision in 2016 with the song “1944,” inspired by the forced deportation of her people, the Crimean Tatars, by Russia during that year. The song, perceived as addressing Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea in 2014, caused controversy for allegedly breaking the competition’s rule against overtly political songs. However, organizers allowed it, and it ultimately won, defeating Russia. Jamala, in her 40s, has been vocal about using her music to give a strong voice to her homeland, Crimea, and to counter the historical narratives propagated by the Russian Empire and Soviet Union. She emphasized the importance of revealing the truth through her songs in her latest folk album, Qirim.

Picture Courtesy: Google/images are subject to cooyright