9 mins. ago
At a garment factory in Ho Chi Minh City that exports T-shirts and underwear to the United States, staff were alarmed by "shocking" trade tariffs imposed on Vietnam that could severely impact their business.
A manufacturing powerhouse that counted the United States as its biggest market last year, the Southeast Asian nation was hammered with a thumping 46 percent tariff in President Donald Trump's global trade blitz.
Despite widespread fears it could be a key target over its huge trade surplus with Washington -- the third-largest after China and Mexico -- the size of the levies came as a bombshell for businesses and factory workers on Thursday.
"It's truly shocking," said Tran Nhu Tung, board chair at Thanh Cong, a factory in Ho Chi Minh City that makes clothes for DKNY and Walmart, among others.
A manufacturing powerhouse that counted the United States as its biggest market last year, the Southeast Asian nation was hammered with a thumping 46 percent tariff in President Donald Trump's global trade blitz.
Despite widespread fears it could be a key target over its huge trade surplus with Washington -- the third-largest after China and Mexico -- the size of the levies came as a bombshell for businesses and factory workers on Thursday.
"It's truly shocking," said Tran Nhu Tung, board chair at Thanh Cong, a factory in Ho Chi Minh City that makes clothes for DKNY and Walmart, among others.
10 mins. ago
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and the Trump administration’s new envoy to NATO are seeking to reassure wary members of the U.S. commitment to the alliance.
Rubio on Thursday decried “hysteria and hyperbole” in the media about U.S. President Donald Trump’s intentions, despite persistent signals from Washington that NATO as it has existed for 75 years may no longer be relevant.
Rubio and newly confirmed U.S. ambassador to NATO Matt Whitaker are in Brussels for a meeting of alliance foreign ministers at which many are hoping Rubio will shed light on U.S. security plans in Europe.
“The United States is as active in NATO as it has ever been,” Rubio told reporters as he greeted NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte before the meeting began. “And some of this hysteria and hyperbole that I see in the global media and some domestic media in the United States about NATO is unwarranted.”
Rubio on Thursday decried “hysteria and hyperbole” in the media about U.S. President Donald Trump’s intentions, despite persistent signals from Washington that NATO as it has existed for 75 years may no longer be relevant.
Rubio and newly confirmed U.S. ambassador to NATO Matt Whitaker are in Brussels for a meeting of alliance foreign ministers at which many are hoping Rubio will shed light on U.S. security plans in Europe.
“The United States is as active in NATO as it has ever been,” Rubio told reporters as he greeted NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte before the meeting began. “And some of this hysteria and hyperbole that I see in the global media and some domestic media in the United States about NATO is unwarranted.”
12 mins. ago
China-CCP ways of scaring Taiwanese-
China's military on Wednesday said it had completed two days of live-fire exercises that included simulated strikes on key ports and energy sites aimed at Taiwan, the self-ruled island it claims as its own.
The surprise manoeuvres were condemned by Taiwan, while the United States called them "intimidation tactics". They came less than a month after Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te called China a "foreign hostile force"
Named "Strait Thunder-2025A", the drills were in the middle and southern parts of the Taiwan Strait as well as the East China Sea, the military said.
People's Liberation Army spokesman Shi Yi said "the Eastern Theater Command has completed all designated tasks of the joint exercises carried out from April 1 to 2"
Exercises were meant to "test the troops' capabilities" in areas such as "blockade and control, and precision strikes on key targets"
The military also practised hitting "simulated targets of key ports and energy faci
China's military on Wednesday said it had completed two days of live-fire exercises that included simulated strikes on key ports and energy sites aimed at Taiwan, the self-ruled island it claims as its own.
The surprise manoeuvres were condemned by Taiwan, while the United States called them "intimidation tactics". They came less than a month after Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te called China a "foreign hostile force"
Named "Strait Thunder-2025A", the drills were in the middle and southern parts of the Taiwan Strait as well as the East China Sea, the military said.
People's Liberation Army spokesman Shi Yi said "the Eastern Theater Command has completed all designated tasks of the joint exercises carried out from April 1 to 2"
Exercises were meant to "test the troops' capabilities" in areas such as "blockade and control, and precision strikes on key targets"
The military also practised hitting "simulated targets of key ports and energy faci
25 mins. ago
U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Wednesday that closes a trade loophole known as "de minimis" that has allowed low-value packages from China and Hong Kong to enter the United States free of duties.
Trump signed the order, which takes effect at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time (0401 GMT) May 2, in the Rose Garden of the White House after announcing sweeping new tariffs on global trading partners.
The White House said the move, came after Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick certified "adequate systems are in place to collect tariff revenue" on the shipments.
It said imported goods from China and Hong Kong sent outside the international postal network and valued at or under $800 would now be subject to all applicable duties.
Trump signed the order, which takes effect at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time (0401 GMT) May 2, in the Rose Garden of the White House after announcing sweeping new tariffs on global trading partners.
The White House said the move, came after Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick certified "adequate systems are in place to collect tariff revenue" on the shipments.
It said imported goods from China and Hong Kong sent outside the international postal network and valued at or under $800 would now be subject to all applicable duties.
26 mins. ago
Russia has seen around 900,000 troop casualties since unleashing its full-scale invasion of Ukraine more than three years ago, a senior NATO official said.
Up to 250,000 soldiers have been killed in the conflict which started on February 24, 2022, according to NATO.
Ukraine has been defending itself against the Russian onslaught with broad support from Western allies.
After Kiev's forces were able to recapture some territory following Russia's initial advance, both sides have been locked in a war of attrition for months, with the Russians making incremental gains.
According to NATO's assessment, the "situation on the battlefield remains very difficult."
"While we don't expect a major breakdown of Ukraine's defensive lines in the next couple of months, even if Moscow continues to advance, we do believe that Russia will continue to increase the pressure along the front lines and on Ukraine in general," the official said on the sidelines of a NATO foreign ministers meeting in Bru
Up to 250,000 soldiers have been killed in the conflict which started on February 24, 2022, according to NATO.
Ukraine has been defending itself against the Russian onslaught with broad support from Western allies.
After Kiev's forces were able to recapture some territory following Russia's initial advance, both sides have been locked in a war of attrition for months, with the Russians making incremental gains.
According to NATO's assessment, the "situation on the battlefield remains very difficult."
"While we don't expect a major breakdown of Ukraine's defensive lines in the next couple of months, even if Moscow continues to advance, we do believe that Russia will continue to increase the pressure along the front lines and on Ukraine in general," the official said on the sidelines of a NATO foreign ministers meeting in Bru
27 mins. ago
Germany is heading “back to the 1930s”, a top economist warned on Thursday in response to the US tariff surge, as Olaf Scholz predicted there would “only be losers” from a trade war.
Some of Germany’s top economists have reacted with alarm to tariffs of at least 20 per cent announced Trump on the European Union, which will have a particularly severe impact on German carmakers.
“The 1930s are back,” Carsten Brzeski, an economist at ING Germany, comparing the wave of trade barriers imposed by the White House to 1930s-era protectionist trade rules.
Mr Scholz, the outgoing chancellor, described the tariffs as “fundamentally wrong” and warned that there “would only be losers”
“This is an attack on a trading system which has created prosperity all over the world,” added Mr Scholz, while Robert Habeck, his outgoing economy minister, complained of “US tariff mania”.
Germany is set to be one of the EU countries hit the hardest by the tariffs, along with France, the Netherlands and Be
Some of Germany’s top economists have reacted with alarm to tariffs of at least 20 per cent announced Trump on the European Union, which will have a particularly severe impact on German carmakers.
“The 1930s are back,” Carsten Brzeski, an economist at ING Germany, comparing the wave of trade barriers imposed by the White House to 1930s-era protectionist trade rules.
Mr Scholz, the outgoing chancellor, described the tariffs as “fundamentally wrong” and warned that there “would only be losers”
“This is an attack on a trading system which has created prosperity all over the world,” added Mr Scholz, while Robert Habeck, his outgoing economy minister, complained of “US tariff mania”.
Germany is set to be one of the EU countries hit the hardest by the tariffs, along with France, the Netherlands and Be
30 mins. ago
Spain on Thursday was one of the few major economies to offer up a concrete solution to help weather the impact of new U.S. tariffs, offering its companies a financial package of loans and direct aid worth 14.1 billion euros ($15.66 billion).
Spain, which like other European Union members was hit by U.S. tariffs of 20% imposed on imports from the bloc, is the world's top exporter of olive oil and sells important quantities of auto parts, steel and chemicals to the United States.
Sanchez described Trump's actions as "terrible news for the world", "unintelligent" and "a return to 19th-century protectionism". "This tariff attack by the U.S. administration makes no distinction between friends and enemies, it doesn't discriminate based on ideology or trade balance; it's against everyone and everything," he said. Sanchez also stressed Europe's need to find new trading partners elsewhere.
Spain, which like other European Union members was hit by U.S. tariffs of 20% imposed on imports from the bloc, is the world's top exporter of olive oil and sells important quantities of auto parts, steel and chemicals to the United States.
Sanchez described Trump's actions as "terrible news for the world", "unintelligent" and "a return to 19th-century protectionism". "This tariff attack by the U.S. administration makes no distinction between friends and enemies, it doesn't discriminate based on ideology or trade balance; it's against everyone and everything," he said. Sanchez also stressed Europe's need to find new trading partners elsewhere.
33 mins. ago
Contemplating smoking your way out of the tariff gloom? Think again.
Sweeping tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday are set to increase prices of cannabis products in the country, as many firms rely on Asia for manufacturing. The latest levies will stack up on any duties imposed earlier on countries like China, Canada, Mexico and the EU.
Items such as tins, vape hardware and specialized glass remain difficult to source domestically, and companies remain largely dependent on Asia particularly China, analysts and executives said.
"Those relying on exports from nations with tariffs, such as China, will need to take a serious look at how they might absorb the extra costs or alter partnerships," said Bryan Gerber, CEO of Hara Supply, the world's largest manufacturer of cones and combustibles.
Sweeping tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday are set to increase prices of cannabis products in the country, as many firms rely on Asia for manufacturing. The latest levies will stack up on any duties imposed earlier on countries like China, Canada, Mexico and the EU.
Items such as tins, vape hardware and specialized glass remain difficult to source domestically, and companies remain largely dependent on Asia particularly China, analysts and executives said.
"Those relying on exports from nations with tariffs, such as China, will need to take a serious look at how they might absorb the extra costs or alter partnerships," said Bryan Gerber, CEO of Hara Supply, the world's largest manufacturer of cones and combustibles.
34 mins. ago
Team Trump is losing two world wars.
The first is the one Russian President Vladimir Putin declared against the West when he invaded Ukraine. The second one is metaphorical — the one President Trump himself is now waging against U.S. allies.
This self-defeating approach certainly will not make America great again. To the contrary, if left unchecked, it could result in the partial or complete destruction of U.S. global economic and military power.
No country can survive being at war with everyone. The U.S. is confronted by a resurgent Russia in Europe, an emerging co-equal in China, by rogue regimes in Iran and North Korea intent on wielding nuclear weapons, and now by Houthi rebels intent on shutting down commercial and military shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
Yet instead of rallying U.S. allies to this cause of defending democracy, Team Trump is starting trade wars, hinting that Washington may no longer fully back NATO.
The first is the one Russian President Vladimir Putin declared against the West when he invaded Ukraine. The second one is metaphorical — the one President Trump himself is now waging against U.S. allies.
This self-defeating approach certainly will not make America great again. To the contrary, if left unchecked, it could result in the partial or complete destruction of U.S. global economic and military power.
No country can survive being at war with everyone. The U.S. is confronted by a resurgent Russia in Europe, an emerging co-equal in China, by rogue regimes in Iran and North Korea intent on wielding nuclear weapons, and now by Houthi rebels intent on shutting down commercial and military shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
Yet instead of rallying U.S. allies to this cause of defending democracy, Team Trump is starting trade wars, hinting that Washington may no longer fully back NATO.
35 mins. ago
Prime Minister Mark Carney said Thursday that Canada will match U.S. President Donald Trump’s 25% auto tariffs with a tariff on vehicles imported from the United States.
Trump's previously announced 25% tariffs on auto imports took effect Thursday. The prime minister said he told Trump last week in a phone call that he would be retaliating for those tariffs.
"We take these measures reluctantly. And we take them in ways that is intended and will cause maximum impact in the United States and minimum impact in Canada,” Carney said.
Carney said Canada won't put tariffs on auto parts as Trump has done, because he said Canadians know the benefits of the integrated auto sector. The parts can go back and forth across the Canada-U.S. border several times before being fully assembled in Ontario or Michigan. Carney said Canadians are already seeing the impact.
Automaker Stellantis said it shut down its assembly plant in Windsor, Canada, for two weeks from April 7
Trump's previously announced 25% tariffs on auto imports took effect Thursday. The prime minister said he told Trump last week in a phone call that he would be retaliating for those tariffs.
"We take these measures reluctantly. And we take them in ways that is intended and will cause maximum impact in the United States and minimum impact in Canada,” Carney said.
Carney said Canada won't put tariffs on auto parts as Trump has done, because he said Canadians know the benefits of the integrated auto sector. The parts can go back and forth across the Canada-U.S. border several times before being fully assembled in Ontario or Michigan. Carney said Canadians are already seeing the impact.
Automaker Stellantis said it shut down its assembly plant in Windsor, Canada, for two weeks from April 7
37 mins. ago
French President Emmanuel Macron called on Thursday for European companies to suspend planned investment in the United States after U.S. President Donald Trump announced sweeping global tariffs on American imports.
"Investments to come or investments announced in recent weeks should be suspended until things are clarified with the United States," Macron said during a meeting with French industry representatives.
The comments come weeks after French shipping firm CMA CGM announced plans to invest $20 billion in the U.S. to build shipping logistics and terminals, a plan that was hailed by President Trump at the time, and mentioned again in his Wednesday speech unveiling the tariffs.
French electrical equipment supplier Schneider Electric said late last month it would invest $700 million in the country to support U.S. energy infrastructure to power AI growth.
Neither company immediately responded to requests for comment on Macron's proposal.
"Investments to come or investments announced in recent weeks should be suspended until things are clarified with the United States," Macron said during a meeting with French industry representatives.
The comments come weeks after French shipping firm CMA CGM announced plans to invest $20 billion in the U.S. to build shipping logistics and terminals, a plan that was hailed by President Trump at the time, and mentioned again in his Wednesday speech unveiling the tariffs.
French electrical equipment supplier Schneider Electric said late last month it would invest $700 million in the country to support U.S. energy infrastructure to power AI growth.
Neither company immediately responded to requests for comment on Macron's proposal.
38 mins. ago
Two senior lawmakers on the Senate Finance Committee introduced legislation on Thursday seeking to rein in U.S. President Donald Trump's ability to impose tariffs and would require congressional approval for new levies within 60 days.
Republican Senator Chuck Grassley and Democrat Maria Cantwell introduced legislation that would require the president to notify Congress on new tariffs with an explanation of the rationale, including an analysis of the potential impact on U.S. businesses and consumers.
Congress would need to pass a joint resolution of approval on the new tariff within 60 days. Otherwise all new tariffs on imports would expire.
"This bill reasserts Congress’ role over trade policy to ensure rules-based trade policies are transparent, consistent, and benefit the American public," Cantwell said. "As representatives of the American people, Congress has a duty to stop actions that will cause them harm."
Republican Senator Chuck Grassley and Democrat Maria Cantwell introduced legislation that would require the president to notify Congress on new tariffs with an explanation of the rationale, including an analysis of the potential impact on U.S. businesses and consumers.
Congress would need to pass a joint resolution of approval on the new tariff within 60 days. Otherwise all new tariffs on imports would expire.
"This bill reasserts Congress’ role over trade policy to ensure rules-based trade policies are transparent, consistent, and benefit the American public," Cantwell said. "As representatives of the American people, Congress has a duty to stop actions that will cause them harm."
41 mins. ago
President Donald Trump said Thursday that he's fired "some" White House National Security Council officials, a move that comes a day after far-right activist Laura Loomer raised concerns directly to him about staff loyalty.
But Loomer during her Oval Office conversation with Trump urged the president to purge staffers she deemed insufficiently loyal to his “Make America Great Again” agenda, according to several people familiar with the matter.
“Always we’re letting go of people,” Trump “People that we don’t like or people that we don’t think can do the job or people that may have loyalties to somebody else.”
Loomer appeared to take credit for the firings in a post late Thursday on X, writing, “You know how you know the NSC officials I reported to President Trump are disloyal people who have played a role in sabotaging Donald Trump?” She then noted that “the fired officials” were being defended by Trump critics
But Loomer during her Oval Office conversation with Trump urged the president to purge staffers she deemed insufficiently loyal to his “Make America Great Again” agenda, according to several people familiar with the matter.
“Always we’re letting go of people,” Trump “People that we don’t like or people that we don’t think can do the job or people that may have loyalties to somebody else.”
Loomer appeared to take credit for the firings in a post late Thursday on X, writing, “You know how you know the NSC officials I reported to President Trump are disloyal people who have played a role in sabotaging Donald Trump?” She then noted that “the fired officials” were being defended by Trump critics
13 hours ago
France or Britain should take the lead in engaging with Russia about Ukraine as part of European efforts to support Kyiv, Finland's president Alexander Stubb said.
European countries who joined a "coalition of the willing" to back Ukraine agreed at a meeting last week that at least one of their leaders should engage with Russia at some stage, Stubb said.
"My personal preference would be that our representatives of the Coalition of the Willing would be doing that.
Finland is part of the European coalition that has vowed to continue supporting Ukraine's army, in response to European concern that the U.S. no longer represents a bulwark of support for Ukraine's three-year-old fight against Russian invasion.
Finland, which shares a 1,300-km (800-mile) border with Russia, has been a staunch supporter of Ukraine and joined the NATO military alliance in 2023 in response to Russia's 2022 invasion. Moscow at the time cast the move as a dangerous and historic mistake.
European countries who joined a "coalition of the willing" to back Ukraine agreed at a meeting last week that at least one of their leaders should engage with Russia at some stage, Stubb said.
"My personal preference would be that our representatives of the Coalition of the Willing would be doing that.
Finland is part of the European coalition that has vowed to continue supporting Ukraine's army, in response to European concern that the U.S. no longer represents a bulwark of support for Ukraine's three-year-old fight against Russian invasion.
Finland, which shares a 1,300-km (800-mile) border with Russia, has been a staunch supporter of Ukraine and joined the NATO military alliance in 2023 in response to Russia's 2022 invasion. Moscow at the time cast the move as a dangerous and historic mistake.
13 hours ago
Bulgaria received on Wednesday the first of 16 new F-16 military jets from the United States that the Balkan country needs to upgrade its defense and bring its air force in line with NATO standards.
Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov hailed the arrival of the first jet at the Graf Ignatievo air base in central Bulgaria.
“This is not just a fighter jet, but a symbol and embodiment of Bulgaria’s strategic partnership with the United States … a partnership that offers a new perspective for the Bulgarian Army," the prime minister said.
Bulgaria contracted to buy eight multi-role F-16 Block 70 aircraft in July 2019 for $1.3 billion. Plans initially called for the first planes to arrive in Bulgaria in 2023, but the coronavirus pandemic delayed their delivery.
In 2022, the Bulgarian government signed a contract with American aerospace company Lockheed Martin for a second batch of another eight of the F-16 fighter jets by the end of 2027.
Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov hailed the arrival of the first jet at the Graf Ignatievo air base in central Bulgaria.
“This is not just a fighter jet, but a symbol and embodiment of Bulgaria’s strategic partnership with the United States … a partnership that offers a new perspective for the Bulgarian Army," the prime minister said.
Bulgaria contracted to buy eight multi-role F-16 Block 70 aircraft in July 2019 for $1.3 billion. Plans initially called for the first planes to arrive in Bulgaria in 2023, but the coronavirus pandemic delayed their delivery.
In 2022, the Bulgarian government signed a contract with American aerospace company Lockheed Martin for a second batch of another eight of the F-16 fighter jets by the end of 2027.
13 hours ago
France's foreign minister warned on Wednesday that a military confrontation with Iran would be "almost inevitable" if talks over Tehran's nuclear programme failed.
"In the event of failure, a military confrontation would appear to be almost inevitable," Jean-Noel Barrot said in parliament, adding that it would severely destabilise the region.
Earlier Wednesday, President Emmanuel Macron chaired a meeting on Iran.
US President Donald Trump has threatened that Iran will be bombed if it persists in developing nuclear weapons. Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has promised to hit back.
"Our confidence and our conviction remain intact," Barrot said. "Iran must never acquire nuclear weapons."
"Our priority is to reach an agreement that verifiably and durably constrains the Iranian nuclear programme," he added.
"In the event of failure, a military confrontation would appear to be almost inevitable," Jean-Noel Barrot said in parliament, adding that it would severely destabilise the region.
Earlier Wednesday, President Emmanuel Macron chaired a meeting on Iran.
US President Donald Trump has threatened that Iran will be bombed if it persists in developing nuclear weapons. Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has promised to hit back.
"Our confidence and our conviction remain intact," Barrot said. "Iran must never acquire nuclear weapons."
"Our priority is to reach an agreement that verifiably and durably constrains the Iranian nuclear programme," he added.
13 hours ago
Taiwan's defence ministry on Thursday detailed a surge in Chinese military activity as Beijing wrapped up a second day of war games overnight Wednesday, saying it had detected 59 warplanes and 23 navy ships operating around the island.
China, which views democratically ruled Taiwan as its own territory despite the objections of the government there, announced on Wednesday that its Strait Thunder-2025A drills, that included some live-fire drills far to the north of the island, had finished.
China said the exercises were a response to it views as provocations from Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, who won election last year and who Beijing reviles as a "separatist".
Taiwan's defence ministry, in its regular morning update of Chinese military activities over the previous 24 hours, reported a rise in navy ships compared with its report the prior day, though a drop in the number of warplanes.
China, which views democratically ruled Taiwan as its own territory despite the objections of the government there, announced on Wednesday that its Strait Thunder-2025A drills, that included some live-fire drills far to the north of the island, had finished.
China said the exercises were a response to it views as provocations from Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, who won election last year and who Beijing reviles as a "separatist".
Taiwan's defence ministry, in its regular morning update of Chinese military activities over the previous 24 hours, reported a rise in navy ships compared with its report the prior day, though a drop in the number of warplanes.
13 hours ago
Right to buy arms for security-
The potential purchase of F-16 jets by the Philippines from the United States does not harm the interests of any third party, including China, a Philippine security official said.
National Security Council spokesperson Jonathan Malaya assured China the planned acquisition is not intended as a threat to any nation and is merely part of the Philippines' efforts to modernize its military.
"We would like to assure the People's Republic of China that the planned procurement of the F-16 fighter jets to the Philippine arsenal does not in any way harm the interest of any third party," Malaya told a briefing.
The U.S. Department of Defense's Defense Security Cooperation Agency said on Tuesday the State Department had approved a possible foreign military sale to the Philippines of 20 F-16 planes for an estimated cost of $5.58 billion.
The potential purchase of F-16 jets by the Philippines from the United States does not harm the interests of any third party, including China, a Philippine security official said.
National Security Council spokesperson Jonathan Malaya assured China the planned acquisition is not intended as a threat to any nation and is merely part of the Philippines' efforts to modernize its military.
"We would like to assure the People's Republic of China that the planned procurement of the F-16 fighter jets to the Philippine arsenal does not in any way harm the interest of any third party," Malaya told a briefing.
The U.S. Department of Defense's Defense Security Cooperation Agency said on Tuesday the State Department had approved a possible foreign military sale to the Philippines of 20 F-16 planes for an estimated cost of $5.58 billion.
13 hours ago
Syrian state media said Israel struck near a defence research centre in Damascus and hit central Syria on Wednesday, as Israel said it struck "military" capabilities and a monitor reported four dead.
Israel has launched hundreds of strikes on sites in Syria since Islamist-led forces ousted longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad, saying it wants to prevent weapons from falling into the hands of the new authorities, whom it considers jihadists.
"An Israeli occupation aircraft strike targeted the vicinity of the scientific research building" in Damascus's northern Barzeh neighbourhood.
It also reported an Israeli raid targeting "the vicinity of the city of Hama" in central Syria, without specifying what was hit.
The Israeli military said in a statement that forces "struck military capabilities that remained at the Syrian bases of Hama and T4, along with additional remaining military infrastructure sites in the area of Damascus".
Israel has launched hundreds of strikes on sites in Syria since Islamist-led forces ousted longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad, saying it wants to prevent weapons from falling into the hands of the new authorities, whom it considers jihadists.
"An Israeli occupation aircraft strike targeted the vicinity of the scientific research building" in Damascus's northern Barzeh neighbourhood.
It also reported an Israeli raid targeting "the vicinity of the city of Hama" in central Syria, without specifying what was hit.
The Israeli military said in a statement that forces "struck military capabilities that remained at the Syrian bases of Hama and T4, along with additional remaining military infrastructure sites in the area of Damascus".
13 hours ago
Vladimir Putin’s supporters have turned on the Kremlin over Muslim migration into Russia from Central Asia, comparing the situation with that of European cities with large minority populations.
Rybar is a prominent Telegram blog with more than 1.3 million subscribers and whose founder Mikhail Zvinchuk, a former military translator, was awarded the Order of Merit of the Fatherland Second Class by Putin in 2023.
In a flashy, well-produced video, the channel pinpointed several areas where migrants had reportedly attacked residents. It also claimed that out of 8,000 local schoolchildren, only 50 per cent were ethnically Russian.
Terrorist recruiters were active at a Moscow junk market where weapons and Russian passports could be bought, and identified the locations of “ethnic brothels” and illegal mosques.
It ends with the on-screen message: “So, who benefits from this breeding ground of Islamic radicals, Russophobes and bandits near the Russian capital?”
Rybar is a prominent Telegram blog with more than 1.3 million subscribers and whose founder Mikhail Zvinchuk, a former military translator, was awarded the Order of Merit of the Fatherland Second Class by Putin in 2023.
In a flashy, well-produced video, the channel pinpointed several areas where migrants had reportedly attacked residents. It also claimed that out of 8,000 local schoolchildren, only 50 per cent were ethnically Russian.
Terrorist recruiters were active at a Moscow junk market where weapons and Russian passports could be bought, and identified the locations of “ethnic brothels” and illegal mosques.
It ends with the on-screen message: “So, who benefits from this breeding ground of Islamic radicals, Russophobes and bandits near the Russian capital?”
13 hours ago
Countries across the world, including some of America's closest allies, condemned President Trump's reciprocal tariffs and some pledged counter-measures while hoping the White House would be open to negotiations.
China urged the United States to immediately cancel its latest tariffs and vowed to safeguard its own interests, threatening to spiral the world's largest economies deeper into a trade war that is likely to upend global supply chains.
"This is not the act of a friend," said Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia, a nation often described as America's "deputy sheriff" in Asia. "The administration's tariffs have no basis in logic and they go against the basis of our two nations' partnership."
Japan, New Zealand, Taiwan and South Korea, all major U.S. allies in the region, blasted Trump's move. "We need to decide what is best for Japan, and most effective, in a careful but bold and speedy manner," said Trade Minister Yoji Muto, when asked whether Japan would retaliat
China urged the United States to immediately cancel its latest tariffs and vowed to safeguard its own interests, threatening to spiral the world's largest economies deeper into a trade war that is likely to upend global supply chains.
"This is not the act of a friend," said Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia, a nation often described as America's "deputy sheriff" in Asia. "The administration's tariffs have no basis in logic and they go against the basis of our two nations' partnership."
Japan, New Zealand, Taiwan and South Korea, all major U.S. allies in the region, blasted Trump's move. "We need to decide what is best for Japan, and most effective, in a careful but bold and speedy manner," said Trade Minister Yoji Muto, when asked whether Japan would retaliat
13 hours ago
China on Thursday urged the United States to immediately cancel its latest tariffs and vowed countermeasures to safeguard its own interests, after President Donald Trump declared sweeping levies on U.S. trading partners around the world.
The U.S. move disregards the balance of interests reached in multilateral trade negotiations over the years and the fact that it has long benefited greatly from international trade, China's Commerce Ministry.
"China firmly opposes this and will take countermeasures to safeguard its own rights and interests," the ministry said, as the world's largest economies look set to spiral deeper into a trade war that stands to upend global supply chains.
China would be hit with a 34% tariff, on top of the 20% he previously imposed earlier this year, bringing the total new levies to 54% and close to the 60% figure he had threatened.
Chinese exporters, like those from other economies around the world, will face a 10% baseline tariff, as part of the new 34%
The U.S. move disregards the balance of interests reached in multilateral trade negotiations over the years and the fact that it has long benefited greatly from international trade, China's Commerce Ministry.
"China firmly opposes this and will take countermeasures to safeguard its own rights and interests," the ministry said, as the world's largest economies look set to spiral deeper into a trade war that stands to upend global supply chains.
China would be hit with a 34% tariff, on top of the 20% he previously imposed earlier this year, bringing the total new levies to 54% and close to the 60% figure he had threatened.
Chinese exporters, like those from other economies around the world, will face a 10% baseline tariff, as part of the new 34%
13 hours ago
Great Decision-Hungary on Thursday said it will quit the International Criminal Court, just as its Prime Minister Viktor Orban hosted Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, whom the tribunal has accused of war crimes in Gaza.
Hungary's announcement that it will start the year-long withdrawal process came as Orban welcomed Netanyahu in Budapest on his first trip to Europe since 2023.
Netanyahu, who faces an ICC arrest warrant that Hungary said it would not carry out, welcomed his hosts' "bold and principled" decision to leave the tribunal, calling it a "corrupt organisation".
Set up in 2002, the ICC, based in The Hague, seeks to prosecute individuals responsible for the world's gravest crimes when countries are unwilling or unable to do so themselves.
The Ramallah-based Palestinian Authority (PA) urged Hungary to "comply with the International Criminal Court's arrest warrant by immediately handing Netanyahu over to bring him to justice".
Hungary's announcement that it will start the year-long withdrawal process came as Orban welcomed Netanyahu in Budapest on his first trip to Europe since 2023.
Netanyahu, who faces an ICC arrest warrant that Hungary said it would not carry out, welcomed his hosts' "bold and principled" decision to leave the tribunal, calling it a "corrupt organisation".
Set up in 2002, the ICC, based in The Hague, seeks to prosecute individuals responsible for the world's gravest crimes when countries are unwilling or unable to do so themselves.
The Ramallah-based Palestinian Authority (PA) urged Hungary to "comply with the International Criminal Court's arrest warrant by immediately handing Netanyahu over to bring him to justice".
21 hours ago
💡 𝐃𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐃𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐒𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 = 𝐁𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬! 🔥
A problem-oriented mindset is not about seeing obstacles—it's about finding solutions. 🚀
🔍 Instead of reacting emotionally, leaders & teams analyze situations from different angles, unlocking hidden opportunities.
💡 A shift in strategy often leads to greater clarity & better outcomes.
### 📌 The 5-Step Structured Approach to Problem-Solving:
✅ Define the Problem – Clearly identify the issue.
🔍 Study the Problem – Gather data & understand the impact.
🔎 Find the Root Cause – Identify the "why" behind the issue.
🛠 Identify Corrective Actions – List effective countermeasures.
🔄 Apply Solutions (PDCA Approach) – Plan, Do, Check, Adjust.
This framework works repeatedly across all life situations—yet, most people give up at Step 1, blaming fate instead of evolving.
🔥 Success comes to those who don’t stop at the first hurdle, but keep searching...
A problem-oriented mindset is not about seeing obstacles—it's about finding solutions. 🚀
🔍 Instead of reacting emotionally, leaders & teams analyze situations from different angles, unlocking hidden opportunities.
💡 A shift in strategy often leads to greater clarity & better outcomes.
### 📌 The 5-Step Structured Approach to Problem-Solving:
✅ Define the Problem – Clearly identify the issue.
🔍 Study the Problem – Gather data & understand the impact.
🔎 Find the Root Cause – Identify the "why" behind the issue.
🛠 Identify Corrective Actions – List effective countermeasures.
🔄 Apply Solutions (PDCA Approach) – Plan, Do, Check, Adjust.
This framework works repeatedly across all life situations—yet, most people give up at Step 1, blaming fate instead of evolving.
🔥 Success comes to those who don’t stop at the first hurdle, but keep searching...
21 hours ago
📝 𝐃𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐃𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐎𝐮𝐭 𝐃𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬! 💣🔥
Without darkness, light has no value. 💡
Deep within every heart, spirit, and soul lies a kindness frequency—tuned to spread love and compassion. 💖
✨ Small acts of kindness remind us to keep putting good energy into the world. The tiniest gestures can create massive waves of change. 🌊
💞 Love knows no barriers. It unites us beyond skin color, culture, tradition, religion, or beliefs. We are one humanity, bound by the same light inside. ❤️💚💜🧡🖤🤍
Let’s choose love over hate.
Let’s choose kindness over indifference.
Let’s choose light over darkness.
💥 Even the smallest spark can light up a dark world. 💫
💬 What’s one small act of kindness you’ve experienced or given recently? Share below! 👇
Without darkness, light has no value. 💡
Deep within every heart, spirit, and soul lies a kindness frequency—tuned to spread love and compassion. 💖
✨ Small acts of kindness remind us to keep putting good energy into the world. The tiniest gestures can create massive waves of change. 🌊
💞 Love knows no barriers. It unites us beyond skin color, culture, tradition, religion, or beliefs. We are one humanity, bound by the same light inside. ❤️💚💜🧡🖤🤍
Let’s choose love over hate.
Let’s choose kindness over indifference.
Let’s choose light over darkness.
💥 Even the smallest spark can light up a dark world. 💫
💬 What’s one small act of kindness you’ve experienced or given recently? Share below! 👇
21 hours ago
💡 Creativity: The Rebellion That Sparks Innovation! 🔥
Creativity isn’t just thinking outside the box—it’s breaking the box entirely.
Yet, what holds most people back?
🚧 “What if I fail?”
🚧 “Is this even worth my time?”
The truth? Fear of failure kills more dreams than failure ever will.
💎 That’s why the wealthiest minds invest in art—the purest form of human expression.
🎨 The simplest ideas often hold the most value—because true creativity isn’t about complexity, but boldness.
Want to unlock your creative potential?
🧠 Step back from overthinking—the best ideas emerge when you least expect them.
💡 Embrace the weird & unexpected—innovation thrives where rules are rewritten.
🚀 Dare to take risks—every breakthrough starts with a leap into the unknown.
Creativity flourishes when you stop asking for permission.
💬 What’s your secret to unlocking creativity?
Drop a comment below!👇
Creativity isn’t just thinking outside the box—it’s breaking the box entirely.
Yet, what holds most people back?
🚧 “What if I fail?”
🚧 “Is this even worth my time?”
The truth? Fear of failure kills more dreams than failure ever will.
💎 That’s why the wealthiest minds invest in art—the purest form of human expression.
🎨 The simplest ideas often hold the most value—because true creativity isn’t about complexity, but boldness.
Want to unlock your creative potential?
🧠 Step back from overthinking—the best ideas emerge when you least expect them.
💡 Embrace the weird & unexpected—innovation thrives where rules are rewritten.
🚀 Dare to take risks—every breakthrough starts with a leap into the unknown.
Creativity flourishes when you stop asking for permission.
💬 What’s your secret to unlocking creativity?
Drop a comment below!👇
21 hours ago
🔥 𝐑𝐚𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐧 𝐢𝐧 𝐚 𝐃𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝!
💡 Technology is evolving, but mental resilience is the real game-changer.
In a world where screens dominate, raising strong, independent, and emotionally tough children is more crucial than ever.
🚀 5 Powerful Lessons for Building Mental Toughness in Kids:
✅ Encourage a growth mindset—problems are opportunities, not roadblocks.
✅ Let them struggle (a little)—confidence comes from "I did it myself!"
✅ Teach problem-solving, not quick fixes—resilience is built through challenges.
✅ Set boundaries on screen time—technology is a tool, not a crutch.
✅ Model strength & patience—kids absorb what they see more than what they hear.
💭 What’s your parenting philosophy?
Drop your thoughts in the comments!
💡 Technology is evolving, but mental resilience is the real game-changer.
In a world where screens dominate, raising strong, independent, and emotionally tough children is more crucial than ever.
🚀 5 Powerful Lessons for Building Mental Toughness in Kids:
✅ Encourage a growth mindset—problems are opportunities, not roadblocks.
✅ Let them struggle (a little)—confidence comes from "I did it myself!"
✅ Teach problem-solving, not quick fixes—resilience is built through challenges.
✅ Set boundaries on screen time—technology is a tool, not a crutch.
✅ Model strength & patience—kids absorb what they see more than what they hear.
💭 What’s your parenting philosophy?
Drop your thoughts in the comments!
21 hours ago
💡 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐲 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐓𝐨𝐨𝐥, 𝐍𝐎𝐓 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐚𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭! 🔥
Yes, money brings financial security, reduces stress, and provides peace of mind—but is it the ultimate goal? 🤔
We are not machines—we desire wealth, but when we chase money blindly, we often realize: more money ≠ more happiness.
💡 Key Lessons on Money & Life:
💰 Money is a tool, not the destination—use it wisely.
💡 Too much comfort breeds complacency—growth comes from challenges.
❤️ True fulfillment comes from relationships, experiences, and purpose—not just wealth.
🚀 If money has no purpose, it leads to power struggles & greed.
🕊 At the end, we take nothing with us—so focus on living fully.
The real purpose of life? To LIVE before it's gone. 🌍✨
💬 What’s your take on this? Drop your thoughts below! 👇
Yes, money brings financial security, reduces stress, and provides peace of mind—but is it the ultimate goal? 🤔
We are not machines—we desire wealth, but when we chase money blindly, we often realize: more money ≠ more happiness.
💡 Key Lessons on Money & Life:
💰 Money is a tool, not the destination—use it wisely.
💡 Too much comfort breeds complacency—growth comes from challenges.
❤️ True fulfillment comes from relationships, experiences, and purpose—not just wealth.
🚀 If money has no purpose, it leads to power struggles & greed.
🕊 At the end, we take nothing with us—so focus on living fully.
The real purpose of life? To LIVE before it's gone. 🌍✨
💬 What’s your take on this? Drop your thoughts below! 👇
23 hours ago
Everyone has an opinion on many subjects
and is ready to share those opinions -
labeling them as "truth."
Sometimes it is relatively easy
to filter out these opinions.
Upon hearing an ad for the latest
weight-loss powder on late-night TV,
our skepticism leaps to our defense.
However, if we have heard the same opinion for years
from our parents, friends,
government officials, or religious leaders,
we are more likely to believe without questioning
than to raise our filter of skepticism
and ask the hard questions.
- Jonathan Lockwood Huie
and is ready to share those opinions -
labeling them as "truth."
Sometimes it is relatively easy
to filter out these opinions.
Upon hearing an ad for the latest
weight-loss powder on late-night TV,
our skepticism leaps to our defense.
However, if we have heard the same opinion for years
from our parents, friends,
government officials, or religious leaders,
we are more likely to believe without questioning
than to raise our filter of skepticism
and ask the hard questions.
- Jonathan Lockwood Huie
23 hours ago
May God grant you always...
A sunbeam to warm you,
a moonbeam to charm you,
a sheltering Angel so nothing can harm you.
Laughter to you.
Faithful friends near you.
And whenever you pray,
Heaven to hear you.
- Irish Blessing
A sunbeam to warm you,
a moonbeam to charm you,
a sheltering Angel so nothing can harm you.
Laughter to you.
Faithful friends near you.
And whenever you pray,
Heaven to hear you.
- Irish Blessing
