Foreign Entanglements

Russia ties, secret dealings with dictators, and putting foreign interests over American ones.

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Only Clowns Are Orange

Is Lifetouch photo in NC schools associated with Epstein files | Raleigh News & Observer

Several North Carolina parents and school districts are raising concerns about Lifetouch due to alleged connections to Jeffrey Epstein, although the company denies any links and states it has not shared student images with third parties. The controversy stems from social media posts and petitions suggesting a connection through former Apollo Global Management CEO Leon Black, who is associated with Epstein and was involved in acquiring Lifetouch’s parent company. Some districts have canceled or paused contracts with Lifetouch, but North Carolina school districts maintain that photography services are decided at the school level, and no definitive contract removals have been publicly confirmed.

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Trump tariff court ruling does little to end uncertainty for global business - The Guardian

Trump tariff court ruling does little to end uncertainty for global business - The Guardian

The US Supreme Court ruled that Donald Trump’s tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) are illegal, but did not address other trade policy tools, leaving uncertainty for international businesses. The ruling was met with mixed reactions, with US business groups welcoming increased legal clarity and European, Canadian, and Indian officials calling for stability while noting potential future trade disruptions. The White House indicated it would replace the tariffs through other means, and international stakeholders continue to monitor US trade policy developments.

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Alex Pretti Murder Shows What Happens When We Fail to Push Back

Alex Pretti Murder Shows What Happens When We Fail to Push Back

The article highlights the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by federal immigration agents in the Inland Empire, emphasizing that such violence is part of a broader pattern of aggressive tactics used by agencies like ICE under the Trump administration. It calls for community action to push back against these practices, advocating for defunding ICE and reimagining immigration enforcement to prevent further human rights violations. The author stresses the importance of standing against state violence and systemic abuse to protect social and human rights.

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World reacts as US top court limits Trump's tariff powers - Al Jazeera

World reacts as US top court limits Trump's tariff powers - Al Jazeera

The US Supreme Court's decision limiting President Trump's tariff powers has elicited mixed international responses, with some countries reviewing trade agreements and assessing economic impacts. Notable reactions include South Korea's cautious review of its trade deal with the US, India awaiting the court’s final ruling before proceeding with negotiations, and China expecting a reduction in tariffs that could ease economic strain. European countries such as France and Germany expressed intentions to protect trade interests, while Mexico and Canada highlighted ongoing challenges despite the ruling. The court’s decision is regarded as a significant legal affirmation of constitutional limits on presidential trade authority.

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Tale of two nations: Andrew's UK arrest highlights US passivity on Epstein files

Tale of two nations: Andrew's UK arrest highlights US passivity on Epstein files

The article contrasts the handling of Jeffrey Epstein’s scandal in the UK and the US, highlighting Britain’s recent arrest of Prince Andrew as a significant legal action, while in the US, few individuals aside from Ghislaine Maxwell have faced prosecution. Despite the release of Epstein files revealing connections to prominent Americans, the US Department of Justice has taken limited legal action, leading critics to accuse the US of complacency and cover-up, especially regarding high-profile figures like Donald Trump. The piece underscores a perceived disparity in accountability, with Britain pursuing more accountability and the US maintaining a pattern of minimal consequences for its so-called "Epstein class."

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Trump has given Iran a ten-day ultimatum – but chances of an agreement look slim

Trump has given Iran a ten-day ultimatum – but chances of an agreement look slim

U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a ten- to fifteen-day deadline to Iran to negotiate a "meaningful" deal, amid increased U.S. military presence in the Middle East and ongoing indirect talks with Iran that have made some progress. Despite some diplomatic advances, differences remain mainly over Iran’s nuclear program, missile development, and support for regional groups, with many analysts doubt a deal will be reached. Concurrently, Iran has conducted military drills and expressed willingness to target any hostile forces, signaling heightened tensions. Widespread protests and unrest within Iran and abroad reflect ongoing opposition to the regime, adding to the volatile situation.

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Supreme Court Trump tariffs ruling: Refunds could top $175 billion - CNBC

Supreme Court Trump tariffs ruling: Refunds could top $175 billion - CNBC

The U.S. government could owe more than $175 billion in refunds to importers after the Supreme Court ruled that tariffs imposed unilaterally by President Trump are illegal. The decision primarily affects tariffs collected since Trump invoked the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, with potential refunds estimated at around $175 billion, according to the Penn Wharton Budget Model. Justice Brett Kavanaugh warned that the refund process could be complex and disruptive, highlighting logistical challenges and uncertainties for trade agreements. The total tariffs subject to refunds are estimated to comprise roughly 60% of all tariffs issued during Trump’s administration.

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