11:30 pm MST
Female Officer Blows Whistle as Fellow Cop Pleads Guilty to Raping Her—Faces No Charges
[image: female police]When a female police officer confronted her colleague about strangling and raping her, he admitted to the attack and bragged about the bursts of anger that gave him the nickname "The Hulk."
Gov’t Tried to Crack Down on Tide Pods For “Looking Like Candy” After Senator Wanted to Eat One
[image: tide]Government blamed Tide for people eating their pods because Chuck Schumer said they look delicious and he wanted to eat one.
Racist Police Chief Caught Teaching Police Candidates to ‘Kill Black People’
[image: prospect]An assistant police chief who was being investigated for ties to pedophilia, resigned after private Facebook messages were made public that outed him as a racist.
WATCH: Cops Tase, Assault Handicapped Vet—Then Arrest Him For Half a Gram of Cannabis
[image: handicapped]When police arrived to address a handicapped veteran who was accused of panhandling, they refused to let him retrieve his cane, and instead Tased him, pulled him from his car, and left him lying on the ground.
Dozens of New Crime Scene Photos Released from Vegas Shooting Add More Questions
[image: vegas]Dozens of new photos were just released from the Vegas shooting investigation which provide a chilling look inside the room and vehicle of Stephen Paddock.
BWorld 181, Effects of Supreme Court TRO on RCOA
* This is my column in BusinessWorld last January 18. *“The real bosses, in the capitalist system of market economy, are the consumers… The entrepreneur profits to the extent he has succeeded in serving the consumers better than other people have done.”* — Ludwig von Mises, Bureaucracy Geographical monopolies in electricity distribution are among the last remaining state-created monopolies in the country via congressional franchises because electricity distribution is considered a “public utility.” As a result, factories, hotels, malls, or hospitals have no choice but to source t... more »
World News Briefs -- January 21, 2018
*BBC:* *Turkish ground troops enter Afrin enclave* Turkish ground troops have crossed into northern Syria as part of Ankara's campaign to rid the border area of Kurdish fighters, Turkey's PM says. Binali Yildirim said the aim was to establish a 30km (19-mile) "safe zone" deep inside Syria, Turkish reports say. But the Kurdish YPG militia says it has repelled Turkish troops in Afrin. Turkey's operation, announced Saturday, risks increasing tensions with the US, which was supporting the YPG in the fight against Islamic State jihadists. The YPG (Syrian Kurdish People's Protection Un... more »
Clearing The Congressional Field... In California
*America needs REAL Dems to push us forward, not more corrupt New Dems* One of the ways the Democratic establishment-- usually led by the DCCC-- advantages its corrupt conservative candidates is by clearing the field. A week or so ago we looked at how one of the big players in this game-- the execrable corporate whore Steny Hoyer-- is trying to do it for Jason Crow in Colorado. It's interesting that this year, when you look at the list of garbage candidates the DCCC is pushing-- mostly New Dems and Blue Dogs from the Republican wing of the Democratic Party, there's no one from Calif... more »
Sunday Morning Links
This and that for your Sunday reading. - Jesse Winter is the latest reporter to tell the stories of a few minimum-wage workers who will see a raise as a result of improved employment standards. And Erika Shaker points out that a substantial minimum-wage increase is a long-overdue response to outdated statutory standards and stagnant wage levels, not a meaningful imposition on employers: (W)hat’s truly surprising is that so many businesses *didn’t seem to see it coming*, even after a two-year $15 minimum wage campaign in Ontario. After all, increases have been studied, debated and i... more »
President Trump personally jumps into Pro-Life causes [VIDEO]
For the first time ever, the President of the United States takes a public stand against abortion in a completely direct and unambiguous way More The post President Trump personally jumps into Pro-Life causes [VIDEO] appeared first on The Duran.
James Naughtie gives us his impartial view again (sic)
A typical Trump supporter I had to grin near to the start of Jim Naughtie's Trump-focused documentary on Radio 4 this afternoon, *Is Trump Remaking America?. * Very alert regulars may remember this *ITBB* post from November 2016 (though I'll forgive you if you don't): Well, can you guess what sort of 'typical' Trump supporters Jim began with today? Oh yes, once again it was rootin tootin countryfolk attending "a gun and knife show" with guns of every type, plus barbed-wire-covered baseball bats and samurai swords. At least the BBC is consistent! And then it was onto Uncle Jim's... more »
U.S. Militarization of African Continent
Maurice Carney (Friends of the Congo) speaking at the No Base conference organized by the Coalition Against U.S. Foreign Military Bases last weekend in Baltimore. He was one of my favorite speakers - I'd previously seen his talks and I always learn so much from him. The US military expansion on the African continent is massive and will continue to grow. Public knowledge about this needs to also increase quickly. Bruce
YES, THERE IS A DEEP STATE THWARTING TRUMP'S WILL, BUT IT'S MADE UP OF REPUBLICANS
I think President Trump is a racist and an instinctual immigration hardliner -- but I also think he's sincere about wanting a DACA deal. I don't think he grasps the fact that those positions are contrary, because he rarely thinks hard about his political positions. He seems to be more flexible on immigration than his frequently racist, hardline rhetoric suggests -- or he would be if hardliners didn't intervene to prevent him from compromising. Here's a story from *The Washington Post* about what happened after the televised portion of that meeting with members of Congress a couple ... more »
Military And Intelligence News Briefs -- January 21, 2018
The Pentagon, Arlington, Virginia, Sept. 11, 2017. REUTERS/Joshua Roberts *Jack Detch, Al-Monitor:* *Pentagon says confronting Iran now tops terrorism concerns* US Defense Secretary James Mattis today outlined a new vision for the Pentagon that seeks to counter Iran and other nations that the United States accuses of pursuing a world order aligned with authoritarian values. The new National Defense Strategy envisions America’s military focusing on combating authoritarian ideals rather than the protracted global war on terror. The announcement comes as the Donald Trump administratio... more »
Large Turkish military convoy reaches Syrian border to aid Afrin offensive
BEIRUT, LEBANON (5:50 P.M.) – Another large Turkish military convoy has reached the Syrian border, as their Afrin operations get underway in northern Aleppo. According to pro-opposition activists, the Turkish military convoy consisted of tens of armored vehicles and tanks, along with a large number of army personnel. The Turkish convoy will likely join the […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Iran to conduct war games near southern coast
BEIRUT, LEBANON (5:30 P.M.) – The Iranian Army will conduct military drills in the southern part of the country on Monday, Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayyari told reporters today. According to Sayyari, the military exercises are code-named “Mohammad Rasoulallah” (“Mohammad is the messenger of God”) and will be concentrated on the Sea of Oman coastline in […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Syrian Army scores major advance in east Damascus
BEIRUT, LEBANON (5:20 P.M.) – The Syrian Arab Army (SAA) resumed their large-scale offensive in eastern Damascus, today, targeting the Islamist-held areas of the Harasta and ‘Arbeen suburbs. Led by their elite 42nd Brigade of the 4th Division, the Syrian Arab Army seized a number of buildings around the bus station, pushing their way further […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Iran calls on Turkey to halt Afrin operation
BEIRUT, LEBANON (4:50 P.M.) – The Spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Bahram Qasemi, called on Turkey to halt its invasion of Afrin, adding that Ankara should respect Syria’s territorial integrity. “Iran is following the recent developments in Afrin, northern Syria with concern,” Qasemi stated. “Continuation of crisis will result […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Breaking: Turkish city of Reyhanli hit by rocket fire from Afrin: 1 killed, 32 wounded
The Turkish city of Reyhanli was reportedly hit by a rocket fire from the territory of Syrian Afrin on Sunday, killing one and injuring 32 people. The city of Reyhanli in the Hatay province in southern Turkey was hit by rocket fire from the territory of Syrian Afrin on Sunday, where the Turkish army is […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Syrian Army busts large weapons delivery destined for East Ghouta (photos)
BEIRUT, LEBANON (4:10 P.M.) – The Syrian military busted a large weapons delivery to the besieged East Ghouta region on Sunday, seizing all of the contents that were destined for the rebel fronts. According to a report from Damascus Now, the the Syrian military spotted the truck traveling in southern Damascus before ambushing the vehicle […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Breaking: Syrian Army wins back 2 towns in southeast Idlib lost last week to rebel counter-offensive
BEIRUT, LEBANON (4:05 P.M.) – The Syrian Arab Army has won back two towns in the southeastern countryside of Idlib province that were lost to a jihadist-led counter-offensive last week. Moments ago, military-affiliated sources reported that the towns of Surouj and Istablat (located west of Umm Mayal near the Abu Duhur airbase) were retaken by […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Jordan’s king: East Jerusalem must be capital of Palestine
Jordanian King Abdullah II has stated that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict can be only solved by a two-state decision, the Reuters news agency reported. According to the agency, King Abdullah has held talks with US Vice President Mike Pence in the capital city of Amman, reteirating the Jordanian position on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict by saying that […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Turkish forces claim two more towns captured in northern Aleppo
BEIRUT, LEBANON (3:10 P.M.) – The Turkish-backed rebels have claimed two more towns in the northern countryside of Aleppo, today, as they intensify their operations against the Kurdish-led People’s Protection Units (YPG). Led by the Euphrates Shield, the Turkish-backed forces managed to capture the towns of Adamanli and Hayughlu after a fierce battle with the […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
VIDEO: Abu Duhur airbase officially announced as captured by Syrian Army – Syrian MoD
BEIRUT, LEBANON (3:15 P.M.) – In a two-minute television broadcast, the Syrian Ministry of Defense has announced that forces of the Syrian Arab Army have secured the Abu Duhur military airport. The statement comes amid ongoing objections from rebel and opposition sources that the military site is still contested between pro-government forces and militant groups. […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Breaking: Syrian President slams Turkey’s operation in Afrin
BEIRUT, LEBANON (3:00 P.M.) – Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad met with the President of Iran’s Council for Foreign Relations Kamal Kharazi in Damascus today. During the meeting, the Assad and Kharazi discussed a number of topics in the region, including the ongoing Turkish offensive in the Afrin Canton of northwest Aleppo. The Syrian President slammed […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Breaking: 3 towns fall to the Syrian Army in south Aleppo as regional offensive rolls on forward
BEIRUT, LEBANON (2:57 P.M.) – Three towns and villages in Aleppo province’s southern countryside have been cleared of militant groups following a sweeping operation by Syrian pro-government forces east of the Abu Duhur military airport that commenced on Sunday morning. Military-affiliated sources report that the settlements of Rasm al-Harmal, Duwayr al-Hawtah and Khirbat al-Fajr have […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Turkish-backed rebels capture 3 SDF fighters in northern Aleppo
BEIRUT, LEBANON (2:50 P.M.) – The Turkish-backed rebels of Faylaq Al-Sham captured three fighters from the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces in northern Aleppo today. According to pro-opposition media, Faylaq Al-Sham captured the SDF fighters while they were attacking the town of Rajou this afternoon. No further details have been released. The Turkish-backed rebels are now […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Erdogan warns Turks about protesting the Turkish military operation in Afrin
BEIRUT, LEBANON (2:30 P.M.) – Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan issued a stern warning on Sunday to people wanting to protest the Turkish Army’s military operation in the Afrin Canton of northwest Aleppo. “Know that wherever you go out on the streets our security forces are on your necks,” Erdogan said, referring to members of […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Breaking: Elite Syrian troops rip 2 towns from the grasp of rebels after striking north of Abu Duhur airbase
BEIRUT, LEBANON (2:35 P.M.) – Elite troops of the Syrian Arab Army have gained control of two towns north of the recently captured Abu Duhur military airport in eastern Idlib province amid a renewed wave of assaults from multiple axes across the region. According to military-affiliated sources, assault units of the Syrian Army’s elite Tiger […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Breaking: Syrian Army blasts ISIS out of 2 towns in northeast Hama as renewed offensive heats up
BEIRUT, LEBANON (2:17 P.M.) – The Syrian Arab Army and allied paramilitary groups have ejected Islamic State militants from two towns in the northeastern countryside of Hama province amid what appear to be a renewed assault aimed at destroying the terrorist group’s presence throughout the region. Moments ago, military-affiliated sources reported that Syrian pro-government forces […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Kurdish forces vow to fight any group that betrays them
BEIRUT, LEBANON (2:10 P.M.) – The press office of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) issued a stern warning on Sunday to any group that betrays them by defecting to Turkey. “Anyone who breaks this trust must be held accountable and Our forces will fight Jaysh al-Thuwar who joined to #Afrinoperation against us,” the SDF press […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Turkish jets strike main US supply airport to Kurdish forces in northern Aleppo
BEIRUT, LEBANON (1:40 P.M.) – The Turkish Air Force bombed the Mennagh Military Airport for the second day in a row, targeting the base’s hangars and storage depots. According to YPG activists, the Turkish Air Force has repeatedly bombed this military installation located east of the Afrin Canton in a bid to leave it unusable […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
WHO must go back to basics
I am reposting this good article by a friend, Philip Stevens, published in BusinessWorld last Thursday, January 18. ------- *To maintain relevance, WHO must go back to basics* AS one of 34 executive board members of the World Health Organization (WHO) meeting in Geneva next week, the Philippines shares a pivotal role in setting the global health agenda for the next year. The WHO’s work has never been more important to address serious and evolving international health threats. It is only a matter of time before there is another global influenza pandemic to match the devastating out... more »
Russia Tests New "Unmanned Ground Combat Vehicle" in Near Combat Conditions
*Dave Majumdar* *Security, * Should NATO be worried? Russia’s Kalashnikov Group has tested a new unmanned ground combat vehicle called the Soratnik under “near” combat conditions. The Russian development points toward a future where armies will increasingly field unmanned systems during future conflicts. "The Soratnik automated fighting vehicle has been tested in conditions maximally close to a real combat environment. These trials confirmed the vehicle’s characteristics and proved the possibility of using the robotic system at air temperatures of over 30 degrees Celsius," Kala... more »
Get Ready, Russia: 34 More F-35s Could Be Headed to Europe
*Dave Majumdar* *Security, * If the sale goes through, the deal would be worth some $6.53 billion. The U.S. State Department has notified the U.S. Congress that it has approved the possible sale of some 34 Lockheed Martin F-35 Joint Strike Fighters to Belgium. If the sale goes through, the deal would be worth some $6.53 billion. “The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to Belgium of thirty-four (34) F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Conventional Take Off and Landing aircraft for an estimated cost of $6.53 billion,” the State Department sa... more »
North Korea Almost Started a Nuclear War When It Captured a U.S. Spy Ship
*Sebastien Roblin* *Security, * The story of the USS Pueblo. *Many of the Pueblo’s crew went on to suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder and lifelong physical injuries. Over time, however, the crewmembers put up their own website testifying to their experiences, successfully lobbied for status as prisoners of war after it was initially denied to them, and sued North Korea in U.S. court for their treatment. As for the Pueblo itself, technically the second oldest ship still commissioned in the U.S. Navy, it remains in North Korean custody to this day. It is currently moored ... more »
Untitled
From Jenna Orkin From Senator Tom Cotton to Constituents Who Disagreed with him post. Military Deployed As Jamaica Officials Declare State Of Emergency Pay for Some New York Private School Chiefs Nears $1 Million Alarming Rise In The Number Of Gun-Store Burgalaries Across America Venezuelan Rebel Cop Oscar Perez Massacred By The Government After He Surrendered NSA "Sincerely Regrets" Deleting All Bush-Era Surveillance Data It Was Ordered To Preserve Facebook is asking users to pick which news outlets are 'trustworthy' — and will demote the losers in your feed A mom in Florida ... more »
2 U.S. Army Apache Helicopter Pilots Killed In Crash As US Military Records 1st Fatalities Of 2018
US Army photo of AH-64 helicopter © Staff Sgt. Jeremy Ganz 4th Infantry Division / Facebook *FOX News*: *Military chopper crash in Calif. leaves 2 dead* A U.S. Army Apache attack helicopter crashed in the predawn hours early Saturday while flying a routine training mission at the National Training Center at Fort Irwin in California. Both the pilot and the co-pilot were killed, according to Lt. Col. Jason S. Brown, a spokesman for the Army at the Pentagon. “The cause is currently under investigation and next-of-kin notifications are ongoing, therefore we can provide no further det... more »
Star Citizen - interview questions - 3D prototype demos
*modular 600i for me, please* I've been thinking (more and more) that I'd like to go to USA (Austin or L.A. office) and work with the CIG (Cloud Imperium Games) on their still-in-pre-alpha game Star Citizen. And I've thought a lot of how I might approach them, what cunning sort of letter I'd write to entice them, as currently there are no vacancies at the company that might cover the senior level role I'd entertain. Ideally, the interview questions wouldn't focus on my fourteen years of games industry experience on innovative titles (Medievil_PS1, GhostMaster_PC, StarWarsBattleFr... more »
Tales From the Coral Reefs
In our age, coral reefs are the canary in the coal mine. Tim Radford writes: Forty years ago, the world’s coral reefs faced a known risk: every 25 or 30 years, ocean temperatures would rise to intolerable levels. Corals would minimise the risk of death by everting the algae with which they lived in symbiotic partnership: that is, the reef animals would avoid death by getting rid of the algae, deliberately weakening themselves. This response is known as bleaching, and it can have a catastrophic effect on other life on the reef. In the Pacific such episodes were sometimes linked to... more »
Last night SNL spent much of the show mocking the Trump presidency.
You know that absolutely NOBODY takes you seriously when even your doctor gets ridiculed on late night TV shows. During my favorite part of he show, Weekend Update, the mocking continued. Is there ANYBODY that Kate McKinnon cannot play on television? This was almost as good as her Jeff Sessions. Next up, Stormy Daniels. Yep, we all "got a Stormy" alright. Lucky us. Trump recently made the comment that he will win reelection because cable news shows, and reporters, will not want to see him leave office, because they make money writing about him. That of course is bullshit. Howev... more »
China's Third Aircraft Carrier Will Be A Massive Leap Forward
*Popular Mechanics:* *China's Next Aircraft Carrier Will Be a Massive Leap Forward* Beijing’s third flattop will be unlike its other ships. China’s third aircraft carrier is under construction and will likely see several technological improvements over the country's first two. The ship, known for now only as 002, has been under construction since 2015. The new carrier will likely be larger than her predecessors and sport an electromagnetic launch system for aircraft, allowing for larger, heavier aircraft to conduct longer distance flights with more weaponry. China commissioned i... more »
Bored of the snow – critical angle of snow
I was supposed to be going to visit in laws today, but looking at the weather we had to call off the visit again – and it’s not like we live somewhere remote – the journey is largely on motorways … Continue reading →
MacArthur Money and Ravitch Magic
Diane Ravitch has gone the extra mile to promote the MacArthur Foundation's leadership role in the next phase of corporate education rephorm. Earlier this year Diane served as a judge in the Foundation's $100 million giveaway to be rewarded to the most efficient social control education initiatives with the biggest economic benefit for the dystopian Silicon Valley social and economic engineers. Impressed by the amount of money involved in the MacArthur Foundation's generosity for its own social and economic agenda, Diane gushed that "this is what real philanthropy looks like." A ... more »
PEOPLE: Second boy dies after flu shot, tests negative for flu
A mother from Michigan is warning parents about influenza after her sixth-grader, who received the flu vaccination, suddenly showed symptoms a few weeks later and tragically died within days. After 12-year-old Michael Messenger vomited while eating dinner with his family on Jan. 9, his mother, Jessica Decent-Doll, took him to an urgent care center near their home
Famous holistic doctor receives very graphic death threat, authorities seem uninterested, we share a stage next week
I’ve been fortunate enough to meet Suzanne Humphries, MD several times and interview her. We’ve also shared a stage at Cal Jam in prior years and will share one again this year (next week). Watch below as Dr. Humphries reads a graphic death threat that was sent to her via email. The person who wrote
Breaking: Tom Petty died of accidental overdose of prescribed drugs
Tom Petty, age 66, died of an accidental overdose of strictly legal drugs according to mainstream and the family’s official statement. The medical examiner’s news release said the autopsy found these drugs in Petty’s system: fentanyl, oxycodone, acetyl fentanyl and despropionyl fentanyl, which are opioids; temazepam and alprazolam, which are sedatives; and citalopram, an anti-depressant.
The Organic Trade Association is suing the USDA on behalf of chicken welfare
According to the USDA, in order to receive official organic certification, egg-laying hens are supposed to have “year-round access to the outdoors including sunlight, shade and exercise areas.” However, apparently, some of the larger organic companies have chosen to interpret those rules quite loosely and have thus housed their chickens packed tightly together on screened-in porches. Make no mistake,
How the FDA manipulates the media
If you’ve ever wondered about whether or not the FDA manipulates the media, they do. Read on. Nothing should surprise us anymore. RELATED STORY: NBC: FDA to crack down on ‘snake oil’ homeopathy Our press corps is continually manipulated thanks to something that’s been around for decades: the embargo. An embargo is a “back-room deal
The homeopathic answer to Mumps
Written By: Larry Malerba, DO It is becoming increasingly clear that the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is failing to live up to its alleged preventative benefits. We’ve already seen small outbreaks of measles in the U.S. and now mumps appears to be making a comeback. And even though homeopathy is an effective alternative treatment for mumps, mainstream
Burn fat for fuel
By Dr. Mercola The notion that your body needs to regularly consume glucose for energy has become a deeply ingrained myth. As a result of this misguided advice, obesity, diabetes, heart disease and cancer prevalence have all spiked, burgeoning into national if not global epidemics. The truth is, most long-term low-fat, high-carb diets prevent healthy
Who’s right in the salt debate?
Written By Michael Greger M.D. FACLM For decades, a sometimes furious battle has raged among scientists over the extent to which elevated salt consumption contributes to death, with one camp calling it a “public health hazard that requires vigorous attack” and another claiming the risks of dietary salt excess are exaggerated, even to the point of calling sodium reduction “the largest delusion in
Three different cannabinoid-based medicines approved by the FDA
Although the FDA wants everyone to know that marijuana doesn’t cure cancer and has warned four companies they say are making these claims, to stop, the FDA is, at the same time, aware that “cannabis and cannabis-derived products are being used for a number of medical conditions” (AIDS wasting syndrome, epilepsy, Parkinson’s, neuropathic pain, treatment
Get proper sleep nightly
By Dr. Mercola Lack of sleep has been scientifically linked to a wide array of health problems and is so common, it’s been identified as a public health epidemic by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A review of hundreds of sleep studies concluded that, as a general rule, most adults need somewhere
Vladimir Putin’s ice bath ritual perplexes American journalists
Vladimir Putin took part in the freezing ritual to mark the Orthodox Christian ritual of the feast of the Epiphany More The post Vladimir Putin’s ice bath ritual perplexes American journalists appeared first on The Duran.
The U.S. Prepares For War Against North Korea
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, center. KCNA via Reuters *Business Insider:* *The US appears to be quietly preparing for nuclear war with North Korea* * Despite the appearance of thawing tensions with North Korea, both Washington and Pyongyang have made several steps that suggest things could escalate soon. * The US has quietly moved heavy firepower, like nuclear bombers and aircraft carriers, to the region. * On the sidelines of important diplomatic meetings, talk of military action has been ever present, if not front and center. While much of the world has celebrated the progre... more »
Wanna Conquer Some Territory? This New Study Can Show You How to Do It.
*Zachary Keck* *Security, * China and Russia...don't...click...on...this. A new study on how states have conquered new land over the last century has important implications for global politics from Asia to Europe. The new study was published by Daniel Altman in the the December 2017 issue of *International Studies Quarterly*, an academic journal. Using a new data source of all “land grabs” since 1918, Altman finds that states have overwhelming used fait accompli rather than coercion to conquer new land. “From 1918 to 2016, 112 land grabs seized territory by fait accompli, with ... more »
Why Did America Bomb France in World War II?
*Warfare History Network* *History, Europe* The frequent bombing of the beautiful medieval city caused widespread death and destruction and resentment to the Allies. By any standard, the ancient city of Rouen, in Upper Normandy, is a historical treasure. Within its magnificent High Gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral (which was portrayed in a famous series of paintings by the Impressionist Claude Monet as well as by his contemporary Camille Pissarro) is a tomb containing the heart of Richard the Lionheart (1157-1199) who had been King of England and the Duke of Normandy. A few streets aw... more »
Is the U.S. Army Getting Ready to Bring Back the 'Linebacker?'
*Sebastien Roblin* *Security, Europe* A new threat means an old weapon might need to make a comeback. Recent conflicts in Armenia, Iraq, Syria and Ukraine have demonstrated the widespread adoption of drones by state actors—as well as rebel and terrorist groups—for reconnaissance purposes and as improvised attack platforms carrying grenades or explosive charges. Most recently, Russian air-defense vehicles and electronic-warfare assets in Syria reportedly defeated a simultaneous rebel attack by thirteen kamikaze drones. To counter such threats, ground forces needed fast-reacting Sh... more »
Kurds Rejected Russian Protection In Exchange for Syrian Territorial Return
*Of course the US backed Kurds in Afrin rejected the Russian offer!* *Since they and their backers have other objectives.* *First an observation: * *When news of Operation Olive Branch first broke the news coverage on main stream and many alternatives sites was absent! Today, I notice more msm coverage of the ongoing situation- A nearly two day delay. I suspect we'll get some heavy spin this coming week via the media- bad Turkey, bad Russia, bad Iran- Especially bad Turkey.* *Link* *Officials from Syrian Kurdish administration said Russia offered Kurds protection if they hand over ... more »
Here Are Four Easy Ways To #ReleaseTheMemo
*Glen Greenwald and Jon Schwarz, The Intercept: **Republicans Have Four Easy Ways to #ReleaseTheMemo — and the Evidence for It. Not Doing So Will Prove Them to Be Shameless Frauds.* One of the gravest and most damaging abuses of state power is to misuse surveillance authorities for political purposes. For that reason, The Intercept, from its inception, has focused extensively on these issues. We therefore regard as inherently serious strident warnings from public officials alleging that the FBI and Department of Justice have abused their spying power for political purposes. Social ... more »
Judge Jeanine on the FISA Memo but why do I not think the memo will be released
https://youtu.be/VuED9Bb-voI The general public aren't going to be allowed to read this memo, not a chance. The deep state have too much to lose. Meanwhile does anyone else think that the budget impasse is maybe being pushed to keep the FISA Memo story off the news agenda?
Why The Turkish Offensive Against The Kurds In Northwestern Syria Matters
*Joseph Trevithick, Warzone/The Drive*: *Turkey Launched An Offensive Against Kurds in Northwestern Syria, Here's Why It Matters* With ISIS on the run and so many competing agendas at play, the fighting near the city of Afrin could have broader ramifications. Turkey says it has effectively kicked off an offensive to destroy Kurdish forces in and around the far northwestern Syrian city of Afrin with an artillery bombardment, after deciding against air strikes in the face of Syrian threats. It is the latest indication that the conflict in the country is evolving rapidly as the threa... more »
The Women's March Is Crucially Important, And... And But...
I don't go in for identity politics at all. Voting for someone because they were born a woman, gay, of any particular religion, Asian or black, for example, is not my cup pf tea. Nor is voting for someone who is a veteran, a scientist, a doctor or part of any age group. Take women. Women make up 51% of the population but just 22% of the Senate and 19% of the House. That's outrageous. And that's why when when two candidates-- one man and one woman-- are equally good, I'll vote for the woman. But, not all women candidates are good candidates or good political leaders. Some are absol... more »
Twitter to suspend 1,062 accounts linked to Russian troll farm.
Courtesy of The Hill: *Twitter said Friday that it has suspended 1,062 new accounts it has found to be linked to the Internet Research Agency, a Russian "troll farm" which disseminated content intended to interfere in the U.S. political process. * *In total, the company has found 3,814 Internet Research Agency-linked accounts, which posted 175,993 tweets during the 2016 presidential campaign. * *Twitter said it also found 13,512 new Kremlin-linked bot accounts, bringing the total number of bots it has found in connection to Russia's election influence efforts to 50,258. * *The c... more »
Untitled
*Outrage as 200 schools in Germany 'punish' children with ADHD by asking them to wear 13lb sand-filled vests to weigh them down in their seats* *Hyperactive children were once seen simply as "naughty" and flogged for it. This seems a better alternative* Schools in Germany are asking naughty and hyperactive children to wear heavy sand-filled vests to calm them down and keep them in their seats. The controversial sand vests, weighing between 2.7 and 13lb, are used by 200 schools in the country - despite reservations of some parents and psychiatrists. Supporters of the vests, which... more »
#ReleaseTheMemo Trends on Twitter as Public and Politicians Demand Transparency on FISA Memo but the BBC aren't interested
The BBC are normally really quick to report what's trending on Twitter, so long as what's trending is in accordance with their world views. So the news that '#ReleaseTheMemo was a trending Twitter topic on Thursday evening as public concern over alleged Obama-era abuse of government surveillance power mounted. The hashtag quickly accumulated over 300,000 tweets, trending worldwide and in the United States. Users took to social media to demand the release of a four-page memo currently circulating in Congress, allegedly revealing government surveillance abuses under the Foreign I... more »
Sunday morning music - government shutdown edition
I'm sure you won't be surprised to learn that some musicians have used government shutdowns as inspiration for their compositions. Here's one example. Since many US government workers are furloughed during a shutdown, here's one for them. There are more government shutdown songs on YouTube, if you look for them - not always very good, but sometimes funny. Oh - in case anyone thinks I'm not taking this catastrophic event seriously, I'll let the Diplomad speak for me. I must first remark that this, the first day of the #SchumerShutdown, dawned cold and bleak; the sun strug... more »
Global warming slow down statistically significant
A transparent analysis for everyone to consider. “The standard statistical test that I will be using to compare the warming rate to the average warming rate, will be the t-test. The warming rate for every possible 10 year interval, in … Continue reading →
Untitled
*Germany Becomes the New Poster Child for Climate Change Hypocrisy* Climate hypocrisy is nothing new. Celebrities cruise around the world in their private jets, eating filet mignon while telling you to pack a salad and bike to work to reduce your carbon footprint. So, color me not at all surprised that Germany, a vocal critic of the U.S.’ decision to exit the Paris climate accord, is preparing to abandon its 2020 climate targets. Strong economic growth is a critical reason why Germany is very likely to miss its target. Germany has an aggressive plan to cut its greenhouse gas emi... more »
So this happened yesterday.
Thousands pack the streets of New York for the second annual Women's March. (via ABC) pic.twitter.com/8D3fC7aa8r — Kyle Griffin (@kylegriffin1) January 20, 2018 We're not going anywhere. In 2018, we're bringing our #PowerToThePolls. GET READY.#WomensMarch2018https://t.co/yekbsBwxHj pic.twitter.com/joTcSU4Nuf — Women's March (@womensmarch) January 20, 2018 Women’s March rallies are taking place in hundreds of cities across the world, galvanized by the #MeToo moment. Here’s the latest. https://t.co/zDbRq8TpPr — The New York Times (@nytimes) January 20, 2018 My favorite signs of ... more »
The U.S. Air Force Still Wants To Cut The A-10 Program
An U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II flies over Southwest Asia in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, Oct. 29, 2015. US Air Force *Popular Mechanics:* *Air Force Will Lose More Than a Third of A-10s If the Planes Don't Get New Wings* *The service seems determined to send the A-10 Warthog to the boneyard.* More than a third of the U.S. Air Force’s fleet of A-10 Warthogs will end up permanently grounded if the service doesn’t find the money to buy them new wings, and the senior civilian in charge of the A-10 says that’s not going to happen. Such a decision would be another nail i... more »
Syrian Army presses forward in east Damascus amid heavy resistance from Islamist rebels
BEIRUT, LEBANON (1:20 P.M.) – The Syrian Arab Army (SAA) resumed their large-scale offensive in eastern Damascus on Sunday, striking several axes in the key suburb of Harasta and nearby ‘Arbeen. Led by their 4th Division and Republican Guard forces, the Syrian Arab Army stormed several areas in Harasta this morning, including the Al-Arab Neighborhood […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Nasrallah warns against Israeli border wall construction
DAMASCUS, SYRIA (01:25 PM) – Sayyid Hassan Nasrallah, General Secretary of Lebanese resistance movement Hezbollah has denounced Israeli plans to construct a border wall spanning the entirety of the border between the Israeli regime and Lebanon. “After liberating the Lebanese occupied territories from the Zionist enemy in 2000, the UN demarcation of the national border […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Turkish forces attempt to capture strategic district in Afrin
BEIRUT, LEBANON (1:15 P.M.) – The Turkish Army and their allies from the Euphrates Shield forces launched a big assault inside the Afrin Canton on Sunday morning, targeting the strategic Bulbul District that is under the control of the Kurdish-led People’s Protection Units (YPG). Backed by heavy artillery and airstrikes, the Turkish Army and their […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Saudi-backed forces pay heavy price in latest Al-Bayda offensive
BEIRUT, LEBANON (1:05 P.M.) – The Saudi-backed Hadi loyalists attempted to infiltrate the Houthi defenses in the Thi-Na’eem area of the Al-Bayda Governorate, Saturday, the Yemen-based Saba News Agency reported this morning. Speaking to a military official in Al-Bayda, Saba News reported that the Houthi forces killed scores of Saudi-backed fighters near the large hilltop […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
PM Abadi: Iraqi Kurdish oil exports should be under Baghdad contol
DAMASCUS, SYRIA (01:05 PM) – Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi has called on the country’s semi-autonomous Kurdistan region to place back all control over the regional oil exports under the central authority of Baghdad, as the area is after all part of Iraq. Abadi made the comment on Saturday, during a meeting with Kurdish Regional […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Turkey to create 30km security zone in Syria
Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim has confirmed the beginning of a ground operation in Syria’s Afrin, the NTV broadcaster said Sunday. “The operation in Afrin started at 11:05 local time [08:05 GMT],” Yildirim was quoted as saying by the broadcaster. Everyone, who tried to support Kurds in Afrin, would become targets of the Turkish Air […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
One of the largest US-backed rebel groups announces defection to Turkey
BEIRUT, LEBANON (12:50 P.M.) – One of the largest US-backed rebel factions has announced its official defection from the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to the Turkish-backed Euphrates Shield. Jaysh Al-Thuwar was considered one of the largest factions in the Syrian Democratic Forces before they announced their intention to break away from the group in favor […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Iraqi court sentences German woman to death for joining ISIS
An Iraqi court on Sunday death sentenced a German citizen of Arab descent for joining the Daesh terror group, the Reuters news agency reported, citing a spokesman for the criminal court in Baghdad. According to the report, the sentenced woman was caught during the battle against Daesh in the country’s city of Mosul last year. […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Graphic: Dozens of Saudi-led mercenaries killed after Houthi rebels obliterate entire military convoy in west Yemen
BEIRUT, LEBANON (12:40 P.M.) – Dozens of Saudi-backed mercenaries have met a gruesome end in western Yemen after Houthi rebels ambushed their convoy, destroying virtually all of it. Recently, Houthi fighters ambushed and destroyed a convoy of Saudi-backed irregular forces that were en-route to attack positions of the rebel group near the coastal town of […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Breaking: Turkish Army, rebels capture first town in northwest Afrin
BEIRUT, LEBANON (12:25 P.M.) – The Turkish Army, alongside the Euphrates Shield forces, seized their first town in the Afrin Canton after launching a powerful attack this morning. Backed by heavy airstrikes, the Turkish Army and their allies reportedly stormed the town of Shinjel, where they were confronted by a group of fighters from the […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Syrian Army punches its way into Abu Duhur city hitting militants with all available firepower
BEIRUT, LEBANON (11:50 A.M.) – The area inside and around the city of Abu Duhur is ablaze with gunfire, airstrikes and shelling as elite forces of the Syrian Arab Army fight their way into the strategic settlement. Despite achieving major gains on Saturday against Islamist militias in the eastern countryside of Idlib province including the […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Lefty hypocrisy
The left were up in arms about President Donald Trump sharing a Britain First video, albeit via a re-tweet of an Anne Coulter tweet. The BBC joined in the attacks on President Donald Trump by publicising the protests. Oddly I can't find the protests, or BBC coverage, when President Donald Trump posed with his wife and Dr Swee Ang who shared a video made by Ku Klux Klan Grand Wizard David Duke. Thus is most odd. Surely the left should be up in arms about this link between President Donald Trump and the racist Klu Klux Klan. Surely the BBC should be alerting the world to the dangers... more »
A Visit to the Mine
It was time for me to get off my rump and head off to the White Wolf Mine up on Arizona's Mogollon Rim (literally). Some people claim to be up on the rim and others are actually there. I was greeted by a dozen and one elk, hanging out, eating, and doing what elk do, now that mating season has passed. The weather has been perfect but I did encounter some snow flurries and a dash of rain, which has been the first precipitation of the year. It's been a dry winter. Arizona gun control laws are among the least-restrictive in the United States. Arizona law states that any person 21 ye... more »
Speaking Truth to Power.
By now most readers will have read that Sen. Jeff Flake ripped Trump a new one last Wednesday in a speech in the U.S. Senate and perhaps read some extracts from that speech in news reports. If you have not already done so I encourage you to read the entire speech, it is no less applicable to other democracy's (including our own) as it is to the now questionable 'democracy' to the south. To peak your further interest here a a few of my favorite quotes from that speech..... *“Without truth, and a principled fidelity to truth and to shared facts our democracy will not last.”* *“Desp... more »
Labour’s Hamas connection – Jeremy Corbyn
From 2015 in Politico https://www.politico.eu/article/labour-hamas-london-ira/ 'James Thring, a notorious 9/11 "truther" and associate of the former Ku Klux Klan grand wizard David Duke, was allowed to take the stage at a pro-Palestinian event hosted by Corbyn in Parliament.In his five-minute speech, Thring — who has referred to "Jewish elders" controlling the world's financial markets — stated that a Palestinian army should be created, armed and equipped. He also boasted of having close connections to the Chinese authorities, whom he was also lobbying to provide weapons to the P... more »
What would it it take for Labour’s moderates to revolt? Per Nick Cohen in Opinion in The Guardian
If you read only one article about the dangers posed by the Jeremy Corbyn led Labour Party, read this one by Nick Cohen in the Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2017/dec/09/what-would-it-take-for-labour-moderates-to-revolt Here's an extract: 'As democracy and liberty come under attack, from Poland to the US, the salient point to remember about Leninists who stayed with communism after the fall of the Soviet Union is that they switched from embracing one form of totalitarianism to embracing every form of totalitarianism. Their grim journey took them from the decrep... more »
Balance Is The Key - A Quotation from M.N. Hopkins
*To be truly human, one must be truly Divine. To be truly Divine, one must be truly human. Balance is the key.* *©** M.N. Hopkins*
Overheard
By Cathy Jameson There I was minding my own business while waiting to check out at the grocery store last week. Not wanting to engage with anyone or deal with anything besides what was on my To Do list, I...
Russian S-400 Missile Defense System Got Damaged By A Storm En Route To China
S-400 Russian Ministry of Defense *Business Insider/Reuters*:* A Russian S-400 missile defense system got damaged by a storm en route to China* * A storm has damaged parts of a Russian S-400 missile defense system as it was being shipped to China. * The damaged components will be transported back to Russia for evaluation before being delivered to China at a later date. MOSCOW (Reuters) - A storm has damaged parts of a Russian S-400 surface-to-air missile system while it was being shipped to China, RIA news agency said on Friday, quoting a Russian official. China became the first ... more »
Kant’s Apology for Writing "Dreams of a Spirit-Seer"
In Kant: A Biography, Manfred Kuhen points out that *Dreams of a Spirit-Seer* is the only book for which Immanuel Kant came close to apologizing. The Book was published anonymously, but Kant accepted responsibility for it. In his letter (Dated: April 6, 1766) to Moses Mendelssohn, Kant said that he was a philosophical author of steadfast character and he apologized for the ambiguous style of his book. Here’s an excerpt from Kant’s letter: The estrangement you express about the tone of my little work proves to me that you have formed a good opinion of the sincerity of my character, ... more »
The Russian Military Is Afraid Of The British Military (Seriously)
Royal Navy frigate HMS St Albans was yesterday tracking the Russian vessel Admiral Gorshkov as it made its way across the North Sea menacingly close to Britain *Mark Galeotti, The Guardian*: *Forget Britain’s nuclear deterrent – here’s what Russia is really afraid of * Russia is being weaponised to justify big-ticket buys for the UK military, yet there’s little talk of what Moscow thinks matters British defence spending and capabilities are in the middle of a bitter review in which the potential threat from Russia is frequently invoked, whether that means cutting ocean-bottom int... more »
Once more unto the breach, dear friends, once more...
The action began early today.... ******* *ErodedPebble88*: Allowing the Deputy Chairman on to review the Tory press... with a *** coincidental*** story about Momentum on the front page of the Times... and no Momentum spokesman on with a right to reply... #marr editor Burley shows CCHQ that he's still their main man at the BBC..... *Rob Burley*: Get a grip. John McDonnell is the main guest. *Brian Tomkinson*: Scraping the bottom of barrel with him as "main guest". Best to expect little of significance from this programme, that way never disappointed. *Hitesh Punja*: Yes and Andrew ... more »
Star Citizen - costume weapons ships - the spawning issue
*IT MAKES NO SENSE!!!* CIG wakes up groggily, as if from some terrible truth hangover, "What now Mike?" Costumes, weapons, ships... I mean, I covered this in my COMMERCIALISE HYPERSPACE post from exactly one year ago but nobody at either CIG or Backers or players of the game seem to want to truly address this basic *glitch in the matrix*. Where are they coming from? When you try on a suit in a shop. Cool, you have a 3D rendering of the costume via the Try On functionality. I get that it's only a game. But (after clicking the BUY) button, "Where does it go?" Same with weapons, st... more »
A Look At Pepsi's Long History With The Soviet Union
*Anne Ewbank, Atlas Obscura*:* When the Soviet Union Paid Pepsi in Warships* *The company had a long, strange relationship with the U.S.S.R. * On April 9, 1990, American newspapers reported on an unusual deal. Pepsi had come to a three billion dollar agreement with the Soviet Union. The Soviet Union had long traded Stolichnaya vodka in return for Pepsi concentrate. But this time, Pepsi got 10 Soviet ships. This wasn’t the first time that Pepsi sold soft drinks in return for a flotilla. The previous year, the company even received warships. This situation—a soft drink conglomerate ... more »
The Despair of Modernity – It Might Not Be All Bad
The belief in the solvability of all things is a foundation of the modern world. We are nurtured with an expectation of progress and solutions. When this turns out not to be the case, despair is a natural result. The post The Despair of Modernity – It Might Not Be All Bad appeared first on OrientalReview.org.
Life Can Be Tough In DC During A Government Shutdown
*Looks like the media may have to go to the emergency can goods and * *water from **the White House rain gutters.........hang in there guys. #SchumersShutdown*
US Defense Secretary Mattis Never Wants To Be Late For An Appointment
*Daily Caller:** Mattis Was Late For A Speech, His Solution Will Make All Service Members Cheer* Secretary of Defense James Mattis has a reputation of being a military man’s military man. During his service, Mattis was known for his strict adherence to the rules and chain of command. His devotion to the military code of conduct and way of life has served him well in earning the respect of the men serving under him. Mattis continues to show his devotion to his creed, visiting the troops often, speaking bluntly and even doing his own laundry at the Pentagon. On Friday, Mattis was ... more »
Midnight Meme Of TheDay!
*-by Noah* OK, let's talk about Stormy Daniels. For those of you who have been vacationing in Siberia or fishing for the rare Arapaima in the headwaters of the Amazon, Stormy is the porn star who slept with Señor Trumpanzee and got $130,000 for her troubles. Not only that, she slept with this sweaty, orange ball of slimy follicle-challenged ectoplasm for a year, a whole eff-ing year! Really, can you imagine 5 minutes? 2 minutes? 30 seconds? 5 seconds? The later is what it would be anyway, but, no matter what, $130,000 isn't enough. Talk about selling yourself cheap! $130 Billion ... more »
Picture confirmation: Huge ISIS car bomb attack kills many tens of US-backed fighters in east Syria
BEIRUT, LEBANON (9:35 A.M.) – Many tens of US-backed fighters have been killed in east Syrian province of Deir Ezzor due to a well-executed car bomb attack by Islamic State forces near a heavily contested village within the Euphrates valley region. On Saturday, an ISIS suicide attacker driving a bomb-rigged vehicle scored a direct hit […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
VIDEO: Syrian Army tanks, shock troops tear open militant defenses and open the way to Abu Duhur airbase
BEIRUT, LEBANON (6:50 A.M.) – On Saturday, the Syrian Arab Army and allied paramilitary groups operating out of southern Aleppo province completed the second phase of their general offensive throughout the region by linking up with friendly forces near the Abu Duhur airbase in eastern Idlib. The operation by pro-government forces saw them deploy a […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Is California Trying To Grab A Part Of The $350 Billion That Apple Wants To Repatriate Back To The U.S. From Overseas
Apple CEO Tim Cook says the iPhone maker's repatriated profits will result in a $38 billion US tax payment and generate $350 billion in economic activity *WNU Editor:* Just a side story, but it is very revealing that after Apple made public it's intention to repatriate back to the U.S. $350 billion from overseas... money that will be given as bonuses to its employees and the rest invested to create tens of thousands of jobs .... *Apple To Repatriate $350 Billion From Overseas Back To The U.S. Economy* (January 17, 2018) .... you then have this insane push from California lawmakers ... more »
Tweets For Today
#UPDATE Donald Trump's first anniversary as US president is marred by chaos as lawmakers traded bitter recriminations over a government shutdown https://t.co/B80yVzB3II pic.twitter.com/fJFZIwje1R — AFP news agency (@AFP) January 21, 2018 Clashes continue over disputed Honduras election result https://t.co/TP0q0qiJUZ — BBC News (World) (@BBCWorld) January 21, 2018 #UPDATE Gunmen kill at least five people and wound eight in an ongoing attack on Kabul's Intercontinental Hotel, as panicked guests are seen climbing over balconies to escape https://t.co/ICNNahZlE3 pic.twitter.com/BMvy... more »
Pentagon Predicts The Government Shutdown Will Increase Weapons Costs
*Business Insider/Reuters:* *Government shutdown predicted to increase weapons costs for the Pentagon* * A US government shutdown is predicted to stall defense contracts and ultimately increase weapons costs. * The potential shutdown could cost hundreds of millions of dollars for the Defense Department, or even billions government-wide in terms of legal disputes over contracts. * The Defense Department has the biggest portion of discretionary spending. A U.S. government shutdown will stall new defense department contracts and ultimately increase the costs of weapons, creating even ... more »
The U.S. Military Is Learning to Love the Stinger Missile—Again
*Task and Purpose, Jared Keller* *Security, * A blast from the past. The FIM-92 Stinger missile was *the* man-portable air defense system of choice for the U.S. Army and Marine Corps (and a handful of action heroes during the 1980s and 90s, plus some Afghan, uh, “freedom fighters”). Since the end of the Cold War, the Department of Defense has drifted away from the infrared homing missile; the Global War on Terror’s emphasis on counterinsurgency tactics led to a decline in funding for short-range air defense systems (SHORAD). But with the Pentagon adopting an increasingly rigid p... more »
China May Have Solved the One Thing That Was Poised to Stop Its Military Rise
*Eugene K. Chow* *Security, Asia* Beijing is now able to make strong jet engines. Chinese engineering has become so advanced that German jet engines could soon get a major boost from China. Officials in China have begun talks to sell sophisticated aerospace technology and manufacturing equipment to Germany for the production of high-performance jet engines. As China moves to rapidly build its commercial and military aviation industry, the nation has made significant engineering breakthroughs, most notably in turbine blades, which convert the heat from fuel combustion into thrus... more »
The Chinese Are on the Verge of Dominating a New Domain: Near Space
*Task and Purpose, Robert Work* *Security, Asia* What will Trump do? In November 2017, the Chinese conducted two flight tests of an operational prototype of a missile known as the DF-17. They represented the first flights of a ballistic missile designed to employ a hypersonic glide vehicle (HGV). The successful tests marked the end of a concerted — and successful — Chinese effort to exploit and dominate a new operating domain: near space. This domain, little discussed, extends from about 100,000 feet to about 350,000 feet above the surface of the Earth. It’s a novel and tricky a... more »
Russia Just Might Have the Perfect Weapon to Crush 'Swarm' Attacks
*Sebastien Roblin* *Security, Middle East* They won't know what hit them. Early in the morning of January 6, Russian radars stationed around Latakia, Syria detected no less than thirteen kamikaze drones approaching. Ten of the explosive-laden unmanned vehicles streaked towards Hmeimim airbase, while three others swooped towards the Russian naval base at Tartus. Just a week earlier, Hmeimim had sustained a mortar attack that killed two personnel and likely damaged several aircraft. According to Moscow, electronic-warfare assets allowed them to take control of six of the drones. T... more »
How the Russian Army Saved Leningrad from Hitler
*Warfare History Network* *History, Europe* Both the Red Army and German Army suffered heavy casualties during winter fighting in 1943–44. The latter half of 1943 had German forces in the east staggering under a series of hammer blows that saw the Soviet Red Army advance hundreds of kilometers westward on the central and southern sectors of the Eastern Front. After the massive battle in the Kursk salient, the Soviets launched their first great summer offensive late in July. In a month and a half, Smolensk, Bryansk, and Kirov had been liberated in the central sector, with German ... more »
Is America's Alliance with Turkey Worth It?
*Ted Galen Carpenter* *Security, Middle East* Ankara’s international conduct now threatens to eliminate the most fundamental basis for considering Turkey a U.S. ally. The most basic feature that the United States should expect from an ally is consistent, reliable behavior that benefits U.S. policy objectives. Ideally, since America regards itself as a champion of democracy and freedom, an ally should embody those values as well, but Washington has never been a stickler for that standard. Indeed, the United States has a sordid history of collaboration with undemocratic, even odiou... more »
Palestine's Outdated Leadership Threatens Its Future
*Mohammed Ayoob* *Security, Middle East* [image: Demonstrators wave Palestinian flags during clashes with Israeli troops, near the border with Israel in the east of Gaza City January 12, 2018. REUTERS/Mohammed Salem] The octogenarian Mahmoud Abbas is out of tune with the current thinking among younger Palestinians. On the face of it, it appears absurd that tiny, disarmed and occupied Palestine would threaten to derecognize Israel, the Middle East’s dominant military power and the United States closest ally in the region. However, this is exactly what happened last Monday when the... more »
Picture Of The Day
The S-400 Triumph air defense system deployed in the Russian city of Sevastopol, Crimea. © Sputnik/ Alexey Malgavko *WNU Editor:* The above picture is from this photo-gallery .... *This Week in Pictures *(January 13-19).
Because Of The Government Shutdown, U.S. Troops Overseas Will Not Be Able To Watch The NFL Playoffs
pic.twitter.com/smBBiK8tyK — AFN Broadcasting (@AFNtelevision) January 20, 2018 *Business Insider*: *Overseas troops won't be able to watch the NFL playoffs — and more — because of the government shutdown* * The federal government is currently in a partial shutdown. * Due to the shutdown, the Department of Defense's Armed Forces Network is not operational. * This means military personnel deployed overseas are at risk of not being able to see the NFL playoffs and other programming. Deployed members of the US military rely on a few comforts while away from home — one of those being ... more »
How Do Members Of Congress Get So Rich While They're In Congress (A Full Time Job)?
*Ken Calvert* There are some really, really wealthy members of Congress, most of them-- though not all-- crooks. 7 House members are ungodly rich: *•* Darrell Issa (R-CA)- stealing cars & the starting a car alarm company-- $330,050,015 *•* Jared Polis (D-CO)- internet entrepreneur-- $313,556,22 *•* John Delaney (New Dem-MD)- bankster-- $232,816,089 *•* David Trott (R-MI)- foreclosure and eviction king-- $177,149,145 *•* Vernon Buchanan (R-FL)- used car salesman, offshore insurance and charter jets-- $115,534,558 *•* Nancy Pelosi (D-CA)- married an investment banker-- $100,643,521 *•* ... more »
Deutsche Bank Reportedly Has Evidence That Links President Trump's Son-In-Law Jared Kushner To Suspicious Bank Transactions
U.S. President Donald Trump and his senior advisor Jared Kushner arrive for a meeting with manufacturing CEOs at the White House in Washington, DC, U.S. February 23, 2017. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque *Daily Mail:* *Deutsche Bank 'has evidence Jared Kushner made suspicious transactions and is ready to hand it over to Mueller'* * Deutsche Bank reportedly has evidence linking Kushner to suspect transactions * Bank has shared the information with German regulators, a report on Friday says * Mueller probe has reportedly subpoenaed Deutsche Bank for the records * Kushner, Trump's advisor and s... more »
Facebook and Google Promise Congress They’ll Brainwash You With Their Own Counter Propaganda
By John Vibes Tech giants Facebook, Google and Twitter testified to Congress this week about extremist content appearing on their platforms. In an odd admission,... more »
Can There Be Parallels In Time And History?
Op-Ed by Catherine J. Frompovich For those who don’t know history, it’s said that often they have to repeat it to learn from it. That... more »
Trump’s Policies Are Putting The Screws To Israel
By Janet Phelan The US policies in the Middle East have increasingly exacerbated the tensions in the region, turning it into a cauldron of conflict.... more »
A New Decision to Go to War in Syria
*Paul R. Pillar* *Syria Iran Israel, Middle East* Behind a façade of continuity, the deployment of U.S. armed forces in Syria for the purposes that Secretary of State Rex Tillerson described in a speech this week represents a departure from what such forces were originally sent to Syria to do. The Trump administration is having U.S. troops participate indefinitely in someone else’s civil war, for reasons that are quite different from the original stated objective of helping to quash the so-called caliphate of the Islamic State (ISIS). The new reasons do not stand up to scrutiny... more »
Love Saves Lives: Trump Addresses 45th Annual March for Life
[image: love-saves-lives-president-trump-addresses-45th-annual-march-for-life] The world’s largest and most renowned pro-life event left its footprint on the nation’s capitol once again on Friday. The 45th annual March for Life welcomed tens of thousands from all over the country to peacefully protest and recognize the millions of unborn lives senselessly sacrificed at the altar of abortion. Though an occasion for grave reflection, the event typically evokes an energy and excitement in its participants. This year’s gathering was no exception, especially with the mild temperatures an... more »
Trump Plans to Relocate U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem by 2019
[image: trump-plans-to-relocate-u-s-embassy-to-jerusalem-by-2019] President Trump appears to be preparing to move the U.S. Embassy in Israel to Jerusalem by 2019.
NSA Destroys Evidence That It Pledged It Would Not Destroy
© Dado Ruvic / Reuters *The Politico:* *NSA deleted surveillance data it pledged to preserve* The agency tells a federal judge that it is investigating and 'sincerely regrets its failure.' The National Security Agency destroyed surveillance data it pledged to preserve in connection with pending lawsuits and apparently never took some of the steps it told a federal court it had taken to make sure the information wasn’t destroyed, according to recent court filings. Word of the NSA’s foul-up is emerging just as Congress has extended for six years the legal authority the agency uses ... more »
It’s Even Worse Than You Think”: David Cay Johnston on Trump’s First Year in Office
link: http://youtu.be/bJaTSZnTFcs By DemocracyNow.org:, “It’s Even Worse Than You Think”: David Cay Johnston on Trump’s First Year in Office JANUARY … Continue reading →
Longtime Trump Biographer Fears Trump Might Use Nuclear Weapons
link: http://youtu.be/wW4kUCGK1Xk By DemocracyNow.org: “David Cay Johnston: Trump is Determined to Provoke War to Draw Focus from Racist & Erratic … Continue reading →
Nuclear news – week to 20th January
Originally posted on nuclear-news: The climate of fear. An article by Tony Schwartz, biographer of Donald Trump, describes Trump’s main…
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