European soccer roundup: In a contentious match against title challenger Arsenal, Erling Haaland scores Manchester City’s 100th goal.

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2024-09-27

Elbahrain.net Even though the 2024–25 season is only getting started, some of the biggest teams in Europe are starting to assess their situation.

The Premier League in England
Despite being the main challenger to Manchester City’s supremacy in the Premier League for the last two seasons, Arsenal was not successful in either of the 2022–2023 or 2023–2024 seasons.

Both teams were keen to get off to a fast start in this year’s title campaign as they faced off on Sunday at City’s Etihad Stadium.

Erling Haaland, a top striker for City who only joined the team in the summer of 2022, scored his 100th goal for the team within ten minutes, dealing City the early blow.

However, things went south fast for Pep Guardiola’s club. First, Arsenal’s first goal was equalized by Riccardo Calafiori after outstanding midfielder Rodri was withdrawn 21 minutes in due to what appeared to be a catastrophic injury. After that, the Gunners used their set-piece advantage, with Gabriel Magalhães rising to the top to nod home a corner and give his team the lead.

Although the first half of the match was jam-packed with action, the main talking point was still to come. Leandro Trossard, an attacker for Arsenal, was given a questionable second yellow card shortly before halftime after committing a foul and kicking the ball across the field.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta went into a very defensive stance in an attempt to hold onto the lead when his team was reduced to ten players. The visitors managed to hold out for nearly the whole second half until John Stones, a City defender, burst through the North Londoners’ defense in the last minute of stoppage time, scoring from inside the box to make the score 2-2.

There were some tense moments on the field throughout the game, and thereafter, City players expressed their displeasure with what they perceived to be intentional attempts by Arsenal to impede the game’s progress. Defender Kyle Walker told BBC Radio 5 Live that the team was “frustrated” and referred to their opponents’ tactics as the “dark arts.”

Stones continued, “They slow down the game,” in an interview with BBC Sport. In order to obtain some information onto the field, they get the keeper on the ground. Those were hard times, and we had to learn to regulate our feelings.

“They have been doing that for a few years now, so we knew to expect that, but I would not say they have mastered it. Whatever term you choose, it is unduly disruptive to the rhythm of the game when they break it up.

With 13 points, City leads Arsenal by two points in fourth place as both teams have yet to lose this season.

With a commanding 5-1 victory over Villarreal on the road on Sunday, La Liga Barcelona of Spain maintained their unbeaten start to the campaign, although the three points were not earned easily.

Barça took the lead in the first half thanks to two goals from Robert Lewandowski. Ayoze Pérez gave Villareal a quick response, but Pablo Torre’s first La Liga goal and a brace from Raphinha gave the Blaugrana their sixth league victory in as many games.

Not everything went well for the Catalans, though. Marc-André ter Stegen, the team’s starting goalkeeper, was carted off the field due to a full rupture of his right patellar tendon and will likely be out for a while.

Real Madrid, Barça’s bitter rival, defeated Espanyol 4-1 over the weekend with similar ease.

On Saturday, Los Blancos had to work hard to recover from an own goal by ‘keeper Thibaut Courtois that put the Periquitos ahead. However, goals from Dani Carvajal, Rodrygo, Vinícius Jr., and summer recruit Kylian Mbappé quickly dispelled any short-lived hopes of an upset.

In addition, Carlo Ancelotti’s team is still unbeaten, trailing Barcelona by four points in second position in La Liga since September 25, 2023, against local rival Atlético.

Serie A in Italy
In the Derby della Madonnina on Sunday, two of the biggest teams in Italy squared off against one other. AC Milan played Internazionale, their bitter rival.

The famous San Siro stadium is shared by the two teams, but the red side of the city celebrated the day’s conclusion when Matteo Gabbia scored an incredible last-second goal to give Milan a 2-1 victory and the right to gloat.

In the tenth minute, Christian Pulisic, the captain of the US national team, drove through the heart of the Inter defense and poked the ball past goalkeeper Yann Sommer to give the Rossoneri the lead.

Later in the first half, Federico Dimarco tied the score with an angled goal, and it appeared like a draw would be inevitable, but Milan defender Gabbia had other plans.

In the 89th minute, the center-back scored with a header to win the match and set off raucous celebrations among the Rossoneri supporters.

Paulo Fonseca, the manager of Milan, feels relieved with the result because his team had only won once in their first four league games before the derby.

Following the game, Fonseca declared, “I think the win belongs to the players and for our fans.” “Unity made the victory possible.” The players, the staff, and the club have always stood behind each other, even in these trying times.

“The players and supporters deserved this outcome today, but there are still many things to work on.”

With eight points apiece, both teams are again tied, while Inter leads Milan by one spot in sixth place due to goal differential. After five games, Torino is the unexpected leader of Serie A after defeating Hellas Verona on Friday.

Mata joins the ownership group of San Diego FC

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2024-11-21

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Mata joins the ownership group of San Diego FC

Juan Mata, a former midfielder for Chelsea and Manchester United.

Has joined the ownership group of San Diego FC, a Major League Soccer expansion team.

In September, Mata, 36, joined Western Sydney Wanderers, an A-League team.

Mata joins the ownership In 2025, San Diego FC will become the 30th franchise to join the MLS.

“It is a fantastic opportunity to help construct something genuinely remarkable in a city and league.

That are seeing incredible growth by joining San Diego FC as a partner, Mata stated.

First active international soccer player to possess an ownership stake in.

During his 11-year tenure in the Premier League with Chelsea and Manchester United. Mata won six major titles, including the Champions League.

He has not played for Spain since 2016. However he did assist them win the 2010 World Cup and the 2012 European Championship.

Who also thinks he fits with the team’s goal to “create a winning team for the long-term.”

For many years, Mata has been a well-known figure in international football. He played a major role in the heyday of the Spanish men’s national team, which won the 2010 World Cup and the 2012 UEFA European Championship. He also earned club honors in England, Spain, Turkey, and Japan.

Mata started his professional career at Real Madrid Castilla after graduating from Real Madrid’s development program. In 2007, he moved to Valencia CF, where he won the Copa del Rey the following year.

When Mata joined Chelsea FC in 2011, he had a key role in the London team’s victories in the UEFA Champions League, FA Cup, and UEFA Europa League, winning Chelsea’s Player of the Year award twice during that time of achievement.

In nine seasons after joining Manchester United in 2014, he won the FA Cup, Europa League, and EFL Cup. After celebrating his first league victory with Turkish team Galatasaray in 2022, he signed with Vissel Kobe of Japan in 2023, where he won the championship once more.

Italian village offers $1 homes to Americans upset by the US election result

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2024-11-20

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Elbahrain.net While many communities around the world have been wondering what to make of Donald Trump’s presidential re-election, a village on the Italian island of Sardinia has sniffed a potential opportunity.

Like many other places in rural Italy, Ollolai has long been trying to persuade outsiders to move in to revive its fortunes after decades of depopulation. It’s been selling dilapidated houses for as little as one euro — just over a dollar — to sweeten the deal.

Now, following the November 5 vote outcome, it’s launched a website aimed at would-be American expats, offering up more cheap homes in the hope that those upset by the result will rush to snap up one of its empty properties.

“Are you worned (sic) out by global politics? Looking to embrace a more balanced lifestyle while securing new opportunities?” the website asks. “It’s time to start building your European escape in the stunning paradise of Sardinia.”

Mayor Francesco Columbu tells CNN that the website was specifically created to attract American voters in the wake of the presidential elections. He says he loves the United States and is convinced Americans are the best people to help revive his community.

“We just really want, and will focus on, Americans above all,” he says. “We can’t of course ban people from other countries to apply, but Americans will have a fast-track procedure. We are betting on them to help us revive the village, they are our winning card.”

Columbu says the village is now offering three tiers of accommodation: Free temporary homes to certain digital nomads, one-euro homes in need of renovations, and ready-to-occupy houses for prices up to 100,000 euros ($105,000).

The mayor says he’s set up a special team to guide interested buyers through every step of the purchase, from organizing tailored private tours of the available dwellings to finding contractors, builders and navigating required paperwork.

He says photos and plans of available empty properties will be soon be uploaded to the website.

In the past century, Ollolai’s population has shrunk from 2,250 to 1,300 with only a handful of babies born each year. Many families left the village during tough economic times, in search of work and better lives.

Over the last few years, the poulation has further dropped to barely 1,150 residents.

While the village may be desperate to lure newcomers in an attempt to stop depopulation, the offer of “preferential treatment” to Americans, as Columbu describes it, may seem a bit controversial.

The website does not mentioned having a US passport as a prerequisite, but the mayor says US citizens will be favored above potential applicants of other nationalities.

“Of course, we can’t specifically mention the name of one US president who just got elected, but we all know that he’s the one from whom many Americans want to get away from now and leave the country,” Columbo adds.

“We have specifically created this website now to meet US post-elections relocation needs. The first edition of our digital nomad scheme which launched last year was already solely for Americans.”

The mayor says the town hall’s website has been flooded recently with 38,000 requests of information on houses, mostly coming from the United States.

“So we were really looking to create a platform that caters to US citizens, and to group together our various projects,” says Columbu.

Remote work crackdown: How Trump’s DOGE could push federal workers to quit

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2024-11-20

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Elbahrain.net President-elect Donald Trump’s new Department of Government Efficiency, a nongovernmental entity helmed by billionaire Elon Musk and biotech entrepreneur and former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, is expected to make a push for an end to remote work across federal agencies as a way to help reduce the federal workforce through attrition.

Both Musk and Ramaswamy have recently publicly lamented the number of employees working remotely across the government.

A source familiar with early discussions about the focus of DOGE, as the initiative is known, told CNN that while nothing is final, early priorities include an effort to immediately end remote work across federal agencies, making a five-day work week a requirement for all federal employees.

“It’s a no-brainer step and many companies have done this. So why shouldn’t federal employees who are paid with taxpayer dollars be required to be in office?” the source said

Currently, not all federal workers are required to be in the office five days a week. Each agency determines its remote policy to best complete its mission. There are 1.3 million federal workers approved for telework, according to data from the Office of Personnel Management. Government data shows teleworking federal workers spend 60% of their time performing work in person.

“The implication that federal employees writ large are not working in-person is simply not backed up by data and reality,” Everett Kelley, national president for the American Federation of Government Employees, a union that represents more than 800,000 federal workers, told CNN in a statement. “When it comes to changes in working conditions that could impact union contracts, AFGE takes the position that such changes must be negotiated with the union through the normal collective bargaining process.”

Sources also told CNN that conservative activist and Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk – who has grown close with Musk – is expected to serve as an unofficial adviser to DOGE. Kirk has taken aim at remote work, calling it “one giant looting operation and US taxpayers are their mask” on X on Monday, another sign this could be a key early priority.

Disrupting lives
Some federal employees who have been allowed to work fully remotely say that forcing them to come back to the office would upend their lives – and not necessarily save the government as much money as one might expect.

“I can’t abandon this career,” one Library of Congress worker who lives in the Midwest told CNN. “I would be forced to move back to Washington, DC, even if it means separating my family.”

The worker, who requested anonymity to protect their job, had reported to their office in Washington, DC, five days a week for many years. But when the Covid-19 pandemic hit, the employee was allowed to work remotely and moved to the Midwest to be closer to family and save money – even though it meant taking a $12,000 pay cut. They have since bought a home and entered into a relationship.

Adding to the complications, the worker doesn’t have an office to return to since others within the Library of Congress have already moved into their former space.

But some of their colleagues, particularly those with children, have said they wouldn’t be able to move back. That would hurt the Library of Congress’ mission since it, like many other government agencies, is already dealing with high turnover, the worker said.

Another federal employee who works remotely told CNN that they would have to commute two to three hours to the nearest office. That would be a deal-breaker for the worker, who has been with the federal government for more than 10 years.

“The stress would be through the roof,” said the employee, who requested anonymity to protect their job. “I am at the point where if I had to commute, I would resign. I would take this as a sign to move on and start a new chapter in my life.”

The worker, who is employed by the General Services Administration, said that forcing them to come to an office would make them less productive. Currently, they work more hours – including when they are sick or scheduled to be off – even though they don’t receive overtime pay.

Other targets beyond remote work
Remote work isn’t the only cost-cutting measure that is likely to be addressed through executive orders.

The source familiar with early discussions on DOGE said that very early on in the administration, there are expected to be several other executive orders that have the fingerprints of DOGE and are aimed at cutting costs.

But DOGE recommendations aren’t likely to solely take the form of executive orders, which can easily be overturned under future administrations, the source said. “There will also be a longer-term plan for more and deeper reductions through the rulemaking process,” the source added.

Ramaswamy recently took to social media to note plans for cutting funds for programs Congress no longer authorizes but that still receive appropriations.

“We shouldn’t let the government spend money on programs that have expired. Yet that’s exactly what happens today: half a trillion dollars of taxpayer funds ($516 B+) goes each year to programs which Congress has allowed to expire. There are 1,200+ programs that are no longer authorized but still receive appropriations. This is totally nuts,” he posted on X.

The source familiar with early discussions told CNN that Musk and Ramaswamy don’t plan on reinventing the wheel when it comes to determining how to best cut the fat in government spending.

“They’ll be pulling from existing reports from Congress and the executive branch and previous outside government commissions focused on cutting government spending,” the source said, noting that previous conservative targets will inform what DOGE does. “They don’t view themselves as having the only answer to government spending and efficiency.”

Musk and Ramaswamy are currently identifying all the places across the sprawling federal government where they might be able to cut, according to the source, while Ramaswamy is simultaneously taking the lead on crafting the legal justification for the cuts they recommend.

They will hire additional people eventually, but it’s going to be a small, nimble team, the source said. “It won’t be hundreds of people. It will be very small. A lot of this is going to also involve agencies identifying places to cut. It’s going to be on them too.”

To cut carbon emissions, the Canadian Grand Prix date was shifted.

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2024-11-20

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To cut carbon emissions, the Canadian Grand Prix date was shifted.

In 2026, To cut carbon emissions Canadian Grand Prix will take place in late. May instead of early June in an effort to lower carbon emissions.

The change eliminates the need to ship freight back and forth over. The Atlantic by enabling the Montreal race to take place immediately following the Miami Grand Prix.

According to a Formula 1 announcement. Montreal will now take place on the third or fourth weekend in May every year.

There have been several races between Miami and Canada in Europe since its inception in 2022.

This oddity was viewed by Formula One as a hindrance to its goal of becoming net zero by 2030.

“We commend the enormous effort from all concerned to speed the temporary build of the event.

To be ready to host the Formula 1 community earlier than in the past,” stated Stefano Domenicali, president and chief executive officer of Formula One.

The modification will improve our calendar’s. Future flow in a way that is both more sustainable and more practical for our staff and teams.

As a sport, we are committed to achieving Net Zero by 2030.”

In the past, Canadian organizers, whose contract expires in 2031.

Have been hesitant to change their schedule, claiming that they needed more time to get the track and surroundings ready following the lengthy Quebec winter.

The occasion also took place at the same time as the city’s broader celebration of the start of summer.

However, the change has been supported by a new promoter who took over this year.

Concerns have also been raised by recent organizational issues in Formula One. There have been increasing worries that Montreal’s facilities and organization are lagging behind.

After a number of logistical problems at this year’s event, including traffic management, Formula One sought adjustments.

According to Jean-Philippe Paradis, CEO of the Octane Racing Group, the event organizers in Montreal, “This timetable shift represents a huge step in our commitment.

As well as Formula 1’s, toward a more sustainable future.”

The date adjustment for Canada is the most recent in a string of actions taken by. Formula One to streamline the race schedule in an effort to be more sustainable.

These have included relocating the Azerbaijan race to the conclusion of the. European season before Singapore, relocating the Japanese Grand Prix from October to April.

So it coincides with Australia and China, and relocating Qatar so it is twinned with. Abu Dhabi at the end of the year.

The Monaco Grand Prix, which is currently hosted on the final weekend of May. Will instead take place in early June starting in 2026 due to Canada’s relocation.

Nadal on his career: “Just a youngster who pursued their goals”

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2024-11-20

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Nadal on his career: “Just a youngster who pursued their goals”

The tennis legend Rafael Nadal says he wants to be known as

a kid who pursued their goals” as he bids the game a heartfelt farewell.

After Spain lost to the Netherlands in the Davis Cup quarterfinals on Tuesday night.

The 22-time Grand Slam champion’s 23-year career came to an end in Malaga.

After longtime rival Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal departs as the second-most successful men’s singles player in history.

“A decent person” is what I want to be remembered for most, the 38-year-old stated.

Nadal stated, “I would like to be remembered as a Nadal on his career

youngster that achieved more than I ever dreamed,” in a presentation on the court.

“I consider myself really fortunate to have had the chance to live this life.

And tennis has allowed me to have many memorable experiences.

When I was younger, I pursued my aspirations and put in a lot of effort to get to where I am now.

“I want to be known mostly as a decent person from a modest Mallorcan community.”

In the first match of the quarterfinal match

Rafael Nadal lost to Botic Van de Zandschulp 6-4 6-4 in what turned out to be the last match of his incredible career.

This ended a stunning 29-match winning streak in Davis Cup singles matches over a 20-year span.

“Maybe it is wonderful in some ways if it was my last match,” Nadal stated following his defeat.

“I lost both my opening and final Davis Cup matches. We complete the circle.

By defeating Tallon Griekspoor in the second singles match. Carlos Alcaraz “did it for Rafa” and preserved the dreams of both the country and Rafael Nadal.

However, in the decisive doubles match, Marcel Granollers.

Alcaraz’s teammate and 21-year-old, failed to pull off a spectacular comeback and prolong Alcaraz’s idol’s career.

Alcaraz won four Slams in the last three years, demonstrating his potential to become Spain’s next men’s tennis star. He paired with Rafael Nadal in the men’s doubles at the Summer Olympics in Paris.

His “legacy is going to be forever” was his subsequent statement on Rafael Nadal.

“His contributions to tennis and the game in general have been outstanding. At least for me, it is challenging to feel obligated to carry on his legacy,” Alcaraz remarked.

“It is challenging, nearly impossible. I will just try my hardest. It is now appropriate to praise Rafa.

“There are some who will be remembered for their accomplishments in life.

Others till the end of their days, and others forever,” Spain captain David Ferrer said to Rafael Nadal.

“You will always be remembered.”

“The knowledge that I have left a legacy gives me peace of mind.”

In addition to an emotional tribute film that included quotes from several of his competitors.

Nadal was asked to take the court to speak to the crowd.

Nadal stated, “I go with the assurance that I have left a legacy.

Which I truly believe is not just a sporting one but a personal one.”

“I realize that the affection I have gotten would not be the same if it were not for what transpired on the court.”

His two biggest rivals were among those eager to honor Nadal’s career.

Nadal won his 22 major titles during the ‘Big Three’ period.

When he faced off against fellow greats Djokovic and Roger Federer for the sport’s top awards.

In an Instagram post, Federer, who is well-known for crying with Rafael Nadal during his 2022 retirement,.

Claimed that Nadal had “made the global tennis world proud” during his “amazing career.”

“I have been really honored and happy to be considered your rival.

Djokovic wrote in a video message left for Rafael Nadal.

“I think all tennis players aspire to the passion and intensity you played with.

And that is what all tennis fans will remember you for,” stated Andy Murray of Britain.

Observing you has been amazing.

“Congratulations on a career that most people would not dare dream of,” the legendary American Serena Williams wrote on Instagram. Your legacy will last forever.

Martinez equals Maradona in Argentina’s victory.

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2024-11-20

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Martinez equals Maradona in

In a 1-0 victory over Peru in Buenos Aires to qualify for the World Cup.

Lautaro Martinez tied Diego Maradona for the most goals scored by Martinez equals Maradona in Argentina in history.

After 55 minutes, Martinez, 27, scored his 32nd goal for his country in his 70th appearance.

Hammering home a left-footed volley from Lionel Messi’s cross.

The captain of Inter Milan is now tied for sixth place with Argentina great Maradona. But he is still far behind leading scorer Messi’s 112 goals.

Hernan Crespo, Sergio Aguero, and Gabriel Batistuta round out the top five.

With 58 international assists, Messi, 37, of Inter Miami.

Is now tied with former US player Landon Donovan for the most.

Despite dominating the most of the match, Lionel Scaloni’s team was unable to increase their lead.

As Alexis Mac Allister of Liverpool sent a header wide and Julian Alvarez struck the post.

With six games left, Martinez equals Maradona in Argentina. Leads the South American World Cup qualifying table by five points after the victory.

Brazil drew 1-1 with Uruguay in Salvador, while their own supporters jeered them.

Federico Valverde, a midfielder for Real Madrid.

Gave Uruguay the lead early in the second half, but Gerson’s first goal for Brazil came six minutes later.

Brazil, the five-time World Cup champion, is now fifth in the standings after the draw.

The top six teams will automatically go to the 2026 event, which will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Ecuador defeated Colombia 1-0 on the road thanks to a brilliant solo strike from former West Ham and Everton forward Enner Valencia.

Miguel Almiron of Newcastle United scored one goal as Paraguay tied 2-2 with Bolivia to maintain their sixth-place standings.

Bolivia is still one point ahead of Venezuela.

Who were defeated 4-2 by Chile, in seventh place, which is good enough for a play-off.

Putin gives his approval to modifications to Russia’s nuclear doctrine.

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2024-11-20

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Putin gives his approval

Putin gives his approval to modifications to Russia’s nuclear doctrine.

Vladimir Putin has authorized modifications to. Russia’s nuclear doctrine that outline new circumstances in which the nation may use its arsenal.

According to the new doctrine, a non-nuclear state attack. Will be seen as a joint attack on Russia if it is supported by a nuclear power.

The September proposal for the upgrade was approved on Tuesday, the 1,000th day of the conflict with Ukraine.

It also comes after Washington decided to permit Ukraine to launch long-range American missiles into Russia on Monday.

A significant strike on Russia using conventional missiles, drones, or airplanes.

As well as an attack on Belarus or any other serious danger to Russian sovereignty. May qualify as a nuclear retaliation under the new rules.

Moscow would consider any aggression against. Russia by a coalition member to be an act of aggression by the entire organization.

According to state-run news outlet Tass. The modifications broaden the range of nations and alliances that could face a potential nuclear strike. As well as the kind of military threats that could be addressed.

“We strongly are in favor of doing everything to not allow nuclear war to happen. However, stated Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

A statement signed by the G20, which includes Russia.

“clearly indicated we want to progress towards a world free of nuclear weapons. According to Mr. Lavrov, who was speaking at a press conference at the Rio de Janeiro summit.

Ukraine welcomes missile news, but it “will not win war.”

The Kremlin announced the shift and called on other nations to research it.

According to Tass, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that “this is a very important text” and that.

It should become a topic to a very serious investigation.”

Russia threatened “an adequate and tangible” retaliation on. Monday over US President Joe Biden’s decision to allow Ukraine to attack the nation with ATACMS missiles.

According to a statement from the foreign ministry, such an attack on Russian soil.

Would signify the direct involvement of the United States and its satellites in hostilities against Russia.

Putin had asked that the new philosophy be modified early this year to make it in accordance with the current circumstances.

According to Mr. Peskov, who stated on Tuesday that it was released “in a timely manner” .

Never: In a historic trial, Jimmy Lai denies foreign collusion

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2024-11-20

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Never: In a historic trial

Never: In a historic trial, Jimmy Lai denies foreign collusion

One of Hong Kong’s most prominent pro-democracy activists.

Jimmy Lai, is on trial for a national security case and could receive a life sentence.

Allegations of collusion with foreign powers have been made against.

The 76-year-old founder of the now-defunct Hong Kong tabloid Apple Daily.

However, Lai said the court on Wednesday that he had “never” influenced Hong Kong’s foreign policy through his international relationships.

Who include former Taiwan president Tsai Ing-wen and former US Vice President Mike Pence.

Despite having been through several trials since 2020.

Which have been criticized as being politically motivated in light of Beijing’s growing control over the city.

This is his first time testifying in court.

His hearing takes place a day after 45 pro-democracy activists, who were part of the Hong Kong 47.

Were sentenced in the city’s largest trial under the contentious national security law.

Lai entered the courthouse wearing a brown jacket and glasses, smiling and waving to his family and the crowd.

He appeared to be in a good mood and had lost a few pounds since his incarceration a few years prior.

Dozens of people lined up outside the court to express their support for the media tycoon.

Benny Tai and Joshua Wong, two of the most well-known figures in Hong Kong’s pro-democracy movement.

Were among the comparable number that attended the sentencing of the Hong Kong 47 on Tuesday.

Lai said “never” when asked if he had attempted to sway Hong Kong’s foreign policy through his network of international contacts.

Which includes high-ranking US officials and former Taiwan president Tsai.

When asked if he asked US Vice President Mike Pence anything during their meeting, Lai answered he didn’t.

He told the court, “When he questioned me, I would just tell him what happened in Hong Kong.”

“Not to do something but to say something, To voice support for Hong Kong.

He stated in response to a question concerning his meeting with then-secretary of state Mike Pompeo.

HK’s “fundamental values” were embodied by Apple Daily.

Lai entered a not guilty plea to two conspiracy charges of collaborating with foreign forces and a third count pertaining to his tabloid publication,

Apple Daily, which has been charged with printing seditious content. Lai’s trial is still underway.

Lai maintained that he was against violence and “never allowed” the employees of his newspaper to support Hong Kong independence.

Calling it “too absurd to think about” and a “plot.”

In fact, he continued, “the underlying ideals of Apple Daily are the core values of the people of Hong Kong.”

The “rule of law, freedom, pursuit of democracy.

Freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of assembly” are among these ideals, he stated.

The tabloid was well-known for its support of democracy and shut down a year following Lai’s incarceration.

Authorities claimed Apple Daily’s publications broke the National Security Law in 2021.

Freezing the publication’s bank account and detaining important employees.

International attention has been drawn to Lai’s prosecution, and foreign governments and human rights organizations have called for his release.

In an October podcast, US President-elect Donald Trump declared that he would “100%” remove Lai from China.

Speaking to Chinese President Xi Jinping at the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro this week.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who has called Lai a “priority” for his government, voiced worries over Lai’s “deterioration.”

Lai’s weight loss and growing weakness during recent court appearances have prompted concerns about his health from his family and legal team.

Lai has been in solitary prison since late 2020 after receiving a previous jail sentence for offenses such as fraud and unauthorized assembly.

While Ukraine’s Kursk gamble fails, Russian gains pick up speed.

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2024-11-20

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While Ukraine’s Kursk gamble

While Ukraine’s Kursk gamble fails, Russian gains pick up speed.

At a pivotal point in the fight, the Russian military is making rapid progress along the Ukrainian front line.

According to data from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).

Russia is moving closer to important Ukrainian logistical hubs in the eastern.

Donbas region and has nearly doubled its territory in 2024 compared to 2023.

Ukraine’s unexpected invasion of Russia’s Kursk region is stalling in the meanwhile While Ukraine’s Kursk gamble. Kyiv’s attack has been pushed back by Russian soldiers.

The offensive’s success has been questioned by experts one has referred to it as a. Strategic calamity in light of Ukraine’s personnel shortfall.

Given the imminence of a second Donald Trump presidency, these developments occur during a period of increased uncertainty.

Some are concerned that the US president-elect may stop providing military assistance to.

Ukraine in the future, despite his pledge to end the conflict when he assumes office in January.

Russia makes progress in Ukraine’s east

The front line advanced swiftly in the early months of the conflict. With Russia rapidly capturing territory until being driven back by a Ukrainian counteroffensive.

However neither side achieved any significant progress in 2023. And the war essentially came to a standstill While Ukraine’s Kursk gamble.

However, fresh ISW data indicates that Russia will have a better narrative in 2024. Reports of troop movements and verified social media footage serve as the foundation for the ISW’s study.

According to ISW data, Moscow’s forces have nearly six-fold increased their capture of Ukrainian land.

Capturing about 2,700 square kilometers so far this year compared to just 465 square kilometers in 2023.

Dr. Marina Miron, a defense researcher at Kings College London.

Told the BBC that if Russia kept up its pace of progress. There was a chance the Ukrainian eastern front could truly collapse.

Between 1 September and 3 November, more than 1000 square kilometers were captured, indicating that the advance increased recently.

The two regions most affected by these developments are Kurakhove.

Which serves as a gateway to Pokrovsk, a vital logistical hub in the Donetsk region. And Kupiansk in the Kharkiv region While Ukraine’s Kursk gamble.

The Kharkiv offensive in 2022 liberated Kupiansk and regions east of the Oskil river. But Russia has gradually retaken the latter.

Russian soldiers were attempting to breach the city’s northeastern boundaries. According to a recent intelligence report from the UK’s Ministry of Defence.

This analysis is supported by footage that was posted on November 13 and confirmed by the BBC.

In the footage, a Russian armored convoy is shown being sent back after approaching the crucial bridge at Kupiansk.

The region’s final significant road crossing, within 4 kilometers.

These reports show how stretched Ukraine’s defensive line has gotten.

Even though they do not always convert into control of an area.

In addition, Russia has thrown resources at Kurakhove since regaining the city of Vuhledar in October.

A strategic location atop vital supply routes that Moscow fought for two years.

The city’s defending Ukrainian forces have so far repulsed strikes from the east and south.

However, Russia is also threatening to encircle defenders from the north and west as the front line gets closer and closer.

According to Col. Yevgeny Sasyko, a former head of strategic communications for Ukraine’s general staff.

Russia surrounds a city’s flanks with “strong jaws” that gradually “grind down” defenses until they fall.

BBC-verified footage from the city revealed extensive damage, including significant damage to residential buildings.

According to the ISW, Moscow currently controls 110,649 square kilometers of Ukraine.

In contrast, Russian forces have since retaken about half of the 1,171 square kilometers that Ukrainian forces captured in the first month of their incursion into Kursk.

Russia has gained territory, but the cost of its advance has been high.

At least 78,329 servicemen have been killed since Russia began its full-scale invasion in February 2022, according to an estimate by BBC Russian.

Moscow’s casualties from September to November of this year were more than 1.5 times higher than those during the same period in 2023.

The “meat grinder” strategy, which refers to the waves of recruits hurled against Ukrainian lines in an attempt to deplete soldiers.

Is alleged to be preferred by Russian commanders and contributes to the casualties.

Although Russia has made progress, several analysts have pointed out that the offensive is still moving slowly.

According to military analyst David Handelman, rather than experiencing a wider collapse, Ukrainian troops in the east were gradually leaving to conserve resources and men.

The Kursk gambit

In August, Ukraine began its surprise invasion of the Kursk region of Russia.

Although Kyiv’s troops swiftly grabbed control of several border settlements, it is unclear why Russia took so long to react to the operation.

According to Dr. Miron, Russia’s general command had been eager to keep Ukraine’s forces confined in Kursk while its forces advanced elsewhere along the front line.

Even though the Kremlin would bear domestic political costs as long as the incursion went on.

However, it is now evident that Moscow wants to regain the lost territories on its own territory. Approximately fifty thousand troops have been sent to the area.

Verified footage from the Kursk region demonstrates that intense combat is occurring and that Russia is losing a significant amount of personnel and equipment.

However, it is evident from the data that Ukraine’s dominance over the area is waning.

According to ISW data, Russian counterattacks have reclaimed about 593 square kilometers of ground in the border region since the beginning of October.

At first, the Kursk incursion was a huge morale boost for Ukraine at a period of severe setbacks.

And the operation’s boldness served as a reminder of its capacity to ambush and injure its adversary.

However, Dr. Miron claimed that although the Kursk invasion was a display of “tactical genius,” Ukraine has suffered a “strategic tragedy.”

The goal was to militarily entice Russian forces to leave the Donbas in order to free Kursk, while also maybe gaining some political clout in future talks. Instead, we are witnessing Ukrainian units penned down there.

It is known that some of Kyiv’s most skilled and productive troops are engaged in combat in Kursk. Modern Western armour is also used by mechanised units that are part of the assault.

In order to stall the Russian advance in eastern Ukraine, Ukrainian commanders had made it clear that they believed the incursion would force Moscow to reroute some of its forces from that region.

The majority of reinforcements, according to experts, were transferred from less-conflict areas of Ukraine to Kursk.

Yurri Clavilier, a land analyst with the International Institute for Strategic Studies.

Told the BBC that Ukrainian soldiers from several front lines said that the Russian forces bolstering Kursk were primarily drawn from Kherson and Zaporizhzhia.

“Compared to the East, the conflict there is not as fierce.

Ukraine was able to halt the Russian assault on Kharkiv, and some of the Russian units that were attacking that city were diverted to Kursk,” he continued.

Because it strengthens their position in any future discussions, land is important to both sides.

US President-elect Trump has stated that he could put an end to the war in a day, but he has not specified how. This is despite the fact that no peace talks have been considered.

A day after Washington granted Ukraine permission to do so, Ukraine launched its first long-range missiles into Russia on Tuesday.

The decision is believed to have been made in part to provide Ukraine the ability to retain a portion of the Kursk territory as a negotiating chip in further talks.

However, as Trump’s new foreign policy team gets ready to assume office, Dr. Miron told the BBC that Russia’s advance has given them a stronger negotiation position.

“They certainly have a certain advantage because of what they are controlling right now,” she said. As the Russian side has been emphasizing, “we will do it depending on the battlefield configuration” if it came to discussions.

“From a Russian standpoint, their cards are far superior to those of the Ukrainians.”

Massive crowds march on New Zealand parliament protesting Māori bill. Here’s what to know

Penulis

Seo Kopi Simpang

-

2024-11-19

0

Elbahrain.net Tens of thousands of people have marched on the New Zealand parliament in Wellington to protest against a bill that critics say strikes at the core of the country’s founding principles and dilutes the rights of Māori people.

The Hīkoi mō te Tiriti march began nine days ago in New Zealand’s far north and crossed the length of the North Island in one of the country’s biggest protests in recent decades.

The traditional peaceful Māori walk, or hīkoi, culminated outside parliament on Tuesday, where protesters implored lawmakers to reject the controversial Treaty Principles Bill that seeks to reinterpret the 184-year-old treaty between British colonizers and hundreds of Māori tribes.

The legislation is not expected to pass as most parties have committed to voting it down, but its introduction has triggered political upheaval and reignited a debate on Indigenous rights in the country under the most right-wing government in years.

Here’s what you need to know:

What’s happening?
Massive crowds marched through the New Zealand capital as part of the hīkoi, with people waving flags and signs, alongside members of the Māori community in traditional clothing.

Police said about 42,000 people, a significant number in a country of about 5 million people, marched toward parliament to oppose the legislation.

Those attending described the march as a “generational” moment. “Today is a show of kotahitanga (unity), solidarity and being one as a people and uphold our rights as Indigenous Māori,” marcher Tukukino Royal told Reuters.

Protesters gathered outside parliament, known as the Beehive, as lawmakers discussed the controversial bill.

Last week, parliament was briefly suspended after Māori lawmakers staged a haka to disrupt voting on the bill.

What is the Treaty of Waitangi?
New Zealand’s Treaty of Waitangi is a document signed by the colonial British regime and 500 Māori chiefs in 1840 that enshrines principles of co-governance between Indigenous and non-Indigenous New Zealanders.

The treaty is considered one of the country’s founding documents and the interpretation of its clauses still guides legislation and policy today.

Two versions of the text – in Māori, or Te Tiriti, and English – were signed but each contains differing language that has long sparked debate over how the treaty is defined and interpreted.

The bill, however, is widely opposed by politicians from both sides of the aisle and thousands of Indigenous and non-Indigenous New Zealanders, with critics saying it could undermine the rights of the Māori.

Seymour was met with chants of “kill the bill, kill the bill” when he briefly walked out of parliament to meet the crowds on Tuesday, according to CNN affiliate Radio New Zealand.

Hīkoi leader Eru Kapa-Kingi told the crowd “Māori nation has been born” today and that “Te Tiriti is forever,” RNZ reported.

ELBAHRAIN.NET

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