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North Korea’s unveiling of its nuclear-powered submarine is a bold and concerning development in the already tense geopolitical landscape of East Asia. With the potential to operate for extended periods underwater, this new military asset dramatically enhances Pyongyang’s capabilities, especially in the area of nuclear deterrence. The idea that North Korea’s nuclear submarine might have benefited from Russian technological support only adds another layer of complexity to an already delicate situation. Experts have speculated that Russia could have assisted North Korea in the development of the submarine’s nuclear reactor, potentially in exchange for North Korea’s backing of Russia’s controversial actions in Ukraine. While some remain cautious, claiming that the level of Russian involvement is uncertain, the possibility of a collaboration is not far-fetched. Historically, North Korea has relied on Russian and Soviet technologies, reverse-engineering them to fit its own needs. A nuclear-powered submarine, capable of long-range operations, would undoubtedly strengthen North Korea’s position in the region and shift the power balance in its favor. The notion of a nuclear-powered submarine isn’t just a technical achievement; it is a statement of power. For North Korea, it reflects its ongoing commitment to military expansion and nuclear deterrence, aimed not only at South Korea and Japan but at the United States and its allies across the Pacific. In a world where nuclear-capable submarines are often seen as a symbol of military might, North Korea is signaling its ability to engage in a prolonged, covert naval presence. This brings with it a strategic advantage: the ability to strike without being detected and the potential to maintain a constant nuclear threat. For a regime that already views nuclear weapons as key to its survival, this move takes on even greater significance. But there are hurdles ahead. North Korea may have successfully developed the prototype, but its true capability will be tested in the years to come. Building a fully operational and reliable nuclear-powered submarine is no small feat. The technical challenges are immense, requiring years of testing, development, and refinement. Furthermore, operating such a submarine on the high seas comes with significant risks, particularly as North Korea continues to face international sanctions and limited access to advanced technologies. This submarine also represents a major shift in regional security dynamics. For South Korea, Japan, and the United States, it adds another layer of unpredictability to North Korea’s military ambitions. The potential for increased submarine patrols in the Pacific raises the stakes, especially in terms of nuclear deterrence and regional stability. While experts are divided on the extent of Russia’s role, one thing is clear this development marks a new chapter in North Korea’s military trajectory, and its implications will be felt far beyond the Korean Peninsula. In the grand scheme, the unveiling of a nuclear-powered submarine is a reminder that the global balance of power is continuously shifting. North Korea’s growing nuclear capabilities, possibly aided by Russia, suggest a stronger and more unpredictable Pyongyang. The world must prepare for the consequences of this new development. It presents a future where North Korea’s nuclear ambitions are no longer just a regional concern, but a broader international challenge. But the question is “What could be backing this ambition?

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Air Force Chief Gen. Lee Young-su took full responsibility A preliminary report released on Monday revealed that three crucial errors contributed to an accidental bombing in Pocheon, Gyeonggi Province, during a joint training exercise between South Korea and the U.S. military. Last Thursday, two KF-16 fighter jets mistakenly dropped bombs on a civilian area, injuring over 30 people and damaging more than 100 properties. The report highlighted that the incident was mainly caused by human error, combined with insufficient oversight. The pilots failed to double-check the coordinates, which were incorrectly entered during the planning stage. This was the first missed opportunity. During pre-flight checks, the lead pilot failed to notice discrepancies between the flight path and the target’s terrain, marking the second missed opportunity. The third error occurred when the lead pilot proceeded to drop the bombs, despite noticing inconsistencies, while the second pilot, focused on maintaining formation, followed suit. Air Force Chief Gen. Lee Young-su took full responsibility for the incident and vowed to overhaul training procedures. He emphasized that flaws in operational procedures, as well as failure by commanding officers to oversee the flight readiness properly, contributed to the mishap. Consequently, live-fire drills will remain suspended until corrective measures are fully implemented.

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Bitcoin has been left in the dust by Ripple’s XRP over the last week, with traders betting a Wall Street earthquake could be about to hit the cryptocurrency. The bitcoin price rally, which began earlier this year but took off after the election of Donald Trump, has stalled at just under $100,000—though some are predicting the market will explode in 2025. Now, as analysts spot a “tipping point” that could send the bitcoin price to $200,000, bitcoin juggernaut MicroStrategy is poised to be added to the Nasdaq-100 Index, potentially sending huge swathes of investor cash into the company’s already sky-high stock. MicroStrategy joining the $26 trillion Nasdaq 100, “will open up flows to a new class of investors that would not otherwise have singularly bought a stock like MicroStrategy on their own,” Jeff Park, head of alpha strategies at Bitwise, told Coindesk. If the company, which sells business analytics software alongside holding huge amounts of bitcoin, is added to the Nasdaq 100 it would then be eligible to join the $312 billion Invesco QQQ exchange-traded fund (ETF), one of the world’s largest ETFs that all but guarantees a passive, permanent flow of capital. The Nasdaq stock exchange will announce its latest index membership shuffle on December 13, with MicroStrategy’s $75 billion market capitalization putting it well within the top flight—it’s the 66th-largest company by market cap following its near-500% stock price surge this year. MicroStrategy’s inclusion is basically guaranteed,” Stony Chambers Asset Research analysts wrote in a Seeking Alpha post, however others have warned MicroStrategy’s pivot to bitcoin since 2020 could mean Nasdaq classifies it as a finance company, rendering it ineligible for inclusion in the index. MicroStrategy, founded as a software company in pre-dot com bubble internet boom, has been transformed into what its cofounder and chairman Michael Saylor calls a “bitcoin treasury” company, outperforming the likes of stock market darling Nvidia as it funds its bitcoin buys with the sale of convertible notes and at-the-market share offerings. MicroStrategy has ridden the bitcoin price boom to an all-time high valuation, far outpacing bitcoin itself as traders use the company’s stock as a bitcoin proxy. This week, MicroStrategy sold 3.7 million shares over the past week, using the funds to buy another $1.5 billion worth of bitcoin, its the fourth consecutive weekly purchase that’s taken its bitcoin pile to just over 400,000 bitcoin worth $38 billion

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The Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, on Wednesday presented a proposed 2025 budget of N1.054 trillion to the State House of Assembly. The state government disclosed this via its X page, referring to it as the “Budget of Hope and Prosperity.” The budget is divided into recurrent expenditure (N453.56 billion) and capital expenditure (N600.98 billion). Budget Breakdown According to the state government, N120.1 billion is allocated for personnel costs, N37.49 billion for consolidated revenue costs, N76.07 billion for public debt charges, and N219.86 billion for overhead costs. The governor highlighted some of the major capital projects for 2025, including renovating hospitals, revitalizing 80 primary health centers, and extending the redline, blueline, and purpleline metro rail lines. He added that the budget will fund the construction of key infrastructure such as roads, fire stations, and the Ogun Lodge Government House in Abuja. The statement partly reads: “The funding sources are projected as follows: N120.97 billion from the State Internal Revenue Service N193.85 billion from Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) N228.06 billion from federal statutory allocations (including VAT) N472.66 billion from capital receipts (loans, grants, etc.) “Sectoral allocations include: Education: N117.83 billion (17%) Health: N134.54 billion (13%) Infrastructure: N284.46 billion (27%) Social Protection: N39.84 billion (4%)” Governor Abiodun told the lawmakers that completing ongoing projects, generating revenue, and creating jobs align with Ogun State’s development strategies and national plans. He added that the 2024 budget performance demonstrated strong fiscal reliability, with 79% of revenue and 56% of expenditure targets achieved as of September 2024. What You Should Know The 2025 budget for Ogun State is higher than the one for this year. Dapo Abiodun had submitted a budget proposal of N703.028 billion for 2024 to the State House of Assembly for approval. Termed the “Budget of Sustained Growth and Development,” Abiodun outlined that the total budget comprises N415.66 billion for capital expenditure and N287.37 billion for recurrent expenditure. Additionally, the budget allocated N95.05 billion for personnel costs, N105.88 billion for overhead expenses, and N59.09 billion for public debt charges. He stated that the revenue composition includes the Ogun State Internal Revenue Service (OGIRS), with an estimate of N100.81 billion, and other Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), estimated at N139.73 billion, totaling N240.54 billion. He underscored that in 2024, the state government would continue prioritizing the completion of ongoing projects, those with revenue potential, and initiatives contributing to employment generation.

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UNICEF has launched a US$9.9 billion funding appeal aimed at providing lifesaving assistance to 109 million children across 146 countries in 2025. This appeal comes in response to the anticipated challenges children will face, including conflicts, climate shocks, displacement, and health crises. In a statement released on Thursday, UNICEF emphasized that around 213 million children globally are currently affected by unpredictable circumstances. The agency noted that the 109 million children targeted for aid in 2025 are at significant risk, and donor funding is critical to ensure timely, effective, and sufficient humanitarian assistance. UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell emphasized the unprecedented scale of children’s humanitarian needs, noting, “Looking ahead to 2025, we estimate that 213 million children in 146 countries and territories will require humanitarian assistance over the course of the year— a staggering number. It is UNICEF’s mandate to reach each of these children with the essential services and supplies they need and to ensure their rights are protected and upheld — a mandate that has guided our work for the past 78 years. Impact of conflicts on newborns In 2024, more than 57.5 million children were born into countries affected by conflict or other humanitarian crises where UNICEF has an emergency appeal. UNICEF predicts that the figure is expected to rise by at least 400,000 in 2025. “The US$9.9billion appeal for 2025 highlights the pressing need to tackle a growing array of humanitarian challenges confronting children in 146 countries, ” the agency noted. Key goals for UNICEF’s 2025 humanitarian action for children As part of its Humanitarian Action for Children, which outlines the agency’s 2025 appeal, UNICEF aims to provide life-saving assistance to millions of children and families worldwide. The agency plans to reach 56.9 million children and women with primary healthcare services in UNICEF-supported facilities and to screen 34 million children aged 6-59 months for malnutrition. Additionally, UNICEF intends to offer community-based mental health and psychosocial support to 20.6 million children, adolescents, and caregivers, and provide gender-based violence risk mitigation and response interventions to 11.1 million women, girls, and boys. The agency also targets 24 million children for formal or non-formal education, including early learning programs, and aims to provide 55.3 million people with access to sufficient and quality water. Focus on the most affected regions The funding appeal for 2025 highlights the most pressing needs in five key regions: Afghanistan, with an appeal for $1.19 billion; Sudan, $840 million; the Democratic Republic of the Congo, $804 million; the State of Palestine, $716 million; and Lebanon, $658 million. In 2024, UNICEF’s response yielded significant results, including providing primary healthcare to 26.4 million children and women, screening 12.2 million children for malnutrition, and ensuring 17.4 million people had access to safe water. UNICEF will provide education to 9.7 million children and support 12.6 million children, adolescents, and caregivers with mental health services. UNICEF also noted that donors contributed more than 50% of its thematic humanitarian funding in 2024, but funding for many emergencies, particularly in countries like Burkina Faso, Lebanon, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, remains severely underfunded. Support through flexible humanitarian funding is critical for our work for children affected by crises,” said Russell. “Imagine what we can achieve for children working together through principled humanitarian action, creating a world where the rights of every child are protected and upheld, and where every child can develop and thrive – a world fit for every child.”

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The Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA) has disclosed that 3,138 individuals tested positive for HIV out of 257,953 screened between January and October 2024. This reflects a 1.2% positivity rate over the 10-month period. Dr. Afam Obidike, the Commissioner for Health in Anambra, shared these statistics during a media briefing in Awka on Thursday, in observance of World AIDS Day, celebrated globally every December 1st since 1988. This year’s World AIDS Day theme is: ‘Take the Rights Path, Sustain HIV Response, Stop HIV Among Children to End AIDS in Nigeria by 2030.’ Expansion of comprehensive HIV services Obidike highlighted the state’s progress in combating HIV/AIDS, noting the expansion of comprehensive services to 175 healthcare facilities across Anambra. He stated, “Between January and October 2024, 257,953 individuals were tested for HIV, with 3,138 (1.2%) testing positive. “Notably, 99% of those diagnosed were successfully linked to antiretroviral therapy (ART). Currently, 49,067 individuals living with HIV are receiving antiretroviral treatment.” As part of its prevention efforts, the state, with support from partners, distributed 1,406,744 condoms and 26,640 lubricants to promote safe practices among key populations and the general public. The Commissioner emphasized the critical role of the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) program in reducing pediatric HIV cases in Anambra State. Obidike revealed that spectrum projections for 2024 estimated 5,167 pregnant women in the state required PMTCT services. “Thanks to the efforts of mentor mothers and community partners, 56,199 antenatal attendees were tested for HIV, resulting in the identification of 560 HIV-positive pregnant women (including known and new cases). All were successfully linked to care,” he stated. He also highlighted the adoption of advanced diagnostics, such as m-PIMA machines for Early Infant Diagnosis, which have enhanced the testing and care of HIV-exposed infants, ensuring healthier outcomes for mothers and their babies. Additionally, Obidike noted that the state government has domesticated the HIV Anti-Discrimination Act to safeguard the rights of People Living with HIV, combat stigma, and address gender-based violence. “The state remains committed to achieving health equity and an AIDS-free future for all residents,” he affirmed. What You Should Know HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) remains a significant public health concern in Nigeria, despite progress in prevention, treatment, and awareness efforts. Nigeria has the second-largest HIV epidemic globally. According to UNAIDS, the national HIV prevalence rate is around 1.3%, with regional variations. Funding gaps, healthcare infrastructure, and social factors like poverty and gender inequality hinder progress. Strengthening community-based interventions and addressing these systemic challenges are critical.

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By: Jaiden Femi Date: Saturday, 30th November 2024 Lagos State was thrown into dead this Saturday with a bizarre and horrifying incident unearthed in Lagos State neighborhood. A well-known pastor, the founder of a prominent local church (in appreciate time be opened) reportedly began displaying erratic behavior, which subsequently led to a shocking chain of events. By the time the police were alerted, the revelations had spiraled into one of the most chilling scandals in recent memory. According to eyewitnesses, Pastor Dom Olayemi, a charismatic preacher in his late 30s, was seen wandering the streets in a disheveled state, muttering incomprehensible words. Residents claims to initially think he was praying or performing some ritual, a common sight in Lagos. However, as his behavior grew more erratic: tearing his clothes and making alarming confessions… concerned locals intervened and called the authorities.  The situation took a dead turn when the parishioners began searching the church premises and discovered shallow graves behind the building. These graves reportedly contained multiple headless bodies in various states of decomposition. A further investigation revealed a hidden chamber within the church where rituals were allegedly conducted.  The revelations didn’t stop there. Community members and former church members began coming forward with damning accusations. Amongst several are the likes of 17 pregnancies , many of whom were regular congregants, claiming they had been impregnated by Pastor Olayemi under the guise of “spiritual cleansing.” Several women alleged that he convinced them they needed to bear “holy children” as part of divine instructions.  While the pastor’s wife who’s not been identified nor reached, had reportedly been “away on a spiritual retreat” for months, speculation is rife that she might have been aware of her husband’s illicit activities.  Unverified reports circulating on social media suggest the pastor was involved in a secret cult that required human sacrifices. Some neighbors claim they frequently heard strange noises at odd hours, but the pastor dismissed their concerns as “intense prayer sessions.”  Others have pointed fingers at certain influential individuals within the church who may have been complicit. Conspiracy theories abound, with some alleging that the church’s meteoric rise was fueled by occult practices.  A visibly shaken local, identified as  Funmilayo  told reporters, “We always wondered how he got so wealthy so quickly. Every Sunday, the church was packed, and people donated generously. Now we are beginning to understand what was really happening behind closed doors.”  The pastor, who is currently in custody, has reportedly been uncooperative. Sources close to the investigation suggest that he alternates between bouts of incoherent rambling and fits of rage.  One devoted congregant, who preferred to remain anonymous, passionately defended the embattled preacher. “This is the work of enemies who are jealous of his success. Pastor Olayemi has been a blessing to so many of us. This is all a plot to destroy his ministry,” she said.  Editors Note: The Wider Implications  This scandal raises troubling questions about the unchecked power and influence some religious leaders wield in Nigeria. Over the years, there have been numerous reports of pastors exploiting vulnerable congregants, yet very few cases have led to convictions.  Experts are calling for stricter regulations and oversight of religious organizations. Dr. Tunde Bakare, a sociologist, noted, “The culture of blind faith and unquestioning loyalty makes it easy for unscrupulous individuals to prey on the gullible. This case should serve as a wake-up call for both authorities and the public.”  In due time, the press will release images.

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In today’s digital age, the internet offers countless opportunities to earn a living from the comfort of your home. One such opportunity is typing jobs, which have become increasingly popular due to their simplicity and flexibility. Whether you’re a student, stay-at-home parent, or looking to supplement your income, typing online can be a lucrative side hustle or even a full-time gig. This blog explores legit and proven companies where you can earn up to $550 per week by typing online. Plus, we’ll cover payment methods and requirements to get started. Why Typing Jobs? Typing jobs are in demand because businesses, authors, researchers, and other professionals need transcription, data entry, and content creation services. These jobs are perfect if you have a knack for accuracy, speed, and time management. Plus, they don’t require advanced technical skills, making them accessible to a wide range of people. Here are some legitimate websites where you can earn money for typing, along with their payment methods and requirements: 1. Rev What They Offer: Rev is a popular platform that provides transcription, captioning, and subtitling services. As a freelancer, you’ll listen to audio files and type what you hear, ensuring accuracy and clarity. Earnings: Rev pays $0.30 to $1.10 per audio minute for transcription and captioning. Top earners on the platform make up to $500+ weekly. Payment Method: Rev pays freelancers via PayPal weekly. Requirements: – Strong English comprehension. – Fast and accurate typing skills. – Ability to pass a short transcription test. 2. Scribie What They Offer: Scribie specializes in audio and video transcription. Freelancers are tasked with converting audio recordings into text. Earnings: Scribie pays $5 to $20 per audio hour, plus bonuses for quality work. While it may seem lower than some competitors, consistent work can help you reach $550 per week. Payment Method: Payments are made via PayPal. Requirements: – Proficiency in English. – Basic computer skills. – Ability to pass an online transcription test. 3. Fiverr What They Offer: Fiverr is a freelance marketplace where you can offer typing-related services such as transcription, data entry, or document formatting. Earnings: You set your own rates, but beginner freelancers typically earn $5 to $50 per project. Experienced typists can make significantly more. Payment Method: Payments are processed through PayPal, Payoneer, or bank transfer. Requirements: – Create a profile showcasing your skills. – Deliver quality work to build a strong reputation. 4. GoTranscript What They Offer: GoTranscript offers transcription services for audio and video files. Earnings: Freelancers earn $0.60 per audio minute. Consistent workers can achieve weekly earnings of $550 or more. Payment Method: Payments are made weekly via PayPal or Payoneer. Requirements: – A good command of English. – Passing their transcription test. 5. Upwork What They Offer: Upwork is a freelancing platform where you can find various typing jobs, including transcription, data entry, and content creation. Earnings: Rates vary based on your skill level and project complexity. Freelancers can charge hourly or per project, with experienced typists earning $15–$40 per hour. Payment Method: Upwork pays through PayPal, direct deposit, or wire transfer. Requirements: – Create a professional profile. – Bid on projects and build client relationships. 6. TranscribeMe What They Offer: TranscribeMe is a transcription service that breaks audio files into small clips, making the work manageable for freelancers. Earnings: TranscribeMe pays $15 to $22 per audio hour, with specialized roles offering higher rates. Payment Method: Payments are made via PayPal. Requirements: – Excellent listening and typing skills. – Passing a short transcription test. — 7. Typing Services on Freelancer.com What They Offer: Freelancer.com connects you with clients seeking typing services, such as data entry, copy typing, and document formatting. Earnings: E...

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In today’s digital age, making money online has become an increasingly popular way to generate income. One of the lesser-known, but exciting, opportunities involves getting paid to listen to music. Yes, you read that right! Platforms now exist that pay users to stream songs, provide reviews, or even create curated playlists. Here’s how I made $320 in just 4 days, and how you can do it too. How It Works The idea is simple: music companies and artists want their work reviewed, promoted, or streamed. They partner with platforms to gather listener feedback, boost streams, and improve music quality. You, as a listener, get paid for your time and honest input. The tasks might include: Listening to songs and rating them. Writing short reviews of tracks or albums. Curating playlists for specific genres. Streaming songs to help artists reach milestones. Platforms That Pay You to Listen to Music Here are some of the best platforms to get started: Slice the Pie How it Works: Review tracks, rate them, and write short reviews. Payment: $0.02–$0.20 per review (rates increase with quality feedback). Payout Method: PayPal. Current Rewards (Mode Earn App) How it Works: Listen to music via their app and earn points for each minute played. Payment: Redeem points for PayPal cash or gift cards. Bonus: Earn extra by completing surveys and referring friends. Playlist Push How it Works: Review music submitted by independent artists or create and promote playlists. Payment: Up to $12 per song review (for qualified playlist curators). Eligibility: Must have an active playlist with a decent following on platforms like Spotify or Apple Music. HitPredictor How it Works: Listen to new tracks and rate them. Payment: Earn points that can be redeemed for Amazon gift cards. Special Feature: Opportunity to influence future hits! RadioEarn How it Works: Stream internet radio and earn points for listening. Payment: Points are converted to PayPal cash or Bitcoin. Payout Frequency: Monthly. Research.fm How it Works: Participate in music surveys and provide feedback on new tracks. Payment: Earn points redeemable for gift cards. Bonus: Exclusive access to unreleased music. How I Made $320 in 4 Days Diversified My Platforms: I signed up on multiple platforms—Slice the Pie, Playlist Push, and Current Rewards—to maximize my earnings. Dedicated Time: I spent about 6 hours daily listening, rating, and reviewing songs. On platforms like Playlist Push, I earned the most ($12 per song for playlist reviews). Boosted My Playlist: By promoting my Spotify playlist through social media, I qualified as a playlist curator on Playlist Push. Referral Programs: Platforms like Current Rewards offered referral bonuses, which added an extra $50 to my earnings. Payment Channels To get paid, you’ll need to set up accounts with these platforms’ preferred payment methods. Common channels include: PayPal: The most popular and widely used method for direct cash payouts. Bank Transfers: Some platforms offer direct deposit, but availability depends on your region. Gift Cards: Platforms like HitPredictor and Research.fm allow you to redeem points for Amazon or other store gift cards. Cryptocurrency: RadioEarn lets users receive payments in Bitcoin, appealing to crypto enthusiasts. Tips for Success Provide Quality Feedback: Write detailed and honest reviews. Higher-quality feedback can lead to better pay rates. Stay Consistent: Dedicate time daily to maximize earnings. Promote Your Playlists: Increase your Spotify or Apple Music following to qualify for platforms like Playlist Push. Use Multiple Platforms: Diversifying increases earning potential. Refer Friends: Many platforms have referral bonuses, which can significantly boost your earnings. Roundup Making money online by listening to music is not only fun but also rewarding. With platforms like Slice the Pie, Playlist Push, and Current Rewards, you can turn your love for music into a side hustle. While it may not replace a full-time income, it’s a great way to earn e...

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Donald Trump claimed his presidential election campaign had raised a record amount of money since his historic criminal conviction on Thursday, in a rambling, nearly 40-minute press conference on Friday morning that criticized everyone from the judge to the current president, Joe Biden. In a speech peppered with falsehoods and conspiracy theories that threatened bad things to come, Trump, who had declined to testify in his own defense, said: “This is a case where, if they can do this to me, they can do this to anyone,” before changing the subject to immigration. “These are bad people. These are, in many cases, I believe, sick people. When you look at our country, what’s happening, where millions and millions of people are flowing in from all parts of the world, not just South America, from Africa, from Asia, from the Middle East, and they’re coming in from jails and prisons, and they’re coming in from mental institutions and insane asylums.” Trump’s legal team embarked on a counteroffensive almost immediately after Trump became the first ex-US president and presidential candidate to be convicted of a felony. With the 2024 presidential election campaign propelled deep into uncharted territory, Todd Blanche, Trump’s attorney, went on national television to make a spirited though measured defense of his client, vowing to lodge an appeal against Thursday’s judgment. The jury in a Manhattan courtroom found Trump guilty on all 34 counts of falsifying documents related to hush money paid to an adult film actor, Stormy Daniels, shortly before the 2016 presidential poll. Appearing on NBC, Blanche insisted Trump’s defense had not been given “a fair shake” during the trial but predicted that they would be vindicated on appeal. We’re going to appeal and we’re going to win on appeal,” Blanche told NBC’s Savannah Guthrie. “That’s the goal. The goal is … to appeal quickly and hopefully be vindicated quickly.” He said the legal team had been unsurprised by the guilty verdict, adding: “We didn’t think we were going to get a fair shake in Manhattan. There’s a lot of evidence that should have gotten in that didn’t come in.” The Trump campaign team, meanwhile, tweeted that it had raised $34.8m since the verdict, which would be a single-day record for it. Trump now faces the prospect of rewriting the record books further if he gets sent to jail when the judge, Juan Merchan, holds a sentencing hearing on 11 July, four days before the Republican national convention in Milwaukee, where Trump is scheduled to be officially anointed as the party’s presidential nominee. Some analysts predict that the prospect of a custodial sentence has risen because of Trump’s repeated breaking of gag orders during the six-week trial and his condemnation of Merchant as “corrupt and conflicted” after Thursday’s verdict. But Blanche played down that possibility, pointing to Trump’s advanced age and his previous lack of a criminal record. “Under the guidelines and the rules of the court … President Trump would not face a day in prison,” he said. “Putting aside the fact he was president of the United States, the conduct that we’re talking about, he is 78, 79 years old [Trump is 77]. He’s a grandfather, a husband, a father. He should not go to prison.” The Manhattan district attorney, Alvin Bragg, who led the case against Trump and was also attacked by the former president, has yet to announce if he will request a prison sentence. With Republicans reacting in unison to the verdict with fury, speculation was rife about how the fallout might affect the presidential contest between Trump and Joe Biden, with polls showing a close race which the GOP presumptive nominee narrowly leads in several key battleground states. Writing in Politico, John Harris predicted that the newly minted image of Trump as a convicted felon among a segment of swing voters could give Biden a vital edge come November. “Trump’s only path to victory is a coalition that includes many Republicans and...

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Joe Biden’s delay in sanctioning the use of western weapons against targets in Russia has left the Kremlin’s forces laughing at Ukraine and able to “hunt” its people, Volodymyr Zelenskiy has told the Guardian. In a wide-ranging interview in Kyiv, the Ukrainian president said that the White House’s equivocation had cost lives and he urged the US president to overcome his perennial worries about possible nuclear “escalation” with Moscow. On Thursday night it emerged that, after months of lobbying, the US had taken a small but symbolic step – and for the first time would permit some American-made weapons to be used by Kyiv’s military to fire inside Russia in its defence of the city of Kharkiv. But in his Guardian interview, Zelenskiy made clear he needed to be able to use “powerful” long-range weapons that could hit targets inside deep Russian territory – a red line the White House has refused to lift. The US, he said, needed to “believe in us more”. Without this green light, Zelenskiy said other allies, such as the UK, may not allow Ukraine to use their long-range weapons either. “Believe us, we have to respond. They don’t understand anything but force. We are not the first and not the last target,” he said of Russia. I think it is absolutely illogical to have [western] weapons and see the murderers, terrorists, who are killing us from the Russian side. I think sometimes they are just laughing at this situation,” he said. “It’s like going hunting for them. Hunting for people. They understand that we can see them, but we cannot reach them.” Zelenskiy also said: New US weapons had still not arrived in sufficient quantities to equip additional Ukrainian brigades in the north-east, where Russia is advancing. Vladimir Putin was similar to Adolf Hitler, saying: “Putin is not crazy. He’s dangerous, which is much scarier.” He had asked the former British prime minister Boris Johnson to lobby Donald Trump in the run-up to a vote in the US Congress in April to approve $61bn in aid to Ukraine, which hard-right Republicans had opposed. The UK Labour leader, Keir Starmer, whom he met in Kyiv last year, was a “good guy”. He added, after a pause: “Rishi [Sunak] is also a good guy Zelenskiy’s remarks came as the Biden administration on Thursday relaxed its longstanding policy forbidding Ukraine from using US weapons against targets inside Russia. It gave permission for Ukraine to fire back – but only near Kharkiv, where Moscow has been waging a fresh offensive. The decision allows Ukraine to use US-supplied Himars artillery to strike Russian soldiers and command and control centres. Zelenskiy’s press spokesperson, Serhii Nykyforov, welcomed the US move. He told the Guardian: “It will significantly boost our ability to counter Russian attempts to mass across the border.” Later on Friday, Zelenskiy described the decision as a “step forward”. But the White House insisted its policy prohibiting deeper strikes had not changed. Ukraine would still not be able to use the long-range Atacms system within Russia, it said. Speaking inside his presidential headquarters, Zelenskiy made clear he wanted to use long-range weapons such as the UK-made Storm Shadow missiles. He said that, despite reports to the contrary, the UK had not given “100% permission” to do so. Thursday’s shift is unlikely to change the position either. In reality, Downing Street waits on the Americans, Zelenskiy suggested. “We raised this issue twice. We did not get confirmation from him [David Cameron, the foreign secretary],” he said. A final decision by the UK and other partners depended on “consensus”, with the position in Washington being crucial, he suggested. “You know how it works,” he said. Biden has long been concerned about the risks of a direct nuclear conflict with Moscow. The US president is likely to skip a peace summit in Switzerland next month, which Zelenskiy has organised. Asked if he felt let down by the US and its leadership, he replied: “I think they nee...

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Seventeen of 20 U.S. doctors stuck in Gaza have departed, with the physician known for saving Sen. Tammy Duckworth’s life staying behind, a source familiar with the situation said. The 17 humanitarian aid volunteers were received by U.S. officials at the Kerem Shalom Crossing at the Israel border, the source said, after the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem helped to facilitate their safe passage. Dr. Adam Hamawy, credited with saving the life of Duckworth, D-Ill., when she served in the Iraq War 20 years ago, was among three U.S. doctors who stayed behind, the source said. The departures came after the doctors were all but trapped in Gaza by Israel’s closure of border crossings ahead of an expected full-scale Israeli invasion of the city of Rafah. Israeli officials said earlier in the week they had reopened the Kerem Shalom Crossing, crucial to humanitarian aid. Dr. Ammar Ghanem, an ICU specialist from Detroit who went to Gaza to volunteer his services, said earlier in the day that a group of American medical volunteers left Gaza on Friday through the crossing. It appears those 17 doctors composed this group. “We have been in close contact with the groups that these U.S. doctors are part of, and we have been in contact with the families of these U.S. citizens,” a State Department spokesperson said in response to questions about the departures. The three doctors who opted to stay are aware the U.S. Embassy may not be able to facilitate their departure in the same manner as was done Friday, the source said, calling it an “extremely unique operation.” Amid concern for civilian casualties, President Joe Biden has said he would not provide Israel with certain weapons and artillery shells if it launches a ground offensive in Rafah, where millions of Palestinians are sheltering. Senior administration officials earlier said the U.S. had halted a Israel-bound shipment of certain offensive weapons. Earlier this week, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged disagreement with Biden over the plan, telling CNBC the operation was moving forward swiftly anyway and would be completed in a number of weeks. Meanwhile, the United States has constructed a floating pier to move truckloads of humanitarian aide into Gaza. The shipments were set in motion on Friday morning. U.S. Central Command said. Duckworth has been working to safely extricate Hamawy from Gaza, under attack by Israel after the surprise invasion by Hamas militants Oct. 7. That attack triggered Israel’s declaration of war against the Gaza-based militant group. In an interview earlier this week, the former Army combat surgeon said there was much work to do in Gaza. “We’re doing the best we can with the resources that we have to continue the mission that we’re here for — is to take care of the people in Gaza and the injured and the sick,” he said

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The Israeli military announced Friday that it has recovered the bodies of three hostages from the Gaza Strip. The hostages were identified as Shani Louk, Amit Bouskila, and Itshak Gelernter, IDF spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said in a press conference in Tel Aviv. All three were taken hostage on October 7 and were killed while escaping the Nova music festival and their bodies taken into Gaza, the IDF said. “They were celebrating life in the Nova music festival and they were murdered by Hamas,” he said. The bodies were identified by authorities and the families have been informed, Hagari said, adding that the bodies had been transferred to medical professionals for forensic examination. Hagari did not disclose where the bodies were found during the press conference. He said the bodies were recovered during a joint IDF and Shin Bet operation. CNN analyst and Axios reporter Barak Ravid, citing an IDF spokesperson, reported the bodies were found in a tunnel in Gaza. Nissim Louk, father of Shani Louk whose body was one of those recovered also told Israeli media his daughter’s body was very well preserved because it had been kept in a “deep and very cold tunnel”. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his grief in a post on X on Friday. “The heart breaks for the great loss. My wife Sara and I grieve with the families. All our hearts are with them in this hour of grieving,” he said. “We will return all our hostages, the dead and the alive alike. I congratulate our brave forces who, with determined action, have returned our sons and daughters home,” he added. Of the three hostages, only Louk had previously been confirmed dead by the Israeli government. The 23-year-old German-Israeli woman was declared dead by the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs in late October. A source involved with her identification told CNN Louk’s death was announced after forensic examiners found a bone fragment from her skull. Her lifeless body was seen on video on the back of a Hamas truck after the music festival attack. Louk’s family said they feel some closure now that her body has been recovered. In a statement given to CNN, the family said the IDF came to their house on Friday and informed them that they were able to rescue Louk’s body from a tunnel in Gaza and bring her back to Israel. “Every news like this brings us back to the horrific moment we had to find out that our loving daughter was brutally murdered by Hamas on the 7th of October. However, it is also a relief to get the body back and we are now able to bury her close by. It gives us some kind of closure,” the family said. “We want to remember Shani as the beautiful and peace-loving person she was, who loved music, dancing and life. She brought us and many other people in the world light and the belief in good. This is how we choose to remember Shani,” the statement added. Around 240 people were taken hostage and moved to Gaza during Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel that also killed more than 1,200 people. A little more than 100 were freed during a release deal in November, but the IDF believes there are still 132 hostages being held in Gaza, 128 of whom were taken on October 7. The IDF believed that of those 132 hostages, 40 are believed to be dead, including two who were taken in 2014. A deal to secure the release of the remaining hostages has remained elusive for months, despite rounds of talks between Israeli and Hamas negotiating teams. Last Friday, Hamas militants said Israel’s rejection of a ceasefire plan submitted by mediators at negotiations in Cairo had sent hostage release talks back to “square one.” The statement came a day after the latest round of Gaza truce and hostage deal talks ended in Cairo, without a deal. The militant group also accused Netanyahu of hindering the ceasefire talks, so as to use negotiations as a cover to attack the southern Gaza city of Rafah.

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The Federal Government of Nigeria, national and international partners have launched an appeal seeking US$306 million to fast-track food assistance, nutrition supplies and services, clean water, healthcare, and protection support to people in severe need during the period. This is just as governors in the northeast region are meeting to strategise on policies to revive the econonies of the six states in the region. This appeal is for a rapid response to the deteriorating food security and nutrition crisis in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe (BAY) states this lean season between May to September 2024, a statement issued by the United Nations Information Center has said. Announcing the release of $11 million from the Nigeria Humanitarian Fund to jumpstart the emergency response, United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator Mohamed Malick Fall said, “I am confident that we have the capacity to address these increased needs in support of Government efforts, what we need now are resources. Joining hands together, pooling resources, to save lives and stop the suffering”. In the BAY states, some 4.8 million people are estimated to be facing severe food insecurity, the highest levels in seven years, according to the Government-led Cadre Harmonisé analysis released in March this year. Children, pregnant and lactating women, older persons, and people living with disabilities are among those who are most vulnerable. The appeal, the lean season food security and nutrition crisis multisector plan, is targeting 2.8 million of these people for urgent interventions. This food and nutrition crisis, which has been compounded by soaring food prices, is primarily due to continued conflict and insecurity in the BAY states, alongside climate change impacts. It threatens to become catastrophic without immediate and coordinated intervention. The prices of staple foods like beans and maize have increased by 300 to 400 per cent over the past year following the removal of the fuel subsidy and the depreciation of the naira. Inflation is outpacing the ability of families to cope, making essential food items unaffordable. “Malnutrition rates are of great concern. Approximately 700,000 children under five are projected to be acutely malnourished over the next six months, including 230,000 who are expected to be severely acutely malnourished and at risk of death if they do not receive timely treatment and nutrition support,” the statement said. Speaking at the launch of the plan, the Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency, Zubaida Umar said: “The mobilization of funding and resources to address this lean season food security and nutrition crisis envisaged in the north-eastern part of the country is a step in the right direction in complementing the Federal Government’s efforts to prevent the deaths of people as a result of malnutrition-related complications, adoption of negative coping mechanisms and other health related issues among others.” UNICEF is deeply concerned about the escalating food security and nutrition crisis in the BAY states. The alarming rise in severe acute malnutrition among children underscores the urgent need for immediate action. “This year alone, we have seen around 120,000 admissions for the treatment of severe acute malnutrition with complications, far exceeding our estimated target of 90,000. We must ensure that lifesaving nutrition commodities reach every child in need. This is not just a call to action; it is a race against time to save lives and protect the future of millions of vulnerable children,” Dr Rownak Khan, the Acting Representative of UNICEF Nigeria, said. Northeast Governors Meet Governors of the Northeast of the country are strategizing to come up with policies to revive the Boko Haram- ravaged economies of the six states in the region. Governors in the state are putting their hopes in sectors that agriculture and solid minerals to attract investor and rebuild businesses Governor of Borno State Prof. Babagana Zulum, while noting the rising cost of foods...

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President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of the former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Attahiru Jega as Chairman of the governing Council of the Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Sokoto State. Jega’s appointment is among 555 others approved by the Federal Government to serve as chairmen and members of governing councils of tertiary institutions in Nigeria. Recall that the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) had earlier threatened to embark on a strike over the government’s refusal to reconstitute the governing councils of public universities. ASUU had on Tuesday issued a two-week ultimatum within which it demanded the government to do the needful. Aside from Jega, a source identified other members of the board as Miss Mary Nyieor Yisa, R.O. Kazeem, Professor Usman Musa and Dr Anthony Usoro. According to a source, “the Federal Government has appointed chairmen and members of the governing council for Universities, Polytechnics and Colleges of Education.” Inauguration and retreats for the councils have been scheduled to be held on Thursday, 30th and Friday, 31st May, 2024 at the National Universities Commission (NUC) in Abuja.

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The Lagos State Police Command has detained a police officer for failing to maintain professionalism during a confrontation with a female traffic offender. This was disclosed in a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Benjamin Hundeyin, on Friday. According to the statement, although the officer showed restraint most of the time during the altercation, he allowed his emotions to becloud his judgement on a couple of occasions. He added that the officer has been taken into custody for appropriate disciplinary actions. The incident involved a citizen, Aderele Aisha, who drove against traffic and allegedly assaulted the officer, behaving in a disorderly and unruly manner. The incident was captured in a viral video posted on social media platforms. The PPRO, who took tomhis X handle, wrote: “As much as the police officer exercised restraint, he allowed his emotions get the better part of him once or twice. A police officer is expected to exercise utmost restraint in the face of provocation. This definitely is a teaching moment for officers and men of the Force. The officer has been taken in for appropriate actions. That being said, Aderele Aisha, who drove against traffic, clearly assaulted the officer and behaved in a disorderly and unruly manner. She has since profusely apologized for her actions and tendered a written apology. “While we continue to train our men to be as professional as possible, while not sparing any officer who clearly acts unprofessionally, we urge the citizenry to strive to maintain decorum in their dealings with security agencies.”

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President Bola Tinubu has conferred the second highest national honour of Grand Commander of Order of Nigeria (GCON) on the Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, for his immeasurable and invaluable contributions to national development. Tinubu gave the honour at the 90th birthday ceremony of the paramount ruler held at the Oba Sikiru Adetona School of Governance, Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State The president was represented by the Vice President, Alhaji Kashim Shettima, on Friday at the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, for a book presentation on “Reinventing Governance in Nigeria”, as part of activities marking his 64th coronation anniversary as a Paramount ruler and 90th birthday. The President described Awujale as an extraordinary royal father and hero of Nigeria’s democracy who is adored all over the country for his sincerity of purpose and courage in the face of any adversity threatening national development.