Tag:

officials

Ukraine Conflict: US Peace Plan Details – Crimea, Russia, NATO, Troop Limits

by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor November 21, 2025

written by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor

Trump Plan for Ukraine Peace Reportedly Includes Territorial Concessions and Military Limits

A 28-point plan reportedly drafted by former US President Donald Trump proposes a resolution to the Ukraine conflict that would involve Kyiv ceding territory to Russia, considerably reducing its military size, and forgoing any future NATO membership. Details of the plan were obtained by Axios and confirmed by ukrainian, US, and sources familiar with the proposal.

According to Axios, the plan would see the United States recognize Crimea, Luhansk, and Donetsk as Russian territory. A “frozen” conflict line would effectively recognize russian control over parts of kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions, while Russia would relinquish control over other territories it currently occupies beyond these five regions.

The proposal calls for Ukrainian forces to withdraw from the portion of the donetsk Oblast they currently hold. This area would then be designated as a neutral, demilitarized buffer zone internationally recognized as belonging to Russia, with a stipulation that Russian forces would not enter it.

A key component of the plan involves a ample reduction in the Ukrainian Armed Forces, limiting its size to 600,000 personnel. Currently, Ukraine’s military numbers between 800,000 and 850,000, a significant increase from the approximately 250,000 soldiers it had prior to the war.

The plan also suggests entrusting the defense of Ukraine to European fighters stationed in poland,while explicitly prohibiting the deployment of NATO troops within Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr zelenskyy has acknowledged receiving the text of the plan,stating he intends to discuss it with Trump. However,Ukrainian sources have reportedly described the proposal as “absurd.”

November 21, 2025 0 comments

World

Venezuela Opposition Leader Calls for Military Defection

by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor November 16, 2025

written by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor

Machado Appeals to‍ Venezuelan‍ Security Forces: “Put Down⁣ Your Weapons, Don’t Attack Your People”

in a recent ⁢audio message, Venezuelan opposition leader María corina machado directly appealed⁤ to members of⁤ the‍ Venezuelan ‌security and military forces, urging them ⁣to disobey orders she characterizes as repressive and to stand with the people. The message comes ⁣amidst increasing international pressure on‍ the Maduro government, including the recent escalation ‌of U.S. operations in the Caribbean‌ aimed⁤ at combating drug trafficking.

Machado condemned‍ the current state of Venezuela,‌ stating the entire country lives ⁢under a form of “kidnapping,” referencing the detention of⁢ political prisoners and what she describes as‍ the overall oppression of the population. She ⁢accused‌ the government of intentionally ⁣inflicting hardship, “separating us from our families, suffocating us, intentionally starving our people.”

A central focus of her message was a plea to⁣ those within⁤ the Chavista-supporting security forces who she believes are conflicted by ⁢their roles. Machado asserted that⁢ these individuals are themselves “hostages,” forced ⁤to carry out “barbarity” and perhaps burdened by guilt. She highlighted the testimony⁢ of the‌ daughter of ‍Lewis Mendoza, a citizen reportedly detained by the regime in Trujillo state, whose emotional plea⁤ described a “ruined”⁢ childhood.

“Is this what they wont for their‍ own people?” Machado ‌repeatedly asked,challenging the security forces to consider the ⁣consequences of their actions. “Sleep in peace after committing this cruelty? Is⁣ this the‍ future you⁣ want for your children,⁢ for your families, for your country?” She warned that the suffering they inflict will not ⁤be forgotten, stating,⁢ “Those cries ⁢of pain will⁢ never leave you.”

Machado explicitly ⁤called on these forces to “put down your weapons, don’t attack your people,”‍ and to prepare to‌ support the ⁤country’s‌ move towards ⁣freedom, wich she⁣ indicated is “imminent.” She emphasized‌ that their actions at this⁣ critical juncture will ⁤”mark their life forever,” and that they will be judged by “history,the law and ⁣the Venezuelan people.”‍ She urged them to⁢ “go out ⁢and embrace‍ the ‌people,‌ your people” when the time for change⁤ arrives.

The opposition⁢ leader framed the situation as a choice between complicity in repression and ⁢becoming agents of positive change, urging⁣ officials to “Be⁤ a hero and not a ‌criminal. Be a⁣ pride and ‌not a shame for your family. Be part of the radiant ⁣future of Venezuela and not of⁤ the ruin that tyranny destroyed.”

concluding her⁣ message, Machado extended an invitation to join the movement for change, ⁤stating, “Venezuela and your brothers. We are waiting for you.”

Machado’s ‍statements follow the recent activation of Operation Lanza del Sur by the United States in September,a ⁢Caribbean-based initiative intended to⁣ disrupt drug trafficking organizations operating,according to Washington,from Venezuela.

November 16, 2025 0 comments

News

DPWH officials face charges over ghost flood control projects in Bulacan

by Emma Walker – News Editor August 21, 2025

written by Emma Walker – News Editor

Ongoing flood-control works continue in Binondo, Manila despite President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s claim of anomalies in several projects. Manila Mayor Isko Moreno on Aug. 21, 2025 reminded the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to secure permits from the city government before undertaking such infrastructure projects, stressing that all must align with its Drainage Master Plan to prevent flooding and ensure accountability. PHOTO BY RENE H. DILAN

DPWH officials face charges over ghost flood control projects in Bulacan

August 21, 2025 0 comments

World

Argentine police arrest alleged serial killer targeting homeless

by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor August 6, 2025

written by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor

Argentine Police Uncover Grisly Scene in Alleged Serial Killer Case

Homeless Targeted in Brutal Murders and Dismemberment

Argentine authorities have apprehended a man suspected of systematically murdering and dismembering homeless individuals, bringing to light a chilling series of crimes that investigators believe occurred with disturbing regularity.

Brutal Discoveries at Suspect’s Home

The 37-year-old suspect was taken into custody following a recent raid on his residence in Jujuy province. During the operation, law enforcement officials discovered a horrific collection of human remains, including bones, blood, skin fragments, and even a nose. Attorney General **Sergio Lello Sanchez** detailed the grim findings to AFP.

This breakthrough came after meticulous analysis of security camera footage provided crucial leads. At the property, officers also found a visibly frightened 16-year-old boy, who identified himself as the owner’s nephew, according to **Lello Sanchez**.

A Pattern of Friday Night Killings

Investigators have identified a disturbing pattern, with at least five murders believed to have occurred consistently on Fridays. The suspect allegedly lured homeless individuals to his home, where the attacks took place.

The United Nations reports that in many countries, homeless individuals face disproportionately higher rates of violence, often due to lack of official documentation and societal invisibility (UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, 2020).

Police uncovered disturbing evidence at the home of the alleged Argentine serial killer.

August 6, 2025 0 comments

World

Russian air defence intercepts 155 Ukrainian drones, two people killed

by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor July 11, 2025

written by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor

Cross-Border Attacks Intensify Between Russia and Ukraine

Civilian Areas Targeted Amid Escalating Hostilities

Tensions escalate as both Russia and Ukraine report attacks on civilian areas. A drone strike hit Russia’s **Tula** region, while Ukrainian cities near the border face renewed shelling, raising concerns about civilian safety.

Drone Strike in Tula Region

**Dmitry Milyaev**, the governor of the **Tula** region in western Russia, reported a drone attack that resulted in one death and one injury, as stated on Telegram.

Shelling in Kharkiv Region

Early today, the city of Chuguiv in Ukraine’s **Kharkiv** region, bordering Russia, was struck by Russian forces. According to **Galyna Minaeva**, the city’s mayor, the strike demolished two private residences and inflicted damage on a hospital complex, according to a Facebook post.

**Minaeva** also noted that the attack wounded three individuals.

Kyiv Under Fire

**Tymur Tkachenko**, head of **Kyiv’s** city military administration, reported on Telegram that Russian shelling on Thursday wounded at least 28 people, including two children. These attacks occurred Friday morning local time.

The recent escalation has prompted international concern, with the United Nations reporting a 54% increase in civilian casualties in Ukraine in April 2024 compared to the previous month, highlighting the devastating impact of the conflict on ordinary people (OHCHR, May 2024).

Recent Surge in Attacks

Moscow has intensified its assault on Ukraine, launching what is described as the most significant barrage of drones and missiles since the invasion began in February 2022.

July 11, 2025 0 comments

Business

Official inflation is only half the truth: said why your money is disappearing faster than the numbers presented

by Priya Shah – Business Editor July 5, 2025

written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

Lithuania Grapples With Rising Inflation

Experts warn true cost increases may be masked by official figures

Lithuania is experiencing noticeable inflation, prompting economists to examine the real impact on consumers. While official figures indicate a moderate rise, some analysts suggest the actual decrease in purchasing power could be significantly higher, affecting Lithuanians more than statistics reveal.

Inflation Rate Exceeds Target

In May 2025, Lithuanian prices increased by 3% compared to the previous year, and 0.3% compared to April, according to recent data. Economists typically become concerned when annual price increases surpass 2%. The current increases are considered relatively slow compared to the height of the pandemic.

Money Supply and Price Increases

According to a Bigbank press release, rising prices decrease the purchasing power of money. However, official inflation indicators might not fully reflect the true decrease. Typically, economic growth necessitates a proportional increase in the money supply. **Raul Eamest**, Bigbank Chief Economist, stated that a 2% economic growth should be matched by a 2% increase in the money supply.

“If the supply of money is growing more, it leads to price increases – excessive ‘money printing’ always leads to inflation,” said **Eamest**.

He added that Europe’s money supply began increasing after the last financial crisis, gaining momentum in 2015. From 2010 to 2021, the European Union’s GDP increased by EUR 3.7 trillion, while the money supply increased by EUR 6.4 trillion. According to Trading Economics, the M3 money supply in the Euro Area increased to EUR 16.28 trillion in April 2024 Trading Economics.

The economy grew nominally by 33%, but the money supply increased by 420%, according to a bank spokesman.

Consumer Price Index (CPI) Limitations

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) measures inflation by tracking how much consumers spend on goods and services. According to the specialist, prices should have increased several times, theoretically. However, CPI evaluations in the European Union from 2010 to 2021 showed inflation at only 19%. Similarly, the US market saw a 227% increase in money supply (5 trillion euros), but the CPI rose by only 28%.

The CPI excludes important components like precious metals and cryptocurrencies, which have seen significant price increases. Lithuanians are also investing more in US shares, which are becoming more expensive. These factors aren’t included in the CPI because they are not part of the average consumer basket.

Personal Inflation vs. Official Data

Consumers may experience inflation differently than what statistics suggest, due to personal inflation. The Bank of Lithuania even provides a personal inflation calculator. Personal inflation reflects how price changes affect individuals, unlike the averages used by central banks.

Personal inflation is influenced by individual habits and expenses. For example, those renting in cities with rapidly rising housing prices will experience higher personal inflation. Conversely, those who do not drive may feel less impact from rising fuel prices.

Economist also reminds that even if inflation is reduced, prices do not fall, but only stop growing rapidly, so even when inflation drops, a significant increase in prices may still be felt for a while.

Future Inflation Trends

Economists anticipate continued inflation, suggesting that only increased unemployment and economic contraction could reduce purchasing power and consumption. As long as the labor market remains strong, the effects of past money printing will persist, making a decline in rapid inflation unlikely for the next 5 to 10 years.

Inflation may also be driven by potential US tariffs on European goods and increased defense spending. Shares in defense companies have risen significantly, with the Vaneck Defense ETF increasing by 50% this year alone. European defense companies like Rheinmetall, Thales, and Bae Systems have seen even more pronounced growth.

**Rolandas Norvilas**, Bigbank CEO, acknowledged the inevitability of inflation, noting, “We are definitely seeing increased prices in stores. However, inflation can use inflation in various asset classes, and saving more cautiously can at least neutralize inflation.”

July 5, 2025 0 comments

Newer Posts

Older Posts