Six American oil executives jailed in Venezuela more than three years ago on corruption charges have been granted house arrest in a gesture of goodwill toward the Biden administration as it reviews its policy toward the politically turbulent South American country
source https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/venezuela-gives-us-oilmen-house-arrest-in-gesture-to-biden-venezuela-bill-richardson-joe-biden-donald-trump-maduro-b1840563.html
Friday, 30 April 2021
Florida plans to fine social media for banning politicians
The Florida bill proposes fines up to $250,000 per day for companies which violate the rules.
source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-56952435
source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-56952435
Maradona care 'deficient and reckless' before death, report finds
Medical board report finds the team treating football superstar Diego Maradona left him unmonitored for nearly 12 hours before his death last November.
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-05-01/maradona-care-deficient-and-reckless-before-death-report-finds/100109050
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-05-01/maradona-care-deficient-and-reckless-before-death-report-finds/100109050
ANA set to install hands free toilet doors on 21 planes
Air Nippon Airways (ANA) will install innovative hands-free toilet doors on 21 planes, with the first coming into use tomorrow, 1st May. Hands-Free ANA first started to test the hands-free toilet door in August as a way to reduce passenger touch points. Now, after almost nine months, the system is about to be put into use on 21 ANA Boeing aircrafts starting tomorrow, 1st May. The systems will be particularly welcome during the Coronavirus pandemic, as many airlines have made changes to their aircrafts to support passenger experience, like Emirates’ decision to allow passengers to block the middle seat. [ANA is set to install hands-free doors on 21 aircrafts] | © ]aviationtribune] How does it work? So, how does this innovative system work? The system works by allowing passengers to operate the toilet door using their wrists and elbows. The lock can be easily opened as a result of the larger doorknob, whilst the door handle can easily be operated using your elbows. Overall, the system seems able to substantially reduce touchpoints. [The hands-free systems will make it easier for passengers to operate doors without using their hands] | © ]ANA] The airline decided to install these handles after passenger feedback during a test run. In light of the pandemic, the need to reduce touchpoints is essential, and toilets are a key area. Whilst ANA is rolling them out on 21 aircrafts for now, they plan on eventually rolling out the hands-free systems on all of their aircrafts. In a statement, Shinichi Inoue, Senior Executive Vice President, Customer Experience Management & Planning, said: ““Guided by the principles of ANA Care Promise, we have continued to invest in the development and implementation of innovative technologies because the health and safety of passengers and our staff is the top priority…The hands-free lavatory door is the latest example of us putting this principle into practice as we look for ways to make the travel experience safer and more convenient.” Here to stay Whilst the vaccine will help travel methods return to normal, many safety features implemented during the pandemic are set to stay, and this innovation will be one of them. The virus has forced many airlines to prioritise their hygiene and cleanliness on board, with many implementing strict cleaning regimes. Likewise, passengers have become increasingly sensitive to protocol. Thus, keeping systems like these is not such a bad thing and can improve passenger travel during the pandemic and beyond. [Strict cleaning regimes and touch-free systems may be the future of travel] | © ]Shuttershock] Do you like ANA’s new hands-free innovation? Share your thoughts with us below!
source https://travelradar.aero/ana-set-to-install-hands-free-toilet-doors-on-21-planes/
source https://travelradar.aero/ana-set-to-install-hands-free-toilet-doors-on-21-planes/
Rush Movie Recommendation for Derby Weekend: “Secretariat”
RUSH: I got a little misty-eyed at the end of this movie. I wouldn't normally admit that to you people. I'm supposed to be Mr. Tough and gruff and so forth. I got misty-eyed. The post Rush Movie Recommendation for Derby Weekend: “Secretariat” appeared first on The Rush Limbaugh Show.
source https://www.rushlimbaugh.com/daily/2021/04/30/rush-movie-review-for-derby-weekend-secretariat/
source https://www.rushlimbaugh.com/daily/2021/04/30/rush-movie-review-for-derby-weekend-secretariat/
Limbaugh Lesson: Liberals Want You to Pay More for Gas
BRETT: Remember that affordable gasoline back during the Trump years? The post Limbaugh Lesson: Liberals Want You to Pay More for Gas appeared first on The Rush Limbaugh Show.
source https://www.rushlimbaugh.com/daily/2021/04/30/limbaugh-lesson-liberals-want-you-to-pay-more-for-gas/
source https://www.rushlimbaugh.com/daily/2021/04/30/limbaugh-lesson-liberals-want-you-to-pay-more-for-gas/
Road Trip with Rush: Dave “Baby” Cortez and The Happy Organ
BRETT: Every Friday, we'll add a new song to a playlist of Rush's favorites, and we'll create them together. Think of it as a Maha Mix tape. The post Road Trip with Rush: Dave “Baby” Cortez and The Happy Organ appeared first on The Rush Limbaugh Show.
source https://www.rushlimbaugh.com/daily/2021/04/30/road-trip-with-rush-dave-baby-cortez-and-the-happy-organ/
source https://www.rushlimbaugh.com/daily/2021/04/30/road-trip-with-rush-dave-baby-cortez-and-the-happy-organ/
Ask Tim Scott If Rush Is Right! The Real Racism in America Comes from the Left
BRETT: It took Twitter 11 hours to remove the Tim Scott "Uncle Tim" slur that was trending on their platform. The post Ask Tim Scott If Rush Is Right! The Real Racism in America Comes from the Left appeared first on The Rush Limbaugh Show.
source https://www.rushlimbaugh.com/daily/2021/04/30/ask-tim-scott-if-rush-is-right-the-real-racism-in-america-comes-from-the-left/
source https://www.rushlimbaugh.com/daily/2021/04/30/ask-tim-scott-if-rush-is-right-the-real-racism-in-america-comes-from-the-left/
Remember When John Kerry Thanked Iran for Kidnapping Our Sailors? Rush Won’t Let You Forget
BRETT: Does anybody know what happened with the John Kerry scandal, the scandal involving the sharing of intelligence with the Iranian foreign minister? The post Remember When John Kerry Thanked Iran for Kidnapping Our Sailors? Rush Won’t Let You Forget appeared first on The Rush Limbaugh Show.
source https://www.rushlimbaugh.com/daily/2021/04/30/remember-when-john-kerry-thanked-iran-for-kidnapping-our-soldiers-rush-wont-let-you-forget/
source https://www.rushlimbaugh.com/daily/2021/04/30/remember-when-john-kerry-thanked-iran-for-kidnapping-our-soldiers-rush-wont-let-you-forget/
James Golden Describes His New Podcast on Rush Behind the Scenes
JAMES: It's our chance to share with you what kind of man he was to be with and remind us all why he was so special to so many. The post James Golden Describes His New Podcast on Rush Behind the Scenes appeared first on The Rush Limbaugh Show.
source https://www.rushlimbaugh.com/daily/2021/04/30/james-golden-describes-his-new-podcast-on-rush-behind-the-scenes/
source https://www.rushlimbaugh.com/daily/2021/04/30/james-golden-describes-his-new-podcast-on-rush-behind-the-scenes/
Heed Rush’s Words: Don’t Let Democrats Replace the American Dream with Class Envy
BRETT: You'd be right to be worried about whether or not that American dream is gonna go away. Is it in danger? In fact, Rush talked about this. It's incredible. Point for point, it applies to where we are right now. The post Heed Rush’s Words: Don’t Let Democrats Replace the American Dream with Class Envy appeared first on The Rush Limbaugh Show.
source https://www.rushlimbaugh.com/daily/2021/04/30/heed-rushs-words-dont-let-democrats-replace-the-american-dream-with-class-envy/
source https://www.rushlimbaugh.com/daily/2021/04/30/heed-rushs-words-dont-let-democrats-replace-the-american-dream-with-class-envy/
Rudy Raid Exemplifies the Two-Tiered Justice System Rush Railed Against
BRETT: Remember when Rush talked about the breathless nature of the Roger Stone arrest? The post Rudy Raid Exemplifies the Two-Tiered Justice System Rush Railed Against appeared first on The Rush Limbaugh Show.
source https://www.rushlimbaugh.com/daily/2021/04/30/rudy-raid-exemplifies-the-two-tiered-justice-system-rush-railed-against/
source https://www.rushlimbaugh.com/daily/2021/04/30/rudy-raid-exemplifies-the-two-tiered-justice-system-rush-railed-against/
Rush Tells Us Why Biden’s Spending Won’t Lead to Growth, Just As Obama’s Didn’t
BRETT: Back in 2011, Rush Limbaugh said the Obama stimulus had failed. And, by the way, that applies to this forthcoming stimulus by Joe Biden. The post Rush Tells Us Why Biden’s Spending Won’t Lead to Growth, Just As Obama’s Didn’t appeared first on The Rush Limbaugh Show.
source https://www.rushlimbaugh.com/daily/2021/04/30/rush-tells-us-why-bidens-spending-wont-lead-to-growth-just-as-obamas-didnt/
source https://www.rushlimbaugh.com/daily/2021/04/30/rush-tells-us-why-bidens-spending-wont-lead-to-growth-just-as-obamas-didnt/
Decades of health gains at risk in Brazil due to COVID-19
Although COVID-19 cases are declining in Brazil, the pandemic is putting decades of public health gains there at risk, the head of the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Friday.
source https://www.globalissues.org/news/2021/04/30/27722
source https://www.globalissues.org/news/2021/04/30/27722
Thursday, 29 April 2021
At least 38 killed in stampede at religious bonfire festival in Israel
WARNING - DISTRESSING IMAGES Medics confirmed that dozens of people had been hurt at the Lag B'Omer event in northern Mount Meron, where tens of thousands of ultra-Orthodox Jews were gathered
source https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/breaking-least-38-killed-disastrous-24010684
source https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/breaking-least-38-killed-disastrous-24010684
In 1st post-office speech, Pence lays down marker for 2024
In his first public address since the end of the Trump administration, former Vice President Mike Pence put down a marker for a potential return to elected office, telling an audience in early-voting South Carolina that he plans to use the coming months “pushing back on the liberal agenda” he says is wrong for the country
source https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/in-1st-postoffice-speech-pence-lays-down-marker-for-2024-mike-pence-trump-columbia-american-ron-desantis-b1839985.html
source https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/in-1st-postoffice-speech-pence-lays-down-marker-for-2024-mike-pence-trump-columbia-american-ron-desantis-b1839985.html
France to welcome Brit tourists from June who have a 'Covid health pass'
The plans will allow British travellers as well as other foreign nationals back into the country if they have proof of being vaccinated or provide a negative PCR test from June 9
source https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/france-welcome-brit-tourists-june-24010669
source https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/france-welcome-brit-tourists-june-24010669
Rudy Giuliani says search warrant had nothing to do with his activities in Ukraine on behalf of Trump
Donald Trump’s personal lawyer attacked FBI raid on his New York radio show
source https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/giuliani-trump-fbi-search-ukraine-b1839971.html
source https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/giuliani-trump-fbi-search-ukraine-b1839971.html
Rudy Giuliani says he offered FBI agents Hunter Biden’s laptop during raid
Former New York mayor railed about timing of early morning raid on his apartment
source https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/giuliani-fbi-raid-hunter-biden-b1839979.html
source https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/giuliani-fbi-raid-hunter-biden-b1839979.html
Dozens killed, 100+ injured in STAMPEDE at crowded bonfire festival in Israel
Over 100 people have been injured, many critically, and at least 25 have died in a stampede at a crowded Lag Ba'omer bonfire festival in northern Israel, local media reported, citing emergency services. “It happened in a split second; people just fell, trampling each other. It was a disaster,” one witness told Haaretz. A spokesman for the Israeli military said there were at least 25 deaths, according to Jewish Press, while Reuters reported 28 confirmed fatalities, citing a rescue service spokesman. Several other reports claimed up to 38 fatalities. נורא לראות את הצפיפות שהיתה במעבר הצר, ואת הדוחק העצום שהוביל בסוף לאסון הקשה והמחריד. pic.twitter.com/1RE7FggFXt — ישראל כהן (@Israelcohen911) April 29, 2021 Tens of thousands of Hassidic Jews had gathered at Mount Meron for the annual festivities at the tomb of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai, the largest event in Israel since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. On Thursday night, organizers estimated some 100,000 people were in attendance, expecting another 100,000 to arrive by Friday morning. Footage from the festival has circulated online, showing a massive crowd of revelers dancing to live music prior the stampede. לכבוד התנא: עשרות אלפים בהדלקה המרכזית של תולדות אהרן שמרעידה את הההר מצד לצד pic.twitter.com/b2pMQsXv1z — משה ויסברג (@moshe_nayes) April 29, 2021 Israeli health officials had urged residents not to travel to Mount Meron, citing fears the gathering could contribute to the spread of Covid-19. Some 5,000 police officers were deployed to monitor the event. סרטון הזוי, דקות ספורות לפני האסון הקשה נראים האנשים מצטופפים במדרגות ונתקלים במחסום אנושי שעוצר אותם. מה גרם לדוחק להתפרץ בבת אחת ולציבור להימחץ? pic.twitter.com/4VBzW5jfNE — ישראל כהן (@Israelcohen911) April 29, 2021 The exact number injured remains unclear, but the crowding has reportedly created obstacles for rescue crews, which used helicopters to evacuate the wounded. The Israeli Defense Forces also said it deployed a unit and multiple aircraft to the scene. 6 helicopters have been dispatched who have worked alongside MDA ambulances to evacuate victims to both Ziv Hospital in Safed and Galil Medical Center in Nahariya — Magen David Adom (@Mdais) April 29, 2021 While the IDF and a number of early reports suggested the stampede was triggered after a roof or stage collapsed, Israel’s emergency service later clarified that the deaths and injuries were the result of overcrowding alone. Medics said at least 38 people were still at the scene in critical condition, vowing to fight for their lives. Breaking: At least 28 dead, 100+ injured, after a platform collapsed at a festival in Meron, Israel. pic.twitter.com/fTmH4pPhTd — PM Breaking News (@PMBreakingNews) April 29, 2021 The emergency agency released footage from the scene, showing the rescue effort in progress, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the incident a “terrible disaster.” DETAILS TO FOLLOW
source https://www.rt.com/news/522521-israel-bonfire-festival-deadly-stampede/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=RSS
source https://www.rt.com/news/522521-israel-bonfire-festival-deadly-stampede/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=RSS
Wednesday, 28 April 2021
The town where you can earn $1,000 a week renting out a $500k property
If any town in Western Australia is symptomatic of the state's boom and bust cycle, it's Port Hedland — and once again, the iron ore town is experiencing soaring rents and property prices.
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-29/property-prices-in-perth-and-regional-wa-feed-buying-frenzy/100103176
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-29/property-prices-in-perth-and-regional-wa-feed-buying-frenzy/100103176
He left his brain behind to save others from his fate
Zac Easter killed himself at the age of 24, having suffered for years from a debilitating disease caused by the sport he loved.
source https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/american-football/56894868
source https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/american-football/56894868
Angry Renault workers take bosses ‘hostage’ for 12 hours in bid to block factory sale
Workers at a Renault car parts factory in northwest France have barred seven company executives from leaving the plant in a desperate “bossnapping” attempt, hoping to disrupt the car manufacturer’s plans to sell the facility. Around 350 employees picketing Renault’s Fonderie de Bretagne factory in Brittany held seven managers “hostage” on Tuesday as they prevented them from leaving work. The incident comes after the automaker announced plans to sell or close the facility. Following several attempts to convince the workers to release their “hostages,” the executives were let out around 22:30 local time, though the blockade of the factory continued into Wednesday. The car manufacturer rebuked the workers in a brief statement while also calling for “dialogue and calm.” Renault Group strongly condemns these actions and calls for the lifting of the blockade and an immediate return to calm. Also on rt.com WATCH: Striking French refinery workers & climate protesters clash with police outside office of oil giant Total Renault tried to appease the disgruntled employees, saying it was searching for a buyer who would “maintain the site's activities” and ensure the workers keep their jobs. However, that did little for the workers at the General Confederation of Labor (CGT), a trade union, who insisted the company did not want to negotiate, despite its pleas to the contrary. “They still didn't want to have a dialogue so it was pointless trying to talk to people who don't want to engage,” CGT representative Mael Le Goff told AFP, explaining why the workers eventually released the captive executives. “It does not smell good for us; no discussion is possible with the management,” Le Goff told a local news outlet, adding that the trade union had “heard very alarming comments” about potential job cuts and layoffs at the site. We would like to ask them what will become of us, if we are sold, if we are made redundant... We have been waiting for a year... We no longer have much hope. The trade union is currently planning a protest in the town of Hennebont in Brittany on May 1 and a meeting with the President of the Regional Council of Brittany, Loig Chesnais-Girard. The Tuesday incident is not the country’s first case of “bossnapping.” Back in 2014, workers at a Goodyear tire factory in northern France detained two executives for more than 12 days in an attempt to prevent the facility’s closure. The practice was apparently so common during the tenure of ex-President Nicolas Sarkozy that he threatened to grant police extra powers to stop it by force. Also on rt.com Thousands take to the streets as nationwide strike over pay & working conditions kicks off in France (VIDEOS) Think your friends would be interested? Share this story!
source https://www.rt.com/news/522413-france-renault-workers-executives-hostage/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=RSS
source https://www.rt.com/news/522413-france-renault-workers-executives-hostage/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=RSS
'Relaxed' Melania Trump ‘not a presence' at Mar-a-Lago – 'Rarely interacts with staff'
MELANIA TRUMP is said to be "happy and relaxed" at the Mar-a-Lago club in Florida, sources say.
source https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/1429464/melania-trump-news-mar-a-lago-life-donald-white-house-latest-ont
source https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/1429464/melania-trump-news-mar-a-lago-life-donald-white-house-latest-ont
War fears as Russia shows ‘readiness to stand up against the West’ after Ukraine tensions
RUSSIA has shown it is ready to "stand up" against the West after tensions with Ukraine escalated this month.
source https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/1429466/Russia-news-Ukraine-Vladimir-Putin-Ukraine-border-war-conflict-army-red-lines-latest-ont
source https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/1429466/Russia-news-Ukraine-Vladimir-Putin-Ukraine-border-war-conflict-army-red-lines-latest-ont
Afghan General Says Army Will Survive U.S. Troop Withdrawal
Afghan Gen. Sami Sadat spoke with NPR about day-to-day life in Afghanistan, how the army will operate without U.S. support and what he's learned over the years during the war. (Image credit: John Moore/Getty Images)
source https://www.npr.org/2021/04/28/991650450/afghan-general-says-army-will-survive-u-s-troop-withdrawal
source https://www.npr.org/2021/04/28/991650450/afghan-general-says-army-will-survive-u-s-troop-withdrawal
NZ Rugby votes to sell commercial share to US investors
New Zealand Rugby will move ahead with a plan to sell a 12.5 percent stake in its commercial rights to American investors after winning the support of provinces at its annual meeting
source https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/nz-rugby-votes-to-sell-commercial-share-to-us-investors-new-zealand-all-blacks-wellington-american-city-football-group-b1839327.html
source https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/nz-rugby-votes-to-sell-commercial-share-to-us-investors-new-zealand-all-blacks-wellington-american-city-football-group-b1839327.html
Did mass gatherings contribute to India's COVID surge?
At the beginning of March, it seemed that India had the COVID-19 pandemic under control.
source http://news.sky.com/story/did-mass-gatherings-contribute-to-indias-covid-surge-12289555
source http://news.sky.com/story/did-mass-gatherings-contribute-to-indias-covid-surge-12289555
Russia and China 'trying to sow distrust in western COVID vaccines'
Russian and Chinese media are trying to sow mistrust in western COVID-19 vaccines, according to a European report.
source http://news.sky.com/story/russia-and-china-trying-to-sow-distrust-in-western-covid-vaccines-12289862
source http://news.sky.com/story/russia-and-china-trying-to-sow-distrust-in-western-covid-vaccines-12289862
Military And Intelligence News Briefs -- April 28, 2021
Reuters National Interest: The Air Force Has a Master Plan to Stop a Chinese Invasion of Taiwan At first glance, the war game seemed to herald something of a turning point: for the first time in recent years, the U.S. military won a simulated conflict with China. However, that victory comes with serious caveats. The U.S. Air Force finally has a plan for successfully repelling a Chinese invasion of Taiwan, but only at a steep cost. Read more .... Military And Intelligence News Briefs -- April 28, 2021 China's new amphibious assault ship to carry multi-type helicopters, 'enters world-class' ranks -- Global Times China's launch of new assault ship raises fears -- Asia Times Report: U.S. naval destroyer tracking China's Liaoning aircraft carrier -- UPI USN Arleigh Burke-class destroyer tails Liaoning strike group near eastern Taiwan -- Taiwan News China’s coast guard continues patrolling waters surrounding Diaoyu, defying US reaffirming security commitment to Japan -- Global Times China is set to launch first module of massive space station -- Space.com Lockheed Martin to provide Taiwanese Air Force with improved AGM-88 missiles -- Defence Blog Australia expanding war games with US amid tensions with China -- The Hill Milley: Afghanistan’s Future After U.S. Withdrawal Difficult to Predict -- Air Force Magazine Blinken warns Turkey, US allies against purchasing Russian weapons -- The Hill The Marine Corps Is Known as a Force of Young Warriors. That's About to Change -- Military.com Submarine USS Jefferson City deploys as Indo-Pacific tensions rise -- UPI $25B in Navy shipyard improvements proposed in U.S. Senate -- UPI Top U.S. Navy chief visits MQ-25 aerial refueling drone production line -- Defence Blog The Air Force Is Testing Ways to Use the MQ-9 Drone in Island-Hopping Missions -- Military.com Point Blank throws hat in ring to design US Army’s Bradley replacement -- Defense News Next-gen intercontinental ballistic missile interceptor estimated cost? Nearly $18B -- Defense News GAO report: Missile Defense Agency missed 2020 delivery, testing goals -- UPI Navy to Transfer 13 Satellites to Space Force -- Military.com Court declines to dismiss Amazon challenge against JEDI decision -- The Hill F-35 program embodies the problems with defense acquisition — here's how we fix them -- Dan Grazier, The Hill The F-35 Is Much More Than a Stealth Fighter -- National Interest US Marine Corps F-35s flew over 5,000 miles for a deployment aboard UK aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth -- Business Insider Marines' F-35Bs arrive in Britain for HMS Queen Elizabeth deployment -- UPI US Coast Guard Vessel Heads to Black Sea Amid Rising Tensions with Russia -- Military.com Russia holds naval drills as US vessel heads to Black Sea -- Al Jazeera Russian Defense Chief Scoffs at Western Warnings on Ukraine -- AP What Has Become of the GRU, Russia’s Military Intelligence Agency? -- Moscow times UK Carrier Strike Group to head out on 28-week deployment -- UPI See France test-fire an M51 strategic missile into the Atlantic -- Defense News Nigerian president calls on US to relocate Africa Command headquarters -- The Hill Astronaut Michael Collins, Apollo 11 Pilot and Air Force General, Dead of Cancer -- Military.com/AP
source http://warnewsupdates.blogspot.com/2021/04/military-and-intelligence-news-briefs_28.html
source http://warnewsupdates.blogspot.com/2021/04/military-and-intelligence-news-briefs_28.html
Donald Trump believes his head would be on Mount Rushmore - if he was a Democrat
DONALD TRUMP believes he would be chiselled into Mount Rushmore - if he had ran as a Democrat.
source https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/1429463/Donald-trump-news-Mount-Rushmore-blow-up-democrats-republicans-potus-2024-ont
source https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/1429463/Donald-trump-news-Mount-Rushmore-blow-up-democrats-republicans-potus-2024-ont
Covid in India: Sikh temple offers drive-through oxygen
More than 1,000 people have used the service being offered by one Gurdwara in Uttar Pradesh.
source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-56922494
source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-56922494
India Covid-19: Deadly second wave spreads from cities to small towns
The virus is spreading to remote corners of India where healthcare is poor and the crisis under-reported.
source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-india-56913047
source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-india-56913047
They are killing our forest, Brazilian tribe warns
The Awa, who have been called "the most threatened tribe on earth", face fresh challenges in Brazil.
source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-56847952
source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-56847952
UK Plans To Launch App Based Vaccine Passport
Digital health passes are tipped to be key in the quest for reopening air travel this year. With several nations working on technological solutions to record and present important testing and vaccination details, United Kingdom’s authorities confirmed today that the country is also launching its own scheme. UK authorities are edging closer to the allowance of the restart of safe travel. Photo: British AirwaysMaking use of existing tools UK Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has shared details about the app-based approach. The system will enable travelers to show if they’ve been vaccinated or tested negative for the virus before heading overseas. Notably, rather than designing a whole new application to launch this system, the government shares that it will be based on the existing NHS app. Shapps shares the following, as reported by Sky News: “It will be the NHS app that is used for people when they book appointments with the NHS and so on, to be able to show you’ve had a vaccine or that you’ve had testing. I’m working internationally with partners across the world to make sure that system can be internationally recognised.” Presently, the NHS app is a useful tool for numerous medical requirements. Features include the ability to manage appointments, register details, order repeat prescriptions, and find out general information. The platform that will be used is the general NHS app, not the newer COVID one. Photo: UK Government It is natural that the UK would be keen to utilize the app in regard to COVID certification as it already can be used to view GP health records securely. With the population already familiar with this system, the storing and viewing of new data will be far more feasible than introducing a whole new program. Stay informed: Sign up for our daily and weekly aviation news digests! Diplomacy is vital Nonetheless, even though the app’s scalability is a big plus within the UK, it’s also critical that it is recognized by other nations. To be used for international travel, there needs to be a universal understanding of these systems. The European Commission hopes that airlines will be using its Digital Green Certificate by this summer. This certificate will include details about vaccinations, antibodies, and testing in a bid to open up free movement. Moreover, airlines across the continent are trying their hand at several different apps to record COVID travel certification. So, with several destinations and companies implementing different systems, there needs to be coordination to allow people to safely travel as smoothly as possible. With a strong presence all across the UK, the likes of Ryanair are scaling up schedules to Europe this summer. Photo: Getty ImagesGearing up for a return Altogether, the UK population will be eager to hear more details about travel requirements in and out of the country. Bar some exceptions, general international is banned until at least May 17th. However, this date is fast approaching, and the roadmap to reopening is still unclear. For now, we know that the government is introducing a traffic light system. Still, the countries that will be red, amber, or green as part of this policy are yet to be announced. One thing that is clear is that testing is here to stay. Shapps concluded the following in Sky News’ report: “You will still need to take a pre-departure test and one test on your return. I think people are getting very used to testing now, not least because we provide testing up to twice a week for everyone in the country right now. So I don’t think a test itself is a big deal.” Airlines are preparing for a busier summer schedule in comparison to the current downturn. Countries such as Portugal, Spain, and Greece are looking forward to welcoming back tourists. As a result, carriers are ramping up their frequencies in anticipation. Travel has largely been suppressed amid ongoing travel restrictions and harsh conditions across the globe over the last year. Therefore, there is undoubtedly plenty of pent-up demand. Yet, the ability to fly is in the hands of governments and their policies. A balanced approach to enable safe but practical travel will be crucial in the next chapter. What are your thoughts about the UK’s digital health pass plans? Is this a good move for the country? Let us know what you think in the comment section.
source https://simpleflying.com/uk-app-vaccine-passport/
source https://simpleflying.com/uk-app-vaccine-passport/
US Startup Avelo Airlines Inaugurates Operations In California
Avelo Airlines has inaugurated its operations out of Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR). Operating to Santa Rosa, a popular wine country airport, the inaugural flight officially makes the airline the latest startup carrier in the US and the first in over a decade to launch operations. With growth planned, Avelo Airlines is a carrier to watch out for. Avelo Airlines launched operations out of Burbank on April 28th. Photo: Avelo AirlinesAvelo Airlines launches operations Wednesday, April 28th, was a big day in US aviation. Avelo Airlines officially launched new nonstop flights with its inaugural flight to Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport (STS). A gateway to wine country, the route is part of Avelo’s leisure-oriented portfolio. The inaugural Avelo Airlines flight left BUR at 10:30 local time and arrived in STS at 11:55 local time, marking the first successful Avelo Airlines commercial flight. CEO Andrew Levy, who has formerly held positions at Allegiant and United, cutting a ribbon before the inaugural flights. Photo: Avelo Airlines CEO Andrew Levy stated the following on the inaugural: “Today’s first flight represents far more than a 90-minute journey from LA’s iconic Hollywood Burbank Airport to the Sonoma County Airport in the heart of California wine country — we’re embarking on a new era of choice, convenience and everyday low fares. Avelo was created to Inspire Travel by making it easier and more affordable to reconnect with family, celebrate with friends and explore new places. We’re excited to play a small part in making these new memories and adventures possible.” An expanding portfolio of routes This week, Avelo will launch more flights across the Western United States. On April 29th, three-times-per-week flights will launch to Tri-Cities Airport (PSC) in Pasco, Washington. These flights depart on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Avelo Airlines flew a 189-seat Boeing 737-800 on its inaugural flight. Photo: Avelo Airlines April 30th will see four-times-per-week service to Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN). A gateway to Yellowstone National Park, these flights will run on Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from BUR. More destinations will run from May. By the end of May, Avelo will expand its nonstop route portfolio to Arcata and Redding in California; Redmond, Eugene, and Medford in Oregon; Grand Junction in Colorado; Phoenix-Mesa in Arizona; and Ogden in Utah. More routes will launch over the coming month. Photo: Avelo AirlinesAn exciting new airline in the US The last major startup the US saw was in 2007 when Virgin America began operations. Unlike Avelo Airlines, Virgin America was a full-service carrier that targeted initial operations on routes from San Francisco. Alaska Airlines later merged with Virgin America, with the former brand surviving. Since then, the US has seen continued consolidation in the industry. Delta merged with Northwest. American merged with US Airways. United merged with Continental. In the ultra-low-cost market, Allegiant, Frontier, Spirit, and Sun Country were the primary contenders. In the last few years, all four of these carriers have grown incredibly and become forces to contend with in many markets. Hollywood Burbank has seen some airline service cut back, but with Avelo, there is plenty of hope for the future. Photo: Avelo Airlines The consolidation has led to some airports being overlooked. Hollywood Burbank was one of those airports, and it only faced more cuts when the crisis hit, as carriers focused their Los Angeles area operations around Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Now, Hollywood Burbank Airport will be getting a new competitor, and one with plenty of guts. Avelo will face some competition on the route this summer, as Alaska Airlines plans to inaugurate flights between BUR and STS using an Embraer E175 aircraft. That being said, Avelo is targeting a more leisure-oriented market. Passengers are lured in with low fares and relatively inexpensive ancillary options. Avelo has shown it does not back down from a fight, which bodes well for future expansion. If these flights are successful, expect the carrier to target similar veins of expansion. Are you excited to see Avelo Airlines launch operations? Let us know in the comments!
source https://simpleflying.com/avelo-california-inaugural/
source https://simpleflying.com/avelo-california-inaugural/
LOT Polish Airlines Reveals Plans To Fly Direct To Dubai
LOT Polish Airlines is launching flights to Dubai in September this year, in time for EXPO 2020 that has been postponed until October 2021. The flights will be operated by both Boeing 737 and Boeing 787 aircraft. Some flights may be operated by LOT’s Boeing 787s. Photo: Vincenzo Pace – Simple FlyingA new route for LOT Polish Airlines LOT Polish Airlines announced yesterday that it would be launching flights from its base, Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW), to Dubai International Airport (DXB) in September this year. Flights are already on sale and will start on Sunday 19th September, ahead of EXPO 2020 that begins on 1st October 2021 and lasts until 31st March 2022. LOT’s new route will operate as follows: LO121 departing Warsaw at 07:40, arriving in Dubai at 15:25 LO122 departing Dubai at 17:15, arriving in Warsaw at 21:35 Flights will operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. 737s and 787s will fly the route LOT Polish Airlines confirmed to Simple Flying that the aircraft flying this route will be Boeing 737-800NG but that Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft may be used too on days when there is sufficient demand. LOT’s Boeing 737-800NG aircraft carry 168 seats, including a separate business class cabin of 12 seats. Emirates flies to Warsaw daily but its prices are higher than LOT’s will be. Photo: Getty ImagesA new market for LOT Polish The new route will launch in time for EXPO 2020 in October, but flights are also on sale through the winter to offer Polish travelers an exotic winter holiday destination, in the words of LOT Polish. Michał Fijoł, Chief Commercial Officer at LOT, commented on the route launch by saying: “Within recent years, Dubai has been becoming one of the Poles’ favorite winter exotic destinations. (…) The potential for connection, also in the chartered segment, means that, in addition to the offer of carriers from the Gulf, we can see an opportunity for development for LOT. I am convinced that passengers will appreciate the Polish product, the schedule which is perfectly suited to both visitors to the EXPO exhibition and tourists, as well as attractive price offer.” The price for this route is indeed a great salespoint for LOT Polish Airlines. LOT’s fares for one-way Economy tickets to Dubai start at $295 while Emirates’ fares start at $485. For return flights (WAW-DXB-WAW), LOT’s fares start at $471 and Emirates’ at $566. For the return flights in the other direction, leaving Dubai, Emirates’ fares are no lower than $903 while LOT Polish is selling this return rotation for $712. LOT Polish Airlines is offering lower prices on the route than Emirates. Photo: Getty ImagesTourism is the way forward LOT Polish, like many other airlines, has identified that demand for holiday travel is likely to be an optimal way forward for airlines in the short-term. The ongoing pandemic has inflicted serious harm on the industry. Michał Fijoł also added: “Dubai, in addition to Sri Lanka, is another offer for our passengers launched with a view to relax in warm countries during the cold winter months in Poland. Thus, due to the reversed seasonality of traffic, this connection will allow us for exploiting operational resources in the so-called low season.” It is expected that more airlines will be adding new leisure routes to their networks this year. Do you think LOT Polish Airlines will compete against Emirates successfully on this route? Let us know in the comments below.
source https://simpleflying.com/lot-polish-dubai-flights/
source https://simpleflying.com/lot-polish-dubai-flights/
JetSMART Wants An AOC To Begin Domestic Flights In Peru
This week, the Chilean low-cost carrier JetSMART started a process to obtain its third Air Operator Certificate (AOC). Now, the airline is looking to launch domestic flights in Peru at some point later this year or in 2022. What else do we know? JetSMART wants to operate domestic flights in Peru. Photo: JetSMARTThe Peruvian plans Currently, JetSMART operates domestic flights in Chile and Argentina. The low-cost airline started running in Argentina following the exit of Norwegian a few years ago. Nevertheless, Estuardo Ortiz, JetSMART’s CEO, believes there’s plenty of opportunity across South America following the COVID-19 crisis. Therefore, JetSMART will look for new territories to expand, and Peru is its first destination. In a statement, the airline said, “As part of the growth of the ultra-low-cost carrier JetSMART Airlines in the region, the company officially filed a letter requesting an AOC to the Civil Aviation General Directorate (DGAC) in Peru.” The airline is not new to the Peruvian market. JetSMART launched international flights from Santiago de Chile to Lima, Arequipa, and Trujillo in 2017. So, why Peru? Estuardo Ortiz added, “During the pandemic, we’ve been looking for growth opportunities, and we believe the Peruvian domestic market is one of them. It is time to start our certification process as a domestic carrier in Peru. We hope the market recovery will accelerate during the second half of 2021, and in 2022, to be able to bring the SMART travel brand to all the Peruvians.” JetSMART currently flies in Chile and Argentina. Photo: Getty Images Stay informed: Sign up for our daily and weekly aviation news digests. The current status of the Peruvian market Peru is an odd market. It doesn’t have a proper national carrier. Currently, there are four different airlines operating in the country, LATAM Peru, Viva Air Peru, Sky Airline Peru, and the only Peruvian, Atsa Airlines, according to Cirium data. Nevertheless, Atsa is the smallest of them all, offering below 4% of the current domestic flights in the country. This lack of a Peruvian airline has led to the proposal of a State carrier, for instance. But it has also led to the expansion of the low-cost movement into the country. If JetSMART enters the market, there will be three low-cost airlines against one legacy (Avianca exited Peru in 2020). Plus, JetSMART is a point-to-point airline, and Peru needs that. Both LATAM and Sky operate almost exclusively out of Lima. Only Viva Air has routes from secondary cities like Arequipa-Cuzco, Cajamarca-Trujillo, or Ilo-Cuzco. JetSMART is one of the many low-cost airlines in South America. Photo: Getty Images.How’s JetSMART doing in Chile and Argentina? Estuardo Ortiz stated, “Since our launch, we’ve been setting a before and an after; we’ve made traveling by airplane more accessible, offering low prices and SMART routes, connecting secondary cities.” Currently, JetSmart has 18 Airbus A320 family airplanes. Plus, it has an order for 47 A320neo and 12 A321XLR. In 2020, JetSMART carried 1.2 million passengers both domestically and internationally from Chile. The carrier suffered a 53% decrease in traffic compared to the previous year due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. So far, in 2021, the impact has been more challenging. Internationally, JetSMART has carried 34,146 passengers, a 75.8% decrease. Those results will be even worse in April, following the Chilean Government’s decision to close borders. Domestically, the low-cost carrier has carried 306,011 passengers, a 53% decrease. In Argentina, the airline carried 234,000 passengers in 2020, an 54% decrease compared to the previous year. So far, 2021 has been worse. The airline has already carried 100,000 passengers, a 72% decrease compared to the first quarter of 2019. Would you expect JetSMART to succeed in Peru? Let us know in the comments.
source https://simpleflying.com/jetsmart-peru-domestic-flight/
source https://simpleflying.com/jetsmart-peru-domestic-flight/
Family of Latino man pinned to floor by California police call for 'justice'
The family of a Latino man who died after being pinned to the floor for several minutes by US police has demanded "justice" in a case that prompted comparisons with the murder of George Floyd.
source https://www.france24.com/en/americas/20210428-family-of-latino-man-pinned-to-floor-by-california-police-call-for-justice
source https://www.france24.com/en/americas/20210428-family-of-latino-man-pinned-to-floor-by-california-police-call-for-justice
Tuesday, 27 April 2021
Why India's Covid crisis matters to the whole world
The situation in India is a bleak reminder that none of us will be safe until everyone is safe.
source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-india-56907007
source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-india-56907007
Biden to propose free preschool, as speech details emerge
U.S. President Joe Biden will call for free preschool for all three- and four-year-old children, a US$200 billion investment to be rolled out as part of his sweeping American Families Plan being unveiled Wednesday in an address to Congress.
source https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/biden-to-propose-free-preschool-as-speech-details-emerge-1.5404935
source https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/biden-to-propose-free-preschool-as-speech-details-emerge-1.5404935
Young boy dies with COVID-19 after family travels to Hawaii
A child who travelled to Hawaii with his vaccinated parents has died after contracting COVID-19.
source https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/young-boy-dies-with-covid-19-after-family-travels-to-hawaii-1.5404979
source https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/young-boy-dies-with-covid-19-after-family-travels-to-hawaii-1.5404979
'I can do that': What does it take to sell your property without an agent?
Australia's property boom is keeping real estate agents busy, but could you buy or sell a property without one?
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-28/-selling-property-without-a-real-estate-agent/100098994
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-28/-selling-property-without-a-real-estate-agent/100098994
Ombudsman finds ACT Policing had 'cavalier' approach to accessing telecommunications data
The Commonwealth Ombudsman releases his report into the Australian Federal Police's use of telecommunications data and a culture that "did not promote compliance" with the relevant Act.
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-28/ombudsman-report-act-policing-telecommunications-data-access/100099796
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-28/ombudsman-report-act-policing-telecommunications-data-access/100099796
'Waiting for more casualties': Indians buy drugs, oxygen on black market amid shortages
Despite India's status as the "pharmacy of the world", the biggest producer of generic drugs has been unable to meet the demand for antiviral medication.
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-28/india-covid-surge-sees-oxygen-medicine-sold-on-black-market/100099904
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-28/india-covid-surge-sees-oxygen-medicine-sold-on-black-market/100099904
Sky-high solar uptake in WA almost matches output of state's biggest coal plant
WA households installed a record amount of solar power in 2020, further fuelling the rise of green energy in the country's sunniest state.
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-28/solar-splurge-reaches-new-heights-in-the-west/100095832
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-28/solar-splurge-reaches-new-heights-in-the-west/100095832
Britney Spears set to personally appeal to court for release from father Jamie's control
Britney Spears's appearance in an LA court is expected to be the first time the 39-year-old pop star has spoken publicly about the legal arrangements put in place more than a decade ago.
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-28/britney-spears-conservatorship-court-appearance-freebritney/100099770
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-28/britney-spears-conservatorship-court-appearance-freebritney/100099770
Don't stop the music: Why demand for this veteran jukebox repairer is at an all-time high
Peter Greenaway helped fix his first jukebox at five. Sixty years on, he's one of the only people left in Australia who can repair and service the classic music machines.
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-28/meet-the-last-jukebox-repairer-in-australia/100081928
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-28/meet-the-last-jukebox-repairer-in-australia/100081928
Man dies while being arrested by police in Melbourne
Police say the man appeared to suffer from a medical condition while he was being arrested after becoming aggressive towards officers.
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-28/police-investigate-death-of-a-man-in-cranbourne/100099884
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-28/police-investigate-death-of-a-man-in-cranbourne/100099884
'I can do that': What does it take to sell your property without an agent?
Australia's property boom is keeping real estate agents busy but could you buy or sell a property without one?
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-28/selling-property-without-a-real-estate-agent/100098994
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-28/selling-property-without-a-real-estate-agent/100098994
Guide dog handlers say more people and pet dogs distracting their animals
As the world celebrates International Guide Dog Day today, a new survey reports more than 40 per cent of guide dog handlers across Australia have reported an increase in their animals having to deal with distractions from pet dogs and owners in the past 12 months.
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-28/guide-dog-handlers-say-more-people-and-pet-dogs-distracting/100099718
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-28/guide-dog-handlers-say-more-people-and-pet-dogs-distracting/100099718
Elon Musk takes swipe at Jeff Bezos amid new space race - ‘Can’t get it up’
ELON MUSK took a swipe at Jeff Bezos on Twitter as the new space race between the world's two richest men continues.
source https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/1428903/elon-musk-jeff-bezos-nasa-moon-landing-contract-spacex-gao-blue-origin-ont
source https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/1428903/elon-musk-jeff-bezos-nasa-moon-landing-contract-spacex-gao-blue-origin-ont
Donald Trump issues bizarre official statement ranting about ‘woke’ Oscars
DONALD TRUMP has issued a statement blasting the Academy Awards for being "politically correct and boring".
source https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/1428904/Donald-trump-news-oscars-academy-awards-politically-correct-boring-potus-usa-ont
source https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/1428904/Donald-trump-news-oscars-academy-awards-politically-correct-boring-potus-usa-ont
Birds of Oz: The charming natives that found TikTok fame
A colourful set of Australian birds has attracted a surprise global following on social media.
source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-australia-56883027
source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-australia-56883027
Why a US photographer says 'sorry for the war'
Peter van Agtmael chronicles the perception of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq and their realities.
source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-56859337
source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-56859337
India Covid: 'Sister help us, doctor help us – you’re God'
What it's like working in an emergency room in India, as its devastating second Covid wave continues.
source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-india-56901163
source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-india-56901163
EIB High Note: This Hero Has a Canine Hero of Her Own
BRETT: There's enough negative news in the world that we wanted to end every program on a High Note and with "good vibes," as Rush would say. The post EIB High Note: This Hero Has a Canine Hero of Her Own appeared first on The Rush Limbaugh Show.
source https://www.rushlimbaugh.com/daily/2021/04/27/eib-high-note-this-hero-has-a-canine-hero-of-her-own/
source https://www.rushlimbaugh.com/daily/2021/04/27/eib-high-note-this-hero-has-a-canine-hero-of-her-own/
Caller: Getting Through to Rush on the Phone Was the Best Day of My Life
CALLER: I was excited. My husband heard me, my dad heard me, it was just a really great thing. The post Caller: Getting Through to Rush on the Phone Was the Best Day of My Life appeared first on The Rush Limbaugh Show.
source https://www.rushlimbaugh.com/daily/2021/04/27/caller-getting-through-to-rush-on-the-phone-was-the-best-day-of-my-life/
source https://www.rushlimbaugh.com/daily/2021/04/27/caller-getting-through-to-rush-on-the-phone-was-the-best-day-of-my-life/
Millions of Americans can ditch face masks as CDC eases guidelines
The US is still recording tens of thousands of new COVID-19 cases daily, but the country's public health officials have announced a big "step back to the normalcy of before".
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-28/cdc-eases-mask-guidelines-usa-covid-19-pandemic/100099614
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-28/cdc-eases-mask-guidelines-usa-covid-19-pandemic/100099614
Monday, 26 April 2021
Fighting in Myanmar erupts near Thai border
Heavy fighting erupted at a Myanmar army outpost near the eastern border with Thailand early on Tuesday in an area largely controlled by forces of a Karen ethnic army.
source https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/fighting-in-myanmar-erupts-near-thai-border-1.5403536
source https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/fighting-in-myanmar-erupts-near-thai-border-1.5403536
Brazil health regulator rejects Russia's Sputnik vaccine
The Brazilian health regulator Anvisa on Monday rejected importing the Russian-made Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine requested by state governors battling a deadly second wave of the virus that is battering Latin America's largest nation.
source https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/brazil-health-regulator-rejects-russia-s-sputnik-vaccine-1.5403539
source https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/brazil-health-regulator-rejects-russia-s-sputnik-vaccine-1.5403539
'Red Tourism' draws Chinese on centennial of Communist Party
On the 100th anniversary of the Chinese Communist Party, tourists are flocking to historic sites and making pilgrimages to party landmarks.
source https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/red-tourism-draws-chinese-on-centennial-of-communist-party-1.5403554
source https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/red-tourism-draws-chinese-on-centennial-of-communist-party-1.5403554
Two-Thirds Of Ukrainians Think Country Moving In Wrong Direction
Ukraine's parliament / Photo from UNIAN Interfax Ukraine: Most Ukrainians think country moving in wrong direction – UIF poll KYIV. April 26 (Interfax-Ukraine) – Some 68% of Ukrainian citizens believe that the direction of events in the country is wrong, according to the results of a sociological survey conducted by the Ukrainian Institute for the Future (UIF) with the assistance of New Image Marketing Group from April 9 to April 18 and presented at Interfax-Ukraine on Monday. According to the survey, only 17% of respondents say that Ukraine moves in the right direction, and another 15% cannot decide. One of the most pressing problems in Ukraine, 40% of those polled called the war in Donbas, 36% linked the problems with low wages and pensions, 31% with corruption, 29% with high utility rates, and 27% with a pandemic. Read more .... WNU Editor: Only two thirds!!!!! 17% of respondents say that Ukraine moves in the right direction, and another 15% cannot decide. And this is a Ukrainian poll. Among my family and friends in Ukraine. No one is happy with what is happening in the country. No one. And from what I hear. In the regions where Ukrainian-Russians are the majority. The numbers are almost 100% voicing dissatisfaction.
source http://warnewsupdates.blogspot.com/2021/04/two-thirds-of-ukrainians-think-country.html
source http://warnewsupdates.blogspot.com/2021/04/two-thirds-of-ukrainians-think-country.html
Russian President Putin Agrees To Meet President Biden Later This Year
© Alexei Nikolsky/Russian Presidential Press and Information Office/TASS US News and World Report: Putin Agrees to Meet Biden as West Seeks to Deescalate Russian Aggression The Russian leader appears to have secured global attention following the apparent withdrawal of hundreds of thousands of Russian troops from the Ukraine border. The Kremlin on Monday confirmed President Vladimir Putin has accepted President Joe Biden's invitation to meet sometime this summer, granting the Russian leader a high-profile summit after weeks of near unprecedented provocations from Moscow. Biden during a telephone call on April 13 proposed that the meeting take place in a European country at some point in the coming months, shortly before the U.S. imposed sanctions on Russia for a widespread hack into federal servers. That exchange came amid a massive surge in Russian military forces along its border with Ukraine numbering more than 100,000 according to local estimates before Russian leaders ordered a withdrawal last week. Read more .... WNU Editor: The Kremlin says the date has yet to be determined .... Putin-Biden summit planned for summer, Kremlin says (TASS). I personally have doubts that this meeting is going to take place. There is currently no common ground between Washington and Moscow. A meeting will only intensify these differences. Here is a good analysis on the current sour relations between the two countries .... Moscow Angered And Bewildered By Biden’s Summit Proposal Followed By Sanctions – Analysis (Eurasia Review).
source http://warnewsupdates.blogspot.com/2021/04/russian-president-putin-agrees-to-meet.html
source http://warnewsupdates.blogspot.com/2021/04/russian-president-putin-agrees-to-meet.html
Military And Intelligence News Briefs -- April 26, 2021
The SUN: China shows off new warship, nuclear sub and guided-missile cruiser in show of strength amid Taiwan tensions CHINA has unveiled three new warships as tensions with Taiwan reach boiling point. President Xi Jinping showed off the country's newest assets - an amphibious helicopter carrier, a nuclear sub and a guided-missile cruiser - in a public display of strength as a warning to Taipei. The ceremony took place in a military port in the southern city of Sanya on Friday as fears grow that China is building a force capable of retaking Taiwan. President Xi watched over the display, reports the Times, as the helicopter carrier named Hainan - which can transport up to 1,200 troops as well as dozens of jets - was unveiled. A new guided-missile cruiser was also shown off featuring stealth technology, as well as an upgraded Type 094A nuclear-powered submarine - thought to be able to carry ballistic missiles. Read more .... Military And Intelligence News Briefs -- April 26, 2021 China simultaneously commissions three warships on Navy anniversary -- Defense News South China Sea: US allies urged to rush to area as China launches huge assault ship -- Daily Express China, Vietnam agree to boost military trust amid simmering tensions -- SCMP Vietnam building up maritime militia as China tries to dominate South China Sea: Report -- Yahoo News Taiwan's National Security Bureau keeps tabs on Chinese navy -- Taiwan News The world spent almost $2 trillion on defense in 2020 -- Defense News Global military spending increases despite COVID-19 pandemic — report -- DW Biden to join NATO leaders at June 14 summit in Brussels -- AP USAF Releases New Airpower Doctrine -- Air force Magazine Pentagon achieves $3 billion air-to-air missile sales milestone -- Defence-Blog The USAF’s Bad Bets on Pilot Retention Show It Needs Outside Help -- Defense One Paratrooper, 21, posts smiling selfie just moments before being killed in parachute jump from Blackhawk helicopter at Fort Bragg -- Daily Mail US Nuclear Fears Are Shifting From a Clear Russian Threat to a Murkier Chinese One -- Patrick Tucker, Defense One China On-Course To Make ‘Trillion Dollar’ F-35 Jets Useless With Its Stealth Detecting Radars -- EurAsian Times Strategic command: U.S. 'ready for just about anything' from North Korea -- UPI US Formally Notifies Turkey of Removal From F-35 Deal Over S-400 Purchase, Report Says -- Sputnik U.S. Senate Committee Advances Bill To Increase Military Support To Ukraine -- RFE British name enormous carrier strike group heading for the Indo-Pacific -- Defense News Germany Reportedly Plans to Speed Up Withdrawal from Afghanistan, Complete Pullout by Early July -- Sputnik Germany: Two soldiers killed in highway truck crash -- DW Putin confirms ‘successful’ test of new rocket ‘designed to blast space missiles to bits’ -- The SUN ‘Death Zones’: Russian military creating system to make areas of airspace inaccessible to foreign missiles and drones, reports say -- RT Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy approves new military reservist law -- Euronews Lukashenko says deployment of Russian bases to Belarus not raised at talks with Putin -- TASS Indonesia: Submarine wreckage located on seafloor -- DW Indonesian submarine found split in pieces, all 53 crew declared dead -- France 24 The legal war between the Saudis and their former spymaster -- Reuters Brazil crime: One of world's biggest arms traffickers recaptured -- BBC Robodog joins Dutch special forces team -- Reuters Australia cleared to buy combat drones with serious airstrike capabilities -- Defence-Blog How Cyber Ops Increase the Risk of Accidental Nuclear War -- George Perkovich and Ariel Levite, Defense One Will the Biden Administration Shine Light on Shadowy Special Ops Programs? -- The Intercept
source http://warnewsupdates.blogspot.com/2021/04/military-and-intelligence-news-briefs_26.html
source http://warnewsupdates.blogspot.com/2021/04/military-and-intelligence-news-briefs_26.html
Iran's Foreign Minister Says John Kerry, When He Was Serving As Secretary of State During The Obama Administration, Told Him Of Israeli Covert Operations In Syria
John Kerry was ratting out Israeli covert operations in Syria directly to the Iranian foreign minister. Let that sink in. Wow. https://t.co/lmzhamTWFf pic.twitter.com/DzMAHAJeGy — Noah Pollak (@NoahPollak) April 26, 2021 FOX News: Iran's foreign minister says John Kerry told him about Israeli covert operations in Syria Kerry has previously been accused of colluding with Iranian leaders to undermine Trump administration Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif claimed in recently leaked audio that John Kerry, when he was serving as Secretary of State during the Obama administration, informed him of more than 200 Israeli operations in Syria. Kerry has previously been accused of colluding with Iranian leaders to undermine the Trump administration. Kerry is now a part of the Biden administration and has a seat on the National Security Council as the special presidential envoy for climate. Kerry shocked Zarif by revealing that Israel had attacked Iranian targets in Syria more than 200 times, according to leaked audio obtained by The New York Times and other outlets. Read more .... WNU Editor: John Kerry is denying these claims .... Kerry Denies Discussing Israeli Strikes in Syria With Iranian (NYTimes). More here .... John Kerry denies he told Iran about Israel's 200 attacks on Syria while serving as Barack Obama's Secretary of State (Daily Mail). Update #1: The wire services are still ignoring this story. Update #2: This is a very serious allegation. John Kerry is a member of the National Security Council and is privy to all U.S. intelligence. Update #3: This is very telling. The White House is saying no comment (see tweet below): Biden’s press secretary refuses to comment on reports that John Kerry shared details about Israel’s covert military operations with the terrorist regime in Iran. pic.twitter.com/WLF8lcTi77 — Arthur Schwartz (@ArthurSchwartz) April 26, 2021 More News On Iran's Foreign Minister Saying John Kerry Told Him Of Israeli Covert Operations In Syria Kerry faces calls to step down over leaked Iran tapes -- The Hill John Kerry faces calls to resign over allegations of leaking Israeli intel to Iran -- FOX News GOP tears into Kerry amid Iran controversy -- Politico Calls for John Kerry to be investigated for what he told Iran -- FOX News Kerry told Iran's Zarif of Israeli attacks in Syria, leaked tape reveals: report -- i24 News Never Tell John Kerry Anything -- Jim Geraghty, National Review John Kerry is skirting the line of treason with Iran -- Josh Hammer (NYPost) New York Times 'buried' bombshell that John Kerry told Iran about Israeli covert operations in Syria: Critics -- FOX News
source http://warnewsupdates.blogspot.com/2021/04/irans-foreign-minister-says-john-kerry.html
source http://warnewsupdates.blogspot.com/2021/04/irans-foreign-minister-says-john-kerry.html
Obama 'appalled by heartbreaking violence' in Myanmar
Former President Barack Obama issued a statement on Monday condemning the military coup in Myanmar.
source https://www.cnn.com/2021/04/26/politics/barack-obama-myanmar-statement/index.html
source https://www.cnn.com/2021/04/26/politics/barack-obama-myanmar-statement/index.html
‘My heart is broken’: Families mourn lost Indonesian crew
The KRI Nanggala-402 was confirmed sunk off Bali on Sunday, devastating the families of the 53 sailors on board
source https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/4/27/my-heart-is-broken-families-mourn-lost-indonesian-crew
source https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/4/27/my-heart-is-broken-families-mourn-lost-indonesian-crew
US launches inquiry into Louisville, Kentucky, police after Breonna Taylor death
The U.S. Justice Department on Monday launched a civil probe of the Louisville, Kentucky, police department whose officers last year fatally shot Breonna Taylor, an unarmed Black woman, in a botched raid, sparking street protests against police violence.
source https://www.france24.com/en/americas/20210427-us-launches-inquiry-into-louisville-kentucky-police-after-breonna-taylor-death
source https://www.france24.com/en/americas/20210427-us-launches-inquiry-into-louisville-kentucky-police-after-breonna-taylor-death
US to share up to 60 mln AstraZeneca vaccine doses with other countries
The United States will start to share up to 60 million doses of AstraZeneca Plc's coronavirus vaccine with other countries as soon as the next few weeks, the White House said on Monday.
source https://www.france24.com/en/americas/20210427-us-to-share-up-to-60-mln-astrazeneca-vaccine-doses-with-other-countries
source https://www.france24.com/en/americas/20210427-us-to-share-up-to-60-mln-astrazeneca-vaccine-doses-with-other-countries
لبنان يدعو السعودية لإعادة النظر في قرار وقف استيراد الخضراوات والفاكهة
دبي، الإمارات العربية المتحدة (CNN)-- أكدت السلطات اللبنانية، الاثنين، الحرص على "متانة العلاقات الأخوية" مع المملكة العربية السعودية، وإدانة كل ما من شأنه المساس بأمنها الاجتماعي أو بسلامة شعبها، لا سيما تهريب المواد الممنوعة والمخدّرة إلى أراضيها. جاء ذلك عقب اجتماع في قصر بعبدا للرئيس ميشال عون ورئيس حكومة تصريف الأعمال حسان دياب مع عدد من الوزراء والمسؤولين اللبنانيين لبحث قرار المملكة العربية السعودية بوقف استيراد الخضراوات والفاكهة من لبنان بسبب استخدامها في تهريب...
source https://arabic.cnn.com/middle-east/article/2021/04/26/lebanon-saudi-drugs-fruits-and-vegetables?cid=rss-feeds-middle_east
source https://arabic.cnn.com/middle-east/article/2021/04/26/lebanon-saudi-drugs-fruits-and-vegetables?cid=rss-feeds-middle_east
رئيس هيئة قناة السويس ينفي اعتقال طاقم سفينة "إيفرغيفن"
دبي، الإمارات العربية المتحدة (CNN)-- نفى رئيس هيئة قناة السويس المصرية الفريق أسامة ربيع، الاثنين، اعتقال طاقم سفينة الحاويات "إيفرغيفن" التي جنحت وعطلت الملاحة في القناة لمدة أسبوع، في مارس/ آذار الماضي، لتقرر بعدها محكمة مصرية الحجز على السفينة لحين دفع تعويضات تقدر بأكثر من 900 مليون دولار. وقال ربيع، في بيان، إن الهيئة حريصة على إنجاح المفاوضات الجارية مع الشركة المالكة لسفينة الحاويات وشركة التأمين وإبداء كافة سبل التعاون الممكنة للوصول إلى حلول توافقية تلائم كافة...
source https://arabic.cnn.com/middle-east/article/2021/04/26/suez-canal-denies-arresting-ever-given-crew?cid=rss-feeds-middle_east
source https://arabic.cnn.com/middle-east/article/2021/04/26/suez-canal-denies-arresting-ever-given-crew?cid=rss-feeds-middle_east
Kanye's Yeezy sneakers sell for record-breaking price
Kanye West wore the shoes during his performance of Hey Mama and Stronger at the 50th Annual Grammy Awards in 2008.
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-27/kanye-west-yeezy-sneakers-grammy-performance-aution/100097282
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-27/kanye-west-yeezy-sneakers-grammy-performance-aution/100097282
Tesla's Elon Musk qualifies for $14 billion options payout
Tesla's quarterly report hits targets qualifying chief executive Elon Musk for two options payouts worth a combined $US11 billion ($14.1 billion).
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-27/elon-musk-tesla-options-payout-tesla-quarterly-report/100097334
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-27/elon-musk-tesla-options-payout-tesla-quarterly-report/100097334
Gavin Newsom: California's governor faces recall election
Gavin Newsom was up for re-election in 2022, but will now probably face a vote this autumn.
source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-56897184
source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-56897184
Five things to know about Apple's iOS update
New update includes new privacy features, emojis and a way of turning on an iPhone with a mask on.
source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-56896854
source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-56896854
‘Disasters know no borders’ says Guterres, 35 years on from Chernobyl nuclear accident
In his message for Chernobyl International Remembrance Day on Monday, the UN chief reminded that “disasters know no borders”.
source https://www.globalissues.org/news/2021/04/26/27669
source https://www.globalissues.org/news/2021/04/26/27669
‘Make or break moment’ for forests
Forests are at the core of our efforts to restore our relationship with the natural world, the deputy UN chief said on Monday at the UN Forum on Forests.
source https://www.globalissues.org/news/2021/04/26/27671
source https://www.globalissues.org/news/2021/04/26/27671
DR Congo: ‘Relentless’ violence worsening plight of children in Ituri province
A recent spike in inter-community violence in the eastern province of Ituri in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is worsening the plight of children there, the UN Children’s Fund, UNICEF, said on Monday, urging greater international support.
source https://www.globalissues.org/news/2021/04/26/27670
source https://www.globalissues.org/news/2021/04/26/27670
Sunday, 25 April 2021
Biden and Putin could meet as soon as June amid tensions over Ukraine border
JOE BIDEN and Vladimir Putin could be set to meet face-to-face within weeks, it is claimed.
source https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/1427921/ukraine-vs-russia-biden-putin-summit-june-ukraine-border-troops-world-war-3-ont
source https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/1427921/ukraine-vs-russia-biden-putin-summit-june-ukraine-border-troops-world-war-3-ont
Five Canadians facing charges in the U.S. for allegedly buying up PPE, reselling at higher prices
Five Canadians have been charged by a U.S. grand jury for allegedly running a massive scheme to acquire personal protective equipment and event tickets to resell at a higher cost during the pandemic.
source https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/five-canadians-facing-charges-in-the-u-s-for-allegedly-buying-up-ppe-reselling-at-higher-prices-1.5401964
source https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/five-canadians-facing-charges-in-the-u-s-for-allegedly-buying-up-ppe-reselling-at-higher-prices-1.5401964
Peru’s impeached ex-president, accused of jumping vaccination queue, says he’s tested positive for Covid-19
Former Peruvian President Martin Vizcarra has said he has Covid-19 and is symptomatic, nearly two months after provoking a major political crisis after it was revealed he’d received the jab as part of a clinical trial. “Despite the necessary precautions to avoid bringing the virus home, my wife and I have tested positive for COVID and are symptomatic,” Vizcarra announced on Twitter on Sunday. Peruvian president until November, Vizcarrra was ousted by the parliament over “moral incompetence” as Peru’s GDP plummeted amid the pandemic that saw the South American country reporting one of the highest Covid-19 death rates in the world. Also on rt.com China providing vaccines to South America isn’t ‘aggression’ or ‘bullying’, they're just stepping up where Washington failed It later turned out that Vizcarra’s fall from grace only began with his impeachment. In February, the ex-president was accused of using his position to enroll into the clinical trial of Chinese Sinopharm Covid-19 vaccine. While Vizcarra insisted that it was “brave” of him and his wife to volunteer for the experiment, a doctor, who was in charge of the trial, later testified that Vizcarra knew he was getting the real deal, and not a placebo. The scandal rattled the government, prompting resignations of Peru’s then health minister Dr. Pilar Mazzetti and Foreign Minister Elizabeth Astete. The latter admitted that she had been vaccinated in January, weeks before the launch of the country's vaccine rollout on February 9, that prioritized healthcare workers. Also on rt.com Peru’s foreign minister becomes 2nd govt official to step down for receiving Covid-19 jab ahead of priority groups Earlier this month, lawmakers voted to ban Vizcarra from holding public office for 10 years, while Mazzetti was banned for 8 years, and Astete was handed out a one-year ban for their role in the so-called “VIP Vaccines” affair. Peru is using a number of different jab in a bid to stop the spread of the virus. Apart from Sinopharm, AstraZeneca and Pfizer vaccines have been deployed in the immunization drive. Last week, Peru’s ambassador to Russia, Juan Genaro del Campo Rodriguez said that Peru is poised to sign an agreement for the supply of Russian Sputnik V vaccine as well. Peru reported over 1,7 million cases, including nearly 60,000 deaths from the virus, as of Saturday. Think your friends would be interested? Share this story!
source https://www.rt.com/news/522094-peru-president-coronavirus-vaccine/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=RSS
source https://www.rt.com/news/522094-peru-president-coronavirus-vaccine/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=RSS
China nixed biowarfare meeting as coronavirus queries increased
China canceled an online meeting with American officials last year to discuss mounting concerns regarding secret Chinese biological weapons work in possible violation of an international treaty, according to a new report. The meeting between State Department arms control officials and their Chinese counterparts was planned as a video conference ...
source https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2021/apr/25/china-nixed-biowarfare-meeting-coronavirus-queries/?utm_source=RSS_Feed&utm_medium=RSS
source https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2021/apr/25/china-nixed-biowarfare-meeting-coronavirus-queries/?utm_source=RSS_Feed&utm_medium=RSS
Afghanistan exit creates hurdles for counterterrorism operations
The scheduled exit from Afghanistan in September represents much more than the end of the longest war in U.S. history. It will also mark the dawn of an era for a U.S. counterterrorism campaign that after two full decades will not have Afghanistan as a key staging ground and logistical ...
source https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2021/apr/25/afghanistan-exit-creates-hurdles-counterterrorism-/?utm_source=RSS_Feed&utm_medium=RSS
source https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2021/apr/25/afghanistan-exit-creates-hurdles-counterterrorism-/?utm_source=RSS_Feed&utm_medium=RSS
Kamala Harris to United Nations: Start prepping for next pandemic
WASHINGTON — Vice President Kamala Harris will make the case before United Nations members on Monday that now is the time for global leaders to begin putting the serious work into how they will respond to the next global pandemic. The virtual address, Harris' second to a U.N. body since ...
source https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2021/apr/25/kamala-harris-united-nations-start-prepping-next-p/?utm_source=RSS_Feed&utm_medium=RSS
source https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2021/apr/25/kamala-harris-united-nations-start-prepping-next-p/?utm_source=RSS_Feed&utm_medium=RSS
Pentagon Transfers 175 Million Internet Addresses To A Firm In Florida
An Airman is seen checking military network equipment in a file photo. The Pentagon created the internet, and still owns a huge chunk of Internet Protocol addresses Daily Mail: 'It's the biggest thing in the history of the internet': Pentagon quietly transfers 175 million internet addresses worth $4BILLION to mysterious firm at shared workspace in Florida * Transfer of idle DoD IP addresses took place minutes before Trump left office * Huge swathe of 175 million addresses accounts for 4% of the entire internet * They are now under the control of mysterious Global Resource Systems LLC * Company's address is listed in a co-working space above a bank in Florida * Reporter who visited the address found no representative and was told to leave * Now Pentagon says it is running a 'pilot' to 'identify potential vulnerabilities' A very strange thing happened on the internet the day President Joe Biden was sworn in. A shadowy company residing at a shared workspace above a Florida bank announced to the world´s computer networks that it was now managing a colossal, previously idle chunk of the internet owned by the U.S. Department of Defense. That real estate has since more than quadrupled to 175 million addresses - about 4 percent the size of the entire current internet. It's also more than twice the size of the internet space actually used by the Pentagon. Read more .... WNU Editor: I have two questions over this transfer of 175 million internet addresses. Why the Pentagon chose this company, and why now after these 175 million IP addresses have been dormant for years. More News On The Pentagon Transferring 175 Million Internet Addresses To A Firm In Florida The Big Pentagon Internet Mystery Now Partially Solved -- AP Pentagon gave control of millions of dormant IP addresses to Florida company before Trump left office: report -- The Hill Minutes before Trump departed office, a mysterious Florida company reportedly took over a slice of the Pentagon's internet space -- Business Insider The Pentagon gave a company control of 175 million IP addresses -- Endgadget "This Is Massive": Shadowy DARPA-Linked Company Took Over 'Chunk' Of Pentagon's Internet In Inauguration Day Mystery -- Zero Hedge
source http://warnewsupdates.blogspot.com/2021/04/pentagon-transfers-175-million-internet.html
source http://warnewsupdates.blogspot.com/2021/04/pentagon-transfers-175-million-internet.html
Aussies Leishman and Smith win PGA team event
Australian duo Cameron Smith and Marc Leishman win the US PGA Tour's teams event in a playoff.
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-26/aussies-leishman-and-smith-win-pga-team-event/100095028
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-26/aussies-leishman-and-smith-win-pga-team-event/100095028
'Tsunami' of COVID cases in India, thousands of Australians still trying to come home
Australia's High Commissioner to India describes the country's second wave of COVID-19 as a "tsunami", and says thousands of Australians are trying to get home.
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-26/india-wave-covid-cases-australians-stranded-coming-home/100095080
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-26/india-wave-covid-cases-australians-stranded-coming-home/100095080
Mental health impact of mouse plague compared to that experienced during natural disasters
An expert says the mental health impact of the plague is similar to that experienced during bushfires and drought.
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-26/mouse-plague-impacting-nsw-residents-mental-health/100091634
source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-26/mouse-plague-impacting-nsw-residents-mental-health/100091634
In US, millions skipping their second doses of Covid vaccines
<a href="https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/in-us-millions-skipping-their-second-doses-of-covid-vaccines/articleshow/82250069.cms"><img src="https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/photo/82250069.cms"></a>
source https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/in-us-millions-skipping-their-second-doses-of-covid-vaccines/articleshow/82250069.cms
source https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/in-us-millions-skipping-their-second-doses-of-covid-vaccines/articleshow/82250069.cms
Saturday, 24 April 2021
Wow: Southwest Added 1,000 Daily Departures Overnight In March
Overnight seismic network changes became much rarer heading into 2021, but they did not go entirely obsolete. In response to improving demand, Southwest Airlines boosted its flight schedules by 1,000 daily departures almost overnight. Buoyed by March, Southwest is now looking towards the summer where, in June, it will fly nearly all of its summer 2019 available seat miles (ASMs). Southwest Airlines impressively increased its daily flight numbers by 50% almost overnight in march. Photo: Vincenzo Pace | Simple FlyingSouthwest boosts March schedules Speaking on the airline’s first-quarter earnings call, CEO Gary Kelly stated the following on increasing March capacity: “Beginning with a mid-March inflection point, we finally began to see bookings improve from the nine-month, down 65% flat-line that we had been experiencing. So, vaccinations, case counts, and spring break all converged in the right way, and, sensing this, we boosted our capacity by 50% overnight, or 1,000 daily departures, in the middle of March.” The data also backs up Mr. Kelly’s claim. RadarBox.com, which has compiled daily flight numbers, shows a strong increase in daily flight numbers starting at around March 12th: Daily flights on Southwest spiked in mid-March. Graph: RadarBox.com From operating around roughly 1,900 flights per day, Southwest went to operating nearly 3,000 flights per day through the end of March. Spring break is a peak travel time during the first quarter, and there was clearly plenty of appetite for travel. What about specific markets? Leisure markets are coming back strong in Southwest’s network. President of Southwest, Tom Nealon, highlighted the following markets: “A little more specifically to our network, we are seeing strength in our Texas markets: Austin, Houston, Dallas and San Antonio. We’re also seeing strength in, really all of Florida, but in particular on the Gulf Coast of Florida, which includes Panama City, Pensacola, Ft. Myers, and Tampa. The desert mountain region is performing really nicely, which includes Phoenix, Salt Lake City, Boise. Denver is also performing very well.” Mountain destinations like Salt Lake City and Denver have done well so far. Photo: Southwest Airlines In terms of markets that have seen a slower pace of recovery, Mr. Nealon highlighted the following: “Demand continues to lag in areas such as the Northeast. Chicago’s lagging a bit; California is lagging a bit, although it’s really improving since the restrictions are being lifted. So, we are seeing improvements across the system, which is encouraging. And honestly, whether cities have been lagging or outperforming, what we are seeing is that all markets have improved fairly significantly recently compared to where they were in January and February.” Southwest has a strong presence in California and even added new cities to its network from the state. Photo: Vincenzo Pace | Simple Flying Lastly, Mr. Nealon spoke about Hawaii: “We are comfortable adding back flights to capture additional demand, including Hawaii. And it’s great to see demand from California to Hawaii as well as between the islands ramp back up. And we’re finally at a point where we can get to our Hawaii flight schedules up to where we hoped we would be a year ago before the pandemic.” These results are consistent with the pace of demand recovery. Chicago, California, and the Northeast have had more travel restrictions and business closures than Texas, Florida, or Arizona. Looking to the summer Southwest is preparing to flex its capacity up this summer, with the airline planning to fly 96% of its June 2019 ASMs this summer. ASMs are a good indicator of capacity, so Southwest is coming back to near 100%-levels of 2019 capacity, but with a different route network as the carrier has added some new cities and will add some more through June. Summer is looking good for Southwest, but it recognizes that things can change very quickly. Photo: Vincenzo Pace | Simple Flying Summer bookings, according to Southwest, are also trending upwards as the booking curves lengthen. Depending on how the revenue and demand environment looks in May and June, Southwest can adjust its plans in either direction. Southwest has proven in March that it can successfully ramp up capacity quickly and with little friction in terms of staffing and managing aircraft. This will be key heading into the summer when the carrier expects to see a far better revenue and demand environment. What do you think about Southwest’s March capacity increase? Let us know in the comments!
source https://simpleflying.com/southwest-march-boost/
source https://simpleflying.com/southwest-march-boost/
Iraq Covid hospital fire: At least 23 dead after 'oxygen tank explodes'
Flames across several floors lead to scenes of panic at a hospital in the Iraqi capital.
source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-56875804
source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-56875804
President Biden Recognises Killing Of 1.5 million Armenians By The Ottoman Empire As Genocide
Daily Mail: Biden finally recognizes atrocities inflicted on Armenians by Ottoman Empire in WWI as 'genocide' after White House avoided term for decades for fear of offending Turkey * Historic declaration has been celebrated by Armenia and American Armenians * Turkey said the statement was a 'grave mistake' that 'will open a deep wound' * An estimated two million Armenians were deported and 1.5 million were killed in the events known as Metz Yeghern * Turkey denies the killings in by Ottoman forces were systematically orchestrated President Joe Biden has formally recognized that the the systematic killings and deportations of hundreds of thousands of Armenians by Ottoman Empire forces in 1915 amounted to 'genocide'. For decades the White House has avoided using the term to describe the atrocities that occurred during the First World War over concerns that it could damage relations with NATO ally Turkey. The historic declaration has been celebrated by Armenians, but triggered an angry response in Turkey, where it was said that the move 'will open a deep wound that undermines our mutual trust and friendship.' Read more .... More News On President Biden Recognizing The Killing Of 1.5 million Armenians By The Ottoman Empire As Genocide Biden recognizes atrocities against Armenians as genocide -- AP In historic move, Biden says 1915 massacres of Armenians constitute genocide -- Reuters US President Biden calls 1915 massacres of Armenians by Ottoman Empire a ‘genocide’ -- France 24 Biden formally recognizes atrocities against Armenians as a genocide -- FOX News Biden officially recognizes the massacre of Armenians in World War I as a genocide -- CNN Joe Biden recognises killing of 1.5 million Armenians by Ottoman Empire as genocide for first time -- SKY News US President Joe Biden recognizes Armenian genocide -- DW Biden formally recognizes atrocities against Armenians as genocide -- Axios Turkey Blasts Biden's Armenian Genocide Statement As Opening A "Deep Wound" In Relations -- Zero Hedge Turkey Summons U.S. Envoy After Biden’s ‘Genocide’ Statement -- Bloomberg Why Biden’s Armenian Genocide Declaration Really Is a Big Deal -- Politico
source http://warnewsupdates.blogspot.com/2021/04/president-biden-recognises-killing-of.html
source http://warnewsupdates.blogspot.com/2021/04/president-biden-recognises-killing-of.html
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