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Menendez Brothers Parole Hearing: Clemency Plea Amidst Opposition

Convicted murderers Lyle and Erik Menendez, who are currently serving life sentences for the 1989 killing of their parents, are set to appear before the California Board of Parole Hearings on June 13. The brothers will individually plead for clemency from Governor Gavin Newsom, despite recent opposition from Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman to their legal battle for resentencing.

Hochman has argued that new evidence suggesting the brothers may have been abused does not meet the criteria for a new trial. He recently submitted an 88-page court filing asking a judge to rescind the initial order for the resentencing hearing, asserting that the Menendez brothers have shown little remorse and are unwilling to accept responsibility for their crimes.

Following the parole board hearing, a report will be submitted to Governor Newsom’s office for consideration in deciding whether to commute the brothers’ sentences. This report will also be submitted to the judge for the resentencing and will factor into the independent analysis of whether to proceed with the clemency application.

The Menendez brothers were each convicted of two counts of first-degree murder for the killing of their parents, José and Mary Louise “Kitty” Menendez. A recent California law has made resentencing hearings a possibility, and aside from the June parole board hearing, the brothers are also scheduled for a March 20 and 21 resentencing hearing.

In the immediate aftermath of the murders, the brothers claimed that their parents were victims of a mafia hit. However, when it became clear that they were responsible for the killings, they argued that they acted in self-defense after enduring a lifetime of physical and sexual abuse by their parents. Their first trial, which took place from 1993 to 1994, ended in a mistrial, but they were retried and found guilty in 1996.

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https://newsgpt.ai/2025/03/13/menendez-brothers-parole-hearing-clemency-plea-amidst-opposition/
Passenger Attacks Flight Attendants on American Eagle Flight, Forcing Return to Georgia

An American Eagle flight bound for Florida was forced to return to Georgia after a passenger, Delange Augustin, 31, allegedly attacked two flight attendants shortly after takeoff. The flight, operated by Envoy, had eight passengers and five crew members on board.

Witnesses reported that Augustin began stomping, yelling incoherently, and shaking, leading a flight attendant to believe he was experiencing a medical emergency. When approached, Augustin allegedly kicked the flight attendant in the chest, prompting the pilots to decide to return to Savannah.

Augustin is also accused of punching and kicking the seat of the passenger in front of him, causing it to collapse. After the plane landed and began taxiing to the gate, Augustin allegedly stormed to the front of the plane, holding onto his sister, and struck another flight attendant in her upper arm. Three passengers intervened, restraining Augustin and his sister, Medjina Augustin, until airport police arrived.

Medjina Augustin told investigators that she and her brother were traveling to Haiti to escape ‘religious attacks of a spiritual nature.’ She explained that her brother was reacting to the ‘evil’ that comes out in the darkness, adding that she was not surprised by his actions as he ‘hurts evil.’ She also claimed that her brother had swallowed rosary beads, which she described as a ‘weapon of strength in the spiritual warfare.’ She denied that her brother was suffering from any medical or mental health issues.

Following the incident, Augustin was taken to a hospital for evaluation before being transferred to the Chatham County Detention Center. He now faces a charge of interference with flight crew members.

American Airlines, in a statement, emphasized that safety and security are their top priorities, and expressed appreciation for the professionalism of the crew and the understanding of the passengers.

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https://newsgpt.ai/2025/03/13/passenger-attacks-flight-attendants-on-american-eagle-flight-forcing-return-to-georgia/
Dog Theft on the Rise in the UK: Over 23,000 Pets Stolen in the Past Decade

Pet owners are being cautioned to remain vigilant as over 23,000 dogs have been reported stolen in the UK over the past decade. The crime, which is both devastating and particularly cruel, has left numerous families heartbroken, including Sarah Rodgers, whose family husky was stolen last year. In 2024 alone, an estimated 1,808 dogs were reported stolen across the UK. Rottweilers experienced the highest surge in thefts with a 180% year-on-year increase, followed by Border Collies and Chihuahuas.

Rodgers recounted the night her husky, Diesel, disappeared from their garden. She described the impact of the loss on her family, particularly her daughter, who had to cope with the heartbreak of her best friend being stolen. Rodgers believes Diesel was stolen by a person who had set up a camp in the woods behind their home.

Beverley Cuddy, the editor of Dogs Today magazine, argues that more action is needed to combat dog thefts. She describes it as a low risk, high reward crime for criminals who either hold the dogs for ransom or use them for breeding. She emphasizes the need for measures that make it more difficult to profit from these crimes.

Over the past 10 years, 23,430 dogs have been reported stolen to police, with only 21% (5,005) being returned. The Pet Abduction Act, which came into effect in May last year, has made pet theft a criminal offence in England and Northern Ireland, punishable by up to five years in prison, a fine, or both. This serves as a reminder to pet owners to remain alert and safeguard their beloved pets.

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https://newsgpt.ai/2025/03/13/dog-theft-on-the-rise-in-the-uk-over-23000-pets-stolen-in-the-past-decade/
Former Hostage Urges Rebuilding of Devastated Kibbutz Nir Oz

Gadi Mozes, a former hostage who was kidnapped and held captive for 482 days, has urged his former neighbors to rebuild their devastated kibbutz, Nir Oz. In a heartfelt letter, Mozes expressed his understanding of the community’s fear and anger over their abandonment and neglect by security forces. Despite the shared fears, Mozes, who lost his partner Efrat Katz during the kidnapping, has decided to join the efforts to restore Nir Oz to its previous state of vibrancy and security.

Mozes, who celebrated his 80th birthday in captivity, called on the kibbutz members to work together to rebuild their home. He expressed empathy for those who feel too drained to participate at this time, but remained confident in their collective ability to rebuild Nir Oz. Mozes, a resident of Nir Oz since he was 20 and a longtime potato farmer and agronomist, urged members to join him in this endeavor as soon as possible.

He emphasized the importance of time and expressed his belief that their place is not in the urban apartments of Carmei Gat where most residents settled after the kibbutz was destroyed, but in single-family homes near their fields in Nir Oz. He concluded his letter by expressing his confidence in their ability to overcome the darkness and see the light, quoting a popular Hanukkah song.

The kibbutz, once home to approximately 400 residents, suffered greatly on October 7, 2023, when 117 were either killed or kidnapped, and 14 are still being held in Gaza. Only seven out of 220 homes in Nir Oz were left untouched by the violence, with many completely destroyed. Upon his release from captivity, Mozes pledged to do everything he could to rehabilitate Nir Oz, a sentiment he reiterated upon his release from the hospital a week later.

Members of Kibbutz Nir Oz voted overwhelmingly in November 2024 to rebuild their community, although they are still exploring ways to move forward. Meanwhile, tensions remain high with the government, as evidenced by the booing of New Hope lawmaker Ze’ev Elkin at a recent kibbutz movement conference, with attendees demanding the government agree to the next stages of the ceasefire deal to bring the remaining hostages home.

The post Former Hostage Urges Rebuilding of Devastated Kibbutz Nir Oz appeared first on NewsGPT.ai.

https://newsgpt.ai/2025/03/13/former-hostage-urges-rebuilding-of-devastated-kibbutz-nir-oz/
Swansea Cocaine Smuggling Ring Convicted, £100m Worth of Drugs Seized

Two men from Swansea, 46-year-old Jon Williams and 31-year-old Patrick Godfrey, have been convicted for attempting to smuggle £100m worth of cocaine on a fishing boat. The verdict was delivered at Truro Crown Court. Two other accomplices, 45-year-old Michael Kelly from Manchester and 27-year-old Jake Marchant, pleaded guilty before the trial began.

The group was apprehended with over a tonne of the Class A drug on their boat, the Lily Lola, off the coast of Cornwall. The boat was intercepted by Border Force officers, with Williams acting as the boat’s captain, Marchant as his second, Kelly in the accommodation area, and Godfrey asleep in a deck chair.

The Lily Lola, purchased by Williams for approximately £140,000 two months prior, was escorted to Plymouth Royal Dockyard. The substances found onboard were seized and confirmed to be high purity cocaine.

Intriguingly, Godfrey’s phone revealed an internet search history that included “how long does it take a ship to leave Peru to UK”. A tracker found within the drug haul was linked to a user in South America, according to the National Crime Agency (NCA) investigation.

When questioned, Williams, Godfrey, and Marchant chose to remain silent, while Kelly insisted he was merely on a fishing trip.

NCA branch commander Derek Evans expressed relief at having prevented a significant quantity of cocaine from reaching the streets of the UK and wider Europe. He emphasized the NCA’s commitment to working tirelessly with local and international partners to dismantle the criminal networks profiting from the drug trade.

The four men are due to be sentenced on May 8.

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https://newsgpt.ai/2025/03/13/swansea-cocaine-smuggling-ring-convicted-100m-worth-of-drugs-seized/
Deadly Attack in Kryvyi Rih, Ukraine, Amidst Ceasefire Talks

In a recent attack in Kryvyi Rih, Ukraine, one woman was killed and several others were injured. The incident occurred in the aftermath of Ukraine’s acceptance of a US-proposed ceasefire, aimed at ending a brutal three-year war. The choice of Kryvyi Rih for the attack could be seen as a direct message to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as it is his hometown. The city has been targeted multiple times during the course of the war, with a previous attack on March 6 leaving four dead and 32 injured.

This attack comes at a critical juncture, as Ukraine seems to be shifting its focus towards peace. Ukrainian officials have been in discussions with their US counterparts this week in Saudi Arabia. President Zelenskyy confirmed the meeting last week, emphasizing Ukraine’s interest in peace. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Ukraine had accepted the US ceasefire plan, expressing hope that Russia would reciprocate.

President Donald Trump also commented on the ceasefire during a Business Roundtable meeting, expressing satisfaction with Ukraine’s acceptance of the ceasefire and hoping for a similar response from Russia. However, Kremlin spokesperson Demitry Peskov stated that Russia would withhold comments on the ceasefire proposal until more detailed information was provided.

Following a tense meeting with President Trump and Vice President JD Vance, President Zelenskyy seemed to shift his stance on the war. Despite initial claims by Trump that Zelenskyy was “not ready for peace,” the two leaders appeared to have reconciled. Trump shared a letter from Zelenskyy during a joint session of Congress, in which the Ukrainian President expressed readiness for negotiations and a commitment to lasting peace.

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https://newsgpt.ai/2025/03/13/deadly-attack-in-kryvyi-rih-ukraine-amidst-ceasefire-talks/
Prince William Visits Estonia Amidst Ukraine Crisis, Demonstrating UK Support

As the war in Ukraine reaches a critical juncture, with the US preparing to propose a 30-day ceasefire to Russia, Prince William is set to make his inaugural visit to Estonia. The visit, which has been in the works for several months, is now particularly timely. The prince will meet with British troops stationed in the region, acting as a deterrent to Russian aggression. These forces are part of Operation Cabrit, the UK’s contribution to NATO’s efforts to counter Russian hostility in the Baltic states.

During his visit, Prince William will also engage with the local community in Estonia’s capital, Tallinn. He will explore how this NATO member country has responded to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and its advancements in renewable energy and technology. The visit is seen as part of Prince William’s evolution into a global statesman, demonstrating his support for UK leadership and the troops stationed at Russia’s fringes.

In addition to his official duties, Prince William will meet with Ukrainian families displaced by the war, further demonstrating the royal family’s public support for those affected by the conflict. This follows a recent meeting between his father, King Charles, and Ukrainian President Volodomyr Zelensky.

Estonia, which shares a border with Russia, has been a key supporter of Ukraine during the war. Last month, Estonia, along with Latvia and Lithuania, disconnected from Russia’s electricity grid and joined the European Union’s network. The prince’s visit is seen as a delicate diplomatic move, with him stepping into the role of a future commander in chief of the Armed Forces and drawing from his personal experience as a former soldier.

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https://newsgpt.ai/2025/03/13/prince-william-visits-estonia-amidst-ukraine-crisis-demonstrating-uk-support/
UN Report Accuses Israel of Genocidal Acts Against Palestinians

A recent report from the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel, has accused Israel of committing “genocidal acts” against Palestinians. The report alleges that Israel systematically destroyed women’s healthcare facilities in Gaza during the conflict, and employed sexual violence as a war strategy. Israel, however, has dismissed these accusations as unfounded, biased, and lacking credibility.

According to the report, Israel intentionally attacked and destroyed the main fertility center in the Palestinian territory. Alongside this, a siege was imposed, blocking aid including medication necessary for safe pregnancies, deliveries, and neonatal care. The report states, “Israeli authorities have destroyed in part the reproductive capacity of the Palestinians in Gaza as a group, including by imposing measures intended to prevent births, one of the categories of genocidal acts in the Rome Statute and the Genocide Convention.”

The report further suggests that these actions, coupled with a rise in maternity deaths due to restricted access to medical supplies, amount to the crime against humanity of extermination. It also alleges that Israel’s security forces used forced public stripping and sexual assault as standard operating procedures to punish Palestinians following the Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel on October 7, 2023.

Israel has countered these allegations, accusing the commission of advancing a biased political agenda in an attempt to incriminate the Israel Defense Forces. Israel’s permanent mission to the UN in Geneva has stated that the IDF has concrete directives and policies that prohibit such misconduct, and that its review processes align with international standards.

In March 2024, the UN’s Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict reported reasonable grounds to conclude that victims in Israel had been raped and subjected to other forms of sexual violence by Palestinians during the October 7 attack. Reports from freed hostages also include accounts of rape and sexual harassment during captivity.

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https://newsgpt.ai/2025/03/13/un-report-accuses-israel-of-genocidal-acts-against-palestinians/
US Influencer Sparks Outrage by Removing Baby Wombat from Mother

A video featuring a US influencer, Sam Jones, taking a wild baby wombat away from its distressed mother in Australia has sparked outrage among conservationists and the public alike. Jones, who identifies as an “outdoor enthusiast and hunter” on Instagram, was captured picking up the baby wombat on an unidentified road and running to a car, while the mother wombat pursued them. The video has since been removed from the internet.

The incident has drawn criticism from Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong, among others. Immigration officials are now reviewing Jones’s visa, according to Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke, and there have been calls for her deportation. An online petition supporting this action has already garnered over 10,500 signatures.

Conservationists argue that Jones’s actions could have caused severe harm to the wombats. The Wombat Protection Society expressed shock at the “mishandling of a wombat joey in an apparent snatch for ‘social media likes'”. The society also pointed out that Jones placed the baby wombat back onto a country road, potentially exposing it to the risk of becoming roadkill. It remains uncertain whether the baby wombat was able to reunite with its mother.

Jones, who boasts more than 92,000 followers on Instagram, has since made her account private. However, the video had already been shared by several media outlets, along with other posts reportedly taken in Australia, showing her holding an echidna and a “little shark”.

Wombats are native to Australia and are legally protected across the country. Conservationists emphasize that any separation between baby wombats and their mothers can be distressing and harmful. Suzanne Milthorpe, Head of Campaigns at World Animal Protection Australia, stated, “Wombats are not a photo prop or plaything,” and expressed relief that Jones is being held accountable.

Some experts believe that Jones may have broken the law, as Australia prohibits people from harming or taking native wildlife. Exceptions are made only if the animal is in need of help because its mother has died, according to wildlife veterinarian Tania Bishop.

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https://newsgpt.ai/2025/03/13/us-influencer-sparks-outrage-by-removing-baby-wombat-from-mother/
4.4 Magnitude Earthquake Jolts Naples, Italy, Causing Damage and Panic

In the early hours of Thursday, the Italian city of Naples and its surrounding areas were jolted awake by a 4.4 magnitude earthquake, resulting in many residents spending the night outdoors or in their vehicles. The tremor, which struck at 01:25 local time, originated from a shallow depth of three kilometers, or approximately two miles, according to Italian seismologists. An alternate measurement by the US Geological Survey recorded it as a 4.2 tremor with a depth of 10km.

The earthquake disrupted power supplies in parts of Naples and caused buildings to shake, with rubble falling onto the streets. The nearby town of Pozzuoli, situated close to the quake’s epicenter, was particularly affected. One individual was rescued from the debris of a partially collapsed house, sustaining injuries in the process.

The city of Naples is located on the Phlegraean Fields, a volcanic basin in southern Italy. This geographical positioning makes the region susceptible to seismic activities. The recent earthquake serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with residing in such areas.

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https://newsgpt.ai/2025/03/13/4-4-magnitude-earthquake-jolts-naples-italy-causing-damage-and-panic/
Political Turmoil in Zimbabwe: Tanks in Harare, Mnangagwa’s Future Uncertain

A recent sighting of a convoy of armored tanks in Harare, Zimbabwe, sparked fears of a potential military coup. However, government spokesperson Nick Mangwana quickly dismissed these concerns, explaining that the tanks were part of a scheduled exercise to test equipment. Despite this, speculation continued, revealing the current state of political tension in the country.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who took office in 2017, has recently faced criticism from within his own Zanu-PF party, with calls for him to step down. This internal dissent has been led by Blessed Geza, a senior Zanu-PF member and war veteran, who has publicly criticized Mnangagwa’s leadership and accused him of corruption and nepotism.

Geza’s criticism has been met with backlash from the Zanu-PF, leading to his expulsion from the party and charges of treason. Despite this, Geza continues to voice his opposition to Mnangagwa from hiding, hinting at potential protests.

The controversy surrounding Mnangagwa’s leadership has been further fueled by his apparent ambition to stay in office beyond his second and final term, which expires in 2028. His supporters have argued that he should remain in office to complete his “Agenda 2030” development program.

However, this has been met with opposition from various quarters, including the influential Roman Catholic bishops, who have warned that this debate is distracting from the real issues facing the country, such as business closures, high unemployment, rampant corruption, and economic policies that favor the wealthy.

Despite the political turmoil, political analyst Takura Zhangazha believes that the current situation is unlikely to galvanize public support for Geza or lead to mass protests, as was the case during the downfall of former leader Robert Mugabe. He argues that Zimbabweans are less interested in such political spectacles and are unlikely to be drawn into Zanu-PF’s internal battles.

Meanwhile, the country continues to face economic challenges, with major supermarket chains closing down and the economy predicted to worsen due to the recent suspension of USAID. As the political and economic situation continues to evolve, the debate over Mnangagwa’s potential third term is likely to continue.

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https://newsgpt.ai/2025/03/13/political-turmoil-in-zimbabwe-tanks-in-harare-mnangagwas-future-uncertain/
Deadly Hostage Situation Ends in Pakistan Train Attack

A train carrying hundreds of passengers in Pakistan was seized by separatist militants, resulting in a deadly hostage situation. The attack, which authorities have now declared over, ended in a day-long standoff that saw all the attackers killed. The militants claimed to have killed 50 hostages, while over 300 were reportedly rescued in an ongoing operation. The exact number of casualties remains unconfirmed.

The train, packed with 425 people including women and children, was hijacked as it entered a tunnel in Bolan, a district in the southwestern province of Balochistan. The militants, armed with explosives and firearms, barricaded themselves inside the train, leading to a tense exchange of gunfire with security forces. A government spokesperson has labeled the incident as “an act of terrorism.”

Passengers who were freed recounted the harrowing experience, describing gunfire “coming from everywhere.” The militants reportedly used rocket-propelled grenades to disable the train, trapping it inside a tunnel. The passengers were then ordered to disembark under threat of being shot.

The train was on a 1,000-mile journey from Quetta to Peshawar when the militants struck, killing the driver and blowing up the railway tracks. Among the rescued hostages, 37 were injured and are currently receiving medical treatment.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, has condemned the attack, stating that security officials are actively repelling the militants. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi labeled the attackers as “enemies” of Pakistan and pledged to thwart their efforts to destabilize the nation.

The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for the attack, demanding the release of Baloch political prisoners, activists, and missing persons within 48 hours. They threatened to execute the hostages if their demands were not met.

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https://newsgpt.ai/2025/03/13/deadly-hostage-situation-ends-in-pakistan-train-attack/
Connecticut Man Held Captive for 20 Years Sets Fire to Escape

A Connecticut man, allegedly held captive by his stepmother for 20 years, set fire to their home last month in a desperate bid for freedom, according to local police. The stepmother, 56-year-old Kimberly Sullivan, was arrested following an extensive investigation into the shocking allegations made by her 32-year-old stepson.

The incident unfolded on the evening of February 17, when police and fire officials in Waterbury, Connecticut, responded to reports of a fire at a residence on Blake Street. Both Sullivan and her stepson were inside the home at the time. While Sullivan managed to evacuate safely, her stepson required assistance due to smoke inhalation and exposure to the fire.

The stepson later told police that he had intentionally started the fire, stating, “I wanted my freedom.” He claimed that Sullivan had kept him captive since he was 11 years old. Following a thorough investigation in collaboration with the Waterbury State’s Attorney’s Office, authorities confirmed that the man had indeed been held captive for over 20 years.

The investigation revealed that the stepson had suffered prolonged abuse, severe neglect, and inhumane treatment. He was found in an extremely malnourished state, having been denied medical or dental care and provided with only minimal food and water.

A warrant was issued for Sullivan’s arrest on Tuesday, leading to her apprehension on Wednesday. She faces multiple charges, including first-degree assault, second-degree kidnapping, and first-degree unlawful restraint. Sullivan was arraigned in court on Wednesday, with bond set at $300,000. She is now in the custody of the Connecticut Department of Corrections.

Waterbury Police Chief Fernando Spagnolo commended the dedication of the officers and the Waterbury State’s Attorney’s Office, stating, “The suffering this victim endured for over 20 years is both heartbreaking and unimaginable. Their unwavering commitment ensured that justice is served and the perpetrator is held fully accountable for these horrific crimes.”

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https://newsgpt.ai/2025/03/13/connecticut-man-held-captive-for-20-years-sets-fire-to-escape/
SpaceX Rocket Launch to ISS Postponed Due to Technical Issue

The anticipated launch of a SpaceX rocket carrying a replacement crew of four astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS) was abruptly cancelled on Wednesday due to a last-minute technical issue with the rocket’s launchpad. This mission was particularly significant as it was set to initiate the return of U.S. astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, who have been stationed in space for nine months following a journey on Boeing’s malfunctioning Starliner.

The exact date for the next launch attempt remains uncertain, but given the nature of the issue, it is expected that SpaceX and NASA could attempt another launch in the coming days. The mission was expedited by two weeks after President Donald Trump and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk advocated for the early return of Wilmore and Williams, who have been stranded in space longer than initially planned.

The two astronauts, both veterans and U.S. Navy test pilots, have been engaged in research and maintenance tasks alongside other astronauts at the ISS. Despite the extended stay, they have remained safe and in good spirits, with Williams expressing her eagerness to reunite with her family and pet dogs upon her return.

The mission, known as Crew-10, was originally a routine astronaut rotation but has been complicated by political interference. Trump and Musk have controversially accused former President Joe Biden of delaying the return of Wilmore and Williams, without providing any substantial evidence.

The mission was initially scheduled for March 26, but due to delays with the SpaceX capsule, NASA decided to use a different one that was ready earlier. Once the new crew arrives at the station, Wilmore, Williams, NASA astronaut Nick Hague, and Russian cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov will be able to return to Earth in a capsule that has been attached to the station since September.

The two astronauts had arrived at the station in June as the first test crew of Boeing’s Starliner, which experienced propulsion system issues in space. NASA deemed it too risky for the astronauts to return on the Boeing craft, leading to the current plan to bring them home in a SpaceX capsule. This situation highlights the ongoing competition between Boeing and SpaceX, both of which have multi-billion dollar contracts with NASA to provide vehicles for sending ISS crew members to orbit from American soil.

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https://newsgpt.ai/2025/03/13/spacex-rocket-launch-to-iss-postponed-due-to-technical-issue/
US Spirits Industry Faces Setback as EU Imposes 50% Tariff on American Whiskey

The US spirits industry is on high alert as the European Union (EU) has imposed a 50% tariff on American whiskey in response to President Donald Trump’s steel and aluminum tariffs. This move is expected to significantly hinder the progress made in rebuilding US spirits exports in EU countries, according to Chris Swonger, CEO of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS).

Despite the pandemic-driven surge in American whiskey sales, which grew nearly 20% since 2020, reaching over $5 billion last year, the industry experienced a slowdown in 2024 due to the rising cost of living. This led to companies like Brown-Forman laying off approximately 700 employees in January. Swonger expressed concern that these reinstated tariffs would further stunt growth and negatively affect distillers and farmers nationwide.

Europe has become a significant market for US whiskey, with exports increasing by 60% to $699 million over the last three years after previous tariffs were suspended. However, the EU’s retaliation to Trump’s 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum imports, which includes countermeasures on up to $28 billion of American goods, is set to begin in April.

Swonger urged the US and EU governments to find a resolution that would restore the spirits industry to a state of zero tariffs. Meanwhile, Lawson Whiting, CEO of Jack Daniels whiskey maker Brown-Forman, criticized the decision by Canadian officials to remove American-made spirits from store shelves in response to Trump’s tariffs on Canada, although he noted that Canada represents only 1% of the company’s total sales.

Eric Gregory, president of the Kentucky Distillers Association, highlighted the broader impact of these tariffs, stating that they will have far-reaching consequences across Kentucky, which produces 95% of the world’s Bourbon. This will affect a range of workers, from corn farmers and truckers to distillery workers, bartenders, and servers, as well as the communities and businesses built around Kentucky Bourbon. Consequently, shares of spirits companies, including Brown-Forman, Remy Cointreau, and Diageo, have seen a decline in trading.

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https://newsgpt.ai/2025/03/13/us-spirits-industry-faces-setback-as-eu-imposes-50-tariff-on-american-whiskey/
Colossal Iceberg A23a Grounds Near South Georgia, Threatening Wildlife

A colossal iceberg known as A23a, five times the weight of Mount Everest, has run aground near the wildlife-rich island of South Georgia. The impact of this trillion-tonne iceberg melting near one of the world’s most significant wildlife havens is uncertain but could potentially disrupt access to food for millions of penguins and interfere with ship navigation in the area.

Icebergs of this magnitude are uncommon. While large chunks of ice frequently break off Antarctica’s ice shelves, most shatter into fragments upon entering the warmer ocean surrounding the continent. However, A23a has endured since it broke away from the Ronne-Filchner ice shelf in Antarctica’s Weddell Sea in 1986, even carrying away a Soviet research station, Druzhnaya I, built on its edge.

For 20 years, the iceberg remained relatively stationary, trapped by smaller icebergs. Then, in 2020, it began drifting northwards. After spending six months spinning in a revolving ocean current in the Southern Ocean, it broke free and headed towards South Georgia, moving at a speed of around 30km per day.

The sea around South Georgia is warmer than the iceberg’s Antarctic origin, so it is expected to thin, become more fragile, and break up quickly. The impacts of this could be localized but significant for the penguins and seals that inhabit South Georgia. A trillion tonnes of fresh water from the iceberg, which floats on denser sea water, could push food for marine animals deeper underwater. Conversely, if the iceberg carries a lot of mud and sediment, it could enrich the water with nutrients, providing more food for sea life.

A23a’s journey is symbolic of a larger, more consequential trend: the rapid melting of ice in Antarctica. The continent is losing around 150 billion tonnes of water in the form of ice annually, contributing to the steady rise in sea level. More urgently, the influx of fresh water could affect the Antarctic Circumpolar Current, our planet’s cooling system, potentially exacerbating global warming. Recent studies suggest that fresh water from melting icebergs and the Antarctic continent could reduce the current’s speed by 20% by 2050.

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https://newsgpt.ai/2025/03/13/colossal-iceberg-a23a-grounds-near-south-georgia-threatening-wildlife/
Paris Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2025: Designer Debuts, Retro Influences, and Corporate Dressing

The Fall/Winter 2025 edition of Paris Fashion Week concluded recently, featuring a series of high-profile designer debuts. Julian Klausner took the reins at Dries Van Noten, Sarah Burton stepped into Givenchy, and Haider Ackermann revived Tom Ford, each bringing a fresh perspective to these renowned fashion houses.

Throughout the nine-day event, designers largely refrained from overt political statements, choosing instead to offer a space for escapism and subtle explorations of empowerment. Retro-inspired looks and adventurous takes on office attire were also prevalent, along with a few nods to the late filmmaker David Lynch.

The trend of corporate dressing was a prominent theme as designers anticipated a full return to office life. Ackermann’s debut collection for Tom Ford explored power dressing in various forms, including a new take on the brand’s signature Perfecto biker jacket and a crimson leather trench coat paired with matching red lips.

Stella McCartney’s show emphasized the working woman aesthetic, with models showcasing broad-shouldered 80s jackets, reimagined pencil skirts with added pockets, and oversized coats. Balenciaga also offered its takes on tailoring, with creative director Demna emphasizing the craftsmanship behind the tailoring.

Retro influences were not confined to a single era, with a mix of lavish furs and ornate embellishments reimagined for everyday wear. Julian Klausner’s first collection for Dries Van Noten featured tassels transformed into boleros and belts, and raw trimmings structured into midi skirts.

Valentino’s show blurred the lines between public and private, with models wearing a blend of underwear and eveningwear in a replicated nightclub bathroom. Chloé merged 70s influences with indie sleaze aesthetics of the late 2000s, featuring night gowns layered under overcoats and bias-cut silk skirts worn with ballet flats.

Designers also took a more experimental approach to women’s fashion. Alaïa designer Peter Mulier incorporated spirals into his designs, creating the illusion of exaggerated proportions, while Sarah Burton’s debut at Givenchy experimented with silhouettes reminiscent of Hubert de Givenchy’s 1952 debut collection.

Marine Serre’s collection, held at La Monnaie de Paris, featured leather bodysuits with hip paddings and dresses with amplified shoulders. The Issey Miyake show, held at the Carrousel du Louvre, continued its focus on modular clothing, with pieces that allowed each wearer the freedom of styling choices.

Designers also found joy in dressing and wearing clothes. At Miu Miu, designer Miuccia Prada leaned into 1950s and 60s archetypes, while Saint Laurent featured dress coats, blouses, and box-cut dresses in bold colors. Chanel, soon to welcome its new designer Matthieu Blazy, incorporated splashes of red and pink in its skirtsuits, accessorized with XXL beads, bows, and jeweled belts.

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Russia Intercepts 77 Ukrainian Drones, Claims Kursk Operation Nearing Completion

In a recent development, Russia has claimed to have intercepted and destroyed 77 Ukrainian drones overnight. This comes a day after the US announced that Ukraine had agreed to a ceasefire, awaiting Russia’s response. The drones were reportedly downed over several regions bordering Ukraine, including Bryansk, where 30 drones were destroyed, and Kaluga, where 25 more were intercepted. Additional drones were intercepted over the regions of Kursk, Voronezh, Rostov, and Belgorod.

This latest development follows Russia’s previous claim of downing 337 Ukrainian drones across the country on Tuesday, with over 90 in the capital region. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has stated that Russia’s operation to remove Ukrainian forces from the western Russian region of Kursk is nearing completion.

Russian President Vladimir Putin made his first visit to the western Russian region of Kursk since Ukrainian forces seized some territory there. Ukraine is speculated to be using the captured land as leverage in negotiations to end the war, a move encouraged by the US.

The Kremlin announced on Wednesday that it would consider details from Washington about the proposal for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine before issuing a response. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed hope that an agreement would be reached within the coming days.

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Mercedes F1 Boss Dismisses Max Verstappen Signing Rumors, Focuses on Current Drivers

Mercedes Formula 1 chief, Toto Wolff, has dismissed the idea of signing Max Verstappen for the 2026 season, stating that it’s “not on any radar”. This comes as George Russell’s contract with Mercedes is set to expire at the end of this season. Last year, Wolff had discussions with Verstappen, but ultimately chose 18-year-old Italian rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli to replace Lewis Hamilton, who has since joined Ferrari.

In the lead-up to the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, Wolff emphasized the need to focus on their current driver line-up. He said, “I don’t flirt outside if I’m in a good relationship. So at the moment that (a move for Verstappen) is not on any radar. I don’t plan to shift my concentration away from these guys and make sure that George has some visibility very soon, or has a contract very soon.”

Wolff further stated that he and Russell would hold off on discussing a new deal, but assured that they would “find some time I guess before the summer, but we do that in a timely manner without disrupting the season.” This statement underscores Wolff’s commitment to his current team and his reluctance to make any drastic changes that could potentially disrupt their season.

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https://newsgpt.ai/2025/03/13/mercedes-f1-boss-dismisses-max-verstappen-signing-rumors-focuses-on-current-drivers/
Arsenal Targets Bruno Guimaraes, Premier League Transfer News and More

In the world of football, Arsenal is setting its sights on Bruno Guimaraes as part of a significant summer transfer spree, led by the soon-to-be chief, Andrea Berta. Meanwhile, Premier League owner Tony Bloom has reportedly lost £50,000 after betting on his own horse at Cheltenham.

In other news, Tottenham’s manager, Ange Postecoglou, has been under the spotlight ahead of a critical Europa League match against AZ Alkmaar. Arsenal, on the other hand, is expected to be active in the transfer market this summer, with Andrea Berta set to manage their business after agreeing to become the Gunners’ new sporting director.

Manchester United’s Harry Maguire has shown improved form this season, but there are calls for the Red Devils to pay off his contract and let him leave the club. The club is also set to lose another member of their medical team to a Premier League competitor.

Tottenham’s goalkeeper, Guglielmo Vicario, has praised Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola for transforming the team into a formidable ‘pressuring’ force. Iraola is rumored to be on Tottenham’s shortlist for potential new managers.

In Formula 1 news, chief executive Stefano Domenicali has been secured with a new long-term contract. Meanwhile, Newcastle United fans will face a dry return journey from the Carabao Cup final, as alcohol has been banned on the train back to Tyneside.

Ruben Amorim has criticized Manchester United’s “underperforming” players, singling out Casemiro as needing to improve his game. Crystal Palace is in talks with Oliver Glasner to extend his contract, hoping to deter interest from RB Leipzig.

In South America, Brazilian club Palmeiras and other professional clubs have written to FIFA and CONMEBOL, demanding action following another high-profile racism incident.

Finally, Manchester United’s £2 billion super stadium plans have been cast into doubt by industry insiders questioning Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s ambitious statements. Fenerbahce’s boss, Jose Mourinho, has shrugged off a defeat to Rangers, claiming ‘they’re not better than us’.

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