.
Ray McGovern: Corporate media deploys the big guns on Ukraine
Judith Miller and AF General Philip Breedlove are back! At first I thought it a sickening flashback. Two nights ago, there were Judy Miller and former NATO commander Philip Breedlove on TV pontificating on Ukraine. For younger readers, Judy was the NY Times Archdeacon blessing all those reports of "weapons of mass destruction in Iraq" (that weren't there) and ties between Iraq and al-Qaeda (that weren't there either). As for Breedlove, as a sad sign of the times, he appears (via Radio Free Europe) on Reader Supporter News, with zero allusion to his pedigree on truth and falsehood (See: "FOCUS: Former NATO Commander Says Western Fears of Nuclear War Are Preventing a Proper Response to Putin.") Breedlove's all-too-familiar, damn-the-torpedoes line on the need to confront Russia head-on in Ukraine brought back more sickening memories. For this is precisely what he tried to do - behind President Obama's back - when he was commander of NATO troops (2013-2016). It got so bad that we...
https://www.sott.net/article/466674-Ray-McGovern-Corporate-media-deploys-the-big-guns-on-Ukraine
Ray McGovern: Corporate media deploys the big guns on Ukraine
Judith Miller and AF General Philip Breedlove are back! At first I thought it a sickening flashback. Two nights ago, there were Judy Miller and former NATO commander Philip Breedlove on TV pontificating on Ukraine. For younger readers, Judy was the NY Times Archdeacon blessing all those reports of "weapons of mass destruction in Iraq" (that weren't there) and ties between Iraq and al-Qaeda (that weren't there either). As for Breedlove, as a sad sign of the times, he appears (via Radio Free Europe) on Reader Supporter News, with zero allusion to his pedigree on truth and falsehood (See: "FOCUS: Former NATO Commander Says Western Fears of Nuclear War Are Preventing a Proper Response to Putin.") Breedlove's all-too-familiar, damn-the-torpedoes line on the need to confront Russia head-on in Ukraine brought back more sickening memories. For this is precisely what he tried to do - behind President Obama's back - when he was commander of NATO troops (2013-2016). It got so bad that we...
https://www.sott.net/article/466674-Ray-McGovern-Corporate-media-deploys-the-big-guns-on-Ukraine
.
Macron won't join Biden's 'genocide' claim against Russia
French President Emmanuel Macron declined to join his US counterpart Joe Biden in describing the actions of the Russian military in Ukraine as "genocide." Verbal attacks would not help further peace in Ukraine, he said, in an interview with France 2 television on Wednesday. Biden appeared on Tuesday to endorse Kiev's claims that the goal of the Russian attack was to exterminate the Ukrainian people. In a speech in Iowa, referring to Russia's President Vladimir Putin, Biden said: "Your family budget, your ability to fill up your tank, none of it should hinge on whether a dictator declares war and commits genocide half a world away." Biden had previously called the Russian leader a "war criminal" and stated that the man "cannot remain in power." When asked about the characterization during the interview, Macron said he "would be careful with such terms" and said the peoples of Ukraine and Russia were "brothers."
https://www.sott.net/article/466675-Macron-wont-join-Bidens-genocide-claim-against-Russia
Macron won't join Biden's 'genocide' claim against Russia
French President Emmanuel Macron declined to join his US counterpart Joe Biden in describing the actions of the Russian military in Ukraine as "genocide." Verbal attacks would not help further peace in Ukraine, he said, in an interview with France 2 television on Wednesday. Biden appeared on Tuesday to endorse Kiev's claims that the goal of the Russian attack was to exterminate the Ukrainian people. In a speech in Iowa, referring to Russia's President Vladimir Putin, Biden said: "Your family budget, your ability to fill up your tank, none of it should hinge on whether a dictator declares war and commits genocide half a world away." Biden had previously called the Russian leader a "war criminal" and stated that the man "cannot remain in power." When asked about the characterization during the interview, Macron said he "would be careful with such terms" and said the peoples of Ukraine and Russia were "brothers."
https://www.sott.net/article/466675-Macron-wont-join-Bidens-genocide-claim-against-Russia
.
Ukrainian opposition leader arrested
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his delight on Tuesday after Kiev's successor to the Soviet-era KGB arrested the country's most prominent opposition leader. The SBU is Ukraine's main intelligence and security agency, founded in 1991 to replace the KGB. The President shared a photo of his handcuffed rival Viktor Medvedchuk on social media, with the caption: "A special operation was carried out by the SBU. Well done! Details to follow." Zelensky later said "I consider it especially cynical of him to use military camouflage," mocking Medvedchuk as trying to pose as a "warrior" and "patriot" and proposing to exchange the detained politician for Ukrainian prisoners of war held by Russia. Medvedchuk heads the second largest party in the national parliament, the "Opposition Platform - For Life." He was previously placed under house arrest, last year, as part of Zelensky's clampdown on dissent, which was granted tacit approval by the regime's Western supporters....
https://www.sott.net/article/466676-Ukrainian-opposition-leader-arrested
Ukrainian opposition leader arrested
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his delight on Tuesday after Kiev's successor to the Soviet-era KGB arrested the country's most prominent opposition leader. The SBU is Ukraine's main intelligence and security agency, founded in 1991 to replace the KGB. The President shared a photo of his handcuffed rival Viktor Medvedchuk on social media, with the caption: "A special operation was carried out by the SBU. Well done! Details to follow." Zelensky later said "I consider it especially cynical of him to use military camouflage," mocking Medvedchuk as trying to pose as a "warrior" and "patriot" and proposing to exchange the detained politician for Ukrainian prisoners of war held by Russia. Medvedchuk heads the second largest party in the national parliament, the "Opposition Platform - For Life." He was previously placed under house arrest, last year, as part of Zelensky's clampdown on dissent, which was granted tacit approval by the regime's Western supporters....
https://www.sott.net/article/466676-Ukrainian-opposition-leader-arrested
.
BEST OF THE WEB: Heavy rain causes floods and mudslides in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa - At least 259 killed - Over 18 inches of rain in 48 hours (UPDATES)
Heavy rainfall has caused flooding and mudslides in KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. One fatality has been reported. According to South African Police Service (SAPS), a man died after rain triggered a mudslide in Umlazi township, located south-west of Durban, on 10 April 2022. Several dwellings are thought to have been buried or damaged and search teams were deployed to the area. According to the KwaZulu-Natal's Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Department (KZN COGTA), disaster management teams have responded to a number of other incidents, including mudslides in KwaDukuza and flooding in Ladysmith. There were also reports of flooding in coastal areas including Kingsburgh. Durban recorded 91 mm of rain in 24 hours to 11 April 2022. As of 11 April warnings were in place for flooding and further heavy rain.
https://www.sott.net/article/466579-Heavy-rain-causes-floods-and-mudslides-in-KwaZulu-Natal-South-Africa-At-least-259-killed-Over-18-inches-of-rain-in-48-hours-UPDATES
BEST OF THE WEB: Heavy rain causes floods and mudslides in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa - At least 259 killed - Over 18 inches of rain in 48 hours (UPDATES)
Heavy rainfall has caused flooding and mudslides in KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. One fatality has been reported. According to South African Police Service (SAPS), a man died after rain triggered a mudslide in Umlazi township, located south-west of Durban, on 10 April 2022. Several dwellings are thought to have been buried or damaged and search teams were deployed to the area. According to the KwaZulu-Natal's Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Department (KZN COGTA), disaster management teams have responded to a number of other incidents, including mudslides in KwaDukuza and flooding in Ladysmith. There were also reports of flooding in coastal areas including Kingsburgh. Durban recorded 91 mm of rain in 24 hours to 11 April 2022. As of 11 April warnings were in place for flooding and further heavy rain.
https://www.sott.net/article/466579-Heavy-rain-causes-floods-and-mudslides-in-KwaZulu-Natal-South-Africa-At-least-259-killed-Over-18-inches-of-rain-in-48-hours-UPDATES
.
When do governments steal - ahem - NATIONALIZE - retirement accounts?
As the American debt reaches record levels on a daily basis, currently being in the trillions of dollars and literally impossible for America to ever pay off, there is a very juicy nest egg that politicians are going to begin to eye at some point: retirement accounts. By nationalizing retirement accounts, a sudden influx of cash would appear in DC's coffers, helping to make the country look better on paper and potentially last just a little bit longer. You may think that the nationalization of retirement accounts would never happen here in America, but there have been a lot of things that have happened over the last few years that we never believed could happen on American soil. And besides. It's happened before. I'm a firm believer that we can learn from the past to gauge how things may work out in the future. Your parents likely taught you cautionary tales with the hopes that you would learn from their mistakes. They taught you the past with the hopes that you would glean lessons...
https://www.sott.net/article/466677-When-do-governments-steal-ahem-NATIONALIZE-retirement-accounts
When do governments steal - ahem - NATIONALIZE - retirement accounts?
As the American debt reaches record levels on a daily basis, currently being in the trillions of dollars and literally impossible for America to ever pay off, there is a very juicy nest egg that politicians are going to begin to eye at some point: retirement accounts. By nationalizing retirement accounts, a sudden influx of cash would appear in DC's coffers, helping to make the country look better on paper and potentially last just a little bit longer. You may think that the nationalization of retirement accounts would never happen here in America, but there have been a lot of things that have happened over the last few years that we never believed could happen on American soil. And besides. It's happened before. I'm a firm believer that we can learn from the past to gauge how things may work out in the future. Your parents likely taught you cautionary tales with the hopes that you would learn from their mistakes. They taught you the past with the hopes that you would glean lessons...
https://www.sott.net/article/466677-When-do-governments-steal-ahem-NATIONALIZE-retirement-accounts
.
Anti-lockdown states performed better than New York and California, think tank finds
Emerged from pandemic better in terms of health, economy and education. Freedom-loving states like Florida and South Dakota performed significantly better than states like New York and California which imposed harsh lockdown restrictions in terms of health, economy and education, according research by a US think tank. The working paper, published by the National Bureau of Economic Research, took those three factors and combined them to come up with a composite score and an overall rank. The paper is called 'A Final Report Card on the States' Response to COVID-19' and was written by Casey B. Mulligan, Professor in Economics at the University of Chicago, Phil Kerpen, President of the Committee to Unleash Prosperity, and Stephen Moore of the Heritage Foundation. The authors tracked unemployment and GDP by state as well as the percentage of schools that stayed open during 2020-2021.
https://www.sott.net/article/466678-Anti-lockdown-states-performed-better-than-New-York-and-California-think-tank-finds
Anti-lockdown states performed better than New York and California, think tank finds
Emerged from pandemic better in terms of health, economy and education. Freedom-loving states like Florida and South Dakota performed significantly better than states like New York and California which imposed harsh lockdown restrictions in terms of health, economy and education, according research by a US think tank. The working paper, published by the National Bureau of Economic Research, took those three factors and combined them to come up with a composite score and an overall rank. The paper is called 'A Final Report Card on the States' Response to COVID-19' and was written by Casey B. Mulligan, Professor in Economics at the University of Chicago, Phil Kerpen, President of the Committee to Unleash Prosperity, and Stephen Moore of the Heritage Foundation. The authors tracked unemployment and GDP by state as well as the percentage of schools that stayed open during 2020-2021.
https://www.sott.net/article/466678-Anti-lockdown-states-performed-better-than-New-York-and-California-think-tank-finds
.
Taiwan issues its first war survival handbook, follows US arms deal and China's vow for reunification
Taiwan's defense ministry released a civil defense handbook on Tuesday in an effort to prepare the public for military conflict with China, a threat that has loomed larger since the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Comment: That's likely in large part because China, along with much of the world, can see that the ailing US empire is even more of a liability now that it's in its death throes and so any provocation against China will likely not be far away. The 28-page handbook — the first of its kind the government has released in Taiwan, a self-ruling island that Beijing claims as its territory — provides illustrated information on topics including how to identify different air raid sirens, what to do if water and energy lines are cut, and where to shelter from missiles. Individual localities are encouraged to fill in information specific to their area. The handbook aims to raise civic awareness of how to respond to emergency situations before they occur, and provide knowledge on how to...
https://www.sott.net/article/466679-Taiwan-issues-its-first-war-survival-handbook-follows-US-arms-deal-and-Chinas-vow-for-reunification
Taiwan issues its first war survival handbook, follows US arms deal and China's vow for reunification
Taiwan's defense ministry released a civil defense handbook on Tuesday in an effort to prepare the public for military conflict with China, a threat that has loomed larger since the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Comment: That's likely in large part because China, along with much of the world, can see that the ailing US empire is even more of a liability now that it's in its death throes and so any provocation against China will likely not be far away. The 28-page handbook — the first of its kind the government has released in Taiwan, a self-ruling island that Beijing claims as its territory — provides illustrated information on topics including how to identify different air raid sirens, what to do if water and energy lines are cut, and where to shelter from missiles. Individual localities are encouraged to fill in information specific to their area. The handbook aims to raise civic awareness of how to respond to emergency situations before they occur, and provide knowledge on how to...
https://www.sott.net/article/466679-Taiwan-issues-its-first-war-survival-handbook-follows-US-arms-deal-and-Chinas-vow-for-reunification
.
Adapt 2030 Ice Age Report: Rationing & shortages of infant formula, meats and oils begins
Lexicon and headlines across the globe are now substituting Limit of Two to Rationing, a huge uptick in fueling panic buying. Supply Chains are twisting into longer and longer delays and bans of diesel & gasoline vehicles are coming.
https://www.sott.net/article/466680-Adapt-2030-Ice-Age-Report-Rationing-shortages-of-infant-formula-meats-and-oils-begins
Adapt 2030 Ice Age Report: Rationing & shortages of infant formula, meats and oils begins
Lexicon and headlines across the globe are now substituting Limit of Two to Rationing, a huge uptick in fueling panic buying. Supply Chains are twisting into longer and longer delays and bans of diesel & gasoline vehicles are coming.
https://www.sott.net/article/466680-Adapt-2030-Ice-Age-Report-Rationing-shortages-of-infant-formula-meats-and-oils-begins
.
US-led NATO, not China, is responsible for global conflicts
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg's hostile comments about China on Thursday were not only provocative, but defied the facts on the ground. At the news conference following a NATO foreign minsters' meeting, Stoltenberg blamed China for being "unwilling to condemn Russia's aggression "without saying that many other countries, such as India, South Africa and Vietnam, held the same or a similar stance. These countries maintain good relations with both Russia and Ukraine and hope to solve the conflict through dialogue and diplomatic means, while United States-led NATO has been fanning the fire. In addition, more than 150 countries have not joined the US and European Union in imposing economic sanctions on Russia because they know sanctions are ineffective in conflict resolution, except in impoverishing innocent civilians. Contrary to what Stoltenberg claimed, China has been calling for the respect of national sovereignty and has urged de-escalation. But it was abundantly clear...
https://www.sott.net/article/466681-US-led-NATO-not-China-is-responsible-for-global-conflicts
US-led NATO, not China, is responsible for global conflicts
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg's hostile comments about China on Thursday were not only provocative, but defied the facts on the ground. At the news conference following a NATO foreign minsters' meeting, Stoltenberg blamed China for being "unwilling to condemn Russia's aggression "without saying that many other countries, such as India, South Africa and Vietnam, held the same or a similar stance. These countries maintain good relations with both Russia and Ukraine and hope to solve the conflict through dialogue and diplomatic means, while United States-led NATO has been fanning the fire. In addition, more than 150 countries have not joined the US and European Union in imposing economic sanctions on Russia because they know sanctions are ineffective in conflict resolution, except in impoverishing innocent civilians. Contrary to what Stoltenberg claimed, China has been calling for the respect of national sovereignty and has urged de-escalation. But it was abundantly clear...
https://www.sott.net/article/466681-US-led-NATO-not-China-is-responsible-for-global-conflicts
.
UNICEF says there's no evidence Russia is 'forcefully abducting Ukrainian children'
Moscow has denied accusations that it has forcibly sent Ukrainian refugees to Russia, while UNICEF has stated that it possesses no evidence to suggest that Russia has been abducting children, in response to claims from Kiev. Russian Human Rights Commissioner Tatyana Moskalkova reported on Tuesday that over 500,000 civilians from the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR), Lugansk People's Republic (LPR) and Ukraine have willingly relocated to Russia since the start of the military conflict. "I responsibly declare that there has never been any forceful relocation of refugees to Russia, these are all lies," said the ombudswoman, referring to Kiev's accusation that Moscow has forcibly sent over 500,000 civilians to Russia to "use them as hostages" to pressure Ukraine to surrender.
https://www.sott.net/article/466682-UNICEF-says-theres-no-evidence-Russia-is-forcefully-abducting-Ukrainian-children
UNICEF says there's no evidence Russia is 'forcefully abducting Ukrainian children'
Moscow has denied accusations that it has forcibly sent Ukrainian refugees to Russia, while UNICEF has stated that it possesses no evidence to suggest that Russia has been abducting children, in response to claims from Kiev. Russian Human Rights Commissioner Tatyana Moskalkova reported on Tuesday that over 500,000 civilians from the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR), Lugansk People's Republic (LPR) and Ukraine have willingly relocated to Russia since the start of the military conflict. "I responsibly declare that there has never been any forceful relocation of refugees to Russia, these are all lies," said the ombudswoman, referring to Kiev's accusation that Moscow has forcibly sent over 500,000 civilians to Russia to "use them as hostages" to pressure Ukraine to surrender.
https://www.sott.net/article/466682-UNICEF-says-theres-no-evidence-Russia-is-forcefully-abducting-Ukrainian-children
.
Russia sees NATO Ukraine arms convoys as legitimate targets in Ukraine operation
Russia will perceive convoys delivering arms from NATO states to Ukraine as legitimate targets for its military once they reach Kiev controlled territory, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov warned in an interview published on Wednesday. Regular contact with the US is impossible for Russia, considering "Washington's unabashed support for militaristic intentions of the Kiev regime [and] the pouring of modern weapons" into the country by NATO members, the diplomat explained Moscow's goal now is to make it abundantly clear for the US and its allies that Russia will use harsh methods in response to attempts to stymie its military in Ukraine. "We are warning that American-NATO transports carrying weapons across the Ukrainian territory are considered legitimate military targets," he stressed.
https://www.sott.net/article/466683-Russia-sees-NATO-Ukraine-arms-convoys-as-legitimate-targets-in-Ukraine-operation
Russia sees NATO Ukraine arms convoys as legitimate targets in Ukraine operation
Russia will perceive convoys delivering arms from NATO states to Ukraine as legitimate targets for its military once they reach Kiev controlled territory, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov warned in an interview published on Wednesday. Regular contact with the US is impossible for Russia, considering "Washington's unabashed support for militaristic intentions of the Kiev regime [and] the pouring of modern weapons" into the country by NATO members, the diplomat explained Moscow's goal now is to make it abundantly clear for the US and its allies that Russia will use harsh methods in response to attempts to stymie its military in Ukraine. "We are warning that American-NATO transports carrying weapons across the Ukrainian territory are considered legitimate military targets," he stressed.
https://www.sott.net/article/466683-Russia-sees-NATO-Ukraine-arms-convoys-as-legitimate-targets-in-Ukraine-operation
.
Putin explains Russian military's plan of avoiding casualties in Ukraine
The timing of the military offensive in Ukraine is determined by the intensity of hostilities and Russia will act according to its plan, President Vladimir Putin explained on Tuesday, during a joint press conference with his Belarusian counterpart Alexander Lukashenko. "I often get these questions, 'can't we hurry it up?' We can. But it depends on the intensity of hostilities and, any way you put it, the intensity of hostilities is directly related to casualties," said the Russian president. He added that "our task is to achieve the set goals while minimizing these losses. We will act rhythmically, calmly, and according to the plan that was initially proposed by the General Staff." Putin reiterated that Russia's actions in several regions of Ukraine were intended only to tie down enemy forces and carry out missile strikes with the purpose of destroying the Ukrainian military's infrastructure, so as to "create conditions for more active operations on the territory of Donbass."
https://www.sott.net/article/466684-Putin-explains-Russian-militarys-plan-of-avoiding-casualties-in-Ukraine
Putin explains Russian military's plan of avoiding casualties in Ukraine
The timing of the military offensive in Ukraine is determined by the intensity of hostilities and Russia will act according to its plan, President Vladimir Putin explained on Tuesday, during a joint press conference with his Belarusian counterpart Alexander Lukashenko. "I often get these questions, 'can't we hurry it up?' We can. But it depends on the intensity of hostilities and, any way you put it, the intensity of hostilities is directly related to casualties," said the Russian president. He added that "our task is to achieve the set goals while minimizing these losses. We will act rhythmically, calmly, and according to the plan that was initially proposed by the General Staff." Putin reiterated that Russia's actions in several regions of Ukraine were intended only to tie down enemy forces and carry out missile strikes with the purpose of destroying the Ukrainian military's infrastructure, so as to "create conditions for more active operations on the territory of Donbass."
https://www.sott.net/article/466684-Putin-explains-Russian-militarys-plan-of-avoiding-casualties-in-Ukraine
.
What Iran's experience with US sanctions can tell us about Russia's fight against Western pressure
The current economic measures imposed on Russia remind experts of Iran's confrontation with the West The whirlwind of sanctions directed against Russia has intensified to such an extent that the fallout is being felt far beyond the government agencies involved in Russia's military offensive in Ukraine. Oil prices have soared in anticipation of shortages, businesses have announced boycotts, athletes are being excluded from competitions, and some Russians are fleeing the country, losing the comforts to which they've become accustomed. Moscow has lost access, at least for now, to $300 billion of its gold and foreign exchange reserves, and seven Russian banks have been disconnected from the SWIFT international payment system. The number of sanctions imposed on the country is unprecedented - 5,787 new restrictions have been imposed against Russian legal entities and individuals since February 22, and their number has reached more than 8,500 in total. No other country has ever had so...
https://www.sott.net/article/466685-What-Irans-experience-with-US-sanctions-can-tell-us-about-Russias-fight-against-Western-pressure
What Iran's experience with US sanctions can tell us about Russia's fight against Western pressure
The current economic measures imposed on Russia remind experts of Iran's confrontation with the West The whirlwind of sanctions directed against Russia has intensified to such an extent that the fallout is being felt far beyond the government agencies involved in Russia's military offensive in Ukraine. Oil prices have soared in anticipation of shortages, businesses have announced boycotts, athletes are being excluded from competitions, and some Russians are fleeing the country, losing the comforts to which they've become accustomed. Moscow has lost access, at least for now, to $300 billion of its gold and foreign exchange reserves, and seven Russian banks have been disconnected from the SWIFT international payment system. The number of sanctions imposed on the country is unprecedented - 5,787 new restrictions have been imposed against Russian legal entities and individuals since February 22, and their number has reached more than 8,500 in total. No other country has ever had so...
https://www.sott.net/article/466685-What-Irans-experience-with-US-sanctions-can-tell-us-about-Russias-fight-against-Western-pressure
.
Sanctions on Russia are screwing up the world
CPI data around the world and political crises just this week show how the economic war against Russia is harming the poorest and destabilizing the world. Yesterday, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics' Consumer Price Index (CPI) report for March, which is a key inflation metric, showed that year-on-year inflation rose by 8.5%, meaning that, on average, people are paying 8.5% more for the same things than last year. This is the highest spike in prices since December 1981. What's more, the most impacted commodities are necessities, e.g., things like food, shelter and fuel, while less essential things saw less of a rise. This inevitably means that the poor are most impacted by rising inflation since they put most of their budget toward necessities, according to an analysis by the prestigious University of Pennsylvania Wharton School. Poorer countries are also extraordinarily impacted by inflation for these same reasons, so much so that it's causing widespread political instability. The...
https://www.sott.net/article/466686-Sanctions-on-Russia-are-screwing-up-the-world
Sanctions on Russia are screwing up the world
CPI data around the world and political crises just this week show how the economic war against Russia is harming the poorest and destabilizing the world. Yesterday, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics' Consumer Price Index (CPI) report for March, which is a key inflation metric, showed that year-on-year inflation rose by 8.5%, meaning that, on average, people are paying 8.5% more for the same things than last year. This is the highest spike in prices since December 1981. What's more, the most impacted commodities are necessities, e.g., things like food, shelter and fuel, while less essential things saw less of a rise. This inevitably means that the poor are most impacted by rising inflation since they put most of their budget toward necessities, according to an analysis by the prestigious University of Pennsylvania Wharton School. Poorer countries are also extraordinarily impacted by inflation for these same reasons, so much so that it's causing widespread political instability. The...
https://www.sott.net/article/466686-Sanctions-on-Russia-are-screwing-up-the-world
.
Nordic leaders betraying their national interests - Russia
Russia has criticized accusations that it poses a threat to Sweden and Finland amid their sudden drive to join NATO. Leaders in the Nordic states have recently expressed a desire to enter the US-led military bloc following Moscow's military attack on Ukraine. "These claims [over an alleged Russian threat] are unintelligent. They are not based on facts. They are in the realm of propaganda and provocations. They go against the national interests of those countries," the Russian Foreign Ministry's spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told Radio Sputnik on Wednesday. "I believe it would be wrong to consider these statements as an independent opinion," she added. On Tuesday Swedish Minister of Foreign Affairs Ann Linde told reporters while visiting Bosnia-Herzegovina that Russia threatening Sweden or Finland is unacceptable. "Our citizens must make their own security decisions," she said, regarding Stockholm mulling over membership in the Western military bloc.
https://www.sott.net/article/466687-Nordic-leaders-betraying-their-national-interests-Russia
Nordic leaders betraying their national interests - Russia
Russia has criticized accusations that it poses a threat to Sweden and Finland amid their sudden drive to join NATO. Leaders in the Nordic states have recently expressed a desire to enter the US-led military bloc following Moscow's military attack on Ukraine. "These claims [over an alleged Russian threat] are unintelligent. They are not based on facts. They are in the realm of propaganda and provocations. They go against the national interests of those countries," the Russian Foreign Ministry's spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told Radio Sputnik on Wednesday. "I believe it would be wrong to consider these statements as an independent opinion," she added. On Tuesday Swedish Minister of Foreign Affairs Ann Linde told reporters while visiting Bosnia-Herzegovina that Russia threatening Sweden or Finland is unacceptable. "Our citizens must make their own security decisions," she said, regarding Stockholm mulling over membership in the Western military bloc.
https://www.sott.net/article/466687-Nordic-leaders-betraying-their-national-interests-Russia
.
'Supercluster' from rare soil microbe could yield amazing new drugs
The hunt for new and potentially potent therapeutic molecules in nature is a vital quest spurred on by parallel health crises: antibacterial resistance and the growing global cancer burden. Now, a team of scientists has discovered that a rare soil microbe produces some peculiar yet familiar molecular 'building blocks' with drug-like activity. This could be a boon for drug design and discovery programs. "Our genomics-based approach allowed us to identify an unusual peptide for future drug design efforts," says Joshua Blodgett, a microbiologist at Washington University in St. Louis and senior author of the new study. The focus of their exploration was a group of spindly, soil-dwelling bacteria called actinomycetes, which lucky for us are prolific producers of medicinal compounds.
https://www.sott.net/article/466688-Supercluster-from-rare-soil-microbe-could-yield-amazing-new-drugs
'Supercluster' from rare soil microbe could yield amazing new drugs
The hunt for new and potentially potent therapeutic molecules in nature is a vital quest spurred on by parallel health crises: antibacterial resistance and the growing global cancer burden. Now, a team of scientists has discovered that a rare soil microbe produces some peculiar yet familiar molecular 'building blocks' with drug-like activity. This could be a boon for drug design and discovery programs. "Our genomics-based approach allowed us to identify an unusual peptide for future drug design efforts," says Joshua Blodgett, a microbiologist at Washington University in St. Louis and senior author of the new study. The focus of their exploration was a group of spindly, soil-dwelling bacteria called actinomycetes, which lucky for us are prolific producers of medicinal compounds.
https://www.sott.net/article/466688-Supercluster-from-rare-soil-microbe-could-yield-amazing-new-drugs
.
Another NY political scandal: Lt. Gov. resigns following arrest in campaign finance fraud case
New York Lt. Gov. Brian Benjamin has resigned after he surrendered to authorities to face campaign finance fraud-related charges in connection with a past campaign, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced. "I have accepted Brian Benjamin's resignation effective immediately. While the legal process plays out, it is clear to both of us that he cannot continue to serve as Lieutenant Governor. New Yorkers deserve absolute confidence in their government, and I will continue working every day to deliver for them," Hochul said in a statement Tuesday afternoon. Following news of his resignation, Benjamin's attorneys, James D. Gatta and William Harrington issued a statement calling his actions "laudable -- not criminal." "There has never been a federal case like this in America," the statement said. B"rian supported a $50,000 grant to Friends of Public School Harlem. Every dollar was to buy supplies for public school students in Harlem. There was nothing inappropriate about this grant."
https://www.sott.net/article/466689-Another-NY-political-scandal-Lt-Gov-resigns-following-arrest-in-campaign-finance-fraud-case
Another NY political scandal: Lt. Gov. resigns following arrest in campaign finance fraud case
New York Lt. Gov. Brian Benjamin has resigned after he surrendered to authorities to face campaign finance fraud-related charges in connection with a past campaign, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced. "I have accepted Brian Benjamin's resignation effective immediately. While the legal process plays out, it is clear to both of us that he cannot continue to serve as Lieutenant Governor. New Yorkers deserve absolute confidence in their government, and I will continue working every day to deliver for them," Hochul said in a statement Tuesday afternoon. Following news of his resignation, Benjamin's attorneys, James D. Gatta and William Harrington issued a statement calling his actions "laudable -- not criminal." "There has never been a federal case like this in America," the statement said. B"rian supported a $50,000 grant to Friends of Public School Harlem. Every dollar was to buy supplies for public school students in Harlem. There was nothing inappropriate about this grant."
https://www.sott.net/article/466689-Another-NY-political-scandal-Lt-Gov-resigns-following-arrest-in-campaign-finance-fraud-case
.
Austrian chancellor says Putin intends to 'resolve' Donbass conflict
The Austrian chancellor says Russian president is determined to defend Moscow's security interests Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer left his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday convinced that Western sanctions aren't weakening the Kremlin's determination to resolve the Donbass crisis before ending the military offensive in Ukraine. "He clearly confirmed that the sanctions are tough for Russia but the situation in Donbass, as he said, must be, so to say, resolved, despite the sanctions - even if they are quite tangible," Nehammer told reporters following the meeting at Putin's residence outside Moscow, as quoted by TASS.
https://www.sott.net/article/466690-Austrian-chancellor-says-Putin-intends-to-resolve-Donbass-conflict
Austrian chancellor says Putin intends to 'resolve' Donbass conflict
The Austrian chancellor says Russian president is determined to defend Moscow's security interests Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer left his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday convinced that Western sanctions aren't weakening the Kremlin's determination to resolve the Donbass crisis before ending the military offensive in Ukraine. "He clearly confirmed that the sanctions are tough for Russia but the situation in Donbass, as he said, must be, so to say, resolved, despite the sanctions - even if they are quite tangible," Nehammer told reporters following the meeting at Putin's residence outside Moscow, as quoted by TASS.
https://www.sott.net/article/466690-Austrian-chancellor-says-Putin-intends-to-resolve-Donbass-conflict
.
On Ukraine-Russia prisoner exchanges
I would like to urgently draw your attention to another blatant violation by the Kiev regime of its obligations under the Third Geneva Convention relative to the treatment of prisoners of war. We were informed by the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation that the exchange of prisoners of war planned for today (6 April 2022) was unilaterally disrupted by the Ukrainian side. The list of 251 military personnel declared for exchange was repeatedly reviewed and reduced by Kiev, and came down to 38. This morning, the Ukrainian side rejected the exchange without explanation. At the same time, on our part, the preparation of Ukrainian prisoners of war according to a large list of 251 Ukrainian servicemen was carried out in full, including their transportation to the initial area for exchange. The Ukrainian side, even in this purely humanitarian issue, shows inconsistency and complete indifference to the fate of its own citizens. The Kiev authorities have been disrupting the...
https://www.sott.net/article/466691-On-Ukraine-Russia-prisoner-exchanges
On Ukraine-Russia prisoner exchanges
I would like to urgently draw your attention to another blatant violation by the Kiev regime of its obligations under the Third Geneva Convention relative to the treatment of prisoners of war. We were informed by the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation that the exchange of prisoners of war planned for today (6 April 2022) was unilaterally disrupted by the Ukrainian side. The list of 251 military personnel declared for exchange was repeatedly reviewed and reduced by Kiev, and came down to 38. This morning, the Ukrainian side rejected the exchange without explanation. At the same time, on our part, the preparation of Ukrainian prisoners of war according to a large list of 251 Ukrainian servicemen was carried out in full, including their transportation to the initial area for exchange. The Ukrainian side, even in this purely humanitarian issue, shows inconsistency and complete indifference to the fate of its own citizens. The Kiev authorities have been disrupting the...
https://www.sott.net/article/466691-On-Ukraine-Russia-prisoner-exchanges
.
Russia claims mass surrender of Ukrainian marines dug in at Mariupol
More than 1,000 service members of Ukraine's 36th Marines Brigade have surrendered in the port city of Mariupol, the Russian Defense Ministry claimed on Wednesday during a daily briefing. According to a Russian military report, the troops laid down their arms at the Illich Steel and Iron Works, a giant metal mill they were using as a stronghold against Moscow's forces. A total of 1,026 service members, including 162 officers, were among the captives, ministry spokesman Major General Igor Konashenkov said. He said 47 of the soldiers were female. Russian medics provided first aid to 151 injured captives before moving them to a local hospital, the official said.
https://www.sott.net/article/466692-Russia-claims-mass-surrender-of-Ukrainian-marines-dug-in-at-Mariupol
Russia claims mass surrender of Ukrainian marines dug in at Mariupol
More than 1,000 service members of Ukraine's 36th Marines Brigade have surrendered in the port city of Mariupol, the Russian Defense Ministry claimed on Wednesday during a daily briefing. According to a Russian military report, the troops laid down their arms at the Illich Steel and Iron Works, a giant metal mill they were using as a stronghold against Moscow's forces. A total of 1,026 service members, including 162 officers, were among the captives, ministry spokesman Major General Igor Konashenkov said. He said 47 of the soldiers were female. Russian medics provided first aid to 151 injured captives before moving them to a local hospital, the official said.
https://www.sott.net/article/466692-Russia-claims-mass-surrender-of-Ukrainian-marines-dug-in-at-Mariupol
.
Ukrainian opposition leader arrested UPDATE
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his delight on Tuesday after Kiev's successor to the Soviet-era KGB arrested the country's most prominent opposition leader. The SBU is Ukraine's main intelligence and security agency, founded in 1991 to replace the KGB. The President shared a photo of his handcuffed rival Viktor Medvedchuk on social media, with the caption: "A special operation was carried out by the SBU. Well done! Details to follow." Zelensky later said "I consider it especially cynical of him to use military camouflage," mocking Medvedchuk as trying to pose as a "warrior" and "patriot" and proposing to exchange the detained politician for Ukrainian prisoners of war held by Russia. Medvedchuk heads the second largest party in the national parliament, the "Opposition Platform - For Life." He was previously placed under house arrest, last year, as part of Zelensky's clampdown on dissent, which was granted tacit approval by the regime's Western supporters....
https://www.sott.net/article/466676-Ukrainian-opposition-leader-arrested-UPDATE
Ukrainian opposition leader arrested UPDATE
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his delight on Tuesday after Kiev's successor to the Soviet-era KGB arrested the country's most prominent opposition leader. The SBU is Ukraine's main intelligence and security agency, founded in 1991 to replace the KGB. The President shared a photo of his handcuffed rival Viktor Medvedchuk on social media, with the caption: "A special operation was carried out by the SBU. Well done! Details to follow." Zelensky later said "I consider it especially cynical of him to use military camouflage," mocking Medvedchuk as trying to pose as a "warrior" and "patriot" and proposing to exchange the detained politician for Ukrainian prisoners of war held by Russia. Medvedchuk heads the second largest party in the national parliament, the "Opposition Platform - For Life." He was previously placed under house arrest, last year, as part of Zelensky's clampdown on dissent, which was granted tacit approval by the regime's Western supporters....
https://www.sott.net/article/466676-Ukrainian-opposition-leader-arrested-UPDATE