Yaoning "Mike" Sun, a 64-year-old Chinese national, was arrested for acting as an illegal agent of China and conspiring to influence a Southern California election. He allegedly collaborated with another convicted Chinese agent, Chen Jun, to support a pro-Beijing candidate and further China's foreign policy interests in the US.
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The CFPB sued Walmart and Branch Messenger for allegedly requiring gig delivery drivers to use specific accounts, leading to over $10 million in fees. The lawsuit claims drivers were misled about payment access, while being threatened with termination. Both companies deny the allegations.
A judge in the Dominican Republic cleared Iowa wrestler Joshua Riibe of any involvement in the disappearance of Pitt student Sudiksha Konanki. Riibe was detained for nearly two weeks but never identified as a suspect. Despite an exhaustive search, Konanki's body was never found. The court ruled Riibe's detention exceeded legal limits, leading to his immediate release.
Bonnie Blue, an OnlyFans creator from Derbyshire, set a world record by having sex with 1,057 men in 12 hours. The event, held in London, surpassed the previous record. She faced social media backlash but defended her actions, stating it’s educational. Earning up to £750,000 a month, she claims her family supports her career.
Vietnam's birth rates have fallen below replacement levels for the third consecutive year, with the fertility rate at 1.91 children per woman. Economic factors are driving smaller family sizes, leading to aging population concerns. The government plans to introduce laws and support measures to reverse the trend. The National Assembly will discuss the draft Population Law in 2025 to boost fertility rates.
France's new government announcement, expected Sunday evening, is postponed until Monday evening due to a national day of mourning for victims of the Mayotte cyclone disaster. Prime Minister Bayrou aims to form a diverse government by Christmas to ensure survival of a no-confidence vote and passage of the next year's budget. Potential members include figures from across the political spectrum.
Under President Trump, the US appears to be retreating from its role in supporting Ukraine and Europe. Trump's recent statements and actions have strained relations with European allies, raising fears of a forced Ukrainian capitulation and the fragility of European security. Discussions about increased EU defense capabilities and the formation of a European peacekeeping force are taking place.
Last month in Bend, Oregon, public art was humorously altered with googly eyes, causing amusement among residents but frustration for city officials due to removal costs. Jeff Keith, who fights sex trafficking, admitted to being behind the prank and offered to cover the $1,500 cleanup expense, yet the city's response remains pending.
The Los Angeles fires, which started on Tuesday, have consumed over 12,000 homes and structures, with at least 11 lives lost. Spanning 25 miles, the fires have led to massive evacuations and tens of billions in damages. As firefighters battle the flames, residents survey the destruction.
In Baruth, Brandenburg, Red Bull's water extraction plans are facing scrutiny amid climate change concerns. While the mayor emphasizes job creation and sufficient water reserves, environmentalists worry about sustainability and potential contamination. A legal challenge seeks transparency regarding subsidies and water costs, highlighting the tension between economic development and environmental protection in a water-scarce region.
The Trump administration is reportedly considering a substantial reduction in tariffs on Chinese goods, potentially lowering them from 145% to a more sustainable 50-54%. This move coincides with upcoming trade negotiations in Switzerland. Tariffs on other Asian nations might also decrease to 25%. The decision follows discussions with business leaders, including Walmart, Target, and Home Depot CEOs.