A video showing a federal worker discussing his experience with Elon Musk has sparked a debate about the treatment of federal employees. The worker revealed that Musk's visit to his agency led to job cuts and intense scrutiny of employees by young, inexperienced staff. The issue was further complicated by accusations of nepotism and internal blockades.
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Donatella Versace is stepping down as chief creative officer of Versace after nearly 30 years. Dario Vitale, the former design director of Miu Miu, will succeed her. Donatella will become the chief brand ambassador, focusing on philanthropy and public appearances, while maintaining her influence on the brand's legacy.
President Trump has tasked Elon Musk with identifying and reducing wasteful federal spending. Musk's role in leading the government's cost-reduction initiatives is part of the newly created Department of Government Efficiency. Trump's plans include scrutinising the Department of Education and military expenditures next.
Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Macau to commemorate 25 years of Chinese rule and attend the new chief executive's inauguration. Xi's visit emphasizes the need for Macau to diversify its casino-dependent economy. Heightened security measures were in place for the president's arrival, who expressed his concern for Macau's development and residents' well-being.
A Stockholm court convicted Salwan Najem of inciting ethnic hatred during four Quran burnings in 2023, just days after the murder of his co-defendant, Salwan Momika. Najem received a suspended sentence and a fine. The court ruled that while criticism of religion is allowed, the protests expressed contempt for Muslims. The burnings strained Sweden’s ties with Middle Eastern nations and raised its national security threat level.
A US federal judge ordered the Trump administration to temporarily lift a funding freeze that halted USAID aid programs. The ruling responded to a lawsuit by health organizations affected by the freeze. The judge highlighted the lack of explanation for the blanket suspension, which disrupted aid networks and contracts. This decision temporarily allows funds to resume flowing to pre-existing contracts.
A massive five-alarm fire at a Bronx apartment building injured seven people, including five firefighters, and displaced 160 residents. The blaze, fueled by strong winds, started early Friday morning. Residents used space heaters due to inadequate heating. Authorities and the FDNY are investigating the cause while temporary shelters are set up to aid the displaced.
Thailand's cabinet has approved a draft bill to legalise casinos, aiming to boost tourism and the economy. This new legislation will allow casinos within complex entertainment venues. The bill includes a 5,000 baht fee for Thai citizens to enter, while foreigners can access for free. The proposal is set for further review and parliamentary discussion.
Georgia Representative Rich McCormick suggested students should work for their meals rather than receiving them for free, citing national financial woes. He emphasizes the potential for gaining valuable work experience and self-sufficiency, though acknowledges that not all students are of working age.
US First Lady Melania Trump emphasized the "power of love" at the International Women of Courage Award ceremony, honoring eight women for their bravery. Her message contrasted with President Donald Trump's controversial deportation policies, which have sparked legal battles and public protests.
Vance’s speech on Friday provoked a significant emotional reaction from attendees, including Heusgen, who has served as MSC chairman since 2022. The conference, traditionally a platform for dialogue between transatlantic allies, experienced a moment of palpable tension as Heusgen reflected on the impact of Vance’s words. “With (convenor of the MSC) Ewald von Kleist, this conference started as a transatlantic conference, but after the speech by Vice President Vance on Friday, we must fear... Expand