Protesters gathered at Stonewall National Monument to express their outrage over the removal of transgender and queer references from the National Park Service website. This followed President Trump's executive order recognising only two sexes. Demonstrators voiced concerns about the erasure of trans, nonbinary, and queer identities, and activists like Bernie Wagenblast vowed to resist the changes and fight for recognition and rights.
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Trump is changing US foreign policy by focusing on deals rather than alliances. His approach is transactional, viewing international relationships as business deals. This shift is causing concern among traditional allies and could undermine the global order established post-World War II. NATO and US influence may weaken, while adversaries like Russia and China see opportunities.
Amnesty International on Thursday called for a global, legally binding treaty to regulate the production and use of electric shock equipment such as stun guns and electric shock batons. Amnesty backed by a network of over 80 organisations globally is calling for torture-free trade treaty to regulate the trade and use of a range of law enforcement equipment.
The Taliban rejected the ICC's arrest warrant request for two top officials, including Hibatullah Akhundzada, accusing the court of making baseless allegations. The move comes as the Taliban continue to restrict women's rights, barring them from jobs, public spaces, and education beyond sixth grade.
Columbia University expelled and suspended students involved in pro-Palestinian protests that occupied Hamilton Hall in April 2024 due to code violations. The decision follows pressures from the Trump administration, which cut federal funding over the university's handling of antisemitism. Arrested protesters face university disciplinary actions, and some students have filed lawsuits to block Congress from accessing their records.
Royal Caribbean has halted trips to Manzanillo, Mexico, after the U.S. Department of State issued a Level 4 travel advisory due to high crime and kidnapping rates. Colima, the state where Manzanillo is located, has a murder rate five times the national average. Despite warnings, Princess Cruises still plans to visit the city.
Luigi Mangione, apprehended in Pennsylvania, faces extradition to New York for the murder of UnitedHealth executive Brian Thompson. Mangione, found with a homemade gun, cash, and a manifesto criticizing the healthcare industry, is fighting extradition. His manifesto details his anger towards healthcare costs, while recovered shell casings hint at further clues.
Heavy snowfall in England caused disruption at airports in Bristol, Liverpool, and Manchester, leading to runway closures and travel delays. An amber weather warning was issued for snow and freezing rain across parts of Wales, central, and northwestern England. Snow accumulation was significant, with up to 40 cm in some higher regions.
Luigi Mangione, accused of killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, made his first court appearance this year in a bulletproof vest and shackles. Despite freezing temperatures, many young women gathered outside the Manhattan court to support him. Mangione, who pleaded not guilty, has received substantial financial support which will be used as his legal fund.
Tropical Cyclone Alfred weakened to a tropical low as it approached Brisbane, bringing flooding rains. Significant damage resulted in over 330,000 power outages and major beach erosion at Gold Coast. A man is missing after being swept away in New South Wales, while many were rescued from floodwaters. Officials are relieved the cyclone didn't worsen at high tide.
Axel Rudakubana, an 18-year-old, confessed to stabbing three young girls to death and injuring 10 others at a dance class in 2024. He had a violent history and was obsessed with death and violence. Despite multiple interventions, his dangerous tendencies went unchecked, leading to the tragic incident. His sentencing is scheduled for Thursday.