notes: news - Sputnik News (RSS Feed)

‘Completely Inadequate’ Mainstream Media Talk on Poor US Health Outcomes Discounts Alternative © AP Photo / Ted S. WarrenWorkers near an ambulance at the Life Care Center in Kirkland, Washington<img alt="Workers near an ambulance at the Life Care Center in Kirkland, Washington - Sputnik International, 1920, 05.10.2023" src="https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/107851/54/1078515466_0:0:3071:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_5a6839b363354c52ea30a05ab35c9f05.jpg" width="1920" height="1080">© AP Photo / Ted S. WarrenSubscribehttps://t.me/SputnikInt on Wednesday he felt “frustration and outrage” at how the issue was presented in the Washington, DC-based paper.“On the one hand, it’s good to make the clear connection between inequality and death, and between inequality and high rates of crime and disease, and to basically say the real measure of inequality is not difference in income but difference in life and death. Okay, that’s a pretty strong point. There’s a cynical way to look at that and that is, another in a series of avoidance strategies so that we don’t have to take on the health care industry,” he said.“We can say to the Post here, it’s really the social determinants of health, so-called, like you referenced the seatbelt law, the tobacco tax, that’s really the problem. And they never come out and explicitly say: ‘the health care industry makes money by denying people care and profits after charging a lot of money for insurance and procedures and other aspects of the health care system, and until we take the profit out of the health care system, we’re going to have a country that looks like this,’” Lighty said.He said the grim numbers were “a real indictment of the health care industry in the US,” but noted “it’s not news: folks who do health policy and look at these issues have known literally for years, if not decades, that Americans have high rates of chronic conditions. I mean, basically by the age of 65 most Americans have two or more chronic conditions. I noticed in the recent Medicare booklet that there are new provisions for accessing preventive care. By the time you’re 65 it’s a little late,” Lighty said.“This is a real indication that we don’t have a health care system of early intervention, we don’t have a health care system of prevention, we have huge disparities in the health care system not only based on income but by geography, race, gender - all sorts of barriers, primarily financial, to accessing care have caused this chronic disease epidemic,” Lighty said. “And yeah, okay, you can say lifestyle, but frankly, if you’re going to the doctor, have access to medical treatment, you’re going to get messages and you’re going to get interventions that do matter.”“And we do have to acknowledge that the Post points toward the fact that people can’t afford good food, they eat badly, they make it seem like it’s a notion of individual choice, and that’s the other problem with the series is they’re talking about essentially social determinants but they never say this is a social, structural problem in the American economy, in American society,” he noted.Lighty also stated the Post never mentions that 7 million people are being kicked off Medicaid as a consequence of the end of the COVID-19 pandemic-era emergency measures. “That’s going to make a huge difference,” he said, emphasizing the state-funded health insurance system for low-income Americans is extremely difficult to sign up for and retain.“‘Gee, why are they making such bad choices when we have such a great health care system? I don’t understand it.’ Then you don’t live in the real world,” Lighty quipped. “Particularly with the cost of groceries, access to good food is even worse. But I do think it comes back to … medical interventions matter, early treatment matters, and if all of sudden you start getting reports that your blood pressure is way-high and your blood sugar is out of control and your weight puts you at risk of these diseases, that gets through to people. I don’t think you could ever address this issue simply by saying ‘eat better.’ You have to have a rigorous and ongoing relationship with medical providers.”Lighty said that when papers like the Post do cover proposed alternatives, such as Medicare for All, that would take the profit-making out of the health industry, they make a point to discuss only the downsides and never the benefits of such a model.“It’s just completely inadequate and it reflects entirely the conventional wisdom in Washington about the political viability of systemic change in health care. Basically, they start from the premise that ‘we can’t really change the system, so these wild-eyed idealists like [US Sen.] Bernie Sanders are really just tilting at windmills and everyone knows it’s not going to happen, so let’s talk about what could happen.’ And then it turns out ‘what could happen’ is ‘we can throw more taxpayer money at the industry so they’ll have more resources to perpetrate the existing model, which doesn’t keep people well.”“So when you have an article about Medicare for All, you don’t actually talk about the savings it will generate. Even the Congressional Budget Office has said those savings are like $650 billion a year. They don’t mention that, they’re always [talking] about the cost. But how can something that costs less be expensive, relative to the existing system?” Lighty said. “Then they’ll trot out the industry talking points: ‘most people like their private health insurance, so these idealists aren’t going to get rid of peoples’ health insurance.’ Well, let’s examine that assumption: first of all, people are desperate to keep whatever they have; second, those who generally like their private health insurance haven’t used it that much; and third, the real problem are the out-of-pocket expenses, the copays, the deductibles, the out-of-network charges - all of that stuff is the real financial barriers to care, if there is even a provider in your area that’s accessible to you.”“And why is that? Because of how we finance health care, we don’t actually ensure that every community is equitably served. We don’t put money into that, we just, if you’re a rural hospital and you can make money, you stay open, if you can’t make money, well, you’ll close and that’s just the way it goes. And that whole model is uniquely American, no other country does it that way and we never heard about that. When does the Post ever report we have the only health care system that is organized as a profit-making industry and here are all the consequences in terms of health outcomes?” https://sputniknews.com/20231005/completely-inadequate-mainstream-media-talk-on-poor-us-health-outcomes-discounts-alternative-1113968949.html

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 Pakistani Man Charged for Plotting Terrorist Attack in NY in Support of IS - Justice Dept.

© RIA NovostiThe skyline of New York City<img alt="The skyline of New York City - Sputnik International, 1920, 07.09.2024" src="https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/101670/21/1016702102_0:31:600:369_1920x0_80_0_0_3d3c691bf69d0b3ed0dd6c4ffc368b34.jpg" width="1920" height="1080">© RIA NovostiSubscribeWASHINGTON (Sputnik) - A 20-year-old Pakistani national residing in Canada was charged with planning a terror attack in New York City to support ISIS*, the US Justice Department said in a statement. "A Pakistani citizen residing in Canada, Muhammad Shahzeb Khan, 20, also known as Shahzeb Jadoon, was arrested on Sept. 4 in Canada in connection with a complaint filed in the Southern District of New York. Khan was charged with attempting to provide material support and resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization (FTO), the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham," the statement said on Friday. According https://www.justice.gov/d9/2024-09/u.s._v._khan_complaint_0.pdf
, Khan was accused of plotting a terrorist attack in New York City around October 7th with the intent to target Jewish individuals on behalf of IS. "The defendant was allegedly determined to kill Jewish people here in the United States, nearly one year after Hamas’ horrific attack on Israel," the statement read. Khan has been charged with attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization, and if found guilty, could receive a maximum of 20 years in prison, the statement added.*Also known as the Islamic State, IS, a terrorist organization banned in Russia

https://sputniknews.com/20240907/pakistani-man-charged-for-plotting-terrorist-attack-in-ny-in-support-of-is---justice-dept-1120064060.html

 Russia Forced to Fight On as Kiev Repeatedly Proves Incapable of Honest Negotiation

© AP Photo / NYOTKIn this image from video Volodymyr Zelensky speaks from Kiev, Ukraine, Thursday, April 21, 2022.<img alt="In this image from video Volodymyr Zelensky speaks from Kiev, Ukraine, Thursday, April 21, 2022. - Sputnik International, 1920, 04.09.2024" src="https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/06/0f/1118965981_0:204:3072:1932_1920x0_80_0_0_2cab8abbf5b8c052b8813234c8eabf29.jpg" width="1920" height="1080">© AP Photo / NYOTKSubscribe<img alt=" - Sputnik International" src="https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/01/19/1116388787_0:0:1316:1316_100x100_80_0_0_77e70d36afd983012b1c5d38ddb84156.jpg">John Mileshttps://sputniknews.com/author_miles_john/
 regarding the prospects for a political and diplomatic settlement," the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement in August“There's no one trustworthy or capable of negotiating on the Kiev regime side, which means regime change in Kiev at the least – probably not stopping to the Polish border, which could still be years down the line,” he concluded.

https://sputniknews.com/20240904/russia-forced-to-fight-on-as-kiev-repeatedly-proves-incapable-of-honest-negotiation-1120005923.html

Landslide in Pricey Los Angeles Neighborhood Prompt Power Cuts, Property Damage

© AP Photo / Noah BergerIn this aerial image taken with a drone, a truck drives along River Rd. where heavy rains have caused mudslides and flooding near Salinas in Monterey County, Calif., on Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021<img alt="In this aerial image taken with a drone, a truck drives along River Rd. where heavy rains have caused mudslides and flooding near Salinas in Monterey County, Calif., on Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021 - Sputnik International, 1920, 03.09.2024" src="https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/09/03/1119992698_0:113:3243:1937_1920x0_80_0_0_feb3397790a0e6de7277bdc87eee6efb.jpg" width="1920" height="1080">© AP Photo / Noah BergerSubscribe<img alt=" - Sputnik International" src="https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/01/0b/1092187887_0:0:2048:2049_100x100_80_0_0_0c2cc4c84f89aff034cc55bb01fb6697.jpg">Mary Manleyhttps://sputniknews.com/author_manley_mary/
reported.The landslide has been shifting for decades - by just an inch a year - however it recently began accelerating following heavy rains in spring of 2023, quickening to a movement of four feet a month. Over the past year, the landslide zone has grown by approximately 680 acres. The rain has saturated a deep layer of clay below the ground, and that clay - known as bentonite - has become slippery enough to accelerate the movement of the landslide.

Worsening landslide forces power cut to 105 more homes in Rancho Palos Verdes https://t.co/SIOjDfWWUc

"SCE has determined there is a public safety threat," SCE stated. "Electricity service will be discontinued in these zones effective Sunday, September 1 at 12 p.m. PST. DO NOT USE WATER OR PLUMBING AFTER THE POWER IS SHUT OFF -- THIS COULD RESULT IN A SEWER SPILL."According to a separate https://www.nytimes.com/2024/09/02/us/landslides-rancho-palos-verdes.html
, gas had already been shut off more than a month ago to various residents who were have since been forced to shelter in their homes with electric hot plates and propane.

The Portuguese Bend neighborhood of Rancho Palos Verdes continues to experience substantial land movement causing https://twitter.com/SCE?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

Happening now: SoCal Edison shutting off electricity to 105 residents Seaview Rancho Palos Verdes.For some, this will be temporary. For others, indefinitely. https://t.co/PmtKywjOch

Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn said at a news conference on Sunday that the land movement is “so gigantic and so damaging” that “one city should not have to bear the burden alone”. The county has dedicated $5 million to respond to the disaster. Hahn also called on California Governor Gavin Newsom and hopes he will declare a state of emergency.“There’s no playbook for an emergency like this one,” said Hahn.City administrators have reached out to hotels for possible housing help, while the utility company has said it was working to figure out engineering solutions that could potentially allow for power to be restored. The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services said it is continuing to coordinate with emergency response officials in the county.

https://sputniknews.com/20240903/landslide-in-pricey-los-angeles-neighborhood-prompt-power-cuts-property-damage-1119991804.html

 Polio Vaccination Underway in Central Gaza's Nuseirat Refugee Camp

Mass vaccination of children under 11 against polio begins in the city of Nuseirat in the Gaza Strip<img alt="Mass vaccination of children under 11 against polio begins in the city of Nuseirat in the Gaza Strip - Sputnik International, 1920, 01.09.2024" src="https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/09/01/1119980418_0:47:757:473_1920x0_80_0_0_8cd9f536471bb7a96925326413a2c131.jpg" width="1920" height="1080">SubscribeGAZA (Sputnik) - A campaign to vaccinate Palestinian children against poliomyelitis, a severe and potentially deadly infectious disease, began in the Nuseirat refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip on Sunday, a Sputnik correspondent reported. Some 1.2 million polio vaccines have been delivered to central Gaza ahead of the campaign, underway at the primary health care center in the camp. "Today is the first day of the polio vaccination campaign. The campaign is necessary for children as young as one day old and is absolutely harmless," a campaign organizer told Sputnik. 

Mass vaccination of children under 11 against polio begins in the city of Nuseirat in the Gaza StripThe decision was made after the first case of the disease was officially registered in the Palestinian enclave. About 1.2 million doses of the vaccine were delivered to the… https://t.co/r4ZXq8lqhn

The Palestinian Health Ministry said that polio vaccination in the Gaza Strip would take place from September 1-12. It will be carried out in the city of Deir al Balah from September 1-4, in Khan Yunis and Rafah from September 5-8, and in Gaza City and the northern part of the Gaza Strip from September 9-12. In July, the Gaza Health Ministry declared the enclave a polio epidemic area, citing the months-long fighting as the main reason for the spread of the disease. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the UN International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) called for a humanitarian pause in the enclave to allow for vaccination. Palestinian movement Hamas said it supported the humanitarian pause. Israel confirmed on Saturday that it would open a humanitarian corridor for medical personnel and designate safe areas for administering the vaccines during a short period.

https://sputniknews.com/20240901/polio-vaccination-underway-in-central-gazas-nuseirat-refugee-camp-1119980572.html

 Sullivan-Xi Meeting Won’t Improve US-China Relations

© Trevor HunnicuttWhite House national security adviser Jake Sullivan, left, and Chinese President Xi Jinping shake hands at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China Thursday, Aug. 29, 2024. (Trevor Hunnicutt/Pool Photo via AP)<img alt="White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan, left, and Chinese President Xi Jinping shake hands at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China Thursday, Aug. 29, 2024. (Trevor Hunnicutt/Pool Photo via AP) - Sputnik International, 1920, 29.08.2024" src="https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/08/1d/1119954938_0:0:3000:1688_1920x0_80_0_0_549844347dc051218ec7ef50ecc943a1.jpg" width="1920" height="1080">© Trevor HunnicuttSubscribeOn Wednesday, US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan visited China, meeting with President Xi Jinping and other high-ranking Chinese officials. The meeting is expected to be followed up with a call between Xi and US President Joe Biden in the coming weeks.The meeting was reported as an attempt to improve relations between the world’s two largest economies and militaries, but is unlikely to move the needle in any perceptible way, scholar, journalist and geopolitical analyst specializing in the Asia-Pacific KJ Noh told https://rumble.com/v5cuvw5-uk-attacks-political-speech-us-china-talks-infectious-disease-outbreaks.html?start=3837
.”

https://sputniknews.com/20240829/sullivan-xi-meeting-wont-improve-us-china-relations-1119955094.html

 Four People Injured After Drone Attack on Russia's Saratov - Regional Health Ministry

© Photo : Russian Defence MinistryS-300 Favorite surface-to-air missile system (File)<img alt="S-300 Favorite surface-to-air missile system (File) - Sputnik International, 1920, 26.08.2024" src="https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/106978/73/1069787334_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_fc31a96e43466739f5625454d8131451.jpg" width="1920" height="1080">© Photo : Russian Defence Ministry / SubscribeSARATOV (Sputnik) - Four people were injured after a drone attack on the Russian city of Saratov, including one woman who was hospitalized in serious condition, the regional health ministry told Sputnik. "One woman was hospitalized in serious condition in one of the medical institutions of the city of Saratov. Three injured persons received assistance on the spot," it said. Temporary restrictions on the arrival and departure of aircraft were introduced at the Saratov international airport "Gagarin" after the drone attack on the region, the airport's press service told Sputnik. Earlier, Saratov Region Governor Roman Busargin said that debris from destroyed drones had hit residential buildings in Saratov and neighboring Engels, adding that one woman was hospitalized in serious condition. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240816/russian-air-defenses-destroy-12-atacms-missiles-trying-to-attack-crimean-bridge---mod-1119791919.html
 destroyed 20 Ukrainian fixed-wing drones over Russia this night, including nine over the Saratov region, the Russian Defense Ministry said.

https://sputniknews.com/20240826/four-people-injured-after-drone-attack-on-russias-saratov---regional-health-ministry-1119908853.html

 New Russian Residency Law Helps Westerners Escape Posthuman Globalist Madness

© https://ria.ru/docs/about/copyright_afp.html
, stated Volk while speaking to the press.

https://sputniknews.com/20240822/new-russian-residency-law-helps-westerners-escape-posthuman-globalist-madness-1119870875.html

 Ukraine Loses Up to 765 Soldiers in Fighting With Russia's Yug Group - Russian Military

© Sputnik / Stanislav KrasilnikovRussian servicemen of the Central Military District fire a BM-21 Grad multiple rocket launcher towards Ukrainian positions <img alt="Russian servicemen of the Central Military District fire a BM-21 Grad multiple rocket launcher towards Ukrainian positions  - Sputnik International, 1920, 22.08.2024" src="https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/08/03/1119623568_0:139:3149:1910_1920x0_80_0_0_c5d26e99ce56b7ee5a90e9c0e14cd861.jpg" width="1920" height="1080">© Sputnik / Stanislav Krasilnikov / SubscribeMOSCOW, August 22 (Sputnik) - Russia's Yug group of forces has eliminated up to 765 Ukrainian servicemen over the past 24 hours, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Thursday. "The losses of the Ukrainian armed forces amounted to up to 765 troops, four pickup trucks, one Grad MLRS launcher [among other military losses in battles with the southern group]," the ministry said in a statement. The Tsentr group of forces has taken control of the settlement of Mezhevoe in the Donetsk People's Republic, eliminating up to 640 Ukrainian troops, the statement read, adding that the Zapad group of forces has eliminated up to 440 Ukrainian troops. Additionally, Kiev has lost up to 130 servicemen in battles with the Vostok group.

https://sputniknews.com/20240822/ukraine-loses-up-to-765-soldiers-in-fighting-with-russias-yug-group---russian-military-1119871419.html

 Hamas Declines Ceasefire Talks, Call for Return to July Proposal - Reports

© AP Photo / Ohad ZwigenbergA protester calls for the end of the war in Gaza, in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, June 29, 2024.<img alt="A protester calls for the end of the war in Gaza, in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, June 29, 2024. - Sputnik International, 1920, 12.08.2024" src="https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/06/1d/1119183629_0:150:2863:1760_1920x0_80_0_0_861d3d0105f4db9d96fcd3103a201f40.jpg" width="1920" height="1080">© AP Photo / Ohad ZwigenbergSubscribeMOSCOW (Sputnik) - Palestinian movement Hamas is refusing an invitation from the United States, Qatar and Egypt to participate in the final round of talks with Israel on a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, scheduled for August 15, the Axios portal reported, citing the movement's statement. Earlier, Egypt, Qatar and the United States called on Israel and Hamas to resume discussions on the terms of a ceasefire on August 14-15. The leaders of the three countries said they were ready to present a final proposal to reach a deal. Axios also reported that Hamas had cited new conditions recently presented by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh, and Israel's latest strikes on the Gaza Strip as reasons for its decision. In a statement to Al-Arabiya news, Hamas called on the mediators to push Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to agree to the deal US President Joe Biden promoted in early July."The movement calls on the mediators to present a plan to implement what was agreed upon by the movement on July 2, 2024, based on Biden's vision and the UN Security Council resolution," Hamas said in a statement. "The mediators should enforce this on the occupation (Israel) instead of pursuing further rounds of negotiations or new proposals that would provide cover for the occupation's aggression and grant it more time to continue its genocide against our people," the statement said.That plan included a stipulation that all Israeli forces leave the Gaza Strip, including the Philadelphi Corridor, which Israel now says it wants to continue occupying.A senior Israeli official involved in the negotiations told Axios that Hamas' statement was "a tactical move ahead of a possible attack by Iran and Hezbollah and in an attempt to get better terms for the deal." "If Hamas won't come to the table, we will continue decimating their forces in Gaza," the publication quoted the Israeli official as saying. Earlier, Reuters reported, citing a statement from the movement, that Hamas had asked mediators in negotiations with Israel to present a plan for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, agreed upon by the movement in July, instead of starting new negotiations. According to the agency, Hamas demanded the implementation of the document agreed upon by the movement on July 2 and based on the vision of US President Joe Biden and the UN Security Council resolution. In July, Israel and Hamas resumed negotiations through intermediaries on a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip in exchange for the release of hostages. The negotiation process had been at an impasse for more than a month since Biden, on behalf of Israel, announced a new plan to resolve the conflict in the Palestinian enclave.

https://sputniknews.com/20240812/hamas-declines-ceasefire-talks-call-for-return-to-july-proposal---reports-1119728740.html

 Houthi Missile Launcher Destroyed in Yemen - CENTCOM

© AP Photo / Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Anna Van NuysIn this Wednesday, April 15, 2015 image released by U.S. Navy Media Content Services, an F/A-18E Super Hornet, assigned to the Knighthawks of Strike Fighter Attack Squadron 136, launches off the flight deck aboard Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt in the Fifth Fleet area of operations<img alt="In this Wednesday, April 15, 2015 image released by U.S. Navy Media Content Services, an F/A-18E Super Hornet, assigned to the Knighthawks of Strike Fighter Attack Squadron 136, launches off the flight deck aboard Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt in the Fifth Fleet area of operations - Sputnik International, 1920, 10.08.2024" src="https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/01/12/1116240165_71:0:3415:1881_1920x0_80_0_0_e86f544988acfcaccf4711d8eba1b174.jpg" width="1920" height="1080">© AP Photo / Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Anna Van NuysSubscribeMOSCOW (Sputnik) - The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a statement it had destroyed a missile launcher, an uncrewed surface vessel (USV) of the Ansar Allah (Houthi) movement, which rules in northern Yemen, in Yemen, and two drones over the Red Sea. "In the past 24 hours, U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM) forces successfully destroyed one Iranian-backed Houthi missile launcher and one uncrewed surface vessel in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen. Additionally, USCENTCOM forces successfully destroyed two Houthi uncrewed aerial vehicles over the Red Sea," according to the statement. It said the weapons presented a clear and imminent threat to US and coalition forces, and merchant vessels in the region. The https://sputnikglobe.com/20240806/houthis-spokesman-claims-major-plans-for-strike-on-israel-1119653744.html
 following the Gaza conflict. The Houthis vowed in November 2023 to attack any ships associated with Israel until it halts military actions in the Gaza Strip. Amid the Houthi attacks, some companies suspended shipments through the Red Sea. The attacks prompted the US to form a multinational coalition, which includes the UK among others, to protect shipping in the area of the Red Sea, as well as to strike Houthi targets on the ground.

https://sputniknews.com/20240810/houthi-missile-launcher-destroyed-in-yemen---centcom-1119704869.html

 Build-Up of Russia's Forces Fighting in Kursk Region Underway

© Sputnik / Stanislav KrasilnikovRussian servicemen of the Central Military District ride a BM-21 Grad multiple rocket launcher to a position amid Russia's military operation in Ukraine<img alt="Russian servicemen of the Central Military District ride a BM-21 Grad multiple rocket launcher to a position amid Russia's military operation in Ukraine - Sputnik International, 1920, 09.08.2024" src="https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/08/09/1119692176_0:123:3204:1925_1920x0_80_0_0_f21a92f33d39ef7575298f63827d1a16.jpg" width="1920" height="1080">© Sputnik / Stanislav Krasilnikov / SubscribeMOSCOW (Sputnik) - The Russian Defense Ministry said on Friday that it was building up forces, who were engaged in active hostilities against Ukrainian formations in the Sudzha district of the Kursk Region, by sending tanks and other heavy tracked military equipment there. "The columns marching to the areas of the tasks include the BM-21 Grad multiple rocket launcher systems, towed artillery guns, tanks transported on trawls, heavy tracked vehicles, Ural and KamAZ vehicles," the ministry said in a statement. The ministry also https://sputnikglobe.com/20240809/watch-russian-forces-neutralize-ukrainian-armored-columns-near-kursk-with-artillery--lancet-drones-1119690628.html
 showing the movement of the military equipment toward the Kursk Region.

https://sputniknews.com/20240809/build-up-of-russias-forces-fighting-in-kursk-region-underway-1119692336.html

 US Ready to Take Action Over Asad Airbase Attack if Iraq Fails to Respond - State Dept

© AP Photo / Nasser NasserThis aerial photo taken from a helicopter shows Ain al-Asad air base in the western Anbar desert, Iraq, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019.<img alt="This aerial photo taken from a helicopter shows Ain al-Asad air base in the western Anbar desert, Iraq, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019. - Sputnik International, 1920, 06.08.2024" src="https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/107797/18/1077971866_0:169:3043:1880_1920x0_80_0_0_0b5a5a920f8af5104593c4851f4a9ec0.jpg" width="1920" height="1080">© AP Photo / Nasser NasserSubscribeWASHINGTON (Sputnik) - The United States expects Iraq to take action against those responsible for the attack on Al Asad Airbase, but it is prepared to take its own measures if Baghdad does not respond appropriately, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said."When actions happen on Iraqi soil, we look first to the government of Iraq to take action," Miller said on Tuesday, adding that the US troops are in the country at the invitation of Baghdad. "But as we have shown in previous cases, we won’t hesitate to defend our troops and to take our own accountability measures or our own steps to hold terrorist groups accountable if we don’t see appropriate actions from the government of Iraq." Five US troops and two US contractors were injured in a https://sputnikglobe.com/20240805/us-personnel-injured-in-suspected-rocket-attack-on-al-asad-airbase-in-iraq---pentagon-1119651565.html
 on Al Asad Airbase in Iraq earlier this week but they are all in stable condition, a US defense official said in a statement to Sputnik on Tuesday. A post-strike assessment of the rocket attack is still ongoing, the official added. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Galant on Tuesday called the attack on the US airbase in Iraq, where US troops were stationed, a "dangerous escalation," blaming Iran and its allied Shiite militia, the Pentagon said in a statement.

https://sputniknews.com/20240806/us-ready-to-take-action-over-asad-airbase-attack-if-iraq-fails-to-respond---state-dept-1119661030.html

 Which NATO Members Meet Quotas on Defense Spending?

SubscribeDonald Trump caused a stir this week in both the US and in Europe after he said he would not send US forces to defend NATO states which do not contribute enough forces of their own to the alliance.At a rally in South Carolina on Wednesday, Donald Trump doubled down on his position that NATO allies failing to meet the two percent defense spending benchmark were not worthy of protection.The leading Republican primary contender's comments highlighted his frustration with what he calls inadequate contributions from member countries.“I’ve been saying, ‘Look, if they’re not going to pay, we’re not going to protect, okay? And Biden who said, ‘Oh, this is so bad. This is so terrible that he would say that.’ No,” Trump said.That caused controversy in both the US and Europe, with NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg even saying that the ex-president's comments endanger US and European troops.What lies at the root of the problem? In 2014, https://sputnikglobe.com/20240214/trump-almost-withdrew-us-from-nato-in-2018---former-national-security-adviser-1116773227.html
'.Which countries in the alliance were able to achieve the goal? Check out Sputnik’s gallery to find out!<img alt="NATO defense spending desk - Sputnik International" src="https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/images/07e8/02/10/1116825188.png"><img alt="NATO defense spending mob - Sputnik International" src="https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/images/07e8/02/10/1116825365.png">

https://sputniknews.com/20240216/which-nato-members-meet-quotas-on-defense-spending-1116825521.html

 US Deploys B-52 Bombers to Guam for 'Strategic Deterrence' – Pacific Air Forces

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.

https://sputniknews.com/20240201/us-deploys-b-52-bombers-to-guam-for-strategic-deterrence--pacific-air-forces-1116538505.html

 US Government Employees Plan ‘Day of Fasting for Gaza’ to Denounce Biden’s Policies

© https://ria.ru/docs/about/copyright_afp.html
 (who faces a looming battle to keep his position in the White House this year) has lost support from his base. Just one in three registered voters reportedly approve of his handling of the conflict, according to polls. And the figure drops even more among young voters with just 20% of those under the age of 30 supporting his decision.

https://sputniknews.com/20240130/us-government-employees-plan-day-of-fasting-for-gaza-to-denounce-bidens-policies-1116482141.html

 Protests ‘Do Not Help’: Netanyahu Wags His Finger at Families of Hostage Victims

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 of Netanyahu lambasting Qatar—which has been a key player in helping to arrange hostage releases—was leaked. Families of those held hostage by Hamas have denied leaking the audio.

https://sputniknews.com/20240129/protests-do-not-help-netanyahu-wags-his-finger-at-families-of-hostage-victims-1116457496.html

 ‘Like a Walking War Machine’: China Blasts NATO Amid Massive Military Drill

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.”

https://sputniknews.com/20240127/like-a-walking-war-machine-china-blasts-nato-amid-massive-military-drill-1116424040.html

 'Extremely Dangerous': Texas Border Battle Portends Growing US Dysfunction, Civil War?

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. As controversy remains over the disputed role of federal and state authorities in Texas observers fear tensions could boil over into a violent event, particularly if federal and state troops are forced to interact.

https://sputniknews.com/20240126/extremely-dangerous-texas-border-battle-portends-growing-us-dysfunction-civil-war-1116420922.html

 Houthis Attack US Ship Chem Ranger in Gulf of Aden

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 in the Arab and Red Seas will continue to all destinations around the world except for the ports of occupied Palestine" while vowing to continue blocking "Israeli navigation" and ships "heading to the ports of occupied Palestine" until a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip is achieved.

https://sputniknews.com/20240118/houthis-attack-us-ship-chem-ranger-in-gulf-of-aden-1116258738.html

 US, UK Carrying Out New Strikes on Naval Base in Western Yemen

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, calling them a direct threat to global peace and security.

https://sputniknews.com/20240113/us-uk-carrying-out-new-strikes-on-naval-base-in-western-yemen-1116146441.html

 China Confident in BRICS' Bright Prospects After Expansion

© iStock.com / ISergBRICS logo<img alt="BRICS logo - Sputnik International, 1920, 02.01.2024" src="https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/06/1e/1111588282_0:221:2121:1414_1920x0_80_0_0_0b42717600304a7eb13897ad09b695ba.jpg" width="1920" height="1080">© iStock.com / ISergSubscribeMOSCOW (Sputnik) - Beijing is fully confident in BRICS’s bright future after expansion, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said on Tuesday. "Let me make it very clear that we are fully confident in the BRICS’ future," Wang told a briefing, proceeding to say "You mentioned the fact that BRICS now has 10 member states. That shows exactly its bright prospect." BRICS's expansion "serves the common aspiration of emerging markets and developing countries, and follows the global trend towards multipolarity," the spokesman said. He voiced Beijing's intention to work with BRICS members and "strive for new results in greater BRICS cooperation." BRICS was established in 2009 as a cooperation platform for the world's largest emerging economies. Before the 2024 expansion, it united Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. Last summer, their leaders invited Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia to join the bloc. Argentina was also invited to become a member, but its newly-elected government declined the invitation last week. The full membership of the newly-admitted members formally started on January 1.

https://sputniknews.com/20240102/china-confident-in-brics-bright-prospects-after-expansion-1115950285.html

 Russia Launches Retaliatory Strikes on Ukrainian Decision-Making Centers After Belgorod Attacks: MoD

SubscribeBeing updated

https://sputniknews.com/20231231/russia-launches-retaliatory-strikes-on-ukrainian-decision-making-centers-after-belgorod-attacks-mod-1115910076.html

 Netanyahu Singles Out ‘Three Prerequisites’ for Israel-Palestine Peace

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 and the exchange of some Palestinian prisoners for Israeli hostages, as well as the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. The truce was extended several times and expired on December 1.

https://sputniknews.com/20231226/netanyahu-singles-out-three-prerequisites-for-israel-palestine-peace-1115813762.html

 Trump To Be on All Ballots or None, Says Minnesota’s Secretary of State

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” to remove Trump.Recent polling shows that Trump is leading his likely opponent in the 2024 election, President Joe Biden in seven swing states, which means he’d likely beat Biden if the election were held today.After the Colorado ruling, Trump took to his Truth Social, saying “I’m not an Insurrectionist.”

https://sputniknews.com/20231223/trump-to-be-on-all-ballots-or-none-says-mn-secretary-of-state-1115776123.html

 Angola Explains Decision to Quit OPEC

© Sputnik / Alexey VitvitskyOPEC+ member-states' meeting, 6 December 2019.<img src="https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/107888/64/1078886457_0:151:3106:1898_1920x0_80_0_0_78bdbac9e3e39ea92e8be2ac699de7a5.jpg" width="1920" height="1080">© Sputnik / Alexey Vitvitsky / SubscribeMOSCOW (Sputnik) - Angola is quitting the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) due to authorities not deeming the country's role in the organization to be relevant, Reuters reported on Thursday, citing Angolan Oil Minister Diamantino Azevedo. Angola's decision to leave OPEC comes as a result of its narrowing role, the minister explained, adding that OPEC membership was no longer in the country's national interests. "If Angola were forced to cut production, it would go against its goals", Azevedo noted.OPEC seeks to enforce cooperation among global oil-producing leaders in order to collectively influence the international oil market and maximize profits. Angola's announcement comes after 16 years of membership amid disputes regarding https://sputnikglobe.com/20231130/opec-preliminary-agrees-to-cut-oil-production-by-over-1mln-barrels-per-day---reports-1115301982.html
, with a number of countries first leaving, and later re-entering the organization. With Angola's departure, OPEC will now be comprised of 12 states: Algeria, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Libya, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Venezuela. 

https://sputniknews.com/20231221/angola-explains-decision-to-quit-opec-1115727336.html

 Trump Calls on US Supreme Court to Not Fast-Track Election Immunity Case

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 is set to begin on March 4, 2024, but legal appeals are threatening to delay the proceedings. Trump's lawyers have been seeking to postpone his trial until after the 2024 election.

https://sputniknews.com/20231220/trump-calls-on-us-supreme-court-to-not-fast-track-election-immunity-case--1115711557.html

 US Lacks Preparedness for Tick, Mosquito-Borne Diseases

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, a report was made that the private companies of Orbit Services Partners Inc., and Verily have partnered for a project to release mosquitos across the Caribbean bred with a bacterium that blocks the dengue virus.

https://sputniknews.com/20231216/us-lacks-preparedness-for-tick-mosquito-borne-diseases-1115631668.html

 Counteroffensive in Reverse? Why Ukraine is Using NATO Tanks as Stationary Artillery

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 that they would be lost to Russian missiles, long-range artillery, anti-tank mines and drones.

https://sputniknews.com/20231207/counteroffensive-in-reverse-why-ukraine-is-using-nato-tanks-as-stationary-artillery-1115453051.html

 US Tomahawk Anti-Ship Missiles ‘to Challenge’ China Amid Taiwan Tensions – Report

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, a move that Beijing condemns as provocative. The Chinese government has lashed out at Washington's actions as simply "a security risk creator in the region."

https://sputniknews.com/20231205/us-tomahawk-anti-ship-missiles-to-challenge-china-amid-taiwan-tensions--report-1115385789.html

 Israel, Elon Musk Agree on Starlink Operation in Gaza

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 and expressed hope that the billionaire would strengthen his "relationship with the Jewish people and [their] values." On Sunday, The Times of Israel reported that Israeli President Isaac Herzog would meet with Musk on Monday. Earlier in the month, Palestinian Authority Communications Minister Ishaq Sadr told Sputnik that Musk had not provided satellite network services to Gaza because of threats from Israel.

https://sputniknews.com/20231127/israel-elon-musk-agree-on-starlink-operation-in-gaza-1115229234.html

 Turkiye Expects to Resolve Issues of Russian Grain Supply to Africa By Year-End - Source

© Sputnik / Vitaly TimkivA view shows wheat ears to be harvested in the fields of Krasnodarskoe company in Krasnodar region, Russia.<img alt="A view shows wheat ears to be harvested in the fields of Krasnodarskoe company in Krasnodar region, Russia. - Sputnik International, 1920, 20.11.2023" src="https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/08/07/1112446599_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_2a4ef1e8d03d10483363af7fb836c752.jpg" width="1920" height="1080">© Sputnik / Vitaly Timkiv / SubscribeANKARA (Sputnik) - Turkiye expects to resolve issues related to the processing and delivery of Russian grain to African countries in need by the end of the year, a diplomatic source in Ankara told Sputnik on Monday. In July, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced his country's intention to deliver grain to six African countries on the list of the World Food Programme as part of humanitarian aid. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Ankara had supported the initiative and would, together with Qatar, facilitate the processing and delivery of Russian grain to the countries in need. The first two ships with wheat for Somalia and Burkina Faso left Russia earlier in November. "The project is under the personal control of Mr. President [Erdogan], there is coordination between the relevant structures. We expect that by the end of the year, we will resolve the issues related to the processing and supply [of Russian grain]," the source said. On July 18, the Turkey- and UN-mediated https://sputnikglobe.com/20230912/turkiye-seeking-to-soon-finalize-development-of-proposals-for-russia-on-grain-deal---source-1113297521.html
 was not fulfilled, specifically with regard to reconnecting Russian banks to SWIFT and unblocking the Tolyatti-Odessa ammonia pipeline.After the deal expired, Putin gave assurances that Moscow would continue to supply grain and fertilizers to African countries despite sanctions.

https://sputniknews.com/20231120/turkiye-expects-to-resolve-issues-of-russian-grain-supply-to-africa-by-year-end---source-1115064359.html

 France Announces Successful Test Launch of Strategic Ballistic Missile

© https://www.defense.gouv.fr/dga/actualite/le-systeme-d-armes-du-snle-le-temeraire-m51-valide-en-conditions-operationnelles
SubscribePARIS (Sputnik) - France has conducted a successful test-launch of a strategic ballistic missile without nuclear warhead, the French Defense Ministry has announced. "Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu has expressed his satisfaction with the successful … test launch of strategic ballistic missile M51.3 without a nuclear warhead," the defense ministry said in a statement late on Saturday. The missile landed in the northern part of the Atlantic Ocean a few hundred kilometers off the coast, the statement read. The statement added that the test-launch had been carried out with strict observance of France's international obligations.

https://sputniknews.com/20231119/france-announces-successful-test-launch-of-strategic-ballistic-missile-1115052764.html

 Watch Russian Paratroopers Score Lucky Missile Shot

To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video© SputnikSubscribeAcross the battlefields of the Ukrainian conflict, soldiers from various branches of the Russian Armed Forces continue to hammer the forces of the Kiev regime.A short video recently released online by the Russian Ministry of Defense tells the brief tale of a team of Ukrainian militants who were unfortunate enough to run afoul of a Russian airborne forces squad in the Artemovsk (Bakhmut) sector.Having spotted the advancing Ukrainian soldiers before the latter could realize their predicament, Russian paratroopers promptly fired an anti-tank guided missile at them.

https://sputniknews.com/20231118/watch-russian-paratroopers-score-lucky-missile-shot-1115048603.html

 Is Middle East on Edge of Regional War Amid Gaza Crisis and Escalating Israeli-Lebanese Conflict?

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. Nothing else is acceptable. US aircraft carriers have no impact on the resistance. US nuclear submarines have no impact on the decision-making process. They are misleading themselves, the Americans, if they think otherwise. And that's a dangerous miscalculation. The only thing that is important is that the war in Gaza ends," Marandi highlighted.

https://sputniknews.com/20231118/is-middle-east-on-edge-of-regional-war-amid-gaza-crisis-and-escalating-israeli-lebanese-conflict-1115047164.html

 SpaceX's Starship Super Heavy Rocket Successfully Lifts Off From Southern Texas

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 / TIMOTHY A. CLARYSubscribeWASHINGTON (Sputnik) - SpaceX's Starship Super Heavy rocket successfully lifted off on Saturday from the launch pad in Boca Chica, Texas, with hopes of reaching orbit, according to the company's broadcast. The Starship is the centerpiece of SpaceX's efforts to develop a fully reusable transportation system designed to carry humans to the Moon and on long-duration flights to Mars and beyond. The system is designed for in-space refueling and the ability to land at destinations across the solar system and return to Earth.

https://sputniknews.com/20231118/spacexs-starship-super-heavy-rocket-successfully-lifts-off-from-southern-texas-1115045618.html

Peronist Fervor May Give Center-Left Massa the Edge in Argentina Sunday - Activist

© AP Photo / Nicolas AguileraJavier Milei, Liberty Advances coalition presidential candidate, acknowledges supporters during his closing campaign rally in Cordoba, Argentina, Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023. Milei will face Economy Minister Sergio Massa, the ruling party's candidate, in a runoff election on Nov. 19. <img alt="Javier Milei, Liberty Advances coalition presidential candidate, acknowledges supporters during his closing campaign rally in Cordoba, Argentina, Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023. Milei will face Economy Minister Sergio Massa, the ruling party's candidate, in a runoff election on Nov. 19. - Sputnik International, 1920, 18.11.2023" src="https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/0b/12/1115037765_0:161:3070:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_7c144ee7ee7c65fdbd2d6ec1d6cba643.jpg" width="1920" height="1080">© AP Photo / Nicolas AguileraSubscribePolitical activist Denis Rogatyuk joined Sputnik’s Political Misfits crew to discuss Spanish politics and Argentina’s upcoming presidential runoff this weekend. Rogatyuk believes Sergio Massa’s superior organization could lead him to victory, but the outcome of Sunday’s election remains uncertain.Onlookers say Sunday’s presidential runoff election in Argentina could be amongst the most consequential in the country’s modern history, with the two candidates offering highly contrasting visions for the future of the South American nation.Economist Sergio Massa, who enjoys the backing of the party that currently governs Argentina, would likely represent a continuation of center-left policy. Meanwhile, self-described “https://english.elpais.com/international/2023-08-14/javier-milei-the-ultra-right-libertarian-and-anarcho-capitalist-who-represents-angry-argentina.html
the speaking of the Catalan language in public spaces.

https://sputniknews.com/20231118/peronist-fervor-may-give-center-left-massa-the-edge-in-argentina-sunday---activist-1115037922.html

 European Central Bank Warns World Economy ‘Fragmenting Into Competing Blocs’

© Photo : PixabayWorld economy<img alt="World economy - Sputnik International, 1920, 17.11.2023" src="https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/104969/54/1049695455_0:100:1921:1180_1920x0_80_0_0_3c6f035cd9a9d12eb364bc48f9bb74c5.jpg" width="1920" height="1080">© Photo : PixabaySubscribeGeopolitical tensions are increasingly “deglobalizing” the world economy, an official with the European Central Bank has emphasized, highlighting the looming effects of climate disasters and the decline in working-age population.European Central Bank (ECB) President Christine Lagarde warned in a speech delivered in Frankfurt on Friday https://www.rt.com/business/587468-world-economy-rival-blocs-ecb/
 cooperation between Germany and Russia, the two biggest powers in Europe.Lagarde also advocated for a Europe-wide regulatory agency to oversee economic activity across the continent, similar to the United States’ Securities and Exchange Commission. Additionally, she floated the idea of a unified European stock exchange.The trend towards increasing economic integration may face opposition from various elements within Europe, who warn of a “democratic deficit” in the European Union and oppose moves they see as threatening national sovereignty. That opposition was perhaps most famously reflected in 2016, when voters in the UK chose to exit the economic and political bloc.

https://sputniknews.com/20231117/european-central-bank-warns-world-economy-fragmenting-into-competing-blocs-1115034378.html

 Huge and Potentially Dangerous Asteroid Approaching Earth

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 are relatively rare objects, as some of them have already collided with the Earth in previous geological eras.

https://sputniknews.com/20231003/huge-and-potentially-dangerous-asteroid-approaching-earth-1113875653.html

 University of Alberta Closed Hunka Fund Soon After Russian Embassy’s Request

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 and his wife Margaret, and refund the donation.

https://sputniknews.com/20230928/university-of-alberta-closed-hunka-fund-soon-after-russian-embassys-request-1113776456.html

 Partner 2023 International Defense Exhibition in Belgrade

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 / Andrej IsakovicSerbian Army officers look at aircraft weapons.

https://sputniknews.com/20230926/partner-2023-international-defense-exhibition-in-belgrade-1113677004.html

 NASA Says Refining Responsibilities of New UFO Research Director Role

© AP Photo / <a href="http://www.apimages.com/metadata/Index/South-Korea-NASA/f5b6dcb2c135431887aadb72381fff17/1/0" rel="nofollow">AP Photo/Patrick Semansky</a>NASA logo<img alt="NASA logo - Sputnik International, 1920, 15.09.2023" src="https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/106097/57/1060975730_0:305:4732:2967_1920x0_80_0_0_2b13963b7e394fb3e1ae70ef794efedb.jpg" width="1920" height="1080">© AP Photo / <a href="http://www.apimages.com/metadata/Index/South-Korea-NASA/f5b6dcb2c135431887aadb72381fff17/1/0" rel="nofollow">AP Photo/Patrick Semansky</a>Subscribehttps://t.me/SputnikInt
WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - NASA is refining the responsibilities of its newly announced Director of Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP, also known as UFOs) Research position as it processes the recommendations of an independent study team, NASA Science Mission Directorate Press Secretary Katherine Rohloff said on Friday. On Thursday, the independent study team on UAP released recommendations to NASA, urging further research and interagency cooperation on the matter. NASA also announced the creation of a new Director of UAP Research position, which will be held by former NASA-Pentagon liaison Mark McInerney. “We are continuing to refine Mark’s role as the director of UAP research, as well as digesting the study team’s report and findings,” Rohloff said in a statement to Sputnik, when asked whether McInerney will be responsible for cooperating with international partners to analyze UAP. McInerney will centralize communications, resources and analytical capabilities to create a database for the future evaluation of UAP, NASA said in a statement. The role will leverage NASA’s expertise in artificial intelligence, machine learning and space-based observation to support the broader US government effort to study UAP, the statement said. The Pentagon also operates the All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO) to study UAP and their potential threat to US airspace. The independent study team commissioned by NASA approached the study of UAP from a scientific perspective.

https://sputniknews.com/20230915/nasa-says-refining-responsibilities-of-new-ufo-research-director-role-1113409538.html

 Russia to Send Aid to Libya's Flood-Hit Regions

© SputnikRussian planes with humanitarian aid have arrived in Serbia<img alt="Russian planes with humanitarian aid have arrived in Serbia - Sputnik International, 1920, 15.09.2023" src="https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/107882/23/1078822338_0:149:3114:1901_1920x0_80_0_0_2cbf8ac44a7b8acd774abed64a51c57d.jpg" width="1920" height="1080">© Sputnik / Subscribehttps://t.me/SputnikInt
 at over 7,000. The mayor of the Libyan city of Derna, Abdulmenam Al-Ghaithi, said on Wednesday that the death toll may reach from 18,000 to 20,000. This week, torrential rains brought by Storm Daniel caused high water and floods in multiple cities and towns in eastern Libya, including Al-Bayda and Derna. Air and seaports in the region were closed due to heavy downpours. The cities of Susah and Derna were declared natural disaster zones. Curfews were imposed in the flood-affected cities.

https://sputniknews.com/20230915/russia-to-send-aid-to-libyas-flood-hit-regions-1113391198.html