ÖREBRO, SWEDEN – At least 10 people, including the suspected gunman, were killed in a mass shooting at an adult education center in Örebro on Tuesday, according to Swedish police. Several others were wounded, with authorities warning that the final death toll could rise as investigators assess the extensive damage at the scene.

The attack unfolded at Campus Risbergska, a school serving students over the age of 20, around 12:30 p.m. local time (1130 GMT). The shooting erupted after many students had already left for the day following a national exam.

Roberto Eid Forest, head of the local police, said the suspected shooter was among the deceased and is believed to have acted alone. The gunman was not previously known to authorities, and there is currently no indication of a terrorism link. However, officials have yet to determine a motive.

“We have no reason to believe there were other perpetrators,” Eid Forest told reporters, adding that authorities were working to confirm the identities of the victims.

Chaos and Terror at the Campus

Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as shots rang out across the campus.

“We heard three bangs and loud screams,” said Andreas Sundling, a 28-year-old student who barricaded himself inside a classroom.

Lena Warenmark, a teacher at Campus Risbergska, recounted hearing “probably 10 gunshots” as the violence unfolded.

As police swarmed the scene, students and staff sheltered in nearby buildings while other parts of the school were evacuated. Emergency vehicles flooded the surrounding area, and a helicopter circled overhead as authorities searched for potential threats.

Sweden Mourns as Investigation Unfolds

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson condemned the shooting as a national tragedy, calling it “a very painful day for all of Sweden.”

“My thoughts are also with all those whose normal school day was exchanged for terror,” Kristersson said. “Being confined to a classroom with fear for your own life is a nightmare that no one should have to experience.”

Kristersson is expected to address the nation alongside Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer at a press conference at 7:30 p.m. local time (1830 GMT).

Meanwhile, police have raided the suspect’s home, though they have not disclosed any findings. Authorities maintain that there were no warning signs before the attack.

Gun violence at schools is rare in Sweden, though the country has seen incidents involving other weapons, such as knives and axes, in recent years. The tragic events in Örebro have reignited concerns over safety and violence in educational institutions.

This is a developing story. Further updates will follow as more details emerge.

Credit: AP

ÖREBRO, SWEDEN – A tragic shooting at Risbergska School in Örebro has left several people dead and at least 15 others injured, according to Swedish broadcaster SVT. The attack, which took place on Tuesday, sent shockwaves through the community as authorities scrambled to contain the situation.

But, a Swedish police spokesman says he cannot comment on whether there are any fatalities. Police have however confirmed that five people were shot, with four currently undergoing surgery. One of those injured is believed to be the gunman. The motive behind the attack remains unclear.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as students and staff sought refuge in nearby buildings. Andreas Sundling, a 28-year-old who was inside the school at the time, recounted the terrifying moments. “We heard three bangs and loud screams,” he told Expressen while sheltering in a classroom.

Lena Warenmark, a teacher at Risbergska, told national broadcaster SVT that she heard “probably ten shots” near the study area.

Armed police quickly responded to the scene, warning that the threat was not yet over. Authorities have yet to confirm the exact number of casualties as investigations continue.

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson condemned the attack, calling it a “terrible act of violence” and expressing his condolences to the victims and their families.

“It is with sadness that I have received information about the terrible act of violence in Örebro. My thoughts are with those who have been affected and their relatives,” Kristersson said.

The attack has reignited discussions on public safety in Sweden, a country that has historically seen lower rates of mass shootings compared to other parts of the world.

Further updates will be provided as more details emerge.

Credit: Independent.co.uk

The 2025 Premier League January transfer window is now into its final hours, but numerous teams are still hoping to sign reinforcements on Deadline Day in order to maximise their results for the remainder of the season.

Ipswich Town signed Ben Godfrey on loan from Atalanta and Jaden Philogene on a permanent deal from Aston Villa.

Bournemouth have been quite busy, snapping up Matai Akinmboni from DC United for €1.5m and young Argentine left-back Julio Soler from Lanus for €8m. They loaned midfielder Philip Billing to Napoli with an option to buy, while Max Aarons was loaned to Valencia.

Wolves added Emmanuel Agbadou from Reims for €20m in an attempt to shore up their leaky defence.

High-flying Nottingham Forest brought back Wayne Hennessey to bolster their goalkeeper options, while Aston Villa completed the €25m signing of Borussia Dortmund forward Donyell Malen, the €7m purchase of Andres Garcia from Levante and the loan signing of Marcus Rashford.

However, the Birmingham side lost super sub Jhon Duran to Al-Nassr, with Cristiano Ronaldo’s Saudi side shelling out a whopping €77m to sign the Colombian.

Crystal Palace raided the Championship for young talent again, signing Millwall wonderkid Romain Esse for €14.2m.

West Ham have loaned Maxwel Cornet to Genoa, while Newcastle have sold Miguel Almiron back to Atlanta United.

Manchester City splashed over €150m on Abdukodir Khusanov, Vitor Reis and Omar Marmoush, while captain Kyle Walker joined AC Milan on loan. City also signed Jumah Bah from Real Valladolid and loaned him straight out to Lens.

Patrick Dorgu has arrived at Manchester United from Lecce for €30m plus €5m in add-ons.

The aforementioned Rashford has joined Villa on loan, while €95m flop Antony has joined Real Betis on loan.

Done Deals for January 2025: Every Premier League club’s new signings

The 2024-25 Premier League January transfer window opened on 1 January and will close on 3 February at 23:00 GMT.

This page will be updated regularly to detail every Premier League transfer during the January window, both ins and outs.

 

Arsenal

Arsenal January signings

None so far.

Arsenal January sales

 

Aston Villa

Aston Villa January signings

Aston Villa January sales

 

Bournemouth

Bournemouth January signings

Bournemouth January sales

 

Brentford

Brentford January signings

Brentford January sales

 

Brighton

Brighton January signings

Brighton January sales

 

Chelsea

Chelsea January signings

Chelsea January sales

 

Crystal Palace

Crystal Palace January signings

Crystal Palace January sales

 

Man City January sales

 

Man Utd

Man Utd January signings

Man Utd January sales

Newcastle

Newcastle January signings

None so far.

Newcastle January sales

 

Nottingham Forest

Nottingham Forest January signings

Nottingham Forest January sales

 

Southampton

Southampton January signings

Southampton January sales

 

Tottenham

Tottenham January signings

 

Tottenham January sales

 

West Ham

West Ham January signings

West Ham January sales

 

Wolves

Wolves January signings

Wolves January sales

Curled from Football Transfers

 

The South African president, Cyril Ramaphosa replied his US counterpart earlier today via his social media handle/X.

President Cyril Ramaphosa said the government had not confiscated any land, and he looked forward to engaging with Trump to foster a better understanding over the matter.

He reiterated by telling Donald Trump  and his South African born billionaire friend, Elon Musk, that South African is a sovereign nation and they should respect it’s laws.

Below are the extracts.

“South Africa is a constitutional democracy that is deeply rooted in the rule of law, justice and equality. The South African government has not confiscated any land.

The recently adopted Expropriation Act is not a confiscation instrument, but a constitutionally mandated legal process that ensures public access to land in an equitable and just manner as guided by the constitution.”

He further said, “South Africa, like the United States of America and other countries, has always had expropriation laws that balance the need for public usage of land and the protection of rights of property owners.”

“We look forward to engaging with the Trump administration over our land reform policy and issues of bilateral interest. We are certain that out of those engagements, we will share a better and common understanding over these matters.”

He continued by saying, ”The US remains a key strategic political and trade partner for South Africa. With the exception of PEPFAR Aid, which constitutes 17% of South Africa’s HIVAids programme, there is no other funding that is received by South Africa from the United States.”

Trump said on Sunday, without citing evidence, that “South Africa is confiscating land” and “certain classes of people” were being treated “very badly”.

It remains unclear whether the government of Donald Trump will take any other step beyond the suspension of the said aid to the Southern African country.

Follow iNewsZone.com on our Social Media handles to stay updated.

In a dramatic turn of events, Elon Musk announced that former President Donald Trump has agreed to shut down the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The statement, made during an X Spaces conversation early Monday, follows days of speculation over the agency’s future after its funding was frozen and dozens of employees were placed on administrative leave.

“With regards to the USAID stuff, I went over it with (the president) in detail, and he agreed that we should shut it down,” Musk stated, emphasizing that he had checked with Trump “a few times” to confirm the decision.

Trump himself commented on the matter Sunday evening, telling reporters, “It’s been run by a bunch of radical lunatics, and we’re getting them out, and then we’ll make a decision” on USAID’s fate.

USAID Under Siege

The announcement comes after two top security officials at USAID were put on administrative leave over the weekend for allegedly refusing members of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) access to the agency’s systems. According to multiple sources, DOGE personnel even threatened to call law enforcement to gain entry.

Further upheaval ensued last week when approximately 60 senior USAID staff were placed on leave for allegedly attempting to circumvent Trump’s executive order freezing foreign aid for 90 days. Another high-ranking official was also suspended after attempting to reverse those actions.

During the X Spaces conversation, Musk—joined by Republican Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy—labeled USAID as “incredibly politically partisan,” accusing it of supporting “radically left causes throughout the world, including things that are anti-American.”

“We don’t have an apple with a worm in it,” Musk asserted. “We have a ball of worms. USAID is a ball of worms.”

USAID’s Role and the Fallout of Its Potential Dismantling

Founded in 1961 under President John F. Kennedy, USAID has long served as the U.S. government’s humanitarian arm, allocating billions annually to combat poverty, fight diseases, respond to natural disasters, and promote democracy abroad. The agency is widely considered a critical element of U.S. soft power, operating alongside the Defense and State Departments to maintain global influence.

However, the Trump administration appears determined to restructure, if not eliminate, the agency. DOGE personnel, reportedly handpicked by Musk, have taken an aggressive approach. Sources indicate that DOGE staff forcibly gained access to USAID headquarters after initially being denied entry. Concerns have been raised that classified materials and sensitive personnel files may have been accessed without proper clearance.

Democratic members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee have since demanded an investigation, writing to Secretary of State Marco Rubio to seek clarification on the situation. Their letter expressed concerns over potential national security risks and emphasized that any effort to dismantle USAID must be reviewed and approved by Congress.

Growing Uncertainty and Concerns

Amid the turmoil, USAID’s public affairs office has been locked out of its systems, and the agency’s official website has gone offline, replaced by a new page on the State Department’s site.

Katie Miller, a top official in DOGE, appeared to confirm that classified materials were accessed but maintained that all procedures followed proper security protocols. Meanwhile, Musk further escalated tensions by branding USAID a “criminal organization” in an X post, declaring, “Time for it to die.”

The move to dismantle USAID has sparked concerns among aid officials and foreign policy experts, who warn that the State Department lacks the resources and expertise to absorb USAID’s operations. Critics argue that eliminating the agency would significantly weaken U.S. foreign policy, leaving the country with fewer diplomatic tools to engage with global partners.

A former senior USAID official, speaking anonymously, cautioned, “We’re basically going to be punching with one arm behind our back.”

With Trump’s executive order already freezing foreign aid, widespread uncertainty looms over U.S. development programs worldwide. As debates over USAID’s fate intensify, the agency’s supporters and critics brace for what could be one of the most significant restructurings of American foreign assistance in decades.

Credit: CNN/Yahoo News 

All music artists deserve recognition for their hard work, but only a select few took home Grammy Awards. See the 2025 winners list!

The 2025 Grammy Awards took place at Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena on Sunday, February 2, to recognize the celebrity music artists and rising stars we all know and love. This past year, the music industry saw some huge successes among artists, such as Sabrina Carpenter, who won the Grammy for “Best Pop Solo Performance” for her world-famous single “Espresso.” But Sabrina’s win came early. Hours before the ceremony began, she and several artists were announced as winners. So, who else took home an award?

To see the full winners list for this year’s Grammys, keep reading!

Best New Artist

Benson Boone

Sabrina Carpenter

Doechii Khruangbin

RAYE

Chappell Roan — WON

Shaboozey

Teddy Swims

Producer of the Year, Non-Classical

Alissia

Dernst “D’Mile” Emile II

Ian Fitchuk

Mustard

Daniel Nigro — WON 

Songwriter of the Year, Non-Classical

Jessi Alexander

Amy Allen — WON

Edgar Barrera

Jessie Jo Dillon

RAYE

Best Pop Solo Performance

“BODYGUARD” – Beyoncé

“Espresso” – Sabrina Carpenter — WON

“Apple” – Charli xcx

“BIRDS OF A FEATHER” – Billie Eilish

“Good Luck, Babe! “– Chappell Roan

Producer of the Year, Non-Classical

Alissia

Dernst “D’Mile” Emile II

Ian Fitchuk

Mustard

Daniel Nigro — WON

Best Dance/Electronic Album

Brat – Charli xcx — WON

TIMELESS – KAYTRANADA

Telos – Zedd

Best Dance/Electronic Performance

“Witchy” – KAYTRANADA feat. Childish Gambino

Best Dance Pop Recording

“Make You Mine” – Madison Beer

“Yes, and?” – Ariana Grande

“Got Me Started” – Troye Sivan

Best Dance/Electronic Album

Brat – Charli xcx — WON

“Now & Then” – The Beatles — WON

“Beautiful People (Stay High)” – The Black Keys

“Dark Matter” – Pearl Jam

“Broken Man” – St. Vincent

Best Metal Performance

“Mea Culpa (Ah! Ça Ira!)” – Gojira, Marina Viotti & Victor Le — WON

“Crown of Horns” – Judas Priest

“Suffocate” – Knocked Loose feat. Poppy

“Screaming Suicide” – Metallica

“Cellar Door” – Spiritbox

Best Rock Song

“Beautiful People (Stay High)” – Dan Auerbach, Patrick Carney, Beck Hansen & Daniel Nakamura, songwriters (The Black Keys)

“Broken Man” – Annie Clark, songwriter (St. Vincent) — WON

“Dark Matter” – Jeff Ament, Matt Cameron, Stone Gossard, Mike McCready, Eddie Vedder & Andrew Watt, songwriters (Pearl Jam)

“Dilemma” – Billie Joe Armstrong, Tré Cool & Mike Dirnt, songwriters (Green Day)

“Gift Horse” – Jon Beavis, Mark Bowen, Adam Devonshire, Lee Kiernan & Joe Talbot, songwriters (IDLES)

Best Rock Album

Saviors – Green Day

TANGK – IDLES

Dark Matter – Pearl Jam

Hackney Diamonds – The Rolling Stones — WON

No Name – Jack White

Best Alternative Music Performance

“Neon Pill “– Cage the Elephant

“Song of the Lake” – Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds

“Starburster” – Fontaines D.C.

“Bye Bye” – Kim Gordon

“Flea” – St. Vincent — WON

Best Music Video

“Tailor Swif” – A$AP Rocky

“360” – Charli xcx

“Houdini” – Eminem

“Not Like Us” – Kendrick Lamar — WON

“Fortnight” – Taylor Swift feat. Post Malone

Best Music Film

American Symphony (Jon Batiste) — WON

June (June Carter Cash)

Kings from Queens (Run DMC)

Stevie Van Zandt: Disciple (Steven Van Zandt)

Best Song Written for Visual Media

“Ain’t No Love in Oklahoma” – Luke Combs

“Better Place” – *NSYNC & Justin Timberlake

“Can’t Catch Me Now” – Olivia Rodrigo

“It Never Went Away” – Jon Batiste — WON

“Love Will Survive” – Barbra Streisand

Best Audio Book, Narration, and Storytelling Recording

All You Need Is Love: The Beatles in Their Own Words – Various Artists; Guy Oldfield, producer

…And Your Ass Will Follow – George Clinton

Behind the Seams: My Life in Rhinestones – Dolly Parton

Last Sundays in the Plains: A Centennial Celebration – Jimmy Carter — WON

My Name Is Barbra – Barbra Streisand

Best Comedy Album

Armageddon – Ricky Gervais

Armageddon – Ricky Gervais

The Dreamer – Dave Chappelle — WON

Where Was I – Trevor Noah

Best Música Urbana Album

Nadie sabe lo que va a pasar mañana – Bad Bunny

Rayo – J Balvin

FERXXOCALIPSIS – Feid

Las Letras Ya No Importan – Residente — WON

att. – Young Miko

Curled from the Hollywood News

 

Diddy was admitted to a New York hospital last week after experiencing pain with his knee … TMZ has confirmed.

Sources with direct knowledge tell TMZ … the music mogul was taken to a Brooklyn hospital from the Metropolitan Detention Center on Thursday.

According to the NY Post, Diddy was at the hospital for a medical scan (MRI) because his “knee was bothering him.” The rapper reportedly has a history of knee issues.

Diddy’s attorney Marc Agnifilo tells TMZ … “I cannot comment on anything related to prisoner movements.  Also, I’m not commenting on anything related to possible medical issues.”

📷 Getty

Curled from TMZ

Kanye West and Bianca Censori made quite the splash on the Grammys red carpet … and while several reports claim their antics got them booted, TMZ has learned that’s not the case.

A source close to the Recording Academy tells TMZ … Kanye was an invited guest — nominated for Best Rap Song this year — and he wasn’t forcibly removed from the event.

We’re told he walked the red carpet, got in his car of his own volition and then left … police and Grammys security never got involved.

We reached out to police just to see if they ever got a call about the incident BTW … and our law enforcement sources say no one ever complained about Censori’s revealing ensemble.

In case you missed it … Kanye and Bianca stopped by Crypto.com Arena Sunday afternoon — and, BC stripped down to a completely see through shirt that left nothing to the imagination.

Worth noting … Kanye hadn’t attended the Grammys since 2015, and — with the antisemitic comments he made back in 2022 — it was shocking to see him there.

The Nigerian community in the United States is mourning the tragic loss of Dr. Ikenna Erinne, a 36-year-old cardiologist who reportedly took his own life following a bitter custody battle with his ex wife. The heartbreaking incident occurred on Sunday, January 26, leaving many questioning the pressures and legal struggles that led to his demise.

Dr Erinne, originally from Anambra State, Nigeria, had been embroidered in a prolonged and contentious divorce with his estranged wife Suzzette Chibuogu, the daughter of Nigerian businessman Francis Van-Lare. The legal battle, which included the custody of their children ended unfavorably for him when a U.S. Court ruled in favor of his ex wife, ordering him to pay $15,000 in monthly child support.

Conflicting Reports Surrounding His death:

Initial reports suggested that the court ruling placed an immense financial burden on Erinne, ultimately pushing him to despair.

Nigerian-American commentator Clayton Udo highlighted the impact of the verdict, stating that the doctor had already spent a significant amount on legal fees and had lost his medical license during the proceedings. Udo’s statement shared on social media sparked discussions on the challenges African men face in the U.S. legal system.

However, new revelations from Van-Lare paint a more complex picture. According to him, Dr, Erinne stormed his ex wife’s home on the day of his death, holding her, their children and also nanny at gun point for three hours. The situation escalated when the nanny managed to escape and alert authorities. Facing imminent arrest on multiple felony charges, including kidnapping with a deadly weapon, each carrying a potential 25-year-to-life sentence. Erinne allegedly took his own life before law ended could intervene.

Community Reactions and Funeral Plans

News of Erinne’s death has sent shockwaves through the Nigerian community both in the U.S and back home. Many who knew him described him as a brilliant and compassionate professional. His passing has reignited conversations about mental health, the pressures of divorce, and the challenges immigrant men face in family courts.

A close friend, Obim Onujiogu, confirmed the funeral arrangements, stating that a celebration of life service would be held on Monday, February 3, at Gary L. Kaufman Funeral Home in Elkridge, Maryland followed by interment at Meadowridge Memorial Park.

Erinne leaves behind his children Ugonna and Munachi, as well as his grieving parents and siblings.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced on Saturday that her government is taking decisive action in response to the tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, joining Canada in a growing trade standoff. In a post on X, Sheinbaum confirmed that she has directed her economy secretary to implement retaliatory tariffs and other measures to defend Mexico’s economic interests.

Her response adds fuel to escalating tensions between the United States and its two largest trading partners, both of whom have vowed to counteract Trump’s aggressive tariff strategy.

Mexico Pushes Back: “We Will Defend Our Interests”

In a strong rebuke of the U.S. administration, Sheinbaum questioned the rationale behind Trump’s tariffs, which were implemented under the pretext of curbing fentanyl trafficking and illegal immigration.

“If the United States government and its agencies wanted to address the serious fentanyl consumption in their country, they could fight the sale of drugs on the streets of their major cities, which they don’t do, and the laundering of money that this illegal activity generates that has done so much harm to its population,” Sheinbaum stated.

The Mexican government has emphasized its existing efforts to combat fentanyl smuggling and border security, dismissing Trump’s measures as economic coercion rather than a genuine strategy to address the crisis.

Canada Stands Firm, British Columbia Takes Action

Meanwhile, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reaffirmed his country’s readiness to respond to U.S. tariffs, stating that he would first consult with Sheinbaum before formally addressing Canadians.

“We did not want this, but Canada is prepared,” Trudeau said in his post on X.

The backlash extended beyond national governments, with British Columbia’s Premier, David Eby, announcing a boycott of American liquor brands from Republican-led states.

“Effective today, I have directed B.C. liquor sales to immediately stop buying American liquor from red states,” Eby declared in a televised address, calling the tariffs “a declaration of economic war against a trusted ally and friend.”

Liquor store employees across the province were instructed to remove popular American alcohol brands from government store shelves as a symbolic and economic countermeasure.

U.S. Officials Defend Tariffs Amid Growing Criticism

A senior U.S. administration official, speaking on condition of anonymity, admitted that the tariffs present economic risks but emphasized that the goal is to pressure Canada and Mexico into stronger enforcement against fentanyl trafficking.

Unlike previous trade policies, Trump’s executive order does not include exemptions for key industries such as homebuilding, agriculture, and auto manufacturing, potentially dealing a significant blow to businesses that rely on Canadian and Mexican imports.

However, the official acknowledged that the administration sought to avoid disruptions in the energy market, applying a reduced 10% tariff on Canadian oil rather than the full 25% rate imposed on other imports.

Economic Fallout and Political Ramifications

Economists and trade experts have raised concerns over the broader economic implications of Trump’s escalating tariff strategy. William Reinsch, a senior adviser at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, criticized the administration’s approach, arguing that tariffs on raw materials could make American manufacturers less competitive.

“Historically, most of our tariffs on raw materials have been low because we want to get cheaper materials so our manufacturers will be competitive,” Reinsch explained. “Now, what’s he talking about? He’s talking about tariffs on raw materials. I don’t get the economics of it.”

Despite warnings of rising consumer prices and potential inflation, Trump remains committed to his protectionist trade policies, drawing comparisons to the late 19th century when tariffs were a primary revenue source for the U.S. government.

“We were the richest country in the world,” Trump said Friday. “We were a tariff country.”

Political Opposition and Uncertain Future

Democrats have wasted no time in linking any future price increases to Trump’s tariffs, warning that American consumers will bear the brunt of his trade war. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer highlighted the potential cost increases in a series of posts on X.

“You’re worried about grocery prices. Don’s raising prices with his tariffs,” Schumer wrote. “You’re worried about tomato prices. Wait till Trump’s Mexico tariffs raise your tomato prices. … You’re worried about car prices. Wait till Trump’s Canada tariffs raise your car prices.”

With Canada and Mexico now fully engaged in retaliation, the trade standoff shows no signs of de-escalation. The coming weeks will test whether diplomatic negotiations can ease tensions—or whether the U.S. is headed for a prolonged economic battle with its closest allies.

Credit: AP

Washington, D.C. – In a sweeping move that could reshape global trade and impact American consumers, President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Saturday imposing steep tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China. The decision fulfills a key campaign promise but raises concerns about potential price hikes, inflationary pressures, and economic instability.

Under the new order, imports from China will be taxed at 10%, while goods from Mexico and Canada—America’s largest trading partners—will face a 25% tariff, with the exception of Canadian oil, which will be taxed at 10%. The White House has also introduced a mechanism to escalate the rates if any of the affected nations retaliate against the U.S.

A High-Stakes Economic Gamble

Trump has framed the tariffs as a way to pressure these countries to curb the flow of fentanyl into the U.S. while simultaneously bolstering domestic manufacturing and generating federal revenue. However, economic analysts warn that the tariffs could trigger inflation, disrupt global supply chains, and weaken diplomatic relations.

“You see the power of the tariff,” Trump told reporters Friday. “Nobody can compete with us because we have by far the biggest piggy bank.”

Despite the president’s confidence, financial markets reacted negatively to the announcement, with the S&P 500 stock index sliding after the news broke. Investors fear that increased trade tensions could destabilize the global economy and counteract the economic benefits of Trump’s proposed corporate tax cuts and regulatory rollbacks.

International Reactions and Retaliatory Measures

The tariffs have drawn swift responses from Canada and Mexico, both of whom rely heavily on trade with the U.S.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau warned that Canada is prepared to impose retaliatory tariffs if necessary. He also emphasized his government’s commitment to addressing border security concerns, announcing a CDN$1.3 billion (US$900 million) border plan that includes enhanced surveillance measures.

Meanwhile, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has stressed that Mexico has already taken steps to curb illegal border crossings and the illicit fentanyl trade. She indicated that her administration has multiple contingency plans in place to respond to U.S. economic actions.

“Mexico has a Plan A, Plan B, Plan C for what the United States government decides,” Sheinbaum stated.

Political and Economic Implications

Trump’s move marks a dramatic shift in U.S. trade policy and aligns with his longstanding advocacy for protectionist measures. The decision echoes policies from the late 19th century, which Trump has previously praised as a model for economic prosperity.

“We were the richest country in the world,” Trump said Friday, referring to the U.S. economy under President William McKinley, whom he has dubbed the “tariff sheriff.”

However, economists caution that large-scale tariffs could drive up prices for American businesses and consumers. While Trump’s first-term tariffs had limited impact on inflation, the scope of his new trade policies could have more profound consequences.

Recent research from Cornell University suggests that Canada and Mexico could bear the brunt of the economic fallout due to their heavy reliance on U.S. markets. The effects on China remain uncertain but could add further strain to an already tense U.S.-China economic relationship.

Congressional Response and Legislative Challenges

The tariffs have sparked immediate opposition from Democratic lawmakers, who are seeking to curb the president’s authority over trade policy. Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.) warned of dire consequences for American consumers.

“If this weekend’s tariffs go into effect, they’ll do catastrophic damage to our relationships with our allies and raise costs for working families by hundreds of dollars a year,” Coons said.

Democrats are pushing legislation to require congressional approval for future tariff impositions, though with a Republican-controlled House and Senate, such efforts face an uphill battle.

Meanwhile, Trump remains focused on advancing other aspects of his economic agenda, including tax cuts and securing an increase in the government’s legal borrowing authority. Whether the tariffs strengthen his negotiating position or backfire politically remains to be seen.

 

Credit: AP

Omaha, NE – A Nigerian national, Edwin Okoronkwo, has been sentenced to 75 months in federal prison for his role in an elaborate fraud and identity theft scheme that targeted victims across the United States. U.S. District Judge Brian C. Buescher handed down the sentence on January 29, 2025, in a federal court in Omaha, Nebraska.

According to U.S. Attorney Susan T. Lehr, Okoronkwo, 36, conspired with his wife, Julie Okoronkwo, to deceive victims through online “catfishing” scams, where they impersonated high-ranking U.S. military officials on overseas missions. The couple manipulated victims into sending money via the United States Postal Service (USPS), FedEx, and UPS.

In addition to defrauding individuals through fake online personas, the Okoronkwos engaged in identity theft, using stolen personal information to open fraudulent bank accounts and peer-to-peer payment accounts on platforms such as PayPal, Venmo, Zelle, and Cash App. The stolen funds were funneled into their own accounts and transferred to international recipients, including in Nigeria, through cryptocurrency exchanges and wire transfers.

Julie Okoronkwo, who worked at a hospital, accessed confidential patient information, including Social Security numbers and Nebraska driver’s license details, to further the scheme. She was sentenced to 25 months in prison earlier in January.

As part of his sentencing, Edwin Okoronkwo was ordered to pay $342,535 in restitution to seven victims. Following his prison term, he will serve three years of supervised release before being deported by U.S. immigration authorities.

Judge Buescher condemned the crimes as a “tragedy for the victims,” underscoring the devastating financial and emotional toll on those deceived by the scheme.

The case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service.

 

Credit: North Platte Post

In a high-stakes diplomatic standoff that nearly escalated into a trade war, President Donald Trump has paused the imposition of tariffs and sanctions on Colombia after President Gustavo Petro agreed to “unrestricted acceptance” of U.S. military flights deporting Colombian migrants, according to the White House.

The agreement, announced late Sunday, resolved a heated exchange between the two nations over Trump’s mass deportation policies. Both countries had threatened new tariffs on imports, with Trump warning of a 25% tariff on Colombian goods and Petro vowing a matching 25% tariff on U.S. goods.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that Colombia had accepted “all of President Trump’s terms,” which include accommodating the return of deportees via U.S. military aircraft. “The fully drafted IEEPA tariffs and sanctions will be held in reserve, and not signed, unless Colombia fails to honor this agreement,” Leavitt said.

A Tense Sunday of Retaliatory Measures

The diplomatic crisis began after Petro publicly criticized the Trump administration’s treatment of Colombian migrants, highlighting images of deportees in handcuffs and accusing the U.S. of dehumanizing them. Petro initially refused to allow deportation flights to land in Colombia, demanding a protocol for the “dignified treatment” of migrants.

Trump responded by announcing immediate punitive measures, including the revocation of visas for Colombian officials, a travel ban, and heightened customs inspections for Colombian nationals and goods. He also threatened to escalate the tariffs to 50% within a week if Colombia did not comply.

“These measures are just the beginning,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “We will not allow the Colombian Government to violate its legal obligations with regard to the acceptance and return of the criminals they forced into the United States!”

In a countermeasure, Petro proposed using a presidential plane to ensure the “dignified return” of Colombian migrants and instructed his trade minister to implement retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods.

Trump’s Hardline Deportation Strategy

The standoff comes as Trump aggressively pursues mass deportations of migrants in the U.S. illegally. During his first week in office, Trump declared a national emergency at the U.S.-Mexico border and deployed military personnel to support deportation efforts. Deportees have been returned to their home countries in handcuffs, a practice that has drawn widespread criticism across Latin America.

Multiple nations, including Mexico and Brazil, have pushed back against the militarized deportation approach. Mexico recently refused to accept a deportation flight for the first time in decades, and Brazil has condemned the conditions faced by deportees.

Despite the backlash, Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the administration’s policies. “President Trump has made it clear that under his administration, America will no longer be lied to nor taken advantage of,” Rubio stated. “It is the responsibility of each nation to take back their citizens who are illegally present in the United States in a serious and expeditious manner.”

Economic Implications

The U.S. imports significant quantities of crude oil, coffee, and cut flowers from Colombia, making the proposed tariffs a potential economic flashpoint. While the immediate threat of a trade war has subsided, the broader implications of Trump’s immigration and trade policies remain a point of contention.

With the agreement in place, the visa restrictions and enhanced customs inspections will remain until the first deportation flight is successfully completed.

Credit: MSN News

 

South Korea’s prosecutors have indicted President Yoon Suk Yeol on charges of leading an insurrection stemming from his controversial six-hour imposition of martial law on December 3, the main opposition Democratic Party announced on Sunday.

“The prosecution has decided to indict Yoon Suk Yeol, who is facing charges of being a ringleader of insurrection,” Democratic Party spokesman Han Min-soo stated during a press conference. “The punishment of the ringleader of insurrection now begins finally.”

The indictment, widely covered by South Korean media, marks a significant chapter in the nation’s political turmoil. The development follows a recommendation last week from anti-corruption investigators to charge Yoon, who remains in custody.

Political Crisis and Legal Battle

President Yoon, impeached by parliament on December 14, became the first sitting South Korean president to be arrested on January 15. Despite his suspension from duties, his lawyers have consistently argued against his detention, labeling it illegal and calling for his immediate release.

South Korea’s legal framework denies immunity to sitting presidents in cases of insurrection—a charge punishable by life imprisonment or the death penalty. However, the country has not carried out an execution in decades.

Yoon’s impeachment and indictment stem from his decision to declare martial law in an attempt to address a political deadlock. He rescinded the decree after six hours, following dramatic scenes in parliament where opposition lawmakers confronted soldiers equipped with rifles, body armor, and night-vision equipment.

Dual Legal Challenges

While under criminal investigation, Yoon also faces a Constitutional Court trial to determine whether he will be permanently removed from office or reinstated. The court has up to 180 days to deliver its verdict.

During a hearing in his impeachment trial last week, Yoon’s legal team argued that the martial law declaration was intended as a warning rather than an action to fully implement military control.

(Source: MSN News)

In a candid interview with The Times of London, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has described his divorce from Melinda Gates as the most significant regret of his life.

“The unravelling of my marriage is the mistake I most regret,” Gates, 69, admitted in the interview published Saturday. “There are others, but none that matter,” he said, reflecting on the emotional toll of the split.

Gates and Melinda, who were married for 27 years, announced their divorce in May 2021, though they had been separated for a year before the public revelation. Despite the difficulties, the pair have maintained a cordial relationship, with Gates confirming that they still see each other at family events, thanks to their shared parenting of three children—Jennifer, 28; Rory, 25; and Phoebe, 22—and two grandchildren.

“The divorce thing was miserable for me and Melinda for at least two years,” Gates shared, though he also noted that he is “more cheerful now.”

Reflections on Marriage and Divorce

During the interview, Gates acknowledged the grounding role their marriage played during the growth of Microsoft. “The marriage kept me grounded,” he said, as he reflected on building his trillion-dollar company alongside Melinda.

Melinda, 60, has also spoken publicly about the challenges and clarity that came with their separation, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. “It gave us the privacy to do what needed to be done in private,” she said during a June 2024 interview.

While Melinda has called the split a “healthier choice,” she described it as the “lowest moment” in her life. Gates, on the other hand, admitted to causing pain in their relationship. In a 2022 interview with Savannah Guthrie, he acknowledged his responsibility for mistakes, including an affair with a Microsoft employee.

“I certainly made mistakes, and I take responsibility,” he said at the time, adding that discussing the specifics further would not be constructive.

Complicated Factors and New Beginnings

Melinda also revealed that Gates’ ties to convicted pedophile Jeffrey Epstein contributed to their marital strain. “I did not like that he had meetings with Jeffrey Epstein, no. I made that clear to him,” she said in a 2022 interview with Gayle King, calling Epstein “evil personified.” Gates has since described his association with Epstein, who died by suicide in jail in 2019, as a “mistake.”

Both Gates and Melinda have since moved on romantically. Melinda confirmed her relationship with entrepreneur Philip Vaughn in October 2024, while Gates has been dating Paula Hurd, the widow of Oracle CEO Mark Hurd, since 2023.

Despite the personal and public challenges, the former couple appears to have prioritized their shared family values. “The kids are doing well. They have good values,” Gates said, emphasizing their commitment to co-parenting even after their separation.

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Credit: Page Six

Pete Hegseth has officially been confirmed as the United States secretary of defense following a narrow 51-50 Senate vote, with Vice President JD Vance casting the tie-breaking vote. The confirmation, which took place just days after President Donald Trump’s second inauguration, has sparked heated debate due to allegations of misconduct and questions regarding Hegseth’s qualifications for the role.

The Senate Armed Services Committee advanced Hegseth’s nomination along strict party lines earlier this week. Hegseth, a former Fox News host and combat veteran, is set to lead the Department of Defense despite his lack of extensive experience managing an organization of its size and complexity. Promising to “shake up” the Pentagon, Hegseth has positioned himself as an advocate for eliminating what he terms “woke” policies, aligning with President Trump’s vision for the military.

However, his confirmation has not been without significant controversy. Hegseth has faced accusations of sexual misconduct, financial mismanagement, and excessive drinking, all of which he has categorically denied, describing them as part of a “coordinated smear campaign.” Additionally, remarks he made in the past about women in combat roles and criticism of the military’s diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts have drawn sharp criticism from Democrats and some military veterans.

A key point of contention emerged just days before the confirmation vote when NBC News revealed an unredacted affidavit from Hegseth’s former sister-in-law. The document contained allegations that had not been disclosed during his FBI background check, raising concerns about the thoroughness of his vetting process. Hegseth dismissed the allegations, and his ex-wife later stated there was “no physical abuse” during their marriage.

Despite these challenges, Hegseth managed to secure enough Republican support to clinch the confirmation. During his Jan. 14 confirmation hearing, Democrats grilled him on his past remarks and actions, while Republican senators largely offered their backing.

Hegseth now faces the task of leading the Pentagon at a critical time, with global tensions rising and significant internal reforms on the agenda. His tenure is expected to be closely scrutinized given the contentious nature of his confirmation process and the controversies that have followed him to this point.

Credit: MSNBC

Photo Credit: Getty Images

Jay-Z continues to innovate and redefine the music industry with a new partnership between Roc Nation and South Korean fintech company Musicow. Together, they are introducing the first-ever Music Equity Service Provider in the United States, offering fans the opportunity to own a share of their favorite songs and earn revenue generated from sales.

This groundbreaking initiative will allow artists to fractionalize their royalty revenue, selling shares of their tracks to individual investors. It’s a move designed to empower both creators and fans, fostering a more inclusive music ecosystem.

“The music industry is evolving into a shared ecosystem where fans and creators can earn together,” said Roc Nation Vice Chairman Jay Brown in an interview with Billboard. “Our mission is not only to support and empower artists by providing the tools and services they need to build a better music ecosystem but also to give everyone access to the financial opportunities the music industry offers.”

Musicow CEO Woo Rhee echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the transformative potential of this collaboration. “[This partnership is an] incredible opportunity to drive innovation and redefine the future of our industry. I’m confident that together, we have the vision, expertise, and enthusiasm to create transformative progress and unlock limitless potential,” he said.

The Musicow platform is expected to launch in Q1 2025, although an exact date has yet to be announced. Early adopters who express interest in the service may receive a $10 credit toward their Musicow wallet, providing an incentive to join this new wave of music investment.

This partnership is the latest in Roc Nation’s efforts to revolutionize the music industry. In August 2024, the company announced that independent artists partnering with Roc Nation Distribution would retain ownership of their masters while gaining access to tools, analytics, and expertise to thrive in the digital music era.

 

Credit: Afrotech

In a bold legislative move, Congressman Andy Ogles has introduced a House Joint Resolution aimed at amending the U.S. Constitution to permit a President to serve up to three terms. This proposal seeks to revise the limitations imposed by the 22nd Amendment, which currently restricts a President to two terms.

The proposed amendment reads:
“No person shall be elected to the office of the President more than three times, nor be elected to any additional term after being elected to two consecutive terms, and no person who has held the office of President, or acted as President, for more than two years of a term to which some other person was elected President shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice.”

In his statement, Congressman Ogles emphasized his support for former President Donald Trump, citing his leadership as pivotal in reversing what he described as “our nation’s decay.”

“President Trump’s decisive leadership stands in stark contrast to the chaos, suffering, and economic decline Americans have endured over the past four years. He has proven himself to be the only figure in modern history capable of restoring America to greatness. This amendment would allow President Trump to serve three terms, ensuring we can sustain the bold leadership our nation so desperately needs,” Ogles said.

The resolution is expected to spark intense debate as it challenges a cornerstone of modern American democracy.

#PoliticalNews #ConstitutionalAmendment #Congress #PresidentialTerms #AndyOgles

In a poignant moment at the Washington National Cathedral on Tuesday, the Right Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, directly addressed President Donald Trump during a Service of Prayer for the Nation. She urged him to show mercy and compassion toward marginalized groups, including LGBT individuals and undocumented immigrants.

President Trump, seated in the front row alongside First Lady Melania Trump, Vice President J.D. Vance, and Second Lady Usha Vance, listened as Budde appealed for understanding and humanity in his policies.

A Call for Mercy

“In the Name of our God, I ask you to have mercy upon the people in our country who are scared now,” Budde said in her sermon. “There are gay, lesbian, and transgender children in Democratic, Republican, and independent families. Some who fear for their lives.”

Highlighting the plight of undocumented immigrants, Budde continued, “The people who pick our crops, clean our office buildings, labor in poultry farms and meat-packing plants, and wash the dishes after we eat in restaurants may not have the proper documentation, but the vast majority of immigrants are not criminals.”

She also spoke of families torn apart by immigration enforcement and urged Trump to extend compassion to those fleeing war and persecution, referencing the biblical command to “be merciful to the stranger.”

A Message of Unity Amid Division

Budde’s sermon focused on unity and the need for civil discourse, lamenting what she described as a “culture of contempt” in political debates. She expressed concern about the erosion of equality and called on leaders to honor the dignity of every individual.

“May God grant us the strength and courage to honor the dignity of every human being, to speak the truth to one another in love, and walk humbly with each other and our God,” she concluded.

A History of Criticism

Budde has been a vocal critic of Trump in the past. In 2020, she condemned his use of St. John’s Episcopal Church for a photo opportunity after protesters set fire to part of the church. At the time, Budde stated, “The President just used a Bible and one of the churches of my diocese as a backdrop for a message antithetical to the teachings of Jesus.”

Interfaith Service for a Divided Nation

Tuesday’s service, a longstanding tradition held the day after the presidential inauguration since 1933, included prayers and readings from various faiths. Alongside Christian liturgy, the event featured a Jewish cantor, a Muslim call to prayer, and readings by representatives of other religions.

Clergy offered prayers for the nation’s leaders, armed forces, first responders, and the Supreme Court justices. Budde’s sermon drew on Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, emphasizing reconciliation and compassion as guiding principles for the nation’s leadership.

The National Cathedral has a history of hosting events aimed at fostering unity. Last year, it held an Election Day prayer vigil to promote hope amid political division.

“The breach in our public life requires us to take on the work of reconciliation,” said the Very Rev. Randolph Marshall Hollerith, dean of the cathedral, last year. “Jesus’ command is very clear: ‘Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you.’ That is a tall order.”

 

Source: The Christian Post

The Trump administration announced sweeping changes on Tuesday aimed at dismantling affirmative action and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs across federal agencies and contractors. In a bold move, all federal DEI staff were directed to be placed on paid leave and will face eventual layoffs as part of the administration’s strategy to implement a merit-based hiring system.

This shift follows President Donald Trump’s executive order, signed on his first day in office, to reverse decades of federal policies designed to promote diversity and inclusion. The order repeals a landmark directive by President Lyndon B. Johnson that established affirmative action in federal contracting. It also terminates DEI programs supported by federal contractors and grant recipients, effectively dismantling one of the primary mechanisms the Biden administration used to advance diversity initiatives in the private sector.

Immediate Directives

The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) issued a memo on Tuesday mandating federal agencies to:

• Place DEI staff on paid leave by 5 p.m. Wednesday.
• Remove all public DEI-focused webpages by the same deadline.
• Cancel any DEI-related training and contracts.
• Report any renamed DEI programs within 10 days or face penalties.

By Thursday, agencies must compile a comprehensive list of DEI offices and personnel as of Election Day. By next Friday, plans must be in place to initiate layoffs for DEI staff through a “reduction-in-force action.”

Erasing Biden-Era DEI Policies

The executive order accuses the Biden administration of embedding “discrimination” programs into federal operations through DEI initiatives. During his tenure, President Joe Biden mandated federal agencies to develop diversity plans, issue progress reports, and track hiring and promotion trends through a government-wide dashboard. These efforts aimed to address demographic disparities in the federal workforce, where senior leadership remains predominantly white and male.

Trump’s new directive eliminates such plans, terminates DEI-related roles, and bans initiatives like anti-bias training and diversity performance goals.

Broader Implications

The Trump administration’s agenda targets DEI-related federal grants and benefits, a move that could impact billions of dollars in funding. Conservative activists argue such programs unfairly benefit racial minorities and women, while critics warn that undoing these initiatives could erode support for historically underserved communities.

Dan Lennington, deputy counsel for the conservative Wisconsin Institute for Law & Liberty, described the order as a “seismic shift” that will reshape the federal government’s focus. However, experts caution that some entrenched programs, such as state-implemented diversity criteria in block grants, may be challenging to unwind.

Corporate and State-Level Impacts

Trump’s anti-DEI stance is expected to reverberate beyond the federal government. Several corporations, including Walmart and Facebook, have already scaled back diversity initiatives following Trump’s election and growing conservative pressure.

Challenges to Implementation

Despite the executive order’s sweeping language, legal and bureaucratic hurdles could delay implementation. Experts note that undoing regulations, such as Biden’s ban on salary history inquiries during federal hiring, would require a lengthy rule-making process.

Noreen Farrell, executive director of Equal Rights Advocates, expressed concern about the potential impact of Trump’s policies but emphasized the complexity of executing such structural changes.

“Federal agencies have deeply embedded policies and procedures that can’t simply be switched off overnight,” Farrell said.

Conclusion

President Trump’s latest executive order marks an aggressive shift in federal policy, prioritizing merit-based systems over initiatives aimed at fostering diversity and inclusion. While proponents praise the move as a step toward equality, critics argue it risks reversing decades of progress for marginalized communities.

The full extent of these changes will unfold in the months to come as federal agencies grapple with the directive’s far-reaching implications.

Source: AP