We Christians Live in Fear in Syria

The Armenian St. Kevork in Aleppo was burnt during fighting
between rebel fighters and Syrian government forces

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH: Our faith is under mortal threat, in danger of being driven into extinction, the same pattern we have seen in neighbouring Iraq

Today, the first Sunday of Lent, will see churches crowded across the globe. But here in Syria, where St Paul found his faith, many churches stand empty, targets for bombardment and desecration. Aleppo, where I have been bishop for 25 years, is devastated. We have become accustomed to the daily dose of death and destruction, but living in such uncertainty and fear exhausts the body and the mind.

We hear the thunder of bombs and the rattle of gunfire, but we don’t always know what is happening. It’s hard to describe how chaotic, terrifying and psychologically difficult it is when you have no idea what will happen next, or where the next rocket will fall. Many Christians cope with the tension by being fatalistic: that whatever happens is God’s will.

Until the war began, Syria was one of the last remaining strongholds for Christianity in the Middle East. We have 45 churches in Aleppo. But now our faith is under mortal threat, in danger of being driven into extinction, the same pattern we have seen in neighbouring Iraq.

Most Christians who could afford to leave Aleppo have already fled for Lebanon, so as to find schools for their children. Those who remain are mostly from poor families. Many can no longer put food on the table. Last year, even amid intense fighting, you could see people in the streets running around endlessly trying to find bread in one of the shops. Read on and comment » | Antoine Audo * | Saturday, March 08, 2014

* Bishop Antoine Audo SJ is the Chaldean Bishop of Aleppo and president of Caritas Syria

My comment:

May God bless you, Bishop, for your sterling work; and may God bless the Christians of Syria.

I wish that our politicians would show the courage to do something meaningful to help you, instead of supplying arms to the rebels.

The Christians of the Middle East have been ignored for far, far too long. The de-Christianization of the ME is one of the tragedies of modern times. After all, the Middle East is the birthplace of Christianity. A ME without Christians would be a very sad ME indeed. – © Mark

This comment appears here too.

Chris Wallace Discusses Phone Call Between Obama, Putin

Mar. 07, 2014 - 4:31 - Ukraine on the verge of a 'historic change'

Too Much? German Schools Plan to Teach 'Sexual Diversity', Parents Outraged

In Southern Germany, an initiative to teach schoolchildren tolerance toward sexual minorities has provoked an outcry from some parents. Some conservative families only want their kids taught traditional values and say its all too much too soon.

Surgery vs. 'Watchful Waiting': Study Fuels Cancer Debate

Mar. 07, 2014 - 3:10 - Dr. David Samadi weighs in

WIKI: Dr. David Samadi »

Garry Kasparov: Putin Will Go 'As Far As He's Allowed To Go'

Mar. 06, 2014 - 4:24 - Former world chess champion, political activist weighs in on crisis in Ukraine

How Do You Deal with a Power-hungry Bully Like Vladimir Putin?

listen to ‘How do you deal with a power-hungry bully like Vladimir Putin?’ on Audioboo

Muslim Censors Move to Ban 'Noah'

Mar. 07, 2014 - 2:04 - Egypt's top Islamic body angered by biblical film's portrayal of the prophet

YNET NEWS: Hollywood blockbuster 'Noah' faces ban in Arab world: Censors in Qatar, Bahrain and the UAE banned film as Islam objects to depictions of holy figures in art. Similar bans expected in Egypt, Jordan and Kuwait.‬‬ » | Reuters | Saturday, March 08, 2014

As Ukraine Crisis Escalates, Obama and Biden Go on Vacation?

Mar. 07, 2014 - 3:34 - As tension between Russia and the Ukraine mounts, Pres. Obama will be in Florida while the vice president vacations in the U.S. Virgin Islands. What kind of message does this send to the rest of the world?

Putin Attempting to Re-establish Russian Strength?

Mar. 07, 2014 - 2:31 - Russia is guaranteeing access to warm water ports

Kerry Tries to Get Russia to 'Play Nice'

Mar. 05, 2014 - 2:34 - James Rosen reports

Max Keiser: Whenever I See David Cameron I See a Pole Dancer

Les Russes bombardés par la propagande du régime

LE FIGARO: L'ensemble de la société est absorbée dans un élan patriotique entretenu par les chaînes de télévision publiques qui relayent une vision unilatérale du conflit russo-ukrainien.

«La vérité est de notre côté»: c'est un cri du cœur qu'a lancé Dmitri Kissilev, le présentateur vedette de la chaîne Rossia 24, dimanche dernier, au plus fort de la crise ukrainienne. La sentence de l'homme qui passe pour l'un des chefs d'orchestre de l'appareil de propagande pro-russe, était formulée juste après la diffusion d'un sondage constatant la forte hausse de la cote de popularité de Vladimir Poutine et celui d'un commentaire hostile au pouvoir «sauvage» installé à Kiev, avec «l'aide des Américains». Quelques jours plus tôt, cette chaîne d'information continue s'était illustrée en interrompant brutalement, en direct, un député de Crimée expliquant que les tensions dans la péninsule étaient provoquées par les autorités locales.

Cette vision unilatérale du conflit russo-ukrainien est la seule accessible à l'immense majorité de la population, quotidiennement abreuvée par les chaînes de télévision publiques. Le quotidien gouvernemental Rossiskaya Gazeta n'est pas en reste. Celui-ci a accusé des activistes pro-Maïdan d'avoir piraté son site, inaccessible vendredi matin. Dans ces médias qui relayent les mots d'ordre du Kremlin, les troupes russes présentes en Crimée sont transformées en «groupes locaux d'autodéfense». » | Par Pierre Avril | vendredi 07 mars 2014

Krise in der Ukraine: Steinmeier sendet klare Worte nach Moskau und Kiew

Mit Blick auf die Krise auf der Krim zeigt sich Frank-Walter Steinmeier besorgt. Am Rande einer Sondersitzung der EU-Außenminister sendet er deutliche Botschaften nach Russland und in die Ukraine.

Lage zwischen Russland und Westen bleibt angespannt

In der Ukraine bleibt die Lage kritisch. Währenddessen ist eine politische Lösung des Konflikts nicht in Sicht. 30.000 Soldaten hat Russland auf der Krim stationiert.

German President Apologizes for Nazi-era Massacre

YNET NEWS: During a diplomatic trip to Greece, President Joachim Gauck visited site of 1943 atrocity to pay respect, ask the families for forgiveness.

A visibly emotional German president laid a wreath Friday at a monument in northwestern Greece to villagers massacred by German soldiers during World War II, at the end of a three-day visit that combined political talks with efforts to bring closure to wounds from the German wartime occupation of Greece.

Joachim Gauck expressed "shame" at the 1943 atrocity at Ligiades, where Nazi troops executed dozens of villagers, including months-old babies, in reprisal for a partisan attack: "With shame and pain I ask the families of those murdered for forgiveness in Germany's name."

The German president emphased: "I pay my respects to the victims of the monstrous crimes mourned here and in many places across Greece." » | Associated Press | Friday, March 07, 2014

Pentagon Confronting Putin with 'Second Best' Units?

Mar. 07, 2014 - 3:26 - Fox News military analyst retired Maj. Gen. Bob Scales weighs in

Netanyahu on Ukraine Situation, Seized Iranian Arms Shipment

Mar. 05, 2014 - 3:01 - Israeli prime minister speaks out

Diplomacy Falters as Putin Rebuffs Obama on Ukraine

Mar. 07, 2014 - 3:37 - Russian leader brushes aside U.S. warnings

Austria Becomes Part of Germany: The Anschluss 1938

Nick Clegg: 'Nigel Farage Wants to Turn the Clock Back'

Nick Clegg wants to be seen as the Stop Farage candidate in
the European elections.

THE GUARDIAN: In an interview the Liberal Democrat leader spells out plans to tackle Ukip by stressing benefits of EU membership

In perhaps the most cited speech of any Liberal leader, Jo Grimond closed the Liberal assembly in 1963, ahead of the 1964 election, with the promise: "I intend to march my troops to the sound of gunfire."

Nick Clegg, as he faces the European elections in May, has set his party on the same course. Faced with ever growing hostility to the EU, and to immigration, Clegg has decided to present the Liberal Democrats unambiguously as the party of "in" and of openness. He wants to be seen in these elections as the Stop Farage candidate and to make the debate about the very character of Britain. The planned TV debate with the Ukip leader will give him a chance not just to stand up to Farage, but to stand up for a Britain that does not want to hide.

There is an element of calculation in this. In a crowded field the Liberal Democrats risk being ignored and dumped into fourth place with Ukip replacing the Lib Dems as the amorphous party of protest. The Lib Dems may well be the party of in, but also come polling day the party of out, with all 12 of its MEPs expelled from the European parliament. It's not an outcome that Clegg discounts, saying simply if he is to lose any of his MEPs the thing he would hate most is losing them without a fight. » | Patrick Wintour, political editor | Friday, March 07, 2014

Merkel Backs Call for EU School Lessons to Counter 'Growing Euro-scepticism'

German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Irish Prime
Minister Enda Kenny

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH: The German Chancellor wants "EU education in schools across Europe to prepare the next generation and to nurture a European approach"

School students should be given a "European Union education" in the classroom to tackle "ignorance" and growing public Euro-scepticism, according to an election manifesto signed by Angela Merkel and eight other of Europe's leaders.

The European People’s Party (EPP), the EU’s biggest political grouping, is convinced such a programme would improve the public image of Brussels, which has never been lower.

Its manifesto for May’s European elections calls for the introduction of “EU education in schools across Europe in order to prepare the next generation for future challenges and to nurture a European approach”.

“Europe has been in crisis for more than five years. Many people, especially the young, do not foresee a positive future. Euroscepticism is growing,” the manifesto said.

“United, we can make sure that young people look at the future with optimism, hope and confidence.” » | Bruno Waterfield, Brussels | Friday, March 07, 2014

Putin Mocks the West and Threatens to Turn Off Gas Supplies

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH: Russian leader says does not want 'new cold war' but threatens to disrupt European gas supplies

Vladimir Putin has mocked diplomatic efforts to end the Ukraine crisis as Russia threatened to disrupt European gas supplies by cutting off sales to Kiev over its unpaid debts.

The Russian president said through his official spokesman that, despite deep disagreements with the West, he did not want a confrontation over Ukraine to spiral into a “new cold war”.

Nevertheless Dmitry Peskov ridiculed Western demands for direct talks between the Kremlin and the new Kiev government, claiming that the loss of credibility involved “puts a smile on our face”.

The remarks were broadcast during the opening ceremony of the Paralympic Winter Games in Sochi, where the Ukrainian athlete carrying her national flag was given a loud cheer.

Earlier, Gazprom, Russia’s state-owned energy giant, said it would start to reduce deliveries to Kiev, a move that would disrupt supplies to Europe. Gazprom said Ukraine had failed to make payments on its £1.2 billion debts. » | Damien McElroy, Donetsk | Friday, March 07, 2014

Muslim Brotherhood Is a Terrorist Group, Says Saudi Arabia

Pro-Morsi protestor flashes the four-finger sign for the Muslim
Brotherhood TV channel, Rabaa, during a rally in Istanbul.

THE GUARDIAN: Statement on Saudi TV also lists Nusra Front and the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (Isis) as terrorist organisations

Saudi Arabia has formally designated the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist group in an official report on Saudi television.

Citing a statement by the interior ministry, the report added that the Nusra Front and the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (Isis) – whose fighters are battling the Syrian president, Bashar al-Assad – were also classed as terror organisations.

The move on Friday appeared to enforce last month's royal decree in which Riyadh said it would jail any citizen guilty of fighting in conflicts overseas for up to 20 years. The authorities want to deter Saudis from joining rebels in Syria, fearing they could pose a security risk when they return. » | Reuters in Riyadh | Friday, March 07, 2014

Afghanistan Still One of the Worst Places to Be a Woman, Says EU Ambassador

THE GUARDIAN: Franz-Michael Mellbin criticises prosecution of 'moral crimes' and says Hamid Karzai's government has failed Afghan women

President Hamid Karzai's government has let down Afghan women, according to the new EU ambassador to Kabul, who singled out the failure to end prosecution of rape victims and other abused women for "moral crimes" as a particular "disgrace".

Franz-Michael Mellbin said that despite huge practical improvements in areas from maternal mortality to the number of girls in schools, Afghanistan was still one of the worst places to be a woman and a frontline in the global battle for women's rights.

Mellbin, who previously served in Afghanistan as the Danish envoy, declined to criticise Karzai directly but said the government overall had failed in its responsibilities to be a voice for women's rights, as conservatives opposed to women having any role outside the home gathered strength. » | Emma Graham-Harrison in Kabul | Friday, March 07, 2014

Hannity: Why I Said I'm Humiliated for My Country

Mar. 07, 2014 - 2:16 - Sean Hannity explains the controversial comment he made on his radio show

Worlds Apart: 'US Economic Leverage Against Russia Limited': Dr Angela Stent

Russian - U.S. relations have always been a fragile mix of rivalry and pragmatism. And as the Ukraine crisis highlighted, bursts of cooperation achieved by 'resetting' the relations, are easily undone. Can the two powers find common ground on Ukraine or will their relationship continue to 'overload'? Oksana is joined by Dr Angela Stent, the Director of the Center for Eurasian, Russian and East European Studies, to unravel these issues.

Wie Hitler Österreich "eroberte" !

Dokumentarfilm über die Zusammenhänge des Anschlusses Österreich´s an Deutschland.

Das deutsche Wien – Der Anschluß – März 1938

The happy population of Vienna welcoming the liberator forces of the German Wehrmacht!

The Anschluss – Austria's Hour of Shame

Doku: Hitlers Österreich: Der Anscluß

Als Anschluss Österreichs oder kurz „Anschluss" wird der Einmarsch deutscher Wehrmachts-, SS- und Polizeieinheiten in Österreich am 12. März 1938 und die darauffolgende De-facto-Annexion Österreichs durch das nationalsozialistische Deutsche Reich bezeichnet.

Durch das am 13. März 1938 von der österreichischen Bundesregierung -- ohne Parlament -- verabschiedete Gesetz über die Wiedervereinigung Österreichs mit dem Deutschen Reich wurde die Diktatur des Ständestaates bzw. des Austrofaschismus (seit 1934) vom nationalsozialistischen Regime unter Adolf Hitler abgelöst.

Mit diesem Tag endete die staatliche Existenz Österreichs. Die Zeit der NS-Herrschaft in Österreich sollte fast bis zum Ende des Zweiten Weltkrieges im Mai 1945 dauern.

America in Decline

Mar. 06, 2014 - 4:05 - Talking Points 3/6

Hillary Clinton Compares Putin to Hitler

Mar. 06, 2014 - 5:22 - Charles Lanes on Hillary Clinton's controversial comments

Krim will zu Russland: Russland wird die Krim willkommen heissen

Das russische Parlament will das Ergebnis der geplanten Volksabstimmung über die Zukunft der ukrainischen Halbinsel Krim anerkennen. Es nimmt dabei einen pro-russischen Entscheid vorweg. Russland und die Führung auf der Krim bereiten die Abstimmung vor.

Das Zögern in «Londongrad»

TAGES ANZEIGER: Der britische Premier David Cameron droht Russland mit Sanktionen. Er fürchtet aber Konsequenzen für den Finanzplatz London. Dieser ist bei russischen Oligarchen beliebt.

In ihrer Wortwahl sind die Briten nicht sehr weit entfernt von Washington. «Völlig unakzeptabel» nennt Premierminister David Cameron die russische Übernahme der Krim. «Erhebliche Konsequenzen» hat Londons Regierungschef dem russischen Präsidenten Wladimir Putin verheissen. Eine starke gemeinsame Front gegen Moskau sei vonnöten, befindet Cameron. Sanktionsmässig dürfe «nichts ausgeschlossen» werden in der EU.

Zugleich zögert man in London aber entschieden, solche Worte in Taten umzusetzen. Das hat nicht zuletzt finanzielle Gründe. Die Briten fürchten, dass etwa Visa-Restriktionen für russische Geschäftsleute oder das Einfrieren russischen Kapitals in Grossbritannien nachteilige Folgen fürs Vereinigte Königreich haben könnten. Immerhin fliessen im Jahr über elf Milliarden Dollar an russischem Investment auf die Britischen Inseln. » | Tagesanzeiger.ch/Newsnet | Freitag, 07. März 2014

Moscou respectera le "choix historique" de la Crimée au référendum

LE POINT: La Crimée doit proposer par référendum aux électeurs un rattachement de la péninsule ukrainienne à la Russie.

Le Parlement russe respectera le "choix historique" de la Crimée au référendum qui proposera aux électeurs un rattachement de la péninsule ukrainienne à la Russie, a déclaré vendredi le président de la Douma (chambre basse). "Nous respecterons le choix historique de la population de Crimée", a déclaré Sergueï Narychkine, cité par les agences russes, laissant entendre que les parlementaires russes voteraient en faveur du rattachement de la Crimée à la Russie. "Nous soutiendrons le choix libre et démocratique de la population de Crimée", a-t-il ajouté. Il s'exprimait lors d'une rencontre à Moscou avec une délégation du Parlement local de Crimée.

Dominé par des pro-russes, le Parlement local de Crimée a demandé jeudi à Vladimir Poutine le rattachement de la péninsule ukrainienne à la Russie et a annoncé l'organisation d'un référendum le 16 mars pour le valider. Les électeurs auront le choix entre un rattachement à la Russie ou une autonomie nettement renforcée. » | Le Point.fr | vendredi 07 mars 2014

US and EU Impose Sanctions and Warn Russia to Relent in Ukraine Standoff

THE GUARDIAN: • Pair issue grave warning to Moscow to pull back from Crimea
• Crimean parliament votes to secede from Ukraine
• Obama tells Putin: sanctions for ‘violation of sovereignty’

Barack Obama and his EU allies unveiled a co-ordinated set of sanctions on Thursday to punish Russia for occupying the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea, imposing visa restrictions on individuals and sharpening rhetoric in what has rapidly degenerated into the worst east-west crisis since the end of the cold war.

President Obama spoke for an hour on Thursday afternoon with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin. According the White House, the US president told Putin that newly-announced sanctions, introduced in co-ordination with the UK, were a response to Russia’s “violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity”.

“President Obama indicated that there is a way to resolve the situation diplomatically, which addresses the interests of Russia, the people of Ukraine, and the international community.” the White House said in a statement to reporters. » | Dan Roberts in Washington and Ian Traynor in Brussels | Thursday, March 06, 2014

Ukraine Crisis: Crimean MPs' Vote to Join Russian Federation Sparks Outrage

THE GUARDIAN: Simferopol parliament votes for Crimea to leave Ukraine, as poll that could confirm split is brought forward

Authorities in Crimea voted on Thursday to accelerate secession from Ukraine, unanimously backing a law that declared the territory to be part of the Russian Federation.

In a move that drew howls of outrage from the new leadership in Kiev, MPs voted by 78 votes to nil for the territory to leave Ukraine, further escalating what has become the most serious crisis in Russian relations with the west since the cold war.

At the same time, a referendum on more autonomy for the region due on 30 March was brought forward to 16 March, and the question was changed to give residents the option to unify the Black Sea peninsula with Russia.

Crimea's deputy prime minister, Rustam Temirgaliev, said the referendum was now only to "confirm" parliament's decision, and he considered Crimea to be part of Russia already. He said that all Ukrainian troops on the territory should either leave or be treated as occupiers. Crimea is planning to introduce the rouble and readopt Russian state symbols. » | Shaun Walker in Simferopol | Thursday, March 06, 2014

New Dark Age Alert! Sultan of Brunei Hits Back at Foreign Criticism of Looming Implementation of Sharia Law That Will Introduce Amputations and Stonings as Punishments

MAIL ONLINE: Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah said all races should unite under Sharia law / He said introduction is 'a great achievement and not a backward step' / Harsh penalties include stoning for adultery and amputation fro [sic] theft / Punishments can be applied to non-Muslim residents of Brunei

The sultan of Brunei has rejected foreign criticism of the countries impending introduction of a form of strict Islamic Sharia law, saying it is not a backwards step.

Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah said all races should unite under Sharia law and that the new penal code was a 'great achievement' for the small Southeast Asian nation.

Starting in April, Brunei will begin implementing a version of Sharia that allows for penalties such as amputation for theft and stoning for adultery.

Under limited circumstances, punishments can be applied to non-Muslim residents of the oil-rich country, according to those who have seen the law.

Public criticism of the government is extremely rare in the country, but some citizens have turned to the Internet to express alarm at the law.

Around one-third of Brunei's 440,000 people are non-Muslims, mostly Christian or Buddhist Chinese.

Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah told legislators Thursday that all races should unite and support the laws, which he said were a 'great achievement for the country, and not a backward or old-fashioned step.' » | Daily Mail Reporter | Wednesday, March 06, 2014

Geert Wilders Backs New Anti-Islam Party, the Australian Liberty Alliance

THE GUARDIAN: The far-right politician sends pre-recorded message to a conference being held in Melbourne on Friday that will feature two speakers barred entry into Britain


Far-right Dutch politician Geert Wilders will welcome a new anti-Islam political party, the Australian Liberty Alliance, in a pre-recorded message to a conference on “Islam and liberty” starting in Melbourne on Friday.

The conference, organised by the “Islam-critical” Q Society, will start on Friday morning at a secret location, and will feature two speakers who were last year barred entry into Britain.

“It’s a bringing together of many people who are concerned about the march of Islam into many western democracies, and how it changes the laws and values of western democracies,” Q Society’s spokesman, Andrew Horwood, said.

“You get segregation when you get Muslims coming in, because their core belief is that Muslims are better people than non-Muslims,” he said. “We’re keen to have integrated societies, but we think it’s important to have integration, not segregation.”

The Q Society sparked protests last year when it sponsored a speaking tour by Wilders. The firebrand MP warned audiences that Islam was “a force of darkness” that had made European cities such as Rotterdam and Paris look like “suburbs of Cairo”. The tour was hampered by 30 venue cancellations and a refusal by some banks to provide financial services. Horwood said this year’s event has not seen any cancellations or boycotts so far. » | Michael Safi | Thursday, March 06, 2014

PERTH NOW: ‘No place’ for Dutch extremist Geert Wilders in Australian politics : THERE’S one thing Warren Truss and Bill Shorten agree on: There is no place in Australian politics for extremism. » | AAP | Wednesday, March 05, 2014

THE AUSTRALIAN: Anti-Islam party to contest next election: AN anti-Islam party based on the hardline views of Dutch politician Geert Wilders plans to field candidates at the next federal election, raising fears among moderate Muslims of a rise in extremism. » | Chip Le Grand | Wednesday, March 05, 2014

Russia Hits Back at US ‘Barefaced Cynicism and Double Standards’ over Ukraine

RUSSIA TODAY: The Russian Foreign Ministry has accused the US State Department of double standards and low-level propaganda after it published a list of President Vladimir Putin’s “false claims” about the events in Ukraine.

“The State Department is trying to play on a shamelessly one-sided interpretation of the events,” ministry spokesperson Aleksandr Lukashevich said on Thursday. “Surely, Washington cannot admit that they were nurturing Maidan [protests], encouraging the violent overthrow of the legitimate government, and thus clearing the way for those who are now pretending to be a legitimate power in Kiev.”

On Wednesday, one day after the Russian president's media conference on the events in Ukraine, the US State Department accused him of lying and published a “fact sheet” of Putin's 10 “false claims” surrounding the crisis.

Moscow said that it will not respond to such “low-level propaganda.”

“We will only say, yet again, that we are dealing with unacceptable arrogance and a pretense of having a monopoly on the truth,” Lukashevich said in a statement posted on the Foreign Ministry’s website.

The United States has “no moral right” to lecture about observing international laws and respecting the sovereignty of other states, the diplomat added.

“What about the bombing of former Yugoslavia or the invasion of Iraq over a fabricated cause?” Lukashevich pointed out. » | Thursday, March 06, 2014

Why CNN Dumped Piers Morgan

Mar. 02, 2014 - 5:08 - Did gun control crusade cost host?

The Queen's 'Hidden-away' Cousin Katharine Bowes-Lyon Dies at 87

DAILY EXPRESS: ONE of the Queen's cousins who lived with learning disabilities and was hidden away for decades has died at the age of 87.

Katharine Bowes-Lyon, the niece of the late Queen Mother, died on February 23 but her death was only announced by her family yesterday. She was laid to rest at a private family funeral.

She and her late elder sister Nerissa, who also had learning disablities, were two of the four daughters of the Queen Mother's elder brother John Bowes-Lyon.

In an era when families treated the disabled with shame and even young unmarried women who got pregnant were locked in asylums or hospitals, the sisters were hidden away from polite society for much of their lives, even while the Queen Mother was patron of Mencap, the charity for what used to be known as the mentally handicapped, people with learning disabilities. » | Richard Palmer | Thursday, March 06, 2014

Rumsfeld on Ukraine, Obama-Putin, and America

Mar. 03, 2014 - 4:13 - Former defense secretary on president's handling of the Ukraine crisis and Putin and what it means to America's perception on the world stage

Russia Today TV Presenter Liz Wahl Quits On Air

BBC: For the second time American presenters on the Russian backed TV station Russia Today have gone off script to voice their personal concerns about Russia's occupation of the Crimea region of Ukraine.

On Tuesday, Abby Martin signed off her programme with an ad-libbed attack on the Kremlin. Now her colleague Liz Wahl has added her voice to the disquiet among the channel's on air staff by announcing her resignation on air.

Katy Watson reports. (+ BBC video) » | Thursday, March 06, 2014

Crimea Will Be Part of Russia 'In a Few Days' - Deputy PM

BBC: First Deputy Prime Minister of Crimea, Rustam Temirgaliev, says that he is confident that the region will be part of the Russian Federation "in a few days".

Speaking to the BBC's World Affairs editor John Simpson, he said that he was confident that up to 75% of Crimean citizens would support such a move.

MPs in Crimea have asked Moscow to allow the southern Ukrainian region to become part of the Russian Federation. There will be a referendum to ratify the parliament decision on 16 March. (+ BBC video) » | Thursday, March 06, 2014

The Irresponsible Bank of England Keeps Interest Rate Down At Record Low

Simon Rose of Save Our Savers, interviewed on Sky News after the Bank of England's MPC announced the 60th month of base rate at 0.5%.

BBC: UK interest rates kept at record low: UK interest rates have been held at 0.5% for another month, the Bank of England has said. » | Thursday, March 06, 2014

Crimea Parliament Backs Joining Russia, Sets Referendum for March 16th

A referendum on the status of Crimea will be held March 16, the region's deputy prime minister announced. Crimeans will be asked to decide if the autonomous republic stays part of Ukraine or joins Russia

Peter Hitchens on Ukraine: Don't Lump Those Who Want Change in with Neo-nazis

On the most wanted list - international arrest warrant is now out for the head of a Ukrainian neo-nazi group. Russian prosecutors accuse him of publicly inciting terrorist and extremist actions. And concerns are growing over neo-nazi movements gaining power in the wake of the ousting of the old administration. To talk more on the tension within Ukraine and the diplomatic spat, RT's joined by London-based journalist Peter Hitchens.

Obama Warns Israel Time Is Running Out On Palestinian Peace

Mar. 03, 2014 - 5:04 - Spokesman reacts to President Obama's message

Politics and Policy between Obama, Putin

Mar. 03, 2014 - 2:20 - Analysis from Brit Hume

Obama's Foreign Policy Based on 'Fantasy'?

Mar. 03, 2014 - 4:33 - Amb. John Bolton on the latest in the Ukraine crisis, Putin's maneuvers and how they reflects holes in the president's approach to foreign policy

Ron Paul: We Have 'No Business' Being Involved in Ukraine

Mar. 05, 2014 - 5:13 - Reaction to U.S. pledging aid

Ed Miliband: 'I'm a Zionist and Oppose Boycotts of Israel'

THE JEWISH CHRONICLE: Ed Miliband has pledged to protect Jewish customs including brit milah and shechita if he becomes Prime Minister.

Speaking at a Board of Deputies event the Labour leader said he was opposed to boycotts of Israel and warned of the need to be “ever-vigilant”against antisemitism.

Asked whether he would work to ensure religious slaughter and circumcision practices could continue in Britain, Mr Miliband said: “Yes, these are important traditions. The kosher issue has recently been brought to my attention. Ways of life must be preserved.”

He added: “I take antisemitism very seriously. Any kind of delegitimisation of Israel is something we should call out for what it is and not tolerate it.

“I think the boycotts of Israel are totally wrong. We should have no tolerance for boycotts. I would say that to any trade union leaders.” » | Marcus Dysch | Thursday, March 07, 2013

HT: crosscop »

Krim-Krise: Parlament der Krim stimmt für Anschluss an Russland

ZEIT ONLINE: Die ukrainische Halbinsel soll künftig russisch sein – so will es das Parlament der autonomen Region. Die Einwohner sollen Mitte März darüber abstimmen.

Das Parlament der ukrainischen Halbinsel Krim hat nach russischen Angaben für einen Anschluss an Russland gestimmt. 78 der 81 Abgeordneten der Autonomen Republik unterstützten in Simferopol eine entsprechende Beschlussvorlage, meldete Itar-Tass unter Berufung auf den Vizepremier der Krim, Rostam Temirgaljew.

Das Parlament hat 100 Sitze. Russlandtreue Kräfte hatten das Gebäude vor wenigen Tagen gestürmt. Inwieweit dies die Zusammensetzung des Parlaments veränderte, ist unklar. » | ZEIT ONLINE, dpa, AFP, Reuters, tst | Donnerstag, 06. März 2014

Krim-Krise: Obama verhängt Strafmaßnahmen gegen Russland

SPIEGEL ONLINE: US-Präsident Obama reagiert auf die Krim-Krise mit Sanktionen. Ausgewählte Russen und Ukrainer dürfen nicht mehr in die USA einreisen. Ihre Konten sollen eingefroren werden.

Washington - Die US-Regierung hat mehrfach betont, dass sie das Vorgehen Russlands auf der ukrainischen Krim missbilligt. Jetzt hat US-Präsident Barack Obama erste Sanktionen gegen jene verhängt, die er für Verantwortliche der Krise hält.

Washington belegt eine Gruppe von Russen und Ukrainern mit Einreiseverboten in die USA. Die Visabeschränkungen sollen sich gegen eine "Reihe von Regierungsbeamten und Personen" richten. Außerdem soll das US-Vermögen von "Einzelpersonen und Institutionen" eingefroren werden. Namen wurden nicht genannt.

Bestraft werden sollen jene, die die "Souveränität und territoriale Integrität der Ukraine bedrohen" und "die demokratischen Prozesse und Institutionen des Landes" untergraben, heißt es in einer Erklärung des Weißen Hauses. Die USA behielten sich weitere Schritte vor, abhängig von der Lage auf der Krim. » | kgp/Reuters/AP | Donnerstag, 06. März 2014

End Religious Slaughter of Animals without Stunning First, Urges Top Vet

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH: The religious slaughter of animals should be banned if Muslims and Jews do not agree to stun all the animals unconscious first to minimise their suffering, Britain's top vet said

Religious slaughter of animals to produce halal and kosher meat should be banned if more humane methods are not adopted, the leader of Britain’s vets has said.

John Blackwell, who took over as president elect of the British Veterinary Association (BVA) last year, claimed killing animals by letting them bleed to death after slitting their throats causes unnecessary suffering.

He called on Muslims and Jews to allow the livestock to be stunned unconscious before they are killed.

The farm vet said the ritual slaughter of poultry, sheep and cattle which are still conscious should be outlawed, as it is in Denmark[.]

“As veterinary surgeons, it is one of the most important issues on our radar. This is something that can be changed in an instant.,” he told The Times [£]. » | Miranda Prynne, News Reporter | Thursday, March 06, 2014

Hillary Clinton Veering from White House Response to Russia?

Mar. 05, 2014 - 4:09 - Reaction to her latest comments

Right-Wing Extremism: Germany's New Islamophobia Boom

SPIEGEL ONLINE INTERNATIONAL: Across Germany, right-wing organizations are using anti-Islam rhetoric to further their ideas -- and finding a receptive audience. Now legal experts are debating whether it's time for a new kind of hate-crime legislation.
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Stachus is one of Munich's nicest squares. It is rich in tradition and filled with pedestrians -- and perfect for Michael Stürzenberger's purposes. Hand balled into a fist, he paces back and forth and screams, "The Koran is the most dangerous book in the world." Because a couple dozen people have come to demonstrate against Stürzenberger, police officers in bullet-proof vests are watching over the area.

A decade ago, Stürzenberger, 49, was the spokesperson for the Munich office of the Christian Social Union (CSU), the Bavarian sister party of Chancellor Angela Merkel's Christian Democratic Union. But since 2012 he has been active in a splinter party called Die Freiheit ("The Freedom"), of which he was elected federal chairman three months ago. He preaches hate against Islam and compares the Koran to Hitler's "Mein Kampf." For two years now, he's been collecting signatures opposing the planned construction of an Islamic center in Munich. He has already held over one hundred anti-Islam rallies.

The Freiheit leader isn't alone. Several supporters, have joined him on Stachus, some carrying signs such as "No mosque on Stachus," or "Stop the enemies of democracy." Stürzenberger screams that Sharia instructs men to hit women. His voice cracks. "We don't want that in Bavaria!" A retiree asks where he can sign "against Islam."

For most Munich residents, Stürzenberger's verbal assaults are an embarrassment. CSU city councilwoman Marian Hoffman compares his incitements to the "droning speeches of the Nazis." The city government of Mayor Christian Ude, a member of the center-left Social Democrats, is worried about possible conflict during the upcoming local elections. Munich, he says, has become the focus of "experimentation" by radical anti-Islamists with the right-wing populists from Die Freiheit testing whether or not their attacks on the Muslim minority have majority appeal. If Stürzenberger gathers enough signatures for a citizens' initiative against the mosque, it would send a signal across Bavaria and beyond that Muslims are not welcome. » | SPIEGEL Staff | Wednesday, March 05, 2014

Putin Speaks Ukraine, Yanukovich, Maidan, Crimea (Full Video)

Russia will not go to war with the people of Ukraine, but will use its troops to protect citizens, if radicals with clout in Kiev now try to use violence against Ukrainian civilians, particularly ethnic Russians, Putin told the media

Hillary Clinton Compares Vladimir Putin’s Actions in Ukraine to Adolf Hitler’s in Nazi Germany

LONG BEACH PRESS TELEGRAM: LONG BEACH >> Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton on Tuesday compared recent actions by Russian President Vladimir Putin in the Ukraine to those implemented by Adolf Hitler in the late 1930s.

Putin’s desire to protect minority Russians in Ukraine is reminiscent of Hitler’s actions to protect ethnic Germans outside Germany, she said.

Putin has been on a campaign to give Russian passports to anyone who has Russian connections, Clinton said.

The Russian leader has recently done so in the Ukrainian peninsula of Crimea, which, Clinton said, is similar to what happened in Nazi Germany in the late 1930s. Hitler resettled tens of thousands of ethnic Germans who were living in parts of Europe to Nazi Germany. » | Karen Robes Meeks, Long Beach Press Telegram | Tuesday, March 04, 2014

George P Bush Looks to Continue Family's Political Legacy

Land Commissioner candidate George P. Bush speaks during
a visitation even while on the campaign trail Wednesday, Feb. 19. 2014

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH: Grandson of George HW Bush easily wins Republican primary election in Texas

George P Bush, the grandson of George HW Bush, has won his first election in Texas as he looks to continue the political dynasty.

The 37-year-old lawyer is the nephew of George W Bush, who was governor of Texas before becoming president, and the son of Jeb Bush, the former Florida governor considered a potential 2016 Republican presidential candidate.

The younger Mr Bush is widely hailed as a future star of the party. His mother is Mexican and he speaks Spanish, offering an inroad to Latino voters who vote overwhelmingly for the Democrats. » | Raf Sanchez, Washington | Wednesday, March 05, 2014

Dealing with the Villain Putin

Mar. 04, 2014 - 8:44 - Talking Points 3/4

Exclusive Interview with Barbara Bush

Mar. 05, 2014 - 5:46 - Steve Doocy sits down with former first lady

Who Is the Real Vladimir Putin?

Mar. 04, 2014 - 4:04 - Expert takes a look at the man responsible for the growing crisis

Saakashvili: Putin 'Wants to Be Feared'

Mar. 04, 2014 - 7:53 - Former Georgia president on Ukraine crisis

Außenpolitisch ist Barack Obama eine Niete

DIE WELT: In einem sind sich Freunde wie Feinde des US-Präsidenten einig: In der Außenpolitik agiert Barack Obama fast schon schockierend undurchsichtig. Als Führer der freien Welt taugt er nicht.

Was dem regelmäßigen Besucher des "großen Welttheaters", wie Churchill einst die politische Szene von Washington nannte, besonders auffällt in dieser letzten Phase der Obama-Präsidentschaft, ist vor allem in der Ukraine-Krise die Verwirrung und sogar Verzweiflung über die undurchsichtige Außenpolitik des Präsidenten.

Bei aller Anerkennung seiner Rhetorik und seiner Willenskraft in der Innenpolitik wird Obama die Begabung, sich außenpolitisch positiv zu profilieren und durchzusetzen, gemeinhin abgesprochen. In fast allen meinen Gesprächen mit jüngst zurückgetretenen, aber auch weiterhin aktiven hohen Staatsbeamten war eine Enttäuschung über Obamas Außenpolitik zu spüren. Wahrnehmbar ist seine Rückzugspolitik aus den großen Krisenherden der Welt in einem Augenblick, in dem der Einsatz der noch immer führenden Weltmacht USA dringlichst benötigt wird.

Obamas übereilter Rückzug aus Afghanistan, Verteidigungsminister Hagels Entschluss, die Armee auf ihr Vorweltkriegsniveau zu reduzieren, der "Ruck" der Wehr- und Außenpolitik in Richtung Ostasien, aber vor allem die Nicht-Intervention in Syrien haben alte Alliierte vor den Kopf gestoßen und drohen Änderungen auf dem diplomatischen Schachbrett zu Ungunsten der westlichen Alliierten mit sich zu bringen. » | Von Lord Weidenfeld | Dienstag, 04. März 2014

Purchasing Power? The Russia Sanction Ripple Effect

Washington's threats of sanctions might be tough to keep, according to experts citing Russia's economic clout. RT's Marina Kosareva has been looking over the numbers.

View from Moscow: Ukraine Blame: US Criticism of Moscow At Odds with White House Policies

And on the frontline of the deepening diplomatic row over Ukraine Washington has been making some harsh statements against Moscow's stance on the crisis. With Secretary of State John Kerry once again travelling to Kiev to meet with the new government there - Anastasiya Churkina looks at whether the US has been following its own advice.

British Officials Oppose Sanctions Because Russia's Elite Are London's Cash Cows

NEW REPUBLIC: If you’re looking for Russia’s weak point at the moment, you could do worse than start at 88 West Heath Road, a house in leafy north London. It looks modest enough, but it would probably set you back $15 million.

It is the primary residence of Andrey Yakunin. His father, Russian Railways chief executive Vladimir Yakunin, is a former KGB agent and longtime pal of President Vladimir Putin. He was also a lead organizer of the Sochi Olympics and heads National Glory of Russia, an organization that aims to protect Russians from Western culture. (In a barely-readable book called Problems of Contemporary World Futurology, he predicted the collapse of the West in 10-20 years). His wife, Natalya, is in the same trade. She heads Sanctity of Motherhood, which propagates the “many-child family” through traditional Russian values and Orthodox Christianity. Their son Andrey is a fund manager, a graduate of the London Business School, and a specialist in “mid-market business hotels,” particularly ones that adjoin Russian train stations. His son Igor, in turn, attends a posh English private school.

The Yakunin family is Putin’s Kremlin in microcosm, a hypocritical spookocracy that rejects everything about the West except its money, houses, and consumer goods. It also encapsulates the Kremlin’s weakness. If Putin’s Ukraine adventure causes Europe to freeze assets and inconvenience the Kremlin elite, then Putin will find himself losing support fast—from the constituency he needs the most.

Putin may project a macho image by getting his guns out at any opportunity, but his actual power is based on elite support, and the elite supports him because he has made it rich beyond the dreams of avarice. For example, Vladimir Yakunin and Putin were neighbors in St. Petersburg. Putin made Yakunin head of Russian Railways, and now, Yakunin owns a palace outside Moscow, where the bathhouse alone has a reported floor area of 15,000 square feet. Read on and comment » | Oliver Bullough | Tuesday, March 04, 2014

Should White House Impose Sanctions on Russia?

Mar. 04, 2014 - 8:31 - Congressmen Mike Pompeo and Luke Messer react to President Putin's agression in Ukraine

Inside Story: Russian Defence or Dominance?

President Vladimir Putin breaks his silence on the Ukrainian crisis.

Russia Today Host Who Criticised Kremlin Sent to Crimea

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH: Russian state-funded TV presenter in anti-Kremlin tirade sent to Crimea to get a 'better understanding' of situation on the ground


A TV presenter working for a Kremlin-funded channel who spoke out against Russia's military invasion in Ukraine live on air has been sent by the broadcaster to Crimea to "better her knowledge" of the situation.

In an off-message tirade, Abby Martin, a Washington-based American news anchor for Russia Today, shocked mostly pro-Russian viewers by announcing she "cannot stress enough" how strongly she felt about presence of its troops in Crimea, saying "Russia was wrong".

The host addressed the camera in unscripted remarks at the end of the station's Breaking the Set segment, saying: "Just because I work here, for RT, doesn't mean I don't have editorial independence and I can't stress enough how strongly I am against any military intervention in sovereign nations' affairs.

"I will not sit here and apologise or defend military aggression," she went on.

The English-language Russia Today is widely perceived as the voice of the Kremlin, with Reporters Without Borders describing it as a "step of the state to control information." » | Josie Ensor | Tuesday, March 04, 2014

Obama: Russia's Actions Are Not a Sign of Strength

Mar. 04, 2014 - 4:52 - President addresses crisis in Ukraine

Team Obama Wins Fight to Have Christian Home-school Family Deported

FOX NEWS: Uwe and Hannelore Romeike came to the United States in 2008 seeking political asylum. They fled their German homeland in the face of religious persecution for homeschooling their children.

They wanted to live in a country where they could raise their children in accordance with their Christian beliefs.

The Romeikes were initially given asylum, but the Obama administration objected – claiming that German laws that outlaw homeschooling do not constitute persecution.

“The goal in Germany is for an open, pluralistic society,” the Justice Department wrote in a legal brief last year. “Teaching tolerance to children of all backgrounds helps to develop the ability to interact as a fully functioning citizen in Germany.”

On Monday, the Supreme Court declined to hear the Romeike’s appeal – paving the way for the Christian family of eight to be deported. » | Tod Starnes | Todd’s American Dispatch | Monday, March 03, 2014

Tory Councillor Who Shared Burka Joke on Facebook Expelled from Party

Tory councillor Chris Joannides has been expelled from his
party after comparing Muslim children wearing burkas
to bin[-]bags on Facebook

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH: Chris Joannides, a Conservative councillor in Enfield, has been dropped as a candidate for May's local elections and banned from the party for a year

A Tory councillor has been expelled from his party after comparing Muslim children wearing burkas to bin[-]bags on Facebook.

Chris Joannides, a councillor for Enfield, in north London, also upset colleagues by complaining that his job as a local councillor was interfering with his social life.

Conservative Central Office has now dropped him as a candidate for the local elections in May and expelled him from the party for 12 months.

The decision comes after Mr Joannides posted a photograph showing a woman and child dressed in the traditional Muslim clothing standing next to two bin[-]bags.

A caption read: "I saw her standing there and I told her she had three beautiful children. She didn't have to get all ****** off and threaten me. It was an honest mistake!" » | Hayley Dixon | Tuesday, March 04, 2014

Did Sarah Palin Predict the Ukraine Crisis Back in 2008?

Mar. 03, 2014 - 8:01 - Former vice presidential candidate says Obama is not exercising 'peace through strength'

How to Handle Putin

Mar. 03, 2014 - 3:54 - Talking Points 3/3

Judge Jeanine: Obama's Policies Reducing US to Paper Tiger

Mar. 02, 2014 - 6:02 - President issues another warning

Sen. Inhofe Concerned with 'Weakened Condition' of US Abroad

Mar. 04, 2014 - 6:35 - Republican lawmaker critical of vulnerability displayed by White House

Krim-Konflikt: Europas Ohnmacht gegenüber Russland

Wladimir Putin und Premierminister Dmitri Medwediew

ZEIT ONLINE: EU und USA können die russische Aggression auf der Krim nicht stoppen. Ihnen fehlt eine Strategie gegen Putins Neoimperialismus und so bleibt nur, mit ihm zu verhandeln.

Wie soll der Westen auf den Aufmarsch der russischen Armee auf der Krim und auf die unverhohlene militärische Drohung des Kreml gegen die Ukraine reagieren? In den europäischen Hauptstädten und in Washington herrscht Rat- und Hilflosigkeit. US-Präsident Barak Obama warnt Wladimir Putin zwar davor, sich zu isolieren. Und die Europäer mahnen beide Seiten, den Konflikt nicht weiter anzuheizen. Doch Obamas Drohung wird Putin kaum beeindrucken und auch Europa kann oder will nicht mit Konsequenzen drohen.

Denn militärisch werden sich weder die USA noch die Europäer in der Ukraine engagieren. Die neue Führung in Kiew und die ukrainische Armee haben dem russischen Riesen ebenfalls kaum etwas entgegenzusetzen. So kann Russland ungestört Truppen auf die Krim verlegen. Faktisch hat es die ukrainische Halbinsel, die jahrhundertelang zum russischen Reich gehörte, annektiert und dort auch politisch über eine Marionetten-Regierung in der Provinzhauptstadt die Macht übernommen.

Noch weiß niemand, ob sich das russische Expansionsstreben auf die Krim mit ihrer russischsprachigen Bevölkerungsmehrheit beschränkt, oder ob Putin versuchen wird, auch die Ostukraine mit ihrer Schwerindustrie und ihren engen Beziehungen zu Russland unter Kontrolle zu bringen. Auch in diesem Fall könnte er sich auf Hilferufe der russischsprachigen Bevölkerung berufen. Das Land würde damit zweigeteilt – ein Alptraum für die meisten Menschen in der Ukraine, aber auch für den Westen. » | Ein Kommentar von Ludwig Greven | Sonntag, 02. März 2014

Crisis in the Ukraine: What Is Putin's Endgame?

Mar. 03, 2014 - 6:51 - Insight from author Amy Knight and former CIA covert operations office Mike Baker

Ukraine: What Should US Do Now?

THE CHRISTIAN SCIENCE MONITOR: For Washington, the Ukraine question now may be less how to react to Russia's seizure of the Crimean Peninsula as what to do to try to stop further Russian expansionism.

As Moscow tightens its grip on the Crimean Peninsula, Washington is facing up to a harsh reality: In Ukraine, there’s a vast imbalance in power and national interests between the United States and a resurgent imperial Russia.

After the cold war, the influence of the West expanded quickly up to Russia’s borders. Moscow had to accept a unified Germany, as well as NATO memberships for nations that used to be the USSR’s buffer zone, from Poland to Latvia. Now Vladimir Putin has seized on an opportunity to push back: He’s poured thousands of troops into Crimea in an apparent attempt to destabilize a new Western-oriented Ukrainian government.

America’s problem is that it is no longer 1997. Russia is not preoccupied with internal political and economic turmoil. And in past decades, the West expanded its influence beyond the area it is prepared to use force to defend. Mr. Putin understands this – and so do President Obama and his Republican critics.

Thus there’s little saber rattling in Washington. GOP lawmakers are talking about responses that differ only modestly from the Obama administration’s: draw up economic sanctions, put planning for the upcoming G8 summit in Sochi, Russia, on hold, and so forth.

“There [are] not a lot of options on the table,” Rep. Mike Rogers (R) of Michigan, chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, said on “Fox News Sunday.”

Instead, Republicans are using the crisis as an opportunity to talk more broadly about what they say is Mr. Obama’s overall foreign policy weakness. Their question essentially is less “what next?” than “who lost Sevastopol?” » | Peter Grier, Staff Writer | Washington | Monday, March 03, 2014

Pope Francis Drops F-bomb

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH: Pope Francis inadvertently demonstrated his own fallibility during an address in St Peter’s Square when he mistakenly said the Italian word for “f---”


Pope Francis inadvertently demonstrated his own fallibility during an address in St Peter’s Square when he mistakenly said the Italian word for “f**k”.

In the 12 months since he was elected, the Argentinean Pope, who worked with the poor in the slums of Buenos Aires being before [sic] made pontiff, has shown a healthy sense of humour and an unerring ability to connect with ordinary people.

But he accidentally went a little too far in using the language of the street after mispronouncing the word “caso”, which means example, as “cazzo” – Italian for f--- or, in other contexts, cock.

“If each of us were to accumulate wealth not only for ourselves but to put at the service of others, in this f--- [pause], in this case God’s providence would manifest itself in this gesture of solidarity,” he told a large crowd, delivering his ‘Angelus’ address from a window overlooking St Peter’s Square.

The 77-year-old Jesuit Pope corrected himself almost immediately after making the gaffe during the audience at the Vatican on Sunday, but it was posted by Italians on YouTube and other social media and has since spread round the world. » | Nick Squires, Rome | Monday, March 03, 2014

New Cold War? Obama, Putin Are Split

America Sees Rise of a Globalized Economy, Russia Sees a Right to Protect Its Interests in Ukraine
THE WALL STREET JOURNAL: There are many differences in style and substance between President Barack Obama and Russian President Vladimir Putin, but the Ukraine crisis has brought into sharp relief the most important one: The American leader believes the world has moved beyond the Cold War, and his Russian counterpart seems more comfortable moving back into it.

In fact, this difference probably is true of the countries the two men lead, not just of the leaders themselves. Americans tend to see the Cold War in the rearview mirror as a wildly expensive period of ideological struggle that was settled decisively in favor of the rightful victor, democratic capitalism. Russians tend to view it as a period in which Moscow played its rightful role as a superpower with a large and clearly defined sphere of influence and an important voice on every world issue.

The differences help explain the depth of the disconnect between the U.S. and Russia as they circle each other warily over the future of Ukraine. By the American reckoning, a new set of standards ought to apply to 21st century international behavior, and the grounds for excusing one superpower's behavior because it believes it is involved in an existential struggle against the other have largely disappeared. By the other reckoning, the Russian one, big nation-states still have the clear right to protect their regional influence and interests. » | Gerald F. Seib | Monday, March 03, 2014

Was Mitt Romney Right to Warn about Russia?

Mar. 03, 2014 - 3:08 - Peter Johnson, Jr. weighs in

Did Obama's Foreign Policy Stumbles Lead to Ukraine Crisis?

Mar. 03, 2014 - 7:12 - Republicans slam president's weaknesses

Republicans Call for an About Face on US Policy on Russia

Mar. 03, 2014 - 5:01 - Rep. Turner wants to see a significant change from Obama

Ukraine Crisis: Russia Gives Ukraine 3am Deadline to Get Out of Crimea or ‘Face Storm’

A Russian army vehicle outside a Ukrainian border guard post

THE INDEPENDENT: Diplomatic crisis between East and West intensifies as Putin defies calls to pull out of disputed region

Russia has told Ukrainian forces to surrender its control of the strategic Crimean region by 3am on Tuesday or face military assault, amid the worst diplomatic crisis since the Cold War.

The forces in the region are also demanding that the crew of two Ukrainian warships in Sevastopol harbour surrender within the hour, or face being stormed and seized by Russian forces.

Relations between East and West continued to plummet as the Russian Government continued to ignore calls from Western leaders to leave the Ukrainian area.

This morning, the Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, justified the military incursion claiming it was necessary in order to protect his country's citizens living there. "This is a question of defending our citizens and compatriots, ensuring human rights, especially the right to life," he said. » | Kashmira Gander | Monday, March 03, 2014

Inside Story: Ukraine: Warnings of War

How will Western powers respond to Russian military intervention in Crimea?

Kerry Tells Russia 'One Doesn't Invade A Country On A Phony Pretext'

Talk of Russia sending troops has led to a sharp international response. US President Obama said Moscow was breaching international law and could end up isolated. Canada joined in by condemning Putin's military intervention. Both of them, plus Britain and France have decided to suspend preparations for the G8 Summit in Sochi. All this despite Moscow still not having decided whether to send troops. Gayane Chichyakyan has more on what was probably the strongest threat.

Russian Markets Hit as Putin Tightens Grip on Crimea

REUTERS.COM: (Reuters) - Russia took a financial hit over its military intervention in neighboring Ukraine, with its markets and currency plunging on Monday as President Vladimir Putin's forces tightened their grip on the Russian-speaking Crimea region.

The Moscow stock market fell by 10 percent and the central bank spent $10 billion of its reserves to prop up the rouble as investors took fright at escalating tensions with the West over the former Soviet republic.

Ukraine said Russia was building up armoured vehicles on its side of a narrow stretch of water closest to Crimea after Putin declared at the weekend he had the right to invade his neighbor to protect Russian interests and citizens.

On the ground in Perevalnoye, half way between the Crimean capital of Simferopol and the Black Sea, hundreds of Russian troops in trucks and armoured vehicles - without national insignia on their uniforms - surrounded two military compounds, confining Ukrainian soldiers as virtual prisoners.

Ukraine called up reservists on Sunday and the United States threatened to isolate Russia economically after Putin's action provoked what Britain's foreign minister called "the biggest crisis in Europe in the twenty-first century". » | Lidia Kelly and Alissa de Carbonnel | Moscow/Perevalnoye, Ukrain | Monday, March 03, 2014