THE GUARDIAN: Emmanuel Macron’s comments come as Germany’s president, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, warns against turning world into ‘robber’s den’
The presidents of France and Germany have sharply condemned US foreign policy under Donald Trump, saying respectively that Washington was “breaking free from international rules” and the world risked turning into a “robber’s den”.
In unusually strong and apparently uncoordinated remarks, Emmanuel Macron and Frank-Walter Steinmeier warned the postwar rules-based international order could soon disintegrate.
“The US is an established power, but one that is gradually turning away from some of its allies and breaking free from the international rules that it was until recently promoting,” Macron told France’s diplomatic corps at the Élysée Palace on Thursday.
“Multilateral institutions are functioning less and less effectively,” the French president said. “We are living in a world of great powers, with a real temptation to divide up the world.”
He said France “rejects the new colonialism and new imperialism – but also vassalage and defeatism. What we have achieved for France and in Europe is a step in the right direction. Greater strategic autonomy, less dependence on the US and China.”
The comments came as EU leaders – torn between the needs to defend international law and to keep the US onboard as a vital economic partner and defence ally in Ukraine and beyond – struggle to agree a coordinated response to Washington’s actions. » | Jon Henley, Europe correspondent | Thursday, January 8, 2026
Friday, January 09, 2026
Morality, Military Might and a Sense of Mischief: Key Takeaways from Trump’s New York Times Interview
THE GUARDIAN: Trump sounds off on Venezuela’s future, Taiwan’s security and his aims for Greenland, days after operation to seize Nicolás Maduro
Just days after launching an unprecedented operation in Venezuela to seize its president and effectively take control of its oil industry, Donald Trump sat down with New York Times journalists for a wide-ranging interview that took in everything from international law, Taiwan, Greenland and weight-loss drugs.
The president, riding high on the success of an operation that has upended the rules of global power, spoke candidly and casually about the new world order he appears eager to usher in; an order governed not by international norms or long-lasting alliances, but national strength and military power.
Here are some key points from his interview with the Times. » | Jonathan Yerushalmy | Friday, January 9, 2026
Just days after launching an unprecedented operation in Venezuela to seize its president and effectively take control of its oil industry, Donald Trump sat down with New York Times journalists for a wide-ranging interview that took in everything from international law, Taiwan, Greenland and weight-loss drugs.
The president, riding high on the success of an operation that has upended the rules of global power, spoke candidly and casually about the new world order he appears eager to usher in; an order governed not by international norms or long-lasting alliances, but national strength and military power.
Here are some key points from his interview with the Times. » | Jonathan Yerushalmy | Friday, January 9, 2026
Trump Lays Out a Vision of Power Restrained Only by ‘My Own Morality’
THE NEW YORK TIMES: On topic after topic, President Trump made clear that he would be the arbiter of any limits to his authorities, not international law or treaties.
President Trump declared on Wednesday evening that his power as commander in chief is constrained only by his “own morality,” brushing aside international law and other checks on his ability to use military might to strike, invade or coerce nations around the world.
Asked in a wide-ranging interview with The New York Times if there were any limits on his global powers, Mr. Trump said: “Yeah, there is one thing. My own morality. My own mind. It’s the only thing that can stop me.”
“I don’t need international law,” he added. “I’m not looking to hurt people.”
When pressed further about whether his administration needed to abide by international law, Mr. Trump said, “I do.” But he made clear he would be the arbiter when such constraints applied to the United States.
“It depends what your definition of international law is,” he said.
Mr. Trump’s assessment of his own freedom to use any instrument of military, economic or political power to cement American supremacy was the most blunt acknowledgment yet of his worldview. At its core is the concept that national strength, rather than laws, treaties and conventions, should be the deciding factor as powers collide. » | David E. Sanger, Tyler Pager, Katie Rogers and Zolan Kanno-Youngs | The reporters are White House correspondents for The Times. They interviewed President Trump in the Oval Office. | Thursday, January 8, 2026
Leer en español.
Such ARROGANCE! — © Mark Alexander
President Trump declared on Wednesday evening that his power as commander in chief is constrained only by his “own morality,” brushing aside international law and other checks on his ability to use military might to strike, invade or coerce nations around the world.
Asked in a wide-ranging interview with The New York Times if there were any limits on his global powers, Mr. Trump said: “Yeah, there is one thing. My own morality. My own mind. It’s the only thing that can stop me.”
“I don’t need international law,” he added. “I’m not looking to hurt people.”
When pressed further about whether his administration needed to abide by international law, Mr. Trump said, “I do.” But he made clear he would be the arbiter when such constraints applied to the United States.
“It depends what your definition of international law is,” he said.
Mr. Trump’s assessment of his own freedom to use any instrument of military, economic or political power to cement American supremacy was the most blunt acknowledgment yet of his worldview. At its core is the concept that national strength, rather than laws, treaties and conventions, should be the deciding factor as powers collide. » | David E. Sanger, Tyler Pager, Katie Rogers and Zolan Kanno-Youngs | The reporters are White House correspondents for The Times. They interviewed President Trump in the Oval Office. | Thursday, January 8, 2026
Leer en español.
Such ARROGANCE! — © Mark Alexander
‘I Don’t Need International Law’: Trump Says Power Constrained Only by ‘My Own Morality’
THE GUARDIAN: President says morality ‘the only thing that can stop me’ in New York Times interview on limits to his authority
Donald Trump has said ‘I don’t need international law” and that his power is limited only by his “own morality”.
In a new interview with the New York Times, Trump said the only constraint to his power as president of the US is “my own morality, my own mind”.
“It’s the only thing that can stop me,” Trump said, adding: “I’m not looking to hurt people.” He went on to concede “I do” in regards to whether his administration needed to adhere to international law, but said: “It depends on what your definition of international law is.”
Trump, who spoke to the newspaper as his administration looks into “a range of options” in attempts to gain control of Greenland, also emphasized the importance of ownership.
“Ownership is very important,” Trump said, adding: “Because that’s what I feel is psychologically needed for success. I think that ownership gives you a thing that you can’t do with, you’re talking about a lease or a treaty. Ownership gives you things and elements that you can’t get from just signing a document.”
Trump also dismissed concerns that his decision to oust Nicolás Maduro as Venezuela’s president would set the precedent of a potential Chinese takeover of Taiwan or Russia’s attempt to control Ukraine. » | Maya Yang | Thursday, January 8, 2026
Donald Trump has said ‘I don’t need international law” and that his power is limited only by his “own morality”.
In a new interview with the New York Times, Trump said the only constraint to his power as president of the US is “my own morality, my own mind”.
“It’s the only thing that can stop me,” Trump said, adding: “I’m not looking to hurt people.” He went on to concede “I do” in regards to whether his administration needed to adhere to international law, but said: “It depends on what your definition of international law is.”
Trump, who spoke to the newspaper as his administration looks into “a range of options” in attempts to gain control of Greenland, also emphasized the importance of ownership.
“Ownership is very important,” Trump said, adding: “Because that’s what I feel is psychologically needed for success. I think that ownership gives you a thing that you can’t do with, you’re talking about a lease or a treaty. Ownership gives you things and elements that you can’t get from just signing a document.”
Trump also dismissed concerns that his decision to oust Nicolás Maduro as Venezuela’s president would set the precedent of a potential Chinese takeover of Taiwan or Russia’s attempt to control Ukraine. » | Maya Yang | Thursday, January 8, 2026
Huge Anti-government Protests across Iran | BBC News
Jan 9, 2026 | Huge crowds of protesters have been marching through Iran's capital and other cities, videos show, in what is said to be the largest show of force by opponents of the clerical establishment in years.
The demonstrations in Tehran and the second city of Mashhad on Thursday evening were not dispersed by security forces.
It was the 12th consecutive day of unrest that has been sparked by anger over the collapse of the Iranian currency and has spread to more than 100 cities and towns across all 31 of Iran's provinces, according to human rights groups.
The US-based Human Rights Activist News Agency said at least 34 protesters - five of them children - and eight security personnel have been killed, and that 2,270 other protesters have been arrested.
Norway-based monitor Iran Human Rights said at least 45 protesters, including eight children, have been killed by security forces. BBC Persian has confirmed the deaths and identities of 22 people, while Iranian authorities have reported the deaths of six security personnel.
The demonstrations in Tehran and the second city of Mashhad on Thursday evening were not dispersed by security forces.
It was the 12th consecutive day of unrest that has been sparked by anger over the collapse of the Iranian currency and has spread to more than 100 cities and towns across all 31 of Iran's provinces, according to human rights groups.
The US-based Human Rights Activist News Agency said at least 34 protesters - five of them children - and eight security personnel have been killed, and that 2,270 other protesters have been arrested.
Norway-based monitor Iran Human Rights said at least 45 protesters, including eight children, have been killed by security forces. BBC Persian has confirmed the deaths and identities of 22 people, while Iranian authorities have reported the deaths of six security personnel.
How Iran's Regime Tries to Crack Down on Spreading Anti-government Protests | DW News
How Power Covered Up a Killing in Minneapolis. The Murder of Renee Nicole Macklin Good by ICE.
ANTHONY DAVIS can be supported on Patreon here.
Strong language alert!
Do Iranians Really Want Exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi in Power? | DW News
Thursday, January 08, 2026
Internet Blackout in Iran as Protests Enter 12th Day
Columbian President Withdraws Criticism on Trump
Die Coburger | Aufstieg Zur Bedeutendsten Dynastie
Mar 7, 2024 | Die Coburger - Die Geschichte der wahrscheinlich europäischsten Familie des Kontinents
Die Coburger (2017)
Regisseur: Julia Melchior
Genre: Dokumentarfilm, Geschichte, Biografie
Sprache: Deutsch
Erscheinungsdatum: 13. Juni 2017 (Deutschland)
Handlung:
Die Coburger Herzöge schienen zur Bedeutungslosigkeit verdammt. Durch geschickte Heiratspolitik gelingt ihnen im 19. Jahrhundert der kometenhafte Aufstieg zur bedeutendsten Dynastie ihrer Zeit. Sie begründen die Königshäuser von Belgien und Bulgarien, herrschen in England und Portugal und heiraten in die Paläste von ganz Europa ein.
Königshausexpertin Julia Melchior ergründet in ihrem neuen Film das europäische Familiennetzwerk der Coburger. Bulgariens Ex-König Simeon empfängt sie in seiner Residenz in Sofia. In Belgien öffnet die königliche Familie die Palasttüren und in Großbritannien begibt sie sich auf die Suche nach den Coburg’schen Wurzeln der britischen Königsfamilie. Anekdotenreich und bildgewaltig erzählt der Film anhand ausgewählter Biografien die Geschichte der wahrscheinlich europäischsten Familie des Kontinents.
To watch this documentary in English, please click here.
Die Coburger (2017)
Regisseur: Julia Melchior
Genre: Dokumentarfilm, Geschichte, Biografie
Sprache: Deutsch
Erscheinungsdatum: 13. Juni 2017 (Deutschland)
Handlung:
Die Coburger Herzöge schienen zur Bedeutungslosigkeit verdammt. Durch geschickte Heiratspolitik gelingt ihnen im 19. Jahrhundert der kometenhafte Aufstieg zur bedeutendsten Dynastie ihrer Zeit. Sie begründen die Königshäuser von Belgien und Bulgarien, herrschen in England und Portugal und heiraten in die Paläste von ganz Europa ein.
Königshausexpertin Julia Melchior ergründet in ihrem neuen Film das europäische Familiennetzwerk der Coburger. Bulgariens Ex-König Simeon empfängt sie in seiner Residenz in Sofia. In Belgien öffnet die königliche Familie die Palasttüren und in Großbritannien begibt sie sich auf die Suche nach den Coburg’schen Wurzeln der britischen Königsfamilie. Anekdotenreich und bildgewaltig erzählt der Film anhand ausgewählter Biografien die Geschichte der wahrscheinlich europäischsten Familie des Kontinents.
To watch this documentary in English, please click here.
En Corée du Nord, Kim Jong-un sur le qui-vive après le coup de force de Donald Trump au Venezuela
LE FIGARO : DÉCRYPTAGE - La chute de Nicolás Maduro ravive l’anxiété du dictateur nord-coréen et plombe les chances de retrouvailles avec président américain.
Alors que Nicolás Maduro menotté était incarcéré à New York, Kim Jong-un a réagi à sa façon par-delà le Pacifique à la chute du président «socialiste» du Venezuela, affichant sa détermination face à Donald Trump. Le « leader suprême » de Corée du Nord a supervisé en personne un test de missile hypersonique sur la côte orientale de la péninsule coréenne, ce 4 janvier au matin, avec pour objectif de « renforcer sa force de dissuasion nucléaire » dans un contexte international troublé. « Une nécessité mise en lumière par la récente crise géopolitique et les événements internationaux compliqués », a ajouté Kim, sans élaborer sur la crise en cours à Caracas, selon l’agence officielle KCNA.
Si l’efficacité de cette nouvelle arme reste nimbée de mystère, l’opération militaire éclair orchestrée par la Maison-Blanche contre Maduro ravive la paranoïa d’un régime nord-coréen barricadé face à « l’ennemi américain » depuis la guerre de Corée (1950-1953). Pyongyang a réagi au quart de tour et avec véhémence au coup de main de Trump, dénonçant des méthodes de « voyou », affichant sa solidarité ancienne avec le régime Chaviste. » | Par Sébastien Falletti, correspondant en Asie | jeudi 8 janvier 2026
Réservé aux abonnés
Alors que Nicolás Maduro menotté était incarcéré à New York, Kim Jong-un a réagi à sa façon par-delà le Pacifique à la chute du président «socialiste» du Venezuela, affichant sa détermination face à Donald Trump. Le « leader suprême » de Corée du Nord a supervisé en personne un test de missile hypersonique sur la côte orientale de la péninsule coréenne, ce 4 janvier au matin, avec pour objectif de « renforcer sa force de dissuasion nucléaire » dans un contexte international troublé. « Une nécessité mise en lumière par la récente crise géopolitique et les événements internationaux compliqués », a ajouté Kim, sans élaborer sur la crise en cours à Caracas, selon l’agence officielle KCNA.
Si l’efficacité de cette nouvelle arme reste nimbée de mystère, l’opération militaire éclair orchestrée par la Maison-Blanche contre Maduro ravive la paranoïa d’un régime nord-coréen barricadé face à « l’ennemi américain » depuis la guerre de Corée (1950-1953). Pyongyang a réagi au quart de tour et avec véhémence au coup de main de Trump, dénonçant des méthodes de « voyou », affichant sa solidarité ancienne avec le régime Chaviste. » | Par Sébastien Falletti, correspondant en Asie | jeudi 8 janvier 2026
Réservé aux abonnés
Storm Goretti 'Weather Bomb' Hits UK, as Rare 'Danger to Life' Warning Comes into Force | BBC News
Jan 8, 2026 | A rare red wind warning comes into force for parts of south-west England as the UK is hit by Storm Goretti.
The Met Office warns to expect "flying debris resulting in danger to life" in the Isles of Scilly and Cornwall, with schools there closing early and all trains cancelled.
This sort of warning is only issued in the most extreme circumstances, BBC Weather's Simon King says.
The Met Office warns to expect "flying debris resulting in danger to life" in the Isles of Scilly and Cornwall, with schools there closing early and all trains cancelled.
This sort of warning is only issued in the most extreme circumstances, BBC Weather's Simon King says.
"This Is Our Hemisphere": Report from Colombia on Trump's Escalating Threats to the Region
Jan 7, 2026 | Following his attack on Venezuela and the abduction of Nicolás Maduro, President Donald Trump has escalated his threats against Colombia and claimed without evidence that President Gustavo Petro is involved in cocaine trafficking. Trump and others in his administration have also threatened military action against Cuba, Greenland, Iran and Mexico in recent days.
Manuel Rozental, a Colombian physician and activist with more than 40 years of involvement in grassroots political organizing, tells Democracy Now! that Trump's attacks on Petro are lies. The former guerrilla "has seized more cocaine than any other government in the past," says Rozental. "President Petro is not a drug trafficker. President Petro has been a victim of drug mafias and their allies."
Democracy Now! can be supported here.
WIKIPEDIA: Gustavo Petro »
Manuel Rozental, a Colombian physician and activist with more than 40 years of involvement in grassroots political organizing, tells Democracy Now! that Trump's attacks on Petro are lies. The former guerrilla "has seized more cocaine than any other government in the past," says Rozental. "President Petro is not a drug trafficker. President Petro has been a victim of drug mafias and their allies."
Democracy Now! can be supported here.
WIKIPEDIA: Gustavo Petro »
Steve Schmidt: ICE Murdered an American Citizen. Who’s Next?
08/01/2026 - Wet and Windy in the South - Afternoon Weather Forecast UK – Met Office Weather
Jan 8, 2026 | Heavy rain with very strong winds in the southwest initially, strengthening through the rest of today and spreading across much of England and southern part of Northern Ireland. Rain turning to snow as the colder air cuts in from the north. Largely dry for north-east England and much of Scotland, with a few showers in places and some clearer skies.
Today’s forecast brought to you by Alex Burkill.
Today’s forecast brought to you by Alex Burkill.
‘Dirty’ and ‘Infested* with Drugs’: The New York Jail Holding Maduro and Mangione
THE GUARDIAN: High-profile names have been housed in Brooklyn’s Metropolitan detention center, which is said to be unsafe and inhumane
After US military forces seized Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, in Caracas during a controversial pre-dawn raid, they were ultimately spirited to one of this country’s most infamous jails: the Metropolitan detention center (MDC) in Brooklyn, New York.
The deposed Venezuelan president and Flores will almost certainly reside in the MDC until their federal trial on drugs and weapons charge – inducting them into a notorious group that counts Sean “Diddy” Combs, Ghislaine Maxwell, Sam Bankman-Fried and Mexican drug kingpin “El Chapo” as either current or former members.
The facility, located in the Sunset Park neighborhood of Brooklyn, holds prisoners with pending cases in the United States district court for the eastern district of New York as well as those serving brief sentences. » | Victoria Bekiempis | Wednesday, January 7, 2026
FOR CLARITY, A NOTE TO NON-NATIVE SPEAKERS OF ENGLISH: The choice of the word “infested’ in connection with drugs is very unusual. The word ‘infested’ is more correctly used in connection with insects, pests, or vermin, etc. I would have probably used the word ‘saturated’. — Mark
After US military forces seized Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, in Caracas during a controversial pre-dawn raid, they were ultimately spirited to one of this country’s most infamous jails: the Metropolitan detention center (MDC) in Brooklyn, New York.
The deposed Venezuelan president and Flores will almost certainly reside in the MDC until their federal trial on drugs and weapons charge – inducting them into a notorious group that counts Sean “Diddy” Combs, Ghislaine Maxwell, Sam Bankman-Fried and Mexican drug kingpin “El Chapo” as either current or former members.
The facility, located in the Sunset Park neighborhood of Brooklyn, holds prisoners with pending cases in the United States district court for the eastern district of New York as well as those serving brief sentences. » | Victoria Bekiempis | Wednesday, January 7, 2026
FOR CLARITY, A NOTE TO NON-NATIVE SPEAKERS OF ENGLISH: The choice of the word “infested’ in connection with drugs is very unusual. The word ‘infested’ is more correctly used in connection with insects, pests, or vermin, etc. I would have probably used the word ‘saturated’. — Mark
‘Out with the Yanks!’: Thousands Protest in Colombia as Anger Builds over Trump’s Intervention in Venezuela
THE GUARDIAN: President Gustavo Petro called for demonstrations after Trump said he was interested in military action in Colombia
Screenshot taken from this article. | Supporters of Colombian President Gustavo Petro attend a rally to protest comments made by Donald Trump, in Bogotá, Colombia. Photograph: Santiago Saldarriaga/AP
Thousands of protesters have taken to the streets of cities across Colombia to decry Donald Trump’s threats to expand his military campaign in South America into their territory, after last weekend’s deadly attack on Venezuela.
In Cúcuta, a city on Colombia’s eastern border with Venezuela, several hundred demonstrators marched towards its 19th century cathedral waving the country’s yellow, blue and red flag and shouting: “Fuera los yanquis!” (“Out with the Yanks!”)
“Trump is the devil … he’s the most abhorrent person in the world,” said one demonstrator, a 55-year-old businesswoman called Janet Chacón.
Another marcher, José Silva, 67, said the abduction of Venezuela’s president, Nicolás Maduro, during Saturday’s attack made a mockery of Trump’s claim to be “the president of peace”.
“He’s the president of war … he’s a maniac,” Silva declared. “The US congress needs to do something to get him out of the presidency … He’s a thug.” » | Tom Phillips in Cúcuta | Thursday, January 8, 2026
Thousands of protesters have taken to the streets of cities across Colombia to decry Donald Trump’s threats to expand his military campaign in South America into their territory, after last weekend’s deadly attack on Venezuela.
In Cúcuta, a city on Colombia’s eastern border with Venezuela, several hundred demonstrators marched towards its 19th century cathedral waving the country’s yellow, blue and red flag and shouting: “Fuera los yanquis!” (“Out with the Yanks!”)
“Trump is the devil … he’s the most abhorrent person in the world,” said one demonstrator, a 55-year-old businesswoman called Janet Chacón.
Another marcher, José Silva, 67, said the abduction of Venezuela’s president, Nicolás Maduro, during Saturday’s attack made a mockery of Trump’s claim to be “the president of peace”.
“He’s the president of war … he’s a maniac,” Silva declared. “The US congress needs to do something to get him out of the presidency … He’s a thug.” » | Tom Phillips in Cúcuta | Thursday, January 8, 2026
Mandelson Accuses European Leaders of ‘Histrionic’ Reaction to Trump’s Greenland Stance
THE GUARDIAN: Article by former British ambassador to US is likely to be seen as criticism of Keir Starmer
Peter Mandelson has accused European leaders including Keir Starmer of a “histrionic” reaction to Donald Trump’s plan to take over Greenland, arguing that without “hard power and hard cash” they will continue to slide into unimportance in the “age of Trump”.
In his first political comments since being sacked as Britain’s ambassador to Washington last year, Lord Mandelson said Trump had achieved “more in a day than orthodox diplomacy was able to achieve in the past decade” when he captured the Venezuelan president, Nicolás Maduro.
The intervention is likely to be seen as a criticism of the British prime minister, who has attempted to walk a diplomatic tightrope since the US captured Maduro. This week he signed a statement calling on the US president to respect Danish sovereignty over Greenland after a White House statement said the US was looking into “a range of options” in an effort to acquire Greenland, adding that using the US military to do so was “always an option”. » | Alexandra Topping, Political correspondent | Thursday, January 8, 2026
A ridiculous comment made by a ridiculous man. Even Mandelson must know he is being ridiculous; so, we need to follow the money. — © Mark Alexander
Peter Mandelson has accused European leaders including Keir Starmer of a “histrionic” reaction to Donald Trump’s plan to take over Greenland, arguing that without “hard power and hard cash” they will continue to slide into unimportance in the “age of Trump”.
In his first political comments since being sacked as Britain’s ambassador to Washington last year, Lord Mandelson said Trump had achieved “more in a day than orthodox diplomacy was able to achieve in the past decade” when he captured the Venezuelan president, Nicolás Maduro.
The intervention is likely to be seen as a criticism of the British prime minister, who has attempted to walk a diplomatic tightrope since the US captured Maduro. This week he signed a statement calling on the US president to respect Danish sovereignty over Greenland after a White House statement said the US was looking into “a range of options” in an effort to acquire Greenland, adding that using the US military to do so was “always an option”. » | Alexandra Topping, Political correspondent | Thursday, January 8, 2026
A ridiculous comment made by a ridiculous man. Even Mandelson must know he is being ridiculous; so, we need to follow the money. — © Mark Alexander
Video Shows ICE Immigration Officer Shooting Dead Woman Driver in Minneapolis | BBC News
Jan 7, 2026 | A US immigration officer on an enforcement raid in Minneapolis has shot dead a woman in a car, provoking outrage from residents and politicians in the city.
The federal agents deployed by the Trump administration shot and killed the woman as she drove her vehicle in the street where they were operating. The shooting was captured on video, taking place as the driver of a dark red SUV tried to slowly drive away from agents who were ordering her to get out of the vehicle and trying to open its door.
In a social media statement, President Trump defended the ICE officers, saying that he had watched a video clip of the incident which he called a “horrible thing to watch”. He described the woman who was shot dead in her car as “very disorderly, obstructing and resisting” and said she “violently, wilfully, and viciously ran over the ICE Officer, who seems to have shot her in self-defence”.
The US Department for Homeland Security described the driver as a “domestic terrorist” who “weaponized her vehicle” and attempted “to run over our law enforcement officers in an attempt to kill them”. It stated: “An ICE officer, fearing for his life, the lives of his fellow law enforcement and the safety of the public, fired defensive shots. He used his training and saved his own life and that of his fellow officers.”
Jacob Frey, the mayor of Minneapolis held a press conference in which he told the ICE immigration officers to leave the city. He said the Department for Homeland Security was: “trying to spin this as an action of self-defence. Having seen the video myself, I want to tell everybody directly, that is bullshit.” He accused the ICE agents of terrorising citizens, saying: “People are being hurt. Families are being ripped apart.
Long-term Minneapolis residents that have contributed so greatly to our city, to our culture, to our economy are being terrorized and now, somebody is dead.”
Reeta Chakrabarti presents BBC News at Ten reporting by Nada Tawfik.
Donald Trump and his cronies have turned a once progressive nation into a regressive shithouse. What is going on in America today is little better than what went on in Hitler’s Third Reich! — © Mark Alexander
The federal agents deployed by the Trump administration shot and killed the woman as she drove her vehicle in the street where they were operating. The shooting was captured on video, taking place as the driver of a dark red SUV tried to slowly drive away from agents who were ordering her to get out of the vehicle and trying to open its door.
In a social media statement, President Trump defended the ICE officers, saying that he had watched a video clip of the incident which he called a “horrible thing to watch”. He described the woman who was shot dead in her car as “very disorderly, obstructing and resisting” and said she “violently, wilfully, and viciously ran over the ICE Officer, who seems to have shot her in self-defence”.
The US Department for Homeland Security described the driver as a “domestic terrorist” who “weaponized her vehicle” and attempted “to run over our law enforcement officers in an attempt to kill them”. It stated: “An ICE officer, fearing for his life, the lives of his fellow law enforcement and the safety of the public, fired defensive shots. He used his training and saved his own life and that of his fellow officers.”
Jacob Frey, the mayor of Minneapolis held a press conference in which he told the ICE immigration officers to leave the city. He said the Department for Homeland Security was: “trying to spin this as an action of self-defence. Having seen the video myself, I want to tell everybody directly, that is bullshit.” He accused the ICE agents of terrorising citizens, saying: “People are being hurt. Families are being ripped apart.
Long-term Minneapolis residents that have contributed so greatly to our city, to our culture, to our economy are being terrorized and now, somebody is dead.”
Reeta Chakrabarti presents BBC News at Ten reporting by Nada Tawfik.
Donald Trump and his cronies have turned a once progressive nation into a regressive shithouse. What is going on in America today is little better than what went on in Hitler’s Third Reich! — © Mark Alexander
Does Keir Starmer Believe Actions in Venezuela Are in Breach of International Law
Guerre en Ukraine: «plus d'un million» de foyers sans chauffage ni eau après des frappes russes
LE FIGARO : Plus d’un million de foyers de la région de Dnipropetrovsk, au centre de l’Ukraine, sont privés d’eau et d’électricité après des frappes russes nocturnes sur les infrastructures énergétiques. Les autorités ukrainiennes poursuivent les réparations pour rétablir l’approvisionnement.
Plus d'un million de foyers de la région de Dnipropetrovsk, dans le centre de l'Ukraine, sont privés d'eau et d'électricité après des frappes russes nocturnes sur les infrastructures énergétiques du pays, a annoncé jeudi un ministre ukrainien.
Les infrastructures des régions de Dnipropetrovsk et Zaporijjia (sud) ont été touchées dans la nuit par des frappes massives de drones russes, entraînant des coupures d’électricité, a expliqué le fournisseur d’énergie ukrainien Ukrenergo. » | Par Le Figaro avec AFP | jeudi 8 janvier 2026
Plus d'un million de foyers de la région de Dnipropetrovsk, dans le centre de l'Ukraine, sont privés d'eau et d'électricité après des frappes russes nocturnes sur les infrastructures énergétiques du pays, a annoncé jeudi un ministre ukrainien.
Les infrastructures des régions de Dnipropetrovsk et Zaporijjia (sud) ont été touchées dans la nuit par des frappes massives de drones russes, entraînant des coupures d’électricité, a expliqué le fournisseur d’énergie ukrainien Ukrenergo. » | Par Le Figaro avec AFP | jeudi 8 janvier 2026
'NATO Is Done' If Trump Annexes Greenland | Jon Sopel on LBC
Jan 6, 2026 | Donald Trump has insisted the United States needs Greenland in order to protect America’s national security. The President has appointed Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry as a special envoy to the island - saying he'll "lead the charge" in advocating for the semi-autonomous part of Denmark to join the United States.
President Donald Trump has repeatedly refused to rule out taking Greenland by force. The News Agents' Jon Sopel joins Shelagh Fogarty to discuss what this annexation of Greenland would mean for NATO.
President Donald Trump has repeatedly refused to rule out taking Greenland by force. The News Agents' Jon Sopel joins Shelagh Fogarty to discuss what this annexation of Greenland would mean for NATO.
Oil Tanker Linked to Venezuela and Russia Seized, US Confirms
Jan 7, 2026 | Shelagh Fogarty is joined by John Bolton, who served as the national security advisor in Donald Trump’s first term.
He shares his view on Trump's 'incoherent plan' after the US seized an oil tanker with links to Russia and Venezuela. It comes as The White House suggested US military action in Greenland is "always an option".
He shares his view on Trump's 'incoherent plan' after the US seized an oil tanker with links to Russia and Venezuela. It comes as The White House suggested US military action in Greenland is "always an option".
If the US Takes Greenland, 'the Next President Would Give It Straight Back'
Why Europe No Longer Trusts the US w/ Anne Applebaum
Trump’s Greenland Comments Spark NATO Alarm: Denmark Warns of a Global Security Crisis
ANTHONY DAVIS can be supported on Patreon here.
Stephen Miller? Was für ein A-L! — © Mark Alexander
Royal House of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha | European Dynasty
Jul 9, 2024 | Royal House of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha - The history of probably the most European family on the continent.
Royal House of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha (2017)
Director: Julia Melchior
Genre: Documentary, History, Biography
Language: English
Release date: 13 June 2017 (Germany)
Synopsis:
The Dukes of Coburg seemed doomed to insignificance. Thanks to a skilful marriage policy, in the 19th century they achieve a meteoric rise to become the most important dynasty of their time. They founded the royal houses of Belgium and Bulgaria, ruled England and Portugal and married into the palaces of the whole of Europe.
In her new film, royal house expert Julia Melchior explores the European family network of the Coburgs. Bulgaria's ex-King Simeon welcomes her to his residence in Sofia. In Belgium, the royal family opens the palace doors and in Great Britain she sets off in search of the Coburg roots of the British royal family. Rich in anecdotes and visually stunning, the film uses selected biographies to tell the story of what is probably the most European family on the continent.
Royal House of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha (2017)
Director: Julia Melchior
Genre: Documentary, History, Biography
Language: English
Release date: 13 June 2017 (Germany)
Synopsis:
The Dukes of Coburg seemed doomed to insignificance. Thanks to a skilful marriage policy, in the 19th century they achieve a meteoric rise to become the most important dynasty of their time. They founded the royal houses of Belgium and Bulgaria, ruled England and Portugal and married into the palaces of the whole of Europe.
In her new film, royal house expert Julia Melchior explores the European family network of the Coburgs. Bulgaria's ex-King Simeon welcomes her to his residence in Sofia. In Belgium, the royal family opens the palace doors and in Great Britain she sets off in search of the Coburg roots of the British royal family. Rich in anecdotes and visually stunning, the film uses selected biographies to tell the story of what is probably the most European family on the continent.
Streit um Grönland: EU spricht von gefährlicher Eskalation | DW Nachrichten
Wednesday, January 07, 2026
Democracy Now! Trump's Plan to Seize Greenland Would "Militarize the Arctic," Trample Indigenous Rights
Jan 7, 2026 | Following the U.S. attack on Venezuela, the Trump administration has renewed its campaign to take over Greenland, which has been controlled by Denmark for more than 300 years. The White House says it's considering "a range of options," including the use of military force. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has warned that if the U.S. were to attack Greenland, it would spell the end of NATO.
"Greenland is not up for sale," says Aaju Peter, a Greenlandic Inuit activist and attorney, who says Indigenous Greenlanders want their independence from both the U.S. and Denmark.
We also speak with analyst Pavel Devyatkin, who says the U.S. is "acting like a rogue state" and enacting a policy of "pure imperialism."
Democracy Now! can be supported here.
"Greenland is not up for sale," says Aaju Peter, a Greenlandic Inuit activist and attorney, who says Indigenous Greenlanders want their independence from both the U.S. and Denmark.
We also speak with analyst Pavel Devyatkin, who says the U.S. is "acting like a rogue state" and enacting a policy of "pure imperialism."
Democracy Now! can be supported here.
Steve Schmidt: Stephen Miller Is the Architect of Chaos
Trump’s Threats to Greenland Will Backfire | Former NATO Deputy Supreme Allied Commander
Jan 7, 2026 | "All European countries and Canada would absolutely be there for America, provided they trust America."
Trump’s "flailing around" and making threats to Greenland will lose him the trust and the backing of other NATO countries, says former NATO Deputy Supreme Allied Commander for Europe, General Sir Richard Shirreff.
Trump’s "flailing around" and making threats to Greenland will lose him the trust and the backing of other NATO countries, says former NATO Deputy Supreme Allied Commander for Europe, General Sir Richard Shirreff.
Europäer planlos: Trump setzt die ersten Schritte zur Übernahme Grönlands bereits um
BERLINER ZEITUNG: Verdeckte Agenten, ein Vier-Stufen-Plan, ein machtloses Europa: Die US-Übernahme Grönlands ist keine Fantasie mehr. Laut der dänischen Regierung ist die Nato damit am Ende.
Die amerikanischen Übernahmepläne auf Grönland erreichen eine neue Eskalationsstufe. Dänemark bestellte bereits im August vergangenen Jahres den ranghöchsten US-Diplomaten in Kopenhagen ein, nachdem dänische Medien über verdeckte Einflussoperationen von Amerikanern mit Verbindungen zu Präsident Donald Trump berichtet hatten. „Wir spionieren Freunde nicht aus“, sagte Außenminister Lars Løkke Rasmussen und nannte jede Einmischung in dänische Angelegenheiten „inakzeptabel“.
Was zunächst als politische Rhetorik abgetan wird, folgt offenbar einem systematischen Vier-Stufen-Plan, wie Politico unter Berufung auf neun EU-Beamte, Nato-Insider und Diplomaten berichtet. Beunruhigend für die Europäer: Die Strategie ähnelt stark dem Drehbuch von Russlands Präsidenten Wladimir Putin. » | Alexander Dergay | Mittwoch, 7. Januar 2026
Was für eine Bande von Feiglingen diese europäischen Politiker doch sind! Frau Thatcher hatte doch Recht! Sie sind "weak, feeble". — © Mark Alexander
Die amerikanischen Übernahmepläne auf Grönland erreichen eine neue Eskalationsstufe. Dänemark bestellte bereits im August vergangenen Jahres den ranghöchsten US-Diplomaten in Kopenhagen ein, nachdem dänische Medien über verdeckte Einflussoperationen von Amerikanern mit Verbindungen zu Präsident Donald Trump berichtet hatten. „Wir spionieren Freunde nicht aus“, sagte Außenminister Lars Løkke Rasmussen und nannte jede Einmischung in dänische Angelegenheiten „inakzeptabel“.
Was zunächst als politische Rhetorik abgetan wird, folgt offenbar einem systematischen Vier-Stufen-Plan, wie Politico unter Berufung auf neun EU-Beamte, Nato-Insider und Diplomaten berichtet. Beunruhigend für die Europäer: Die Strategie ähnelt stark dem Drehbuch von Russlands Präsidenten Wladimir Putin. » | Alexander Dergay | Mittwoch, 7. Januar 2026
Was für eine Bande von Feiglingen diese europäischen Politiker doch sind! Frau Thatcher hatte doch Recht! Sie sind "weak, feeble". — © Mark Alexander
Un peu de musique joyeuse pour danser et alléger le poids de la politique internationale.
Piliers de la vie britannique, les pubs menacés par la réforme de la sécurité routière
LE FIGARO : DÉCRYPTAGE - En abaissant le taux d’alcool autorisé au volant, le gouvernement travailliste est accusé de mettre en danger les établissements ruraux, souvent déjà en proie à des difficultés économiques.
Les pubs, donc la patrie, sont en danger. L’Angleterre s’enflamme au sujet de cette sacro-sainte institution, alors que le gouvernement présente un projet de loi pour lutter contre les morts sur la route. Il prévoit notamment un abaissement du taux d’alcool autorisé au volant. La mesure mettrait en danger les pubs ruraux. La polémique fait rage et l’affaire est devenue politique, le patron de Reform UK, Nigel Farage, dénonçant l’assassinat programmé de ces piliers de la vie communautaire.
En publiant sa « Road Safety Strategy », Downing Street vante la première grande initiative de sécurité routière depuis plus de dix ans. « Elle doit permettre de sauver des milliers de vies sur les routes britanniques » assure la ministre des Transports, Heidi Alexander, qui précise que cela se fera en luttant contre la conduite en état d’ivresse, en améliorant la formation des jeunes conducteurs et en instaurant des examens de la vue obligatoires pour les conducteurs âgés de plus de 70 ans. L’objectif est de réduire de 65 % le nombre de décès et de blessures graves sur les routes d’ici à 2035, avec un objectif encore plus ambitieux de 70 % pour les enfants de moins de 16 ans. » | Par Arnaud De La Grange, correspondant à Londres | mercredi 7 janvier 2026
Réservé aux abonnés
Putain ! Encore des restrictions ! Les gouvernements travaillistes n'ont jamais su que gâcher nos joies ! Interdiction de fumer ! Interdiction de boire ! Si vous devez boire, buvez moins ! Interdiction de manger ceci ! Interdiction de faire cela ! Interdiction d'écrire ceci et cela ! Qu'on instaure une interdiction de fumer pour toutes les générations ! Qu'on interdise de fumer dans les terrasses de bars ! Les gouvernements travaillistes n'ont jamais su que tuer la joie ! Keir Starmer est un maître en la matière. Quel pays morne et déprimant est en train de devenir la Grande-Bretagne ! — © Mark Alexander
Les pubs, donc la patrie, sont en danger. L’Angleterre s’enflamme au sujet de cette sacro-sainte institution, alors que le gouvernement présente un projet de loi pour lutter contre les morts sur la route. Il prévoit notamment un abaissement du taux d’alcool autorisé au volant. La mesure mettrait en danger les pubs ruraux. La polémique fait rage et l’affaire est devenue politique, le patron de Reform UK, Nigel Farage, dénonçant l’assassinat programmé de ces piliers de la vie communautaire.
En publiant sa « Road Safety Strategy », Downing Street vante la première grande initiative de sécurité routière depuis plus de dix ans. « Elle doit permettre de sauver des milliers de vies sur les routes britanniques » assure la ministre des Transports, Heidi Alexander, qui précise que cela se fera en luttant contre la conduite en état d’ivresse, en améliorant la formation des jeunes conducteurs et en instaurant des examens de la vue obligatoires pour les conducteurs âgés de plus de 70 ans. L’objectif est de réduire de 65 % le nombre de décès et de blessures graves sur les routes d’ici à 2035, avec un objectif encore plus ambitieux de 70 % pour les enfants de moins de 16 ans. » | Par Arnaud De La Grange, correspondant à Londres | mercredi 7 janvier 2026
Réservé aux abonnés
Putain ! Encore des restrictions ! Les gouvernements travaillistes n'ont jamais su que gâcher nos joies ! Interdiction de fumer ! Interdiction de boire ! Si vous devez boire, buvez moins ! Interdiction de manger ceci ! Interdiction de faire cela ! Interdiction d'écrire ceci et cela ! Qu'on instaure une interdiction de fumer pour toutes les générations ! Qu'on interdise de fumer dans les terrasses de bars ! Les gouvernements travaillistes n'ont jamais su que tuer la joie ! Keir Starmer est un maître en la matière. Quel pays morne et déprimant est en train de devenir la Grande-Bretagne ! — © Mark Alexander
Brigitte Bardot Laid to Rest in Funeral Ceremony Broadcast across Saint-Tropez
THE GUARDIAN: Service attended by singers, animal rights activists and public figures including far-right leader Marine Le Pen
Brigitte Bardot, the film star turned animal rights activist, has been laid to rest after a funeral service in Saint-Tropez attended by her favourite politician, the far-right leader Marine Le Pen.
Bardot died aged 91 at her La Madrague villa on 28 December. Her funeral was held at the Notre-Dame de l’Assomption church and broadcast on large screens across the town.
Speaking before the service, Bardot’s husband, Bernard d’Ormale, said she had died of cancer. Without specifying the type of cancer, he told Paris Match his wife had dealt “very well” with two operations before the disease “took her” last month. » | Angela Giuffrida, Angelique Chrisafis and agencies | Wednesday, January 7, 2026
Article connexe en français ici.
Brigitte Bardot, the film star turned animal rights activist, has been laid to rest after a funeral service in Saint-Tropez attended by her favourite politician, the far-right leader Marine Le Pen.
Bardot died aged 91 at her La Madrague villa on 28 December. Her funeral was held at the Notre-Dame de l’Assomption church and broadcast on large screens across the town.
Speaking before the service, Bardot’s husband, Bernard d’Ormale, said she had died of cancer. Without specifying the type of cancer, he told Paris Match his wife had dealt “very well” with two operations before the disease “took her” last month. » | Angela Giuffrida, Angelique Chrisafis and agencies | Wednesday, January 7, 2026
Article connexe en français ici.
Boycott All American Products!
MARK ALEXANDER: Donald Trump and his cronies think that they can ride rough shod over the rest of the world. Trample others into submission. They think that all that they are able to survey belongs to them! It does not. Simply put, these shysters are thieves. They must not be allowed to get away with this. Trump is no better than Putin.
Because our European leaders are weak—and I include my own country’s leaders in this negative assessment—we cannot hope to be able to stop the US militarily if Trump decides to invade Greenland. But what Europe can do is boycott American goods and services. Europe has mighty purchasing power. It has in excess of 440m consumers Europe-wide, and that excludes UK consumers. America needs the European market, and it needs European consumers to buy their goods and services.
Because of Trump’s increasing and unceasing threats to take over Greenland, I propose that in the name of solidarity with Greenlanders and Danes that we boycott all American goods and services wherever and whenever possible. And avoid all trips and vacations in and to the United States. We can all do this regardless of where we live or come from. Trump needs to be taught a lesson.
Donald Trump and his band of bullying crooks mustn’t be allowed to get away with this thievery. Let us bring the American economy to its knees. And if we cannot, at least let us try. Greenland’s future depends on it. Don’t forget! If Trump succeeds with Greenland, which country will be next?
© Mark Alexander
All Rights Reserved
Because our European leaders are weak—and I include my own country’s leaders in this negative assessment—we cannot hope to be able to stop the US militarily if Trump decides to invade Greenland. But what Europe can do is boycott American goods and services. Europe has mighty purchasing power. It has in excess of 440m consumers Europe-wide, and that excludes UK consumers. America needs the European market, and it needs European consumers to buy their goods and services.
Because of Trump’s increasing and unceasing threats to take over Greenland, I propose that in the name of solidarity with Greenlanders and Danes that we boycott all American goods and services wherever and whenever possible. And avoid all trips and vacations in and to the United States. We can all do this regardless of where we live or come from. Trump needs to be taught a lesson.
Donald Trump and his band of bullying crooks mustn’t be allowed to get away with this thievery. Let us bring the American economy to its knees. And if we cannot, at least let us try. Greenland’s future depends on it. Don’t forget! If Trump succeeds with Greenland, which country will be next?
© Mark Alexander
All Rights Reserved
Is Starmer’s Reluctance to Criticise Trump Smart Tactics – Or the Sign of a Man Without a Plan?
THE GUARDIAN — OPINION: The PM won’t call out Trump over Venezuela, and won’t commit to Europe. His refusal to choose leaves vital choices for Britain to be made by others
For an inveterate liar, Donald Trump is remarkably honest. The best guide to what he thinks is what he says. When forecasting his likely course of action, start with his declared intentions – removing the president of Venezuela, for example – and assume he means it. When he says the US must take possession of Greenland, he is not kidding.
The motives are sometimes muddled but rarely hidden. Trump likes making deals, especially real estate deals, and money. He wants to be great and to have his greatness affirmed with praise and prizes. He craves spectacle. The world as he describes it doesn’t always resemble observable reality, but there is an effortless, sociopathic sincerity to his falsehoods. The truth is whatever he intuits it to be in the moment to advance his interests and manipulate his audience.
Trump’s freewheeling brazenness lies at the extreme end of a spectrum where the opposite pole is Keir Starmer’s verbal constipation on camera. It isn’t the most profound difference between the two men, but the contrast reveals something significant about the prime minister’s present difficulties. » | Rafael Behr | Wednesday, January 7, 2026
Is it the sign of a man without a plan? No! It’s the sign of an obsequious, fawning man without balls! — G Mark Alexander
For an inveterate liar, Donald Trump is remarkably honest. The best guide to what he thinks is what he says. When forecasting his likely course of action, start with his declared intentions – removing the president of Venezuela, for example – and assume he means it. When he says the US must take possession of Greenland, he is not kidding.
The motives are sometimes muddled but rarely hidden. Trump likes making deals, especially real estate deals, and money. He wants to be great and to have his greatness affirmed with praise and prizes. He craves spectacle. The world as he describes it doesn’t always resemble observable reality, but there is an effortless, sociopathic sincerity to his falsehoods. The truth is whatever he intuits it to be in the moment to advance his interests and manipulate his audience.
Trump’s freewheeling brazenness lies at the extreme end of a spectrum where the opposite pole is Keir Starmer’s verbal constipation on camera. It isn’t the most profound difference between the two men, but the contrast reveals something significant about the prime minister’s present difficulties. » | Rafael Behr | Wednesday, January 7, 2026
Is it the sign of a man without a plan? No! It’s the sign of an obsequious, fawning man without balls! — G Mark Alexander
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