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

Radical Islam: The Children Taught At Home about Murder and Bombings

Michael Adebowala and Michael Adebolajo as they were found
guilty of the murder of Fuselier Lee Rigby

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH: Radicalisation is a form of child abuse, and the authorities must have the power to intervene

It must have been dreadful for the family of Drummer Lee Rigby to listen to the ravings of his killers as they were finally hauled away to the cells and, one hopes, to a lifetime of incarceration. If those relatives have one consolation, it is that they were just about the last words those men will ever pronounce in public; the last time we will have to hear them pervert the religion of Islam – and the most important question now is how we prevent other young men, and women, from succumbing to that awful virus: the contagion of radical Islamic extremism.

Every day in London and other big cities, there are thousands of counter-terrorism officers doing a fantastic job of keeping us safe. They have to work out who are the most vulnerable young people, who are the most susceptible – and they have to stop the infection of radicalisation before it is too late. That will sometimes mean taking a view about what is happening to them in their homes and families – and I worry that their work is being hampered by what I am obliged to call political correctness. » | Boris Johnson | Sunday, March 02, 2014

The Andrew Marr Show

Andrew Marr is joined by Grant Shapps, Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Nigel Farage and Tim Pigott-Smith. Jacqui Smith and Max Hastings review the papers, plus music from Kaiser Chiefs.
Watch The Andrew Marr Show on BBC iPlayer here | Sunday, March 02, 2014

Former PVV-er Returns with Anti-Gay, Pro-Islam Party

NL TIMES: A former PVV politician from The Hague who once helped produce a film depicting Islam as evil and extreme, Arnoud van Doorn sings a totally different tune these days.

In an interview with Algemeen Dagblad last week, he said that since quitting the anti-Islam party, he has now actually converted to the religion and started his own Islamic Party for Unity, with which he is contending for three seats during the municipal elections on March 19.

His party is against the anti-Muslim atmosphere in The Hague and also against the pro-homosexuality tendencies. “They promote homosexuality. You don’t have to go out and promote how fantastic that lifestyle is,” he said about how much focus there is in the manifestos of GroenLinks, D66 and PvdA for equality for gays. Personally he would rather see an end to the municipal support for promotional campaigns and gay-events like Pink Saturday.

When AD asked him if what he thinks about two gays walking hand in hand in the city, he didn’t have an answer ready. “Let’s just say that people should be reserved about the affection they show each other in public. Don’t provoke with it. Keep your private life private,” he said. He explained that he does not discriminate gays. “We are against discrimination of gays as people. But we reject homosexual actions,” he said, adding that this comes from the Islamic ideologies his party is founded on. » | Marvin Hokstam | Sunday, March 02, 2014

Inside a Nigerian Private Jet

BBC: Nigerians have spent $6.5bn on private jets, making it the largest market in Africa for luxury aircraft and one of the fastest growing in the world.

More than 100 private planes are said to operating in there - many of them owned by the country's growing number of rich businessmen and women.

Tomi Oladipo reports from Lagos airport. (+ BBC video) » | Sunday, March 02, 2014

Russia Testing the Waters on Ukraine Invasion

Read the USA Today article here | Anna Arutunyan, Special to USA Today | Sunday, March 02, 2014

Ukraine Mobilizes for War as Crimea Taken Over by Russia

Ukrainian army put on highest alert and all reserves mobilized; head of Ukraine navy 'defect' to Russia.

Read the Haaretz article here | Anshel Pfeffer | The Associated Press and Reuters | Sunday, March 02, 2014

Far-right 'Christian Patrols' in UK Spark Stand-off with Muslims Using Leaflets & Beer

Tackling Islamophobia is proving a major headache for Britain after soaring levels of crimes against Muslims in London since the middle of last year. But the authorities have a battle on their hands. Sara Firth reports on a self-styled 'Christian patrol' threatening to enflame community tensions in the capital.

Kerry Threatens Sanctions If Russia Doesn't Withdraw from Ukraine

LOS ANGELES TIMES: WASHINGTON -- Secretary of State John F. Kerry, denouncing what he called Russia's invasion of Ukraine as an “incredible act of aggression,” said the United States is considering an array of economic sanctions to persuade Russian President Vladimir Putin to change course or to punish him if he refuses.

The decision by Russian President Vladimir Putin to send troops to Crimea, a region of Ukraine, “is really a stunning willful choice by president Putin to invade another country,” said Kerry, speaking on CBS’ “Face the Nation,” one of several Sunday morning public affairs shows on which he appeared.

Kerry and Republican members of Congress made clear the U.S. was not considering a military move to counter Putin’s action. On ABC’s “This Week” program Kerry said that “the hope of the U.S. and everybody in the world is not to see this escalate into a military confrontation.”

“Nobody wants this to spiral in a bad or a worse direction,” he said.

“The invasion of Crimea has already happened,” Kerry said. “And we believe that President Putin should make the decision to roll it back.” » | Joseph Tanfani | Sunday, March 02, 2014

Krauthammer on Voters' Remorse on Obama

Feb. 27, 2014 - 5:13 - Syndicated columnist sounds off on new poll that finds many Americans are disappointed in Obama's presidency

CNN Pulls Plug on Piers Morgan's Prime-Time Talk Show

Feb. 25, 2014 - 6:32 - Why did program struggle with ratings?

President Obama and Vladimir Putin Speak

Mar. 01, 2014 - 2:21 - Obama warns against military intervention in Ukraine

Rouhani Says Iran Will Not Acquire Nuclear Weapons 'On Principle'

President Hassan Rouhani has told Iran's generals to avoid
provocative military manoeuvres.

THE GUARDIAN: • President says religion forbids pursuit of WMDs
• Generals told to let diplomacy do its work

Iran’s president said on Saturday the Islamic Republic has decided not to develop nuclear weapons out of principle, not only because it is prevented from doing so by treaties.

President Hassan Rouhani also urged Iran’s military leaders to let diplomacy prevail in dealing with potential foreign threats, in a clear reference to efforts to end the nuclear dispute and decades of hostile relations with the west.

“It is very important to formulate one’s sentences and speeches in a way that is not construed as threat, intention to strike a blow,” Rouhani said in a meeting with Iran’s top military echelon.

“We must be very careful in our calculations. Launching missiles and staging military exercises to scare off the other side is not good deterrence, although a necessity in its proper place,” the official IRNA news agency quoted him as saying. “A misfire could burst into flames and wreak havoc to everything.” » | Agencies in Tehran | Saturday, March 01, 2014

Ukraine: Prime Minister of Ukraine Says Russian Military Intervention Would Lead to War

Arseny Yatsenyuk, prime minister of Ukraine, says any military intervention by Russia would lead to war and end all relations with Moscow. Oleksander Turchynov, the acting president of Ukraine, has put his troops on alert.

Krise auf der Krim: Merkel stärkt Ukraine den Rücken

Bundeskanzlerin Merkel und EU-Kommissionspräsident Barroso haben sich besorgt über die Lage in der Ukraine geäußert. Merkel sprach sich für eine friedliche Lösung und die Souveränität des Landes aus.

What ‘Costs’ Can US Threaten Russia with?

Feb. 28, 2014 - 6:05 - President's options seem limited

Is Obama the Rodney Dangerfield of World Leaders?

Feb. 24, 2014 - 4:04 - New poll: Fewer Americans believe the president is respected on the world stage

Krauthammer on Ukraine: 'Everybody Is Shocked by the Weakness of Obama's Statement'

Feb. 28, 2014 - 2:24 - Charles Krauthammer told viewers Friday that President Obama's statement on the latest Ukraine developments late Friday afternoon showed "weakness" and implied that "we're not really going to do anything" about the political upheaval in Ukraine.

Russia Approves Use of Military in Ukraine

ABC NEWS: Russia's parliament approved a motion to use the country's military in Ukraine after a request from President Vladimir Putin as protests in Russian-speaking cities turned violent Saturday, sparking fears of a wide-scale invasion.

The motion follows President Barack Obama's warning Friday "there will be costs" if Russia intervenes militarily, sharply raising the stakes in the conflict over Ukraine's future and evoking memories of Cold War brinkmanship.

"I'm submitting a request for using the armed forces of the Russian Federation on the territory of Ukraine pending the normalization of the socio-political situation in that country," Putin said in his request sent to parliament.

Russia's upper house also recommended that Moscow recalls its ambassador from Washington over Obama's comments.

Ukraine had already accused Russia on Friday of a "military invasion and occupation" in the strategic peninsula of Crimea where Russia's Black Sea fleet is based. Ukrainian Prime Minister Arseny Yatsenyuk called on Moscow "to recall their forces, and to return them to their stations," according to the Interfax news agency. "Russian partners, stop provoking civil and military resistance in Ukraine." (+ video) » | David McHugh and Vladimir Isachenkov | Associated Press | Kiev | Saturday, March 01, 2014

Russia Wresting Control of Crimea from Ukraine

Pro-Russian protesters with Russian flags take part in a rally
in central Donetsk March 1, 2014.

REUTERS.COM: (Reuters) – Russian President Vladimir Putin wrested control of the Ukrainian Black Sea region of Crimea from Kiev on Saturday citing a threat to Russian citizens and servicemen of the Russian Black Sea fleet based there.

Putin asked the upper house of parliament to approve sending armed forces to the Ukrainian territory, which has a majority ethnic Russian population. But Crimea had already begun to slip from Kiev's control with closure of the main airport and deployment of pro-Russian guards at key buildings.

Putin's statement, and remarks from a pro-Russian leader installed in Crimea this week, effectively confirmed what most people in the region had assumed: that military units who had seized control in the past two days were indeed Moscow's.

Ukraine accused Russia of sending thousands of extra troops to Crimea, largely hostile to the Kiev government which emerged from the overthrow of president Viktor Yanukovich last weekend. It placed its military in the area on high alert.

After Yanukovich's overthrow, Crimea quickly became the focus of a crisis bearing perils for the entire region.

Ukraine teeters on the brink of economic disaster, mired in debt. Any further spread of separatist sentiment to industrial, Russian-speaking eastern territories could raise the risk of disintegration with serious implications for surrounding states including Russia, Poland and Belarus.

Putin turned to parliament after a day of events viewed with deep concern in Europe and the United States. British foreign minister William Hague said he had spoken to Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov and called for a 'de-escalation' of tensions. U.S. President Barack Obama said any Russian intervention in Ukraine would carry costs for Moscow. » | Pavel Polityuk and Alissa De Carbonnel | Kiev/Balaclava, Ukraine | Saturday, March 01, 2014

Poutine veut envoyer des troupes en Ukraine

LE POINT: A la demande du président russe, le Conseil de la Fédération a commencé à débattre en session extraordinaire du recours à l'armée russe en Ukraine

Le Conseil de la Fédération russe a commencé à débattre samedi en session extraordinaire du recours à l'armée russe en Ukraine, à la suite d'une demande en ce sens du président Vladimir Poutine. Le président russe Vladimir Poutine a demandé samedi au Conseil de la Fédération (chambre haute du Parlement) d'approuver "le recours à l'armée russe en Ukraine" jusqu'à la normalisation de la situation.

"En raison de la situation extraordinaire en Ukraine et de la menace pesant sur la vie des citoyens russes, de nos compatriotes, des forces armées russes déployées en Ukraine", Vladimir Poutine a demandé au Conseil de la Fédération d'autoriser "le recours aux forces armées russes sur le territoire de l'Ukraine, jusqu'à la normalisation de la situation politique dans ce pays", selon un communiqué du service de presse du Kremlin. » | Source AFP | samedi 01 mars 2014

Putin "No One Should Have Any Illusions Of Gaining Military Superiority Over Russia" (December 2013)

"I Shall Never Allow This To Happen" Vladimir Putin has given his annual state of the nation address.The Russian president talked for more than an hour, in a wide-ranging speech to both houses of parliament. He defended conservative values and commented on the situation in Ukraine, Syria and Iran. Al Jazeera's Peter Sharp reports from Moscow.

Is a Modern Day Cold War upon Us?

Feb. 28, 2014 - 2:00 - With increasing concern over Russian military intervention in unrest in the Ukraine - and President Obama issuing warnings to Putin - has the Cold War returned?

The Obama Effect: America at a Tipping Point

Feb. 28, 2014 - 7:18 - How the president is overstepping his bound in the midst of a constitutional crisis

Christians Line Up to Break US Box Office for Jesus

The forces of secularisation may be gathering momentum, but all across America this weekend tens of thousands of Christians are mobilising to promote a new film about the life of Jesus

Read the Telegraph article here | Peter Foster, video by Dermot Tatlow | Friday, February 28, 2014
Related »

Ukraine: Russia Launches ‘Arned Invasion’; Obama Delivers Blunt Warning to Russia; Warns of Consequences

Russian troops and gunmen in unmarked uniforms fan out across Crimea, seizing two airports in an apparent bid to assert dominance over the region. President Obama warns Russia there would be “costs for any military intervention.”

Read and comment on the Telegraph article here | Roland Oliphant in Simferopol, David Blair in Kiev and Joanna Walters in New York | Friday, February 28, 2014

Keep Your Gays and Keep Your Aid, Uganda Tells the West

Supporters celebrate after Uganda's President Museveni signed
a law imposing harsh penalties for homosexuality in Kampala

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH: Uganda's ethics minister defends anti-homosexuality law and is indifferent about the withdrawal of Western aid to the country

Uganda is willing to give up all international aid to keep its new anti-homosexuality law and “save gays from damnation”, its ethics minister said as the World Bank followed other donors and froze a £60 million new loan to the country.

“We will not shy away from this, we want to rid this country of homosexuality and if that means these people - Obama, Hague, you name them - want to stop their aid then let them,” Simon Lokodo told The Telegraph.

“We don’t need it, we won’t die poor, and we will at least be able to save these gays from damnation.

“Homosexuality cannot be accommodated in our culture. We have taken that position as a government because this is a democracy and it is what the people want.”

Yoweri Museveni, Uganda’s president of 28 years, signed the new Anti-Homosexuality Act into law on Monday, immediately prompting outrage from Western nations. » | Mike Pflanz, Kampala | Friday, February 28, 2014

Inside Story: Uganda Punished Over Anti-gay Law

As the World Bank cuts a loan to Uganda over its new anti-gay law, will this force the government to back down?

Brunei Sultan Hits Back at Rare Criticism over Sharia

Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah

YAHOO! NEWS SINGAPORE: Brunei's all-powerful sultan, stung by rare criticism, has ordered social media users to stop attacking his plans to introduce harsh Islamic criminal punishments in the placid oil-rich kingdom.

Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah -- one of the world's wealthiest men -- announced last October that Brunei would phase in sharia law punishments such as flogging, severing limbs and death by stoning beginning April 1.

The move has sparked a growing outcry on social media, the only outlet for public criticism of authorities in the Muslim country where questioning the 67-year-old sultan is taboo.

In a weekend speech, the sultan issued a clear threat to the critics.

"They cannot be allowed to continue committing these insults, but if there are elements which allow them to be brought to court, then the first phase of implementing the Syariah Penal Code Order in April will be very relevant to them," he said, according to a copy of his speech published by state media. » | AFP | Wednesday, February 26, 2014

Muslim Boys’ School Bans Women from Applying for Job as Science Teacher

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH: An Islamic school has advertised for a new science teacher but ruled out female applicants

A Muslim boys’ school is facing claims of segregation after advertising for a temporary science teacher but making clear that women need not apply.

The advert published by the outsourcing company Capita requested a “Male Science Teacher” to cover lessons, including some mathematics classes, until the end of the current academic year on a short term contract for up to £150 a day.

Secular campaigners said the advertisement was just the latest in a series of demands for religious customs and practices to be “accommodated” in the education system as a result of giving faith groups the power to run schools.

It follows a storm over allegations that non-Muslim female staff at the Al-Madinah free school in Derby had been forced to wear headscarves in line with strict Islamic practices.

There have also been concerns that girls at other Islamic schools are being required to wear full veils as well as questions over segregation in classes.

Capita argued that the exclusion of women could be legally justified but the advert was later withdrawn after a warning from the Department for Education over the need to comply with equality law.

The National Secular Society said it had been alerted to the advertisement by a female science teacher who had been looking for work in the Leicester area. » | John Bingham, Religious Affairs Editor | Thursday, February 27, 2014

Alice: The Lady in Number 6: Music Saved My Life

From Acclaimed Filmmaker, Malcolm Clarke.

"The Lady in Number 6" is one of the most inspirational, uplifting stories of the year. 109 year old, Alice Herz Sommer, the world's oldest pianist and oldest holocaust survivor in the world shares her views on how to live a long and happy life. She discusses the importance of music, laughter and having an optimistic outlook on life.

Watching this film will literally show you how to live longer and happier! Guaranteed Nick Reed Producer


WIKI: Theresienstadt »

Related »

«La criminalisation de l'homosexualité gagne du terrain en Afrique»

LE FIGARO: INTERVIEW - Pour Dorothée Delaunay, d'Amnesty International France, la législation sur le continent élargit de plus en plus le champ des infractions liées à l'homosexualité.

Après la promulgation la veille d'une loi durcissant la répression de l'homosexualité dans le pays, un journal ougandais a publié mardi une liste de 200 personnes qu'il dit être homosexuelles. Une chasse aux sorcières qui atterre les défenseurs des droits LGBT, mais qui n'est pas une exception. Le mois dernier déjà, le Nigeria avait promulgué une loi prévoyant 10 ans d'emprisonnement contre les personnes de même sexe affichant publiquement leur relation. Selon un rapport d'Amnesty International publié en juin 2013, l'homosexualité reste passible des tribunaux dans près de trois quarts des 54 pays africains. Une criminalisation qui a des conséquences graves sur la santé publique, explique Dorothée Delaunay, responsable de la commission Orientation sexuelle et identité de genre pour l'ONG Amnesty International France. » | mercredi 26 février 2014

Merkel für Verbleib Großbritanniens in der EU

DEUTSCHE WELLE: Kanzlerin Merkel betont vor dem britischen Parlament, wie wichtig ihr ein Verbleib Großbritanniens in der EU ist. Für Premierminister Cameron macht das die Lage nicht besser. Er muss sich von Europa distanzieren.

Die Briten haben den roten Teppich ausgerollt und die Bundeskanzlerin am Donnerstag (27.02.2014) mit einer Charme-Offensive begrüßt. Angela Merkel hatte die Ehre, vor beiden Parlamentshäuser in Westminster zu reden, bevor sie am Nachmittag eine Verabredung zum Tee mit Königin Elisabeth hatte. Das alles machte ihren Status als Europas mächtigste Politikerin deutlich. Dennoch dämpfte sie vor ihrer 30-minütigen Rede in der Royal Gallery in London die Erwartungen: "Ich möchte lediglich meine Gedanken über Europa mit Ihnen teilen", sagte sie, wechselte in ihrer Rede immer wieder zwischen Deutsch und Englisch und machte mit Nachdruck deutlich, dass sie Großbritannien unbedingt weiterhin in der EU sehen will.

Premier schon im Wahlkampfmodus

Premierminister David Cameron dürfte eher unzufrieden mit der Rede gewesen sein. Er will Merkel auf seiner Seite haben, wenn die beiden Regierungschefs über europäische Politik diskutieren. Cameron steht unter Druck: Er muss das Versprechen an die britischen Wähler einhalten, EU-Reformen voranzutreiben. Zudem sagte er erneut, er wolle den Briten die Möglichkeit geben, 2017 über die EU-Mitgliedschaft abzustimmen.

Das öffentliche Misstrauen gegenüber der EU im Vereinigten Königreich ist groß und 2015 stehen Wahlen an. Cameron sieht sich den steigenden Umfragewerten der Anti-EU-Partei UKIP gegenüber. Eine Änderung in der EU-Politik, für die sich Cameron stark macht: Die Einschränkung der Rechte von Migranten ärmerer Mitgliederstaaten, die in wohlhabende Länder wie Großbritannien ziehen, um von deren Sozialsystemen zu profitieren. » | Von Kitty Logan | Donnerstag, 27. Februar 2014

Polish MEP Arrested for Shouting 'Heil Hitler' at Airport

Jacek Protasiewicz was detained and handcuffed by police
at Frankfurt airport

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH: Politican was reportedly drunk when he told customs officer he should 'go to Auschwitz'

A “drunk” Polish MEP was detained and handcuffed by police at Frankfurt airport after allegedly shouting “Heil Hitler” at a customs officer and telling him he "should go to Auschwitz”.

The incident occurred as Jacek Protasiewicz, a politician from Poland’s Civic Platform party, passed through customs control at Germany’s biggest airports, and was reported by the German newspaper Bild as a “Nazi Scandal”.

Eye-witnesses quoted in paper said he appeared “very drunk” and had also snatched a luggage trolley from a fellow passenger before getting into the altercation with customs staff. The MEP, allegedly, called an officer “Hitler” and a “Nazi”, after being stopped in the green customs channel. Police then arrived and the politician was handcuffed and led away. » | Matthew Day, Warsaw | Thursday, February 27, 2014

Syria Crisis: ISIS Imposes Rules on Christians in Raqqa

BBC: A jihadist group in Syria has demanded that Christians in the northern city of Raqqa pay a levy in gold and accept curbs on their faith, or face death.

The Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIS) said it would give Christian residents "protection" if they agreed to the list of conditions.

The announcement came in a statement posted online.

Correspondents say ISIS is trying to implement an extreme interpretation of Islamic law in areas it controls.

Raqqa, seized by ISIS last year, was the first provincial capital to be completely in the hands of rebels.

'Risking the sword'

The directive from ISIS, citing the Islamic concept of "dhimma", requires Christians in the city to pay tax of around half an ounce (14g) of pure gold in exchange for their safety.

It says Christians must not make renovations to churches, display crosses or other religious symbols outside churches, ring church bells or pray in public.

Christians must not carry arms, and must follow other rules imposed by ISIS (also known as ISIL) on their daily lives.

The statement said the group had met Christian representatives and offered them three choices - they could convert to Islam, accept ISIS' conditions, or reject their control and risk being killed. » | Thursday, February 27, 2014

Germany's Angela Merkel Urges 'Strong' UK in EU

The German Chancellor told political and business leaders there
were "very special expectations of my speech here today"

BBC: German Chancellor Angela Merkel has said she will work with Britain to reform Europe - saying she wants it to remain a "strong voice inside the EU".

In an historic address to both Houses of Parliament, she said Britain and Germany shared the goal of a "strong and competitive" European Union.

"United and determined", they could act as a beacon to the rest of the world.

But she stopped short of committing to specific reforms saying it had to be a "step-by-step" process.

David Cameron is pulling out all the stops during Mrs Merkel's one-day visit because he sees the German leader as crucial to his aims in Europe.

Beginning her address in English, before delivering the main part of her speech in German, she said: "Some expect my speech to pave the way for a fundamental reform of the European architecture which will satisfy all kinds of alleged or actual British wishes. I am afraid they are in for a disappointment.

"Others are expecting the exact opposite and they are hoping that I will deliver the clear and simple message here in London that the rest of Europe is not prepared to pay almost any price to keep Britain in the European Union. I am afraid these hopes will be dashed."

Mrs Merkel hailed the peace and stability she said the European Union had brought, saying war between EU member states was now "inconceivable".

But she stressed that the EU's mission of maintaining peace in Europe was not over as some thought, telling the audience of Britain's political leaders: "We need to stand up resolutely against extremists and the inhumane." (+ BBC video) » | Thursday, February 27, 2014

SPIEGEL ONLINE: Merkels Europa-Rede in London: "Ich fürchte, ich muss Sie enttäuschen" : Wohin steuert die EU? Angela Merkel hat vor beiden Kammern des britischen Parlaments eine Grundsatzrede zur Zukunft Europas gehalten. Die Erwartungen im Vereinigten Königreich waren hoch - vielleicht zu hoch, wie Merkel gleich zu Beginn betonte. » | phw/dpa/Reuters/AFP | Donnerstag, 27. Februar 2014

European Union Approves Tough Rules on Electronic Cigarettes

The European Parliament adopted rules requiring electronic
cigarettes to carry health warnings and be childproof.

THE NEW YORK TIMES: The European Parliament on Wednesday approved rules that will for the first time regulate Europe’s fast-growing market for electronic cigarettes.

Beginning in mid-2016, advertising for e-cigarettes is to be banned in the 28 nations of the European Union, as it already is for ordinary tobacco products. E-cigarettes will be required to carry health warnings, and must be childproof. The amount of nicotine will be limited to 20 milligrams per milliliter, similar to ordinary cigarettes. » | David Jolly | Wednesday, February 26, 2014

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH: Packets of ten cigarettes and menthol flavours banned under new EU rules: EU ministers have voted for a raft of tough new rules on tobacco sales in an effort to reduce the number of smokers by 2.4 million. » | Keith Perry | Wednesday, February 26, 2014

Holocaust Survivor Describes the Music of Terezín Concentration Camp

At the transit concentration camp of Terezín in the former Czechoslovakia, where some great Czech composers and musicians were imprisoned, music was permitted by the Nazis. Zdenka Fantlova, who experienced life in the camp, describes what it was like there and how she, unlike many other inmates, escaped death at Auschwitz

Related »

Qatar's Foreign Domestic Workers Subjected to Slave-like Conditions

THE GUARDIAN: Revelations of mistreatment of maids and cleaners add to picture of widespread labour abuse in World Cup host nation

Foreign maids, cleaners and other domestic workers are being subjected to slave-like labour conditions in Qatar, with many complaining they have been deprived of passports, wages, days off, holidays and freedom to move jobs, a Guardian investigation can reveal.

Hundreds of Filipino maids have fled to their embassy in recent months because conditions are so harsh. Many complain of physical and sexual abuse, harassment, long periods without pay and the confiscation of mobile phones.

The exploitation raises further concerns about labour practices in Qatar in advance of the World Cup, after Guardian reports about the treatment of construction workers. The maids are not directly connected to Qatar's preparations for the football tournament, but domestic workers will play a big role in staffing the hotels, stadiums and other infrastructure that will underpin the 2022 tournament. » | Rebecca Falconer in Doha | Wednesday, February 26, 2014

Lee Rigby Murderers Sentenced to Life in Prison

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH: Michael Adebolajo has been sentenced to a "life means life" prison term for the killing of Drummer Lee Rigby while Michael Adebowale was sentenced to life with a minimum of 45 years

The Islamist killers of Drummer Lee Rigby erupted into violence in an Old Bailey courtroom as they were sentenced for murder.

Michael Adebolajo, 29, and Michael Adebowale, 22, had to be manhandled out of court by security guards after being told by Mr Justice Sweeney that their crime was a "betrayal of Islam".

Michael Adebowale stood up and shouted: "I swear by Allah that America and Britain will never have any safety. Allah Akbar."

His co-defendant, Michael Adebolajo, also stood up and began shouting before eight dock officers grabbed both killers and wrestled them to the floor.

Relatives of Drummer Rigby, sitting just feet away, stood up and cowered away from the violence.

Adebolajo was manhandled down the stairs in the historic Court No 2 but, in scenes lasting several minutes, his co-defendant was held to the floor and cuffed before being carried downstairs head first.

Drummer Rigby's widow Rebecca was left sobbing uncontrollably at the scenes.

Mr Justice Sweeney resumed his sentencing to give Adebolajo a whole life tariff, meaning he will die in jail.

Adebowale was given life with a minimum term of 45 years. The pair had reacted to the judge's comments that after they became extremists they began "espousing a cause and views which ... are a betrayal of Islam".

Adebowale called out "That's a lie" and "It's not a betrayal of Islam, you don't know what Islam is" as the struggle erupted in the dock. » | David Barrett and Claire Carter | Wednesday, February 26, 2014

Nigeria: Dozens of Students Shot and Burned Alive in Islamist Attack on School

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH: Most of the victims appeared to be between 15 and 20 years old and all of them were male

Islamic militants have set fire to a locked dormitory at a school in northern Nigeria, then shot and slit the throats of students who tried to escape through windows during a pre-dawn attack Tuesday. At least 58 students were killed, including many who were burned alive.

They "slaughtered them like sheep" with machetes, and gunned down those who ran away, said one teacher, Adamu Garba. » | Wednesday, February 25, 2014

Leaked Tapes Prompt Calls for Turkish PM to Resign

Recep Tayyip Erdogan addresses MPs in Ankara.

THE GUARDIAN: Recordings appear to capture Recep Tayyip Erdogan instructing son to dispose of hidden funds amid corruption investigation

Turkish opposition parties called on the prime minister to resign on Tuesday as a result of an explosive corruption scandal in which he was allegedly caught on tape ordering his son to get rid of millions of dollars in incriminating cash.

Recep Tayyip Erdogan responded in characteristically robust form, dismissing the allegations against him as a plot to bring down his government – the latest in a wave of accusations fuelling widespread popular protest against his 11-year rule.

Recordings of phone-tapped conversations leaked on the internet appear to capture Erdogan instructing his 33-year-old son, Bilal, to dispose of large amounts of hidden funds from their private home in the midst of a corruption investigation. » | Constanze Letsch in Istanbul | Tuesday, February 25, 2014

If Spain Welcomes Back Its Jews, Will Its Muslims Be Next?

The Alhambra in Granada, Andalusia, was built by Moors
beginning around AD 889, who officially stayed in Spain
for several centuries.

THE GUARDIAN: A proposed law will fast-track naturalisation of Jews whose ancestors were expelled 500 years ago. Now the descendants of Muslims who were ousted are also seeking the right to return

Perched dramatically on a rocky mountain, the small city of Toledo overlooks a bend in the Tagus river. Within its maze of cobblestone streets are buildings that once housed mosques, churches and synagogues, hinting at the varied cultures that once called this medieval city home.

Earlier this month, about 50 miles away from Toledo, the Spanish government sought to strengthen its ties with one of these cultures, announcing plans to fast-track the naturalisation of Sephardic Jews, whose ancestors were expelled five centuries ago from Spain.

The bill, said the Spanish government, would "correct a historical wrong". The legislation has yet to be approved by parliament, but already consulates in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem said they have been flooded with requests for information. Up to 3.5 million people around the world are thought to have Sephardic – Hebrew for "Spanish" – Jewish ancestry.

Now the descendants of another group who figured prominently in Spain's colourful past – before also being expelled – say it's only fair that the same right of return be extended to them.

Shortly after banishing the country's Jewish population, Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand turned their attention to Spain's Muslims, forcing them to covert to Christianity or face expulsion. The Muslims who converted, known as Moriscos, often did so in name only, holding on tightly to their customs and traditions.

In the early 1600s – nearly 120 years after Jews in Spain were told to leave – the Moriscos were also expelled. An estimated 275,000 people were forcibly resettled, the majority of them heading to Morocco, some to Algeria and Tunisia.

A group representing Moriscos in Morocco recently sent a letter to Spain's King Juan Carlos asking the country to make the same conciliatory gesture to the descendants of Muslims. Speaking from Rabat, the president of L'Association pour la Mémoire des Andalous strongly criticised Spain's double standard in offering to naturalise the descendants of Jews ousted from Spain but not Muslims. The Spanish government "should grant the same rights to all those who were expelled", Najib Loubaris told news agency EFE. "Otherwise the decision is selective, not to mention racist." » | Ashifa Kassam in Madrid | Monday, February 24, 2014

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni Signs Anti-gay Bill

BBC: Uganda's president has signed into law a bill toughening penalties for gay people and criminalising those who do not report them.

At the signing of the law, Yoweri Museveni claimed that "since nature is the main cause of homosexuality, then society can do something about it to discourage the trend".

US President Barack Obama has cautioned the bill would be a backward step. (+ BBC video) » | Monday, February 24, 2014

Eradicating Radicalism: UK Anti-terror Campaign Makes Muslims Scapegoats

The UK government has spent millions of pounds in recent years on the so-called Prevent program that's aimed at stopping Muslims in the country from falling under the influence of radicals. It's supposed to serve as a counter-terrorism strategy but many claim its counter-productive, with some Muslims saying its blatant discrimination by authorities. RT's Laura Smith reports.

Fewer Places to Light Up for Russian Smokers

Widespread cynicism as law that gradually curtails smoking in public becomes official this weekend.

President Signs the Anti-Homosexuality Bill – State House, Entebbe

Related »

Scottish Independence: Alex Salmond 'Reveals Currency Plan B'

First Minister appears to reveal 'sterlingisation' as his backup plan after saying that Scotland will keep the pound even without a currency union


Read the Telegraph article and comment on it here | Ben Riley-Smith, Scottish Political Correspondent | Monday, February 24, 2014

Uganda President Signs Anti-gay Law

Ugandan president Yoweri Museveni has signed off a bill
introducing anti-gay laws.

THE GUARDIAN: Yoweri Museveni defies US warning and signs law toughening already strict legislation against homosexuals

Uganda's president has signed a controversial anti-gay bill that has harsh penalties for homosexual sex, saying the bill is necessary because "arrogant and careless western groups" had tried to "recruit" Ugandan children into homosexuality.

President Yoweri Museveni signed the bill at his official residence in an event witnessed by government officials, journalists and a team of Ugandan scientists. The scientists had produced a report saying there was no genetic basis for homosexuality which Museveni has cited as his reason for backing the bill.

"We Africans never seek to impose our view on others. If only they could let us alone," he said, talking of western pressure not to sign.

Government officials applauded after he signed the bill, which was influenced by the preachings of some conservative American evangelicals. In its original form the bill called for the death penalty for some homosexual acts. That was removed from the legislation following an international outcry.

The new law calls for first-time offenders to be sentenced to 14 years in jail. It also sets life imprisonment as the maximum penalty for a category of offences called "aggravated homosexuality," defined as repeated gay sex between consenting adults as well as acts involving a minor, a disabled person or where one partner is infected with HIV. » | AP in Entebbe | Monday, February 24, 2014

A True Inspiration! Alice Herz-Sommer: Pianist and Oldest Known Holocaust Survivor Dies Aged 110

Alice Herz-Sommer, who has died at the age of 110. She spent
two years in the Theresienstadt concentration camp.

THE GUARDIAN: Concert pianist said that optimism and discipline helped her survive two years in concentration camp

Tributes have been paid to Alice Herz-Sommer, a renowned concert pianist who was believed to have been the world's oldest known Holocaust survivor, after she died in London at the age of 110.

She was born into a German-speaking Jewish family in Prague at a time when it was part of the Austro-Hungarian empire, and endured the city's ghetto following the Nazi invasion of Czechoslovakia. She then spent two years in Theresienstadt (Terezín) concentration camp, where nearly 35,000 prisoners perished.

In an extraordinary life, which was the subject of film nominated for the best short documentary at next Sunday night's Academy Awards, she counted Franz Kafka as a family friend when she was young and carried a devotion to music that sustained her in the camp.

She died in a hospital on Sunday morning after being admitted on Friday, according to her family. Her grandson, Ariel Sommer, said: "Alice Sommer passed away peacefully this morning with her family by her bedside.

"Much has been written about her, but to those of us who knew her best, she was our dear 'Gigi'. She loved us, laughed with us, and cherished music with us.

"She was an inspiration and our world will be significantly poorer without her by our side. We mourn her loss and ask for privacy in this very difficult moment." » | Ben Quinn | Sunday, February 23, 2014


THE GUARDIAN: 'Life is beautiful': A renowned concert pianist and a survivor of the Nazi concentration camps, Alice Herz-Sommer has packed a lot into her 103 years. And despite the tragedy of losing most of her family in the Holocaust, she remains resolutely optimistic, she tells Alan Rusbridger » | Alan Rusbridger | Wednesday, December 13, 2006

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH: Holocaust survivor dies aged 110: Alice Herz-Sommer, who lived in London and was originally from Prague, was confined in a concentration camp in Germany during the Second World War » | News agencies | Monday, February 24, 2014

DIE WELT: Älteste Holocaust-Überlebende mit 110 gestorben: Während des NS-Regimes wurde Alice Herz-Sommer in Theresienstadt interniert, wo sie für das ganze Lager Klavierkonzerte organisierte. Ihr Talent rettete ihr das Leben. Nun ist die Pianistin gestorben. » | AFP/dpa/KNA/cbo | Montag, 24. Februar 2014

LE FIGARO: La plus vieille survivante de la Shoah est morte » | Par Lefigaro.fr avec l’AFP | lundi 24 février 2014

YNET NEWS: Oldest known Holocaust survivor passes away: Surviving through music and optimism: Alice Herz-Sommer, a pianist forced to play concerts for Nazis and subject of an Oscar nominated short subject documentary, dies at the age 110.‬‬ » | Michal Margalit | Sunday, February 23, 2014

A few precious moments with Alice… More wonderfulness with Alice Herz-Sommer. We had such an overwhelming response to our 1-min video of Alice, the 109-year old Holocaust survivor, who shared her optimistic philosophy of life, that we looked for more footage to share about this wonderful, amazing, wise, strong women.

Here's an interview with Anthony Robbins from a year or so ago -- and it's a little treasure: we can hear Alice talk about her ideas, and philosophy of life; there are archival photos of the Holocaust years, and Alice as a younger woman. We can also see Alice playing piano.

Alice survived the concentration camps through her music, her optimism and her gratitude for the small things that came her way - a smile, a kind word, the sun. When asked about the secret of her longevity, Alice says: "I look where it is good."

This film is life-affirming in its deepest meaning.

Life is short. It's a gift. Remember what's of value.

To cherish life, to be loved. And mostly: To have love in your heart.

Join our community where Everyone Matters! here


Alice Herz-Sommer – The Lady in Number 6: Music Saved My Life – Official Trailer
The Lady in Number 6 is one of the most inspirational stories ever told. 109 year old, Alice Herz-Sommer, the world's oldest pianist and oldest holocaust survivor, shares her views on how to live a long happy life. She discusses the vital importance of music, laughter and having an optimistic outlook on life. This powerfully inspirational video tells her amazing story of survival and how she managed to use her time in a Nazi concentration camp to empower herself and others with music.


NickReedent.com »

Matteo Renzi's Female Ministers Face 'Sexist' Onslaught Over Dress Sense

Italy's new Prime Minister, 39-year-old Matteo Renzi, is
greeted by a well-wisher as he leaves a church

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH: The eight women appointed to Italy's new cabinet have been deluged with criticism over their outfits at the swearing-in ceremony

Eight women appointed as ministers in Italy's new government have faced an avalanche of criticism over their dress sense, with one stylist urging them to give Giorgio Armani a call.

New prime minister Matteo Renzi aimed at boosting equality in Italy at the weekend by naming the women to his 16-strong cabinet, including 33-year-old Marianna Madia, who is eight months pregnant.

But instead of hailing a breakthrough for gender equality the press has been dominated by catcalls revolving around the clothes they wore to the swearing-in ceremony.

In particular the electric blue trouser suit worn by Maria Elena Boschi, 33, the new minister for reform, was described by Corriere della Sera as a colour "unknown in nature".

La Stampa likened the blue of Ms Boschi's suit to that worn by "a Marvel superhero like Captain America", adding that her trousers were so tight that when she bent over to sign in as minister "many were reminded of Pippa Middleton's silhouette." » | Tom Kington, Rome | Sunday, February 23, 2014

Fireworks Farewell: Sochi Closing Ceremony Ends in Spectacular Show

After two weeks of cheering, intense competition, and record-breaking achievements, the Sochi 2014 Olympic Games finally bid farewell, as athletes and fans gather one last time to admire the sparkling closing ceremony at Fisht Olympic Stadium.

What about the Dark Side of Islam? (2010)

Compare Jesus with Muhammad (2010)

What Do Muslims Believe about Jesus? (2009)

What Will Happen If Islam Keeps Growing? (2009)

Documentary: Secrets of the Koran: Decoding the Past

Desmond Tutu Condemns Uganda's Proposed New Anti-gay Law

In condemning Uganda's proposed new law, Desmond Tutu
again equated discrimination against gay people with the
horrors of Nazi Germany and apartheid-era South Africa.

THE GUARDIAN: Retired archbishop accuses president of breaking promise in reconsidering law extending penalties against homosexuality

Archbishop Desmond Tutu has condemned Uganda's proposed law against homosexuality, saying there is no scientific or moral basis ever for prejudice and discrimination – and accusing the Ugandan president of breaking a promise not to enact the law. The new law would extend the prohibitions and penalties in a country where homosexuality is already a crime, to include acts such as "suggestive touching" in public.

President Yoweri Museveni had first said that he would not sign the legislation, then that he would do so after seeking scientific advice, and at the weekend that he would delay it pending more advice.

The proposed law has drawn harsh criticism from US president Barack Obama and former president Bill Clinton. The US warned that such a move could "complicate" approximately £240m in annual aid to Uganda. In a statement Tutu said: "When President Museveni and I spoke last month, he gave his word that he would not let the anti-homosexuality bill become law in Uganda. I was therefore very disheartened to hear last week that President Museveni was reconsidering his position."

Tutu equated discrimination against gay people with the horrors of Nazi Germany and apartheid-era South Africa. » | Maev Kennedy | Sunday, February 23, 2014

Moi, Ibrahim O., globe-trotter du djihad

LE NOUVEL OBSERVATEUR: Pendant trois ans, ce jeune Franco-Malien a fait le tour des points chauds du djihad pour rejoindre les combattants d'Al-Qaida. Incarcéré en France, il poursuit sa guerre sainte.

"Donnez-moi dix ans, je les prendrai avec un grand sourire. La prison, c'est les vacances pour moi." Derrière la vitre blindée du box du tribunal où il est jugé pour "association de malfaiteurs en vue de la préparation d'actes de terrorisme", Ibrahim O. affiche une parfaite sérénité. Une insolente décontraction. "Je ne suis venu que pour faire plaisir à mon avocat", s'amuse le jeune Franco-Malien de 26 ans au faux air de Sammy Davis Jr, fine moustache et regard malicieux.

En ce début février, pendant les dix jours de son procès, Ibrahim O., sourire aux lèvres, avoue tout. Et plus, s'il le pouvait. Oui, il suit "les lois d'Allah, pas celles de la République". Oui, il est bien ce "globe-trotter du djihad" décrit dans le dossier d'instruction, toujours prêt à partir en terre d'islam et, s'il le faut, à combattre la France, "cette terre de mécréance". Oui, il a longtemps tenté de recruter d'autres "frères" pour combattre les infidèles. » | Par Le Nouvel Observateur | dimanche 23 février 2014

Scientology Couple Who Won Supreme Court Challenge Get Married in London

Louisa Hodkin and Alessandro Calcioli got married at the
Scientology chapel in London

BBC: A couple who won a Supreme Court challenge have got married in a Church of Scientology chapel in London.

Louisa Hodkin started the legal action after officials refused to register the Church of Scientology chapel as a place for marriage for her and fiance Alessandro Calcioli.

In December, five Supreme Court judges ruled the church was a "place of meeting for religious worship".

After the wedding, Mr Calcioli said he was "ecstatic" about the occasion.

He added he was "a little bit speechless but just so, so happy that this day has finally come". » | Sunday, February 23, 2014

Should the Burqa Be Banned? BBC Newsnight with Sam Harris (March 2012)