Western leaders unite as Russia’s threat grows

Published

4 years ago

January 25, 2022

US President Joe Biden says there is “total unanimity” with European leaders over Russia’s troop build-up on the border with Ukraine

U.S. President Joe Biden held a video call with European allies on Monday as Western powers aim for a common strategy against Russia’s actions, amid rising tensions on the border.

Biden’s latest statement comes as the UK warns Russia of “swift” and “unprecedented” sanctions if any incursions take place.

Tensions rise between Ukraine and Russia.

Russia denies plans to invade Ukraine, despite massing some 100,000 soldiers on the Ukrainian border

Joining the US and UK on the call were the leaders of France, Germany, Italy, Poland and the EU. Nato chief Jens Stoltenberg also dialled in.

“I had a very, very, very good meeting – total unanimity with all the European leaders,” Mr Biden said afterwards.

Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson is warning Russia that an invasion of Ukraine will be “disastrous” and “painful” as tensions remain high

Erika Kirk delivers emotional address at Charlie Kirk’s memorial:

Erika Kirk’s heartfelt memorial address: “He blinked and saw his Savior in paradise,” resonated with a cheering stadium.

Published

5 hours ago

September 22, 2025

ticker NEWS

Erika Kirk’s heartfelt memorial address: “He blinked and saw his Savior in paradise,” resonated with a cheering stadium.

Erika Kirk delivers emotional address at her late husband Charlie Kirk’s memorial:

“He blinked and saw his Savior in paradise.”

She started praying as everyone in the stadium cheered her.

UN struggles with Israel-Palestine conflict and climate action

UN faces mounting pressure over Gaza and climate change as global leaders convene for General Assembly amid ongoing crises

Published

16 hours ago

September 21, 2025

Ahron Young

UN faces mounting pressure over Gaza and climate change as global leaders convene for General Assembly amid ongoing crises

In Short:
– The UN struggles with violence in Gaza and doubts about its role in global conflicts.
– International pressure on Israel increases, with smaller nations relying on the UN to express their concerns.

The United Nations faces significant challenges as it grapples with escalating violence in Gaza and broader global issues.

Delegates are gathering this week in New York for the UN General Assembly, where the UN’s inability to resolve the Israel-Palestine conflict looms large.Historically, the UN aimed to establish peace between Jewish and Arab states in Palestine.

However, its power to address current tensions has diminished, especially with Israel’s continued incursions into Palestinian territories. Israeli officials, including the ambassador to the UN, have vocalised frustrations towards the organisation.

The UN’s challenges extend to its roles in humanitarian aid and climate initiatives, facing budget constraints and diminished expectations.

Global leaders are questioning the UN’s relevance, particularly regarding pressing issues like the Ukraine conflict.

International Response

Increased international scrutiny of Israel parallels historical situations, leading to calls for intensified diplomatic efforts.

The EU has proposed new measures affecting Israeli imports. Amidst this, smaller nations view the UN as a vital platform to voice concerns that might otherwise go unheard.

News

Trump proposes $100,000 H-1B visa fee increase

Trump announces massive H-1B visa fee increases and introduces $1 million ‘gold card’ to reshape immigration system

Published

1 day ago

September 21, 2025

Ahron Young

Trump announces massive H-1B visa fee increases and introduces $1 million ‘gold card’ to reshape immigration system

In Short:
– Trump announced a $100,000 fee for H-1B visas and a $1 million residency gold card to boost American hiring.
– Critics argue increased fees may limit smaller firms’ access to foreign talent, impacting U.S. tech innovation.

President Trump announced significant changes to the U.S. immigration system, introducing a new $100,000 fee for H-1B visas and a $1 million “gold card” for residency.

The move aims to increase revenue and promote the hiring of American workers, claiming that many tech companies exploit the current system.The fee increase targets H-1B visa applications, which traditionally have low entry costs.

Trump stated the initiative aims to bring in highly skilled individuals rather than those crossing the borders illegally. A gold card requiring a $1 million payment will expedite visa processing, with a reduced availability compared to existing green card categories.

The new programme could alter the competitive landscape for U.S. tech companies, which historically depend on H-1B visas to access foreign talent.

Critics warn that the increased fees may deter smaller firms from utilising these visas, potentially hindering U.S. progress in tech sectors like artificial intelligence.

Visa Impact

Debate persists within Trump’s administration regarding the new policy’s implications. Supporters argue it protects American jobs, while opponents contend it restricts access to global talent crucial for innovation.

The H-1B visa programme, established in 1990, remains vital for skilled foreign workers seeking residency in the U.S., yet faces growing scrutiny.