Trump nominates Whitaker as NATO ambassador, unusual choice

Trump selects Matt Whitaker as NATO ambassador, amid speculation on Treasury Secretary candidates and concerns over NATO commitments.

Published

1 year ago

November 21, 2024

ticker NEWS

Donald Trump has appointed former acting Attorney General Matt Whitaker as the US ambassador to NATO.

This decision comes despite Trump’s long-standing skepticism toward the alliance.

In his statement, Trump described Whitaker as “a strong warrior and loyal Patriot” who will advance and defend US interests, strengthen NATO relationships, and address threats to peace and stability.

Whitaker’s selection is notable because he has a law enforcement background rather than experience in foreign policy.

He had previously been a candidate for the attorney general position, which Trump awarded to Matt Gaetz, a divisive figure in the party.

Critical of NATO

The NATO role is critical, given Trump’s concerns about members failing to meet their defense spending commitments.

Whitaker served as the US attorney in Iowa and acted as attorney general from November 2018 to February 2019 during Robert Mueller’s investigation into Russian interference.

Prior to that, he was chief of staff for Jeff Sessions, who Trump fired amidst controversy over the Russia investigation.

Grok continues generating sexualised images despite new safeguards

Elon Musk’s AI chatbot Grok faces scrutiny for generating non-consensual sexualized images despite new safety restrictions.

Published

2 hours ago

February 4, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Elon Musk’s AI chatbot Grok faces scrutiny for generating non-consensual sexualized images despite new safety restrictions.

Elon Musk’s AI chatbot Grok is still producing sexualised images of real people without their consent, even after new restrictions were introduced by X following public backlash.

A Reuters investigation found the chatbot continued generating explicit imagery despite warnings about the vulnerability of the subjects involved, raising fresh concerns over the effectiveness of the safeguards.

While officials have cautiously welcomed recent changes, the findings have reignited debate around AI accountability and user safety on social media platforms.

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Peter Mandelson investigated by police over alleged Epstein information leaks

Scotland Yard investigates Lord Mandelson for allegedly leaking information to Epstein; PM Starmer vows to revoke his peerage if guilty.

Published

2 hours ago

February 4, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Scotland Yard investigates Lord Mandelson for allegedly leaking information to Epstein; PM Starmer vows to revoke his peerage if guilty.

Scotland Yard has confirmed it is conducting a full criminal investigation into allegations that Lord Peter Mandelson leaked sensitive government information to Jeffrey Epstein while in public office. The probe centres on potential misconduct and whether any information was deliberately shared.

Police say a successful prosecution would require clear evidence that Mandelson intentionally passed confidential material to Epstein. Investigators are currently assessing whether the claims meet the criminal threshold required to proceed with charges.

Officials are also reviewing the full scope of Mandelson’s interactions with Epstein during his time in government, as pressure mounts for answers and accountability at the highest levels of power.

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U.S. downs Iranian drone near USS Abraham Lincoln as Gulf tensions rise

U.S. jet downed Iranian drone by USS Abraham Lincoln amid rising tensions; Iranian boats threatened U.S. tanker, risking misjudgment.

Published

2 hours ago

February 4, 2026

Harvey Vargas

U.S. jet downed Iranian drone by USS Abraham Lincoln amid rising tensions; Iranian boats threatened U.S. tanker, risking misjudgment.

The United States has shot down an Iranian drone that approached the USS Abraham Lincoln in the Persian Gulf, marking a sharp escalation in regional tensions. The carrier was operating roughly 500 miles from Iran when the drone moved closer, despite efforts by US forces to de-escalate the situation.

A US Navy F-35C fighter jet launched from the Lincoln intercepted and destroyed the drone mid-air, with officials confirming no damage or casualties. The incident highlights growing concerns over military brinkmanship in one of the world’s most volatile waterways.

With an increased US military presence in the region, analysts warn that even small miscalculations could trigger a wider conflict as tensions between Washington and Tehran continue to intensify.

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