We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
Newlyweds Molly Smith and Tom Clare, former stars of “Love Island,” found their post-wedding celebration taking an unexpected turn when police were called to manage their uproarious festivities on the second day.
The couple, aged 32 and 26, respectively, tied the knot in a stunning ceremony in Majorca, joining the list of Love Island contestants to get married. This comes two years after their victory on the 2024 All-stars edition of the popular reality show.
Following their nuptials on Saturday, the celebration didn’t lose momentum as friends, family, and fellow cast members gathered at the Suculenta Port de Sóller restaurant. However, the boisterous affair reportedly ruffled the feathers of local yacht crews in the harbor.
Amid the spirited revelry, alcohol flowed freely, and some guests took to diving into the sea—an act prohibited in the area. This prompted local authorities to intervene, as the Guardia Civil arrived to address the situation and restore order.
At the heart of the commotion was Casey O’Gorman, the best man, sporting tiny swimming trunks and white sunglasses. He was seen engaging with the authorities with a cheerful demeanor, standing beside the groom, before the festivities resumed.
Love Island newlyweds Molly Smith and Tom Clare’s post-wedding meal ended in chaos as police were called during day two of their rowdy festivities
The couple, aged 32 and 26 respectively, became the latest couple from Love Island to get married, in a lavish ceremony in Majorca over the weekend and on Sunday they threw themselves into the party (Molly pictured)
They became the latest couple to tie the knot two years after meeting on the show
Seemingly unfazed by the situation, Casey pulled a series of hilarious faces
The wedding party – including the bride and groom – were seen throwing themselves into the water, while a number of snaps showed the guests swigging drinks.
Love Islander Mitch Taylor and his model girlfriend Hayley Griffin were also in attendance, as were Sophie Piper and her partner Joshua Ritchie – who all looked dressed to impress.
Sources told The Sun: ‘Molly and Tom’s guests were having a great time, people were downing beer and Casey was keeping everyone in the party mood…
‘At one point Casey decided to jump into the port next to the restaurant which is forbidden. The police arrived to give him a telling off and told him where he was allowed to swim.’
It comes after, earlier this weekend, Casey revealed he nearly missed his flight to the wedding in Majorca after EasyJet overbooked it and he was initially denied entry.
Speaking to the Daily Mail, Molly and Tom admitted they’d had a few ‘wobbles’ while dealing with last-minute preparations for their big day.
For many brides the police being called to their wedding would be a worst nightmare, however Molly seemed extremely tickled by the drama
Casey appeared amused by the situation as he leered at law enforcement
The swanky restaurant was overrun by the wedding party
The Guardia Civil pulled up at the marina where they had jumped in
Tom appeared keen to explain himself during their discussion with the police
The pair also shared how their legal wedding concluded with dinner at The Ivy, which ended with guests ‘dancing on tables’, while Casey ended up ‘in a heap on the floor’.
Molly said: ‘It’s got to the stressful part, just because we’re weeks out and only because it’s invoices being sent and all the last bits that you start to panic about and then you start getting people asking you questions, like texting you.
‘So then it starts to get a little bit stressful in that sense. So I have had a little wobble.’
Tom added: ‘We just want it all to be perfect, but like you said, there’s just like little bits, people asking silly questions.
Molly looked stunning as she posed with one of her guests
The bride and groom enjoyed a tender moment away from the madness
Mitch and Tom matched in their swimwear which they sported before the drama
A sign outside the venue read: ‘Officially Mr and Mrs Clare. Here’s forever’
Casey appeared to be at the helm of the raucous behaviour
Molly looked sensational in a tiny mini dress covered in discs
‘It’s not too bad, but just because we want it to go so well and we’ve put time and effort into it. I think we’re just about there. You’ve had a few little meltdowns.’
Agreeing with her partner, Molly said: ‘Tom’s so chilled. Normally, you’re super, super-chilled, but Tom stress cleans, so I know when you’re stressed because you’ll go upstairs and start hoovering or something like that!’
Luckily, the couple were in good stead for the big day itself as their legal ceremony was a ‘really special and intimate’ occasion.
A yacht user at the marina was engaged in chat with Tom
Tom was showing off his buff body before launching himself into the water
Their co-star Mitch Taylor wore the same shorts as Tom
Casey swapped out his tiny lemon print Speedos in favour of black shorts
Molly was hugging a member of the wedding party
Molly was barefoot during the meal having joined the rest of the group in jumping in
Tom was seen reclining by the pool with a fellow guest
They have spoken openly about the wedding planning process with their followers, but shared they wanted to keep details about their UK-based day under wraps.
After they tied the knot, Molly and Tom shared that they headed to The Ivy for a celebratory dinner with close friends and family, but things ended up being more raucous than they expected.
Molly shared: ‘It started like so calm and classic. And then by the end of it, Casey was in a heap on the floor. We were on the tables dancing. Everyone just went to the Ivy and we just had a private room.’
Tom added: ‘As soon as the door shut, everyone just seemed to go mental!’
As a self-proclaimed comic book aficionado, I’ve spent countless hours diving into the captivating world of superheroes and their tales. My collection boasts a long box filled with cherished X-Men comics, nestled under my bed, and I’ve never shied away from sharing my fiery opinions on Nightwing’s character. Yet, despite this passion, last night’s fresh episode of Lanterns on HBO left me utterly perplexed.
This confusion stemmed from an unexpected blind spot revealed during Lanterns Episode 2. Apparently, my otherwise comprehensive understanding of superhero lore has a glaring gap: the enigmatic Manhunters. It turns out I know next to nothing about these elusive adversaries.
**Spoilers for Lanterns Episode 2, now streaming on HBO Max**
In this gripping second episode of Lanterns, viewers witness a group of aliens, cleverly disguised as humans, abducting John Stewart (played by Aaron Pierre). Their nefarious plan involves using an intricate cosmic device to force John into reliving the excruciating genocide of their home planet. But that’s not all—they demand that he locate the elusive Manhunter hiding undercover in Rushville, Nebraska. Should he fail in this task, the entire town faces annihilation.
Though bound by a vow of secrecy, John confides in the current Green Lantern, Hal Jordan (portrayed by Kyle Chandler), about the looming threat of the Manhunter. Determined to uncover the truth, Hal embarks on an interstellar journey to Oa, the Guardians’ home planet. There, he daringly infiltrates a space prison to consult with his former mentor, Sinestro (portrayed by Ulrich Thomsen), seeking vital information on these notorious enemies.
Cut to me, sitting on my sofa, watching all this go down, and thinking the stupidest question imaginable: is Martian Manhunter a Manhunter?
Like, this is DC Comics, you know? Martian Manhunter, aka J’onn J’onzz, is in the Justice League. But Martian Manhunter is…from Mars? But he’s a Manhunter, too? And he’s been known to shapeshift???
Finding myself utterly confused, I did the only sensible thing and messaged the Green Lantern expert in my life: Decider contributor (and Lanterns recapper) Sean T. Collins:
That cleared up, I find myself realizing that other people out there might be confused about Manhunters in Lanterns. With that in mind, here are four key questions I had about Manhunters while watching Lanterns this week…and the answers my diligent research provided.
Manhunters are a race of superpowers robots who can shapeshift into any form. They were the Guardians of the Universe’s first stab at creating an intergalactic police force to protect and defend the innocent all over the universe. However, as they grew in power, they began to hurt more than they helped.
All of the Manhunters are supposed to be dead, but it seems that one has survived and they are hiding in Rushville.
Again, Manhunters are not nice, they are not our friends, and they are, in the words of Sean T. Collins, “bad news.”
No! Martian Manhunter is a Martian. A super-powered, shape-shifting Martian, who simply goes by the moniker, “Martian Manhunter.”
Also Martian Manhunter isn’t even in Lanterns! But if he were in Lanterns, Martian Manhunter would be our friend. I’m pretty sure of it!
Who is the Manhunter in Lanterns?
Well, well, well… That’s the big mystery, isn’t it? Supposing there’s a Manhunter hiding in plain sight in Rushville, it could be anyone from Jason Ritter’s chipper Billy Macon to his particularly paranoid father, William (Garret Dillahunt).
We don’t know who the Manhunter is in Lanterns, so feel free to drop your theories in the comments!
Yes! In fact, Michael Mann’s Manhunter is currently streaming on Prime Video in the United States.
Am I just thinking about the movie Manhunter because Sean pointed out how Sinestro’s introduction at the end of Lanterns Episode 2 mirrors Hannibal Lekter’s that film in his Lanterns recap? Yes, I am. But I’m also always thinking about Manhunter. Great picture! Michael Mann rules. So does Manhunter.
A vast coalition of left-leaning benefactors and organizations funneled an estimated $638 million into tax-exempt voter-registration and mobilization groups during the 2024 election cycle. This considerable financial network operates as a sophisticated, Democratic-leaning “vote machine” within the charitable sector, which is set to extend its reach into future elections, according to an exclusive report obtained by – News prior to its anticipated Monday release.
The 64-page analysis, crafted by the conservative watchdog group Capital Research Center (CRC), titled The “Charities” Influencing Elections: 2024 and Beyond, traces the flow of left-wing capital through tax-exempt entities that form a complex web designed to influence elections. This infrastructure spans crucial areas like voter registration drives, Census activism, redistricting efforts, the National Popular Vote Compact, and the implementation of ranked-choice voting systems.
In their investigation, CRC researchers delved into financial activities of 83 prominent 501(c)(3) organizations dedicated to voter registration and get-out-the-vote efforts. They unearthed a significant expenditure of approximately $638.7 million in 2024—marking a 30 percent increase from 2020 figures, or about a 10 percent rise when adjusted for inflation. Paradoxically, inflation-adjusted spending through traditional political action committees saw a 20 percent decline. The findings contend that this tax-exempt network increasingly serves to favor Democratic causes, offering distinct advantages such as tax-deductible donations and reduced donor disclosure compared to conventional political groups.
“It’s crucial for Americans to be aware if their tax-deductible charitable contributions are being inappropriately leveraged to support partisan political agendas,” stated CRC President Scott Walter in a declaration to – News.
Walter further elaborated, “This report meticulously traces financial currents and uncovers a coordinated apparatus working to shape voter turnout, influence districting, determine presidential election processes, and ultimately, sway governmental control.” He emphasized the need for Congress, the IRS, and state regulatory bodies to scrutinize these revelations and ensure these so-called ‘charities’ are held to account.
The report traces the roots of what CRC calls the modern “tax-exempt vote machine” to a 2015 plan revealed in leaked emails belonging to longtime Democratic operative John Podesta, who would go on to chair Hillary Clinton’s 2016 presidential campaign.
One of the leaked emails, sent to Podesta by the president of Swiss billionaire and major left-wing donor Hansjörg Wyss’s private foundation, laid out a detailed $100 million plan using 501(c)(3) foundations and charities to register millions of voters. Tables in the plan calculated the number of “total non-white” votes the effort could generate across eight battleground states, while still-visible edits showed passages discussing “beating Republicans” and “reshaping the electorate” had been removed, according to CRC.
CRC argues the documents demonstrate the proposed registration effort was designed to target demographic groups expected to disproportionately vote Democratic while operating under the banner of nonpartisan voter participation.
Wyss has since emerged as a major financier of left-wing causes, funneling hundreds of millions of dollars to organizations including the Sixteen Thirty Fund and New Venture Fund, nonprofits formerly managed by Arabella Advisors. The Arabella network became one of the left’s largest dark-money operations, serving as an umbrella for organizations and projects bankrolled by wealthy liberal donors.
By 2020, the report notes, a leaked memo from the Democratic-aligned super PAC Mind the Gap described charitable voter registration as “4 to 10 times more cost effective than the next best alternative” at “netting additional Democratic votes.”
Ahead of the 2024 election, eBay founder and liberal billionaire Pierre Omidyar’s Democracy Fund launched the “All by April” initiative, urging donors to move election-related grants to 501(c)(3) organizations early enough to maximize their impact before November. According to CRC, 174 donors signed the pledge, with the initiative estimating that it mobilized $155 million, including $79 million in new election-related 501(c)(3) grants.
One of the largest organizations in the network was the Everybody Votes Campaign (EVC), an umbrella name encompassing the Voter Registration Project, Voter Registration Project Education Fund, and Register America. The operation raised more than $75 million in 2024, up from approximately $50 million in 2020, with much of the money distributed to other left-leaning nonprofits and canvassing firms.
Among them was Field+Media Corps, which received $4.6 million from the Voter Registration Project for “voter registration support” in 2024. Seven employees of the firm were later charged by Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday with offenses including forgery and tampering with public records after thousands of allegedly fraudulent voter-registration forms were submitted in several battleground districts.
Another EVC grantee was the New Georgia Project, founded by two-time failed Democratic Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams. The organization agreed to pay a record $300,000 penalty after the Georgia State Ethics Commission found campaign-finance violations stemming from its work during Abrams’s unsuccessful 2018 gubernatorial campaign. The organization later dissolved.
The report also singles out the left-wing Voter Participation Center (VPC), which has long targeted what it calls “underrepresented” constituencies for registration efforts. During the 2024 election, VPC came under scrutiny after it was found to have filtered digital voter-registration advertisements to exclude users with interests including NASCAR, Duck Dynasty, and golf — audiences critics argued were more likely to contain Republican-leaning voters. The episode prompted Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-NY) to call for an IRS investigation into whether the organization was complying with its tax-exempt status.
CRC also contrasts VPC’s longstanding claims of voter suppression with the organization’s own subsequent research.
After Georgia enacted an election-integrity law in 2021 that then-President Joe Biden denounced as “Jim Crow 2.0,” VPC joined an unsuccessful lawsuit seeking to overturn the measure. Yet a September 2025 VPC analysis found turnout among its designated “underrepresented” constituencies — including black, Latino and Asian voters, voters under 35, and unmarried women — increased by nearly 200,000 votes, or 6.8 percent, in Georgia between 2020 and 2024, while turnout among voters outside those categories fell by nearly 180,000.
CRC argues the same left-wing philanthropic infrastructure extends beyond voter registration and the 2024 election cycle.
The report examines $118 million in philanthropic spending surrounding the 2020 Census — up from $38 million in 2010 — through an effort organized by the Funders Committee for Civic Participation and its Funders Census Initiative, formed with support from the Ford Foundation and other major left-wing donors.
The Census Bureau’s post-enumeration survey subsequently found six states had been undercounted and eight overcounted. CRC cites an analysis concluding that the errors were large enough that two congressional seats apportioned to Democratic-leaning Minnesota and Rhode Island would otherwise have gone to Florida.
Another chapter follows more than $66 million behind an April 2026 Virginia redistricting ballot measure that could have transformed the state’s congressional delegation from a narrow 6-5 Democratic advantage to as much as a 10-1 Democratic advantage.
Supporters of the new map were “significantly better resourced,” according to the report, which traces millions of dollars to committees affiliated with left-wing billionaire George Soros, the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), and organizations associated with the former Arabella Advisors network. Virginia voters approved the measure, but the state Supreme Court invalidated the new map two weeks later over procedural violations.
The investigation further examines the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, which would require participating states to award their electoral votes to the winner of the nationwide popular vote regardless of which candidate carried each individual state. The report traces much of the movement’s backing to left-wing donors, organized labor, the Soros network, the Tides Foundation, and organizations associated with the former Arabella network.
States participating in the compact currently represent 222 of the 270 electoral votes required for it to take effect, according to the report.
CRC also scrutinizes the push for ranked-choice voting, noting that voters rejected ballot measures involving the system in at least five states in 2024, while 19 states have enacted prohibitions against its use.
Taken together, CRC argues the findings expose a broader migration of left-wing political money away from conventional political organizations and into the charitable sector — allowing wealthy donors and advocacy networks to finance large-scale election-related activities through tax-advantaged organizations whose contributors generally remain hidden from public view.
“The report is built around a simple through-line,” CRC said in announcing its findings: “much of the ‘money in politics’ that voters distrust doesn’t flow through political channels — it hides within charities that pretend to be nonpartisan.”
Joshua Klein is a reporter for – News. Email him at jklein@breitbart.com. Follow him on Twitter @JoshuaKlein
Myles Garrett may have yet to set foot on the field for the Los Angeles Rams in a crucial game, but his reputation alone strikes fear across the league. Despite not playing a single down for his new team, Garrett’s imposing presence has NFL fans on edge.
In a recent survey conducted by BetMGM Sportsbook, Garrett was named the third-most intimidating player in the entire NFL as the 2026 season approaches. His status as a defensive powerhouse precedes him, making certain that offensive players are well aware of his capability.
The survey gathered opinions from 1,800 NFL enthusiasts nationwide, asking them to identify the player they fear the most. Garrett was ranked only behind Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes and Bills quarterback Josh Allen, both of whom are legendary in their own right.
Completing the top 10 list were players renowned for their game-changing abilities: Lamar Jackson, the Ravens’ dynamic quarterback; Saquon Barkley, the powerhouse running back for the Eagles; Jalen Hurts, who leads the Eagles from the pocket; Aaron Rodgers, now a Steeler, who captivates with his veteran gameplay; Micah Parsons of the Packers, who dominates the defense as a linebacker; Travis Kelce, Kansas City’s unstoppable tight end; and the ever-cool Joe Burrow, quarterback for the Bengals.
The survey didn’t just capture fear but also admiration, ranking the most-coveted players in the league. Here, Garrett claimed the third spot once more, trailing only behind Mahomes and Allen. It seems that fear is often accompanied by a hearty portion of admiration and envy.
The polls’ findings have an obvious conclusion: If your team is playing against Garrett you fear, but for Rams fans, when he’s wearing your uniform, you’re happy he’s on your team.
The Rams acquired the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year Award winner in a trade with the Browns that sent Jared Verse and three draft picks (including a first-round pick) to Cleveland. Garrett joined an already loaded defense full of young talent after LA came within one possession of reaching the Super Bowl last season.
And if Garrett is the third-most feared player in the NFL, it’s safe to say that after their offseason arms race, the Rams would also be ranked as one of the most feared teams.
BetMGM’s survey didn’t ask fans that specific question, but it asked which NFL team would be the toughest to beat ahead of the 2026 season, and sure enough, the Rams ranked No. 1 ahead of the Chiefs and Eagles.
The Rams were also the fans’ top Super Bowl pick, with 11% of those surveyed backing LA to win the Super Bowl inside its own stadium in 2027.
Preseason surveys don’t win Lombardi trophies, of course, but neither do betting odds, power rankings or analyst expectations.
Fear, however, can be a sign of respect, and before Garrett has even had a chance to show opposing quarterbacks his new uniform yet, the rest of the NFL already appears to understand what’s coming.
Download The California Post App, follow us on social, and subscribe to our newsletters
California Post News: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, YouTube, WhatsApp, LinkedIn California Post Sports Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, X California Post Opinion California Post Newsletters: Sign up here! California Post App: Download here! Home delivery: Sign up here! Page Six Hollywood: Sign up here!
Lesley Vogel, the mother of Hayden Panettiere, has shared her heartfelt desire for her daughter’s legacy to be one of beauty and intelligence as she reflects on the actress’s untimely passing at the age of 36.
In an emotional conversation with ABC News, Vogel expressed her wish for Hayden to be celebrated as the gifted and vibrant individual she truly was.
Panettiere, who captivated audiences with performances in “Heroes,” “Nashville,” and “Ice Princess,” was discovered unresponsive on August 16 in Greenville, South Carolina. Despite frantic efforts by first responders to save her after a cardiac arrest, she was declared dead at the scene.
Hayden Panettiere arrives at the premiere of “Blonde,” on Sept. 13, 2022, at TCL Chinese Theatre in Los Angeles.Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP, File
Her tragic passing occurred only months following her candid discussions about the complexities of her relationship with her mother, who had played a pivotal role as her acting mentor during her formative years.
In a raw and honest interview conducted in May with ABC News, Panettiere acknowledged the challenges she faced in navigating her connection with her mother.
“Over the years, I’ve tried to leave that door open, hoping that the relationship would evolve into a healthy mother-daughter relationship, and it’s obvious that that’s just not going to be the case,” she explained.
At the time, Vogel responded to her daughter’s comments in a statement to Page Six, saying she had chosen to go “the no-contact route” after taking “the advice of professionals.”
The Greenville City Police Department is leading the investigation into Panettiere’s death, with the Drug Enforcement Administration assisting, according to sources familiar with the matter.
According to a police report obtained by ABC News, Panettiere was with her on-again, off-again boyfriend, Brian Hickerson, and his brother, Zach Hickerson, at the time of her death. The report said it was unknown whether Panettiere had been using drugs or alcohol.
Panettiere’s official cause and manner of death “remain pending further investigation and the completion of additional studies,” the coroner’s office said.
Former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom, who is making headlines with his WNBA draft aspirations, has opened up about his heated altercation with Natasha Cloud during the game against the Indiana Fever, featuring Sophie Cunningham.
On Sunday night, Cloud had to be restrained by security after she approached Freedom. His interest in joining the WNBA is a response to ongoing discussions in the league surrounding the inclusion of transgender athletes competing against women.
The incident occurred during the second half at Wintrust Arena, where Chicago Sky’s Cloud aggressively confronted Freedom, who had taken a controversial courtside seat, leading to a fierce verbal exchange.
In a viral clip of the incident, the pair could be seen shouting at each other before the former New York Knicks and Oklahoma City Thunder player stood up and held his arms out, as if he were welcoming the mid-game confrontation from Cloud, who was quickly stopped in her tracks by security.
Security and teammates quickly stepped in to diffuse the situation, pulling Cloud away. Meanwhile, Freedom was escorted out of the venue by staff, effectively ending the confrontation.
Freedom, standing at 6 feet 10 inches, claims that it was Cloud who initiated the clash, allegedly taunting him with the comment that Cunningham ‘won’t sleep with you.’
WNBA star Natasha Cloud had to be held back by security after going to confront Enes Kanter Freedom – who said he has declared for the WNBA Draft – during her game on Sunday night
Freedom alleged Cloud told him Sophie Cunningham ‘won’t sleep with you’
Cloud stormed over to Freedom, who was sitting courtside, and sparked a furious argument
He told OutKick: ‘Sophie Cunningham shot a three, and I put my hands up to celebrate. Literally, a couple [of] possessions later, Natasha came back and started screaming and yelling and said, “She’s not gonna sleep with you.”
‘And I was like, “I am not trying to sleep with her. I’m just here to protect women and support her.” And then, obviously, after that, she started yapping, and she started to walk towards me, and literally I just got up, and then I was like, “I’m just here to protect women, and that’s all.”
‘She started to yell. She started to use some very heavy language. She started to actually cuss, and I was very shocked that there were a lot of kids and that there were a lot of teenagers at that game.
‘I just cannot believe that she was just cussing and using those F-bombs in front of all these kids. I’m sure she’s loved in Chicago and many kids are idolizing her and stuff, but that’s not how a WNBA athlete should react.’
Taking to X after he was removed by security, Freedom wrote: ‘I just got kicked out of a @WNBA game for supporting WOMEN! Let that sink in, AMERICA!’
He also wrote: ‘It’s always women hating on other women’.
Meanwhile, in another video, Freedom was seen arguing with security after being escorted away from his courtside seat, telling them, ‘This is unacceptable.’
Freedom, who has spent more than a decade in the NBA, recently sent shockwaves through women’s basketball after revealing he wants to play alongside the likes of Caitlin Clark.
Freedom appeared to welcome the confrontation from Sky star Cloud during the game
The pair could be seen yelling at each other mid-game at the Wintrust Arena on Sunday night
Earlier in the night, Freedom was confronted by furious fans as he arrived at the Wintrust Arena for the Indiana Fever-Chicago Sky clash.
He wore a provocative T-shirt that included a definition of the word woman. ‘Woman. Noun,’ it read. ‘Adult human female.’ The words woman and female were highlighted in red. And he was not given a warm welcome by everyone, with one fan calling the 34-year-old a ‘b**** a** n****’ and telling him to ‘get [his] b**** a** out of Chicago.’
Another said ‘f*** you b****,’ while a third held up their middle finger in the face of Freedom, who was flanked by police outside the arena. ‘We are getting attacked before the @WNBA game in Chicago,’ he posted alongside a video of the incident.
But the former Utah Jazz and New York Knicks star was greeted by cheers and high-fives from other fans in Chicago.
There have been regular protests and counter-protests at WNBA games in recent weeks, after Cunningham sparked controversy by claiming she wants to ‘protect young girls’ from ‘biological men.’
On Sunday in Chicago, there was a ‘save women’s sports party’ in support of Cunningham. Freedom stopped by to greet fans.
After making it inside Wintrust Arena, Freedom was pictured courtside as Cunningham and Clark faced a rematch with the Sky and DiJonai Carrington.
Earlier this month, Cunningham slammed Carrington for ‘playing’ the race ‘card’ after the Chicago Sky star appeared to suggest her rival benefited from ‘white privilege’ during a shocking fracas.
Earlier in the night, Freedom was confronted by fans as he arrived at the Fever-Sky clash
Carrington was ejected from the clash between the Sky and the Indiana Fever after her nasty foul left Cunningham bloodied and on the floor. Toward the end of the first quarter, Cunningham drove towards the basket, only to be struck in the face by Carrington’s arm.
The Sky star was assessed a flagrant 2 and sent to the locker room, with both Cunningham and her teammate Clark seen waving as Carrington headed off the court.
Minutes later, Carrington posted on social media ‘WHITE PRIVILEGE @indianafever,’ sparking yet another WNBA scandal.
Meanwhile, Sky star Cloud made headlines of her own recently after launching a furious verbal tirade regarding the sex-toy-throwing incidents of late.
Speaking to reporters after Chicago’s victory over the Golden State Valkyries on Friday, Cloud did not hold back when asked about the recurring fan behavior.
‘It’s lame as f***; Sorry, mama,’ the 34-year-old veteran said.
‘And I just, man, and like, in most of these occasions, it’s men. And I want you to know that is the gayest thing that you can do is to go to a store, a sex shop, buy a d****, come to a women’s game to throw the d**** on the court.
‘That is the gayest s*** that I’ve ever heard. So I’m a firm believer in anyone that has so much problem with a certain marginalized group, just come out and say that you’re a part of our marginalized group because that hate is unwarranted. It’s not factual.
‘And it says more about the internal struggles of that individual than it ever will say about the collective group.’
This incident comes days after DiJonai Carrington’s hard foul on Indiana’s Sophie Cunningham
Cloud went on to call the perpetrators ‘extremely weak,’ stating that their actions fail to rattle the players on the court and instead reflect poorly on the fans responsible.
‘Y’all lame as s*** to us. Y’all gay to us and we see it,’ Cloud continued. ‘So keep throwing them if you just want to keep telling us you’re gay. You can come out. You’ll be happier. You’ll be nicer to people. You’ll be happier in your everyday life. You don’t need to go to therapy or none of that s***. Just be yourself.’
She concluded her postgame comments by questioning how the culprits explain the purchases on their financial records.
‘Y’all weird,’ she added. ‘Like it says d**** on their credit card. Like they have to go through their financial advisor and be like, ‘What’s this green d****? You good, Chad? You good, Richard? Are you good, Paul?’ Because it also is a certain demographic. Y’all cool? Are y’all cool? And don’t be running.’
On February 11, the U.S. President issued an executive order commanding the military and the Pentagon—already comparable to the Philippines in carbon dioxide emissions—to switch their energy sources to coal.
In recognition of this move, the CEO of the nation’s largest coal company presented Trump with a bronze trophy, hailing him as the “undisputed champion of beautiful clean coal.”
Just a day later, Trump, along with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) chief Lee Zeldin, revoked the pivotal 2009 greenhouse gas endangerment finding, effectively nullifying the EPA’s power to regulate emissions of carbon dioxide and methane.
Continuing on February 14, Trump formed the National Energy Dominance Council, a governmental body aimed at expediting oil, gas, and coal projects with minimal costs and bypassing environmental impact assessments, thus fulfilling his campaign mantra to “drill, baby, drill.”
Two weeks later, the US was firing missiles at Iran.
The retaliatory Iranian blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on Gulf state infrastructure have created an energy crisis the likes of which the world has never seen.
Oil and gas disruptions are expected to continue for months, even years.
At the same time, the world is warming at its fastest rate in geological history, driven by the burning of those same fossil fuels.
The transition away from them has not been happening fast enough to avoid the kind of warming that exacerbates extreme weather events, such as the recent catastrophic wildfires in Europe and North America or the “exceptionally unusual” El Niño event presently brewing.
For many countries, the cost of switching away from fossil fuels has outweighed the urgency of the climate crisis, slowing the transition to renewable energy.
But that appears to be changing. Trump’s decision to engage Iran in a protracted military conflict has prompted a global rethink of traditional energy sources — inadvertently strengthening the case for investment in renewables at a time when market conditions are increasingly favourable.
Some experts suggest it could be the inflection point needed to bend climate projections in a more survivable direction — but it has also prompted a major doubling down in some areas, which could have the opposite effect.
Economic drivers trump environmental urgency
Since the war broke out at the end of February, at least 29 countries have enacted structural policy decisions to decarbonise their economies, the International Energy Agency (IEA) reports.
Australia is among them, having announced an expansion of public EV charging stations, funding to electrify the Australia Post fleet and a zero-emission heavy freight transport project.
Overseas, the European Union has fast-tracked a mandate requiring solar panels to be installed on all new buildings by the end of the year; France and Germany have redirected billions from fossil fuel subsidies into heat-pump grants; India has commissioned 500 new biogas plants (which convert organic waste into renewable energy and nutrient-rich fertiliser); while New Delhi and Mumbai have switched all new public buses to electric.
Even in the US, a major high-voltage transmission project has been fast-tracked to deliver Canadian hydropower to New York and New England.
Experts say such emergency policy measures are being driven by economic needs in the wake of the crisis, the third this decade to rocket global fuel prices, following the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
The current situation, however, is accelerating fossil fuel “demand destruction” on a larger scale, independent climate analyst Ketan Joshi says.
“Those previous crises did not occur when there was a cheap, readily available alternative to both oil consumption and gas consumption,” Joshi tells SBS News.
The policy response also signals the growing importance of domestic power generation, according to Roc Shi, professor of energy, environmental economics and sustainability at the University of Technology Sydney.
He believes the present crisis “will impact any future assessment scenario for governments”.
“The crisis makes people realise that relying on the global supply of oil and energy actually [makes them] vulnerable to the new reality. That will undermine and damage the comparative advantages of fossil fuels,” Shi says.
A global ‘turning point’
That economic rationale is already driving major renewable projects worldwide, especially in parts of Asia that have historically depended on oil and gas imports for energy production.
In South Korea, there is a huge push to ensure commercial truck and shipping infrastructure will soon run on hydrogen.
In Vietnam, the country’s largest conglomerate Vingroup recently announced a major hybrid renewable and battery storage project, replacing its previous proposal to build the country’s largest liquefied natural gas (LNG) import terminal and power plant.
In China, now the world’s biggest producer of green energy, the rapid uptake of renewables has been fuelled in part by energy security concerns, along with the economic growth potential of green technology and manufacturing. In the first six months of this year, more than 40 per cent of its electricity came from renewables, according to China’s National Energy Administration.
Sofia Gonzales-Zuñiga, a senior climate policy analyst with Climate Analytics, tells SBS News the crisis has been a wake-up call for many countries. Those that have been sluggish to act on environmental grounds are now seeing the economic appeal.
“Things are changing very fast now,” she says.
You have mature technology that is price-competitive and that can be easily scalable.
Over the past decade, renewable energy installation costs have fallen dramatically, opening up market opportunities in regions that previously saw the transition as cost-prohibitive.
According to research from Our World in Data, solar photovoltaic costs fell by 90 per cent over the decade to 2024, onshore wind costs dropped by 70 per cent, and battery costs by more than 90 per cent.
As costs have dropped, capacity has grown. And with an energy crisis once again inflating fuel prices, conditions are ripe for long-term change, Gonzales-Zuñiga says.
“The expectation is that this could be that turning point where afterwards there’s no return to fossil fuels.”
The ‘solar revolution’
Pakistan’s response to the 2022 energy crisis offers a domestic example.
Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, international sanctions halted the supply of Russian oil to Europe. In response, contractors re-routed shipments, chasing enlarged profits in Europe, which sent global fuel prices soaring.
At the time, Pakistan was generating 25 per cent of its power from LNG imported via Qatar. The country suffered devastating rolling blackouts as a result of the price hikes and quickly began seeking alternatives.
Haneea Isaad, a Pakistan-based energy finance specialist at the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA), says solar energy was the obvious choice.
China was producing a “massive surplus” of solar panels for relatively low cost at the time, she explains. In addition, the newly elected government in Pakistan slashed taxes and import charges on them, while implementing “generous” energy buyback schemes.
“Anybody who could really afford to put up a rooftop solar system went for it,” Isaad says.
Pakistan quickly became the world’s largest importer of solar panels. Over the next two years, almost 30 gigawatts of solar energy was installed; rural areas were electrified for the first time and demand for coal, oil and LNG dropped.
Joshua Runciman, lead Australian gas analyst at IEEFA, describes it as a “human-led solar revolution”.
“It potentially serves as an example of the way that individuals — not energy planners, not wonks in ivory towers — but individuals might actually respond to [the current crisis],” he says.
Thanks to Pakistan’s solar revolution, when gas stopped flowing through the Strait of Hormuz in March — essentially cutting off all LNG supplies from Qatar — the country was better positioned to respond than it was in 2022.
Waqas Moosa, head of solar energy company Hedron Solar in Pakistan, says other countries can learn from Pakistan.
“Malaysia, Philippines, India, Bangladesh, they suffered,” he says, referring to the fallout of the crisis ignited by Trump’s war on Iran.
The sun does not pass through the Strait of Hormuz or any other strait or chokepoint which is going to come in the future.
With solar panel sales rising dramatically over the last few years — which Moosa notes coincided with prices falling — he expects to see similar revolutions around the world as countries enter “the renewable era”.
“The Stone Age did not end because stone finished, the Iron Age did not end because iron finished, and the fossil fuel age is not going to end because we ran out of fossil fuel,” he says.
“Maybe 30, 40 years down the road, when the kids study history, they’ll probably look at this decade, the 2020s, where the transition from fossil fuels towards renewables happened.”
Billions and billions of dollars
Even as rapid change is underway in some parts of the world, the status quo prevails in others.
Research from Climate Analytics shows that nearly one-third of the global population lives in a country that is highly economically dependent on fossil fuel exports.
So while many importing nations have hastened their transition to renewables since Trump authorised the first strikes on Iran in February, some exporting nations have sought to capitalise on increased global demand for fuel.
US exports of LNG have surged to an all-time high while Canada has enacted emergency legislation to fast-track new mining and export projects, simultaneously reneging on its global climate pledges.
Other countries without established renewable resources have also increased their use of coal for power generation, including Japan, Bangladesh, Thailand and the Philippines.
Even China, increasingly touted as a green energy leader, has walked back coal-reduction commitments, choosing instead to focus on building its renewable-led power sector, underpinned by coal.
Indeed, the country remains the world’s biggest carbon emitter. Its domestic coal-fired power generation is expected to rise by 1.5 to 3 per cent this year, reversing last year’s first-in-a-decade decline.
Globally, coal use is predicted to increase 1.4 per cent.
Across the world, politicians have used the crisis to argue for slowing or reversing the energy transition on economic or energy security grounds, something Joshi says is “very convincing”.
In Australia, Opposition leader Angus Taylor has said “we must dig and we must drill” in response to the current global shock. The Liberal Party and One Nation have both promised to abandon net zero frameworks entirely, arguing they hamper energy security.
Such favourable political backing gives fossil fuel companies greater licence to continue generating already vastly inflated profits.
Analytics firm Wood Mackenzie estimates the global oil and gas industry is on track for a nearly $700 billion cash windfall this year. When oil peaked at US$126 a barrel in April, the world’s top 100 oil companies were making a combined US$30 million ($43 million) in profit every hour.
“This money just becomes a war chest,” Joshi says.
“They can use it for political lobbying, for communications, to build new fossil fuel infrastructure. I think we can say confidently that it makes them more capable in enacting their agenda.”
‘The last push for fossil fuels’
The tug-of-war between renewables and fossil fuels is affecting global emissions in real-time, too.
While the IEA predicted at the beginning of the year that emissions would finally begin to drop, the onset of war in Iran saw carbon emissions spike sharply. It represents a departure from other recent energy crises, which have typically triggered a temporary drop in emissions.
The IEA now expects emissions to rise to a new record once again this year.
Gonzales-Zuñiga says a “lot is changing in the background”; however, political resistance and entrenched interests continue to offset meaningful climate action.
“There’s this last push for fossil fuels, like, the last dying push,” she says.
I think we are exactly at that threshold where it just needs to go in the other direction.
If the world could rally to implement the Global Stocktake goals agreed to at COP28 — tripling renewable capacity, doubling energy efficiency, and cutting methane — by 2030, it would reduce projected warming by 0.9 degrees this century.
“If this crisis were to tip the scales in that direction, this could be like a reference point for how far we could go,” Gonzales-Zuñiga says.
With economic factors, not environmental ones, driving the rollout of renewable energy so far, it’s not yet clear whether uptake will moderate long-term projections beyond the war.
Joshi says the simultaneous push for renewables and the doubling down on fossil fuels seem to be having a “counter-balancing” effect, with no clear overall direction.
“If I had to guess, electrification in Asia and a general nervousness around fossil fuel use will result in a material reduction in fossil fuels, but not necessarily enough to make that curve plummet downwards — you know, like it should have 10 years ago.”
He adds that a renewables transition powered by concern over energy security is also unsustainable, as once that issue is resolved, “the impetus to switch away from fossil fuels just drops”.
“It probably does have some side benefits for climate, but in general, it is just not a great way of enacting this change.”
If you could design a perfect world, you would opt for a much better way of doing things.
With the war in Iran now in its sixth month and fuel prices again climbing, some experts are sceptical about whether the crisis will amount to lasting change.
And yet, undeniably, it has also hastened the fast-tracking of renewable projects in some regions which otherwise may not have happened — including in the US.
In Texas, America’s most oil-rich, deep-red state, pure economics have seen solar, wind, and battery installations roll out faster than in any other, save for California.
Solar now powers more Texan homes than coal, and installation records continue to be shattered.
The picture in Donald Trump’s United States, much like the rest of the world, remains complex. Still, despite the best efforts of the “undisputed champion of beautiful clean coal”, not everyone has been persuaded to stick with the black stuff.
In a surprising twist, Jodie Turner-Smith and Joshua Jackson, one of Hollywood’s beloved couples, announced that they are heading for a divorce after four years of matrimony, stunning their fanbase on Monday.
The British actress Jodie, who has a three-year-old daughter, Juno Rose Diana, with her Canadian husband Josh, cited “irreconcilable differences” in her divorce filing, stating their separation date as September 13.
This announcement took many by surprise, especially since Jodie and Joshua appeared to be very much in love, just a day before the divorce news broke. They were seen hand-in-hand at the COS Autumn/Winter 2023 event on September 12.
Although Jodie, 37, and Joshua, 45, have remained silent in public about their split, court documents reveal that she has opted out of seeking spousal support and noted that there was no prenuptial agreement.
This brings up questions about how the ex-couple will navigate their financial futures.
It’s over: Power couple Jodie Turner-Smith and Joshua Jackson shocked fans on Monday when it was revealed they are set to divorce after four years of marriage (pictured 2022)
Canadian actor Joshua is said to have a net worth of $8 million, reports celebritynetworth.com.
He became a household name when he starred as Pacey Witter in the hit teen show, Dawson’s Creek, from 1998 to 2003.
The Critics’ Choice Award nominee went on to land starring roles in Fox’s sci-fi series Fringe and Showtime’s drama, The Affair.
Most recently, Joshua took on the leading role in Paramount+ series Fatal Attraction, based on the 1987 film of the same name.
The father-of-one previously revealed that being paid so much in his younger years gave him imposter syndrome.
Reflecting on being cast in Dawson’s Creek at the age of 19, he confessed: ‘I would make more money doing four episodes of Dawson’s Creek than most of my friends’ parents made in a year..
‘That was the center of my imposter syndrome: You’re trying to set me up to be a role model to kids, and I definitely am not, and you’re paying me all this money that I don’t deserve.’
Joshua and Jodie reside in the Hollywood star’s former childhood home in Topanga, California, after he bought the property in 2001.
The actor was born in Vancouver but raised in Los Angeles until he was eight years old, at which point his parents divorced and he returned to the Canadian city with his mother and sister.
Speaking about his decision to buy his childhood home, he told Mr Porter: ‘ My father unfortunately was not a good father or a husband and exited the scene, but that house in Topanga was where everything felt simple, so it was a very healing thing for me to do.’
Joshua previously owned a home in West Hollywood with ex-girlfriend Diane Kruger which he sold in 2017 for $5.76 million a year after they split.
Iconic: Canadian actor Joshua is said to have a net worth of $8 million. He became a household name when he starred as Pacey Witter in Dawson’s Creek from 1998 to 2003
Racy: Most recently, Joshua took on the leading role in Paramount+ series Fatal Attraction, based on the 1987 film of the same name (pictured with co-star Lizzie Caplan)
No place like home: Joshua and Jodie reside in Joshua’s former childhood home in Topanga, California, after he bought the property in 2001
Joshua’s estranged wife is said to have a smaller but still respectable net worth of $3 million, Idol Net Worth reports.
While Joshua hit the spotlight in his teenage years, Jodie’s rise to fame came later, with the actress first studying finance at the University of Pittsburgh before going on to work at a bank.
In 2009 at the age of 22 she decided to move to Hollywood after a chance meeting with musician Pharrell Williams who convinced her to become a model.
While living in Los Angeles, Jodie also pursued an acting career, landing her first TV role in 2013 as a siren in True Blood.
She went on to make a number of small TV and music video appearances, including in the video for Zayn Malik’s 2016 hit, Pillowtalk.
However it wasn’t until her starring role in 2019’s Queen & Slim that she began to attract buzz.
The talented actress starred alongside Daniel Kaluuya in the critically acclaimed drama about a young couple who go on the run after killing a police officer in self defence.
In 2021 she starred in Channel 5’s controversial version of Anne Boleyn, in which she played the titular character.
While her casting was met with backlash due to her race, critics praised her acting skills in the three-part drama series.
Jodie will next be seen in The Acolyte, an upcoming television series within the Star Wars franchise. Her role has not yet been announced.
While it appears neither Joshua nor Jodie will be seeking spousal support, their living and child custody arrangements have yet to be announced.
Jodie has asked for joint custody of their three-year-old daughter in the divorce and is being represented by celebrity divorce lawyer Laura Wasser.
Laura has handled a number of high-profile, high-net-worth dissolutions, including those for Angelina Jolie, Heidi Klum, Kim Kardashian, Johnny Depp and Kevin Costner.
As Joshua and Jodie did not sign a prenuptial agreement, they will now have to come to an agreement surrounding their divorce settlement.
A pre-nuptial agreement is essentially a contract drawn up by a couple before they get married. Typically it will list all of the assets each person owns, including any debts, and specifies how these will be divided up in the event of a divorce.
The extent to which a pre-nup is enforced can depend on the state the couple reside in. While all 50 states officially recognize the agreement, many disagree on the specifics.
Rachael Burns, who founded True Worth Financial Planning, told DailyMail.com that she believes all engaged couples should sign a prenup regardless of wealth or status.
She revealed: ‘Pre-nuptial agreements get this reputation for being for really wealthy people. And they are seen as this very unromantic thing. But I think it’s actually very romantic. It’s a way of avoiding so much potential conflict.’
It’s a hit: Jodie’s rise to fame came later in life and it wasn’t until her starring role in 2019’s Queen & Slim starring alongside Daniel Kaluuya that she began to attract buzz
Backlash: In 2021 she starred in Channel 5’s controversial version of Anne Boleyn, in which she played the titular character and while her casting was panned her performance was praised
Jodie and Joshua first sparked split rumours in September 2022 after they unfollowed each other on social media.
They then refollowed each other with Joshua brushing off split speculation as he gushed about his wife in a chat with E! News.
He said: ‘She is undeniably one of the most beautiful women on the planet. And she always smashes it when she’s on the red carpet. That is truly a wonder to behold.
‘But I will tell you, that there is nothing like waking up in the morning, opening my eyes and seeing her face in the morning.’
Jodie and Joshua married in 2019 after meeting through mutual friends in 2018 and initially insisting that their romance was just ‘casual’.
She has previously revealed their romance started as a one-night stand.
Prior to his relationship with Jodie, Joshua was in a decade-long romance with Diane Kruger, 47, which ended in 2016. Diane is now dating Norman Reedus.
Throwback: British actress Jodie shares three-year-old daughter Juno Rose Diana with Canadian star Josh and is seeking joint custody (Jodie pictured during pregnancy)
Case of the ex: Prior to his relationship with Jodie, Joshua was in a decade-long romance with Diane Kruger, 47, which ended in 2016 (pictured in 2015)
Lesley Vogel fiercely addressed detractors criticizing her response to the tragic loss of her daughter, Hayden Panettiere.
During an emotional interview with Rhiannon Ally on “Good Morning America,” the former soap star declared, “To those passing judgment, I say, ‘You have no say in how I grieve my second child. That journey is mine alone.’”
Vogel shared that she is still coming to terms with Panettiere’s passing, adding, “I suspect the gravity will fully hit me in time.”
Reflecting on the initial shock of the news, Vogel recounted how she felt utterly “numb” and disconnected upon receiving the call about her “Heroes” star daughter’s death.
“I’m still struggling to accept this as reality. Some parts of my mind rebel against it, and I know it will be a long journey ahead,” she stated, needing a moment off-camera to collect her tears.
Vogel also said she wants her daughter to be remembered for “the talented, you know, beautiful, outgoing, intelligent woman she really was.”
In the same interview, she went after her daughter’s on-again, off-again boyfriend, Brian Hickerson.
The “Ice Princess” star died after suffering an apparent “overdose” at a luxury apartment complex in Greenville, SC, on Aug. 16. She was 36.
Hayden’s father, Skip Panettiere, confirmed “the tragic passing” with “profound sadness” in a statement to Page Six.
A police report obtained by Page Six on Aug. 17 revealed that Hayden — who struggled with “severe health issues” in recent months and was still in the throes of addiction — was taking a “bag of medication” at the time of her death. The types of medications were redacted from the report.
The report also revealed that Brian and his brother, Zach Hickerson, were with Hayden at the time of her death. According to the report, Brian “did not become emotional” until she was officially declared dead.
Since then, Vogel has been vocal about her animosity towards Brian, claiming he is somehow involved in her daughter’s death.
“I think Hayden was an amazingly talented person in so many departments,” Vogel, 70, told NBC News on Aug. 18 in her first statement since Hayden’s death.
“And I think young people who grow up in the entertainment industry — it is a struggle, and it’s a very challenging industry, and it’s not unusual for them to sadly find the wrong path.”
Speaking about Brian, she said, “This person in her life that we have been trying to get rid of for quite some time was with her at her death and that was Brian Hickerson.”
Vogel also revealed she would be talking to a private detective.
On Aug. 20, Brian spoke out via his lawyer on the loss of Hayden, defending himself from accusations that he played a role in her death.
“Hayden’s death remains under investigation and it is important to allow that investigation to proceed,” his attorney, Sloan Ellis, told Page Six.
“As has been publicly reported, police confirmed there were no signs of foul play,” the statement continued. “Out of respect for Hayden’s loved ones and the ongoing investigation, there will be no further comment at this time.”
After Vogel faced backlash over her statement due to their estranged relationship, she said in a new statement to Entertainment Tonight, “Although my daughter and I were estranged, it was not for lack of care or love. It was due to the involvement of a toxic individual who I believe led to her death.”
She continued, “Hayden was a beautiful and talented young woman who unfortunately became involved with the wrong person, and although her family tried to extricate him from her life, we were unable to be successful.”
“I hope all remember Hayden for the beautiful human being inside her and her gift to the world from her time on this earth,” Vogel added. “My heart is with you, Hayden. Mama.”
She also cast doubt on Brian’s version of how Hayden died while they were staying in the same AirBnb and even claimed that he had “pawned” some of the actress’ belongings amid his ongoing financial issues.
While Brian has not commented on Hayden’s death aside from the statement through his attorney, Zach claimed that Brian used Narcan on the late actress and performed CPR on her when he discovered her unconscious.
“There are a lot of assumptions, speculations and accusations currently swirling,” Zach told TMZ on Friday.
The on-again, off-again, couple met in 2018 and had a tumultuous relationship. Brian was arrested multiple times for domestic violence against the “Remember the Titans” star, and she wrote about his abuse in her memoir, “This Is Me: A Reckoning.”
If you or someone you know is affected by any of the issues raised in this story, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text START to 88788.
If you or someone you care about is affected by any of the issues raised in this story, call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
Today, a tense diplomatic confrontation emerged as Russia made a sharp threat in response to Britain’s decision to provide Ukraine with advanced missile technology.
Moscow alleges that the United Kingdom is now actively engaging in the conflict, coinciding with Andy Burnham’s arrival in Kyiv for his inaugural foreign visit.
In a significant announcement, the Prime Minister confirmed that European defense giant MBDA has received authorization to divulge details on UK-manufactured components for the Scalp missile — France’s equivalent to the Storm Shadow.
Determined to stand firm, the Prime Minister emphasized the UK’s unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of Vladimir Putin’s aggression, dismissing Russia’s warnings to Britain as utterly unacceptable.
Nonetheless, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov intensified the rhetoric, proclaiming, “Britain is actively taking part in this war, aligning itself with the Kyiv government.
‘Britain methodically and regularly pours fuel on the fire and methodically and regularly plots to prevent any progress in the peace process.’
He added that the Russian armed forces were intent on identifying ‘the production sites of such missiles, the production sites of other military equipment’ in order to destroy them.
It emerged over the weekend that the Russian ambassador has been withdrawn from London as relations deteriorate further.
The UK’s decision means the ‘deep precision’ Scalp – which is built using both British and French technology – could now be produced locally in Ukraine.
The weapons are critical for long-range strikes reaching targets deep inside Russia.
Volodymyr Zelensky thanked Andy Burnham today as the PM made his first visit to Kyiv
Mr Burnham laid a wreath and flowers at the graves of Ukrainian soldiers at the National Military Cemetery
Giving a speech in front of St Sophia cathedral in Kyiv to mark the 35th anniversary of Ukraine’s independence, Mr Burnham compared the country’s resistance to the fight against Nazi Germany.
‘My nation kept the flame of European freedom alive in the 20th century, you hold that flame in the 21st,’ he said.
‘Despite Russia’s outrageous threats to my country, we will continue our support for Ukraine.’
In his first major speech on the international stage, Mr Burnham praised the ‘sheer strength’ of the Ukrainian people as ‘truly awesome’, and said that ‘this is the moment to keep up the pressure on Russia, the moment to squeeze their ability to fund this illegal war’.
‘Ukraine has been Europe’s protector, not a drain on our security but the front line in keeping Europe safe,’ he added.
‘The Ukrainian people deserve not just our continued support, but our gratitude and respect,’ he said, thanking Ukrainians for ‘the incredible stand’ they have taken.
Ukraine has marked its Independence Day with huge drone attacks on three major Russian online shopping hubs.
In a defiant speech marking Ukraine’s 35th Independence Day in front of Saint Sophia, Mr Zelensky said: ‘Ukrainians will not be cobblestones under the feet of tsars and rulers. Ukrainians will not submit.’
Mr Zelensky gave awards to members of the military and posthumous acknowledgements to family members of soldiers killed in the war sparked by Russia’s invasion.
He also gave honours to world leaders present, including one to Mr Burnham titled Honorary Distinction to the British People, Gratitude of the Ukrainian People.
Mr Burnham, who travelled to Ukraine overnight by train, laid a wreath and flowers at the graves of Ukrainian soldiers at the National Military Cemetery, as part of events marking the country’s independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.
During the ceremony, he spoke to Finnish president Alexander Stubb, who told the Prime Minister ‘we are in a war period’ and warned of Ukraine’s difficulties repelling Russian ballistic missile attacks.
Later today Mr Burnham will chair his first meeting of the ‘coalition of the willing’, and accept an award on behalf of the British people recognising the UK’s support.
It follows the Kremlin warning of ‘consequences’ over UK drones being used by Ukraine to strike far into Russia.
Moscow said the deeper Britain became involved, ‘the higher price it will pay’.
Mr Burnham said: ‘On Ukraine’s 35th anniversary of independence, its people should be in no doubt: The UK is behind you.
‘In the fight and the rebuilding to come, we stand with Ukraine. Russia should be in no doubt of our resolve. We will not back down till there is a lasting peace.’
But Russia said relations with Britain are at ‘an unprecedentedly low level’ as it ordered its ambassador Andrey Kelin back to Moscow after seven years in post.
Mr Kelin has accused the UK of choosing ‘a path of confrontation’ with Russia.
Mr Burnham said: ‘Russia should be in no doubt of our resolve. We will not back down until there is a just and lasting peace.’
Ukrainian drones appeared to hit another Russian online retailer today, following strikes over three nights in a row last week.
Kyiv has been waging a campaign against Wildberries – dubbed ‘Russia’s Amazon’ – and Ozon, claiming they have been supplying components to the military.
Ozon, Russia’s second largest online retailer, said ‘a fire broke out’ at a logistics centre in Makhachkala, southern Russia, following a drone attack at around 5am.
Mr Burnham’s visit comes as Mr Zelensky faces domestic political strife caused by a rift with his former defence minister.
Mykhailo Fedorov was sacked last month after reportedly falling out with the head of Ukraine’s armed forces.
His ousting triggered weeks of mass protests, and he has called for Mr Zelensky to hold elections, arguing democracy ‘should not be the hostage of Putin’.
The PM is in the Ukraine capital for the country’s independence day after travelling overnight by train
During the ceremony, he spoke to Finnish president Alexander Stubb (second from left)
Ukrainian drones strike a huge logistics hub for online retailer Ozon near Makhachkala this morning
He has also called for Mr Zelensky to face questions over what he knew about alleged corruption in his inner circle.
Last week, Ukraine’s anti-corruption authorities said they had uncovered a money-laundering plot, leading Mr Zelensky to sack one of his senior officials over their alleged involvement.
The president has denied any involvement, telling reporters over the weekend: ‘The heads of anti-corruption agencies have zero questions for me.
‘They understand perfectly well that I am not involved in anything like that.’
Touring broadcast studios for the Government this morning, defence minister Luke Pollard told Times Radio: ‘We’ve already seen Russian activities against the United Kingdom, we’ve seen them loitering over our critical undersea cables, we’ve seen cyber attacks on our systems, we’ve also seen them prosecute an illegal war against one of our close friends.
‘So am I surprised that Russia doesn’t like people supporting Ukraine? No, I’m not. Will that stop us from supporting our friends in Ukraine? No, it won’t either.’
Mr Pollard said when to have an election was ‘an internal matter for the people of Ukraine, the government of Ukraine’.
‘If I look at the parallel United Kingdom during the Second World War, while there was war waging in Europe, we didn’t have elections,’ he said.
He added: ‘Having spoken to both President Zelensky and the former defence minister Fedorov in the past, I know that both of them are committed to the defence of their nation and seeing through their nation to get to a peaceful conclusion to the conflict.’
