Kim Jong Un recently visited Russia for a six-day trip, during which he and President Vladimir Putin discussed North Korea's nuclear weapons program, economic sanctions, and ways to strengthen economic ties. The visit has raised concerns about potential weapons transfer deals between the two countries, and is seen as a sign of the strengthening relationship between Russia and North Korea.
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Jann Wenner, co-founder of Rolling Stone magazine and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, has been removed from the Hall of Fame's Board of Directors following comments he made that were seen as disparaging towards Black and female musicians. The Hall of Fame released a statement saying they are committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all music fans and will not tolerate any form of discrimination or bigotry. They have yet to announce who will replace Wenner on the Board of Directors.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton was acquitted on Saturday by the state Senate of 16 impeachment articles, ending a two-week trial that featured substantial evidence of alleged corruption. Despite two Republican senators voting for conviction, the majority of Paxton's party voted to acquit him. Following the acquittal vote, Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick (R) officially reinstated Paxton as the state’s top law enforcement officer and four impeachment articles were dismissed.
Russell Brand, a British actor and comedian, has denied allegations of rape, sexual assault and abusive behavior following a joint investigation by multiple UK-based news outlets. Brand has stated that all of his relationships have been consensual, and has called for more support for survivors of sexual assault in the past. The investigation includes allegations from four women and Channel 4 has released a trailer for its upcoming special on the investigation.
Post-tropical cyclone Lee is expected to make landfall in Nova Scotia, Canada Saturday afternoon, bringing tropical storm conditions and coastal flooding to Maine's coast. The storm was a Category 1 hurricane on Friday and at one point had Category 5 strength. Residents in the affected areas are advised to take necessary precautions and follow the instructions of local officials as the National Hurricane Center continues to monitor the storm.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton was acquitted on all 16 articles of impeachment in the GOP-controlled state Senate, with only two Republicans voting to remove him from office. Despite more than 60 Republicans in the Texas House crossing party lines to impeach Paxton, the Senate voted unanimously to acquit him, bringing the months-long impeachment process to an end. Paxton is a former state senator and his wife is currently a state senator.
On Friday, the United Auto Workers (UAW) union began a simultaneous strike of Detroit's "Big Three" auto manufacturers, General Motors, Ford, and Jeep-maker Stellantis. The union represents 150,000 workers across the United States and is attempting to negotiate a new contract. Ford has already laid off 600 workers due to the strike, and UAW President Shawn Fain believes the Big Three are trying to pressure union members to accept a less favorable contract. The strike is expected to last until a new contract is agreed upon.
Millions of people in coastal New England and eastern Canada are under storm watches and warnings as Post-Tropical Cyclone Lee threatens the region with hurricane-force winds, torrential rain, and coastal flooding. Lobsterman Bruce Young had his 38-foot vessel transported to the local airport, while Steve Train, a commercial lobster fisherman on Long Island, had just finished hauling 200 traps out of the water. Residents in the area are urged to take precautions and make final preparations as the storm approaches, with the National Hurricane Center continuing to monitor the storm and provide updates.