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Travis Kalanick Resigns as Uber CEO

Business

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Jun 21, 2017

Uber founder and CEO Travis Kalanick has resigned after pressure from shareholders.

Travis Kalanick’s resignation comes after a review of practices at the company and scandals including complaints of harassment.

Last week Travis Kalanick said he was taking an indefinite leave of absence following the sudden death of his mother in a boating accident.

He will remain on Uber board.

Five major Uber investors demanded Travis Kalanick’s immediate resignation as chief executive, the New York Times reported.

Travis Kalanick reportedly said: “I love Uber more than anything in the world and at this difficult moment in my personal life I have accepted the investors request to step aside so that Uber can go back to building rather than be distracted with another fight.”

Uber‘s board said in a statement: “Travis has always put Uber first. This is a bold decision and a sign of his devotion and love for Uber.

“By stepping away, he’s taking the time to heal from his personal tragedy while giving the company room to fully embrace this new chapter in Uber’s history. We look forward to continuing to serve with him on the board.”

Dan Primack, business editor of the Axios news service, was one of the first to report the investor demands for Travis Kalanick to go.

The editor said a group of investors, but particularly Bill Gurley of venture capitalist company Benchmark, had put pressure on Travis Kalanick to resign.

“It’s important to note: Travis controlled the board in terms of votes, so really, it was a vey big uphill climb for [Bill] Gurley and the other investors to get this done,” Dan Primack said.

Uber’s future prospects were now “pretty bright”, Dan Primack added.

Uber has been searching for a chief operating officer, but now can seek out Fortune 500 chief executives to take over the top spot, he said.

The ride-hailing company has had a series of recent controversies, including the departure of other high-level executives.

Eric Alexander, the former head of Uber’s Asia-Pacific business, left after a report that he had obtained the medical records of a woman who was raped by an Uber driver in 2014.

Eric Alexander reportedly shared them with Travis Kalanick, senior vice-president Emil Michael and others.

Eric Alexander was fired earlier this month, and Emil Michael later left Uber.

Board member David Bonderman made a sexist remark at a meeting about workplace practice recommendations last week and then resigned as a director.

In February, the company said it was investigating “abhorrent” harassment claims made by former Uber engineer Susan Fowler.

This month Uber said it had fired more than 20 staff and had taken action against others following a review of more than 200 HR complaints that included harassment and bullying.

There has also been a lawsuit from Google’s parent company, Alphabet, over alleged theft of trade secrets related to driverless cars.

Republicans Win Georgia and South Carolina Elections

Diane A. Wade

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Jun 21, 2017

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Republicans Win Georgia and South Carolina Elections

Republicans have won a closely contested congressional election in Georgia.

The election is seen by many as a referendum on Donald Trump’s presidency.

Karen Handel retained the Atlanta seat with 53% of the vote, against 47% for her Democratic rival Jon Ossoff.

The vacancy arose when Tom Price left to become health secretary.

Tom Price had won the seat with a 23 point lead.

In South Carolina, Republican Ralph Norman beat Democrat Archie Parnell in a solidly conservative area.

President Donald Trump congratulated both candidates.

On the victory in suburban Atlanta, the president tweeted: “Congratulations to Karen Handel on her big win in Georgia 6th. Fantastic job, we are all very proud of you!”

Georgia’s sixth district is a traditionally safe Republican seat but Democrats had hoped to capitalize on Donald Trump’s low approval ratings.

Spending on candidates was put at $56 million, making it the costliest congressional election in US history.

Democrats have already suffered narrow defeats in Kansas and Montana this year.

Addressing jubilant supporters, Karen Handel thanked key Republican figures, including President Trump.

She said: “I need to also thank Speaker Ryan and the House leadership and so many of the members across this country. And a special thanks to the President of the United States of America.”

Jon Ossoff told his supporters they had provided “a beacon of hope for people here in Georgia, for people across the country, and for people around the world”.

He also said they should celebrate having turned a conservative stronghold into a competitive district.

“We showed the world that in places where no-one thought it was even possible we could fight,” he said.

In April, Jon Ossoff narrowly failed to win the 50% needed to secure outright victory in a first round, forcing the run-off against Karen Handel.

Karen Handel had come a distant second in the first round, but the Republican vote had been split among 11 candidates.

Republicans believed the run-off would favor them in an affluent seat they have held since 1979.

They also believed that last week’s shooting of Republicans on a Virginia baseball field would count in their favor at the polls.

The suspected gunman was a Democratic supporter and a Republican advert that sought to politicize the attack was condemned by Karen Handel.

The South Carolina fifth-district seat, vacated when Mick Mulvaney became President Trump’s budget director, had been expected to be an easy win for Republicans.

The Republicans have so far staved off defeats by the Democrats this year.

In April they narrowly defended a deeply conservative Kansas seat vacated when President Trump appointed Congressman Mike Pompeo to lead the CIA.

Last month, Republican Greg Gianforte won a special congressional election in Montana, despite being charged with assaulting a UK reporter.

Is It Time You Looked For Another Job?

Business

Dana R

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Jun 21, 2017

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For some people, a job is a means of earning money to pay bills and put food on the table. For others, there’s an element of satisfaction involved. If your current job is serving solely to give you an income, it may be time to change tack. If you’re considering a career move, here are some signs that it’s time to look for a new job.

Image from https://pixabay.com/en/hand-congratulations-presentation-648448/

You find your job boring

Did you know that on average, we spend more than 1,900 hours at work per year? This is a lot of time to waste on doing something that you find dull. It may not be possible to find a job that provides you with never-ending excitement or unbridled joy, but don’t settle for something that bores you.

You have aspirations to do something else

Do you spend your days wishing you were somewhere else? If you have a dream job in mind, don’t give up on it, just because you’ve been knocked down before or you haven’t quite got the qualifications you need. Get some experience, find out about courses and training programs, and start taking steps to make yourself a better candidate for that ideal role.

You’re unhappy with your working conditions

Do you feel like you’ve been treated unfairly at work? Are you unhappy with the hours you work or have you been injured as a result of your working environment? All employers have a duty of care to their workforce, and if you feel that your employer is shirking their responsibilities, you can find out more about your legal rights on this home page. It’s a good idea to raise issues with your boss before you take further action, as they may be unaware of your fears or concerns.

You want more

Are you envious of people who love their job? Do you wish you could leave work every day feeling like you’d made a difference or you’d learned something new? If this is the case, it’s never too late to take a different path. When you devote so much time to working, it’s natural to want to get something out of your job. There’s no harm in looking for openings and vacancies that look more inspiring and appealing. You may also want to think about moving if you’ve been at the same level for a long time. Some companies are much more progressive than others, and if you want more money and more responsibility, it may be worth applying for roles at a different organization.

You don’t get on with your colleagues

If you work with others, building relationships is really important. The ties you have with other people can make or break the working day. If you’re close to your colleagues, you’re likely to find work much more enjoyable. If you have problems with them or you just don’t really click, this may make you more inclined to consider looking for a new job.

Image credit https://pixabay.com/en/colleagues-meeting-time-agreement-1697899/

Are you bored of your job or do you wish you had a job that offered you more? We spend too much time working to do something that doesn’t give us any enjoyment or motivation. If the signs above are familiar to you, maybe it’s time to start a new job hunt.

Otto Warmbier Death: Family Declines Post-Mortem Examination

U.S. News

Diane A. Wade

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Jun 21, 2017

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Otto Warmbier Death: Family Declines Post-Mortem Examination

Otto Warmbier’s family has declined a post-mortem examination, according to the Hamilton County coroner.

The 22-year-old student died on June 19, shortly after being freed from North Korea.

Otto Warmbier was detained in North Korea for more than 15 months.

The coroner said only an external exam was performed on Otto Warmbier, who arrived home in a coma.

North Korea claims Otto Warmbier’s coma was due to botulism and a sleeping pill, but his family and doctors disagree.

Otto Warmbier was sentenced to 15 years’ hard labor in March 2016 after being tried for attempting to steal a propaganda sign from a hotel.

The coroner’s office in Cincinnati, Ohio, said in a statement: “No conclusions about the cause and manner of Mr. Warmbier’s death have been drawn at this time as there are additional medical records and imaging to review and people to interview.

“Our deepest sympathies are with the family and friends of Mr. Warmbier at this time of their tragic loss.”

Doctors at the Cincinnati Medical Center, where Otto Warmbier was treated following his return to the US on June 13, determined he suffered from “unresponsive wakefulness”, also known as persistent vegetative state, due to “severe neurological injury”.

However, it remains unclear exactly what happened to the student while in North Korea detention. His family and doctors dispute North Korea’s version of events.

A funeral is to take place on June 21 at a high school in Wyoming, Ohio, that Otto Warmbier attended before enrolling at the University of Virginia.

“All those that wish to join his family in celebrating his life are cordially invited,” the announcement states.

President Donald Trump said on June 19 that a “lot of bad things happened” to Otto Warmbier at the hands of the “brutal regime”.

On June 20, the president tweeted that the US once again condemned North Korea “as we mourn its latest victim”.

Jose Mourinho Denies Spanish Tax Fraud

Sports

Clyde K. Valle

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Jun 20, 2017

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José Mourinho has denied tax fraud in Spain, saying the government had ratified his tax affairs.

The Manchester United manager was accused by prosecutors of defrauding Spain of €3.3 million ($3.6 million) in taxes while he was Real Madrid coach from 2011 to 2012.

A prosecutor said José Mourinho, 54, did not declare income from image rights in order to get an “illicit benefit”.

A statement released on José Mourinho’s behalf said he “has not received any notification”.

It added: “To this date, neither the Spanish tax authorities, nor the public prosecutor have contacted Jose Mourinho or his advisers who were hired for the inspection process.”

The statement also said José Mourinho “paid more than €26 million in taxes, with an average tax rate of over 41%” during the three years until May 2013 and that he “entered into a settlement agreement” with the Spanish tax authorities after a change of rules in 2015.

José Mourinho has been accused of two counts of tax fraud – €1.6 million in 2011 and €1.7 million in 2012. The Madrid prosecutor said the case was presented to a local court.

Other prominent soccer figures have been accused of tax fraud in Spain in recent months.

Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo, who played under José Mourinho Mourinho and shares the same agent, is accused of defrauding tax authorities of €14.7 million, by also hiding his income from image rights.

Cristiano Ronaldo denies the accusations and is threatening to leave Spain. The Portuguese is set to give evidence in his case on July 31.

Vitamin Supplements: Sorting Fact From Fiction

Health

Dana R

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Jun 20, 2017

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Vitamin Supplements: Sorting Fact From Fiction

It’s no secret that as we start to get older, our bodies start slowing down. As much as you’d like to deny it, you’re no spring chicken anymore and you’re probably starting to feel the effects. Vitamin and mineral supplements are everywhere nowadays and all of the retailers boast of the benefits of their various products. In a world full of pseudoscience and fake news, it’s a nightmare to try to work out what is actually going to be good for you and what is just nonsense. We’ve put together a list to make sure your body is getting what it needs and you aren’t wasting your time and money on supplements that do absolutely nothing for you.

Pixabay

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is important in your later years because it helps to combat a lot of the problems that develop once you reach the other side of forty. Your risk of diabetes, heart disease and some types of cancer is massively increased if you have a Vitamin D deficiency. The best way of getting Vitamin D is from sunlight but most people don’t spend enough time outside for that. Taking Vitamin D supplements is a good way to top up your levels to make sure you lower your risk of age-related diseases. D3 supplements are best because that form is most similar to the vitamins that you get from sunlight.

Calcium

Most people know that Calcium is good for you whatever age you are, but it becomes more important as you get older. The main benefit of Calcium is that it can help to increase bone strength which is important as your joints start to get weaker. Osteoporosis is a big problem in older people and increased Calcium levels can go some way to reducing the risk. In the past, Calcium supplements have been derived from rock but there are side effects that come with this. It is better to take other forms because AlgaeCal plant calcium side effects are pretty much non-existent. Studies have shown that it is safe for pregnant women and it has no toxic effects at all.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a very important antioxidant for your skin, bones, and connective tissue. Also known as ascorbic acid, it promotes healing, helps the body absorb iron, prevents scurvy, and decreases total and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and triglycerides. It may also lessen the duration and symptoms of a common cold, help delay or prevent cataracts, and support healthy immune function. Research indicates that vitamin C may help protect against a variety of cancers by combating free radicals.Want to learn more about vitamin C? Click Here for 40 great facts!

Vitamin B12

If you want to maintain good brain function in your later years, you need to make sure you have a good level of Vitamin B12. In younger people, Vitamin B12 isn’t so much of an issue because you absorb most of it from food sources. When you start to get a bit older your body gets worse at absorbing it so your levels drop a bit. Taking supplements is a great way to make sure that your brain stays healthy.

Magnesium

High blood pressure is a very common health complaint amongst the older generation so trying to fight it is very important; Magnesium is brilliant for this. It also helps your body to better absorb Calcium so combining the two is the most beneficial for you.

Before you start taking any new supplements you should consult your doctor first to make sure that you aren’t going to cause yourself further problems.

Otto Warmbier Dies One Week After Release from North Korea

U.S. News

Diane A. Wade

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Jun 20, 2017

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Otto Warmbier Dies One Week After Release from North Korea

President Donald Trump has condemned North Korea’s “brutal regime” after the death of American student Otto Warmbier who had been jailed there for more than 15 months.

North Korea returned the 22-year-old student to the US last week, saying he had been in a coma for a year and that it was acting on humanitarian grounds.

Otto Warmbier’s parents said he had been subjected to “awful torturous mistreatment”.

Fred and Cindy Warmbier said in a statement that their son had died at 14:20 local time on June 19 at the Cincinnati hospital where he had been receiving treatment.

They said he had “completed his journey home”.

Fred and Cindy Warmbier wrote: “When Otto returned to Cincinnati late on June 13, he was unable to speak, unable to see and unable to react to verbal commands.

“He looked very uncomfortable – almost anguished. Although we would never hear his voice again, within a day, the countenance of his face changed – he was at peace. He was home, and we believe he could sense that.”

They also said: “The awful torturous mistreatment our son received at the hands of the North Koreans ensured that no other outcome was possible beyond the sad one we experienced today.”

Otto Warmbier, who was jailed in North Korea for trying to steal a propaganda sign from a hotel, did not regain consciousness.

President Trump said that a “lot of bad things happened” to Otto Warmbier, but added: “At least we got him home to be with his parents, where they were so happy to see him, even though he was in very tough condition.”

The president said Otto Warmbier’s death had deepened his administration’s resolve “to prevent such tragedies from befalling innocent people at the hands of regimes that do not respect the rule of law or basic human decency”.

“The United States once again condemns the brutality of the North Korean regime as we mourn its latest victim.”

The company Otto Warmbier traveled with, Chinese company Young Pioneer Tours, has announced it will no longer take visitors from the US to North Korea.

North Korea said Otto Warmbier had contracted botulism, a rare illness that causes paralysis, soon after his trial in March 2016. He was given a sleeping pill and had been in a coma ever since.

However, a team of doctors assessing Otto Warmbier in Cincinnati said they had found “no sign of botulism”.

Otto Warmbier had suffered a “severe neurological injury” of unknown cause, the doctors said, leading to an extensive loss of brain tissue.

He could open his eyes but showed no sign of response to communication.

Doctors said the most likely cause, given Otto Warmbier’s young age, was cardiopulmonary arrest that had cut the blood supply to the brain.

It is not known when Otto Warmbier had fallen into his coma and there is a suspicion it was quite recently, as the US was only told at the beginning of this month about his health situation.

The North Koreans may have realized there was the possibility of an American citizen dying on their hands.

Former New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson, who has helped free other Americans in North Korea, said he had met North Korean envoys 20 times during Otto Warmbier’s incarceration and on no occasion was his health mentioned.

Bill Richardson called for the release of the three US citizens still held in North Korea:

Kim Dong-chul, a 62-year-old naturalized US citizen born in South Korea, who was sentenced to ten years hard labor in April 2016 for spying;
Korean-American professor Kim Sang-duk (known as Tony Kim), who was detained in April 2017. The reasons for his arrest are not yet clear;
Kim Hak-song, like Kim Sang-duk, worked at the Pyongyang University of Science and Technology (PUST) and was detained in May 2017 on suspicion of “hostile acts” against the state.

President Donald Trump was criticized in May when he said he would be “honored” to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong-un at the “appropriate” time.

Barry Gibb Reveals A Man Tried to Molest Him

Entertainment

Sonia Pantiss

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Jun 20, 2017

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Barry Gibb Reveals A Man Tried to Molest Him

Barry Gibb has revealed a man tried to molest him when he was a child, saying the memory was still “vivid”.

The Bee Gees star told Radio Times he had “never said this before”, adding: “Should I be saying it now?”

He explained: “A man tried to molest me when I was about four-years-old.

“He didn’t touch me, but other things happened and happened to other kids. And eventually they came and arrested him, and woke me up during the night.”

The singer added: “Four years old and a policeman on your bed at four in the morning interviewing you. If that doesn’t teach you about life, nothing does. But it’s vivid for me still. I’ve never told anyone.”

Barry Gibb was living with his family in the Isle of Man at the time.

He was speaking ahead of his performance on the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury on June 25, 16:00 local time.

Barry Gibb is following in the footsteps of the likes of Johnny Cash, James Brown and Dolly Parton in the legends slot.

In 2016, Barry Gibb joined Coldplay, who were headlining Sunday night, performing renditions of To Love Somebody and Stayin’ Alive.

Olaparib: New Blood Test Helps Target Treatment for Prostate Cancer

Health

Kathryn R. Bown

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Jun 19, 2017

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Olaparib: New Blood Test Helps Target Treatment for Prostate Cancer

A blood test that could pick out which men with advanced prostate cancer would benefit from new drug treatment olaparib has been developed.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men.

The new test detects cancer DNA in the blood, helping doctors check whether precision drugs are working.

However, larger studies involving more men needed to take place to confirm if doctors could rely on the test.

Blood samples from 49 men with advanced prostate cancer were collected by researchers, as part of the phase II clinical trial of olaparib.

This type of precision drug is seen as the future of cancer medicine but because it is a targeted treatment, the drug does not work for everyone.

Researchers from The Institute of Cancer Research and the Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust said the test could help target treatment better and also reduce its side effects.

They used the test to identify men who were not responding to the treatment in 4 to 8 weeks and also to pick up signs that the cancer was evolving and becoming resistant to the drugs.

Prof. Johann de Bono, consultant medical oncologist at the two organizations, said: “From these findings, we were able to develop a powerful, three-in-one test that could in future be used to help doctors select treatment, check whether it is working and monitor the cancer in the longer term.”

“Not only could the test have a major impact on treatment of prostate cancer, but it could also be adapted to open up the possibility of precision medicine to patients with other types of cancer,” he added.

London Mosque Attack: One Person Dies as Van Hits Muslim Worshippers

Roy Siemens

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Jun 19, 2017

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London Mosque Attack: One Person Dies as Van Hits Muslim Worshippers

At least one man has died and 10 people have been injured after a man drove a van into worshippers near a north London mosque.

According to police, eight people were taken to hospital and several were seriously injured in the “terrorist attack”.

The van hit people just after midnight who were attending to a man who had collapsed in the street. He later died, but his cause of death is unclear.

Police said all the victims were Muslim and that a 48-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.

The van driver was arrested after being detained by members of the public at the scene following the collision.

Police said there were no reports of anyone suffering from knife injuries after speculation at the scene the driver was armed with a knife.

Video posted online of the aftermath showed a scene of chaos as people tried to help the injured.

One man could be seen giving CPR to a victim in the street while another man’s head injury was treated with a makeshift dressing.

Metropolitan Police’s deputy assistant commissioner Neil Basu said the “terrorist attack” began when the van was driven into a man who was already being given first aid by the public on the pavement.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan said that extra police are being deployed to reassure communities, especially those observing Ramadan.

The mayor also said his “thoughts and prayers” were with those affected by the “horrific terrorist attack on innocent people”.

“While this appears to be an attack on a particular community, like the terrible attacks in Manchester, Westminster and London Bridge it is also an assault on all our shared values of tolerance, freedom and respect,” he said.

Forensics officers are examining a white van which has Pontyclun Van Hire on it – a company from Rhondda Cynon Taff in Wales.

Many of the victims are believed to have just left evening prayers at the Muslim Welfare House after breaking the Ramadan fast.

PM Theresa May will chair a meeting of the emergency Cobra committee later.

She described it as a “terrible incident”, adding: “All my thoughts are with those who have been injured, their loved ones and the emergency services on the scene.”

If confirmed as a terror attack it would be the fourth such incident in the UK in four months, after attacks in Westminster, Manchester and on London Bridge.

France Elections 2017: La Republique en Marche Wins Clear Majority

Diane A. Wade

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Jun 19, 2017

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France Elections 2017: La Republique en Marche Wins Clear Majority

La Republique en Marche, the party of French President Emmanuel Macron, has won a clear parliamentary majority, weeks after his own presidential victory.

With nearly all votes counted, La République en Marche, alongside its MoDem allies, won more than 300 seats in the 577-seat National Assembly.

The winning margin is lower than some expected, with turnout down from 2012.

La Republique en Marche was formed just over a year ago, and half of its candidates have little or no political experience.

The result has swept aside all of the mainstream parties and gives President Macron a strong mandate in parliament to pursue his pro-EU, business-friendly reform plans.

The second round of the parliamentary election was marked by weak voter turnout, estimated to be a record low of about 42%, down sharply on five years ago.

Correspondents say opponents of the 39-year-old president may simply have not bothered to turn out.

PM Edouard Philippe acknowledged the low turnout, promising his party would act for France as a whole.

The comfortable majority of La République en Marche (Republic on the Move or LREM) and MoDem – surpassing the 289-seat threshold required to control the National Assembly – will be a big blow to traditional parties on both the left and right.

The conservative Republicans and their allies could form a large opposition block, with 125-131 seats. But this figure is down from 200 seats in the last parliament.

The Socialists, who were in power for the past five years, alongside their partners, looked set to get only 41-49 seats – their lowest tally ever.

Socialist leader Jean-Claude Cambadélis announced his retirement from the post, and urged the left “to change everything, its form and its substance, its ideas and its organization”.

Marine Le Pen’s National Front (FN) party won eight seats, but it had set its sights on 15.

The 48-year-old leader has won a seat in parliament for the first time, representing Henin-Beaumont, a depressed former mining town in the north. However, two of her top aides, including her deputy leader, were eliminated.

Marine Le Pen said President Macron may have got a large parliamentary majority, but “he must know that his ideas are not of the majority in the country and that the French will not support a project that weakens our nation”.

North Korea Accuses US of Mugging Its Diplomats at JFK Airport

U.S. News

Diane A. Wade

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Jun 18, 2017

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North Korea Accuses US of Mugging Its Diplomats at JFK Airport

The US authorities have been accused by North Korea of “literally mugging” its diplomats at a New York airport.

A spokesman for North Korea said the country’s officials had been “robbed” of a diplomatic package at John F. Kennedy Airport on June 16.

According to North Korea’s state news agency KCNA, the incident proved the US was a “lawless gangster state”.

The White House – which considers “solving” the North Korea crisis a priority – has yet to comment.

The North Korean diplomats were reportedly returning from a UN conference on disability rights when the incident – branded by KCNA as an “illegal and heinous act of provocation” – took place.

The news agency said: “The international community needs to seriously reconsider whether or not New York, where such an outrageous mugging is rampant, is fit to serve as the venue for international meetings.”

This alleged incident marks the latest addition to a catalogue of increasingly strained tensions between the two countries.

Last week, North Korea released American student Otto Warmbier, more than a year after he had been sentenced to 15 years’ hard labor.

Otto Warmbier was in a coma, showed no understanding of language, and had extensive brain tissue loss.

North Korea said Otto Warmbier’s coma was caused by botulism and a sleeping pill he took after his trial last year.

However, US doctors disputed this, while Otto Warmbier’s father said: “Even if you believe their explanation of botulism and a sleeping pill causing the coma – and we don’t – there’s no excuse for a civilized nation to have kept his condition secret and to have denied him top notch medical care.”

North Korea had accused Otto Warmbier – who had been on a tour of North Korea – of stealing a propaganda sign, claims disputed by those who were with him on the trip.

France Elections 2017: Emmanuel Macron Seeking to Obtain Strong Mandate in Second Parliamentary Round

Diane A. Wade

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Jun 18, 2017

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France Elections 2017: Emmanuel Macron Seeking to Obtain Strong Mandate in Second Parliamentary Round

French voters go to polls in the second round of parliamentary elections on June 18, in a run-off between the top candidates from June 11 first round.

President Emmanuel Macron, 39, is seeking to obtain a strong mandate in parliament to help him pursue his reform plans.

His La République en Marche (Republic on the Move or LREM) with its MoDem allies is expected to win most seats.

Traditional parties are urging voters to back Emmanuel Macron’s rivals to stop a monopolization of power.

Emmanuel Macron formed his party just over a year ago, and half of its candidates have little or no political experience.

They include a retired bullfighter, a Rwandan refugee and a mathematician.

A party needs 289 seats to control the 577-seat National Assembly. LREM is predicted to win more than 400.

In the first round, Emmanuel Macron’s LREM and MoDem won 32.3% of the vote.

The center-right Republicans had 21.5%, while Marine Le Pen’s National Front (FN) had 13.2%, followed by the far-left La France Insoumise (France Unbowed) on just over 11%.

The Socialists, previously France’s ruling party, and their allies won just 9.5%.

However, the turnout was low, despite claims that President Emmanuel Macron had re-energized the voting public.

Analysts said it reflected a sense of resignation among his opponents.

Only four seats were settled in the first round.

The second round will see the two top-placed contenders for each seat facing each other, along with any other candidate who won the support of at least 12.5% of registered voters in the district.

Emmanuel Macron defeated Marine Le Pen in the presidential run-off in May.

The president needs a majority to push through the changes that he promised in his campaign, which include budget savings of €60 billion ($65 billion) in the next five years, cutting the number of public servants by 120,000, reforming the labor market and generous state pension schemes, bringing them into line with private schemes.

Beyonce Reportedly Gives Birth to Twins

Entertainment

Lisa.Felice

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Jun 18, 2017

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According to recent reports, Beyonce has given birth to twins, but the date of birth and gender of the babies are not yet publicly known.

Us Weekly, Entertainment Weekly and People magazines confirmed the news.

Beyonce announced her pregnancy in an Instagram photo in February – the most-liked post in history on the network.

The singer and her husband, Jay-Z, already have a daughter, Blue Ivy, aged 5.

There has been no official confirmation of the birth from Beyonce and Jay-Z themselves.

Other photos Beyonce posted after her pregnancy announcement showed her swimming under water, reclining on a bed of roses and sitting on a floral throne.

Speculation about the twins’ birth had grown in recent days after a woman was photographed entering a Los Angeles hospital on June 16 holding a card that read “B + J”.

Beyonce is the most-nominated star in the history of the Grammy awards, and her album Lemonade was the world’s best-selling record of 2016.

The singer had been due to headline the Coachella music festival in California in April, but pulled out on her doctor’s advice.

Rhode Island Teacher of the Year Waves Lace Fan While Posing with President Trump and First Lady

U.S. News

Nancy Clayson

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Jun 17, 2017

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Rhode Island Teacher of the Year Waves Lace Fan While Posing with President Trump and First Lady

Rhode Island teacher Nikos Giannopoulos used a black lace fan during an official photo with President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump at the White House.

Thanks to the fan the photo of the special education teacher, the president and the first lady has gone viral.

Nikos Giannopoulos, 29, had traveled to Washington from his home after being named Rhode Island Teacher of the Year.

Along with teachers from every state, Nikos Giannopoulos was invited to the White House to meet President Trump – and he made very specific decisions about what to wear.

In a Facebook post, Nikos Giannopoulos revealed he wore a rainbow pin, in “gratitude to the LGBTQ community”, a blue jacket and black fan to “celebrate the joy and freedom of gender nonconformity”, and an anchor necklace in honor of the Rhode Island.

The black lace fan, which belonged to Nikos Giannopoulos’s partner, was the thing that really stole the show.

Nikos Giannopoulos told NPR that, despite the president’s immediate appreciation for the fan, which he praised as “stylish”, he was told by White House staff to put it away for the official picture.

However, Nikos Giannopoulos decided to quietly keep it by his side until it came time for the photo.

“I just asked the president, <<Do you mind if I use the fan for the photo?>>. He said, <<Absolutely go for it>>. So I popped my fan and did my pose.”

Cuba Reacts to President Trump’s Decision to Roll Back on Policy Changes

Americas News

Diane A. Wade

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Jun 17, 2017

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Cuba Reacts to President Trump’s Decision to Roll Back on Policy Changes

Cuban government has denounced President Donald Trump’s decision to roll back on policy changes towards Cuba.

However, Cuba says it will still co-operate with its larger neighbor.

Speaking earlier in Miami, Florida, President Trump said he was re-imposing certain travel and trade restrictions eased by the Obama administration, condemning a “completely one-sided deal”.

However, President Trump is not reversing key diplomatic and commercial ties.

Cuban state TV said: “The government of Cuba denounces the new measures toughening the embargo.”

However, Cuba also reiterated “its willingness to continue the respectful dialogue and cooperation”.

Former President Barack Obama attempted to thaw relations by loosening trade and tourism bans.

President Donald Trump says his new policy will tighten rules on travel and on sending funds to Cuba.

Announcing the changes on June 16, President Trump cited human rights concerns, saying doing a deal with the “brutal” Castro government was “terrible” and “misguided”.

Later that night, Cuban state news said: “Any strategy aimed at changing the political, economic and social system in Cuba – whether by pressure or imposition or through more subtle means – is destined to fail.”

However, President Donald Trump is not rowing back on all parts of Barack Obama’s deal.

President Trump will not close the US embassy in Havana, commercial flights from the US will continue, and Americans will still be able to return home with Cuban goods.

Carrie Fisher Cause of Death: Star Wars Actress Died from Sleep Apnea and Other Factors

Entertainment

Sonia Pantiss

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Jun 17, 2017

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Carrie Fisher Cause of Death: Star Wars Actress Died from Sleep Apnea and Other Factors

Carrie Fisher, best known for her Star Wars role as Princess Leia, died from sleep apnea and “other factors”, the Los Angeles County coroner says.

The 60-year-old’ death certificate said in January that she had suffered a cardiac arrest.

However, in a statement the LA coroner said the exact cause was unknown.

Sleep apnea is a common condition in which a person stops breathing during sleep, either for a few seconds or minutes.

As well as listing sleep apnea as a cause of death, the coroner’s statement cited other factors, including heart disease and drug use.

Carrie Fisher’s manner of death would be listed as undetermined, it said.

She had been on tour promoting her book The Princess Diarist when she was taken ill on a flight from London to Los Angeles on December 23.

Carrie Fisher never regained consciousness and died on December 27 at the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Centre.

Her mother, actress Debbie Reynolds, died the following day.

Helmut Kohl Dies Aged 87

Diane A. Wade

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Jun 16, 2017

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Former German Chancellor Helmut Kohl has died at the age of 87.

He was the architect of Germany’s reunification in 1990.

Helmut Kohl led Germany from 1982 to 1998. He is credited with bringing East and West Germany together after the fall of the Berlin Wall.

Together with his French ally President Francois Mitterrand, Helmut Kohl was responsible for the introduction of the euro.

European Commission chief Jean-Claude Juncker has ordered flags at EU institutions to be flown at half-mast.

Jean-Claude Juncker said in a tweet: “Helmut’s death hurts me deeply.

“My mentor, my friend, the very essence of Europe, he will be greatly, greatly missed.”

Former President George H.W. Bush paid tribute to the man he knew while in office from 1989 to 1993 as a “true friend of freedom” and “one of the greatest leaders in post-war Europe”.

German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel paid tribute to a “great German statesman and above all a great European”.

Helmut Kohl suffered a bad fall in 2008 and had been using a wheelchair.

According to Bild newspaper, Helmut Kohl died at his house in Ludwigshafen, in the western state of Rhineland-Palatinate.

Helmut Kohl, who led the center-right Christian Democrats, was the longest-serving chancellor of the 20th Century.

A passionate believer in European integration, he persuaded Germans to give up their cherished deutschmark in favor of euro.

Helmut Kohl fell from grace when a funding scandal under his leadership of the Christian Democrats came to light after he left office in 1998.

Current Chancellor Angela Merkel was once Helmut Kohl’s protégée, first entering government under his rule in 1991.

Angela Merkel publicly denounced Helmut Kohl and called for his resignation when it was revealed the party had received millions of dollars worth of illegal donations using secret bank accounts.

In 2011, in a series of interviews and statements, Helmut Kohl spoke out against Angela Merkel’s policy of strict austerity to deal with the European debt crisis.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-rRC0Z_Axz4

Amazon Buys Whole Foods in $13.7 Billion Deal

Business

Clyde K. Valle

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Jun 16, 2017

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Amazon Buys Whole Foods in $13.7 Billion Deal

Amazon has announced that it is buying Whole Foods in a $13.7 billion deal that marks its biggest push into traditional retailing yet.

The online retail giant, which has been experimenting with grocery offerings, will buy the upscale supermarket for $42 a share.

Founded in 1978 in Texas, Whole Foods was a pioneer of the move towards natural and organic foods.

Whole Foodshas grown to more than 460 stores in the US, Canada and the UK, and employs about 87,000 people globally.

Amazon founder and CEO Jeff Bezos said: “Millions of people love Whole Foods Market because they offer the best natural and organic foods, and they make it fun to eat healthy.

“Whole Foods Market has been satisfying, delighting and nourishing customers for nearly four decades – they’re doing an amazing job and we want that to continue.”

Whole Foods has been under pressure from investors amid declining same-store sales. Last month, the company named a new chief financial officer and new board members.

In April, activist investor Jana Partners called Whole Foods’ shares undervalued, noting “chronic underperformance”.

The price being paid by Amazon marks a 27% premium to the level Whole Foods’ shares closed at on June 15.

The takeover deal is expected to be completed in the second half of the year.

Whole Foods CEO John Mackey said: “This partnership presents an opportunity to maximize value for Whole Foods Market’s shareholders, while at the same time extending our mission and bringing the highest quality, experience, convenience and innovation to our customers.”

John Mackey is expected to stay on as chief executive.

Politicians and Their Cars

Economy & Politics

Dana R

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Jun 16, 2017

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Those in government positions often sit at the top of the food chain when it comes to what happens in our country. They may not need to take defensive driving for auto insurance discounts like the rest of us, but they still have to get from place to another (and they can’t always take Air Force One to do it). Sometimes it’s fun to see what kinds of cars they drive to get more insight into who they are and what they want. Of all the vehicles in the world, they picked one to drive above all else. It doesn’t have to be fancy, perfect, or even expensive, it just has to connect with them in some way. See what some of the top names in our country have chosen throughout time as their one and only (at least, for a little while.)

Hillary Clinton (Oldsmobile Cutlass)

Hillary Clinton doesn’t tend to do a lot of driving these days, but could probably be considered one of the top 10 defensive drivers in the world due to her being an overachiever. When she did choose to get behind the wheel though, she went with a 1986 Cutlass. Not exactly the most exciting car, but the Cutlass did have a certain longevity about it. The Cutlass may not be well remembered today, but it won many awards after it debuted for its reliable drive. Believe it or not, people were pretty into the design as well.

George W. Bush (Ford F-150)

It’s tough not to expect a Texan to drive a truck. These manly vehicles are built to haul, and they seem to have a touched a nerve in the former President. He’s had a lot of cars throughout the years, but the F-150 pickup seems to be one of his favorites. This truck has been around since the late 1940s, and comes in a variety of engine sizes. The interior is comfortable, and the technology of Ford is made to keep you connected to all things entertainment.

Barack Obama (Ford Escape Hybrid)

Celebrities have been famously opting for more environmentally friendly cars over the flashy ones that cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Just because they might be able to afford something better, doesn’t mean that they’re willing to sacrifice the Earth for a car that sucks down gas like it’s been in the desert for weeks without a sip of water. The Ford Escape Hybrid is obviously great on gas mileage, and it gives the President the family-friendly (not to mention safe) SUV you would expect a dad with two kids to want. With front-wheel drive and lots of room for the kids and their gear, this car gets up to 34 miles to the gallon.

John McCain (Cadillac CTS)

McCain may not have made his goal to be President, but he’s certainly had a lot of accomplishments under his belt. Just like the rest of these minted treasures, he’s had a lot of cars to his name. However, he seemed to be a huge fan of the CTS. Cadillacs have long been associated with wealth and comfort, and they certainly have enough space inside to ensure that no one feels crowded or cramped. With excellent fuel mileage, decent power, and incredible performance, it’s no wonder that Mr. McCain kept a special place in this heart for this vehicle.

Recognize any of the vehicles on this list as favorites of your own? Putting a space between politicians and you is the wrong way to think about the leaders of the country. They chose a different career path than you, but they look for many of the same things you do when it comes to getting around town!

Salvează

Spotify Has More than 140 Million Active Monthly Users

Nancy Clayson

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Jun 16, 2017

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Spotify Has More than 140 Million Active Monthly Users

Spotify has hit more than 140 million active monthly users.

However, the music streaming company is still deeply in the red.

The Swedish company had revenues of more than 2.9 billion euros in 2016, up more than 50% compared with 2015.

However, operating losses rose at nearly the same pace to 349.4 million euros.

Spotify is considering going public and listing on the stock market, so its latest figures will be under scrutiny.

“We believe we will generate substantial revenue as our reach expands and that, at scale, our margins will improve,” the company said.

“We will therefore continue to invest relentlessly in our product and marketing initiatives to accelerate reach.”

Spotify reported a net loss of 539.2 million euros, more than double the figure for 2015.

Nevertheless the number of people listening to music on the platform continues to rise rapidly.

Paying subscribers to its premium service, which does not have advertising, rose by 20 million to 48 million.

Apple Music, a key competitor, now has 27 million subscribers, almost double the number 12 months ago. Unlike Spotify it does not offer a free tier.

More than 30 million tracks are available on Spotify, which has signed deals committing it to pay a minimum of 2 billion euros in royalties to record companies over the next two years.

Spotify raised more than $1 billion from investors in 2016 which it said would give it flexibility to expand regardless of the state of the stock market.

Some of the terms are tied to the IPO, putting pressure on the company to go public.

Greece Bailout: Eurozone Ministers Agree to Release Latest Tranche

Clyde K. Valle

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Jun 16, 2017

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Greece Bailout: Eurozone Ministers Agree to Release Latest Tranche

Eurozone ministers have agreed to unlock the latest tranche of Greece’s bailout cash.

The bailout fund will disburse 8.5 billion euros to Greece, they said in a statement.

The latest tranche of the international bailout will help avert a fresh debt crisis in July when the next €7 billion euro repayment of loans becomes due.

The payment is still subject to parliamentary approvals in some countries.

IMF Director Christine Lagarde said she would propose an approval in principle to her executive board.

The International Monetary Fund wants clarity on longer-term debt relief for Greece once the current funding scheme, worth up to 86 billion euros, runs out next year.

Christine Lagarde said the IMF was ready to participate to the third bailout program for Greece after the meeting of eurozone finance ministers in Luxembourg which capped months of negotiations.

However, the IMF could join the program with a financial support “in the range of $2 billion” only after a full deal on additional measures of debt relief for Greece, she said.

Time was beginning to press for this payment. Greece has repayments on other loans due next month, which it could not otherwise have made.

The decision reflects economic policy actions already taken by Greece and the new commitment by the IMF’s managing director Christine Lagarde to recommend that her board contribute financially to this bailout.

An IMF contribution was politically important for Germany, especially to strengthen the perceived credibility of the bailout.

The eurozone group welcomed the financial and structural reforms enacted by Greece, including income tax and pension reform.

Germany’s parliament will discuss the bailout deal on June 16, finance minister Wolfgang Schaeuble said.

Greek finance minister Euclid Tsakalotos said the agreement would allow market access ‘in due course’.

Takata to File for Bankruptcy after Faulty Air Bags Scandal

Business

Clyde K. Valle

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Jun 16, 2017

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Takata to File for Bankruptcy after Faulty Air Bags Scandal

Takata is reportedly filing for bankruptcy after its faulty air bags led to the biggest safety recall in automotive industry.

The filing could come next week in both Japan and the US, where it has a subsidiary and is seeking a buyer.

The Japanese car parts maker shares were temporarily suspended on the Tokyo stock exchange because of the news.

Takata faces billions of dollars in liabilities over the recall.

So far, about 100 million Takata air bags, which can rupture with deadly force and spray shrapnel at passengers, have been recalled globally.

Takata’s faulty air bags have been linked to at least a dozen deaths and more than 100 injuries worldwide.

Japan’s Nikkei newspaper estimates Takata faces liabilities exceeding 1 trillion yen ($9 billion).

Takata has not commented on the reports in Japan, from sources close to the case, of imminent bankruptcy.

The company is said to be in talks about a potential deal with US auto parts maker Key Safety Systems. The latter may buy some of its assets under a restructuring plan.

In January, Takata agreed to pay $1 billion in penalties in the US for concealing dangerous defects in its exploding air bags. It also pleaded guilty to a single criminal charge.

Takata paid a $25 million fine, $125 million to people injured by the air bags and $850 million to carmakers that used them. However, it still faces the possibility of more lawsuits.

Most major auto makers, including GM and VW, have been affected.

Honda Motor, which as Takata’s biggest customer is one of the worst affected, started recalling their popular Accord and Civic models in 2008 because of the air bags.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f1S1oej215U

EU Abolishes Mobile Roaming Charges

Nancy Clayson

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Jun 15, 2017

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The EU law abolishing roaming charges for people using mobile phones abroad comes into force on June 15.

According to the new rules, citizens traveling within the EU will be able to call, text and browse the internet on mobile devices at the same price they pay at home.

The European Commission said the end of roaming charges was one of the greatest successes of the EU.

However, a UK consumer group warned phone users could face “unexpected charges”.

Until now roaming, or connection, charges have been added to the cost of calls, texts and internet browsing when consumers from one EU country traveled to another and connected to a mobile network there.

In some cases, mobile users have faced huge bills if, for example, they have downloaded a movie.

The European Commission said in statement: “Each time a European citizen crossed an EU border, be it for holidays, work, studies or just for a day, they had to worry about using their mobile phones and a high phone bill from the roaming charges when they came home.”

It had been working hard over the last ten years to fix this “market failure”, it said.

“Eliminating roaming charges is one of the greatest and most tangible successes of the EU,” the Commission added.

The new legislation means travelers can use their regular data allowance anywhere in the EU.

However, exceeding data allowances would still be chargeable.

In addition, different providers included different countries in their roaming territories, such as the Channel Islands and Switzerland.

Users should check the detail of their tariffs with their phone providers to avoid being caught out by surprise charges.

Regarding Brexit, it would be up to a future government to decide whether to have the EU price restrictions on roaming or not after the UK leaves the EU.

They are contained within a European regulation, not a directive, so they have not been incorporated into UK law.

Donald Trump Investigated for Possible Obstruction of Justice

Diane A. Wade

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Jun 15, 2017

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Donald Trump Investigated for Possible Obstruction of Justice

According to recent reports, President Donald Trump is being investigated by special counsel Robert Mueller for possible obstruction of justice.

Senior intelligence officials will be interviewed on whether President Trump tried to end an inquiry into his sacked national security adviser, and about the firing of FBI chief James Comey.

Donald Trump’s legal team said the latest leak to the media was “outrageous”.

Robert Mueller is leading an FBI inquiry into Russian meddling in the election.

Donald Trump has repeatedly denied any collusion with Russia, describing the ongoing inquiry as a “witch hunt”.

The latest development was first carried in the Washington Post. Later the New York Times and Wall St Journal reported the story, citing their own sources.

The Washington Post said the decision by Robert Mueller to investigate President Trump’s own conduct is a major turning point in the investigation, which until recently focused on the Russian angle.

The latest media reports say the obstruction of justice investigation began just days after Donald Trump fired James Comey on May 9.

James Comey, who had been leading one of several Russia inquiries, testified to Congress last week that President Trump had pressured him to drop the investigation into former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn.

Mike Flynn was sacked in February for failing to reveal the extent of his contacts with Russian ambassador to Washington, Sergei Kislyak.

James Comey testified under oath that President Trump had told him during a private meeting: “I hope you can see your way clear to letting this go, to letting Flynn go. He is a good guy. I hope you can let this go.”

The White House has said President Trump “has never asked Mr. Comey or anyone else to end any investigation, including any investigation involving General Flynn”.

James Comey had testified he was “sure” Robert Mueller was looking at whether Donald Trump had obstructed justice.

However, James Comey also testified that, to his knowledge, President Trump had not tried to stop the Russia investigation.

Meanwhile, the Wall St Journal quoted a source as saying that Robert Mueller would examine whether James Comey’s sacking was an attempt by the president to alter the course of the investigation.

President Trump said he had fired James Comey because of the “Russia thing”.

He reportedly told Russian officials at an Oval Office meeting a day after sacking Director James Comey that his position had now eased.

“I faced great pressure because of Russia. That’s taken off,” Donald Trump said, according to a US official quoted by the New York Times.

The latest reports also speak of an investigation into possible money laundering among Trump associates.

A former senior official told the New York Times that any collusion between the Trump team and Russian officials would have involved a pay-off, and that there may have been attempts to hide the route of the payments by using offshore banking.

The three names being mentioned in media are Daniel Coats, the director of national intelligence, Mike Rogers, the head of the National Security Agency, and Richard Ledgett, until recently Admiral Rogers’ deputy.

At a Senate panel last week, Daniel Coats and Mike Rogers declined to answer questions about conversations with the president, but said that they had never felt pressured to interfere in investigations.

The Washington Post says the three have agreed to be interviewed by investigators and the questioning could happen as early as this week.

The three were not involved in the Trump campaign but may be asked whether President Trump sought their help to end the Flynn inquiry.

A separate Washington Post report has said that Daniel Coats told associates in March that the president had asked him to try to get the FBI to back off.

However, the Times points out that the latest questioning does not mean a criminal case is being built against President Trump, simply that information is being gathered by the FBI. It will be passed to prosecutors who will then have to decide.

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Uber founder and CEO Travis Kalanick has resigned after pressure from shareholders.

Republicans have won a closely contested congressional election in Georgia.

Otto Warmbier’s family has declined a post-mortem examination, according to the Hamilton County coroner.

José Mourinho has denied tax fraud in Spain, saying the government had ratified his tax affairs.

President Donald Trump has condemned North Korea’s “brutal regime” after the death of American student Otto Warmbier who had been jailed there for more than 15 months.

Barry Gibb has revealed a man tried to molest him when he was a child, saying the memory was still “vivid”.

A blood test that could pick out which men with advanced prostate cancer would benefit from new drug treatment olaparib has been developed.

At least one man has died and 10 people have been injured after a man drove a van into worshippers near a north London mosque.

La Republique en Marche, the party of French President Emmanuel Macron, has won a clear parliamentary majority, weeks after his own presidential victory.

The US authorities have been accused by North Korea of “literally mugging” its diplomats at a New York airport.

French voters go to polls in the second round of parliamentary elections on June 18, in a run-off between the top candidates from June 11 first round.

According to recent reports, Beyonce has given birth to twins, but the date of birth and gender of the babies are not yet publicly known.

Rhode Island teacher Nikos Giannopoulos used a black lace fan during an official photo with President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump at the White House.

Cuban government has denounced President Donald Trump’s decision to roll back on policy changes towards Cuba.

Carrie Fisher, best known for her Star Wars role as Princess Leia, died from sleep apnea and “other factors”, the Los Angeles County coroner says.

Former German Chancellor Helmut Kohl has died at the age of 87.

Amazon has announced that it is buying Whole Foods in a $13.7 billion deal that marks its biggest push into traditional retailing yet.

Spotify has hit more than 140 million active monthly users.

Eurozone ministers have agreed to unlock the latest tranche of Greece’s bailout cash.

Takata is reportedly filing for bankruptcy after its faulty air bags led to the biggest safety recall in automotive industry.

The EU law abolishing roaming charges for people using mobile phones abroad comes into force on June 15.

According to recent reports, President Donald Trump is being investigated by special counsel Robert Mueller for possible obstruction of justice.