Capital News

By Charles Hawes, Capital News Washington, DC - People throughout our nation have long relied on the government to ensure that our air and water are clean, healthcare is accessible and affordable, financial markets are sound, products are safe, and workers are not exploited on the job. For decades, courts have deferred to federal experts to make these ideals a reality.     Unfortunately, today's Supreme Court decision has sparked concern among advocates for environmental and consumer protections. The ruling sides with powerful special interests seeking to roll back commonsense rules that safeguard Americans. In a statement addressing the decision, President Biden affirmed his commitment to continue protecting the American people. "President Biden and I will continue to do everything in our power to protect the American people and ensure that every person in our country can thrive," said a spokesperson for the administration.     The Supreme Court's ruling has been m...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News Raleigh, NC — President Biden took the stage in North Carolina yesterday, addressing a spirited crowd with a message of unity, progress, and determination to win the state in the upcoming November election.     I’m here in North Carolina for one reason: Because I intend to win this state in November, Biden declared, receiving enthusiastic applause and chants of “Four more years!” from the audience. Biden was introduced by Eric, a local supporter, who praised the President for his dedication and vision. Biden also acknowledged the warm reception and his enjoyable time spent with Eric’s sons, Christian and Carter. The President expressed his gratitude to Governor Roy Cooper and his wife, Kristin, applauding Roy’s tenure and endorsing Josh Stein as the next governor. He hinted at potentially bringing Cooper to Washington for his administration, should he be reelected. Biden’s speech covered a range of critical issues, emphasizing the impor...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News WASHINGTON – Today, President Biden announced his intent to appoint several distinguished individuals to serve in key roles within his administration. These appointments include positions on the President’s Intelligence Advisory Board, the Financial Oversight and Management Board for Puerto Rico, the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom, the Board of Visitors to the Coast Guard Academy, and the President’s Advisory Committee on the Arts. President’s Intelligence Advisory Board The President’s Intelligence Advisory Board, an independent element within the Executive Office of the President, assists the President by providing an independent source of advice on the effectiveness of the Intelligence Community. President Biden has appointed Jane Harman as a member of this board. Jane Harman: A former U.S. Representative for California’s 36th congressional district, Harman served nine terms in Congress and was a ranking member ...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News Tel Aviv, Israel - In a significant military operation, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), supported by the Israel Air Force (IAF), struck a structure within the Islamic University in the Sabra area, identified as a hub for Hamas terrorist activities. The targeted building was reportedly used by Hamas operatives to launch anti-tank missiles and coordinate attacks against IDF ground troops. Extensive precautions were taken to minimize civilian casualties, including thorough aerial surveillance before the strike. Despite these efforts, the incident underscores the ongoing challenges posed by Hamas's use of civilian infrastructure to shield its military operations.     IDF ground forces are persisting with intelligence-driven, precision strikes in the Rafah region. Over the past 24 hours, these operations have resulted in the elimination of several armed terrorists and the destruction of multiple terrorist infrastructure sites. IDF troops ...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News Tel Aviv,  Israel - In a coordinated operation led by the intelligence units of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Israel Security Agency (ISA), the Israel Air Force (IAF) targeted and struck two structures utilized by Hamas terrorists in Shati and Daraj Tuffah, located in northern Gaza. These operations were carried out on school compounds, which Hamas has been using as shields for its terrorist activities.     The targeted operatives were integral in the planning and execution of multiple terrorist attacks against Israel. Among them were individuals involved in the abduction of hostages and participants in the October 7th Massacre. The precision strikes were conducted following extensive aerial surveillance, precise munitions deployment, and comprehensive intelligence measures to minimize civilian casualties. This strike underscores the ongoing conflict wherein Hamas continuously violates international law by exploiting civil...

 By Charles Hawes, Capital News Kyiv, Ukraine – President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has officially introduced Colonel Oleksii Morozov as the new Head of the Department of State Protection. The announcement was made during a formal meeting with the Department's staff, where the President outlined the strategic vision and key responsibilities entrusted to Colonel Morozov. Emphasizing the critical need for patriotism within the institution, President Zelenskyy stated that the foremost duty of the new Head is to ensure that the Department is staffed solely by patriotic specialists. This move is seen as essential for maintaining the integrity and security of the nation's key institutions, particularly during these challenging times.     The Department needs to modernize its structure and operations to meet the requirements of wartime," President Zelenskyy remarked. "Colonel Morozov has carte blanche to implement these changes. We need new approaches to working with personnel —...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News     The Chief of the General Staff, LTG Herzi Halevi, made an important visit to an aerial defense system on Israel's northern border today. The visit included a comprehensive tour and engaging conversations with soldiers of the Aerial Defense Array. Joining him were Maj. Gen. Tomer Bar, the Commanding Officer of the Israeli Air Force, Brig. Gen. Gilad Biran, the Commanding Officer of the Aerial Defense Array, and commanders of the 'Iron Dome' battalions. During his visit, LTG Halevi addressed the soldiers, acknowledging their vital role in the ongoing conflict. His remarks provided insight into the current state of affairs and the strategic outlook of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Below are the full remarks of LTG Herzi Halevi.     We are in a state of war for over eight months, and you have defended for over eight months, providing a complex defense. This defense gives a great deal of security to civilians and the IDF, but...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News Rafah, June 24, 2024 – The Nahal Brigade Combat Team, under the command of the 162nd Division, continues its strategic operations in the Rafah area, employing precise, intelligence-driven tactics to target and eliminate terrorist threats. Over recent weeks, Nahal Brigade soldiers have been actively conducting intelligence-based scans, resulting in significant findings and actions against terrorist infrastructure.      One notable operation involved the Nahal Reconnaissance Battalion, which discovered a substantial cache of weapons hidden within a civilian residence. The arsenal, concealed in wardrobes, included grenades, explosives, anti-tank missile launchers, ammunition, and other arms. This discovery underscores the ongoing efforts to locate and neutralize threats hidden in civilian areas. In another intelligence-led operation, a drone scan revealed a tunnel shaft located beneath a child's bed. Further inspection of the residence...

  By Charles Hawes Kharkiv, Ukraine – Today, the electricity supply in Kharkiv has been successfully restored following a severe disruption caused by Russian bombings. The attacks had left a portion of the city without power, halting the subway and electric transport services. The swift restoration effort was led by local repair crews, with substantial support from both local and regional authorities.     I thank all our repair crews, everyone involved in restoring the energy supply, and local and regional authorities for their quick response and for helping people," a local official stated. Despite the prompt restoration of power, the bombing resulted in 12 injuries and claimed one life. "My condolences to their families, my condolences to all the close ones. Every day Kharkiv suffers from this Russian terror," the official added. The persistent attacks on Kharkiv highlight the urgent need for enhanced defensive measures. "Russian combat aircraft that carry out t...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News KHARKIV - The city of Kharkiv is reeling from a devastating attack as rescue efforts persist in the wake of a Russian bomb strike. The assault, involving four guided aerial bombs, has left a trail of destruction and grief, marking yet another chapter in the ongoing conflict. One of the bombs obliterated a residential building near the central bus station, causing extensive damage and loss of life. As of now, over 40 people have been reported injured, all of whom are receiving necessary medical care.     Tragically, three residents lost their lives in the attack. Our deepest condolences go out to their families and loved ones during this harrowing time.The rescue operation is facing significant challenges due to the structural collapse of the affected building. Despite these difficulties, rescuers from the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, along with local services and volunteers, are tirelessly working to locate and assist survivo...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News Kivi, Ukraine a significant diplomatic development, Deputy Head of the Presidential Office of Ukraine, Ihor Zhovkva, concluded the final round of negotiations on a bilateral security agreement with Poland. The negotiations, held under the directives of the President of Ukraine and the Head of the Presidential Office, mark a critical step in strengthening the strategic alliance between the two nations. The Ukrainian delegation was composed of key officials, including Deputy Head of the Office of the President Roman Mashovets and First Deputy Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha. On the Polish side, the delegation was led by Robert Kupiecki, Undersecretary of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.     Ihor Zhovkva highlighted the substantial efforts of the negotiating teams, stating, "Our negotiating teams have done a complex job, and now we are close to concluding a bilateral security agreement. Poland's role in helping Ukraine and bringi...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News PYONGYANG - In a display of burgeoning camaraderie, Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Pyongyang yesterday for a state visit at the invitation of Kim Jong-un, Chairman of State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). The visit marks a significant step in the evolving relationship between the two nations.     The official welcoming ceremony, held in Kim Il-sung Square, saw Kim Jong-un personally greeting President Putin with military honors and a grand display of North Korean pageantry. The square, named after Kim Jong-un's grandfather and the founding leader of the DPRK, was adorned with flags and banners symbolizing the unity between Russia and North Korea. Following the ceremony, the leaders commenced their talks in an expanded format, involving key officials from both sides. These discussions were then narrowed down to a more restricted format, allowing for more intimate and focused deliberations. The cul...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News Kyiv, Ukraine In a significant step towards bolstering regional stability, Deputy Head of the Presidential Office of Ukraine, Ihor Zhovkva, concluded the final round of negotiations on a comprehensive security agreement with the European Union. This crucial dialogue was held with Charles Fries, Deputy Secretary General of the European External Action Service for Peace, Security, and Defense.     These negotiations are part of the ongoing efforts to implement the Joint Declaration of Support for Ukraine, which received the endorsement of the European Union and the G7 countries during the summit in Vilnius on July 12, 2023. Following intense discussions, the Ukrainian and EU teams successfully finalized the text of the security agreement, marking a significant milestone in their cooperative efforts.      The formal signing of this agreement is expected to take place in the near future, solidifying the commitment of both part...

 By Charles Hawes, Capital News Tel Aviv, Israel - In a heart-wrenching announcement, delivered the devastating news to the families of eight IDF soldiers who fell in action in Gaza. Captain Wassem Mahmoud, Deputy Company Commander, and seven of his soldiers lost their lives early morning during an operation in Tel al-Sultan in Rafah.     As dawn broke, infantry, armored, and engineering troops from the 401st Brigade concluded their mission in the northwestern part of the area. The troops entered the region in convoys of armored fighting vehicles, intending to establish positions along the contact lines. Tragically, a powerful explosion occurred within one of the engineering vehicles in the convoy, likely caused by an explosive device planted in the area or possibly due to anti-tank missile fire. The blast resulted in the deaths of the eight soldiers inside the vehicle. Following this tragic incident, a team of experts from the Ministry of Defense and the IDF will con...

  By Charles Hawes, Capi tal News  Tel Aviv , Israel - Lebanon's Hezbollah has intensified its attacks on Israel, launching over 5,000 rockets, anti-tank missiles, and explosive UAVs since joining the conflict initiated by Hamas on October 7th. This escalation has targeted Israeli families, homes, and communities, bringing the region to the brink of a broader and potentially more devastating war. Hezbollah's increasing aggression jeopardizes Lebanon's future, acting as a shield for Hamas. Hamas, responsible for the October 7th massacre, which involved the murder of the elderly, the rape of women, the burning of children, and the kidnapping of Jews, Muslims, and Christians, has found an ally in Hezbollah. The consequences for Lebanon and the entire region could be severe if this aggression continues.     Israel remains resolute in preventing another October 7th incident from occurring on any of its borders. The refusal of Hezbollah to comply with UN Security Counc...

By Charles Hawes, Capital News     In a pivotal diplomatic meeting in Kyiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed Speaker of the Seimas of the Republic of Lithuania, Viktorija Čmilytė-Nielsen. The discussions, held during Čmilytė-Nielsen's visit to Ukraine, underscored the deepening ties and shared strategic interests between the two nations.     President Zelenskyy extended heartfelt gratitude to Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda, the Lithuanian Government, the Seimas, and Čmilytė-Nielsen personally, as well as to the Lithuanian people for their unwavering support and leadership in backing Ukraine amidst its ongoing struggle against Russian aggression. I am grateful to the Seimas for its significant political support and, of course, for the military and humanitarian assistance provided by Lithuania, as well as for its participation in the implementation of the Peace Formula," Zelenskyy remarked. His statement highlighted Lithuania’s vital role in provi...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News Washington, DC - President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. has declared a major disaster in the State of Florida, authorizing Federal aid to support State, tribal, and local recovery initiatives following the severe storms, straight-line winds, and tornadoes that struck the region on May 10, 2024. The declaration aims to expedite the recovery process for the affected communities. The President's directive enables Federal funding for individuals in Leon County, providing crucial resources for temporary housing, home repairs, and low-cost loans to cover uninsured property damages. Additionally, various programs are available to assist both individuals and business owners in overcoming the disaster's impact.     Federal assistance is extended to State, tribal, and eligible local governments, as well as certain private nonprofit organizations. This support, provided on a cost-sharing basis, covers emergency work related to debris removal and the repai...

By Charles Hawes, Capital News Kyiv, Ukraine — Ukrainian military forces are making significant advances in the Kharkiv region, steadily pushing back the occupying Russian troops. Reports from the frontline in Pokrovsk and other areas of the Donetsk region indicate ongoing efforts to reclaim occupied territories. President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his gratitude to the brave soldiers and units fulfilling their missions with precision, particularly those capturing Russian soldiers to replenish Ukraine's "exchange fund."     In a crucial meeting today, the Ukrainian Staff discussed the deployment and impact of unmanned systems, emphasizing the importance of drones in their defense strategy. President Zelensky highlighted the impressive combat results achieved by various defense units, including the Security Service of Ukraine, the Defense Intelligence, the Foreign Intelligence Service, the National Guard, and the Armed Forces of Ukraine. These drones have played a pivot...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News SPRINGVILLE, Ala. — The dry Alabama heat hung in the air as activists and organizers from across the Southeast gathered down the road from St. Clair Correctional Facility in Springville, Ala., on May 18. For some, it was their first time, but for others in organizations such as the Tennessee Student Solidarity Network, it was one of many rallies they had attended outside this Alabama prison. The reason for this rally was similar to the many that had preceded it: to demand an end to the state’s work release program, which many unions are calling modern-day slavery.     In December 2023, ten former and current inmates filed a lawsuit against the Alabama Department of Corrections (ADOC) and several public officials including Gov. Kay Ivey. The convicts do not stand alone in their lawsuit, with labor unions such as the Retail, Wholesale, and Department Store Union (RWDSU) and the Union of Southern Service Workers (USSW) signing onto the sui...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News SEOUL, South Korea — South Korean soldiers fired warning shots after North Korean troops briefly violated the tense border earlier this week, South Korea's military reported on Tuesday. The incident comes amid heightened Cold War-style tensions between the two nations, characterized by balloon launches and propaganda broadcasts.     The heavily fortified border, known as the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), has been the site of occasional bloodshed and violent confrontations. However, Sunday's incident is not expected to escalate tensions significantly, as South Korea believes the border crossing was unintentional, and North Korea did not return fire. The incident occurred at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday when several North Korean soldiers engaged in unspecified work crossed the military demarcation line (MDL) into South Korean territory, according to South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff. These soldiers, carrying construction tools and some armed, retrea...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News Washington, DC - In a significant legislative milestone, President Biden signed into law S. 2051, the “Missing Children’s Assistance Reauthorization Act of 2023,” on Monday. This crucial act reauthorizes and amends the Missing Children’s Assistance Act, ensuring the continued support and enhancement of programs dedicated to the welfare of missing and exploited children.     The reauthorization includes a substantial financial commitment, authorizing $49.3 million annually for each fiscal year from 2024 through 2028. These funds will be allocated to various initiatives aimed at locating and protecting missing children, as well as preventing child exploitation. The successful passage of this bill was largely due to the bipartisan efforts of Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Lindsey Graham (R-SC), along with Representatives Jennifer Bean (D-VA), Joe Courtney (D-CT), Virginia Foxx (R-NC), and Bobby Scott (D-VA). Their collective leadership an...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News Switzerland - In a landmark development at the Global Peace Summit in Switzerland, Ukraine and Palau have formally established diplomatic relations. The historic agreement was cemented by President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy and President of the Republic of Palau Surangel Whipps, Jr. The ceremonial signing took place with the presence of Ukraine's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dmytro Kuleba, and Palau's Minister of State, Gustav Aitaro. The two ministers signed a Joint Communiqué, symbolizing the beginning of official diplomatic ties between the two nations.     This meeting marked the first high-level interaction between the leaders of Ukraine and Palau. President Zelenskyy expressed his gratitude to President Whipps for Palau's support of Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty. Zelenskyy also extended an invitation to Palau to participate in the "Environmental Security" segment of Ukraine’s Peace Formula. It is ...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News Munich, Germany - In a momentous speech at the Munich Security Conference, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have reiterated the United States' unwavering support for Ukraine, nearly two and a half years after Russia's brazen invasion. This reaffirmation of American commitment underscores the enduring principles of democracy, sovereignty, and international law.      I first met President Zelenskyy in February 2022, just five days before Russia launched its outrageous attempt to subjugate a free people and erase a sovereign state," Vice President Harris recounted. On that day, she addressed the Munich Security Conference, emphasizing the U.S.'s steadfast support for the principles that guide democratic nations. Harris highlighted that nations have the right to choose their own alliances and form of government, that governments must protect inalienable rights, and that the rule of law and territorial integrity must...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News  Washington, DC - President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. has officially declared a major disaster in the State of Oklahoma, following a series of severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding that occurred from May 19 to May 28, 2024. This declaration activates Federal aid to assist State, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the affected areas.     Federal assistance is now available to individuals in the counties of Blaine, Caddo, Custer, Delaware, Jackson, Mayes, Muskogee, and Rogers. The aid will encompass a variety of support measures including grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans for uninsured property losses, and additional programs designed to aid individuals and business owners in their recovery from the disaster's impact. State, tribal, and eligible local governments, along with certain private nonprofit organizations in the counties of Blaine, Delaware, Mayes, and Rogers, will also receive ...

By Charles Hawes, Capital News Harlowton, Montana - In an alarming trend that continues to gain traction, online scammers are now exploiting the profiles of porn stars and other celebrities to ensnare unsuspecting victims in a variety of fraudulent schemes. This disturbing development has been reported by cybersecurity experts, who warn that the tactic is becoming increasingly sophisticated and widespread.     The operation of these scams often involves the creation of fake social media profiles or the hacking of genuine accounts belonging to well-known figures in the adult entertainment industry and mainstream celebrities. Once these profiles are in the scammers' control, they are used to initiate contact with fans and followers, leveraging the celebrities' popularity to gain trust and extract money or personal information. Typically, the scammers' approach starts with engaging the victim in seemingly innocent conversation through direct messages. As the interaction pro...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) – Today, the Government of the United States, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and Prosper Africa, unveiled a significant new grant under the $20 million Africa Trade and Investment (ATI) Critical Minerals activity.     ATI is a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing trade and investment across the African continent by identifying and fostering opportunities within DRC’s minerals sector. The program is designed to provide substantial value to the private sector while positioning Africa for future economic growth. By mobilizing private sector capital, resources, and expertise, the U.S. Government seeks to elevate the capacity and competitiveness of businesses, investors, and intermediaries, thereby driving sustainable trade and investment. In an event marking last year’s DRC Mining Week, the U.S. Government introduced an Annual Program Statement (APS)...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – The city remains under a Flood Watch through Friday evening as Governor Ron DeSantis declared a State of Emergency following unprecedented rainfall. Yesterday saw up to 9 inches of rain in some parts of the city, adding to the 3 inches that fell on Tuesday. Although the stormwater system has functioned effectively and much of the floodwater has receded, the groundwater capacity is now significantly reduced, heightening the risk of rapid accumulation from any additional rainfall. Today's weather forecast predicts a further 2 to 10 inches of rain between 12 p.m. and 7 p.m., potentially leading to hazardous conditions swiftly. Public Safety Advisory Authorities urge residents to avoid traveling unless absolutely necessary. Flooded roadways pose severe risks to motorists and impede first responders' efforts. On Wednesday, approximately 60 vehicles were towed from the streets due to flooding. Residents are reminded never t...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News Strasbourg — Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, Iryna Mudra, represented the Ukrainian delegation at the oral hearings in the interstate case of Ukraine and the Netherlands v. Russia at the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR). The proceedings address the alleged human rights violations committed by Russia since the onset of its armed aggression in 2014.     In her address, Mudra emphasized that Russia's aggressive actions blatantly contravene fundamental international law principles. The Ukrainian government substantiated these claims with robust evidence during the hearings. Numerous international observers and the ECHR have assessed these actions and underscored the Russian authorities' reluctance to document such widespread and systematic human rights violations. The Russian goal of this war has been clearly articulated by Russian officials on several occasions and is evident from their behavior. Russia aims to ...

 By Charles Hawes, Capital News Washington, D.C. – President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. has officially declared a major disaster in the State of Mississippi, authorizing Federal assistance to bolster state, tribal, and local recovery efforts following severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding that battered the state from April 8 to April 11, 2024. This declaration unlocks Federal funding for individuals impacted in Hancock, Hinds, Humphreys, Madison, Neshoba, and Scott counties. The aid includes grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-interest loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs designed to assist individuals and business owners in their recovery from the disaster's aftermath. Additionally, Federal funding is now available on a cost-sharing basis for statewide hazard mitigation measures to reduce future risks. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has appointed Mr. Jeremy C. Slinker to coordinate Federal recovery operations ...

      By Charles Hawes, Capital News Tel Aviv, Israel - Earlier today, the area of Kerem Shalom was rattled by sirens as six projectiles were fired from the southern Gaza area of Rafah. These hostile actions have disrupted the flow of vital humanitarian aid into Gaza, with the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) committed to ensuring security to reopen the Kerem Shalom Crossing.     In a swift response, approximately 12 projectiles were detected crossing from Rafah into the Re'im area. The IDF's Aerial Defense Array intercepted five of these projectiles, preventing potential harm, while the remaining projectiles landed in open terrain, causing no reported injuries.     Within an hour of the attacks, the Israeli Air Force (IAF) swiftly retaliated, targeting the launcher responsible for the assault on Israel. The decisive action underscores the IDF's unwavering commitment to safeguarding the security and well-being of its citizens. The escalation in pro...

By Charles Hawes, Capital News Rafah, Gaza Strip - The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) commenced a targeted counterterrorism operation in eastern Rafah, aiming to eliminate Hamas militants and dismantle their infrastructure. This operation, informed by intelligence from both the IDF and the Israel Security Agency (ISA), is focused on specific areas known for terrorist activities.     Before the operation, the IDF took measures to ensure civilian safety. Residents of eastern Rafah were advised to temporarily relocate to the Al-Mawasi humanitarian zone. The IDF, in collaboration with international organizations, expanded facilities in Al-Mawasi, including field hospitals and increased supplies of water, food, and medical aid to accommodate evacuees. The operation follows intelligence reports indicating the Rafah Crossing was being utilized for terrorist purposes. In response, IDF troops have established control over the Gazan side of the crossing. However, the area remains volatil...

By Charles Hawes, Capital News Kyiv, Ukraine-In a significant development aimed at bolstering Ukraine's security, Deputy Head of the Presidential Office Ihor Zhovkva engaged in another round of discussions with Charles Fries, the Deputy Secretary General for Peace, Security and Defence of the European External Action Service. The meeting was conducted under the directives of the President of Ukraine and the Head of the Presidential Office, focusing on the EU's security commitments to Ukraine.     This latest round of negotiations marks a crucial step in the ongoing implementation of the G7 Joint Declaration of Support for Ukraine, as well as the preparations for formalizing a security agreement between Ukraine and the European Union. The discussions underscore the commitment of both parties to enhance Ukraine's security amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. During the talks, the negotiating teams meticulously reviewed the text of the draft security agreement, ensuring that...

 By Charles Hawes, Capital News Kharkiv – In a significant update from the front lines, the Commander-in-Chief announced that the Russian army has failed in its attempt to execute an operation in Kharkiv. Ukrainian forces are actively restraining Russian units, destroying those that invade Ukrainian territory and terrorize the Kharkiv region. Reinforcements have been deployed, with more on the way, ensuring a robust defense.     The situation in the Donetsk direction remains the most challenging, according to the Commander-in-Chief. Despite the difficulties, Ukrainian forces are working tirelessly to secure more reserves for the army. Recent negotiations and meetings in France have resulted in new solutions for Ukrainian defense, with both France and the United States pledging additional support. "Thank you, friends!" the Commander-in-Chief expressed gratitude for the international assistance. Significant progress has also been made in enhancing artillery capabilities,...

By Charles Hawes, Capital News Washington DC - In a significant move underscoring the United States' commitment to Ukraine, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss ongoing U.S. support for Ukraine amid the nation's defense against Russian aggression. The high-stakes meeting focused on the current state of the conflict and Ukraine's immediate need for assistance. During the meeting, President Biden announced a substantial new package of security assistance for Ukraine. Valued at $225 million, this package includes critical components such as air defense interceptors, artillery ammunition, and other essential capabilities. This marks the sixth security assistance package that the United States has rolled out since President Biden signed the national security supplemental, highlighting the accelerated pace of U.S. aid to Ukraine.      The situation on the ground in Ukraine demands urgent and unwavering support," President Biden ...

 By Charles Hawes, Capital News    Normandy, France — The hour had nearly come. On the eve of the 80th anniversary of D-Day, President Biden delivered a poignant and stirring tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of Allied forces on the beaches of Normandy. The President’s speech, given in the presence of President Emmanuel Macron, Mrs. Macron, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, and numerous distinguished guests, honored the heroic efforts of those who fought to free Europe from Nazi tyranny.     The backdrop for this historic address was solemn and reverent, reflecting the devastating impact of Nazi Germany’s occupation of Europe. Biden highlighted the atrocities committed by the Third Reich, including the Holocaust, which claimed the lives of millions of Jews, and the brutal warfare that killed millions more. Biden underscored the pivotal role of Normandy in the struggle between freedom and tyranny, marking June 6th, 1944, a...

By Charles Hawes, Capital News     In the fast-evolving world of cryptocurrencies, the promise of substantial returns continues to draw investors from all walks of life. However, the rapid growth and largely unregulated nature of the crypto market have also made it a fertile ground for scammers. Recent reports indicate a sharp rise in cryptocurrency scams, causing significant financial losses and undermining confidence in this emerging market. According to a recent study by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), cryptocurrency scams have increased by over 60% in the past year. These scams range from Ponzi schemes and fake initial coin offerings (ICOs) to phishing attacks and fraudulent exchanges. The FTC estimates that unsuspecting investors have lost more than $1 billion to crypto-related fraud since the start of 2023.     Cryptocurrency scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated," said Laura Smith, a senior analyst at the FTC. "Scammers are leveraging the complex a...