gun

Macron: it would be cynical, counterproductive for Russia to pin Moscow attack on Ukraine

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Macron: it would be cynical, counterproductive for Russia to pin Moscow attack on Ukraine

French President Emmanuel Macron stated that the attack on a concert hall near Moscow, which resulted in 137 deaths, was carried out by Islamic State. Macron advised against Russia blaming Ukraine for the attack, emphasizing it would be cynical and counterproductive. Despite the Islamic State group claiming responsibility for the attack, Russia disputed claims from the United States and other countries about the group’s involvement, suggesting a cover-up for Ukraine. President Vladimir Putin did not attribute the attack to the Islamist militant group but mentioned that the attackers had attempted to escape to Ukraine, with some assistance from the Ukrainian side. Ukraine denied any involvement in the attack, and President Volodymyr Zelenskiy accused Putin of trying to divert blame towards Ukraine. Russia’s foreign ministry spokeswoman, Maria Zakharova, questioned U.S. claims about Islamic State’s involvement. Macron highlighted that the Islamic State group had also attempted attacks in France and mentioned that France had raised its terror alert to the highest level following the Moscow attack. Macron offered to increase cooperation with Russian intelligence services and partners in the region to find the culprits and combat such groups targeting multiple countries.

Death and fear stoked hell in Moscow attack, witnesses say

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Death and fear stoked hell in Moscow attack, witnesses say

Four armed men attacked Crocus City Hall outside Moscow, killing more than 143 people and injuring dozens in the deadliest attack in Russia since the 2004 Beslan school siege. The attackers, wearing camouflage and combat vests, fired at civilians and set the building on fire, leading to a massive blaze that gutted the hall. Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack. The Federal Security Service (FSB) detained 11 people in connection with the incident, denying any involvement from Kyiv.

82-year-old man convicted of shooting thief appeals sentence

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82-year-old man convicted of shooting thief appeals sentence

An 82-year-old man ordered to spend two and a half years in prison after shooting a would-be thief has appealed against his sentence. According to reports, the 82-year-old’s lawyers, Maria Nicolaou and Antonis Antoniou, argue that the sentence was excessive and are requesting its suspension. They cite the 82-year-old’s serious health problems, the unusual nature … Read more

Our View: Blame the judges for grandfather, ’s harsh sentence

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Our View: Blame the judges for grandfather, ’s harsh sentence

An 82-year-old man received a two-and-a-half-year prison sentence for shooting and injuring a man attempting to steal electricity cable from his property. The public reaction deemed the sentence harsh, considering the man’s age, health issues, and previous theft reports at his property. Following public outcry, President Nikos Christodoulides sought to issue a presidential pardon, but Attorney-General George Savvides cited constitutional reasons preventing this action, emphasizing the principle of separation of powers and the need to uphold constitutional order. This incident highlighted tensions between public sentiment, the judiciary’s decisions, and the executive’s powers in Cyprus.

Mitch McConnell to end long tenure as top US Senate Republican

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Mitch McConnell to end long tenure as top US Senate Republican

Top U.S. Senate Republican Mitch McConnell announced he will step down this year from his leadership role, ending a nearly 17-year tenure as a Senate party leader, the longest on record. McConnell has represented Kentucky in the Senate since 1985 and has been the Republican leader since 2007. He played a significant role in helping Donald Trump secure a 6-3 conservative majority in the Supreme Court. Despite his contributions, McConnell has faced opposition from hardline Republican opponents allied with Trump. He stated his intention not to run for Senate Republican leader in the upcoming November party elections, planning to serve out the rest of his term in the Senate, which extends through January 2027. Senators John Thune, John Cornyn, and John Barrasso are expected to vie for the top party job. McConnell has also been vocal about his opposition to Trump’s conduct, particularly regarding the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, and has supported aid to Ukraine against some Republican opposition.

McConnell to step down as Senate Republican leader in November

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McConnell to step down as Senate Republican leader in November

U.S. Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell announced he would step down from his leadership role after nearly 17 years, making him the longest-serving party leader in the chamber’s history. McConnell, who turned 82 last week, cited age as a reason for his departure. His stepping down will leave a significant gap in negotiations with Democrats and the White House, particularly concerning spending deals to prevent government shutdowns. McConnell has been a central figure in shaping the conservative direction of the Supreme Court, notably in blocking Barack Obama’s nomination of Merrick Garland in 2016 and facilitating the appointment of Amy Coney Barrett in 2020, contributing to a 6-3 conservative majority. He has had a contentious relationship with Donald Trump, especially after the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021, despite voting to acquit Trump, he blamed him for inciting the insurrection. Senators John Thune and John Cornyn are expected to compete for McConnell’s leadership position.

Taxi driver arrested carrying a gun

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Taxi driver arrested carrying a gun

A Turkish taxi driver, suspected of selling weapons in the south, was arrested by police in Famagusta after being found with a pistol in his car’s glove compartment. The 34-year-old, married to a Turkish Cypriot and frequently traveling to the south for work, was stopped and searched at the Deryneia checkpoint. He faces charges for illegal possession and transportation of a firearm and is expected to appear before the District Court of Famagusta in Paralimni. Police are investigating to identify the intended recipient of the weapon, with the suspect reportedly uncooperative.