Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Dennys World News April 2014: U. S., World NEWS LINKS


Freiheit statt Angst 2013 - 07.09.2013 - Berli...
Freiheit statt Angst 2013 - 07.09.2013 - Berlin - IMN_9226 (Photo credit: PM Cheung)


From Denny:  My usual reading list for the month while researching many on-going and interconnecting news stories that affect our global security and quality of life.

Check out just how much must be read before writing an opinion piece over at A Truth Journal world politics blog.  Read that as these blogs can only hold so much information in draft post form so it's on to yet another innovative idea to start another blog...

Other news stories that generate a lot of articles, like high profile murder cases, will be gathered together into one post separate from this news links list.  I'm leaving the fonts of the news sites as they are since it provides relief from visual boredom as you scan the page.

Posts like this list of news stories make it easier to write historical articles and books as the research is less time consuming to find than from the usual search engines on many news sites.  I've been writing over five years on my other 20+ blogs.  It's amazing how much information you can generate in that amount of time!

These posts are also a snapshot in history to view the social and political climate of the century.  The word is that everything, good or bad, lives on the internet for eternity.  I'm here, one post at a time, to test that truism.  Go ahead, smile, if you are reading this.  Check back often through the month as news links will be added daily to the current list.

UPDATED LINKS follow...







MILITARY SEX ASSAULT REPORTS SURGE BY 50 PERCENT

55 US SCHOOLS FACE FEDERAL SEX ASSAULT PROBES

PUTIN WANTS TROOPS OUT OF UKRAINE'S EAST

DESPITE RUSSIA CRISIS, UKRAINE HOPEFUL FOR FUTURE




NATO OFFICIAL: RUSSIA NOW AN ADVERSARY

SHADOWY COMMANDER IS FACE OF INSURGENCY IN UKRAINE

RUSSIA REVIVES MAY DAY PARADE; VIOLENCE IN TURKEY

RUSSIA CHALLENGES EU ENERGY MARKET RULES

MERKEL'S US TRIP TO FOCUS ON UKRAINE CRISIS

PENTAGON SAYS HAGEL TOLD THAT RUSSIA WON'T INVADE




MONEY WIELDED TO HELP UKRAINE AND THREATEN RUSSIA

IMF BOARD APPROVES $17 BILLION FOR UKRAINE

RUSSIA EVOKES NAZI HORRORS TO BASH UKRAINE

RUSSIAN FM RULES OUT 'STUPID THINGS' OVER UKRAINE

UK PROSECUTOR TO HELP UKRAINE FIND STOLEN ASSETS

BRITAIN, US SEEK STOLEN UKRAINE ASSETS




Iran improves ability to pull off cyber-attacks on US, report finds

Hacking and cyber-spying on US energy firms over the past year point to Iran's growing capabilities, a cyber-security firm says. China and Russia are more serious threats, but Iran is closing the gap.



Can military's satellite links be hacked? Cyber-security firm cites concerns.

Satellite communications terminals, including those used by the US military, are vulnerable, says IOActive, a cyber-security firm. SATCOM industry officials say the terminals are secure.



Going for a walk might boost creativity, say scientists

A new study supports the link between taking a walk and thinking creatively.



Crikey! Gorgeous solar eclipse wows Australians.

Skywatchers down under viewed the first solar eclipse of 2014, as the moon covered about two thirds of the sun. 



Scientists investigate how 'aliens of the sea' can regrow their brains

Working from a floating lab off the Flordia Keys, a team of researchers are seeking to decode the genome of comb jellies and other sea creatures that exhibit a remarkable capacity for regeneration.


Sugar war could sour US-Mexico trade ties

The US sugar industry is seething over soaring competition from Mexico. But if the US imposes punitive duties on Mexican sugar, observers say Mexico could reciprocate.



Mexico prepping to buy more Black Hawks: settling in for a lengthy fight in drug war?

Mexico received US approval for the purchase of 18 Black Hawk helicopters. Some analysts wonder if the planned purchase signals a longer-term, more militarized approach to fighting cartels.



For Germans, hostage-taking sparks new focus on Ukraine crisis

The seizure of German military observers in eastern Ukraine has put a human face on a crisis that could force Germany into a tougher tone with Russia. 


Kerry: NATO territory inviolable - 'We will defend every single piece'


Putin sees no need for counter sanctions against West




'Rebel priest' prays for Ukraine gunmen, denies doing more


Separatists seize control in another Ukrainian city



U.S. Treasury chief says sanctions pressuring Russian economy


German government distances itself from Schroeder after his Putin meeting


US and South Korea postpone transfer of wartime control to Seoul

The handover would grant South Korea full control of its military in the event of a conflict. But the transfer might be delayed yet again.





U.S. high-tech export curbs threaten space work with Russia


Russia's Lavrov rejects U.S., EU sanctions over Ukraine


Rosneft says deal to buy trading from Morgan Stanley intact


White House casts Russia sanctions strategy as battle of attrition


US to impose new sanctions on Russia – and holds more in reserve

President Obama said the measures are aimed at 'changing Putin's calculus' on Ukraine, and that further 'Russian aggression' could trigger more sanctions.


Canada puts sanctions on two small Russian banks


U.S. troops, British planes deployed to Baltics over Ukraine


Russia says Marshall Islands' nuclear lawsuits 'baseless'


Russian says was 'irresponsible' to send monitors to east Ukraine


Berlin asks Russia to help free OSCE team in Ukraine





U.S. sanctions Putin allies as Ukraine violence goes on


Putin foes fear Internet crackdown as 'blogger law' sails through


NBA bans Clippers owner for life over racist comments



Gillibrand questions DOD moves on sexual assault study



Back to work, Congress plays it safe


John Kerry walks back "apartheid" comments - and slams critics


A frustrated Obama pushes back at his foreign policy critics


President Obama says new sanctions will target Russia defense sector over moves in Ukraine


U.S. sanctions more Russian officials, companies for Ukraine response



Medical marijuana effectively treats MS symptoms, review finds


Planning for retirement in your 60s


6 financial strategies to follow for life



You've Got Hacked: AOL Confirms 'Significant Number' of Mail Users Hit

Natural Gas-Gobbling Bacteria Could Help Combat Oil Leaks

Warming World Drives Hurricane-Forming Winds, Study Says




US announces sanctions on Putin's inner circle over Ukraine

• Seven officials and 17 companies targeted
• Statement: involvement in Ukraine violence 'indisputable'

Ukraine: Pro-Russia attack on rally blamed for Donetsk bloodshed 

  • Men armed with truncheons, shields beat marchers
  • US announces new sanctions on individuals and companies
  • EU to announce new sanctions on Russian individuals
  • Mayor of Kharkiv 'extremely serious but stable' after shooting

Ukraine mayor Gennady Kernes fighting for life after being shot

Kharkiv mayor, who was key figure in ex-president Yanukovych's party, shot in the back while on his way for morning swim

Who are the Russians on US sanctions list?

White House implements visa ban, asset freezes and export licence denials on panoply of Russian officials close to Vladimir Putin

Russia's propaganda war is a danger for Ukraine's Jews

Despite what Putin says about antisemitism in the new Kiev government, Ukraine's Jews are committed to independence
"There are speakers of Russian in Ukraine, but they are not Russian citizens any more than I, a speaker of English, am a British subject. There are people who identify as Russian – about a seventh of the population – but they are no more Russian citizens than Quebecois are citizens of France. Dual citizenship in Ukraine is not permitted. So the answer to the riddle is: the Russian citizens in Ukraine are the soldiers of the Russian special forces who are already there. To push the logic a little further, one could say that Lavrov has finally admitted that the soldiers without insignia, whom the Ukrainians call "little green men", are Russian soldiers, since he had raised the possibility that they could be harmed."

John Oliver turns the screw on Keith Alexander – and saves his new show

The opening episode of Last Week Tonight seemed in danger of bombing – but the former Daily Show reporter turned it round with a brilliantly caustic interview with former NSA chief
How Atlanta, Georgia, became America's hip-hop capital – video


US death row study: 4% of defendants sentenced to die are innocent

Deliberately conservative figure lays bare extent of possible miscarriages of justice suggesting that the innocence of more than 200 prisoners still in the system may never be recognised

Ukrainian journalists face threats as separatists make demands of media

Pro-Russian activists trying to impose censorship and control or scare away independent news outlets


The revolution in Putin’s head


Mediators held in Ukraine as U.S. readies new Russia sanctions


Ukraine rebel city says holding international observers



Crimea faces motor fuel shortages as Ukrainian supplies dry up


Latvia says Russia trying to use 'provocateurs' in Baltic state


Merkel tells Putin Russia has not done enough to ease Ukraine crisis




Russia says Kiev will face justice for 'bloody crime' in Ukraine


Ex-Soviet states and EU partners call for Ukraine de-escalation


Russia raises rates to curb inflation as Ukraine crisis bites


Exclusive: Obama plans to call EU leaders in Russia sanctions push - sources






The Chinese take Manhattan: replace Russians as top apartment buyers


Obama wraps up Japan visit with security pledge but no trade deal



Obama: Going ‘all in’ for the Asian Century


The top spook’s stupid gag order


Why not a war on child poverty?


The right way to help minority boys


At Aereo arguments, can old-school analogies explain new technology?


No drama in Obama’s Ukraine policy


Ukraine's leaders say have U.S. backing to take on 'aggressors'



'Murdered' Ukraine politician faced hostile mob, video shows


Special Report: For private placements, no one is vetting the vetters




Survivors Show Their Strength at the Finish Line

Will U.S. and Russian Dolphins Face Off? No Way, Navy Says

Justice Stevens: Make 6 Changes to Constitution

Yemen Killed 40 Al-Qaeda Militants With U.S. Drone Help

U.S. Loses Ruling on Secrecy of Drone Killing of American Anwar al-Awlaki: Court

Kerry Prods Lavrov to Push Pro-Russia Rebels


Ukraine   claims   photos   prove   Russian   special   f orces  in   eastern   Ukraine



Putin signs decree to rehabilitate Crimea Tatars


Ukrainian journalist held by separatists says conditions 'OK'


Russia's Lavrov says Ukraine 'crudely violating' Geneva deal


Putin playing the long game over Russian kin in Ukraine



Halliburton sees profit growth on improved margins in North America

(Reuters) - Halliburton Co (HAL.N), the world's No.2 oilfield services company, forecast a 25 percent jump in earnings in the current quarter, helped by a recovery in margins in North America and growth in overseas markets.



Iran says it is drafting complete account of past nuclear work


Ukraine peace deal falters as rebels show no sign of surrender




An apoplexy over apostrophes in Cambridge, England

A policy to remove apostrophes from signs in the learned English town has touched off a firestorm – and sent vigilante grammarians into the streets with markers in hand.


Former army general favorite in Egyptian presidential race

Only two candidates will run in Egypt's upcoming presidential election, a leftist politician and the former army general who ousted Egypts first freely-elected president.



On Easter, pope calls for peace in Syria, Ukraine


Corker calls on Obama to up Russia sanctions


Ukraine threatens to undermine Obama's delayed Asia 'pivot'


Easter truce hours old before shooting


Russia 'outraged' by attack in Ukraine


Ukraine PM: Find anti-Jewish 'bastards'


Snowden reporter promises more NSA revelations are coming

NSA spying out of control




Time to stop following defunct economic policies


Yellen shows her hand


Can National Popular Vote end the voting wars?


Stevens: 'Natural' for justices to consider successors





GM to battle VW in China with $12 billion investment and new plants


A tough sell: insurance against a China financial crisis


Aereo Internet service vs. TV broadcasters: US Supreme Court to decide

Aereo provides TV viewing and recording to subscribers via the Internet for $8 a month. But Aereo pays major broadcast companies nothing, and broadcasters say that violates copyright protections.



Air strikes in Yemen kill 35 al Qaeda militants in two days


Mystery gunfight in east Ukraine sparks blame, counter-blame


Deadly gun attack in eastern Ukraine shakes fragile Geneva accord


U.S. funds warn of risks from sanctions against Russia


At least two killed in clash in east Ukraine, separatists say five dead


At Easter, Ukrainian church condemns Russian 'aggression'


Mediator heads to east Ukraine, seeking surrenders


Germany's Steinmeier urges focus on de-escalation with Russia, not sanctions





Pope Francis' first year filled with surprises

In his first year as pontiff, Pope Francis has surprised many by spurning tradition to bring humility and humanity to the papacy


Fukushima: Three years later

Bob Simon reports on the aftermath of the disaster in Fukushima, Japan, and finds toxic ghost towns frozen in time


Food stamps: why recipients are haunted by stigmas and misconceptions

One in seven Americans receive food stamps, but misconceptions abound. We ask Snap workers in Alabama and Texas about the challenges they face, and the most enduring myths

More than 100 hate-crime murders linked to single website, report finds

• Southern Poverty Law Center singles out Stormfront.org
• Report says users disproportionately linked to major killings

CIA torture architect breaks silence to defend 'enhanced interrogation'

• James Mitchell 'highly skeptical' of Senate report on CIA torture
• 'It was not illegal based on the law at the time'
• Mitchell said to have waterboarded Khalid Sheikh Mohammed

James Mitchell: 'I'm just a guy who got asked to do something for his country'

Psychologist who designed CIA's post-9/11 torture program insists he has nothing to apologise for – and attacks 'people with a Jack Bauer mentality who don't understand how intel works'

Nasa Kepler telescope discovers planet believed to be most Earth-like yet found

Kepler-186f is 10% bigger and occupies its star's 'habitable zone' where temperatures would allow liquid surface water

Nasa's moon explorer Ladee crashes on far side of the moon

After unexpectedly surviving a full lunar eclipse, the lunar probe smashed onto surface and ended 100-day mission as planned

Crucial military satellite systems are vulnerable to hacking, experts say

Researchers have warned that military operations and flight-safety communications are being endangered by software weaknesses

How to create a successful science blog

Setting up your own science blog is a great way to publicise a field that is close to your heart, hone your writing skills and make a name for yourself

Dispelling the nightmares of post-traumatic stress disorder

Treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder can take months, but an intense course may relieve symptoms in just a week



Snowden defends his questioning of Putin


Is Snowden Putin’s puppet?



Zuckerberg group goes after Steve King


WhiteHouse.gov allows collection of user data



Keystone decision pushed back



Britain, Germany commit to impose costs on Russia if it reneges on Ukraine agreement

U.S. President Barack Obama spoke with British Prime Minister David Cameron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Thursday regarding the situation in Ukraine and the necessity that Russia honor its agreement to de-escalate the crisis.


Russia tried to use VKontakte to spy on Ukrainian protesters

VKontakte is the Russian equivalent to Facebook, where Russian speakers share their personal data and contact information.

Report: More people cutting cable for streaming services

Both Hulu and Netlfix have streaming plans for as low as $7.99 per month, whereas monthly cable bills can range in the hundreds of dollars.

NBC is planning a 40th anniversary special for 'Saturday Night Live'

Past and present cast members to reunite for Feb. 15 program




Some Odd News:


Judge tells father to stop emailing his children in all capital letters

High Court judge tells father to cut it out because it looks like he is shouting.


Pornostagram is the Instagram for nude photos

It has filters too

Scientists find first ever female animals with penises

"There’s nothing that [this] can be compared to," said study co-author Rodrigo Ferreira. "This elaborate female penis is completely unique."

Man finds nearly 6.2 carat diamond in state park

Crater of Diamonds state park is the only park where people can come and search for diamonds that they can then keep

The US is not a democracy but an oligarchy, study concludes

"The central point that emerges from our research is that economic elites and organized groups representing business interests have substantial independent impacts on US government policy, while mass-based interest groups and average citizens have little or no independent influence,”

Americans are working more, getting paid less than other countries

As France takes measures against after-hours email, 81 percent of Americans check their email outside of work hours.

Putin thinks Obama would save him if he were drowning

Putin will probably not have to put this to the test as he is known as an avid outdoorsman who often swims in Russia's freezing waters.


These Are Some of the Oldest Living Things on Earth



Weirdest story of all, oh, how the Brits are going to regret hiring this guy women voters hate:




Pro-Russian militants in eastern Ukraine refuse to accept Geneva deal

Leader of self-proclaimed "Donetsk People's Republic" says they won't leave occupied buildings unless new leaders in Kiev also withdraw


The works of Gabriel Garcia Marquez


Gabriel García Márquez dies at 87






Special Report: How the U.S. made its Putin problem worse


Shell committed to Russia expansion despite sanctions


Two U.S. arms programs face live-or-die reviews after costs jump


Two justices say high court will likely rule on NSA programs


Compensation battle rages four years after BP's U.S. oil spill



O-Care enrollments reach 8M


35 percent of O-Care enrollees are under 35, say insurance officials


Panetta: Obama has ‘mixed record’ on national security

Obama puts $15M into solar power





Ukraine separatists stay put despite diplomatic deal


Diplomatic deal struck on Ukraine


Lawmakers call for probe into fliers targeting Ukrainian Jews






Populism? Where are the pitchforks?


Cell phone search case is easy call for Supreme Court


Jordanian jihadis returning from Syria war rattle U.S.-aligned kingdom


Iran cuts sensitive nuclear stockpile, key plant delayed: IAEA






Odessa: Ukrainian port that inspired big dreams



Breakingviews: Russian sanctions to cost less than inaction (4:32) 

April 17 - EU leaders blame Russia for the takeover of Ukrainian cities by separatists. But they’re wavering over imposing more sanctions. Breakingviews says this will only increase the final price to be paid.

Casualty numbers used as a weapon in Ukraine crisis


Three dead in east Ukraine, Putin warns of 'abyss'



Putin fields question from U.S. fugitive Snowden


Trouble with Russia, trouble with the law: inside Europe’s digital crime unit

Europol’s European Cybercrime Centre is helping the global fight against cyber crime, but it needs more help

Crisis in east Ukraine: a city-by-city guide to the spreading conflict

Clashes between Ukrainian troops and pro-Russia militias have been popping up in cities across the east. Here's where things stand

Russia mulls lawsuit against U.S. in WTO over sanctions

Russia is looking at the possibility of filing a lawsuit against the United States in the World Trade Organisation over sanctions hitting Russian banks, Economy Minister Alexei Ulyukayev said on Wednesday, according to Russian news agencies.

St Petersburg-based Bank Rossiya was sanctioned alongside its chairman and largest shareholder Yuri Kovalchuk in March as part of punitive measures by Washington over Russia's annexation of Crimea.

EU lays out impact of financial sanctions on Russia

The European Commission handed documents to EU member states on Wednesday explaining the potential impact on their economies of imposing stricter trade and financial sanctions on Russia over its actions in Ukraine, diplomats said.


Russian military activity increases near Ukraine border since last week

Russia has increased its military activity near the border with Ukraine markedly since late last week, a Reuters reporting team said after making return visits to the frontier zone where NATO says Moscow has amassed 40,000 troops.


EU struggles to unpick the knot of Russia-Ukraine gas logistics

Unprecedented talks across the European Union on Tuesday showed it scrambling for solutions on the ground to break its dependence on Russian gas and help supply Ukraine.









Crimea on bumpy road to becoming a Russian province


Separatists take armored vehicles, humiliating Ukraine forces

Separatists flew the Russian flag on armored vehicles taken from the Ukrainian army on Wednesday, humiliating a Kiev government operation to recapture eastern towns controlled by pro-Moscow partisans.

Syrian opposition accuses Assad's forces of new poison gas attack


China's Xi purging corrupt officials to put own men in place: sources


Obama looks to salvage Asia 'pivot' as allies fret about China

When a Philippine government ship evaded a Chinese blockade in disputed waters of the South China Sea last month, a U.S. Navy plane swooped in to witness the dramatic encounter.

Former New York Mayor Bloomberg to spend $50 million on gun control





Obama, Biden visit Pennsylvania to promote job-training plan

President Barack Obama will announce an initiative on Wednesday to devote $600 million to address a central challenge of today's economy: How to train workers for skills they need for jobs that are open but hard to fill.


HUD's Donovan says U.S. Senate housing bill is best chance of reform

President Barack Obama's top housing official on Wednesday said a proposed Senate bill provides the best chance to overhaul the mortgage finance system this decade, but more debate over down payment requirements for government-backed loans is needed.






U.S. SEC releases cyber security examination blueprint




COURT TO WEIGH CHALLENGE TO BAN ON CAMPAIGN LIES

NATO UPS MILITARY PRESENCE AMID RUSSIAN THREAT




Blood Moon: lunar eclipse as light passes through Earth's atmosphere, turning it orange




Robert Hannigan: GCHQ director who can balance secrecy and accountability

Ex-colleagues say choice of Foreign Office diplomat as GCHQ chief suggests government is leaving door open to reform

Will Robert Hannigan revolutionise GCHQ?

The new chief of the British security agency is 'not a true securocrat,' says one former government adviser. Modest grounds for hope then

GCHQ names Foreign Office official Robert Hannigan as new chief

Current director general of defence and intelligence to replace Sir Iain Lobban at Cheltenham-based agency in autumn




China's air pollution leading to more erratic climate for US, say scientists

Computer modelling showed intensification of US-bound Pacific storms, driven by fine aerosols from coal power plants and traffic

Russian TV weatherman warns of 'winds of change' in east Ukraine

Russia 24's Vadim Zavodchenkov weaves comments on Ukraine's political crisis into his weather roundup on state TV

Ukraine on the brink as troops take on rebels

Vladimir Putin denounces Kiev for mobilising forces against pro-Russian gunmen in east of country

Ukraine crisis: Nato to bolster forces in eastern Europe

Alliance announces more aircraft and ships in Baltic and eastern Mediterranean after pro-Russian militia seize armoured vehicles



Scientists make flat surface behave like spherical antenna

Scientists create an artificial surface that can bend and focus electromagnetic waves like an antenna


Exotic hadron particles detected at CERN: Bizarre matter defies known physics

Exotic hadron particles: Scientists at CERN have confirmed the detection of exotic hadrons, a type of matter whose existence is not predicted by the Standard Model of particle physics.





How Easter, V-E day may affect Ukraine crisis

If Russia decides to invade eastern Ukraine, the timing may depend on the calendar.


New source of jobs for India's rural women (hint: it's in your shampoo)

Growing seaweed rich in valuable chemicals — predicted to be worth $7 billion by 2018 — is emerging as a source of employment for rural women in India.


Why Ukraine forces must act differently

The start of operations against protesters in eastern Ukraine will be a test of the country's new commitment to democratic rights, such as peaceful assembly. Soldiers must now show restraint against unarmed demonstrators, less so against armed ones. This will influence Russia's actions.







Mass DNA sweep in privacy-loving France: Why no backlash? (+video)

To identify a rapist, police have asked more than 500 men and boys at a school to give DNA evidence. So far, the French public seem supportive.


Crimeans find their new lives in Russia harder than expected (+video)

A month after voting to join Russia, Crimeans are struggling with currency woes, a logjammed legal system, and a moribund tourist industry.


UN Security Council sees grim images of Syrian dead

Council members viewed thousands of ghastly photographs purportedly showing dead Syrian civil war victims. More than 150,000 have died in the war. 


Russian aircraft buzz US Navy destroyer: How big a deal?

The incident took place over the weekend in the international waters of the Black Sea – ‘a long way from US Navy bases and at the front doorstep’ of the Russian military, a naval analyst says.


Ukrainian military defections boost pro-Russia militia as unrest spreads

Ukrainian efforts to regain control over its industrial eastern region bordering Russia appear to be floundering after some units defected. Pro-Russian forces have seized another building in Donetsk.


Behind Assad's victory boasts, a recalibration of success in Syria

With the help of its allies, the Syrian Army has regained critical territory from armed rebels. But talk of victory obscures the fact that parts of the country may be irretrievable.


Heather Fleming wants to solve poverty through better design

Frustrated by the inequality she experienced as a Navajo, Fleming founded Catapult Design to create new products and services for impoverished communities.





2014  Pulitzer  Prizes  honor  NSA  revelations

IRS  budget  cuts  mean  fewer  audits  and  less  help


Can the government seize your tax refund to pay a relative's debt?


More  Americans  report  personal  information  stolen  online





Insight: Israeli gas holds promise of better ties with neighbors


Germany says Russia may be playing role in east Ukraine tensions


Russia, China aim to finish gas talks before Putin's May visit: media


Former U.S. Marine's family asks Iran to reconsider prison term


U.S. senator warns of disenchanted voters in New Hampshire


Russian jet's passes near U.S. ship in Black Sea 'provocative': Pentagon






White House warns Russia of more 'costs' over Ukraine


Kerry adviser says arming Ukraine forces is an option


EU could hold emergency summit to agree new sanctions on Russia


EU agrees to expand Russia sanctions, may hold emergency summit on Ukraine


Obama blasts Russia in tense call with Putin over Ukraine







U.S. in prime position to see full lunar eclipse Tuesday


Liberals are winning the language war


Guardian, Washington Post win Pulitzers for U.S. spying coverage






The dubious new high-frequency trading case against the Merc


Separatists tighten grip on east Ukraine, EU agrees more sanctions on Moscow


After success on Iran, U.S. Treasury's sanctions team faces new challenges


Iran asks for U.N. committee meeting on U.S. ban on envoy






How Scarlett Johansson helped me challenge disfigurement stigma

Adam Pearson was born with a condition that causes tumours to grow on his face. But acting with Scarlett Johansson in Under the Skin is changing the way people look at him

Russia spends more of its wealth on arms than US in 2013

Russian defence spending rises by 4.8% to $88bn, devoting larger share of GDP on military than US for first time since 2003

Moscow accuses Kiev of issuing 'criminal orders' and warns of civil war

Russia orchestrating latest violence in east Ukraine and is staging another Crimea-syle intervention, claims US and Nato





Gender-flips are a simple and smart way to turn sexism on its head

Australian comedy duo Bondi Hipsters have gone viral by subverting Miranda Kerr's GQ photoshoot – and even Jennifer Lopez has got in on the act

Digital journalism: we're still waiting for the third model of news publishing

What do recent launches such as Vox.com and the FiveThirtyEight mean for the development of the news media?

Ukraine crisis: UN holds emergency security council meeting

  • Russia calls meeting after Ukraine counter-attack in east
  • UK says Kremlin has up to 40,000 troops on border



Why This Year's Allergy Season Will Be Rough


Ohio man sentenced to display 'I am a bully' sign for harassing neighbour

Judge orders 62-year-old Edmond Aviv to sit outside with a sign as punishment for 15-year feud with neighbour

Man Holding 'I Am a Bully Sign' Jeered by Neighbors







5 Essential Topics Every Email Marketer Should Understand



Heartbleed Fallout Continues: Canada Orders Shutdown of More Gov't Sites





Al Jazeera America Announces First Layoffs Since Launch



White House to Allow NSA to Exploit Some Internet Security Flaws







Kiev launches anti-terrorist operation that Russia calls "criminal" (1:39) 

April 13 - Violence escalates in Ukraine, where the government has launched an anti-terrorist operation to clear government buildings of armed pro-Russia activists. Nathan Frandino reports


More U.S. sanctions on Russia if Ukraine actions continue: Power



Ukraine gives rebels deadline to disarm or face military operation






UK urged to admit that CIA used island as secret 'black site' prison

Human rights group representing Gaddafi opponent rendered to Libya via Diego Garcia says Britain must 'come clean' over role

New York assault weapons ban circumvented with simple modification

The Safe Act was billed as the nation's toughest, but a surprisingly easy loophole makes the weapons legal to sell

A ban on internet slang? That's derp

Writers at Gawker have been warned by the website's new editor that 'amazeballs', 'lulz' and 'WTF' are off the menu. Massive fail, says Steven Poole

Capitalism simply isn't working and here are the reasons why

Economist Thomas Piketty's message is bleak: the gap between rich and poor threatens to destroy us




CIA and White House under pressure after Senate torture report leaks

Senate committee found CIA interrogations and detentions to be 'brutal' and urges administration to release report as quickly as possible

Barack Obama says voting rights face greatest threat in half a century

• President addresses racial issues for second time in two days
• Republicans accused of leading moves to curb voting

Iran overturns death sentence of former US marine Amir Hekmati

• Arizona-born Hekmati was convicted of working for CIA
• Lawyer says sentence reduced to 10 years' imprisonment

China backs IMF support for Ukraine but worries over funding capacity

• US Congress has failed to ratify IMF reforms
• China wants action to calm tension and stabilise economy


White House: NSA didn't exploit 'Heartbleed'



Did scientists just spot the first 'exomoon'?

Using gravitational microlensing, scientists have discovered a moon circling a giant Jupiter-like alien planet.


Ancient four-eyed wonder resolves daddy longleg mystery

Micro-cat scans reveal that a 305-million-year-old fossilized ancestor of the modern daddy longleg, excavated in France, had a head full of eyeballs. The finding alters scientists' understandings of how arachnids evolved.


Russians warned if they go abroad, US might snatch them

US secret services are actively 'hunting' and jailing Russians in revenge for the annexation of Crimea – or so a warning by the Russian Foreign Ministry says.





A century on, World War I remains 'the Great War' for the Brits. Why?

The First World War occupies a singular place in Britain's identity and imagination, in part because the precise reasons for the conflict are still so hard to fathom. 


Lily-white workers wanted, says Dutch cleaning company

The company's 'whites only' Facebook ad made headlines this week in the Netherlands, which has seen a rise in overt racism and xenophobia in recent years.


DHS alert: Heartbleed may have been used against industrial control systems

Specifically, there are unconfirmed reports that the Heartbleed cybervulnerability has been used to attack encrypted communications systems of these control systems. DHS is investigating.






Could you live below the line?

The Live Below the Line project April 28-May 2 aims to help people understand extreme poverty more personally by spending only $1.50 a day on food.


Rebels, government point fingers at each other in Syria gas attack

Both sides agree that poison gas was used in the village of Kfar Zeita, but each says the other side is responsible.


Senate report: Interrogation methods 'far worse' than CIA acknowledged

Lawmakers and the CIA are wrangling over releasing details of a Senate report on the “enhanced interrogation” techniques used on terrorist suspects. Leaked portions of the report say such techniques were “brutal and far worse” than the agency acknowledged.

Did the Central Intelligence Agency spy illegally on Senate Intelligence Committee computers? That’s what Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D) of California charged Tuesday in an extraordinary Senate floor speech. The CIA has denied wrongdoing and has its own questions about how Intelligence Committee staffers turned up a sensitive internal report on the agency’s past use of harsh interrogation techniques.


Kathleen Sebelius departs: 10 flash points in her stewardship of Obamacare

Kathleen Sebelius, secretary of Health and Human Services, had the task of implementing the incredibly complex Affordable Care Act. President Obama has named Sylvia Mathews Burwell to replace her.


Democrats, GOP agree on equal pay for women. Almost.

President Obama and US Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers gave the weekly political addresses Saturday. They both mentioned equal pay for women, but from there the talks split into partisan themes.





WEALTHY FLA. DOCTOR LINKED TO SENATOR BACK IN NEWS

ABORTION IN CASES OF RAPE: NEW RIFTS IN OLD DEBATE

LAWMAKERS LOOK TO COMBAT SEAFOOD FRAUD

KIEV ANTI-GOVERNMENT PROTEST DRAWS 100,000 - dec 2013


REPORT: EX-MARINE GETS 10-YEAR SENTENCE IN IRAN

FOR EUROPE, BALANCING ACT ON NEW RUSSIAN PENALTIES

UNIFORMED MEN OCCUPY DONETSK POLICE HQ






A YEAR AFTER BOMBING, BOSTON AND ITS PEOPLE HEAL

MAGAZINE'S BOSTON MARATHON PHOTO SHOOT DRAWS CROWD

TIMELINE OF EVENTS IN THE BOSTON MARATHON BOMBING

DISAPPOINTMENT, FORGIVENESS MIX IN LA. SCANDAL










EU set to help Ukraine pay gas bills: Oettinger



Russia demands Ukraine neutrality, ready for talks on Ukraine


Russia says no response to call for talks on Ukraine gas debt, supplies



Putin says Russia to honor gas deals with Europe



Crimea's parliament adopts Kremlin-backed constitution







Societe Generale raises stake in Russia's Rosbank



Ukraine looks to Europe for gas as Russia ups pressure



Hints of possible deal on Ukraine gas emerge at G20



U.S. sanctions Crimea gas company, in move aimed at Gazprom



Amid 'gas war' talk, Russia reassures Europe on supply


Ukraine suspends gas payments to Russia until talks conclude








Billionaire Russian gas trader says U.S. sanctions a badge of honor



France's Le Pen, in Moscow, blames EU for new 'Cold War'



West struggles as Russia moves to dominate old USSR









Militants raise Russian flag in Ukraine city, risk of 'gas war' looms



Armed men seize police headquarters in east Ukraine city



Ukraine police says pro-Russian militants seize hundreds of guns



Ukraine says Russia stoking unrest as gunmen seize more buildings



Iran rejects U.S. ban on pick for U.N. envoy, vows legal action







Vision decisions: continuity fields, and why we miss subtle visual changes

MIT neuroscientist's research suggests how we see is a function of the brain's attempt to manage the world's visual chaos

Make up your mind! The science behind bisexuality

'Like Jessie J, my bisexuality is just a phase. A phase that has lasted over 30 years, and through 17 years of marriage. Oh please, someone help me!' Tania Browne tries to see the “science” behind her pathetic, craven indecision

The internet isn't harming our love of 'deep reading', it's cultivating it

Lengthy pieces of writing are increasingly found on the very internet that pessimists blame for turning us into skim readers

Angela Merkel denied access to her NSA file

Frustration with US government rises over failure to clear up questions about surveillance of German chancellor's phone





Why US fracking companies are licking their lips over Ukraine

From climate change to Crimea, the natural gas industry is supreme at exploiting crisis for private gain – what I call the shock doctrine

Russia to meet EU and US for talks over Ukraine crisis

Top-level talks scheduled for next week as tense standoff with pro-Russia separatists continues in eastern Ukraine

Ukraine PM offers more power to eastern regions to quell crisis

Arseniy Yatsenyuk meets officials in Donetsk, where pro-Russian groups demand a referendum on independence from Kiev

Ukraine fails to break stalemate with pro-Russian protesters in east

Arseniy Yatsenyuk promises devolution to local government in hope of staving off demands for their independence from Kiev

Ukraine crisis: why Russia sees Crimea as its naval stronghold

We explain what's up with Russia's naval base in Crimea, a brief history of the peninsula, the Tatars and Peter the Great

Ukraine crisis: an essential guide to everything that's happened so far

Kiev's interim government faces a possibility of invasion or civil war, protests are flaring, Moscow remains cagey and sanctions imposed by the US and EU. How did we get here?

Justice Department says Ukraine-based hackers used malware to steal millions

• Two Ukrainians living in UK extradited to Nebraska
• Group charged with using Zeus malware to access accounts

CIA and White House under pressure after Senate torture report leaks

Senate committee found CIA interrogations and detentions to be 'brutal' and urges administration to release report as quickly as possible

The EU-U.S. love-hate relationship



Obama puts fresh face on Obamacare with new health secretary




An installation by British artist Banksy is seen
on a wall outside Yankee Stadium
 in the Bronx borough
 of New York October 31, 2013.
REUTERS/Shannon Stapleton


Banksy bucks


FBI conducting a probe into Herbalife: sources



Five ways to fix the Highway Trust Fund

Carter: Obama couldn't stop Russia



Obama, Merkel call for Russian troop withdrawal



Federal deficit for first half of year is $413B







Obama denies visa to Iran diplomat

The White House said Friday it would not issue a visa to Iran's next ambassador to the United Nations, who has ties to the Iranian hostage crisis.  “We have informed the United Nations and Iran that we will not issue a visa to Mr. Hamid Abutalebi,” White House press secretary Jay Carney said.  Abutalebi has admitted that he worked as a translator and negotiator for the student group that held Americans hostage at the U.S. Embassy in Iran for 444 days. 

Embattled GM suspends two engineers, asks NASA for help (+video)

After a roasting in Congress last week, GM has suspended two engineers documents suggest are linked to the ignition switch problem and asked NASA to look into the safety of its recalled cars.



Rwanda 20 years later: A model for progress and reconciliation

The progress Rwanda has achieved since its genocide may be the most significant example of human development of the past 20 years. Its governance should not be the subject of criticism, but should stand as a model for other nations seeking reconciliation.


Stepping up the innovation ladder

Protests in Taiwan against a trade pact with China illustrate the difficulties that countries can have in staying innovative enough to compete with low-wage nations. Innovation often requires a culture shift.







Why are colleges discriminating against women?

Girls outshine boys in most aspects of college. And men have not historically suffered discrimination as a group. Yet colleges routinely reject talented young women in favor of less qualified young men. Instead of rewarding girls for success, they discriminate against them.


A year later, lessons from the Boston Marathon bombings

Long after the 2013 Boston Marathon bombings, the city felt a surprising social cohesion, the kind that helps bring hope and healing. Many cities try to boost 'social resilience' to act as a community shock absorber and as a building stone after a tragedy.


'Heartbleed' mystery: Did criminals take advantage of cyber-security bug?

Website operators rushed to patch a cyber-security vulnerability called 'Heartbleed' that allows 'anyone on the Internet' to access website server memory without leaving a trace. A major concern: It existed 'in the wild' for two years.


NATO not ruling out troop deployments – even from US – to Eastern Europe (+video)

NATO's top military commander says that he will present a package of measures next week laying out how the alliance will respond to the Russian buildup along Ukraine's borders.


Why religious tensions are spiking around the globe

Religious hostilities reached a six-year high in 2012, according to a new report by the Pew Research Center. High levels of migration and connectedness may have something to do with it.


Spain: A human-rights avenger no longer?

Madrid is trying to end Spain's universal jurisdiction law, which proponents say has helped human rights victims find justice – but has also caused major diplomatic headaches.


Can Russia's military fly without Ukraine's parts?

Russian forces rely on Ukrainian engines, weapons, and aircraft – and Kiev, fearing invasion, is considering pulling the plug on its supplies.




STEPHEN COLBERT TO REPLACE LETTERMAN ON LATE SHOW

$4 BILLION: BOGUS TAX REFUNDS A GROWING PROBLEM





US ship awaits mission to neutralise Syria's chemical weapons


Trial of Occupy activist struggles to find jurors impartial to protest movement






Hidden sea on Saturn's moon Enceladus revealed, boosting hopes for life

New data from NASA's Cassini mission appear to confirm a large liquid-water sea below the icy crust of Enceladus, a small Saturn moon. The sea could be habitable for microbes, at least.


Rare celestial alignment to foreshadow total lunar eclipse

Mars, the Earth, and the Sun will all line up on Tuesday night, just seven days before a total lunar eclipse is to occur.

Ukraine crisis: Could geographic ignorance spark a war with Russia?

A survey conducted by a trio of political scientists and published on the Washington Post's Web site has found the more wrong Americans are about the location of Ukraine on a map, the more likely they are to support US military intervention.

Tests reveal papyrus fragment dubbed 'Gospel of Jesus's Wife' is 'ancient'

A new study backed by scientific evidence suggests that the piece of document containing the words, 'Jesus said to them, my wife' is most likely ancient, dating between the sixth and ninth centuries CE.


What can scientists learn from 520 million year old cardiovascular system?

The oldest preserved vascular system of Fuxianhuia protensa – ancestral to modern day arthropods – can help scientists learn about evolution of crustaceans in general.


How can NASA put a two-story building on Mars? Its very own flying saucer.

NASA's LDSD project aims to develop the capacity to land larger payloads on Mars, perhaps even humans. But first, NASA needs a way to decelerate capsules traveling at supersonic speeds.


What do fruit flies and fighter jets have in common?

Like fighter jets, fruit flues, too, can roll their bodies sideways to escape their enemies.


Obama rejects call by 11 Democrats to move on Keystone pipeline

But President Obama still faces a tough political choice: Reject the Keystone XL oil pipeline and risk tipping the Senate to Republicans, or support it and alienate elements of his party's base.







U.S. warns Russia over any oil-for-goods deal with Iran


Ryan and the code words of race



Yes, the SEC was colluding with banks on CDO prosecutions



Alibaba, Weibo and China’s potential for growth



Behind Wall Street’s anxiety



Education gap is an 'urgent' civil rights issue: George W. Bush







Republican congressman caught in kiss is asked to resign



U.S. accuses Russia after Putin warning on gas supplies to Europe



Special Report: Flaws found in Thailand's human-trafficking crackdown







U.S. says 'gaps narrowing' in talks between Israelis and Palestinians


Obama wraps himself in civil rights legacy of President Lyndon Johnson



Jamie Dimon hits final stage of grief: acceptance



JPMorgan's Dimon calls settling legal issues 'nerve-wracking'



Obama's health secretary resigns after Obamacare launch woes








Hillary Clinton dodges shoe during Las Vegas speech



Hillary Clinton Meets 'Strong and Brave Young Women' of Pussy Riot



10 Countries With the Most Google User Data Requests



Why None of the NSA's Ideas Are Worth Spreading









This Is How the NSA Is Trying to Win Over the Media




Top EU Court Rejects Metadata Collection Law, Cites Privacy Concerns




Lost and Found: 100-Year-Old Message in a Bottle Finally Delivered



With Ink-Stained Fingers, Indonesia Votes in One of World's Largest Elections


Indonesians headed to the polls on Wednesday to cast their votes from among 200,000 candidates in 12 different parties, all of whom were vying for more than 19,000 positions in the country's elections.  



Beloved 8-Year-Old Michigan State Fan 'Princess Lacey' Dies of Cancer



Peggy Olson's Guide to Leaning In




Papyrus Mentioning Jesus's Wife Is Likely Ancient and Not Fake, Scientists Say








6 Crazy Drones You Won't Believe Exist



Coffee Flour Upcycles the Waste From Your Favorite Java



Condoleezza Rice Joins Dropbox's Board of Directors



Stephen Colbert Is Taking Over for David Letterman, CBS Confirms





Big credit card issuers defeat collusion lawsuit

(Reuters) - Consumers suffered a setback on Thursday as three big credit card issuers won the dismissal of U.S. lawsuits accusing them of colluding to require that disputes be settled in arbitration rather than class action lawsuits.  






Little Internet users can do to thwart 'Heartbleed' bug








LastPass Heartbleed Bug Checker Tool - check for specific url




DHS issues warning about 'Heartbleed' bug



New voting laws roll back U.S. civil rights strides of 1960s: Bill Clinton





Ukraine's Zoo Animals Struggle to Survive Amid Political Turmoil


Eastern Ukraine's Future Is Starting to Look a Lot Like Crimea's Reality



Bulgaria torn between old friends and new partners over Crimea

Bulgaria has long been an anomaly in Europe, a country inside the European Union and the NATO military alliance, yet which feels close to Russia. That tension has been thrown into even sharper relief by the stand-off over Ukraine, with many feeling under pressure to choose between Moscow and Brussels.


U.S. defense chief praises Mongolia, given horse during visit


BP says can act as bridge between Russia and West

(Reuters) - BP (BP.L) will use its presence in Russia to help enhance relations between Moscow and the West, Chief Executive Bob Dudley said on Thursday as he restated his company's commitment to the country.


Group of deputies wants Gorbachev investigated over Soviet break-up

(Reuters) - A small group of lawmakers have asked Russia's top prosecutor to investigate whether the last Soviet leader, Mikhail Gorbachev, should face treason charges over his role in the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union.  Gorbachev dismissed the request as an act of publicity-seeking and said there were no grounds to charge him...



Russia calls on Kiev to halt military preparations in Ukraine's southeast

(Reuters) - Russian Foreign Ministry on Tuesday called on Kiev's authorities to stop massing military forces it said were tasked with suppressing anti-government protests in southeastern Ukraine.


Surge in Russian capital outflows adds to economic woes

(Reuters) - A surge in capital outflows from Russia underscores how international tensions over Ukraine are adding to the woes of Russia's already struggling economy.



NATO's Rasmussen says Russia must pull back troops if it wants dialogue

(Reuters) - Russia must pull back its troops from the Ukrainian border as a first step to start dialogue over the crisis there, NATO General Secretary Anders Fogh Rasmussen said on Thursday.  Rasmussen said some 40,000 Russian troops were massed along Ukraine's borders "not training but ready for combat."


Russia may change budget rules to cope with Crimea: deputy PM


Ukrainian activist claims he was tortured in Crimea


(Reuters) - A Ukrainian activist said on Thursday he was abducted and tortured by a pro-Russian faction in Crimea in an 11-day ordeal before he was released in a prisoner swap last month.

Baltic states use Ukraine crisis to boost LNG import capacities

(Reuters) - Spurred by the Ukraine crisis, the Baltic region is fast-tracking plans to boost its liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports, hoping to drastically cut Moscow's grip on the region's supply.


NATO satellite photos show Russian military buildup near Ukraine

(Reuters) - NATO unveiled satellite photographs on Thursday it said showed Russian deployments of some 40,000 troops near the Ukrainian frontier, along with long lines of tanks, armored vehicles, artillery and aircraft ready for action.


Pro-Russia separatists reject amnesty offer in Ukraine standoff

(Reuters) - Armed pro-Russia separatists in the eastern Ukrainian city of Luhansk rejected Kiev's offer of amnesty for those who seized government buildings this week and called on others to defy the pro-European government in Kiev.

Ukraine says won't charge separatists if buildings surrendered

(Reuters) - Ukraine will not prosecute pro-Russian separatists who seized government buildings if they surrender their weapons and disperse, the country's president said on Thursday, in a bid to ease a crisis that stoked fears of the country's break-up.

Slovak PM calls for talks with Ukraine, Russia, EU on gas flows



Britain, Sweden, Poland want EU Ukraine police mission: document

(Reuters) - Britain, Sweden and Poland are pushing the European Union to send judicial and police advisers to Ukraine to help stabilise the country, according to a document seen by Reuters, a proposal likely to irritate Russia.

Two drug tunnels, with rail systems, found at U.S.-Mexico border

(Reuters) - U.S. federal agents have uncovered two drug-smuggling tunnels underneath the U.S.-Mexico border, both surfacing in San Diego-area warehouses and equipped with rail systems for moving contraband, officials said on Friday.



U.S. to skip China fleet review after Japan shunned


Dig planned in New Mexico to unearth millions of 1980s video game cartridges


Pope says 'enough' to human trafficking, calls it crime against humanity


Senior British politician cleared of sex offences


As riot-hit Indian region votes, religious divide favors Hindu leader

Breakingviews: Greek bond fever may do economy few favours (5:28) 

April 10 - Greece's first bond in four years has met roaring demand but excessive investor enthusiasm could reduce the pressure to reform the serious underlying problems.


Ukraine: government warns of force (1:24) 

April 10 - Pro-Russian separatists in Ukraine call on Russia for help as Kiev government warns it may use force to restore order. Paul Chapman reports.


U.N. council OKs U.N. peacekeepers for Central African Republic



Special Report: The princeling of private equity


Putin: there can be no delay in solving Ukraine gas debt problem


Russian oil firm says Asian buyers willing to use euros


Ukraine passes state procurement law to help secure IMF bailout


Russia says NATO is using Ukraine crisis to boost appeal


Russia warns Europe of gas supply cuts over Ukraine debt


Congress turns GM probe focus to engineers, considers legislation





Modi: Democrat or divider (India)


When credit is too much of a good thing


Revising Obama’s ‘deporter in chief’ policy


Massad: Taking the reins on derivative reforms


Why Crimea matters





Venezuela reaches out to Vatican No. 2 to mediate crisis


Netanyahu orders cutback in contacts with Palestinian Authority


Separatists in east Ukraine call on Putin for help, Kiev warns of force


Toyota to recall nearly 6.5 million vehicles for steering, other faults


Iran, six powers seek to narrow 'significant gaps' in nuclear talks


An election Democrats can win


Hillary Clinton not running (yet), but groups use her name to raise money


Global squities rally, dollar weakens on signals from Fed minutes






Why are colleges discriminating against women?

Girls outshine boys in most aspects of college. And men have not historically suffered discrimination as a group. Yet colleges routinely reject talented young women in favor of less qualified young men. Instead of rewarding girls for success, they discriminate against them.


A dangerous new era: US must take lead in cybersecurity

Growing cyber threats demand leadership that can only come from the US. Europe and the world must move beyond qualms about NSA spying and accept a US leadership role on global cybersecurity. The US must work to rebuild trust to ensure the Internet is kept open and safe.


Saudi Arabia moves to allow girls to play sports in school

For the first time, the Shoura Council, which advises the Saudi government, recommended that girls be allowed to play sports in state-run schools if they conform to Sharia rules on dress and gender segregation.


French PM earns praise in debut, but can he rescue Hollande from himself? (+video)

Prime Minister Manuel Valls passed his first vote of confidence yesterday and won press plaudits. But the challenge of revitalizing Hollande's unpopular policies is daunting.


Ukraine tells pro-Russian separatists to negotiate or face force (+video)

Kiev gave protesters in the east 48 hours to come to the table. But in both Donetsk and Luhansk, armed demonstrators remained behind their barricades.


Ukraine crisis: US hawks say now's the time for more sanctions on Russia

The Obama administration has used harsh words to describe Russia’s moves but appears to prefer brandishing tougher sanctions as a threat to be carried out only if Russia moves into Ukraine.



George Bush's paintings bear uncanny resemblance ... to Google images

Art critics point out that 30 portraits of world leaders appear to have been based on photos thrown up by search engine

Mickey Rooney cuts family out of will

One stepson gets remaining estate of $18,000 that actor said was eaten away by elder abuse and mismanagement

DuckDuckGo: the plucky upstart taking on Google with secure searches

Gabriel Weinberg launched DuckDuckGo as a search engine that puts privacy first, rather than collecting data for advertisers and security agencies

Edward Snowden: US government spied on human rights workers

Whistleblower tells Council of Europe NSA deliberately snooped on groups such as Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International

Pope Francis condemns killing of Jesuit priest in Syria

Pope Francis pays tribute to Francis Van Der Lugt and others dying in his 'beloved Syria'

Why you should care about Bitcoin: digital currency is here to stay

Like a still obscure version of online dollars, bitcoins – or something like them – are here to stay and redefining money

Satellite Eye on Earth: March 2014 - in pictures

Dust storms, desert lightning and ice strings were among the images captured by European Space Agency andNasa satellites last month




Menendez: Europe has 'greatest bite' in responding to Russia



Dems seek to demonize justices



Vladimir Putin: Hitler or Bismarck?



Vladimir Putin: Neo-Soviet strongman-for-life



Iowa Senate candidate: Roadblock to Obama impeachment is race



Obama's unpopularity might be opening for GOP, poll suggests



Hank Aaron: Obama 'stuck in the mud' because of GOP



'Exceptionalism': America’s war on freedom and the rise of the libertarians



God and Putin: Pat Buchanan's startling insight



Huckabee: Gay marriage stance stems from Bible



Bill Clinton: Snowden an 'imperfect messenger'




Medicare millionaires: Who are the top paid doctors?

Medicare millionaires: An AP analysis of federal data shows that 344 physicians made at least $3 million from Medicare in 2012. About 1 in 4 of the top-paid doctors — 87 of them — practice in Florida, a state known both for high Medicare spending and widespread fraud.

US options to curb Russia on Ukraine: Boots on the ground in Poland? (+video)

Amid GOP cries to 'do something' on Ukraine, the Pentagon weighs increasing military exercises, forward deploying equipment and personnel, and increasing naval, air, and ground presence. But there are also risks in doing too much, Pentagon officials say.


Iran's pick for UN envoy has ties to '79 hostage-taking. What should US do?

State Department officials say the US is generally obligated to admit the chosen representatives of UN member states, but members of Congress are livid at Iran's 'slap in the face' of the US.


US, Russia plan Ukraine talks even as worsening crisis casts doubt on dialogue (+video)

Secretary Kerry plans to meet Lavrov next week in Europe but sounded a warning Tuesday that 'Russian special forces and agents' are out to create a 'contrived crisis' in eastern Ukraine.


Ukraine crisis: US warns Russia of more sanctions over 'saboteurs' in east (+video)

The US and Russia said their top diplomats would meet soon to seek a way out of the Ukraine crisis, but their starkly opposed interpretations of the turmoil in the east offer little prospect of common ground.





NEW TECHNOLOGY UNWRAPS MUMMIES' ANCIENT MYSTERIES


IRAN: US POSITION ON ENVOY PICK IS 'UNACCEPTABLE'


BANK OF AMERICA TO CUT 3,000 OVERSEAS JOBS


OIL RISES TO NEAR $103 A BARREL ON UKRAINE UNREST


DOZENS LEAVE OFFICES SEIZED BY UKRAINE SEPARATISTS







Dem touts sexual harassment resolution



Audit: IRS could clamp down on retirement credits



Senators begin new push to overturn sequestration



Amid scandal, McAllister misses second day of House votes


Survey: Net gain of 9.3M insured under O-Care



Murray: 'Threat is growing' of Highway Trust Fund bankruptcy



Husband of woman McAllister kissed: 'He has wrecked my life'





Kerry: New settlements derailed peace talks



McCain blasts Kerry’s ‘trifecta’ of disasters



GOP lawmakers don’t love Jeb’s comments



Dems woo women, hit GOP








Obama's nuclear dilemma



Clinton 'thinking about' 2016 White House run



Potential primary challenger calls on McAllister to resign



Vance McAllister’s kiss could hurt his reelection



Report: Secret Service reassigns staff after drinking scandal





Jimmy Carter on civil rights: Still work to do


Andrew Young: Compromise is not a dirty word


Webb: America’s todays and tomorrows


Dick Morris: Investigate 2012 vote fraud


Holder claims 'vast amount' of discretion in enforcing federal laws




JP Morgan to process payment for Russian embassy, easing tension


Russia's Gazprom says Ukraine did not pay for gas on time

Not a Crimea Replay 'Yet': Ex-Envoy's Take on Russia

Sec. Kerry Calls Russian Paid Operatives in Ukraine Unacceptable

Researchers Suggest It's Time to Downsize Power Grid




Mom of 2 Heroin Addicts: 'This Is Not the Life I Want'

Clinton Weighing 2016 Run, But Soured By Political Dysfunction




Bringing Criminal Charges Against Corporations

DOJ Archives

The Holder Memo: Is It a Double-Edged Sword?


Eric Holder's 1999 Memo Helped Set The Stage For 'Too Big To Jail'

The Holder Memo and Its Progeny


Holder Laid the Groundwork for “Too Big to Jail” In 1999




Untaxed U.S. corporate profits held overseas top $2.1 trillion: study


Obama, Republicans battle over bill on pay equity for women


Big U.S. banks must boost capital by $68 billion under new rules


Exclusive: Iowa, North Carolina join states studying Experian breach






Ukraine's defiant armed separatists prepare for long siege


Kazakhstan nervous of tougher Russia/Ukraine oil sanctions



Conservative Merkel ally criticizes German foreign minister over Russia




NATO to triple Baltic air patrol from next month


CORRECTED-Bulgaria wary as Russia steps up military flights over Black Sea


Breakingviews: Russia would pay heavy price for invasion (4:51) 

April 8 - Pro-Russian agitation in eastern Ukraine has rekindled. But even if Putin is tempted, an invasion would spur costly sanctions and massive capital flight.

Estonia's new PM says Russia sanctions would hurt, but may be needed




For Dems, a problem with seniors


Democrats are facing a senior problem that could get even worse this year.  The party has traditionally had trouble with older voters, losing the group aged 65 and older by 21 points in 2010 — when Republicans picked up 63 seats — and by 12 points in the 2012 presidential race.

Will flash trades now lead to a financial transaction tax?




FTC heads to trial against Jerk.com

It was Shakespeare who asked “What’s in a name?”  If you and your clients keep tabs on the latest legal developments in social networking and reputation management, you’ll want to read the FTC’s complaint against the website Jerk.com – how’s that for a name? – and follow the case as it goes to trial.  According to the complaint, operators of the site improperly used personal information from Facebook to label millions of people a “Jerk” or “not a Jerk,” told consumers they could pay $30 for a “membership” that allowed them to manage or dispute what was said about them on the site, and then didn’t honor that promise.  Oh, and did we mention they charged people $25 just to email their Customer Service Department?

Newspaper: McAllister says he never cheated before


Russia denies trying to destabilize Ukraine


Russian firms listed abroad should consider Moscow move: minister


IMF cuts Russia GDP growth forecast, sees downside risk on geopolitical uncertainty


(Reuters) - The International Monetary Fund cut its 2014 economic growth forecast for Russia by two-thirds on Tuesday and warned that downside risks remain on geopolitical uncertainties after Moscow's takeover of Crimea.  The Fund cut its gross domestic product (GDP) growth forecast to 1.3 percent from an earlier 2 percent, revising down its estimates for the third time in a row, from an initial 3 percent.


Putin and government to discuss Ukraine energy ties


Russia may be laying ground for military action in eastern Ukraine: U.S.


U.S. to trim air, sea and land nuke launchers under U.S.-Russia treaty: officials


House conservatives offer more austere alternative to Ryan budget


Senate votes to bar proposed Iran U.N. ambassador from country


Obamacare 'accomplishing goal': Gallup poll





Opening the political money chutes


Dressing up the NYT with fins, chrome and glitter





U.S. defense chief gets earful as China visit exposes tensions


France's Valls sets out tax and spend shake-up


U.S. accuses Russian agents of stirring eastern Ukraine unrest






The   films   of   Mickey   Rooney - Hollywood   actor


Mixed reviews  for  former  President  George  W.  Bush's  paintings


What’s  at  stake  if  CIA  misled  Congress  about  interrogations?


Ted  Kennedy  Jr.  to  run  for  Connecticut  state  Senate


As  Obamacare  kicked  in,  coverage  went  up,  survey  shows


CIA  used  "Dr. Zhivago"  to  subvert  Soviet  Union  during Cold  War,  newly  declassified  documents  show


Ukraine PM: Russia is behind the unrest in our eastern provinces


In  echo  of  Crimea,  eastern  Ukraine  declares  independence


White House warns Russia about raising tensions in Ukraine




Readers Write: Where are the American prodigies?

Letters to the Editor for the April 7, 2014 weekly magazine:
If it weren't for immigrants America would be in sad shape. Too many 'natives' are more interested in texting, celebrities, sports heroes, fighting over abortion and contraceptive rights, and denying global warming and evolution than promoting and improving education.
Many US colleges are funded by American taxpayers, and their first responsibility is to educate, inspire, and create opportunity for American youth. Should we be focusing on finding foreign talent, rather than recruiting and developing the talent of our own youth?



What Crimea telecom link could mean for Russia-Ukraine cyber-conflict

Plans for a fiber-optic cable between Russia and Crimea are 'at an advanced stage,' and could change the balance of cyber-power by providing Russia with more offensive options, experts say.





COURT REJECTS EARLY APPEAL OF SURVEILLANCE RULING

PACE OF PRESIDENTIAL PREP PICKS UP

UN CLIMATE PANEL CHAIRS CALL FOR 'ENLIGHTENMENT'

PRO-RUSSIANS CALL EAST UKRAINE REGION INDEPENDENT

US TO RUSSIA: DON'T INTERVENE IN EASTERN UKRAINE

A LOOK AT KEY POINTS OF PISTORIUS' TESTIMONY



NEXT YEAR'S HIGH-SKILLED VISAS SNAPPED UP IN DAYS

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Businesses seeking highly skilled workers from overseas took less than a week to snap up all 85,000 visas available for next year.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced Monday that the cap on H-1B visas for the 2015 fiscal year had already been reached.
The agency began accepting applications April 1 for the highly coveted visas used for computer programmers, engineers and other skilled workers employed in the Silicon Valley and elsewhere.
It's no surprise that the cap was reached quickly. That's happened repeatedly in recent years and is a key issue that drove business executives to lobby for comprehensive immigration reform.

ICONIC HOLLYWOOD ACTOR MICKEY ROONEY DIES AT 93







Senators urge review of U.S. Air Force satellite launch program


Scientists dismiss claims that Yellowstone volcano about to erupt


New ‘geologic clock' resets date for moon's formation


Europe launches satellite to monitor environment, disasters


U.S. military satellite launched after 15-year hold


Birds of a feather: hummingbird family tree unveiled





Egypt court upholds jailing of leading pro-democracy activists


Assad 'says fighting largely over by end of year': former Russian PM


Russia says wants answers on NATO troops in eastern Europe


Putin warns against letting West use anti-Kremlin groups



Lost Fabergé Easter egg on show for first time in 112 years




Giant Marilyn Monroe sculpture dismantled (0:38) 

A massive sculpture, immortalizing Marilyn Monroe's famous ''Seven Year Itch'' pose, has been taken apart. Sasha Salama reports. 
Marilyn Monroe is saying 'Goodbye' to Palm Springs and 'Hello' to New Jersey. A giant statue of Monroe's famous "subway breeze" pose has been dismantled in Palm Springs, California. Monroe struck the pose in the 1955 movie "The Seven Year Itch". The scupture, 26-feet tall, was made by American artist, Seward Johnson, to immortalize Monroe who died in 1962 at age 36. The statue is being transported to New Jersey where it will be part of an exhibit honoring Johnson's work.

China official says Islamists seek to ban laughter and crying


Exclusive: Symantec to hire banks for advice, activism defense - sources


Lawsuits deepen shareholder row over 'Russia's Facebook'


Breakingviews: Is BlackRock a black swan? (2:58) - hedge fund

April 7 - Jeffrey Goldfarb and Richard Beales discuss the next phase of the hunt for global systemic risk and whether the $4.3 trillion asset manager and its ilk or specific funds are more to fear.



Pro-Russia activists proclaim separatist republic in east Ukraine city


Plans for EU gas flows to Ukraine could be blocked by Russia


Russia tells Ukraine to stop blaming it for problems


NATO limits access by Russian diplomats in Crimea fallout


Putin says West may use NGOs to stir unrest in Russia






Stress and the Citi


My secret plan for all that new campaign cash!



The right agenda for the IMF


Berlusconi sees social worker before final tax-fraud sentence


Rivals cry foul as early results put Abdullah ahead in Afghan capital




Italy to present new economic, public finance goals on Tuesday


France takes mixed messages to Germany on economy


Democrat Pelosi says Cheney set tone for CIA interrogation practices


Supreme Court declines free speech, gay marriage case


Exclusive: SEC forms squad to examine private funds - sources


Dark markets may be more harmful than high-frequency trading






Iran hopes nuclear deal drafting can start by mid-May


U.S. defense chief, in first, visits China's aircraft carrier


Credit Suisse faces threat of new U.S. tax probe


Russia sends another navy ship towards Syria (0:52) 

Sept. 12 - Another Russian destroyer heads towards the Syrian coast as Moscow, a key ally of Damascus, rotates its navy vessels in the Mediterranean for what it calls a security guarantee. Rough Cut (no reporter narration).

Rasmussen: it would be "historic mistake" for Russia to move further into Ukraine (1:24) 

April 2 - NATO's chief Anders Fogh Rasmussen says further Russian intervention in Ukraine would be an ''historic mistake'' that would isolate Russia even more. Deborah Lutterbeck reports.
NATO issues another warning to Russia as Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen warns Moscow about moving further into Ukraine. (SOUNDBITE) (English) NATO SECRETARY GENERAL ANDERS FOGH RASMUSSEN, SAYING: "If Russia were to intervene further in Ukraine, I wouldn't hesitated, hesitate, to call it an historic mistake. That would lead to further isolation, international isolation of Russia. It would have far reaching consequences." NATO suspended cooperation with Russia - a move a spokesman from Russia's Foreign Ministry says was a throw back to the Cold War. (SOUNDBITE) (Russian) RUSSIAN FOREIGN MINISTRY SPOKESMAN, ALEXANDER LUKASHEVICH, SAYING: "The decision by the NATO Council of Foreign Ministers to suspend practical military and civil cooperation with Russia creates a sense of 'deja vu'. The language of the statements rather resembles the verbal jousting of the 'Cold War' era." Earlier, NATO's top military commander said Russia has massed all the forces it needs on Ukraine's border, if it were to decide to move further into Ukraine. He said Moscow could achieve its objective in three to five days.


Pro-Moscow protesters seize arms, declare republic; Kiev fears invasion


Crimea cost Ukraine over $10 billion in lost natural resources

Mitchell: Obama's Saudi Visit Won't Repair All Wounds

McFaul: Focus of U.S.-Russia Tension Shifts to Moldova, Donetsk

Wyden Pushes Obama to Immediately Stop Phone Metadata Collection

Former CIA Official Denies Allegations on Benghazi


Bill Clinton: 'I Wouldn't Be Surprised' by Alien Visit

Reid: I'm Getting Under Koch Brothers' Skin

Mormon Women Turned Away From All-Male Priesthood Meeting

Can Deserts Stop Global Warming? No, but They Help, Study Says

Clinton Praises Social Media as Way to Fight Corruption

U.S. to China: Don't Try Crimea-Style Action






POLL SHOWS BRAZIL PRESIDENT'S POPULARITY DROPS


MERKEL SAYS EU UNITED ON RUSSIA SANCTIONS

RUSSIA ANGRY OVER GERMAN MINISTER'S CRIMEA COMMENT

LAVROV: UKRAINE CAN'T FUNCTION AS UNIFIED STATE

RETIRED GENERAL TAKING ANOTHER LOOK AT NUKE CORPS

'CUBAN TWITTER' A NEW HURDLE FOR BLOGGERS, EXILES

AP-GFK POLL: ELECTION INDICATORS SUGGEST GOP EDGE



ESA SUCCESSFULLY LAUNCHES NEW MONITORING SATELLITE

RARE MYANMAR ECOSYSTEMS PROTECTED ONLY ON PAPER

STEM CELL CONTROVERSY SETS BACK JAPANESE SCIENCE

SCIENTISTS CREATE WIRING DIAGRAM FOR MOUSE BRAIN



NASA CUTS TIES WITH RUSSIA EXCEPT ON SPACE STATION

VAST OCEAN FOUND BENEATH ICE OF SATURN MOON

7M ENROLLED DOESN'T GUARANTEE HEALTH LAW'S SUCCESS

'WE'RE ALL PAYING:' HEROIN SPREADS MISERY IN US

GAY MEN DIVIDED OVER USE OF HIV PREVENTION DRUG

FAST FACTS ABOUT SOME OBSTACLES TO HEROIN SOBRIETY

HEROIN ADDICTS FACE BARRIERS TO TREATMENT



SAMSUNG HOOKS UNSUSPECTING OBAMA AS PHONE AD STAR

OBAMA SELFIE: WHITE HOUSE OBJECTS TO SAMSUNG USE

*** FIRECHAT IGNITES NEW WAY TO COMMUNICATE ON PHONES

GERMANY INVESTIGATES LARGE-SCALE PASSWORD THEFT

NIGERIA: ECONOMY $510 BILLION, BIGGEST IN AFRICA

ANGRY FAMILIES WANT GM PROSECUTED FOR DEFECTS




5 SIGNS US JOB MARKET MAY FINALLY BE ACCELERATING

A RECOVERING US IS OUTPACING OTHER MAJOR ECONOMIES

FRENCH GREENS BICKERING, DIVIDED AS EU VOTE LOOMS

EXPERTS DECODE GERMS' DNA TO FIGHT FOOD POISONING

RWANDA GENOCIDE: MAN AND VICTIM NOW FRIENDS

GOP SEEKS COVERAGE CHOICES IN HEALTH LAW THEY HATE

US SENDING 2 WARSHIPS TO JAPAN TO COUNTER N KOREA







Queen Elizabeth gives Pope Francis eggs, whisky, beer at Vatican meeting


Belgian Trappist monks overwhelmed by their “world’s best beer” tag


Pussy Riot protesters cleared of religious hatred charge in Russia


Victim of Boston bombing attack sues Glenn Beck for defamation


Gasoline-loving spiders cause Mazda car recall for second time


Senator goes to wrong hearing, blames Moscow






Afghan elections redefine U.S. role


Defense chief prods 'great power' China to respect neighbors


Raiffeisen Bank subsidiary to close Crimea branches


Ukraine eyes arbitration if Russia doesn't cut gas price


EU weighs new approach towards Russia in wake of Ukraine crisis


Poland's PM says NATO to boost military presence within weeks


Merkel: No one should doubt EU resolve on Russia sanctions


Ridding Ukraine of corruption is vital, says presidential candidate


PRO-RUSSIANS STORM UKRAINE GOVERNMENT BUILDINGS





Pro-Russia protesters storm regional government building in east Ukraine


Spy in the sky – Europe’s new weapon against climate change (6:34) 

April 3 - The biggest ever Earth-observation project begins its rollout in French Guiana. The Sentinel-1A satellite will provide imaging to capture climate change, floods and much else besides.

India poised for mammoth vote, Hindu nationalists strong


Smooth Afghan poll raises questions about Taliban strength


U.S., in nod to Tokyo, to send more ships to Japan, prods China


Netanyahu: Israel wants peace talks but "not at any price"


Merkel ally says U.S. assurances on NSA spying 'insufficient'





Breakingviews: Carlyle’s investment hell (3:46) 

April 4 - Richard Beales and Jeffrey Goldfarb discuss the buyout firm’s sticky problem with a small Montana water utility and what it says about public-private infrastructure investments.

Ban on Russian contacts spreads to space agency NASA


JP Morgan to process payment for Russian embassy, easing tension


Russia recalls military representative in rebuke to NATO


Russia raises gas prices for Ukraine by 80 percent


Russia protests over German minister's Nazi-Crimea comparison


Russia detains 25 Ukrainians suspected of attacks: statement


Obama briefs congressional leaders on Ukraine crisis



Ukraine must have real, not cosmetic, constitutional reform: Russia


Russia's card plan seen unlikely to replicate China's UnionPay


Russia sacrifices Gazprom profit for politics in Ukraine: analysts



Russia faces July deadline to fix $2.2 billion trucking row


Greater tension could do systemic harm to Russian firms-Norilsk


Ukraine in emergency talks with EU neighbors on gas imports




EU must be ready with Russia sanctions over Ukraine: Britain


My secret plan for all that new campaign cash!


(U.S. Supreme Court) Roberts Court: Easier to donate, harder to vote


Japan orders military to strike any new North Korea missile launches





U.S. knocks plans for European communication network



Iran oil exports will be in line with sanctions target: U.S.


Lawsuit over American drone strikes dismissed by U.S. judge


U.S. finalizing plan to boost support for Syrian rebels: sources



U.S. will not stand in way of Scottish independence: Salmond


Lawmaker calls Congress 'underpaid', objects to salary freeze


Exclusive: Symantec to hire banks for advice, activism defense - sources


Internet companies' growing ambitions spook 51 percent of Americans: Reuters/Ipsos poll


Hagel, in Tokyo, moves to reassure Japan on security ties


Kerry warns U.S. is evaluating role in Middle East peace talks




How to get Americans back to work


A smarter way of subsidizing parenthood



Portraits by George W. Bush



McDonald's quits Crimea as fears of trade clash grow


Ukraine PM says will stick to austerity despite Moscow pressure


U.S. probing high-speed trading, attorney general says


SEC charges trading firm owner, others in 'spoofing' case


Russia protests over German minister's Nazi-Crimea comparison




NATO suspends ties with Russia, urges international law compliance

Ukrainian panel's probe links previous government to shooting deaths

Ukraine is big deal, but not the biggest deal for the U.S.


President Obama makes it clear that Russia's taking of Crimea doesn't outweigh other foreign policy priorities, leaving experts to debate how aggressively to act.



Crimea crisis highlights Germany's aversion to being in the vanguard

Many in the West want Angela Merkel to lead a strong European response to Russia. But that role doesn't come easily to her or Germany.



George W. Bush Reluctant To Display Paintings

NSA performed warrantless searches on Americans' calls and emails – Clapper


  • NSA used 'back door' to search Americans' communications
  • Director of national intelligence confirms use of new legal rule
  • Data collected under 'Prism' and 'Upstream' programs

UKRAINE: YANUKOVYCH ORDERED SNIPERS TO SHOOT

OLIGARCH: US CHARGES 'POLITICALLY MOTIVATED'

RUSSIAN ENVOY URGES US OFFICIALS TO 'DO YOGA'

BIDEN AND GREEK LEADER DISCUSS ECONOMY AND UKRAINE

US REACHES $5.15 BILLION ENVIRONMENTAL SETTLEMENT

REACHING LATINOS: MEDIA VIES FOR A WINNING FORMULA






Charles Koch fires back on critics in op-ed


Leahy questions advice to Clinton on 'Cuban Twitter' program


Jindal: The forgotten 2016 candidate?


Chairman: US needs Russian choppers


Lawmakers to Hagel: Stop buying Russian-made helicopters


Obama signs bill shifting party convention funds to pediatric research




Senate Intel panel approves CIA report


Vladimir Putin is single again (1:02) 

April 3 - The Kremlin confirms that Russian President Vladimir Putin's divorce from his wife Lyudmila has been finalized. Deborah Lutterbeck reports.
It's official. Vladimir Putin is single again. The Kremlin confirmed this week that his divorce from his wife of 30 years has been finalized. Putin confirmed the end of the marriage last June. (SOUNDBITE) (Russian) RUSSIAN PRESIDENT, VLADIMIR PUTIN, SAYING: "Yes, it's true. All my activities, all my work is connected with publicity, with absolute publicity. Some people like it, some don't. But there are people who are absolutely incompatible with that. Lyudmila Alexandrovna has been on guard for the last 8 or 9 years already. So, that is a mutual decision." The announcement removes a big question mark about the private life of a president who has increasingly touted traditional values and championed the conservative Russian Orthodox Church as a moral authority.


Chinese Buddhist temple forms "anti-terrorist" squad


U.N. climate chief urges radical clean-up of oil, gas industry


U.S. futures regulator CFTC probing speed traders



Breakingviews: Michael Lewis unplugged (16:14) 

April 3 - The ''Flash Boys'' author talks to Jeffrey Goldfarb about Wall Street's highly charged response to his book about high-frequency trading and rigged markets.

Beyond burqa bans: US must update laws on face veils

It's time for the US to get its thoughts – and laws – in order regarding the niqab and burqa. The US can set a standard for how conservative Muslim dress can be integrated into a free, largely non-Muslim society while protecting both civil liberties and public safety.


The US-Russia 'great game' over Ukraine

The US-Russia talks over Ukraine's future left out the Ukrainian people, treating them like pawns on a chessboard. In the age of democracy and the Internet, big powers cannot go over the heads of individuals and their aspirations.


Putin's new soft-power media machine (+video)

Russia's new state media is helping shape perceptions in Ukraine and the rest of the Russian-speaking world. It is slick, professional, and rooted in heavily spun truth.


The news bubble around Vladimir Putin

What we tell others can end up convincing us as well. The Russian leader has created a modern, Russia-centric news machine that puts forth his view of the world. Is he deceiving himself?

The Russian leader has built a new Russian media to project his version of history. But the stories we tell to persuade others often succeed only in persuading ourselves. As Albright puts it, Putin is likely “living in a parallel universe of the propaganda that he himself has perpetrated.” 

Why a Supreme Court ruling may help curb corruption

A Supreme Court ruling that further lifts curbs on money in politics is a reminder of why global efforts against corruption must be grass roots.


Israeli-Palestinian peace effort not dead yet, claims Kerry

Palestinian leaders appear to have given up on US-brokered talks with Israel, spurring criticism from all sides as well as reflection on what lies ahead. 


China achieves ancient 'dream' of wealth and power. What's missing: respect.

Q & A: China-hand Orville Schell talks on China's troubling nationalism, recent tensions with Japan, the Dalai Lama, Nobel-winner Liu Xiaobo, and China's unrequited craving for respect. 


Could Estonia be the next target of Russian annexation?

Some fear Estonia's Russian-speaking minority could try to follow Crimea's path. But many see the grass as greener in Estonia.


North Korea unveils new logo for its aptly named space agency

The emblem, North Korea's year-old National Aerospace Development Administration, or NADA, bears an uncanny resemblance to NASA's insignia.

Why do zebras have stripes? New research offers answer. (+video)

Zebras' black and white stripes keep biting flies away, according to a new research.


Chile earthquake: Is the 8.2 temblor only a foreshock?

While Tuesday's earthquake in Chile was large by any measure, seismologists remain concerned it could have been a foreshock to a much larger quake in this region – a section of plate boundary that hasn't seen a major rupture in 137 years.


Ravenous galaxy devours neighbor, leaves crumbs

The fourth-brightest source of radio emissions in our sky, the NGC 1316 galaxy beams thanks to the insatiable appetite of its black hole. Now astronomers have imaged the galaxy, and found it smeared with the remains of other galaxies it has demolished.


How moist is the moon? Not very, say scientists

A new study suggests that previous estimates overestimated the amount of water on the moon.


NASA to suspend almost all ties with Russia, according to leaked internal memo

According to a leaked Internal Memo from NASA published by NASA Watch on its website, the US space agency plans to suspend relations with Russia, with the exception of operations related to the International Space Station.


Comet close call: boon for science, but worry for craft orbiting Mars (+video)

Siding Spring comet, on track to pass close by Mars, will give scientists a good look. But related debris, traveling at high velocities, could be a hazard for delicate instruments on orbiters.


How old is the moon? New dating method offers clues.

A new study found that the moon was formed just 100 million years after the solar system came into being.


Poll finds broad, rapid shift among Americans toward gay marriage

Personal contact with gay family members, friends, and neighbors is driving a speedy shift in attitudes about gay marriage, pollster says. A new survey puts support at 55 percent, with 40 percent opposed.


General's sentence in sex case called a 'shock,' 'beyond disappointing' (+video)

Brig. Gen. Jeffrey Sinclair received no jail time or demotion in rank despite having a long-standing affair with a captain under his command and inappropriate relationships with three junior soldiers.


Cyber-security: Hagel, at NSA headquarters, promises more transparency (+video)

In a carefully worded speech on cyber-security described as a study in 'strategic ambiguity,' Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel also called for the development of offensive cyber-capabilities and investment in the Pentagon's Cyber Command.


Iran's pick for UN envoy has ties to '79 hostage-taking. What should US do?

State Department officials say the US is generally obligated to admit the chosen representatives of UN member states, but members of Congress are livid at Iran's 'slap in the face' of the US.



Hidden sea on Saturn's moon Enceladus revealed, boosting hopes for life

New data from NASA's Cassini mission appear to confirm a large liquid-water sea below the icy crust of Enceladus, a small Saturn moon. The sea could be habitable for microbes, at least.


Bill Clinton talks aliens with Jimmy Kimmel. And what else?

In a surprise move, the 42nd president of the United States took to discussing aliens with Jimmy Kimmel. As president, Bill Clinton ordered aides to investigate the rumors. But did he stop there?


Americans, weary of war on drugs, prefer rehab to jail, poll says

In a significant shift, a new poll finds that two-thirds of Americans favor drug policies that emphasize treatment, not prison sentences, for those who use illegal drugs such as heroin or cocaine.





Investigators seek Ford Hood gunman's motive after rampage kills three


Shootings frustrate U.S. military efforts to secure bases


JP Morgan to process payment for Russian embassy, easing tension


Credit Suisse increases provision for U.S. tax deal


Palestinian U.N. moves designed to avoid U.S. retaliation


Ukraine points finger at ex-president and Russia in sniper deaths


AP INTERVIEW: YANUKOVYCH ADMITS MISTAKES ON CRIMEA

ROSTOV-ON-DON, Russia (AP) — Defensive and at times tearful, Ukraine's ousted president conceded Wednesday that he made a mistake when he invited Russian troops into Crimea and vowed to try to negotiate with Vladimir Putin to get the coveted Black Sea peninsula back...  Asked about the move, Yanukovych said he made a mistake.

IRANIANS AVOID BAD LUCK WITH OUTDOOR FESTIVAL

TEHRAN, Iran (AP) — Iranians flocked to parks rich with the smell of grilled kebabs Wednesday to toss around Frisbees, bat badminton birdies and battle one another in chess and backgammon — all to avoid being caught inside on the unlucky 13th day of the Iranian new year.

US TROUBLED BY IRAN'S CHOICE OF ITS UN AMBASSADOR

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. objected Wednesday to Iran's anticipated selection of a former hostage-taker at the American Embassy in Tehran as its newest ambassador to the United Nations. But the Obama administration stopped short of saying it would refuse him a visa to enter the United States.


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