Trending World

Listen as Radio

Ex-Teacher Posed as Teen, Engaged in Explicit Chats with Minors

A former New York school teacher, Ryan J. McCaffery, was arrested on Monday for allegedly posing as a teenager to extort sexually explicit photographs from minors. The 37-year-old, who previously taught at Riverhead High School, faces 11 charges, including disseminating indecent material to minors and promoting a sexual performance by a child under 17. The arrest followed a cyber tip received by the Internet Crime Against Children Task Force, leading to a search warrant executed at McCaffery's home in January 2025, where police seized multiple electronic devices. Investigators uncovered online communications between McCaffery and juvenile victims under 13, conducted through a Snapchat account. After a comprehensive investigation, he surrendered to authorities and was arraigned in Suffolk County. The New York State Police and Suffolk County District Attorney's Office continue to investigate potential additional victims. McCaffery has pleaded not guilty to all charges. sources

Published:
May 14 2025, 10 am IST

Zelenskyy Open to Peace Talks with Putin in Turkey

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed his desire to hold direct talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Turkey on Thursday, despite skepticism about Putin's attendance. This would be the first face-to-face meeting since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, aimed at negotiating a ceasefire and establishing a framework for its implementation. Zelenskyy emphasized that without Putin, the summit would be futile, as previous lower-level meetings yielded no results. He also noted that U.S. President Donald Trump is considering joining the talks and indicated that there is political momentum in Congress for new sanctions against Russia, which he described as "strong and very dangerous." Zelenskyy plans to meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara, and if Putin attends, they will proceed to Istanbul. He warned that Putin's absence would signal Russia's unwillingness to end the conflict. sources

Published:
May 14 2025, 11 am IST

Jose Mujica: Remembering the World's 'Poorest President' at 89

Former Uruguayan President Jose Mujica, celebrated for his humble lifestyle and progressive policies, has died at the age of 89 after battling oesophageal cancer. Uruguay's current President, Yamandu Orsi, confirmed the news, expressing profound sorrow on social media, highlighting Mujica's legacy as a leader and activist. Mujica, often referred to as the "world's poorest president," was a former guerrilla fighter who endured nearly 15 years in prison during Uruguay's military dictatorship. He later emerged as a pivotal political figure, serving as president from 2010 to 2015, during which he implemented significant reforms including the legalization of abortion, same-sex marriage, and recreational cannabis. Known for his simplicity, Mujica lived on a modest farm instead of the presidential palace, donating most of his salary to charity. In his final days, he chose to forgo treatment and spent time at his farm, reflecting on his extraordinary life and legacy. sources

Published:
May 14 2025, 11 am IST

Trump's Qatar Jet Gift Haunts Spy Experts, Say Analysts

Qatar's recent offer of a luxury Boeing 747 to former President Donald Trump has raised significant concerns among U.S. intelligence and diplomatic officials, who view gifts from foreign nations with skepticism. The lavish aircraft, featuring a French-designed interior and previously used by a high-ranking Qatari royal, could pose security risks, including potential surveillance and compromised communications. Experts warn that the plane would require extensive retrofitting to meet Air Force One standards, a process that could take years. While Trump has defended the gift, arguing it reflects the U.S.'s need for impressive aircraft, critics—including some of his supporters—have likened it to a bribe and questioned the implications of accepting such a gesture from a nation that hosts Hamas's political office. Balancing diplomatic etiquette with security concerns complicates the situation, as rejecting the gift could offend Qatari leaders amidst ongoing regional tensions. sources

Published:
May 14 2025, 9 am IST

Trump Prioritizes Dealmaking Over Rights in Saudi Speech

During his first overseas visit of his second term, President Donald Trump delivered a clear message in Saudi Arabia: prioritize business deals, and the US will refrain from interfering in domestic affairs. Praising Saudi leadership for its modernization efforts, Trump emphasized that the Middle East's future should be defined by commerce rather than chaos. He rejected traditional US policies of nation-building and human rights advocacy, expressing admiration for Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Trump's approach marks a significant shift from previous administrations, focusing on strengthening ties with controversial leaders while criticizing allies like Germany over their domestic policies. He also indicated a willingness to lift sanctions on Syria following regime changes, aiming to foster stability through economic partnerships. The White House announced $600 billion in investment commitments from Saudi Arabia, reinforcing Trump's vision of a pragmatic, deal-centric foreign policy that prioritizes American interests. sources

Published:
May 14 2025, 9 am IST