European Court Holds Russia Liable for Human Rights Violations in Ukraine and MH17 Attack

Dr. Kevin O'Connor, who served as President Biden's White House physician, showed up for a closed-door interview with the House Oversight Committee but refused to answer questions, invoking his Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination. The session was short and left lawmakers with little new information.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t an everyday occurrence—a president’s personal doctor taking the Fifth raises eyebrows, even if we don’t yet know why he did it. It adds fuel to the ongoing political scrutiny over Biden’s health and transparency, but without more details, it’s more of a curiosity than a bombshell. Still, it keeps the conversation alive about how much the public (and Congress) should know about a president’s medical history.

The Fairmont Empress in Victoria, British Columbia, just snagged the top spot as Canada’s best hotel, according to Travel + Leisure readers. The iconic waterfront property won over voters with its stunning views, rich history, and legendary service.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just a win for the hotel—it’s a boost for Victoria’s tourism scene. The Empress has been a landmark for over a century, and this recognition reinforces its reputation as a must-visit destination. For travelers, it’s a solid endorsement that the experience lives up to the hype.

Senate Minority Whip John Thune hinted that a vote on new sanctions against Russia could happen within weeks, signaling bipartisan momentum to hold Moscow accountable for its aggression in Ukraine. Lawmakers are pushing to tighten economic pressure, though details on the sanctions' scope remain unclear.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another political headline—it’s a sign that Washington is serious about ratcheting up the financial pain on Russia. With Ukraine’s fate hanging in the balance, these sanctions could either force Putin’s hand or escalate tensions further. Either way, it’s a move with global consequences.

A tragic overdose in a quiet Vermont town turned out to be the thread that unraveled a massive international heroin ring. The drug, branded as "Flow," led investigators—including a New York prosecutor—on a sprawling chase across borders, revealing just how far-reaching and devastating the opioid trade can be.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another drug bust story—it’s a stark reminder of how deeply the opioid crisis is woven into communities, big and small. One death exposed a network that stretched across continents, showing how local tragedies are often tied to global criminal enterprises. It’s a sobering look at the human cost behind the headlines.

The Bank of England is suggesting easing restrictions on riskier mortgage lending, which could make it easier for first-time homebuyers to get a foot on the property ladder. This move might open up more options for people with smaller deposits or less-than-perfect credit.

Editor’s Note: For years, tight mortgage rules have locked many first-time buyers out of the market—especially those without hefty savings. If this change goes through, it could mean more flexibility for lenders and a shot at homeownership for younger or lower-income buyers. But there’s a flip side: looser rules might also fuel higher debt or housing price spikes, so it’s not without risks. Still, for anyone dreaming of their first home, this could be a big deal.