US jury finds French bank BNP Paribas complicit in Sudan atrocities

A New York jury has ruled that BNP Paribas is liable for over $20 million in damages to three Sudanese refugees who are now US citizens. The jury found that the French bank played a role in supporting the regime of former leader Omar al-Bashir, which was responsible for severe atrocities against civilians in Sudan. This ruling highlights the accountability of financial institutions in global human rights issues and could set a precedent for future cases involving banks and their complicity in international crimes.

In a surprising turn of events, Donald Trump has announced that he has commuted the sentence of George Santos, the former New York representative who was sentenced to over seven years in prison for fraud and identity theft. This decision comes after Santos's controversial political career, which was marred by deception. The commutation raises questions about accountability and the implications for future political figures, as it highlights the ongoing debates around justice and redemption in the political arena.

In a pivotal moment for justice, a Saskatoon jury has found Roderick Sutherland guilty of manslaughter in the death of Megan Gallagher. This verdict concludes a five-year investigation, bringing some closure to the case and highlighting the importance of accountability in tragic circumstances. It serves as a reminder of the legal system's role in addressing serious crimes and the impact such cases have on communities.

The Trump administration has decided to freeze $11 billion in infrastructure projects across Democratic states like New York, San Francisco, and Boston amid the ongoing government shutdown. This move, announced by budget director Russell Vought, is seen as a tactic in the political standoff over funding, impacting essential projects and local economies. The pause in work by the US Army Corps of Engineers raises concerns about the future of these initiatives and the broader implications for infrastructure development in the affected areas.

The New York chapter of the Young Republicans has been suspended after a unanimous vote by the state committee, following the revelation of racist and antisemitic chats among its members, as reported by Politico. This incident highlights ongoing issues of racism within political organizations and raises questions about accountability and the values upheld by such groups. The suspension serves as a significant response to the unacceptable behavior displayed, emphasizing the need for political entities to foster inclusive environments.

Ace Frehley, the iconic guitarist of the rock band Kiss, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy marked by his unique 'Spaceman' persona and electrifying performances. His life, however, was not without controversy; in 1983, he faced serious legal troubles after a reckless driving incident while intoxicated. This obituary reflects on both his musical contributions and the challenges he faced, reminding us of the complexities of fame and the impact of personal choices.

California Governor Gavin Newsom's recent veto of a bill aimed at banning PFAS, often referred to as 'forever chemicals', has raised concerns among advocates and environmentalists. This decision not only impacts California but could also influence similar legislative efforts in other states like New York. As the governor eyes a potential presidential run, critics worry that political ambitions are overshadowing public health and environmental safety, leaving communities vulnerable to the harmful effects of these chemicals.

The recent New York mayoral debate featured candidates Mamdani and Cuomo engaging in a heated exchange, focusing on pressing issues like the cost of living and rent. This debate is significant as it highlights the candidates' differing approaches to critical urban challenges, which will shape the city's future. Additionally, the head of MI5's comments on China's threat to national security have stirred controversy, while the British Museum prepares for its first Pink Ball fundraising event, showcasing the intersection of culture and community support.

The first men's T20 cricket international between New Zealand and England is underway in Christchurch, marking an exciting start to the series. Fans are eager to see how both teams perform, especially with players like Buttler and Bethell in action. This match is significant as it sets the tone for the series and showcases the talent in international cricket.

As the Premier League returns, there's a lot to discuss, from the pressure mounting on Ange Postecoglou to the absence of key players like Rodri for Manchester City. Fans are gearing up for an exciting matchday, with Nottingham Forest's Q&A session set to kick off the day. This weekend's matches are crucial as teams vie for points and position, making it a significant moment in the league's season.

In a recent meeting, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was unable to secure Tomahawk missiles from former President Donald Trump. This outcome is significant as it highlights ongoing challenges in Ukraine's defense efforts amid the conflict with Russia. Trump's call for both Kyiv and Moscow to halt their military actions underscores the complexities of the situation and raises questions about future support for Ukraine.

The recent meeting between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has been described as 'bad' by Axios, primarily because it concluded without any commitment to deliver Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine. This is significant as it highlights ongoing tensions and the complexities of US-Ukraine relations, especially in the context of Ukraine's defense needs amid ongoing conflicts.

China Eastern Airlines is set to resume flights to India after a five-year hiatus, marking a significant step in improving diplomatic relations between the two countries. This resumption comes as tensions over border clashes ease, highlighting the importance of connectivity in fostering better ties. Travelers can look forward to renewed opportunities for business and tourism, making this development a positive sign for both nations.

The Galleri test has shown promising results in detecting 50 types of cancer by identifying DNA fragments from tumors in the bloodstream. This breakthrough could revolutionize early cancer detection, allowing for timely treatment and potentially saving lives. As more people get screened, the hope is to catch cancers earlier than ever before, making a significant impact on survival rates.