text:
Tag: Rufus Sewell
OCTOBER 2016 Viewing Recap + Movie(s) of the Month
On November 1, 2016 November 2, 2016 By ruthIn Weekend Roundup31 Comments
Am I the only one still in disbelief it's November already?? But I'm glad the temp hasn't dipped that much yet, this week's still gonna be in the mid 50s to 60 degrees, which is much warmer than usual, yay!
Well, it's no surprise October is the busiest month for me, thanks to TCFF! I also managed to squeeze in a few new releases before the film fest started. Suffice to say I saw the most films in October than any other month!
Here are movies I saw in October:
The Girl On A Train
TCFF Movies
Blood Stripe
In Pursuit Of Silence
June Falling Down
Miles Between Us
My Scientology Movie
Prison Dogs
Word of Honour: Reclaiming Mandela's Promise
I haven't reviewed these films below I saw at TCFF. Some because of a studio embargo until their local release date, and some because I simply haven't got around to writing them. I shall try to do so in the coming weeks, but honestly, I need a bit of a blogging break.
Sweet Land | The Eagle Huntress | Iron Will
Burn Country | No Light and No Land Anywhere | Trespass Against Us
Claire in Motion | 11:55 | Actors of Sound
Free Cece | Lion | Moonlight
The Last King (2003 TV miniseries)
Earlier this month I also got to see this miniseries, directed by Joe Wright and starring the immensely watchable Rufus Sewell. It's the chronicle of Charles II's time on the throne, his 10 year exile from Oliver Cromwell's England, and his triumphant return. I haven't finished it yet but hopefully later this month, as you know I have a penchant for period dramas starring gorgeous Brits 😉
We've got a tie this month! It's tough enough to pick just TWO favorites of the month, let alone one. But these two moved me more than others and the ones I keep thinking about days after. Not only do these two feature excellent storytelling and performances, they're also groundbreaking in many ways. It's so rare to see female soldiers being depicted on screen, it's even more scarce to see a good depiction of them the way Blood Stripe did.
As for Moonlight, I honestly have never seen Black sexuality/masculinity depicted in this way and it struck me just how beautiful and nuanced the story was. I'm also impressed by the casting of the protagonist, utilizing three different actors in three main stages of his life. Lets just say this film is worth the hype.
Well that's my viewing recap of OCTOBER. What's YOUR favorite film(s) of the month?
Everybody's Chattin + Question of the week: Supporting cast you wish got the leading role
On July 1, 2015 July 1, 2015 By ruthIn Everybody's Chattin', Random Movie Question43 Comments
I can hardly believe half of the year's already come and gone! It's been a rather odd month for me, but in terms of movie watching, it's rather uneventful. I sure hope the later part of 2015 have better films in store for us… and looking at Katy's list of highly-anticipated movies for the rest of 2015, I think the chance of that is VERY promising! I'd add Southpaw to the list, which I'll be seeing on the third week of July, and The Man from UNCLE which looks like fun!
Ok so about those links…
Since I'm currently embarking on my first screenplay project, this post on opening sentences in fiction from my pal Cindy, who happens to be a novelist herself, is definitely an inspiring read
I won't have a Music Break post this week, so take a listen to Josh's pick of Movie Song of the Week
Khalid reviewed Terry Gilliam's comedy Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas
Andrew is back with his Oscar series 4 Ways a Best Picture, and the year is 2009
Jay just reviewed a film I still haven't got around to but will have to soon, Calvary
Though Summer's just starting here in the States, Michael's veering into cold, dark horror territory with his book-film duo post on The Shining
And last but not least, Eddie's talking about Orphan Black season 3, a series I've been curious about for some time.
Time for question of the week!
So this week's question is inspired by my recent viewing of Self/less. My review of it is done in my draft folder, but there's one thing that's stuck with me whilst I was watching it. In fact, I kept thinking about it as I was writing my review. Why isn't a perfectly talented actor like Matthew Goode leading this movie? Now I'm not saying the movie would've automatically been stellar as no matter how good an actor can't overcome a bad script, but at least Goode would've been more enjoyable to watch for two hours than Ryan Reynolds!
I had the same feeling when I watched Tristan + Isolde a few years ago. I kept wondering why they cast James Franco being all sullen and morose as Tristan whilst the much hunkier Henry Cavill was stuck playing third banana. Now I'm not saying Franco is a terrible actor, I just think Cavill would've suited the role better. Heck, even Rufus Sewell who's another supporting actor in the film left a more lasting impression to me than Franco did. I even dedicated a post here.
The New World is another one that came to mind as I think Christian Bale would've been great in the lead role instead of Colin Farrell. The last 20 minutes of the film with Bale is the highlight of the film for me and I actually bought the DVD because of it.
Interesting that both Cavill and Bale have ended up becoming Superman and Batman, respectively, I didn't purposely select them because of it, but clearly both have leading-man qualities.
I'm sure there are others but let's just start there. I bet you've also felt the same when you watch certain films.
So tell me, which films have you seen where you wish one of the supporting cast got the lead role?
FlixChatter [Guest] Review: HERCULES (2014) & Spotlight on Rufus Sewell as Autolycus
On August 9, 2014 By ruthIn Flix News11 Comments
I love going to a movie when I'm really not going there to see the movie. This can only mean one thing – Rufus Sewell is once more on the big screen. He played one of Hercules' band of mercenaries, Autolyclus, and wow, did he ever buff up for this role. He also got to shed his typecast "bad guy" role that he's keen to be rid of. You gotta love men's Grecian/Roman wardrobe, Ruf wears them well. Too bad I missed out on bidding for his costume on ebay. The winning bid only $1,090? I would have easily coughed up more than that ;-D.
Rufus himself on his character, Autolycus
I promised Flixy this review would be short, but when I found this excerpt from the film's production notes on The Rooftop where Rufus talks more about his role, that promise just went out the window:
Autolycus might lack for Hercules' astonishing strength, but he has more than made up for it with the sharp blade of his wit, ultimately becoming Hercules' master strategist. Rufus Sewell, the English actor recently seen in "Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter," takes on the role of Hercules' wisecracking friend.
"Autolycus and Hercules go way back, and they've got each other's backs," Sewell explains. "They have a kind of communication that goes beyond words. They've always worked together, and that's a source of great pride to Autolycus, that he knows Hercules better than anyone else." At the same time,
Autolycus has a cheeky side Sewell found a lot of fun. "He's a bit of a wheeler dealer," Sewell confesses. "He's got a sarcastic tongue and a real sense of humor with Hercules. He not only is the brains of the operation but he's also the one who is always thinking about the gold coinage. He does have a good heart, but he often keeps it hidden."
In battle, Autolycus utilizes a series of blades to his advantage – which for Sewell, meant he knew he had to start training the minute he accepted the role. "You know there's going to be a lot of training when you have to stand next to Dwayne Johnson, and be even remotely believable as the same species," jokes Sewell. "I did fight training, weight training and weapons training. Since we're mercenaries, the fighting in the film is very much to the point. There isn't a lot of fancy footwork. At the same time, what I love about the film is that it has so much humor and humanity."
"Every set was like something out of Cecil B. DeMille, with that kind of scope," recalls Rufus. "It makes a big difference to actors because you're reacting to a real environment."
More on Autolycus
Oh, and what about his acting, you say? His character is not a cliche, but one with strong emotions: sincerity to rage, matter-of-fact to tongue-in-cheek. He likes playing well-rounded characters, so I imagine this one fit the bill for him perfectly. Rufus, along with Ian McShane, provide comic relief. He does love his gold, which causes him to almost abandon the cause, but in the end he stays loyal. Favorite line from Autolyclus: "Don't just stand there… kill someone!"
On the Movie
And just in case you think I'm writing this only to talk up Rufus, you're almost correct, but here's what I actually thought about it. Since I didn't go in with ANY expectations, I was pleasantly surprised. The plot is perfectly uncomplicated but never boring, the battle scenes weren't "shaky" and included battle strategies that were quite unique to me, and the wide-shot aerial cinematography was sweeping and scenic and CGI didn't seem to be overused. Hercules' superhuman strength is illustrated by a horse and rider being tossed into the air, not by any mythical creatures.
I don't really go out of my way to see Dwayne Johnson flicks, but he really was perfect for this role. And boy, do I ever like his look when he's got beard and hair. The rest of the cast fill their roles well. To hear more about the them, check out this video feature with director Brett Ratner and Dwayne:
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x22dlvr_hercules-featurette-uk-talent-2014-rufus-sewell-john-hurt-ian-mcshane-action-movie-hd_shortfilms
I don't go to many summer PG13 action adventure films so Hercules may be lacking for some more jaded and sophisticated movie goers (Yes, Ted S., I know who you are… you're at the very top of this list!), but Hercules gets a solid 3.5 reels from me. And even though Flixchatter ratings only go up to five, Rufus, of course, as usual, gets a perfect 10.
Now, what do you think of Hercules?
Question of the Week: Which films with great ensemble cast that fail to deliver?
On April 22, 2014 April 30, 2014 By ruthIn Random Movie Question106 Comments
It really pains me that the movie that *inspired* me for this edition of Question of the Week is one I've actually been looking forward to for some time. When I first blogged about it in January 2013, I was super duper excited about the cast. The movie is called The Deadly Game in the UK, complete with an even cheesier poster. I much prefer the Paul Shipper version on below right, if only the film itself is even half as intriguing.
I never thought a British thriller starring Gabriel Byrne, Rufus Sewell AND Toby Stephens be so insufferably dreary. Even the actors look bored here, only Rufus seems to be having a bit more fun than the rest. My hubby actually fell asleep halfway through and I didn't bother waking him up. If it weren't for these three of my favorite Brits, well four if you count London which is practically a character in itself, I would've turned it off within 10 minutes. I don't really feel like reviewing it, but I agree with these reviewers:
All Things to All Men is the latest attempt to make a British Michael Mann-style crime epic based on a fundamental misunderstanding of what Michael Mann actually does as a filmmaker. – The Scotsman
"Despite Sewell's laconic ruthlessness, Stephens's steely taciturnity and Byrne's world-weary arrogance, there's an all-round lack of conviction." – Radio Times
Now this one sums my feelings exactly:
"[George Isaac's] dizzying array of double-dealing gangsters, cops, hoodlums and hit men seem to be weirdly obsessed with taking in the sights. Issac describes his film as "a love letter to London". Seriously, they should just get a room."
So the only *character* that's not wasted is London, but even so, the setting seems has no purpose. There's a great shot of Stephens inside the London Eye but all he does is take a phone call! There is really no reason to have that scene shot there other than for pure visual spectacle. It's a shame really, this could've been so much better and more gripping when you've got THIS kind of talents involved. It made me think of other movies that didn't deliver despite the great cast, in fact you could say the cast is completely wasted. And I'm talking terrible films here, not just middling. Just from the past couple of years alone, we've got Gangster Squad, Now You See Me, The Monuments Men. Fortunately I skipped some of those Love, Actually copycats like Valentine's Day or New York, I Love You (which I turned off after about 5 minutes). Oh and I avoided Movie 43 like the plague, I mean I don't think ANY actor could've possibly saved such a movie.
So now your turn… what's the worst movie(s) you saw with a great ensemble cast?
Weekend Roundup & MSPIFF14 double reviews starring Juliette Binoche
On April 21, 2014 March 24, 2015 By ruthIn Film Festivals/Events, Flix Reviews, Weekend Roundup37 Comments
Happy Monday everyone! Hope you all had a lovely Easter weekend.
I took a bit of a break from blogging this weekend, but this week has been pretty busy in terms of movie watching. It's the last week of the MSPIFF 2014 and I saw three more films, one short of what I intended to see but fortunately there'll be a press screening of Locke next Monday. As the film fest continues with Best of Fest screenings all week, there'll be more reviews coming from both me and Josh 😉
Here are the three new movies I saw over the weekend:
I've blogged about All Things To All Men quite a while ago and finally it's available on Netflix streaming. Remember how I always say some movies are well worth seeing just for the cast. Well, in this case, the ONLY thing worth seeing is the three actors: Toby Stephens, Rufus Sewell and Gabriel Byrne in that order [I'm having a serious crush on Toby, didn't you notice?] Alas, the film itself left so much to be desired, and leaves me scratching my head why these actors signed on to do such a project. Did they lose a bet or something? I'm not sure I could even review it, but let me just say that unless you're absolutely in love with any of the cast, I can't exactly recommend it.
These two from MSPIFF, on the other hand, is well worth a look.
A Thousand Times Good Night
Rebecca is one of the world's top war photographers. She must weather a major emotional storm when her husband refuses to put up with her dangerous life any longer.
This is one of those dramas that at times play out like a thriller. Even from the first moments when the protagonist is witnessing a ceremonial custom of an Afghan suicide bomber being prepped for self sacrifice, it's quite an emotional roller coaster all the way to the very last scene.
For Rebecca (Juliette Binoche), covering the war is not just a job, it's her way of life. When she comes home injured from Afghanistan, it's apparent that it's just as tough for her family to deal with her dangerous job. It's apparent that her husband Marcus is constantly worried sick for Rebecca and this incident puts him over the edge which compels him to give her an ultimatum. It's her family or her job. At first I felt that it's not fair of him to do so, but as the film progresses, we're shown how her two young daughters are dealing with her absence whilst she's away in a war zone. It's a tricky dilemma that I find myself grappling with as I watched this film. I read that this film is semi-autobiographical as Norwegian director Erik Poppe was a war photographer himself. No doubt this story is quite a personal one for him.
The main quibble I have with the film is the slow pace. I don't mind quiet moments on film, but at times it felt a bit too indulgent that it threatens to grind the film to a halt. The metaphor of Rebecca drowning/suffocating by her life dilemma also grows repetitive. But the cinematography is simply stunning, nearly every shot is like a work of art. It's also very atmospheric and the conflict felt genuine. The sense of authenticity comes from a committed performance from the always-reliable Binoche, as well as Nikolaj Coster-Waldau who plays her sensitive & caring husband. I've always been a big fan of Nikolaj from his short TV stint in New Amsterdam, long before he played Jamie Lannister in Game of Thrones, and he proves himself once again to be a capable and versatile actor. Lauryn Canny as Rebecca's eldest daughter Steph is also quite good. When they're in Africa, something happened that was quite traumatic for Steph. Some of the most emotional scenes in the film feature the two of them.
The heart of the film is no doubt Binoche. She conveys so much even in scenes where no words are spoken. This is the first of two films I saw her in and she's absolutely excellent in both of these. There's a certain aura of mystique about her that seems unreachable, and she's very convincing as an fiercely idealistic woman. There is a fine line between bravery and recklessness and I think this film often blurs that line. There is a hint at the finale where Rebecca is back in Afghanistan that perhaps she's a changed person after what happened between her and Steph, but the film lets us interpret that for ourselves.
An art instructor and an English teacher form a rivalry that ends up with a competition at their school in which students decide whether words or pictures are more important.
Romance that's sparked out of rivalry has been done many times before, but with the right cast, it can still feel fresh. The pairing of Clive Owen and Juliette Binoche is what intrigues me about this film and they're still the reason to watch to movie.
Owen is Jack 'Mr Mark' Marcus, a gifted English teacher at an upscale prep school. His best days as a published author seems to be behind him and he's got a drinking problem. Perhaps that's a result of his disillusionment with his life, as he seems to have lost his mojo, as well as in danger of losing his job. Meanwhile, a renowned painter Dina Delsanto (Binoche) has just been hired at the school. Her nickname is icicle for obvious reasons, but her coldness seems to also stem from her disappointment that she can no longer paint as much as she did due to her server Rheumatoid arthritis.
The two couldn't be more different from each other, but as they say, opposites attracts. It's fun to watch Owen in a softer role like this where he's not firing a gun every two seconds, but his intensity is still there as he bud heads with the school principal and board members. He's a deeply flawed character and in the most vulnerable moments, especially between him and his estranged son, is where I enjoyed his performance most. I wish the film would focus more on these two characters, as all the drama with the students are not as intriguing to me, and they don't really add much to the story. The whole school competition of Words vs Pictures is more of a personal *war* for Marcus and Delsanto, and though it's predictable that they'd end up together, it's still fun to watch their banters. I personally like the pairing of Owen and Binoche more than him and Julia Roberts in Duplicity, which I find rather contrived. The only other actor I like in this movie is Bruce Davison as one of the more sympathetic faculty members.
Binoche is lovely here and it's a testament to her versatility that she is also very convincing as a painter. I didn't know that she's an artist herself but in the credits I noticed that the Delsanto's work is by Binoche, wow! I think out of the two films I saw last week, her dramatic chops perhaps suits something like A Thousand Times Good Night better. I like the idea of two broken people finding each other and to see a romantic film between people over the age of 40. Alas, I think the ending is almost as rough as Owen's unkempt stubbles. Even the finale of the competition just didn't have the oomph needed to make the story soar. Overall it's an enjoyable dramedy though, eons better than a lot of the rom-coms are churning out these days. If you're a fan of these two actors, this one is definitely worth a look.
So what did you see this Easter weekend? Anything good?
Music Break: Philip Glass' The Illusionist score
On May 30, 2013 May 30, 2013 By ruthIn Music Break19 Comments
As tonight I'll be seeing Now You See Me tonight, a crime thriller about a team of illusionists pulling off bank heists during their performances, I thought this week's music break would have a similar theme of magic. The Illusionist is essentially a love story based on Steven Millhauser's short story, "Eisenheim the Illusionist."
The film tells the story of Eisenheim, the the son of a cabinetmaker in Vienna, who uses his abilities to secure the love of a woman far above his social standing.
Before I get to the music, I'm quite fond of this period drama. The cast is wonderful, especially Ed Norton who carried the film with his affecting performance. I also love Paul Giammatti and Rufus Sewell here, both are terrific character actors who rarely disappoint. Even Jessica Biel, who's not typically a strong actress, seems to acquit herself well here as Norton's long lost love, though at times she did seem to be out of her elements amongst other more experienced actors. Visually it's quite beautiful as well, shot by cinematographer Dick Pope who deservedly nabbed an Oscar nomination for his work.
Now, I think Philip Glass should've been nominated for his work here as well, as his score is no doubt one of the strongest artistic elements of the film.
I love Philip Glass' musical style, he's actually my dream composer for my romantic thriller movie pitch Hearts Want. I first heard his beautiful score for The Hours a few years ago, and I also love his work in The Truman Show. Glass was nominated for three Oscars for his work in The Hours, Notes on a Scandal and Kundun. The Baltimore-born composer utilizes the repetitive structures that some critics would label 'minimalist style.' Now, I'm no musical critic, so for me, I'm a fan of his work as his music have a distinct sound unlike any other, and they're pleasing to the ear.
In this one, he wonderfully captures the romantic sensibility as well as the mysticism and magical tone of the story. According to PhilipGlass.com, Michael Riesman is the conductor and producer of nearly every Philip Glass soundtrack recordings. And here he conducted the Czech Film Orchestra to bring the score to life beautifully.
Another one of my favorites from the score is the Orange Tree track, and the scene in the movie is also one of the major highlights.
Hope you've enjoyed today's music break. What do you think of Philip Glass and/or The Illusionist' score?
Traveling Through Cinema: London
On March 6, 2013 October 3, 2013 By ruthIn Traveling Through Cinema67 Comments
It should not be a surprise that I'm an Anglophile, seeing how many British-related stuff I put on this blog 😀 Well, since my good friend Becky (aka Prairegirl) is visiting London in a few weeks, I thought I'd feature one of my all time favorite cities for my Traveling Through Cinema series. Yes, I kind of drop the ball with this series as my first one set in Bruges was back in January, but I'm going to try to do this once a month. One of the reasons for Becky's visit is to go see Harold Pinter's theatrical play Old Times at the Harold Pinter Theater starring Kristin Scott Thomas, Rufus Sewell and Lia Williams. Yes I know, lucky girl!! I mean she'll get to see Rufus LIVE in person on stage! I wish I could go along with her to London, but for now I'd have to live vicariously through her.
By the way, I'm excluding the London tube scenes as I've already made a post specifically on that in London Tube and the Movies post.
So with that in mind, here are some of my favorite London scenery from contemporary films (90s and beyond):
28 Days Later (2002)
I found a great blog post describing the scene above so perfectly…
The setting of the film is … 28 days after a devastating plague swept through England. Jim (Cillian Murphy) is a London courier who was previously struck by a car on his route and plunged into a deep coma before the world came crumbling down around him. The world he awakens to is vacant madness, as the hospital he finds himself in is trashed and abandoned. He cries out for anyone still around. He's weak and disoriented and hasn't eaten for quite a while. Some sugary sodas give him some strength as he leaves the hospital, only to find more emptiness. London has been abandoned completely, with not a soul in sight. His cries go unanswered as debris gives him a hint as to what has happened. Missing people. Vigils for those departed. Old newspapers telling of a mysterious infestation.
An Education (2009)
A coming-of-age tale set in 1960s London
… Batman Begins (2005)
Alfred Pennyworth: Took quite a fall, didn't we, Master Bruce? Thomas Wayne: And why do we fall, Bruce? So we can learn to pick ourselves up.
Bridget Jones Diary (2001)
Bridget: I'm so sorry. I didn't mean it. Well, I meant it, but I was so stupid that I didn't mean what I meant… After all, it's only a diary. Everyone knows diaries are just… full of crap. Mark Darcy: Yes, I know that. I was just buying you a new one. Bridget: Wait a minute… nice boys don't kiss like that. Mark Darcy: Oh, yes, they f***ing do.
… Children of Men (2006)
The explosion scene as the film's protagonist Theo (Clive Owen) exits a cafe is one of the most harrowing and memorable opening sequence I've ever seen. I could even hear the ringing sound after the explosion happen on screen, which I heard is a deliberate effect the filmmaker did to give the effect of what a loud explosion may do to your ears. …
Finding Neverland (2004)
Beautiful scenes of J.M. Barrie & Sylvia Llewelyn Davies' family in Kensington Gardens
… Harry Potter
There are too many great London scenes in this franchise that I have to break them down to several collages.
Harry through the years… at the train station
In Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Hermione Granger, Ron Weasley and Harry fled a wedding after learning that the Death Eaters were coming for them, and ended up in Piccadilly Circus.
Death Eaters attack the Millennium Bridge
"The police are continuing with the investigation into the cause of the Millennium Bridge disaster. River traffic has been halted as police search for survivors. The surrounding area remains closed. The Mayor has urged Londoners to remain calm…"
— A Muggle radio broadcast
… Love, Actually (2003)
Notting Hill (1999)
Nowhere Boy (2009)
Retro London – John Lennon's early years from the mid 40s and 50s
John: Why couldn't God make me Elvis? Julia: 'Cause he was saving you for John Lennon!
… Rocknrolla (2008)
A beautifully-shot, memorable scene in a fabulous London museum
I love the art direction of Guy Ritchie's Sherlock Holmes. The Oscar nomination for this category is absolutely well deserved. I love how the CGI somehow still look and feel organic, and it captured the gritty atmosphere of the time and place. The incomplete Tower Bridge looked spectacular in the finale battle between Holmes and his nemesis Lord Henry Blackwood. This article by setdecorators.org says Ritchie brought a new, energetic perspective to the enduring adventures of Sherlock Holmes, "While our story is rooted in London of the 1890s, we have tried to make it as contemporary as we possibly can," Ritchie said. …
A reflective scene of Bond on a rooftop overlooking his beloved city
… The King's Speech (2010)
Lionel Logue: What was your earliest memory? King George VI: I'm not… -here to discuss… -personal matters. Lionel Logue: Why are you here then? King George VI: Because I bloody well stammer!
Zombies attacked London! Thank goodness for Shaun and co!
… Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (2011)
A frill-free spy thriller in 1960s London
Control: All I want from you is one codename: Tinker, Tailor, Soldier… George Smiley: …Spy.
X-Men First Class (2011)
Erik Lehnsherr: After tomorrow, they are gonna turn on us. But you are blinded because you believe they are all like Moira. Charles Xavier: And you believe they are all like Shaw. Listen to me very carefully, my friend: killing Shaw will not bring you peace. Erik Lehnsherr: Peace was never an option.
… V for Vendetta (2005)
The Parliament goes ka-boom!
Remember, remember, the Fifth of November, the Gunpowder Treason and Plot. I know of no reason why the Gunpowder Treason should ever be forgot… – Evey
… The Young Victoria (2009)
Love rules all. Queen Victoria & Prince Albert.
Now, this movie has not been released yet but based on the trailer, looks like All Things To All Men would have a TON of great London scenes (and gorgeous Brits), especially the ones in the London Eye! I'm a bit obsessed with that Ferris Wheel, if I lived in London I probably would go on there every weekend, ahah.
Toby Stephens in a scene at the London Eye
Like this post? Please submit to Reddit. We'll be eternally grateful! 😀
Well, hope you enjoy my favorite London scenery in the movies. Certainly it's not a comprehensive list by any means, so please feel free to add YOUR own favorite in the comments.


G02901 - Closing editorial - immersions and face-to-face learning: reflections on practice (PLA 57) - pubs.iied.org.
Participatory Learning and Action (PLA, formerly PLA Notes) is the world's leading series on participatory learning and action approaches and methods. PLA publishes articles on participation aimed at practitioners, researchers, academics and activists. All articles are peer-reviewed by an international editorial board.
Article in PLA 57. Guest editors: Izzy Birch, Raffaella Catani with Robert Chambers.


text:
Spring 2021 In-Person Commencement Update
iSpartan EmailiSpartan Email
UNCGenieUNCGenie
UNCG DirectoryUNCG Directory
CanvasCanvas
Bachelors of Arts Degree
English Education Program & Licensure
Student Extracurriculars
Graduate Studies Overview
Masters in Fine Arts
Recognition Ceremony Programs
The English Department, under guidance from the Chancellor and lack of adequate space, will not be hosting our departmental recognition ceremony. However, the College of Arts and Sciences will hold a combined ceremony at the Greensboro Coliseum where all 2021 undergraduate and master's students will have their names announced as they walk across the stage. Further details can be found below. We are excited to celebrate our English graduates and their hard work! #UNCGEnglish
With great enthusiasm, UNCG announces that the Class of 2021 and Class of 2020 will have an in-person commencement on May 7 and May 8.
"The classes of 2020 and 2021 have persevered in the face of enormous challenges. Each of our graduates has shown tremendous resilience and the kind of compassion and sense of community that speaks well of our collective character. We look forward to celebrating their accomplishments in-person this May," said Chancellor Gilliam.
Our graduates and their families and friends have expressed their desire to come together, safely and socially distanced, to celebrate this monumental moment. We heard you. And we are pleased that, with the assistance of the Greensboro Coliseum, we can offer in-person commencement ceremonies that follow COVID-19 safety protocols.
Ceremony details include:
Multiple University ceremonies will be held at the Greensboro Coliseum over May 7 and May 8 with graduates walking with their college or school. Names will be announced as they walk across the stage.
Each ceremony will be live streamed for families and friends to celebrate no matter where they are.
Commencement dates and times are below:
Class of 2021 undergraduate and master's students
Friday, May 7, at 5 p.m.:
Class of 2020:
Saturday, May 8, at 9 a.m.:
All colleges and schools (undergraduate and master's graduates from May, August, and December 2020)
Classes of 2020 and 2021 doctoral graduates and candidates:
Saturday, May 8, at 1 p.m.:
Doctoral Hooding Ceremony, all colleges and schools
The following protocols will be in place:
Each graduate may bring two guests; all will be ticketed. No additional guests will be permitted.
A screening process will be in place for attendees based on University, State, and County protocols. Attendees will receive information at least one week before the event.
Face coverings are required.
Following each ceremony, graduates and guests are asked not to congregate in the Coliseum and are encouraged to meet at their vehicles in order to limit gatherings.
The classes of 2020 and 2021 will receive email communications in the weeks to come to register for their respective commencement ceremonies. Should ceremonies need to be adjusted based on public health directives, we will be prepared to be nimble and flexible and adjust our plans.
More information can be found here: https://commencement.uncg.edu/
3143 Moore Humanities and Research Administration Building
Email: english@uncg.edu
Give to the Department
Report Concerning Behavior
Copyright © 2022. UNC Greensboro. All rights reserved. | If you have a disability and are having trouble accessing information on this website or need materials in an alternate format contact smparke3@uncg.edu for assistance.
${issue}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
Q: How can I update the kernel in WSL2 kernel to latest release? The current kernel version in my WSL2 subsystem is:
5.10.60.1-microsoft-standard-WSL2

However, I see in the official Microsoft WSL GitHub repo there is a newer version of the kernel:
linux-msft-wsl-5.10.102.1

How can I update the kernel in my already installed WSL setup? I tried this:
wsl --update

But it does not update the kernel version.

A: There are currently at least three ways to upgrade your WSL2 kernel:

*

*For recent Windows versions (Windows 10 21H2 and Windows 11), wsl --update is typically the best option, but realize that there is a slight lag between the time that Microsoft releases a kernel on Github and the time that they make it available for automatic updates.
When this question was written:

*

*5.10.60.1 was the most recent available release for automatic update on Windows 11

*5.10.16 was the latest for Windows 10.

*5.10.102.1 was the latest available in the Github repository for the WSL2 kernel.  It had just been released a few days earlier on March 8th.  This is why wsl --update wasn't pulling it in (at the time) for the OP -- It was simply not yet available for wsl --update (or Windows automatic updates either).

However, now, as of the time of this edit:

*

*5.10.102.1 is the latest stable kernel available via wsl --update (and automatic Windows updates) for both Windows 10 and 11 systems.

*5.15.57.1 has just been made available as the latest Preview release (on Windows 11 Insider builds).

Note that you may need to run wsl --update in an Administrative session to update.
If needed, you can revert to the previous kernel release with:
wsl --update --rollback

Regardless, I recommend renaming (or moving to another location) the previous kernel before updating, so that you can toggle between various kernels if needed using the .wslconfig file.
Note:  There is also currently a "Preview" release of WSL available in the Microsoft Store for Windows 11 users.  If you are using this Store version, then wsl --update will not only update the kernel itself, but also the WSL Store package with the latest version.  Because it is a user-level application, you no longer need to run wsl --update in an Administrative session.  wsl --update --rollback is also no longer available in these releases.

*For older versions of Windows 10 that don't support wsl --update, please see @harrymc's answer.  You can still opt in to automatic updates, and (when available) the new kernel will be upgraded via the normal Windows Update mechanism.

*Finally, you can certainly compile your own WSL2 kernel.  It's best to start from the Microsoft sources, since it has the right selection of config options for the kernel to best operate in Windows/WSL2.
Once you've compiled or obtained a custom kernel, you can specify it be used for all WSL2 instances by creating a .wslconfig with the appropriate section and kernel config.

A: To be sure of getting updates to the WSL2 kernel:

*

*Open Settings > Update & recovery > Windows Update

*Click on "Advanced options"

*Enable "Receive updates for other Microsoft products when you update Windows"

*Returning to the previous page in Settings, click "Check for updates".

This will allow Windows to install the latest Linux 2 kernel for WSL 2.
The presence of a later version on Github does not mean that it was yet
incorporated into the Stable version.

A: For those, who can't update WSL kernel with wsl --update due to strict user update policy in their company, they can install a WSL-kernel manually. Read this

*

*Download the latest kernel from here: https://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com/Search.aspx?q=wsl

*Open and extract the update to your desktop

*Load a command prompt with elevated privileges (Start --> cmd --> Right-click --> Run as Administrator)

*Run these commands in the command prompt:

cd C:\Users\your_username\Desktop\
wsl --shutdown
wsl_update_x64.msi
wsl
uname -r

This should update the kernel and show you the latest running version.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


The Department of Mathematics offers a minor, Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), and Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in mathematics. At the graduate level, the department offers a Master of Arts (M.A.), Master of Science (M.S.), and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in mathematics.


An accessible and open forum that provides in-depth coverage and original angles on issues that affect the African American community. That is Loop21.com. The name Loop21 is about being in the know and being included in the topics of the 21st century.
Initially launched a year and a half ago, the site underwent a re-launch in August 2011 displaying the new format that is visible online today. The site was created in an effort to produce more accurate and unbiased coverage of issues within the African-American community and mainstream media.
The young staff consists of CEO Darrell Williams, COO/Executive Producer Ken Gibbs, Jr. and Editorial Director Chloe Hillard, among others, along with 40 freelance writers. With articles ranging from politics to culture, together, the team publishes almost 100 pieces of content each day reaching readers from their website as well as social media venues such as Twitter (@theloop21) and Facebook .
The Black-owned and operated site creates revenue through advertising while partnering with news publications such as Essence and NewsOne. Loop21 encourages participation and exchange of information among its audience. During President Barack Obama's 2012 State of the Union address, Loop21 held a live Twitter conversation, teaming up with a group of 100-200 professionals to respond to the event as it was occurring. Readers were welcome to join the conversation and respond with feedback. In another instance, a similar discussion was held via social media during the Troy Davis execution. Loop21 is less about business and more about making a difference in the community.
"It comes from a new generation of thinkers, thinking about things in a forward looking way. [We're] not just looking in the past, but looking for new opportunities and ways to manage our challenges. That's what we're about and that's what our audience is about," Williams said.
If you would like to get involved with Loop21, you can send questions, comments, story ideas and opinion articles to editor@theloop21.com. Op-eds are posted weekly. Internships are available year-round; just send a note of why you're interested, your resume and up to three samples of your work to the email above. Check out Loop21's "About Us" page to get to know more about some of the people who make the site a success.
Webbmedia Group has a great mega calendar of events that catches things not covered below. If you want to subscribe to the calendar, click here. You can also subscribe to this calendar so the information appears on your personal Google Calendar. Just go to the Webbmedia Google calendar, click the "+Google Calendar" icon at the bottom right, and then click "Yes, add this calendar" in the dialog box). The Donald J. Reynolds Journalism Institute has its training calendar posted for courses through June.
Webbmedia Group is partnering with the National Press Club for a workshop, "10 Tech Trends for Q1," Feb. 2 from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM (ET) in Washington, D.C. Learn about the most interesting emerging technologies coming to market in the next few months that stand to impact your work. This invigorating session will showcase ten tech trends that you need to know now. We'll explain what they are in plain English, why they matter to you and how you can leverage them to energize your work. The cost is $50, and $25 for press club members. And check out this Storify of a presentation Amy Webb gave on this topic at NABJ's 2011 annual conference.
The Donald J. Reynolds Journalism Institute is offering a free webinar "Social Media 101, 202, 303," Feb. 8-10. Social Media 101 offers the basics for social media newbies. Social Media 202 is tips for reporters about using social media sites as research tools. Social Media 303 will show how to filter to contain the clutter.
Webbmedia Group is partnering with the National Press Club for a workshop, "Finding Your Audience," Feb. 9 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. in Washington, D.C. This session will explain how to bring more sticky traffic to digital content, but also help you understand that unique visitors and page views alone don't reflect the success or failure of a digital product. It's also about what happens to that content once it leaves a website.
Syracuse University's S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications has established the John M. Higgins Award for Best In-Depth/Enterprise Reporting as part of the annual Mirror Awards for excellence in media industry reporting. The competition is open to anyone who conducts reporting, commentary or criticism of the media industries in a format intended for a mass audience. Eligible work includes print, broadcast and online editorial content focusing on the development or distribution of news and entertainment. All entries must have been published or broadcast between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31, 2011. The deadline to apply is Feb. 10.
Webbmedia Group is partnering with the National Press Club for a workshop, "Hey Blogger, It's Me," Feb. 13 from 1-4:00 p.m. at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. The session will explain how to harness blogs, how to read and participate with them effectively, how to build digital relationships with bloggers, how to craft messages/ press releases that will resonate with bloggers and how to keep the conversation about your content going.
An initiative of the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, the Media Learning Seminar combines the best of journalism and technology. It will be held Feb. 20-21 in Miami. The seminar will discuss the movement and progression of technology and the ever-changing industry of media.
Webbmedia Group is partnering with the National Press Club for a workshop, "Digging Deep: How to Mine For Critical Digital Information," Feb. 24 from 9:00 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. In this digging deep bootcamp, you'll learn all of the essential tools necessary for finding important information about people, businesses and organizations.
Webbmedia Group is partnering with the National Press Club for a workshop, "How to Create a Social Media Workflow," on March 1 from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM in Washington, D.C. In this session, you will learn how to create an effective social media strategy, a practical workflow, how to design individual campaigns, how to plan a social editorial calendar, how to create meaningful social content, how to create meaningful blog content, how to measure your ROI and how to set appropriate benchmarks.
Polish your skills in computer-assisted reporting (CAR) and learn how to hold local businesses accountable with this free, daylong workshop co-presented by the Donald W. Reynolds National Center for Business Journalism and Investigative Reporters and Editors, March 15. This free workshop precedes the Society of American Business Editors and Writers Conference March 15-17, for which there is an additional fee. Click here to register for the free workshop.
Webbmedia Group is partnering with the National Press Club for a workshop, "Headline Writing," March 15, 2012 from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM in Washington, D.C. Which headlines and ledes work (and which ones don't)? Why is concise writing for the web is important? How do you integrate the best keywords into ancillary items such as subheds, breakout boxes and photo cutlines? After a 45-minute intro session, we will conduct small group sessions to practice writing and rewriting headlines, ledes and other items for the web.
The Knight Digital Media Center at UC Berkeley has opened applications for its 2011 Multimedia Training May 15-20. The workshop offers intensive training that covers all aspects of multimedia news production; from basic storyboarding to hands-on instruction with hardware and software for production of multimedia stories. Participants will be organized into teams to report on a pre-arranged story in the Bay Area, and then construct a multimedia presentation based on that coverage. Applications are due by March 18 for the May training.
The International Reporting Project is accepting applications for its spring and fall 2011 fellowships. The fellowships allow U.S. journalists to do original, in-depth reporting projects overseas covering neglected, "under-reported" stories of global importance. The deadline for the fall application is April 1.
The Knight Digital Media Center at UC Berkeley has opened applications for its Web 2.0 workshop Feb. 14-18 and June 13-17. This training takes participants through the progression of reporting news for multiple digital platforms, starting with quick text posts and moving through photos and video and finally ending with a full multimedia presentation. The workshop provides hands-on training using Twitter and Facebook for reporting and driving web traffic, creating data-driven map mashups, dynamically updating a blog for breaking news, publishing photo galleries and audio slideshows, producing videos and editing videos using Final Cut Pro. The deadline to apply is April 15 for the June training.
The National Conference for Media Reform will hold its annual conference in Boston April 8-11, 2011. The conference brings together thousands of activists, media makers, educators, journalists, scholars, policymakers and engaged citizens to meet, tell their stories, share tactics, listen to great speakers and build the movement for better media in America.
The Donald J. Reynolds Journalism Institute is offering a free webinar, "Unlocking Financial Statements," May 14-18. The free, week-long seminar covers income statements, balance sheets, cash flows and writing about numbers. This seminar will be led by James Gentry, a professor and former dean at the School of Journalism and Mass Communications at the University of Kansas. He has presented workshops on understanding the numbers of business to thousands of journalists and corporate communicators.
The National Association of Black Journalists is holding its annual Convention and Career Fair in New Orleans, La., June 20-24. Pre-registration lasts through May 15.
The Donald J. Reynolds Journalism Institute is offering a free webinar, "Economics 101," June 26-28. Marilyn Geewax, senior business editor for NPR's National Desk, will demystify economics for business journalists.
Unity Journalist of Color, Inc. will hold its 2012 convention in Las Vegas Aug. 1-4. Unity will have a career fair, as well as, provide career coaching, education sessions and student projects.
If you have any items that I've missed, please drop me an email via the DJTF Yahoo! Listserv or at benet AT aviationqueen DOT com. Thanks!
As media professionals continue to discover new ways to operate in a digital age and adapt to a new era of journalism, Google Plus might be the next big communication tool for journalists to interact with their audiences.
Social networking giants, such as Facebook and Twitter, have proven to be effective platforms for journalists to disseminate real-time news and information.
According to a 2011 survey conducted by TEKGROUP International, 90 percent of working journalists say they use Facebook and Twitter on a daily basis to monitor news and information.
Some journalists who have become early adopters of Google Plus are media mogul and founder of The Huffington Post, Arianna Huffington, and The Washington Post columnist and MSNBC contributor, Ezra Klein.
Much like Facebook, Huffington and Klein engage with the public by posting up-to-the-minute news stories and sharing photos. Readers respond with comments, shares and +1's (Google Plus' take on the Facebook like button). However, in comparison to their Facebook pages, the feedback by the audience is much less.
But this is expected for Google Plus, which just launched last summer. Many media professionals are experimenting with the site, including Chicago-based freelance writer Jewell Washington.
"In many ways, I think Google Plus has the potential to be a great social networking tool to not only connect with readers and fellow professionals but it has personally helped me in driving traffic to my site and marketing my work while also selling my brand," she says.
One of Google Plus' most popular options is its Hangout feature, which allows journalists to invite readers from anywhere in the world to join them in a video chat session. This provides the audience an inside look into their profession and a chance for journalists to host Q&A sessions with viewers.
Sarah Hill, an anchor for KOMU-TV in Columbia, Missouri, recently told Mashable.com that she hosts a Hangout during the 5 p.m. newscasts to give viewers a behind-the-scenes into the newsroom.
Hangout allows journalists to create a community to exchange ideas, knowledge and advice while also sharing experiences. Washington recommends using the virtual platform to conduct interviews.
Unlike Facebook, and much to Google Plus' advantage, journalists are able to create a public network that establishes a connection with readers that doesn't infringe upon their privacy.
In addition, journalists who already have a large following on Twitter and Facebook can build their network by encouraging readers to follow them on Google Plus.
The effect Google Plus will have on the news industry is still unforeseen, however its social media tools are steadily making an impact on journalists and growing one user at a time.
A new start-up out of San Francisco is making it easier to juggle all your accounts across the web.
If This Then That, or IFTTT, was launched a little over a year ago. It's as simple as its name suggests but its potential is what makes it stand out.
Many social networks have introduced the option of cross-sharing material. Sites like Twitter, for example, let you post your tweets to your Facebook timeline. IFTTT takes things one step further by letting you connect and manage over 30 web services like YouTube, Tumblr, Craigslist and LinkedIn, in one place.
IF I AM TAGGED IN A FACEBOOK PHOTO, THEN SEND ME A TEXT MESSAGE.
And that's it. Now every time someone tags you in a photo on Facebook, you'll receive a text message notification.
Of course, if you have a Facebook application on your smart phone, this may not be all that impressive to you. The impressive part is how this simple recipe lends itself to a wide range of possibilities.
The website provides an index of user-submitted recipes where people have come up with some pretty creative ways to use If This Then That.
Sync your social profile pictures.
Find out if it's going to rain tomorrow.
Greet a new Twitter follower.
IFTTT is a great way to streamline your Internet activity and its capabilities are sure to grow as more people join the site.
So NABJ, how do you rate this service? Do you think it can be useful? And if so, how would you use it?
Back in high school we were all warned to clean up our Facebook profiles when the time came to apply to institutes of higher education. We did not want admissions counselors deciding our fate before recognizing our promising test scores, many extracurricular activities and, most importantly, our high grades. As students who successfully made it to the next level, we must recognize the need to continue to keep an eye on our online presence, especially at this crucial time for the summer 2012 internship hunt.
No matter if you are interested in broadcast journalism, public relations or general newspaper reporting, it is always a great idea to have a portfolio to display your work and make a name for yourself online. Start slow by making a blog on WordPress, Blogger or even Tumblr to get your ideas out there. Also be sure you have a LinkedIn profile and that it is updated every time you update your résumé. Finally, consider setting up a website to display your writing samples or television clips in one place. Wix and Weebly are free tools anyone can use to get a site up and running.
If you are having trouble separating your private and public life on Twitter, consider having one for friends and peers and another for family, professors and when seeking jobs and internships. Let's face it, potential employers do not want to see students using outrageous hashtags and tweeting about how crazy the weekend was with friends even though you have an exam on Monday that you have not studied for. If this sounds like you, try changing your image by making your personal page private and leaving your professional page public. To make things simple, use your first and last name for your professional Twitter and list any titles you have in the description area.
If you want another set of eyes to check your social media sites, try using Socioclean. The site will scan your pages, point out potentially damaging comments on your wall and photo albums and also check your tweets for foul language. The program will then give you a grade based on your professional online presence. Check and see if your school's career services department has offered this tool.
Remember that anything you put on the Internet is there forever. If you are preparing to post something and think an employer, your mother, or even your future children would be ashamed at its existence, hit delete immediately! Nothing is worse than having the past come back to haunt you, so it is best to assume everyone is always watching.
The Knight Digital Media Center at UC Berkeley has opened applications for its Independent Journalists Workshop March 21-25. The workshop will provide journalists with the hands-on training and tools to get started with an online publishing enterprise. The deadline to apply is Jan. 28.
The New Stone and Weeks Fellowship: Apply Now!
In a world in which newsrooms' staff numbers are withering, the time to embrace the idea of convergence journalism is now. Some of the more seasoned journalists may remember the days of there being a definite line between reporting for print publications and broadcast news; with the introduction of new technology, the Internet and varied social media platforms, however, the lines are now overlapping and blurry – and while less conventional, it is an exciting time to be a journalist, despite vicious rumors that suggest there is no future in our field.
We all have heard how important being a multiplatform journalist is; yet a number of journalism programs, due to limitations in size, faculty and resources, may be unable to provide the experience. Fortunately, the folks at The Washington Post and NPR see a need for prospective journalists to be trained and well versed in both print and broadcast and they are offering such opportunity through The Stone & Holt Weeks Fellowship.
This fellowship is a unique meeting of the mediums and gives one fellow the opportunity to hone their reporting skills, while producing content for two of the nation's most reputable news organizations.
The fellowship will consist of two sessions: 12 weeks at The Washington Post, followed by 12 weeks at NPR, in which fellows will learn how to report for print, web and radio. The fellow will produce original content that will be featured in print, on air and online and will be compensated $800 each week, before taxes. The fellowship does not cover housing or living expenses but the round-trip cost to travel to D.C. will be covered.
To apply for the fellowship you must have completed a bachelor degree by July 15, 2012. To be considered you must download and complete an application form, attach a cover letter explaining why you should be selected for the fellowship and what you have done to make this world a better place – a value shared by Stone & Holt, who the fellowship is named for. Applicants must also include a resume, an academic transcript and two letters of recommendation – one from a supervisor and one from a teacher or mentor.
Applications must be received with a postmark on or before April 30, 2012. Finalists will be notified in early June and invited for an interview with the fellowship committee. A selection will be made by the end of June and the fellowship begins after Labor Day.
The fellowship was established by The Washington Post and NPR following the death of Stone Weeks, 24, and Holt Weeks, 20, who both died in a tragic car accident in the summer of 2009. Their father, Linton Weeks, is a reporter at NPR and a former reporter of The Washington Post.
Experience, published works and weekly compensation – do I need to convince you any further to apply? Completion of the fellowship may not land a job at either organization, right away, but "All Things Considered," (just a bit of NPR humor) this is a great opportunity to begin a promising career in journalism.


text:
Jun 10 2021 admin News
Massive fire & explosion at San Juan power plant triggers blackouts across Puerto Rico (VIDEOS)
Much of Puerto Rico has been left in darkness after a large blaze and an explosion knocked out a power plant in San Juan, the island's capital. Dramatic footage of the aftermath of the blast has made the rounds online. A fire in the Monacillos power station in San Juan on Thursday set off an explosion and triggered "significant blackouts across the island," according to Luma Energy, the company that oversees electricity distribution in Puerto Rico, adding that it is "working to restore the system." BREAKING: Much of the Metro area of Puerto Rico, the most populated area of the island, …
THIRD member of FDA advisory body resigns, calls Alzheimer drug approval 'worst in recent US history'
Three scientists from a FDA advisory committee have resigned so far, after the US food and drug regulator rammed through an approval of a controversial drug to treat Alzheimer's disease against their near-unanimous opposition. Ten out of 11 members of the Peripheral and Central Nervous System Advisory Committee voted against approving the drug aducanumab, with one voting "uncertain," during the hearings in November 2020. On Monday, the FDA granted it accelerated approval anyway. "This week, the aducanumab decision by FDA administrators was probably the worst drug approval decision in recent US history," wrote Aaron Kesselheim, of Harvard and the Brigham …
'Excessive punishment': CNN brings back pundit Jeffrey Toobin, 8 months after he exposed himself on Zoom call with colleagues
CNN has begun rehabilitating the public image of disgraced legal analyst Jeffrey Toobin, bringing him back on air and ending a banishment that began after he was exposed masturbating on a Zoom call with co-workers last October. "What the hell were you thinking?" host Alisyn Camerota asked Toobin on Thursday in an on-set interview. Toobin, whose title of chief legal analyst was restored by CNN, said he obviously "wasn't thinking very well or very much," then pointed out that he thought he had turned off the call and wasn't visible to other participants. [embedded content] The infamous call was for …
Infographic: Saudi Army Armored Losses in AnsarAllah's 'Jizan al-Wase'ah' Operation in South of Jizan
The statistics of Saudi armored losses (according to published images) in Ansar Allah's Jizan al-Wase'ah operation are as follows:4 MRAP armored vehicles including:3 AL Shibl-2 MRAPs and 1 Cobra MRAP2 M1A2 Abrams tanks2 Bradley M2A2 armored personnel carriers3 M113 armored personnel carriers1 M163 Vulcan air defense system AnsarAllah advance inside Saudi Arabia's Jizan! (Map Update) + Videos FORUM
Joe Biden and Boris Johnson sign 'New Atlantic Charter', but the world may have moved on
US President Joe Biden and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson have updated their World War II-era 'Atlantic Charter'. The agreement promises a return to the full-throttle liberalism that the Trump administration interrupted. Biden and Johnson met in St. Ives, Cornwall, on Thursday, in a bilateral sit-down before the G7 summit kicks off on Friday. Though the two had plenty to disagree on – the impact of Brexit on the fragile peace in Northern Ireland for example, they seemed to emerge from their meeting the best of friends. Johnson described dealing with Biden as "a breath of fresh air," praising the …
US personnel treated for smoke inhalation after rocket attacks on Iraq bases, but no serious damage to sites – State Department
Rocket attacks on Iraqi bases hosting US contractors on Wednesday did not cause casualties or any serious damage, State Department spokesman Ned Price has said, though some personnel were treated for smoke inhalation. Multiple rockets were fired at two military bases hosting US contractors, the Iraqi military said on Wednesday. The attack on a facility near Baghdad's airport involved three explosives-laden drones, one of which were brought down. Three rockets also hit Balad Air Base, located north of the capital, according to the military. Speaking a day later about the incidents, Price told reporters that only a small number of …
US sanctions 'network' accused of funding Yemen's Houthis with tens of millions of dollars
Washington has sanctioned an alleged international network which it says funneled tens of millions of dollars to Yemen's Houthi rebels for their conflict with Western-aligned government forces. A dozen individuals and entities are blacklisted, including Sa'id al-Jamal, the alleged chief of a web of companies and people who send cash to the Houthi movement, the US State Department has said. The US alleges the network generated revenue by selling commodities such as Iranian oil and that it works with the elite Quds Force of Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps. "This network's financial support enables the Houthis' deplorable attacks threatening civilian and …
EA confirms data breach as hackers claim they took FIFA 21 source code, Battlefield engine, and other LOOT
Gaming behemoth Electronic Arts has been hacked. While EA says the thieves did not compromise player data, it has confirmed they made off with the source code for the FIFA 21 game, the Frostbite engine, and other software secrets. The data breach was first reported by VICE's Motherboard on Thursday, citing posts on "underground hacking forums." Among the stolen goods are the source code for soccer simulator FIFA 21 and its matchmaking server, and the Frostbite engine, which powers most of EA's games – including the Battlefield and Madden franchises. EA software development kits (SDKs) are also among some 780 …
'So much for no politics in football': Ukrainian tennis ace slams UEFA over shirt saga with Russia by showing slogans on his shoes
Tennis veteran Sergiy Stakhovsky, who once knocked Roger Federer out of Wimbledon, has reacted to Ukraine's curious new shirt being banned from Euro 2020 by claiming that Russia's reaction made the controversy a political one. The ill-fated top had been trumpeted by the Ukraine team ahead of the start of the tournament on Friday, causing a considerable stir this week after being revealed at short notice with slogans including "glory to Ukraine, glory to heroes" in its fabric. Also containing a potentially inflammatory map of the Crimean Peninsula which disgusted leaders in the region, the shirt now appears to have been outlawed …
Video Showing Deadly Strike On Hay'at Tahrir Al-Sham Commanders Released Online
Support SouthFront Abu Khalid al-Shami SUV after the strike. On June 10, RusVesna.SU released footage of the pinpoint strike which eliminated senior commanders of al-Qaeda's Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) in the northwestern Syrian region of Greater Idlib. The strike claimed the lives of HTS' military spokesman, Abu Khalid al-Shami, media coordinator, Abu Musab al-Homsi, and Mu'ataz al-Nasir, commander of the group's internal security forces. Four militants were also killed. The aerial footage released by RusVesna were taken by a Russian drone which was tracking the three commanders. The commanders were reportedly located with advanced electronic intelligence systems. [embedded content] The …
Feeling vindicated, Trump demands China pay $10trn in global Covid-19 reparations, calls Fauci 'science fiction'
Former President Donald Trump has claimed victory over his critics, saying he was proven right on such issues as China's role in the Covid-19 pandemic, and he reiterated his demand that the Chinese Communist Party pay reparations. The CCP should pay $10 trillion in "global reparations" for allowing "the worst event in world history," Trump said in a statement issued on Thursday. He also mocked the White House's chief medical adviser, Dr. Anthony Fauci, saying: "Dr. Fauci likes to say that he is 'science' when, in fact, he is merely science fiction." Latest statement from Donald Trump."Dr. Fauci likes to …
Covid-19 outbreak at UK hotel hosting German G7 delegation security & US media after 13 staff test positive – report
A hotel in England hosting security for Germany's G7 delegates was shut down after 13 staff members tested positive for Covid, Sky News reported. The UK PM's office said German leader Angela Merkel will still attend the event. The Pedn Olva Hotel in St Ives, Cornwall was reportedly being used by security staff for German officials, as well by staff of US broadcaster CBS, who were said to be filming live from the roof. Thirteen out of the hotel's 17 staff have reportedly tested positive for Covid. The site is just one mile up the coast from Carbis Bay, where …
'Why does GSP's statue look like Barack Obama?' Mockery for sculpture of UFC legend St-Pierre as fans claim it's ex-US president
MMA fans have ridiculed a statue unveiled in honor of UFC legend Georges St-Pierre after the fighter was pictured next to it in Canada, with many voicing their surprise at what they thought was a recreation of Barack Obama. In a response that evoked memories of the reception once given to a confusing statue that was supposed to show football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, readers did not quite share the admiration for the work that it initially received after being highlighted by a page for UFC Quebec. Reproducing the photo of the 40-year-old former welterweight champion posing with his supposed likeness, heavily-followed …
Houthi Missiles, Drone Hit Saudi-Held Ma'rib City In Central Yemen
Support SouthFront Illustrative image, source: the Houthis media wing Late on June 10, the Houthis (Ansar Allah) launched four ballistic missiles and a suicide drone at the central Yemeni city of Ma'rib, which is held by the Saudi-led coalition and its proxies. The Saudi-backed wing of the Yemeni military told the al-Arabiya TV that the missiles landed in residential areas. One of the missile fell in the vicinity of Ma'rib prison, while another struck a shopping center. The military also claimed that the drone hit first responders. According to al-Arabiya, five people were killed as a result of the attack. …
Macron announces end of military operation in Sahel, says French troops to become part of international force
Paris's counterterrorism operation in the Sahel region of West Africa is coming to an end, with the reduced French contingent instead set to join a broader international force, President Emmanuel Macron has said. The shutdown of Operation Barkhane will come as part of a "profound transformation" of French military presence in the region, Macron announced during a press conference on Thursday. The French government is planning to focus on fighting the jihadists in Sahel within European missions and the UN, he added. "We will make a drawdown in an organized way," the president said, before adding that all of the …
KO part two? MMA brawler-turned-boxer Datsik growls and performs slit-throat gesture ahead of latest post-prison punch-up (VIDEO)
Vyacheslav Datsik, the Russian MMA fighter who ended his latest jail term in November and has been imprisoned for murder threats, assault and robbery, is looking for another vicious knockout against a former victim on Thursday. Turning his hand to boxing, the notorious former member of a banned nationalist party exacted a pulverizing finish on MMA fighter Tyson Dijon in February, sending the Cameroonian crashing through the ropes in the fourth round of their contest at the end of a shuddering series of shots. Visa problems for his original opponent now means that Datsik has granted Dijon a rematch in Moscow, when he will …
Biden administration calls on Nigeria to unblock Twitter for sake of 'freedom of expression' and 'democracy'
Arguing that freedom of expression was vital to democracy, the State Department urged Nigeria to reverse its suspension of Twitter, nearly a week after the African country banned the US-based platform for censoring its president. "The United States condemns the ongoing suspension of Twitter by the Nigerian government and subsequent threats to arrest and prosecute Nigerians who use Twitter," State Department spokesman Ned Price said on Thursday, adding that "unduly restricting" people's right to "report, gather, and disseminate opinions and information has no place in a democracy." The United States condemns the ongoing suspension of Twitter by the Government of …
UK says it has reached £333mn fishing quota agreement with EU
The UK government has reached an agreement on fishing quotas for this year with the EU, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) said on Thursday. The annual negotiations for 2021 are the first the UK has participated in after it left the EU last year. Despite making up just 0.12% of the British economy in 2019, fishing is a hugely symbolic issue for the country and was one of the main sticking points that initially prevented the UK and EU from signing a Brexit deal. The agreement announced by the government on Thursday is for 70 fish …
Wife of imprisoned cartel leader El Chapo pleads guilty to US drug-trafficking charges after helping to run his empire
Emma Coronel Aispuro, the former beauty pageant queen who married Mexican drug kingpin Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman, has pleaded guilty to US criminal charges after she allegedly helped run her husband's cartel in his absence. The 31-year-old Aispuro entered her guilty plea on federal drug-trafficking and money-laundering charges on Thursday in Washington's US District Court. Prosecutors had accused her not only of aiding El Chapo in his escape from a Mexican prison in 2015 – and plotting another escape before he was extradited to the US in 2017 – but also of helping run the Sinaloa Cartel. Read more Under …
The One Show 2021: RT Creative Lab wins 2 Bronze, 9 Merit pencils in world's top advertising & design award
RT Creative Lab's 'The Endless Letter' Instagram series honoring WWII victims has snatched two bronze pencils at New York's The One Show 2021, the world's most prestigious award show in advertising, design and digital marketing. 'The Endless Letter' Instagram series nabbed the Bronze pencils in the Social Impact and Content Series categories in the In-House discipline. The discipline award is brand new, and has been introduced together with Music and Sound Craft this year. It evaluates work produced by a brand's internal creative team that focuses on the advertising and marketing of their product or service. RT Creative Lab competed …
Surrounding protesters is 'illegal', top French court says in ruling against controversial government law enforcement plan
France's highest administrative court has ruled against a contentious government plan for law enforcement measures, which critics have branded an attempt to crack down on demonstrators and freedom of the press. The Council of State, which advises the French government on the preparation of legislation, said on Thursday it was "canceling" four elements of a government proposal published in September, including measures against journalists and demonstrators. It is "illegal" for French law enforcement to encircle a group of protesters, the Council said in its ruling against the government's 'national law enforcement plan'. "While this technique may be necessary in certain …
Greater Idlib Escalation: Turkish Forces Shelled Syrian Army In Response To Assassination Of Al-Qaeda Commanders
Support SouthFront Image: aa.com.tr On June 10, the Turkish military and its proxy, the Syrian National Army (SNA), shelled government-held areas in the northwestern Syrian region of Greater Idlib in response to the assassination of three commanders of al-Qaeda-affiliated Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). The Turkish shelling targeted positions of the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) and its allies in southern Idlib and northwestern Hama. No casualties or material losses were reported. "The artillery of the Turkish military and the SNA targeted military positions of regime forces with more than 80 shells in different areas in the countryside of Hama and Idlib," …
What's in your Happy Meal? Some of McDonald's signature french fries come from potatoes grown on Bill Gates' farmland – reports
The potatoes used to produce McDonald's fries are partially sourced from farms owned by Bill Gates that are so vast they can be seen from space. But that is just one part of the land portfolio of America's largest farmland owner. In under a decade, Gates and his ex-wife, Melinda French Gates, have quietly acquired nearly 109,000 hectares of farmland – roughly the size of Hong Kong – across 18 states in the US, according to data gathered by trade publication The Land Report and NBC News. The potatoes used by the fast-food giant are grown on an industrial farm …
'I know him so well': Premier League star Soucek defends Czech mate Kudela as he brands 10-match ban for racist behavior 'absurd'
Ondrej Kudela, the Czech defender who was banned for 10 matches for racial abuse in a huge controversy in April, was not proven to have committed the offense and is not a racist, according to international teammate Tomas Soucek. Veteran center-back Kudela will sit out Euro 2020 as part of his ban for racist behavior when he was seen covering his mouth and appearing to say something to Glen Kamara, of Scottish side Rangers, while playing for Slavia Prague in Glasgow in March. Kamara reacted with fury on the pitch, resulting in a brawl, an altercation in the tunnel afterwards to which …
Citroen, Peugeot become latest automakers to face French prosecution over emissions cheating scandal
The parent company to Citroen and Peugeot has confirmed that the automakers face prosecution by French authorities over their alleged role in the 'dieselgate' scandal, becoming the latest car manufacturers to be charged. In a statement, Stellantis said French prosecutors had filed charges against the two manufacturers over the emissions cheating scandal, while another of its subsidiaries, FCA Italy S.p.A. is also being investigated. Peugeot has been ordered by authorities to guarantee €30 million ($37 million) "for the potential compensation for losses" and pay €10 million ($12.2 million) to cover bail, including €8 million ($9.7 million) for possible damages and …
Russia Loses Soldier In Northern Syria, As Maintaining The Ceasefire Proves Fatal
Support SouthFront To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video DEAR FRIENDS. IF YOU LIKE THIS TYPE OF CONTENT, SUPPORT SOUTHFRONT WORK : Monero (XMR): 49HqitRzdnhYjgTEAhgGpCfsjdTeMbUTU6cyR4JV1R7k2Eej9rGT8JpFiYDa4tZM6RZiFrHmMzgSrhHEqpDYKBe5B2ufNsLBTC: bc1qw4cxpe6sxa5dg6sdwxjph959cw6yztrzl4r54sBITCOINCASH: qq3vlashthktqpeppuv7trmw070e3mydgq63zq348vOR CONTACT US : [email protected] In a rare incident, a Russian patrol unit came across a landmine, which could have been a pre-planned attack on a convoy. One Russian serviceman died as a result of the incident. The attack took place near the Turkish-occupied village of al-Assadiyah in northern al-Hasakah. A Russian military unit was patrolling the frontline that separates Turkish forces from …
'I took it calmly': Journalist of Armenian descent who was blocked by Azerbaijan can go to Euro 2020, Russian ministry confirms
The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that a hugely-followed TV commentator will be allowed to work at Euro 2020 after the Azerbaijan FA initially blocked him because of "trips to the occupied Azerbaijani lands". Nobel Arustamyan, who was due to attend the tournament for Russian channel Match TV, was forced to wait for his accreditation in a stand-off that had taken place because of concerns from the Azerbaijan FA. With some matches taking place in Baku, Azerbaijan is one of the venues for the tournament which starts on Friday – and all journalists working at the finals have to be approved by …
Russia's Sputnik V Covid-19 vaccine exceeds clinical trial results with over 94% efficacy & strong safety in large Bahraini sample
Russia's pioneering Sputnik V Covid-19 vaccine has shown an efficacy of 94.3%, against the virus, as well as a lack of serious side effects during its use in Bahrain, a study by the Gulf kingdom's health ministry has revealed. "The results on the ground are better than those achieved in clinical trials of the vaccine," Faeqa Saeed Al-Saleh, Bahrain's health minister, said on Thursday. The study, carried out by Bahrain's medical authorities in accordance with World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, has shown that the Russian jab was 94.3% effective two weeks after both shots were administered. The findings were based …
Turkey builds a new military post in Idlib
The base is near the front line with Syrian army and Kafr Nubl town (where Syrian army forces stationed). Field sources said that Turkish army created trenches around the new base. This is the second Turkish military post in al-Barah village and surrounding area. Turkish Army positioned several tanks, heavy trucks of logistics and ammos near the base. It seems the reason of erecting this base is due to high tension between Syrian Army and militants and arrival of Syrian Army reinforcement in the area. On April 24, Turkish Army also erected a military post in the Ziyadiah village in …
Sharapova shows her love for Pavlyuchenkova after tennis queen breaks duck to end seven-year final wait for Russian women in Paris
Tennis icon Maria Sharapova has hailed Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova after the serial pretender put herself on the brink of her first Grand Slam title, becoming the first Russian woman in the French Open final since Sharapova in 2014. The former child prodigy beat Tamara Zidansek 7-5, 6-3 to reach the final, going one better after reaching the semifinal of a Grand Slam at the seventh time of trying. That made her the first Russian woman to reach the final at Roland-Garros since former world number one Sharapova seven years ago, causing the retired legend to thrill fans by responding with a flurry …
Seven Syrian soldiers martyred by Israel airstrikes + images
No details have been reported by the Syrian media regarding the exact location of targets and given past experience, it seems highly unlikely that official details will be released in the future. Considering the way Syrian media covered this news, it seems they prefer less tension on broadcasting these news. Israel's continuous attacks on Syrian Army positions and infrastructures under the pretext of targeting Iranian and Hezbollah forces and the inability of the Syrian army to respond properly to these attacks have made the issue a painful and humiliating issue, until the protest regarding Syria's lack of response is extended …
ISIS Released Video Of Deadly Suicide Attack In Southwestern Libya
Support SouthFront Screen grab from Amaq video. On June 10, ISIS news agency Amaq released footage of the terrorist group's recent suicide attack in southwestern Libya. The suicide attack, which took place on June 6, targeted a checkpoint of the Libyan National Army (LNA) to the north of the city of Sabha. Four people, including Cpt. Ibrahim Abdel Nabi Director of Criminal Investigations in Sebha, were killed as a result of the attack. Amaq footage shows the suicide vehicle-borne improvised explosive device, a pickup, blowing up in a large fire ball inside the checkpoint. ISIS identified the suicide bomber as …
Famine hits Ethiopia's Tigray region, UN humanitarian chief says, with 350,000 reportedly at risk
Ethiopia's troubled Tigray region is now in a state of famine, the UN's humanitarian chief Mark Lowcock has said, as reports suggest that hundreds of thousands of people are at risk of disaster. "There is now famine in Tigray," the official told representatives of UN, EU and US organizations on Thursday, warning the situation may be the worst since the 2011 famine in neighboring Somalia, which killed around 260,000 people. Lowcock said things are "going to get a lot worse", but added that "the worst can still be avoided" if immediate help is provided for Tigray. "A re-run of 1984 …
Report reveals 1 in 8 terror suspects in Britain last year were CHILDREN
Of the 168 terrorism suspects arrested in the UK last year, one in eight was a child. With school and socialization off the cards for much of the year, officials warned that kids were being "drawn towards terrorist activity." A 14-year-old Islamist from Hampshire, a 17-year-old Neo-Nazi from Essex, and a 15-year-old right-wing extremist from Derbyshire were all among the 166 people arrested for terrorism offences in the UK in the year leading up to this March. Of these 166 people, 21 – or one in eight – were children, up from 12 last year. Children accounted for 5% of …
Moscow to open extra hospital capacity & heighten measures to control Covid-19 as cases rise in Europe's largest city
The mayor of Moscow has revealed that the city will open additional hospital beds in the coming days as Russia sees diagnosed Covid-19 cases grow to levels not seen in many months, with a disproportionate amount in the capital. Speaking at a meeting with restaurateurs on Wednesday, Sergey Sobyanin also announced that the city would be ramping up its enforcement of sanitary measures, such as wearing masks on public transport. The mayor's decision comes as Covid-19 infection numbers begin to climb back up to levels seen last winter. Also on rt.com Russia plans Covid vaccination travel for foreigners to revive …
Taliban Fighters Shot Down Second Afghan Helicopter This Week (Photos)
Support SouthFront Click to see full-size image. Source: the Taliban. On June 9, the Ministry of Defense of Afghanistan announced that a Mi-17 military helicopters had crash landed in the district of Jaghato in the central province of Maidan Wardak. In a statement, the minister said that the helicopter was sent to the district to evacuate wounded security forces members. The ministry acknowledged three security forces members were killed and one more was wounded in the incident. The Taliban claimed that the helicopter was shot down by its fighters. According to the Afghan group, the helicopter was on its way …
Most EU citizens see Russia as an ally or a partner, rather than a rival or an adversary, new narrative-busting polling reveals
While alarm bells about conflict with Russia are constantly ringing in the Western press, the public, it turns out, may not be listening to them, with new research concluding the EU's citizens have a less hostile view of Moscow. The report, published by the Berlin-based European Council on Foreign Relations, which was set up with funds donated by multibillionaire George Soros, asked more than 17,000 respondents across 12 EU member states for their views on ties with foreign nations. A majority of those who answered said that they took a positive view of Russia, with 7% describing it as "an …
Iranian Navy Ships in the Atlantic Ocean + video and images
According to Admiral Habibollah Sayari, Deputy Coordinator of the Army of the Islamic Republic of Iran, this fleet consists of the Makran Forward Base Ship and the Sahand frigate. And the ships started their journey from the shores of Bandar Abbas on May 10, and entered the Atlantic Ocean after traveling 12,000 kilometers. Referring to the strategic consideration of the navy by the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Amir Sayari said: "Presence in open waters, development of maritime diplomacy and presence in the Gulf of Aden to ensure the security of the country's transportation lines against terrorism …
RT RECEIVES 23 NEW YORK FESTIVALS NOMINATIONS FOR NEWS, DOCS, HISTORICAL CONTENT AND PROMOS
MOSCOW, JUNE 10, 2021 — RT is in the finals of the New York Festivals Awards with 23 works. The recognized content includes projects dedicated to the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, coverage of US politics, documentaries on cultural, social, and political issues, as well as achievements in design, digital and 'deepfake' technology. Dennis Miller, American actor, comedian, five-time Emmy award winner and RT America talk show host, is nominated for the 'Best Host in the Craft: Program' category, while his show Dennis Miller +One will be competing for gold in the 'Entertainment Special: Talk/Interview Special' …
Three high-ranking officials of Tahrir al-Sham were killed
On June 10, three prominent Tahrir al-Sham militants were killed in a precise attack on the village of Ablin on the southern outskirts of Idlib. FORUM
Russia's Pacific Fleet kicks off large-scale drills in international waters as ships practice maneuvering far from home (VIDEO)
The Russian Navy has launched large-scale military drills in the central Pacific Ocean involving around 20 surface warships, submarines, and support vessels, a statement from the country's Defense Ministry revealed on Thursday. The training is taking place in international waters and will also be supported by around 20 planes, including long-range anti-submarine aircraft and high-altitude interceptors. [embedded content] The exercises, led by Pacific Fleet commander Sergey Avakyants, are taking place around 4,000km away from the ships' home bases in the Far East of Russia, and will include the involvement of the fleet's flagship, the Varyag cruiser. According to a Defense …
UK health secretary defends handling of Covid-19 pandemic amid accusations he lied about government's response
British Health Secretary Matt Hancock has rejected criticism levelled by Prime Minister Boris Johnson's former aide Dominic Cummings, denying that he lied about the government's handling of the Covid-19 pandemic. Speaking before a parliamentary select committee hearing on Thursday, Hancock defended his actions throughout the pandemic, stating that the government only did "the best thing we could" based "on the information that we had to protect lives." "Despite local challenges, and I don't deny at all there were challenges in individual areas, there was never a national shortage of PPE [personal protective equipment]," Hancock added, rejecting the suggestion that the …
Russian Economy and Reforms to Improve its Growth Prospects
Support SouthFront Illustrative image Written by Sunil Bhattarai. Here are a few reforms which I believe would help Russian economy to undergo sustainable and long term growth in any international conditions. These reforms may be presented in 8 parts, detailing some important regulatory and administrative aspect of the economy and here is the first one – trade reforms. TRADE REFORMS Introduction Trade means exchange of goods and services. Here is a suggestion how Russian leadership can carry out trade reforms for growth of the economy. In any country, there are mainly two kinds of trade which are: Internal trade: Exchange …
US consumer prices soar at the fastest pace since 2008 financial crisis
Consumer prices in the United States surged 5% in May from a year ago, accelerating at their fastest pace in nearly 13 years, the Labor Department said on Thursday. The consumer price index (CPI) represents a basket including food, energy, groceries, housing costs and sales across a spectrum of goods. Economists surveyed by Dow Jones had been expecting a price spike of 4.7%. That's the biggest CPI gain since the 5.3% increase in August 2008, just before the financial crisis sent the United States into the worst recession since the Great Depression. Also on rt.com 'Once the inflation genie is …
In Video: Russian Military Advisors Train Syrian Special Forces In Aleppo
Support SouthFront Click to see full-size image. Advisors from the Russian Special Operations Forces have been training Syrian Arab Army (SAA) Special Forces personnel, RusVesna.SU revealed in a report on June 8. The training is being held in a special center located in the northern Syrian province of Aleppo. There, Russian military advisors are working to improve the performance of Syrian Special Forces personnel by teach them new tactics and methods. The service members were trained on sniper rifles, field mortars, anti-tank grenade launchers and pickup-mounted machine guns. [embedded content] During the training, Syrian service members also received lessons on camouflage, …
Germany introduces new digital Covid-19 immunity certificate
Germany has unveiled a new digital immunity certificate that will be available alongside the paper ones already in use. The digital version is expected to make it easier for people to prove their Covid-19 vaccination status. The new certificate, dubbed 'CovPass', was presented by Health Minister Jens Spahn on Thursday. It will become available to the public starting next week. "The point is to get this paper into the device," Spahn said during a news conference, showing reporters an analog vaccination certificate and a smartphone displaying its digital form. The new pass is expected to be significantly more convenient to …
Chat app sting tells US intel agencies are interested in more than just 'backdoors', CIA whistleblower John Kiriakou tells RT
A deceptively-marketed 'encrypted' messenger that was used to bust hundreds of criminals worldwide shows that intelligence services are creating, and not just exploiting, chat apps, according to CIA whistleblower John Kiriakou. The FBI has been secretly operating an encrypted chat app called ANOM, which became popular among organized crime, with the gangsters oblivious to the fact that they were being monitored while using the app. Codenamed Operation Trojan Shield/Greenlight, the surveillance scheme eventually led to a coordinated crackdown on criminal gangs involving law enforcement from 16 nations. More than 800 suspects have been arrested so far, putting a dent in …
Floyd Mayweather & Logan Paul rake it in for boxing stunt with 'more than a million views' of wallet-punishing pay-per-view fight
Floyd Mayweather and Logan Paul's eight-round boxing exhibition at the weekend reportedly pulled in more than a a million pay-per-view buys in the US – with fight fans voicing admiration and derision at the purported figure. The viewing numbers for the bout at the Miami Dolphins' Hard Rock Stadium, which ended without a winner, have been the subject of considerable conjuecture. One reputable American journalist, Dave Meltzer, wrote that Mayweather-Paul had only garnered between 600,000 and 650,000 buys on TV. But a new claim has suggested that there were more than a million buys, causing one fan to respond that …
French prosecutors demand 18 months behind bars for man who slapped Macron
French prosecutors are seeking an 18-month jail term for Damien Tarel, the man who slapped the country's President Emmanuel Macron. The accused is also facing other penalties, including a voting ban. The 28-year-old suspect appeared before court on Thursday. The hearings are heavily fast-tracked, coming only two days after the slapping incident. Tarel stands accused of an assault on a public official, with the offence carrying a maximum of three years in jail and a hefty fine of up to €45,000. The prosecutors, however, have asked the court to slap Tarel with a real 18-month jail term rather than impose …
Iran military vessels enter Atlantic Ocean for first time (VIDEO)
Two Iranian military vessels, the Sahand destroyer and the Makran forward base ship, have sailed into the Atlantic, marking the first time Iran's navy has reached the ocean, following a thirty-day journey. On Thursday, Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayyari, Deputy Chief of Iran's Army for Coordination, announced that two vessels, both indigenously developed, had reached the Atlantic Ocean following a near 6000 nautical mile journey. "The 77th strategic naval fleet of the Navy, comprising of the 'Sahand' destroyer and the 'Makran' ship, is present in the Atlantic Ocean for the first time to demonstrate the capabilities of Iran in the maritime …
EU Parliament president dead at 65
Voting groups vow to boycott Biden speech
Boosted Mexican president gets Covid again
Facebook mandates Covid boosters
6.6-magnitude quake rocks Mediterranean near Cyprus
© 1-2022, All Rights Reserved, FORUM