politics 40 - The Latremie Post

Russian Cargo Plane Flies Dangerously Low Over Moscow Apartments Amid Ukraine’s Drone Attacks

A viral video has captured an Antonov AN-124 flying low over a Moscow suburb amid ongoing Ukrainian drone attacks, airport closures, and rising civilian casualties. The footage shows the massive Russian cargo plane soaring just above high-rise apartment buildings, highlighting the heightened tensions in the Russian capital.

According to the BBC, Russian media reported that numerous drone warnings led to the halting of flights at Moscow’s airports, including the closure of Sheremetyevo Airport, located north of the city. Verified videos revealed that the aircraft was an Antonov AN-124 Ruslan cargo plane, heading eastward away from Vnukovo International Airport, which lies about 6 km (3.7 miles) to the west.

The Antonov-124 is an enormous military transport aircraft, measuring 226 feet in length, with a wingspan of 240 feet and a maximum weight of 450 tons. Russian outlet SHOT reported that the pilot intentionally flew at a low altitude to avoid Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) operating in the airspace.

Residents of New Moscow described hearing a loud roar and feeling uneasy as they spotted the giant plane flying over their homes.

The events unfolded amid swarms of Ukrainian kamikaze drones striking Moscow overnight and into the morning on Tuesday, severely disrupting flights and causing widespread alarm. According to the Associated Press, Russian forces claimed to have shot down around three dozen Ukrainian drones targeting the capital.

Meanwhile, Ukraine reported that Russian missiles, drones, and bombs killed at least two civilians. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy continued to seek stronger international support at a United Nations gathering of world leaders held on Tuesday.

The full-scale war, which began on February 24, 2022, continues to have a devastating impact on Ukrainian civilians. Earlier this month, the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights revealed that civilian casualties in Ukraine increased by 40% in the first eight months of this year compared to 2023, attributed to escalated Russian long-range missile strikes and localized drone attacks.

Additionally, a report released by the UN Human Rights Office on Tuesday highlighted the dire conditions faced by thousands of civilians detained by Russian forces in areas of Ukraine under Russian control.
https://www.news18.com/world/russian-cargo-plane-flies-dangerously-low-over-moscow-apartments-amid-ukraines-drone-attacks-ws-bl-9592404.html

Russian Cargo Plane Flies Dangerously Low Over Moscow Apartments Amid Ukraine’s Drone Attacks

A viral video showing an Antonov AN-124 flying low over Moscow has attracted widespread attention amid ongoing Ukrainian drone attacks, airport closures, and rising civilian casualties. The footage captures the massive Russian cargo plane soaring close to high-rise apartment buildings in a Moscow suburb during a tense period of security threats.

According to BBC reports citing Russian media, multiple drone warnings prompted the closure of several airports in the capital, including Sheremetyevo Airport located north of the city. Verified videos confirm that the aircraft was an Antonov AN-124 Ruslan cargo plane heading east, departing from Vnukovo International Airport approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) to the west.

The Antonov AN-124 is an imposing aircraft, measuring 226 feet in length with a wingspan of 240 feet, and weighing around 450 tons. Russian outlet SHOT reported that the pilot intentionally flew at a low altitude due to the presence of Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in the skies.

Residents of New Moscow recalled hearing a loud roar and expressed concern upon seeing the plane flying so close over their homes amid the ongoing conflict.

Meanwhile, according to the Associated Press, Russian forces claim to have shot down around three dozen Ukrainian drones targeting Moscow. Ukraine, on the other hand, reported that Russian missiles, drones, and bombs have caused at least two civilian deaths.

In the midst of this conflict, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy continues to rally international support for his country. He addressed a UN gathering of world leaders on Tuesday, seeking to bolster global backing amid intensified hostilities.

The full-scale war, which began on February 24, 2022, continues to inflict significant suffering on Ukrainian civilians. Earlier this month, the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) reported a 40% increase in civilian casualties in Ukraine during the first eight months of 2024 compared to the previous year. This rise has been attributed to Russia’s escalation of long-range missile attacks and localized drone strikes.

Additionally, a UN Human Rights Office report released Tuesday highlighted the dire conditions faced by thousands of civilians detained by Russian forces in occupied Ukrainian territories.

As the conflict persists, the impact on civilian populations remains a critical concern for the international community.
https://www.news18.com/world/russian-cargo-plane-flies-dangerously-low-over-moscow-apartments-amid-ukraines-drone-attacks-ws-bl-9592404.html

Turkish President Erdogan Rakes Up Kashmir Issue At UNGA

Earlier this year, India outrightly rejected Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s call for the Kashmir issue to be addressed as per the United Nations resolution.

On Tuesday, during the United Nations General Assembly, President Erdogan once again raised the Kashmir issue and emphasized the need for resolving the matter through dialogue.

During his recent visit to Islamabad, where he met Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Erdogan stated that the Kashmir issue should be resolved through dialogue between India and Pakistan. He said, “The Kashmir issue should be addressed according to the UN resolution through dialogue and by keeping in mind the aspirations of the people of Kashmir. Our state and our nation, as in the past, stand in solidarity with our Kashmiri brothers today,” during a media interaction.

Reacting to Erdogan’s comments, the spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) responded by saying that instead of making remarks on India’s internal issues, Erdogan should have focused on Pakistan’s policy of backing cross-border terrorism against India.
https://www.news18.com/world/turkish-president-erdogan-rakes-up-kashmir-issue-at-unga-ws-l-9592538.html

EU wants to know how Apple, Google are tackling e-scams

**EU Investigates How Apple, Google, and Others Are Tackling Online Scams**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | Sep 23, 2025*

The European Union (EU) has launched a detailed scrutiny of major tech companies including Apple, Google, and Microsoft over their efforts to combat online scams. According to the Financial Times, this investigation is being conducted under the framework of the Digital Services Act (DSA). Alongside these tech giants, Booking Holdings — the global accommodation platform owner of Booking.com and other travel sites — is also under the EU’s regulatory spotlight.

**Regulatory Concerns and EU’s Commitment to Safer Online Spaces**

Henna Virkkunen, an EU official, highlighted the rising tide of criminal activities occurring on internet platforms. She stated, “We see that more and more criminal actions are taking place online.” Virkkunen emphasized the critical need for online platforms to proactively identify and prevent illegal content, underscoring the EU’s dedication to making cyberspace safer for all users.

**Focus Areas of the Scrutiny**

The EU’s investigation will specifically examine how Apple and Google address the issue of fraudulent apps, such as fake banking applications, available in their app stores. Moreover, Google’s and Microsoft’s search engines will be evaluated for their role in displaying fake or misleading search results. Booking Holdings will be assessed for how it manages bogus accommodation listings on its platforms.

This multifaceted approach reflects the EU’s broader goal of fighting online scams across various digital services, ensuring comprehensive protection for consumers.

**Potential Financial Consequences**

The information requests initiated by the EU could escalate into formal investigations. Should any wrongdoing be established, Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Booking Holdings may face substantial penalties — potentially fines up to 6% of their annual global turnover.

The ongoing EU inquiry highlights increasing regulatory pressure on major tech and platform companies to uphold safety and trust online. Users and industry watchers alike will be keenly observing how these companies respond to the demands for stronger anti-fraud measures in the digital ecosystem.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/eu-probes-apple-google-microsoft-over-online-scams/story

Trump can only win Nobel if Gaza conflict stopped: French President Macron

**Macron Says Trump Could Win Nobel Peace Prize by Ending Israel-Gaza Conflict**

PARIS — US President Donald Trump could only win the Nobel Peace Prize if he successfully ended the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinians over Gaza, French President Emmanuel Macron said on Tuesday.

Speaking in an interview with BFMTV from the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, Macron emphasized, “There is only one person who could do something in the current situation — the American president.”

Macron noted that Trump appeared mobilized and quoted the US leader’s statement to the General Assembly earlier that day: “I want peace, I will solve this conflict.”

He added, “Who wants the Nobel Peace Prize? The Nobel Peace Prize is only possible if you stop this conflict. You need to pressure the Israeli government so it stops, it stops the Gaza conflict, so we finally release the hostages” held by the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

Despite France’s recent recognition of a Palestinian state at the General Assembly—a move strongly opposed by both Trump and Israel—Macron acknowledged that Washington holds the main leverage over Israel.

“Why can he (the US president) do more than us? We do not deliver arms to Israel that allow the Gaza conflict to be waged,” Macron said.

He further highlighted that a Palestinian state “will truly be created on the day the State of Israel recognises it.”

There have been concerns that Israel might retaliate against France’s recognition by possibly closing the French consulate in Jerusalem, widely used by Palestinians, or by annexing parts of the occupied West Bank.

“We are ready. We have planned for all possible options, which means we will never remain inert. We just plan things and we will always defend France’s interests,” Macron stated, without providing more details.

The current conflict erupted on October 7, 2023, following a Hamas attack on Israel. Israel has since responded with military assaults and aid blockades on the Gaza Strip.
https://www.newindianexpress.com/world/2025/Sep/23/trump-can-only-win-nobel-if-gaza-conflict-stopped-french-president-macron

The ‘two-state solution’ is making its last stand at the UN. It’s time for a new approach – opinion

**The Two-State Solution Is Making Its Last Stand at the UN: It’s Time for a New Approach**

*Opinion: Two Democracies for Two Peoples Ought to Be the Rallying Cry of Our Time*

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney addressed delegates during a high-level meeting of heads of state on a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians at United Nations headquarters in New York City, U.S., on September 22, 2025.

(Photo credit: Eduardo Munoz/Reuters)

By GIL TROY | JTA

—

The prospect of a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians is facing its most critical moment yet at the United Nations. As global diplomacy seeks to revive stalled talks, it is becoming increasingly clear that traditional frameworks may no longer be sufficient.

In light of this reality, it is time to consider a new approach—one that embraces the creation of two democracies for two peoples as the foundational principle. This vision should become the rallying cry of our time, encouraging both sides to pursue coexistence through mutual recognition and democratic governance.

Prime Minister Mark Carney’s recent address at the UN underscored the urgency and complexity of resolving the conflict. The international community must now evaluate innovative solutions that can bring lasting peace and stability to the region.

—

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https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-868418

The ‘two-state solution’ is making its last stand at the UN. It’s time for a new approach – opinion

The Two-State Solution Is Making Its Last Stand at the UN: It’s Time for a New Approach

Two democracies for two peoples ought to be the rallying cry of our time.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney addresses delegates during a high-level meeting of heads of state on a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians at United Nations headquarters in New York City, U.S., September 22, 2025.

(Photo credit: Eduardo Munoz/Reuters)

By GIL TROY / JTA

https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-868418

The ‘two-state solution’ is making its last stand at the UN. It’s time for a new approach – opinion

**The Two-State Solution Is Making Its Last Stand at the UN: It’s Time for a New Approach**

*By Gil Troy | JTA*

The concept of a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians is facing significant challenges, and it appears to be making its last stand at the United Nations. The ongoing impasse calls for a fresh perspective in addressing this longstanding conflict.

A new rallying cry should emerge from this difficult moment: two democracies for two peoples. This approach emphasizes the importance of democratic values and mutual recognition as the foundation for lasting peace.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney recently addressed delegates during a high-level meeting of heads of state on the two-state solution, held at United Nations headquarters in New York City on September 22, 2025. His participation underscores the global significance of finding a viable path forward.

As discussions continue, it is clear that innovative ideas and renewed commitments will be essential in overcoming barriers and achieving coexistence between Israelis and Palestinians.

*Photo credit: Eduardo Munoz/Reuters*
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-868418

Amit Shah to inaugurate Startup Conclave 2025 at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar

The Gujarat government’s Education Department is set to organize a two-day Startup Conclave from September 23 to 24, aiming to set a new benchmark in India’s startup ecosystem. The event will bring together some of the country’s most dynamic voices in innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment on a single platform.

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and State Higher and Technical Education Minister Rushikesh Patel are expected to participate in the opening ceremony, reported news agency IANS. The conclave will feature over 1,000 startups, 5,000 innovators, 100 industry mentors, more than 50 venture funds, and leading policymakers, all working together to boost India’s startup landscape.

One of the key highlights of the event will be the investor pitching sessions. More than 50 shortlisted startups will pitch their ideas across multiple parallel tracks before some of India’s top venture capitalists. These sessions are anticipated to unlock funding opportunities worth Rs 250 crore, building upon the success of the Startup Conclave 2023.

Even before the event, investor interest has already resulted in letters of intent and financial commitments amounting to Rs 150 crore for promising startups, as reported by IANS.

The conclave will be inaugurated by Home Minister Amit Shah and will showcase over 170 startups from 20 states. Participating startups have been selected by prominent initiatives such as Startup India, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), and Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX).

Exhibitions will cover critical sectors including defence, aerospace, healthcare, clean energy, agritech, deep tech, and social impact innovations. This broad representation underlines India’s entrepreneurial drive towards achieving ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India).

The opening session will also see the release of several important publications, including the Startup Conclave Coffee Table Book, the NEP-2020 Dashboard, and the Indian Knowledge System Compendium.

Additionally, the Gujarat state government will facilitate the signing of 50 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) between startups, investors, and financial institutions. Funding cheques and Letters of Intent will be distributed to selected ventures during the event, further strengthening the support ecosystem for India’s innovators and entrepreneurs.

(With inputs from IANS)
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/amit-shah-to-inaugurate-startup-conclave-2025-at-mahatma-mandir-in-gandhinagar-23595420

Battle for Global Talent: UK Mulls Offering Free Visas for Top Talent as Trump Enforces $100k H-1B Fee

In a high-stakes transatlantic showdown for the world’s brightest minds, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is aiming to eliminate visa fees for elite scientists and digital experts to supercharge Britain’s economic growth. This bold move comes in the wake of US President Donald Trump’s executive order on 19 September 2025, which imposed a $100,000 (approximately £74,000) annual fee on new H-1B visas, reshaping high-skilled immigration overnight.

As global competition for top talent intensifies, Britain’s strategy signals a clear pivot to attract world-class innovators amid America’s tightening immigration policies.

### Scrapping Fees: UK’s Strategic Lure for High-Skilled Innovators

Starmer’s global talent taskforce, co-chaired by Science Minister Lord Patrick Vallance and business adviser Varun Chandra, is pushing to abolish application costs for outstanding foreign professionals.

“We’re talking about the sort of people who have attended the world’s top five universities or have won prestigious prizes. We’re kicking around the idea of cutting costs to zero,” an official told the *Financial Times* on 22 September 2025.

The proposal extends to waiving fees for partners and children, easing family relocation for individuals in science, engineering, and digital technology fields.

The Home Office supports the initiative, stating it will “attract and retain high-skilled talent, particularly in science, research, and technology, to maintain the UK’s status as a leading international hub for emerging talent and innovation.”

Discussions between Number 10 and the Treasury intensified following Trump’s announcement, with insiders noting it “put wind in the sails” of immigration reform ahead of the 26 November 2025 Budget.

Importantly, no job offer is required under this visa, which fast-tracks settlement for leaders in their fields and is endorsed by organizations such as UK Research and Innovation. Official statistics show grants surged 76% to 3,901 in the year to June 2023.

### Trump’s H-1B Hammer: $100k Fee Upends US Tech Hiring

Trump’s executive order mandates a $100,000 (approximately £74,000) annual fee for new H-1B visa petitions, affecting fresh applicants from the February 2026 lottery.

Since 2004, the H-1B program has been capped at 85,000 visas annually and faced criticism for suppressing wages. Yet, tech giants like Amazon — which secured 12,000 approvals in early 2025 — remain heavily reliant on it.

White House aide Abigail Jackson clarified on 20 September 2025 that existing visa holders will be exempt from the fee, urging those currently abroad to return quickly.

India accounted for 71% of 2024 approvals, and China 11.7%, according to US data.

US Labour Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer is reviewing prevailing wage regulations to better protect American workers.

This order forms part of Trump’s broader immigration clampdown initiated in January 2025 and has alarmed sectors such as IT, prompting companies to scramble amid talent shortages.

Elon Musk backed the measure for addressing genuine workforce gaps, while critics warn it could stifle innovation.

### UK Gains Edge in High-Skilled Immigration Tug-of-War

Starmer’s May 2025 white paper raised skilled worker thresholds to RQF level 6 and increased the Immigration Skills Charge by 32%, now standing at £2,400 for small firms and £6,600 for large ones.

Despite these hikes, elite visa pathways remain open for AI pioneers and engineers, with no salary floors applied.

“This isn’t about diluting our determination to bring down net migration, but it’s about getting the brightest and best into Britain,” Lord Vallance affirmed.

Trump’s hefty H-1B fee may reroute 7,000 to 8,000 workers annually, benefiting UK firms under the current minimum cap of 41,700 visas from 22 July 2025.

English language requirements for visa extensions will also rise to B2 level.

*Financial Times* journalist John Reed posted on X: “Will America’s loss be Britain’s gain? UK explores plan to drop visa fees for top global talent.”

Meanwhile, Chancellor Rachel Reeves is considering tax adjustments for non-domiciled residents to further boost the UK’s appeal.

With net migration approaching one million by June 2023, this strategy reflects a delicate balance between immigration control and ambitious economic growth.
https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/battle-global-talent-uk-mulls-offering-free-visas-top-talent-trump-enforces-100k-h-1b-fee-1744982