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This thread is for discussing the presidency of Donald Trump and any matters which relate to this.
Please keep discussion civil and constructive and be respectful to other members when posting.
Please keep discussion civil and constructive and be respectful to other members when posting.
The European Commission president has backed a proposal that could see Canada become the European Union's first "associate member."
Ursula von der Leyen told the European Parliament that she wanted to work on "opening the door" for Canada, describing the idea as a way to deepen cooperation across key sectors.
The comments came as Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has been pushing for a "unique alliance" with the EU. Canada's relationship with the United States has become increasingly strained, especially as trade tensions have escalated.
Von der Leyen said the idea was "not a partnership against anyone else, but for our common strength," adding that partnerships are a strategic choice for Europe and a response to the weakening of the international rules-based system.
Carney attended the annual State of the Union speech in Strasbourg and is due to address the parliament on Thursday.
The backdrop to the EU-Canada push is a sharp deterioration in Canada-US trade relations. Trade talks collapsed last month, leading to new tariff measures, while repeated remarks from US President Donald Trump about making Canada the "51st state" have added to the tension.
In her speech, von der Leyen said the EU and Canada "see the world with the same eyes," pointing to shared views on AI, climate change and geopolitics. She said both sides had already stood together on Ukraine, defence, raw materials and supply chains, and stressed that Europe and Canada both believe in democracy.
She did not set out how any Canadian membership arrangement would work, but said cooperation could be expanded in areas including manufacturing, technology, AI, defence, energy, critical minerals and economic security.
Von der Leyen also said it was time to bring the EU's relationship with Canada to "the highest level possible."
The idea of "associate membership" does not currently exist in the EU, and any move in that direction could take years. Earlier this year, Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz suggested Ukraine could be given this status, though the reaction was mixed.
The EU already has a number of countries on the path to full membership, including several in the western Balkans, as well as Georgia and Moldova in Eastern Europe.
There are also existing trade ties between the EU and Canada, although ten of the bloc's 27 members have still not ratified a free-trade agreement struck with Ottawa nearly a decade ago. Some capitals would rather strengthen current defence and trade arrangements than create a new category of membership for Canada.
Alongside the Canada proposal, von der Leyen also called for a European Security Council that would include the UK and Ukraine, citing the threat posed by Russia. She said the idea had become more urgent because of the scale of the risks facing the continent.
She also addressed wider concerns in Europe, including the cost of living and the impact of rapid technological change on jobs and society.
Other proposals included talks with the world's largest AI labs, efforts to reduce bureaucracy for businesses, a new emergency tool to help countries respond to mass migration movements, and plans to limit social media use among children, including a ban for under-13s and parent-supervised accounts for those aged 13 to 15.
Ursula von der Leyen told the European Parliament that she wanted to work on "opening the door" for Canada, describing the idea as a way to deepen cooperation across key sectors.
The comments came as Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has been pushing for a "unique alliance" with the EU. Canada's relationship with the United States has become increasingly strained, especially as trade tensions have escalated.
Von der Leyen said the idea was "not a partnership against anyone else, but for our common strength," adding that partnerships are a strategic choice for Europe and a response to the weakening of the international rules-based system.
Carney attended the annual State of the Union speech in Strasbourg and is due to address the parliament on Thursday.
The backdrop to the EU-Canada push is a sharp deterioration in Canada-US trade relations. Trade talks collapsed last month, leading to new tariff measures, while repeated remarks from US President Donald Trump about making Canada the "51st state" have added to the tension.
In her speech, von der Leyen said the EU and Canada "see the world with the same eyes," pointing to shared views on AI, climate change and geopolitics. She said both sides had already stood together on Ukraine, defence, raw materials and supply chains, and stressed that Europe and Canada both believe in democracy.
She did not set out how any Canadian membership arrangement would work, but said cooperation could be expanded in areas including manufacturing, technology, AI, defence, energy, critical minerals and economic security.
Von der Leyen also said it was time to bring the EU's relationship with Canada to "the highest level possible."
The idea of "associate membership" does not currently exist in the EU, and any move in that direction could take years. Earlier this year, Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz suggested Ukraine could be given this status, though the reaction was mixed.
The EU already has a number of countries on the path to full membership, including several in the western Balkans, as well as Georgia and Moldova in Eastern Europe.
There are also existing trade ties between the EU and Canada, although ten of the bloc's 27 members have still not ratified a free-trade agreement struck with Ottawa nearly a decade ago. Some capitals would rather strengthen current defence and trade arrangements than create a new category of membership for Canada.
Alongside the Canada proposal, von der Leyen also called for a European Security Council that would include the UK and Ukraine, citing the threat posed by Russia. She said the idea had become more urgent because of the scale of the risks facing the continent.
She also addressed wider concerns in Europe, including the cost of living and the impact of rapid technological change on jobs and society.
Other proposals included talks with the world's largest AI labs, efforts to reduce bureaucracy for businesses, a new emergency tool to help countries respond to mass migration movements, and plans to limit social media use among children, including a ban for under-13s and parent-supervised accounts for those aged 13 to 15.
British nationals advised to leave Ukraine now!
Seems like it was just a matter of time given the build-up of troops on the border but it is deeply worrying
Bob the Ninja
Analysts from Russia's Sberbank outlined 8 probability scenarios for how the war might end, according to a leaked internal document dated April 2026.
You can read with Google translate:
Аналитики Сбербанка оценили вероятность победы РФ в войне против Украины в 7%. Хакеры из Black Mirror опубликовали внутренний документ банка
- Russian decisive military advantage: 7% probability
- Western exhaustion, peace on Russian terms: 12% probability
- Trump deal, frozen conflict: 32% probability
- Korean freeze, no formal agreement: 22% probability
- Protracted war: 15% probability
- Peace on compromise terms - 5% probability
- Peace on Ukrainian-European terms: 2% probability
- Wild card, black swan events: 5% probability
You can read with Google translate:
Аналитики Сбербанка оценили вероятность победы РФ в войне против Украины в 7%. Хакеры из Black Mirror опубликовали внутренний документ банка
Gemma
A who's who of scumbags from Kushner to Witkoff to Dimitriev to Putin.
Guess we'll see what comes of it.
Guess we'll see what comes of it.
Black Sheep
The EU has approved the release of €7.1BN in aid, including for PAC3 Patriot interceptors and drones.
PAC3 is needed for citywide missile defence.
PAC3 is needed for citywide missile defence.
In a significant development, Meta has agreed to a settlement that could reach up to $18 billion in response to claims that its platforms have negatively impacted children. This decision comes during a federal court trial in California, where various US states have brought forth allegations regarding the potential harm caused by Meta's social media platforms.
The settlement marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing conversation about the responsibilities of tech companies in protecting younger users. As discussions around online safety and mental health continue to gain traction, this case highlights the urgent need for accountability in the digital space.
Key themes emerging from this situation include:
1. Accountability of Tech Giants
The settlement underscores the increasing scrutiny that major tech companies face regarding their impact on vulnerable populations, particularly children.
2. The Importance of Online Safety
This case brings to light the critical need for enhanced measures to ensure the safety and well-being of young users on social media platforms.
3. The Role of Legislation
As states take action against companies like Meta, it raises questions about the effectiveness of current regulations and the potential for new laws aimed at protecting minors online.
As this story unfolds, it will be interesting to see how Meta and other tech companies adapt their policies and practices in response to these challenges.
The settlement marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing conversation about the responsibilities of tech companies in protecting younger users. As discussions around online safety and mental health continue to gain traction, this case highlights the urgent need for accountability in the digital space.
Key themes emerging from this situation include:
1. Accountability of Tech Giants
The settlement underscores the increasing scrutiny that major tech companies face regarding their impact on vulnerable populations, particularly children.
2. The Importance of Online Safety
This case brings to light the critical need for enhanced measures to ensure the safety and well-being of young users on social media platforms.
3. The Role of Legislation
As states take action against companies like Meta, it raises questions about the effectiveness of current regulations and the potential for new laws aimed at protecting minors online.
As this story unfolds, it will be interesting to see how Meta and other tech companies adapt their policies and practices in response to these challenges.
Bianca
According to the attorney general of California - one of the states that was suing the company - the settlement includes the following measures:
- A default daily time limit of two hours for users under 18 that can only be lifted by a parent
- A default nighttime block between midnight and 06:00 for users under 18 that can only be lifted by a parent
- Default blocks on notifications to users under 18 from 22:00 to 07:00 and during the school day
- An enhanced mechanism for teens to report potentially harmful content and a requirement that Meta respond to 90% of those reports within six hours
- A ban on displaying numbers of likes or reactions to users under 18
- A ban on cosmetic procedure image filters for users under 18
- An option for users under 18 to have a non-personalised feed
- A commitment to enhance parent supervision tools
Gemma
They just need to put the same usage restrictions on adults now.
Dagmar
$18 billion is an awful lot of money to agree to payout while continually maintaining you did nothing wrong.
If you're anything like me you probably come across stories that you feel like sharing, but half-way through posting a new thread you think "maybe it's not necessary to start a whole new thread about this I might be the only person who finds it interesting". Or, "OMG, if I post this they're going to think I'm weird. Wait, maybe they already think I'm weird".
So I thought it might be worth having a thread where we can post any interesting, but maybe not that interesting stories we come across. I suppose if they do start to generate a lot of discussion then we could start a new thread for that topic.
So I thought it might be worth having a thread where we can post any interesting, but maybe not that interesting stories we come across. I suppose if they do start to generate a lot of discussion then we could start a new thread for that topic.
Black Sheep
A Chinese court has ruled that companies cannot fire workers just to replace them with AI purely for cost cutting.
The decision came after a case where a tech company tried to reassign and drastically cut a worker's pay after his role was automated, and ultimately terminated him when he refused. The court ruled the dismissal unlawful, saying AI adoption is a business choice, not a valid legal reason to fire someone without proper alternatives.
The ruling also reinforces that companies have a responsibility to retrain or reasonably reassign employees instead of just cutting them out when automation is introduced.
A reminder that even as AI grows fast, the human side of work still matters.
The decision came after a case where a tech company tried to reassign and drastically cut a worker's pay after his role was automated, and ultimately terminated him when he refused. The court ruled the dismissal unlawful, saying AI adoption is a business choice, not a valid legal reason to fire someone without proper alternatives.
The ruling also reinforces that companies have a responsibility to retrain or reasonably reassign employees instead of just cutting them out when automation is introduced.
A reminder that even as AI grows fast, the human side of work still matters.
Best
Drinking a beer after a workout could apparently rehydrate you just as well as water, according to some studies.
Researchers have suggested that low-alcohol beer containing electrolytes and carbohydrates may help the body recover fluids after exercise in a similar way to certain sports drinks.
Experts still say water remains the best option for hydration overall, especially after intense workouts, as alcohol can affect recovery and muscle repair if consumed in larger amounts.
So while cracking open a pint after the gym might not completely undo your session… it probably shouldn't replace your water bottle either.
Researchers have suggested that low-alcohol beer containing electrolytes and carbohydrates may help the body recover fluids after exercise in a similar way to certain sports drinks.
Experts still say water remains the best option for hydration overall, especially after intense workouts, as alcohol can affect recovery and muscle repair if consumed in larger amounts.
So while cracking open a pint after the gym might not completely undo your session… it probably shouldn't replace your water bottle either.
hannah
A man has been fined after climbing onto the roof of a hospital dressed in a Grim Reaper style costume and appearing to stare down at staff and visitors.
The incident happened at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd hospital in St Asaph, Wales, where emergency services were called after the man was seen standing on the roof while holding what appeared to be a scythe.
Leon Gillespie, 26, pleaded guilty to causing a nuisance at the hospital and refusing to leave when asked by police. He was fined and ordered to pay compensation and costs.
No reason for his actions was given in court.
The incident happened at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd hospital in St Asaph, Wales, where emergency services were called after the man was seen standing on the roof while holding what appeared to be a scythe.
Leon Gillespie, 26, pleaded guilty to causing a nuisance at the hospital and refusing to leave when asked by police. He was fined and ordered to pay compensation and costs.
No reason for his actions was given in court.
US and Israel launch an attack on Iran, as President Donald Trump confirms "major combat operations" are under way.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz says his country launched a "pre-emptive" attack on Tehran, announcing a state of emergency in Israel in anticipation of retaliatory strikes.
Washington has been ramping up the pressure on Tehran to agree to a new deal on its nuclear programme. Trump said on Friday he was "not happy" with Iran's negotiating position during nuclear talks.
Donald Trump has confirmed that the US has launched "major combat operations" against Iran in an eight-minute video on Truth Social.
He said Tehran's "menacing activities directly endanger the United States, our troops, our bases overseas, and our allies throughout the world".
"For 47 years," Trump adds, "the Iranian regime has chanted 'Death to America' and waged an unending campaign of bloodshed."
He references the US embassy crisis from 1979 and 1981, where 66 hostages were held for 444 days, as well as other incidents with Tehran.
"It's been mass terror, and we're not going to take it any longer", he adds, before claiming that Iran attempted to rebuild its nuclear programme and was developing long-range missiles.
Trump then says "we are going to destroy their missiles" and "annihilate their navy", and adds that while steps have been taken to avoid casualties, "Americans may be lost".
He tells the Islamic Revolutionary Guard to "lay down their arms" or "face certain death".
Addressing the people of Iran, Trump says "the hour of your freedom is at hand" and warns them "bombs will dropping everywhere".
"When we are finished, take over your government, it will be yours to take", he adds.
"This will be, probably, your only chance for generations. For many years, you have asked for America's help, but you never got it.
"No president was willing to do what I am willing to do tonight."
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz says his country launched a "pre-emptive" attack on Tehran, announcing a state of emergency in Israel in anticipation of retaliatory strikes.
Washington has been ramping up the pressure on Tehran to agree to a new deal on its nuclear programme. Trump said on Friday he was "not happy" with Iran's negotiating position during nuclear talks.
Donald Trump has confirmed that the US has launched "major combat operations" against Iran in an eight-minute video on Truth Social.
He said Tehran's "menacing activities directly endanger the United States, our troops, our bases overseas, and our allies throughout the world".
"For 47 years," Trump adds, "the Iranian regime has chanted 'Death to America' and waged an unending campaign of bloodshed."
He references the US embassy crisis from 1979 and 1981, where 66 hostages were held for 444 days, as well as other incidents with Tehran.
"It's been mass terror, and we're not going to take it any longer", he adds, before claiming that Iran attempted to rebuild its nuclear programme and was developing long-range missiles.
Trump then says "we are going to destroy their missiles" and "annihilate their navy", and adds that while steps have been taken to avoid casualties, "Americans may be lost".
He tells the Islamic Revolutionary Guard to "lay down their arms" or "face certain death".
Addressing the people of Iran, Trump says "the hour of your freedom is at hand" and warns them "bombs will dropping everywhere".
"When we are finished, take over your government, it will be yours to take", he adds.
"This will be, probably, your only chance for generations. For many years, you have asked for America's help, but you never got it.
"No president was willing to do what I am willing to do tonight."
Tom
If a peace deal is signed but Israel didnt agree to it. And then afterwards they launch missiles at Iran again using "self defense" bullshit as an excuse... what would happen then?
Gemma
Call me a cynic but I suspect we'll have ground troops right before the midterms.
Dylan
Well, someone is being 'unbelievably duplicitous'….
Andy Burnham steps into the role of Prime Minister as the fifth leader in just four years. This shift raises questions about stability and leadership in the UK. Burnham, previously the mayor of Manchester, is determined to bring his successful leadership style from the city to the national stage.
Burnham's approach has always been characterised by a focus on community engagement and a commitment to addressing local issues. As he takes on this new challenge, many are curious to see how he will adapt his methods to the broader context of national governance. His experience in Manchester has equipped him with a unique perspective on leadership, one that prioritizes listening to the public and fostering collaboration.
In his inaugural address as Prime Minister, Labour leader Andy Burnham is set to emphasise the need for "more breathing room" for the citizens of the UK. As he steps into this role, he acknowledges the turbulent political landscape.
Burnham's speech is expected to resonate with many, as he expresses his awareness of the challenges faced by the public amidst frequent leadership changes. His commitment to providing a more stable and supportive environment reflects a desire to restore confidence in government and improve the quality of life for all.
Key themes in Burnham's upcoming address include:
1. Acknowledgment of Political Instability: Burnham recognizes the rapid turnover in leadership and its impact on public trust.
2. Commitment to Citizens: He aims to create a government that prioritizes the needs and well-being of the people.
3. Vision for the Future: His focus on "breathing room" suggests a push for policies that foster economic and social stability.
Burnham's approach has always been characterised by a focus on community engagement and a commitment to addressing local issues. As he takes on this new challenge, many are curious to see how he will adapt his methods to the broader context of national governance. His experience in Manchester has equipped him with a unique perspective on leadership, one that prioritizes listening to the public and fostering collaboration.
In his inaugural address as Prime Minister, Labour leader Andy Burnham is set to emphasise the need for "more breathing room" for the citizens of the UK. As he steps into this role, he acknowledges the turbulent political landscape.
Burnham's speech is expected to resonate with many, as he expresses his awareness of the challenges faced by the public amidst frequent leadership changes. His commitment to providing a more stable and supportive environment reflects a desire to restore confidence in government and improve the quality of life for all.
Key themes in Burnham's upcoming address include:
1. Acknowledgment of Political Instability: Burnham recognizes the rapid turnover in leadership and its impact on public trust.
2. Commitment to Citizens: He aims to create a government that prioritizes the needs and well-being of the people.
3. Vision for the Future: His focus on "breathing room" suggests a push for policies that foster economic and social stability.
Franco Pinion
As he embarks on this journey, Burnham will need to navigate the complexities of national politics while trying to establish a sense of continuity and purpose. The challenge will be significant, especially in a time when the public is looking for stability and clear direction.
Key themes to consider as Burnham takes office include:
Leadership Style
Key themes to consider as Burnham takes office include:
Leadership Style
- Burnham's community-focused approach from his time as mayor.
- The importance of engaging with citizens and addressing their concerns.
- The rapid turnover of leadership in recent years.
- The need for stability and a clear vision moving forward.
- The desire for a leader who listens and acts on behalf of the people.
- The challenge of maintaining public trust in a time of uncertainty.
Sir Keir Starmer has announced he is stepping down as Prime Minister.
The Labour leader had faced growing pressure over his position in recent weeks, with reports of mounting concern inside the party and speculation over who could replace him.
In a statement outside Downing Street, Starmer said every decision he made in office had been about "putting the country first" as he confirmed he would be stepping aside.
His departure follows growing pressure from within Labour, with reports suggesting around 100 MPs had called for him to go.
Labour is expected to begin the process of choosing a new leader, with a transition potentially taking place later this year.
Starmer became Prime Minister in July 2024 after leading Labour to a landslide general election victory.
His departure would trigger a major leadership moment for Labour, with Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham widely reported as one of the names being discussed as a potential successor.
The Labour leader had faced growing pressure over his position in recent weeks, with reports of mounting concern inside the party and speculation over who could replace him.
In a statement outside Downing Street, Starmer said every decision he made in office had been about "putting the country first" as he confirmed he would be stepping aside.
His departure follows growing pressure from within Labour, with reports suggesting around 100 MPs had called for him to go.
Labour is expected to begin the process of choosing a new leader, with a transition potentially taking place later this year.
Starmer became Prime Minister in July 2024 after leading Labour to a landslide general election victory.
His departure would trigger a major leadership moment for Labour, with Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham widely reported as one of the names being discussed as a potential successor.
Best
Social media and 24/7 news have made it this way.
Bad Gizmo
Starmer is largely competent but has been dragged into a desire to be popular, despite this not being necessary this early in a Parliament. He could and should have stuck to his guns on stuff like taxation, as there is plenty of time until the next General Election for him to prove he was right (or otherwise). Otherwise, he lacks charisma, a bit like John Major (who was also competent, bar the rail privatisation decision). Burnham has charisma, almost the "man you'd have a pint with in the pub" as Farage pushes, so he may do better, but his policies are, in practice, unlikely to be wildly different.
A
Ally
The Starmer Government actually has done some good but it's mired with scandals, what is needed until the next GE is boring politics where things get done with a few grumbles.
In a significant move, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced plans to restrict access to popular social media platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram for users under the age of 16. This decision is set to take effect by next spring, aiming to create a safer online environment for children.
The announcement has sparked a lively discussion about the implications of such a ban. Proponents argue that limiting access to these platforms can help protect young users from potential online dangers, including cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and privacy concerns. On the other hand, critics raise questions about the effectiveness of this approach and the potential for unintended consequences, such as driving children to less regulated platforms or limiting their ability to engage with peers.
As this policy unfolds, it will be interesting to see how it impacts not only the social media landscape but also the way children interact with technology and each other. Will this ban truly enhance their safety, or will it simply push them towards alternative avenues that may not be as closely monitored?
Key themes to consider:
The announcement has sparked a lively discussion about the implications of such a ban. Proponents argue that limiting access to these platforms can help protect young users from potential online dangers, including cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and privacy concerns. On the other hand, critics raise questions about the effectiveness of this approach and the potential for unintended consequences, such as driving children to less regulated platforms or limiting their ability to engage with peers.
As this policy unfolds, it will be interesting to see how it impacts not only the social media landscape but also the way children interact with technology and each other. Will this ban truly enhance their safety, or will it simply push them towards alternative avenues that may not be as closely monitored?
Key themes to consider:
- The balance between safety and freedom in children's online activities.
- The effectiveness of blanket bans versus targeted education on digital literacy.
- The potential shift in social media usage among younger demographics.
- Under-16s to be banned from TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram.
- Effective by next spring.
- Debate over safety versus freedom.
- Concerns about driving children to less regulated platforms.
- Implications for children's digital interactions.
Snoops
Something definitely needs to be done to stop kids being subjected to unhealthy norms and to reduce the amount of time they spend on their phones. It's got to the stage where it's totally normal and that's just wrong.
Will this stop all under 16s being affected, not at all, is it an attempt to start something though, absolutely.
Will this stop all under 16s being affected, not at all, is it an attempt to start something though, absolutely.
Tom
Let's just ban all social media and let everyone calm down again.
Gemma
Banning it for over-16s would probably be more beneficial to society
From the early 90s, he has earned himself and others vast amounts of money by spotting opportunities in tech and placing himself front and centre.
By the time he invested in Tesla everything he was involved with was a success such was his reputation as a tech "fixer".
With Twitter, he's done the opposite, got in too late and paid too much.
By the time he invested in Tesla everything he was involved with was a success such was his reputation as a tech "fixer".
With Twitter, he's done the opposite, got in too late and paid too much.
Dylan
This makes me feel ill. Horrible human being.
Gemma
And yet so clearly a deeply unhappy man. If you can be so rich yet so hateful it doesn't particularly make me resentful of his wealth.
Dylan
He could solve so many problems with that money, could help groundbreaking medical research or help educate millions out of poverty. But prefers to be a dickhead with no redeeming qualities whatsoever
Previous global industrialists indulged in philanthropy, in public projects to enrich the lives of people, patronised the arts or scholarship schemes. Musk just acts like a spoiled child who has never grown up or recognised the fact that he could be a better man.... he's a selfish privileged cunt.
Approve: 29%
Disapprove: 68%
Midterms going to be interesting
Major TV networks — ABC, CBS, Fox News and NBC — agreed to suspend their pooled coverage of President Trump after the White House blocked CNN from its duties.
Ball back in Trump's court now or else he will have no coverage of his comings and goings, not great for the Donald's ego, I imagine.