Biden Authorises Ukraine Using Long Range Missiles On Russia

Nov 18 2024

U.S. President Joe Biden has authorised Ukraine to use long-range American ATACMS missiles against military targets inside Russia, marking a significant policy shift.

The move, first reported by The New York Times and The Washington Post and later confirmed by a U.S. official, comes amid reports of North Korea deploying 10,000 troops to support Russia’s war effort.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has long sought approval for ATACMS, capable of striking deep within Russian territory.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously warned that such actions would signify NATO engaging in direct conflict with Russia.

The decision also aligns with Biden’s plan to allocate the remaining $6 billion in Ukraine aid before handing over power to President-elect Donald Trump on January 20.

Trump has pledged to end the war swiftly, likely requiring Ukraine to cede territory. His administration has criticised continued U.S. support for Kyiv, with figures like Mike Waltz and Donald Trump Jr. expressing skepticism of further aid.

The policy shift may influence European allies. France and Britain have provided long-range missiles but refrained from allowing strikes on Russian soil without U.S. endorsement.

Germany continues to withhold its Taurus missiles. Meanwhile, Russia launched extensive attacks on Ukraine’s energy grid, killing 11 civilians, intensifying concerns as winter approaches.

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Venice Is Looking For More Gondoliers

Nov 18 2024

Venice is calling for applicants to train as gondoliers, one of the city’s most iconic professions, offering potential earnings of up to €150,000 annually.

Gondoliers navigate tourists through Venice’s historic canals in sleek, traditional gondolas, a role steeped in romance and history. Once numbering 10,000 in the 16th century, only 433 gondolas remain today, prompting city officials to recruit fresh talent.

Applicants must meet strict criteria: they must be 18 or older, possess a high school education, be strong swimmers, and provide a medical certificate proving robust health.

Training is intensive, spanning six months and covering 400 hours of rowing and navigation, Venetian history, Italian, and lifesaving skills. Owning and maintaining one’s gondola, which measures 11 meters and weighs around 590 kg, is also part of the job.

The application process, open from August 13 to 27, costs over €1,000. Though traditionally male-dominated with licenses inherited within families, the profession is now open to all EU citizens.

A gondola ride, enjoyed by millions of visitors each year, costs €80 for 30 minutes or €100 after 7 pm, with extra fees for music or singing. Safety remains a priority, especially after a 2023 incident where a capsized gondola highlighted the importance of proper training.

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Malta’s Beatrice Njoya Recognised For Her Powerful Story

Nov 18 2024

Malta, represented by Beatrice Njoya, gained international recognition among contestants from 126 countries during the live broadcast of the 73rd Miss Universe from Mexico City.

Miss Universe CEO Anne Jakrajutatip highlighted the brand’s commitment to inclusivity and empowering women during her on-stage remarks.

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She introduced a special clip featuring Beatrice Njoya, showcasing her inspiring journey, personal struggles, and efforts to break stereotypes.

Njoya was also recognised on various international reports for her being the only contestant in her 40s to reach the grand finale.

Meanwhile, Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark was crowned Miss Universe 2024, becoming the first Dane to ever win the competition.

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PM Robert Abela Meets European Commissioner Glenn Micallef

Nov 17 2024

Prime Minister Robert Abela met with Glenn Micallef, Malta’s European Commissioner, at Castile to discuss his new role and the future of European youth policies. Micallef, who has been assigned the portfolio of Youth, Intergenerational Justice, Sport, and Culture, was congratulated by the Prime Minister for his performance during his European Parliament grilling. Abela expressed confidence that Micallef’s work would be crucial to both Malta and the European Union’s future development.

The Prime Minister emphasized Malta’s commitment to empowering youth, noting that the government has continuously supported reforms aimed at amplifying young voices in society. Abela highlighted that young people should be seen as catalysts for change, contributing to a better quality of life for all citizens. He also pointed to the government’s efforts in the recent Budget to address generational justice, alongside sport and culture.

Micallef, in turn, shared his plans to engage with young people across the EU and expressed his commitment to promoting these values. Abela invited Micallef to address Malta’s Youth Advisory Forum, showcasing the country’s ongoing investment in its young people. The Prime Minister wished Micallef success in his new role, emphasizing the importance of his work for Malta and the EU.

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