Newsy - World

McCain Blasts 'Feckless' Obama Foreign Policy on Syria

Sun, 27 May 2012 19:57:40 -0500

(Image Source: Stripes)

BY LOGAN TITTLE

After reports of more than 100 civilian deaths in a Syrian massacre, President Obama’s foreign policy came under scrutiny on the Sunday political talk shows.

His 2008 opponent, Arizona Senator John McCain took to Fox News.

“You know, this is a shameful episode in American history…This administration has a feckless foreign policy which abandons American leadership…”

McCain went on to suggest the president is trying to delay taking action in Syria until after the election. Syria has been experiencing rebellion against President Bashar al-Assad for more than a year now--resulting in a long line of killings.

(video source: Toronto Sun)

The New York Times reports the Obama administration plans to use Russia’s help in an attempt to transition Assad out—something McCain says the U.S. shouldn’t count on.

And he’s not alone. At least not in Republican circles.

Presumptive nominee Mitt Romney’s campaign issued a statement—

“...it is far past time for the United States to begin to lead and put an end to Assad regime… The [Kofi] Annan ‘peace’ plan … has merely granted the Assad regime more time to execute its military onslaught.”

And the Obama camp is fighting back—saying Romney is out of line and hasn’t shown any ability to handle a crisis like Syria.

“...he has come off the sidelines to take a cheap shot at the president’s foreign policy without offering any realistic solutions of his own… These kind of political attacks from Gov. Romney can’t mask the fact that his ideas about national security are reckless and backward-looking.”

And in President Obama’s defense Senator John Kerry told Bloomberg, teaming up with Russia is a much stronger possibility than some believe.

“Russia is very much closer to us on the subject of Syria than people might think...They believe Assad has to go…They have a difference of opinion as to how we might achieve that…”

Haaretz reports Obama and Russian President Vladimir Putin will discuss Syria next month.

IMF Head Faces Backlash Over Greek 'Tax-Dodger' Comments

Sun, 27 May 2012 19:12:21 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY CHRISTINA HARTMAN

Greek observers are feeling a little kicked while they’re down.

Some are miffed over International Monetary Fund chief Christine Lagarde’s suggestion that some Greeks were tax-dodgers and it’s payback time.

It comes from a recently-published interview with a British newspaper. The comments gained traction and wider backlash over the weekend.

In a discussion about saving the euro, she told The Guardian, “As far as Athens is concerned, I also think about all those people who are trying to escape tax all the time.”

The Guardian reports she went on to say she has more sympathy for African children than the people of Greece. To put the comments in context, in return for a multi-billion euro bailout, Greece had said it would put tough austerity measures in place. But inconclusive elections in May left Greek willingness to go through with that promise in doubt. San Diego’s XETV suggests Lagarde’s comments were...

“...making clear that the IMF has no plans to relent on its austerity requirements for the country. The EU appears poised to let Greece fend for itself.”

The backlash was swift.

With Greece’s ekathimerini reporting Greek lawmakers were slamming the IMF head, as some 10,000 angry Greeks took to her Facebook page to condemn the remarks.

But observers have often cited tax evasion as a contributor to Greece’s struggling finances. The Associated Press estimates it costs the state more than $20 billion a year. Economist Will Hutton tells Sky News, Lagarde might not be totally off base, but the problem is she appeared to be aiming her ire in the wrong direction.

“You have a political elite, a financial elite, a business elite and a professional elite in Greece, who had essentially sacked the country... Wrong really, to address her comments to ordinary Greek citizens.”

That, as it turns out, is essentially how Lagarde defended her comments. In a Facebook post late Saturday, she clarified...

“...I am very sympathetic to the Greek people… [E]veryone should carry their fair share of the burden, especially the most privileged... That is the point I was emphasizing...”

The Global Post called that a “retreat.”

New elections in Greece are scheduled for mid-June. In a statement, anti-austerity Syriza party leader Alexis Tsipras said Greeks weren’t looking for Lagarde’s sympathy. But PASOK party leader Evangelos Venizelos said he welcomed her clarification.

Top News Headlines: U.N. Holds Meeting on Syria

Sun, 27 May 2012 18:32:06 -0500

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(Image source: Los Angeles Times)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

ANCHOR CHRISTINA HARTMAN

The United Nations Security Council is meeting to discuss the massacre in the Syrian village of Houla.
Diplomats say the closed meeting was called after Russia rejected a joint U.K.-French statement condemning the killings.
U.K. Foreign Secretary William Hague explained the decision to the BBC.

“It’s not in the interest of Russia, just as it’s not in the interest of anybody in the world for Syria to descend into an even bloodier situation and into full-scale civil war. And that is now the danger.”

Iran’s nuclear chief said on state television the country won’t halt production of enriched uranium — that’s from a New York Times report.

A foreign affairs columnist weighs in on Fox News.

“This is the second time the Iranians have been caught with highly enriched uranium. … Iran is a nuclear criminal … This is a red line.”

Subtropical storm Beryl is now Tropical Storm Beryl.
A meteorologist for CNN explains what drove the change.

“What a difference a day makes, because yesterday, Beryl was just choked off with dry air. Winds were like 45 miles per hour. … Today, this is a different animal.”

Dario Franchitti won his third Indianapolis 500 Sunday.
The race had a record 35 lead changes.
Here’s ABC.

“And I ask you — is there a more elegant race car driver in the world than Dario? … You couldn’t ask for a better champion than Dario Franchitti.”

Iran Announces Plans for Second Nuclear Plant by 2014

Sun, 27 May 2012 14:53:03 -0500

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(Image Source: The Office of the Presidency of the Islamic Republic of Iran)

BY AUSTIN ALONZO

ANCHOR CHRISTIAN BRYANT

Iran has announced plans to open a second nuclear power plant by 2014. Euronews has the details.

“According to the head of the country’s Atomic Energy Organisation work on the new 1,000 megawatt plant will begin next year to be completed by 2014.”

The announcement comes on the heels of contentious nuclear talks held in Baghdad between Iran and western nuclear nations. The talks ended without a deal, but the parties will meet again in Russia later this summer. Al Jazeera explains what the two sides want to achieve.

“Iran wants its rights as a signatory of the nuclear non-proliferation treaty to be able to enrich uranium, the West wants assurances that it won’t go above a certain level of enrichment.”

A report released by the International Atomic Energy Association did little to calm nervous western powers. The Guardian reports the agency said Iran is rapidly increasing its uranium stockpile.

“Iran had produced almost 6.2 tonnes of uranium enriched to a level of 3.5% since it began the work in 2007 … This equates to nearly 750 kg more than in the previous IAEA report issued in February … ‘This total amount … if further enriched to weapon grade, is enough to make over five nuclear weapons,’ its analysis said.”

The report also showed Iran increasing the purity of their enriched uranium. Although the reported 27 percent enrichment is far below the 90 percent purity needed for nuclear devices, CNN reports western powers are increasingly worried about Iran’s defiant attitude and are taking action.

“[Iran’s] economy has been crippled by sanctions imposed by the United Nations, the United States and the European Union. Because 80% of Iran's foreign revenues are derived from oil exports, an embargo by the EU set to go into effect in July will put further pressure on its economy.”

For now, Western powers are focused on resolving their differences through negotiations, but the Financial Times quotes a political analyst who warned the stakes are high...

“[T]he failed talks would push Iran towards more aggressive policies in the Middle East because ‘the mentality is language of force needs to be responded by a language of force.’”

Negotiations are set to resume in Moscow in July.

Leaders Continue to Disagree on Eurozone Plans

Sun, 27 May 2012 11:31:22 -0500

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(Image Source: CNN)

BY JOHN O’CONNOR

ANCHOR CANDICE AVILES

European leaders met at summit in Brussels earlier this week to discuss the future of the Eurozone, but financial recovery in Greece wasn’t the only item on the agenda. Instead, leaders met to outline proposals for closer fiscal coordination. One such proposal: “Eurobonds.” CNN has the details.

“The proposal is to issue bonds jointly underwritten by all of the Eurozone members. The proposal has been raised before and supported by others, including the Italian Prime Minister. But it has been rejected in the past by Germany.”

After the summit in Brussels, however, Italian Prime Minister Mario Monti revealed he is confident that Germany can be persuaded. Businessweek reports Monti thinks...

“Italy can help persuade Germany to support Europe’s ‘common good’... Germany has an interest in ensuring no country leaves the euro, while Greece will probably remain in the 17-nation currency region even as ‘anything can happen’...”

However, an analyst for the Telegraph explains that a unified financial coordination would have to overcome some deep divides.

“Germany on the one hand with their austerity, and France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Greece on the other hand — on the other side, who clearly want the opposite: more growth and less austerity.”

But with Greece on the edge of a fallout from the euro, Germany might not have the ability to hold out its pro-austerity measures much longer. The Observer reports...

“If the eurozone were to shrink, Germany's once-captive markets would become too poor to import: and the rapid appreciation of a stronger euro would make its exports much pricier... With three more weeks to go until the Greek election, and opinion polls suggesting the anti-austerity Syriza party may win the popular vote, it's decision time in Berlin, just as much as in Athens.”

According to The New York Times, both Greece and Germany hold a valid position, but a decisive course of action needs to be decided soon.

“Both seem reasonable positions, and maybe they are, but reasonable positions can apparently destroy an international agreement rather easily.”

The Euro leaders are scheduled to meet again at the end of June, where they intend to find a concrete plan for the future of the Eurozone.

Syrian Conflict at Possible 'Turning Point'

Sun, 27 May 2012 08:35:25 -0500

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(Image source: Al Jazeera)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

Syrian opposition forces say violence continued Sunday in Houla — following Friday’s attacks that killed more than 90 people, including 32 children.

ABC’s “Good Morning America” has the latest.

“Activists say government forces shelled residential areas again today … U.N. observers visited the village on Saturday, confirming artillery and tank shells were fired at the neighborhood.”

The opposition now says it’s lost hope in the ceasefire.

Fox News explains.

“Rebel forces now saying the U.N.-backed peace plan for the country is, quote, “dead.” The rebels also vowing to retaliate against pro-government forces who massacred 90 civilians … ”

Al Jazeera has the Syrian government’s response.

Reporter: “Two days after the massacre in Houla, the government of President Bashar al-Assad says it’s not responsible.

Jihad Makdissi, Syrian foreign ministry spokesperson: “We deny the accusations. This was the work of hundreds of armed terrorists who attacked Houla.”

Both sides have blamed each other for attacks and denied responsibility throughout the months-long conflict.

But the BBC reports this could be a turning point.

“The novelty is the fact that the U.N. observers are there on the ground. They’ve been able to go and actually verify what the activists were saying … This is the first time that’s happened.”

The head of the U.N.’s monitor mission tells CNN having unarmed observers on the ground can be a powerful tool …

“… but the tool has weaknesses. The responsibility for stopping the violence is on the government, on the opposition and for the other stakeholders to make the decision and prove it by action.”

According to euronews, this latest outbreak of violence in Syria is expected to top the agenda at Wednesday’s U.N. Security Council meeting.

Top News Headlines: Afghan Officials: Airstrike Kills Family

Sun, 27 May 2012 06:48:08 -0500

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(Image source: Al Jazeera)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

Local officials in Afghanistan say a NATO airstrike killed a family Saturday. Here’s the BBC.

“A spokesman for the government in Paktia province said a mother and six children were killed in the attack in a village in the region last night. NATO says it’s investigating the report.”

Meanwhile, four NATO troops have died in separate roadside-bomb attacks in Afghanistan. Fox News reports.

“These incidents happened last night in southern Afghanistan. NATO not revealing their nationalities at this time. However, 32 NATO troops have died in Afghanistan so far this month.”

The Syrian government denies it’s behind the attacks at Houla, while opposition forces promise retaliation. The head of the U.N.’s monitor mission tells CNN having unarmed observers on the ground can be a powerful tool …

“… but the tool has weaknesses. The responsibility for stopping the violence is on the government, on the opposition and for the other stakeholders to make the decision and prove it by action.”

Two rebel groups in Mali that initially disagreed now plan to merge and create an Islamic state. Euronews explains.

“The agreement will see the two forces merge and the appointment of an executive authority for Azawad. The Islamists have already started imposing Sharia law across the region.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Nathan Byrne, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

Pope's Butler Arrested Over Leaked Vatican Documents

Sat, 26 May 2012 16:30:00 -0500

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(Image source: Il Messaggero)

BY SINI STEPHAN

ANCHOR CHRISTIAN BRYANT

Italian police have arrested the Pope’s butler. Saturday, the Vatican confirmed Italian police found confidential documents in Paolo Gabriele’s home.

International Business Times has more on the controversy dubbed “Vatileaks” by the media.

“Vatileaks involves a leaking of a string of documents to Italian media ... including personal letters to the Pope. Some of the documents involved allegations of mismanagement and disagreement on how the Vatican bank should be run.”

Gabrielle is one of just six people with access to the pontiff’s study. Romereports explains his situation.

“He will now have to answer questions as to his knowledge of these documents and if he had supposedly acted alone or with accomplices inside or outside the Vatican.”

According to The Telegraph, Paolo Rodari, an expert on Vatican affairs, defends Gabriele.

“If you ask me he has been made a scapegoat just to satisfy the media. The documents found at his house were from the Pope’s personal correspondence but a lot of the leaked documents have come from the Secretary of State’s office and he would not have had access to those.”

The arrest comes days after the publication of “Your Holiness: The Secret Papers of Benedict XVI”, a book by investigative journalist Gianluigi Nuzzi. The book alleges corruption by the Vatican Bank. Incidentally, msnbc reports…

“On Thursday, Ettore Gotti Tedeschi was fired as the Vatican Bank’s president. ‘Gotti Tedeschi has said himself that he was ousted because he was the one who wanted transparency.’”

Catholic News Agency reports Nuzzi’s book identifies an anonymous source to confidential Vatican files, code-naming the individual “Maria”. Spanish Cardinal Julian Herranz will investigate this source but it is unclear whether prosecution would be dealt with by Vatican or Italian courts.

Top News Headlines: Obama to Honor Vets on Memorial Day

Sat, 26 May 2012 14:43:37 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY NATHAN BYRNE
ANCHOR CHRISTIAN BRYANT

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

In his weekly address, President Obama says he’ll spend Memorial Day at Arlington National Cemetery and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

Here’s MSNBC.

Anchor: “ … President Obama is honoring our fallen heroes.”
President Barack Obama: “On Memorial Day, we come together as Americans to let these families and veterans know they are not alone.”

Americans hitting the highways this Memorial Day weekend will see lower gas prices than they did last month.

But CNN reports those prices are still near record highs.

“The price for a gallon of unleaded gas has dropped 27 cents from its April highs … But AAA says that it’s still the third highest gas price ever for a Memorial Day weekend.”

Reports of Iran producing elevated levels of enriched uranium is raising concerns over the country’s nuclear program.

A Fox News analyst explains.

“ … eventually they’re going to say, ‘Oh wow, we’ve got nuclear weapons, we’re a nuclear weapons state.’ What does that do? It makes them the most powerful country in that part of the world with their hands on the world’s oil supply … ”

Subtropical Storm Beryl is headed toward the southeastern United States.

But a meteorologist for NBC’s “Today” says that’s not all bad.

“Whether it’s Tropical Storm Beryl or Subtropical, it doesn’t matter. You’re going to get the same effects. … Now this is good news, because it will bring some rain exactly where we need it.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Christian Bryant, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

Syrian Crisis Continues with Massacre in Houla

Sat, 26 May 2012 11:57:57 -0500

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(Image Source: BBC)

BY JOHN O’CONNOR

ANCHOR CANDICE AVILES

An attack on the Syrian town of Houla killed at least 90 people Saturday, including around 25 children. According to Al Jazeera, the U.N.-sanctioned peace plan is being ignored daily.

“A series of peace-plans hasn’t tempered the spiraling violence. To the contrary, some activists say the latest peace-plan has provided a cover for the army to carry on attacking them.”

U.N. officials say the forces behind the attack in Houla have yet to be determined. The BBC reports...

“UN chief Ban Ki-moon said the Syrian opposition controlled ‘significant parts of some cities.’ He said that ‘established terrorist groups’ could have been behind some of the recent bomb blasts in Syria judging from the sophistication of the attacks.”

Regardless of the party responsible for most recent attacks, activists say the cease-fire plan brokered by UN-Arab League envoy Kofi Annan has been less than effective in reducing the violence. France 24 has the details.

“An increasingly militarized opposition violates the cease-fire. Since it began human rights activists say some 1,500 civilians have been killed.”

CNN reports the Syrian National Council has called for an emergency meeting with the U.N. Security Council …

“ … to figure what exactly their mandate is there, what exactly they can do, and how much more can they do to protect civilians in Syria from this kind of savagery.”

According to CBS, more than 9,000 people — mostly civilians — have been killed in Syria since the conflict began in 2011.

Top News Headlines: At Least 90 Dead in Syrian Attacks

Sat, 26 May 2012 06:26:57 -0500

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(Image source: BBC)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

At least 90 people — including many children — are reported dead this morning following attacks in Syria.

Here’s the BBC.

“Activists claim government forces shelled the town of Houla in what they’re describing as a massacre. Now, if the death toll is confirmed, it would represent one of the bloodiest attacks since a nominal truce began last month.”

A U.S. drone strike is said to have killed three suspected militants in Pakistan overnight.

Fox News explains.

“This reportedly happened in north Waziristan, a known hotbed for Muslim extremists. This is the third strike reported by the Pakistani government in the past week. The CIA is not commenting on this at this time.”

A shooting spree in Finland killed two people and injured seven early Saturday.

Sky News reports.

“An 18-year-old man shot at people from a rooftop in Hyvinkaa, some 30 miles north of the capital of Helsinki. Police say they have arrested a man.”

The butler for Pope Benedict XVI has been arrested following a scandal at the Vatican.

According to euronews, a senior Vatican source confirms the man detained is Paolo Gabriele.

“Gabriele is suspected of leaking confidential documents to the Italian media. Some of the papers that have made their way into the press include the Pope’s personal letters.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Nathan Byrne, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

Nearly One Third Of Olympic Tickets Remain Unsold

Sat, 26 May 2012 04:00:02 -0500

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(Image Source: Metro)

BY JOHN O’CONNOR

ANCHOR CHRISTIAN BRYANT

The possibility of empty seats at the 2012 Olympic games in London is looking more and more likely. One third of the tickets haven’t been sold. The Telegraph reports.

“Officials confirmed they have just under 300,000 tickets remaining, with other large chunks of tickets - more than 1.3 million for each of the football and the Paralympics still unsold.”

The amount of unsold tickets comes as a surprise because of prior claims by officials that the event was already sold out. According to the UK’s Metro...

“With nearly 22 million applications having been made when the process originally started last year, it had looked a formality that the Games would sell out.”

So you might wonder who to blame for the recent decline in ticket demand. BBC Sport says the problem is how the tickets were sold by Ticketmaster.

“...with some people last summer even having to be informed that they had not been successful in buying the tickets which they had originally been told that they had got. Many others were frustrated by the ballot process, which left more than a million applicants empty handed after the first round of sales.”

According to the Guardian, frustrations with the website were expected because of the large volume of traffic, but it was not expected that customers would give up on getting tickets altogether.

“(Ticket buyers) complained about the erratic countdown clock that was supposed to tell them how long to wait, and the frustration of a system that took up to half an hour to check whether particular tickets were still available.”

BBC Sport says Olympic officials took a positive spin on the situation, stating they are in a fantastic position with nine weeks still left before the games begin.

Skydiver Survives Jump Without Parachute

Sat, 26 May 2012 04:00:01 -0500

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(Image source: Bremont)

BY MALLORY PERRYMAN

ANCHOR CHRISTIAN BRYANT

A British man jumped out of a helicopter without a parachute, fell 2,400 feet, and landed without a scratch on him. CBC talked to 42-year-old Gary Connery before he became the first person to complete a successful wingsuit landing.

Gary Connery: “If I didn’t feel scared, then there would be a problem. Paranoia I think for something like this is a great state of mind it keeps me focused.”

Scared or not — Connery did jump. The Telegraph has headcam video from Connery’s fellow jumper.

Video shows Connery gliding through the air

That windsuit Connery is wearing allowed him to steer toward a landing site — but he still reached speeds of about 80 miles an hour. After nearly a minute of falling through the air, he made it to the landing pad.

ITV News has the video.

Video shows Connery’s landing

Yes, those were cardboard boxes that he landed on. More than 18,000 of them, actually. But besides making for a cool stunt — Gizmodo reports, this is a big deal for skydivers.

“His success means he's achieved something that's been a goal for skydivers since 1997, when the first wing suit was invented by French daredevil Patrick De Gayardon, who actually died while attempting to jump sans parachute.”

Connery’s custom wingsuit was equipped with a parachute just in case. A fellow skydiver tells The New York Times — it took a combination of skill and guts to do something like this and live to tell the tale.

“It’s one of the most amazing things I’ve ever seen in my life … Because of movies, people don’t really understand what they witnessed. It’s monumental for a human to land at those speeds. It took an enormous amount of courage.”

Connery had to do hundreds of jumps in the wingsuit to prepare for the event. He works as a stuntman — and his resume includes appearances in Harry Potter, Downton Abbey, Indiana Jones, and Batman.

Prehistoric Flutes Date Back 40,000 Years

Sat, 26 May 2012 00:00:01 -0500

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(Image source: The University of Tübingen)

BY MALLORY PERRYMAN

Some very old fossils suggest our modern human ancestors may have been flautists.

In a study published in the Journal of Human Evolution — scientists reanalyzed some Stone Age artifacts and discovered that flutes are about 42,000-years-old. Sci-news reports...

“The musical instruments take the form of flutes made from the bird bones and mammoth ivory. The animal bones bear cuts and marks from human hunting and eating. They were excavated at a key site, which is widely believed to have been occupied by some of first modern humans to arrive in Europe.”

The artifacts are from a cave located in Germany believed to have been occupied by some of the first modern humans in Europe. USA Today reports...

“...the cave lies in the ‘former Danube Valley through which the Ach River flows today’ … its artifacts have been central to debates about when early modern humans first moved into Europe.”

The study claims the original carbon dating tests on the artifacts were off by a few thousand years — but with the new data, scientists think modern humans moved to Europe about 45,000 years ago. One of the researchers is quoted by BBC.

"… several caves in the region [have] produced important examples of personal ornaments, figurative art, mythical imagery and musical instruments."

The researchers say the new timeline indicates modern humans moved to Europe a few thousand years before an extremely cold climate phase in the region. According to Live Science, the discovery also means modern humans may have interacted with their Neanderthal cousins nearby.

“This site was inhabited by modern humans, the researchers said, but it's possible that Neanderthals were also in the area at the same time, though they haven't been able find evidence of any cultural contact or interbreeding between the two groups in this part of Europe.”

An earlier study on the old flutes concluded that the instruments played the notes C, D, F, and B quote “loud and clear.”

Bankia Suspends Shares; Multibillion Euro Bailout in Future?

Fri, 25 May 2012 16:53:00 -0500

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(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY MATTHEW PICHT

ANCHOR NEVILLE MILLER

More bad news ahead for the troubled Spanish economy: Spain’s fourth-largest bank Bankia has suspended trading of its shares. Sky News has the story...

“Shares in the Spanish Bank Bankia have been suspended as it plans to request more state aid...The lender is still weighed down by property losses from the market crashes of 2008, and needs the extra money to restructure.

Bankia was partly nationalised two weeks earlier when Spain’s government bought 45% of its shares. Fox News reports, the government announced an 11 billion dollar bailout to rescue the debt-stricken bank--but insiders say, after the board meeting, Bankia might be asking for more.

“Spanish newspapers quoted unnamed market sources as saying the bank will likely ask for up to €15 billion ($19 billion) at a press conference on Saturday. Neither the bank nor the Economy Ministry would comment on the reports.”

Spain’s government has already invested around 4.5 billion euros into Bankia. The 19-billion-dollar question is if Spain has the funds to cover this without resorting to foreign aid.

“They’ve already come up with I believe around 5 billion dollars US for this bank. The tab, as Paul was saying, could go to around 20 billion US. They're going to have to go to the debt markets, which sounds like a terrible idea right now.”

Spain’s citizens are not thrilled by the news. Severe economic recession and an unemployment rate of nearly 25% have already sparked anti-government protests. Euronews reports that a state-funded bank bailout will only increase resentment from a citizenry pushed to its limits by austerity measures.

“More money for failed banks is bound to anger austerity-numbed Spaniards, who protest on an almost daily basis outside financial institutions and government offices.”

But optimists continue to hope Spain’s financial troubles are on the mend. University of Grenada Professor Santiago Carbo Valverde tells the BBC, Bankia’s woes are the worst of the storm – Spain’s other major banks are in a more secure position.

“The three largest ones, I think, are in better shape, because they have lower exposure to the real estate market and they are more internationally diversified.”

Bankia was formed in 2010 from the merger of seven struggling banks. Its assets are estimated at 32 billion euros.

Top News Headlines: Police Find Mother of Kids Left in Shed

Fri, 25 May 2012 16:24:00 -0500

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(Image source: KATU)

BY NATHAN BYRNE
ANCHOR CHRISTIAN BRYANT

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

Portland, Oregon police say they’ve located the mother of three kids who were abandoned in a shed.

A reporter for KATU says police are still getting details.

“Police are now, of course, hoping that someone will recognize the kids, maybe even know the parents of these kids. For now, though, they are in protective custody with the Department of Human Services.”

The FBI says 24-year-old Ryan Snider of Canada will likely face federal charges after disrupting a flight Friday.

CNN explains what happened.

“A source tells CNN a man that the man got up, charged towards the front of the plane, began banging on the door as the plane was taxiing to the gate. American Airlines described the passenger as disoriented.”

Hurricane Bud is weakening as it approaches Mexico, but the storm’s still packing 100-mile-per-hour winds.

A meteorologist for Fox News makes her prediction.

“This is Hurricane Bud, a category two hurricane on the Pacific side. And we do think it could possibly make a landfall tonight overnight, or it could just hover across the west coast of Mexico … ”

A tough week for Facebook on the stock market.

One CNBC analyst says he’s having flashbacks to the tech bubble of the 1990s.

“ … I’ve seen this film before. This IPO reminds me a lot of the ill-fated Palm IPO. A deal that coincidentally priced at 38, opened at 140, never ticked a penny higher … ”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Christian Bryant, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

Ukrainian Lawmakers Brawl Over Language Bill

Fri, 25 May 2012 15:30:00 -0500

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(Image Source: MSNBC)

BY JOHN O’CONNOR

ANCHOR NEVILLE MILLER

Put your pens down and your fists up. That was the philosophy of a recent Ukrainian Parliament session that ended in an all-out brawl. The violence erupted over a bill that would make Russian the official language in the Ukraine’s predominantly-Russian speaking eastern region. A New York Times blog reports.

“The debate pitted the lawmakers from the country’s east — where President Viktor Yanukovich is popular and Russian is predominant — against those whose base of support is in the west where most speak Ukrainian.”

Opponents of the bill fear it will hinder the development of the Ukrainian language and provide no incentives for citizens to learn it. Tensions over the proposal have been brewing for years, and MSNBC notes this isn’t the first time the two sides have come out swinging.

“A massive fight against opposition leaders, this is a different fight. This is December of 2010 with chairs thrown and all.”

Voice of America reports — after the fiasco the Ukrainian Parliament speaker said he favored a voluntary dissolution of the chamber.

“The fight showed that the body could no longer work together. (He) called for the chamber to be disbanded and that early elections be held.”

The New York Times reports that most Ukrainian legislators don’t support holding early elections. New elections are already scheduled for October.

Egyptian Election Pacing Toward Secular-Religious Showdown

Fri, 25 May 2012 14:22:00 -0500

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(Image source: Los Angeles Times)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

Two candidates each grabbed about a quarter of the popular vote in Egypt’s presidential election.

The first candidate to garner fifty percent gets an outright win.

The BBC says a runoff is next.

“Counting has started in the first presidential election there since the fall of Hosni Mubarak. The Muslim Brotherhood say their candidate is in the lead. It looks like it will be a close race.”

Euronews compares the two likely finalists: former air force chief Ahmed Shafiq and Muslim Brotherhood candidate Mohamed Morsi, who …

“ … has promised to introduce sharia law, which has worried secularists and Egypt’s Coptic Christian minority. … Shafiq appeals more to moderates and the Coptic Christians because of his secularist approach.”

This sets the stage for a showdown between two very different candidates.

Religious versus secular.

The Los Angeles Times says …

“Egyptians couldn't face a starker choice, one that shows that despite a year of upheaval the pillars of the past remain strong and are colliding over the future of the country.”

Egypt’s recent past is wrought with revolt.

Tumultuous times translate to political ploys, according to one CNN panelist.

“Even though the Islamists — the religious-based activists — did not really play a major role in the uprisings we have seen in the last 16 months, they are taking ownership of the revolts.”

A writer for the Daily Maverick says no matter who wins — it’s a triumph for the Arab Spring.

“It proved without doubt that people living under the yoke of dictatorship do have a will of their own and if pressed, they will exercise it. … the real story is of a repressed people finding their voice in a very noisy world.”

But there will eventually be a winner.

A new president of Egypt.

One correspondent for The Christian Science Monitor predicts either outcome might anger the other side.

“While Shafiq has campaigned as the candidate who can restore stability, his win in the runoff could do the opposite. … A win by Morsi … would face strong resistance from Egypt’s security apparatus, which for decades repressed, jailed, and tortured members of the Muslim Brotherhood … ”

According to the Associated Press, the runoff election will be held on June 16 and 17.

The winner will be announced on June 21.

French President Makes Surprise Visit to Afghanistan

Fri, 25 May 2012 14:17:00 -0500

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(Image source: euronews)

BY NEWSY STAFF

France’s new president says nearly all French troops will leave Afghanistan by the end of 2012. Francois Hollande made a surprise visit to Afghanistan this week.

Euronews has the story.

“Hollande’s predecessor, Nicolas Sarkozy, had already informed NATO French forces would be leaving the country a year ahead of schedule in 2013. Now, Hollande is bringing that schedule forward to the end of this year.”

Hollande announced his decision at last weekend’s NATO summit in Chicago. France’s drawdown would come two years before NATO’s plan to withdraw all combat troops from the region. Hollande tells The Guardian...

“....the withdrawal would be done in a way that was ‘organised and co-ordinated’ with France's coalition partners in the country, ‘notably with President Obama, who understands our reasons, and in direct consultation with the Afghan authorities’.”

According to The New York Times, France has the fifth-largest NATO troop contingency, with 3,300 troops in Afghanistan.

Hollande addressed the French embassy in Kabul, saying the troop withdrawal didn’t mean France was abandoning Afghanistan. A reporter for The Telegraph writes …

“Some troops would remain in non-combat training roles and French aid would be [put] into a medical college, housing, energy, oil research and farming support.”

And a reporter for France 24 says, those aren’t the only interests France has in keeping a foot in the door in Afghanistan.

“There’s great mineral wealth in Afghanistan. Many people believe it’s a great untapped market. ... In security terms, it’s a tall order to ask companies to come here and invest....”

Hollande also met with Afghan President Hamid Karzai during his visit.

Top News Headlines: SpaceX Nears Historic Hookup

Fri, 25 May 2012 07:41:00 -0500

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(Image source: NASA)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

A private spacecraft prepares to dock with the International Space Station for the first time.

Here’s HLN.

“NASA gave the unmanned SpaceX Dragon the go-ahead. It is a huge milestone for commercial space travel now that NASA ended its shuttle program.”

French President Francois Hollande made a surprise visit to Afghanistan early Friday.

His predecessor Nicolas Sarkozy had committed to pulling out troops in 2013.

Euronews reports Hollande will move that date up to the end of 2012.

“Speaking to French troops at the Nijrab base northeast of Kabul, Hollande said the withdrawal would be conducted intelligently and would be fully coordinated with France’s allies.”

Spanish bank Bankia’s shares have been suspended amid talk of the financial institution possibly prepping to ask for a government bailout.

A Bloomberg analyst says it’s a big deal because this is a big bank.

“It’s the bank with the biggest asset base. It’s the third-biggest bank in Spain after Santander and BBVA at the moment. It’s really seen as a lightning rod for all these concerns that investors have.”

An explosion outside a Turkish police station killed two people Friday morning.

The BBC explains.

“At least 19 people were also injured in the blast in the province of Kayseri. reports suggest the blast happened when a car attempted to ram a police station. One of those who died was a policeman, the other may have been a suicide bomber.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Nathan Byrne, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

Iran Talks End in Stalemate

Fri, 25 May 2012 04:00:04 -0500

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(Image source: Press TV)

BY MATT PICHT

After two days, tense negotiations between Iran and six major world powers concluded Thursday in Baghdad. But, at least they’re still talking. Here’s Al Jazeera.

“We will go back to our respective capitals and consult. We will maintain intensive contacts with our Iranian counterparts to prepare a further meeting in Moscow.”

Iran came to the table looking for an easing of sanctions, while the major powers wanted Iran to cut back its uranium enrichment program. Not much progress was made and another round of talks is scheduled for June 18th and 19th in Moscow. The Telegraph reports...

“Diplomats said the fact that detailed discussion of key issues had taken place at all amounted to progress in itself, but there was little sign of any deal.”

The stalemate has been poorly received by many Western analysts. Fox News’s KT Mcfarland says postponing negotiations only gives Iran more time to develop nuclear weapons.

“What they’re doing is playing for time. Why? Because they know the minute they become a nuclear weapon state, everything changes. They become the dominant power in the Middle East.”

But for some, scant progress is still progress, and some people are still optimistic about a diplomatic resolution. An anonymous official told The New York Times...

“We’re getting to things that matter ... Even if we disagree on the shape, we think there is the beginning of a negotiation.”

Top News Headlines: Facebook Debuts 'Camera' App

Thu, 24 May 2012 16:37:00 -0500

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(Image source: Facebook )

BY NATHAN BYRNE AND MALLORY PERRYMAN

ANCHOR ANA COMPAIN-ROMERO

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

Well, it’s not Instagram — but it kind of looks like it. Facebook released a standalone iOS app today called “Camera.” The company recently announced its billion-dollar acquisition of photo-sharing app Instagram. The Verge showcases one of the app’s features.

“The app is built to be the best way for you to bulk-upload photos and browse photos that others have posted to Facebook. The key feature is that you can actually tap these green checkmarks to upload up to 30 pictures … ”

Representatives from Iran and six world powers wrapped up talks in Baghdad Thursday. Another round of meetings is set for next month in Moscow. Al Jazeera explains the current discussion.

“Western powers are concerned about Iran’s nuclear program and a possible military dimension to it. But Tehran insists its program is for peaceful purposes.”

Police have arrested a man who confessed to killing Etan Patz — the New York boy missing for 33 years. A source tells CNN …

“ … the man’s name is Pedro Hernandez. Once owned a convenience store, owned this bodega in Etan Patz’s neighborhood. The source says Hernandez claims he strangled the little boy 33 years ago.”

The president of the Vatican bank has been ousted after a unanimous vote from the bank’s governing body. Sky News explains — the bank president has been a polarizing figure since his appointment in 2009.

“A statement from the Holy See says a unanimous vote was in response to Ettore Gotti Tedeschi failing to carry out duties of primary importance. He’s currently being investigated on suspicion of money laundering.”

Pakistan Jails CIA Informant Who Helped Find Bin Laden

Thu, 24 May 2012 13:05:00 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY JIM FLINK

ANCHOR MEGAN MURPHY

The Pakistani doctor who helped the CIA find — and kill — Osama bin Laden, has been sentenced to 33 years in prison. Now, media outlets like The Telegraph report U.S.-Pakistani relations are at their worst point in years.

Here’s The Wall Street Journal with more on the case of Dr. Shakil Afridi.

“For Pakistan, this was treated as a national security breach, treating this guy like he was a traitor, obviously the U.S. officials have a very different view, they see him as a hero.

Pakistani news outlet DAWN quotes a defense ministry official as asking the U.S. to respect its laws, while at the same time outlining the punishment involved, saying Afridi was sentenced to 33 years in prison.

“... 10 years imprisonment each (for) … conspiracy to wage war against Pakistan or depriving it of its sovereignty … concealing existence of a plan to wage war against Pakistan … and... condemnation of the creation of the state and advocacy of abolition of its sovereignty) ... He was sentenced to an additional three years in jail (for) … assaulting (a) president, governor, etc, with intention to compel or restrain the exercise of any lawful power...”

Pakistani officials base those charges on the fact, Afridi worked undercover with the CIA to locate Osama bin Laden’s whereabouts in Abbotabad. CBS News explains, Afridi set up a vaccination program hoping to net bin Laden and his relatives.

“Pakistani officials say Afridi’s vaccination ruse, without their permission, helped the U.S. confirm the location of the world’s most wanted terrorist.”

The Telegraph notes, the sentence was issued, not by a federal Pakistani court, but by a more localized, tribal court, which carries with it, a different brand of justice.

“Afridi was not entitled to a lawyer but was given a chance to defend himself and has a right to appeal the verdict … The United States has given Pakistan more than $18 billion in assistance since the September 11, 2001 attacks, but US officials have persistent concerns that some elements of the establishment have maintained support for extremists.”

In an opinion piece for Fox News, a contributor says, the U.S. must do more to pressure Pakistan into freeing Afridi, and demanding more accountability.

“Pakistan has done little to rein in the Al Qaeda affiliates in the country who not only keep bin Laden’s dream alive, but organize attacks to kill Americans in Afghanistan. Further, Pakistan still can’t explain why their country is the preferred vacation destination for high-level Taliban leaders. Rather than make amends for bad behavior, Pakistan is demanding more from the U.S. while it delivers less and less.”

Top News Headlines: Man in Custody in Etan Patz Case

Thu, 24 May 2012 06:58:34 -0500

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(Image source: New York Magazine)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

A possible break in the Etan Patz case this morning.

He’s the New York boy who went missing in 1979 while walking to the bus stop by himself for the first time.

CNN reports.

“ … there is a person in custody in relation to this case. Someone who has apparently made it clear that he or she has a connection to this case.”

A U.N.-commissioned report says government forces are responsible for the majority of rights abuses in Syria since March.

The secretary general of Amnesty International blamed the, quote, “inaction” of the U.N. Security Council for thousands of lives lost.

Here’s the BBC.

“Almost a year ago, the Amnesty report talked about crimes against humanity in Syria and it’s taken almost a year for the first feeble Security Council resolution to come out to put just a few military observers on the ground.”

Polls are open for Egypt’s second day of its first free presidential election since the fall of Hosni Mubarak.

Here’s Al Jazeera.

"In this unprecedented exercise in democracy, few are willing to predict an outcome. Many voters saying they’re waiting until the last moment before making a choice."

U.K. Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg is going against the grain — condemning the European Union’s response to a possible Greek exit.

ITV explains.

“In a speech in Berlin later today, Mr. Clegg will criticize the notion that Greece’s exit could be a good thing for the rest of Europe. He’s expected to say that Europe must show leadership to find a way out of the crisis.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Nathan Byrne, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

Chemical Castration for Rapist in First for South Korea

Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:01 -0500

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(Image source: BBC)

BY LYNDSEY GARZA

A serial rapist is set to become the first man in South Korea to be chemically castrated. The Justice Ministry of South Korea is set to chemically castrate inmate surnamed Park, in an effort to suppress his libido. The Wall Street Journal reports the 45-year-old is the first in the country to receive the procedure.

“The ministry’s Forensic Psychiatry Deliberation Committee members unanimously adopted the measure after concluding that Mr. Park, who had already been determined a pedophile, is highly likely to prey on children again when he is released at the end of his prison term in July.”

Park is to be released after serving a 10-year sentence for the attempted rape of a 10-year-old girl. He was also convicted four times for the sexual assault and rape of children under the age of 13. Korea’s JoongAng Daily reports why castration was chosen for Park...

“He is categorized as a sexual deviant, one who especially targets underage children.”

Chemical castration typically involves injections once every three months (for three to 15 years). The injections suppress sex drive, compulsive fantasies and the capacity for sexual arousal. Park is set to receive psychotherapy for three years and is required to stay away from childcare facilities and wear an electronic anklet.

The Chosunilbo reports...

“The ministry has ordered him to take Lupron and Zoladex, which block the pituitary gland from secreting testosterone and are also used to treat prostate cancer. It said the drugs are also being used in Germany, Sweden and the U.S. state of California as chemical castration agents.”

Opponents of chemical castration say the procedure — though reversible — can have unintended negative health consequences. The South Korean law authorizing chemical castration went into effect in 2011 after a public outcry of repeat sexual offenders. BBC explains.

“There has been a continuous spate over sex crimes against children, because of this there has been a growing consensus that these crimes must be dealt with firmly, no matter the cost.”

Sex offenders like Park do not have to consent to the treatment and in this case, his option was waived after being medically diagnosed as a pedophile. If Park does not comply with the treatment, he can face seven years in prison or 70 million won.

Hopes Fade After First Day of Iran Nuclear Talks

Wed, 23 May 2012 21:49:24 -0500

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(Image source: Ebru News)

BY CHRISTINA HARTMAN

How quickly diplomatic hopes can fade.

World leaders headed into nuclear talks with Iran all smiles after Iran’s chief nuclear negotiator signalled a willingness to cooperate with the international community on its nuclear program by letting inspectors in to its facilities.

The U.S., China, France, Russia and Germany submitted a proposal which — among other requirements — would cap uranium enrichment and scrapping one underground facility. But PBS’s Judy Woodruff reports, Iran...

“...made a counter-offer today, apparently aimed at easing the bite of international economic sanctions.”

Iranian news agency Fars News called that counter-offer a comprehensive package of cooperation.

But the P5+1 group has delayed its response until Thursday night. Iran says its nuclear program is peaceful — and that the P5+1 proposal put on the table wasn’t reciprocal enough. As Al Jazeera reports, a string of sanctions have hit the Iranian economy hard.

“Iran wants to see an easing or a delay on those sanctions, but on the other side they say that won’t happen until they see concrete progress.”

So — all stick and no carrot in the first proposal? Iran says previous negotiators had promised balance in the discussions. The Christian Science Monitor suggests world powers didn’t offer Iran much in return for concessions.

“The Iranian reaction to the proposal indicates that a serious disconnect remains between Tehran and global powers about finding the right formula for curbing Iran's nuclear work...”

But part of that – according to CNN — comes from P5+1 fears Iran would get an easing of sanctions and then backtrack on its end of the deal. The network’s John King spoke with Arizona Senator John McCain – an outspoken Iran skeptic who serves as the Senate Armed Services Committee’s ranking member.

SEN. JOHN MCCAIN (R-AZ): “We’ve seen this movie before. There have been numerous other times where they have said they will let the inspectors in. They have denied that they are even embarking on this process when the evidence obviously contradicts that.”

But on Russia’s RT, a political analyst says it’s just that kind of rhetoric from western voices that could threaten any chances of a deal.

“...which stokes resentment of the West treating Iran as some little child, refusing to accept the repeated promises and statements that this is a peaceful nuclear program.”

Sanctions on Iran’s oil exports to European markets are set to kick in July 1st. Talks are expected to continue Thursday.

Top News Headlines: Oil Prices Drop Below $90

Wed, 23 May 2012 15:41:00 -0500

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(Image source: Flickr/ezioman)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

Oil prices fell below $90 in New York — erasing gains through 2011. Bloomberg points to multiple factors, like U.S. supplies being at a 22-year high and Iran loosening up on inspections.

“There’s been a sense that Iran was not going to let inspectors in, and that was somehow a violation of sovereignty. But the fact that you actually have the U.S. and NATO meeting in Baghdad, that’s a really big deal.”

Secret Service director Mark Sullivan apologized in his first public statement since the prostitution scandal. Here’s MSNBC.

“Eight agents implicated in the scandal have been forced out. Four are actually fighting to get their jobs back. They say the agency is making them a scapegoat. Sullivan is disputing that claim.”

Wednesday’s Brussels summit kicks off with all eyes on newly elected French President Francois Hollande. Sky News explains …

“ … because obviously now the duopoly that has run the summit since the crisis began, of France and Germany, both singing from the same hymn sheet, is now over.”

Egyptians have cast their ballots in the country’s first free presidential election since the fall of Hosni Mubarak 15 months ago. The BBC reports.

“This election is a sign that there’s no going back to the old Egypt, that what happened here really was a revolution. Many voters say a future president who defies the people will face another uprising.”

Kidnappings in Syria Spark Protests, Concerns

Wed, 23 May 2012 12:05:44 -0500

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Image Source: Flickr/FreedomHouse2

BY DANIELLE CARTER

Confusion remains after the kidnapping of Shi’ite pilgrims in northern Syria earlier this week. Euronews describes the immediate chaos.

“The main road to Beirut airport was blocked with burning car tires by friends and relatives of the missing men.”

The missing were returning from a pilgrimage to Iran when their bus was held up in the Aleppo region of Syria. While most sources agree on this detail, their reports differ on the amount and gender of the hostages.

Euronews reports 13 Lebanese men were kidnapped.
While Voice of America says that several dozen women were kidnapped along with 11 men.

However, Al Jazeera says, while women were a part of the group, they were not kidnapped along with the men. That report says the women returned to Beirut early Wednesday. One woman tells reporters about the captors.

“‘They pointed their guns and got into the buses. First they took us to the fields saying that they are taking us away from the shelling, while they took us there to kidnap the men...They said they are the Free Syrian Army.’”

But according to sources, the Free Syrian Army says otherwise. Here’s France 24 with more.

“The Free Syrian Army leader, Riad Al-Asaad, has denied that his group has anything to do with this kidnapping, but it’s not clear that he has complete control on the ground.”

The kidnappings have done nothing to help the tension in Lebanon. A columnist for the Telegraph describes the conflict in this way.

“Lebanon navigates a fragile fault line over Syria, which had troops on the ground in Lebanon for nearly 30 years until 2005 and still has strong ties to Lebanon’s security services. The countries share a complex web of political and sectarian ties and rivalries, which can quickly turn violent.”

There are no reports saying the kidnapped men have been released.

Top News Headlines: U.S. Drone Strike Strains Tensions

Wed, 23 May 2012 07:44:00 -0500

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(Image source: The Nation)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

A U.S. military drone strike kills at least four people in northwestern Pakistan.

Al Jazeera reports two missiles were fired on a compound in Miranshah near the border with Afghanistan.

“The town is a stronghold of the al-Haqqani network. U.S. drone attacks in Pakistani territory have strained relations between the two countries.”

A day after the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog held talks with Iran, more negotiations are taking place.
Here’s the BBC.

“Negotiators representing Iran and six world powers are meeting in Baghdad today to discuss Iran’s nuclear program.”

The possibility of a Greek exit from the euro looms ahead of an EU summit in Brussels.

Sky News reports.

“European leaders are openly asking themselves the question about what would happen if there were a Greek exit. At some point, there will have to be a political response, so goes the theory.”

The first free presidential election since Hosni Mubarak led Egypt opened today.

Euronews explains.

“While there were elections during his 30-year rule, these were considered a lip service to democracy, in which very few people took part and the result was a foregone conclusion.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Nathan Byrne, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

Egypt Holds First Presidential Election Since Mubarak

Wed, 23 May 2012 04:00:01 -0500

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(Image Source: Al Jazeera)

BY JOHN O’CONNOR

ANCHOR CHRISTINA HARTMAN

Egypt’s first post-Mubarak election starts Wednesday in what — by all accounts — is historic.

BBC: “...millions of voters prepare to go to the polls. The country's first ever free presidential elections...”

CNN: “...very excited. Very engaged politically for the first time, really, in this country's history.”

And all the presidential candidates have at least one thing in common. The New York Times points out they’re all...

“...pledging to get the police back to work, restore their morale and teach them about human rights.”

But Ahram is reporting it won’t be easy for a new president to restore stability without certain powers.

“The president will not be able to increase salaries, introduce unemployment allowances, raise the health and education budgets, or do the rest of the things candidates promised to do. The real power in such matters resides, according to the constitutional declaration, with parliament.”

The election is intended to be Egypt’s gateway to democracy, but NPR’s Soraya Sarhaddi says Egyptians are skeptical any real change will result.

"It's extremely difficult for anyone that has been struggling in this revolution from day one to trust — even superficially — that these elections mean anything but a referendum for continued military control."

But according to Al Jazeera’s David Kennedy and CNN’s Hala Gorani, for some, hope is on the horizon.

“Millions of people believe things have changed, will change, and realised their collective potential. Even if all the institutions remain the same, this will not be the same Egypt.”

“This is a country that just two years ago would have never dreamt of a situation in which candidates are running for the presidency in what is expected it be a free and fair election. (FLASH) People are in cafes, out on the street debating, politics openly, loudly, giving people their opinion without fear of retribution.”

Egyptians will have two days to choose from 13 candidates. If no candidate gets a majority, the top two vote-getters will compete in a runoff in mid-June.

OECD: Eurozone Could Face More Trouble

Wed, 23 May 2012 00:00:02 -0500

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(Image Source: Cowan Global)

BY JIM FLINK

ANCHOR CHRISTINA HARTMAN

The global economy is gradually recovering.

But the eurozone is in crisis, and could face even more trouble.
That’s the word from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development.

“The euro area remains the single biggest risk to the global economy and recent events have increased that risk. ... There must be a major rebalancing. ... Everyone must do something.”

Specifically, the OECD says, the South must get more competitive, the north must boost demand and wages. Euronews focuses in on the forecast.

“The OECD forecasts the eurozone’s economy will shrink by .1 percent this year, and grow by just under one percent by next year, with unemployment in the region rising above 11 percent of the workforce next year.”

Believe it or not, the OECD is delivering the good news.
The Daily Mail notes:

“The OECD's forecast is still more optimistic about both the U.S. and Europe than the International Monetary Fund. Last month the IMF said in its own global economic forecast that the U.S. should expand 2.1 per cent this year, while Europe should shrink 0.3 per cent.”

Wednesday, European leaders will meet to discuss how to address the crisis.
Some see both the OECD and the IMF supporting a eurobond, to stabilize the region.
Analysts at the Wall Street Journal note, neither the eurozone nor the German constitution currently allow for the measure.

“The thing that people are looking for right now are more along the lines of shorter term fixes, shorter term solutions, bank recapitalization, one of foremost of what is in people’s minds to try and restore confidence in Europe....”

But an advisor to German Chancellor Angela Merkel notes, with so many divergent positions within the eurozone, politically speaking, this crisis will either be solved or created by cooperation or the failure to cooperate. Here’s Bloomberg.

“Austerity is certainly needed, if you are in a public deficit. But it depends on the degree ... Once you are in recession, if you try to continue to raise taxes and reduce expenditures, the recession gets worse.”

Iranian Cooperation Sets Positive Tone for Upcoming Talks

Tue, 22 May 2012 21:23:31 -0500

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(Image Source: CNTV)

BY MATTHEW PICHT

Is Iran willing to negotiate its nuclear program? The director-general of the UN’s nuclear watchdog group, seems to think so. Yukiya Amano emerged from a weekend visit to Tehran optimistic about proposed cooperation between Iran and the UN. Al Jazeera reports...

“Speaking to reporters at Vienna airport, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency said his trip to Tehran saw progress on a stalemate that has lasted for a number of years.”

Amano says he reached an agreement with Iran's chief nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili, and he expects to sign a deal with Jalili soon.

The announcement comes just before the second round of talks between Iran and six major UN countries, including the U.S. Writing for The Hill — international affairs expert Terri Lodge is optimistic about what these negotiations can accomplish.

“This meeting has the potential to actually accomplish something tangible... Even agreements to discuss additional IAEA inspections or small confidence building measures would mark a successful conference.”

For its part, Iran wants relief from harsh international sanctions, which have crippled Iran’s economy. The BBC says it’s these censures, more than anything else, that have driven Iran to bargaining.

“The sanctions, especially the oil embargo, have been squeezing Iran to an unprecedented level.”

Iran’s cooperation with the IAEA is a positive sign for the upcoming negotiations. An anonymous analyst told the Christian Science Monitor...

“If the positive signals are genuine ... and Iran is not asked to give up enrichment altogether – then a deal is possible ‘that makes everybody happy.’”

But skeptics point out nothing between Iran and the IAEA is on paper yet. The vice president of the American Foreign Policy Council, told Fox News Iran’s cooperation might be a ploy to influence the upcoming negotiations.

“The Iranians are trying to trumpet some progress in terms of cooperation with the UN in advance of the nuclear talks, in a way to set the stage where they could argue that sanctions should be reduced, that the international community really doesn’t have anything to worry about.”

Further complicating matters, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has asked the UN coalition not to make any concessions to Iran, calling for a complete halt to Iranian nuclear development.

Top News Headlines: IAEA Reaches Nuclear Deal With Iran

Tue, 22 May 2012 14:37:00 -0500

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(Image source: Al Jazeera)

BY STEVEN SPARKMAN

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

The UN’s nuclear watchdog says it’s reached a deal with Iran that will allow nuclear inspections to resume. The announcement comes a day before high-level talks between Iran and six UN countries on Iran’s nuclear program. Here’s Al Jazeera.

“Speaking to reporters at Vienna airport, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency said his trip to Tehran saw progress on a stalemate that’s lasted for a number of years.”

Members of the Senate intelligence committee revealed a new jihadi web video calling for cyber attacks on U.S. infrastructure. Fox News has details on the video.

“These images are pulled from the tape and specifically claim that the U.S. is vulnerable to cyber attacks in the same way the U.S. airline security system was vulnerable to the hijackers and boxcutters.”

A congressional probe has found the U.S. military is being sold phony parts by equipment suppliers in China. CNN has more.

“Thousands of vital components of U.S. weapons systems originating in Chinese scrap heaps and then sold to you and me, the U.S. taxpayers, as the real deal.”

And a new structure claims the title of world’s tallest tower. Japan’s Sky Tree Tower stands 34 meters taller than the previous record-holder, China’s Canton Tower. Bloomberg has more on the grand opening.

“It officially opened its doors to an estimated 200,000 people today, and it’s surrounded by more than 300 shops and restaurants, a planetarium and an aquarium.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Christina Hartman, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

Al Qaeda: Yemen Suicide Bombing 'Revenge'

Tue, 22 May 2012 11:00:00 -0500

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(Image source: Al Jazeera)

BY CARISSA LOETHEN

At least 90 are dead and more than 200 wounded after a suicide bomber blew himself up during a military parade rehearsal in Yemen’s capital. A police officer recounts the siege to the Washington Post.

“It all happened so quickly. ...we heard the explosion and saw the soldiers flying in the air. We were told the assailant was a soldier wearing an explosive belt.”

Fox News reports al-Qaeda is claiming credit for the attack.

“Today the Al-Qaeda branch in Yemen released a statement calling the bombing payback for a U.S war on the terror group.”

Unpopular former Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh stepped down in the wake of the Arab Spring — and the BBC’s Frank Gardner suggests the attack may have been a direct message to his successor.

“This will be a message from the militants to him. You know, we can get you any time. And already in the last few days Al-Qaeda’s replacement for Osama Bin Laden has said we consider him to be just as bad.”

The Christian Science Monitor explains this all comes just one day after American contractors were attacked in Southern Yemen. al-Qaeda has also claimed responsibility for that attack.

“The trainers were reportedly driving back to their hotel when a car pulled up alongside them and opened fire with an automatic weapon, injuring one American...”

ABC says despite the deadly attack Monday...

… the Yemeni army and the U.S. will continue its fight against Al-Qaeda. It’s not even close to being defeated here yet.”

During President Obama’s live news conference Monday, a reporter asked Obama what the U.S. is going to do to slow the process of anarchy in Yemen.

“...We're going to continue to work with the Yemeni government to try to identify aqap leadership and operations and try to thwart them...”

It remains unclear if the planned parade will go as planned Tuesday. Yemeni officials say it is a significant event, celebrating the unity between North and South Yemen.

Top News Headlines: SpaceX Launches First ISS Flight

Tue, 22 May 2012 08:00:00 -0500

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(Image source: Wired)

BY STEVEN SPARKMAN

ANCHOR ALLIE SPILLYARDS

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

After a long string of aborted missions, SpaceX successfully launched an unmanned rocket on its way to the International Space Station. CNN reports — it’s an historic flight.

“It is the world’s first commercial space station supply flight. NASA hanging its hopes on the mission now that the retired space shuttles are museum exhibits.”

Several people were shot in Oklahoma City just after the Thunder beat the Lakers last night. The shootings took place just blocks from the arena. HLN has more.

“Eight people were reportedly shot at 11:35 pm local time in Oklahoma City. As of now, there is no motive for the shootings.”

Police have arrested a man in connection with the disappearance of a California teenager who went missing two months ago. Here’s Fox News with the details.

“Police arrested this man, 21-year-old Antolin Garcia-Torres, on suspicion of murder and kidnapping. Fifteen-year-old Sierra Lamar was last seen March 16 as she left to catch the school bus.”

The two-day NATO summit ended Monday evening with an agreement on a roadmap for Afghanistan. The plan includes a gradual drawdown of combat troops. Here’s euronews.

“The alliance has now formally backed the U.S. plan, which is a major step towards bringing the unpopular decade-long war to an end. All combat troops are to be pulled out by the end of 2014.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Allie Spillyards, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

NATO Endorses Afghan Exit Plan to a Pessimistic Press

Mon, 21 May 2012 21:41:23 -0500

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(Image source: U.S. Army)

BY CHRISTINA HARTMAN

He called it a “messy process” but President Obama says NATO is unified in a plan to withdraw from Afghanistan.

At the NATO summit in Chicago world leaders endorsed a pullout strategy that gives Afghan security forces control by mid-2013.

OBAMA: “Our forces broke the Taliban’s momentum. … Afghan security forces have grown stronger...”

The deadline for complete withdrawal is 2014, with NATO leaders calling the plan a responsible transition. But ITV’s Robert Moore has a more cynical take.

MOORE: “It’s always said it's much easier to start a war than to finish one. And so it is proving. … In truth Afghanistan has become unsustainable for the alliance. Judged by many now to be unaffordable, unwinnable and increasingly unpopular.”

A CBS/New York Times poll found in March — support for the war in Afghanistan had hit an all-time low.

That pessimism is not uncommon to find in western press coverage. Here’s Sky News.

“We’ve told the enemy we’re leaving. … So why are we staying any longer?”

The Guardian’s editorial board writes, “...the exit strategy has become all exit and no strategy.”

And while NATO leaders called the timetable a “milestone” — the BBC’s Mark Mardell asks “milestone or millstone?” and writes “It looks like a tombstone and sounds like a millstone.”

Newly-elected French President Francois Hollande had made a campaign promise the French would be out of Afghanistan as soon as possible. Mardell notes...

“Nato's leaders rather ignored him and just hoped no-one else would follow his lead and start elbowing others out of the way in their desire to get home.”

But in a news conference marking the announcement — President Obama acknowledged there was no “perfect” end to the war in Afghanistan. Pledging to stand with Afghanistan — the alliance pledged to help fund Afghan armed forces even after troops withdraw.

European Missile Defense 'Threatens Strategic Stability'

Mon, 21 May 2012 20:30:00 -0500

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(Image source: Xinhua)

BY CHRISTINA HARTMAN

The first phase of the controversial European missile defense shield is now “provisionally operational.”

It’s not news Russia is likely to be happy about.

KFQX: “...the European missile defense shield is up and running. It has the capability to shoot down incoming missiles.”

Fox News: “Missile defense, a thorny issue, particularly with the, in terms of the Soviet Union.”

The United States says it’s to protect Europe from Iranian missiles, but Russians are skeptical, and say the system is meant to counter Russian nuclear missiles. NPR spoke with a Russian security analyst.

SERGEY ROGOV: “Since very few, if any, experts believe that there is a clear and present danger of Iranian and North Korean threat...”

NATO made the announcement at its summit in Chicago, and in a press release assured Moscow the missile defense system “is not directed against Russia” but rather “against potential threats emanating from outside the Euro-Atlantic area.”

In the meantime, newly inaugurated President Vladimir Putin vowed on the campaign trail to pursue rearmament and revamp the country’s military. On Russia’s RT, one correspondent suggests the missile defense announcement can only heighten tensions.

“The U.S. refuses to give legal guarantees that the system will not be aimed at Russia at some point. So it’s a huge issue that’s not just about trust, but it’s about guarantees.”

But the Christian Science Monitor’s Moscow correspondent Fred Weir suggests — neither side’s fears are rooted in reality.

“NATO claims it needs a shield to defend against hypothetical rogue missile strikes from Iran or North Korea – a threat that does not presently exist – while Moscow complains that the shield currently being installed in Europe might undercut Russia's strategic edge in its later stages, almost a decade hence.”

The system is expected to reach full operational capacity by 2020.

Top News Headlines: Ravi Sentenced in Rutgers Spycam Case

Mon, 21 May 2012 16:30:02 -0500

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(Image source: ABC)

BY STEVEN SPARKMAN
ANCHOR CHRISTINA HARTMAN

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

The ex-Rutgers student convicted in March over spying on his roommate’s homosexual encounter has been sentenced to 30-days in prison. Dharun Ravi faced a possible sentence of up to 10 years in prison. A Fox News analyst says the light sentence will likely spare Ravi from deportation.

“I believe to be eligible for the deportation, he would have had to be sentenced to a minimum of one year. As I understand it, because that did not happen, deportation now is probably not an issue.”

World leaders at the NATO summit have approved a missile defense shield in Europe, despite condemnation by Russia. Democracy Now! has the details.

“The plan will deploy a U.S. warship armed with interceptors in the Mediterranean, as well as a radar system in a German base.”

Al Qaeda has claimed responsibility for today’s deadly bombing in Yemen. While the terror organization has battled the government before, a BBC analyst says it’s unusual for anything like this to happen in the capital.

“Most of the violence this year in Yemen has taken place in the South. … This was meant as a big message to Yemen’s rulers.”

After a less-than-stellar IPO on Friday, Facebook shares continue to tumble. A CNN analyst gives some of the numbers from midday Monday.

“Facebook shares are getting hammered, right now trading down more than nine percent below their IPO price of $38. Shares are at about $35. So much for all the hype, right?”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Christina Hartman, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

Serbia Elects Populist Tomislav Nikolic

Mon, 21 May 2012 14:45:00 -0500

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(Image source: Tanjug)

BY DANIELLE CARTER

Serbia has elected populist Tomislav Nikolic over the former Democratic president of 8 years, Boris Tadic. ITV has more on Tadic’s presidential defeat.

“He’s been narrowly beaten in a second-round election runoff by a hardline nationalist and one-time ally of the Serb strongman Slobodan Milosevic.”

Nikolic’s election was an upset, and has some worrying Serbia will backslide in its efforts to join the European Union. Ireland’s RTE news explains, Nikolic appears to be reversing course.

“But a recent convert to the EU cause, he has warned in the past he would not join the 27-member bloc at any cost, making a breakaway Kosovo the red line for EU membership.”

Now Nikolic says he will keep Serbia on the path to EU membership, adding he doesn’t think the election was a referendum on the EU. Serbian news agency Tanjug quotes him, saying:

“I want to establish different relations with Germany, ‘leader of the EU’, with which Serbia can strengthen cooperation in the field of investments, Nikolic, who is also leader of the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) told activists and citizens in Belgrade.”

But RT questions Nikolic’s intentions. One analyst thinks Nikolic may be posturing for the benefit of NATO-owned media.

“He’s gotta take a much more pro-EU, pro-Western line, otherwise he’ll be attacked by the media, not defended by the NGO’s, and generally will be political dead meat.”

Nikolic has been playing to the media quite well. In the end, he came across as more likeable, according to Nick Thorpe of the BBC news.

“Tomislav Nikolic, a 60-year-old populist who rose to prominence as a radical nationalist, comes across as a smiling, grandfatherly figure, a man who enjoys making plum brandy and walking in the woods in the Serbian heartlands.”

Nikolic’s first job will be to appoint a prime minister to form a new government.

Three Climbers Die on Mount Everest

Mon, 21 May 2012 14:30:35 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY STEVEN SPARKMAN

A tragedy on the top of the world. Climbers rushed to summit Mt. Everest over the weekend, but NBC’s Today Show reports the climb turned deadly.

“Three climbers have died descending from the top of Mt. Everest this weekend. Two other climbers have also gone missing since Saturday on the world’s tallest mountain.”

Officials have determined one of the climbers died of altitude sickness, a reaction to low pressure and scarce oxygen. Fox News has more on the victim.

“One of them you see here, 61-year-old Dr. Eberhard Schaaf of Germany. A Canadian and South Korean also died after the three reached the summit and they were on their way back down.”

The already-harsh conditions on Everest were made all the worse the number of climbers trying to make it to the top in a very short time window. A writer for Gather reports, the mountain was so crowded, climbers had to stand in line.

“The month of May usually provides the only ‘ideal’ conditions for reaching the summit. This year, it didn't happen until this past weekend ... The result was a traffic jam of eager climbers, pursuing their dreams despite warnings to not attempt a summit after 11 a.m. Over 150 climbers forged ahead into the ‘death zone’ until as late as 2:30 p.m.”

The climbers apparently hadn’t brought enough oxygen to last through both the climb and the long wait. A climb organizer tells CNN it’s not uncommon for climbers to let the thrill get the better of them.

“Mountaineers often expend all their energy while ascending the mountain and do not think about energy needed to come down. ‘As a result, they become weak and suffer from altitude sickness.’”

Another of Saturday’s climbers, a 73-year-old Japanese woman, became the oldest woman to stand on the summit.

Top News Headlines: Suicide Bomber Targets Yemen's Military

Mon, 21 May 2012 07:47:00 -0500

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(Image source: Wikipedia)

BY STEVEN SPARKMAN

ANCHOR LAUREN ZIMA

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

Dozens have been killed and hundreds wounded in a suicide bomb attack in Yemen. The attack targeted the country’s military. Here’s euronews.

“Panic among Yemen’s armed forces as a suicide bomber struck a rehearsal for a military parade. … The bomber was reportedly wearing military uniform. Soldiers had been practicing for Yemen’s National Unity Day tomorrow.”

The NATO summit heads into its second day today. While world leaders discuss Afghanistan, Chicago police are bracing for more possible run-ins with protesters. CNN has footage from yesterday’s violent clashes.

“Demonstrators were making their voices heard like this: outside in the streets. Check out the chaotic scene right near the summit site. So far at least 45 people have been arrested.”

A verdict in the John Edwards’ campaign corruption trial could be handed down as soon as today. Here’s HLN.

“Today is the jury’s second day of deliberations. On Friday, they asked the judge to let them look again at copies of checks, a voicemail transcript and other evidence.”

Bee Gees star Robin Gibb passed away Sunday after a long battle with cancer. His career is being celebrated in his native Britain. A music journalist tells ITV Gibb was one the country’s most influential artists.

“When you tell the story of Robin Gibb, you have to use a lot of capital letters and a lot of exclamation points because the Bee Gees were that important. Their catalog is second only to that of Lennon and McCartney.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Lauren Zima, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

Pakistan Blocks Twitter Over 'Offensive' Cartoons

Mon, 21 May 2012 04:00:03 -0500

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(Image source: Flickr Creative Commons)

BY STACEY WELSH

ANCHOR JIM FLINK

Pakistan blocked its people from Twitter Sunday. Officials say Twitter refused to remove pictures considered offensive to Islam. KTVU reports...

“Twitter refused to remove material related to a competition on Facebook to post depictions of the prophet Mohammed. Pakistan said Facebook has agreed to address the concerns, but Twitter has not.”

Al Jazeera has since reported the country unblocked Twitter.

“Al Jazeera's Asad Hashim in Karachi said he could not access the site from his mobile phone, but was still able to see tweets posted earlier in the day. He said it appeared that the ban had therefore come into effect sometime about 8:00GMT (1pm local time). By 17GMT, Hashim said the ban had been lifted.”

Human rights and anti-censorship groups scoffed at the move. The New York Times has a statement from the Pakistani Human Rights Watch director.

“The government of Pakistan’s ban on Twitter is ill advised, counterproductive and will ultimately prove to be futile as all such attempts at censorship have proved to be.”

Despite the crackdown, The Guardian reports...

“The ban was made largely irrelevant by tech-savvy users. Twitter members... installed proxy servers to shield their web browsing. Once back online, many posted angry tweets about the shutdown.”

@RuwaydaMustafah

"Twitter is banned in Pakistan. Pakistan's interior minister claimed this would never happen. What a liar!"

@BeeDazzeld_

"Twitter banned in Pakistan?! Are you freaking kidding me. Democracy and freedom of speech don't hold any meaning anymore..."

But Pakistan’s citizens haven’t always been free to post opinions on social media sites. The News International notes:

“In 2010... [Facebook] was blocked in Pakistan for the same reason [posting blasphemous content]. Twitter has grown in popularity in the last few years and it is estimated that an approximate 6 million people use it in Pakistan.”

Lockerbie Bomber Died from Cancer-Related Complications

Mon, 21 May 2012 00:00:02 -0500

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(Image Source: Julie Howden/The Herald)

BY HANK KOEBLER

ANCHOR CARISSA LOETHEN

The man convicted of killing 270 people by planting a bomb on an airplane in 1988 has died from cancer-related complications. Sky News has the details:

"The Lockerbie bomber, Abdelbaset al-Megrahi has died at his home in the Libyan capitol of Tripoli. He was the only person convicted over the terrorist attack in 1988."

Al-Megrahi was sentenced to life in prison in 2001, but was released in 2009 because doctors estimated Al-Megrahi only had three months left to live. He actually ended up surpassing the doctors expectations by almost 3 years.

Bert Ammerman, whose brother died in the bombing, tells Fox News:

“He massacred 270 people, 259 at 31,000 feet in the air. The last thing he deserved was to be around his family and friends in his own home. Now that was despicable.”

A spokesman for the victims’ families tells Huffington Post that Al-Megrahi’s death was to be deeply regretted.

“As someone who attended the trial I have never taken the view that Megrahi was guilty… Megrahi is the 271st victim of Lockerbie.”

Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie told BBC the death was “an end to a chapter of one of the worst terrorist events in Scotland,” and also raised questions about al-Megrahi’s conviction:

“There should be no celebration that Abdelbaset al-Megrahi has died. Instead it should act as a spur to establish the facts including whether crucial forensic evidence was withheld from the trial.”

Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond told BBC and other news outlets that the Lockerbie investigation is still ongoing and that prosecutors never believed al-Megrahi was the only person responsible for the bombing.

NATO Summit: What Will The Alliance Do After Afghanistan?

Sun, 20 May 2012 19:33:05 -0500

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(Image: Wikimedia Commons)

BY STEVEN SPARKMAN AND EVAN BUSH

ANCHOR JIM FLINK

The NATO summit in Chicago is underway and though talks have focused on exiting Afghanistan, media are taking the opportunity to weigh in on the alliance’s purpose as war efforts wind down. We’ll breakdown coverage and perspectives from around the world, including sources in the US, China, France and the UK, on how NATO should move forward.Here’s CNN characterizing the European perspective.

“The decade-long NATO involvement in Afghanistan has produced what some have described as collective fatigue among European allies and questions about whether NATO should be involved in conflicts outside of Europe’s backyard.”

And as leaders arrive in Chicago, it’s not just speculation, but action. A new president threatens to cut short his country’s involvement in Afghanistan. French president Francois Hollande is standing by an election pledge to withdraw French troops from the country by the end of the year.

France 24 says Hollande quote “faces NATO’s wrath” over the planned early exit.

“His decision is not expected to go down well with the other leaders of the 28 member states when he comes face-to-face with them over the next two days.”

Allies aren’t the only countries expressing fatigue over NATO’s involvement in the region. China’s state-affiliated Xinhua News Agency portrays the alliance as a warmongering bully and blames it for international disputes. The agency chastises NATO and argues it needs to pipe down on the international stage.

“For NATO, which has realized some of its strategic goals in recent years at the price of other countries, the lasting protests against NATO should serve as an alarm bell for the bloc to curb its preoccupation with armed might. … NATO...should refrain from pursuing its egoistic interests at the expense of others.”

But as we move from East to West, the so-called bully is characterized as a beacon of democracy -- The North American editor for the BBC says, now that NATO is searching for a new role, it shouldn’t shy from aggressively promoting its democratic values. He cites Libya as his hope for NATO’s future.

“Nato could draw its horns in and stick to its stated responsibility to safeguard its members’ freedom. … But this will not be enough. Libya was a striking example of Nato as an instrument of liberal interventionism, the belief that democratic nations have a duty to aggressively promote their values and protect human rights.”

At the beginning of its life, NATO served as a counterweight to the Soviet Union’s military muscle. The Atlantic Sentinel says its an energy -- not arms race -- that could define NATO’s role in the future as nations jockey for resources exposed by a warming...and melting...planet. It notes, NATO has been conducting Arctic war games.

“In good Cold War fashion, [Russia] has resumed patrolling the area with bomber planes and warships while Moscow invested more than a billion dollars in the expansion of the port of Murmansk which is supposed to double its capacity by 2015.”

The summit wraps up Monday.

Earthquake Hits Northern Italy, Damages Cultural Heritage

Sun, 20 May 2012 16:06:49 -0500

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(Image source: BBC)

BY STACEY WELSH

ANCHOR JIM FLINK

A 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck northern Italy early Sunday morning. The US Geological survey reports the quake hit near Bologna. A CNN correspondent phoned in with details.

“You just still have panic. People don’t feel safe because the aftershock is just relentless.”

CNN reports at least seven people died, 50 are injured and many have been displaced by the earthquake. The BBC reports northern Italy felt a 5.3 magnitude quake in January, and there were no injuries. This time, the region was not as lucky. The Italian government believes this earthquake caused “significant damage to the cultural heritage” of the area.

“Every small village and town has its ancient treasures in the form of churches and bell towers and other monuments. But these are old and weak and fragile.”

The BBC reports neither rescue workers nor government officials have been able to determine how badly the historic buildings were damaged. The New York Times recalls a 2009 earthquake in central Italy -- and says that memory doesn’t bode well for future repairs.

“While rebuilding in the region has advanced in many villages, the historic center... itself remains a ghost town and there has been public outcry over delays in reconstruction there.”

Media outlets report Italy’s prime minister, Mario Monti, is scheduled to leave the Chicago NATO summit early because of the emergency. Workers are also still digging through rubble hoping to find survivors.

Troop Withdrawal Focal Point of Chicago NATO Summit

Sun, 20 May 2012 15:47:09 -0500

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(Image Source: CBS)

BY JOHN O’CONNOR

ANCHOR CARISSA LOETHEN

More than 50 world leaders met in the U.S. for a NATO Summit where they will discuss Afghanistan. The goal of the summit: To find a common stance for the alliance when it hands over security duties to Afghan forces in 2014. NATO’s Secretary General says the changes will be gradual. The BBC has the comments.

"You will see a gradual change in the roll of our troops from combat to support. It's not a contradiction of our strategy, it's a part of our strategy."

Some of members at the summit have expressed interest in creating a fund to support Afghan forces after NATO troops withdrawal. The US will cover half of the $4 billion-a year fund, but a writer for CNN says funding won’t provide the leadership Afghanistan needs.

“...fears exist among the Afghan population of a grand bargain either between the United States and Pakistan, or between the Afghan government and a resurgent Taliban. This could undo the social gains and ethnic pluralism in current Afghan politics and create fractures in the fragile political balance among Afghanistan's various ethnic powers, exacerbating fears of a civil war once the international troops exit.”

To complicate matters, newly elected French President Francois Hollande has announced he will withdraw all French troops by the end of the year-- two years ahead of what was originally agreed upon by NATO. France 24 reports.

“Hollande will also discuss the exit strategy with Afghan President Hamid Karzai when the two leaders meet for the first time on Sunday. Karzai supports Hollande’s decision for the early withdrawal of France’s troops.”

However, a reporter for SkyNews has discovered other Afghan leaders are uncomfortable with the idea of NATO’s International Security Assistance Force, or ISAF, withdrawing, even by 2014.

“If in 2014 ISAF (International Security Assistance Force) leaves this isn’t good news, the Taliban will decide not to do any fighting with ISAF and try to take Afghanistan back.”

Despite some Afghanistan leader’s concerns, President Obama has said by the end of 2014 the Afghans will be fully-responsible for security in the country.

Top News Headlines: Deadly Earthquake in Northern Italy

Sun, 20 May 2012 07:48:00 -0500

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(Image source: CNN)

BY STEVEN SPARKMAN

ANCHOR JIM FLINK

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

At least seven people have been killed after an earthquake struck northern Italy in the middle of the night. Here’s euronews.

“The 6.0 magnitude quake struck near Bologna, a city with a population of about a million people, at around 4am local time. … Officials say as many as 50 people have been injured.”

A tense diplomatic situation between the U.S. and China comes to an end as activist Chen Guangcheng begins his life in the United States. Fox News has footage of his arrival.

“That is Chen and his family, landing in New Jersey yesterday after making a quick exit from Beijing. Remember, he escaped last month after spending months under house arrest and several years in a Chinese prison.”

It was a busy week for Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg. The company had its big IPO on Friday, then Saturday, guests at Zuckerberg’s house got a surprise when, without warning, he walked down the aisle. Here’s CNN.

“A status update from Zuckerberg on his longtime girlfriend Priscilla Chan — married. Of course, it was announced on Facebook. There’s the wedding photo right there.”

People in parts of the western United States will be able to see a rare “ring of fire” solar eclipse this evening when the moon will cover 94 percent of the sun, leaving a visible ring.

The area from Eureka, California, to Lubbock, Texas, will get the best view. As always, NASA says not to look directly at the sun and to only use solar-safe viewing methods.

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Jim Flink, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

G8 Leaders to Focus on Eurozone Crisis

Sat, 19 May 2012 12:27:57 -0500

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(Image Source: BBC)

BY JOHN O’CONNOR

ANCHOR CHRISTINA HARTMAN

On Friday and Saturday, world leaders met to discuss the fate of Greece in the eurozone at the 38th G8 Summit.

The focal point of the two-day summit: will Greece remain in the euro, and under what conditions? The BBC has comments from the President of the European Commission.

“We are working for ‘Plan A.’ ‘Plan A’ is for Greece to remain in the euro, and for Greece to respect its commitments.”

German Chancellor Angela Merkel and other European leaders have pressured Greece to continue cutting government spending if it wants to remain in the euro. But recent elections in Greece favored anti-austerity parties. The Guardian reports, Greek voters are torn.

“Opinion polls suggest that Greeks want to remain in the euro but do not want to abide by the austerity programme demanded as part of the international deal to finance Greece's debt.”

Greece’s far left Syriza party favors staying in the euro, but only with less austerity and more pro-growth policies. U.S. President Barack Obama and newly-elected French President Francois Hollande share this view. Al Jazeera reports, the pair now hope to persuade Germany.

“White House officials are hoping the new French President will help convince German Chancellor, Angela Merkel, to soften her debt reduction demands.”

The Washington Post reports other leaders at the G8 believe Germany must find a balance of stimulus and austerity.

“Leaders of the world’s economic powers say Germany should balance its push for European fiscal austerity with doses of stimulus spending to avoid a financial calamity with global repercussions. In talks Saturday, the leaders were looking to build consensus even though a decisive plan of action seemed out of reach for now.”

The G8 Summit concludes Saturday, and is followed by a NATO meeting in Chicago where Afghanistan is expected to be the main item on the agenda.

Chinese Activist Chen Guangcheng Heads to U.S.

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:50:19 -0500

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(Image source: U.S. Department of State)

BY CHRISTINA HARTMAN

When he escaped rural house arrest and sought refuge at the U.S. Embassy in Beijing, blind Chinese dissident Chen Guangcheng sparked a diplomatic crisis between the United States and China.

Chen’s supporters said the rural thugs who kept the activist under house arrest kept the dissident and his family under constant fear of their lives.

Now, Chen and his immediate family are headed to the United States, where he’ll study law in what international observers are calling a face-saving mission by the Chinese government. The BBC’s Beijing correspondent says China is hoping...

“...that Mr. Chen’s departure marks an end to this diplomatic crisis. … In many ways he was symbolic of a bigger issue. This was about an issue of human rights in China...”

While Chen’s departure got front-page treatment in the western press — there was no mention of it on at least three of China’s biggest news sites.

Human rights activists are calling Chen’s flight out of China a victory, but in the U.S. the editorial board of The Washington Post is mixed.

“It is wonderful that Mr. Chen is free and will have a respite, at least, from the harassment, confinement and beatings he has endured in recent years. It is troubling that he had to leave relatives behind in less certain conditions.”

In fact, Chen himself has expressed similar concerns. Sky News spoke with him via telephone. Here’s what he told the organization.

“I’m filled with thousands of mixed emotions. … My brothers have been illegally detained. There’s still no news on my nephews’ case.”

Chen is expected to study human rights law in New York. He told reporters he’s not seeking asylum in the U.S. and hopes to return to China someday. But ABC News notes — some activists worry he won’t be able to fight for the causes he and his supporters believe in from so far away.

“Recently, the Texas-based activist Bob Fu of ChinaAid has demonstrated that it is possible to protest from afar and make a different sort of impact. Whether Chen can do the same will be seen in New York...”

Top News Headlines: Bomb Explodes in Southern Italy

Sat, 19 May 2012 07:23:12 -0500

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(Image source: The Sun)

BY CHRISTINA HARTMAN

In world news, a teenager in southern Italy is dead after a bomb exploded in front of a girl’s school. ITV has more details.

“Six others were wounded in the explosion which happened in Brindisi. Police are investigating reports that two devices were hidden in bags outside the school.”

Blind Chinese activist Chen Guangcheng is heading to the United States after what international observers are calling a face-saving move by the Chinese government.

“He spent six days in the US Embassy after escaping from house arrest, sparking a diplomatic row between the two countries. … He says he plans was studying law in New York City and he does not know what the future will hold, he will find out when he and his family get to America.”

G8 leaders are meeting at Camp David to discuss — among other topics — the eurozone crisis. Al Jazeera reports — protesters are expected to come out in force, but leaders aren’t likely to be distracted.

“They’re facing questions about Greece possibly exiting the euro. They were quick to say that’s not going to happen.”
JOSE MANUEL BARROSO, EUROPEAN COMMISSION PRESIDENT: “We never comment on Plan B. We’re working on Plan A.”

And it was supposed to be a historic launch to the International Space Station — but SpaceX was forced to cancel after computers found an anomaly in one of the rocket’s engines. CNN has video of NASA’s press conference shortly after the failed launch.

“We're looking at the additional launch opportunities this 22nd looks good, that was pre-planned. The 23rd looks like it's a good date from the trajectory.”

Top News Headlines: Facebook Stock Rises in Debut

Fri, 18 May 2012 16:00:01 -0500

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(Image source: Facebook)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

Following its record $16 billion IPO, Facebook has options analysts talking about what’s next. Bloomberg explains what the experts are watching for.

“ … no matter how big the hype is around the listing, unless there is sustained volume and trading in the stock, it’s not going to be a very good options market.”

Mitt Romney has rolled out his first general election ad. It’s reportedly set to run in Iowa, North Carolina, Ohio, and Virginia. Here’s CNN.

Anchor: “This day one ad is all about the economy.”

Reporter: “And by the way, it’s playing in battleground states that are really important to him in this election.”

The conflict in Syria — nuclear weapon threats — and fighting famine — all topics up for discussion at this weekend’s G8 summit. But Fox News notes the most pressing matter on the agenda.

“The leaders of the world economic powers converging on Washington today for the G8 summit as a growing economic crisis in Europe threatens to hurt our economy here at home.”

Amid speculation that Greece could soon leave the eurozone, Germany’s leader called up the Greek president to lend some advice.

“The German Chancellor Angela Merkel suggested that Greece actually hold a referendum on its euro membership. This is alongside the general elections that are June, in the middle of next month in June.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day.

Quebec Government Wants Break From Riots

Fri, 18 May 2012 09:43:21 -0500

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(Image Source: The Montreal Gazette)

BY NICHOLE CARTMELL

After 14 weeks of riots over proposed college tuition hikes, Quebec’s National Assembly is now looking to impose strict regulations governing student protests to curb the violence.
A reporter for CBC News Montreal explains why students are up in arms.

“It comes the day yet another court injunction failed. Law students at the University of Quebec at Montreal tried to return to class. Protesters swarmed the building, disrupting classes and intimidating those who wanted to attend.”

For a little context, The Montreal Gazette reports, Quebec students pay the lowest rates in Canada for higher education. The government proposes an increase in fees by $254. Province columnist Michael Den Tandt says the proposed hikes are nothing radical.

“This ‘movement’ has hit a dead end, because the youth of Quebec are not oppressed. Rather, they allowed themselves to become oppressors. In failing to rein in violence in their own ranks, they ceded the high ground.”

Support for the students has fallen The Montreal Gazette reports. But one student group hopes Quebec Premier Jean Charest will reconsider, calling for negotiations over their counter offers.

“We can save money for the citizens and also for the students but still having a university that is of high quality.”

In an opinion piece for The Vancouver Sun, Western Ontario emeritus law professor Ian Hunter calls the student protests pathetic, and says the university system is to blame.

“I wonder if some of the protesting students dimly sense this themselves; anyone who misled them into believing that our current educational shambles will equip them to thrive in the modern world is their real enemy, not Jean Charest.”

A National Post Comment Editor says the student unions are to blame. He suggests Canadian universities should look to mirror U.S. right-to-work laws.

“... perhaps it’s time for universities and governments throughout the country to look for solutions that will prevent hard working students from having their education hijacked by those who feel they have a right to other people’s money.”

If passed, the emergency law could affect more than 20 universities and colleges. Classes would be postponed until August, and the fall semester would begin in October.

Top News Headlines: Arrest Made in MS Highway Shootings

Fri, 18 May 2012 07:55:00 -0500

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(Image source: WREG)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

An alleged police impersonator is under arrest in Mississippi.

Twenty-eight-year-old James D. Willie is a suspect in the recent highway shootings there.

Here’s CNN with more.

“Police say they’ve linked Willie’s gun to those two separate shootings that left a man and a woman dead after terrified people driving, frankly, in that state.”

Newly released evidence in the George Zimmerman murder case shows police said Trayvon Martin’s death was quote, “ultimately avoidable.”

HLN says police urged prosecutors to charge Zimmerman two weeks after the fatal shooting.

“This is brand new information and it comes from hundreds of pages of evidence that we just got our hands on. And they paint and even more complicated picture of what happened the night of February 26.”

The Facebook IPO is finally here.

Fox News does the math on what $38 a share means to CEO Mark Zuckerberg.

“This man is instantly worth $19.1 billion. And for every $2 that the stock goes up — if it goes up — for every $2, his net worth goes up $1 billion.”

Sixteen Spanish banks are getting a credit downgrade from ratings agency, Moody’s.

Euronews explains.

“ … Moody’s cited a renewed recession, the ongoing real-estate crisis and high levels of unemployment. It also said Spain’s ability to provide financing to support troubled lenders had been reduced.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Nathan Byrne, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

Mexican Police Search for Massacre Culprits

Fri, 18 May 2012 06:00:00 -0500

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(Image Source: GlobalSpin)

BY MATTHEW PICHT

What started as a bloody statement has turned into a murder mystery. Mexican police are now searching for the true identity of the killers responsible for the latest drug cartel atrocity.

“The discovery on Sunday of 49 mutilated bodies in northern Nuevo Leon state is pushing authorities, especially the country’s forensic teams, to their limits.”

The crime was initially attributed to the Zeta cartel; the bodies were discovered in their territory, and nearby gang graffiti seemed to indicate the Zetas. However, the gang itself has taken action to distance itself from this particular crime.

Banners disavowing Zeta involvement in the massacre were discovered hanging from overpasses Tuesday. Blog del Narco says the banners accuse the federal government of pinning the crime on the Zetas without bothering to fully investigate the circumstances.

Additionally, analyst Rusty Fleming told CNN this slaughter was more likely a setup.

“Misdirection, misinformation--that’s how they conduct their war. I think this is very likely another cartel that’s trying to hang it on the Zetas.”

If the massacre was the act of a rival gang, InSight Crime suggests...

“...this could be a very extreme case of “heating up the plaza,” narco-speak for when a criminal gang commits acts of violence in another group’s territory in order to attract the attention of the federal government, to damage the dominant group there.”

To find out more, authorities are turning to DNA analysis of the 49 victims, none of whom have been identified.

UN Claims Iran Illegally Supplied Syrian Army with Weapons

Thu, 17 May 2012 17:36:00 -0500

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(Image Source: Al Jazeera)

BY MATTHEW PICHT

ANCHOR ANA COMPAIN-ROMERO

As an uneasy ceasefire in troubled Syria continues to degrade, a new U.N. report reveals Iran may be fueling the conflict, supplying the Syrian Army with illegal weapon shipments. CNN has the story...

“According to a confidential U.N. draft report, Iran is violating a ban by the U.N. Security Council on weapon shipments, and that the top recipient for those weapon shipments is Syria.”

The report, which has not yet been finalized, examined three large illegal weapon shipments out of Iran in the past year. The International Business Times reports, its findings condemn the Iranian government in no uncertain terms.

“‘Iran has continued to defy the international community through illegal arms shipments. Two of these cases involved the Syrian Arab Republic, as were the majority of cases inspected by the panel during its previous mandate, underscoring that Syria continues to be the central party to illicit Iranian arms transfers...’”

Iran isn’t the only country reportedly investing in the burgeoning Syrian conflict. According to the Washington Post, the U.S. is supplying defensive and communication equipment to civilian opposition forces.

“The U.S. contact with the rebel military...mark(s) a shift in Obama administration policy as hopes dim for a political solution to the Syrian crisis. Many officials now consider an expanding military confrontation to be inevitable.”

As weapons and supplies pour into Syria from other countries, Al Jazeera questions how much longer the fragile U.N. ceasefire over the region will last.

“Not only are the two sides on the ground ignoring the terms of the ceasefire, but it also seems that foreign countries, which on paper signed up to the Annan plan and its spirit of demilitarization, are in practice and in different ways, both offering supplies which undermine it.”

The U.N. report also discusses Iran’s attempts to circumvent sanctions on its nuclear program, noting that U.N. punitive measures have slowed, but not stopped, Iranian nuclear development.

Is Facebook's Co-founder Dodging U.S. Taxes?

Thu, 17 May 2012 14:31:55 -0500

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(Image source: Facebook)

BY NEWSY STAFF

How much is U.S. citizenship worth? That’s what critics are asking in the wake of Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin renouncing his U.S. citizenship. Here’s Bloomberg.

“Well, it turns out the move could save him $67 million in federal income taxes that are due on his Facebook stake, according to Bloomberg analysts.”

When Facebook goes public, Saverin — who owns four percent of the company — stands to make a $4 billion profit. Singapore has no capital gains tax.

Journalist David Kirkpatrick — author of The Facebook Effect — tells CBS Morning News, this is very typical of Saverin’s personality.

“I don’t think he’s a big believer in the United States, I think he’s kind of — he’s kind of an opportunist.”

“He’s really shown that is was all about the money for him from the beginning.”

Saverin told the New York Times, this issue is being misrepresented. He already paid an exit tax when he renounced his citizenship, though it’s likely nowhere near $67 million. Still — he says, this is about where he wants to live and call home.

“This had nothing to do with taxes … I was born in Brazil, I was an American citizen for about 10 years. I thought of myself as a global citizen.”

ABC News notes, Saverin’s explanation notwithstanding, the Facebook co-founder is not alone in dodging taxes from the country that bestowed his riches.

“Saverin is one of a growing number of wealthy Americans dropping their citizenship, multiplying seven-fold since 2008, from 235 to more than 1,700.”

On Thursday, two U.S. senators— Democrats Charles Schumer of New York and Bob Casey of Pennsylvania — announced plans to address this new kind of tax evasion.

“Casey’s office said the bill is called the ‘Ex-PATRIOT’ Act, which stands for the ‘Expatriation Prevention by Abolishing Tax-Related Incentives for Offshore Tenancy’ Act.”

Beyond that, not everyone thinks Saverin is in the wrong. Quora writes...

“Americans are critical partially because they aren't looking at this objectively. Go after megacorporations for tax evasions, not one 30 year old that may never have wanted to be a US citizen in the first place.”

Facebook’s IPO is set to launch Friday.

Greeks Withdrawing Cash from Banks as Financial Fears Grow

Thu, 17 May 2012 10:44:13 -0500

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(Image Source: Bloomberg)

BY EMILY ALLEN

Take the money and run. Fears about Greece using the Euro in the future have some investors doing just that. Good Morning America says you can already see its impact on world markets.

“All three U.S. indeces were lower and all the major overseas exchanges were also off overnight all because of the intensifying worries that Greece may default on its debt and pull out of the Euro currency.”

And now, there is fear of a bank run. In the past week, Greeks have pulled close to $1 billion from the nation’s banks.

It’s possible Greece could switch back to its former currency.

The Washington Post says Greeks are scared their savings would be replaced by the less-valued drachma. So they’re withdrawing their euros and putting them in a safe spot like a German bank but…

“It’s a smart move by those individuals. The problem, though, is that if everyone in Greece does this, it could inadvertently get Greece kicked out of the euro.”

So who’s to blame for Greece’s financial turmoil? CNN says it’s every Greek who doesn’t pay his or her taxes.

In a country with widespread tax evasion, that is a lot of people.

“It’s not the bankers or those who have made fortunes in insurance— although they could probably pay more taxes – it is the vast number of ordinary people who need to pay ordinary taxes.”

And discussion in the Eurozone about Greece isn’t helping. The EU has already given the country two bailouts in order to pay its bills. One economist tells Today if the 17 countries decide to leave Greece out of the Eurozone…

“...it would provoke ’the mother of all financial crises’. The contemplation of this possibility by EU leaders is making matters even worse. Greece has no chance of recovery while this danger hangs over its economy.”

And Fox News says Greece’s political climate isn’t necessarily a beacon of stability — adding additional anxiety.

“They can’t even get a government together. They had elections on May 6th which resolved absolutely nothing. Now today naming a caretaker government, that will be in there just until next month when they have new elections with the hope that that will somehow make things better.”

And The Huffington Post’s Jeffrey Rubin says, that could create a new crisis like the one in 2008.

“A Greek default would start in Athens, but it wouldn't be long before it's felt in Paris, Berlin, New York and Toronto. In today's intertwined financial markets, everyone has exposure to everyone else's problems.”

Top News Headlines: Minority Births Become Majority

Thu, 17 May 2012 08:51:00 -0500

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(Image source: U.S. Census Bureau)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

New data from the United States Census Bureau shows minority births outnumbered white births for the first time in 2011.

MSNBC has the numbers.

“50.4 percent of children born in the United States had parents who were members of minority groups that include Hispanics, Blacks and Asians. White births accounted for 49.6 percent.”

Foreclosures in the U.S. have reached their lowest level since 2007.

Fox Business explains how it happened.

“RealtyTrac says filings fell to a five-year low last month as banks seized fewer homes. The research firm says the decline was driven by the decreases in some of the hardest-hit states, like California, Arizona and Nevada.”

In its second day, the war-crimes trial of Ratko Mladic has been suspended.

Here’s Sky News.

“The presiding judge says he made a decision to suspend the trial of the former Bosnian Serb army commander because of errors by prosecuting lawyers.”

Afghan police shot and killed four attackers who had bombs strapped to their chests.
Al Jazeera reports.

“A group of suicide bombers have attacked a government compound in Afghanistan. They stormed a governor's office in the western part of the country killing at least seven people.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Nathan Byrne, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

Catholic Church Investigating Girl Scouts

Thu, 17 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

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(Image source: Flickr)

BY MALLORY PERRYMAN

ANCHOR ANA COMPAIN-ROMERO

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops is officially investigating the Girl Scouts of America. CNN talked with the Catholic League’s Bill Donohue to find out why.

Catholic League's Bill Donohue: “... the global group, the world group of the Girl Scouts is in favor of abortion-inducing drugs, is in favor of condom use. Does that mean the Girl Scouts of the United States are? We don't know.”

The Girl Scouts are a secular group — but The Christian Post reports, about a quarter of the more than 2 million scouts are Catholic. And while the Girl Scouts are silent on issues like abortion and sexuality...

“...there have been accusations by social conservatives who have questioned the organization's ties to groups such as the Sierra Club, Doctors Without Borders and Oxfam, some of which support family planning and contraception.”

The Daily Beast adds — even though the Girl Scouts aren’t an official Catholic organization, many troops have their meetings in church buildings.

“If [the bishops] determine that membership in the Girl Scouts does not jibe with Catholic teachings, they could either demand that the Girl Scouts change their practices or, in lieu of that, recommend that young Catholic girls drop out of the Girl Scouts.”

An editorial contributor for the Journal and Courier argues — while the church is within its rights to keep secular groups from its properties, it just doesn’t make sense to target America’s cutest cookie pushers.

“We just can’t figure out why the organization dedicated to the development of girls for a century now keeps getting tossed into the culture war cross hairs.”

The Vatican’s inquiry is just now becoming public knowledge — but an editorial writer for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports...

“The church’s investigation has been going on for two years. One would think that would be enough time to find out if the scouts truly are leading young women to hell. Apparently not.”

This year the Girl Scouts organization is celebrating its 100-year anniversary.

Former Commander on Trial for Bosnian War Crimes

Wed, 16 May 2012 11:16:15 -0500

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(Image Source: Voice of America)

BY EMILY ALLEN

The trial of former Serb army commander Ratko Mladic is underway in the Hague.

The so-called “Bosnian Butcher” faces 11 war-crimes charges — including genocide, extermination, murder, inhumane acts and deportation.

CNN and CBS explain.

“A Yugoslave War Crime suspect. He’s accused of the killing of nearly 8,000 Muslim men and boys at Srebrenica in 1995. The largest slaughter in Europe since World War II.”

“He’s accused of ordering the shelling of Sarajevo. And targeting areas where civilian casualties were likely to be highest – like the watering taps because the main watering supply was cut.”

Mladic was arrested last year after being on the run for 16 years, reportedly aided by Serbian army comrades and the Serbian state. He was caught hiding in a relative’s garden shed.

The Guardian says the now 70-year-old…

“ … cuts a far more feeble figure than the stocky, bluff and ruddy-faced former Yugoslav artillery officer who gained notoriety during the war. He suffered a stroke while on the run after the war, but the court has rejected his claims he is too sick to stand trial.”

Mladic smirked and shook his head when tribunal judges read the charges against him. MSNBC reports he also Mladic shared his feelings out loud.

“These obnoxious charges leveled against me. For these monstrous words, the ones that I have never heard before.”

And many Serbs agree with Mladic. The BBC explains why they still consider him a hero.

“I’m sorry my general is in the Hague. He’s an honorable general that served the Serbian people. We hope he will defend himself and the honor of the Serbian nation.”

But a father who lost his daughter in the war tells Al Jazeera — he hopes this trial can change some of those pro-Mladic attitudes.

“It’s very important that Mladic be sentenced so that people will know what he is guilty of, because there are many people that don’t know what happened in Sarajevo during the siege.”

Reaching a verdict may take time. The New York Times reports, it took three years for the court to deliver a decision in the trial of Congolese Warlord Thomas Lumbanga.

Top News Headlines: U.N. Monitors Attacked in Syria

Wed, 16 May 2012 10:35:00 -0500

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(Image source: BBC)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

United Nations observers hope to evacuate their team of monitors from the Syrian town where they came under attack Tuesday.

Reports on the death toll vary, but some say it’s as high as 66.

Here’s the BBC.

“Washington is expressing deep concern over the escalating violence in Syria where a roadside bomb exploded in front of a United Nations convoy.”

The trial of former Serb army commander Ratko Mladic begins in the Hague this morning.

Euronews reports he’s charged with 11 counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity.

“It is alleged he led the slaughter of at least 7,000 unarmed Muslim boys and men in Srebrenica in 1995, Europe’s worst atrocity since World War Two.”

Another day and no deal at the negotiating table in Greece.

Al Jazeera explains.

“For nine days, Greece’s political parties have tried to find a coalition that might work. But as the party leaders emerged from last-ditch talks at the presidential palace, it was clear no solution was possible.”

Meanwhile, France’s newly elected president held a joint press conference with Germany’s chancellor to discuss the euro zone crisis.

Sky News has it.

“France’s new president, Francois Hollande and the German chancellor, Angela Merkel have promised to help Europe through the economic crisis together.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Nathan Byrne, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

Top News Headlines: Man Self-Immolates Outside Breivik Trial

Tue, 15 May 2012 15:02:00 -0500

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(Image source: The Guardian)

BY STEVEN SPARKMAN

ANCHOR LAUREN GORES

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

In Norway, a man reportedly set himself on fire outside the murder trial of Anders Breivik. The BBC reports the man doused himself with flammable liquid and tried to rush past security.

“The man who police say was seriously injured was stopped as he tried to break through the security fence around the court.”

A JP Morgan shareholders meeting has ended. While chairman and CEO Jamie Dimon faced some heat over the company’s $2 billion loss, Fox Business reports it was a different business practice that drew the most criticism.

“Most of the questions from shareholders and most of the pointed statements … had to do with the way the bank failed to refinance people who might be upside down in their mortgages.”

Just one more complication for the Eurozone crisis. Talks between the German chancellor and the new French president were delayed after Francois Hollande’s plane was struck by lightning. CNN reports.

“We got word that Francois Hollande was on his way to Germany when there was a storm that sort of kicked up and forced his plane back to where it took off from in Paris.”

And President Obama spoke at the National Peace Officers Memorial Service which honors police officers killed in the line of duty. Fox News has the president’s speech.

“The rest of us can never fully understand what you go through, but please know that we hold you in our hearts, not just today but always.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Lauren Gores, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

Crown Charges Rebekah Brooks in Phone-Hacking Case

Tue, 15 May 2012 12:30:00 -0500

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(Image source: The Sun)

BY JIM FLINK

ANCHOR MEGAN MURPHY

The News of the World scandal escalates to another level. The Crown Prosecution Service says it will prosecute Rebekah Brooks, her husband Charlie and four others, for allegedly perverting the course of justice.

Here’s The Telegraph with part of the Crown’s statement.

“Rebekah Brooks and Cheryl Carter somewhere between the sixth of July and the ninth of July, 2011, conspired together, permanently to remove seven boxes of material from the archive of News International.”

Immediately, Brooks and her husband struck back, saying they’ll fight the charges. The Sun has their comments...

“We deplore this weak and unjust decision. After the further unprecedented posturing of the CPS we will respond later today after our return from the police station.”

Brooks appears to be up for a fight. And former News of the World editor Phil Hall tells The Telegraph, she’s always volunteered for tough assignments.

“Maybe the bad news that we were going to expose some wrongdoing, or maybe some difficulties that you were having, she would be the person that would have that conversation.”
“She was very good at getting involved in what was most difficult.”

The Daily Beast notes, these are serious charges, and explains possible sentencing should Brooks and her alleged accomplices be found guilty.

“Perverting the course of justice ... is seen as potentially more severe than phone hacking or payments to public officials, the two primary allegations rocking the British wing of Murdoch's news empire. It carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment...”

But CNN notes, most who are found guilty and sentenced don’t serve terms of that length.

“I think the maximum that anyone has served in recent years has been about 10 years for perverting the course of justice. It carries about a one to two year sentence per charge.”

Top News Headlines: Rebekah Brooks Charged

Tue, 15 May 2012 08:00:00 -0500

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(Image source: The Guardian)

BY STEVEN SPARKMAN

ANCHOR ALLIE SPILLYARDS

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

British prosecutors announced they will charge former News of the World editor Rebekah Brooks and her husband with conspiracy to pervert the course of justice. The BBC has the charges.

“Rebekah Brooks, between the 6th of July and the 19th of July, 2011, conspired with Charles Brooks … to conceal material from officers at the Metropolitan Police Service.”

Strong winds pushed one of Arizona’s wildfires toward the community of Crown King, prompting mandatory evacuations. Here’s HLN.

“One of the wildfires in Arizona doubled in size overnight while you were sleeping, forcing hundreds of people from their homes. Now, it’s one of four fires reported just north of Phoenix.”

JP Morgan’s annual shareholders meeting takes place today in Florida. Investors are expected to ask who knew about the company’s $2 billion loss and when. CNN’s Ali Velshi says there are no good answers to that question.

“One is Jamie Dimon knew, in which case it feeds into what everybody thinks about these banks and greed and all of that. And then there’s the one that he said: he didn’t know. And if he didn’t know, that’s scary, too.”

And French president-elect Francois Hollande officially took office this morning. Here’s euronews.

“Socialist Francois Hollande has been officially sworn in as France’s new president during a ceremony at the Elysée Palace in Paris.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Allie Spillyards, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

Bionic Solar Eye Implant Could Help Restore Sight

Tue, 15 May 2012 04:00:00 -0500

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(Image source: Flickr Creative Commons)

BY STACEY WELSH

ANCHOR JIM FLINK

It sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie. Stanford researchers created a solar panel eye implant that could restore some vision to the blind. A doctor breaks down how the so-called “bionic eye” works:

“When a patient has got this implanted you wouldn’t necessarily know that they had it. The power supply powers the device and then light falls on the device and stimulates the device which then stimulates the nerves in the retina.”

The BBC reports early results of a human clinical trial in the UK helped the blind see light and some shapes. The study in Nature explains a pair of glasses fitted with a video camera records what’s happening in front of a patient and fires light beams onto the retina.

Medical Daily reports a lead author of the study says the new wireless device is a breakthrough because it requires a less invasive surgical procedure.

“It works like the solar panels on your roof, converting light into electric current. But instead of the current flowing to your refrigerator, it flows into your retina.”

New Scientist reports the technology could soon be available to everyone, with a company in California starting clinical trials. But researchers say, it’s difficult to tell just how good vision could be.

“Current prostheses show the basic geometry of a shape, but since large numbers of neurons are activated at once, colours appear at random, similar to when you rub your eyes. Implants that provide real colour vision... are still a long way off.”

Medical Daily reports the implants could help people with Age-related Macular Degeneration regain some of their vision -- a disease which could affect about three million people in the U.S. by 2020.

Top News Headlines: John Edwards' Lawyers Begin Defense

Mon, 14 May 2012 15:49:00 -0500

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(Image source: The News & Observer)

BY STEVEN SPARKMAN

ANCHOR LAUREN GORES

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

John Edwards’ lawyers began presenting his defense today on charges of violating campaign finance laws. A Fox News analyst says it’s possible Edwards himself may take the stand.

“Calling your own client to testify always has some risk for the defense, but remember — John Edwards is a skilled trial lawyer … So you may see the defense wanting to use his persuasive skills.”

Hundreds of Palestinian prisoners in Israel have agreed to end a weeks-long hunger strike. The prisoners accepted a deal brokered by Egypt. Sky News has some of the terms.

“It’s largely over improving conditions for these prisoners inside the jails — allowing their relatives to see them more often, taking some of them out of long periods of solitary confinement.”

Greece’s political leaders have one last chance to form a government before the country heads to new elections. Euronews reports Greece’s president has been unable to get the pro and anti-austerity camps to see eye to eye.

“Despite warnings Greece could run out of cash unless a new administration is formed, attempts to bridge the gap have so far proved fruitless.”

And while Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg turns 28, his company’s IPO is within sight. But a management firm president tells CNN it’s probably wise to sit out the initial stock frenzy.

(SWV_cnn_:05-:16)
“The mutual funds and the institutional investors are going to be the major ones buying up the stock. So when the stock actually opens, I do believe it’s going to come in probably between 90, maybe even 100 dollars a share when it actually gets released.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Lauren Gores, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

Opposition Wins Key German Election, Merkel Suffers Setback

Mon, 14 May 2012 12:26:16 -0500

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(Image source: euronews)

BY STEVEN SPARKMAN

ANCHOR MEGAN MURPHY

It’s being called a disaster for Germany’s Christian Democratic Union. Chancellor Angela Merkel’s party took a beating at the polls in a key regional election Sunday. Euronews has the results.

“The region of North Rhine-Westphalia – Germany’s most populated state – has swung towards the centre-left Social Democrats, who won almost 39 per cent of Sunday’s vote...”

Nearly one in four Germans live in North Rhine-Westphalia, so the state’s elections are sometimes referred to as small general elections. The Telegraph reports the results amount to a rejection of Merkel’s austerity policies.

“In a contest that mirrored the debate in the eurozone between ‘growth’ and austerity, she presented the vote as a battle between ‘thrifty’ Christian Democrats and ‘ever more debt’ run up by the Left.”

But while Chancellor Merkel herself called the loss a “painful, bitter defeat,” she later downplayed the significance of the vote. Economist Oliver Hartwich tells ABC Australia there were more factors at play than economic policy — like the personality of Merkel’s candidate.

“He was running against a state premier who was very popular, who seemed extremely well grounded, was simply more likeable. And I think that in the end decided the election, not so much to do with austerity.”

Hartwich went on to caution -- while the Social Democrats had an impressive showing, the area is one of their traditional strongholds. But German magazine Der Spiegel says by showing Merkel’s party can be defeated, the Social Democrats will be that much more energized for next year’s general elections.

“Self confidence among Germany’s Social Democrats has been in short supply as the party suffered through years of losing elections and members. But the North Rhine-Westphalia vote is the third time in recent months that the SPD and Greens have joined forces to triumph over the center-right.”

Merkel is scheduled to meet with France’s newly-elected president Francois Hollande this week. Analysts expect the relationship to be rocky at first due to Hollande’s anti-austerity platform. But a BBC contributor says electoral pressure may push both leaders toward a compromise.

“He’s got to backtrack, and then now after the whole election in North Rhine-Westphalia actually does Ms. Merkel also have to start changing as well. So excellent. If they’re both having to go through a change, then that could be a suitable opportunity.”

One more election result getting noticed — the rowdy Internet-centric Pirate Party received eight percent of the vote. That means Pirates will have officially hold seats in the state’s parliament.

Top News Headlines: Three JP Morgan Executives to Resign

Mon, 14 May 2012 08:10:00 -0500

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(Image source: CNN / JP Morgan)

BY STEVEN SPARKMAN

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

Three top executives at JP Morgan are expected to leave the company over their role in the bank’s massive trading loss. CNN reports Ina Drew, the highest-ranking of the trio, is expected to resign as early as Monday.

“She is the bank’s chief investment officer. She ran the risk management division, or she oversaw it at least, that was responsible for the bet that cost the nation’s largest bank $2 billion.”

New Department of Defense rules have gone into effect opening 14,000 combat jobs to women. This overturns a 1994 rule barring women from combat-adjacent jobs, like tank mechanic and radio operator. HLN has more.

“Military officials say as positions open women can apply. There are still more than 200,000 military jobs that are only available to men.”

In Germany, a key regional election handed Chancellor Angela Merkel’s Christian Democratic party their worst defeat in decades. Euronews reports this is a serious blow to Europe’s austerity policies.

“The disastrous results for Merkel leave her vulnerable at a time when a backlash against her insistence on fiscal discipline is building across Europe.”

Ugandan forces have captured a high-ranking commander in Joseph Kony’s Lord’s Resistance Army. A military spokesperson told Al Jazeera the capture of Caesar Achellam will hopefully encourage more fighters to leave the LRA.

“They say they ambushed him Saturday in the Central African Republic after tracking him for weeks in the jungle.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Allie Spillyards, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

Asian Summit Covers Trade, North Korea

Mon, 14 May 2012 06:00:05 -0500

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(Image source: Xinhua News Agency)

BY ZACH TOOMBS

Three of Asia’s most powerful nations have agreed to open negotiations on a free trade pact. The BBC reports the talks were borne out of a joint summit Saturday.

“The announcement follows a meeting in Beijing between China’s Premier Wen Jiabao, South Korea’s President Lee Myung-bak and the Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda.”

Reuters reports the three nations make up almost one-fifth of the world’s economy. China’s Xinhua news agency estimated a free trade agreement between the three nations could lift China’s GDP by up to 2.9 percent — and could take Japan and South Korea’s up .5 and .3 percent respectively.

However, Xinhua does not explain how it reached those figures, and The Wall Street Journal says any trade agreement between the three nations will have to overcome decades-old rivalries and other obstacles. (Video source: NHK World)

“... the free-trade agreement is likely to face hurdles and protracted negotiations before it can go into effect. China has been in free-trade talks with Australia since 2005, but they remain bogged down over issues such as how to treat agricultural goods.”

The summit’s talks also focused on North Korea. South Korea’s Lee Myung-bak tells the media his nation, along with China and Japan, urges the regional aggressor to comply with international pressure. Al Jazeera has his comments.

“We agreed that future nuclear tests and additional provocations by North Korea cannot be tolerated … I especially regard highly China’s advice to North Korea that they should place more importance on improving the livelihoods of the public.”

And, although China has historically been reluctant to get involved in North Korean affairs, its premier placed North Korean cooperation at the center of an effort to make the region safer. According to Daily Yomiuri Online,

“Wen said, ‘The most pressing task is to prevent tensions on the Korean Peninsula from escalating.’ He added that the parties concerned should redouble their efforts to have North Korea ‘return to the right track of dialogue and negotiations.’”

According to The China Post, the nations plan to open their talks trade agreement by the end of the year.

Dalai Lama Says Chinese Trying to Poison Him

Mon, 14 May 2012 04:00:05 -0500

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(Image source: Dalai Lama Official Website)

BY STEVEN SPARKMAN

The Dalai Lama revealed an unconfirmed plot against his life Sunday. The spiritual leader told the Telegraph about reports from inside Tibet of an assassination plot — involving women the Chinese government to poison him.

“In their hair poisoned and scarf poisoned. So, you see, they seek — supposed to seek blessing from me and my hand touch.”

The 76-year-old Nobel laureate still blesses devotees at the temple complex in Dharamsala, India. But Fox News reports this new alleged plot could restrict access to the spiritual leader.

“It’s not known whether the Chinese agents are from China’s government or some other group. The Dalai Lama’s aids are said to be unable to confirm the plot, but there is increased security on the temple grounds.”

The Tibetan government-in-exile’s poor relations with the Chinese government go back decades. ABC reports things have been especially tense lately.

“Reports are China is making a bolder attempt to nullify Tibetan language and culture as it seeks to fully occupy the region. This year alone there have been more than 30 incidents of self-immolation; Tibetans setting themselves on fire in protest of Chinese rule. Nearly all have died.”

The Dalai Lama also said in the interview he’s worried China will interfere with finding his successor, so he might be the last official Dalai Lama. But he says the spiritual institutions of Tibet will be in good hands after he’s gone, and the Guardian reports he has a surprisingly positive outlook on the China-Tibet situation.

“He added that he believed China would change its hardline stance within his lifetime and adopt democratic reforms to safeguard Tibet's economic growth. He said the Chinese should use Buddhist logic to overcome their anger...”

The Dalai Lama is scheduled to receive the $1.8 million Templeton Prize Monday for promoting scientific study of spiritual practices. He will reportedly then give the entire prize away to a so-far unknown recipient.

Greek Coalition Talks Stall, Euro Exit Discussed

Mon, 14 May 2012 02:00:05 -0500

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(Image source: Kathimerini)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

ANCHOR CHRISTIAN BRYANT

Time is running out for Greece to form a coalition and avoid a potential political tailspin.

The BBC has the headline.

“The president of Greece has met with the leaders of the main three political parties in a last effort to

Talks broke down after less than two hours.

Al Jazeera says the disagreement could be devastating.

“ … prolonging the political uncertainty and endangering the country's euro membership. … without a government that backs the rescue plan, Greece will stop receiving payments … ”

What is certain, though, is — without a deal — Greek voters will go back to the polls in June.

Sky News explains the repercussions of the impending turmoil.

“If no agreement is reached, there will have to be new elections. The crisis has alarmed international creditors who’ve given Greece billions of dollars of bailout money.”

This latest round of talks follows a series of others that have also ended without resolution.

Euronews looks at what could come next.

“Three attempts to form a government ended unsuccessfully last week and now EU leaders admit that failure to adhere to terms of the bailout could see Greece leave the euro zone.”

Meanwhile, influential German magazine “Der Speigel” makes its case on the front page.

With the headline, “Acropolis, Adieu! Why Greece must leave the euro,” and a cover photo of a broken euro coin — the magazine suggests it’s time for Greece to go.

Some economists say leaving the euro zone would give Greece the freedom to devalue its currency and jumpstart exports.

One CNN commentator doesn’t think that will work.

“ … what Greece lacks are the conditions, the policies and the political will to take advantage of any such devaluation.”

According to Greek newspaper Kathimerini, the next likely step would be for Greece’s president to appoint a prime minister who would form a caretaker government until new elections are held.

49 Dead in Sign of Increasing Brutality in Mexico's Drug War

Mon, 14 May 2012 00:00:05 -0500

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(Image: CNN)

BY EVAN BUSH

ANCHOR ZACH TOOMBS

In Mexico, authorities are piecing together a brutal murder scene in the border town of Monterrey as drug violence persists in the region. The UK’s Channel 4 describes the scene.

“Authorities in Mexico have found the dismembered bodies of more than 40 people dumped on a highway near the northern industrial city of Monterrey.” “The bodies were found in the early hours stuffed in bags.”

As Fox News notes, no one is sure where the bodies came from, and it could take a long time to figure that out. A Nuevo Leon state security spokesman said:

“[T]he fact the bodies were found with the heads, hands and feet cut off will make identification difficult. The bodies were being taken to Monterrey for DNA tests. [Nuevo Leon state Attorney General Adrian] de la Garza said the victims could have been killed as long as two days ago at another location...”

The bodies are thought to be tied to drug violence, though it’s not clear which gang is to blame and none has taken responsibility so far. The BBC says the bodies are a reminder that Mexico’s drug war is growing increasingly brutal.

“The police have an extremely difficult job trying to control of these gangs, they’re extremely well-armed, they’re rich, they’re powerful and they’re very large. They control entire states.”

A reporter for CNN says that although these massacres aren’t all that uncommon in Mexico, and that this murder is particularly striking for sheer numbers. He notes there was another mutilation / murder outside the city of Guadalajara a few days ago.

“In that case, they’ve started to identify some victims. They found a student and a waiter.”

“You worry the drug cartels are picking people up and killing them to make a point.”

Mexico’s drug war has become so violent and so pervasive, some newspapers have stopped reporting on it for fear of gang retribution. The Los Angeles Times describes just how bad it’s been.

“More than 50,000 people have been killed since President Felipe Calderon launched a military-led assault on powerful drug cartels in December 2006. Mexicans on July 1 will vote for Calderon’s replacement. Election news has largely eclipsed reports on drug-war violence, but in recent weeks the mounting death toll has once again earned front-page coverage.”

Tens of Thousands Protest Austerity Cuts in Spain

Sun, 13 May 2012 18:00:00 -0500

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(Image source: The Guardian)

BY ZACH TOOMBS

Tens of thousands across Spain marched against the nation’s deep austerity cuts Saturday. The BBC reports the protesters filled the streets of downtown Madrid.

“The biggest rallies were in Barcelona and Madrid, where huge crowds gathered. The demonstrations mark a year since the first protests by the movement known as Los Indignados, or The Outraged.”

In the wake of financial crisis, protests across the euro zone have sprung up over the last few weeks in nations like France, Italy, Greece and Portugal. CNN says marchers in Spain defied police orders in their protests.

“They are staying past the 10 p.m. deadline set by the government, which said they could go only ‘til that hour and then they had to clear out. Well, that clearly hasn’t happened.”

The Guardian reports many of the protesters across Spain were among those suffering under the nation’s 23 percent unemployment rate. That figure marks an 18-year high for joblessness. Discontent with the nation’s pro-austerity government was also common throughout the protests.

“I am ashamed to see that the rich have so much and the poor have to live in misery.”

“The new government has made things much worse than a year ago.”

Despite the protesters’ presence in cities throughout Spain, Al Jazeera reports the government seems to be taking little notice.

“But while there is much hunger for change, the reality is that the Indignados have had little impact on mainstream politics. The country voted in a right-wing government last year, which has implemented the harshest set of public sector cuts in decades.”

And Spain’s El Pais reports on the aftermath of the protests.

“The square in Madrid has reopened after the police cordoned it off. Last night there were 18 arrested, two police officers injured and evictions in cities such as Palma, Cadiz and Valencia.”

The Guardian reports protesters plan to continue their efforts across Spain through May 15 — the one-year anniversary of last year’s demonstrations.

Top News Headlines: Yahoo! CEO to Resign, Reports Say

Sun, 13 May 2012 16:34:52 -0500

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(Image source: CNN/Yahoo!)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

Reports say Yahoo’s CEO will resign after recently claiming innocence over his disputed academic record.

Here’s Fox News.

“The internet giant’s CEO Scott Thompson stepping down. Sources close to the situation say it’s because of a fake computer science degree he had on his biography.”

On NBC’s “Meet the Press” Sunday, David Gregory reminded JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon that he called concern over the company’s derivatives-trading situation a quote, “tempest in a teapot” just two weeks ago.

“ … I was dead wrong when I said that. I obviously didn’t know, because I never would’ve said that. ... We took a $2 billion loss and we made it clear it could get worse before it gets better.”

At least 49 mutilated bodies have been found in northern Mexico.

Al Jazeera explains.

“Authorities say the bodies were stuffed in bags and dumped on a highway near the city of Monterrey. The discovery is similar to several other recent cases in which drug gangs have left bodies scattered in public places.”

Greece appears to be headed for another election.

The BBC reports — coalition talks have stalled.

“The president of Greece has met with the leaders of the main three political parties in a last effort to form a coalition government.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Nathan Byrne, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

'Worrisome Trend' in Afghanistan

Sun, 13 May 2012 13:00:00 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

ANCHOR ZACH TOOMBS

Eight NATO troops have been killed in Afghanistan in the last three days. An Afghan peace envoy now joins that list of casualties.

Al Jazeera reports Arsala Rahmani was a former Taliban minister.

" … and for this reason, President Hamid Karzai believed he could help negotiate peace with the group. His killing in a drive-by shooting in Kabul now raises doubts over those efforts."

The Taliban isn’t claiming responsibility for Rahmani’s death.

But a CNN correspondent points to a message in the group’s announcement of its summer campaign.

“They said that such members of what’s known as the High Peace Council, like Arsala Rahmani, would be targets for assassinations. So, you can read in many different ways their denying involvement in this killing … ”

A day earlier, Afghan police allegedly killed two British troops.

Fox News sees a pattern emerging.

“It is the latest, as you may know, in a string of incidents in which Afghan security forces or militants dressed as policemen turned their weapons on their international military partners.”

According to The New York Times …

“NATO said … the attackers were not actually trained police officers but insurgents who were wearing police uniforms. … In a separate episode on Saturday, a coalition soldier was killed by a roadside bomb in southern Afghanistan … ”

One correspondent for the BBC says each attack begets more violence.

“ … it highlights the tension and the mistrust that has been there after these shootings.”

Reporters for the Los Angeles Times say an Afghan special forces sergeant killed an American Green Beret on a military base Friday.

The article calls it, quote, “part of a worrisome trend in Afghanistan.”

Top News Headlines: Manhunt for Missing FBI Agent

Sun, 13 May 2012 06:44:29 -0500

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(Image source: Burbank Police Dept./Los Angeles Times)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

A manhunt is underway near Los Angeles for an FBI agent missing since Friday.

Here’s CNN.

“ … the man right there, 35-year-old Stephen Ivens is believed to be armed and suicidal. Police do not think Ivens is a danger to anyone but himself, but they are urging the public not to approach him.”

An ex-Taliban minister turned Afghan peace envoy has been killed.

Al Jazeera says Arsala Rahmani, quote, “had the ear” of senior Taliban officials.

" … and for this reason, President Hamid Karzai believed he could help negotiate peace with the group. His killing in a drive-by shooting in Kabul now raises doubts over those efforts."

Leaders of Greece’s three main political parties met with the country’s president for 90 minutes and left without comment.

The BBC reports.

“The three main parties who are divided over the country’s austerity policies have so far tried and failed to secure enough support to get a deal together.”

Police in Spain have cleared Madrid’s central square of tens of thousands of protesters Sunday.

Euronews explains.

“The Indignados, or the outraged, are celebrating the first anniversary of their world-famous protest against austerity and the financial and political elite.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Nathan Byrne, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

U.K. Gets Sound Gun for 2012 Olympics

Sun, 13 May 2012 05:00:03 -0500

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(Image source: PressTV)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

ANCHOR CHRISTIAN BRYANT

Britain’s military is making some noise about an addition to its security arsenal for the 2012 Summer Olympics.

The Long Range Acoustic Device, or LRAD, is a sonic gun that can be used as a high-volume loudspeaker or a non-lethal weapon.
Firstpost reports the sound gun has been used to control crowds like the one seen here in Pittsburgh’s 2009 G20 summit.

The U.K. Ministry of Defence confirms the pain-inducing sound gun will be used at the Olympic games, but tells RT …

“ … its primary function will be as a powerful loudspeaker to halt boats traveling along the river. … he refrained from mentioning whether or not the LRAD would be used for riot control during the Olympics.”

A writer for The Mirror says some versions of the LRAD can produce deafening 150-decibel sounds at three feet.

That’s the same sound level you’d get right next to the speakers at a very loud rock concert.
To boot, the device also causes a compression sensation like what you’d feel with your head underwater.

The U.S.-based LRAD Corporation makes the sonic device.
According to the BBC …

“The manufacturer denies it is a weapon … A spokesman for the San Diego-based LRAD Corporation said the 1000Xi was ‘an effective long range communications system … to peacefully resolve uncertain situations’.”

The Associated Press reports LRAD Corporation previously sold the device to the U.S. Army for crowd control in Iraq.

Top News Headlines: Greece Prepares for Political Turmoil

Sat, 12 May 2012 15:00:00 -0500

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(Image source: The New York Times/Eirini Vourloumis)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

Greek voters are braced for more political turmoil.

Euronews reports — this comes …

“ … after Socialist leader Evangelos Venizelos failed to form a government. He is the third leader to try and form a coalition after Sunday’s election handed big gains to anti-austerity parties.”

A militant group linked to al-Qaeda claims responsibility for the two suicide-bomb attacks that killed more than 50 people in Syria’s capital Thursday.

Here’s the BBC.

“The al-Nusra front made the claim in a video posted on its website. It said it was acting in retaliation against the Syrian government.”

GOP presidential hopeful Mitt Romney delivered the commencement speech at Liberty University in Virginia Saturday.

A reporter for Fox News says Romney didn’t shy away from the gay-marriage topic with an audience of likely conservatives.

“He told graduates of Liberty University that the enduring institution of marriage has become a topic of debate, with that quote, ‘Marriage is a relationship between one man and one woman,’ which drew applause from the audience.”

Thousands of dead birds are showing up in Chile and Peru.

CNN explains.

“More than 7,000 birds have turned up dead in South America. Officials say in Peru alone — 5,000 birds have starved because warm weather has forced some anchovies and sardines south.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Nathan Byrne, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

Top News Headlines: Syria Releases Turkish Journalists

Sat, 12 May 2012 07:25:14 -0500

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(Image source: Al Arabiya)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

Two Turkish journalists imprisoned in Syria have been released to Iran.

Here’s CNN.

“Their families didn’t know whether they were alive or dead in a prison in Damascus. This video released by a Turkish Islamist charity organization … ”

JPMorgan’s $2 million loss prompts talk of regulatory repercussions.

The surprise announcement even has some drawing comparisons to Goldman Sachs.

But one CNBC analyst says this is different.

“ … JPMorgan simply shot themselves in the foot. They were the customer. They’re the ones that lost the money, and so I think that there’s a huge difference. Also, as far as PR, I think Jamie Dimon is about as Teflon as Warren Buffett.”

Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez has returned home after 11 days of cancer treatment in Cuba.

The BBC reports Chavez declared that treatment a success.

Anchor: “Mr. Chavez walked with relative ease from the plane.”

Reporter: “Looking energetic and in good spirits, the president broke into song.”

The Associated Press is reporting LeBron James has won his third NBA MVP award.

ESPN has more.

“LeBron, who has his Heat in the second round in the Eastern Conference playoffs, with some amazing numbers this year — 27.1 points per game, 6.2 assists, 7.9 rebounds.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Nathan Byrne, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

Victim's Brother Throws Shoe at Anders Breivik

Sat, 12 May 2012 05:00:05 -0500

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(Image source: Dagbladet)

BY STEVEN SPARKMAN

ANCHOR ZACH TOOMBS

The trial of Anders Breivik was disrupted by an unexpected outburst. Sky News has the story.

“The brother of one of Anders Breivik’s victims has thrown a shoe at the killer during his trial. The shoe missed its target and the man was escorted from the courtroom to applause from some other spectators.”

Breivik has admitted to carrying out a killing spree last year in Norway that left 77 dead. The shoe thrower allegedly yelled at Breivik, “You killed my brother! Go to hell!” A BBC correspondent says considering the gut wrenching testimony lately, it’s amazing this hasn’t happened before.

“This morning they were hearing coroners’ reports detailing, with a life-size dummy, exactly how the victims died: where the exit wounds were, where the entry wounds of the bullets were...”

Breivik seemed unfazed by the attack. The shoe actually hit his lawyer, who was sitting beside him.

After order had been restored, Breivik told the courtroom if anyone wanted to throw something, do it when he’s entering or leaving the room, not at his attorney. (Video source: VGTV)

It’s that sort of calm that has spectators wondering whether the victims’ families aren’t being hurt further by the dignified and respectful courtroom atmosphere. The Wall Street Journal writes:

“While Norwegians in general agree that Mr. Breivik should be treated like any other criminal there is also criticism over the amount of media attention he is getting, and unease at the detached politeness with which he is generally treated in court.”

As the assailant was being escorted out of the courtroom, there was applause, crying and someone shouting “Bravo.” The Christian Science Monitor quotes a Norwegian media analyst who says the outburst was cathartic.

“...it was a ‘relief’ for him and probably also to Norwegians, who are not used to expressing their emotions so openly. ‘He probably did what most [victims’ families] wanted to do...’”

The trial is expected to continue for another five to six weeks.

Xbox 360 Kinect To Become Full Browser Experience?

Fri, 11 May 2012 19:22:09 -0500

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(Image source: Xbox Kinect)

BY EVAN THOMAS AND JIM FLINK

ANCHOR ZACH TOOMBS

Gamers are about the get the full power of web browsing — without ever getting up from the couch. That is, if the rumors are true about XBox 360’s Kinect. Here’s The Verge with the scoop on present and future browsing.

“Microsoft's new Internet Explorer browser for Xbox will expand on this functionality to open up a full browser for the console. … Microsoft has also integrated Kinect gestures and voice control heavily into the experience”

Now, the Xbox 360 already includes Bing voice search, but so far it's been limited to media results. Kotaku says, this would fill a service gap on the 360.

“This rumor has the ring of truth since it's a conceptual extension of the same thinking that brought Bing to the Xbox 360. Integration of social networks like Twitter and Facebook has existed on the 360 for a while now, but there's been a conspicuous lack of robust web-browsing on the home console.”

And Digital Trends notes, it’s a service gap that’s kind of glaring.

“Think about it. You can download movies, music, games, watch college basketball on ESPN, watch Major League Baseball, Game of Thrones through HBO, but if you want to look up somebody’s address in Google Maps, well, you’re out of luck. Even the Wii can do that, and that little box is basically a box of tissues with a disc drive in it.”

Ok, so we get it. It’s about time. But SlashGear notes, it’s about something more than that — it’s about market share!

“…Internet Explorer has been steadily losing ground to Chrome and Firefox for the last few years, and Microsoft’s Xbox division is one of its undeniable hits. Associating future versions of IE with the Xbox… could be advantageous. The PlayStation 3 and Wii both have browsers built in, though neither is as complete as Internet Explorer.”

While this is still a rumor -— and there’s no official word yet — this Kinection could materialize for real in a matter of weeks.

Top News Headlines: Greek Coalition Deal Fails

Fri, 11 May 2012 17:05:11 -0500

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(Image source: Bloomberg/Irish Times)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

The third attempt to form a coalition government in Greece has failed.
The BBC explains.

“Hopes of forming a coalition government in Greece have been dashed after the head of the anti-bailout Syriza party said he would not join the coalition government.”

A New York Times report says the SEC is now investigating JPMorgan following the bank’s $2 billion loss.

CNN looks at the backlash.

“ … this is why everybody loves to hate big banks and why you hear Congress pounding their fists about tougher regulations. … (FLASH) JPMorgan gambled and lost, making some big, risky bets.”

Indonesian rescue workers say they’ve recovered 12 bodies from this week’s Russian plane crash.
Here’s euronews.

“Most of the dead are Indonesian and aviation officials. Although eight Russians were also on board. Rescuers have been using climbing equipment, including ropes, to scale the near-vertical Mt. Salak … ”

Facebook is stirring more buzz leading up to its IPO.
Chicago’s WBBM highlights a new feature Facebook’s testing.

“It looks like Facebook is considering a pay-for-popularity plan. For two bucks, Facebook will highlight your post. A trial is underway right now, and the option to highlight shows up when you’re posting an update.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day.

Top News Headlines: JPMorgan CEO Blames 'Errors' for Loss

Fri, 11 May 2012 07:00:00 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

JPMorganChase CEO Jamie Dimon addressed stockholders in a surprise conference call about the company’s reported $2 billion loss.

CNN’s business correspondent has part of that statement.

“We made risky bets and we lost. We made huge losses caused by errors, sloppiness, bad judgment. He called these errors ‘stupid.’”

The trial of the Norwegian man who admitted mass killings was interrupted by a victim’s family member.

The BBC reports the relative of one of Anders Breivik’s victims threw a shoe at him and screamed in the courtroom.

The shoe missed Breivik and hit his lawyer.

The man accused of kidnapping two Tennessee girls — and killing their mother and sister — is dead.

Here’s HLN.

“Two girls are safe and their alleged captor, Adam Mayes, is dead. … The FBI says Adam Mayes shot himself in the head.”

Actor and activist George Clooney held a fundraising dinner for President Obama Thursday.

Fox News reports the event raised $15 million.

“It was in the backyard, under a tent, there on his basketball court. Of the $15 million they raised, two-thirds of it was raised by the ‘Win a Dream Date with George Clooney.’”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Nathan Byrne, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

Ferrari Leaves Tire Marks on Chinese Monument

Fri, 11 May 2012 04:00:02 -0500

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(Image Source: CNN/CCTV)

BY EMOKE BEBIAK

ANCHOR CARISSA LOETHEN

A Ferrari PR stunt in China went a bit too far. CNN has the story...

“The wheels of the luxury Ferrari spin as the driver shows off leaving dark tire marks on Nanjing’s historic gate.”

Oops, right? The stunt was meant to mark Ferrari’s 20th anniversary of being on the Chinese market. The BBC explains the backlash caused by the extravagant PR move.

“Touching a nerve in a society where luxury cars are a symbol of wealth and privilege, one user of Weibo, China’s equivalent of Twitter, writes of the rude insult to Chinese culture.”

Ferrari did apologize for damaging the 600-year-old city wall. The China editor for the Economist tells NPR...

“Ferrari themselves came out and apologized. They know which side their bread is buttered and they know that they can't afford to annoy the people of China, who are now their second biggest market.”

But Ferrari wasn’t the only one revved up after the incident. Autoweek reports on a public outcry against Chinese officials, as well, saying...

“Much of the anger was directed at the Chinese government, which rented the wall for the occasion at a cost of $12,000. City officials say the car company did not have approval for on-wall donuts.”

A blogger for TIME notes once the incident went viral, Chinese authorities were quick to put the brakes on any online chatter.

“The word Ferrari has now been blocked from Chinese microblogs like Weibo, the Chinese version of Twitter, in what some see as an effort to control criticism of government officials amid a widening divide between China’s rich and poor.”

According to The New York Times, the car was a special edition Ferrari 458 Italia valued at $954,000.

Syrian Bombing Called Worst in Conflict

Thu, 10 May 2012 17:20:32 -0500

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(Image source: euronews)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

ANCHOR MEGAN MURPHY

Reports call it the bloodiest attack in Syria’s 14-month conflict.
ITV and ABC’s “Good Morning America” have the headlines.

“At least 55 people have died and nearly 400 have been injured in two explosions in Syria.”

“A major escalation in the uprising there that has now claimed the lives of some 9,000 people.”

Members of the United Nations monitoring team visited the site of the explosions Thursday morning.
Euronews says the U.N. monitors warned strongly against attacks like these.

Reporter: “The head of the U.N. observer mission in Syria has condemned the latest violence to hit the capital Damascus.”

Robert Mood, U.N.’s Syria mission leader: “This is a terrible kind of violence.”

But who was behind the explosions — government forces? Or the Free Syrian Army? CNN reports — it’s unclear.

“Syria blames the attacks on anti-government terrorists. An opposition group claims Syria’s intelligence agency was destroyed.”

The Free Syrian Army denies responsibility — and an Al Jazeera report questions whether the group has the firepower to pull off such an attack.

That same report criticizes the Syrian government for its response.

“The Syrian government repeated its usual lie about it being the work of terrorist gangs trying to destabilize the country’s infrastructure.”

While the usual suspects in this conflict blame each other, a BBC reporter points out a third force …

“ … that has claimed responsibility for major attacks in the past. The shadowy ‘al-Nusra Battlefront’ emerged in January and has since said it was behind previous car and truck bomb attacks … The group has a distinctly jihadist agenda … there are suspicions it may have links to al-Qaeda.”

A columnist for Lebanon’s The Daily Star doesn’t see compromise on the horizon.

“The Syrian president … won’t implement those features of [UN/Arab League envoy Kofi] Annan’s plan that might undermine his authority. As for the opposition, it has no intention of embracing dialogue unless this leads to Assad’s departure … ”

The U.S. State Department condemned the bombings in a statement Thursday.

Algerian Voters Skeptical of Reforms

Thu, 10 May 2012 15:02:57 -0500

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Image Source: Al Jazeera

BY EMOKE BEBIAK

Algeria held what many call the country’s most open elections ever on Thursday. Yet there was a noticeable lack of enthusiasm on the part of the voters. Al Jazeera reports...

“Across North Africa, people have become genuinely politicised, yet here in Algeria’s most open elections ever, the government has been forced to send out text messages by phone to encourage people to vote.”

Euronews says the government took extraordinary measures to ensure the elections were fair...

“500 foreign observers are monitoring the ballot, billed by President Bouteflika’s ageing establishment as more transparent than ever before. Algerian elections have, for years, been dogged by claims of fraud.”

Algeria is the only country in the North African region where Arab Spring demonstrations were short-lived and not effective. But according to the BBC, last year’s revolutions led Algerian leaders to recognize the need for change saying...

“Under pressure to reform after last year's ‘Arab Spring’ revolts in neighbouring countries, President Abdelaziz Bouteflika approved the establishment of 23 new political parties and an increase in the number of seats in parliament to 462.”

But the Guardian reports President Bouteflika, who has been in power for 12 years, also added last weekend...

"There is no lesson in democracy that we need to learn from the Arab spring, because our spring is Algeria.”

Bloomberg explains Algeria’s war-torn history might be the reason why people are not excited about political upheaval...

“Algeria's lack of enthusiasm for the tumult elsewhere in the region may have something to do with the country's recent past: the exceptionally brutal, decade-long civil war that erupted in 1992 after the government cancelled the second round of voting in parliamentary elections when it became clear Islamists were going to win.”

Voters are apathetic about Thursday’s elections. Many say they don’t believe the elections will bring about real change. A young voter tells Middle East Online...

"The only reason I'm voting is because I'm a young adult and I'm about to enter the job market... I'm afraid one day the authorities somewhere will ask to see my voter's card before granting me access to housing, or employment or even health coverage..."

A writer for All Africa.com adds the elections are “just another opportunity for the country's political elite to gain a semblance of legitimacy.”

Plane Crash May Impact Russian Aviation Industry

Thu, 10 May 2012 12:51:00 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

Search and rescue crews have found bodies — but no survivors — in the wreckage of a Russian plane that disappeared from radar over Indonesia Wednesday.

Al Jazeera reports.

“The plane crashed into the steep slope of a mountain. And from a distance, little appears to remain of it. ... The plane was carrying more than 40 people. They were mostly airline executives and journalists on a demonstration flight.”

The Superjet-100 is a first for jetmaker Sukhoi.

Euronews has details.

“Officials from Sukhoi had been on a nationwide tour to show off the plane to potential buyers. The mid-range aircraft, which can carry up to 100 people, is the first commercial one to be made by the company, which specializes in military planes.”

The jet was set to change the game for Russia.

Fox News explains.

“The plane was supposed to be the crowning jewel of Russia’s aerospace industry. It was the first new model to be produced in the country since the end of the Soviet Union nearly 25 years ago.”

A writer for the BBC says the crash will deal a “massive psychological blow to the entire Russian aviation industry.”

“Industry professionals are not yet using the crash in Indonesia to draw conclusions about the aircraft as a whole. … Few in Russia are doubting the competence of the crew, either. The aircraft was piloted by professional and experienced pilots.”

According to Reuters, Sukhoi has orders for 170 planes worldwide and plans to produce as many as 1,000 Superjets.

Top News Headlines: Bodies Found at Plane Crash Site

Thu, 10 May 2012 06:41:57 -0500

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(Image source: BBC)

BY NATHAN BYRNE AND HARUMENDHAH HELMY

ANCHOR NATHAN BYRNE

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

Rescuers say they’ve found bodies, but no survivors at the site in Indonesia where a Russian plane apparently crashed into a mountain.

The plane disappeared from radar Wednesday during a demo flight — with 45 people on board.

Here’s Al Jazeera.

Reporter: “Search and rescue teams are now at the site.”

Chief Daryatmo, search and rescue agency: “From the report we have received, debris could be seen clearly from the top, and they were able to see the Sukhoi company logo in the debris.”

Bomb blasts kill dozens and damage a military intelligence complex in Syria.

Euronews reports.

“A deadly pall of smoke rises above the Syrian capital of Damascus. Officials say 40 people have been killed and more than 170 injured in two explosions … ”

Russian President Vladimir Putin will not be attending this month’s G8 summit in Maryland.

Putin had also been scheduled for bilateral talks with President Barack Obama during that planned visit.

Here’s the BBC.

“The White House said Mr Putin was unable to attend as he has to finalize cabinet appointments to the Russian government. Instead the two presidents will hold bilateral negotiations at the G20 summit in Mexico, in June.”

The Olympic torch has been lit in Greece before making its way to London for the 2012 games.

ITV has more from the procession.

“Crowds gathered to watch the flame burst into life at a special ceremony at the ancient stadium in front of the Temple of Hera in Olympia. The high priestess then passed the flame to the first torchbearer.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Nathan Byrne, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

Could Greece Leave the Eurozone?

Thu, 10 May 2012 04:00:02 -0500

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(Image source: Wikipedia)

BY NIELS SCHACK NORGAARD

ANCHOR CHRISTINA HARTMAN

Greece remains in political disarray four days after its general election. And now, a 5.2 billion-euro bailout from the European Union is at risk because the vote is seen as a referendum on austerity measures that were part of Europe’s bailout package.

Economics professor Christopher Pissarides tells Sky News the situation in Greece could hardly be worse.

“The way I see the situation now, it is so bad, I cannot imagine it being worse, because it has suddenly introduced so much uncertainty into something that was agreed before by the two main parties”

The two majority parties who had led a coalition government lost about half of their seats. Those two parties agreed to the bailout — AND austerity measures — in the first place. In Germany, chancellor Angela Merkel immediately reacted, saying Greece has to follow the austerity measures imposed by the EU.

MERKEL: “Of course it’s of the utmost importance that the programs that we have agreed with Greece will be continued.”

But John Taylor, CEO of the hedge fund FX Concepts, tells Bloomberg he’s certain the Greeks will turn their backs on Merkel’s demands — and leave the euro zone.

Interviewer: “So, June, July, August – we’re talking about an exit from the euro as soon as that?”
John Taylor: “Yes, exactly. This summer I think it’s very likely. The Europeans aren’t going to give them the money, the IMF aren’t going to give them the okay. They will be out of money in June.”

Polls have shown the Greek population doesn’t want to leave the euro zone. But at the same time the Greeks don’t want to adjust European Union’s demands.

Alexis Tsipras, who leads the anti-bailout party Syriza (pronouncer), which nearly quadrupled its representation in the Greek parliament, failed to gain enough support from other Greek political parties to form a coalition government Wednesday. He handed that responsibility back to Greece’s president.

According to euronews, this means…

“Opinion now seems near unanimous that a second roll of the electoral dice is needed to break the deadlock. However, some complain that a 25 million euro a pop election is expensive in the days of austerity.”

Late on Wednesday, the European Financial Stability Facility announced they would not release a full bailout to Greece. The EFSF will withhold one billion of the 5.2 billion euros because of the instability in Greece.

Russian Plane Missing in Indonesia

Wed, 09 May 2012 18:52:44 -0500

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(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY SAMANTHA KUBOTA

ANCHOR CARISSA LOETHEN

The search for a missing Russian airplane in Indonesia was impeded after bad weather and darkness prevented aerial searches. There have been varying reports of how many people were aboard the plane - presumed to have crashed - but most reports vary between 44 and 50 people. CNN has more...

“It was only supposed to be in the air for thirty minutes but 21 minutes into the flight it dropped off radar and lost radio contact.”

The plane being tested was the Sukhoi Superjet 100. The LA Times reports the pilot had requested to descend from 10 thousand feet to 6 thousand but dropped off the radar at 6,200 feet. Rescue helicopters went out to look for the plane after it went missing but had to turn back to Jakarta because of bad weather.

“The Indonesian national search and rescue agency then sent soldiers and rescue workers in vehicles to approach the suspected crash site around Salak mountain, rescue agency spokesman … told reporters in Jakarta.”

But still no sign of the plane. Fox News explains hijacking wasn’t likely.

“There are also reports coming out of russia that it could have been hijacked, but there is nothing so far to substantiate that claim.”

The plane had been in the air as a demonstration flight. According to the BBC, those aboard were mostly potential investors and some journalists...

“Most of those aboard are believed to be Indonesian airline representatives but it has been confirmed that there are also eight Russians, including pilots and technicians, and a French citizen. “

If the plane did malfunction, it could mean bad news for the Russian aviation industry. The New York Times outlines the history of aviation in Russia as having a troubled past.

“Much of Russia’s hopes of reviving its commercial aerospace industry are staked on this new model of aircraft. Though it has a storied history of technical accomplishments, the industry has been plagued by safety problems, breakdowns and lethal crashes.”

The plane that went down Wednesday was supposed to change that. In addition to solving some of Russia’s in-house problems, the country had staked some of it’s international hopes on the SuperJet as well. Here’s RT.

“It was really hoped to be a modern revamp of the Russian Aircraft industry, this jet was a modern version that they were trying to market to many international markets.”

Top News Headlines: Obama Endorses Gay Marriage

Wed, 09 May 2012 17:15:57 -0500

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BY NATHAN BYRNE
ANCHOR DAVID EARL

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

President Obama announced he supports gay marriage. Previously he’d described his position on the issue as “evolving” — but Wednesday afternoon the president said this to ABC’s Robin Roberts...

“...for me personally it is important for me to go ahead and affirm that I think same sex couples should be able to get married.”

No word yet on what happened to the Russian plane that disappeared from radar during a demo flight over Indonesia this morning. Here’s Fox News.

“The latest reports suggest that the Russian plane could’ve crashed in Indonesian mountains. There’s also reports coming out of Russia now that it may have been hijacked. But there’ been nothing so far to substantiate that claim.”

TSA officials say they found a disassembled gun inside a four-year-old boy’s stuffed animals at a Rhode Island airport. Neither the boy nor his father claimed to know anything about the gun parts. Now, the boy’s mother is being investigated. Boston’s WHDH describes what the TSA found.

“The main frame was located inside a bear. A magazine loaded with two rounds was hidden in a bunny and a firing pin was stuffed inside Mickey Mouse.”

The New York Times reports Fannie Mae posted a first-quarter profit and the government-backed mortgage company won’t seek more bailout money.

Peoria’s WMBD explains.

“Fannie Mae earned nearly 3 billion dollars last quarter and will not ask for additional money from the government. It’s the first time the mortgage giant has reported a profit since being taken over by the government in 2008.”

The United States Postal Service is backing off plans to close thousands of rural post offices.
HLN has details on the Postmaster General’s new plan.

“The 13,000 post offices would stay open, but with much shorter hours. Full-time employees could be forced to work part-time. … it could save a half-billion dollars a year. The new strategy would take couple of years to complete … ”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m David Earl, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

India's Cheetah Restoration Plan Halted

Wed, 09 May 2012 16:45:50 -0500

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(Image source: BBC)

BY XIAONAN WANG

The Supreme Court of India has halted an ambitious project that would have imported cheetahs from Africa. The Times of India has the reason the court objected to the plan.

“The African cheetah obviously never existed in India. Therefore, it is not a case of intentional movement of an organism into a part of its native range."

The Cheetah Conservation Fund has been working with the Indian government to restore the cheetah to India since 2009. A specialist from the organization says cheetahs’ wouldn’t have any problem adjusting.

Last year, India’s environment minister told reporters bringing cheetahs back to India is more than just ecological. India’s Daily News and Analysis has his quote.

"It is a matter of deep regret that cheetah have become extinct in India because the word 'cheetah' comes from Sanskrit. … [T]he only mammal to become extinct in India in the last 1,000 years is the cheetah."

According to Voice of America — the cheetah disappeared from India in the 1950s because of over-hunting. An official from Wildlife Protection Society in India tells the blog — halting the importing of cheetahs was the right decision.

“Since we have so many problems protecting and securing a future for our other big cats and endangered species, we don’t need another very expensive headache... It is not worth going through this whole thing when we can't even look after what we have in the wild.”

And a cheetah enthusiast and blogger mentions criticism on the relocation project, suggesting the plan was just money-driven.

“The reintroduction is nothing but a publicity stunt and the wildlife officials involved have nothing but ‘mindless tourism’ as their focus."

Would-Be Bomber Turns out to be Double Agent

Wed, 09 May 2012 14:45:30 -0500

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(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY VICTORIA CRAIG

ANCHOR MEGAN MURPHY

Feds now say the would-be underwear bomber on a U.S.-bound flight was actually a double agent.
NBC’s “Today” has the details of the sudden twist.

“Officials now say the man who volunteered to smuggle an underwear bomb onto a U.S.-bound jet was actually a double agent. He infiltrated the Al Qaeda affiliate in Yemen while working with the CIA and Saudi Intelligence agencies.”

So now, everybody knows. And, CNN reports, Homeland Security isn’t happy about it.

"It's really, to me, unfortunate that this has gotten out, because this could really interfere with operations overseas.”

Al Qaeda has reportedly long wanted a suicide bomber to target an American jetliner.
CBS explains how the United States pulled off the bait and switch — and how it could benefit domestic security efforts.

“The only way for intelligence officials to ensure they controlled the plot was to have their own agent volunteer to be the bomber and then hand the bomb to the CIA. The tradeoff: They would lose a source penetrated deep inside the organization - but they would save lives.”

Although this foiled attempt is a win for the United States, the trouble isn’t over yet. Fox News reports, officials say there are still other bombers yet to be caught.

“The bomb maker who is still on the loose is likely trying to quickly train Al Qaeda apprentices because the terror network knows he’s a top level, tier one target who will probably get a visit from one of our drones as soon as we track him down.”

Rather than exploding the device, the would-be bomber handed it over to the CIA for investigation. This latest device is an improvement, according to authorities, of a similar one used in the Christmas Day bomb plot in 2009.

“The new bomb contained no metal and used a chemical … that was to be a detonator in a nearly successful 2010 plot to attack cargo planes … The latest underwear bomb was aimed at a potential gap in security technology, which experts say reinforces the importance of blending intelligence gathering with airport screening.”

Now focus turns to airport security. Because of the bomb’s more simplistic design, many wonder if airport screening procedures are enough to catch similar future attacks. Body scanners at airports across the country are designed to detect non-metal objects.

“The overall design was basically the same, with no metal. Presenting no more challenges to airport scanners than the 2009 underwear bomb. As a result, U.S. officials say no change in airport security is planned.”

Still, The Huffington Post explains why there’s a potential safety concern for passengers flying outside the confines of the U.S.

“The machines, which were adjusted after complaints about "naked” airport scanners, are scarce outside the U.S...Body scanners are not used in Yemen or other countries considered high-risk incubators for terrorism … ”

Authorities say U.S. lives were never in danger, and the Obama administration had intelligence on the plan all the way back in April.

Top News Headlines: Explosion Hits Near U.N. Convoy in Syria

Wed, 09 May 2012 07:11:21 -0500

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(Image source: BBC)

BY NATHAN BYRNE AND HARUMENDHAH HELMY

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

An explosion injures three Syrian troops escorting a convoy of U.N. observers.

Here’s the BBC.

“This is not the first time this sort of thing has happened. There have been no claims of responsibility in this case so far. ... The real question is responsibility and that’s really difficult to assess.”

Russia’s newest civilian plane has disappeared from radar over Indonesia while on a demonstration flight.

RT reports the Sukhoi Superjet-100 is carrying 44 passengers — eight Russians and 36 people from other countries.

Indonesian aviation authorities are saying a hijacking hasn’t been ruled out.

The Los Angeles Times reports the man behind an alleged underwear bomb plot was actually a double-agent working for the United States.

Al Jazeera explains.

“The Obama administration and intelligence officials say by the time the plot was in its final planning stages, they were able to follow it in close detail.”

North Carolina voted Tuesday to outlaw same-sex marriage — making it the 30th state to have such a ban.

The amendment will also invalidate all civil unions and domestic partnerships in the state.

A CNN analyst says the vote poses some difficulties for President Barack Obama in the election year.

“It puts President Obama in a bind and of course we saw what Vice President Biden said the other day in support of same-sex marriage. The president has not gone that far, he supports civil unions but says he’s evolving on the issue.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Nathan Byrne, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

China Forces Al Jazeera English Out of Country

Tue, 08 May 2012 23:45:00 -0500

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(Image source: Al Jazeera / CNN)

BY ZACH TOOMBS

International broadcaster Al Jazeera was forced to close its Beijing bureau Tuesday after China expelled its lead correspondent. The BBC reports on the latest media hang up in the far east nation.

“Chinese authorities refused to renew the visa of Melissa Chan, the channel’s English reporter, who’s been in Beijing for five years … It’s the first such expulsion of an accredited foreign correspondent in over a decade.”

The Christian Science Monitor cites a spokesman from China’s foreign ministry, who says:

“Foreign journalists should abide by Chinese laws and regulations and abide by professional ethics. I think the relevant journalists are very clear about what kind of regulations they have broken.”

But Al Jazeera says it’s unaware of any broken regulations and China refuses to cite them specifically. In a statement, the news director for Al Jazeera English says:

"Our editorial DNA includes covering all stories from all sides. We constantly cover the voice of the voiceless and sometimes that calls for tough news coverage from anywhere in world … We are committed to our coverage of China. Just as China news services cover the world freely we would expect that same freedom in China for any Al Jazeera journalist.”

The Foreign Correspondents Club of China says it’s “appalled” by China’s expulsion of Al Jazeera — calling the move an attempt to censor and intimidate. CNN says recent controversies might have played a role in the decision.

“The move comes at a time of great tension between Chinese authorities and international journalists heightened by the twin sagas of politician Bo Xilai and human rights activist Chen Guangcheng.”

The Washington Post reports China’s grip on the press has been especially tight since the Arab Spring protests — when anonymous Internet messages called for a similar revolution in China. No movement ever materialized, but The Post writes China remained sensitive to the type of reporting Chan conducted.

“In a February 2011 report, Chan reported on what she described as China’s “imaginary revolution.” She also investigated China’s “black jails,” a network of secret detention centers … Reporters at the time were summoned to the offices of the Beijing police and told that they must have prior approval to report virtually anywhere and to talk to any Chinese citizen.”

The Post also reports China has blocked numerous other media inquiries. 28 permanent postings or temporary reporting trips have been cancelled in the last three years — all because China has rejected or ignored applications for visas.

Greeks Struggle to Form Coalition Government

Tue, 08 May 2012 23:30:00 -0500

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Image Source: Ekathimerini

BY EMOKE BEBIAK

ANCHOR CHRISTINA HARTMAN

A Greek political party that opposes the EU bailout is struggling to form a coalition government. After the winning New Democracy Party failed to form a government on Monday, runner-up Alexis Tsipras (Seep-Rus) and his Radical Left Coalition got the mandate. AlJazeera reports...

“But Mr. Tsipras will have to be extremely persuasive to pull this off. He needs to bring political enemies together in what would be an unlikely coalition.”

Euronews reports Tsipras is clear about his coalition’s goals.

“Tsipras himself has ruled out any continuation of austerity, and scrapping the IMF and EU bailout deals, and the Communists have ruled out any role in a coalition.”

The Greek Ekathimerini reports Tsipras released a plan he wants as the basis for negotiations. It calls for the immediate cancellation of austerity measures and a reform of the political system. Tsipras wants to make sure the will of the people doesn’t get lost in the political negotiations saying...

“We are not indifferent to whether the country will be governed or not, but we are primarily concerned with the direction in which the country will be governed and whether the people's mandate will be respected.”

If Tsipras fails to form a government by the Friday deadline, the country will have to hold elections again. A writer for the Telegraph explains the outcome of a possible delay...

“A failure to put together a government this week would trigger another election in June, increasing fears that Greece's painful deficit-cutting program – along with Europe's faltering efforts to resolve its debt crisis – could be derailed.”

EU leaders are warning Greece not to abandon austerity measures. The BBC reports European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso said on Tuesday...

"What member states have to do is be consistent, implementing the policies that they have agreed."

According to Reuters, Germany has threatened to withhold aid until Greece continues to comply with the bailout conditions.

Israeli Prime Minister Changes Direction on 2013 Election

Tue, 08 May 2012 18:44:45 -0500

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BY VICTORIA CRAIG

A turn of events in Israel after the nation’s prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced plans to move the country’s elections up by more than a year. West Palm Beach’s WPTV has details of the announcement.

“Israel's prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu announcing a general election is being held in just four months. Netanyahu said he wanted to avoid pressure from coalition partners who he believed were beginning to destabilize the government.”

That announcement happened Monday. But Tuesday, Netanyahu stands with the opposition leader...making a surprise announcement – a reversal on a decision he made less than 24 hours before. CNN reports.

“Two former rivals in Israel have come together to form an unusual unity government. The new alliance between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party and the Kadima party, will put off elections until late next year.”

Both leaders say the new coalition government will be better for Israel in the long-run. But CBS calls the quick change of heart a stunning reversal. Al Jazeera reports many in the nation say Netanyahu has just pulled off a quote, “master stroke.”

“The two men appeared in front of the cameras Tuesday playing up, quote ‘unity for Israel.’ Mofaz going so far as to say the new coalition government would help his party make up for previously missed opportunities.”

But a writer for the Israeli newspaper Haaretz criticizes the nation’s leader — and wonders why Netanyahu would give up an election likely to keep him in power, saying it was about...

“...avoiding risks at all costs. Netanyahu preferred the 18 months of certainty a unity government provides over going to an elections, despite polls that predicted an easy win.”

Still, a correspondent for the BBC explains this new deal allows Netanyahu to quote, “dominate Israeli politics.”

“The coalition now has 94 out of 120 seats in the Israeli Knesset. So that means there’s no real opposition or certainly not a powerful one.”

The new coalition government could also influence a decision from Israel to strike out against Iran over its alleged nuclear weapons program.

Top News Headlines: Sen. Lugar in Tough Primary Battle

Tue, 08 May 2012 17:20:46 -0500

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(Image source: Richard G. Lugar)

BY STEVEN SPARKMAN

Here are your top news headlines from Newsy.

Three states are holding Republican primaries today. There are contests in Indiana, West Virginia and North Carolina. But Indiana is getting the most media attention, because a six-term Senator could lose his seat. CNN has the story.

“Senator Dick Lugar of Indiana being challenged by the state’s treasurer. His name is Richard Mourdock. He’s backed by many who are in the Tea Party movement. … And he’s been chipping away at Lugar’s lead.”

The U.S. Border Patrol issued its first new national strategy in eight years. A Fox News analyst has the details.

“The new approach, according to the Associated Press, uses intelligence to identify repeat crossers, identify why they keep coming and what risk they pose to national security.”

Interpol announced it has issued an arrest warrant for the vice president of Iraq, who is accused of running a death squad. Al Jazeera has more.

“Tariq al-Hashemi is suspected of guiding and paying for attacks inside Iraq. These are serious allegations against a man already facing an arrest warrant issued by Iraqi authorities.”

And the author of the wildly popular children’s book “Where the Wild Things Are” has died, after complications following a stroke. Here’s CBS.

“Sendak took generations of children on a wild rumpus along with Max, a little boy who was sent to his room without supper. Maurice Sendak was 83 years old.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Megan Murphy, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

Authorities Stop Terrorist Attack on U.S.-Bound Plane

Tue, 08 May 2012 16:51:01 -0500

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BY VICTORIA CRAIG

U.S. authorities say they thwarted a planned terrorist attack aboard a plane headed for the U.S. from Yemen Monday. CBS “This Morning” has the details of the developing story.

“The plot targeted planes bound for the United States using the latest version of the underwear bomb.”

CIA officials say no planes were ever in any danger. Al Jazeera reports, the device used in Monday’s failed attack was similar to the one used during the failed Christmas Day attack in 2009.

“That plot, too, involved a so-called underwear bomb. This latest device seems more sophisticated than the one worn in 2009...Officials say the would-be-bomber was stopped before he could select a target, or purchase a plane ticket.”

But there is a major difference between this attempted attack and the one three years ago. “Fox and Friends” explains the materials used to create this bomb were more subtle.

“It has no metal in it. So the metal detectors at the airport aren’t going to detect it. And apparently it’s got a new and improved detonator which is not good.”

Had the attack not been stopped, U.S. counterterrorism officials say the bomb was viable, though there were flaws that would have impacted the ability for it to detonate properly. The Wall Street Journal has more.

“The Federal Bureau of Investigation now has the bomb and is analyzing its makeup. The agency hopes to better understand tactics being employed by the al Qaeda affiliate that U.S. officials say poses the greatest danger to the U.S..”

An analyst for the BBC explains why the threat from the AQAP – or Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula – where Monday’s attack originated, concerns the White House the most.

“I think it’s a sign that the threat from Al Qaeda in Yemen remains strong...particularly because they have an expert bomb maker Ibrahim Hassan Al Asiri, who was involved in that first attack in 2009 and developed the underwear bomb.”

A correspondent for CNN outlines the most likely response from U.S. officials going forward.

“We should expect to see more drone strikes, more operations against this Al Qaeda organization. The critical thing right now is to make sure there are no more devices out there.”

The Wall Street Journal reports U.S. officials have known about the attack since April when they briefed President Obama. They also asked the Associated Press not to publish a report about it as early as last week because the intelligence operation was underway.

Top News Headlines: CIA Foils Bomb Plot

Tue, 08 May 2012 11:42:37 -0500

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(Image source: ABC)

BY STEVEN SPARKMAN

Here are your top news headlines from Newsy.

U.S. officials say intelligence agencies foiled a plot to blow up an airliner bound for America, following a covert operation in Yemen. The new bomb was designed to slip past airport scanners. CNN explains.

“The explosive device is similar to the one that was used by the so-called ‘underwear bomber’ back on Christmas Day of 2009, only this time more sophisticated and harder to detect.”

In an email to his supporters last night, Rick Santorum urged them to get behind Mitt Romney. This comes after a heated campaign in which Santorum repeatedly told voters Romney wasn’t conservative enough. HLN has more.

“But now Santorum says that he has a better idea of where Romney stands on the issues. Now, Santorum also says that they agreed President Obama must be defeated and that Romney needs all hands on deck to achieve that goal.”

Bank of America began sending letters to homeowners saying the bank is willing to forgive a portion of the principal balance on mortgages. The move is the result of a settlement with state governments earlier this year. Here's Fox News.

“The average amount that they’re willing to forgive — $150,000. The reduction for qualifying homeowners would amount to monthly savings up to 35 percent.”

And Greece came one step closer to another election, after the head of the winning New Democracy party failed to form a coalition government. Here’s euronews.

“He tried talking to Alexis Tsipras whose radical Left Coalition scored second place in Sunday’s vote, but the young politician is staunchly anti-austerity.”

Stay with Newsy for more multisource video news throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m Blake Hanson, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.