oleh admin | Mar 24, 2025 | international relations, military, news, politics, politics and law
Two U.S. conservative periodicals have urged the Trump administration to remove its forces from the Kogălniceanu Base in Romania, arguing that the choice was “undemocratic.”
block Călin Georgescu’s candidacy
And the significant expense associated with the base.
The
first article
Published in The American Conservative, the article entitled “It’s Time to Sever Ties with Romania” is penned by Anthony J. Constantini. In this piece, the author criticizes Romania’s Constitutional Court.
canceling the 2024 presidential elections
and prohibiting Calin Georgescu from participating again. He states this
condemnations issued by U.S. Vice President JD Vance
serve as a positive initial move, yet “the Trump administration should take additional steps by utilizing this chance to clearly state its intention to withdraw troops and support from Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base.”
Days later,
another article
In an opinion piece published on the conservative platform The National Interest, it was suggested that “reassessing” America’s ties with Romania could serve as a foundational move towards overhauling NATO. Like in the previous article, the writer mentions how far-right pro-Russian contender Calin Georgescu was disqualified from contesting the presidency. Additionally, the author contends that the decisions of the Romanian Constitutional Court were made under the endorsement of the Biden administration.
“Pulling out troops from Romania might unsettle NATO, indeed, yet it would showcase America’s determination and spur Europeans into taking concrete steps toward strategic independence rather than merely discussing it. Such a move could also serve as leverage to motivate Russia to stop combat operations in Ukraine, considering their longstanding concern over NATO forces advancing further east,” writes author Michael Hall.
The two articles could potentially signal a significant change in the relationship between the United States and Romania. During an interview,
HotNews
According to security expert Iulia Joja, the possibility of troop withdrawal from the base by the US remains plausible.
“In just a couple of days, two articles emerged suggesting this might be part of a coordinated effort. Upon closer examination, they share common threads, focusing specifically on the Kogălniceanu base. We could have potentially discussed another location like the one in Deveselu instead,” said Iulia Joja, who teaches at both Georgetown and George Washington Universities.
Furthermore, in each instance, an immediate connection exists between the creator or distributor of the publication and Russia. Dmitri Simes, who previously served as the CEO of the Center for the National Interest, hails from Moscow and reportedly sustains connections to Russia, as reported by U.S. media outlets. The writer behind the piece in The American Conservative, Anthony J. Constantini, pursued his education in Vienna and earned a Master’s degree in arms control and strategic studies from Saint Petersburg State University.
Russia has frequently objected to the presence of the Kogălniceanu base. The decision to withdraw might align with the Trump administration’s approach of extreme accommodation towards Putin.
Joja states that for Russia, having a military base – which happens to be one of NATO’s biggest installations – where troops from Western countries such as America, France, Britain, or Germany could be deployed poses a significant issue.
“The expert emphasized that we should not view these as mere coincidences, particularly considering the connections between certain authors, publishers, and Russian affiliations. Additionally, it is noteworthy how closely aligned the statements made by the Trump administration about the eastern flank, European security, and Ukraine align with Russia’s strategic objectives,” she added. “Given this alignment, Russian intelligence services would logically advocate for policies aimed at hindering NATO expansions, such as the development of the Kogălniceanu military base, using whatever means necessary—even fabricated information,” the analyst concluded.
Shutting down the base would directly contradict this.
earlier statement
According to reports from US Special Envoy Keith Kellogg, in February he informed Romanian Foreign Minister Emil Hurezeanu that the military bases in Romania would not only remain but also undergo expansion.
By February 2025, approximately 5,000 foreign troops were stationed in Romania, with just 1,500 being Americans distributed across three main locations: Kogălniceanu, Deveselu, and Câmpia Turzii. Among these sites, Kogălniceanu accommodates the most personnel at roughly 1,000 soldiers. In contrast, Poland hosts around 10,000 U.S. military members within its borders.
radu@romania-insider.com
(Photo credit: Inquam Photos/George Calin)
oleh admin | Mar 24, 2025 | battery electric vehicles, business, car companies, cars, electric cars
Last year, Chinese automaker BYD experienced a significant increase in revenue, crossing the $100 billion threshold and outperforming competitor Tesla as the electric vehicle leader pushes forward with its international growth strategy.
In recent years, the company based in Shenzhen has become the undisputed frontrunner in China’s fiercely contested electric vehicle sector, which boasts the biggest market globally.
The company is also actively pursuing new expansion opportunities overseas, pledging to dominate the European market with a sleek new electric vehicle and ultra-rapid charging technology to compete with major European manufacturers.
Tesla faces a difficult period as China’s major advancement into Europe coincides with a decline in the company’s sales across the continent, which has been exacerbated by CEO Elon Musk’s backing of extreme right-wing political organizations in the region.
The statement released late Monday at the Shenzhen Stock Exchange revealed that BYD generated 777.1 billion yuan ($107.2 billion) in revenue for 2024.
That amount surpassed the $97.7 billion in revenue reported earlier by Tesla for last year.
This marked a 29 percent rise compared to the prior year and surpassed a Bloomberg prediction of 766 billion yuan.
In contrast, BYD’s net profit for last year reached 40.3 billion yuan, marking a 34 percent increase from 2023 and setting a new all-time high.
BYD — whose motto is “Build Your Dreams” in English — has experienced an exhilarating period with rapidly increasing sales figures, numerous disclosures, and skyrocketing share prices.
In January, they reported selling almost 4.3 million vehicles in the past year, which represents an increase of over 40% compared to the prior year.
In February, monthly sales surged by 161 percent to reach 318,000 units, significantly surpassing the considerable drop experienced by Tesla during the same timeframe.
Charging ahead
This month, BYD’s stocks listed in Hong Kong reached an all-time peak following the company’s announcement of new battery tech that reportedly enables charging an electric vehicle as quickly as filling a gasoline-powered car.
The “Super e-Platform” battery and charging system claims to reach top speeds of 1,000 kilowatts and enables vehicles to cover up to 470 kilometers (292 miles) following a five-minute recharge, as stated by the firm.
In contrast, Tesla’s Superchargers presently provide charging rates of 500 kilowatts.
Last week, BYD Vice-President Stella Li stated that “registration figures will surge” in Europe for the months of March and April.
The organization has initiated significant advertising efforts through sponsorships such as supporting last year’s UEFA European Football Championship and by establishing several new showrooms throughout Europe.
Nevertheless, the strained relations and trade disputes between Beijing and western nations could potentially overshadow the firm’s international aspirations.
BYD stands out as one of the leading figures among China’s emerging automotive powerhouses, having thrived with significant backing from Beijing. The government has allocated substantial state resources toward this industry.
This strategy has provided local companies with a significant advantage in the competition to offer less expensive, more fuel-efficient electric vehicles compared to major American car manufacturers, who haven’t consistently benefited from similar government support.
The EU authorities are apparently looking into whether the Chinese government offered uneven subsidies for BYD’s initial plant in Europe, located in Hungary, with plans to begin electric vehicle manufacturing later this year.
Last week, Li informed AFP that the firm would maintain “extreme transparency” and expressed readiness to collaborate with any inquiry.
In the meantime, US President Donald Trump has recently introduced increased blanket tariffs on Chinese goods, exacerbating a previous measure enacted by his predecessor Joe Biden that essentially prohibits the utilization of Chinese technology in intelligent vehicles.
Following Tesla’s announcement of weaker-than-anticipated earnings for the fourth quarter of 2024 at the end of January, BYD released impressive financial figures.
The downturn marked a varied year for Tesla, where Trump supporter Musk’s significant investment in U.S. electoral politics faced challenges from profitability issues. This was compounded by the cessation of the company’s run of consecutive yearly increases in vehicle production.
oleh admin | Mar 24, 2025 | cristiano ronaldo, guinness world records, soccer, sports, world records
The Portuguese soccer icon Cristiano Ronaldo was presented with a Guinness World Records certificate before Portugal’s UEFA Nations League game against Denmark.
The acknowledgment arrives as Ronaldo, who is now 40 years old, strengthens his position in history as the player with the highest number of international triumphs, having secured 132 victories in 218 matches played for his country.
Even with his advanced years, Ronaldo continues to be an essential player for Portugal’s national team. However, he has indicated readiness to step back from his position if it serves the team better.
He keeps finding the back of the net for both Al-Nassr and Portugal as he chases his ambitious target of reaching 1,000 career goals prior to retiring.
A member from Guinness awarded the honor with the Portuguese Football Federation’s president present, highlighting yet another achievement in Ronaldo’s illustrious career.
The post
Cristiano Ronaldo breaks Guinness World Record for most wins in international football
appeared first on
LIFEHACKEnglish – Morocco News
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oleh admin | Mar 24, 2025 | football players, soccer, sports, tournaments, world
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FIFA has formally announced that two nations will secure their spots for the 2026 World Cup scheduled to commence in June of next year.
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The upcoming year’s competition will include 48 nations and hold significance as it will span across three different countries.
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Kenya’s chances of participating in the tournament were severely undermined following a devastating 2-1 loss to Gabon on Sunday.
The 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup will be held from June 11 to July 19, 2026, spanning multiple venues in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
In the 23rd iteration of the competition, the structure will be broadened to include 48 teams vying for the championship. FIFA has already announced the initial pair of nations that have secured their spots in the event.
Kenya’s chances of qualifying for this particular tournament were significantly hindered on Sunday night following their 2-1 defeat against Gabon at the Nyayo National Stadium.
Prior to Monday’s match, Kenya had tied with Gambia in an exciting game held in Ivory Coast, which significantly dimmed their chances of making it to the tournament.
Setback for Kenya’s 2026 World Cup aspirations
Gabon’s win against Kenya propelled them two points above Ivory Coast to lead Group F.
The team that wins each group will secure direct qualification for the 2026 tournament.
The top four runners-up from the nine groups advance to the playoff stage for a chance at securing a spot in an intercontinental qualifier.
Under Benni McCarthy, Kenya tied with Gambia but lost to Gabon, leaving them seven points behind second-place Ivory Coast.
The Elephants still have an additional match and might climb to the top spot if they secure victory over Gambia on Monday.
Two countries clinch berths for the 2026 World Cup.
FIFA has officially announced Japan and New Zealand as the initial two nations to secure their spots in the 2026 World Cup.
In what manner did Japan secure their spot in the competition?
Japan secured their place in the competition on Thursday night following a decisive 2-0 victory over Bahrain at Saitama Stadium.
In Group C, Japan won all six of their matches and drew with Australia out of the seven games played.
New Zealand has secured a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
As stated on the FIFA website, New Zealand secured their spot at the 2026 World Cup following their victory over New Caledonia with a score of 3-0 in the finals of the OFC qualifying tournament held on Monday.
It will mark the nation’s third qualification following their participation in Spain in 1982 and South Africa in 2010.
Now all White nations will participate alongside Japan, Mexico, the United States, and Canada, who have already secured their spots in the 48-team championship.
New Caledonia gets an opportunity to rejuvenate its prospects in the playoff stage featuring clubs from Asian, North, South, and Central American confederations.
Infantino suggests potential reinstatement of Russia for World Cup
LIFEHACK.co.ke
Previously mentioned was the news that FIFA President Gianni Infantino suggested the potential for Russia’s return to the 2026 World Cup competition.
Infantino mentioned that Russia could potentially regain entry into global football competitions such as the World Cup should worldwide peace be achieved again.
oleh admin | Mar 24, 2025 | banking, business, investing, investing business news, money
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The highest-grossing firms and banks in Kenya showcased significant increases in profits along with considerable dividend distributions for the fiscal year 2024, with the banking sector at the forefront.
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Large financial institutions such as the Co-operative Bank, KCB Group, and Standard Chartered Bank saw notable increases in their annual profit figures.
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Daniel Kathali, an economist who spoke with LIFEHACK.co.ke, stated that the profit margins can partially be credited to yields from government bonds along with elevated interest rates on loans and several additional elements.
Elijah Ntongai, who works as a journalist for LIFEHACK.co.ke, possesses over four years of experience in researching and reporting on finance, businesses, and technology. He offers valuable perspectives on both local Kenyan developments and international patterns.
Investors in Kenya are rejoicing as the start of the 2024 fiscal year brings a wave of strong profit declarations and substantial dividend distributions from several top firms across the nation.
All publicly traded companies, including major banks and leading firms in industries such as energy, agriculture, and corporations, have published their fiscal year-end results for the period concluding in December 2024, as mandated.
What factors led to higher profitability?
Significantly, numerous firms listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange reported unprecedented profits and dividends, crediting their enhanced profitability to different strategic approaches.
Commenting on the increase in profitability during a time when numerous Kenyan enterprises and overall business expansion faced challenges nationwide, Daniel Kathari observed that many companies must prioritize their stakeholders and undertake ventures that generate greater returns.
In recent times, we’ve observed a rise in internal lending by the government. Consequently, numerous enterprises, especially within the finance industry, have seized the chance to significantly invest in low-risk Treasury bonds and notes, yielding substantial returns. Additionally, these banking institutions have made considerable investments beyond Kenya’s borders; their overseas branches are generating significant revenue as well.
Don’t overlook the fact that loan interest rates were extremely high, enabling banks to levy up to 20%, thereby potentially boosting their profit margins. The stabilization of the Kenyan shilling likely played a role as well in contributing to the substantial profits recorded in 2024,” remarked Kathali.
Companies and dividends announced
In 2024, the banking sector has proven to be exceptionally successful, with leading banks announcing significant increases in profits and substantial dividend payouts for 2025.
Company
|
YoY profit growth (%)
|
Profit after tax (KSh)
|
Dividend paid out per share (KSh)
|
Payment date
|
1.
|
Cooperative Bank of Kenya PLC
|
9.8%
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25.5 billion
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Final dividend of KSh 1.50
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June 10, 2025
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2.
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ABSA Bank Kenya Plc
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28%
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20.9 billion
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Final dividend of KSh 1.75
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May 22, 2025
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3.
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Standard Chartered Bank in Kenya Limited
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45%
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20 billion
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Final dividend of KSh 37
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May 28, 2025
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4.
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KCB Group Plc
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64.9
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61.8 billion
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Final dividend of KSh 1.50
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May 23, 2025
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5.
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Stanbic Holdings Plc
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12.8%
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13.71 billion
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Final dividend of KSh 18.90
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May 16, 2025
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6.
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East African Portlands Plc
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Final dividend of KSh 1.00
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March 21, 2025
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7.
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Safaricom Plc
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Intermediate dividend of KSh 0.55
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March 21, 2025
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8.
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Kenya Power & Light Company PLC
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Intermediate dividend of KSh 0.20
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April 11, 2025
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9.
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EABL
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Intermediate dividend of KSh 2.50
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April 30, 2025
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10.
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KenGen
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Final dividend of KSh 0.65
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February 13, 2025
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As many leading Kenyan firms have already released their fiscal year 2024 earnings reports along with dividend distributions, market participants are now looking forward to similar updates from additional sector leaders.
A number of these firms like Safaricom Plc, Equity Group Holdings Plc, and British American Tobacco Kenya (BAT Kenya) are anticipated to disclose their financial outcomes for the fiscal year ending December 2024 along with the subsequent final dividend distributions.
