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NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal has recently voiced strong criticism toward Los Angeles Clippers guard Ben Simmons, asserting that Simmons “needs to be f—ing arrested” for his underwhelming performance relative to his substantial earnings. This remark came during a recent episode of “The Big Podcast,” where O’Neal expressed his dissatisfaction with the current state of the NBA and singled out Simmons for particular reproach.  

O’Neal lamented the perceived decline in the league’s physicality and skill level compared to previous eras, stating that many current players lack true skill. While he acknowledged the talents of top players like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Jayson Tatum, Nikola Jokic, and Damian Lillard, he took issue with Simmons, criticizing his hefty earnings in light of his recent performance. Simmons, a former No. 1 overall pick and three-time All-Star, has struggled with injuries in recent years and was recently bought out by the Nets before joining the Clippers. Now in Los Angeles, Simmons has averaged modest stats over 17 games and expressed that he finally feels at home on the West Coast.  

This is not the first time O’Neal has publicly criticized Simmons. In a September 2024 interview with Complex, O’Neal labeled Simmons as “another bum,” expressing frustration over players receiving substantial contracts without delivering commensurate performance. He emphasized the importance of earning one’s salary through dedication and performance, highlighting his own sacrifices during his playing career.  

O’Neal’s critiques reflect a broader sentiment regarding accountability and performance in professional sports, underscoring the expectation that players’ contributions on the court should align with their financial compensation.

Here are the key points from the article about Shaquille O’Neal’s comments on Ben Simmons:

1. Shaq’s Outburst:

Shaquille O’Neal said Ben Simmons “needs to be arrested” for “robbing people,” referring to Simmons’ underwhelming performance compared to his massive salary.

2. Podcast Critique:

The remarks were made on “The Big Podcast,” where Shaq discussed the decline of skill and toughness in the NBA, naming Simmons as a prime example.

3. Praise for Other Stars:

Shaq contrasted Simmons with players like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Jayson Tatum, Nikola Jokic, and Damian Lillard, who he believes have real skill.

4. Simmons’ Struggles:

Ben Simmons, once an All-Star, has faced injury troubles and inconsistent play. He was recently bought out by the Brooklyn Nets before joining the Clippers.

5. Underperformance:

Despite a lucrative contract, Simmons has averaged modest stats and has yet to return to his peak form, prompting public scrutiny.

6. Ongoing Criticism:

This isn’t the first time Shaq has slammed Simmons. In a 2024 interview, he called him “another bum” and criticized players who don’t live up to their contracts.

7. Call for Accountability:

O’Neal emphasized that players should earn their pay through effort and performance, contrasting today’s culture with the dedication of past generations.

Conclusion:

Shaquille O’Neal’s fiery criticism of Ben Simmons underscores a growing frustration among NBA legends and fans who expect elite players to justify their hefty paychecks with consistent performance. While Simmons battles injuries and seeks a fresh start with the Clippers, Shaq’s call for accountability highlights a broader debate about value, effort, and expectations in modern professional basketball. Whether Simmons can silence the critics and reclaim his former glory remains to be seen.

Attached is a News article regarding shaquille O’neal’s saying Ben Simmons should be arrested for robbing people 

https://athlonsports.com/nba/la-clippers/shaquille-oneal-savagely-destroys-ben-simmons-clippers-nba

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Man Fatally Stabbed in West London Street

London, April 5, 2025

A man was fatally stabbed in a street in West London, prompting a murder investigation by the Metropolitan Police.

Officers responded to reports of an altercation on Erconwald Street in East Acton around 1:10 PM. Upon arrival, they discovered two men with stab injuries. Despite immediate medical attention, one man was pronounced dead at the scene. The second man was transported to the hospital for treatment and was later arrested on suspicion of murder.  

Emergency services, including advanced paramedics and London’s Air Ambulance, were deployed to the scene. Erconwald Street remains closed as investigations continue. Authorities are urging witnesses or anyone with relevant information to contact the police, referencing case number 3435/05APR.  

This incident follows a series of recent stabbings in West London. In December 2024, a 26-year-old man was found fatally stabbed in a car outside West Ealing railway station.  Additionally, in October 2024, a man in his 40s was stabbed to death in Hounslow.  

The Metropolitan Police continue to investigate these incidents and are appealing to the public for any information that may assist in their • Location: Erconwald Street, East Acton, West London

• Time: Around 1:10 PM on April 5, 2025

• Incident: Two men were stabbed in the street

• Casualties:

• One man was pronounced dead at the scene

• Second man was injured and taken to hospital

• Arrest: The injured man was later arrested on suspicion of murder

• Police Response:

• Murder investigation launched

• Area cordoned off for forensic investigation

• Public Appeal: Police are asking for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward, citing case 3435/05APR

• Recent Context: Part of a pattern of knife-related violence in West London, including recent stabbings in West Ealing and Hounslow

Conclusion:

The fatal stabbing in East Acton is a stark reminder of the ongoing knife crime crisis affecting communities across London. As police continue their investigation, the incident adds to a troubling pattern of street violence in the capital. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to help bring justice to those affected. Meanwhile, local leaders and residents alike are calling for urgent action to address the root causes of knife crime and improve safety on London’s streets.

Attached is a news article regarding a man stabbed in the street in west London 

https://uk.news.yahoo.com/one-dead-double-stabbing-near-162459562.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAGHbcQtjVKwBlptnxHNYB0qERPtwS2uqgXMaXnSUNnDSMt_1dW7HiS416Czf9V0yhIKWDAimojCKJL11Lb_mNQ46DyIamlReI_X_sqHf2aFMXM92nfyALe5LkqUkg1cTqo66zXixztdP2N403MHKPLl0ltQ1v48RzqLPxyxk51h2

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An Alabama lunch lady was arrested this week after allegedly confessing to having sex with a student. 

 In March 2025, 41-year-old Amy Nicole Wigginton is said to have admitted to having sex with the boy on at least two separate occasions at her home. 

Wigginton was a lunch lady in the Lauderdale County School system in Lauderdale, Alabama, and she and her family frequently posted images to social media. 

After confronting her regarding the allegations, officers led to Wigginton's arrest last week. After she confessed during the police interview, she was charged with two counts of a school employee engaging in a sex act or deviant sexual relationship with a student. 

A court document obtained by WAFF48 notes that the student is "under the age of 19" and is "enrolled in (her) school." However, the student's age is unknown. 

The age of consent in Alabama is 16 years old. 

 However, if the suspect is an adult whose job it is to care for the victims, sex abuse charges can be filed in cases involving victims under the age of 18. Wigginton is being held on a $100,000 bond after being booked into the Lauderdale County Jail.

Attached is a news article regarding the lunch lady who sleeps with a boy 

https://scallywagandvagabond.com/2025/04/amy-nicole-wigginton-lauderdale-al-school-lunch-worker-41-admits-having-sex-with-student/

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Macron Calls for Withdrawal of U.S. Investment After Trump Imposes Tariffs

Paris, April 4, 2025 — French President Emmanuel Macron has issued a stark warning to European businesses, urging them to reconsider their investments in the United States following a new wave of tariffs introduced by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who is widely expected to run again in 2024. The call marks a significant escalation in the ongoing economic tensions between Washington and Brussels.

In a press conference held at the Élysée Palace on Thursday morning, Macron denounced the tariffs as “aggressive, unilateral, and deeply damaging to transatlantic trade.” The Trump-imposed tariffs, which target key European exports including steel, automobiles, and agricultural goods, have sparked outrage across the EU.

“If American leadership chooses confrontation over cooperation, we must protect our sovereignty, our industries, and our workers,” Macron said. “European companies must now seriously consider redirecting their investments away from the United States and toward more reliable and reciprocal partners.”

The tariffs, which mirror many of the protectionist measures taken during Trump’s first term, have been criticized as part of a broader strategy to court domestic manufacturing voters in the lead-up to the Republican primaries. But the move has already drawn swift condemnation from European leaders who argue it undermines decades of alliance-building and economic integration.

Macron’s call for a re-evaluation of economic ties with the U.S. may carry particular weight among France’s industrial giants such as Renault, Airbus, and LVMH, all of which maintain a significant presence in the American market.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed “deep regret” over the renewed tariffs but stopped short of echoing Macron’s call for disinvestment. “We remain committed to open dialogue, but the European Union will respond in a firm and proportionate manner,” she said in a statement.

In recent years, Macron has increasingly styled himself as a defender of European autonomy, pushing for greater independence in defense, energy, and economic policy. This latest move is seen by some analysts as a continuation of that strategy, aimed at reducing EU dependence on volatile U.S. politics.

Washington has not yet officially responded to Macron’s comments, though Trump allies in Congress have dismissed the French president’s remarks as “posturing.” Former U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer defended the tariffs, arguing that “America must always put its industries first.”

The coming weeks are expected to see a flurry of diplomatic activity, with EU officials preparing a possible package of retaliatory measures, while business leaders assess the potential fallout from a worsening trade standoff.

Whether Macron’s bold rhetoric will translate into meaningful shifts in European investment policy remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the transatlantic economic relationship is facing one of its most serious challenges in years.

Attached is a news article regarding Macron calling for withdrawal of us investment after trump tariffs 

Attached news article regarding Macron calling for withdrawal of us investment after trump tariffs 

https://www.france24.com/en/france/20250403-macron-calls-on-europe-to-suspend-investment-in-us-after-trump-tariff-shock

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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Hawk That Terrorised Hertfordshire Village for Weeks Finally Caught

After weeks of fear and confusion in a quiet Hertfordshire village, residents can finally breathe a sigh of relief—the rogue hawk that had been terrorising the community has been captured.

The bird of prey, believed to be a Harris’s hawk, had been swooping down on unsuspecting locals, attacking pets, and causing widespread concern among villagers in Little Hadham. Numerous sightings had been reported since early March, with residents describing the hawk’s behaviour as “brazen” and “aggressive.”

 Dog walkers, in particular, were warned to avoid open fields, with several claiming the hawk had attempted to snatch small dogs. One local, Jane Liddell, said she was left “shaken” after the bird swooped at her terrier during a morning walk. “It came out of nowhere. If I hadn’t picked up Buster in time, who knows what could’ve happened,” she said.

Several wildlife experts speculated the hawk may have escaped from captivity, possibly from a private falconer. Its unusually bold behaviour towards humans and domesticated animals suggested it had been hand-reared.

Efforts to catch the hawk had been underway for more than two weeks. A team of bird handlers and local volunteers used food lures, decoy birds, and even a drone equipped with a speaker emitting hawk calls to track its movements. On Wednesday morning, the hawk was finally caught after it landed on a baited perch in a local orchard.

“We’re relieved to have caught the bird without harm,” said falconer Graham Peters, who led the capture operation. “It was clearly disoriented and becoming increasingly desperate for food. Thankfully, we were able to act before it caused serious injury.”

The hawk is now being examined by a vet and is in good health. Authorities are working to trace its owner and determine whether any laws were broken. While it is legal to own a Harris’s hawk in the UK, the RSPCA has urged better regulation around exotic and potentially dangerous birds.

As peace returns to the village, residents have praised the community’s efforts. “It’s been a strange few weeks,” said local councillor Linda Hodge. “But it just shows how even in the countryside, wildlife can surprise us. Hopefully, this is the last we’ll see of it—at least from this close.”

Attached is a news article regarding the hawk that was attacking people in Hertfordshire village for weeks 

https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/apr/03/flamstead-man-catches-hawk-that-had-been-attacking-villagers-for-weeks

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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Russell Brand Charged with Rape and Sexual Assault Following Police Investigation

London – April 2025

Comedian and actor Russell Brand has been formally charged with rape and sexual assault following a months-long investigation by the Metropolitan Police, authorities confirmed today.

Brand, 49, was charged with one count of rape and multiple counts of sexual assault relating to incidents that allegedly occurred between 2006 and 2013. The charges follow a high-profile investigation launched after a joint media exposé by The Sunday Times, The Times, and Channel 4’s Dispatches in September 2023, in which several women accused Brand of serious sexual misconduct.

According to police, the alleged incidents took place at various locations across London and Los Angeles during the height of Brand’s fame, when he was a prominent figure in the entertainment industry and known for his provocative comedic style and high-profile relationships.

The Metropolitan Police issued a statement saying:

“A man in his late 40s has been charged with one count of rape and four counts of sexual assault. The offences are alleged to have occurred between 2006 and 2013. He will appear before magistrates in central London later this month.”

Brand has consistently denied all allegations, claiming that his past relationships were “absolutely always consensual.” In response to the initial media investigation, he released a video statement accusing the press of launching a “coordinated attack” on him and suggesting the allegations were politically motivated due to his outspoken criticism of mainstream narratives and institutions.

Brand’s legal team said they would “vigorously contest these charges” and expressed confidence that “full exoneration will follow.”

The media fallout in 2023 led to a rapid unraveling of Brand’s career, with YouTube demonetizing his channel, a book deal being cancelled, and live tour dates postponed or scrapped. He retreated to his digital platforms where he continued posting videos to a loyal fanbase, focusing on topics such as media manipulation, freedom of speech, and alternative health.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) confirmed that it had authorized the charges after receiving a comprehensive case file from the police. A spokesperson said:

“The CPS reminds all concerned that criminal proceedings against Mr Brand are now active and that he has the right to a fair trial.”

The developments mark a dramatic turn for the former BBC and Channel 4 presenter who once enjoyed A-list status in Hollywood and the UK. Brand’s transition in recent years from celebrity comic to political commentator and conspiracy theorist had drawn both admiration and controversy.

Attached is a news article regarding Russell brand charged with rape and sexual assault 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c0457d02e9go.amp

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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Mother Handed 25-Year Suspended Sentence for Death of Baby Son

A woman has been given a suspended prison sentence of 25 years after being found guilty of killing her infant son in a deeply disturbing case that has shocked the local community.

The woman, whose identity has been withheld for legal reasons, was convicted of causing the death of her six-month-old son following a lengthy investigation and trial. The court heard that the child died from injuries consistent with prolonged physical abuse, though the precise circumstances surrounding his death were complex and contested throughout proceedings.

Prosecutors argued that the mother inflicted fatal harm on the boy during a moment of extreme stress and frustration, while the defence presented evidence of her deteriorating mental health, social isolation, and a lack of support in the weeks leading up to the incident.

During sentencing, the judge acknowledged the severity of the crime but also considered mitigating factors, including the woman’s mental health condition and history of domestic abuse. The 25-year custodial sentence was suspended in light of these findings, meaning she will avoid serving prison time unless she breaches the conditions of the suspension.

The judge said: “This is a tragic case with no winners. A vulnerable child has lost his life, and you, his mother, must now live with that reality for the rest of your days. While the court cannot ignore the gravity of your actions, it also cannot ignore the profound personal circumstances that contributed to this tragedy.”

The decision has drawn a mixed response from the public. Child protection charities have expressed concern about the leniency of the sentence, warning it could set a dangerous precedent. Others, however, have emphasised the need for compassion and a better understanding of how mental health issues and systemic failings can contribute to such devastating outcomes.

The woman will be subject to strict conditions for the duration of the 25-year suspended sentence, including mandatory psychiatric treatment, regular monitoring by probation services, and a ban on unsupervised contact with children.

Social services are now conducting a review into the case to determine whether more could have been done to intervene before the child’s death.

Attached is a news article regarding a women who was given a suspended sentence of 25 years for killing her baby boy 

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cr5d6d9m4zvo.amp

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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Andrew Tate Issued Warning by UK Police Over Online Conduct

Controversial internet personality Andrew Tate has been issued a formal warning by UK police following concerns over the content he shares online, which authorities say could be encouraging harmful behaviour among young people.

The warning, which reportedly came after multiple complaints from schools, parents, and child safety organisations, centres on Tate’s repeated dissemination of misogynistic and violent rhetoric. Police have not disclosed the exact nature of the warning, but sources close to the case say it serves as an official notice that his online presence is being actively monitored for potentially illegal or dangerous content.

Tate, a former kickboxer and self-proclaimed influencer, has amassed millions of followers across various platforms by promoting a lifestyle of wealth, dominance, and male supremacy. His content has drawn criticism globally, with educators in the UK reporting a rise in boys mimicking his views in classrooms, sparking wider societal concern about the long-term impact on attitudes towards women and authority.

In a statement, a spokesperson for a UK police force said:

“We take seriously any reports of individuals promoting material that could incite harm or hatred, particularly when it targets vulnerable groups or has the potential to influence young minds.”

Tate, who is currently facing ongoing legal battles in Romania relating to separate charges of human trafficking and rape — which he denies — responded to the warning via social media. He accused UK authorities of attempting to “silence masculinity” and suggested he was being targeted for “speaking truths that challenge the system.”

Child protection groups have welcomed the police intervention but argue that more must be done to regulate influencers who operate across borders and target minors. “A warning is a start, but platforms hosting this kind of content need to take stronger action,” said a spokesperson from the NSPCC.

While the UK police’s warning may not carry legal consequences at this stage, it underscores growing pressure on governments and tech platforms to address the influence of controversial online figures, especially when their content borders on incitement or promotes harmful gender stereotypes.

The warning could also signal a shift in how law enforcement agencies across Europe deal with digital influencers whose global reach often places them beyond traditional jurisdictional boundaries.

For now, Andrew Tate remains defiant — but with more scrutiny from authorities and campaigners, his digital empire may find itself on increasingly unstable ground.

Attached is a news article regarding the uk police issued a warning to Andrew Tate 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cne4vw1x83po.amp

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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Val Kilmer, Star of Top Gun and Batman Forever, Dies Aged 65

Val Kilmer, the charismatic and versatile actor best known for his roles in Top Gun, The Doors, and Batman Forever, has died at the age of 65.

The actor passed away surrounded by family, according to a statement released by his children. “Our father was a warrior, a poet, and a deeply loving soul. He will be missed more than words can express,” the statement read.

Kilmer’s career spanned four decades and was marked by a mix of critical acclaim, blockbuster fame, and personal struggle. Born in Los Angeles in 1959, he trained at Juilliard before breaking into Hollywood in the early 1980s. He first gained attention in the comedy Top Secret! (1984), but it was his brooding portrayal of Iceman in Top Gun (1986) opposite Tom Cruise that launched him into stardom.

He went on to take on a wide range of roles, from Jim Morrison in Oliver Stone’s The Doors (1991), which earned him widespread praise, to Doc Holliday in Tombstone (1993), a performance still considered among his finest. In 1995, he donned the cape and cowl as Bruce Wayne in Batman Forever, bringing a slick and introspective edge to the role.

Despite his success on screen, Kilmer’s career was often overshadowed by reports of on-set disputes and his reputation as a perfectionist. In later years, he faced serious health issues. After being diagnosed with throat cancer in 2015, Kilmer underwent a tracheotomy that permanently affected his voice. Yet he remained resilient, appearing in the acclaimed documentary Val (2021), which offered an intimate look at his life, and reprising his role as Iceman in Top Gun: Maverick (2022) in a poignant cameo that moved audiences worldwide.

Outside of acting, Kilmer was a passionate artist, poet, and activist. He was known for his eccentricity, spiritual depth, and commitment to creative freedom.

Tributes have poured in from across Hollywood. Tom Cruise called him “a true original, a brilliant actor, and a dear friend.” Director Ron Howard described Kilmer as “an intense and gifted performer whose legacy will live on.”

Val Kilmer is survived by his two children, Jack and Mercedes. His life, both tumultuous and triumphant, leaves behind a legacy of bold performances, artistic courage, and a reminder that even in silence, some voices still echo.

Attached is a news article regarding tip gun and Batman star val Kilmer who has died age 65 year old. 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cy5ry5x9xz0o.amp

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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World Reacts to Trump’s New Tariff Plan with Alarm and Uncertainty

Former U.S. President Donald Trump’s latest proposal to impose sweeping new tariffs has sent shockwaves through global markets and prompted swift reactions from world leaders, economists, and trade experts. As Trump positions himself for a possible return to the White House in the 2024 U.S. presidential election, his economic rhetoric has returned to familiar territory: aggressive protectionism.

The Plan: Broad Tariffs, Deep Consequences

Trump has proposed a universal baseline tariff of 10% on all imported goods, with the possibility of even higher levies—up to 60%—on Chinese imports. The justification, according to Trump, is to protect American jobs and manufacturing from what he calls “unfair foreign competition.”

Critics argue that such tariffs could upend international trade, spark retaliatory measures from other countries, and worsen inflation for American consumers. Trump’s plan is being watched closely by global leaders, many of whom remember the economic turbulence triggered by his trade wars during his first term.

China: Bracing for Impact

Beijing reacted swiftly and sharply. Chinese state media described the plan as “economic bullying,” and officials hinted at countermeasures, should Trump return to office and act on his promises. China’s Ministry of Commerce accused Trump of reviving a Cold War-era mindset that could “severely damage global supply chains.”

During Trump’s first presidency, tit-for-tat tariffs between the U.S. and China cost billions in trade losses and heightened tensions between the world’s two largest economies. Economists fear a repeat could derail a fragile post-pandemic global recovery.

Europe: A Cautious but Firm Response

European leaders have also voiced concern. EU Trade Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis warned that such a broad tariff regime would breach World Trade Organization (WTO) rules. “If implemented, these measures would undermine the principles of free and fair trade,” he said, adding that the EU would be prepared to respond in kind.

Germany, heavily reliant on exports, called the proposal “economically reckless.” French officials, meanwhile, suggested that a return to protectionism in the U.S. could trigger a new era of economic nationalism globally, harming transatlantic relations and cooperation.

Global Markets: Volatile Reactions

Financial markets responded with anxiety. Stocks in export-driven economies such as South Korea, Germany, and Japan dipped on the news, while analysts at Morgan Stanley warned that Trump’s tariff agenda could fuel inflation and reduce global GDP growth.

U.S. companies with complex international supply chains also expressed concern. The National Retail Federation said the plan would “raise costs for American families and disrupt business operations,” echoing worries from automakers, electronics firms, and agricultural exporters.

Economists: Déjà Vu with Higher Stakes

Many economists see the plan as a doubling down on failed policies. “Tariffs are essentially a tax on consumers,” said Adam Posen, president of the Peterson Institute for International Economics. “We’ve been down this road before, and it led to higher prices and global uncertainty.”

Yet Trump remains defiant, claiming tariffs helped bring countries to the negotiating table and that new levies would restore America’s industrial might.

Allies Watch and Wait

America’s closest allies, including Canada, Mexico, and Japan, have so far responded with caution. Several officials have signaled they hope the rhetoric remains just that—rhetoric. However, some are quietly beginning to draw up contingency plans in case the U.S. reverts to a hardline trade policy under a second Trump administration.

The Bigger Picture

Whether Trump’s tariff plan becomes reality hinges on the outcome of the 2024 election. But even as a proposal, it underscores the broader geopolitical tension over trade, economic dominance, and globalization. With populism on the rise in many countries, the world could be entering a more fragmented, competitive economic era.

For now, the global response is clear: skepticism, concern, and a wary eye on Washington. As one European diplomat put it, “We’ve seen this movie before. We’re just not sure how it ends this time.”

Attached is a news article regarding the reaction of the world to Trump tariff plan 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cvgql020y5lo.amp

Article written and configured Christopher Stanley 

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