Sunday, December 11, 2016

11 December - Steve Lendman Blog

War Criminal John Kerry Awarded France's Legion of Honor for Peacemaking
War Criminal John Kerry Awarded France’s Legion of Honor for Peacemaking by Stephen Lendman Maybe next year’s Nobel Peace Prize will follow. Western societies honor war criminals like Henry Kissinger, Obama, Yitzhak Rabin, Shimon Peres, John Kerry and many others. Peace champions are vilified, persecuted or shunned. On Saturday, French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault presented Kerry with Franc
NYT Bashes Trump for Debunking Fabricated Claims About Russian US Election Hacking
NYT Bashes Trump for Debunking Fabricated Claims About Russian US Election Hacking by Stephen Lendman Not a shred of evidence suggests Russian hacking of America’s 2016 election, or any other one. DHS/DNI and CIA claims otherwise were fabricated for political reasons. On the one hand, it’s part of longstanding Russia bashing. On the other, it’s to pressure Trump against normalizing ties and coope

Yesterday

NYT Calls Aleppo's Liberation "Chaos and Desperation"
NYT Calls Aleppo’s Liberation “Chaos and Desperation” by Stephen Lendman The Times supports all US wars of aggression, suppressing its responsibility for genocidal mass slaughter - proving America represents unparalleled pure evil, humanity’s greatest threat. The Times is a lying machine, supporting what demands condemnation, along with all other media scoundrels, substituting rubbish for real ne
UK Prime Minister Theresa May Blasts Nonexistent Iranian "Aggressive Regional Actions"
UK Prime Minister Theresa May Blasts Nonexistent Iranian “Aggressive Regional Actions” by Stephen Lendman May matches Margaret Thatcher’s extremism with a rage for naked aggression - complicit with Washington, NATO, Israel and other regional rogue states. According to Fars News , Iran is furious over her saying “we must…work together to push back against Iran’s aggressive regional actions” - duri
More Russia Bashing Over Nonexistent Cyberattacks
More Russia Bashing Over Nonexistent Cyberattacks by Stephen Lendman On October 7, a joint Department of Homeland Security/Director of National Intelligence (DHS/DNI) statement irresponsibly charged Russia with cyberattacks “intended to interfere with the US election process.” It was a Big Lie. No evidence was cited because none exists. Accusations without proof are baseless and despicable. Makin
CIA Big Lie Claims Russia Intervened to Get Trump Elected
CIA Big Lie Claims Russia Intervened to Get Trump Elected by Stephen Lendman Utter rubbish! A same day article and earlier ones explained Russia didn’t hack DNC emails or interfere in any way with America’s election process. Not a shred of evidence suggests otherwise. Yet anti-Russia, anti-Trump bashing continues endlessly, likely with no letup once in office unless he pursues dirty business as u
Neocons Urge War on Iran
Neocons Urge War on Iran by Stephen Lendman Bipartisan neocons infest Washington, supporting endless wars of aggression - Iran a prime target to attack, regime change the objective, wanting pro-Western puppet governance replacing its sovereign independence. Will Trump challenge their extremism or join them, a key question remaining to be answered? United Against Nuclear Iran (UANI) is a militant
Russia, Syria, Denounce Pro-War General Assembly Resolution
Russia, Syria Denounce Pro-War General Assembly Resolution by Stephen Lendman US dirty hands are behind it, Canada used to introduce it, disgracefully serving as an imperial agent instead of seeking regional peace and stability. The draft resolution passed 122 to 13 - Syria, Russia, China and Iran strongly opposing it - calling for cessation of hostilities in eastern Aleppo to benefit US-backed t

Dec 09

Americans Should Follow the Example of South Koreans
Americans Should Follow the Example of South Koreans by Stephen Lendman Post WW II, when America and Soviet Russia divided Korea into north and south countries. Government in Seoul became a US vassal state, a fascist dictatorship. Initially it was headed by Washington’s installed puppet Syngman Rhee, a brutal despot. Other pro-Western leaders followed - political repression, corruption, and US su
Latest From Russia on Aleppo
Latest From Russia on Aleppo by Stephen Lendman According to Russia’s General Staff Main Operations Department head Gen. Sergei Rudskoi, as of December 9, “ government forces and militia units continue the operation to liberate Aleppo’s eastern districts from terrorists.” “After a successful offensive, 52 neighborhoods in east Aleppo have been recaptured from militants. In the past four days alon
She's Back: Hillary Hyping Fake News
She’s Back: Hillary Hyping Fake News by Stephen Lendman People should only be concerned about government and media scoundrels’ news, information and opinion - all fake, all the time, Big Lies and deception, toxic stuff on issues mattering most. Reliable sources were denigrated on the PropOrNot hit list, considered fake news sites or Kremlin agents, disgracefully hyped by the neocon/CIA connected
Obama Formally Approves Arming Terrorists in Syria
Obama Formally Approves Arming Terrorists in Syria by Stephen Lendman They’ve been armed with heavy weapons from America and its rogue allies all along - on the phony pretext of supporting nonexistent “moderate rebels.” All anti-government fighters are cutthroat killers, death squad terrorists, largely recruited from scores of countries - armed, funded, trained and directed by CIA operatives, US
Tulsi Gabbard's Stop Arming Terrorists Act
Tulsi Gabbard’s Stop Arming Terrorists Act by Stephen Lendman Among the reported eight or so candidates Trump is considering for secretary of state, one possible choice more deserving than names mentioned is omitted - Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, the state’s most popular politician. “(W)hen it comes to the war against terrorists, I’m a hawk,” she said. “When it comes to counterproductive wars of re
Disruptive Forces Intend Raining on Trump's Parade
Disruptive Forces Intend Raining on Trump’s Parade by Stephen Lendman On January 21, 2005, GW Bush’s second term inaugural day, thousands lined Pennsylvania Avenue, booing and jeering as his limousine went by. “Not our president,” some chanted, expressing anger over his imperial wars of aggression. Sporadic clashes with police erupted, met by tear gas, pepper spray and other harsh tactics. Thousa
Neocon Senators Urge Trump to Send More Lethal Aid to Ukraine Than Already
Neocon Senators Urge Trump to Send More Lethal Aid to Ukraine Than Already by Stephen Lendman Ukraine is an illegitimate US-installed putschist police state, fascism in Europe’s heartland, at war with its own people, encouraged by Washington, supplying its regime with lethal aid all along. Bipartisan neocon senators want more. Led by minority whip Dick Durbin (D. IL) and Rob Portman (R. OH), they

Dec 08

Lavrov on Russia/US Relations and Aleppo Update
Lavrov on Russia/US Relations and Aleppo Update by Stephen Lendman On the sidelines of the OSCE Ministerial Council meeting in Hamburg, Sergey Lavrov denounced US policy, saying “the Obama administration continues taking unfriendly steps in an attempt to undermine the basis of normal cooperation between Russia and the US before leaving.” He and Kerry met again - days after the US official reneged
Lavrov on Russia/US Relations and Aleppo Update
Lavrov on Russia/US Relations and Aleppo Update by Stephen Lendman On the sidelines of the OSCE Ministerial Council meeting in Hamburg, Sergey Lavrov denounced US policy, saying “the Obama administration continues taking unfriendly steps in an attempt to undermine the basis of normal cooperation between Russia and the US before leaving.” He and Kerry met again - days after the US official reneged
Trump Debunks Notion of Russia Interfering in America's Electoral Process
Trump Debunks Notion of Russia Interfering in America’s Electoral Process by Stephen Lendman Claiming it is utter nonsense. Not a shred of evidence suggests it. Irresponsibly blaming Moscow for hacking DNC emails or any other type interference in America’s electoral process reflects longstanding Russia bashing. In response to being named Time magazine’s person of the year, Trump told the publicat
US and Rogue Allies Frantic Over Losing Aleppo
US and Rogue Allies Frantic Over Losing Aleppo by Stephen Lendman The crucially important battle for Aleppo and surrounding areas is nearly won - Syria, Russia and allied forces prevailing over America, NATO, Israel and other Middle East rogue allies. Liberating Syria entirely has miles to go, but things are heading in the right direction, Obama’s imperial agenda sustaining a major body blow, not
An Anti-Interventionist Trump Agenda?
An Anti-Interventionist Trump Agenda? by Stephen Lendman Will Trump follow through responsibly on what he told supporters in Fayetteville, NC, saying: “We seek harmony and good will among the nations of the world, and we believe that respect for mutual sovereignty helps form the basis of trust and understanding.” “But we don't want people taking advantage of us anymore…We don't want that…We want
Israel's Illegal Land Grab Formalization Bill
Israel’s Illegal Land Grab Formalization Bill by Stephen Lendman The so-called formalization bill passed its first Knesset reading, a measure designed to illegitimately legalize annexation of Palestinian land. It calls for recognizing 55 illegal settlement outposts on private Palestinian land as officially belonging to Israel. Enactment will steal over 8,000 dunums, including 3,067 where 55 outpo
Latest From Aleppo
Latest From Aleppo by Stephen Lendman According to Syrian field sources, government and allied forces control 85% of eastern Aleppo, few remaining districts held by US-backed terrorists. They’re “now trapped in a small area after pulling back forces from the districts on the Eastern sides of the Citadel of Aleppo and the entire Old Aleppo quarter,” according to Syria’s military. They’re “retreati
US Election Recount Follies
US Election Recount Follies by Stephen Lendman Each passing day brings things closer to ending Stein’s scam, her credibility tarnished beyond redemption - the recount having no effect on Trump’s triumph, just wasting time and money. After seven days of recounting in Wisconsin, Hillary gained a mere few dozen votes. Trump is ahead by over 22,000. In Pennsylvania, US District Judge Paul Diamond ord

Dec 07

Microsoft, Facebook, Twitter and You Tube Conspire to Censor Online Content
Microsoft, Facebook, Twitter and You Tube Conspire to Censor Online Content by Stephen Lendman Powerful interests in America threaten alternative sources of news, information and opinion. Microsoft, Facebook, Twitter and You Tube announced plans for a joint Internet censorship database on the phony pretext of eliminating “extremist content.” Their scheme threatens media and speech freedom, likely
Obama's Criminal Legacy
Obama’s Criminal Legacy by Stephen Lendman America and humanity are far worse off after nearly eight years of Obama’s high crimes. Long ago, he should have been impeached, removed from office, prosecuted, sentenced and imprisoned long-term - his domestic and foreign partners in crime along with him. He waged war OF terror on Americans and millions worldwide, countless numbers grievously harmed, m
Microsoft, Facebook, Twitter and You Tube Conspire to Censor Online Content
Microsoft, Facebook, Twitter and You Tube Conspire to Censor Online Content by Stephen Lendman Powerful interests in America threaten alternative sources of news, information and opinion. Microsoft, Facebook, Twitter and You Tube announced plans for a joint Internet censorship database on the phony pretext of eliminating “extremist content.” Their scheme threatens media and speech freedom, likely
The NYT Can't Accept the Idea of US Defeat in Aleppo
The NYT Can’t Accept the Idea of US Defeat in Aleppo by Stephen Lendman After years of fighting, the city is nearly entirely liberated, most US-backed terrorists agreeing to surrender, in return for safe passage to Idlib province. The battle for Aleppo could be over in days, except perhaps for mopping up operations. Instead of acknowledging America’s humiliating defeat at the hands of Syria, Russ
Aleppo Largely Liberated
Aleppo Largely Liberated by Stephen Lendman News from Syria is the most encouraging since Obama launched naked aggression in March 2011 - using ISIS, al-Nusra and other terrorist groups as imperial foot soldiers. On December 7, Fars News headlined “Syrian Army On Verge of Epoch-Making Victory in Aleppo,” saying: “Aleppo is to be announced a completely liberated city by the Syrian army any moment
NYT and WaPo Promote Ways to Dump Trump
NYT and WaPo Promote Ways to Dump Trump by Stephen Lendman Scoundrel media anti-Trump bias was scandalous throughout the 2015-16 political season - unprecedented support for one candidate, Hillary, while inventing reasons to bash him. Nothing in my memory since the 1940s approaches the disgraceful coverage during this political season’s race for the White House, concluded with Trump’s surprise No
Besieged Gazans Tormented by Israeli Viciousness
Besieged Gazans Tormented by Israeli Viciousness by Stephen Lendman Two million Gazans endure deplorable conditions under Israel’s siege, the UN saying the territory may be “unlivable” by 2020. It’s been this way for the past decade under siege, humanitarian crisis conditions exacting a horrendous toll, hugely exacerbated by three Israeli wars of aggression since late December 2008, the most rece

Dec 06

An Extended Tribute to Fidel
An Extended Tribute to Fidel by Stephen Lendman Below are the articles I wrote daily following his passing, throughout the official nine-day mourning period until he was laid to rest on December 4. It’s my way to honor his dedication to Cubans and humanity. Fidel was the most extraordinary figure of my lifetime. It’s hard imagining he’s no longer with us. His spirit remain eternal. Articles began
US-Backed Terrorists in Aleppo Near Collapse
US-Backed Terrorists in Aleppo Near Collapse by Stephen Lendman Syrian and allied forces are advancing steadily, liberating one neighborhood and district after another. US-supported terrorists are surrounded, trapped and weakening, including the will of many to keep fighting battles they can’t win. According to the Arabic-language al-Hadas news web site, unnamed sources said CIA operatives are tr
US Reneges on Its Aleppo Ceasefire Proposal
US Reneges on Its Aleppo Ceasefire Proposal by Stephen Lendman It doesn’t surprise, just confirms longstanding US duplicity, reneging on its word time and again. America’s ruthless imperial agenda is humanity’s greatest threat. On December 7, US and Russian officials were scheduled to meet in Geneva on having all anti-government terrorists withdraw from areas of eastern Aleppo they control, freei
Stein's Recount Scam Wastes Time and Money
Stein’s Recount Scam Wastes Time and Money by Stephen Lendman Earlier vote recounts in US presidential elections switched too few votes from one candidate to another to matter. Stein’s recount scam is almost certain to turn out the same way. After four days of Wisconsin’s recount, Trump gained 39 votes. Around midday on Monday, recounting Michigan’s votes began. It’s too early to know where it st
Obama Urged to Grant Chelsea Manning Clemency
Obama Urged to Grant Chelsea Manning Clemency by Stephen Lendman Manning is a political prisoner, one of countless numbers in US gulag confinement at home and abroad, victims of imperial injustice - testimony to longstanding US viciousness, its contempt for fundamental rights. On December 5, the ACLU and 16 other civil rights groups wrote Obama, saying in part: “Re: Support for Clemency Applicati
Obama Urged to Grant Chelsea Manning Clemency
Obama Urged to Grant Chelsea Manning Clemency by Stephen Lendman Manning is a political prisoner, one of countless numbers in US gulag confinement at home and abroad, victims of imperial injustice - testimony to longstanding US viciousness, its contempt for fundamental rights. On December 5, the ACLU and 16 other civil rights groups wrote Obama, saying in part: “Re: Support for Clemency Applicati
Russia and China Veto Phony Aleppo Ceasefire Resolution
Russia and China Veto Phony Aleppo Ceasefire Resolution by Stephen Lendman US, UK and French dirty hands were behind a Security Council resolution calling for a seven-day ceasefire in Aleppo - on the phony pretext of providing humanitarian aid they’re supplying only to terrorists. Egypt, New Zealand and Spain were used to introduce what they should have rejected outright. Russia, China and Venezu
Mixed State Department Signals on Russia/US Aleppo Ceasefire Talks
Mixed State Department Signals on Russia/US Aleppo Ceasefire Talks by Stephen Lendman Longstanding US policy consistently vows one thing while doing another. Its credibility in international relations is nil, wanting its own interests served at the expense of others - notably on issues of war and peace. Negotiating with Obama officials is a waste of time with virtually no chance for responsible c
Washington's Imperial Project in Syria Faces Defeat
Washington’s Imperial Project in Syria Faces Defeat by Stephen Lendman Obama will long be remembered for waging endless wars of aggression on humanity throughout his tenure, at home and abroad - a war criminal remaining unaccountable for his high crimes, a Nobel Peace Prize recipient, one of many examples mocking its legitimacy. He’ll leave office in January after bombing seven countries, multipl

Dec 05

Russia Threatens No One
Russia Threatens No One by Stephen Lendman Russia is vilified solely for its sovereign independence, Putin denigrated for his anti-imperial views deserving universal respect and support. No “Russian aggression” exists, not in Ukraine or anywhere else. Putin responsibly supports peace and stability, abhors wars. He’s gone all-out to diplomatically resolve US-instigated and supported ones in Syria
Fidel Laid to Rest
Fidel Laid to Rest by Stephen Lendman After nine official days of mourning, following his November 25 passing, along with moving tributes to an anti-imperial revolutionary giant, Fidel was laid to rest Sunday in a private ceremony in Santiago’s Ifigenia cemetery beside “Apostle of Cuban Independence” Jose Marti. A wooden box containing his ashes was interred, Sunday’s early morning ceremony atten
Italy's Constitutional Referendum Rejected
Italy’s Constitutional Referendum Rejected by Stephen Lendman Nearly 60% of Italian voters rejected Prime Minister Matteo Renzi’s attempted constitutional power grab by referendum endorsement. Following defeat, he announced his resignation on national television, “accept(ing) full responsibility,” adding he’ll officially resign on Monday. The referendum, supported by Renzi and his Democrat Party,
Putin on Uni-Polarity's Failure
Putin on Uni-Polarity’s Failure by Stephen Lendman I can’t hide my admiration for a leader abhorring war, wanting global peace and stability, respect for rule of law principles, mutual cooperation among all nations and multi-world polarity. Putin seeks no country dominating others, exploiting them ruthlessly, wanting dominion over planet earth, a prescription for endless wars of aggression, the A
DAPL Construction Completion Permit Denied
DAPL Construction Completion Permit Denied by Stephen Lendman After months of peaceful protests, withstanding militarized police state viciousness, Standing Rock Sioux Tribe members and supporters won a glorious, though perhaps temporary, victory. On Sunday, the US Army Corp of Engineers announced it “will not grant easement for Dakota Access Pipeline crossing…under Lake Oahe in North Dakota…” Ar
A NYT Opinion I Agree With
A NYT Opinion I Agree With by Stephen Lendman Honest. I’m not kidding. Pushing for new subscribers, The Times headlined “Independent journalism. More essential than ever” - while omitting the punchline. Getting it means avoiding what the late Gore Vidal called the “Typhoid Mary of American journalism,” The Times more laughing stock than source for real news, information and opinion. Administratio
Fox News Host Chris Wallace Interviews Jill Stein
Fox News Host Chris Wallace Interviews Jill Stein by Stephen Lendman My comments follow at the end. WALLACE: A look outside the beltway at Des Moines, Iowa, where President-elect Trump is set to take his thank you tour next Thursday. Well, the election cycle that seemed like it would never end technically still hasn't. A recount is currently underway in Wisconsin, with additional challenges in Mi

Dec 04

Disgraceful US Anti-Semitism Awareness Act
Disgraceful US Anti-Semitism Awareness Act by Stephen Lendman Long ago, anti-Semitism was an issue in America, very much so when I grew up. No longer. Today it’s in vogue to be Jewish. As a Jew, I’m fiercely critical of Israeli ruthlessness, a state run by fascists, Zionist ideologues and religious fundamentalists. I intend no letup in my activism. Unanimous Senate passage of the Anti-Semitism Aw
When Truth-Telling Becomes Russian Propaganda
When Truth-Telling Becomes Russian Propaganda by Stephen Lendman Fake news is a US government, scoundrel media specialty - proliferating managed news misinformation agitprop, truth-telling suppressed on issues mattering most. Propaganda wars precede hot ones. Deception, popular fiction and Big Lies launch them. Intense Russia bashing risks world peace, stability and security. Washington’s imperia
Hillary Supporter Stein Abandons Statewide PA Recount Scam
Hillary Supporter Stein Abandons Statewide PA Recount Scam by Stephen Lendman One almost down. Two states to go. Stein’s recount scam is all about trying to change electoral results for Hillary - a disgraceful coup d’etat attempt, destroying her credibility, rendering her politically dead, harming the Green Party and what it stands for, perhaps irreparably. She should be expelled, thoroughly deno
Syria Crushing US-Supported Terrorists in Aleppo
Syria Crushing US-Supported Terrorists in Aleppo by Stephen Lendman Perhaps by yearend, Aleppo will be entirely freed from the scourge of US-backed terrorists - 60% of eastern parts of the city so far liberated, according to various reports. On December 4, AMN News reported “major advance(s)…jihadists struggl(ing) to hold ground.” Led by elite Tiger Forces and Republican Guard troops “the Syrian
Thousands Honor Fidel in Santiago
Thousands Honor Fidel in Santiago by Stephen Lendman Hundreds of thousands turned out Saturday evening for a public vigil honoring Fidel in Santiago’s Plaza Antonio Maceo. Raul Castro lead it. Numerous world leaders and dignitaries attended. Later this week, Cuba’s National Assembly will enact legislation, fulfilling Fidel’s wish. Raul announced it, saying “(t)he leader of the revolution rejected

Dec 03

Fidel to Be Laid to Rest Sunday
Fidel to Be Laid to Rest Sunday by Stephen Lendman On Saturday, Fidel’s Caravan of Liberty completed its four-day journey from Havana to Santiago, where his revolutionary struggle began. It arrived ahead of Saturday evening’s memorial service, Sunday’s funeral, followed by burial beside “Apostle of Cuban Independence” Jose Marti at the Santa Ifigenia cemetery. At 7PM on Saturday, President Raul C
Russia/US Agreement on Aleppo or Another American Deception?
Russia/US Agreement on Aleppo or Another American Deception? by Stephen Lendman Throughout made in the USA conflicts in Syria and Ukraine, Washington systematically undermined Russia’s good faith efforts for responsible resolution. America can’t be trusted, vowing one thing, doing another, notably, under Obama, Bush/Cheney and the Clintons, waging permanent wars on humanity, rejecting peace and s
Fuss Over Conversation Between Trump and Taiwan President
Fuss Over Conversation Between Trump and Taiwan President by Stephen Lendman On January 1, 1979, Jimmy Carter formally recognized the People’s Republic of China (PRC), severing formal ties with Taiwan. An American Institute in Taiwan represents US interests in the country. Last December, the Obama administration announced the sale of $1.83 billion worth of arms to Taiwan - including two warships
Washington Heads Toward Permitting Military Cooperation with Russia Only on US Terms
Washington Heads Toward Permitting Military Cooperation with Russia Only on US Terms by Stephen Lendman During months of US/Russia talks on conflict resolution in Syria, Washington consistently undermined Moscow’s good faith efforts, breaching promises made, violating SC Res. 2254 terms - unanimously adopted in December 2015, calling for ceasefire and diplomatic conflict resolution. In October 20
Politicizing Humanitarian Aid to Aleppo
Politicized Humanitarian Aid to Aleppo by Stephen Lendman Two days after over 80,000 eastern Aleppo residents were freed from US-supported terrorists, Russian Defense Ministry spokesman General Igor Konashenkov said the UN, America, Britain and France declined to provide any humanitarian aid. Russia and Syria alone are helping thousands fleeing from eastern Aleppo to safety in government controll
Trump for DAPL Construction, Tulsi Gabbard Against
Trump for DAPL Construction, Tulsi Gabbard Against by Stephen Lendman According to Reuters , Trump’s transition team announced support for completing DAPL construction, adding his support “has nothing to do with his personal investments and everything to do with promoting policies that benefit all Americans.” “Those making such a claim are only attempting to distract from the fact that President-

Dec 02

Cuban Doctors Coming to Standing Rock
Cuban Doctors Coming to Standing Rock by Stephen Lendman Fidel would be proud, smiling from the hereafter, knowing his legacy lives. Thursday on Facebook, Dr. Revery P. Barnes, a Havana-based Latin American School of Medicine graduate said: “ We answer the call to serve in alignment with the mission and core principles of our alma mater and dedication to our commitment to serve underserved commun
Challenging Stein's Michigan Recount Scam
Challenging Stein’s Michigan Recount Scam by Stephen Lendman Her recount scam is all about handing Trump’s triumph to Hillary, nothing about “electoral integrity,” as she claimed. Judicial rulings foiled her scheme for hand recounts in Wisconsin and Pennsylvania - based on phony allegations of voting machine hacking. Now she may go down in Michigan. According to the Detroit Free Press , state Att
Draconian US Intelligence Authorization Act
Draconian US Intelligence Authorization Act by Stephen Lendman Congress annually passes intelligence policy authorization bills. The measure for FY 2017 represents a huge leap backwards, reminiscent of the 1950 Internal Security (McCarran) Act - enacted over Harry Truman’s veto. It required communist organizations to register with the attorney general. A Subversive Activities Control Board was es
Trump Names Hawkish US General As Defense Secretary
Trump Names Hawkish General As Defense Secretary by Stephen Lendman At a Thursday Cincinnati rally, Trump announced retired Marine Corps General James Mattis as defense secretary - calling him “the closest thing we have to (WW II era) General George Patton.” Earlier he tweeted he’s “being considered for Secretary of Defense…A true General’s General!” He last served as US CENTCOM head from August
Trump Names Hawkish General As Defense Secretary
Trump Names Hawkish General As Defense Secretary by Stephen Lendman At a Thursday Cincinnati rally, Trump announced retired Marine Corps General James Mattis as defense secretary - calling him “the closest thing we have to (WW II era) General George Patton.” Earlier he tweeted he’s “being considered for Secretary of Defense…A true General’s General!” He last served as US CENTCOM head from August
A New Era of Peace Under Trump?
A New Era of Peace Under Trump? by Stephen Lendman On December 1, Trump began a thank you tour of states aiding his electoral triumph, stopping first in Cincinnati - pledging a “new era of peace,” saying: “On defense, we will begin a major national effort to rebuild our badly depleted military. We have no choice. The world is a tinder box.” “We want a strong military that ideally we don’t have to
Stein's Recount Scam Imploding
Stein’s Recount Scam Imploding by Stephen Lendman Her largely Soros funded ill-conceived scheme to undermine Trump’s triumph for Hillary is heading toward failure as expected. Days earlier, a Wisconsin judge ruled against her hand recount request. She alleged state voting machines may have been hacked, despite no evidence suggesting it. Her lawsuit to force a hand recount fell flat. Wisconsin Ele

Dec 01

Russia Aims to Liberate Aleppo Entirely by Yearend
Russia Aims to Liberate Aleppo Entirely by Yearend by Stephen Lendman “We are hoping for this. Yes, indeed,” said Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov. We need to force these (US-backed) terrorists out the same way as they need to be forced out of Mosul and Raqqa. It’s a common task.” Eastern Aleppo is being liberated one neighborhood at a time, thousands of trapped residents held as human ho
Russia's Foreign Policy Compared to America's
Russia’s Foreign Policy Compared to America’s by Stephen Lendman Both countries have polar opposite agendas. Obama isn’t remotely close to Putin in stature, integrity and high-mindedness. On December 1, Putin approved Russia’s new concept of foreign policy. It calls for “enhancing international security, stability at the strategic and regional levels.” It urges strict “implementation of the Russi
NYT Editors Ignore US Responsibility for "A World of Trouble"
NYT Editors Ignore US Responsibility for “A World of Trouble” by Stephen Lendman Suggesting “concerns about his ability to manage the international challenges he will face in office” continues relentless Trump bashing. “A World of Trouble” awaits him, said Times editors - mostly of Washington’s making, they failed to explain. Trump’s geopolitical agenda remains to be seen. “An early test may be N
Security Council Meeting on Syria
Security Council Meeting on Syria by Stephen Lendman At France’s request, representing America’s imperial project, its own and Britain’s, Security Council members met on Wednesday in “emergency” session on Syria. It had nothing to do with resolving the “humanitarian catastrophe” as French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault explained why it was convened - everything to do with supporting terrorist
Veterans in Solidarity with DAPL Protestors
Veterans in Solidarity with DAPL Protestors by Stephen Lendman From December 4 - 7, perhaps longer, over 2,000 veterans, an initiative called Veterans Stand for Standing Rock, intend serving as nonviolent human shields for Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL) protestors - Sioux Tribe members and supporters calling themselves water protectors. Participating veterans resolved to defend them from “assault
Fidel's Ashes Begin Journey to Final Resting Place
Fidel’s Ashes Begin Journey to Final Resting Place by Stephen Lendman Since his death last Friday evening, I’ve written daily articles honoring his legacy. America and other Western societies never had leadership remotely approaching his stature - an anti-imperial social and political revolutionary giant. After two days of emotional tributes in Havana, a “caravan of freedom” began a four-day jour

Nov 30

Trump Says Will Focus Solely on Presidency, Not Business
Trump Says Will Focus Solely on Presidency, Not Business by Stephen Lendman In multiple tweets I’m combining, he said: “I will be holding a major news conference in New York City with my children on December 15 to discuss the fact that I will be leaving my…great business in total in order to fully focus on running the country to MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!” “While I am not mandated to do this under
UN Aid in Syria Going to US-Supported Terrorists
UN Aid in Syria Going to US-Supported Terrorists by Stephen Lendman The UN largely operates as a wholly owned US subsidiary, serving its imperial interests - in flagrant violation of its Charter principles. On November 30, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said world body aid is politicized - crumbs alone earmarked for thousands of Deir al-Zor residents, trapped by ISIS fighter
Erdogan's Imperial Lawlessness
Erdogan’s Imperial Lawlessness by Stephen Lendman Turkey’s Recep Tayyip Erdogan is an international outlaw, a wannabe sultan ruling with an iron fist, wanting northern Iraq and Syria annexed, along with Assad ousted. What’s been well-known all along, he partly admitted, saying “(w)e entered (northern Syria) to end the rule of the tyrant (sic) al-Assad who terrorizes (sic) with state terror (sic)…
Green Party Disavows Turncoat Stein
Green Party Disavows Turncoat Stein by Stephen Lendman Her lofty campaign rhetoric was hollow, her progressivism phony. Her recount scam shows support for war goddess, racketeer, perjurer Hillary, financed with Soros money. In bed with the devil revealed her true persona - not a physician wanting to use her professional skills to help heal a sick nation, as I regretfully said earlier, to my shame
Trump Picks Wall Street Bank to Run Treasury
Trump Picks Wall Street Banker to Run Treasury by Stephen Lendman Once a Wall Street banker, always one. Rare exceptions prove the rule. Goldman Sachs alum Steven Mnunchin is Trump’s choice for Treasury. After 17 years at GS, he became OneWest Bank Group chairman and CEO, an enterprise connected to George Soros. He founded motion picture production and financing company RatPac-Dune Entertainment
NYT Anti-Trump This Week in Hate Series
NYT Anti-Trump This Week in Hate Series by Stephen Lendman In response to Trump’s triumph over Hillary, The Times launched the series, an editorial note saying: “This Week in Hate tracks hate crimes and harassment around the country since the election of Donald Trump. The Southern Poverty Law Center and other groups are keeping detailed counts of harassment and abuse.” “We will regularly present
Memorable Tribute to Fidel
Memorable Tribute to Fidel by Stephen Lendman Tuesday in Havana was a night to remember. Fidelistas turned out en masse at the Plaza de la Revolucion to honor their beloved leader, now passed. World dignitaries joined them, notably from Latin America, the Caribbean and Africa. “I am Fidel,” “Viva Fidel,” and “United, the people will never be defeated,” thousands chanted. Honoring his late brother

Nov 29

NYT Reinvents Syria's Liberating Struggle
NYT Reinvents Syria’s Liberating Struggle by Stephen Lendman Throughout Obama’s genocidal war on Syria, orchestrated by Hillary Clinton as secretary of state, The Times exclusively reported administration and Pentagon propaganda, hard truths suppressed - the same way it covers all major issues, especially geopolitical ones. Courageous Syrian and allied forces are winning the battle for Aleppo, he
Trump Wants Flag Burners Punished
Trump Wants Flag Burners Punished by Stephen Lendman On November 29, he tweeted “(n)obody should be allowed to burn the American flag - if they do, there must be consequence - perhaps loss of citizenship or year in jail.” The Constitution’s First Amendment “ prohibits the making of any law respecting an establishment of religion, impeding the free exercise of religion, abridging the freedom of sp
Cubans Honor Fidel
Cubans Honor Fidel by Stephen Lendman I remember when Fidel liberated Cuba in January 1959. On New Year’s day, US-supported dictator Fulgencio Bastista fled the island state for the Dominican Republic. On January 7, Fidel-led freedom fighters triumphantly entered Havana. In April 1961, the Kennedy administration launched the Bay of Pigs invasion. Attempting to remove Castro from power failed. All
George Soros Backing Stein's Recount Scam
George Soros Backing Stein’s Recount Scam by Stephen Lendman International con man Soros-connected attorney Marc Alias represents Hillary and the DNC. Earlier The NYT reported “Soros…agree(ing) to put as much as $5 million into (lawsuits) which Democrats hope will erode restrictions on voter access…” Alias is leading the litigation. Soros said he’s “proud” to be part of it, according to The Times
Deplorable Reality in Ukraine
Deplorable Reality in Ukraine by Stephen Lendman In February 2014, Washington toppled Ukraine’s democratically elected government, replacing it with Nazi-infested putschists - a lawless regime at war with its own people, responsible for high crimes, ruthless governance and massive corruption, led by illegitimate US-installed Petro Poroshenko. New York Times editors gave feature op-ed space to its
Trump's Double U-Turn on Investigating the Clinton Foundation
Trump’s Double U-Turn on Investigating the Clinton Foundation by Stephen Lendman Candidate Trump promised he’d appoint a special prosecutor to investigate the Clinton Foundation pay-to-play scam if elected president - my words, not his. President-elect Trump then told CBS’ 60 Minutes he’s more focused on getting “the country straightened away.” When asked about his pledge to investigate “crooked
Syrian and Allied Forces Liberation Eastern Aleppo One Neighborhood After Another
Syrian and Allied Forces Liberating Eastern Aleppo One Neighborhood After Another by Stephen Lendman Significant progress is being made, almost half of eastern Aleppo liberated, according to Russia’s reconciliation center. In the last 24 hours alone, 14 neighborhoods were liberated, thousands of civilians able to breathe free for the first time in years. Syrian forces have full control over easte

Nov 28

Jill Stein Wouldn't Know Real Democracy If It Bit Her on the Rump
Jill Stein Wouldn’t Know Real Democracy If It Bit Her on the Rump by Stephen Lendman Demanding meaningless recounts disruptively wastes time, money, achieving nothing - other than besmirching her already tarnished name and reputation. Her scheme shows she knows nothing about America’s political system - notably its history, its framers, and who they were. Today we’d call them a Wall Street bunch,
John Kerry Wants Aleppo's Liberation Halted
John Kerry Wants Aleppo’s Liberation Halted by Stephen Lendman According to the neocon Washington Post , Kerry is “furious(ly)” aiming “to strike a deal with Russia to end the siege of Aleppo." It has nothing to do with alleged concern about humanitarian crisis conditions in the city or elsewhere in Syria. Washington bears full responsibility for genocidal naked aggression against a nonbelligeren
WSJ Latin America Propagandist on Fidel's Passing
WSJ Latin America Propagandist on Fidel’s Passing by Stephen Lendman Journal board member, pseudo-journalist, Murdoch favorite, Mary OGrady reinvents history, defends the indefensible, supports monied interests exclusively, spurns popular ones, consistently turning truth on its head. “For Cubans, the long wait is over,” she ranted . Yet Cubans remain led by “the dead red’s…brother Raul…behind him
Fidel's Indomitable Spirit
Fidel’s Indomitable Spirit by Stephen Lendman The flesh is gone. His spirit remains. He accomplished what he set out to do in saying “I am Fidel Castro and we have come to liberate Cuba.” In 1961, Malcolm X and other civil rights figures arranged for him and his delegation to stay at Harlem’s Hotel Theresa after State Department officials pressured New York hotels to deny them accommodations. He
Palestinians Mourn Fidel's Passing
Palestinians Mourn Fidel’s Passing by Stephen Lendman Fidel stood up for what Frantz Fanon called “the wretched of the earth,” a revolutionary hero for millions worldwide. A longtime friend of Palestine’s liberating struggle, their flags were lowered to half-mast in his honor after news of his death. The Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) eulogized him, saying “he consistently s
Post-US Presidential Election Antics
Post-US Presidential Election Antics by Stephen Lendman It’s all over but the endless postmortems, claims and counterclaims, cheering and jeering. Nothing going forward will change things, including deplorable recounts if completed, pursued for the wrong reasons, exposing Jill Stein’s phony progressivism, perhaps complicit with Hillary. Trump won. She lost, with an important reminder. Nearly half

Nov 27

Police State Closure of DAPL Protest Camp Announced
Police State Closure of DAPL Protest Camp Announced by Stephen Lendman Standing Rock Sioux Tribe members and supporters face forced eviction from their Oceti Sakowin protest encampment site, protecting sacred ancestral land, water and wildlife habitat from destructive DAPL construction. According to theindigenouspeoples.com, the US Army Corps of Engineers announced closure of long ago stolen Nati
Media Scoundrels Denigrate Fidel
Media Scoundrels Denigrate Fidel by Stephen Lendman Media scoundrels are masters of fake news, serving as press agents for wealth, power and privilege, including denigrating independent leaders, unwilling to bow to Washington’s will. Fidel was heroic, a revolutionary giant, beloved by most Cubans, his agenda an antidote to governance of, by and for the privileged few alone, the way things are in
Cubans Mourn Fidel's Passing
Cubans Mourn Fidel’s Passing by Stephen Lendman Frail and weakened by earlier serious illness nearly taking his life, Fidel’s passing didn’t surprise. Yet his larger than life persona, extraordinary revolutionary spirit and redoubtable anti-imperial resolve for so long made losing him hard to imagine he’s gone. Around midnight on Friday, Raul Castro announced it on national television. Granma, th
Hillary's Dirty Hands Involved in Stein's Recount Scam?
Hillary’s Dirty Hands Involved in Stein’s Recount Scam? by Stephen Lendman According to attorney Marc Elias , Hillary’s campaign “quietly t(ook) a number of steps in the last two weeks to rule in or out any possibility of outside interference in the vote tally in these critical battleground states” - referring to Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. They “uncovered (no) actionable evidence of ha
Syrian Forces Capture Strategic Eastern Aleppo Area
Syrian Forces Capture Strategic Eastern Aleppo Area by Stephen Lendman According to the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA), government and allied forces “established full control over Masaken Hanano and the area surrounding it in (eastern) Aleppo.” Capturing it is key to Aleppo’s liberation, perhaps before yearend or early January - pockets of US-supported terrorists increasingly isolated and surroun

Nov 26

Fidel in His Own Words
Fidel in His Own Words by Stephen Lendman My thoughts are on one topic above all others today, Fidel Castro’s passing, the end of an era, unknown what may follow but hopeful. On national television Friday evening, Raul Castro announced his brother’s death, saying: “With deep pain, I appear to inform our people, the friends of our America and the world that today, November 25, 2016, at 10:29 PM, t
World Leaders on Fidel Castro's Passing
World Leaders on Fidel Castro’s Passing by Stephen Lendman A time for mourning - for me and millions of others worldwide. Fidel was a revolutionary giant, a redoubtable anti-imperial force, an inspiring role model. It’s hard accepting his passing. Things won’t be the same without him, even knowing his revolutionary spirit lives on. Obama issued a forked-tongue statement, saying “we extend a hand
Fidel Castro Ruz Passes, An Era Ends
Fidel Castro Ruz Passes, An Era Ends by Stephen Lendman He’s gone. His revolutionary spirit lives. He redoubtably resisted yankee imperialism for half a century, surviving hundreds of US attempts to kill him and the revolution he led. He withstood the machinations of 11 US administrations, from Dwight Eisenhower to Obama - leading Cuba from January 1959 to his February 2008 retirement for health
Media Scoundrels on Fidel Castro's Passing
Media Scoundrels on Fidel Castro’s Passing by Stephen Lendman They spend over half a century denigrating him - now dancing on his grave to their shame. NYT: “Mr. Castro brought the Cold War to the Western Hemisphere…briefly push(ing) the world to the brink of nuclear war” - The Times calling him “a self-obsessed zealot” for good measure, along with other insults. Neocon Washington Post: “Fidel Ca
Jill Stein's Post-Election Fundraising May Not Go for Recounts
Jill Stein’s Post-Election Fundraising May Not Go for Recounts by Stephen Lendman She’s raised millions of dollars from naive donors, most of it likely dirty money from anti-Trump dark forces, her goal $7 million for recounts in Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. Her scheme is a ruse, a cruel hoax to undermine Trump’s election, steal it for Hillary, wanting her as America’s 45th president, not

Nov 25

Judas Goat Jill Stein, Following in Sanders' Footsteps
Judas Goat Jill Stein, Following in Sanders’ Footsteps by Stephen Lendman Her campaign to recount votes in Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin exposed her phony progressive credentials - showing she’s for Hillary, not peace, equity and justice. Who ever heard of a progressive supporting a war goddess, Wall Street tool, racketeer, perjurer - dirty business as usual, not beneficial social change?
Tulsi Gabbard: Possible Trump Cabinet Pick?
Tulsi Gabbard: Possible Trump Cabinet Pick? by Stephen Lendman Her web site says she’s “focused on building bipartisan solutions that can actually be passed into law, rather than using the issue as a partisan political football.” It should say she supports progressive laws exclusively, benefitting all Americans equitably, rejecting all the rest, especially related to imperial wars and regime chan
Jill Stein for Hillary
Jill Stein for Hillary by Stephen Lendman Shameful! What’s going on? Why did her campaign announce its “intent to file for a recount of votes in the battleground states of Wisconsin, Michigan and Pennsylvania, leading a multi-partisan effort to check the accuracy of the machine-counted vote tallies in these states in order to ensure the integrity of our election?” Did she forget Hillary criticizi
Standing Rock Sioux Resistance: Wounded Knee Redux
Standing Rock Sioux Resistance: Wounded Knee Redux by Stephen Lendman Redoubtable Sioux resistance continues heroically against construction of Energy Transfer Partners’ Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL), endangering their sacred ancestral land, water and wildlife habitat, along with communities, farmland and other sensitive areas. “(U)nder serious consideration” for various Trump administration post
Will Trump Honor the Iran Nuclear Deal?
Will Trump Honor the Iran Nuclear Deal? by Stephen Lendman The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) is an international agreement involving the five permanent Security Council members plus Germany. Completing it successfully required many months of hard bargaining, Iran giving more than it got in return - to free itself from sanctions imposed solely for political reasons, serving US and Isr
NYT Disinformation on Syria
NYT Disinformation on Syria by Stephen Lendman Scoundrel media misreporting on Obama’s war has been some of the most scandalous in memory, turning truth on its head, a shameless perversion of what’s going on - truth-telling entirely absent, disinformation and Big Lies featured. Few, if any, Western reporters are in Syrian combat theaters. On November 24, The New York Times reported from Beirut, L

Nov 24

Russia Blasts US Failure to Combat Terrorism in Syria
Russia Blasts US Failure to Combat Terrorism in Syria by Stephen Lendman Washington created and actively supports virtually all Middle East terrorists groups, others elsewhere - its so-called global war on terrorism perhaps the greatest hoax in modern times. Russian Defense Ministry spokesman General Igor Konashenkov responded sharply to deputy State Department spokesman Mark Toner’s call for tan
European Parliament Passes Anti-Russia Resolution
European Parliament Passes Anti-Russia Resolution by Stephen Lendman EU leaders and legislators disgracefully bow to Washington’s will, harming their own self-interest and citizens they represent in the process. On Wednesday, European parliamentarian passed an anti-Russia resolution (304 in favor, 179 against, 208 abstaining), discussed in a Tuesday article . It urges EU nations “respond to (none
A Thanksgiving Day Open Letter to Donald Trump
A Thanksgiving Day Open Letter to Donald Trump by Stephen Lendman On January 20, you’ll succeed Barack Obama as America’s 45th president, an awesome responsibility as you admitted. You’ll have the power of your incumbency to use for good or ill - at a time I call the most perilous in world history. Bipartisan neocons infest Washington, a powerful, destructive force. Allied with Wall Street, war p
NYT Editors Bash Russia on Thanksgiving Day
NYT Editors Bash Russia on Thanksgiving Day by Stephen Lendman The Times operates as a press agent for wealth, power and privilege, a lying machine using journalism as advocacy for deplorable policies, disgracefully betraying readers deserving better. Shameless Russia bashing persists - even on Thanksgiving Day, Times editors headlining “Warning Russia on Hacking Isn’t Enough,” saying: Obama “hin
Wrongfully Convicted San Antonio 4 Exonerated
Wrongfully Convicted San Antonio 4 Exonerated by Stephen Lendman On Thanksgiving Day eve, the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals exonerated Kristie Mayhugh, Elizabeth Ramirez, Cassandra Rivera and Anna Vasquez, four lesbian women - ruling convictions on charges of sexually assaulting two children, aged seven and nine, didn’t pass “the smell test.” “Those defendants have won the right to proclaim to
Trump's Son Held Talks on Resolving Conflict in Syria
Trump’s Son Held Talks on Resolving Conflict in Syria by Stephen Lendman Call it a hopeful sign. The Wall Street Journal and other media reports indicated Donald Trump Jr., the president-elect’s eldest son, held talks last month in Paris with diplomats, politicians and businessmen - focused on cooperating with Russia and Assad to end years of war in Syria. French think tank Center of Political an

Nov 23

US House Members Up the Stakes in Syria
US House Members Up the Stakes in Syria by Stephen Lendman On November 15, House members unanimously approved legislation for new sanctions on Syria and its supporters, pointing fingers at Russia, Iran and Hezbollah - illegal if imposed without Security Council authorization. HR 5732, The Ceasar Syria Civilian Protection Act, requires reports on human rights violators (excluding war crimes by Ame
NYT Editors Continue Bashing Trump
NYT Editors Continue Bashing Trump by Stephen Lendman Despite meeting with perhaps his leading media critic (in its headquarters, not Trump Tower), one-sidedly supporting Hillary, acting as her press agent, denigrating him relentlessly and unfairly throughout the campaign, Times editors barely softened their hostility, suggesting likely endless bashing to come. They said “it was good to hear him
Sanders: Con Man, Hillary Supporter, Rabble Rouser
Sanders: Con Man, Hillary Supporter, Rabble Rouser by Stephen Lendman Throughout his political career, his revolutionary, man-of-the-people rhetoric was empty - exposed by his disgraceful public record, supporting policies he railed against. His soul was for sale all along, remaining so, a disgrace to the office he holds. He’s just another self-serving politician, saying one thing, doing another
Will Hillary Challenge Trump's Triumph?
Will Hillary Challenge Trump’s Triumph? Through November 2016, America has had 57 presidential elections, some fiercely contested. Yet peaceful transition always followed - except in 1860 when seven southern states seceded, forming the Confederacy. The Civil War followed, lasting until 1865, Lincoln assassinated weeks before it ended. According to New York magazine, “Hillary Clinton is being urge
The NYT Interviews Trump
The NYT Interviews Trump by Stephen Lendman Throughout his campaign, Trump justifiably blasted deplorable one-sided pro-Hillary media coverage, inventing reasons to denigrate him. In one notable tweet, he said “(a)nytime you see a story about me or my campaign saying ‘sources said,’ DO NOT believe it. There are no sources, they are just made up lies!” In another, he said “(r)emember, don't believ
US Pressured EU Hostility Toward Russia
US Pressured EU Hostility Toward Russia by Stephen Lendman It’s too early to know if Trump will diverge from longstanding US policy toward Russia, wanting regime change - pro-Western puppet governance replacing its sovereign independence. EU leaders and parliamentarians bow to US pressure, time and again absurdly calling Russia a threat, harming their own self-interest in the process. Sanctions w

Nov 22

Thoughts on 11/22/63: JFK's State-Sponsored Assassination
Thoughts on 11/22/63: JFK’s State-Sponsored Assassination by Stephen Lendman I won’t ever forget hearing the news - working in Pittsburgh as a marketing analyst, returning from lunch with colleagues when it was announced. November 22, 1963 was a Friday. The working day ended once the news broke, everyone in my department stunned, unable to focus on anything else. It was too early to know what evi
Chemical Weapons Use in Syria: By US-Supported Terrorists, Not Assad
Chemical Weapons Use in Syria: By US-Supported Terrorists, Not Assad by Stephen Lendman US-supported terrorists used toxic agents on Syrian forces and civilians numerous times since Obama launched naked aggression in March 2011. Nearly always, Assad is wrongfully blamed, despite Syria’s entire CW arsenal destroyed under Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) supervision. On M

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