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Europe’s Most Powerful New Ariane 6 Rocket Lifts Off in Debut Flight

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The European Space Agency’s member countries have endured a space access predicament as they waited to have a functioning rocket in their toolbox.

But a new rocket, dubbed Ariane 6, just launched on its maiden mission after years of delays and hang-ups in the development process.

If successful, the space agency hopes that the Ariane 6 rocket system may go on to make the space agency more self-reliant and perhaps challenge SpaceX’s dominance in the global market for launching satellites.

The rocket appeared to take off without issue from the Guiana Space Center in Kourou, French Guiana, which lies along South America’s northern tip, after 3 p.m. ET. The European Space Agency’s live coverage kicked off at 2:30 p.m. ET.

That time frame marks a slight delay from an earlier launch window projection before equipment on the ground had revealed the rocket had “a small issue in the data acquisition,” which was resolved by Tuesday morning, according to a social media post from ESA. The detection prompted the mission teams to push back the Ariane 6’s launch window by one hour.

**SpaceX transformed the commercial launch market**

France-based launch service provider Arianespace is the operator of Ariane 6. The aerospace firm was founded in 1980 and is billed as the “the world’s first commercial space transportation company.” Arianespace is part of ArianeGroup, a joint venture between Airbus and Safran that developed and built the powerful rocket.

But the European launch industry has struggled in recent years. The Ariane 6’s predecessor, Ariane 5, flew its final voyage in July 2023, ending the rocket’s 27-year run. Europe’s Vega-C rocket, designed for vaulting small satellites to orbit, has also been grounded since a December 2022 failure.

The commercial launch market, for the record, is far different than it was even two decades ago—mostly due to Elon Musk’s California-based company SpaceX and its relatively affordable Falcon rockets.

The ESA is aiming to bounce back, and—even if it’s unable to compete directly with SpaceX—capture more of the European market.

Spain Stuns France 2-1 in Euro 2024 Semi-Final: Lamine Yamal’s Wonder Goal Sparks Comeback Victory

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In a thrilling Euro 2024 semi-final, Spain came from behind to defeat France 2-1, securing their place in the European Championship final for the first time in 12 years. The match, held in Munich, was marked by moments of brilliance, particularly from 16-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal.

France took an early lead through Randal Kolo Muani in the 9th minute, but Spain’s response was swift and spectacular. In the 21st minute, Lamine Yamal etched his name in tournament history with a breathtaking equalizer. The teenager unleashed a curling shot from 25 yards out that nestled in the top corner, leaving spectators and commentators in awe.

Alan Shearer, former England captain, described Yamal’s goal as “outrageous,” adding, “It’s that late he shouldn’t even be up at night, never mind playing in the semi-finals of a European Championship!

Spain’s comeback was completed just four minutes later when Dani Olmo scored their second, his shot taking a deflection off Jules Kounde. This quick turnaround stunned the French team, known for their defensive prowess throughout the tournament.

The second half saw France pushing for an equalizer, with Kylian Mbappe missing a crucial chance in the 84th minute. Spain’s defense held firm, with goalkeeper Unai Simon making key saves to preserve their lead.

Luis de la Fuente’s tactical decisions, including the introduction of Ferran Torres for the impressive Yamal late in the game, helped Spain manage the closing stages effectively. The final whistle sparked jubilant celebrations from the Spanish players and fans, while the French team was left to reflect on a tournament that ended in disappointment.

This victory not only showcases Spain’s resurgence under de la Fuente but also highlights the emergence of young talents like Yamal on the international stage. As Spain prepares for the final, they will be buoyed by their performance against a strong French side and the knowledge that they have overcome a significant hurdle in their quest for European glory.

The Euro 2024 final now awaits, with Spain looking to add to their impressive international trophy haul and cement their status as one of Europe’s footballing powerhouses.

South African Rand Dips Following Federal Reserve Chair Powell’s Ambiguous Comments on Interest Rates

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The South African rand saw a marginal decrease on Tuesday following Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s testimony in Washington, which failed to provide a definitive stance on potential near-term interest rate cuts by the U.S. central bank. This development underscores the interconnectedness of global financial markets and the impact of U.S. monetary policy on emerging market currencies.

As of 1512 GMT, the rand was trading at 18.1350 against the dollar, representing a 0.1% decline from its previous close. Investors and analysts closely monitored Powell’s comments for insights into the future trajectory of interest rates in the world’s largest economy.

In his testimony, Powell acknowledged that U.S. inflation “remains above” the Fed’s 2% target. However, he noted recent improvements in inflation data, suggesting that “more good data would strengthen” the case for potential interest rate cuts by the central bank. This measured stance left room for interpretation, contributing to the rand’s slight weakening.

The dollar index, which measures the greenback against a basket of major currencies, registered a 0.19% increase following Powell’s remarks. This uptick in dollar strength further contributed to the pressure on the South African rand.

The rand, known for its sensitivity to global risk factors, often responds to international economic indicators and policy decisions, particularly those from the United States, in the absence of significant local drivers. This relationship highlights the vulnerability of emerging market currencies to shifts in global sentiment and major economic policy decisions.

The impact of Powell’s comments extended beyond the currency market. On the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, the Top-40 index closed down 0.2%, reflecting a broader market reaction to the global economic outlook.

In the bond market, South Africa’s benchmark 2030 government bond also weakened, with the yield rising by 5.5 basis points to 9.805%. This movement in bond yields indicates increased caution among investors regarding South African government debt.

As global markets continue to digest Powell’s comments and anticipate future economic data, the South African rand and other emerging market currencies are likely to remain sensitive to developments in U.S. monetary policy. Investors and policymakers in South Africa will be closely monitoring these global trends and their potential impact on the local economy and financial markets.

This situation underscores the challenges faced by emerging market economies in navigating the complex interplay between domestic economic conditions and global financial trends, particularly as major central banks consider shifts in their monetary policy stances.

Reuters

Dozens of Gazans Killed in Latest Israeli Assault as Hamas Warns of Truce Breakdown

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Palestinians stand in the ruins of the Chahine family home, after an overnight Israeli strike that killed at least two adults and five boys and girls under the age of 16 in Rafah, southern Gaza Strip, Friday, May 3, 2024. An Israeli strike on the city of Rafah on the southern edge of the Gaza Strip killed several people, including children, hospital officials said Friday. (AP Photo/Ismael Abu Dayyah)

Palestinian officials reported that an Israeli airstrike in the southern Gaza Strip killed dozens, while advancing tanks in Gaza City forced residents to flee under fire as Israel on Tuesday stepped up its offensive, warning that Hamas’ actions could jeopardize ceasefire talks.

The airstrike hit the tents of displaced families outside a school in the town of Abassan east of Khan Younis in southern Gaza, killing at least 29 people, most of whom were women and children, according to Palestinian medical officials.

The Israeli military stated it was investigating the report.

Ismail Al-Thawabta, director of the Hamas-run Gaza government media office, said Israeli strikes on central Gaza areas killed 60 Palestinians and wounded dozens more on Tuesday.

Residents said Israeli tanks that pushed into the Tel Al-Hawa, Shejaia, and Sabra neighborhoods of Gaza City shelled roads and buildings, forcing them to flee their homes. This was followed by Israeli military orders to evacuate several districts in eastern and western Gaza City, which were posted on social media.

“We hold the occupation and the U.S. administration responsible for the horrifying massacres against civilians,” said Thawabta in a statement.

In Gaza City’s frontline areas, armed wings of Hamas and its ally Islamic Jihad engaged in battles with Israeli forces using machine guns, mortar fire, and anti-tank missiles, killing and wounding Israeli soldiers.

Israel has not released a report on casualties but said its soldiers were engaged in fierce combat with militants, having taken more than 150 fighters out of action. Israeli troops also destroyed booby-trapped buildings and explosives.

The conflict has escalated as senior U.S. officials were in the region to push for a truce after reaching ceasefire concessions last week. However, Israel’s renewed military offensive and Hamas’ rocket fire have brought negotiations “back to square one,” according to adviser Ismail Haniyeh of Hamas.

Melania Trump Dazzles in Red Valentino Dress as She Hosts Successful Fundraiser in NYC

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In a rare public appearance, former First Lady Melania Trump dazzled attendees at a high-profile fundraiser in New York City, raising an impressive $1.4 million for the Log Cabin Republicans, the largest conservative LGBTQ+ organization in the United States. The event, held at the Trumps’ private penthouse in Trump Tower, marked a significant moment in the 2024 presidential campaign landscape.

Melania stunned in a $4,000 red Valentino sheath dress, paired with Christian Louboutin’s So Kate red patent leather pumps, as captured in exclusive photos by Dailymail.com. The choice of attire was a rewear from a 2017 event where she hosted Chinese President Xi Jinping at Mar-a-Lago, symbolizing both style and diplomatic savvy.

The fundraiser attracted a notable guest list, including former Trump White House official Kellyanne Conway, former Senator Kelly Loeffler, and former acting director of U.S. National Intelligence Richard Grenell. Grenell later announced the fundraising total on social media, highlighting the event’s success and the campaign’s goal to secure 50% of the gay vote for Donald Trump.

This event stands in stark contrast to Donald Trump’s recent low profile following the first presidential debate with Joe Biden. While the former president has maintained a presence through social media and a call-in to Fox News’ Sean Hannity, he has largely stayed out of the public eye, with advisers suggesting he’s observing the unfolding Democratic party dynamics.

Melania’s increasing involvement in political fundraising, particularly for LGBTQ+ conservative causes, marks a shift in her public role. This was her second event for the Log Cabin Republicans this year, following a fundraiser at Mar-a-Lago in April where she advocated for “equality for all.”

However, Melania’s political appearances remain selective. She has yet to attend a campaign event for her husband this year, a notable difference from First Lady Jill Biden’s active involvement in President Biden’s re-election efforts. When asked about her future campaign involvement, Melania cryptically told reporters to “stay tuned,” leaving her role in the 2024 campaign uncertain.

The success of this fundraiser and Melania’s stylish appearance have reignited discussions about her potential influence in the upcoming election. As the Trump campaign continues to evolve, political observers will be watching closely to see if this event signals a more active role for the former First Lady in the months ahead.

This fundraiser not only showcased Melania Trump’s enduring appeal but also highlighted the complex dynamics within the Republican party as it seeks to broaden its base, particularly among LGBTQ+ voters. As the 2024 presidential race intensifies, events like these may play a crucial role in shaping campaign strategies and voter perceptions.

Daily MailOnline

Why Britney Spears Ends Relationship with Paul Soliz Amid Concerns for Family

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Britney Spears has ended her relationship with Paul Soliz over fears that her romance with the former housekeeper and “deadbeat” dad-of-nine could jeopardize her relationship with her teenage sons, insiders claim.

The pop star, 42, shared and then deleted an Instagram post on Sunday night in which she declared herself “single as f**k” just two months after being pictured looking disheveled as she left the Chateau Marmont with Soliz.

Insiders now claim she ended their short-lived union after healing from her broken relationship with Sean Preston, 18, and Jayden, 17, who are her number one priority—and because she fears Soliz could have “lead her down a dark path.”

“She chose her children and her well-being over Paul,” a source told DailyMail.com exclusively. “They did not get along and, in fact, he did not treat her how she deserves to be treated.

“He was nothing but a rebound and she recognizes this. But she has contact with her children again and this is what is most important to her.

“This has made her feel whole again and she realized that in their absence she was seeking something or someone to fill the void but no one can.”

The source added: “She also saw how Paul was a deadbeat dad and this was a major turnoff for her. But, before anything, she knew that staying with him would only lead her down a dark path. His history speaks for itself.”

On Sunday night, the Grammy-winning singer shared a photo from Instagram account The Random Vibez which read: “Her attitude is savage but her heart is gold.” She captioned the shot: “Single as f**k!!! I will never be with another man as long as I live!”

She later deleted the statement, simply leaving a credit to The Random Vibez.

Soliz was first linked to Spears as a cleaner and handyman on her staff but reportedly became her lover in the wake of her split from ex-husband Sam Asghari, 30. The couple divorced in May.

Shortly after the divorce was finalized, Soliz was pictured alongside Spears when she was surrounded by paramedics on leaving the Chateau Marmont wearing nothing but a blanket and being led into an ambulance—initially sparking fears for her mental health.

Sources say that she has dropped the handyman in favor of throwing everything into her relationship with her sons, who she shares with ex-husband Kevin Federline.

Florida Man Arrested for Dropping Young Boy from Hotel Balcony

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A Florida man was arrested for allegedly dropping a four-year-old boy from a hotel balcony just hours after meeting his mother and offering to “scare him a little bit,” according to police.

Brandon Gilmore, 31, was taken into custody on Saturday after he reportedly dangled the child off a second-story balcony at the Sandalwood Resort in Daytona Beach.

Gilmore told police he met the boy’s mother five hours before the incident and had been drinking by the pool all day, according to an arrest affidavit obtained by DailyMail.com.

The woman supposedly invited Gilmore to her room as they planned to get a piercing later that day. Gilmore then said he was going to take the boy outside to play and “scare him a little bit,” he told police.

According to the police report, Gilmore went outside and dangled the boy by his legs over the balcony. Witnesses said they heard the boy screaming before he was dropped headfirst.

Dasanni Bentley told WESH: “He was just like swinging in, playing with them… And then he let him go, and he had him by one foot. And then the kid slipped right out of him and fell directly on his head on the concrete, no grass.”

The boy’s mother, who has not been named by police, reportedly picked up the boy and took him back to the room. Police arrived at the scene and the boy was taken to Halifax Medical Center. He has since been discharged and was not seriously injured, authorities said.

Police were able to obtain security footage that they say shows Gilmore dropping the boy over the balcony. The affidavit reads: “Officers observed Gilbert carrying the child to the balcony and holding the child by one leg, with his head positioned to the ground, then proceeding to drop him from the second floor balcony.”

Gilmore is charged with felony aggravated child abuse and remains in jail without bail. He has previously been arrested for marijuana possession and for driving with a suspended license, according to public records.

Daily MailOnline

Elderly Pastor Faces Federal Charges for Alleged In-Flight Assault on His Wife Over First-Class Upgrade Dispute

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In a disturbing incident that blends elements of domestic abuse and air rage, 75-year-old evangelical pastor Roger Allan Holmberg Sr. is facing federal charges for allegedly assaulting his wife during an Alaska Airlines flight from Seattle to Anchorage on July 2. The altercation, which erupted over a first-class upgrade dispute, has raised serious concerns about in-flight safety and domestic violence.

According to a criminal complaint obtained by The Independent, Holmberg verbally abused his 59-year-old wife, Patti, before physically assaulting her after learning she had been upgraded to first class while he remained in economy. The couple, married for just 18 months following the death of Holmberg’s previous wife, were traveling from their home in Virginia to Alaska for a ministry-related meeting.

Witnesses, including an off-duty police officer, reported multiple confrontations during the 3.5-hour flight. Holmberg initially approached his wife in first class, demanding to know how she got the upgrade. When she explained her gold member status, he was told not to speak to her in that manner. He later returned, insisting she read something on his phone before making an offensive gesture. The situation escalated when Holmberg allegedly struck the top of his wife’s head with his hand, prompting the off-duty officer to intervene and threaten handcuffing if the disturbances continued.

This incident has brought to light a history of alleged abuse within the couple’s relationship. Patti revealed to authorities that Holmberg had previously broken her finger during a confrontation last September, suggesting a pattern of domestic violence.

When questioned by the FBI, Holmberg attempted to downplay his actions, claiming he merely “tapped his wife on the head in passing to get her attention.” He also accused his wife of being “disrespectful” and having “anger issues,” even alleging past instances of physical abuse against him.

The incident has resulted in serious consequences for Holmberg. He was arrested upon landing in Anchorage and is scheduled to appear in court. If convicted, he could face up to a year in prison. Additionally, an Alaska Airlines spokesperson confirmed that Holmberg has been banned from their flights, underscoring the gravity of his actions.

This case highlights the prevalence of domestic abuse, even among religious leaders, and the potential for seemingly minor disputes to escalate into dangerous situations on flights. It also emphasizes the importance of bystander intervention in preventing further harm and the serious legal consequences of in-flight disturbances.

As this story continues to unfold, it serves as a sobering reminder of the complexities surrounding domestic abuse and the need for vigilance and intervention in both public and private spaces. It also underscores the zero-tolerance policy airlines maintain for disruptive and violent behavior, regardless of the perpetrator’s social status or profession.

Daily MailOnline

Diddy’s Social Media Posts Spark Outrage Among Alleged Victims and Their Lawyers

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In a developing story that has captured the attention of the entertainment world, Sean “Diddy” Combs’ recent social media posts have ignited further controversy in his ongoing legal battles. The music mogul’s attempts to project a carefree attitude through images of white water rafting and private jet travel have been met with sharp criticism from his accusers and their legal representatives.

Cassie Ventura, Diddy’s ex-girlfriend and one of his accusers, has responded through her attorney, Douglas Wigdor. In a statement to TMZ, Wigdor delivered an ominous message: “I don’t think white water rafting will prepare him for the choppy waters that lie ahead.” This metaphorical warning suggests that Ventura’s legal team is preparing for an intense legal confrontation.

Adding to the chorus of disapproval, Ariel Mitchell-Kidd, the attorney representing another alleged victim, Adria English, expressed her client’s increased motivation to seek justice. Mitchell-Kidd stated, “After seeing Defendant Combs white water rafting and jetting around on his personal plane, seemingly enjoying life despite all the atrocities he has caused and has been accused of by countless individuals over decades, Mrs. English is even more motivated to ensure justice prevails.”

The lawyers’ statements highlight the stark contrast between Diddy’s public persona and the serious allegations he faces. Mitchell-Kidd emphasized the disparity in resources between the accusers and Diddy, describing her clients as “individuals with limited resources fighting for justice after being marginalized, abused and exploited by a billionaire.”

In a parallel development, TMZ reported that Diddy is quietly attempting to sell his Los Angeles mansion, which was recently raided by Homeland Security. Purchased for $40 million in 2014, Diddy is reportedly seeking $70 million for the property – a price that real estate sources consider unrealistic. Mitchell-Kidd dismissed this move as an attempt by Diddy to portray himself as financially strained, stating, “We are not moved by Defendant Combs’ recent attempt at selling his California home or attempt to portray himself as a man of scarcity.

The legal teams representing Diddy’s accusers seem undeterred by his public displays and financial maneuvers. They are eagerly anticipating their day in court and the potential actions of federal authorities. Mitchell-Kidd expressed this sentiment, saying, “We look forward to not only our day in Court but the day for all the other Plaintiffs and the actions of the federal government in protecting their citizens from people like Defendant Combs.”

Reports suggest that a grand jury is already hearing evidence related to Diddy’s alleged sex trafficking and other crimes. This development, coupled with the strong statements from the accusers’ legal representatives, indicates that the legal challenges facing Diddy are far from over.

As this high-profile case continues to unfold, it underscores the complex interplay between celebrity culture, social media, and serious legal allegations. The contrast between Diddy’s public persona and the gravity of the accusations against him highlights the challenges of navigating such high-stakes legal battles in the public eye.

TMZ

Kanye West’s Ex Julia Fox Reveals She’s a Lesbian in Viral TikTok Response

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In a surprising revelation that has taken social media by storm, actress and model Julia Fox has come out as a lesbian in a candid TikTok video. The 33-year-old, best known for her brief but highly publicized relationship with rapper Kanye West, made the announcement in response to another user’s video about lesbians dating men.

The TikTok video that prompted Fox’s response featured a user with the handle @emgwaciedawgie, who humorously commented on lesbians in relationships with men, saying, “I love when I see a lesbian with their boyfriend. It’s like ‘Aww, you hate that man. You literally hate him.'”

Fox’s response was both succinct and revealing. Wearing sunglasses and seemingly walking down a New York City street, she stated, “Hey, that was me. I was that lesbian. So sorry, boys. Won’t happen again.” This brief statement has since ignited discussions about sexuality, celebrity culture, and the fluidity of identity.

The revelation comes as a surprise to many, given Fox’s high-profile relationships with men in the past. Most notably, she was romantically linked to Kanye West for approximately two months in early 2022. Their whirlwind romance began when West reportedly obtained her phone number through a mutual friend and pursued her with numerous calls. The relationship quickly escalated, with West chartering a private jet for Fox to meet him at a club in Miami.

During their short-lived romance, Fox and West were frequently photographed together, including a memorable appearance at Paris Fashion Week where they were both clad in matching black leather outfits. However, the relationship came to an abrupt end, with Fox later revealing in her memoir that she felt West was using her in a “sick, twisted game,” leading her to break up with him via text message.

Prior to her involvement with West, Fox was married to pilot Peter Artemiev for two years before their divorce in 2020. The former couple shares a 3-year-old son named Valentino.

Fox’s coming out has sparked conversations about the complexities of sexuality and the pressures of public relationships in the entertainment industry. Many fans and LGBTQ+ advocates have praised her for her honesty and bravery in sharing this aspect of her identity.

This revelation also raises questions about the nature of Fox’s past relationships and how her public persona may evolve in light of this announcement. It serves as a reminder that sexuality is a spectrum and that individuals may discover or choose to reveal different aspects of their identity at various points in their lives.

As the news continues to circulate, it’s likely that Fox’s announcement will contribute to broader discussions about representation, identity, and the evolving landscape of celebrity culture in relation to LGBTQ+ issues.

TMZ

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