Absolutely Anything Else

CNN reported tourism is well down. People cancelling all the time. Airlines will be hit hard. Unsurprising.

Oh and yes, definitely get everyone vaccinated. It's not worth taking the risk. - @fluffy2560

I trust CNN as much as I trust Fox.

However, apolitical reporters are saying roughly the same things so it's probably accurate.

The airlines might very well take a hit, but sites in the US that have a significant income from international tourism will likely suffer as well.

Then we come to expatriates who will turn their back on a US education, or specialised work in the US.

The US can stew in its local politics - they shouldn't have been stupid enough to vote him in, but this is an expat forum, so expat issues should be number one here.

For me, it's concern about my investments. I have nothing in stocks and shares (phew), but a significant chunk of cash in forex. That's safe for a short while, but I suspect not for much longer.

Currency fluctuations are still predictable, but  I can see a possible (near) future  where the USD crashes in an epic way.

I'm moving to a deposit fund that pays a little less, but is far safer. It's also government insured so the whole country would have to go bust before I lost the lot.

That's a really good reason to dislike Trump as well as think he's a total nutter.

I trust CNN as much as I trust Fox.
However, apolitical reporters are saying roughly the same things so it's probably accurate.
The airlines might very well take a hit, but sites in the US that have a significant income from international tourism will likely suffer as well.
Then we come to expatriates who will turn their back on a US education, or specialised work in the US.
The US can stew in its local politics - they shouldn't have been stupid enough to vote him in, but this is an expat forum, so expat issues should be number one here.
For me, it's concern about my investments. I have nothing in stocks and shares (phew), but a significant chunk of cash in forex. That's safe for a short while, but I suspect not for much longer.
Currency fluctuations are still predictable, but I can see a possible (near) future where the USD crashes in an epic way.
I'm moving to a deposit fund that pays a little less, but is far safer. It's also government insured so the whole country would have to go bust before I lost the lot.
That's a really good reason to dislike Trump as well as think he's a total nutter. - @Fred

I agree CNN certainly has an agenda.  I've added others to my list of reading (doesn't include Fox or GB News) but I do look at some UK newspapers here and there.  Currently I have these web sites bookmarked:

CNN

MSNBC

France 24

LBC

BBC

Euronews

The Atlantic

Economist

I really like the idea of offering US researchers a haven in Europe but it needs a massive push and a whopping budget.  I read it was something like EUR 5M.  It needs EUR 500M to 1B to make a significant offering to the best of the best into a "haven" Euro programme for R&D.  Of course the UK twits need to parallel that.  UK opening opportunities with Canada would be a cool thing to see.  Maybe Australia and NZ too.     

The UK has a very stupid attitude to research and nearly always gives everything away for nothing or somehow don't know which side their bread is buttered.  And they dimwittedly reject up and coming scientists, i.e. Mrs F's cousin left the UK research sector after some years there because the UK refused her citizenship.  She was exercising her rights pre-Brexit. Now she's in Boston USA working at a prestigious university, married to a US citizen and quite probably a US citizen (we didn't ask).   .  We would have loved her to stay contributing to the sector but nope, the UK decided she wasn't wanted.   Now the US benefits.   Even my nephew who is also research scientist is out of the UK and located in the EU, married to a EU national and has no intention of coming back.   UK is run by incompetents.

BTW, I've got a theory on Trump's tariffs and I wondered what others thought?  What he's effectively done is introduce a variable country based VAT nationwide.  He has confused tariffs and VAT in the past.  He cannot say VAT to the electorate as that sounds like consumption taxes (which it is).  He would also come into conflict with sales taxes at the state level. But he can do this federally on his own whim and supported by his razor thin majority in Congress.    His tax cuts are supposedly going to offset this "VAT" by reducing the rate or adding deductibles - like healthcare etc.  It's turning into a more interesting diversion.   The tariff levels are stupid.  It should be 10% across the board.  No-one would be that bothered then. 

I can think of at least one country where a similar thing happens - The Bahamas.  No income taxes and only consumption taxes BUT they do or did have healthcare levies as there were budget problems.    It's quite rich but the difference between the have and have-nots is quite large. Some people are doing really well.  Others not so much.

As for the USD, best avoided for the moment.   The currency has appreciated which makes their exports more expensive.  No-one will buy - Trump will have to devalue the USD to make it more workable.  For expats, USD is a pain due to the all USD transactions going via US Treasury.  It's also slow and antiquated.  EUR is better idea as a reserve currency as they (ECB) have very fast settlement systems like SEPA.  Instantaneous in most cases.  Best to avoid exposure to USD as the turmoil just makes things unpredictable long term.

I know several people that have now changed their plans, on visiting America. In particular a wealthy Austrian couple. They have just come back from a month touring Australia. They had planned to do the same in America later this year. They are now going to do a month in Canada.

So yes, tourism will be hit hard because of what Trump is doing to the country.

Was nice to see the millions of people protesting against Trump yesterday in all 50 states.

These tariffs, have even pissed off some senior Republicans.

And..... ‘I’m coming for you’: US lawmaker Al Green said he’ll file impeachment articles against President Donald Trump in 30 days.

He really hasn't thought hard about this......

https://www.forbes.com/sites/tylerroush … 300-iphone

Irish people travelling to the US are being warned to delete any social media comments criticising Donald Trump, to avoid detention.

Rathbones, RBC Brewin Dolphin, Evelyn Partners and Schroders Cazenove told the Financial Times that more US clients were looking to move a greater portion of their wealth to the UK, while others had already done so. https://on.ft.com/3XOFk1M

I know several people that have now changed their plans, on visiting America. In particular a wealthy Austrian couple. They have just come back from a month touring Australia. They had planned to do the same in America later this year. They are now going to do a month in Canada.So yes, tourism will be hit hard because of what Trump is doing to the country. Was nice to see the millions of people protesting against Trump yesterday in all 50 states. These tariffs, have even pissed off some senior Republicans. And..... ‘I’m coming for you’: US lawmaker Al Green said he’ll file impeachment articles against President Donald Trump in 30 days.He really hasn't thought hard about this......https://www.forbes.com/sites/tylerroush … 300-iphone - @SimCityAT

I'm not surprised people are changing their minds about the USA.  It wasn't on  my radar and I doubt I'll ever go there again.  There are other places to go anyway.  I'd go to Canada but that's because one of my kids lives and works there now.  But I doubt we'd be able to go there more than once or thrice before it becomes too difficult.  If I get some grandkids, we'd have to go more or they come here.   We'll see how it works out.  I tend to think of Europe being pretty interesting.  There's a lot of attractiveness in the diversity of peoples and scenery.  It doesn't rival the USA or Canada, it's just different.

I heard it was a $3000 iPhone.  Well, that serves Tim Cook right for brown-nosing El Gordo.   I was surprised to read that Amazon has a fulfilment centre in China for serving the US small value package market (<$800/package/no-tariff).  Bezos must be wondering about what he voted for.  The other tech bros like Musk and Ellison are no doubt thinking they are the gullible turkeys voting for Christmas.  For all I care, they can crash and burn.   Tough luck.

And as for Al Green, he being the guy who shouted at Trump in their Congress, he's got no chance of getting that through.  He should stick to making music*.

The GOP is so totally owned by Trump and they are all wetting their pants if he mentions or calls them.   When Trump says jump, they say how high.  It's not a situation one could have ever envisaged.  Clearly if there was a successful removal of Trump, they'd have to strengthen the arms of government to prevent a President freelancing his mania.  We can hope they get a comeuppance come the mid-terms.  That's a referendum on the orange Mr Blobby.

* I know, it's not that Al Green   😉

Rathbones, RBC Brewin Dolphin, Evelyn Partners and Schroders Cazenove told the Financial Times that more US clients were looking to move a greater portion of their wealth to the UK, while others had already done so. https://on.ft.com/3XOFk1M - @SimCityAT

Not surprised.  Diversity in markets represents cautious approach - that's always been the case.  It's like manufacturing umbrellas and ice creams.  Umbrellas for rain and ice cream for sunshine.  Cover all eventualities.  Hedgehogs. No, that's not it.  I know, bushes, err...wait, yes it's hedging! 

Reminds me of that joke, adapted for the times, "What's the difference between a hedgehog and a VW beetle full of tech bros.  A hedgehog has the pr**ks on the outside". 

Trumps billionaire friends, have lost billions because of the stock market screwing up. Oh well, maybe they should have advised Trump what he was doing was wrong and had consequences?

The last time the president put stupid tariffs on the world, was during the Great Depression. Although it wasn't the cause, it certainly didn't help and extended it and why Hoover got defeated.

Yes, pretty sure little sis has some sort of brain issue; Autism sounds good enough.
IDK? one moment she is smart, witty and nice and the next, holy cow!
I just hope it is out of her control and she is just not a jerk.
My brother wrote me! Time to get some bubbly! He is home!!!
Having some issues with getting used to doing things on his own; Frustrating to take longer to shower, dress and do just about everything; he is afraid to fall, do not blame him. He is trying to figure out his new purpose in life, said a year ago he should of been dead but he must have a mission. Yes, he has refound Jesus. I understand totally, getting so close to death makes people wonder what is going on.
Made friends with the pastor , real buddies now, the guy comes once a week to the rehab center; He brings his wife who plays the keyboard and his 5 little angles, his small children and they sing for the, inmates, patients whatever they call themselves.
His wife bought a dog while he was in there; He is not too happy about it, gets underfoot.
I told him with training it might be a good thing, give him a reason to take walks and stay strong.
His wife is a big spender, hates to save money. She did blow through $300,000 bucks her parnets left her just a couple years ago; Now she found a forgotten load of savings her mother had; Poor bro trying to adjust to home and his wife is having the entire kitchen torn apart and redone.
He is lost at home, can not find his things,everything is in boxes; Hope she did that for the repairs and not with thinking they were off to the charity if he never came home again!

Just when I was making plans on a spa day in the near future, the cold returned.
The farmers market yesterday was nice. i actually enjoyed it for once.
Usually all the people pulling shopping tolley,s gets on my last nerve.Most are dangerous.
Found a few little items that I was interested in buying.New frying pan still with store tags on it and a pair of perfect fitting cargo pants for summer. Only 500 forints for the pants in perfect condition and just my size. hard to find pants since my legs are longer then average.
Something simple to toss on for a ride to the lake or spa. Hate dressing up with sunscreen all over and wrecking nice clothing. Found a simple cotton dress to toss over a swimsuit too.
Like to bring junk to the spa to wear in case anyone gets sticky fingers.
Never hardly use the lockers.
IDK where that vendor gets all the brand new pots and pans he sells; A week ago on the subway 2 guys brought in a nice scooter, had nice shocks on it and looked electric; The one guy was trying to ride in inside the car! A wild pair of guys; He was jumping  and bouncing on the scooter like it was a new X mas toy. They looked sort of like bums; We figured since they brought just one scooter on with 2 guys that they probably were heading out fast with a stolen scooter! Can not say for sure but have seen people do such things here in the past. Hop on a parked moped and try to start it up etc;
Even saw homeless guys pushing each other in a wheelchair with the name of the hospital on the back!

My Vegas friend did not go to the nationwide protest but said she spent the day crying over it.
Really not sure why she upsets herself so much over things she can not control. Gave herself a headache over it.
Out of control emotions are not good to have. - @Marilyn Tassy

For your sis, obviously none of us know if it's autism or a mental illness or just her.   Just speculating which is not a good thing to do when people's lives are at risk.  But it's only us here, so no harm done.

Glad to hear your bro is home. Probably remodelling is to make it more useful for your bro's new life.  I'd have thought lower counters, handles, fewer steps and ramps etc. We had to put in some disabled items for my Mum and Dad but it was mainly handles for them to hold on to as they moved around.  Medics told me older people do furniture surfing.   They grab on to furniture as they move around.  I have put in some handles here and I had handrails installed outside on some steps.  I did some of the internal grab handles myself while I could.   I've got another one in a box to put in the bathroom.  I bought that one for the MIL but never had a chance to install it before she popped off.

Mrs F was in Aldi and she said she was only one of 3 shoppers there.  And somehow, the other two people were always in front of her or somehow in her way.  I don't get why people spend ages moving slowly through the aisles.  Just grab what you need and get out of there!  No bargains found.  If I go there or Lidl, I'm usually looking at the tools.   Mrs F needs some wedding clothes but is considering the 2nd hand clothes shop as it's a one off, unlikely ever to be repeated.  Only her and our daughter have been invited to that particular civil ceremony. I'm fine with that, I've got some DIY painting to do.  The shed door has never been painted (by me anyway). 

Protests against Donny aren't going to do much.  He really doesn't care so long as it enriches himself and his billionaire buddies.  If there's enough rebellion in the Congress and more SCOTUS slapping down, then it might get his attention.    But his days are numbered anyway.   He's almost 80. He cannot live forever and looking at him, I don't think he's 100% with it physically or mentally.   I doubt his public medical record reflects his health situation at all.   Third term?  I don't think he'll make it to the end of this term unless he's driven by an alien/satanic power source.

I'm actually more concerned immediately about the HU government today.  Now they are intending to send teachers on "nationalism" course so they can more effectively spout propaganda to school kids (i.e. my son).   And in other news, some HU politician or government official had her hands blown off by a grenade.   How that came to pass, I've no idea.  Did she not think to throw the thing and why was she handling a live grenade anyway?

Poor Mrs. F, I know the feeling of having other shoppers right down your throat

What kills me is going to the lake and finding the perfect spot,shade, not too much, just enough for 2 people  not right on the water but in a semi quiet private area only to have Someone with loud teens or kids sit right on top of you. Had to pick up a move several times in the past, some women pulled out her phone and was screaming into it none stop.Dirty looks alone do not stop them so better to just move on and curse them under your breath.

We have found the perfect spot for 2 lounge chairs at Palentinus but only available if we get there when they open. 2 trees have a small shady spot between them, the tress keep people away by a good 5 feet at least.

We go to relax, nap, get some sun and rest in the shade. We barely speak to each other just chillin and some person starts tossing a ball and screaming into their phone, never can find true peace around crowds.

Wedding bells, wow,I suppose they are big events here. IDK here in Budapest but in Las Vegas they have designer brand secondhand shops; Really nice outfits, prices are not like your average second hand but they are huge name brands;

I found a nice shop near a dermatolgists office in a small mall in Vegas. Went in to check it out; Tried on a beautiful classic Channel suit, black with white trim;Fit me like it was made for me, was so close to buying it then I remembered I never go out to such affairs where I would actually wear it. Used to but not any longer. Was reasonable for what it was too; Just a hundred bucks or so, not thousands like if new;

I told my husband I was made to wear those styles, he said find another husband who will take you out!

Funny, not so funny guy!

Perfect suit for tea at the Astoria...

They must have similar shops here, get something classy for a good price considering most people only dress up once in a blue moon these days.

I love thrift shopping, always have.

I saw that Trump as lost 30 lbs. recently, He is a huge person as it is.

IDK these old guys sometimes outlive life, David Rockerfeller was something like 106. Waste of breath. He had several heart transplants. Some young person needs a new heart and never gets it while that old monster had a few.

Inflation in the US and here too. Saw some tomatoes at the market on Saturday that were going for 1,780 per kilo. I had to look twice, thought it was 780 at first, just walked on...

I am all into saving money these days. My deceased family would not believe it if they saw me now!

I just recolored my own hair, did it for well under $5.00. Not sure how much in a salon here in Hungary but in the US it would start at $60. for short hair one process. I am always telling my husband how much I am saving him money but in typical Hungarian fashion he says it would be cheaper if I did not have a wife!

Poor Mrs. F, I know the feeling of having other shoppers right down your throatWhat kills me is going to the lake and finding the perfect spot,shade, not too much, just enough for 2 people not right on the water but in a semi quiet private area only to have Someone with loud teens or kids sit right on top of you. Had to pick up a move several times in the past, some women pulled out her phone and was screaming into it none stop.Dirty looks alone do not stop them so better to just move on and curse them under your breath.We have found the perfect spot for 2 lounge chairs at Palentinus but only available if we get there when they open. 2 trees have a small shady spot between them, the tress keep people away by a good 5 feet at least.We go to relax, nap, get some sun and rest in the shade. We barely speak to each other just chillin and some person starts tossing a ball and screaming into their phone, never can find true peace around crowds.Wedding bells, wow,I suppose they are big events here. IDK here in Budapest but in Las Vegas they have designer brand secondhand shops; Really nice outfits, prices are not like your average second hand but they are huge name brands;I found a nice shop near a dermatolgists office in a small mall in Vegas. Went in to check it out; Tried on a beautiful classic Channel suit, black with white trim;Fit me like it was made for me, was so close to buying it then I remembered I never go out to such affairs where I would actually wear it. Used to but not any longer. Was reasonable for what it was too; Just a hundred bucks or so, not thousands like if new;I told my husband I was made to wear those styles, he said find another husband who will take you out!Funny, not so funny guy!Perfect suit for tea at the Astoria...They must have similar shops here, get something classy for a good price considering most people only dress up once in a blue moon these days.I love thrift shopping, always have.I saw that Trump as lost 30 lbs. recently, He is a huge person as it is.IDK these old guys sometimes outlive life, David Rockerfeller was something like 106. Waste of breath. He had several heart transplants. Some young person needs a new heart and never gets it while that old monster had a few.Inflation in the US and here too. Saw some tomatoes at the market on Saturday that were going for 1,780 per kilo. I had to look twice, thought it was 780 at first, just walked on...I am all into saving money these days. My deceased family would not believe it if they saw me now!I just recolored my own hair, did it for well under $5.00. Not sure how much in a salon here in Hungary but in the US it would start at $60. for short hair one process. I am always telling my husband how much I am saving him money but in typical Hungarian fashion he says it would be cheaper if I did not have a wife! - @Marilyn Tassy

People:  It's like parking.   I always try and park at least one car space away from other cars.  Yet some moron will always come and park next to us.  I park away from others so I can open the doors with space and they don't scratch my paintwork.  When I go to the airport I always face inwards so I can open the rear and put bags in/out.  Yet I see the usual dimwits reversing in.  How are they going to get their bags between the other cars and manhandle them to the rear of the car in a small space crowded in by other cars.  We also try and keep away from other people at the beach but everyone comes and sits next to us.  WTF are they thinking?  I really do not understand people at all.  They seem to leave their brains behind when they go out of the house.   

Trump:  Yup, he does look like he's lost weight but he really needs to spend some time in the gym.  People really do change as they get older. I was looking at the TV show White Lotus and Scott Glenn was in it.  My god, he was quite the macho hero in The Right Stuff.  Now he looked like a wizened old man, almost like a gnome from some fantasy show or like he's been under the grill.   And his ears look like they've grown to double size!  He wouldn't need makeup or rubber ears to play Mr Spock.  Anyhoo, Donny could shed another 60lbs and get in some gym time, maybe he'd look more like a strong leader he aspires to be (i.e. Putin) than the fat overfed spotted orange blowfish he is.  Now Frump just looks like someone sprayed him with tanning dye and missed parts.  Oh, and while I'm ranting, what's with the eyeliner VP Shady Vance?

Clothing:  Mrs F has gone off to the shops to see what she can find for this wedding.  We've got the church version for the same couple later this year in September or similar.   I have stopped having formal clothes because I don't go to work now as such.   So I'm going to look like an late 2000s throwback.  But meh, who cares! That's what retirement is for! Slouching around and doing whatever the f*** I want!

Shopping: I was just on the interactive chat with Amazon UK.  I bought a bit of electronics there, brought it back here and it stopped working.  The cost of postage back to the UK (bloody Brexit)  is higher (£23) than the value of the item (£20).   So I asked them if they wanted it back and they said "no".  So it'll go to recycling.  Now I'll have to buy another one locally because I don't go to the UK that often enough to take advantage of their no quibble returns.  I did offer to send it back to Amazon Germany but they declined.  Still, very nice customer service even though I'm no fan of Bezos. It did take me a while to get past their stupid AI options.

Hubby:  He loves you really!

Late news:

I'm reading more on how the US B-2 bombers are lining up in Diego Garcia and a 2nd aircraft carrier is on the way to the Gulf and will probably be there in 2 weeks max.   

Iran has just deployed further radar and missile units to near its borders.   The B-2 bomber can drop bunker buster bombs directly into their nuclear labs/factories.  Iran is very  close to having the bomb and they might use it if they feel that threatened.

I think we're looking at either real brinkmanship or pre-emptive strike on Iran by Israel and the USA (or the USA is going to provide cover for them). 

I said a few weeks ago that the USA might bomb Iran. It seems to me this is getting closer and closer.

I also just heard Trump is threatening to up the Chinese tariffs. I think he's spoiling for a fight there which he is going to lose big time.  There is no way they are going to back down without quid pro quo.  They really don't need to back down.  They are too big to let The Blob squelch all over them.

I am expecting China will be sending some warships to steam around a bit  nearer to places like Guam and those US allied islands states like Palau/Micronesia/Marshall Islands or those other US  islands like Saipan and Tinian.  Chinese could take those very quickly.   They just need to show themselves.  No-one is going to help the USA if China really does take action.  Trump's blown any goodwill amongst the Allies.  What an absolute tool.

I wondering how brown Trump's trousers are going to be if they all call his bluff.    And how brown our trousers will be too if he takes on Iran.  It's pretty close.

Late news:
I'm reading more on how the US B-2 bombers are lining up in Diego Garcia and a 2nd aircraft carrier is on the way to the Gulf and will probably be there in 2 weeks max. 

Iran has just deployed further radar and missile units to near its borders. The B-2 bomber can drop bunker buster bombs directly into their nuclear labs/factories. Iran is very close to having the bomb and they might use it if they feel that threatened. . - @fluffy2560

https://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/28/worl … earer.html

That tells us how close Iran is to the bomb ... in 2012.

It's one of many warnings we have been told held massive urgency over a lot of years.

I an disinclined to believe the latest warnings because all the rest were bollocks.

https://thebulletin.org/2012/01/crying- … lear-bomb/

As strategic analysts Anthony Cordesman and Khalil al-Rodhan remind us, in the 1990s, high-level American and Israeli policymakers repeatedly warned of an Iranian bomb by the year 2000. When that did not come to pass, policymakers warned of an Iranian bomb by the year 2005. Then they said it would happen by 2010. Now the talk puts Iran’s nuclear debut in the 2013-2015 time frame, if not sooner.

Iran has been close to the bomb for 30 year or so, according to the people who removed democracy from Iran for oil greed.

Believing one lie can happen, but believing the same lie every year is not that good an idea.

Late news:I'm reading more on how the US B-2 bombers are lining up in Diego Garcia and a 2nd aircraft carrier is on the way to the Gulf and will probably be there in 2 weeks max.  - @ffluffy2560

B52 are old and slow.

The carriers will be there to knock out radar, SAMs, and fighter cover before the US WMD (see operation menu) carpet bomb targets in Iran.

Yes, B52s are blunt instruments, not precision strike aircraft.

The other issues are China and Russia. After the US and UK removed Iran's democracy and, in turn, the US backed, mass murdering dictator was dumped, China and Russia supported the victim country - Iran.

Attacking one of China's big oil suppliers might well take this new US war to a higher level.

B52 are old and slow.The carriers will be there to knock out radar, SAMs, and fighter cover before the US WMD (see operation menu) carpet bomb targets in Iran.Yes, B52s are blunt instruments, not precision strike aircraft. - @Fred

Yes, you didn't read that right.

The B2 - not B52 - is a well known stealth aircraft.   The B2 can carry the whopping bunker buster bombs.  The US only has about 20 B2 aircraft.  The B2 is a precision strike aircraft.  The B52 is an entirely different aircraft - an ancient 70 year old bomber with about 8 engines but still be used by the US.

On the other points, they've been at it for years in Iran.   There will be plenty of progress since those out of date reports.  It's always been a national effort. They must now have more than enough plutonium to make multiple bombs.  And they probably had help from North Korea and Russia to make it work.   

The first we'll hear in the media about Iran having the bomb is when the rest of the world detects the explosion on seismic detectors.   I am sure they'll  be doing an underground test sometime in the near future. I mean in a few months.  They'd have to do it as the Trumpist US ramps up its presence and right wing Israel remains increasingly war like.  I think at that point, the US and Israel will either halt for fear of an Iranian launch or the US and Israel will launch a pre-emptive strike.   Israel probably has the bomb too.

Be interesting to see what Saudi does about it.  They've been mortal enemies with Iran for years of course.   

It's all a bit close for comfort.

B52 are old and slow.The carriers will be there to knock out radar, SAMs, and fighter cover before the US WMD (see operation menu) carpet bomb targets in Iran.Yes, B52s are blunt instruments, not precision strike aircraft.  - @FredYes, you didn't read that right.The B2 - not B52 - is a well known stealth aircraft. The B2 can carry the whopping bunker buster bombs. The US only has about 20 B2 aircraft. The B2 is a precision strike aircraft. The B52 is an entirely different aircraft - an ancient 70 year old bomber with about 8 engines but still be used by the US.On the other points, they've been at it for years in Iran. - @fluffy2560

True about the mis-read. It was very early in the morning.

Yes, B2s are more surgical in nature, but still attacking a country with no ability to attack the US.

Iran has been at it for years, according to discredited reports from Israel and the United States.

The latest reports of Iran being blah, blah, blah are most likely yet another in a series of the same lie over 30 years.

If you believe the crap, Iran had nukes decades ago ... but they haven't.

Oh, I'm wrong, Iran is six months away from the bomb

https://www.reuters.com/article/world/u … BRE88F06Q/

It is still 2012, isn't it?

Frankly, only a blithering idiot would believe the same lie 30 times, especially when it comes from states engaged in mass murdering civilians, then lying about it?

He we see Israel's Ben Nutjob explaining all about Iran's bomb.

Does anyone really believe this rubbish?

The problem is, just with the fake claims about WMD that allowed the Iraq invasion, mass destruction, and death, public opinion is bent by lies.

Seriously, the moron actually held up that picture.

I found it - compelling evidence Iran is close to a bomb

https://www.csmonitor.com/World/Middle- … gs-1979-84

Every warning was a lie, so why would anyone with a working brain believe the new dire warning of imminent nuclear hell in the middle east?

You would have to be a total idiot to accept that rubbish.

I'm absolutely shocked that anyone believes the United States after the WMD lies were used to kill by the thousands, but there are a good number of exceptionally stupid people out there. Sometimes I wonder how their tiny brains remember to breathe, but they seem to manage.

BREAKING NEWS

The heroic Israeli agent, Bugs Ben Bunny, has finally caught Mohammad Wile E Bin Coyote, Iran's infamous bomb maker.

He we see Israel's Ben Nutjob explaining all about Iran's bomb.Does anyone really believe this rubbish?The problem is, just with the fake claims about WMD that allowed the Iraq invasion, mass destruction, and death, public opinion is bent by lies.

Seriously, the moron actually held up that picture. - @Fred

My rational diagnosis - less the histrionics - is:

The US isn't building up forces there for nothing.   B2s, refuelling aircraft and aircraft carriers already in the region.

It's probably waving a big stick right now given supposed talks on Saturday.

The US will have a local capability on tap to hit a belligerent Iran and will no doubt do it with Israel.

I don't think Trump can come to any agreement with Iran.  Only thing that will work for the US is regime change in Tehran. 

BTW, we hear nothing about Ukraine at the moment.    The Iran thing might be a useful signal to Putin that the US isn't just posturing.

BTW, we hear nothing about Ukraine at the moment.  The Iran thing might be a useful signal to Putin that the US isn't just posturing. - @fluffy2560

Iran, a county that lost its internationally recognised democracy to a US run revolution, is to serve as a warning to Putin about Ukraine, a county that lost its internationally recognised democracy to a US run revolution.

Yes, I can see how that works

BTW, we hear nothing about Ukraine at the moment.  The Iran thing might be a useful signal to Putin that the US isn't just posturing. - @fluffy2560

I read this morning that the Ukrainians have moved into the Belgorod region of Southern Region.

Iran, a county that lost its internationally recognised democracy to a US run revolution, is to serve as a warning to Putin about Ukraine, a county that lost its internationally recognised democracy to a US run revolution.Yes, I can see how that works - @Fred

Well, hardly matters if one believes one side or another history.   It's what's going on now that's important.  However, Maidan and subsequent elections in UKR were not figments of people's imagination.

BTW, Iran and Ukraine were never counties, despite Putin's regular claims on the latter. 

Looks to me that the US has always wanted Iran as it is now to collapse and there to be a new Western leaning regime it can interfere with and keep oil flowing.   If it's a bloodless collapse, then fine.  If it's a protracted conflict, then that's not so fine. Probably something in between will do - if you're Trump.

Mainly, right now, I'm wondering which NATO allies are going to help Trump out. Currently, and the situation is fluid, I think none of them are going to help very directly.   

read this morning that the Ukrainians have moved into the Belgorod region of Southern Region. - @Cynic

Yes, I think they've been there a while.  I cannot see them taking Belgorod City as it'd tie up loads of resources.

Despite my impending retirement, someone asked me if I'd go to Kyiv, Ukraine on a job.   

Mrs F is apoplectic that I'd even consider it.  I think she's probably right.

I did look up how to get there and the best way is driving - 1100km/15h to Kyiv.   Probably do-able if fuel and food is available.  Information received so far is that hotels, shops and services are working normally.

Iran, a county that lost its internationally recognised democracy to a US run revolution, is to serve as a warning to Putin about Ukraine, a county that lost its internationally recognised democracy to a US run revolution.Yes, I can see how that works - @Fred
Well, hardly matters if one believes one side or another history. It's what's going on now that's important. However, Maidan and subsequent elections in UKR were not figments of people's imagination.

- @fluffy2560

Firstly, both revolutions are part of documented history, as is US involvement in both.

There's no tin foil hat, but there is history.

As for Ukrainian elections since the revolution. They have all excluded the majority of the Russian speakers. They are totally democratic except most of the people who would vote for a pro-Russian government are denied the opportunity to take part.

In other words, Ukrainian elections are a sham.

Firstly, both revolutions are part of documented history, as is US involvement in both.
There's no tin foil hat, but there is history.
As for Ukrainian elections since the revolution. They have all excluded the majority of the Russian speakers. They are totally democratic except most of the people who would vote for a pro-Russian government are denied the opportunity to take part.
In other words, Ukrainian elections are a sham. - @Fred

Been there?  I have.  Multiple times.  Even Russian speakers there saw themselves as Ukrainians.  They'd say, "sure, I speak Russian, but my roots and family are here".   They never bad mouthed Russia but they said Russia was another country.   That was the vast majority of people I spoke to and I was speaking to all sorts.   They have their own identity.  It would be like saying the UK or Canada is America's because we both speak a form of English which is of course, utter nonsense. They did complain that Russian was less used and Ukrainian was in the ascendancy. I get that but that's just a temporary blip as generations change. 

US interference all over I cannot dispute.  Often not good but we all know that.  I was in Syria when the US turned up there for whatever reason. And I was in Kosovo just after the war ended.   In Syria, people were indifferent to the US but wanted change anyway, not necessarily their version.  In Kosovo however, Clinton was an absolute hero.   And you can see why, the Kosovans were liberated, had peace and had self-determination.   The Ukrainians just want the same.

But this is not much to do right now with Iran which is where we came from.   We still don't know which way this is going with them, Trump and Israel.

Elsewhere Trump is spoiling for a fight with China too as of this morning.    Trump has to lower the value of the dollar to make US exports cheaper, i.e. to feed his revived home grown manufacturing industry.   Yeah right. China has huge dollar reserves.  Maybe this is also what Trump wants, to stop Renminbi becomes a reserve currency, he needs them to spend their dollars to lower dollar value world wide.  Seems all a bit risky.

But this is not much to do right now with Iran which is where we came from. We still don't know which way this is going with them, Trump and Israel.
- @ffluffy2560

That's easy.

Israel and the US are puking up the old nukes lie that has been around since the 1990s.

In fact,  the 'weeks from nuclear weapons' stories started just after the US sponsored mass murdering dictator was removed.

I am truely shocked anyone still believes that rubbish, but too many stupid people obviously do.

Imagine a lie that self proves itself to be untrue time and time again when Iran didn't get the bomb, but people believe the new version every time.

Thick isn't even close.

But this is not much to do right now with Iran which is where we came from. We still don't know which way this is going with them, Trump and Israel.
- @ffluffy2560
That's easy.
Israel and the US are puking up the old nukes lie that has been around since the 1990s.
In fact, the 'weeks from nuclear weapons' stories started just after the US sponsored mass murdering dictator was removed.
I am truely shocked anyone still believes that rubbish, but too many stupid people obviously do.
Imagine a lie that self proves itself to be untrue time and time again when Iran didn't get the bomb, but people believe the new version every time.
Thick isn't even close. - @Fred

Sounds like you're calling me thick.   We should be polite and analytical otherwise the moderators will step in.     

Since Trump left the JCPOA agreement back in 2018, they'd hardly be sitting on their hands in Iran. 

It was 7 years ago so  I am sure those centrifuges have been whirring away non-stop since Trump reneged on the deal.    There hasn't been anything holding them back since then. Maybe it's the regime's last plays and they see nothing to lose. At least in their minds

Anyways, whether they have the bomb or not,  it seems to me the US and Israel are gearing up and ready to bomb Iran's nuclear sites.   It wouldn't take a lot for the US/Israel to go ahead with that considering their leaders mindsets.

Reports today say that despite what Trump said earlier today or yesterday, Iran has denied direct nuclear talks.  It's through an intermediary.   So they aren't even at the table together.   

Sounds like you're calling me thick. We should be polite and analytical otherwise the moderators will step in. 

Since Trump left the JCPOA agreement back in 2018, they'd hardly be sitting on their hands in Iran.
- @ffluffy2560

The very idea is abhorrent to me. I'm sure you don't believe the lies that Israel and the US have pulled out regularly for thirty years or so.

As for the propaganda about the oppressive iranian government, and all the stuff about women being forced to dress how the nasty government says...

https://youtu.be/Pv0aLo__jKI?si=FuarWtSVsEtMBkn3

It's absolutely terrible how Iranian women are forced into shopping malls on a Saturday afternoon. I call for an end to this oppressive society.

They deserve to be bombed by the peace loving ISREALI government.

Reports today say that despite what Trump said earlier today or yesterday, Iran has denied direct nuclear talks. It's through an intermediary. So they aren't even at the table together. - @fluffy2560

Well, I'm shocked - Trump actually lied - unbelievable!

Let me see.

The US and UK overthrew Iran's democracy, the US installed a mass murdering dictator.

https://foreignpolicy.com/2017/06/20/64 … ehran-oil/

The CIA says so. What a tin foil hat game that story is ... except it's true, even admitted as such by the CIA.

When the US puppet government was finally dumped, the US retaliation was pretty much immediate. They surrounded Iran with military bases, and attacked Iran militarily. That icludes Iran's peace mission to Saudi Arabia being destroyed when the US murdered Iran's deligate.

https://thegrayzone.com/2020/01/06/sole … t-attacks/

Luckily the evil Chinese stepped in and brought peace to the 2 countries- These Chinese are really nasty.

https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/blogs/i … -one-year/

So would you want to sit down with the very people who sold out your democracy for oil profits, murdered your peace envoy, and attack you regularly?

Double that with lying Trump running the show.

Reports today say that despite what Trump said earlier today or yesterday, Iran has denied direct nuclear talks. It's through an intermediary. So they aren't even at the table together.  - @fluffy2560Well, I'm shocked - Trump actually lied - unbelievable!Let me see.The US and UK overthrew Iran's democracy, the US installed a mass murdering dictator.https://foreignpolicy.com/2017/06/20/64 … ehran-oil/The CIA says so. What a tin foil hat game that story is ... except it's true, even admitted as such by the CIA.When the US puppet government was finally dumped, the US retaliation was pretty much immediate. They surrounded Iran with military bases, and attacked Iran militarily. That icludes Iran's peace mission to Saudi Arabia being destroyed when the US murdered Iran's deligate.https://thegrayzone.com/2020/01/06/sole … t-attacks/Luckily the evil Chinese stepped in and brought peace to the 2 countries- These Chinese are really nasty.https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/blogs/i … -one-year/So would you want to sit down with the very people who sold out your democracy for oil profits, murdered your peace envoy, and attack you regularly?Double that with lying Trump running the show. - @Fred

Sorry.  I don't look at your links.  Don't have time for that.  I am not particularly convinced by any ranting. 

I don't disagree with you that Trump is probably Beelzebub personified.  If his mouth is open, he's probably lying.  And so are his minions/cult followers.  That tool Hegseth was spouting his mouth off in Panama and Donny was saying stuff that was immediately denied by the Panamanian president.  Chump is on another planet.

Like I said, while we can learn from the past, it's what is going on now that's important.  Regardless of all that went before, where do you think - analytically and without ranting - it's going now?

Interesting aside, I was surprised to hear Chinese soldiers have been captured in occupied Ukraine.   Now that's really something Donny will be wrong footed over.   Could it become a proxy war in Ukraine with DPRK and China?

Oh and the new whopping China tariffs are like prodding the dragon.   Who'd have thought the Orange Blob would be so reckless?!

Sorry. I don't look at your links. Don't have time for that. I am not particularly convinced by any ranting.

Like I said, while we can learn from the past, it's what is going on now that's important. Regardless of all that went before, where do you think - analytically and without ranting - it's going now?

- @ffluffy2560

The first is about declassified CIA papers that 'rant on' about how they removed Iran's democracy and put the Shah i to power.

Another shows day to day life. The channel features walk throughs, this time of a shopping centre.

You can't learn from the past, or even be aware the present, if you prefer your opinions and chose to believe propaganda over reality.

Sorry. I don't look at your links. Don't have time for that. I am not particularly convinced by any ranting. Like I said, while we can learn from the past, it's what is going on now that's important. Regardless of all that went before, where do you think - analytically and without ranting - it's going now?  - @ffluffy2560The first is about declassified CIA papers that 'rant on' about how they removed Iran's democracy and put the Shah i to power.Another shows day to day life. The channel features walk throughs, this time of a shopping centre.You can't learn from the past, or even be aware the present, if you prefer your opinions and chose to believe propaganda over reality. - @Fred

I think we should move this to a throwaway thread entitled International Relations otherwise we're in danger of breaching the forum rules and getting this very long running thread  cancelled and scaring interesting contributors away.

ad entitled International Relations - @fluffy2560

I simply answered your point. Given that,  perhaps you should have started the thread before making ill thought out accusations.

Maybe you could call the new thread, "The false accusations based on propaganda thread".

Or maybe you could refrain from posting false accusations based on propaganda instead.

Just a thought. 🙂

ad entitled International Relations  - @fluffy2560I simply answered your point. Given that, perhaps you should have started the thread before making ill thought out accusations.Maybe you could call the new thread, "The false accusations based on propaganda thread".Or maybe you could refrain from posting false accusations based on propaganda instead.Just a thought. 🙂 - @Fred

Redirect your discussions to International Relations.

I specifically posted there for you to reply to.  You can put your points forward there.  There are overnight events.

ad entitled International Relations - @fluffy2560I simply answered your point. Given that, perhaps you should have started the thread before making ill thought out accusations.Maybe you could call the new thread, "The false accusations based on propaganda thread".Or maybe you could refrain from posting false accusations based on propaganda instead.Just a thought. 🙂 - @Fred
Redirect your discussions to International Relations. - @fluffy2560

No thanks. You made the accusations  here, so I prefer to answer you here.

If he rebuttal is moved to another thread, you can carry on lying here.

ad entitled International Relations - @fluffy2560I simply answered your point. Given that, perhaps you should have started the thread before making ill thought out accusations.Maybe you could call the new thread, "The false accusations based on propaganda thread".Or maybe you could refrain from posting false accusations based on propaganda instead.Just a thought. 🙂 - @FredRedirect your discussions to International Relations. - @fluffy2560No thanks. You made the accusations here, so I prefer to answer you here.If he rebuttal is moved to another thread, you can carry on lying here. - @Fred

Meh, don't you ever sleep?   

Go on Fred, give it a go, I'll miss you.

ad entitled International Relations - @fluffy2560I simply answered your point. Given that, perhaps you should have started the thread before making ill thought out accusations.Maybe you could call the new thread, "The false accusations based on propaganda thread".Or maybe you could refrain from posting false accusations based on propaganda instead.Just a thought. 🙂 - @FredRedirect your discussions to International Relations. - @fluffy2560No thanks. You made the accusations here, so I prefer to answer you here.If he rebuttal is moved to another thread, you can carry on lying here. - @Fred
Meh, don't you ever sleep?

Go on Fred, give it a go, I'll miss you. - @fluffy2560

You spew a lot of hate based on propaganda.

If you aren't questioned, you can get away with anything.

Even when facts are presented from the horse's mouth, you believe your opinion is worth more than undisputed historical accounts.

I'll make a deal. You stop hate filled rants, and I won't correct you.