Foreign
Support for Luigi Mangione Grows Amid High-Profile Murder Trial.
On Friday, supporters of Luigi Mangione gathered outside the Manhattan Criminal Court, where he is currently on trial for the alleged murder of Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare. Accused of killing the executive on December 4, 2024, Mangione has pleaded “not guilty” before Judge Gregory Carro.
As Mangione arrived and departed the courthouse, a chorus of supporters chanted “Free Luigi,” demonstrating their defiance against federal and state officials who caution against viewing him as a hero. Many displayed banners bearing messages such as “Lock up the real criminals” and “Patients before profits,” reflecting a broader critique of the healthcare system.
Mangione’s supporters argue that he is not a criminal but rather a citizen who has challenged a system often criticized for denying insurance payouts or offering insufficient compensation for serious claims. Following the court session, Mangione’s attorney, Karen Friedman Agnifilo, expressed concern over the defendant’s treatment, noting that he was brought into the courtroom in handcuffs and a bulletproof vest. She emphasized that this portrayal undermines his right to a fair trial, asserting that he is entitled to the presumption of innocence.
The case has drawn significant attention, particularly given the serious nature of the charges against Mangione, which include first-degree murder and federal stalking offenses that may carry the death penalty. His next court hearing concerning federal charges is set for March 19, where supporters are expected to rally once again.
The murder of Thompson has sent shockwaves through the healthcare industry, prompting companies to enhance security measures and reevaluate safety protocols within their offices. As the trial unfolds, the implications of this case will likely resonate far beyond the courtroom.
Niger has announced plans to nationalize the Somair uranium mine, currently operated by French nuclear firm Orano. This decision marks a further departure from France, Niger’s former colonial power, and a potential realignment with Russia. The military government, in power since a 2023 coup, accuses Orano of unfairly benefiting from the mine’s output since its launch in 1971. Orano, which holds a 63% stake in Somair, disputes the allegations and has threatened legal action, citing a “systematic policy of stripping mining assets.” This move follows Niger’s earlier removal of Orano’s operational control over key mines in the country. The nationalization reflects a broader trend in West Africa, with Mali and Burkina Faso also pursuing similar policies under military rule. The situation is further complicated by existing arbitration processes between Orano and Niger, including a recent lawsuit filed by Orano.
On Monday 16 June 2025, the Nigeria Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla (Admiralty Medal) commenced a 3-day working visit to Denmark. The working visit which is at the instance of the Danish Navy aims to strengthen cooperation between both navies.
The visit saw the CNS take a short boat trip with the Admiral of the Danish Navy, Rear Admiral Søren Kjeldsen. In the company of the CNS was Ambassador T. A. Elias-Fatile, CDAai/Head of Mission, Embassy of Nigeria, in Sweden and the Nordic countries, the Navy Secretary, Rear Admiral Patrick Nwatu and Nigeria’s Defence Adviser to London, Brigadier General Manu.
Other engagements on the first day of the working visit was a meeting with the CEO of Blue Denmark and a discussion session with the Denmark Ministry of Defence’s Centre for Security and Operations.
Below are some pictures that was taken :
Atlanta-based rapper Silento, known for his viral hit “Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae),” has been sentenced to 30 years in prison after pleading guilty to charges of aggravated assault and possession of a firearm. The sentencing follows his confession to fatally shooting his cousin, Frederick Rooks III, in January 2021.
DeKalb County Police discovered Rooks with multiple gunshot wounds. Investigations revealed that Silento and Rooks were last seen together in a white BMW SUV, which was later captured on security footage fleeing the scene after the shooting.
Prior to the incident, Silento’s PR manager, Chanel Hudson, stated that the rapper had been struggling with mental health issues for several years. In 2020, he was also charged with assault for allegedly attacking two people with a hatchet. Silento himself acknowledged his struggles with mental health in a 2019 interview, stating, “I have been fighting demons my whole life.”
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