President Joe Biden has approved the transfer of cluster munitions to Ukraine, despite its previous condemnation of Russia's use of such weapons as "war crimes". The decision comes as Ukraine continues its counteroffensive against Russian forces. In an interview with CNN's Fareed Zakaria, Biden stated that it was a "difficult decision" but necessary due to the dwindling ammunition supplies of Ukrainian forces. The cluster munitions will be compatible with US-provided 155mm howitzers, enabling Ukraine to regain territory. However, concerns have been raised about the potential risks they pose to civilians. Pentagon statements reveal that the cluster munitions may contain older grenades with a failure rate of 14 percent or more. The grenades can remain unexploded for years, posing a danger to both adults and children. While the Pentagon claims that the weapons being sent to Ukraine have a failure rate of 2.35 percent or less, experts warn that significant risks remain. Retired Army colonel Al Vosburgh emphasizes the need for extensive education campaigns to warn civilians of the dangers of unexploded grenades in the aftermath of the conflict.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen is urging China to cooperate with the United States in addressing the "existential threat" of climate change. Yellen, who is on a four-day trip to Beijing, emphasized the joint responsibility and leadership role that the two countries, as the world's largest emitters of greenhouse gases and investors in renewable energy, have in tackling global warming. She called for deeper cooperation in climate finance and urged China to support US-led initiatives such as the Green Climate Fund, which helps developing nations adapt to climate change.
The call for cooperation comes as the US seeks to cool tensions and strengthen collaboration with China. While there has been no formal climate change cooperation between the two countries since the Trump administration, Yellen's visit signals a potential resumption of cooperation. However, a sticking point in the negotiations is China's insistence that it is still a developing country and that the US and Europe should bear the responsibility for funding the energy transition.
Yellen's visit is part of ongoing efforts to improve relations between the US and China, as she becomes the second senior Washington official to visit Beijing in the last two months. Both countries play a crucial role in addressing climate change, and cooperation between them is seen as critical in the fight against global warming.
Baltimore police have arrested a 17-year-old male in connection with a mass shooting at a block party that occurred over the July Fourth weekend. The teenage suspect, who remains unnamed, has been charged with possession of a firearm by a minor, assault weapon possession, reckless endangerment, and carrying a handgun in a vehicle. However, he has not been charged with murder at this point in the investigation. The shooting took place in the Brooklyn Homes neighborhood and resulted in the deaths of two young people, with 28 others sustaining injuries. The investigation is ongoing, and Baltimore police are urging residents to provide any information that could assist them. There were reportedly at least two shooters involved in the incident, and authorities have yet to determine whether the shooting was targeted or indiscriminate. Gun violence has been a growing concern in Maryland, prompting Governor Wes Moore to express his outrage at the situation and call for stronger measures to address the issue.
Former President Donald Trump and his valet have pleaded not guilty to all 37 charges in a case related to classified documents. Special counsel Jack Smith, who was appointed by Attorney General Merrick Garland, has incurred over $9 million in costs since taking on the assignment last year. The released report shows that Smith spent about $5.4 million on his own budget, with an additional $3.8 million in spending by other Justice Department agencies. The U.S. Marshals Service alone spent $1.93 million providing security for the special prosecutor. The report, however, only accounts for expenses through the end of March and does not include the period leading up to Trump's indictment in June.
Smith's investigations have generated strong reactions and he has been seen flanked by deputy marshals as he commutes to and from his office. The various probes were well underway before Smith took over and he has largely maintained the existing staffing. The report does not provide information on the costs of the investigations prior to Smith's appointment. Witnesses, including former Vice President Mike Pence, have appeared before the grand jury in the federal courthouse in Washington, D.C.
Sources:
- POLITICO Staff
The past few days have seen a surge of record-breaking heat around the world. According to scientists, the Earth experienced its hottest June on record, with deadly heatwaves hitting parts of Texas, Mexico, and India. Sea ice levels off the coast of Antarctica have also reached record lows. On Tuesday, global average temperatures soared to 62.6 degrees Fahrenheit, making it the hottest day since at least 1940. This unprecedented spike in temperatures has experts concerned about the future.
Climate scientists warn that this heatwave may be just the beginning. They predict that Earth could be entering a multiyear period of exceptional warmth driven by two main factors: the continued emissions of heat-trapping gases, primarily caused by human activities such as burning fossil fuels, and the return of the El Nino weather pattern.
While the records set this week are based on observational data sets that only go back to the mid-20th century, scientists believe that they are likely the warmest temperatures the planet has experienced in at least 100,000 years. This news highlights the urgent need for action to address climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
As the world grapples with this alarming heatwave, one question remains: How much hotter will it get in the future?
The Dutch government has collapsed after failing to reach an agreement on restricting immigration, leading to the announcement of new elections later this year. Prime Minister Mark Rutte's conservative VVD party had pushed for limitations on the flow of asylum seekers to the Netherlands, but two of the four-party coalition government refused to support the proposal. The differences in immigration policy became "insurmountable," according to Rutte, who announced the resignation of the entire cabinet.
The disagreement centered around family reunification rules, with the VVD aiming to limit the entry of children of war refugees already in the country. The proposal included a waiting period of at least two years before families could be united. The small Christian Union and liberal D66 parties opposed these measures, leading to a stalemate.
While the Netherlands already has one of the strictest immigration policies in Europe, the government has been facing increasing asylum applications. The number of applicants jumped by a third last year, and projections indicate that it could exceed 70,000 this year. The collapse of the government further adds to the challenges of managing the influx of asylum seekers.
The Dutch government will now function as a caretaker government until new elections are held, which is expected to take place in mid-November. A caretaker government cannot make new policies, but Prime Minister Rutte assured that it would not affect the country's support for Ukraine. The upcoming elections will determine the next administration and its approach to immigration policy in the Netherlands.
Patrick Crusius, the gunman responsible for the mass shooting at a Walmart in El Paso, Texas in 2019, has been sentenced to 90 consecutive life terms for his conviction on federal hate crimes charges. The sentencing comes after a plea agreement in February that recommended life imprisonment in exchange for pleading guilty to hate crimes and weapons charges. The shooting, which was one of the deadliest attacks on Latinos in U.S. history, resulted in the deaths of 23 people and left 22 others injured.
During the emotional hearing in federal court, relatives of the victims confronted Crusius, calling him a coward and recounting the devastating impact of his actions. Many of the victims' family members had hoped for a death penalty sentence, and Texas prosecutors plan to seek the death penalty in the upcoming state murder trial.
The sentencing marks an important step in the pursuit of justice, but for some, it is not enough. The victims' family members believe there is still a long way to go in terms of finding the true punishment for Crusius. The state trial is expected to begin later this year, where he will face murder charges and a potential death penalty.
Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen expressed her concerns about China's treatment of U.S. companies during her trip to Beijing. Yellen criticized China's punitive actions against American firms and its recent decision to impose export controls on critical minerals. These actions have raised tensions between the two countries and justified the Biden administration's efforts to reduce reliance on China.
Yellen's comments were made during a meeting with American business leaders in China. She highlighted China's use of non-market tools, expanded subsidies for state-owned enterprises, and barriers to market access for foreign firms as major concerns. Yellen also mentioned the punitive actions taken against U.S. companies in recent months.
These concerns come in the wake of the Chinese government detaining employees of American consulting and management consulting firms operating in China. The scrutiny of American businesses followed the restrictions imposed by the Biden administration on China's access to critical semiconductor-making technology.
Yellen's trip to China is part of a larger effort to ease tensions and improve bilateral ties between the United States and China. The visit comes after Secretary of State Antony Blinken's recent trip to China. Although the visit is not expected to yield immediate results, it is significant in the context of the deteriorating relations between the two countries.
Both the United States and China have grievances against each other, with the United States accusing China of unfair economic practices and China accusing the United States of blocking fair access to its markets. These issues are likely to persist in the near future, but both sides recognize the need for diplomatic engagement to prevent further escalation.
Overall, Yellen's criticism of China's treatment of U.S. companies reflects the ongoing tensions between the two economic powerhouses and underscores the challenges they face in their efforts to move beyond their differences.
Sources:
- Alan Rappeport, "Yellen, in Beijing, Criticizes China's Treatment of U.S. Companies," The New York Times
- Kelly Ng & Rupert Wingfield-Hayes, "Yellen criticises Chinese curbs against US firms," BBC News
- Bloomberg, "Five Things You Need to Know to Start Your Day"
Victor Wembanyama, the No. 1 pick in the NBA draft, made his highly anticipated debut in the NBA Summer League on Friday night. Despite his shooting struggles, Wembanyama showed flashes of brilliance and left fans excited for what's to come.
In his debut game against the Charlotte Hornets, Wembanyama scored nine points on 2-for-13 shooting. However, his impact extended beyond the stat sheet. The 7-foot-6 rookie showcased his defensive prowess with five blocked shots and grabbed eight rebounds. Wembanyama also displayed his passing ability with three assists, including a highlight-reel left-handed shovel pass for an assist.
Despite the mixed shooting performance, Wembanyama's presence on the court was undeniable. His size and length caused problems for the Hornets, and his defensive instincts were on full display. He even blocked a three-pointer attempt from Brandon Miller, the No. 2 pick in the draft.
In addition to his on-court contributions, Wembanyama's arrival was met with fanfare. The crowd of 17,500 fans, many of whom came specifically to see him, witnessed the beginning of what promises to be a memorable career. Wembanyama expressed his gratitude at wearing a Spurs jersey for the first time, calling it a "special moment" and an "honor."
While it's still early in the Summer League, Wembanyama's debut showcased his potential and left fans excited for what he can bring to the San Antonio Spurs in the upcoming season. As the Summer League continues, all eyes will be on Wembanyama to see how he progresses and if he can fulfill the high expectations set for him as the top pick in the draft.
The NBA Vegas Summer League is off to an exciting start, with top prospects showcasing their talent. However, injuries have unfortunately become a prominent storyline early on. In the game between the Portland Trail Blazers and Houston Rockets, both Scoot Henderson and Amen Thompson suffered injuries in their NBA debuts.
Henderson, the No. 3 overall pick by Portland, left the game in the third quarter with a right shoulder injury and did not return. Thompson, on the other hand, had an awkward fall while attempting to block a shot and suffered an apparent left ankle injury in the fourth quarter. He also did not come back into the game.
While the severity of their injuries is still unclear, it is a concerning start for these young players. Both Henderson and Thompson had impressive performances before their injuries, showing glimpses of their potential. Henderson finished the game with 15 points, 5 rebounds, and 6 assists, while Thompson contributed 16 points, 4 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 steals, and 4 blocks.
The NBA Vegas Summer League is a crucial opportunity for rookies and young players to prove themselves and earn roster spots. However, injuries can disrupt their development and potentially impact their chances of making an impact in the upcoming season.
With more games to be played in the Summer League, fans and teams will be hoping to see these talented players recover quickly and get back on the court.
WWE superstar Roman Reigns recently encountered a mysterious ban on TikTok, with his account now showing an "account banned" message. Reigns, known as "The Tribal Chief," has a significant following on the social media platform with 1.3 million followers and 7.6 million likes. The reason for Reigns' ban remains unknown, but speculation suggests it could be due to TikTok's strict policy against violent content. However, other WWE stars maintain active TikTok profiles featuring in-ring action, making this theory puzzling. It's possible that one of Reigns' earlier TikTok videos included profanities, which may have violated TikTok's community guidelines. Despite the ban, Reigns returned to TikTok, posting a video clip from his WrestleMania 39 press conference, where he mocked reporters. Meanwhile, Reigns' focus shifts to tonight's "WWE SmackDown" where he will face his cousins, The Usos, for the first time since being pinned by Jey Uso at Money in the Bank. The ban may have left fans searching for answers, but it's unlikely to diminish Reigns' stature in the WWE universe.
The NBA Summer League, also known as the Las Vegas Summer League, is set to kick off on July 7th and will feature top prospects and young talent from all 30 teams. This annual event provides players with an opportunity to showcase their skills and compete for a spot on the NBA roster.
The games will be held at the Thomas & Mack Center and Cox Pavilion on the University of Nevada, Las Vegas campus. With 76 games spread over 11 days, basketball enthusiasts are in for a treat.
The schedule for the Summer League has been released, with games being televised on various ESPN channels, including ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, and NBA TV. Viewers in the U.S. can also stream the games on platforms such as the ESPN app, fuboTV, Sling TV, YouTube TV, NBA League Pass, or the NBA app.
The format for the Summer League follows a standard NBA game structure, with four 10-minute quarters. Each team will have only two timeouts per half, and players will be fouled out after committing 10 fouls.
The Summer League not only provides a platform for top picks like Victor Wembanyama, Scoot Henderson, and Brandon Miller to make a strong impression but also allows lesser-known players to showcase their skills and potentially earn a spot on an NBA roster.
So mark your calendars and get ready for some exciting basketball action at the NBA Summer League 2023!
The Las Vegas Summer League is set to kick off on July 7, featuring a total of 76 games over 11 days. Both top draft picks and lesser-known players will be looking to make an impact and earn a roster spot ahead of the new season. So, how can you watch all the action?
Games will take place at the Thomas & Mack Center and Cox Pavilion in Las Vegas, with all 30 NBA teams participating. In the United States, the games will be broadcast on ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, and NBA TV. Viewers can also stream the games on the ESPN app, as well as on fuboTV and Sling TV.
If you're a Sling TV subscriber, you can watch the Summer League games for just $15 in your first month with Sling Orange. YouTube TV offers ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, and NBA TV with a subscription, while Hulu with Live TV includes ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPNU, but not NBA TV.
Overseas viewers can use a VPN to access channels and services broadcasting the NBA Summer League.
The Summer League schedule will culminate in a championship game on July 17 between the two teams with the best records. Don't miss out on all the excitement and talent on display at the NBA Summer League!
In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists have recovered fragments from the first recognized interstellar meteor. The meteor, known as IM1, entered Earth's atmosphere on January 8, 2014, and crashed into the Pacific Ocean near Papua New Guinea. Harvard astrophysicist Avi Loeb and his team spent years studying the meteor's trajectory and characteristics, leading them to believe it originated from outside our solar system. With the US government backing their claims, Loeb and his team embarked on a $1.5 million expedition to retrieve fragments from the ocean floor.
The team successfully recovered 50 "spherules," metallic beads ranging in size from 0.1mm to 1mm. These spherules are composed of a combination of magnesium, titanium, and iron, which is an unusual composition not found in our solar system. This unique composition suggests that the fragments indeed originated from the interstellar meteor.
Loeb and his team hope to find a larger piece of the meteor that survived the impact to further study its composition and determine if it has any artificial origins. The recovery of fragments from IM1 marks the first time humans have been able to physically examine an object from outside our solar system. This groundbreaking discovery opens up new possibilities for understanding the origins of objects in our universe and has scientists questioning the potential existence of extraterrestrial life.
Earth set another unofficial heat record this week, marking the third time in a week that the global average temperature reached a new high. The temperature on Thursday soared to 17.23 degrees Celsius (63.01 degrees Fahrenheit), surpassing the previous record of 17.01 degrees Celsius set just days before. These record-breaking temperatures, which are likely the highest in "at least 100,000 years," have raised concerns among scientists about the impacts of climate change. The records are based on observational data sets since the mid-20th century, but scientists believe they are indicative of the planet's warmest temperatures in a much longer timeframe. Climate data extracted from proxies like tree rings and ice cores support this hypothesis.
While some argue that the record-setting temperatures may not be official, scientists emphasize that the focus should be on the underlying causes of these extreme temperatures. The rise in global temperatures is primarily attributed to human-induced climate change and the natural weather pattern known as El Niño. Additionally, experts warn that societies have not adequately adapted to the impacts of extreme heat on both people and the environment. As the summer season in the Northern Hemisphere continues and El Niño persists, it is anticipated that more daily temperature records will be broken in 2023. These consistently high temperatures serve as a wake-up call to the urgent need for addressing climate change and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
The ruling Dutch coalition has collapsed after tense talks among the four parties in Prime Minister Mark Rutte's ruling bloc failed to broker a deal over ways to rein in migration. A senior member of Rutte's People's Party for Freedom and Democracy stated that it is a "great shame" that the government has fallen. The failure of the talks could now lead to a general election. Rutte's Cabinet gathered for a meeting following the collapse, and opposition lawmakers wasted no time in calling for fresh elections. Rutte, the Netherlands' longest-serving premier, presided over late-night meetings but was unable to result in a deal. The issue of migration has caused ideological divisions within the coalition, with some parties advocating for stricter measures and others opposing a crackdown. The coalition had been trying for months to reach a deal on reducing the flow of new migrants arriving in the country. The collapse of the ruling coalition could have significant implications for Dutch politics and the future direction of the country.
Sources:
- Mike Corder, Associated Press
- The Hague (AFP)
- Dutch government collapses over migration row, AFP
- World, AP News
Brooks Running has launched a new recommerce program called ReStart, which aims to refurbish and resell gently used Brooks footwear in the US. The program is part of Brooks' sustainability initiatives and is dedicated to protecting the planet while providing a revenue source for future sustainability initiatives. ReStart will include popular styles such as the Ghost, Glycerin, and the Hyperion franchise at prices starting at 35% off MSRP.
The recommerce market is growing rapidly, with predictions that it will represent 23% of all retail by 2030. To ensure a seamless shopping experience, Brooks has partnered with Trove, an industry leader in branded resale for over a decade. Trove's Recommerce Operating System will power the ReStart program and invite new customers into the brand, providing accessibility and optionality to the Brooks community.
Currently, the program is available online to US customers only. However, Brooks is looking to expand its sustainability commitments and increase its net-zero emissions reduction targets. The launch of ReStart is a significant step in the brand's science-backed approach to sustainability.
Overall, Brooks' ReStart program aims to keep gear on the run while taking responsibility for the impact of their business. By extending the life of gently used gear, Brooks aims to contribute to a more sustainable future in the running industry.
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has claimed that Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin is in Russia, raising questions about the recent deal that supposedly ended Prigozhin's uprising against the Kremlin. The whereabouts of Prigozhin could not be independently verified, but Russian media have reported sightings of him at his offices in St. Petersburg. The deal allowed Prigozhin to move to Belarus in exchange for ending the rebellion and promising amnesty for him and his troops. However, if Prigozhin is indeed in Russia, it suggests that the threat posed by him may not have been fully eliminated. It also raises concerns about the loyalty of the troops who fought alongside him. President Putin has said that the Wagner troops can join the Russian military, retire from service, or move to Belarus. The details of the agreement brokered by Lukashenko remain unclear, and it is uncertain whether Prigozhin's presence in Russia violates the deal. The Kremlin has refused to comment on his whereabouts, stating that it does not have the means to track his movements.
It seems like a romance may be brewing between actress Hailee Steinfeld and Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen. The rumored couple were spotted in Mexico, getting cozy and sharing kisses during a romantic dinner. While they have yet to confirm their relationship publicly, these photos suggest that things are getting serious between them.
The two celebrities were first linked in May when they were seen together in New York. This came shortly after Allen's reported breakup with his ex-girlfriend Brittany Williams. Steinfeld and Allen have been spending more time together, and it seems like their connection is growing stronger.
Steinfeld, known for her roles in films like "True Grit" and "Bumblebee," has previously dated Niall Horan. In a recent interview, she expressed what she looks for in a partner - someone who supports her and whom she can support in return. She also mentioned feeling confident in herself and grateful for her career.
Allen, on the other hand, is enjoying an impressive NFL career as the Bills' quarterback. He recently signed a lucrative contract and is now jetting off to Mexico with one of the country's most famous actresses.
Although there has been no official confirmation of their relationship, these steamy photos suggest that things are heating up between Hailee Steinfeld and Josh Allen. Fans will have to wait and see if they make their romance public soon.
Jessica Simpson is denying claims that she used the diabetes drug Ozempic to lose weight. In a recent interview with Bustle, the singer and actress addressed rumors that she had slimmed down using the FDA-approved medication. Simpson insisted that her weight loss was the result of willpower and not the use of any drugs. She explained that she refuses to let negative comments about her weight derail her and that she is too connected to herself to let it affect her. Simpson has been open about her struggles with weight and body image throughout her career and has previously revealed that she lost 100 pounds after giving birth to her third child in 2019. Despite the criticism she faces, she remains focused on her own self-care and understanding her brand's customers. Simpson's determination and resilience in the face of scrutiny are an inspiration to many.
Baltimore police have charged a 17-year-old teenager as a person of interest in the mass shooting that took place at a block party in Brooklyn Homes on Sunday. The teenager was arrested on Friday morning without incident after a search warrant was executed at a house. Although he is not being charged as the shooter, the teenager is facing charges of possession of a firearm by a minor, assault weapon possession, reckless endangerment, and handgun in a vehicle. The arrest comes days after the shooting, which left two people dead and 28 others injured, including 15 minors. Three victims remain in the hospital but are listed in fair condition. An investigation is ongoing to determine why authorities were not present at the block party, which is held annually and typically has a police presence. Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott has stated that a thorough examination will be conducted to understand what the police knew and when they knew it.
The shooting has sparked concerns over gun violence and the need for stronger gun control measures. In 2023 alone, there have been at least 361 mass shootings in the United States, according to the Gun Violence Archive. President Joe Biden has renewed calls for stricter gun control legislation in light of these incidents. The Baltimore Police Department is offering a reward of up to $28,000 for any information leading to an arrest and charges related to the mass shooting.
Former President Donald Trump launched a scathing attack on Florida Governor Ron DeSantis during a campaign event in Iowa. Trump accused DeSantis of being against corn-based ethanol, an industry that Iowa leads in production. As a member of Congress, DeSantis co-sponsored a bill in 2017 that aimed to end the renewable fuel standard, which was seen as government overreach by fiscal conservatives. Trump claimed that DeSantis had been fighting against ethanol for years and voting against it as a congressman, which would have resulted in job losses. DeSantis' campaign responded by calling the attack a distortion and stating that as president, he would champion for farmers and open new markets for them. Trump touted his own record as the "most pro-farmer president" and declared his support for Iowa ethanol. While attacking DeSantis, Trump's own mixed record on biofuels could be scrutinized. Although he extended the sale of fuel blends with 15 percent ethanol, known as E15, his attempts to craft a deal on biofuels policy were unsuccessful.
Prime Minister Mark Rutte of the Netherlands has resigned due to irreconcilable differences within the ruling coalition regarding immigration policy. The collapse of the government will lead to new general elections later this year. Rutte, who has served as the nation's premier for the longest period in its history, stated that the coalition partners had vastly different views on migration policy, ultimately making it impossible to continue governing together.
Opposition lawmakers quickly called for fresh elections following Rutte's resignation. The crisis stems from the conservative VVD party's push to limit asylum seekers' influx, which two of the four-party coalition partners refused to support. Rutte's attempts to reduce the inflow of asylum seekers were met with resistance, given that the Netherlands already has one of Europe's toughest immigration policies.
Migration is a contentious issue across Europe, given the ongoing conflicts and the desire to control the flow of newcomers. The Dutch government's collapse highlights the deep ideological divisions within the country and foreshadows the role migration will play in the upcoming European Union parliamentary elections. Dutch citizens are torn between their long-standing tradition of welcoming international outreach and growing resistance to foreign influences.
President Biden is considering supplying Ukraine with cluster munitions, despite the weapons being banned by many US allies. Ukraine is running low on ammunition and is seeking cluster munitions, which are known to cause grievous injuries to civilians. The decision to provide Ukraine with these weapons would separate President Biden from his closest allies who have signed an international treaty banning the use, stockpiling, or transfer of cluster munitions. Mr. Biden's top aides, including Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, recommended the move, citing the urgent need for ammunition in Ukraine. The State Department, however, had concerns about the humanitarian impact and the potential for the US to be out of step with its allies. Despite these concerns, it appears that Mr. Biden's aides believe there is little choice but to provide the cluster munitions to Ukraine. The decision comes as Ukraine faces a dire ammunition shortage and believes the munitions are necessary to counter Russian forces. The Biden administration is expected to announce the decision on Friday.
Patrick Crusius, the Walmart shooter responsible for the death of 23 people and injury of 22 others in El Paso, Texas, has been sentenced to 90 consecutive life terms on federal hate crime charges. During the sentencing hearing, defense attorney Joe Spencer detailed Crusius' alleged severe mental illness, Schizoaffective disorder, as the cause of the horrific act. Spencer stated that Crusius suffered from delusional thinking and had lost touch with reality. Crusius, who pleaded guilty to federal charges earlier this year, did not react when the sentence was read.
The shooting, which occurred in August 2019, targeted Hispanic people at a Walmart store near the U.S.-Mexico border. It was characterized as an act of domestic terrorism. While the federal sentencing has been completed, Crusius still faces additional state charges and could potentially face the death penalty if convicted. El Paso District Attorney Bill Hicks intends to pursue the death penalty in the state trial.
The sentencing hearing provided an opportunity for survivors and victims' families to confront Crusius, expressing their grief, anger, and anguish. Despite the federal sentence, many relatives had hoped for a death penalty verdict. Crusius' defense attorney emphasized his client's mental illness as a mitigating factor. The case has sparked further debates about the intersection of mental illness and criminal responsibility.
