September 2025 | Trendbrio.com

Barrack Obama: Is the U.S. Government Crossing a First Amendment Line?

Fola Badmus25 minutes ago25 minutes ago01 mins

After years of railing against so-called “cancel culture,” the current U.S. administration appears to be engaging in a far more troubling version of it — leveraging its power to pressure media organizations into silencing voices it disapproves of. According to recent reports, officials have repeatedly hinted at or directly threatened regulatory action against networks unless certain commentators or journalists are fired. This escalation marks a potentially dangerous shift: from cultural backlash to alleged government coercion. The First Amendment was explicitly designed to prevent this kind of state interference in the free press. If media outlets continue to cave to these threats, the precedent set could have chilling effects far beyond partisan politics. Now more than ever, media organizations must defend their independence — not just for themselves, but for the integrity of democratic discourse. Read more here →

Five Key Takeaways from Trump-Starmer Meeting in the UK

Fola Badmus31 minutes ago31 minutes ago05 mins

Aylesbury, UK – September 18, 2025 — U.S. President Donald Trump and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer presented a united front on major global issues during a joint press conference at Chequers, wrapping up Trump’s three-day visit to the United Kingdom. Despite recent tensions between Washington and European allies, the meeting underscored strong transatlantic ties as the two leaders discussed Ukraine, NATO, Gaza, Afghanistan, and more. 1. Trump Says Putin ‘Let Him Down’ Over UkrainePresident Trump expressed frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin over the prolonged war in Ukraine, admitting he underestimated the challenge of resolving the conflict.“I thought it would be easiest because of my relationship with President Putin, but he’s let me down,” Trump said.PM Starmer reiterated the UK’s commitment to supporting Ukraine, vowing to increase pressure on Russia and push for a lasting peace deal. 2. Divergence on Gaza, But Unity Against HamasWhile both leaders condemned Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, they differed on the broader approach to the Gaza conflict.Trump avoided criticizing Israel’s ongoing military campaign, which has killed over 65,000 Palestinians, calling October 7 “one of the worst days in the history of humanity.”Starmer’s previous pledge to recognize a Palestinian state was noted as a “point of disagreement,” but Trump praised the UK leader’s strong stance against Hamas. 3. Trump Praises NATO and Increased Defense SpendingOnce a vocal NATO critic, Trump struck a different tone, applauding the alliance’s commitment to boost defense spending.“I want to thank NATO and our wonderful head of NATO, Mark [Rutte]… They’ve done a great job,” he said, highlighting a new pledge for members to spend 5% of GDP on defense.Trump emphasized U.S. support in supplying weapons to NATO allies, stressing that the alliance was now “paying its fair share.” 4. Bagram Airbase Back in FocusTrump hinted at possible negotiations with the Taliban for the U.S. to regain access to the Bagram airbase in Afghanistan, which was vacated in 2021 during the Biden administration’s withdrawal.“We’re trying to get it back,” Trump said, citing its strategic location near China’s nuclear facilities.The Taliban, however, quickly dismissed the proposal, stating they welcome engagement with the U.S. but will not allow any foreign military presence. 5. Trump Weighs in on Kimmel FiringTrump also addressed the firing of late-night host Jimmy Kimmel by ABC, following political controversy over remarks involving conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.“Jimmy Kimmel was fired because he had bad ratings… He’s not a talented person,” Trump said, dismissing concerns about free speech and framing the firing as a business decision. Conclusion:The Trump-Starmer meeting reflected a broad effort to reinforce U.S.-UK ties amid ongoing global crises. While areas of disagreement remain, particularly on Middle East policy, both leaders signaled alignment on Ukraine, NATO, and global security cooperation.

Afghanistan Rejects Trump’s Call for US Return to Bagram Airbase

Fola Badmus1 hour ago38 minutes ago03 mins

Kabul, Afghanistan – September 19, 2025 — Afghanistan’s Taliban-led government has firmly rejected former U.S. President Donald Trump’s renewed call for American forces to return and reclaim the Bagram airbase, a former U.S. military hub north of Kabul. A senior Afghan foreign ministry official stated on Friday that while Kabul is open to dialogue with Washington, any form of renewed U.S. military presence in the country is “non-negotiable.” “Afghanistan and the United States need to engage… without the United States maintaining any military presence in any part of Afghanistan,” said foreign ministry official Zakir Jalal in a social media post. He added that future relations must be based on “mutual respect and shared interests.” Trump, speaking Thursday, reiterated his belief that Bagram holds significant strategic value due to its proximity to China. “We’re trying to get it back,” he said, criticizing the 2021 withdrawal that led to the airbase falling under Taliban control. “We gave it to them for nothing,” Trump said, claiming Bagram is “exactly one hour away from where China makes its nuclear missiles.” The comments come as reports indicate Trump’s team has reinitiated dialogue with Taliban officials. Over the weekend, U.S. envoys Adam Boehler and Zalmay Khalilzad met with Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in Kabul, reportedly discussing detained American citizens and possible areas of cooperation. While the U.S. has not formally recognized the Taliban government since it regained control in 2021, recent diplomatic engagement suggests a possible shift in tone. Still, any effort to reestablish a military foothold appears firmly off the table for Kabul. Bagram, once the largest U.S. base in Afghanistan, was the center of American operations during the two-decade war and also housed a controversial detention facility. The site was abandoned in July 2021 as part of the U.S. military withdrawal. Trump has long argued that the U.S. should have retained Bagram, not for Afghan security, but due to its regional strategic value — particularly in regard to China and access to Afghanistan’s untapped mineral wealth.

Newcastle 1-2 Barcelona: Marcus Rashford Stuns St James’ Park with Champions League Brace

Fola Badmus13 hours ago13 hours ago04 mins

Marcus Rashford reminded Europe of his elite finishing ability with two sensational goals as Barcelona edged past Newcastle United 2-1 in their opening game of the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League group stage. On loan from Manchester United, Rashford became the first English player to score for Barcelona in European competition since Gary Lineker in 1989, delivering a match-winning performance that silenced a spirited St James’ Park. Despite being the more aggressive side for much of the match, Newcastle were made to pay for a string of missed opportunities. Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes failed to make the most of several inviting deliveries from Anthony Elanga, while Barcelona were ruthlessly efficient at the other end. Rashford Makes His Mark The breakthrough came in the 36th minute when Jules Kounde whipped in a precise cross from the right, and Rashford rose between two defenders to steer a composed header past Nick Pope. Just nine minutes later, the England international produced a moment of brilliance. Picking up the ball outside the box, Rashford unleashed a powerful dipping strike that clipped the underside of the bar before nestling in the top corner — a goal worthy of the occasion and a clear message to doubters following a mixed final season at Manchester United. England manager Thomas Tuchel was in attendance to witness Rashford’s performance first-hand, no doubt taking note of the forward’s clinical display ahead of next month’s international fixtures. Newcastle Fight Back, But Fall Short To their credit, Newcastle didn’t give up. The Magpies created 19 shots in total and had more efforts on target than the visitors, but their finishing lacked the sharpness shown by Rashford. Their persistence paid off late on when Anthony Gordon, who had been Newcastle’s liveliest attacking outlet all evening, finally found the net in the 88th minute with a composed finish after a slick passing move. But it was too little, too late. Barcelona held firm in the final moments, with Ronald Araújo and Frenkie de Jong standing tall under pressure to help the Spanish giants secure a valuable three points on the road. What It Means The result gives Barcelona their first Champions League away win of the season and puts them in strong early contention in their group, while Newcastle will rue missed chances in what could prove to be a crucial fixture. For Rashford, it was a night to savour — not just for the goals, but for proving that on Europe’s biggest stage, he still has the tools to change a game.

Man City 2-0 Napoli: Haaland Hits 50th UCL Goal as 10-Man Napoli Fall at the Etihad

Fola Badmus13 hours ago13 hours ago03 mins

Erling Haaland reached yet another remarkable milestone as Manchester City kicked off their 2025/26 UEFA Champions League campaign with a commanding 2-0 win over Napoli at the Etihad Stadium on Thursday night. The Norwegian striker netted his 50th Champions League goal in just 49 appearances — making him the fastest player in history to reach the mark, surpassing previous record-holder Ruud van Nistelrooy who did it in 62 games. City dominated from the start but were handed a major advantage in the 28th minute when Napoli captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo was shown a straight red card for a reckless challenge on Jeremy Doku. The Italian side, already under pressure, were forced to retreat into a low block for the remainder of the match. Despite a goalless first half, City’s breakthrough came shortly after the interval. Haaland struck with typical precision in the 53rd minute, latching onto a low cross from Phil Foden and firing home past Alex Meret to break the deadlock and bring up his half-century in the competition. Napoli, down to ten men and struggling to maintain possession, offered little resistance as the hosts continued to dominate. The second goal arrived in the 68th minute, with Doku — who had tormented the Napoli backline all evening — finishing neatly after a slick one-two with Julian Alvarez. Pep Guardiola will be pleased with his side’s fluid attacking play and defensive discipline, especially ahead of their top-of-the-table Premier League clash with Arsenal on Super Sunday. City now top their group, while Napoli face an uphill battle in a competitive section. For Haaland, the night marked another milestone in a glittering European career — and ominous signs for City’s rivals.

US, UK Sign Nuclear Deal to Build Reactors and Power AI Data Centres

Fola Badmus16 hours ago15 hours ago03 mins

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and US President Donald Trump have signed a multibillion-pound agreement to expand nuclear energy infrastructure in both countries, aimed at addressing rising power demands and bolstering clean energy initiatives. The deal, called the Atlantic Partnership for Advanced Nuclear Energy, includes plans to construct up to 12 advanced modular reactors in Hartlepool, northeast England. These reactors are expected to power 1.5 million homes and create up to 2,500 jobs. The agreement also covers the development of next-generation data centres powered by small modular reactors (SMRs) in Nottinghamshire, in a project valued at £11 billion ($15 billion). US-based Holtec, France’s EDF Energy, and UK investment firm Tritax will lead the data centre initiative, while UK energy supplier Centrica will partner with American firm X-energy on the Hartlepool reactors. The partnership builds on ongoing nuclear collaborations between UK firm Rolls-Royce and US contractor BWXT and is part of a broader strategy to modernise aging UK nuclear infrastructure. The UK currently operates eight nuclear power stations, most of which are nearing the end of their service life. The move comes as global demand for low-carbon, high-reliability energy surges—particularly in industries like artificial intelligence, where energy needs are rapidly increasing. The US aims to quadruple its nuclear capacity by 2050, with Trump’s administration supporting the expansion of modular reactor technology as a faster and cheaper alternative to traditional plants. Experts estimate the UK-US nuclear programme could generate at least £40 billion ($54.4 billion) in economic value. Construction timelines for these modular reactors typically span five to seven years, with deployment expected to begin in the early 2030s.

Super Eagles Slip on FIFA World Ranking

Fola Badmus18 hours ago18 hours ago02 mins

Former African Champions, Super Eagles have dropped one spot in World football governing body, FIFA monthly world ranking. The Eric Chelle lads are ranked 45th in the world and are sixth in Africa behind Morocco, Senegal, Egypt, Algeria and Cote d’Ivoire. Nigeria won 1483.86 points as against her 1484.26 points in July. Meanwhile, Spain have returned to the ranking summit after a making a sensational start to qualifying for World Cup 26. They kicked off their campaign with a 3-0 win in Bulgaria, then made it back-to-back away victories with a 6-0 trouncing of Turkey. La Roja last topped the ranking back in June 2014, when they were world and European champions. Argentina – the reigning world champions – booked their ticket to next year’s global finals back in March and had already secured top spot in the CONMEBOL qualifying standings before their final-round defeat to Ecuador. That loss has resulted in them losing their grip as the planet’s top-ranked team, however. La Albiceleste are now third, with France second after back-to-back wins over Ukraine and Iceland.

24th FIFA U20 World Cup: Flying Eagles Begin Training in Santiago

Fola Badmus19 hours ago19 hours ago01 mins

Nigeria’s U20 boys, Flying Eagles, had their first training session in Santiago, Chile on Wednesday evening at Cancha Liga Training Pitch. The session, which lasted for 2 hours, was supervised by head coach Aliyu Zubair. This comes after a recovery session in the morning at the team’s base, Le Meridien Hotel. The Flying Eagles were scheduled to continue training on Thursday in their build-up ahead of the friendly game against Chile U20 team on Saturday, 20th September. They will also play against the Australia U20 team on Tuesday, 23rd September.