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EU Clamps Down on Russian Travel with Stricter Visa Rules

                                      EU tightens rules for multiple-entry Schengen visas for Russian passport holders The European Union has introduced tougher visa restrictions for Russian nationals, ending the practice of granting multiple-entry permits. Under the new rules, Russians will need to apply for a fresh visa each time they wish to enter the bloc. Officials say the change is aimed at tightening security and preventing misuse of travel privileges. The move comes amid heightened concerns over migration, sabotage, and other risks linked to Russia’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Exceptions will remain in place for certain groups, including dissidents, independent journalists, human rights defenders, and family members of EU citizens. Transport workers may also qualify for short-term multi-entry visas to keep essential services running. EU leaders emphasized that tr...

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Federal Funding Freeze Sparks Debate Over Free Speech and Academic Freedom

The Trump administration has taken a controversial step by freezing federal grants to several universities, including Cornell and Northwestern, citing concerns over pro-Palestinian protests and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies. Over $1 billion in funding for Cornell and $790 million for Northwestern have been paused, affecting research in defense, health, and cybersecurity. 

The administration has accused these universities of failing to address antisemitism on campus, linking pro-Palestinian protests to support for Hamas. Critics argue that this conflation undermines free speech and academic freedom, with human rights advocates raising concerns about the broader implications. 

This move has sparked a heated debate about the balance between combating hate speech and preserving the right to protest. Universities like Harvard and Princeton are also under scrutiny, with billions in federal funding at stake. 

The situation highlights the tension between government oversight and institutional autonomy, leaving many to question the future of academic freedom in the United States.

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