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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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Sweeping Layoffs Reshape the US Department of Health and Human Services

In a significant restructuring move, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has initiated mass layoffs, with up to 10,000 employees expected to be affected. Notices of dismissal began circulating on Tuesday, marking the start of a major overhaul aimed at streamlining the department's operations. This reduction follows a series of executive actions, including the revocation of collective bargaining rights for federal health agency workers.

The layoffs span multiple agencies under HHS, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Critics warn that these cuts could undermine the nation's ability to respond to health emergencies and ongoing disease threats. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. defended the move, describing it as a necessary step to improve efficiency and reduce bureaucracy.

The restructuring also includes the creation of a new office, the Administration for a Healthy America, which will consolidate several programs. While the administration argues that these changes will lead to better outcomes with fewer resources, concerns about the potential impact on public health services remain high.

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