On Friday, the Trump administration asked the Supreme Court to lift a lower court ruling blocking the mass deportation of thousands of detained Venezuelan migrants under the controversial Aliens Enemies Act of 1798, claiming in a filing that it has a “rigorous process” for identifying gang members.

However, Mother Jones‘ reporting suggests that the Trump administration is detaining people without due process on the flimsiest evidence, including their tattoos.

Since March, Donald Trump has been using the Alien Enemies Act to give himself the power to send migrants to El Salvador under the loosest of suspicion that they’re connected to Tren de Aragua, a Venezuelan gang that the president has designated as a “global terrorist group.” Despite claiming to have a strict vetting process of identifying alleged TdA members, the Trump administration has provided little to no evidence that this is the case. As my colleagues Noah Lanard and Isabela Dias reported,

When pressed on the criteria used for their identification, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt pointed to unspecified “intelligence” deployed to arrest the Venezuelans she has referred to as “heinous monsters.” Trump’s border czar Tom Homan has insisted—without providing specific details—that the public should trust ICE to have correctly targeted the Venezuelans based on “criminal investigations,” social media posts, and surveillance. 

Barcelona’s sporting director Deco is reportedly eyeing a summer move for Arsenal defender Takehiro Tomiyasu. According to Fichajes, the Catalan giants are keen to bolster their defence this summer, and Tomiyasu’s versatility and technical ability make him an attractive target. Capable of playing on both flanks and as a centre-back, the Japanese international fits the profile of a player Barcelona admire. Deco is believed to be optimistic about securing the 26-year-old for a reasonable fee, particularly given his injury history and Arsenal’s potential willingness to negotiate.

Tomiyasu, however, comes with significant baggage. Since joining Arsenal in 2021, he has struggled with persistent injuries, missing over 50 games across all competitions. This season has been especially challenging, with the defender managing just six minutes of action before undergoing knee surgery. His recurring fitness issues have often overshadowed his solid performances when available. While Tomiyasu has shown himself to be a strong and versatile defender, his inability to maintain consistent availability has disrupted Arsenal’s plans repeatedly.

For Arsenal, Barcelona’s interest could represent an opportunity to offload a player whose injury record raises concerns about his long-term reliability. Tomiyasu’s contract runs until 2026, but offering him a new deal may not make financial sense given his limited contributions due to fitness problems. Selling him now would allow Arsenal to recoup a transfer fee while avoiding the risk of losing him for free in the future.

If Barcelona are prepared to meet Arsenal’s valuation, sanctioning Tomiyasu’s transfer could be a logical move for all parties involved. For Barcelona, it would be a calculated gamble on a talented but injury-prone player. For Arsenal, it would be an opportunity to reinvest in more dependable options while maintaining defensive stability.

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ADMIN COMMENT

Barcelona’s sporting director Deco is reportedly eyeing a summer move for Arsenal defender Takehiro Tomiyasu. According to Fichajes, the Catalan giants are keen to bolster their defence this summer, and Tomiyasu’s versatility and technical ability make him an attractive target. Capable of playing on both flanks and as a centre-back, the Japanese international fits the profile of a player Barcelona admire. Deco is believed to be optimistic about securing the 26-year-old for a reasonable fee, particularly given his injury history and Arsenal’s potential willingness to negotiate.

Tomiyasu, however, comes with significant baggage. Since joining Arsenal in 2021, he has struggled with persistent injuries, missing over 50 games across all competitions. This season has been especially challenging, with the defender managing just six minutes of action before undergoing knee surgery. His recurring fitness issues have often overshadowed his solid performances when available. While Tomiyasu has shown himself to be a strong and versatile defender, his inability to maintain consistent availability has disrupted Arsenal’s plans repeatedly.

For Arsenal, Barcelona’s interest could represent an opportunity to offload a player whose injury record raises concerns about his long-term reliability. Tomiyasu’s contract runs until 2026, but offering him a new deal may not make financial sense given his limited contributions due to fitness problems. Selling him now would allow Arsenal to recoup a transfer fee while avoiding the risk of losing him for free in the future.

If Barcelona are prepared to meet Arsenal’s valuation, sanctioning Tomiyasu’s transfer could be a logical move for all parties involved. For Barcelona, it would be a calculated gamble on a talented but injury-prone player. For Arsenal, it would be an opportunity to reinvest in more dependable options while maintaining defensive stability.

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ADMIN COMMENT

Due to the high cost of signing Alexander Isak, Arsenal are considering alternative targets to strengthen their squad instead of pursuing the Swedish striker.

A significant portion of the fanbase hopes to see Isak join the club at the end of the season, and Mikel Arteta’s side views him as an ideal addition. However, Arsenal are not the only club that holds this opinion. Several other Premier League teams also recognise Isak’s quality, as he has demonstrated an exceptional ability to score goals in the competition.

As the season concludes, heightened interest from multiple clubs is expected to strengthen Newcastle United’s stance on their valuation of Isak, which could reach as much as €200 million, as cited by Yahoo Sport. Arsenal are reluctant to spend such a substantial sum when they could instead acquire Hugo Ekitike for a fraction of that fee.

The French forward has been in impressive form at Eintracht Frankfurt, and the German club appear prepared to part ways with him at the end of the season. Given the opportunity to play in the Premier League for a club of Arsenal’s stature, Ekitike would likely seize the chance. The Gunners are reportedly keen on making a move.

However, the key question remains: Is Ekitike a suitable alternative to Isak?

Due to the high cost of signing Alexander Isak, Arsenal are considering alternative targets to strengthen their squad instead of pursuing the Swedish striker.

A significant portion of the fanbase hopes to see Isak join the club at the end of the season, and Mikel Arteta’s side views him as an ideal addition. However, Arsenal are not the only club that holds this opinion. Several other Premier League teams also recognise Isak’s quality, as he has demonstrated an exceptional ability to score goals in the competition.

As the season concludes, heightened interest from multiple clubs is expected to strengthen Newcastle United’s stance on their valuation of Isak, which could reach as much as €200 million, as cited by Yahoo Sport. Arsenal are reluctant to spend such a substantial sum when they could instead acquire Hugo Ekitike for a fraction of that fee.

The French forward has been in impressive form at Eintracht Frankfurt, and the German club appear prepared to part ways with him at the end of the season. Given the opportunity to play in the Premier League for a club of Arsenal’s stature, Ekitike would likely seize the chance. The Gunners are reportedly keen on making a move.

However, the key question remains: Is Ekitike a suitable alternative to Isak?

Robert F. Kennedy’s Jr. war on vaccines just landed another major blow as the secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services successfully forced one of the nation’s top vaccine officials out of his position.

Dr. Peter Marks, who was given the choice by HHS officials to either be fired or step down as the director of the Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, announced his resignation on Friday.

“It has become clear that truth and transparency are not desired by the secretary, but rather he wishes subservient confirmation of his misinformation and lies,” Marks reportedly wrote in his letter of resignation. He added that leaving his position was a “weight lifted from me” as working in this environment “was spiraling deeper and deeper into danger.”

For nearly a decade, Marks led the FDA’s regulation of vaccines, including playing an instrumental role in the development of the COVID-19 vaccine. So it should come as no surprise that his presence would cause conflict with the starkly anti-vaccine head of the HHS.

Arsenal, Chelsea, Lyon, and Barcelona have reached the semi-finals of the UEFA Women’s Champions League 2024/25, setting up an intriguing battle for European supremacy in women’s football. Each team brings unique strengths and challenges, making predictions both exciting, complex and fun!

Arsenal’s dramatic comeback against Real Madrid showcased their resilience and attacking prowess. Under Renee Slegers, the Gunners have rediscovered their form, with Alessia Russo and Mariona Caldentey leading the charge. However, their semi-final opponent, Lyon, represents a significant step up in quality. Lyon’s dominance in European football is well-documented; their disciplined defense led by Wendie Renard and Vanessa Gilles, combined with explosive attacking options like Lindsey Horan and Kadidiatou Diani, makes them formidable. While Arsenal’s high-intensity style could trouble Lyon, the French side’s experience and squad depth might give them the edge over two legs.

We Gooners must remember however, that we wiped the floor with Lyon in the UWCL group stages in the Women’s Champions League 2022/23 – where our Gunners eventually lost out to Wolfsburg on a 4-3 aggregate.

Video: Lyon v Arsenal Women – Brilliant highlights of landmark 5-1 win

Chelsea’s path to the semi-finals has been marked by tactical evolution and attacking efficiency. Their aggressive playstyle and ability to convert chances make them a dangerous opponent for Barcelona. The Catalan giants, however, remain favorites due to their possession-based approach and star-studded lineup featuring Alexia Putellas and Aitana Bonmatí. Barcelona’s recent performances have been dominant, including a 3-0 victory over Wolfsburg in the quarter-finals. Chelsea’s defensive solidity will need to be flawless to counter Barcelona’s relentless attacking pressure. Still, Barcelona’s superior technical ability and consistency suggest they are likely to progress.

Arsenal, Chelsea, Lyon, and Barcelona have reached the semi-finals of the UEFA Women’s Champions League 2024/25, setting up an intriguing battle for European supremacy in women’s football. Each team brings unique strengths and challenges, making predictions both exciting, complex and fun!

Arsenal’s dramatic comeback against Real Madrid showcased their resilience and attacking prowess. Under Renee Slegers, the Gunners have rediscovered their form, with Alessia Russo and Mariona Caldentey leading the charge. However, their semi-final opponent, Lyon, represents a significant step up in quality. Lyon’s dominance in European football is well-documented; their disciplined defense led by Wendie Renard and Vanessa Gilles, combined with explosive attacking options like Lindsey Horan and Kadidiatou Diani, makes them formidable. While Arsenal’s high-intensity style could trouble Lyon, the French side’s experience and squad depth might give them the edge over two legs.

We Gooners must remember however, that we wiped the floor with Lyon in the UWCL group stages in the Women’s Champions League 2022/23 – where our Gunners eventually lost out to Wolfsburg on a 4-3 aggregate.

Video: Lyon v Arsenal Women – Brilliant highlights of landmark 5-1 win

Chelsea’s path to the semi-finals has been marked by tactical evolution and attacking efficiency. Their aggressive playstyle and ability to convert chances make them a dangerous opponent for Barcelona. The Catalan giants, however, remain favorites due to their possession-based approach and star-studded lineup featuring Alexia Putellas and Aitana Bonmatí. Barcelona’s recent performances have been dominant, including a 3-0 victory over Wolfsburg in the quarter-finals. Chelsea’s defensive solidity will need to be flawless to counter Barcelona’s relentless attacking pressure. Still, Barcelona’s superior technical ability and consistency suggest they are likely to progress.

The 2024/25 UEFA Champions League quarter-finals feature some of Europe’s most elite clubs, setting the stage for thrilling encounters. Among the eight teams, Bayern Munich, FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), and Real Madrid are considered favorites to progress, while Arsenal, Aston Villa, Borussia Dortmund, and Inter Milan aim to challenge their dominance.

Bayern Munich faces Inter Milan in a rematch of the 2010 final. Bayern, who crushed Bayer Leverkusen 5-0 in the Round of 16, are tipped to overcome Inter despite their opponents’ solid 4-1 win over Feyenoord. A supercomputer predicts Bayern will prevail after a penalty shootout following closely contested legs. Meanwhile, Barcelona takes on Borussia Dortmund. The Spanish giants have been in scintillating form under Hansi Flick, defeating Benfica 4-1 on aggregate. Dortmund edged Lille in a tight affair but are expected to struggle against Barcelona’s attacking firepower, with predictions favouring a dominant victory for the Catalan side.

PSG is set to clash with Aston Villa. The French side eliminated Liverpool in dramatic fashion and boasts a squad filled with talent like Gianluigi Donnarumma and Ousmane Dembélé. Aston Villa’s fairytale run has impressed many after their triumph over Club Brugge, but PSG is heavily favoured to advance comfortably. Arsenal faces Real Madrid in arguably the most high-stakes tie.

Arsenal demolished PSV Eindhoven 9-3 on aggregate but now confronts the reigning champions, Real Madrid. Despite their Premier League struggles this season, Arsenal will hope to upset Real Madrid, who narrowly defeated Atlético Madrid in the Round of 16. Predictions lean toward Real Madrid progressing after an intense battle.

If forecasts hold true, the semi-finals could feature Bayern Munich against Barcelona and PSG against Real Madrid—two blockbuster matchups that promise unforgettable drama as these giants vie for European glory.

The 2024/25 UEFA Champions League quarter-finals feature some of Europe’s most elite clubs, setting the stage for thrilling encounters. Among the eight teams, Bayern Munich, FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), and Real Madrid are considered favorites to progress, while Arsenal, Aston Villa, Borussia Dortmund, and Inter Milan aim to challenge their dominance.

Bayern Munich faces Inter Milan in a rematch of the 2010 final. Bayern, who crushed Bayer Leverkusen 5-0 in the Round of 16, are tipped to overcome Inter despite their opponents’ solid 4-1 win over Feyenoord. A supercomputer predicts Bayern will prevail after a penalty shootout following closely contested legs. Meanwhile, Barcelona takes on Borussia Dortmund. The Spanish giants have been in scintillating form under Hansi Flick, defeating Benfica 4-1 on aggregate. Dortmund edged Lille in a tight affair but are expected to struggle against Barcelona’s attacking firepower, with predictions favouring a dominant victory for the Catalan side.

PSG is set to clash with Aston Villa. The French side eliminated Liverpool in dramatic fashion and boasts a squad filled with talent like Gianluigi Donnarumma and Ousmane Dembélé. Aston Villa’s fairytale run has impressed many after their triumph over Club Brugge, but PSG is heavily favoured to advance comfortably. Arsenal faces Real Madrid in arguably the most high-stakes tie.

Arsenal demolished PSV Eindhoven 9-3 on aggregate but now confronts the reigning champions, Real Madrid. Despite their Premier League struggles this season, Arsenal will hope to upset Real Madrid, who narrowly defeated Atlético Madrid in the Round of 16. Predictions lean toward Real Madrid progressing after an intense battle.

If forecasts hold true, the semi-finals could feature Bayern Munich against Barcelona and PSG against Real Madrid—two blockbuster matchups that promise unforgettable drama as these giants vie for European glory.

This story was originally published by Slate and is reproduced here as part of the Climate Desk collaboration.

Once upon a time, not long ago, Elon Musk was worried sick about climate change. Stopping it became an overarching career mission, reflected in both his business decisions and everyday actions. He gave the electric vehicle industry a jolt after taking over Tesla Motors in 2004. He joined President Donald Trump’s first business advisory council in 2017, then resigned in protest when Trump withdrew the United States from the Paris Agreement. He directed Tesla to buy up $1 billion worth of Bitcoin in 2021 and accept the cryptocurrency in formal transactions, only to backtrack when he remembered that Bitcoin mining is, by design, a heavily energy-intensive process that requires masses of fossil fuel­–powered computer servers to run at all times. It was such a notorious moment in the crypto world that one speaker led “FUCK ELON” chants during that year’s Bitcoin conference.

What a remarkable thing, then, for Musk to embrace Trump more closely than ever as the reelected president decorates his administration with oil-industry shills and with crypto insiders, whose energy-intensive mining rigs and data centers make them something of a natural complement to the fossil fuel industry’s expansionist goals.

But of course, it tracks with his general shifts in ideology and mission since the COVID era. Scientific nerdery gave way to virus conspiracies; climate change took a back seat to his longtime A.I. fears as his former nonprofit, OpenAI, achieved staggering successes; Tesla’s dangerous self-driving cars and dubious robotics earned priority over the electrification of transport. Musk has been happy to re-embrace Bitcoin because incorporating the currency into Tesla’s assets and accounting has allowed him to artificially boost the company’s profit reports and keep investors happy. The Earth is one thing, but revenue is another.

On Tuesday afternoon, a federal judge in New York’s Northern District heard opening arguments in the case of Momodou Taal v. Trump. Neither party was present in the courtroom—in large part because Trump’s Department of Homeland Security has been trying to find Taal for days, reportedly staking out his home and entering his university’s campus.

Taal, a British-Gambian doctoral student at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, sued the administration on February 15 to challenge Trump’s executive orders curtailing free speech and seeking to deport pro-Palestinian activists, which have been paired with a wave of attacks by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers—in some cases masked and hooded—on graduate and undergraduate students.

At 12:52 a.m. on Friday—within five days of Taal’s lawsuit—Taal’s lawyers received an email “inviting” their client to “surrender to ICE custody.” At 7:00 p.m. the following day, Trump’s lawyers filed a brief informing Taal that the State Department had already revoked his visa, without his knowledge, on March 14—the day before Taal filed his lawsuit. Days later, ICE agents arrived on Cornell’s campus attempting to find and seize him.

Over the past two weeks, the Trump administration has targeted at least eight foreign academics in America for deportation, often sending officers to snatch them off the street or in their homes, retroactively changing what they’re charged with, and shipping them halfway across the country, far from their families lawyers—increasingly in apparent defiance of court orders against their rendition. Members of the commentariat like venture capitalist Paul Graham have mused that “the students ICE is disappearing seem such a random selection.”