Melania Trump: ‘I never had a relationship with Epstein’
First Lady Denies Link to Epstein, Calls for Congressional Action
At the White House, Melania Trump refuted any ties to Jeffrey Epstein, asserting that “all claims connecting us must cease today.” The former First Lady made the statement during an unexpected press briefing, emphasizing the need for clarity. She also urged lawmakers to investigate survivors of Epstein’s alleged sex trafficking network.
“I never had a relationship with Epstein,” Trump stated, framing the issue as one requiring immediate resolution.
Artemis II Mission Breakthrough
The US is targeting a return to the Moon by 2028, with the Artemis II crew poised to set a new benchmark for space exploration. This mission marks the first human voyage beyond Earth’s orbit since the Apollo era, spanning ten days. The four astronauts aboard the Orion spacecraft have now reached the far side of the Moon, completing their third day in deep space.
Jeremy Hansen, Canada’s first astronaut to venture into deep space, was part of the crew. The BBC’s Science Editor Rebecca Morelle interviewed the team ahead of their expected splashdown, capturing their experiences and messages for loved ones. A groundbreaking “universal waste management system” was also tested for the mission, designed to handle lunar travel challenges.
Space Suit Innovations
NASA engineers developed specialized spacesuits for Artemis II, prioritizing protection during launch, landing, and emergency situations. These suits were crafted following rigorous training at the Johnson Space Center, which began shortly after the crew was selected in 2023. The Orion spacecraft’s liftoff, delayed by technical hurdles, launched from Florida, propelling the team into Earth’s orbit.
Economic and Social Impact
As the Iran conflict drives up fuel costs, US gas prices have surged past $4, hitting a peak not seen since 2022. Meanwhile, the National Mall hosted a controversial art installation titled “A Throne Fit for a King,” critiquing Trump’s White House redesigns. In Florida, protests against the Trump administration erupted, with No Kings rallies drawing mixed reactions from attendees and locals.
A partial government shutdown has caused prolonged airport delays, with TSA staff working without pay. Farmers in Alabama, however, continue to back Trump despite financial strain, reflecting broader public sentiment. The mission’s success also highlights the role of media coverage, as journalists like Gary O’Donoghue and Leyla Khodabakhshi documented the event from nearby locations.
