But before this impending doom, a few words about Trump, et al. With much showmanship,  Donald Trump this morning talked to Vladimir Putin on the phone .  This was a well-orchestrated affair, as American school teacher Marc Fogel was released from Russia, and met with Trump yesterday, showing good faith by his pal Vlad.  This was a prisoner swap with Alexander Vinnik, a convicted Russian criminal.  Initial step in ending the war in Ukraine.  By what has so far been leaked, the war will soon end, with Ukraine losing a lot of territory and being banned from joining NATO. The U.S. Senate today confirmed 43-year old Tulsi Gabbard as Director of national intelligence.  She represented Hawaii as a Democrat in the U.S. House from 2013 to 2021.  Only Republic to not vote for Gabbard was Senator Mitch McConnell, who couldn't care less what Trump will do to him.  I posted on everything you should know about Tulsi on  30December2024 .  She...

We have been at-sea heading for Southampton, UK,since leaving Miami on Sunday.  Before bringing you up to day on our cruise, one item regarding Donald Trump.  His re-election as president   will definitely change our relationship with the world.    His stance has always been America first. With Europe. The Ukraine War will be probably be settled, with Russia gaining some territory.  Interesting that Vladimir Putin has not yet congratulated Trump. His view about NATO is clear.  He wants every member to pay their share. His "pal," Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban, will hold a summit of 50 European leaders today in Budapest, which will be our final European Christmas River Cruise stop. He identifies well with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and has had good relations with Saudi Arabia.  Iran has tried to assassinate Trump, so there is a problem there. China will also see some added tariffs, and there is that Taiwan matter.  ...