May
The signing of a long-awaited minerals deal between the US and Ukraine dominated headlines throughout the day. The agreement, described as "historic," grants the US access to Ukraine's rare earth minerals in exchange for continued military support. Ukraine's PM hailed it as "good and equal" after Trump reportedly softened demands. Russia claimed the deal had "broken" Ukraine, while General Kellogg suggested Ukraine had agreed to concede Russian-held territories.

A tragic skydiving death dominated mid-morning coverage, with reports suggesting Jade, 32, died in a "deliberate act." A British woman was found stabbed in France's Dordogne region.

By afternoon, focus shifted to Trump's National Security Adviser Mike Waltz leaving his post following a Signal group chat scandal where military plans were inadvertently shared with a journalist. Trump later nominated Waltz as UN Ambassador.

The day concluded with polls closing in UK local elections, described as the first significant test of Starmer's premiership.
The UK political landscape underwent significant transformation as Reform UK delivered a shock victory in the Runcorn by-election, winning by just six votes after a tense recount process that dominated early morning coverage. This represented Reform's first parliamentary seat gained directly through election rather than defection.

By mid-morning, Reform's electoral surge expanded as they captured control of multiple councils in what newspapers described as an "avalanche" or "Reform-quake," with Andrea Jenkyns becoming the party's first elected mayor. Both Labour and Conservative parties suffered heavy losses, with Keir Starmer acknowledging his party's "disappointing" performance.

Prince Harry lost his legal challenge over UK security arrangements, facing a potential £1.5m legal bill. In a subsequent BBC interview, Harry revealed King Charles "won't speak to him" while still expressing desire for reconciliation, prompting a rare Buckingham Palace response by evening.
Prince Harry's controversial interview dominated UK newspapers, with his remarks about "not knowing how much longer" King Charles has particularly criticized as deepening the royal rift. By mid-day, outlets reported the King was "frustrated and upset," with royal experts suggesting Harry had "blown his chance of reconciliation" through what was characterized as "sinister claims."

Australia's election provided the day's major international story, with Anthony Albanese securing an unexpected landslide victory that gained momentum throughout the day. By afternoon, reports confirmed opposition leader Peter Dutton had lost his seat, with The Guardian framing the result as "riding an anti-Trump wave."

Reform UK's electoral successes continued reverberating through UK politics, with coverage of Farage celebrating their gains while Labour MPs were reported feeling "dismayed" after "devastating" local election results that saw Reform gain 677 councillors.

Late evening brought news of fourteen children arrested on suspicion of manslaughter after a 14-year-old died in an industrial fire.
Australian PM Albanese's landslide victory dominated early coverage, with reports emphasizing his "anti-Trump wave" success. Domestically, Reform UK's electoral surge continued reverberating through politics with chairman Zia Yusuf proposing "moral re-education" for youth while Kemi Badenoch admitted Farage could become PM.

Mid-morning brought security concerns with the arrest of eight men in two separate terrorism operations, later clarified as including seven Iranians, with five suspected of plotting to target specific premises. International tensions escalated when Netanyahu vowed retaliation after a Houthi missile struck near Tel Aviv's airport.

Royal developments continued as King Charles was seen publicly for the first time since Harry's controversial BBC interview, with reports that Palace officials want to avoid "distractions" before VE Day celebrations. David Beckham's 50th birthday coverage revealed a family rift with son Brooklyn's absence conspicuous in Victoria's social media posts.
British newspapers began reporting on a thwarted Iranian-backed terrorist plot, with special forces swooping on suspects who were allegedly hours away from attacking a UK synagogue. Security forces arrested seven Iranians in what was described as the "biggest counter-state threat in years."

VE Day celebrations quickly became the dominant narrative, with extensive coverage of King Charles, Queen Camilla, Prince William, Princess Kate and their children appearing in public together on the Buckingham Palace balcony. The royal family's united front watched the Red Arrows flypast alongside thousands lining The Mall, effectively overshadowing Prince Harry's controversial BBC interview from previous days.

International focus remained on Israeli plans to expand operations in Gaza, with Netanyahu announcing the "intensive" offensive would include "moving the majority of the population" and establishing a "sustained presence" throughout Gaza.
The escalating India-Pakistan conflict dominated evening coverage, following India's missile strikes on alleged "terrorist camps" in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Pakistan claimed to have shot down Indian aircraft and taken prisoners, with both nuclear powers seemingly at the brink of war.

Russia-Ukraine tensions continued with Ukrainian drone attacks forcing Moscow airports to close, while Israel's plans for Gaza occupation received attention following Netanyahu's security cabinet approving indefinite territory control. Germany experienced political turmoil as Friedrich Merz failed his first chancellor confirmation vote, only succeeding in a second ballot.

Domestically, Prime Minister Starmer announced a "landmark" £5bn trade deal with India that quickly sparked controversy over tax exemptions for Indian workers. The Met Gala in New York and tragic British Superbikes crash that killed two riders featured prominently throughout the day's celebrity and sports coverage.
The dangerous escalation between nuclear-armed India and Pakistan dominated coverage throughout the day, following India's missile strikes on "terrorist camps" that killed at least 26 people in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Pakistan vowed military retaliation, with its Prime Minister directing armed forces to take "action" and reportedly moving tanks into position by afternoon. Pakistani officials claimed to have shot down multiple Indian fighter jets, calling the attacks an "act of war."

The Vatican conclave to elect Pope Francis' successor began, with cardinals entering the Sistine Chapel and black smoke signaling no pope was elected in the first round of voting.

Arsenal crashed out of the Champions League after a 2-1 defeat to PSG, while reports revealed Liam Payne died without a will, leaving questions about his £24 million estate's inheritance.
Morning headlines revealed an imminent UK-US trade deal, which materialized by midday when Trump announced a "comprehensive" agreement during a joint video call with Starmer. The deal reduces US tariffs on British steel, aluminum, and cars to 10%, while granting American farmers greater access to UK markets. The Conservative opposition criticized these agricultural concessions.

Meanwhile, India-Pakistan tensions continued escalating, with both nuclear powers trading accusations of aggression, though India indicated no desire for further escalation.

By late afternoon, white smoke from the Sistine Chapel signaled the historic election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff. His emergence was soon complicated by resurfaced critical comments about Trump and the MAGA movement, prompting VP Vance to offer an "olive branch." The Vatican selection followed yesterday's beginning of the conclave after Pope Francis' retirement.
Coverage focused on Pope Leo XIV's first Mass in the Sistine Chapel, where the first American pontiff called the Church "a beacon to illuminate dark nights." His election became more complex with reports of anti-Trump statements and allegations he "looked the other way" regarding abuse cases.

Mid-morning brought the guilty verdict for two men who cut down the iconic Sycamore Gap tree in what courts called a "moronic mission," with speculation about revenge motives related to planning disputes.

The UK-US trade deal announced yesterday continued generating discussion, with The Mirror claiming it would affect "every home in the UK" while some urged Britain to secure an EU trade deal in response.

Other stories included Putin's Victory Day parade in Moscow with Xi Jinping present, the head of the Royal Navy suspended over an alleged affair, and reports that Southport killer Axel Rudakubana attacked a prison officer.
The escalating India-Pakistan conflict reached its most dangerous point since tensions began on May 6th. Pre-dawn reports indicated both nuclear powers had fired missiles at each other's airbases, a dramatic escalation from earlier artillery exchanges and rhetorical threats.

By midday, Trump announced a diplomatic breakthrough - a "full and immediate ceasefire" following "a long night of talks" mediated by the US. The Spectator called this "a triumph for Trump."

However, the ceasefire quickly showed signs of strain. By late afternoon, explosions were reported in Kashmir, with both sides accusing each other of violations. Pakistan's Prime Minister nevertheless claimed victory.

Late evening brought Putin's suggestion of "direct" Russia-Ukraine talks next week, following reports that he faced a 24-hour ultimatum to agree to a ceasefire or face "painful sanctions."
Morning coverage centered on Putin's unexpected calls for "direct talks" with Ukraine, initially met with European demands for a ceasefire. By mid-morning, Zelensky called this a "positive sign" but insisted on a ceasefire before negotiations.

The diplomatic situation escalated dramatically by late afternoon when Trump demanded Ukraine agree to peace talks with Russia. Within hours, Zelensky agreed to meet Putin "personally" in Istanbul, though still maintaining his ceasefire prerequisite.

This sudden diplomatic movement follows the previous day's successful US-brokered ceasefire between nuclear powers India and Pakistan after missile exchanges.

Domestic news focused on migration policy, with reports of care homes facing bans on overseas recruitment and Starmer stating migrants must "earn the right" to remain in the UK.

Other stories included a retired police officer arrested for a tweet about antisemitism, and claims some institutions are defying a Supreme Court transgender ruling.
Prime Minister Starmer unveiled a major immigration crackdown, warning Britain risks becoming "an island of strangers" without tighter controls. His "take back control" rhetoric demanded migrants be degree-educated, speak fluent English, and wait ten years for citizenship, promising "significant" migration reduction by parliament's end.

By midday, the speech faced intense criticism from across the political spectrum, with accusations he was "laying the groundwork for Farage" after Reform UK had overtaken Conservatives as the perceived opposition party in polling.

The evening brought alarming security developments as counter-terrorism police investigated suspected arson attacks at two Starmer-linked properties and his car in North London.

International news included Hamas releasing Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander in Gaza, following yesterday's agreement for Zelensky-Putin talks in Istanbul. Additionally, the US and China agreed to a 90-day tariff reduction, which Trump characterized as a "reset" in relations.
A 21-year-old was arrested by counter-terror police for arson attacks at properties linked to PM Starmer, following yesterday's security incidents at his home.

Peter Sullivan, dubbed the "Beast of Birkenhead," was freed after 38 years in prison when new DNA evidence overturned his murder conviction - marking the UK's longest miscarriage of justice.

Trump's diplomatic tour began in Saudi Arabia, where he signed what officials called "the largest defence sales agreement in history" - a $142-600bn arms deal. He also announced plans to lift sanctions on Syria.

Multiple outlets reported on the UN refugee agency head accusing Israel of using food denial as a "weapon of war" in Gaza.

The Diddy trial featured emotional testimony from Cassie Ventura about "freak-off" sex parties that allegedly lasted days, while she named others who allegedly facilitated abuse.
Trump's Middle East tour dominated coverage as he met with Syria's interim president Ahmed al-Sharaa in Saudi Arabia, marking the first US-Syrian leadership meeting in 25 years. Trump announced lifting sanctions on Syria while urging normalization with Israel and deportation of "foreign terrorists." He later described al-Sharaa as "attractive" and "tough" before traveling to Qatar to sign defense deals.

A parallel narrative followed a British nursing student initially reported missing in Thailand who appeared in a Georgian court facing drug smuggling charges. Throughout the day, media revealed she claimed to be pregnant while her family suggested she was "taken advantage of."

Other stories included reality TV star James Argent receiving a suspended jail sentence for assaulting his girlfriend in Spain, and revelations that Brexit had complicated migrant returns according to a leaked recording of a senior Conservative.
Ukraine peace talks in Turkey proceeded without key players as Putin declined to attend, sending what Zelensky described as "decorative" and "theatrical" stand-ins. Trump also skipped the summit but asserted "nothing will happen until Putin and I get together." By afternoon, Zelensky announced he would send his defense minister "out of respect" despite believing Russia was "not serious" about peace.

A bombshell report revealed "vulnerabilities" caused the Bayesian superyacht disaster that killed seven. The Diddy trial intensified with explicit messages about "freak off" sex sessions with ex-girlfriend Cassie presented in court.

UK political developments saw a Ukrainian national charged with arson attacks on properties linked to PM Starmer, following yesterday's security incidents. Economic news provided a boost for Deputy PM Reeves as UK growth exceeded expectations, while over 100 Labour MPs opposed welfare cuts.
Russia and Ukraine held their first direct talks in three years in Istanbul, producing a modest prisoner exchange agreement. Trump declared plans to meet Putin "soon," positioning himself as essential to any breakthrough, continuing his diplomatic posturing from previous days.

A devastating fire at a former RAF base in Oxfordshire killed two firefighters and a business owner, dominating domestic coverage as fire chiefs delivered emotional tributes. The victims were named by evening.

Coverage intensified around British nationals in trouble abroad: the pregnant teenager Bella May Culley facing potential childbirth in a Georgian prison, following her drug smuggling arrest previously reported as a disappearance; a British father jailed for 40 years in Dubai on cocaine charges; and reports of a British millionaire killed in a motorcycle accident in Spain.

Israeli forces resumed ground operations in Gaza, with Hamas-run civil defense reporting nearly 100 killed in northern Gaza.
Israel launched a major Gaza offensive called "Operation Gideon's Chariots" to "seize and control" areas, with Hamas reporting dozens killed. By evening, Hamas proposed releasing some hostages in ceasefire talks that began hours after the offensive started.

Russia struck a civilian bus in Ukraine, killing nine people including a family, shortly after peace talks where Russia reportedly demanded five Ukrainian regions. Trump announced plans to speak with both Putin and Zelenskyy.

The Eurovision contest in Basel faced disruption as pro-Palestine protesters attempted to storm the stage during Israel's performance. Austria ultimately won, while the UK's Remember Monday received zero points from the public vote.

Crystal Palace stunned Manchester City 1-0 to win their first-ever FA Cup. A terror probe was launched after an explosion at a fertility clinic left one dead and five injured.
A Mexican Navy training vessel crashed into Brooklyn Bridge early morning, killing two and injuring at least 17 people. As the day progressed, news outlets provided updates on casualties and damage.

The IVF clinic bombing from yesterday revealed to be perpetrated by a 25-year-old "pro-mortalist" who was the only fatality in the incident, with the FBI identifying his nihilistic motivation.

Israel's military operation in Gaza intensified, with Palestinian health officials reporting over 100 deaths from airstrikes. By evening, Israel announced it would allow "basic food" into Gaza after a 10-week blockade, while Hamas offered truce terms.

Anti-tourism protests disrupted holidays in Spain, with protesters storming beaches and tourists reportedly hiding in hotels.

The day concluded with news that former US President Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has metastasized to his bones, prompting a statement from Trump.
Prime Minister Starmer's Brexit "reset" deal with the EU dominated UK media, garnering polarized reactions. The agreement grants EU fishing fleets access to UK waters until 2038, smoother border crossings through e-gates, and commits Britain to following certain EU regulations. Government-aligned outlets framed it as "Britain back on the world stage" and "win-win," while critics described it as "surrender" and "betrayal."

By afternoon, attention shifted to Trump's two-hour call with Putin, after which Trump announced Russia and Ukraine would "immediately" start ceasefire negotiations. Putin expressed readiness to discuss "compromises," though Zelensky emphasized the US should not distance itself from talks.

Coverage continued of Biden's "aggressive" prostate cancer diagnosis from yesterday, with Trump's reaction evolving from "saddened" to "supportive" throughout the day. Scattered reports mentioned the pregnant British teen Bella Culley's prison complaints in Georgia and a 93-year-old being Tasered by police.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza intensified, with the UN warning 14,000 babies could die within 48 hours without aid. Early reports indicated Israel agreed to allow 100 aid trucks, but by evening no aid had been distributed. This prompted unprecedented diplomatic action from the UK, which suspended trade talks with Israel and summoned its ambassador over what Foreign Secretary Lammy called a "dark new phase" in Gaza.

Britain continued processing the Brexit "reset" deal announced yesterday, with Rachel Reeves pursuing additional trade agreements with Gulf states. Critics described the EU agreement as "surrender" while supporters called it a historic breakthrough.

ITV announced major schedule changes affecting daytime shows including Lorraine and Loose Women, with significant cuts coming to programming. Media also reported on Cheers star George Wendt's death at 76, exactly 32 years after the sitcom's final episode aired.
The Gaza humanitarian crisis continued to develop, with UN confirmation that aid trucks entered but supplies remained undistributed in warehouses despite Israel's claims. A UK minister visiting the West Bank accused Israel of using hunger as a "weapon of war" as pressure intensified.

Prime Minister Starmer announced a significant U-turn on winter fuel payments after widespread criticism, though specifics and timing remain unclear.

The Jay Slater inquest revealed disturbing details, including drugs in his system, claims of a stolen Rolex, and that his friends "can't be found." The inquest was dramatically halted after his mother made an emotional plea.

Trump created diplomatic tension by ambushing South African President Ramaphosa with videos alleging "white persecution," forcing Ramaphosa to counter these claims.

The day concluded with Tottenham beating Manchester United 1-0 in the Europa League final, ending their 17-year trophy drought.
The shooting of Israeli embassy staff Sarah Milgram and Yaron Lischinsky near a Jewish museum in Washington DC dominated the news cycle. Initial reports in the early morning identified them as embassy workers, with details emerging throughout the day that the suspect shouted "Free Palestine" and later said "I did it for Gaza." By afternoon, Netanyahu blamed Starmer for the killings, escalating diplomatic tensions following Britain's recent sanctions against Israel.

The Chagos Islands sovereignty transfer to Mauritius was officially signed by Starmer, with the UK agreeing to pay £101m annually, prompting criticism that this deal "will haunt" the Prime Minister.

A plane crash in San Diego claimed multiple lives, including a famous drummer. UK migration figures showed a significant drop of over 400,000 in a year, raising concerns about worker shortages.

The Jay Slater case continued with the revelation of videos showing him "bragging about £12k watches" hours before his death.
Trump announced 50% tariffs on EU imports starting June 1st, sending European stock markets plunging. This development came just weeks after the US-UK trade deal and followed Trump's earlier tariff threats against other nations.

The Israeli-Gaza conflict continued escalating on diplomatic fronts. Netanyahu accused Starmer of being on the "wrong side of humanity" and siding with Hamas, following the UK's sanctions against Israel announced two days prior. The UN Secretary-General demanded Israel allow more aid into Gaza, describing the current situation as allowing only a "teaspoon" of assistance amid "atrocious death and destruction."

New details emerged about the OceanGate Titan submarine implosion, with footage capturing the sound of the vessel imploding and the CEO's wife's unknowing reaction. Other stories included a stabbing at Hamburg railway station and claims that Freddie Mercury had a "secret daughter."
The Israeli strike killing nine children of a Gazan doctor dominated coverage, with the tenth child being treated by a British surgeon. This continued the week's focus on the Gaza humanitarian crisis, following UK sanctions against Israel and Netanyahu's accusations against Starmer.

Morning headlines reported increasing Arctic geopolitical tensions as melting ice creates competition for resources. Trump's threats of 50% tariffs on EU exports continued from yesterday, with the EU calling for "respect" as trade war fears intensified.

By early afternoon, a suspected murder case emerged with three boys and a woman dead in a house fire. Meanwhile, former PM Boris Johnson and wife Carrie announced the birth of their fourth child.

Evening coverage included the £200m Championship playoff between Sheffield United and Sunderland, a plot to oust PM Starmer, and reports of a British woman detained in Dubai without basic necessities.
Russia launched its largest air attack on Ukraine since the war began, killing 12-13 people across 22 locations. Zelensky criticized American "silence," claiming it "encourages Putin" - a sentiment later echoed by Trump who questioned "what the hell happened to Putin" following the strikes.

The Beckham family feud emerged as a prominent cultural story, with Brooklyn publicly declaring he would "always choose his wife" amid tensions with parents David and Victoria, while brother Cruz appeared to take his parents' side.

In domestic news, South Western Railway was nationalized to reduce delays and cancellations. Angela Rayner firmly denied leadership ambitions, stating she "never" wants to lead Labour. A mother and three children were killed in a north London house fire, with a man detained under the Mental Health Act. UK immigration issues continued featuring prominently, maintaining the previous week's focus on borders and migration policy.
Trump's unprecedented rebuke of Putin dominated morning coverage, calling him "absolutely crazy" following Russia's largest aerial attack on Ukraine since the war began. The Kremlin responded by describing Trump as "emotional" - a notable shift in tone from previous Trump-Putin discourse.

By midday, focus turned to the Macron-Brigitte incident, with footage showing the First Lady appearing to "shove" or "slap" her husband as they disembarked in Vietnam, described by tabloids as a "bickering" couple.

Liverpool's Premier League victory parade was dramatically disrupted when a car ploughed into celebrating fans. Initial reports cited "several injured" with counter-terrorism police investigating, but by evening officials confirmed 47 injuries including four children, with authorities ruling out terrorism. The 53-year-old "white British" driver was arrested after being dragged from his vehicle by bystanders reportedly shouting "kill him."
Coverage remained intensely focused on the Liverpool parade crash, with new developments emerging throughout the day. Police arrested the 53-year-old driver on suspicion of attempted murder, dangerous driving, and drug offenses after he allegedly tailgated an ambulance through a roadblock before plowing into fans.

The injury count rose from 47 to 65 people, including children, with four victims remaining "very, very ill" in hospital. Video footage showed the car deliberately driving into crowds, while witnesses described the driver as "emotional" and "agitated."

Police faced mounting questions about how the vehicle breached security. The incident, initially investigated for terrorism connections the previous day, has been confirmed as non-terror related.

In international news, King Charles delivered Canada's throne speech, while Trump reportedly halted US student visa applications pending social media screening for "woke trouble-makers."
The Liverpool parade crash investigation revealed the suspect as a married father-of-three company director from a quiet neighborhood, with injury counts climbing to 79. Neighbors expressed disbelief, describing him as a "fantastic father," while police extended questioning time. Traumatic victim accounts emerged, including a baby being dragged 15 feet in a pram.

Andrew Tate and his brother were charged with rape and other offenses in the UK involving four women, marking a significant development in ongoing legal proceedings. Ukrainian President Zelensky proposed three-way talks between Trump and Putin, suggesting Trump finds Putin more irritating than himself.

Major tech companies including Facebook, Apple, Google and Netflix suffered a massive data breach affecting login credentials. EastEnders actress Kara Tointon revealed her preventive double mastectomy after carrying the BRCA1 gene. Paul Danan's inquest revealed the former Hollyoaks star was found dead on his sofa with the television still on.
The Liverpool parade crash investigation reached formal charges as Paul Doyle, the 53-year-old ex-Royal Marine and company director, was named and charged with multiple counts relating to the incident that injured 79 people. Media reports detailed how his wife discovered the crash when she saw their car on television news, while neighbors continued expressing disbelief about the "family man" and father-of-three.

Trump's sweeping global tariffs faced judicial whiplash throughout the day. Early morning coverage focused on federal courts blocking the measures, with judges ruling the president "exceeded any authority." The White House immediately appealed, labeling the decision a "judicial coup." By evening, an appeals court temporarily reinstated the tariffs pending further review, with the case potentially heading to the Supreme Court by Friday.

Domestically, Starmer escalated attacks on Farage, comparing Reform UK's economic policies to Liz Truss's failed experiment and accusing the party of "poisoning politics."
30.05.2025
Friday

Day Two Courts Heard Denials

Paul Doyle appeared in court following his formal charging the previous day, with prosecutors accusing the 53-year-old ex-Royal Marine of deliberately using his vehicle as a weapon against 79 Liverpool fans. Media reports described him as tearful and shaking his head at the allegations, while friends maintained he was a "hard-working, churchgoing family man." The court remanded him in custody.

Russell Brand pleaded not guilty to rape and sexual assault charges involving two women, arriving at court carrying a prayer book. Coverage noted his transatlantic legal proceedings and support from certain political quarters.

Hamas rejected the latest US ceasefire proposal despite American claims that Israel had approved it, though later reports suggested the group was "thoroughly reviewing" the plan. The UN warned that all of Gaza faced famine risk.

Attorney General Lord Hermer faced criticism for comparing border control measures to Nazi Germany, forcing an apology within hours. Trump doubled steel and aluminum tariffs to 50% while praising Elon Musk despite drug use allegations.
Morning coverage focused on Trump's steel tariff threats forcing Starmer into urgent diplomatic negotiations, following the ongoing trade tensions from previous days. The US also rejected Hamas's conditional hostage release offer, marking another setback in ceasefire negotiations that have stalled repeatedly.

Domestic stories dominated afternoon coverage, with NHS cost-cutting measures denying obese patients joint replacements and reports of vaping dangers exceeding cigarette smoking. The migrant welfare bill reached nearly £1 billion monthly according to new figures.

Evening brought entertainment upheaval as Billie Piper's return as Doctor Who replaced Ncuti Gatwa, attributed to declining ratings. PSG defeated Inter Milan in the Champions League final amid fan violence in Paris. Celebrity weddings featured prominently with Dani Dyer marrying footballer Jarrod Bowen and DJ Fat Tony's ceremony attended by Boy George. The day concluded with Harry Moulding's surprise Britain's Got Talent victory over expected winners.
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