Donald Trump can be seen as a Russian asset, though not in the traditional sense of an active agent or a recruited resource, an ex-FBI deputy director who worked under the former US president said.
Asked on a podcast if he thought it possible Trump was a Russian asset, Andrew McCabe, who Trump fired as FBI deputy director in 2018, said: “I do, I do.”
He added: “I don’t know that I would characterize it as [an] active, recruited, knowing asset in the way that people in the intelligence community think of that term. But I do think that Donald Trump has given us many reasons to question his approach to the Russia problem in the United States, and I think his approach to interacting with Vladimir Putin, be it phone calls, face-to-face meetings, the things that he has said in public about Putin, all raise significant questions.”
McCabe was speaking to the One Decision podcast, co-hosted by Sir Richard Dearlove, a former head of MI6, the British intelligence service.
The conversation, in which McCabe also questioned Trump’s attitude to supporting Ukraine and Nato in the face of Russian aggression, was recorded before the debate in Philadelphia on Tuesday, in which Trump made more controversial comments.
Claiming Russia would not have invaded Ukraine had he been president, Trump would not say a Ukrainian victory was in US interests.
“I think it’s in the US’s best interest to get this war finished and just get it done,” he said. “Negotiate a deal.”
Claiming to have good relationships with Putin and Volodymyr Zelenskiy, the Ukrainian president, Trump falsely said his opponent, Kamala Harris, failed to avert war through personal talks.
The vice-president countered that she had helped “preserve the ability of Zelenskiy and the Ukrainians to fight for their independence. Otherwise, Putin would be sitting in Kyiv with his eyes on the rest of Europe, starting with Poland.”
In one of the most memorable lines of the night, Harris added: “And why don’t you tell the 800,000 Polish Americans right here in Pennsylvania how quickly you would give up for the sake of favor and what you think is a friendship with what is known to be a dictator who would eat you for lunch.”
The candidates were not asked about recent indictments in which the Department of Justice said pro-Trump influencers were paid to advance pro-Russia talking points.
McCabe was part of FBI leadership, briefly as acting director, during investigations of Russian interference in the 2016 election and links between Trump and Moscow. Trump fired McCabe in March 2018, two days before he was due to retire. McCabe was then the subject of a criminal investigation, for allegedly lying about a media leak. The investigation was dropped in 2020. In October 2021, McCabe settled a lawsuit against the justice department. Having written The Threat, a bestselling memoir, he is now an academic and commentator.
Speaking to One Decision, McCabe said: “You have to have some very serious questions about, why is it that Donald Trump … has this fawning sort of admiration for Vladimir Putin in a way that no other American president, Republican or Democrat, ever has.
“It may just be from a fundamental misunderstanding of this problem set that’s always a problem. That’s always a possibility. And I guess the other end of that spectrum would be that there is some kind of relationship or a desire for a relationship of some sort, be it economic or business oriented, what have you.
“I think those are possibilities. None of them have been proven. But as an intelligence officer, those are the things that you think about.”
Saying he had “very serious concerns” about the prospect of a second Trump term, McCabe said he would always be concerned about Russia’s ability to interfere in US affairs.
He said: “Their desire to kind of wreak havoc or mischief in our political system is something that’s been going on for years, decades and decades and decades.
“Their interest in just simply sowing chaos and division and polarization. If they can do that, it’s a win. If they can actually hurt a candidate they don’t like, or help one that they do like, that’s an even bigger win.”
The American billionaire Jared Isaacman has led the first-ever privately funded space-walk – and not just for fun, as the mission is testing innovative spacesuits designed to protect humans on Mars. Also in the programme: we hear from UNRWA, the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, after six of its staff were among 18 killed in an Israeli air strike on one of its schools in Gaza that was being used as a shelter; and after the rock star Bon Jovi talks down a suicidal woman, what is the best way to persuade someone not to take their own life? (IMAGE: Jared Isaacman on the first private space-walk / CREDIT: SpaceX/PA Wire
Brooklyn came together this week to honor the memory of those lost on Sept. 11, 2001 with a series of poignant commemorations, memorials and tributes spread across the borough.
From solemn ceremonies at the Brooklyn Heights Promenade to reflective gatherings at local firehouses and parks, the borough paid tribute to the resilience and unity that emerged from the tragedy, ensuring that the memories of the fallen were honored and preserved.
Patriot Day at Fort Hamilton
U.S. Army Garrison Fort Hamilton marked Patriot Day with its annual 9/11 National Day of Service and Remembrance Ceremony on Sept. 10, reflecting on the lives lost 23 years ago and honoring those who have since defended the nation.
Col. Melissa Cantwell, the base’s second female military officer in its 197-year history, addressed the gathering, calling it a “time to pay tribute.”
“It’s hard to believe it was 23 years ago — it feels like yesterday,” she said. “Every one of us remembers where we were on that day because we know freedom is not free. Men and women from all backgrounds have come together to serve this great nation selflessly, with the support of their families and civilians, continuing to build on our Army’s legacy of strength and resilience.”
A wreath was placed at the garrison’s 9/11 memorial by Garrison Commander Col. Melissa Cantwell, Garrison Command Sgt. Maj. Christopher Hill, U.S. Army Reserve Maj. Gen. Kris A. Belanger, commanding general, 99th Readiness Division, and CSM Corey A. Thompson, 99th Readiness Division.U.S. Army photos by Markl Getman/Fort Hamilton Garrison Public Affairs
The ceremony featured a 21-gun salute and the playing of taps. A wreath was placed at the garrison’s 9/11 memorial by Col. Cantwell, Garrison Command Sgt. Maj. Christopher Hill, U.S. Army Reserve Maj. Gen. Kris A. Belanger, commanding general of the 99th Readiness Division, and CSM Corey A. Thompson, also of the 99th Readiness Division.
Marine Park remembrance
A somber yet deeply moving 9/11 memorial ceremony unfolded at Marine Park on Wednesday, as community residents gathered to honor the memory of those who sacrificed their lives and those who continue to bear the weight of that tragic day.
The ceremony was marked by heartfelt tributes and poignant reflections from several speakers. Among them was Donald Cranston, who shared a personal and emotional account of his brother, NYPD Officer Brian Cranston. Brian Cranston, who had served at Ground Zero, succumbed to cancer linked to his work at the site. Struggling to hold back tears, Donald expressed the profound loss felt by his family and the ongoing impact of 9/11 on their lives.
Paul Curiale, a long-time community resident, emphasized the importance of keeping the memories of 9/11 alive. His remarks underscored the collective resolve of the community to remember and honor those who gave their all.
Community members gather in Marine Park for an emotional 9/11 memorial service.Photo by Arthur de GaetaAssembly Member Jaime Williams at the Marine Park memorial.Photo by Arthur de Gaeta
Democratic leader Frank Seddio recalled the harrowing moments of that day with vivid clarity.
“When the towers fell, my heart just sank, followed by a crushing blow to my beliefs and freedoms,” he said to a crowd in tears.
As the ceremony drew to a close, the Marine Park community united in a collective embrace, expressing their deep gratitude to first responders and honoring their continued commitment to keeping the community safe.
Asser Levy Park memorial
On Wednesday afternoon, locals and elected officials gathered at Asser Levy Park in Coney Island to pay tribute to the victims of the 9/11 attacks, with a special focus on the 18 Brooklynites memorialized on a plaque inside the park.
Attendees laid flowers and lit candles in a solemn tribute to those lost.
An audience member is overcome with emotion during this year’s Asser Levy Park 9/11 memorial.Photo By Erica Price
A number of local elected officials spoke at the event, including Council Members Justin Brannan and Inna Vernikov, and Assembly Members Alec Brook-Krasny, Helene Weinstein and Michael Novakhov. Solomiya Momot, Director of Constituent Services, represented New York State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton.
Speakers at the memorial emphasized the importance of ensuring that future generations understand the events of 9/11. They stressed that many younger people have never met or remember family members who passed away in the attacks, highlighting the need to keep the memory of that day alive for those who weren’t there to witness it.
Valentina Lygin, who lost her son Alexander in the attacks, was also among the speakers, representing the deep personal and community loss felt on this anniversary.
Valentina Lygin, who lost her son Alexander in the attacks, addressed the crowd.Photo By Erica Price
Though the annual Wall of Remembrance candlelighting ceremony was canceled due to unforeseen circumstances, the site remained open to the public, as it does year-round. Many who paid their respects at Asser Levy Park walked over to the Wall of Remembrance afterward to continue their observances. The tribute, located on the western wall of Maimonides Park, is made up of three 30-by-12-foot granite panels, holding the laser-engraved portraits of 417 first responders. PAPD K-9 Sirius is also honored on the wall.
Candles, flowers and balloons adorn Brooklyn’s Wall of Remembrance in Coney Island on 9/11.Photo By Erica Price
American Veterans Memorial Pier in Bay Ridge
Over 100 people gathered at the American Veterans Memorial Pier in Bay Ridge on Wednesday to remember the victims of the attacks. Law enforcement officials, servicemembers, and elected leaders spoke to the crowd, which waved American flags and solemnly gazed across the Manhattan skyline, with the beaming tower lights in view.
Chief Fire Marshal Daniel Flynn, a lifelong Bay Ridge resident, emphasized the deep connection his community has to the events of that day.
“In this neighborhood, you find no shortage of streets renamed for FDNY and NYPD heroes who responded on September 11th, 2001,” Flynn said. “For 23 years we have mourned and grieved our loved ones … We will never forget who we have lost, what was sacrificed that day, and what we continue to sacrifice 23 years later, as our members continue to suffer from World Trade Center illnesses.”
People gather for a 9/11 vigil at the American Veterans Memorial Pier in Bay Ridge on Sept. 11, 2024.Photo by Paul FrangipaneLocals came together to commemorate the 23rd anniversary of 9/11 in Bay Ridge.Photo by Paul Frangipane
The Bay Ridge community, particularly known for its strong ties to first responders, has been uniquely affected by the aftermath of the attacks, as many continue to suffer from illnesses related to their service that day.
“One of the reasons why our community has felt the loss so disproportionately is because we are a community full of first responders, some of whom have passed from cancer in the decades since,” Council Member Justin Brannan said. “Here in southern Brooklyn, especially in Bay Ridge, it feels like we couldn’t possibly forget, because the loss is still ongoing.”
Captain Kristen Schafer of the 68th Precinct commended the community for its commitment to remembrance.
“This community comes together every year, year after year, and honors their vow to never forget,” she said. “For the moms, dads, wives and husbands, children who never got to live another day with their loved ones, we remember.”
Captain Kristen Schafer of the 68th Precinct speaks during the vigil.Photo by Paul Frangipane
State Senator Andrew Gounardes spoke about the evolving nature of the pain felt by those who lived through 9/11.
“The pain we feel as individuals and as a community never fully disappears, it merely evolves and changes as we all do over time,” he said. “The best way to honor the memory of those we lost is to work toward a better future for everyone.”
The vigil concluded with a moment of silence, as attendees gripped plastic candles and reflected on the lives lost, all vowing to “never forget.”
Other commemorations
A Brooklyn firehouse honored several of its own on Wednesday, and Green-Wood honored the more than 100 killed on 9/11 who rest at the historic cemetery with a program on the hill overlooking the Tribute in Light.
Members of Engine Company 214 and Tower Ladder 111 in Bedford-Stuyvesant remembered five firefighters who were killed during the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, when hijacked planes struck the World Trade Center, killing nearly 3,000 people and devastating the city.
“This is a firehouse that is steeped in tradition,” Tower Ladder 111’s Steve McKinney told Brooklyn Paper. “Every time I get on the rig, I take a look at their pictures hanging on the wall to remember their commitment to excellence.”
Members of Engine Company 214 and Tower Ladder 111 stand solemnly as they honor five fallen comrades who died during the 9/11 attacks.Photo by Lloyd Mitchell
Green-Wood’s memorial included words of remembrance, music and a reading of the names of victims buried at Green-Wood.
Other commemorations included the Seth Low Park Memorial, hosted by Assembly Member William Colton and Council Member Susan Zhuang in Bensonhurst; the FDNY Battalion 57 Memorial Mass, held at the Co-Cathedral of St. Joseph in Prospect Heights; St. Ann’s Annual Interfaith Service in Brooklyn Heights; and the Brooklyn-Bedford Park 9/11 Memorial Committee’s annual candlelight vigil at Bill Brown Park in Sheepshead Bay.
Additional reporting by Arthur de Gaeta, Paul Frangipane, Erica Price, Lloyd Mitchell and Kirstyn Brendlen
The short-range Iranian missiles, with a range of 120 km (75 miles), are unlikely to pose a major threat to Kyiv – but most cities in southern Ukraine would be at risk.
AP correspondent Charles de Ledesma reports a billionaire steps out of SpaceX capsule for first private spacewalk hundreds of miles above Earth. ((COURTESY: SPACEX: MANDATORY ON-AIR CREDIT))
TIME has published its second annual list of the World’s Best Companies, in partnership with Statista, a leading international provider of market and consumer data and rankings. The result of this quantitative study: 1,000 companies forging the path into the future. Here’s how the winners were selected.
Methodology
The research project “World’s Best Companies 2024” is a comprehensive analysis conducted to identify the top performing companies across the globe. The study was based on three primary dimensions: Employee Satisfaction, Revenue Growth, and Sustainability Transparency (ESG).
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The first dimension, Employee Satisfaction, was evaluated using survey data from employees worldwide. The surveys were conducted in over 50 countries with data collected from approximately 170,000 participants. The evaluation encompassed evaluations of employers across the dimensions image, atmosphere, working conditions, salary, and equality by verified employees as well as direct and indirect recommendations.
The second dimension, Revenue Growth, was assessed using data from Statista’s revenue database and targeted research, which contains company growth data for the last three years. The companies had to meet certain criteria to be considered for the evaluation, including generating a revenue of at least US $100 million in the last available fiscal year and demonstrating positive revenue growth from 2021 to 2023*. Both relative and absolute growth were considered in the evaluation.
The third dimension, Sustainability Transparency, was evaluated based on ESG data among standardized KPIs from Statista’s ESG Database and targeted data research. To formulate a comprehensive ESG index, multiple data points were collected. For the environmental evaluation, this included the carbon emissions intensity and reduction rate, as well as the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) rating. The social dimension assessed the share of women on the board of directors and the existence of a human rights policy. The governance dimension evaluated whether a company had a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) report adhering to the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) guidelines and a compliance or anti-corruption guideline.
Once the data was collected and evaluated, it was consolidated and weighted within a scoring model. The scores of all three dimensions were added on an equal percentage basis to form the final ranking score of a maximum of 100 points. The 1,000 companies with the highest score were awarded as the World’s Best Companies 2024 by TIME and Statista.
*When data from 2023 was not available, data from the last available fiscal year was used.
The Guardian.
