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Police have identified the beaten 3-year-old boy left to die at a Flatbush hospital on Sunday as detectives continue a desperate search for the tot’s mother, whom they believe dropped him off. 

Cops said Kyng Davis was unconscious when an unidentified woman dropped him off at SUNY Downstate Medical Center at around 11:30 a.m. on March 9. The woman who handed the lifeless child over to staff fled before she could be questioned.

Medical staff said Davis was unresponsive and had signs of bruising on his face and body. He was later pronounced dead.

Police now believe the woman who abandoned the boy was his own mother, believed to be 24 years old. A man believed to be her boyfriend was waiting in a vehicle outside the hospital; they both sped away after the child was left at the hospital, sparking a massive police search.

According to an NBC New York report, family members have been unable to contact the mother, who has developmental issues and may be manipulated by her older boyfriend.

“She has the mindset, maybe if she were a 14-year-old. I feel like she’s being influenced by that man,” Hope Green, Kyng Davis’ great-aunt, told the outlet.

Both police and family members are urging the mother and her boyfriend to surrender.

Anyone with information regarding this incident or the mother’s whereabouts can call Crime Stoppers at 800-577-TIPS (for Spanish, dial 888-57-PISTA). You can also submit tips online at crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, or on X (formerly Twitter) @NYPDTips. All calls and messages are kept confidential.

This story first appeared on Brooklyn Paper’s sister site amNewYork. 

A shocking daytime shooting in Brooklyn near an auto body shop on Tuesday left a man dead and a suspect still at large, police reported.

Cops found the victim, a man in his mid-20s, near 10 Meserole St. in Williamsburg at about 2:20 p.m. on March 11. 

The borough has been rocked with gun violence in recent days, including two fatal shootings that occurred in Bedford-Stuvyesant and Broadway Junction last weekend. 

Officers from the 90th Precinct, in responding to a 911 call about the incident, found the victim with a gunshot wound to his head and in traumatic arrest. The motive for the shooting was not immediately known. 

EMS units rushed the wounded man to Elmhurst Hospital, but he could not be saved and was pronounced dead a short time later.

Tuesday’s shooting stunned residents in an area within the 90th Precinct, which has seen a 17.96% drop in major crimes year-to-date, according to the most recent CompStat report.

Only one shooting had occurred in the 90th Precinct so far in 2025 until Tuesday; this was also the first reported homicide in the command this year.

“This is shocking for this area,” one woman said. “I can’t remember the last time this happened here.”

Throughout the afternoon, homicide detectives from Patrol Borough Brooklyn North combed the area for evidence connected to the shooting — including a BMW parked nearby. 

So far, no arrests have been made in the ongoing investigation. 

Anyone with information regarding Tuesday’s shooting can call Crime Stoppers at 800-577-TIPS (for Spanish, dial 888-57-PISTA). You can also submit tips online at crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, or on X (formerly Twitter) @NYPDTips. All calls and messages are kept confidential. 

(NewsNation) —  Ontario Premier Doug Ford said he is suspending the 25% tariff on electricity from Canada on Michigan, New York and Minnesota, on Tuesday.

This comes after what Ford said was a “productive” conversation with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. In a joint statement, the two said they talked about “the economic relationship between the United States and Canada.” Previously, Ford had threatened to cut off electricity imports to the U.S.

More than 1.5 million American homes and businesses had been affected by the energy price hikes, according to the Associated Press.

President Donald Trump on Tuesday, before Ford’s announcement, threatened to double his tariffs on steel and aluminum from 25% to 50% for Canada. A White House spokesperson said, after Lutnick and Ford spoke, that this is no longer happening, but the 25% tariff will still go into effect at midnight on Wednesday.

Trump said he “appreciated the call” between Ford and Lutnick.

Trump’s spate of tax increases on imports has made the stock market fall and stirred up recession risks. When asked by a reporter whether his tariff policy has anything to do with the economic turmoil seen this week, Trump said no, and blamed his predecessor, former president Joe Biden.

Wafa Hakim Orman, associate dean of The University of Alabama in Huntsville’s college of business, says all this “back and forth” is what’s creating a lot of “volatility” in the markets.

“It’s creating uncertainty for businesses who aren’t quite sure how they should make their investment plans going forward,” Orman said.

This story is developing. Refresh for more updates.

NewsNation’s Sierra Campbell and The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Switzerland’s NCSC mandates critical infrastructure organizations to report cyberattacks within 24 hours of discovery.

Switzerland’s National Cybersecurity Centre (NCSC) now requires critical infrastructure organizations to report cyberattacks within 24 hours due to rising cybersecurity threats.

The new policy related to security breach notification is introduced as a response to the increasing number of cyber incident.

“In view of the increasing threat of cyber incidents, Switzerland is introducing a reporting obligation for cyberattacks on critical infrastructure. Operators of critical infrastructure will be required to report attacks to the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC).” reads the announcement published by the NCSC. “The Federal Council has decided that the amendment to the Information Security Act (ISA) of 29 September 2023 will enter into force on 1 April. The ISA stipulates that authorities and organisations subject to the reporting obligation, such as energy and drinking water suppliers, transport companies and cantonal and communal administrations, must report cyberattacks to the NCSC within 24 hours of discovery.”

The Swiss authorities require critical infrastructure organizations to report attacks against critical infrastructure, including data breaches, blackmail, coercion, and manipulation or leakage of information. The announcement states that organizations that will not report the incidents may result in fines.

Switzerland has approved the Cybersecurity Ordinance, effective April 1, 2025. It regulates the reporting obligation for cyber attacks on critical infrastructure, setting exceptions and procedures. The NCSC manages reporting and coordinates information exchange between authorities and organizations. The consultation showed broad support for strengthening cybersecurity, with a focus on simplifying reporting obligations and aligning them with other regulations.

A grace period runs until October 1, 2025, after which non-compliance may result in fines up to CHF 100,000 ($114,000).

Impacted organizations must report cybersecurity incidents to the NCSC within 24 hours via an online form or email, with a detailed follow-up due in 14 days.

Switzerland’s new cyber incident reporting requirement aligns with international standards, enhancing information exchange to counter evolving threats.

The list of all entity types that are impacted by this new requirement is available here.

Follow me on Twitter: @securityaffairs and Facebook and Mastodon

Pierluigi Paganini

(SecurityAffairs – hacking, Switzerland’s NCSC)

In the runoff of the presidential election in Abkhazia, Badra Gunba secured 56.85% of the vote, excluding spoiled ballots, and emerged victorious in the presidential race. His opponent, Adgur Ardzinba, garnered 43.15%.  

This victory reflects a renewal of Abkhazia’s political management, which since January 2025 has been overseen by Sergey Kiriyenko, the First Deputy Chief of Staff of the Russian Presidential Administration. In a short time, Kiriyenko managed to establish a system that prevented chaos, ultimately thwarting the possibility of a “coup” that Ardzinba’s campaign had hoped for.  

More on this story: Psychological profile of the First Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Administration of Russia

While the Central Election Commission finalizes the results, Russia’s Investigative Committee is already pursuing those who attempted to disrupt the election through violent means, including the seizure of polling stations by supporters of opposition candidate Adgur Ardzinba.  

Abkhazia will continue to draw financial support from Russia while quietly strengthening ties with Turkey. The investment agreement with Abkhazia will be revised to accommodate the interests of all parties. The intergovernmental investment agreement between Russia and Abkhazia had previously granted significant benefits to Russian businesses.  

It is evident that the Russia will play a pivotal role in shaping Sukhumi’s economy. A new investment agreement, financial subsidies, and joint projects—particularly in tourism—will proceed with direct backing from Russian President Vladimir Putin.  

Ardzinba also achieved a respectable result, but he will have to concede. The shooting incidents at several polling stations worked against him, as they highlighted the risk of civil conflict to the entire region. Free and competitive elections serve as a safeguard against such scenarios, and it is in the best interest of all Abkhazians to accept the outcome.  

The objective was set and accomplished, regardless of the costs—demonstrating significant capabilities in the process. Whether the result was worth it, considering that Ardzinba had previously been relatively loyal to Moscow (though not to the clan that sought to force its way into Abkhazia last fall), remains to be seen. The Kremlin has managed to maintain its position in Abkhazia, and that, quite literally, is a valuable achievement.  

The second round of this snap presidential race concluded with the victory of Badra Gunba, who previously served as vice president under former leader Aslan Bzhania. However, the nature of this campaign and its outcome have exposed a deep crisis in Abkhazian politics.

In Abkhazia, political power is concentrated among a few key groups, including clans, parties, and influential figures with ties to Russia. Here are the main political forces shaping Abkhazian politics:

1. Pro-Russian Political Forces

These groups advocate strong ties with Russia and rely on Russian economic and security support.

• United Abkhazia – A pro-Russian party founded in 2004, historically aligned with former presidents Sergey Bagapsh and Raul Khajimba.
• Forum for the National Unity of Abkhazia – Another key pro-Russian party, which was associated with former President Raul Khajimba.
• People’s Front of Abkhazia for Justice and Development – A nationalist party advocating closer integration with Russia.

2. Opposition & Nationalist Forces

These groups are often skeptical of full Russian integration and focus on Abkhazian sovereignty, though they still rely on Moscow for support.

• Amtsakhara (Амцахара) – A party formed by veterans of the 1992-93 war against Georgia, promoting national sovereignty while maintaining strategic relations with Russia.
• Aruaa  – A veteran-based movement that has played a key role in political protests and opposition to sitting governments.
• Aitaira () – A reformist group that has sometimes positioned itself as an alternative to the dominant pro-Russian parties.

3. Clans & Regional Power Centers

Abkhazian politics is heavily influenced by clan-based structures, with power often shifting between different regional elites. Notable clans include:

• The Ardzinba Clan – Linked to Vladislav Ardzinba, the first Abkhazian leader, and still influential in national politics.
• The Shamba Clan – Sergei Shamba, a former prime minister, remains a significant political figure.
• The Ankvab Faction – Associated with former President Alexander Ankvab, representing a faction of the elite.

4. Russian-Backed Figures & Security Forces

• The Security Services (SGB,) – Heavily influenced by Russian intelligence and play a crucial role in maintaining political stability in Moscow’s favor.
• Presidential Influence – The current president, Aslan Bzhania, is seen as a pro-Russian figure, balancing internal factions while securing financial and military support from Moscow.

Abkhazian politics is a mix of pro-Russian parties, nationalist movements, veteran organizations, and clan-based power struggles. While some groups advocate more independence, the overall political landscape remains deeply influenced by Moscow, with Russia playing the role of ultimate arbiter in major political disputes.

In Abkhazia, political affiliations and regional origins often play significant roles in shaping alliances and influence. Historically, power has alternated between politicians from western and eastern Abkhazia, reflecting regional dynamics. For instance, the political camp of former President Aslan Bzhania and current President Badra Gunba is associated with eastern Abkhazia, while figures like Adgur Ardzinba hail from western Abkhazia. 

However, it’s important to note that while regional affiliations are prominent, specific clan associations, such as those linked to the Ardzinba surname, are not extensively documented in available public sources. The Ardzinba surname is notable in Abkhazian history, with individuals like Vladislav Ardzinba serving as the first president of Abkhazia. 

Despite this, detailed information connecting the Ardzinba surname to a specific clan is not readily accessible.

Abkhazian politics is shaped by deep-rooted internal conflicts, power struggles, and tensions over its relationship with Russia. Here are the main conflicts that define Abkhazian politics today:  

1. Pro-Russian vs. Sovereigntist Factions  

– A major divide exists between politicians who favor deeper integration with Russia and those who want to maintain greater sovereignty while still relying on Russian support.  

– Pro-Russian forces (e.g., United Abkhazia, Forum for National Unity) advocate closer ties, economic dependence, and security cooperation with Moscow.  

– Sovereigntists (e.g., Amtsakhara, some veteran groups) resist full Russian control, fearing Abkhazia could lose its autonomy or be formally absorbed into Russia. 

2. Presidential Power Struggles & Elite Clashes 

– The struggle between presidential administrations and opposition forces is a recurring pattern in Abkhazia. Nearly every president has faced mass protests, impeachment threats, or forced resignations.  

– Former Presidents vs. Current Leaders – Ex-president Raul Khajimba was ousted by protests in 2020, and his supporters still challenge the legitimacy of Aslan Bzhania’s rule.  

– Clans and regional elite rivalries influence politics, with factions like the Ardzinba and Ankvab groups clashing over power.  

3. Security Services vs. Civilian Authorities

– The security apparatus, heavily influenced by Russia, often acts as a separate power center, sometimes clashing with civilian leaders over policy and appointments. 

– Abkhazia’s Interior Ministry (MVD) and State Security Service (SGB) are frequently accused of overreach, including election interference and suppressing opposition protests.  

4. Russian Military Presence & Economic Control vs. Local Resistance 

– Many Abkhazians fear becoming too dependent on Russia, particularly as Moscow controls key industries, infrastructure, and border security.  

– Protests have erupted against Russian-led infrastructure projects, land sales to Russians, and the growing presence of Russian security forces.  

– There is opposition to the increased use of Russian passports and the potential stationing of more Russian troops in Abkhazia.  

Internal Ethnic & Minority Tensions

– The **Mingrelian population (ethnic Georgians living in Abkhazia) faces discrimination, lack of political representation, and restrictions on their legal status.  

– There are conflicts over property rights and land redistribution, particularly regarding properties abandoned by Georgians during the war.  

6. Corruption & Criminal Networks

– Corruption is widespreadc, with elites accused of mismanaging Russian aid and engaging in illicit activities such as smuggling and organized crime.  

– Political conflicts often involve business disputes, as political figures control sectors like real estate, energy, and tourism.  

Abkhazia’s political landscape is highly unstable, with ongoing power struggles, Russian influence, elite rivalries, and security conflicts shaping its trajectory. While Russia remains the dominant external actor, internal tensions—between pro-Moscow figures, nationalist groups, and security forces—continue to fuel instability.

The first-round winner, Badra Gunba, has proposed focusing on economic growth and infrastructure development. His plan includes well-developed projects in the energy sector, such as the modernization of the Cascade Hydropower Plants and the construction of small hydropower stations. Additionally, his infrastructure proposals are based on a financing model similar to the project financing factory of Russia’s VEB Bank.

The Abkhazian political establishment hopes that Moscow will continue to provide comprehensive support to Sukhumi, particularly in the areas of security and economic development.

Russia has historically been the primary financial supporter of Abkhazia, covering a significant portion of its budget and infrastructure projects. However, given Russia’s current economic constraints due to sanctions, war expenses in Ukraine, and declining revenues, its ability to sustain high levels of financial aid to Abkhazia is increasingly uncertain.

Key factors affecting Russia’s ability to finance Abkhazia:

1. Budget Priorities – With substantial funds allocated to military spending and domestic economic stabilization, Russia may need to cut back on non-essential foreign aid.
2. Sanctions & Economic Struggles – Western sanctions have restricted Russia’s access to global markets, reducing its fiscal flexibility.
3. Alternative Funding – Abkhazia might need to seek more economic self-sufficiency, attract alternative investors (such as private Russian entities), or engage in trade with countries like Turkey.

While Russia is unlikely to completely withdraw financial support, the scale and consistency of funding could decline, potentially affecting Abkhazia’s economy, public sector wages, and infrastructure projects.

The recent presidential elections in Abkhazia have led to significant political shifts and policy reconsiderations:

Election Outcomes and Leadership Change

Following the resignation of President Aslan Bzhania amid widespread protests in late 2024, presidential elections were held on February 15, 2025. As no candidate secured a majority in the first round, a runoff occurred on March 1, resulting in Acting President Badra Gunba’s election with approximately 56% of the vote. 

Policy Reassessment and Relations with Russia

One of the pivotal issues during Bzhania’s tenure was a contentious investment agreement with Russia, which many Abkhazians feared would enable Russian investors to acquire local properties, potentially marginalizing residents. This concern sparked protests leading to Bzhania’s resignation. In response, the Abkhazian parliament rejected the agreement in December 2024. 

Reuters

Upon his election, President Gunba expressed intentions to reevaluate this agreement, emphasizing the importance of aligning policies with public sentiment. While he has not specified whether the agreement will be renegotiated, Gunba noted that Russian counterparts have shown understanding regarding the issue. 

Economic Dependencies and Energy Concerns

Abkhazia’s economy remains heavily reliant on Russia, which recognized the region’s independence following the 2008 conflict with Georgia. In a recent meeting, Russian President Vladimir Putin assured continued electricity supplies to Abkhazia, addressing energy shortages exacerbated by low water levels and increased cryptocurrency mining activities. Putin also pledged to maintain Russian citizenship for Abkhazians, with approximately 70% of the population holding Russian passports. 

Regional Implications

The political developments in Abkhazia have broader regional implications, particularly concerning its relationship with Georgia and the international community. Georgia continues to view Abkhazia as part of its sovereign territory and has denounced the recent elections as violations of its sovereignty. The evolving dynamics in Abkhazia may influence geopolitical relations in the Caucasus region, especially regarding Russian influence and the responses of neighboring countries.

Russia’s interest in Abkhazia is strategic, political, and economic. Here’s why Moscow continues to support and exert influence over the region:

More on this story: Change of leader in South Ossetia: FSB to save money, fight corruption and abuses by GRU

1. Military & Strategic Importance

• Black Sea Access: Abkhazia provides Russia with a key foothold on the Black Sea, complementing its control over Crimea. The Russian military maintains bases there, including a significant presence in Gudauta.
• Buffer Zone: By controlling Abkhazia, Russia limits Georgia’s NATO ambitions and creates a buffer against Western influence in the South Caucasus.

2. Political Leverage

• Pressure on Georgia: Russia uses Abkhazia (and South Ossetia) as leverage to prevent Georgia from moving closer to NATO and the EU. The unresolved territorial disputes make it harder for Georgia to join Western alliances.
• Recognition & Influence: By maintaining control over Abkhazia, Russia reinforces its role as a regional power and challenges the Western-led international order.

3. Economic Interests

• Infrastructure & Investments: Russia has invested heavily in Abkhazia’s economy, including tourism, real estate, and energy projects. Many Russian businesses operate in the region, and Moscow controls key economic sectors.
• Dependence on Russian Aid: Abkhazia relies on Russian financial assistance, keeping the region economically and politically dependent on Moscow.

4. Security & Demographics

• Ethnic & Political Control: Russia has issued passports to many Abkhazians, making them Russian citizens and increasing its influence over the local population.
• Border Control: Russia de facto controls the “border” between Abkhazia and Georgia, ensuring that the region remains separated from Tbilisi’s influence.

Conclusion

For Russia, Abkhazia is not just a separatist enclave—it’s a strategic asset that helps contain Georgia, strengthens Russia’s position in the Black Sea, and reinforces its role as a dominant power in the South Caucasus. While the economic burden of supporting Abkhazia is significant, Moscow views it as a worthwhile investment in its geopolitical strategy.

More on this story: Russia Tests the Waters in Turning Georgia into a Confederation under the Cloak of Tbilisi Cooperation

More on this story: Russia is ready to change a political player in Abkhazia whose clans struggle for financial aid

A family-run moving company in Park Slope is celebrating 95 years in business, marking nearly a century of helping New Yorkers relocate with care and efficiency.

U.Santini Moving and Storage was founded in 1930 by Italian immigrant Peter Menchini. With his wife, Inez, he initially operated a small horse-and-buggy business delivering ice around Brooklyn. The couple eventually transitioned into moving services, and the company expanded significantly in the 1950s under the leadership of their sons, Al and Gino.

Almost 100 years later, the company has become a trusted name in the moving industry, facilitating nationwide and international relocations. The Menchini family has maintained deep roots in Park Slope since Peter purchased their permanent base at 239 15th St. in 1938. Now in its third generation of family ownership, U.Santini continues to uphold the values on which it was founded.

“I’m providing a service, but it’s more than that,” said Dan Menchini, who has overseen the company since 1994. “It’s helping people transition from one space to another, both physically and emotionally.”

Over the decades, that customer-first approach has helped U.Santini navigate shifting real estate markets and evolving customer needs. While moving services have changed dramatically since the company’s early days, U.Santini now offers digital inventories, reusable storage bins, virtual surveys, and neoprene runners to protect floors during moves.

“At the end of the day, it’s still a manual labor job. It’s a tough business, but what makes it easier is having great help — people who are really vested in it,” Dan said. He emphasized the crucial role of employees, noting that movers often serve as more than just transporters of belongings.

“They come in, and they’re almost like a therapist,” Dan said of his workers. “They’re putting the customer at ease and ensuring everything goes well. Most of the time, we deal with people moving into a new home. It’s exciting times. But we’re also dealing with estates when people pass away, but divorce can always be a bit of a challenge. All of a sudden, you have both parties there, which can be a little tricky.”

On March 6, the Menchini family marked 95 years in business, reaffirming their commitment to Peter Menchini’s original ethos of prioritizing customers. “The recipe has worked,” Dan said.

Having worked on moving trucks throughout his childhood and college years, Dan always saw himself joining the family business. Now, with three young children of his own, he sees the next generation following in his footsteps.

“My daughter, Sophia, commutes with me every morning. We come here at 7:30 to open up, get the dispatch out, and then I bring her to school,” he said. “After school, she comes back. I really feel she has the most interest in the business.”

A fourth generation is already active in the company, as Dan’s nephew, David, recently took on the role of Director of Business Development. Like his uncle, he cut his teeth working on the trucks during high school and college.

“I love how my uncle runs the company, and I think if more companies were run like this, the world would be a better place,” David said. “I have a lot of faith in what we do here, so I really enjoy that.”

(NewsNation) — Ukraine agreed to accept a deal for a temporary ceasefire in exchange for the U.S. resuming intelligence sharing and security assistance.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the U.S. will take the deal to Russia.

“I think today, Ukraine has taken a concrete step in that regard. We hope the Russians will reciprocate,” he said. “Our hope is that the Russians will say yes. that they will also agree. So the shooting will stop. The killing will stop. The dying will stop, and the talks can begin about how to end this war permanently in a way that’s acceptable and enduring for both sides.”

Officials from both the U.S. and Ukraine met in Saudi Arabia to broker the deal, with Ukraine expressing gratitude to the U.S. for previous assistance.

That comes after a heated exchange between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during an Oval Office photo opp, with Trump and Vice President JD Vance attacking Zelenskyy for what they said was a lack of gratitude.

Trump expressed hope for the deal.

“Hopefully Putin will agree to it also and we can get this show on the road,” he told reporters.

Ukraine has expressed readiness to accept the U.S. proposal that would enact an immediate 30-day ceasefire with Russia, which can be extended by mutual agreement, and must be reciprocated by the Russians.

The U.S. will lift the pause on intelligence sharing and resume security assistance to Ukraine immediately in exchange.

Russia was not present at the negotiations and the U.S. is expected to communicate that reciprocity is key to the ceasefire.

Both delegations also agreed to name negotiating teams and continue negotiations toward a longer-term peace deal, with the U.S. communicating proposals to Russia. European leaders will also be involved in the discussions.

Ukraine and the U.S. will also work on an agreement to develop Ukraine’s mineral resources.

The post Warrick joins Al-Araby to discuss the Trump-Putin summit meeting propose for Saudi Arabia appeared first on Atlantic Council.

Planned layoffs of unionized employees at the Brooklyn Museum will be avoided under a deal struck between labor unions and museum leadership on Sunday, though the long-term future of their jobs remains unclear.

The museum will offer voluntary separation or retirement packages to workers who had been slated to be laid off, according to DC37, one of two unions representing museum employees. Those “separation packages” will include three weeks of pay for every year of service, a letter of reference from museum leadership, and four months of COBRA health insurance, paid for by the museum. 

“We secured an agreement that is fair and results in no layoffs for our members,” said DC37 executive director Henry Garrido, in a statement. “The outcome of these negotiations is a testament to the power of union representation — when we fight together, we win. We will continue pushing for sustainable funding for the city’s cultural institutions.”

The package will only be offered to the 40 affected employees who were represented by either DC37 or UAW Local 2110; a museum spokesperson confirmed. A total of 47 workers were told they would be laid off, and the seven non-union employees were laid off effective Feb. 7. 

Representatives from DC37 and UAW did not immediately return requests for comment. 

The layoffs were announced last month, as director Ann Pasternak told employees the museum was facing a $10 million budget shortfall and would have to implement a number of cost-cutting measures. 

Union leaders pushed back, claiming the museum had violated its contract by not providing enough advanced notice about the cuts. At a Feb. 28 oversight hearing at the City Council, Garrido said museum executives were unwilling to implement furloughs or other measures to avoid layoffs.

On March 6, three days before the cuts were to take effect, they were delayed to March 16 after the Council indicated it might give the museum millions of dollars in additional funding in the coming fiscal year. Almost all of the roughly $10 million the city gave the museum last year was used to cover the salaries of DC37 employees. 

Even if the extra funding could not save all the employees, the delay would at least give the unions and the museum more time to find other sources of finding and figure out how to handle the deficit, UAW Local 2110 rep Maida Rosenstein told Brooklyn Paper last week. 

In a statement, a Brooklyn Museum rep said the museum had “engaged in good faith negotiations” with DC37 and UAW since the layoffs were announced last month, and was “pleased” to have reached a the voluntary separation agreement. 

It was not clear Tuesday if the Council was still considering allocating the extra funding. On March 12, the body Committee on Finance is set to meet to approve “the new designation and changes in the designation of certain organizations to receive funding in the Expense Budget.”

Update 3/11/25, 2:53 p.m.: This story has been updated with comment from the Brooklyn Museum. 

Update 3/11/25, 4:15 p.m.: This story has been updated with additional information regarding non-union employees. 

A federal judge ruled Monday evening that Elon Musk’s so-called Department of Government Efficiency is likely subject to legal disclosure obligations under the Freedom of Information Act.

It is a preliminary ruling which the government will almost certainly appeal, but a significant early victory for transparency when it comes to Musk and DOGE. So far, DOGE has ignored FOIA requests, including from The Intercept, on the grounds that it is immune from the statute entirely.

But Judge Christopher Reid Cooper of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia determined DOGE likely wields the kind of “substantial authority” that makes it a federal agency subject to FOIA. He reviewed DOGE’s structure, its rampage through the federal government in recent weeks, and how President Donald Trump and Musk have publicly described its work. 

Cooper noted DOGE’s “decimation” of one federal agency, the U.S. Agency for International Development, in particular, along with DOGE’s boastful termination of federal workers, grants, and contracts. 

Related

We Found Elon Musk’s DOGE Email Address and We’re Fighting to Reveal His Messages

“From these reports, the Court can conclude that USDS likely has at least some independent authority to identify and terminate federal employees, federal programs, and federal contracts,” Cooper ruled, using the acronym for the U.S. DOGE Service, one of the initiative’s official names. “Doing any of those three things would appear to require substantial independent authority; to do all three surely does.”

“USDS’s power to override agency officials, swiftly gain access to agency systems, and impose job requirements on federal employees all further suggest substantial independent authority,” he added.

In the wake of more than a dozen lawsuits to challenge DOGE’s work, the Trump administration has tried to cast Musk and his crew as mere advisers to the White House and duly appointed Cabinet secretaries. Cooper found that such statements — which Trump has contradicted immediately — “cannot overcome all the other evidence of USDS’s substantial independent authority.”

The judge noted that government lawyers offered minimal pushback about DOGE’s authority, wondering in a footnote “whether this decision was strategic.” In response to other lawsuits, the government has argued that DOGE is, in fact, a federal “agency” for some purposes — but only “when it is convenient” rather than “burdensome” to be one, as another judge wrote in a February ruling, including “to escape the obligations that accompany agencyhood” such as accountability under FOIA.

Cooper ordered DOGE to process a FOIA request filed by Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, the watchdog group that filed the lawsuit, on an expedited basis.

“The rapid pace of USDS’s actions requires the quick release of information about its structure and activities,” he ruled. “That is especially so given the secrecy with which USDS has operated.”

CREW’s chief counsel and executive director, Donald Sherman, celebrated the ruling in a statement published online on Monday evening. 

“Despite efforts and claims to the contrary, the government cannot hide the actions of the U.S. DOGE Service,” Sherman said. “We look forward to the expedited processing of our requests and making all the DOGE documents public.”

Related

How to Leak Under the Trump Administration

The government is expected to appeal the order. In the meantime, DOGE likely will not respond to other FOIA requests.

“At President Trump’s direction, Elon Musk and DOGE are saving historic amounts of taxpayer money from being spent on unserious bureaucratic pet projects,” said a Justice Department spokesperson in an emailed statement. “This Department has already been fighting in court to vigorously defend President Trump’s agenda and will continue to do so, especially when it comes to waste, fraud, and abuse of taxpayer dollars.”

There are currently two other federal lawsuits filed by government transparency groups against DOGE under FOIA, which are both still in early stages of litigation.

“This ruling ensures that the Trump administration and Elon Musk cannot hide behind bureaucratic sleight of hand to evade scrutiny,” said Chioma Chukwu, interim director of American Oversight, one of the other watchdogs suing DOGE, in an emailed statement on Tuesday. “Americans have the right to timely access to the truth about the Trump administration’s reckless and haphazard push to slash essential services that millions of Americans rely on and gain access to highly sensitive information on millions more without clear guardrails to prevent abuse.”

Update: March 11, 2025, 12:48 p.m. ET
The story was updated to include a comment from the Department of Justice received after publication.

The post DOGE Likely Can’t Evade Freedom of Information Law, Court Rules appeared first on The Intercept.