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Ukraine’s Parliament Ratifies US Minerals Deal In Hopes Of Securing Future Arms

May 9, 2025 Ogghy Filed Under: THE NEWS, Zerohedge

Ukraine’s Parliament Ratifies US Minerals Deal In Hopes Of Securing Future Arms

The minerals deal is now official and legally binding for Ukraine as on Thursday Ukraine’s parliament voted in favor of ratifying the controversial resources agreement with the United States. This was a final key step in its adoption.

The Zelensky government is hoping this will more firmly secure future military assistance from Washington. The vote was unanimous: 338 Ukrainian lawmakers approved of ratifying it, and none opposed.

Via AFP

“The Ukrainian Parliament has ratified the historic Economic Partnership Agreement between Ukraine and the United States,” First Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko announced on X.

“This document is not merely a legal construct — it is the foundation of a new model of interaction with a key strategic partner,” Svyrydenko added.

Critics have warned that this could be a big resource grab by the United States, but since it’s signing was accomplished in Washington last month, Trump administration rhetoric toward Kiev has softened. For example, Trump is no longer demanding that Ukraine quickly move toward holding new presidential and parliamentary elections.

Meanwhile, Moon of Alabama has highlighted that there’s still a fight on as well as confusion over some suppressed details of the deal, citing Strana, which reported (machine translation)…

The opposition already accuses the authorities of concealing the main points about the deal. The fact is that the agreement on the creation of the fund, signed last week and already made public, is being submitted for ratification, and there are very few specifics in it. This is essentially a framework agreement. For all the main points in the text of the agreement, there are references to another document – the Limited Partnership Agreement. There is also a third document – the Foundation’s charter.

A number of deputies claim that all three documents have actually been signed (or agreed upon). But they showed only one-the least important and most abstract of them, from which it is not even clear what the Foundation will do in general.

The government denies this, saying that only one document has been signed, and the rest will still be discussed.

Trump has indicated the US could just walk away from efforts to mediate peace, if neither side is a willing partner. The White House has not said whether this means it would halt arms for Ukraine’s military, or intelligence-sharing. 

But the minerals deal means the US is indeed very likely to continue arming Kiev. After all, the White House now has more of an interest in protecting US ‘investment’ now and into the future.

Still, it is a very long-haul agreement: “Two supplements would spell out the details and would be published at a later date, officials have said about the deal which might not see a payoff for a decade or longer,” France24 notes.

Tyler Durden
Fri, 05/09/2025 – 02:45

Trump fires Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden in abrupt move, sending Democrats into a frenzy

May 9, 2025 Ogghy Filed Under: NY Post, THE NEWS

President Donald Trump unexpectedly fired Library of Congress head Carla Hayden on Thursday in a move that sent Democrats into a frenzy.

Manny Pacquiao Comeback Fight: Opponent, Date & Info – Report

May 9, 2025 Ogghy Filed Under: BUSINESS, Forbes

Manny Pacquiao returns to boxing at age 46 to face Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight title on July 19 in Las Vegas.

Seismic Stadium: Jumping Virginia Tech Metallica Fans Make ‘Enter Sandman’ a Richter Scale Rocker

May 9, 2025 Ogghy Filed Under: THE NEWS, Twitchy

Luxury real estate moguls Alexander brothers hit with new allegations in sex trafficking case

May 9, 2025 Ogghy Filed Under: NY Post, THE NEWS

The new indictment adds charges and victims, alleging Alon, Oren, and Tal Alexander conspired to exploit vulnerable women and minors for commercial sex through force, fraud, and coercion.

Jeffrey Rupnow, father of 15-year-old who killed 2 at Wisconsin religious school, faces felony charges

May 9, 2025 Ogghy Filed Under: NY Post, THE NEWS

Wisconsin prosecutors have charged the father of a teenage girl who killed a teacher and fellow student in a school shooting last year with allowing her access to the semiautomatic pistols she used in the attack.

An Exclusive Conversation with Abbas Sajwani: Insights into Dubai’s Luxury Real Estate Market

May 9, 2025 Ogghy Filed Under: Luxury Lifestyle

In the ever-evolving world of luxury, few names stand out like Abbas Sajwani, the visionary founder and CEO of AHS Properties. With a keen understanding of the ultra-luxury real estate market, Abbas has made significant strides since launching his company in 2021. Under his leadership, AHS Properties has quickly gained recognition for creating exquisite, bespoke living spaces tailored for ultra-high-net-worth individuals.

In this exclusive interview, Alexander Chetchikov, President of the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce, sits down with Abbas to explore the nuances of luxury today, the impact of digital transformation, and the future of high-end living. Together, they will delve into Abbas’s journey, his insights on the luxury real estate market, and the innovative spirit that drives AHS Properties forward in an ever-changing industry.

Alexander Chetchikov (AC): In your perspective, how has the definition of luxury evolved in recent years, particularly in light of changing consumer expectations and societal values? What does “luxury” mean to you today?

Abbas Sajwani: The definition of luxury has shifted significantly in recent years, driven by changing consumer expectations and societal values. Traditionally, luxury was synonymous with opulence—grand estates, expensive materials, and exclusive brands. However, contemporary consumers, particularly millennials and Gen Z, prioritize experiences, sustainability, and authenticity over materialism. This is supported by research. A 2023 report by Bain & Company, has observed that the global luxury market is projected to reach EUR 1.2 trillion by 2025, with a notable increase in demand for personalized experiences and eco-conscious products. Additionally, the rise of the “experience economy” has prompted luxury brands to rethink their offerings, focusing on meaningful interactions and exceptional service.

Today, luxury transcends traditional definitions. It embodies a unique blend of quality, craftsmanship, and exclusivity while being closely intertwined with emotional resonance and social responsibility. Luxury is about creating environments that provide comfort and beauty, tailored to the individual’s lifestyle and aspirations. It’s also about transparency in sourcing and production, reflecting a brand’s commitment to ethical practices. In short, luxury real estate today translates to bespoke homes that are not only visually stunning but also sustainable and integrated into their surroundings, providing an enriching living experience.

AC: The luxury sector has seen significant shifts due to digital transformation. How do you believe technology has impacted the luxury experience for consumers, and what role do you see it playing in the future?

Abbas Sajwani: A 2023 study by the National Association of Realtors looked at how VR and AR are changing real estate marketing, particularly in the luxury segment. The study shows that such immersive technologies let future homebuyers have a wide variety of remote property walkthroughs with new levels of customization, previously unthinkable, hence making it much easier for them to imagine, and even dream, about living in a luxury home of their own, from afar.

With buyers getting savvy, and demanding an increasingly sophisticated and personalized experience, VR and AR tools have been introduced to the luxury real estate market.

Another report by the VR/AR Association in 2023 also pointed out that more than 40 percent of real estate professionals have already integrated VR or AR into property marketing, while the trends accelerate further in the wake of the pandemic, all of which accelerated movement toward remote engagements around the world.
This will enable future clients to actively participate in the most realistic virtual property viewing, designed to meet their needs and expectations, thus encouraging further development
of VR and AR in the Luxury Real Estate sector. This technology will make buying not only easier but also facilitate decision-making by buyers and sellers in the high-end market.

Data analytics also allows for the creation of experiences that permit stronger bonds between consumers and brands, by personalizing the offerings based on customer behaviors. And in the years to come, I see even more AI-powered customer service, and smart home technology in every field, making life a little bit easier for everyone and enhancing luxury in everyday living.

AC: As consumers become more environmentally conscious, how do you think luxury brands should adapt to incorporate sustainability into their offerings without compromising on exclusivity?

Abbas Sajwani: The rise of environmental consciousness means that luxury brands must authentically integrate sustainability, without compromising on exclusivity. This includes sourcing materials that are designed with the environment in mind and using best practices of green building, which means designing to reduce negative outcomes from energy-depleting equipment, such as lights and heating. Today, we find that more luxury consumers are open to spending extra on sustainable goods and homes. Developing homes that are given green certification (LEED, BREEAM), and offering experiences focused on nature, luxury developers can appeal to this growing demographic.

AC: What trends do you foresee shaping the future of luxury real estate in the coming years, especially in a dynamic market like Dubai? How can developers stay ahead of these trends?

Abbas Sajwani: In the next few years, a lot of these trends will have notable implications for luxury real estate, particularly in dynamic markets such as Dubai and the UAE overall. This includes the desire for wellness-driven living, with developments and properties crafted to promote overall well-being, both physically and mentally, including biophilic designs, such as spas and fitness centers.. Moreover, the move towards working from home has driven demand for bigger homes with separate offices. I think luxury developments with flexible layouts and sophisticated tech amenities, will continue to be highly sought after in the future. It is also important to invest in smart home technologies and wellness features that will cater to lifestyle preferences as trends change. This will ensure developers stay ahead in the industry.

AC: You launched AHS Properties in 2021 with a clear focus on ultra-luxury real estate. What inspired you to establish this company, and what key principles guide its development strategy?

Abbas Sajwani: AHS Properties was established with a vision to create world-class architecture, fused with green practices and redefinition of ultra-luxury living. Our development blueprint is based on several key principles, which are quality, bespoke experiences, and community integration. We strongly hold the philosophy that true luxury is not only creating spaces that cater to our clients but adding it on as a layer of lifestyle for the betterment of society as well. Our designs are therefore expressions of the values, ambitions, and desires of our clients, as well as being sustainable and innovative by nature.

AC: As a leader in the luxury real estate sector, how would you describe your leadership style? What personal experiences have influenced your approach to building AHS Properties?

Abbas Sajwani: I strongly believe in creating a culture where creativity and inclusivity can flourish, and where every team member’s input is highly valued and considered. My personal experiences in navigating complex projects and diverse markets, have taught me the importance of adaptability and open communications. I prioritize building strong relationships with clients, stakeholders, and team members alike, all of which help cultivate a shared vision for each project. This collaborative spirit not only drives innovation but also ensures that our developments resonate deeply with the luxury market.

AC: AHS Properties is known for its bespoke mansions and villas. How do you ensure that each project not only meets but exceeds the expectations of your ultra-high-net-worth clients?

Abbas Sajwani: By taking an intensely client-focused approach from the outset of a project, through to its completion, we can ensure every detail meets and exceeds the expectations of our ultra-high-net-worth clients. We achieve this through a personalization process, starting with an in-depth understanding of their lifestyle preferences and aspirations, to designing homes that are reflective of who they really are and their unique identities. It is important for us, to have regular interactions during the development life cycle, wherein we update clients, take their approval, and act as per the feedback they give us. Working with hand-selected designers and top-tier architects who complement our long-standing desire for perfection also means that every aspect has been crafted to go beyond the needs of our clients.

AC: Looking ahead, what is your vision for AHS Properties over the next decade? How do you plan to further innovate and elevate the luxury living experience for your clients?

Abbas Sajwani: Looking ahead, my vision for AHS Properties is to set new standards in luxury living by integrating cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and unparalleled design. We aim to expand our portfolio with more iconic projects that not only serve as residences but also foster a sense of community.

Over the next decade, we will continue to innovate by incorporating new technologies and best-building practices while exploring opportunities in emerging luxury markets. Our commitment to craftsmanship and client satisfaction will remain at the forefront, ensuring that we not only meet but anticipate the needs of our discerning clientele.

The dedication to quality and customer service that we are known for, will not waver–even within the exciting changes happening in our industry — it will continue to meet, and anticipate the needs of our discerning clientele.

Finally, I would like to conclude by saying that as we celebrate excellence in the luxury lifestyle, I encourage everyone to consider the evolving landscape of luxury and the importance of authenticity and sustainability in their choices. The future of luxury is not just about ownership, but also about creating meaningful experiences and connections.

With this dynamic market on our side, let us navigate it with innovation and responsibility, to ensure that luxury continues to play a positive role in inspiring and uplifting our communities.

With a firm belief in creating remarkable living experiences, Abbas is poised to further revolutionize the luxury market in Dubai and beyond. Looking ahead, it is clear that the dialogue on luxury will remain dynamic, and those who embrace change will continue to thrive in this competitive arena.

Explore AHS Properties and the projects here: https://www.ahs-properties.com/

For more on the latest in property and real estate reads, click here.

The post An Exclusive Conversation with Abbas Sajwani: Insights into Dubai’s Luxury Real Estate Market appeared first on LUXUO.

8 Ambitious Restaurants From Around The World

May 9, 2025 Ogghy Filed Under: Luxury Lifestyle

In the arena of luxury dining experiences, the most ambitious restaurants today are pushing the boundaries of what defines fine dining. These establishments go beyond impeccable service and premium ingredients by incorporating cutting-edge technology, radical interior and exterior designs, and multi-sensory experiences that transform every meal into an unforgettable journey. For the discerning connoisseur, these visionary chefs and their revolutionary restaurants are redefining the culinary landscape, offering new and exhilarating ways to indulge the senses.

Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet (Shanghai, China)

Ultraviolet is more than just a restaurant — it is an experimental gastronomic adventure where food, technology and theatre collide. Conceived by visionary chef Paul Pairet in 1996 and opened in 2012, this groundbreaking concept strips dining down to its core, eliminating distractions to heighten the senses. Each evening, just 10 guests are transported to an undisclosed location — where a 20-course tasting menu unfolds like a cinematic journey, with every dish enhanced by custom light projections, atmospheric sounds and carefully calibrated scents. The dining room itself is a stark, windowless space — a deliberately blank slate transformed into an ever-changing landscape by high-tech visual and audio effects, creating an experience that is as much about storytelling as it is about flavour.

Ultraviolet’s innovation lies not just in its technical sophistication, but in its ability to synchronise taste, temperature and ambiance in ways that push the boundaries of traditional dining. Here, a course might arrive to the sounds of crashing waves, the cool rush of ocean air and the salty aroma of sea spray — pulling guests into a layered, immersive experience. It is an approach that, as founder Paul Pairet comments, “rejects the passive nature of most fine dining”, instead engaging every sense in a carefully choreographed symphony — making each meal a visceral, all-encompassing experience.

What makes it stand out: The first restaurant to fully integrate sound, light, scent and atmosphere into the dining experience, transforming each course into a multi-sensory narrative where the environment shifts in real-time to match the flavours on the plate.

For more information on bookings, click here or visit their Instagram here.

Foliage by Tetsuya Wakuda (Singapore)

At Foliage, Tetsuya Wakuda elevates the art of Japanese dining with a bold, cross-cultural approach, blending the precision of French technique with the seasonal philosophy of shun to create an immersive, sensory-driven experience. Inspired by the vibrant energy of Tokyo’s Shinjuku district, the restaurant captures the spirit of Golden Gai’s intimate, late-night gatherings through bold aesthetics and provocative artworks by contemporary Japanese artists like Shohei Otomo, Jun Inoue and Hiroyasu Tsuri.

The menu is guided by the Japanese philosophy of shun, celebrating the freshest seasonal ingredients at their peak, while integrating cutting-edge technology like AI-driven pairings to personalise each guest’s experience. Diners can choose from meticulously crafted à la carte dishes or immerse themselves in a 13-course omakase journey, where each piece of sushi is selected for its purity and freshness, complemented by exclusive sakes like the W for Wakuda — a bespoke Junmai Ginjo brewed in Shizuoka, Japan. The space itself is a study in contrasts — one side of the dining room opens to the theatre of the open kitchen, while the other faces a serene sushi counter framed by a majestic Japanese maple tree, offering a tranquil counterpart to the energy of the main dining area.

What makes it stand out: The combination of French precision with Japanese tradition, enhanced by AI-driven personalisation and a bold, art-infused ambiance.

For more information on bookings, click here or visit their Instagram here.

Vespertine (Los Angeles, USA)

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Vespertine is described as a radical exploration of the boundaries between food, art, architecture and sound. Conceived by chef Jordan Kahn and architect Eric Owen Moss, this Los Angeles dining destination occupies a striking red steel structure known as “The Waffle”, where the building itself becomes a vital part of the experience. Within its angular, futuristic walls, guests are guided through a meticulously choreographed tasting menu that challenges conventional ideas about cuisine.

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Dishes here are as sculptural as they are flavourful, with compositions like scallop paired with passionfruit, ají Camarillo and horseradish tuile, or a dramatic “obsidian mirror” of smoked mussel cream and salted plum. These creations are not just plated but staged, each course emerging as part of a sensory narrative that blends texture, temperature and flavour with carefully curated sounds and visuals.

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Sustainability is also central to Vespertine’s philosophy. Ingredients are sourced from biodynamic, organic, or wild origins, including produce from two local farms practising regenerative agriculture. Seafood comes from indigenous fishing communities or local fishermen, while meats are grass-fed and pasture-raised. Even the restaurant’s wool carpeting, glassware and ceramic service pieces reflect this commitment to the environment, ensuring every element contributes to its overarching vision of interconnectedness.

Restaurant’s Revolutionary Element: An architectural approach to dining, where the structure itself becomes part of the meal, creating a fully immersive, multi-sensory experience that blurs the lines between art and gastronomy.

For more information on bookings, click here or visit their Instagram here.

Enigma (Barcelona, Spain)

Conceived by visionary chef Albert Adrià, Enigma is a bold departure from conventional fine dining, offering a journey that aims to “transcend the typical restaurant experience”. Designed in collaboration with the acclaimed RCR Arquitectes, whose innovative work earned the Pritzker Prize in 2017, Enigma’s interior is a maze of interconnected, sculptural spaces, each crafted to evoke a sense of mystery and discovery. The architecture itself — with its fluid lines, bespoke furnishings and ambient lighting — sets the stage for an experience that is as much about the environment as it is about the cuisine.

At its core, Enigma is driven by a deep respect for seasonality, with a menu that shifts month by month in response to the freshest market offerings. This fluid approach allows the kitchen to experiment with bold techniques while remaining true to the ingredients themselves. Diners can expect a multi-course tasting menu that changes throughout the year, blending Adrià’s signature innovation with the ever-changing rhythms of nature. The wine programme mirrors this philosophy, featuring both renowned labels and lesser-known, boundary-pushing vintages that invite discovery. It is a carefully curated list that spans the spectrum from classic to avant-garde, reflecting the same spirit of experimentation found in the kitchen.

Revolutionary Element: An immersive, ever-changing culinary journey where architecture, seasonal produce and cutting-edge technique combine to create a dining experience that challenges expectations and invites guests to explore the unknown.

For more information on bookings, click here or visit their Instagram here.

Attica (Melbourne, Australia)

Located in Melbourne’s Ripponlea suburb, Attica is a testament to the culinary vision of chef Ben Shewry, whose deeply personal approach to modern Australian cuisine is rooted in the unique flavours and ingredients of the continent. Shewry’s philosophy is shaped by a profound respect for the land’s indigenous heritage, drawing on ingredients that reflect the diverse ecosystems of Australia — from coastal waters to arid deserts.

Attica’s tasting menu is a celebration of native produce, forgoing luxury staples like caviar and lobster in favour of more unconventional offerings, such as crocodile ribs and native herbs, each dish crafted with a deep sense of place. The result is a menu that tells the story of Australia’s ancient landscapes, its first peoples and the remarkable biodiversity that defines the country’s natural larder.

Shewry’s approach extends beyond the plate, rejecting the rigid formalities of traditional fine dining in favour of a more relaxed, authentic atmosphere. Guests are encouraged to eat with their hands, share stories and embrace the unexpected — a fitting ethos for a restaurant that seeks to redefine what ambitious dining can be.

Revolutionary Element: A boundary-pushing approach to Australian cuisine, driven by native ingredients, cultural storytelling and a commitment to ethical sourcing — transforming the dining experience into a deeper exploration of Australia’s culinary heritage.

For more information on bookings, click here or visit their Instagram here.

Aulis London (London, UK)

Hidden within the creative pulse of Soho’s St Anne’s Court, Aulis London is an interactive dining space that serves as the test kitchen for acclaimed chef Simon Rogan’s most ambitious ideas, where cutting-edge techniques and bold flavour combinations are trialled before reaching his Michelin-starred restaurants. Guided by executive chef Oli Marlow and head chef Charlie Tayler, each multi-course tasting menu is a deeply seasonal journey, crafted from produce sourced directly from Rogan’s Lake District farm. Expect dishes that push the boundaries of British cuisine, from hyper-local fermentations to foraged ingredients that capture the wild, untamed essence of the English countryside.

With only 12 seats, this intimate, minimalist, stripped-back space is designed for absolute focus, removing the barrier between chef and guest. Here, the kitchen is more than simply a place for cooking — it is a stage for creative storytelling, where the chef’s hands become the focal point of the performance and each dish is a carefully composed narrative.

Revolutionary Element: Aulis London shatters the conventions of fine dining, offering a raw, unfiltered insight into the creative process behind one of Britain’s most influential chefs.

For more information on bookings, click here or visit their Instagram here.

KOKS (Ilimanaq, Greenland)

KOKS — under the visionary direction of Chef Poul Andrias Ziska — has earned a global reputation for its bold, hyper-local approach to Nordic cuisine. Temporarily relocated to Ilimanaq, Greenland, the restaurant offers an extreme dining experience that draws on the harsh yet beautiful landscapes of the Arctic. Set against the backdrop of ice fjords and dramatic tundra, KOKS is known for transforming raw, wild ingredients into delicate, complex dishes that capture the essence of the North Atlantic.

The menu is a deep dive into Nordic preservation techniques, with dishes featuring locally foraged herbs, wind-dried fish and fermented meats — a tribute to the resourcefulness required to thrive in this remote environment. One standout is the “mattak” — a dish made from whale skin wrapped around diced blubber, bound together with a glaze derived from cartilage and brushed with an oil made from Faroese flower currant leaves. Other creations might include a sorbet of bog Labrador tea, accented with pickled angelica stems, unripe currant berries, Arctic thyme and a delicate seaweed sugar sphere, each capturing the raw spirit of the Arctic landscape.

KOKS’ philosophy extends beyond the plate, embracing the philosophy of full-circle sustainability. Ingredients are sourced from the wild seas, wind-swept coastal cliffs and nutrient-rich pastures, resulting in dishes that reflect the unique, slow-growing flavours of the North. Even the wine list is a carefully curated mix of renowned labels and hidden gems, selected by head sommelier Karin Visth to complement the menu’s unconventional, intensely local flavours.

Revolutionary Element: An uncompromising commitment to extreme locality and traditional Nordic methods, transforming the harshness of the Arctic environment into a celebration of local flavours and techniques.

As of writing, the future of KOKS is uncertain, with the restaurant’s Michelin status recently removed and its long-term location yet to be determined despite exploring numerous possibilities in the Faroe Islands, adding a layer of unpredictability to this pioneering dining venture.

For more information, head to their website or Facebook page here.

Gaggan at Louis Vuitton (Bangkok, Thailand)

After redefining Indian fine dining with his emoji-driven tasting menus and anarchic spirit, Gaggan Anand has returned with an audacious new project — Gaggan at Louis Vuitton. Set within LV The Place Bangkok — the French luxury brand’s flagship experiential store — this collaboration marks Louis Vuitton’s first restaurant in Southeast Asia. Here, Anand draws on his Kolkata roots and Bangkok inspirations to craft dishes that blend the vibrancy of street food with the sophistication of fine dining, creating a thrilling intersection of flavour and fashion.

Located on the top floor of the two-storey LV The Place, the restaurant’s interior reflects the maison’s craftsmanship, with wave-like walls, Italian marble tables and signature Monogram flower lamps. The menu — available as an eight-course lunch or 17-course dinner — offers a sensory experience that mirrors the immersive luxury of its surroundings. Dishes like the infamous “Lick It Up” — which encourages diners to forgo utensils entirely — capture Anand’s signature mix of playfulness and precision, while new creations nod to local Thai ingredients presented with Louis Vuitton’s unmistakable flair.

Revolutionary Element: Blurring the lines between haute cuisine, performance art and fashion, Gaggan at Louis Vuitton reimagines fine dining as a theatrical, multi-sensory journey — making it one of the most talked-about openings in Asia in recent years.

For more information on bookings, click here or visit their Instagram here.

Ossiano (Dubai, UAE)

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Nestled within the opulent Atlantis, The Palm, Ossiano offers one of the most immersive fine dining experiences in the world, where guests dine surrounded by the mesmerising movements of stingrays, sharks and exotic fish. This one MICHELIN-starred restaurant — helmed by Chef Grégoire Berger — has become a standout on the global culinary stage, known for its visionary approach to seafood.

Ossiano’s 10-course tasting menu is a testament to the ocean’s depth and diversity, with each dish reflecting a deep respect for seasonality, terroir and sustainable sea foraging. Ingredients are sourced either from the world’s finest waters or within 50km of a coastline, ensuring every element is at its peak. This commitment to quality and environmental consciousness has earned Ossiano numerous accolades, including a MICHELIN star in 2024, the 2025 Art of Hospitality Award by 50 Best MENA and a coveted 5-star rating in the Forbes Travel Guide. With a progressive fine dining ethos, the menu at Ossiano captures the essence of the ocean, presenting ingredients in their most expressive form.

Revolutionary Element: Each course is a carefully curated chapter in a broader narrative that speaks to the mysteries of the deep and the ever-changing tides of global gastronomy.

For more information on bookings, click here or visit their Instagram here.

For more on the latest in luxury lifestyle and gastronomy reads, click here.

The post 8 Ambitious Restaurants From Around The World appeared first on LUXUO.

Randy Travis stages stunning comeback with help from AI after devastating stroke

May 9, 2025 Ogghy Filed Under: Fox News, THE NEWS

Trump’s Victory Day Decision Aligns With The Trend Of The Times

May 9, 2025 Ogghy Filed Under: THE NEWS, Zerohedge

Trump’s Victory Day Decision Aligns With The Trend Of The Times

Authored by Andrew Korybko via substack,

Historical revisionism and nostalgic nationalism typify modern-day discussions of World War II…

Trump announced that he’s “hereby renaming May 8th as Victory Day for World War II and November 11th as Victory Day for World War I”, adding that “We won both Wars, nobody was close to us in terms of strength, bravery, or military brilliance, but we never celebrate anything — That’s because we don’t have leaders anymore, that know how to do so!” He also claimed that “we did more than any other Country, by far, in producing a victorious result on World War II.”

He posted this less than a week before the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, which is celebrated in the West (and Ukraine since 2023) on 8 May and in Russia on 9 May, but the larger context concerns the trend of historical revisionism towards that conflict and nostalgic nationalism. World War II has taken on an almost mythological status in the West and Russia due to their brief wartime alliance, the war’s unprecedented carnage, and the way in which it shaped the world that everyone lives in today.

80% of the Wehrmacht’s casualties occurred on the Eastern Front and the USSR ultimately captured Berlin to end the war, but not before the Nazis killed 27 million Soviet citizens, all of which Russians remember on this sacred day. The West’s contribution to victory wasn’t insignificant, nor was the number of their people who were also killed by the Nazis, but the Soviets’ were still much greater.

This isn’t to downplay the West’s role and suffering but simply to remind people of the facts.

In recent years, however, the Baltic States, Ukraine, and others like Poland have led the European effort to present the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact, which was analyzed here, as proof that the USSR shares equal responsibility with Nazi Germany for starting World War II. They then built upon this allegation to detract from the Soviets’ contribution to victory, refocus attention on their own people’s suffering, and in the Baltic States’ and Ukraine’s case, downplay large-scale local collaboration with the Nazis.

As these narratives proliferated across the West, leading countries like the US, the UK, and France then exploited them to exaggerate their contribution to victory, which led to the West as a whole developing a warped perception of exactly what happened during World War II.

Trump appears to be one of those who fell for this revisionist framing seeing as how he falsely claimed as fact that “we did more than any other Country, by far, in producing a victorious result on World War II” when it was actually the USSR.

Whether he knows the truth or not, his counterfactual assertion aligns with the trend of Western politicians taking advantage of the aforesaid narratives’ proliferation across their societies to stoke nostalgic nationalism, which sometimes translates into political dividends for them. 

In Trump’s case, he wants Americans to remember their country’s military greatness that contributed to varying extents to its victory in the two World Wars, ergo his decision to rename both anniversaries accordingly.

Russians and others who know the historical facts about the Soviet Union’s unparalleled contribution to victory in World War II will understandably object to his historically revisionist claim, but it shouldn’t have surprised them given the trend of the times. 

If anything, it was surprising that it took this long for the US to finally catch up with its Western peers in this respect, but unlike them, Trump might seek to emphasize the US’ wartime alliance with the USSR in order to legitimize his envisaged “New Détente”.

Tyler Durden
Fri, 05/09/2025 – 02:00

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