Ukraine says Russia is helping Iran, and a shutdown record is eclipsed: Weekend Rundown
Weekend Rundown: March 29
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed that Russian intelligence had provided Iran with satellite imagery of a U.S. air base in Saudi Arabia prior to an attack that injured American soldiers. The information, shared with NBC News, came from a daily summary of briefings Zelenskyy receives from Ukraine’s spy agencies. The report highlighted that Russian satellites captured images of the Prince Sultan Air Base on March 20, March 23, and March 25, days before the assault. Zelenskyy asserted during a Saturday interview in Qatar that he is “100%” certain Russia is aiding Iran to target U.S. forces in the Middle East. “I think it’s in Russia’s interest to help Iranians. And I don’t believe—I know—that they share information,” he stated. “Do they help Iranians? Of course. How many percent? One-hundred percent.”
Senators Debate Military Deployment in Iran
Sen. James Lankford, R-Okla., hinted at supporting the stationing of U.S. ground troops in Iran, saying during an appearance on NBC News’ “Meet the Press” that “we’ve got to be able to know what the objectives are and what they’re actually carrying out.” Separately, Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., criticized the Trump administration for its handling of foreign policy, calling it “one of the greatest blunders, presidential blunders, of our time.” He argued that the administration failed to seek congressional approval for actions, pushing the nation “further and further into a conflict with no foreseeable off-ramp and thousands of more troops moving into that region.”
Booker also mentioned his potential future in politics, stating he is not ruling out a 2028 presidential bid. However, he emphasized his focus on re-election this year. “I hope New Jersey will support me for another six years,” he told NBC News. Booker previously entered the 2020 Democratic primary but withdrew due to financial constraints. His recent fundraising efforts, including $10 million raised for his campaign and a joint committee, saw a surge after a 25-hour and 5-minute speech on the Senate floor. The senator’s remarks have reignited discussions about his political ambitions.
Bitcoin’s Downturn and Christian Investors
On the topic of cryptocurrency, Todd and Janet Gatewood, hosts of the Nashville-based radio show “God, Freedom and Bitcoin,” view the current market decline as a positive opportunity. “This is what we call ‘on sale,’” Janet said, advising listeners to “buy the dip.” The trend has drawn attention from Christian investors who follow financial influencers, with some doubling down during the volatility. The Gatewoods are part of a broader group of Christian figures—financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and even pastors—who are promoting digital currencies to their congregations.
Meanwhile, the growing acceptance of cryptocurrencies has sparked debate. Churches now allow tithing through digital coins, and online platforms argue that Bitcoin aligns with biblical principles. However, critics warn that the enthusiasm for digital assets could lead to misuse, raising concerns about the intersection of faith and finance.
Reality Star’s Outburst Sparks Controversy
A 45-second video of reality star Taylor Frankie Paul throwing metal barstools at her ex-boyfriend during a 2023 fight surfaced ahead of her “The Bachelorette” season premiere. The clip caused immediate backlash, with ABC deciding not to air the show. Cast members from both “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” and the “Bachelor” universe distanced themselves from the incident. Pop culture analysts condemned the display as a form of domestic violence.
Paul, however, had staunch supporters who defended her actions, labeling the event “reactive abuse.” The term describes situations where an abused individual retaliates aggressively, often sparking heated online debates among advocates, experts, and media commentators. Such cases become focal points for discussions on accountability and public perception.
Real Estate Industry Faces Ongoing Threats
Real estate remains one of the few professions where individuals meet strangers in isolated, enclosed settings without a uniform screening process. The 2011 murder of a 27-year-old agent during an Iowa open house left the industry shaken. In recent interviews with NBC News, some agents recounted persistent threats and risks in the field, noting that little has changed to safeguard professionals from such dangers. The case, long dormant, has resurfaced with renewed concern over safety in the industry.
