⸻ Abu Dhabi Times:Dr. Podovsovnik, you represent Rabbi Ephraim Meir in one of the most significant lawsuits ever filed against UBS Group AG. In recent weeks, we’ve heard that more and more people are coming forward, claiming they were also wronged. What exactly is happening? Dr. Podovsovnik:Yes, that’s correct. We’re now being contacted every single day by new claimants — families from Poland, Austria, France, Belgium, even the United States — who all share the same experience: they were dismissed by the so-called Claims Resolution Tribunal (CRT) with the dry phrase “No matching.” No wonder. The CRT’s selection system was…
Author: Rachel Maddow
Rachel Maddow
Rachel Maddow is a freelance journalist based in the USA, with over 20 years of experience covering Politics, World Affairs, Business, Health, Technology, Finance, Lifestyle, and Culture. She earned her degree in Political Science and Journalism from Stanford University. Throughout her career, she has contributed to outlets such as MSNBC, The New York Times, and The Washington Post. Known for her thorough reporting and compelling storytelling, Rachel delivers accurate and timely news that keeps readers informed on both national and global developments.
Afghanistan and Pakistan agreed to resume peace talks in Qatar to set terms for lasting stability. Their decision follows a week of deadly cross-border clashes that killed dozens. Qatari mediators announced the breakthrough after hosting both delegations in Doha. The Qatari Foreign Ministry confirmed that the two nations accepted an immediate ceasefire. Turkish negotiators also helped secure the deal. Both sides pledged to build mechanisms that would strengthen the truce and ensure its continuity. Escalation Along the Border Fighting intensified this month as each country accused the other of aggression. Afghanistan rejected claims that it shelters militants striking Pakistani territory,…
Americans filled streets across the United States on Saturday to protest President Donald Trump’s leadership during nationwide “No Kings” demonstrations.More than 2,600 rallies took place in cities including Washington, New York, Boston, and Chicago, drawing thousands of participants. By midday, thousands had already gathered in Times Square and Washington, D.C., chanting “Trump must go now!” and waving signs condemning his immigration policies. Protesters held banners reading “Resist Fascism” and “Nothing is more patriotic than protesting.” The rallies resembled street festivals in many places, featuring marching bands, music, and a massive “We The People” banner that attendees signed. Some protesters wore…
The jury of the 19th International Fryderyk Chopin Piano Competition, led by Garrick Ohlsson, has chosen 11 pianists for the final round. Local pride now rests with Poland’s Piotr Alexewicz, the only Polish pianist to reach the finals. The Fryderyk Chopin International Piano Competition, first held in 1927, stands among the world’s oldest and most respected classical music contests. The event remains dedicated entirely to Chopin’s compositions, preserving the Polish composer’s musical legacy. Global Talent Set to Compete for the Top Prize The final round will feature exceptional musicians from around the world, including Kevin Chen (Canada), David Khrikuli (Georgia),…
A Norwegian court convicted a 28-year-old former US Embassy security guard of espionage on Wednesday. Judges in Oslo found that he spied for Russia and Iran, sentencing him to three years and seven months in prison. Prosecutors said he handed over embassy floor plans, security routines, and diplomat details, according to Norwegian broadcaster NRK. The man admitted the facts in the indictment but denied criminal intent. Investigators said he approached Russian and Iranian contacts because of US ties to Israel and the war in Gaza. NRK reported that the man’s actions gave foreign agents sensitive operational data, though his motives…
Europe’s Human Rights Promise Under Pressure Europe has long projected itself as a champion of democracy and a defender of the persecuted. Yet, that promise now faces growing doubt. Across the continent, political exiles describe being pursued by legal cases that cross borders, harassed by foreign agents, and overlooked by governments too cautious to act. This quiet confrontation pits political power against the rule of law. The accusations follow a familiar script — corruption, abuse of office, embezzlement. These charges, serious at first glance, often collapse when scrutinized. In the case of Kyrylo Shevchenko, a former Ukrainian central banker, the…
Alibaba Cloud has officially opened its second data centre in Dubai, marking a significant step in the company’s global expansion. The project is part of a broader investment of RMB 380 billion (approximately US$53 billion) over three years into digital infrastructure worldwide. The new facility is expected to enhance the UAE’s capabilities in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and data-driven innovation. The Dubai data centre will serve both public and private sector clients, enabling faster adoption of AI technologies and digital services. By expanding its cloud footprint, Alibaba Cloud aims to support the UAE’s vision of becoming a regional hub for…
By the Abu Dhabi Times – International Edition When journalist Riva Pomerantz published her investigation into UBS’s alleged concealment of Nazi-era accounts, few expected the story to ripple so strongly across the Arab world.But within days, the article ignited conversations from Dubai to Riyadh — among sovereign investors, family offices, and private wealth clients who collectively hold billions under UBS management. Now, as legal proceedings gather momentum, the Abu Dhabi Times sat down with Dr. Gerhard Podovsovnik, Vice President of the AEA Justinian Lawyers Network, to ask what this means for modern UBS, its global clients, and the integrity of…
The United Arab Emirates is set to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a formal subject in public schools starting in the 2025–2026 academic year. This initiative, announced by the Ministry of Education, aims to prepare students for a rapidly evolving technology landscape. The AI curriculum will cover fundamental concepts, practical applications, and ethical considerations. Students will learn how AI technologies work, explore coding and data analysis, and understand how AI can solve real-world problems. Educators say the program is designed to develop critical thinking, creativity, and digital literacy among young learners. Officials emphasized that introducing AI reflects the UAE’s commitment…
US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu unveiled a new plan on 29 September to end the Gaza conflict.Known as Trump’s 20-point plan, it was developed with input from Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey.Trump pushed for Israel to halt the war after its airstrike on Doha violated Qatar’s territory in a failed bid to target Hamas negotiators.With internal political tensions easing, Trump increased pressure on Israel, believing it had achieved its main military goals in Iran, Lebanon, and Gaza.On 8 October, Trump confirmed that Israel and Hamas had signed the first phase of the deal.The agreement marks the…
