This one’s both wild and kind of unsettling, huh? Imagine being born in Massachusetts, living your whole life as a U.S. citizen — and suddenly getting a cold, official-looking email from Homeland Security telling you: "It’s time for you to leave the United States." Like, what?!

That’s exactly what happened to Nicole Micheroni, an immigration lawyer from Newton, MA. At first, she thought the email was for a client, but nope — it was addressed to her, saying her parole status had been terminated and she had 7 days to leave the country.

The kicker? She’s a born-and-raised American citizen, so this message made zero sense. Turns out, the Department of Homeland Security admitted it was most likely a mix-up — someone probably used her email address when applying through the CBP One app, which was designed under Biden’s administration to let migrants schedule entry appointments at U.S. borders, but the program was later scrapped by Trump.

Even though Micheroni wasn’t panicked, she did call the situation scary — and honestly, she’s right. If an immigration attorney could get such an email, you’ve got to wonder how many non-citizens or vulnerable people might get them too, and actually panic.

The bigger picture here is about the Trump administration reversing Biden-era humanitarian policies like CBP One, and now actively telling people who entered under that system to pack up and leave. But this little glitch highlights how even government systems can misfire — and when you’re talking immigration and deportation, that’s not a small “oops.”

This situation between Harvard and the Trump administration is super intense — it’s not every day the federal government freezes over $2.2 billion in grants and $60 million in contracts just because a university won't bow to political pressure.

At the heart of it, the fight is about whether the government can dictate a private university's policies, beliefs, and even student activities — especially on controversial issues like campus activism, admissions, and diversity. Harvard’s President Alan Garber hit back hard, saying the university won’t “surrender its independence or relinquish its constitutional rights” no matter who’s in power.

The administration’s demands — everything from "merit-based" admissions to banning face masks (clearly aimed at pro-Palestinian protesters) — go way beyond anti-discrimination and seem designed to enforce a political agenda. Even alumni, professors, and civil rights groups like the American Association of University Professors are siding with Harvard, calling the move authoritarian.

The real kicker is the scale: $9 billion in federal funds at risk if Harvard doesn't cave. That’s not small change, and it threatens the university’s research — especially in health, science, and medicine — which could affect millions outside the school too.

It’s also part of a bigger trend: other Ivy League schools like Columbia, Penn, Brown, Princeton, Cornell, and Northwestern have faced similar ultimatums. Columbia even gave in under the threat of funding cuts.

One thing’s for sure: this isn't just about antisemitism or campus protests anymore — it's about who controls academic freedom in America. And with lawsuits, alumni backlash, and protests in Cambridge, this battle is far from over.

For diabetic patients, brown rice can be a smart alternative to white rice — but as that article explains, moderation and balance are key!

Because brown rice has a lower Glycemic Index (GI) than white rice (under 55 versus 76), it digests slower and avoids those sharp blood sugar spikes, which is great for managing diabetes. But even healthy carbs like brown rice can raise blood sugar if you overdo it.

Dr. Tran Thi Tra Phuong's tips are super practical:

✅ Portion control — stick to about 100 grams per meal.
✅ Pair it wisely — always eat it with fiber-rich veggies and lean proteins to slow down sugar absorption.
✅ Watch your cooking method — steaming or light boiling is best to maintain its lower GI. Avoid frying it!
✅ Alternate starches — don't rely on brown rice daily. Swap in oats, quinoa, legumes, or sweet potatoes to balance nutrients and reduce phytic acid intake.
✅ Monitor your blood sugar — everyone reacts a little differently, so checking post-meal glucose helps fine-tune your portions.

Also, a cool reminder: light exercise after meals — even a 10-15 minute walk — can help manage post-meal sugar spikes!

Eating asparagus provides a range of health benefits, including reducing body fat, supporting cancer prevention, and helping to manage blood sugar levels.
According to Healthline, asparagus is highly nutrient-dense yet low in calories, with half a cup (90 grams) of cooked asparagus containing 20 calories, 2.2 grams of protein, 0.2 grams of fat, and 1.8 grams of fiber.

This serving also provides 12% of the recommended daily intake (RDI) of vitamin C, 18% of vitamin A, 57% of vitamin K, 34% of folate, 6% of potassium, 5% of phosphorus, and 7% of vitamin E.

This nutrient profile contributes to the following health benefits:

1. Supports digestive health

Asparagus is an excellent source of fiber, which is essential for maintaining good digestive health. It also contains inulin, a natural prebiotic that promotes the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.

Research suggests that asparagus may have a mild laxative effect, which could help alleviate chronic constipation.

2. Helps lower blood sugar

Several animal studies have shown that asparagus extract works similarly to diabetes medications by reducing glucose and cholesterol levels while boosting antioxidant activity. Further research in humans is needed to confirm these effects.

3. Supports heart health

Asparagus has been found to enhance the binding capacity of bile acids during digestion, which helps regulate cholesterol levels and supports heart health. Animal studies have also shown that asparagus may help reduce blood pressure, contributing to overall cardiovascular well-being.

4. Offers potential anti-cancer properties

Asparagus contains bioactive compounds like saponins and polysaccharides, which have demonstrated potential anticancer properties. These compounds may reduce oxidative stress, decrease inflammation, promote healthy digestion, and even inhibit gene mutation, all of which can help reduce cancer risk.

5. Boosts immunity

Asparagus has been shown to enhance immune function by supporting the activity of red and white blood cells and promoting antibody production. Some studies suggest that asparagus also has antimicrobial properties, potentially protecting against harmful bacteria such as E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus.

6. Reduces body fat

Asparagus contains the alkaloid asparagine, which has been shown to act directly on fat cells, helping break down fat in the body, according to NDTV. Therefore, consuming asparagus as part of a balanced diet may contribute to reducing body fat.

Health experts suggest that adding ingredients like cinnamon, green tea extract, and coconut oil to your daily coffee can enhance its fat-burning potential.
According to health news platform Only My Health, here is a look at three ingredients you can add to your coffee for faster and more effective fat-burning results:

1. Cinnamon

Maintaining stable blood sugar levels is crucial for controlling cravings and preventing overeating, which plays a key role in managing body fat. Adding cinnamon to your coffee can help regulate blood sugar, reducing hunger and the temptation to snack throughout the day.

Additionally, according to the Times of India, research published in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition highlights that consuming 1.5 grams of cinnamon per day—roughly half a teaspoon—can reduce waist circumference by approximately 1.68 cm. This makes cinnamon a simple yet effective addition to your coffee for fat loss.

2. Green tea extract

Green tea is widely known for its fat-burning properties, particularly because it’s rich in catechins—natural compounds that help enhance fat oxidation, especially during exercise.

By adding green tea extract to your coffee, you can combine the benefits of both beverages. This pairing may increase the rate at which your body burns fat, giving your weight loss efforts an extra boost.

3. Coconut oil

Coconut oil is a popular choice for fat-burning coffee drinks, thanks to its high content of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). Unlike other fats, MCTs are quickly absorbed and converted into energy by the body, rather than being stored as fat.

Therefore, when added to coffee, coconut oil can help you feel fuller for longer, reducing the temptation to snack and preventing fat accumulation.

A newly released appeal report has highlighted a serious funding shortfall for humanitarian relief, revealing that only about five percent of the $1.1 billion originally needed to support 5.5 million people has been secured. The report stresses the urgency of securing additional resources as needs continue to grow following recent disasters.

The updated appeal now focuses on assisting the most vulnerable 1.1 million people, particularly women and girls, who are at heightened risk of gender-based violence, food insecurity, and limited access to reproductive healthcare.

The United Nations also emphasized that more than 6.3 million people are in desperate need of aid, especially in regions devastated by the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck on March 28, claiming over 3,600 lives.

South Korean rescue teams pulled off a dramatic rescue on Saturday after locating a man trapped in a collapsed subway construction site near Seoul. The man, who had been buried under debris about 30 meters (98 feet) underground, spent roughly 13 hours trapped before being found conscious and quickly transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Im Gwang-sik, a fire department official from Gwangmyeong city, confirmed the successful rescue but noted that another worker is still believed to be trapped inside the rubble. Authorities had earlier evacuated the site and shut down nearby traffic after concerns arose that a ventilation shaft might collapse, posing further danger to both workers and rescue crews.

Efforts to find the missing worker are ongoing, with dozens of emergency personnel, vehicles, and three cranes involved in the delicate search operation. The incident has raised concerns about safety protocols at large construction projects in South Korea, especially in densely populated urban areas like the Seoul metropolitan region.

As of Friday, measles cases across the United States surpassed 700, marking a concerning rise as the virus continues to spread, particularly among unvaccinated populations. This surge came during a week when Indiana joined five other states battling active outbreaks, Texas added 60 more cases, and the country recorded its third measles-related death.

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stated during a Cabinet meeting on Thursday that the nationwide outbreak seemed to be leveling off. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) redeployed a team to West Texas, highlighting the ongoing risk, especially for those who remain unvaccinated. The country has now reported more than twice as many measles cases as it did throughout all of 2024, with Texas bearing the brunt, tallying 541 cases.

Among Texas' reported cases were two elementary school-aged children who were unvaccinated and died from measles-related complications near the epicenter in rural West Texas. These tragedies prompted Kennedy to visit the affected community. The third fatality was an adult in New Mexico who also had not been vaccinated. Alongside Texas and New Mexico, other states with active outbreaks — defined as three or more cases — include Indiana, Kansas, Ohio, and Oklahoma.

Health experts have long warned that low vaccination rates in certain communities could lead to widespread outbreaks, potentially lasting for an extended period. The World Health Organization has also noted that cases in Mexico are genetically linked to the Texas outbreak.

Measles is an extremely contagious airborne virus that spreads when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. Despite being preventable through vaccination, the disease has made a worrying comeback even though it was officially declared eliminated from the U.S. in 2000.

In Texas, the outbreak began in January and has spread to 22 counties, with the majority of cases clustered in Gaines County, where an undervaccinated Mennonite community accounts for about 355 cases. As of Friday, state health officials reported 56 hospitalizations and noted that 5% of the cases remain actively infectious. Tragically, the most recent death involved an 8-year-old child who reportedly had no underlying health conditions.

New Mexico's outbreak is closely linked to Texas. The state has confirmed 58 cases so far, with most concentrated in Lea County. Two people have been hospitalized, and the first measles-related death in New Mexico, an adult, was reported in March.

Kansas has recorded 32 cases spread across eight counties, including major population hubs like Finney and Ford counties. Haskell County, however, reported the highest count with eight cases. The outbreak traces back to the Texas and New Mexico clusters through genetic testing.

Oklahoma has confirmed a total of 12 measles cases, including three that are classified as probable. State health officials confirmed exposures in Tulsa and Rogers counties, although specific case locations were not disclosed.

Meanwhile, Ohio has confirmed 20 cases. The majority are in Ashtabula and Knox counties, though Ohio’s health department clarified that some of the Knox County cases involve people who do not reside in the state. Ohio’s outbreaks are also connected to international travel, as seen with the initial Ashtabula County case, which involved an unvaccinated adult exposed to an international traveler.

Lastly, Indiana has reported six confirmed measles cases in Allen County, located in the northeastern part of the state. Among these cases, four are unvaccinated children, while the two adults involved have an unknown vaccination status.

This multistate outbreak underscores the ongoing risk posed by measles in areas where vaccination rates are insufficient and demonstrates how quickly the virus can resurface despite prior elimination.

Vietnamese American Amanda Ngoc Nguyen, a scientist and activist, joined an all-female crew on Blue Origin's NS-31 mission on Monday, marking a historic milestone as the first woman of Vietnamese origin to fly into space.


The all-female crew of Blue Origins NS-31 launch in their Monse designed flight suits. They are (clockwise from bottom left): Lauren Sánchez, Amanda Nguyen, Katy Perry, Gayle King, Aisha Bowe and Kerianne Flynn. Photo coutersy of Blue Origin

The all-female crew of Blue Origin's NS-31 launch in their Monse designed flight suits. They are (clockwise from bottom left): Lauren Sánchez, Amanda Nguyen, Katy Perry, Gayle King, Aisha Bowe and Kerianne Flynn. Photo coutersy of Blue Origin

Nguyen, 33, a bioastronautics research scientist and activist, is participating in the mission as part of the Space for Humanity’s Citizen Astronaut Program. The program is designed to empower citizen astronauts to "address global challenges with a broader outlook," according to the organization’s website. Nguyen serves as an Overview Ambassador, using her experience to foster a deeper connection to Earth and promote the vision of making space accessible to all.

"Her journey to space is not just a personal milestone but a powerful symbol of resilience, hope, and the boundless possibilities that lie ahead when passion and purpose align," Space for Humanity wrote.

The NS-31 mission is the 31st flight for Blue Origin’s New Shepard, a reusable rocket-capsule system. This mission also marks the first all-female spaceflight since June 16, 1963, when Valentina Tereshkova became the first woman to fly into space on a solo mission to Earth’s orbit, according to Space.com.

The crew is set to launch from the West Texas Launch Site One at 13:30 GMT. The event will be streamed live on Space.com and Blue Origin's YouTube channel, with coverage beginning 90 minutes before liftoff. The crew will reach the Kármán Line, the internationally recognized boundary of space, 62 miles (100 kilometers) above Earth, experiencing weightlessness and viewing the planet from space.



According to MIT’s media site, Nguyen will bring a research project into orbit as part of the mission. She will carry prototypes developed by researchers from MIT's Women’s Health Program (WHx), the Space Exploration Initiative (SEI), MIT Multifunctional Metamaterials Lab (MIT META), and the MIT Self-Assembly Lab. These projects include a wearable ultrasound patch that could enable continuous health monitoring in space. This research aims to improve ultrasound imaging capabilities on the International Space Station (ISS) and monitor astronaut health, particularly musculoskeletal deconditioning and spine elongation.

As the first Vietnamese and Southeast Asian woman astronaut, Nguyen's flight symbolizes reconciliation between the United States and Vietnam, emphasizing science as a tool for peace.

In addition to her astronaut work, Nguyen has an impressive academic background, including research at Harvard's Center for Astrophysics, MIT, NASA, and the International Institute for Astronautical Sciences. She also contributed to the final NASA shuttle mission, STS-135, in 2011, and the Kepler exoplanet mission in 2009. In 2019, she was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize for her advocacy work with sexual violence survivors and was named TIME's Woman of the Year in 2022.

Blue Origin highlighted the mission’s significance, stating that it "symbolizes Amanda Nguyen’s efforts to advocate for civil rights, break barriers, and empower everyday people to create change."

Nguyen is accompanied by Lauren Sánchez, fiancée of Jeff Bezos, pop star Katy Perry, and other notable women, including "CBS Mornings" co-host Gayle King, former NASA rocket scientist Aisha Bowe, and film producer Kerianne Flynn.

The remaining members of the crew also embody powerful messages, with Blue Origin noting that the mission "symbolizes Aisha Bowe’s ambition for setting big goals, passion for STEM, and commitment to inspiring future generations; represents Gayle King’s commitment to sharing important stories with the world; symbolizes Katy Perry’s global influence across music, pop culture, and philanthropy; and symbolizes Kerianne Flynn’s passion for filmmaking, storytelling, and crafting beautiful narratives."

Also, Flynn the Fly, the main character from Lauren Sánchez’s bestselling children’s book "The Fly Who Flew to Space," is part of the mission. The story encourages kids with learning differences to pursue their dreams, overcoming adversity along the way.

VietBF@ Sưu tập

An Indian-American boy has created an AI-powered smartphone app capable of detecting heart disease in just seven seconds through sound analysis, achieving an impressive accuracy rate of 96% and aiming to help underserved communities globally.



Siddharth Nandyala, 14, recently developed Circadian AI, a smartphone application designed to analyze heart sounds rapidly and conveniently diagnose cardiovascular conditions.

Originally from Anantapur, India, and now based in Frisco, Texas, Siddharth is the world's youngest AI-certified professional, holding certifications from Oracle Corporation, a leading American tech company known for its database software and cloud computing services, and ARM, a British semiconductor and software design company, according to CNBC.

With Circadian AI, Siddharth is pioneering new possibilities in accessible healthcare diagnostics. The app uses advanced algorithms to analyze heart sounds and deliver instant diagnostic results. Circadian AI has already been tested on more than 15,000 patients in the U.S. and 700 in India, demonstrating an accuracy rate of up to 96%.

Speaking with India Today last week, Nandyala explained how the app works and what inspired him: "What Circadian AI essentially is, is an automated tool that just with 7 seconds of heart sound recording, can give you a detailed synopsis of whether your heart has any abnormalities or whether you have a healthy heart."

"You just need to place it near the heart, record for 7 seconds, and it gives a diagnostic. It can detect over 40 types of cardiovascular diseases," he added.

He clarified that currently, the app is intended for clinical screening in hospital settings.

According to India Today, Circadian AI recently underwent rigorous trials at the Guntur Government General Hospital (GGH) in Andhra Pradesh, India, where it successfully demonstrated swift and accurate detection capabilities.

At GGH Guntur, the AI screened 505 patients in one study, identifying 10 cases of cardiovascular disease. A second study at the same hospital screened 863 patients, detecting 16 cardiovascular disease cases. Additionally, at GGH Vijayawada, the AI app screened 992 individuals, flagging 19 with potential heart issues.

"I am very impressed by Siddharth’s extraordinary talent and dedication to using technology for the benefit of humankind," Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu wrote on X on March 17 after meeting Nandyala.

"At such a young age, he is an inspiration to us all. I wholeheartedly encourage him to pursue his passion for healthcare technology and assure him of our full support in all his endeavours."

Nandyala emphasized that his goal is not merely to create the most advanced diagnostic tool, but rather one that is accessible and easy to use.

Nandyala completed his studies at Lawler Middle School in Texas and is currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in computer science at the University of Texas at Dallas.

In addition to his contributions to healthcare, Siddharth is also an accomplished tech entrepreneur. He founded and leads STEM IT, an initiative dedicated to advancing STEM education among students worldwide. Through STEM IT, he equips young learners with skills in coding, robotics, and AI, inspiring them to embrace technology as a tool for innovation.
VietBF@ Sưu tập

Over 400 flights were canceled and major attractions closed in Beijing Saturday as powerful winds swept northern China, marking the capital's first orange wind alert in a decade.

The powerful winds stemmed mainly from a cold vortex system formed over Mongolia that was moving east and south, sweeping across northern China from Friday through the weekend, the China Meteorological Administration said.

"The strongest winds are expected during the daytime of April 12, with wind speeds at some observation stations approaching or even surpassing historical records for the same period since 1951," the CMA said in a statement.

Beijing earlier issued its first orange alert -- the second-highest tier -- for strong winds in a decade for this weekend.

As of Saturday morning, 413 flights at Beijing's Capital International Airport had been cancelled, state broadcaster CCTV said.

Train services including the airport's express subway line and some high-speed rail lines have also been suspended, CCTV added.

Tourist attractions including the Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, Beijing Zoo and the Universal Studios theme park were also temporarily closed Saturday.

Almost 300 trees in the Chinese capital had toppled and 19 vehicles had been damaged, CCTV said, adding that no injuries due to the strong winds had been reported in Beijing yet.

China is the world's biggest emitter of the greenhouse gases that scientists say are driving climate change and making extreme weather more frequent and intense.

Dozens of people were killed and thousands evacuated during storms that caused severe flooding around the country last year.

In May, a highway in southern China collapsed after days of rain, killing 48 people.
VietBF@ Sưu tập

Vietnam will reduce its 63 provinces and cities to 34 under a sweeping administrative restructuring approved by the Party Central Committee.



The 11th plenum of the 13th Party Central Committee wrapped up on Saturday afternoon after three days of sitting, with all of its agenda completed.

Addressing the closing session, Party General Secretary To Lam said that members of the committee discussed many new and important matters, and reached high consensus on major and core issues, culminating in a unanimous vote to adopt the plenum's resolution.

Many members proposed the Politburo recognize the session as a historic one, marking a turning point with bold decisions for the country’s new phase of revolutionary development, he said.

The Party chief praised the committee’s proactive, scientific, and efficient work attitude, as well as the thorough and focused preparations carried out by sub-committees and relevant agencies.

He said that the Party Central Committee reached broad agreement on proposals concerning the continued restructuring of the political system’s organizational apparatus, rearranging administrative units and organizing local administrations with provincial and communal levels.

Under the new model, the country will comprise 34 provincial-level units (28 provinces and six centrally-run cities), with specific names and administrative centers determined according to the outlined principles.

The dissolution of district-level administrative units will be conducted, pending the National Assembly’s revision of the 2013 Constitution and the 2025 Law on Local Government Organization.

Commune-level units will be merged to reduce their overall number by around 60–70%.

Lam affirmed the support for aligning local Party structures with the new administrative levels — province and commune — while disbanding district-level Party organizations in accordance with the Party's Charter and regulations.

Following the new structure, provinces will both implement central policies and issue provincial/municipal policies.

They will also directly oversee commune-level activities.

Communes, meanwhile, will execute policies handed down from the central and provincial levels, while gaining more autonomy to issue local legal documents, organize law enforcement as well as decide issues within their authority.

The Party leader also gave the green light to merge and streamline the Vietnam Fatherland Front committees, socio-political organizations, and mass associations across all levels.

This includes disbanding unions for civil servants and armed forces, and reducing union fee contributions for workers and employees.

The Party Central Committee agreed on restructuring the People’s Courts and People’s Procuracies.

The district and high-level courts/procuracies will be dissolved, replaced by a three-level system — the Supreme People’s Court/Procuracy, provincial/municipal and regional courts/procuracies.

The structure of military courts and procuracies remains unchanged.

It also reached consensus on amendments to the Constitution and relevant laws, which must be finalized by June 30, and come into effect from July 1, with provisions on transitional period to ensure continuity and alignment with the reorganization roadmap.

General Secretary Lam underlined that the National Assembly, Government, and relevant bodies must work closely and efficiently to carry out institutional reforms.

The goal is to remove legal and procedural bottlenecks, especially in public procurement, budgeting, public investment, private sector development, science and technology, innovation, and digital transformation, facilitating the revolution on organizational apparatus.

He also emphasized the need to foster a legal environment that is transparent, safe, and low-cost, while turning institutional obstacles into competitive advantages to help position Vietnam as a regional leader in administrative reform and innovation.

Regarding the draft documents for the 14th National Party Congress, the Party Central Committee agreed that they are concise (cut down by 30–35%) yet still comprehensive and action-oriented.

These drafts are seen as exemplary for guiding similar documents at all Party levels.

The Party Central Committee recommended implementing some of the key proposals immediately, and asked drafting subcommittees to continue refining the texts to reflect new challenges and opportunities, with revolutionary thinking and methods to ensure sustainable and self-reliant development.

The General Secretary urged Party committees preparing and implementing local congresses to engage deeply with the draft documents and contribute to the 14th National Congress materials.

He said that the Party Central Committee approved guidelines for selecting personnel for the 14th Central Committee, along with updates to the Party Charter enforcement regulations, supervision and inspection, disciplinary measures, and directions for the upcoming congresses at all Party levels.

It also endorsed plans for the elections of deputies to the 16th National Assembly and the 2026–2031 People’s Councils.

Mentioning immediate tasks, Lam said that for provinces undergoing mergers, local leaders must promptly revise their congress documents to reflect a new, broader development vision.

Rather than simply combining old materials, new documents must reflect the merged province’s expanded potential.

At the grassroots level, merged communes must adopt a similar approach, he said.

Particularly, personnel appointments must prioritize competency and job suitability above all else.

Provincial Party Committees, especially of localities under mergers, must carefully deliberate staffing plans to ensure consensus and clarity, especially regarding key leadership positions, he asked.

He also urged sub-committees to promptly collect ideas and perfect the draft documents for their congresses, and submit reports to the 12th plenum of the Party Central Committee.

In conclusion, the Party chief acknowledged the enormous tasks ahead, stressing that the people and Party members are eager for productive results.

However, with strong unity and determined leadership, he expressed confidence that the country will overcome all challenges and achieve all of its set ambitious targets.
VietBF@ Sưu tập

More than 800 international students across the U.S. have had their visas revoked under a sweeping Trump administration policy targeting individuals accused of actions deemed contrary to national interests, including pro-Palestine protests and even minor traffic violations.



According to data compiled nationwide, visa revocations have impacted students and recent graduates from over 80 universities, including top-tier institutions like Harvard, Yale and Stanford. Several students have been detained directly on campus, with viral videos showing plainclothes officers approaching them for arrest and deportation.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the move aligns with the administration’s stance on curbing foreign nationals’ involvement in what it characterizes as disruptive or anti-American activities. "We do it every day. Every time I find one of these lunatics, I take away their visas," Rubio said at a March news conference, as reported by NBC News.

With approximately 1.1 million international students currently in the U.S., immigration lawyers and advocates said that many visa cancellations have been issued without prior notice. Most affected students had participated in pro-Palestine demonstrations, while others reportedly lost their visas for minor offenses such as speeding, BBC reported.

Legal experts argue that international students are entitled to free speech protections under the U.S. Constitution. However, their nonimmigrant status makes them more vulnerable to deportation.

While the Trump administration cited the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952, which allows the Secretary of State to revoke visas for actions that pose "serious adverse foreign policy consequences," legal scholars point out that a 1990 amendment restricts this power.

The amended law allows visa revocation only in rare instances, such as when noncitizens violate international agreements or incite immediate threats to Americans abroad.

Rubio said that student visas are intended strictly for academic purposes. He said those involved in protests that result in destruction of school property or harassment of peers could face deportation, meaning even students who do not directly cause damage can be targeted as well.
VietBF@ Sưu tập

From plastic in Ha Long Bay to green gaps nationwide, experts urge immediate reform in Vietnam’s tourism model.

Several eco-tourism destinations in Vietnam are proving increasingly attractive, especially to high-spending tourists.

However, these green destinations remain fragmented and underdeveloped, prompting industry leaders to call for unified efforts to elevate Vietnamese tourism through sustainability.

The wealthier the traveler, the greater the demand for green tourism

At the “Developing Green Destinations – Elevating Vietnam’s Tourism” forum, held as part of the VITM Hanoi 2025 event, Vu The Binh, Chairman of the Vietnam Tourism Association, emphasized the need for collaboration among tourism stakeholders to build a cohesive green tourism strategy. "It's time to clarify the responsibilities of all involved parties in Vietnam's green tourism development," he said.

Thanks to international partnerships and local initiatives, several green destinations have begun to gain recognition in Vietnam.

Hoang Thuy Huong, Director of Market Development at the Trang An Eco-Tourism Area, shared how the site applies the “Three No’s” policy: no concrete in the heritage core, no motorized boats, and no interference with the area's natural hydrology and landscape. This strict adherence has led to the preservation of the site’s pristine condition.

"Nearly 2,000 boat rowers act as cultural ambassadors, raising awareness about conservation and green tourism. As managers, we simply extend their efforts within a dual-ecosystem model,” Huong said.

Thanks to this approach, Trang An accounts for over 80% of total visitors to Ninh Binh, welcoming nearly 10,000 tourists daily. All rowers and staff are local residents. The site has successfully reduced its waste output by 60%.

In another initiative, a joint project between UNDP and the Vietnam Tourism Association has led to a 35% average reduction in plastic waste among 60 businesses in Ninh Binh and Hoi An within just three months of its pilot phase.

From a business perspective, Pham Ha, Chairman of Lux Group - recently awarded an international certificate for sustainable tourism - shared that affluent tourists from Europe and the U.S. place significant value on sustainability when selecting destinations.

"Some operators worry that going green is expensive, but our customers are willing to pay extra - even $1 to $1.50 more per person per day. That money goes into a fund used for environmental efforts like waste collection, tree planting, building schools, and providing clean water systems to ethnic communities," Ha said.

Pham Van Bay, Deputy Director of Vietravel Hanoi, acknowledged that green tourism tours can be more expensive due to their specific service requirements. "For example, cultural immersion tours require extensive research, local workforce training, and conservation partnerships. However, the cost difference is justified by the experience and value offered," he noted.

These trips offer more than leisure - they leave behind a “green footprint,” contributing positively to the environment and local communities.


International tourists enjoy a boat tour in Trang An. Photo: Thach Thao

Urgent need for green tourism development

Despite efforts by cruise operators to avoid plastic waste, tourists in Ha Long Bay - a UNESCO World Heritage site - still encounter “rivers of trash and plastic.” The chairman of Lux Group expressed embarrassment at the scene.

He pointed out that Vietnam lacks a central agency responsible for coordinating tourism destinations. While many businesses aim for sustainable development, green transition cannot happen in isolation. A business cannot go green if its supply chain - hotels, restaurants, transport, and destinations - does not follow suit.

He also stressed that many businesses still misunderstand the concept of “Net Zero.” Vietnam needs a clear and standardized set of indicators to measure environmental emissions effectively.

"It’s urgent - if Vietnam’s tourism doesn’t adopt sustainable development, it won’t be able to compete with other countries in the region," Ha warned.

Nguyen Thi Thu Huyen, national coordinator of UNDP’s green tourism program, agreed, adding that Vietnam’s green destinations are still underdeveloped and urgently need joint support from businesses and communities.

Phung Quang Thang, Vice President of the Vietnam Society of Travel Agents, noted that during the pilot phase of VITA’s Green Tourism Criteria program, many businesses lacked the expertise, experience, and funding required for green transformation. Moreover, many continue to rely on outdated business models.

Experts also observed that Vietnam’s green tourism lacks consistency. Many localities pursue isolated efforts, lacking a nationwide system. To address this, the Vietnam Tourism Association is building a national map of green destinations.

According to Pham Van Thuy, Deputy Director of the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, the sector will soon call for greater investment in green destinations. He urged localities to integrate green tourism into their development plans.

"The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has launched a nationwide tourism destination survey. This is a valuable opportunity for localities and businesses to develop world-class green destinations," Thuy said.
VietBF@ Sưu tập

Dozens of workers at a company in Ba Ria - Vung Tau were hospitalized after experiencing symptoms of fatigue and shortness of breath, suspected to be caused by gas inhalation. One worker has died as a result.


Workers suspected of gas inhalation were taken to the hospital on the afternoon of April 12. Photo: N.L

On the morning of April 13, the Ba Ria - Vung Tau Provincial Industrial Zones Authority confirmed that following a workplace incident involving a gas leak at Zinc Oxide Corporation Vietnam Co., Ltd. (located in Phu My 3 Industrial Zone, Phu My City), employee T.V.D. died, and several others were affected.

Initial reports indicate that at around 9:55 a.m. on April 12, a gas leak occurred in the AOZ department of Zinc Oxide Corporation Vietnam.

The leak caused many workers to suffer symptoms such as fatigue, difficulty breathing, headaches, and excessive sweating.

All affected workers were immediately transported to Ba Ria Hospital for emergency treatment and underwent medical testing.

As of 5:00 p.m. the same day, the hospital reported that 40 individuals had been discharged, while one patient remained under observation due to close exposure to the gas.

The case is currently under investigation by the Criminal Police Department of the Ba Ria - Vung Tau Provincial Police to determine the cause of the incident.

Zinc Oxide Corporation Vietnam is known for handling and disposing of hazardous waste and for treating and recycling steel furnace dust to produce zinc oxide, which can replace zinc concentrate.


VietBF@ Sưu tập

The Ministry of Public Security has detained several top executives for producing fake powdered milk under 573 different labels, targeting at-risk groups like diabetics and infants.


Workers packaging finished powdered milk products at the production facility, preparing them for market distribution. Photo: People's Public Security Newspaper

The Ministry of Public Security has officially disclosed details of a major investigation into a large-scale fake powdered milk production ring, which operated across Hanoi and several other provinces.

The case has caused over VND 28 billion (approximately USD 1.1 million) in losses to the state budget and defrauded consumers of nearly VND 500 billion (around USD 20 million).

Eight suspects indicted

On April 10, police charged and detained eight individuals for "producing and trading counterfeit food" and "violating accounting regulations causing serious consequences." Among them:

Hoang Manh Ha (b. 1979), investor and former legal representative of Rance Pharma (Aug 2021 - Aug 2024), also an investor in Hacofood.

Vu Manh Cuong (b. 1979), investor and former legal representative of Hacofood (Apr 2022 - Oct 2024), also an investor in Rance Pharma.

Dang Trung Kien (b. 1988), investor and deputy director at both firms.

These three face both criminal charges.

Ho Sy Y (b. 1988), factory manager, was charged with food counterfeiting.

Nguyen Thanh Luan (b. 1987) and Nguyen Van Tu (b. 1981), former legal representatives of Rance Pharma and Hacofood respectively, and Nguyen Thu Thuy (b. 1970), chief accountant, were charged with accounting violations.
Nguyen Thi Mai Huong, accountant and treasurer, was charged and banned from leaving her residence.

All decisions were approved by the Supreme People’s Procuracy and executed on April 11.

26,740 cans seized, $1.1M in tax evasion

Searches across 19 locations including factories and offices yielded 84 different fake powdered milk products totaling 26,740 cans from 90 production batches. Authorities also collected key evidence and documents.

Initial findings show that since 2021, the companies failed to declare full revenues and evaded taxes, causing a loss of more than VND 28 billion to the state budget.

From 2021 onward, the accused exploited rising demand for nutritional products and launched two firms - Rance Pharma and Hacofood Group - to manufacture and sell counterfeit powdered milk.

Investigators confirmed the group produced 573 fake milk powder brands, falsely marketed with ingredients such as bird’s nest extract, cordyceps, macadamia, and walnut powder. However, these were substituted with cheaper ingredients and additives.

Lab tests revealed the nutritional quality of many products was below 70% of the stated value - qualifying them as counterfeit under Vietnamese law.

In four years, the group distributed fake products nationwide through multiple companies, reaping profits of nearly VND 500 billion.
VietBF@ Sưu tập

Peeling fruits like apples, pears, and kiwis might seem natural, but health experts caution that doing so can strip away many of their essential nutrients. According to The Times of India, fruit skins often contain high levels of fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins that contribute significantly to overall health. Here are six fruits you should consider eating whole—skin and all—for maximum nutritional benefits:

1. Apples
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3. Sapodillas
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4. Plums
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5. Kiwis
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6. Mangoes
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So next time you reach for a peeler, consider leaving the skin on—your body might thank you.

China has responded to President Donald Trump's latest tariff escalation by raising its own tariffs on U.S. imports to 125%. This move follows Trump’s decision to increase duties on Chinese goods to 145%, intensifying a trade conflict that could severely disrupt global supply chains.

The new Chinese tariffs, announced Friday, came after the White House continued its hardline approach toward China—the world’s second-largest economy and a key source of U.S. imports—while easing tariffs on many other countries.

In a statement, China’s Finance Ministry condemned the U.S. measures, calling them a blatant breach of international trade norms and economic logic. The ministry described the tariffs as "unilateral bullying and coercion," asserting that they undermine basic principles of fair trade.

Myanmar's garment manufacturers have raised alarms over new U.S. tariffs, warning they could severely hinder the country's efforts to recover from the devastating earthquake that struck in late March. As the death toll climbed to 3,600 and over 160 people remain missing, the nation faces mounting economic and humanitarian challenges.

The Trump administration's trade policy is set to impose a 44 percent tariff on imports from Myanmar beginning Wednesday, delivering a blow to the country's struggling economy. The Myanmar Garment Manufacturers Association (MGMA) expressed deep concern, saying the tariffs would place immense pressure on an industry that employs over 500,000 workers, many of them young women.

In a statement, MGMA stressed that the earthquake had only intensified the hardships facing businesses and communities across Myanmar. They urged the United States to consider a more lenient tariff rate given the country’s ongoing crises.

According to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, bilateral trade between the two nations totaled around $734 million last year, with Myanmar’s exports falling by over 23 percent compared to the previous year.

Myanmar, already embroiled in a civil war since the 2021 military coup, has been further isolated by a string of U.S. foreign policy changes under President Donald Trump. His administration halted a refugee resettlement program that previously benefited many fleeing Myanmar’s conflict, and major cuts to U.S. humanitarian aid — championed by top donor and billionaire Elon Musk — have left crucial relief programs struggling.

As a result, the World Food Programme announced it would be scaling back support to one million people in Myanmar this month, citing severe funding shortages worsened by the U.S. aid cuts.

On Wednesday, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill aimed at restricting the authority of federal judges to block President Donald Trump's policies through nationwide injunctions. The legislation, which received 219 votes in favor and 213 against, was primarily supported by Republicans, though it is unlikely to advance in the Senate, where Republicans hold a majority but fall short of the 60 votes required to bypass a filibuster.

The proposed bill seeks to limit district court judges from issuing sweeping rulings that apply across the country, confining their decisions solely to the parties directly involved in a case. Representative Darrell Issa, the Republican lawmaker who introduced the bill, stated it was intended to counter "activist rulings" and restore a more balanced distribution of power between the branches of government.

The White House endorsed the bill on Tuesday, accusing certain federal courts of "weaponizing" injunctions to block the president's lawful actions. In recent years, Trump's executive orders have frequently faced legal challenges, with judges often halting them on the grounds that he may be exceeding his constitutional authority.

Just hours before the House vote, federal judges in Texas and New York issued temporary rulings halting the Trump administration’s attempt to deport certain foreigners using the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, a wartime law rarely invoked in modern times. The administration had used the law to expel alleged members of a Venezuelan gang without offering them due process.

These rulings prompted a strong response from the Trump administration, which has increasingly criticized the judiciary. In March, Trump even called for the impeachment of a federal judge who blocked one of his immigration policies — a statement that drew a rare public rebuke from Chief Justice John Roberts of the Supreme Court.