U.S. Cuts Ties with Boy Scouts; Comey and James Cases Dismissed

UPDATE: In a shocking turn of events, a federal judge has dropped criminal charges against former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James. This decision, made on July 15, 2025, follows an investigation by a prosecutor tied to former President Trump, who sought to pursue charges despite a lack of evidence. The judge ruled that the prosecutor, Lindsey Halligan, was unlawfully appointed, marking a significant defeat for Trump’s efforts against perceived political adversaries.

Meanwhile, in a bold move, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is planning to sever all military ties with the Boy Scouts of America. Hegseth’s draft memo to Congress describes the organization, now rebranded as Scouting America, as a non-meritocratic entity that has shifted away from traditional values. He criticizes it for promoting “genderless” policies and prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion over its historical mission. This decision comes after over a century of military support for the Scouts, formalized in 1937.

The implications of these decisions are profound. The military’s historical partnership with the Boy Scouts has fostered youth leadership and service opportunities for generations. Hegseth’s critique signals a potential cultural shift in how the military engages with youth organizations amid broader societal changes.

Adding to the urgency, the U.S. has declared the Cartel de los Soles, led by Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, a foreign terrorist organization. This designation aims to intensify pressure on drug traffickers linked to Venezuela, signaling a possible escalation in U.S. military involvement in the region after a series of strikes on Venezuelan boats.

In international affairs, the much-anticipated 28-point peace plan proposed by the U.S. to resolve the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia faces rejection from European leaders. Reports suggest that the plan was perceived as overly favorable to the Kremlin, prompting European leaders to formulate their own proposals, heightening tensions in Eastern Europe.

As these stories unfold, the ramifications on both domestic and international fronts are significant. The dismissal of charges against Comey and James may embolden political figures, while the military’s disassociation from the Boy Scouts may reshape youth engagement in America.

Stay tuned for more developments as these urgent situations continue to evolve.