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Trading Stoners for Terrorists? – How Russia is Using Cannabis to Get Murderers and Terrorists Freed from Other Countries

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You may remember the now infamous Brittney Griner, WNBA star, prisoner swap with Russia.  Russia wanted a known arms dealers released in exchange for professional female basketball player who brought a cannabis vape pen into Russia.


Well, Putin sees an opening with cannabis legalization around the world and is working his “cannabis prisoner swap” rhetoric, again, this time with Germany.

Russia’s customs service announced the detention of a German man upon his arrival in St. Petersburg for possessing cannabis-infused gummy candies. The 38-year-old individual, arriving from Istanbul, was discovered to be carrying a pack of “Fink Green Goldbears” bearing a marijuana leaf image on its packaging during a routine luggage inspection.

 

The arrest of the German citizen in Russia holds particular significance amidst ongoing negotiations between Moscow and Berlin regarding a potential prisoner exchange involving a Russian individual imprisoned for murder in Germany, as part of broader discussions with the United States.

 

The German passport, six cannabis-infused candies, and the “Fink Green Goldbears” package are all visible in the images that the customs office has taken. The detained person faces a maximum sentence of seven years in jail for narcotics smuggling.

 

Concurrently, negotiations are underway between the United States and Russia on a potential deal that would result in the release of two American nationals who are being held in Russia: Wall Street Journal writer Evan Gershkovich and former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan.

 

Russian President Vladimir Putin recently stated in an interview that detaining Gershkovich in Russia lacks rationale and confirmed ongoing negotiations with Washington. Putin hinted at Moscow’s desire for Germany to release Vadim Krasikov, convicted for the 2019 murder of a Chechen dissident in Berlin, without explicitly mentioning his name. However, Germany has refrained from commenting on reports suggesting Russia’s interest in swapping Krasikov for Gershkovich.

 

The proposed exchange is noteworthy as it entails Germany relinquishing jurisdiction over an individual convicted of murder on its soil to secure the release of a U.S. citizen.

 

International Diplomatic Maneuvering

 

The German citizen’s imprisonment in Russia and its subsequent connection to crucial talks between major world powers highlight the complex game of diplomacy at play. Fundamentally, this episode highlights the intricate nature of international relations, wherein the decisions made by an individual can have far-reaching effects on talks at the state level. These are not isolated incidents; rather, they are taking place in the context of more general geopolitical unrest. Because of Russia’s tense ties to the West, especially to the US and its European allies, diplomatic meetings frequently have a great deal of political weight in this unstable atmosphere. The current discussions cover a wide range of topics, such as human rights, commerce, and security, with prisoner exchanges emerging as a key negotiating tool.

 

Prisoner exchanges have long been a mainstay of international diplomacy, acting as a means of resolving political differences and promoting international understanding. But because they entail exchanging people who have been found guilty or suspected of significant crimes for political advantage or humanitarian purposes, they also bring up difficult moral and legal issues. A prisoner swap involves complex negotiations and careful diplomacy to navigate. Each side aims to forward its objectives while avoiding compromises that are seen as excessively expensive or detrimental on the home front. The discussions get more complex when juggling the needs of justice, national security, and humanitarian considerations; reaching an agreement becomes a difficult undertaking.

 

The suggested exchange has wider ramifications for international norms and standards in addition to highlighting the interaction of legal, political, and humanitarian factors. The conclusion of these discussions may establish guidelines for similar discussions in the future and affect how justice, equity, and the rule of law are viewed internationally. In conclusion, the German citizen’s arrest in Russia might be seen as a miniature version of broader geopolitical processes, in which discrete events are entwined with discussions at the state level. The world waits anxiously to see how diplomats will maneuver, knowing full well the far-reaching consequences of their decisions.

 

Legal and Political Ramifications

 

The current discussions are made more difficult by the German citizen’s arrest in Russia, which not only poses legal issues but also has substantial political repercussions. Legally speaking, the inmate may be subject to penalties under Russian legalization against the transportation of illegal drugs, which carry a maximum term of seven years in prison. This legal framework highlights the gravity of the issue for the individual concerned and the seriousness with which drug-related offenses are addressed in Russia.

 

Politically, the detainment intertwines with broader diplomatic maneuvers, particularly concerning the negotiations between Russia, Germany, and the United States. The detainee’s arrest serves as a focal point in discussions surrounding potential prisoner exchanges, where individuals convicted of serious crimes are considered bargaining chips. Russia’s interest in securing the release of Evan Gershkovich and Paul Whelan, both detained in Russia, adds another layer to the geopolitical chessboard, with implications for international relations and domestic politics in all involved countries.

 

The detention also emphasizes how difficult it is to strike a balance in diplomatic discussions between political goals, legal precepts, and humanitarian considerations. The possible trade raises moral concerns about whether swapping journalists and political prisoners for those who have been charged with or found guilty of major crimes is comparable. It also emphasizes how governments must balance the needs of international relations and domestic law enforcement while balancing the conflicting aims of justice and diplomacy. To determine the result and ramifications of any proposed prisoner swap, it will be imperative to navigate these political and legal minefields as the discussions progress.

 

Public Perception and Humanitarian Concerns

 

The detainment of the German citizen in Russia evokes diverse public perceptions and humanitarian considerations, further complicating ongoing negotiations. Public reactions vary widely, ranging from empathy to skepticism, reflecting differing views on drug-related offenses and law enforcement practices. Additionally, the detainment prompts scrutiny of Russia’s legal system and its treatment of foreign nationals, potentially shaping global opinions on the country’s commitment to human rights standards.

 

As the conversation over prisoner swaps develops, humanitarian issues take center stage. The detainee’s situation highlights the misery of people caught in geopolitics’ crossfire and the human cost of diplomatic disagreements. When discussions center on exchanging political prisoners and criminals with a history of major crimes for journalists, moral conundrums about the pursuit of justice and individual liberty take center stage. These issues are very important to the inmates, as well as to international standards for fair treatment and more general humanitarian ideals. Because of this, politicians have to deal with public opinion and humanitarian concerns, realizing that these factors will greatly influence whether a proposed swap is feasible and acceptable.

 

Bottom Line

 

The detention of a German citizen in Russia, amidst complex negotiations and diplomatic maneuvers, underscores the intricate interplay between legal, political, and humanitarian factors on the international stage. As discussions surrounding potential prisoner exchanges unfold, the outcome will not only shape future diplomatic relations but also impact perceptions of justice and fairness on a global scale. The world watches closely as policymakers navigate these challenges, recognizing the far-reaching consequences of their decisions for individuals, nations, and international norms.

 

THE RUSSIAN CANNABIS PRISONER SWAP, READ ON…

BRITTNEY GRINDER 10 YEARS FOR CANNABIS VAPE CART

10 YEARS IN RUSSIAN JAIL FOR A CANNABIS VAPE CART?



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Latest Trump Weed Rumor – Trump Will Federally Deschedule and Decriminalize Cannabis, but Not Legalize It

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trump on marijuana reform

In a recent interview, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie made headlines by asserting that President-elect Donald Trump will pursue significant reforms in federal policies regarding marijuana and cryptocurrency. As the nation grapples with evolving attitudes toward cannabis and the burgeoning digital currency market, Christie’s predictions have ignited discussions about the potential implications of such changes on both industries. This article delves into Christie’s insights, the current state of marijuana and cryptocurrency regulations, and the broader implications of these anticipated reforms.

 

The Current Landscape of Marijuana Legislation

 

Federal vs. State Laws

Marijuana remains classified as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), which places it in the same category as heroin and LSD. This classification has created a complex legal landscape where states have moved to legalize cannabis for medical and recreational use, while federal law continues to impose strict prohibitions. As of now, over 30 states have legalized marijuana in some form, leading to a burgeoning industry that generates billions in revenue.

 

Challenges Faced by the Cannabis Industry

 

Despite its legality in many states, the cannabis industry faces significant hurdles due to federal restrictions. These challenges include:

  • Banking Access: Many banks are hesitant to work with cannabis businesses due to fear of federal repercussions, forcing these businesses to operate largely in cash.

  • Taxation Issues: The IRS enforces Section 280E of the tax code, which prohibits businesses engaged in illegal activities from deducting normal business expenses, leading to disproportionately high tax burdens for cannabis companies.

  • Interstate Commerce: The lack of federal legalization prevents cannabis businesses from operating across state lines, limiting their growth potential.

 

Chris Christie’s Perspective on Marijuana Reform

 

Christie, a former presidential candidate known for his tough stance on drugs during his tenure as governor, has evolved his views on marijuana over the years. In his recent statements, he emphasized that Trump is likely to pursue descheduling cannabis, which would remove it from the Schedule I classification. This move would not only provide clarity for businesses operating in legal markets but also open avenues for banking and investment.

 

Christie highlighted that descheduling would allow for a more regulated market where safety standards could be established, thus protecting consumers. He believes that this approach aligns with a growing consensus among Americans who support legalization and recognize the potential benefits of cannabis use for both medical and recreational purposes.

 

The Future of Cryptocurrency Regulation = The Rise of Cryptocurrencies

 

Cryptocurrencies have surged in popularity over the past decade, with Bitcoin leading the charge as the first decentralized digital currency. The market has expanded to include thousands of alternative coins (altcoins), each with unique features and use cases. As cryptocurrencies gain traction among investors and consumers alike, regulatory scrutiny has intensified.

 

Current Regulatory Challenges

 

The cryptocurrency market faces several regulatory challenges that hinder its growth and adoption:

 

  • Lack of Clarity: Regulatory frameworks vary significantly across states and countries, creating confusion for investors and businesses.

  • Fraud and Scams: The rapid growth of cryptocurrencies has led to an increase in fraudulent schemes targeting unsuspecting investors.

  • Consumer Protection: Without clear regulations, consumers are often left vulnerable to risks associated with volatile markets.

 

Christie’s Vision for Crypto Regulation

 

Christie believes that under Trump’s leadership, there will be an effort to find a “sweet spot” for cryptocurrency regulation balancing innovation with consumer protection. He argues that overly stringent regulations could stifle growth in this emerging sector while too little oversight could expose consumers to significant risks.

 

In his view, a balanced regulatory framework would include:

 

1. Clear Definitions: Establishing clear definitions for different types of cryptocurrencies and tokens to differentiate between securities and utility tokens.

2. Consumer Protections: Implementing measures to protect investors from fraud while promoting transparency within the market.

3. Encouraging Innovation: Creating an environment conducive to innovation by allowing startups to thrive without excessive regulatory burdens.

 

Christie’s insights reflect a growing recognition among policymakers that cryptocurrencies are here to stay and that appropriate regulations are necessary to foster growth while safeguarding consumers.

 

Implications of Proposed Reforms

 

Economic Impact

 

The potential reforms proposed by Christie could have far-reaching economic implications:

 

  • Job Creation: Legalizing marijuana at the federal level could lead to significant job creation within the cannabis industry—from cultivation and production to retail sales.

  • Investment Opportunities: Descheduling cannabis would open up investment opportunities for institutional investors who have been hesitant due to federal restrictions.

  • Boosting Local Economies: Legal cannabis markets have proven beneficial for local economies through increased tax revenues and job creation.

 

Similarly, clear regulations around cryptocurrencies could stimulate investment in blockchain technology and related industries, fostering innovation and economic growth.

 

Social Justice Considerations

 

Both marijuana legalization and sensible cryptocurrency regulations have social justice implications:

 

  • Addressing Past Injustices: Legalizing marijuana could help rectify past injustices related to drug enforcement policies that disproportionately affected marginalized communities.

  • Financial Inclusion: Cryptocurrencies offer opportunities for financial inclusion for those underserved by traditional banking systems, particularly in low-income communities.

 

Political Landscape

 

The political landscape surrounding these issues is complex. While there is bipartisan support for marijuana reform among certain lawmakers, challenges remain in overcoming entrenched opposition. Similarly, cryptocurrency regulation has garnered attention from both sides of the aisle but requires collaboration to establish effective frameworks.

 

Conclusion

 

Chris Christie’s predictions about President-elect Donald Trump’s approach to federal marijuana descheduling and cryptocurrency regulation suggest a potential shift in U.S. policy that could significantly reshape both industries. As public opinion evolves on these issues, lawmakers have an opportunity to enact meaningful reforms that promote economic growth while ensuring consumer protection. The anticipated changes could foster a more robust cannabis industry that contributes positively to the economy and addresses social justice concerns, while clear regulatory frameworks for cryptocurrencies could encourage innovation and protect consumers in the digital economy. Stakeholders in both sectors are closely watching these developments, eager to see how potential reforms might impact their futures. While the realization of Christie’s predictions remains uncertain, it’s clear that the conversation around marijuana and cryptocurrency regulation is ongoing and far from settled.

 

TRUMP 2.0 ON CANNABIS REFORM, READ ON…

TRUMP ON MARIJUANA REFORM

TRUMP 2.0 ON FEDERAL CANNABIS REFORM – WHAT DO WE KNOW?

 



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Webinar Replay: Post-Election Cannabis Wrap – Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em

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On Thursday, November 7th, Vince Sliwoski, Aaron Pelley and Fred Rocafort held a post election discussion “Post-Election Cannabis Wrap – Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em”. Watch the replay!

Key Takeaways from the “Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em – 2024 Post Election Cannabis Wrap” Webinar:

  1. Panelists:
    • Vince Sliwoski: Oregon Business lawyer specializing in cannabis and commercial real estate.
    • Aaron Pelley: Experienced in cannabis law since Washington’s legalization in 2012.
    • Fred Rocafort: Trademark attorney working closely with the cannabis team.
  2. Election Results Overview:
    • Most 2024 cannabis ballot measures did not pass.
    • Florida, South Dakota, and North Dakota saw failures.
    • Nebraska became the 39th state to legalize cannabis for medical use when it passed two cannabis initiatives, Initiatives 437 and 438.
  3. Federal and State-Level Developments:
    • Medical use is currently legal in 38 states, and 24 states allow recreational use.
    • Republican support for marijuana legalization is growing.
  4. Federal Policy Implications:
    • Schedule III Rescheduling: The process to move cannabis to Schedule III is ongoing, which could significantly impact the industry.
    • Importance of Federal Appointments: The future of cannabis policy depends heavily on who is appointed to key positions in the administration.
  5. International and Domestic Trade:
    • Schedule III status could ease import/export restrictions on cannabis.
    • Unified control of House, Senate, and presidency might expedite legislative progress.
  6. Economic and Industry Impact:
    • Cannabis stocks experienced volatility post-election, reflecting investor uncertainty.
    • Federal legalization and banking reforms are crucial for industry stability and growth.
  7. Future Outlook:
    • The potential for federal rescheduling remains strong, with hearings scheduled for early 2025.
    • State-level initiatives and regulatory developments will continue to shape the industry.

Watch the replay!



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I Had Just One Puff

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one puff of a joint a drug test

“How Long Does One Puff of Weed Stay in Your System?”… This topic can be difficult to answer since it is dependent on elements such as the size of the hit and what constitutes a “one hit.” If you take a large bong pull then cough, it might linger in your system for 5-7 days. A moderate dose from a joint can last 3-5 days, whereas a few hits from a vaporizer may last 1-3 days.

 

The length of time that marijuana stays in the body varies based on a number of factors, including metabolism, THC levels, frequency of use, and hydration.

 

Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the primary psychoactive component of cannabis. THC and its metabolites, which remain in your body long after the effects have subsided, are detected by drug tests.

 

Since these metabolites are fat-soluble, they cling to bodily fat molecules. They could thus take a while to fully pass through your system, particularly if your body fat percentage is higher.

 

THC is absorbed by tissues and organs (including the brain, heart, and fat) and converted by the liver into chemicals such as 11-hydroxy-THC and carboxy-THC. Cannabis is eliminated in feces at a rate of around 65%, while urine accounts for 20%. The leftover amount might be kept within the body.

 

THC deposited in bodily tissues ultimately re-enters the circulation and is processed by the liver. For frequent users, THC accumulates in fatty tissues quicker than it can be removed, thus it may be detectable in drug tests for days or weeks following consumption.

 

The detection time varies according to the amount and frequency of cannabis usage. Higher dosages and regular usage result in longer detection times.

 

The type of drug test also affects detection windows. Blood and saliva tests typically detect cannabis metabolites for shorter periods, while urine and hair samples can reveal use for weeks or even months. In some cases, hair tests have detected cannabis use over 90 days after consumption.

 

Detection Windows for Various Cannabis Drug Tests

 

Urine Tests

Among all drug tests, urine testing is the most commonly used method for screening for drug use in an individual.

 

Detection times vary, but a 2017 review suggests the following windows for cannabis in urine after last use:

 

– Single-use (e.g., one joint): up to 3 days

– Moderate use (around 4 times a week): 5–7 days

– Chronic use (daily): 10–15 days

– Chronic heavy use (multiple times daily): over 30 days

 

Blood Tests

Blood tests generally detect recent cannabis use, typically within 2–12 hours after consumption. However, in cases of heavy use, cannabis has been detected up to 30 days later. Chronic heavy use can extend the detection period in the bloodstream.

 

Saliva Tests

THC can enter saliva through secondhand cannabis smoke, but THC metabolites are only present if you’ve personally smoked or ingested cannabis.

 

Saliva testing has a short detection window and can sometimes identify cannabis use on the same day. A 2020 review found that THC was detectable in the saliva of frequent users for up to 72 hours after use, and it may remain in saliva longer than in blood following recent use.

 

In areas where cannabis is illegal, saliva testing is often used for roadside screenings.

 

Hair Tests

Hair follicle tests can detect cannabis use for up to 90 days. After use, cannabinoids reach the hair follicles through small blood vessels and from sebum and sweat surrounding the hair.

 

Hair grows at approximately 0.5 inches per month, so a 1.5-inch segment of hair close to the scalp can reveal cannabis use over the past three months.

 

Factors Affecting THC and Metabolite Retention

 

The length of time THC and its metabolites stay in your system depends on various factors. Some, like body mass index (BMI) and metabolic rate, relate to individual body processing, not the drug itself.

 

Other factors are specific to cannabis use, including:

 

– Dosage: How much you consume

– Frequency: How often you use cannabis

– Method of consumption: Smoking, dabbing, edibles, or sublingual

– THC potency: Higher potency can extend detection time

 

Higher doses and more frequent use generally extend THC retention. Cannabis consumed orally may remain in the system slightly longer than smoked cannabis, and stronger cannabis strains, higher in THC, may also stay detectable for a longer period.

 

How Quickly Do the Effects of Cannabis Set In?

 

When smoking cannabis, effects appear almost immediately, while ingested cannabis may take 1–3 hours to peak.

 

The psychoactive component THC produces a “high” with common effects such as:

 

– Altered senses, including perception of time

– Mood changes

– Difficulty with thinking and problem-solving

– Impaired memory

 

Other short-term effects can include:

– Anxiety and confusion

– Decreased coordination

– Dry mouth and eyes

– Nausea or lightheadedness

– Trouble focusing

– Increased appetite

– Rapid heart rate

– Restlessness and sleepiness

 

In rare cases, high doses may lead to hallucinations, delusions, or acute psychosis.

 

Regular cannabis use may have additional mental and physical effects. While research is ongoing, cannabis use may increase the risk of:

 

– Cognitive issues like memory loss

– Cardiovascular problems including heart disease and stroke

– Respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis or lung infections

– Mood disorders like depression and anxiety

 

Cannabis use during pregnancy can negatively impact fetal growth and development.

 

Duration of Effects

Short-term effects generally taper off within 1–3 hours, but for chronic users, some long-term effects may last days, weeks, or even months. Certain effects may even be permanent.

 

Bottom Line

The amount of time that cannabis remains in your system following a single use varies greatly depending on individual characteristics such as body fat, metabolism, frequency of use, and mode of intake. Frequent users may maintain traces of THC for weeks, whereas infrequent users may test positive for as little as a few days. Hair tests can disclose usage for up to 90 days, while blood and saliva tests identify more recent use. Urine tests are the most popular and have varying detection durations. The duration that THC and its metabolites are detectable will ultimately depend on a number of factors, including dose, strength, and individual body chemistry.

 

PEE IN A CUP COMING UP, READ ON..

how long does weed stay in your urine

HOW LONG DOES WEED STAY IN YOUR URINE FOR A DRUG TEST?



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