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Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP has filed a lawsuit against Krispy Kreme, Inc. (NASDAQ: DNUT) and several of its top executives.
The case, filed as Cameron v. Krispy Kreme, Inc., claims the company and its leaders misled investors by overstating the success of Krispy Kreme’s partnership with McDonald’s.
Krispy Kreme, famous for its doughnuts, started selling them at a few McDonald’s restaurants in Kentucky back in October 2022.
The plan was to test the waters before rolling out nationwide. By March 2024, the two companies announced they’d expand the partnership to McDonald’s locations across the U.S. in the second half of the year.
But things didn’t go as planned. The lawsuit claims Krispy Kreme’s leadership failed to tell investors that demand for its doughnuts at McDonald’s locations had already dropped off sharply after the initial excitement.
As demand slipped, sales at these locations fell, and the partnership, it turned out, wasn’t profitable. This raised serious questions about the viability of the McDonald’s deal and ultimately forced Krispy Kreme to hit pause on expansion plans.
Then came the bombshell. On May 8, 2025, Krispy Kreme released its first-quarter financial results.
Revenue was down 15.3% to $375.2 million, and net losses soared to $33.4 million compared to $6.7 million the year before.
The company admitted it was reassessing its rollout plans with McDonald’s and withdrew its full-year financial outlook due to the uncertainty. Unsurprisingly, Krispy Kreme’s stock price dropped nearly 25% on the news.
If you bought or acquired Krispy Kreme stock and suffered losses, you might be eligible to lead the lawsuit. You can submit your information at this link or reach out to attorneys J.C. Sanchez or Jennifer N. Caringal at 800-449-4900 or info@rgrdlaw.com. The deadline to file for lead plaintiff status is Tuesday, July 15, 2025.
Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP is a leading law firm specializing in securities class action litigation, shareholder derivative actions, and consumer protection cases. Established in 1992, the firm has earned a reputation for its expertise in handling complex legal matters on behalf of institutional investors, individuals, and consumer groups. With a team of skilled attorneys, Robbins Geller is known for its dedication to securing justice and maximizing recoveries for clients, often representing those who have suffered significant financial losses. The firm has a history of success in landmark cases, and its attorneys are recognized as leaders in the field of securities litigation. Robbins Geller operates nationwide and has offices in major U.S. cities.
Akin announced today that Skye Smith has joined the firm as a partner in its investment management practice. Ms. Smith will initially be based in the Dallas office and is set to relocate to Abu Dhabi in the coming months.
This move reinforces Akin’s commitment to expanding its presence in the Middle East and strengthens the firm’s position as a leading advisor in the Abu Dhabi Global Market, where sovereign wealth funds manage an estimated $1.7 trillion.
Skye Smith is an experienced advisor to institutional investors, with a strong emphasis on sovereign wealth funds.
With deep expertise across private equity, venture capital, infrastructure, real estate, and hedge funds, Ms. Smith advises on primary commitments, co-investments, continuation vehicles, GP stakes, and other customized arrangements, while also counseling pension plans, endowments, funds of funds, and multifamily offices.
“We are continuing to expand our investment management offerings in Abu Dhabi. The Middle East is a growing asset management market and an area of intense focus for Akin, serving our clients in their most sophisticated transactions,” said Abid Qureshi, co-chair of Akin.
“Skye brings significant experience working with sovereign wealth funds in Abu Dhabi, and we’re pleased to welcome her to our team.”
“Skye is a highly regarded investment management lawyer with a longstanding client network in Abu Dhabi.” added Barbara Niederkofler, co-leader of Akin’s investment management practice.
Robert Griffin, an investment management partner based in Abu Dhabi, commented, “Skye brings deep knowledge of the fundraising opportunities and challenges in the UAE and she is a phenomenal addition to our investment management practice in the Abu Dhabi global market.”
Ms. Smith said: “I am thrilled to join Akin and its premier investment management team. The firm has a growing platform in the UAE and Abu Dhabi in particular, advising some of the most prominent sovereign wealth funds, making this the ideal setting for my practice."
Skye Smith joins Akin from DLA Piper.
Earlier this year, Akin announced that corporate partner Alexander Malahias and project finance partner Jennifer Riddle joined the firm and will be based in Abu Dhabi until the firm opens its new Riyadh office later this year. The firm also recently welcomed investment management partner Wendy Dodson Gallegos in Chicago.
Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP is a leading global law firm with over 900 lawyers across offices in the U.S., Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Founded in 1945, the firm is recognized for excellence in complex transactions, litigation, financial restructuring, and public policy. Akin is known for its innovative, diverse, and collaborative culture, serving corporations, governments, and individuals with tailored legal solutions.
Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP, a national securities law firm, is representing investors who lost over $50,000 in Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: RCAT).
Partner James (Josh) Wilson is available to discuss legal options.
A class action lawsuit has been filed against Red Cat Holdings, alleging that the company and its executives made misleading statements about key aspects of the business.
The complaint claims Red Cat overstated the production capacity of its Salt Lake City facility, exaggerated the value of its SRR Contract, and misrepresented the company’s operations and outlook.
Back in early 2022, Red Cat announced it was participating in the U.S. Army’s Short Range Reconnaissance (SRR) Program, hinting at significant revenue potential.
By March 2023, Red Cat claimed its Salt Lake City facility was fully operational and could produce thousands of drones each month.
In July 2023, the company admitted that the factory was not finished and could only produce about 100 drones per month. This revelation led to a nearly 9% drop in stock price.
In September 2024, Red Cat reported financial results that fell short of expectations and acknowledged it had been retooling the facility for months. This news pushed the stock down over 25%.
Then in November 2024, Red Cat announced it had won the SRR Contract and projected high revenues. But in January 2025, Kerrisdale Capital released a report revealing that the contract’s value was likely much lower than claimed.
The report also raised questions about insider transactions and executive departures. Following this news, Red Cat’s stock dropped over 21%.
If you invested in Red Cat between March 18, 2022, and January 15, 2025, and lost money, you may be able to join the class action lawsuit or even serve as the lead plaintiff. Your right to compensation won’t be affected whether you choose to lead or participate. The deadline to act is July 21, 2025.
If you’d like to discuss your options, contact Josh Wilson at Faruqi & Faruqi:
877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310)
If you have information about Red Cat’s conduct, whether you’re a whistleblower, a former employee, or an investor, Faruqi & Faruqi encourages you to speak up.
Red Cat Holdings, Inc. is a drone technology company delivering hardware and software solutions for military, government, and commercial use. Through subsidiaries Teal Drones and FlightWave Aerospace, Red Cat offers a Family of Systems including Black Widow™, TRICHON™, and FANG™. Headquartered in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Red Cat is advancing drone innovation and delivering cutting-edge solutions for defense and commercial applications.
Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP is a national law firm specializing in complex civil litigation, including securities, antitrust, consumer, shareholder derivative, and employment cases. Founded in 1995 by Nadeem and Lubna Faruqi, the firm has grown from a small New York office to locations across the U.S. Faruqi & Faruqi has served as lead counsel in numerous high-profile cases, recovering significant sums for investors, consumers, and employees. Committed to integrity, respect, and client service, the firm employs a skilled team of attorneys and legal professionals dedicated to upholding the highest standards.
Clifford Chance has advised Premia Partners, Hong Kong’s leading provider of Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), on the launch of the Premia BOCHK Saudi Arabia Government Sukuk ETF on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX).
This new ETF is a first for Asia, giving investors access to Saudi Arabia’s capital markets.
It invests in Sukuk securities – bonds that follow Islamic principles – listed on the Saudi Exchange and denominated in Saudi Riyals, as well as US Dollar Sukuk issued by Saudi Arabia’s government and agencies.
A team led by Rocky Mui, along with Matthew Wan, Michael Chan, Phoebe Ho, and Connie Fung, advised Premia Partners through every step of the process.
They helped with setting up the ETF, preparing offering documents, and securing approvals from the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) and the stock exchange.
Rocky Mui commented: "This landmark Sukuk ETF launch underscores Hong Kong's role in connecting international capital with emerging opportunities in the Middle East. With its robust regulatory framework and deep pools of capital, Hong Kong is uniquely positioned as a hub for innovative investment products. We are proud to have advised Premia Partners on bringing Asia's first investment-grade Sukuk ETF to market."
Clifford Chance is a global law firm with over a century of history and a presence in 23 countries through 34 offices. A member of the prestigious Magic Circle, the firm is recognized for its deep expertise in banking, corporate law, finance, dispute resolution, and tax. It advises a broad spectrum of clients, including multinational corporations, financial institutions, governments, and not-for-profits by combining international best practices with local market insight. Known for its collaborative culture and forward-thinking approach, Clifford Chance delivers innovative, high-quality legal solutions across every major industry and sector.
The 2025 Liverpool FC Premier League victory parade—meant to be a day of pure celebration—was thrown into chaos on 26 May 2025, when a vehicle ploughed into the packed crowd near The Strand. Seventy-nine people were injured, among them several children, in one of the most serious public-event collisions the city has faced in decades.
Police have since charged Paul Doyle, a 53-year-old former Royal Marine from West Derby, with multiple offences linked to the crash. As the case develops, it has rapidly become more than a single criminal prosecution—it has opened up a broader national conversation about PTSD among UK veterans, the limits of mental health defences in criminal trials, and the tightening of drug-impaired driving laws following rising roadside drug-test failures across England and Wales.
This article breaks down the legal landscape surrounding the case as of 30 May 2025, weaving together the latest court filings, statutory changes, mental health policy debates, and the human consequences felt across Merseyside. It also examines the responsibilities placed on event organisers, whether current safeguarding measures are adequate, and how the courts will navigate complex questions around intent, impairment, and accountability.
👉 Why did Paul Doyle drive his Ford Galaxy into Liverpool’s title-parade crowd on 26 May 2025? For six months, that question dominated public debate, filling the vacuum left by Doyle’s silence and early not-guilty pleas.
PTSD is recognized under the UK’s Armed Forces Covenant, obliging authorities to support veterans. Doyle’s Royal Marines service (1990–1994) in 43 Commando likely exposed him to chronic stress, even without combat deployment. According to Greenberg et al. (2003), PTSD rates among UK veterans can reach 6%, with increased risk for high-stress roles.
Symptoms include flashbacks, emotional numbness, hypervigilance, and dissociation. NHS Veterans’ Mental Health Services (Op COURAGE) offers vital support. Dr. Claire H., a trauma psychologist, explains: “PTSD doesn’t always look like screaming flashbacks—it can be silent, eroding a person’s ability to cope with stress or crowds.” Early intervention can prevent crises.
Real-life accounts, like that of former Royal Marine Tom S., highlight PTSD’s impact: “I thought I was fine—until I wasn’t. The noise, the pressure—it can break you.”
Reference: Greenberg N, et al. (2003). “The mental health of UK Gulf War veterans.” BMC Psychiatry.
England and Wales law offers the partial defense of diminished responsibility under Homicide Act 1957 (Section 2), updated by Coroners and Justice Act 2009. If a mental condition like PTSD substantially impairs judgment, charges may be reduced from murder to manslaughter. Hospital and supervision orders under Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004 (Sections 37, 41) are possible.
Legal expert Laura Whitman notes: “PTSD can impair rational thinking, but courts require rigorous expert evidence. The bar for diminished responsibility is high.” Key cases—R v Golds [2016] UKSC 61, R v Dietschmann [2003] UKHL 10, and R v Byrne [1960] 2 QB 396—illustrate precedent.
Under the Road Traffic Act 1988, amended by Crime and Courts Act 2013, driving under the influence of drugs (Section 4) or exceeding drug limits (Section 5A) is illegal. The Drug Driving (Specified Limits) Regulations 2014 specify thresholds for substances like THC and cocaine.
Latest Home Office data (2024) reports over 14,000 drug-driving arrests in the UK—a rising trend. Penalties include up to 6 months’ imprisonment, unlimited fines, a 1-year driving ban, and a criminal record.
Toxicology in Doyle’s case is pending. If over the limit, a Section 5A charge is probable. R v Hughes [2013] UKSC 56 clarified causation in driving cases.
Paul Doyle’s defense is expected to focus on the argument of diminished responsibility, highlighting the impact of his military service and possible undiagnosed PTSD. Under UK law—specifically the Homicide Act 1957, as amended by the Coroners and Justice Act 2009—a defendant’s culpability can be reduced if an abnormality of mental functioning substantially impairs their ability to understand the nature of their actions, form rational judgments, or exercise self-control. In the case of R v T (1990), the court considered the effects of trauma-induced automatism, where a defendant’s actions were influenced by a dissociative state linked to PTSD.
Similarly, the Supreme Court’s ruling in R v Golds (2016) provided important guidance, clarifying that for diminished responsibility to apply, the impairment must be significant—not just minimal or trivial. Doyle’s defense team is likely to introduce psychiatric evidence supporting a PTSD diagnosis, with arguments focusing on how the condition could have affected his mental state at the time of the crash.
In legal guidance, the Crown Prosecution Service emphasizes that prosecutors must weigh the extent and impact of a defendant’s mental health condition on their actions. If the defense is successful, it could reduce the severity of Doyle’s charges, shifting the emphasis from intent to impaired capacity. This approach aims to strike a balance—recognizing the seriousness of the incident and the harm caused to victims, while also taking into account Doyle’s personal struggles, military background, and mental health challenges.
As Liverpool FC fans celebrated, Doyle’s vehicle reportedly accelerated into the crowd. Prosecutors cite CCTV, witness testimony, and physical evidence supporting charges under Offences Against the Person Act 1861 (Section 18) and Road Traffic Act 1988 (Section 2). Police sources confirm no terrorism link per Terrorism Act 2000.
Eyewitness John B. recalled: “The car came out of nowhere. People screamed, and there was panic everywhere. It was terrifying.” Community members expressed shock, with local councillor Elaine P. stating: “This tragedy has shaken our community. We need answers and justice.”
Doyle’s plea hearing is on August 14, 2025, with trial on November 24, 2025. Key evidence includes CCTV, toxicology, and psychiatric evaluations.
Paul Doyle’s case highlights the interplay of PTSD, drug laws, and legal accountability. Expert insights, community reactions, and real-life stories deepen our understanding. As the trial unfolds, balancing justice for victims with compassion for mental health challenges remains crucial.
The question that has shadowed Liverpool since 26 May 2025 — why Paul Doyle drove his Ford Galaxy into a dense crowd during the city’s Premier League victory parade — finally shifted into focus on 26 November 2025. In a dramatic and unexpected turn at Liverpool Crown Court, Doyle, 54, pleaded guilty to all 31 charges, abandoning months of denials and confirming the Crown Prosecution Service’s view that the incident was not an accident, panic, or momentary loss of control.
The guilty pleas stunned the courtroom, where jurors had only just been sworn in for what was expected to be a four-to-six-week trial. As the charges were read aloud again, Doyle broke down, sobbing and struggling to speak. Eight victims were in court, one member of the public visibly weeping as he quietly answered “guilty” to each count.
What happened next — and what prosecutors revealed — now forms the clearest picture yet of Doyle’s mindset during the crash that injured 134 people, including babies as young as six months
The Crown Prosecution Service outlined its position unequivocally today. Sarah Hammond, Chief Crown Prosecutor for Mersey–Cheshire, said:
“Driving a vehicle into a crowd is an act of calculated violence. This was not a momentary lapse by Paul Doyle — it was a choice he made that day and it turned celebration into mayhem.”
The CPS also released a blurred custody image of Doyle shortly after his pleas changed — a visual confirmation of a man who has now accepted full legal responsibility for the attack.
According to prosecutors, Doyle became “increasingly agitated by the crowds” as he drove through Liverpool city centre. Dashcam footage from inside his vehicle showed mounting frustration, culminating in the moment he accelerated into a gathering of parade-goers along Water Street.
Hammond added:
“This attack did not just harm individuals — it struck at the heart of a city united in joy, leaving fear in its wake.”
Prosecutors described the dashcam footage as crucial. It captured Doyle’s escalating irritation as he encountered slow-moving, dense crowds in the aftermath of Liverpool’s title-winning parade.
Rather than waiting, slowing, or diverting:
Doyle accelerated toward pedestrians
forced his way into tightly packed groups
continued pressing forward as people tried to escape
This behavior, the CPS argued, demonstrated intent, not confusion or loss of control.
The dashcam evidence appears to have played a central role in today’s dramatic plea reversal.
Until yesterday, Doyle had pleaded not guilty to all charges, including:
9 counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent
17 counts of attempted GBH with intent
3 counts of wounding with intent
dangerous driving
affray
His legal team had been preparing to contest intent, suggesting that new medical evidence might shape their defense.
But shortly before opening statements were due to begin this morning, barristers for both sides were called out of the courtroom. After a 30-minute discussion, Doyle was brought back in and suddenly rearraigned.
He then pleaded guilty to every count.
Judge Menary addressed him directly, stating:
“It is inevitable there will be a custodial sentence of some length, and you should prepare yourself for that inevitability.”
Doyle will be sentenced on 15 and 16 December and remains remanded in custody.
The maximum sentence under the most serious charges — Section 18 offences under the Offences Against the Person Act 1861 — is life imprisonment.
For six months, Liverpool — and the UK — tried to make sense of the crash. Doyle, a married father of three and former Royal Marine from West Derby, had no publicly known history of violence, extremist ideology, or criminal behavior. Early police updates also confirmed that terrorism was ruled out.
This vacuum left residents and commentators searching for explanations. But today’s CPS evidence sharply narrows the field.
✔ Agitation escalating into intentional violence
✔ Deliberate decision-making captured on camera
✔ Frustration leading to purposeful acceleration into crowds
These findings override earlier theories and frame the crash as a violent act rooted in Doyle’s state of mind that day, not in external pressures or mental health crises.
In the months immediately after the crash, some members of the public speculated about whether Doyle’s military background — service with 43 Commando between 1990 and 1994 — might have contributed to his behavior. Veterans’ mental health is a serious and often misunderstood topic, and it is common for high-profile cases involving former service members to prompt public questions about PTSD, trauma, or stress-related conditions.
However, as of today:
That said, broader awareness of trauma remains important. Renowned trauma expert Dr. Bessel van der Kolk writes in The Body Keeps the Score:
“Traumatized people chronically feel unsafe inside their bodies… Their bodies are constantly bombarded by visceral warning signs.”
This insight explains why PTSD can shape behavior — but not why Paul Doyle acted as he did. Today’s courtroom evidence shows prosecutors attribute his actions to deliberate choices, not trauma.
Doyle was originally arrested on suspicion of drug-impaired driving, but no toxicology findings were presented today, and the CPS’s case no longer hinges on impaired judgment.
The pivotal evidence is the dashcam footage and Doyle’s own guilty pleas.
Among the 134 victims were:
two baby boys
six other children
adults ranging from their teens to late 70s, including 77-year-old Susan Passey
Families have described the chaos that unfolded as Doyle’s vehicle pushed through terrified crowds. Many victims remain physically or emotionally affected six months later.
Today’s guilty pleas brought visible emotional reactions inside the courtroom — from victims, members of the public, and even Doyle himself.
1990–1994 – Doyle serves in the Royal Marines, 43 Commando
26 May 2025 – Vehicle strikes parade crowd; 134 injured
29 May 2025 – Doyle charged
May–Nov 2025 – Pleads not guilty across multiple hearings
26 Nov 2025 – Doyle pleads guilty to all 31 charges
15–16 Dec 2025 – Sentencing scheduled
According to the CPS, Doyle became increasingly agitated by the crowds and intentionally drove into them. Dashcam footage was central to establishing deliberate action rather than accident or panic.
He was initially arrested on suspicion of drug-impaired driving, but no toxicology evidence has yet been presented as part of the confirmed motive. The CPS now focuses on intent, supported by dashcam footage.
He admitted 31 offences, including causing grievous bodily harm with intent, attempted GBH, wounding with intent, dangerous driving, and affray.
Yes. Several charges fall under Section 18 of the Offences Against the Person Act 1861, which carries a maximum sentence of life. Sentencing will take place on 15–16 December 2025.
There is no evidence linking Doyle’s actions to PTSD or any mental health diagnosis. The CPS characterizes the crash as a deliberate act.
Doyle has now pleaded guilty to all charges, ending the need for a trial. He will be sentenced in mid-December.
Baker McKenzie has advised Rubicon Carbon, a carbon credit management firm, on a major agreement with Microsoft to secure 18 million tonnes of carbon removal credits, one of the biggest deals of its kind.
This long-term partnership will see Rubicon Carbon supplying Microsoft with high-quality carbon removal credits through 15- to 20-year agreements.
The credits will support a range of Afforestation, Reforestation, and Revegetation (ARR) projects across the globe.
What makes this deal stand out is Microsoft’s commitment to scaling up carbon removal efforts. By locking in long-term agreements, the company is not only supporting climate action but also giving investors confidence to back projects that might otherwise struggle to get off the ground.
Andrew Hedges shared his thoughts:
"We are proud to have supported Rubicon Carbon on this landmark agreement with Microsoft. This deal underscores our deep expertise in advising on complex, high-impact transactions in the carbon markets and broader sustainability space."
"Nature-based carbon removal is a critical component of the global climate strategy, and this partnership represents a significant step forward in scaling credible, science-backed solutions."
Rubicon Carbon’s CEO, Tom Montag, emphasized the significance of the agreement:
"Addressing climate change requires more than good intentions, it requires capital deployment at scale. This collaboration serves as a blueprint for how the financial sector can meet the urgency of the moment while also generating strong financial returns."
"We aim to crowd in more capital by leveraging market-based mechanisms to scale societal impact at a planetary scale.”
Brian Marrs, Microsoft’s Senior Director for Energy & Carbon Removal, also highlighted the deal’s importance:
“This agreement demonstrates how science, finance, and business model innovation can work in concert to scale affordable and high-quality climate solutions."
"We believe that project finance needs to be central to the voluntary carbon market, and this deal signals the long-term demand for carbon removal necessary to mobilize infrastructure-grade investment and world-class execution.”
The Baker McKenzie team working with Rubicon Carbon was led by Andrew Hedges, who heads the firm’s Climate Change Group. He was joined by Senior Associate Andrew Paget and Associate Alex Tam from London, along with Corporate & Securities Partner Daniel de Deo from Washington DC.
Rubicon Carbon, founded in 2022 and headquartered in Marina del Rey, California, is a next-generation carbon solutions provider dedicated to addressing the climate crisis through market-driven strategies. The company offers enterprise-grade carbon credit solutions that combine scientific rigor with financial innovation.
Its mission is to help end the climate crisis by delivering scalable, science-backed carbon removal projects and engaging investors through tailored portfolios. Backed by TPG Rise Climate, Rubicon Carbon collaborates with corporate clients, investors, and project developers to finance and scale high-quality carbon removal projects.
The leadership team includes CEO Tom Montag, former Bank of America COO and Partner at Goldman Sachs, and Chief Science Officer Dr. Jennifer Jenkins, co-recipient of the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize as part of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
Baker McKenzie is a leading global law firm founded in 1949, with a presence in over 40 countries. With a team of 13,000 professionals, the firm advises corporations, governments, and institutions on complex legal matters across corporate law, litigation, tax, and more. Renowned for its cross-border capabilities and innovative approach, Baker McKenzie has handled over USD 600 billion in M&A transactions in the past five years, more than 65% of which span multiple jurisdictions. The firm is also recognized for its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and sustainable business practices.
Colombia is heading into a period of widespread protests and disruptions as major labor unions and social organizations call for two national strikes, one lasting 48 hours on May 28 and 29, and another planned for June 11.
The strikes are part of a growing push for a national referendum on long-stalled labor and healthcare reforms.
At the center of this movement is frustration with Congress, which has resisted key reform proposals aimed at improving working conditions and expanding healthcare access.
President Gustavo Petro has publicly backed the strikes, calling on Colombians to take to the streets and make their voices heard. He’s even suggested that an indefinite strike might be necessary if lawmakers refuse to act.
The upcoming strikes are expected to disrupt daily life across Colombia. Cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali could see major protests, roadblocks, and delays in public services. Schools, public transportation, and government offices may experience significant interruptions as workers join the demonstrations.
Colombia Nationwide Strikes (@PTrabajoC on X)
Organizers plan to mobilize workers and activists on May 28 and 29 for the initial two-day strike. If there’s no progress by then, a follow-up strike will take place on June 11, lasting for at least 24 hours.
Union leader Over Dorado has already warned that if the Senate continues to block the referendum, they’re prepared to escalate to an indefinite general strike.
Fabio Arias, a prominent leader of the Central Unitaria de Trabajadores (CUT), posted a message on social media inviting the public to join the strikes. In his tweet, he called on people to mobilize “for social reforms and against the oligarchic sectors that are undermining the rights of the people.”
Invitación a nombre del @PTrabajoC para el paro del 28 y 29 de mayo por la consulta popular las reformas sociales y encontrá de los sectores oligárquicos que hunden los derechos del pueblo. pic.twitter.com/CP7x8IlPpi
— Fabio Arias Giraldo (@fabioariascut) May 27, 2025
This confrontation has been building since Petro’s election in 2022. His administration promised sweeping reforms to address long-standing social and economic inequalities, but opposition forces in Congress have repeatedly stalled his efforts.
In response, Petro’s government submitted a new referendum proposal during a major social summit in Bogotá, seeking to take the decision directly to the Colombian people.
The proposed reforms are ambitious. They would expand worker rights, strengthen job protections, and give unions more bargaining power. On the healthcare front, the reforms aim to improve public health services and make care more affordable and accessible for ordinary Colombians.
Colombia has a long history of national strikes. The most significant wave of protests in recent years was in 2021, when widespread demonstrations against tax reforms and police brutality shook the nation for months.
Gustavo Petro, Colombia's current president, is the country’s first leftist leader in modern history. His presidency has focused on social justice, environmental protection, and reducing inequality.
Fabio Arias, who called for the strike on social media, is a key figure in the CUT (Central Unitaria de Trabajadores), Colombia’s largest union federation, which has been at the forefront of organizing major protests for decades.
Colombia’s healthcare system has faced long-standing challenges, with public hospitals underfunded and many rural communities lacking basic medical services. The proposed reforms aim to address these gaps and provide universal access to care.
Bogotá, the capital city, often becomes the epicenter of political and social movements in Colombia. Massive marches, rallies, and cultural expressions of protest have long been part of the city’s identity during times of national crisis.
Clifford Chance has advised PIERER Mobility AG (PMAG) on KTM AG’s complex financial restructuring, helping steer the renowned motorcycle manufacturer into a new chapter.
In late November 2024, KTM AG filed for judicial restructuring with self-administration at the Regional Court of Ried, Austria.
By February 2025, the creditors approved a plan for KTM and two of its subsidiaries to repay 30% of their claims in cash, totaling roughly €525 million.
This lifeline was made possible thanks to Bajaj Auto International Holdings B.V., which provided a €450 million loan to KTM. On top of that, Bajaj contributed another €150 million to PMAG, which in turn ensured KTM’s subsidiaries could make the necessary payments.
The insolvency court is expected to confirm the plan this coming June.
PMAG was supported by Austrian firm Oberhammer Rechtsanwälte GmbH and Citigroup Global Markets Europe AG as financial advisor.
Clifford Chance’s lead team included Bettina Steinhauer, Stefan Sax, and Axel Wittmann, backed by a diverse team of partners, senior associates, and counsels from offices in Frankfurt, Luxembourg, Düsseldorf, Munich, New York, and Amsterdam.
PIERER Mobility AG CEO Gottfried Neumeister shared:
"I am grateful and happy today. KTM is back on track. Our employees have done everything over the last three months to ensure that the race can continue. We have closed an important chapter today. But a single chapter never tells the whole story.
"Now we can continue the great story of KTM. We do it for the millions of KTM fans worldwide, to whom we are grateful every day. For our racers, of whom we are damn proud. And for our Austrian location, to which we are deeply attached in our hearts. KTM remains one of the top employers in the Upper Austrian industry."
KTM AG is a leading European manufacturer of high-performance motorcycles, including KTM, Husqvarna Motorcycles, GASGAS, and WP Suspension. Headquartered in Mattighofen, Austria, the company employs over 4,000 people and generated more than €2.5 billion in revenue in 2023. It operates as a 100% subsidiary of PIERER Mobility AG, which focuses on premium brands in the mobility sector and is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange and Vienna Stock Exchange. Renowned for its innovation and "Ready to Race" ethos, KTM continues to expand globally while maintaining its Austrian roots.
PIERER Mobility AG is an Austria-based company specializing in the development, production, and distribution of premium powered two-wheelers and electric vehicles. The company's portfolio includes renowned motorcycle brands such as KTM, Husqvarna Motorcycles, GASGAS, and MV Agusta, as well as high-performance components under the WP Suspension brand. Additionally, PIERER Mobility offers sports cars through its KTM X-BOW division and e-bicycles and bicycles under brands like Husqvarna E-Bicycles, FELT, and GASGAS Bicycles. Headquartered in Wels, Austria, the company operates globally, serving markets in Europe, North America, Mexico, and beyond.
Clifford Chance is a global law firm with over a century of history and a presence in 23 countries through 34 offices. A member of the prestigious Magic Circle, the firm is recognized for its deep expertise in banking, corporate law, finance, dispute resolution, and tax. It advises a broad spectrum of clients, including multinational corporations, financial institutions, governments, and not-for-profits by combining international best practices with local market insight. Known for its collaborative culture and forward-thinking approach, Clifford Chance delivers innovative, high-quality legal solutions across every major industry and sector.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has ignited debate with his latest announcement: he’s backing a constitutional amendment that would officially make it illegal for non-citizens to vote in any Texas election.
This Joint Resolution proposes a constitutional amendment that makes it crystal clear that if you are not a United States citizen, you’re not allowed to vote in Texas. pic.twitter.com/KruLfloHdK
— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) May 26, 2025
The proposed amendment, introduced by State Senator Brian Birdwell, recently made it through both chambers of the Texas Legislature.
If Texas voters approve it this November, the amendment would add new language to the state constitution, spelling out that only U.S. citizens can cast a ballot in any Texas election, whether it’s local, state, or federal.
Right now, the Texas Constitution already blocks certain groups from voting, including people under 18, those convicted of serious crimes, and individuals deemed mentally unfit by a court.
This new proposal focuses solely on citizenship, aiming to close any possible loopholes and prevent local governments from allowing non-citizen voting.
Supporters contend that the amendment is a crucial step toward safeguarding the integrity of Texas elections.
They emphasize that while federal law already prohibits non-citizens from participating in federal elections, it is equally important to establish clear and consistent protections at the state level.
Proponents often reference instances in other states where certain municipalities have allowed non-citizen voting in local elections, arguing that Texas must act proactively to prevent similar practices.
Conversely, critics argue that the amendment seeks to resolve an issue that is largely nonexistent.
They caution that it could inadvertently create barriers for eligible voters, particularly individuals who have recently changed their names, due to marriage, divorce, or other reasons and who might encounter challenges in providing sufficient documentation to prove their citizenship.
Voter advocacy organizations have expressed concern that this measure could impact a significant number of Texans.
This proposal comes as a growing number of states are rethinking who gets to vote. In places like California, New York, and Vermont, non-citizens can now vote in some local elections, which has stirred a lot of debate across the country.
Meanwhile, Texas and other Republican-led states are tightening voting rules, arguing it’s necessary for election security.
