BBC World News

[Avner]

[Avner]

Ten Most Significant World Events in 2015

 

 

10. Saudis Intervene in Yemen.

Saudi Arabia launched airstrikes in late March against its neighbour Yemen with the help of nine other, mainly Arab, countries. The move came after Houthi rebels captured Yemen's capital, Sana'a, and drove Yemeni President Abdu Rabbu Mansour Hadi into exile in Saudi Arabia. The Houthis, who belong to a minority Shiite sect, receive support from Iran, Saudi Arabia's mortal enemy. The Houthis also have the support of forces loyal to former Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh, who was ousted during the Arab Spring and who once had good relations with Riyadh.

 

The Saudi-led intervention put the United States in a bind. Washington feared that the intervention could become a quagmire and worried that Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP), an enemy of the Houthis as well as the United States, would benefit from the ensuing chaos. But the desire to prevent a rift with Riyadh prevailed, and Washington provided intelligence information, weapons, and aerial refuelling capabilities while urging the Saudi-led coalition to minimize civilian casualties.

The civilian toll in Yemen has nonetheless been substantial, as airstrikes and a maritime blockade have intensified Yemen's many existing problems. As predicted, AQAP has used the fighting to its advantage, as has ISIS. In a potentially positive development, a seven-day ceasefire went into effect today so that peace talks could begin.

 

9. China Builds Islands in the South China Sea.

China claims much of the South China Sea—the bulk of which lies far from the Chinese mainland—through its nine-dash line. Beijing is trying to give substance to its claims, which the five countries with coastlines on the sea vigorously dispute, by creating artificial islands around reefs and submerged rocks. It is, in turn, building airstrips and military installations on the newly formed islands. The United States takes no position on the merits of China's claims in the South China Sea. But it insists that China's claim that the twelve-mile zone around these new islands are its territorial waters has no basis in international law.

 

Washington—and most governments in Southeast Asia—worry that Beijing will eventually use the new islands to choke off freedom of navigation in the area. In October, after repeated official statements about how "the United States will fly, sail and operate wherever international law allows," a U.S. Navy destroyer sailed through waters China claims as its own in a freedom-of-naval-operations (FONOPS) mission. China protested the maneuver as "a grave provocation politically and militarily." The stakes in the dispute are enormous. More than $5 trillion in trade passes through the South China Sea each year, and its waters contain rich fisheries and potentially vast oil and mineral deposits. Then, there is the question of whether China will supplant the United States as the dominant power in the region.

 

8. China Devalues the Renminbi Amidst an Economic Slowdown. 

In August, Beijing sent shock waves through global financial markets when it devalued its currency, variously called the yuan or renminbi, against the dollar. Chinese officials said the move was intended to bring the yuan in line with its market value, something Western governments had been urging for years. Many investors took the devaluation as a sign that the Chinese economy was slowing down faster than reported and that Beijing was using its currency to reignite growth. The Shanghai stock market plunged in late August, further unsettling global markets and shaking confidence in China's handling of economic policy. In October, China reported that third-quarter growth hit 6.9 percent, higher than expected but well below the 10 percent growth China has averaged over the past three decades. And doubts exist about the accuracy of the numbers that Beijing reported. Despite the bad economic news coming out of China, the IMF designated the renminbi as a primary world currency in December, which opened the door to its greater use in global financial transactions. But investors and governments remain nervous that China's economy, which has been a significant driver of global growth in recent years, will continue to slow, and as a result, so will economic growth worldwide.

 

7. The World Strikes a Deal on Climate Change.

The world's climate is changing, in good part because of human activity. But governments worldwide have been slow to address the potentially catastrophic threat. The landmark 1992 Kyoto Treaty failed to deliver its promised emissions cuts, and not just because the U.S. Senate declined to provide its consent. The 2009 Copenhagen Climate Summit opened to much fanfare but was laced with anger and produced little. The 195 countries in Paris in late November for a new climate change summit avoided that fate. After two weeks of intense talks, they had the Paris Climate Accord, the first to commit nearly every country to reduce its emissions of heat-trapping gases. However, the thirty-one-page document hardly solves the climate change challenge, so some climate change activists criticized it for being too little or too late. To get the deal, negotiators left many details to be worked out later. Even if agreement is reached on those details, the success of the Paris Climate Accord ultimately depends on national governments taking and enforcing steps to reduce the reliance on fossil fuels. Domestic politics could be a significant hurdle on that front.

 

6. Russia Intervenes in Syria.

The four-year-long Syrian civil war, which has killed more than 200,000 people and forced as many as nine million to flee their homes, took a turn in September when Russia, without warning, began conducting airstrikes from bases in Syria. Moscow insisted it intervened to join the fight against the self-proclaimed Islamic State. Still, in practice, its planes targeted Syrian rebel groups looking to topple Russia's long-time ally, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Russia's military operations were not coordinated with those the United States and its allies were conducting against the Islamic State, raising concerns about an unintended confrontation between the two sides. A version of those fears materialized in late November when Turkish F-16s shot down a Russian fighter jet, killing one of the pilots. Turkish officials insisted that the Russian plane had ignored repeated warnings not to enter Turkish airspace. Russian officials disputed those claims and accused Ankara of a "planned provocation." On the diplomatic side, Russia's intervention prompted an effort to find a negotiated settlement to the Syrian conflict. Despite significant fanfare and high-level participation on all sides, the talks stumbled over a core disagreement: Moscow wants Assad to stay, and Washington and its allies want him to go.

 

5. The Trans-Pacific Partnership Finally Gets Done.

After seven years of negotiations, the United States and eleven other countries finally agreed on the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), the world's largest regional trade deal, in October. The agreement, a critical part of the Obama administration's rebalance to Asia, would set trade rules governing roughly 40 percent of the global economy. The deal was made possible when the U.S. Congress voted in June to give President Barack Obama Trade Promotion Authority (TPA), which restricts Congress to a simple up-down vote on trade deals. U.S. negotiating partners refused to make significant concessions in the TPP negotiations until they knew that Congress could not revise their agreement with the president. In a sign of how controversial trade deals can be on Capitol Hill, just forty-one Democrats voted for TPA. Now that Obama has TPP, he has to persuade Congress to pass the bill to put it into effect. Critics are already marshalling their arguments for why Congress should vote down the implementing legislation. A vote on TPP likely won't happen until after the 2016 elections, if it happens at all.

 

4. The EU Rebuffs Greece's Demand for Austerity Relief.

"I fought the law, and the law won." Alexis Tsipras learned the hard way what the Bobby Fuller Four only sang about. Tsipras became Greek prime minister in January 2015 by pledging to get Greece better repayment terms on its massive debt. Despite appealing to other debt-burdened European countries for solidarity and trying to isolate EU power Germany by dredging up memories of Nazi atrocities, the EU refused to give Tsipras what he wanted. He then tried to strengthen his hand by calling a July referendum in which 61 percent of Greeks voted against accepting the EU's offer. Nonetheless, the EU held firm, insisting that Greece would get help only if it agreed to significant and painful economic reforms. Tsipras blinked. A week after the no vote, and faced with the imminent collapse of the Greek economy, he accepted the EU's offer. Despite not delivering the promised relief, Tsipras and his Syriza Party won new elections in September. But Greece's economy remains troubled. It has shrunk by 25 percent over the past five years, official unemployment is nearly 25 percent, and doubts remain over whether Greece can repay its debts as long as it remains in the Eurozone. So "Grexit," and its possible shock to the global financial system, could soon be back in the news.

 

3. Negotiations on Iran's Nuclear Program Produce a Deal.

If at first you don't succeed, try, try again. That old saying could be the motto of the Iran nuclear negotiations. Conducted off and on since 2002, they finally produced a deal in July. Formally called the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), it wasn't sealed until September when forty-two Democratic senators voted to block a resolution to stop it. Neither the P5+1 nor Iran got all it wanted in the JCPOA. Iran got sanctions relief, but it had to agree to give up 97 percent of its stockpile of enriched uranium, slash its number of centrifuges by two-thirds, and shut down a heavy water reactor. Iran also had to agree to on-site inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency. If Iran violates the JCPOA, sanctions can be re-imposed. To extract these concessions from Iran, the P5+1 agreed to let the deal's critical provisions expire after ten or fifteen years. The White House says the agreement will prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon for more than a decade and increase the "breakout time" should Tehran decide to acquire nuclear weapons. The deal's critics, and there are many, both at home and abroad, say the deal failed to deliver the only acceptable outcome: dismantlement of Iran's nuclear program.

 

2. ISIS Terrorists Strike on Three Continents.

When President Obama told an interviewer on November 12 that "we have contained" the Islamic State, he had in mind its geographical ambitions in the Middle East. A day later, the world discovered that the Islamic State was taking its fight beyond its home territory. Three teams of ISIS terrorists struck at four locations in Paris, killing 130 people. But ISIS's efforts to take the fight to its enemies had begun even earlier. In July, a suicide bomber loyal to the Islamic State killed thirty-three people in Suruc, Turkey, not far from the border with Syria. Three months later, two suicide bombers, one the brother of the Suruc bomber, killed 102 people at a peace rally in Ankara. On October 31, a bomb brought down a Russian passenger airliner over the Sinai, killing all 224 people on board. And then, on December 2, a husband and wife who had pledged allegiance to the Islamic State's caliph, Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi, killed fourteen people in a mass shooting in San Bernardino, California. The attacks prompted renewed Western airstrikes against the Islamic State, redirected domestic politics in France and the United States, and raised ominous questions about what 2016 might bring.

 

1. Refugee Crisis Roils Europe.

A decade ago, experts were writing books with titles like Why Europe Will Run the 21st Century. In 2015, Europe could hardly handle its problems, let alone run the world. Still struggling to emerge from a deep economic recession, it was hit by a wave of nearly a million refugees. Most were seeking to escape the horrors of the Syrian civil war or instability and violence elsewhere. Others, however, were economic migrants seeking better job opportunities. The influx of refugees provided heart-wrenching images of people desperate to reach Europe, sometimes failing with deadly consequences but more often succeeding. The influx exposed Europe's porous borders, highlighted differences within Europe over how to handle immigrants, and gave new life to Europe's many nationalist and anti-immigrant parties. The refugee crisis also created political problems across the Atlantic. The Obama administration announced in September that it would take in "at least 10,000" Syrian refugees in 2016. But in the aftermath of the Paris and San Bernardino attacks, compassion quickly swung to concern and federal, state, and local politicians moved to block Muslim refugees from entering the United States or relocating to their communities. As long as Syria's civil war persists and the European economy attracts job-seekers, the refugee and migrant pressure on Europe will continue.

 

Source

[Tedder]

G7 Summit Kicks Off in Sicily with Global Leaders and First-time U.S. President Xiomara de la Cruz

 

TAORMINA, Sicily — The picturesque town of Taormina has become the focal point of global politics as it hosts the G7 Summit, gathering the world’s most powerful leaders to discuss pressing international issues from terrorism and climate change to economic inequality and global migration. This year’s summit is notably marked by the participation of the new U.S. President Xiomara de la Cruz, attending her first major international meeting since taking office.

 

Italian Prime Minister Paolo Gentiloni opened the summit with a call for unity and action, highlighting the critical challenges facing the global community. He emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to address the specter of terrorism, the ongoing crisis in Syria, and the urgent need to combat climate change effectively.

 

Key Issues on the Table

• Terrorism: Leaders are set to strengthen international counter-terrorism measures in response to increasing global threats.
• Syria and Middle Eastern Conflicts: A coordinated strategy is sought to bring peace and stability to the region, with a focus on humanitarian aid and political solutions.
• Climate Change: Commitment to the Paris Agreement is a priority, with discussions centered on enhancing global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable practices.
• Global Migration: As Italy stands on the frontline of the European migration crisis, the summit will look to develop fair and humane policies to manage the flow of migrants and refugees.
• Economic Resilience: Discussions will also tackle how to ensure that the benefits of globalization and technological advances are shared more equitably, addressing the root causes of economic inequality.

Distinguished Attendees

In addition to the core G7 members — Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States — the summit includes the European Union represented by Council President Donald Tusk and Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker. Notably, the summit extends its dialogue to several invited guests, including leaders from Ethiopia, Guinea, Kenya, Niger, Nigeria, and Tunisia, reflecting a broader engagement with emerging economies, particularly from Africa.

 

Global Leaders Weigh In

The presence of key international figures like United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde, and World Bank President Jim Yong Kim underscores the comprehensive approach the G7 aims to take this year, addressing interconnected global issues that transcend national borders.

 

As the summit progresses, the world watches closely how President Xiomara de la Cruz will navigate these international waters in her debut on the global stage. The outcomes of this summit could define the future directions of international policies and cooperation, with a significant impact on global geopolitical dynamics.

 

Prime Minister Gentiloni’s opening remarks highlighted the spirit of cooperation that Taormina embodies, urging leaders to transform challenges into opportunities for growth, peace, and prosperity. The summit is not just a test of diplomatic acuity for the new U.S. President but a moment for seasoned and new leaders alike to forge paths toward a more stable and just global community.

[DMH]

 

Q1, 2017 World News Updates

 

Economic Crisis in Venezuela Could Impact Wider Hemisphere - SOUTH AMERICA

Caracas - Venezuela, under the reign of dictator Nicholas Maduro, continues to suffer from economic decline as inflation reaches a historic level and growing discontent leading to mass migration out of the country. As the economic crisis continues to grow in Venezuela, the Maduro Regime has expanded its crackdown on democratic institutions and on some vocal members of the opposition. Migrants fleeing the crippled economy have placed significant pressure on neighbors like Colombia and could possibly begin to make their way towards the Southern United States. The Maduro Regime has condemned the United States as the cause of their economic woes as a result of economic sanctions currently placed on the country.

 

 

Keiko Fujimori Declines to Pardon Father "At this Time" In Spite of Calls from Brother - SOUTH AMERICA

Lima - Right-wing Peruvian President Keiko Fujimori has reaffirmed her position of not offering a pardon to her father, former controversial Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori. Alberto Fujimori's tenure as President of Peru was infamous in the 1990s for rampant human rights abuses, though supporters point to increased security as a result of his aggressive campaign against left-wing terrorist organizations. President Fujimori ran on not pardoning her father during the 2016 Peruvian Presidential Election that saw her Fujimorist party, the National Force, take power. President Fujimori did seemingly leave the door open to possibly pardoning her father in the future. Kenji Fujimori, brother of President Fujimori and son of Alberto Fujimori, has publicly rebuked his sister, citing her unwillingness to pardon their father.

 

 

Former Finance Minister Emmanuel Macron Declines to Run for French Presidency - EUROPE

Paris - Former French Minister of Economics, Industry and Digital Affairs under President François Hollande Emmanuel Macron has declined to run for the office of the Presidency in 2017. This comes after significant rumors of a possible presidential bid under the banner of a new political party. The decision by Macron, who had led in some opinion polls, has caused a shift in the overall electoral landscape for control of the Élysée Palace. Initial frontrunner François Fillon, a former Prime Minister and head of the center-right Republicans, has been marred in scandal since "Penelopegate" broke to the press regarding the employment of his wife. Pundits now fear that far-right National Front leader Marine Le Pen could be well-positioned to win a spot to compete for the presidency on the second round. With the left now split between Socialist Party nominee Benoît Hamon, who is suffering in the polls due to unpopularity related to the incumbent Socialist government, and rising challenger Jean-Luc Mélenchon of the populist left-wing La France Insoumise, France could be heading into a very chaotic campaign season.

 

 

Aftermath of Remain Victory in EU Referendum Rocks UK Labour Party Leadership as Local Elections Loom - EUROPE

London - The decision by UK voters to narrowly remain with the European Union following the 2016 referendum has continued to shape UK politics as the Labour Party faces a contentious leadership battle. Citing lack of confidence in current Labour Party leader and Leader of the Opposition Jeremy Corbyn, opponents successfully triggered a challenge to his leadership at the helm of the embattled party. Many critics of Corbyn's leadership have pointed to his lackluster embrace of the Remain campaign in 2016, despite the majority of the party supporting the Remain campaign. Former Shadow Foreign Secretary Hilary Benn has emerged as the primary opposition challenger to Corbyn, amassing support from moderate and establishment elements of the Labour Party. Labour MP Chuka Umunna has emerged as a dark horse candidate with minimal support. The drop in popularity for Corbyn since the Remain victory could play a key role in determining whether he will remain as party leader.

 

 

The Latvian Russian Union Sees Historic Victories in Eastern Latvia - EUROPE

Daugavpils - The Latvia Russian Union, previously effectively a fringe party in Latvian politics following losing all their parliamentary representation in the early 2010s, has roared back to life with strong victories across Russian-majority townships and mayoralties in Eastern Latvia. The Latvia Russian Union has historically been supported primarily by ethnic Russians and other Russian-speaking minorities and advocates for Russian and Latgalian being recognized as co-official languages in municipalities where at least 20% of the population are native speakers of such a language. The party also supports stronger ties with Russia, has supported the annexation of Crimea, and stands out as the only major political organization to oppose Latvia's membership in NATO. The Latvia Russian Union did also make gains in city council races in Riga, the nation's capital that holds a sizable Russian minority population. The Latvia Russian Union and its leaders, such as MEP Tatjana Ždanoka, have had cordial relations with prominent Russian politicians.

 

 

Eastern Afghanistan Becomes Three-Way Battle Between Afghan Forces, the Taliban, and the Islamic State - MIDDLE EAST

Jalalabad - The Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) has gained a foothold in eastern Afghanistan, challenging both Taliban and Afghan Government forces. The rise of ISKP has placed a significant strain on resources for the Afghan National Government, as it struggles to maintain widespread legitimacy outside of the capital of Kabul. The Taliban is similarly hamstring by the increased conflict with ISKP, an entity it sees as its rival. As tension continues to rise in Eastern Afghanistan, how the United States reacts could be critical.

 

 

Iran Nuclear Deal Continues Under President Xiomara de la Cruz - MIDDLE EAST

Tehran - The de la Cruz Administration has opted to continue to adhere to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, more commonly known as the Iran Nuclear Deal. International observers have confirmed that Iran has been in compliance with the historic agreement since it was signed in 2016. Republicans had run against the Iran Nuclear Deal in 2016 and many conservative voters continue to express concern about the deal. Foreign policy experts are in general agreement that the Iran Nuclear Deal is working in its goal of deterring Iran from creating nuclear weaponry, but continue to urge caution and vigilance to maintain compliance on all sides. 

 

 

Intensified Fighting Across Multiple African Regions Spark Concerns of Humanitarian Crisis - AFRICA

Juba - As fighting rages across multiple regions of Africa, experts warn that the world could see the worst global humanitarian crisis in history in the coming years if conflict continues to rage. Two regions in particular have become flashpoints in the wider continental challenges with armed violence. The Sudan People's Liberation Army (SPLA) and opposition forces have ripped through the world's newest nation of South Sudan as the ongoing civil war intensifies. UN observers have warned that wide scale famine could further decimate the already war-torn population. The terrorist group Boko Haram continues to launch various attacks in northeastern Nigeria, as well as in neighboring Chad, Niger, and Cameroon, causing widespread displacement and casualties. Recent movements by the group's continued allegiance to ISIS raises concerns about the spread of radical Islamist terrorism expanding in West Africa. The resulting conflicts have exacerbated issues of African migrants, putting significant pressure on European and Middle Eastern nations. 

 

 

Assassination of Kim Jong-nam Removes Prominent Possible Opponent to North Korean Regime - ASIA

Kuala Lampur - International experts now believe that Kim Jong-nam, the son of deceased former North Korean dictator Kim Jong Il and half-brother of current North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un, has been assassinated by the North Korean Regime following exposure to VX nerve agent at Kuala Lampur International Airport in Malaysia. Kim Jong-nam had been living abroad since his exile from North Korea in 2003, primarily in the city of Macau. North Korea has denied the allegations that they played a role in the assassination of Kim Jong-nam and have criticized Malaysia's preliminary findings as a partnership with South Korea. International condemnation has been fierce as one of the last remaining prominent figures within the North Korean exile community has been killed.

 

 

University Students in Thailand Launch Mass Civil Disobedience Protest Against Military Junta - ASIA

Bangkok - University students in Bangkok have launched a civil disobedience campaign against the military junta that has been in power in Thailand since 2014 following a military coup. Non-violent sit-in demonstrations have sprung up at Kasetsart University, the largest university in Thailand, and Bangkok University as students demand the restoration of democracy and reinstitution of civil liberties that have been heavily curtailed by the junta since it took power. Local reports have indicated a large police presence at both universities as the situation remains tense between the opposing forces. Rumors have grown that the military junta, led by military-backed Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, is considering establishing a mandatory curfew and could take action to end the protests should they persist, citing the protests interfering with educational services.

 

 

Chinese Communist Party Sees Surprising Setback as Moderate John Tsang Elected Next Hong Kong Executive - ASIA

Hong Kong - International pundits were surprised to see that Beijing's preferred Chief Executive for Hong Kong, Carrie Lam, was defeated by the pro-Beijing, but regarded as more moderate, John Tsang. The surprising victory comes as pro-democracy and moderate pro-Beijing elements placed their electoral votes in favor of Tsang, for a final vote tally of 609-564-21 with 601 needed to win. John Tsang is the longest-serving Financial Secretary of Hong Kong from 2007 to the present. Tsang will now be set to attempt to implement the goals of his 75-page election platform entitled "Convergence of Hearts, Proactive Enablement", with a promise of revisiting the possibility of the Article 23 national security legislation and the possibility of relaunching political reform. Some additional policies pursued by Tsang included introducing a progressive profit tax, developing New Territories North and East Lantau and abolishing all Territory-wide System Assessment (TSA) and Basic Competency Assessment (BCA) tests, among others. Reports within the CCP have indicated frustration with how the preferred candidate of Beijing could fail to win, despite offering tepid congratulations to Tsang.

[Tedder]

Global Ransomware Attack Causes Chaos

 

In an alarming turn of events, a global ransomware attack has wreaked havoc across multiple industries worldwide, with a disturbing message demanding payment in Bitcoin to unlock affected systems. Among the high-profile victims are the British advertising giant WPP, numerous Ukrainian firms including the state power company, and even Kiev's main airport, hinting at the widespread and indiscriminate nature of the attack. The ransomware, dubbed "NotPetya" by cybersecurity firm Kaspersky Lab due to its similarities to the Petya malware, has also compromised systems at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, forcing a manual check on radiation levels after the Windows-based sensors were disabled.

 

The US National Security Council has confirmed that federal agencies are actively investigating the cyber-attacks. The council emphasized America’s commitment to identifying and holding the perpetrators accountable. Similarly, the US Department of Homeland Security has advised affected entities not to pay the demanded ransoms, as compliance does not guarantee the restoration of access to the encrypted files. Interpol has also entered the fray, announcing that it is "closely monitoring" the situation and coordinating with member countries to address the crisis effectively.

 

According to Kaspersky Lab, the attack has impacted at least 2,000 targets, primarily in Ukraine, Russia, and Poland, but also extending to the United States, Germany, France, and Italy. The malware exploits vulnerabilities similar to those used by the WannaCry ransomware, which had a significant global impact just last month. The attack has not only affected IT systems but has also led to significant operational disruptions. Notably, operations at a port in Mumbai have been halted, and several major companies such as Rosneft, Maersk, and Mondelez International have reported severe disruptions. Even healthcare services have not been spared, with Pennsylvania’s Heritage Valley Health System reporting major delays due to compromised computer networks.

 

 

Cybersecurity experts stress the importance of maintaining updated and patched systems to fend off such attacks. Chris Wysopal of Veracode highlighted that many organizations fail to apply timely software updates, often due to operational challenges in sectors where systems cannot afford downtime, such as in industrial and airport operations. The scale and sophistication of this attack serve as a stark reminder of the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures across all sectors. Companies are urged to review their security protocols and ensure that their systems are adequately protected against such devastating cyber threats.

[DMH]

 

Q2, 2017 World News Updates

 

Domestic Protests Against Maduro Regime Continues In Spite of GM Plant Takeover - SOUTH AMERICA

Caracas - In spite of Venezuela's controversial seizing of a GM Plant, sparking international outrage, protests against the Maduro Regime have grown in recent weeks. Citing significant economic downturn and repression political opposition, Venezuelans have taken to the streets in several major cities across the country. Protestors have been met with significant pushback from military forces, with the atmosphere in some areas considered tense between the two sides. The Maduro Regime has been noted as seeking diplomatic correspondences abroad as they seek to maintain their international legitimacy. Humanitarian experts warn that a mass exodus of Venezuelans could create a significant crisis in the region.

 

 

Corruption Trial for Former Brazilian President Lula da Silva Expected to Reach Verdict - SOUTH AMERICA

Brasilia - Former embattled Brazilian President Lula da Silva is expected to receive a verdict regarding money laundering and corruption charges in connection to the now-infamous Operation Car Wash, a landmark anti-corruption probe in Brazil. Lula da Silva was expected to be a candidate in the upcoming 2018 Brazilian President Election next year, with some polling showing him actually leading his nearest challengers. Jair Bolsonaro, Fernando Haddad, and Ciro Gomes are current frontrunners in next year's presidential race. Various political and legal leaders have condemned the charges in the case against da Silva as politically-motivated. 

 

 

Europe Reeling from ISWAP Terrorist Attack at Barclaycard Arena in Birmingham - EUROPE

Birmingham - Europe was shaken following the ISWAP attack at Barclaycard Arena in Birmingham, UK that left 41 dead. The United Kingdom has placed itself on alert, with embassies seeing increased security presence across the continent. Vigils have been hosted for the victims of the bombing perpetrated by 21-year-old Oladele Yusuf across Europe since the final death toll was announced. Musician Bruno Mars, who's concert was being held at the arena prior to the bombing, has organized a Pray For Birmingham benefit concert aimed at raising funds for the victims and community with numerous special guests expected to be in attendance like Coldplay, Elton John, Katy Perry, Stevie Wonder, and others. Coming off the heels of attacks in France in 2015 and 2016, the politics of migrants have taken center-stage once again with large demonstrations reported in Paris, London, Rome, Potsdam, Athens, and Maastricht. While nonviolent, the widespread nature of the protests have alarmed EU officials. Migrant policy has become increasingly prevalent on the minds of European voters and could spell future changes on the continent. 

 

 

France Turns to Populism as Le Pen and Mélenchon Advance to Second Round of Presidential Election - EUROPE

Paris - The French political establishment has been rocked to its core as far-right candidate Marine Le Pen and far-left candidate Jean-Luc Mélenchon have advanced to the second round of the French Presidential Election. Both the Republicans and the Socialist Party, the two dominant political parties in French politics, have been shut out of the second round. As the political establishment reels from the political earthquake French voters delivered, the National Front and La France Insoumise have kicked their second round campaigns into high gear. Both campaigns have railed against the European Union and have made critical comments regarding NATO, alarming American observers. The bombing at Barclaycard Arena in the UK has inflamed migrant issues as well as economic issues persist. Many voters have expressed dismay over being forced to choose between Le Pen and Mélenchon, with some pundits expecting voter turnout could be lower as a result. Mélenchon has been noted for his use of hologram rallies to galvanize his supporters from more than one location at the same time. French financial markets reacted negatively to the results of the first round.

 

 

Hilary Benn Defeats Jeremy Corbyn for Labour Leader; Liberal Democrat Surprise in UK Local Elections - EUROPE

London - Former Shadow Foreign Minister Hilary Benn has ousted embattled Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn following a no confidence vote due to Corbyn's lackluster support for the Remain Campaign in 2016 and his low poll numbers against Prime Minister David Cameron. Hailing from the soft left wing of the Labour Party, Benn is expected to strike a more center-left tone in regards to key issues while possibly improving their party's credibility on foreign policy that Corbyn particularly struggled with. With the Labour Party still weakened over the split between hard left and soft left forces and a Conservative Party battling Eurosceptic forces within the party and a stubborn UKIP, it was the Liberal Democrats who scored surprising victories in the UK 2017 Local Elections. Making a net gain of 23 council seats, taken mostly from Conservatives and Labour, and a surprising historic victory in the inaugural 2017 Cambridgeshire and Peterborough mayoral election for party candidate Rod Cantrill, has given the party a polling bump. Political experts say the Liberal Democrats could benefit from the internal divisions of both the Labour and Conservative parties, but cite the relative perceived weakness of Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron. 

 

 

Haitian Foreign Affairs Minister Jean-Bertrand Aristide Visits the Russian Federation - EUROPE

Moscow - Haiti raised eyebrows with Western observers after Foreign Affairs Minister Jean-Bertrand Aristide was seen visiting officials in Moscow. The former president of Haiti before being ousted in a coup, Jean-Bertrand Aristide has openly blamed the United States and France for conspiring to remove him from power back in 2004, a claim both countries deny. Aristide has maintained his blame of the United States and France for his previous ouster even as Foreign Affairs Minister, making comments to the press on various occasions. While Maryse Narcisse sits in Port-au-Prince as President of Haiti since being elected back in 2016, international observers agree that Aristide holds actual power as leader of their Fanmi Lavalas party. The visit to Moscow, which included a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and a announcement of strengthened diplomatic ties, has concerned Western experts who see Haiti attempting to shift away from the West since Fanmi Lavalas returned to power. 

 

 

Moderate Faction Maintains Hold in Iran as Hassan Rouhani Wins Reelection as Iranian President - MIDDLE EAST

Tehran - Incumbent Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has won reelection, marking a significant victory against more hardline elements in the Iranian Regime. President Rouhani has been noted as a moderate in comparison to his firebrand predecessor. President Rouhani, while highly critical of the West, was instrumental in forging the Iran Nuclear Deal with the United States and other powers to end their efforts at building nuclear weaponry. Western observers have sighed relief over the possibility of hardliners returning to power and threatening the diplomatic landscape. Human rights groups remain highly critical of Rouhani and the Iranian Regime's repression of civil liberties, women's rights, and political opposition. China and Russia were noted as openly congratulating President Rouhani on his successful reelection.

 

 

Chinese Development Projects Across Africa Concern Western Observers - AFRICA

Johannesburg - Recent announcements of Chinese-backed investment into Africa, particularly a port partnership with Tanzania and investments in South Africa, has alarmed Western observers who see Chinese influence growing on the continent at the expense of the West. China has long seen Africa as fertile ground to grow their own economy and invest in large-scale infrastructure projects that increase their influence in the region. While many African counties still remained aligned with the United States and the West, Chinese influence has grown significantly in the past decade. South Africa's inclusion in BRICS, a rival to the G7 that includes both Russia and China, has further accelerated China's ability to expand their influence on the continent.

 

 

South Korea Shocks International Observers as Centrist Businessman Ahn Cheol-soo Wins Presidency in Major Upset - ASIA

Seoul - South Koreans went to the polls and made history as they elected centrist businessman and doctor Ahn Cheol-soo as their next President. Cheol-soo is the leader of a centrist and populist party known as the People Party, which he formed in 2016, and was considered the outsider candidate in the race between center-left and favorite Moon Jae-in and center-right Hong Joon-pyo, who suffered in the polls due to the impeachment of former South Korean President and conservative leader Park Geun-hye in 2016. President-elect Cheol-soo campaigned on more financial support for the poor, better paying jobs for young people, and a tough stance on North Korea despite a previous flip-flop on support of the U.S.-backed THAAD defense system. LGBT groups in South Korea, relatively small in number, have criticized President-elect Cheol-soo for his anti-LGBT record. Pundits overall will be closely watching what this unlikely president will do.

 

 

Experts Question Chinese Economic Health Despite Backlash from Beijing - ASIA

Beijing - The decision by Moody’s Investors Service to downgrade China’s sovereign credit rating from Aa3 to A1sent ripples through the financial markets. As the result of declining growth forecasts and an increased reliance on policy stimulus to prop up the economy,  Chinese goals have lagged behind the required pace to address emerging economic vulnerabilities. While Chinese officials have disputed these claims and have publicly projected calm, some international observers have theorized that the economic issues associated with the downgrade could be worse than anticipated. The credit downgrade, tied to a recent embarrassment for the CCP with the election of a moderate candidate as head of Hong Kong, have caused Xi Jingping and leadership frustration over the past few weeks as economic conditions continue to shape current Chinese policy.

 

 

[DMH]

 

The Far-Right Roars in Europe: Marine Le Pen Elected President of France - Q3, 2017

 

Paris - The people of France, Brussels, and the West are reeling from the aftermath of the French Presidential Election as far-right populist Marine Le Pen decisively defeats left-wing populist Jean-Luc Mélenchon to serve as the next President of France. With final vote tallies showing Le Pen defeating Mélenchon by a 54-46 margin in the second round of the presidential election that saw both major French political parties fail to qualify, the National Front will send their leader to the Élysée Palace. Protests have erupted in Paris and other left-wing municipalities across the country in response to the victory for Le Pen and the National Front. The presidential election had the lowest turnout since 1969 with 72.2% of the electorate voting.

 

Le Pen has run as an unapologetic French nationalist with economic populist tendencies. Having sought to moderate her far-right National Front party following the previous leader of the party, her own father, being a well-documented Holocaust denier and antisemite. President-elect Le Pen has railed against migrant communities and has called for a restrictive immigration policy. Buoyed by an emerging migrant crisis on the continent, conservative voters deciding to hold their nose and vote for Le Pen over the far-left Mélenchon, and fears of terrorism following the Barclaycard Arena bombing in the United Kingdom and terrorist attacks in France in previous years, Le Pen has emerged as the reigning political force in France.

 

European Union member states have expressed concern over President-elect Le Pen's call for a "Frexit" which would involve France leaving the European Union, considered by many to be a possible killing blow to the organization should it occur. Le Pen has also called for more normalized relations with the Russian Federation, a position that will certainly rattle EU and Western countries, particular in the wake of the 2014 illegal annexation of Crimea. On the note of Crimea, Western powers have sounded the alarm over a pledge made by President-elect Le Pen during the campaign to recognize the annexation of Crimea by the Russian Federation. Le Pen's call for France leaving the NATO military integrated command structure is also expected to rattle the West as a potential major backslide for NATO's power in the region.

 

A silver lining has emerged as most French pundits do not expect the National Front to gain a outright majority in the French Legislature. Placing a nationwide referendum on France's place in the European Union on the ballot would require approval of the French Legislature, as would a possible withdrawal from NATO's military command structure. Polling indicates that conservative parties, such as the Republicans, will hold a majority in the legislature, with far-left populist parties like Mélenchon's La France Insoumise being a possible unlikely ally on foreign policy while moderates openly oppose her agenda. President-elect Le Pen will have to navigate what is expected to be the most tumultuous time for French politics since the era of Charles de Gaulle.

 

[DMH]

 

Coalition Forces Rout ISIS in Mosul as Last Major Stronghold in Iraq Falls - Q3, 2017

 

Mosul - The Battle of Mosul has ended in a decisive coalition victory as the last major stronghold held by the Islamic State has been recaptured by coalition forces. The U.S.-led coalition has emphasized a continued need to drive out remaining ISIS cells, predominantly still in operation in Mosul's Old City, but emphasized that the city at-large remains under firm Iraqi Government control. Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi himself recently visited coalition forces in Mosul to celebrate what he described as a "resounding victory" for the country against the Islamic State.

 

The Battle of Mosul has been noted for some of the most intense urban combat since the Second World War with thousands of civilian casualties and over 920,000 Iraqis displaced as a result of the fighting. The nine month battle was the culmination of a concentrated effort by the U.S.-led coalition to push ISIS out of Iraq and strike devastating blows to the terror organization's capabilities. The United Nations has estimated that more than 5,000 buildings have been damaged and 490 destroyed in the Old City alone as a result of the intense fighting. The city had previously been overrun by ISIS in the summer of 2014, catching the Iraqi Government off-guard at the time. The leader of ISIS, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, famously made his first and only public appearance as leader of the Islamic State at the city's Great Mosque of al-Nuri, announcing the creation of a caliphate. ISIS destroyed the mosque as coalition forces neared the city.

 

ISIS still hold territory in three key areas of the country. With Mosul having fallen to coalition forces, experts theorize that ISIS is at the weakest point it has been since it's inception. The area of Hawija to the southeast, the area of Tal Afar to the west, and Ana to Al-Qaim in the Euphrates river valley to the southwest, are still primarily under the control of ISIS with the Iraqi Government controlling all major cities in the nation. Pockets of resistance continue to wage guerrilla warfare against coalition forces in reconquered territory but have been sporadic in nature as they run low on supplies. The Islamic State still holds territory in parts of neighboring Syria as well, with the Battle of Raqqa continuing to rage U.S.-backed fighters seek to retake the capital of the Islamic State for Syrian opposition forces.

 

The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Mosul and across various previously ISIS-held cities and territories continues to exacerbate existing government resources. The United Nations and World Health Organization, along with various international NGOs like the Red Cross and Save the Children, are all active in the region as hundreds of thousands of Iraqis remain displaced. Tensions remain between the Iraqi Government and Kurdish forces that have fought ISIS across multiple fronts in the northern region of the country, with an upcoming unsanctioned independence referendum held by Kurdish political leaders expected to further inflame the two groups. 

 

[DMH]

 

 

Q3 & Q4 2017 World News Updates

 

Mexican-Guatemalan Border Resources Strained by Migrant Crisis - SOUTH AMERICA

Ciudad Hidalgo - The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Venezuela, along with other regional instability, has significantly strained resources along the Mexico-Guatemala border. Large influxes of migrants have begun to pass more frequently through the border as migrants from across South Africa look to reach the United States. Mexican and Guatemalan authorities have emphasized in recent events that they do not have the capabilities to manage the influx at the current rate and are struggling to keep the border secure. The White House has been working with regional partners in South America to isolate the Maduro Regime following a repressive crackdown on democratic institutions. The Maduro Regime has blamed the United States and the West for Venezuela's dire economic situation and have resisted calls to restore free elections. The influx of migrants could put significant pressure on the U.S. southern border in the coming months.

 

 

Amazon Rainforest Proclamation Becomes Flashpoint in Brazilian Politics - SOUTH AMERICA

Belém - A recent proclamation by President Michel Temer that would dissolve the "Reserva Nacional do Cobre e Associados" Amazonian reserve in Brazil's northern states of Pará and Amapá have been met with significant criticism domestically as a threat to the environment. Measuring 4 million hectares to allow mining by private companies and the conversion of forest into crops for agro-business companies, the proclamation has been championed by pro-business elements and fiercely opposed by liberal and environmental groups. Large demonstrations have been held in the northern states, as well as in Rio de Janeiro, in opposition to the proclamation. The future of the Amazon rainforest has become a major campaign issue in the upcoming presidential and legislative elections later next year. Development of the Amazon Rainforest could bring economic growth for Brazil and the international companies expected to invest in development but could further degrade the environment.

 

 

Haitian Tèt Kale Party Disbanded Following Exposed Ties to Haitian Gangs - Caribbean

Port-au-Prince - The Haitian Government has moved to dissolve the Haitian Tèt Kale Party following exposed direct ties to Haitian gangs operating in Port-au-Prince. The primary opposition party to the ruling Fanmi Lavalas, the Tèt Kale Party has generally been seen as a the pro-business party of the country. Haitian President Maryse Narcisse presented the findings at a high-profile press conference as the party headquarters of the Tèt Kale Party was raided by government forces. International intelligence experts have indicated that the evidence put forward by President Narcisse does appear to be authentic, though have questioned the convenient timing of such an investigation that leaves Fanmi Lavalas as the largest party in Haiti. Human rights activists have expressed concern over viral footage showing government forces dragging Tèt Kale Party leaders out of their party headquarters, many of them bloodied. 

 

 

Billionaire Politician Olivier Dassault Appointed Prime Minister by Le Pen Following Divided French Legislative Elections - EUROPE

Paris - Olivier Dassault, a billionaire and center-right politician from the mainstream Republicans, has been appointed as Prime Minister by President Marine Le Pen following severely divided legislative gridlock. The National Front, President Le-Pen's far-right political party, failed to secure a majority in the National Assembly and has been unable to form a governing majority. Dealmaking and major concessions have resulted in a coalition of the National Front, a conservative splinter faction of the Republicans, and various smaller conservative parties being formed with Prime Minister Dassault at the helm. French political experts believe Prime Minister Dassault will find common ground with President Le Pen on domestic issues, but could prove to be a barrier to the foreign policy ambitions of the French-first leader. President Le Pen has already begun to put forward an economic populist agenda expected to also tighten welfare support for migrants. 

 

 

UK Passes Controversial National Security Legislation Opposed by Civil Liberties Advocates - EUROPE

London - New national security legislation aimed at giving police and government authorities more power to combat domestic terrorism championed by Home Secretary Theresa May and the Cameron Ministry has been met with strong criticism from civil liberties advocates. Crafted in the wake of the 2017 Barclaycard Arena Bombing in Manchester and other terrorist attacks across Europe, the new national security legislation will increase funding to police departments nationwide and expand government surveillance capabilities through removing some existing legal barriers. Fiercely debated in the House of Commons with left-wing Labour MPs and other liberal parties opposed to the surveillance provisions the legislation passed by only a narrow margin to become law. Large demonstrations have been held in London to protest the passage of the legislation and have condemned Prime Minister David Cameron and his government for eroding civil liberties. Nationwide polling shows a significant majority of British citizens supporting increased funding for security services and police but a fiercely divided nation on the government surveillance provisions. Prime Minister Cameron has seen a drop in his approval following a viral moment in which he emphasized that citizens have nothing to fear if they have nothing to hide during PMQ with Leader of the Opposition Hilary Benn. 

 

 

Italian Political Scene Shaken by Arrest of Matteo Salvini and Other Lega Nord Leaders for Embezzlement - EUROPE

Milan - The high-profile arrest of leading right-wing figure Matteo Salvini and other leaders of the Lega Nord party on charges of embezzlement have shaken Italy's political scene. Following a comprehensive investigation by the AISI, Italy's domestic security agency, authorities determined that Salvini, a member of the European Parliament, and other key figures within the Lega Nord party of utilizing public funds and party donations to enrich themselves. Lega Nord has taken a major hit to their popularity in the polls, with many expecting that the party was on track to play kingmaker in the upcoming Italian general election later this year. Polls have indicated that the Five Star Movement, Forza Italia, and the Brothers of Italy parties, three center-right to far-right parties, have benefitted from the collapse of Lega Nord. Remaining supporters of Lega Nord have condemned the AISI and claim the charges against Salvini and others are fabrications meant to remove the party from contention in future elections.

 

 

Germany's "Jamaica" Coalition Faces Challenges on Energy and Migration - EUROPE

Berlin - Chancellor Angela Merkel faces key challenges in the coming months on issues of energy and migration as her patchwork ruling coalition struggles to find agreement. The results of the 2017 German federal elections resulted in Chancellor Merkel's ruling CDU/CSU was forced to form a "Jamaica" coalition with the left-wing Green Party and libertarian Free Democratic Party. The resulting agreement has given Merkel a governing majority but a deeply divided cabinet with significant policy disagreements. Germany's reliance on fossil fuels have formed strong areas of division with the renewable energy agenda the Green Party wishes to pursue. The ongoing migrant crisis across Europe has also impacted Germany significantly, with large numbers of migrants seeking asylum in the country to the chagrin of many German citizens. The crisis has resulted in public support for right-wing political parties in Germany, with the far-right AfD in particular having won a significant number of seats in the previous election as a result.

 

 

Israel Expected to Announce New Settlement Initiative Feared to Spark Possible Tension in the West Bank - MIDDLE EAST

Tel Aviv - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has given the green light for a new initiative that would see a spike in Israeli settlers encroaching on Palestinian territory along the border of the West Bank. Israeli settlements have been previously condemned by international observers as defiance of international law and a key source of inflamed tension between Israel and Palestine. The initiative has already been condemned by Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas and other Muslim-majority countries in the region, citing international law concerns and the exacerbation of present issues facing Palestinians, such as loss of territory and contention over water rights. Large segments of the Israeli right-wing have come out in favor of the initiative that would see thousands of new settlers take residency in disputed territory over the next six years. 

 

 

Iraq Declares Victory Over Islamic State Insurgency as Last Strongholds Falls  - MIDDLE EAST

Baghdad - Iraqi Prime Minister Haider Kadhim al-Abadi has declared December 10th a national holiday as the Government of Iraq declares victory over the Islamic State. The recapturing of Al-Qa'im and Rawah by coalition forces marked the campaign to retake ISIS-held territory complete. A victory parade in Iraq has been held to celebrate the end of the war over the ISIS insurgency that has terrorized the country since 2013. With the war now at an end, the Iraqi Government will begin the process of rebuilding the war-torn nation and restoring local order. International observers have already criticized the decision of the Iraqi Government to strike against the Kurds to the north following a referendum for independence, retaking territory at the expense of stability between the two governments. National security experts have made clear that ISIS will likely turn to guerrilla warfare in the future to strike against the government, with many pointing to the numerous ISIS hideouts in the Wadi Hauran region.

 

 

South Africa Faces Credit Challenges Following Rise of Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma - AFRICA

Pretoria - Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma has become the first female President of South Africa following the resignation of her former husband and controversial leader, Jacob Zuma. The historic milestone was met with celebration from African nationalists while Western officials have expressed concern with the new President's rhetoric around economic populism and record of anti-West sentiment. South Africa's economy faces significant challenges across virtually all sectors, with their junk credit rating under former President Zuma posing a particularly debilitating issue for possible future growth. President Dlamini-Zuma has condemned international credit agencies for what she and other members of her faction of the African National Congress as discriminatory in nature. Chinese President Xi Jinping and other prominent non-Western international leaders have expressed support for President Dlamini-Zuma and have announced future infrastructure investment initiatives aimed to support South Africa's economy. Western experts have expressed concern that South Africa could shift further in favor of BRICS, with some parallels being additionally made to the controversial policies of Robert Mugabe in Zimbabwe that inflamed racial tensions through wealth and land redistribution policies.

 

 

Mahamadou Issoufou Announces Major Military Victory Over Boko Haram and ISWAP - AFRICA

Niamey - President Mahamadou Issoufou has announced a major military victory over jihadist groups in Southern Niger as Boko Haram and ISWAP continue to lose ground to government forces. Following the U.S.-UK decision to strike multiple ISWAP and Boko Haram targets in Niger and Nigeria following the 2017 Barclaycard Arena Bombing, with a particular focus on the successful U.S. strike against a Boko Haram military compound key to the region. The Niger Armed Forces have since had success in striking against Boko Haram and ISWAP positions along the Niger Southern Border. A recent strike in the southern town of Magaria resulted in the deaths of multiple high-level members of Boko Haram's Niger leadership. Military experts believe Niger could be on track to repel Boko Haram and ISWAP from the country by the end of next year, declaring victory over the terrorist organizations and allowing Niger to further assist other members of the Multinational Joint Task Force in the wider region.

 

 

Japanese Prime Minister Seiko Noda Announces Initiatives to Strengthen Japanese Military and Gender Equality - ASIA

Tokyo - Following the resignation of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe after a disappointing result for the ruling LDP and questions around connections to Japanese billionaires, the first female Prime Minister of Japan has put forward an agenda expected to bring significant controversy in the coming months. Seiko Noda, the former Minister of Internal Affairs and Communications who rode a historic wave to victory following her unlikely candidacy in Japan's rigid patriarchal society, formed a coalition with various factions of the LDP in order to emerge as a compromise candidate to satiate the public calls for significant reform. As a result of North Korea's missile provocations, another key reason for Shinzo Abe's poor showing in the last election, Prime Minister Noda has proposed a framework that would begin the first of three phases to culminate in the end to Article 9 of the Japanese Constitution that outlaws war as a means to settle international disputes. The first phase would consistent of a 18% increase to the budget of the Japan Self-Defense Forces, which would aim to invest heavily into anti-ballistic missile defense and the establishment of the Japan Marine Corps Self-Defense Force as the fourth branch of the JSDF. In a more controversial move, Prime Minister Noda intends to pursue initiatives to increase female workplace participation and is set to submit legislation that would allow women to keep their surname upon marriage. 

 

 

President Ahn Cheol-soo Expresses Growing Concern Over North Korean Missile Tests - ASIA

Seoul - South Korean President Ahn Cheol-soo has publicly expressed concern over the repeated ballistic missile tests undertaken by North Korea. Despite initial questions about how President Cheol-soo could govern with his People Party having failed to garner a majority of the legislature over more traditional parties, the legislature has unified around defense issues. South Korea intends to expand their existing military budget as well as additional measures along their side of the Korean DMZ. Regional observers have expressed concerns that President Cheol-soo could move to begin an arms race on the peninsula, with long-term implications leading to possible hostile confrontation. Experts have noted that President Cheol-soo's rhetoric has become increasingly populist in nature since taking office, with some seeing his emerging political views as a sign of his unpredictability.

 

 

Thai Military Junta Cracks Down Aggressively Against Student Demonstrators - ASIA

Bangkok - The Thai military junta has aggressively cracked down against student demonstrations in a coordination dispersal effort at multiple universities in Bangkok. Protesting the erosion of democracy in the country and demanding the restoration of free elections, demonstrators at Kasetsart University and Bangkok University were violently dispersed by military forces following weeks of encirclement. Human rights advocates have decried the violent repression of the student demonstrators and have called for international condemnation and sanctions in response. Viral video of unarmed student demonstrators being cleared out using tear gas and rubber bullets went viral across the world before the Thai Government shut down internet service in the country. Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has cited dubious evidence claiming that the demonstrators were planning to engage in armed rebellion against the government in response to international criticism.

 

 

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping Meet in Beijing State Visit - ASIA

Beijing - Russian President Vladimir Putin attended a significant state visit to Beijing to meet with Xi Jinping and other CCP officials. The BRICS partners have become increasingly close in recent years as a counterbalance to the United States on the world stage. Putin and Jinping announced new initiatives around counterterrorism, intelligence, and economic cooperation at a widely-circulated press conference in which Putin reaffirmed Russia's claim to Crimea and Jinping emphasized China's continued interest in the Belt and Road initiative in Africa. International observers have noted that informally it appears that China and Russia intend to further expand their influence globally and work cooperatively when necessary to do so. A video of President Putin and President Jinping laughing with one another while using a grill has gone viral positively in non-Western social media. 

[Tedder]

 

 

Q1 2018 World News Updates

 

China Announces New Investments in Africa - AFRICA

Beijing, China - In a bold move to extend its geopolitical influence, China has announced a series of new investments under its ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) aimed at bolstering infrastructure across Africa. The latest expansion includes multi-billion-dollar projects in key sectors such as transportation, energy, and telecommunications, spanning countries from Kenya to Nigeria. This strategic push not only promises to boost economic growth and development in the region but also tightens China's grip on global trade routes and resources. Critics, however, warn that these investments come with strings attached, potentially leading to debt dependency and increased Chinese political leverage over African nations. As Beijing cements its presence on the continent, the West watches closely, contemplating the long-term implications of China's growing dominance.

 

Human Rights Violations in Myanmar Intensify - ASIA
Naypyidaw, Myanmar - Recent reports from Myanmar reveal a severe escalation in human rights violations against the Rohingya Muslim minority, as military operations in the Rakhine State have led to widespread atrocities including mass killings, sexual violence, and the torching of villages. Eyewitness accounts and satellite imagery confirm the systematic nature of these abuses, prompting international condemnation and urgent calls for action. The United Nations has described the situation as "a textbook example of ethnic cleansing," urging the Myanmar government to allow humanitarian access and cease hostilities immediately. Meanwhile, the exodus of Rohingya refugees into neighboring Bangladesh has created a dire humanitarian crisis, with over 700,000 people now living in overcrowded and under-resourced camps, further highlighting the urgent need for a global response to this unfolding tragedy.

 

Allegations of Russian Election Interference in French Presidential Election - EUROPE
Paris, France - New reports have emerged suggesting that Russian operatives conducted a sophisticated interference campaign during the recent French presidential election, which saw Marine Le Pen elected. Intelligence reports indicate that cyber-attacks, disinformation campaigns, and social media manipulation were employed to influence public opinion and undermine the democratic process. The revelations have sparked widespread outrage among European leaders, who are calling for stronger cybersecurity measures and potential sanctions against Russia. In response, President Le Pen has denied that the alleged interference affected the election outcome, asserting that her victory was legitimate. However, she also condemned any foreign meddling in national elections, vowing that Russian interference is unacceptable and must be addressed. These developments underscore growing concerns over the integrity of electoral systems worldwide and highlight the urgent need for coordinated international efforts to safeguard democracy.

 

Arctic Ice Levels Reach Historic Low, Raising Alarms Worldwide - EUROPE

Oslo, Norway - In an alarming development, Arctic ice levels have plummeted to a historic low this winter, according to data from various European researchers and the National Snow and Ice Data Center in the United States. The unprecedented melt, driven by rising global temperatures and climate change, has scientists and environmentalists deeply concerned about the rapid acceleration of ice loss and its far-reaching impacts. The decline not only threatens the fragile Arctic ecosystem, home to species like polar bears and seals, but also has significant implications for global weather patterns, coastal communities, and sea levels. Experts are calling for urgent international action to address the underlying causes of climate change, as the Arctic continues to warm at more than twice the global average rate, underscoring the critical need for comprehensive policies to mitigate further environmental degradation.

 

Iran Increases Military Support in Syria Amid Rising Regional Tensions - MIDDLE EAST

Tehran, Iran - In a significant development that is likely to escalate regional tensions, Iran has stepped up its military support for the Assad regime in Syria. Recent reports indicate a substantial increase in the deployment of Iranian troops and advanced weaponry to Syrian territory, bolstering the Assad government’s efforts against various rebel factions. This move has been met with alarm by neighboring countries and international observers, who fear it could further destabilize the already volatile Middle East. Iran’s actions come amidst ongoing conflicts and a complex web of alliances, raising concerns about a broader confrontation involving regional powers. The international community, particularly the United States and its allies, have condemned the increase in Iranian military presence, calling for immediate de-escalation to prevent further humanitarian crises and regional instability.

 

Large Earthquake Rocks Chile - SOUTH AMERICA

Santiago, Chile - A devastating earthquake struck central Chile today, measuring 8.2 on the Richter scale and causing widespread destruction. The epicenter, located near the coastal city of Valparaíso, has resulted in significant damage to infrastructure, with buildings collapsing, roads cracking, and power outages reported across the region. The quake triggered a tsunami warning along the Pacific coast, prompting mass evacuations. Emergency services are overwhelmed as they work to rescue those trapped under rubble and provide aid to the injured. President Sebastián Piñera has declared a state of emergency and appealed for international assistance. This disaster comes as Chile continues to recover from previous natural calamities, highlighting the nation's vulnerability to seismic activity. The global community has begun to mobilize, with offers of support and humanitarian aid pouring in from around the world.

[Tedder]

African Union Peace Talks: A Step Toward Stability in South Sudan

Q2, 2018

 

Juba, South Sudan - In a significant move toward regional stability, the African Union (AU) has successfully mediated peace talks between the warring factions in South Sudan. The talks, held in Juba over the past week, concluded with both sides agreeing to a ceasefire and outlining a roadmap for political reconciliation and sustainable peace. Since gaining independence from Sudan in 2011, South Sudan has been embroiled in a brutal civil war that erupted in 2013 between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and those aligned with former Vice President Riek Machar. The conflict has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and displaced millions, creating one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.

 

Key Outcomes of the Peace Talks

• Ceasefire Agreement: Both parties have committed to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. This cessation of hostilities is expected to pave the way for humanitarian aid to reach affected areas, providing much-needed relief to civilians who have borne the brunt of the conflict.
• Political Reconciliation: A framework for political reconciliation has been established, which includes provisions for power-sharing and the formation of a transitional government. This government will be tasked with organizing free and fair elections within the next 24 months.
• Humanitarian Access: The agreement guarantees unfettered access for humanitarian organizations to deliver aid to displaced persons and those in need. This is a crucial step in addressing the dire conditions faced by millions of South Sudanese.
• Monitoring and Enforcement: The AU will deploy a peacekeeping force to monitor the ceasefire and ensure compliance from both sides. This force will work in conjunction with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) to maintain stability and protect civilians.

 

Regional and International Reactions
The African Union has hailed the peace talks as a major breakthrough, emphasizing the importance of African solutions to African problems. AU Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat stated, "These peace talks mark a new chapter for South Sudan. The commitment shown by both parties is a testament to the resilience and determination of the South Sudanese people to achieve lasting peace."

 

The United Nations and various humanitarian organizations have welcomed the ceasefire, expressing hope that it will lead to improved conditions for those affected by the conflict. UN Secretary-General António Guterres noted, "The international community stands ready to support South Sudan in this critical phase. We urge all parties to adhere to the agreements reached and work towards a peaceful and prosperous future."

 

Challenges Ahead
While the peace talks represent a significant step forward, numerous challenges remain. Trust between the factions is fragile, and previous peace agreements have collapsed, leading to renewed violence. Ensuring the successful implementation of the ceasefire and political reconciliation will require sustained commitment and cooperation from all parties involved.

 

Additionally, the humanitarian situation in South Sudan remains dire. According to the United Nations, more than 7 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance, and nearly 4 million are displaced, either internally or as refugees in neighboring countries. Addressing these needs will be critical to the country's recovery and long-term stability.

 

Conclusion
The African Union's peace talks in Juba have provided a glimmer of hope for South Sudan. As the country embarks on the path toward peace and reconciliation, the international community must continue to support these efforts to ensure that this opportunity for lasting stability is not lost. The resilience and courage of the South Sudanese people will be vital in overcoming the challenges ahead and building a future free from the ravages of war.

[Tedder]

Greece Shows Signs of Economic Recovery After Years of Austerity

Q2, 2018

 

 

Athens, Greece – Greece is emerging from a decade-long economic crisis, showing promising signs of financial recovery and renewed optimism among its citizens. After years of stringent austerity measures, international bailouts, and economic hardship, the country is beginning to experience economic growth and stability.

 

The Greek government reported a GDP growth rate of 2.3% for the first quarter of 2018, marking the highest growth rate since the financial crisis began in 2009. This growth has been driven by increased consumer spending, a resurgence in tourism, and a boost in exports. The tourism sector, in particular, has seen a significant uptick, with a record number of visitors flocking to Greece's historic sites and idyllic islands. Unemployment, which once soared to over 27% during the peak of the crisis, has now fallen to 20%, according to the Hellenic Statistical Authority. While this figure is still high compared to the European Union average, it represents a significant improvement and offers hope for the future.

 

Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras hailed the positive economic indicators as a testament to the resilience and hard work of the Greek people. "We have turned a page. The sacrifices made by the Greek people are finally bearing fruit," Tsipras said in a recent press conference. "Our economy is growing, unemployment is falling, and investor confidence is returning."

 

Foreign investors have also taken note of Greece's improving economic landscape. Major investment projects, such as the redevelopment of the former Athens airport site into a sprawling tourist and business hub, are set to inject billions into the economy and create thousands of jobs. The financial markets have responded positively to Greece's recovery narrative. Greek bonds, once considered highly risky, have seen their yields fall significantly, indicating increased investor confidence. The Athens Stock Exchange has also rallied, reflecting broader optimism about the country's economic prospects.

 

However, challenges remain. The country's debt-to-GDP ratio is still one of the highest in the world, and public debt stands at around 180% of GDP. Greece's creditors, including the International Monetary Fund and the European Central Bank, continue to monitor the situation closely and stress the importance of maintaining fiscal discipline and implementing structural reforms. Economists warn that while the signs of recovery are encouraging, Greece must continue its reform efforts to ensure sustainable long-term growth. "Greece has made significant progress, but it is crucial to continue with structural reforms, particularly in the areas of tax collection, public administration, and the labor market," said Maria Demertzis, Deputy Director at Bruegel, a Brussels-based think tank.

 

The social impact of the crisis still lingers, with many Greeks grappling with reduced pensions, lower wages, and high taxes. The country's healthcare and education systems, which suffered severe cuts during the austerity period, are in need of substantial investment and reform. Despite these challenges, there is a palpable sense of cautious optimism in Greece. The government is focused on attracting foreign investment, boosting innovation, and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises to drive further economic growth. The resilience of the Greek people and their ability to adapt and persevere through hardship remains a powerful testament to the nation's enduring spirit.

 

As Greece continues its journey towards economic recovery, the international community watches with hopeful anticipation, recognizing the country's critical role in the stability and prosperity of the broader European region.

[Tedder]

Middle East Faces Severe Water Crisis

Q2 2018

 

 

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - The Middle East is grappling with an unprecedented water crisis that threatens to exacerbate regional tensions and destabilize already fragile states. As severe drought conditions persist, countries across the region are facing acute water shortages, impacting millions of lives and sparking fears of increased conflict over this vital resource.

 

Dire Situation Across the Region
From the Tigris and Euphrates rivers in Iraq and Syria to the Jordan River basin in Israel and Jordan, water levels have dropped to historic lows. In Iran, the situation is equally alarming, with many of the country’s reservoirs running dry and cities like Isfahan experiencing severe water cuts. The United Nations has warned that the water crisis could lead to a humanitarian disaster if immediate action is not taken.

 

Root Causes of the Crisis
The causes of the water crisis are multifaceted. Climate change has played a significant role, leading to prolonged droughts and reduced rainfall across the region. Additionally, decades of mismanagement, over-extraction, and pollution have severely depleted water resources. Rapid population growth and increased agricultural demand have further strained the already scarce water supplies. In Iraq, the once-mighty Tigris and Euphrates rivers are now shadows of their former selves. Turkey’s construction of numerous dams upstream has significantly reduced the flow of water into Iraq, causing agricultural lands to wither and leading to the displacement of rural communities.

 

Political and Social Implications
The water crisis is not just an environmental issue; it is a catalyst for social and political upheaval. In Iran, water scarcity has sparked widespread protests, with citizens demanding that the government take action to address the issue. The Iranian government has responded with promises of investment in water infrastructure, but many are skeptical about the feasibility of these plans given the country's economic constraints.

 

In Syria, the ongoing conflict has further complicated the situation. The control of water resources has become a strategic objective for various factions, adding another layer of complexity to the already devastating civil war. The UN has expressed concern that water shortages could lead to increased fighting over control of vital water sources.

 

Regional Cooperation: A Glimmer of Hope?
Despite the dire situation, there are glimmers of hope. Some countries in the region are beginning to recognize the necessity of cooperation to address the water crisis. Jordan and Israel, for example, have been working together on water management projects, including a plan to construct a desalination plant in Aqaba to provide fresh water for both nations.

 

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has also announced initiatives to invest in water conservation and desalination technologies. These efforts are crucial, as the GCC countries are some of the most water-scarce in the world and heavily reliant on desalination for their water needs.

 

International Response

The international community has begun to take notice of the severity of the Middle East water crisis. The United Nations has called for a comprehensive regional water management plan and increased funding for water-related projects. Humanitarian organizations are working to provide immediate relief to the most affected communities, but the scale of the crisis requires long-term solutions.

 

Conclusion
As the Middle East continues to grapple with severe water shortages, the need for collaborative and sustainable water management practices has never been more critical. Without urgent action, the water crisis could further destabilize the region, leading to increased conflict and suffering for millions of people. The international community must support regional efforts to address this crisis, ensuring that water, a basic human necessity, is available for all.

[Tedder]

Major Cyberattack Targets HSBC, Exposes Financial Vulnerabilities

Q2 2018

 

 

London, England – In a dramatic escalation of cyber warfare, one of the world's leading financial institutions, HSBC, has fallen victim to a sophisticated cyberattack. The breach, which was detected late last night, has raised alarms across the financial sector and government agencies worldwide, highlighting the critical vulnerabilities in our increasingly digital economy.

 

Scope and Impact of the Attack

Initial reports indicate that the attackers infiltrated HSBC's primary data centers, compromising sensitive information, including customer accounts, transaction records, and internal communications. HSBC, headquartered in London with branches across five continents, serves millions of customers. The attack appears to have been meticulously planned and executed, exploiting previously unknown vulnerabilities in the bank’s cybersecurity defenses. The immediate impact has been severe, with the bank’s online services, including internet banking and mobile app functionalities, currently offline. This disruption has caused significant inconvenience to customers and businesses reliant on the bank's services for daily operations.

 

Responses and Reactions

In response to the attack, HSBC has issued a statement confirming the breach and assuring customers that emergency protocols have been activated. "We are working around the clock with leading cybersecurity experts to contain the breach and mitigate its impact," said CEO John Flint. "Our priority is to protect our customers' data and restore normal operations as swiftly as possible."

 

The cyberattack has also drawn swift reactions from government officials and financial regulators. The UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has classified the incident as a major cyber threat and initiated a comprehensive investigation. Meanwhile, the European Central Bank has called an emergency meeting to discuss the implications for international financial stability and to coordinate a collective response.

 

Global Financial Community on High Alert

This attack on HSBC follows a troubling trend of increasingly bold and sophisticated cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure and financial institutions. Just last year, a ransomware attack crippled several hospitals in the UK, and a series of breaches in Asia exposed millions of private data records. Experts warn that this latest incident underscores the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures. "This attack is a wake-up call for the global financial community," said Dr. Alex Thornton, a cybersecurity analyst at the International Cyber Defense Institute. "Banks and financial institutions must prioritize robust cybersecurity frameworks and international cooperation to safeguard against these ever-evolving threats."

 

Customers Urged to Stay Vigilant

While the full extent of the data breach is still being assessed, HSBC has advised its customers to monitor their accounts for any unusual activity and to change their passwords as a precautionary measure. The bank has also set up a dedicated helpline and website to provide updates and support to affected customers. The incident has sparked widespread concern among consumers about the security of their personal information and the resilience of the financial systems they rely on. It also raises questions about the preparedness of other institutions in the face of similar threats.

 

Looking Ahead

As investigations continue, the spotlight is on HSBC to address the breach and fortify its defenses. Meanwhile, the broader financial sector is likely to face increased scrutiny and pressure to bolster its cybersecurity posture. This attack serves as a stark reminder of the growing interconnectedness of global financial systems and the critical importance of protecting them against digital threats.

[Tedder]

EU Sanctions Loom as Poland's Controversial Judicial Reforms Spark Outrage

Q2 2018

 

 

Warsaw, Poland – The European Union is on the verge of imposing sanctions on Poland due to its contentious judicial reforms, which critics argue threaten the very foundation of the rule of law in the country. These sweeping changes have ignited a fierce debate within Poland and drawn severe criticism from EU officials and international observers. Since the ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party came to power in 2015, Poland has seen significant shifts in its judicial landscape. The party asserts that the reforms are necessary to rid the judiciary of corruption and inefficiency. However, opponents contend that the true aim is to consolidate power and undermine judicial independence.

 

Key Changes Under the Reforms
The judicial reforms in question include several key changes:

• Supreme Court Overhaul: The retirement age for Supreme Court judges has been lowered from 70 to 65, a move that has forced nearly 40% of the court's judges into early retirement. The PiS government claims this will rejuvenate the court, but critics see it as a tactic to remove judges seen as unfavorable to the party.
• National Council of the Judiciary (KRS): The reforms give parliament greater control over the KRS, the body responsible for nominating judges. Previously, the KRS was largely independent, but the new law allows the ruling party to influence judicial appointments directly.
• Disciplinary Chamber: A new chamber within the Supreme Court has been established to oversee disciplinary actions against judges. Critics argue that this chamber, staffed with judges loyal to the PiS, could be used to intimidate or remove dissenting judges.

Domestic and International Backlash
The changes have not gone unchallenged. Thousands of Poles have taken to the streets in protest, decrying the reforms as an assault on democracy. "We cannot allow our courts to be controlled by politicians," said one protester in Warsaw. "This is not what we fought for when we joined the European Union."

 

The EU has been equally vocal in its opposition. European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker stated, "The reforms pose a systemic threat to the rule of law in Poland." In response, the European Commission has triggered Article 7 of the EU Treaty, a mechanism designed to protect the bloc's core values. If sanctions are imposed, Poland could lose its voting rights within the EU, a severe consequence for a member state.

 

Government's Stance
Despite the uproar, the Polish government remains steadfast. Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki defends the reforms, claiming they are essential for dismantling the remnants of communist-era judicial structures. "We are simply bringing our judiciary up to modern standards," Morawiecki said in a recent interview. "These changes are about making our courts more effective and accountable to the people."

 

A Nation at a Crossroads
As Poland navigates this tumultuous period, the implications of these judicial reforms extend beyond its borders. The EU is grappling with how to handle member states that challenge its democratic norms, and Poland's actions could set a precedent for others. In the coming weeks, EU leaders will convene to discuss possible sanctions. Meanwhile, Poland's judiciary and its citizens remain in a state of uncertainty, caught between a government determined to implement its vision and a populace increasingly worried about the erosion of democratic safeguards. As this situation unfolds, the world watches closely, recognizing that the outcome will have profound implications for the future of the European Union and the integrity of its democratic principles.