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[Myanmar] Clinton To Visit, Hold Talks In China Next Week
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Trump Threatens Punitive Tariffs Against BRICS Over De-Dollarization Plans
In a bold statement on Truth Social, President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to impose a 100% tariff on BRICS countries if they pursue plans to reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar in global trade. Trump’s remarks reflect a staunch defense of the dollar’s dominance in international markets and a warning to nations considering alternatives. “The idea that the BRICS countries are trying to move away from the Dollar while we stand by and watch is OVER,” Trump declared. He emphasized that the U.S. would demand a clear commitment from BRICS members to refrain from creating or supporting any currency intended to replace the U.S. dollar. “They will face 100% tariffs and should expect to say goodbye to selling into the wonderful U.S. Economy,” Trump wrote, adding, “They can go find another ‘sucker!’” The BRICS alliance—comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—was formed to enhance economic cooperation among major non-Western economies. Since its first official summit in 2009, the group has focused on challenging the dominance of Western financial systems. At the 2023 summit, the alliance expanded, adding Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. The issue of "de-dollarization," a key topic at the recent summit, seeks to reduce the U.S. dollar’s influence in international trade. While the idea has gained traction, experts remain skeptical about its feasibility. Analysts cite significant challenges within BRICS, including infighting among members and stark differences in their economic policies and financial systems. Trump dismissed the possibility of the BRICS countries succeeding in replacing the dollar in international trade, warning any nation attempting such a move to "wave goodbye to America." His remarks underscore the U.S.’s strategic interest in maintaining the dollar’s central role in global financial systems, a position that has provided Washington with significant economic and geopolitical leverage for decades. Representatives for the BRICS countries have not responded to Trump’s comments, but the group’s plans to explore alternatives to the dollar continue to generate debate. Despite internal challenges, the expanding coalition signals a growing push among non-Western nations to redefine global trade dynamics, a development that the incoming U.S. administration appears determined to counter. Trump’s threat to impose sweeping tariffs is a clear message that his administration views any move to undermine the dollar as a direct challenge to American economic dominance. As the world watches the unfolding dynamics between the U.S. and BRICS, the stakes for international trade and diplomacy continue to rise. Based on a report by NBC News 2024-12-02 -
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Starmer's Cabinet Choices: A Reflection of Leadership or Fraud?
Boris Johnson, in his characteristic style, has launched a scathing critique of Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, focusing on the recent downfall of Transport Secretary Louise Haigh. Johnson paints a vivid picture of Haigh’s situation, describing her as a symbol of a government he views as riddled with deceit and hypocrisy. The saga begins with Haigh, whose youthful misjudgment has come to define her current predicament. A decade ago, she worked in the insurance industry at Aviva and was convicted of fraud after falsely claiming her mobile phone had been stolen to secure a replacement. Johnson, with characteristic flair, describes her as a young woman swept up in the consumerist desire for the latest gadgets, a scenario many might empathize with. "She wanted the same snazzy device as her friends," Johnson writes, adding that the ruse seemed "painless, victimless, and virtually cost-free." Yet the truth emerged when Aviva discovered one of the supposedly stolen phones in her home, leading to a criminal conviction. Johnson spares no sympathy for Haigh, dismissing her as “just a casual everyday fraudster, a swindler.” He also questions Starmer’s decision to appoint her, stating, “Starmer picked a fraudster for his Cabinet because he is the fraudster-in-chief. And he knows, in his heart, that the whole government is a fraud.” Johnson’s critique extends far beyond Haigh. He accuses the Labour government of breaking promises, particularly regarding taxation and fiscal responsibility. He recalls Labour’s pledge not to increase taxes on working people, which was later followed by a national insurance hike, contributing to inflation and economic strain. Johnson contends, “They attempted to justify this tax raid by falsely claiming that there was a black hole in the nation’s finances.” On foreign policy, Johnson lambasts the Labour government’s approach to Ukraine and their decision to hand over the Chagos Islands, a move he attributes to “Lefty spite and hatred of Britain’s colonial past.” He claims Labour’s actions have alienated allies and weakened Britain’s global standing. Johnson also revisits Labour’s stance on Brexit, mocking Starmer’s recent suggestion that Brexit contributed to high immigration numbers. He counters that Brexit is “the only mechanism” allowing Britain to control its borders, criticizing Labour’s abandonment of the Rwanda plan, which he argues was deterring illegal migration. Starmer himself is not spared from personal criticism. Johnson accuses him of hypocrisy, noting Starmer’s relationship with millionaire Waheed Alli, who reportedly provides him with suits and spectacles. “He portrayed himself as a pharisaical opponent of sleaze and corruption,” Johnson writes, referencing Starmer’s purported efforts to deceive the public. In closing, Johnson highlights Labour’s latest policies on the NHS, describing them as measures that will “oppress elderly people, divide families, agonize doctors, and enrich lawyers.” He claims these policies reflect a government out of touch with the needs of the people, focused instead on ill-conceived initiatives. Despite his sharp critique, Johnson ends on a note of optimism for his party, celebrating the Conservative lead in the polls under Kemi Badenoch’s leadership, the first such lead since his tenure as Prime Minister. This moment, for Johnson, signals a potential turning of the tide in British politics. Based on a report by Daily Mail 2024-12-02 -
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Jewish Students Traumatised as Bus Attacked in Antisemitic Incident in London
Two buses carrying students from a London Jewish school were attacked at a bus stop by a swarm of around ten. The group of Jewish school children experienced a terrifying ordeal in north London when their school buses were attacked by teenagers throwing rocks and hurling antisemitic abuse. The incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon as students from Jews' Free School (JFS) in Kenton were traveling home on two number 688 buses operated by Uno. The attack unfolded in High Street, Edgware, where witnesses reported that a large group of teenagers from another school began throwing "big heavy rocks" at one of the buses. The situation escalated when four teenagers boarded the bus, shouting profanities and making offensive remarks targeting the Jewish students. One witness recounted to the *Jewish Chronicle*, “They were also swearing at us, saying, ‘F*** Israel, nobody likes you. F*** off, you b****es.’” The chaos left many children cowering under their seats, while others fled the bus in fear. Another student described the atmosphere as "completely terrifying," noting that the attackers appeared to film the incident on their phones, compounding the distress. Despite the gravity of the attack, the bus driver, reportedly a temporary employee, did not immediately report the incident. Instead, it was a parent of one of the affected children who alerted the police. The Metropolitan Police have since launched an investigation into what they describe as a "potential hate crime." A spokesperson stated, “Officers in Barnet are investigating a potential hate crime after a school bus was targeted on High Street, Edgware. Stones were thrown at the bus before a group of other students got on and made antisemitic remarks towards those on board. Officers from the safer transport team have spoken to the victims involved, as well as their parents, and enquiries are ongoing.” Superintendent Lorraine Busby-McVey, responsible for neighbourhood policing in Barnet, condemned the incident, calling it “distressing” and emphasizing that such behaviour is “completely unacceptable.” She added, “There is no place for hate crime either here or across the rest of London, and a thorough investigation is underway.” Transport for London (TfL) has expressed its alarm over the attack, vowing to support the investigation. “No one should ever have to fear or experience abuse when using our network,” TfL said in a statement. As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with the attack, leaving parents and the community concerned about the safety of students. The investigation continues, with authorities urging anyone with information to come forward. This incident has heightened concerns about the rise of antisemitic incidents and the safety of Jewish communities in London. Parents, students, and advocacy groups are calling for swift justice and measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Based on a report by Daily Mail 2024-12-02 Related Topic: Teenage Girl Seriously Injured in Antisemitic Attack in London’s Stamford Hill -
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Trump Names Kash Patel as FBI Pick, Marking Christopher Wray's Uncertain Future
President-elect Donald Trump has announced Kash Patel as his choice to lead the FBI, a move that signals significant changes ahead for the bureau. This decision, coming two months before Trump’s inauguration, casts doubt over the tenure of current FBI Director Christopher Wray, whose term is set to expire in 2027. Trump praised Patel in a post on Truth Social, describing him as “a brilliant lawyer, investigator, and ‘America First’ fighter” dedicated to exposing corruption, defending justice, and safeguarding Americans. “He played a pivotal role in uncovering the Russia, Russia, Russia Hoax, standing as an advocate for truth, accountability, and the Constitution,” Trump wrote. He emphasized Patel’s potential to address pressing national issues, including crime, drug trafficking, and border security, promising that the FBI under Patel would restore its core values of fidelity, bravery, and integrity. Wray has faced criticism from Trump, who accuses him of mishandling politically sensitive investigations. Trump was particularly vocal about the FBI’s raid of Mar-a-Lago, which led to an indictment for allegedly retaining classified documents. He also referenced Wray’s comments regarding a 2020 rally incident, which Trump claims revealed ignorance about the broader threats facing the nation. Furthermore, Trump accused Wray of “lying to Congress” about President Joe Biden’s cognitive and physical health. These tensions have fueled speculation about Wray’s future, as he would need to resign or be dismissed for Patel to assume the role. Kash Patel, a seasoned attorney and public servant, brings a wealth of experience to the table. A former public defender and Justice Department attorney specializing in national security, Patel also held prominent roles in Trump’s first administration. He served as a National Security Council official, senior adviser to the acting Director of National Intelligence, and chief of staff to the acting Secretary of Defense. A vocal critic of what he views as governmental overreach, Patel has long opposed federal investigations targeting conservatives. His writings, including his book *Government Gangsters*, advocate for an overhaul of the Justice Department and intelligence agencies. Patel has called for the dismissal and prosecution of officials who misuse their authority for political purposes. Trump has hailed the book as a “blueprint” for his administration’s future reforms. Speaking on his podcast, Patel expressed his intent to bring transparency to the FBI. He suggested that Trump could expose documents revealing past misconduct and hinted at high-profile disclosures, mentioning the controversial “Epstein list” and allegations involving music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs. Patel’s nomination, however, will require Senate confirmation, a process likely to draw sharp partisan debate. His deep loyalty to Trump and advocacy for reforming the FBI have made him a polarizing figure, celebrated by Trump’s allies and criticized by his opponents. The announcement underscores Trump’s commitment to reshaping federal institutions and addressing what he perceives as systemic corruption. As Patel prepares for the confirmation process, all eyes will be on the unfolding drama surrounding the future of the FBI. Based on a report by NYP 2024-12-02 -
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The ICC's Credibility Crisis: Why It May Be Beyond Redemption
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has plunged into a legitimacy crisis following its issuance of an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This action, which has been denounced as improper, extra-jurisdictional, and illegitimate by France and other nations, has raised serious questions about the court's credibility and relevance. Far from upholding international justice, the ICC's decision appears to undermine its own authority and purpose. Critics argue that the warrant is not only without merit but also a profound violation of the court's own principles. The ICC’s decision has effectively positioned itself as an institution disregarding legal norms and overstepping its jurisdiction. This episode, in the view of many observers, signals the court's descent into irrelevance. Like the League of Nations after World War I, the ICC now risks being seen as an ineffectual and obsolete body, unworthy of continued funding or support. Former Attorney General Sir Michael Ellis underscores the foundational problem: the ICC has no authority over nations that are not signatories to its treaty. Both Israel and the United States have refrained from ratifying the Rome Statute that established the ICC, primarily due to concerns about potential bias. By targeting Netanyahu, the court disregarded this crucial limitation, effectively imposing its rules on a non-member state. This is akin to being forced to adhere to the policies of an organization you have no affiliation with—a glaring overreach that undermines the court’s credibility. Even among member states, the ICC's jurisdiction is limited. It can only intervene when a signatory nation is either unwilling or unable to prosecute credible allegations of wrongdoing. Israel, however, boasts a robust and impartial judicial system. Its courts have consistently demonstrated their independence, with decisions often challenging government actions. A notable example includes an Arab Israeli Supreme Court judge presiding over a case involving a Jewish prime minister. Despite these facts, the ICC chose to bypass Israel's established legal processes, further eroding its own legitimacy. The court’s dismissal of diplomatic immunity adds another layer of controversy. Diplomatic immunity for heads of government is a principle deeply rooted in international and British law, dating back to the early 18th century and recognized even in antiquity. Herodotus documented its existence in ancient times. By ignoring this long-established norm, the ICC has disregarded yet another cornerstone of international legal practice. The precision and legality of Israel's military actions have also been highlighted by experts such as Professor John Spencer, Chair of Urban Warfare Studies at West Point Military Academy. Spencer asserts that Israel’s military operations are conducted with a level of precision surpassing those of Western powers, including the U.S. and the U.K. Despite these commendable standards, the ICC's focus has shifted to a democratically-elected leader defending his nation, rather than addressing more egregious violations of international law by regimes in Iran or Syria. The backlash to the ICC’s actions has been swift and widespread. Both the Biden administration and the anticipated Trump administration have expressed outrage, fearing the precedent set by targeting Netanyahu could extend to U.S. leaders. Other Western nations share this concern, viewing the warrant as an act of "lawfare"—the misuse of legal mechanisms to achieve political objectives. This debacle has dealt a severe blow to the ICC’s credibility. For an institution ostensibly committed to impartial justice, it has veered dangerously off course. If the ICC continues to prioritize politically motivated actions over principled legal standards, its survival as a meaningful entity is doubtful. As Ellis aptly concludes, the ICC may already be a sinking ship. Letting it slip beneath the waves might be the only way forward. Based on a report by Sir Michael Ellis ex Attorney General for England and Wales, Daily Telegraph 2024-12-02 Related Topics ICC Issues Arrest Warrants for Benjamin Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant Over Alleged War Crimes Australia Urged to Rethink ICC Membership Amid Controversial Arrest Warrants Boris Johnson Accuses Starmer of Aligning with Hamas Over ICC Netanyahu Arrest Warrant Trump's Storm Looms Over the ICC -
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Warning Signs: The Looming Collapse of a Critical Ocean System
The global climate crisis has scientists sounding the alarm about the potential collapse of a vital oceanic system that could wreak havoc across the planet. The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), often described as the Earth’s central heating system, is weakening at an alarming rate. If it collapses, the consequences could include severe droughts, rising sea levels, frozen European winters, and a reduction in the ocean’s ability to absorb carbon dioxide—a critical function in mitigating climate change. The AMOC operates as part of the global conveyor belt, a system of deep-ocean currents driven by temperature and salinity. This intricate circulation moves warm water northward and cold water southward, helping to regulate global temperatures and sustain marine ecosystems by transporting nutrients. However, an influx of freshwater from melting glaciers and ice sheets—particularly in Greenland and Canada—is disrupting this delicate balance. Freshwater, being less dense than saltwater, slows the currents, compounding the already fragile state of the AMOC. Recent research from the University of New South Wales highlights the accelerating impact of climate change on this crucial system. The study reveals that the AMOC is now weaker than at any point in the past thousand years and is projected to become one-third weaker than its strength 70 years ago if global temperatures rise by 2 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels. Such a temperature increase could trigger simultaneous climate disasters, from extreme weather to ecological collapse. The situation grows more dire when factoring in the accelerated melting of Greenland’s ice sheet. The study warns that the AMOC could weaken by an additional 30% by 2040—two decades earlier than previously anticipated. These findings challenge the projections of the United Nations' Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which has underestimated the speed of the AMOC’s decline, according to Dr. Stefan Rahmstorf, an expert on the subject who was not involved in the study. “I’ve compared it to sailing with a ship into uncharted waters,” said Rahmstorf. “You know there are rocks under the surface that you can’t see. It’s dangerous, but you don’t know exactly where they are. That’s the kind of situation we are facing here.” While the collapse of the AMOC would not be immediate, it would unfold over 50 to 100 years once the tipping point is reached. However, this tipping point could arrive within a few decades, a scenario Rahmstorf describes as “entirely plausible.” The implications of such a collapse are severe, with impacts requiring further study. Yet Rahmstorf emphasized the urgency of prevention over analysis. “It’s more important to try and prevent this from happening than studying in more detail what it would mean. Of course, we can do both at the same time, hopefully,” he said. Rahmstorf and 43 other international scientists recently issued a stark warning to the Nordic Council of Ministers, calling for immediate action to avoid crossing this catastrophic tipping point. Among the co-signers were UC Riverside’s Dr. Wei Liu and NASA’s Dr. Anastasia Romanou, who highlighted the inadequacies of current climate models. “The IPCC had said, for example, that we don’t expect this to happen before 2100,” Romanou explained. “But what people don’t realize is that the IPCC models don’t simulate ice sheet collapse or extreme events like the ones we’ve witnessed in recent years.” She added that while the precise timing remains uncertain, the collapse of the AMOC could happen within decades and would be nothing short of catastrophic. “Whether it happens in 20, 30, or 50 years, we have to take measures now to avoid these effects.” The path forward is clear to many scientists: reduce greenhouse gas emissions drastically to limit further warming. The world must act swiftly to preserve this critical ocean system and stave off the devastating impacts of its collapse. Based on a report by The Independent 2024-12-02 -
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Biden’s Ukraine Strategy: A Missed Opportunity for Global Security
President Joe Biden, backed by an administration brimming with accomplished advisers, has faced sharp criticism over his handling of the war in Ukraine. Despite decades of foreign policy experience and a team of highly credentialed experts, Biden’s approach has been viewed by some as cautious to a fault. Rather than seizing a pivotal opportunity to decisively aid Ukraine and reshape the geopolitical landscape, his administration’s measured response has been accused of prolonging the conflict and emboldening adversaries. When Russia amassed its invasion force in late 2021 and early 2022, the U.S. had accurate intelligence and warned Ukraine of the impending attack. However, U.S. officials misjudged what would unfold. They assumed Ukraine stood no chance against Russia’s seemingly formidable military and prepared for a swift Russian victory. Reeling from the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan months earlier, Biden reportedly lamented the new crisis, saying, “Jesus Christ! Now I’ve got to deal with Russia swallowing Ukraine?” as detailed in Bob Woodward’s book, *War.* This pessimistic outlook proved incorrect. Russia’s military, though powerful, was riddled with corruption, logistical challenges, and morale issues. In contrast, Ukraine displayed extraordinary resilience, adaptability, and determination. This unexpected dynamic presented the U.S. with a rare strategic opportunity. Aiding Ukraine in swiftly defeating Russia could have significantly altered global power dynamics. A victorious Ukraine could have joined NATO, shifting the balance of power in Europe toward democratic nations, securing the region, and restoring confidence in U.S. leadership following the Afghanistan debacle. Such a victory might have allowed the U.S. to reduce its military focus on Europe and redirect resources to the Indo-Pacific, countering the growing influence of China. However, Biden’s administration pursued a cautious “Goldilocks strategy,” attempting to support Ukraine without provoking Russian President Vladimir Putin excessively. Early in the war, the U.S. limited its military aid to Ukraine, providing only short-range weaponry and restricting its use. The Biden administration was reluctant to enable Ukraine to strike Russian forces in Crimea, despite its internationally recognized status as Ukrainian territory illegally occupied by Russia since 2014. This hesitancy, critics argue, constrained Ukraine’s ability to capitalize on its early successes and prolonged the war. Biden’s recent decision to allow limited strikes on military targets in Russia, coming nearly three years into the conflict, underscores this incremental approach. Meanwhile, Russia has deepened its alliances with China, Iran, and North Korea, creating a formidable anti-Western bloc. The prolonged conflict has brought untold suffering to Ukraine, with rising casualties and a growing catalog of war crimes. It has also diminished the West’s standing as Russia showcases its ability to endure prolonged economic and military pressure. For Biden, the war represents a missed moment—an opportunity to decisively counter Russian aggression, strengthen NATO, and reshape the global order in favor of democratic alliances. Instead, the world has become more dangerous. Ukraine continues to fight valiantly, but the U.S.’s piecemeal support has left the conflict unresolved. Critics argue that the administration’s reluctance to take bolder action has squandered a chance to ensure global stability, leaving a more fractured and volatile international landscape in its wake. Based on a report by The Atlantic 2024-12-02
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