https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-04-09/biden-kishida-to-strengthen-defense-alliance-with-eye-on-china
Biden, Kishida to Strengthen Defense Alliance With Eye on China
New council to improve coordination among defense industries
Visit comes as tensions with Beijing grow in South China Sea
By Michelle Jamrisko
April 9, 2024 at 2:30 PM GMT+5:30
US President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida plan to form a council on defense industries and allow shipyard workers in Japan to perform more maintenance work on US Navy ships as they look to shore up their military alliance, according to a senior administration official.
Defense issues will be atop the agenda during a Wednesday meeting between the leaders, the senior US official said, speaking on condition of anonymity to share details ahead of an official announcement.
New council to improve coordination among defense industries
Visit comes as tensions with Beijing grow in South China Sea
By Michelle Jamrisko
April 9, 2024 at 2:30 PM GMT+5:30
US President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida plan to form a council on defense industries and allow shipyard workers in Japan to perform more maintenance work on US Navy ships as they look to shore up their military alliance, according to a senior administration official.
Defense issues will be atop the agenda during a Wednesday meeting between the leaders, the senior US official said, speaking on condition of anonymity to share details ahead of an official announcement.
Russia, China to Work on ‘Double Counteracting’ US-Led Alliance
Lavrov discussed security with Wang during visit to China
Beijing and Moscow have deepened ties since the start of war
By Bloomberg News
April 9, 2024 at 1:43 PM GMT+5:30
Russia and China agreed to start a dialogue on Eurasian security with the aim of “double counteracting” the European-Atlantic alliance led by the US.
“We have a common goal of increasing security in Eurasia,” Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Tuesday at a press conference with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Beijing. “We agreed with our Chinese friends to start a dialogue and get other like-minded countries to join us.” Lavrov added that Wang proposed the idea of “double counteracting” the US and its allies in response to the “double deterrence” of Western countries against Russia and China.
Lavrov discussed security with Wang during visit to China
Beijing and Moscow have deepened ties since the start of war
By Bloomberg News
April 9, 2024 at 1:43 PM GMT+5:30
Russia and China agreed to start a dialogue on Eurasian security with the aim of “double counteracting” the European-Atlantic alliance led by the US.
“We have a common goal of increasing security in Eurasia,” Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Tuesday at a press conference with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Beijing. “We agreed with our Chinese friends to start a dialogue and get other like-minded countries to join us.” Lavrov added that Wang proposed the idea of “double counteracting” the US and its allies in response to the “double deterrence” of Western countries against Russia and China.
China turns up heat with regulators, banks under the microscope amid focus on financial revamp
Vital economic and financial regulators, as well state-owned banks, will be targetted as part of a round of discipline inspections
Inspections will focus on vital finance and economy-related entities, said anti-corruption body chief Li Xi, amid Beijing’s focus on a financial reshuffle
Frank Chen
10 Apr 2024
Vital economic and financial regulators, as well state-owned banks, will be targetted as part of a round of discipline inspections
Inspections will focus on vital finance and economy-related entities, said anti-corruption body chief Li Xi, amid Beijing’s focus on a financial reshuffle
Frank Chen
10 Apr 2024
US sends seized Iran weapons and ammo to Ukraine
The small arms and ammunition were being sent to Tehran-backed Houthis in Yemen, according to the US military
Ukraine is suffering from shortages, as US Republican lawmakers block new aid
Agence France-Presse
10 Apr 2024
The small arms and ammunition were being sent to Tehran-backed Houthis in Yemen, according to the US military
Ukraine is suffering from shortages, as US Republican lawmakers block new aid
Agence France-Presse
10 Apr 2024
US to deploy new mid-range missile system in Asia-Pacific by end of year, top general says
Reports suggest the system will be the state-of-the-art Typhon, capable of firing high-speed anti-shipping projectiles or Tomahawk cruise missiles
Analysts say its deployment is aimed at countering threats from North Korea and China, likely as part of a testing and training process
Julian Ryall
9 Apr 2024
Reports suggest the system will be the state-of-the-art Typhon, capable of firing high-speed anti-shipping projectiles or Tomahawk cruise missiles
Analysts say its deployment is aimed at countering threats from North Korea and China, likely as part of a testing and training process
Julian Ryall
9 Apr 2024
Japan outspends U.S., Germany on chip subsidies as share of GDP
0.71% figure is highest, even as America provides more support in value terms
KAZUHIRO OGAWA, Nikkei staff writer
April 10, 2024 02:53 JST
TOKYO — Japan is proportionately spending more heavily to support its semiconductor sector than the U.S. and other major Western nations are on theirs, data presented at a key government panel here Tuesday shows.
The Japanese figure of 3.9 trillion yen ($25.7 billion) over three years equals 0.71% of gross domestic product. The U.S. is spending more in value terms — the equivalent of 7.1 trillion yen over five years — but its share of GDP is 0.21%, less than a third of Japan’s.
France is spending the equivalent of 700 billion yen over five years, or 0.2% of GDP. Germany’s support is the equivalent of 2.5 trillion yen, or 0.41%.
The figures appear in a handout for Tuesday’s meeting of a subcommittee of Japan’s Fiscal System Council, an advisory panel to Ministry of Finance. Semiconductor devices are regarded as critical goods with implications for both digital innovation and national security. Competition to support domestic semiconductor industries is heating up around the world.
The U.S. Department of Commerce announced Monday up to $6.6 billion in proposed direct funding for Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. so that the world’s largest chip foundry invests more on American soil. This is part of a larger movement to build supply chains not dependent on China.
0.71% figure is highest, even as America provides more support in value terms
KAZUHIRO OGAWA, Nikkei staff writer
April 10, 2024 02:53 JST
TOKYO — Japan is proportionately spending more heavily to support its semiconductor sector than the U.S. and other major Western nations are on theirs, data presented at a key government panel here Tuesday shows.
The Japanese figure of 3.9 trillion yen ($25.7 billion) over three years equals 0.71% of gross domestic product. The U.S. is spending more in value terms — the equivalent of 7.1 trillion yen over five years — but its share of GDP is 0.21%, less than a third of Japan’s.
France is spending the equivalent of 700 billion yen over five years, or 0.2% of GDP. Germany’s support is the equivalent of 2.5 trillion yen, or 0.41%.
The figures appear in a handout for Tuesday’s meeting of a subcommittee of Japan’s Fiscal System Council, an advisory panel to Ministry of Finance. Semiconductor devices are regarded as critical goods with implications for both digital innovation and national security. Competition to support domestic semiconductor industries is heating up around the world.
The U.S. Department of Commerce announced Monday up to $6.6 billion in proposed direct funding for Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. so that the world’s largest chip foundry invests more on American soil. This is part of a larger movement to build supply chains not dependent on China.
Hun Sen denies Cambodia canal project could facilitate Chinese military access
Tan Hui Yee
Indochina Bureau Chief
UPDATED APR 09, 2024, 10:17 PM
BANGKOK – Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen on April 9 denied recent suggestions that an upcoming navigation canal project through the country’s south could facilitate the entry of Chinese naval ships up the Mekong River.
“Why would Cambodia bring Chinese troops into its country, which violates the Constitution? And why would China bring its troops to Cambodia, which is contrary to the principle of respect for Cambodia’s independence?” he wrote on the platform X.
Cambodia envisions the US$1.7 billion (S$2.3 billion), 180km Funan Techo canal, which links Phnom Penh’s river port to the coast, as a key artery for economic growth by allowing Cambodian goods to bypass Vietnamese ports and also create jobs for the 1.6 million people living en route.
Tan Hui Yee
Indochina Bureau Chief
UPDATED APR 09, 2024, 10:17 PM
BANGKOK – Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen on April 9 denied recent suggestions that an upcoming navigation canal project through the country’s south could facilitate the entry of Chinese naval ships up the Mekong River.
“Why would Cambodia bring Chinese troops into its country, which violates the Constitution? And why would China bring its troops to Cambodia, which is contrary to the principle of respect for Cambodia’s independence?” he wrote on the platform X.
Cambodia envisions the US$1.7 billion (S$2.3 billion), 180km Funan Techo canal, which links Phnom Penh’s river port to the coast, as a key artery for economic growth by allowing Cambodian goods to bypass Vietnamese ports and also create jobs for the 1.6 million people living en route.
How to stop the dominoes of war from falling in East Asia
SADAMASA OUE
Apr 9, 2024
Conflicts elsewhere have implications for East Asia’s powder kegs — the Taiwan Strait and the Korean Peninsula.
SADAMASA OUE
Apr 9, 2024
Conflicts elsewhere have implications for East Asia’s powder kegs — the Taiwan Strait and the Korean Peninsula.
U.S., U.K., Australia consider working with Japan on AUKUS security pact
BY JESSE JOHNSON AND GABRIEL DOMINGUEZ
Apr 9, 2024
The three countries said they were weighing inviting Tokyo to join the pact’s second stage, with talks with Japan and others set to begin this year.
BY JESSE JOHNSON AND GABRIEL DOMINGUEZ
Apr 9, 2024
The three countries said they were weighing inviting Tokyo to join the pact’s second stage, with talks with Japan and others set to begin this year.
World rush to rearm could cost G7 countries $10 trillion over next decade
BY ENDA CURRAN, NATALIA DROZDIAK AND BHARGAVI SAKTHIVELS
Apr 9, 2024
Security challenges include an aggressive Russia, a volatile Middle East, and the Chinese military tugging U.S. attention toward the Pacific.
BY ENDA CURRAN, NATALIA DROZDIAK AND BHARGAVI SAKTHIVELS
Apr 9, 2024
Security challenges include an aggressive Russia, a volatile Middle East, and the Chinese military tugging U.S. attention toward the Pacific.
Who’s to challenge Silicon Valley, Shenzhen in AI?
The usual suspects will witness a positive relationship between workforce transformation and economic growth
By AMITRAJEET A. BATABYAL
APRIL 10, 2024
The usual suspects will witness a positive relationship between workforce transformation and economic growth
By AMITRAJEET A. BATABYAL
APRIL 10, 2024
Japan and AUKUS are headed for limited cooperation
Japan’s nuclear technology could help AUKUS partners boost N-powered subs’ quantity, scale & production speed
By JOHN BLAXLAND
APRIL 10, 2024
Japan’s nuclear technology could help AUKUS partners boost N-powered subs’ quantity, scale & production speed
By JOHN BLAXLAND
APRIL 10, 2024
US stretching out legacy nuclear arsenal
Refurbishing aging ballistic-missile subs and ICBMs amid modernization delays and global nuclear uncertainty
By GABRIEL HONRADA
APRIL 10, 2024
Refurbishing aging ballistic-missile subs and ICBMs amid modernization delays and global nuclear uncertainty
By GABRIEL HONRADA
APRIL 10, 2024
Xi-Biden call: rediscovery of the art of diplomacy
Managing instability, Beijing and Washington may be able to approach shared but not wholly overlapping interests
By STEFAN WOLFF
APRIL 9, 2024
Managing instability, Beijing and Washington may be able to approach shared but not wholly overlapping interests
By STEFAN WOLFF
APRIL 9, 2024
OpenAI and Meta ready new AI models capable of ‘reasoning’
Upgrades are part of a wave of new large language models being released this year
Madhumita Murgia and Cristina Criddle in London
APRIL 9, 2024
Upgrades are part of a wave of new large language models being released this year
Madhumita Murgia and Cristina Criddle in London
APRIL 9, 2024
The tree of debt must stop growing
Since the era of ultra-low interest rates ended, large-scale government borrowing is looking more and more problematic
Martin Wolf
APRIL 9, 2024
Since the era of ultra-low interest rates ended, large-scale government borrowing is looking more and more problematic
Martin Wolf
APRIL 9, 2024
Taiwanese groups consider overseas headquarters to hedge against Chinese attack
Global efforts to secure supply chains put pressure on contractors to establish ‘alternative command system abroad’
Kathrin Hille in Taipei
APRIL 9, 2024
Global efforts to secure supply chains put pressure on contractors to establish ‘alternative command system abroad’
Kathrin Hille in Taipei
APRIL 9, 2024
European ports turned into ‘car parks’ as vehicle imports pile up
Chinese EV makers without sales networks or onward transportation among leading causes of congestion, say executives
Arjun Neil Alim in Frankfurt, Robert Wright and Peter Campbell in London, and Gloria Li in Hong Kong
APRIL 9, 2024
Chinese EV makers without sales networks or onward transportation among leading causes of congestion, say executives
Arjun Neil Alim in Frankfurt, Robert Wright and Peter Campbell in London, and Gloria Li in Hong Kong
APRIL 9, 2024
Wider war in Europe ‘no longer a fantasy’, warns EU’s top diplomat
Josep Borrell says Russia threatens the continent beyond the conflict in Ukraine
Henry Foy in Brussels
APRIL 9, 2024
Josep Borrell says Russia threatens the continent beyond the conflict in Ukraine
Henry Foy in Brussels
APRIL 9, 2024
Geopolitics lurks behind Europe’s gas storage success
Energy dependency turns out not to have been as effective a weapon as Putin thought
Helen Thompson
APRIL 8, 2024
Energy dependency turns out not to have been as effective a weapon as Putin thought
Helen Thompson
APRIL 8, 2024
The West’s cowardice over Israel is nothing short of abominable
In turning our backs after vowing support, we are waving a white flag to terrorists the world over
SHERELLE JACOBS
8 April 2024
In turning our backs after vowing support, we are waving a white flag to terrorists the world over
SHERELLE JACOBS
8 April 2024
Climate change: ‘Uncharted territory’ fears after record hot March
By Matt McGrath & Mark Poynting,
BBC News Climate & Science
APRIL 9, 2024
Climate change could move “into uncharted territory” if temperatures don’t fall by the end of the year, a leading scientist has told the BBC.
The warning came as data showed last month was the world’s warmest March on record, extending the run of monthly temperature records to 10 in a row.
It’s fuelled concerns among some that the world could be tipping into a new phase of even faster climate change.
A weather system called El Niño is behind some of the recent heat.
Temperatures should temporarily come down after El Niño peters out in coming months, but some scientists are worried they might not.
By Matt McGrath & Mark Poynting,
BBC News Climate & Science
APRIL 9, 2024
Climate change could move “into uncharted territory” if temperatures don’t fall by the end of the year, a leading scientist has told the BBC.
The warning came as data showed last month was the world’s warmest March on record, extending the run of monthly temperature records to 10 in a row.
It’s fuelled concerns among some that the world could be tipping into a new phase of even faster climate change.
A weather system called El Niño is behind some of the recent heat.
Temperatures should temporarily come down after El Niño peters out in coming months, but some scientists are worried they might not.
How Ukraine is using AI to fight Russia
From target hunting to catching sanctions-busters, its war is increasingly high-tech
Apr 8th 2024
From target hunting to catching sanctions-busters, its war is increasingly high-tech
Apr 8th 2024
Is China or America the big boss of the global south?
In a dog-eat-dog world, competition is fierce
Apr 8th 2024
In a dog-eat-dog world, competition is fierce
Apr 8th 2024
Expect more joint South China Sea patrols, US says ahead of summits with allies
By Steve Holland and David Brunnstrom
WASHINGTON, April 9 (Reuters) – More joint patrols can be expected in the South China Sea after drills by the United States, Australia, the Philippines and Japan last weekend, U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan said on Tuesday, ahead of U.S. summits this week with the Japanese and Philippine leaders.
Warships from the four nations staged the exercises on Sunday following stepped up Chinese pressure on the Philippines in the disputed strategic waterway.
By Steve Holland and David Brunnstrom
WASHINGTON, April 9 (Reuters) – More joint patrols can be expected in the South China Sea after drills by the United States, Australia, the Philippines and Japan last weekend, U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan said on Tuesday, ahead of U.S. summits this week with the Japanese and Philippine leaders.
Warships from the four nations staged the exercises on Sunday following stepped up Chinese pressure on the Philippines in the disputed strategic waterway.
Banning arms sales to Israel makes no sense
Absence of British exports would not end the war but would alienate key allies pivotal to peace
Roger Boyes
Tuesday April 09 2024, 9.00pm BST, The Times
Israel’s critics see the country heading into the quagmire that America faced in the Vietnam War: a blundering, high-tech army outwitted by plucky freedom fighters, a prime minister who is starting to mimic Richard Nixon, and an isolated state trying to mask its weakness.
In this telling — heard not only from restless US Democrats — the Gaza war is set to be never-ending. The conclusion: turn off the flow of arms and make Binyamin Netanyahu “see reason”.
This is a capital error, what the Germans call a Hirngespinst, a chimera. The Gaza war is not interminable. But neither is it on the brink of resolution, a crisis just waiting for a turning point in the form of an international weapons embargo against Israel.
Absence of British exports would not end the war but would alienate key allies pivotal to peace
Roger Boyes
Tuesday April 09 2024, 9.00pm BST, The Times
Israel’s critics see the country heading into the quagmire that America faced in the Vietnam War: a blundering, high-tech army outwitted by plucky freedom fighters, a prime minister who is starting to mimic Richard Nixon, and an isolated state trying to mask its weakness.
In this telling — heard not only from restless US Democrats — the Gaza war is set to be never-ending. The conclusion: turn off the flow of arms and make Binyamin Netanyahu “see reason”.
This is a capital error, what the Germans call a Hirngespinst, a chimera. The Gaza war is not interminable. But neither is it on the brink of resolution, a crisis just waiting for a turning point in the form of an international weapons embargo against Israel.
Germany Rebuffs Claim Its Arms Sales to Israel Abet Genocide in Gaza
Germany argued against the accusation brought by Nicaragua at the International Court of Justice, but Germans are questioning their country’s unwavering support for Israel.
By MARLISE SIMONS, ERIKA SOLOMON and CHRISTOPHER F. SCHUETZE
April 9, 2024
Germany argued against the accusation brought by Nicaragua at the International Court of Justice, but Germans are questioning their country’s unwavering support for Israel.
By MARLISE SIMONS, ERIKA SOLOMON and CHRISTOPHER F. SCHUETZE
April 9, 2024
Austin Pushes Back on Claims of Israel Carrying Out Genocide in Gaza
Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III made the comments during a hearing that was disrupted several times by protests of U.S. support for Israel’s assault on Hamas.
By JOHN ISMAY
April 9, 2024
Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III made the comments during a hearing that was disrupted several times by protests of U.S. support for Israel’s assault on Hamas.
By JOHN ISMAY
April 9, 2024
Everyone Wants to Seize Russia’s Money. It’s a Terrible Idea.
The dollar is probably the most valuable strategic asset the United States has.
By CHRISTOPHER CALDWELL
April 9, 2024
The dollar is probably the most valuable strategic asset the United States has.
By CHRISTOPHER CALDWELL
April 9, 2024
Iran Smuggles Arms to West Bank, Officials Say, to Foment Unrest With Israel
The covert operation, described by U.S., Iranian and Israeli officials, is heightening concerns that Iran is seeking to turn the West Bank into a flashpoint in its shadow war with Israel.
By FARNAZ FASSIHI, RONEN BERGMAN and ERIC SCHMITT
April 9, 2024
The covert operation, described by U.S., Iranian and Israeli officials, is heightening concerns that Iran is seeking to turn the West Bank into a flashpoint in its shadow war with Israel.
By FARNAZ FASSIHI, RONEN BERGMAN and ERIC SCHMITT
April 9, 2024
New Method That Pinpoints Wood’s Origin May Curb Illegal Timber
The study could help identify wood from Russia, which has been banned by many countries because of the war.
By ALEXANDER NAZARYAN
April 9, 2024
The study could help identify wood from Russia, which has been banned by many countries because of the war.
By ALEXANDER NAZARYAN
April 9, 2024
How Japan Is Trying to Rebuild Its Chip Industry
Taiwan’s semiconductor giant, TSMC, is quickly remaking a farm town in Japan into Asia’s next hub of chip manufacturing with enormous government support.
By MEAGHAN TOBIN, HISAKO UENO and JOHN LIU
April 9, 2024
Taiwan’s semiconductor giant, TSMC, is quickly remaking a farm town in Japan into Asia’s next hub of chip manufacturing with enormous government support.
By MEAGHAN TOBIN, HISAKO UENO and JOHN LIU
April 9, 2024
Banks Made Big Climate Promises. A New Study Doubts They Work.
Using European Central Bank lending data, researchers said there was not evidence that voluntary commitments were effective in reducing emissions.
By ESHE NELSON
April 9, 2024
Using European Central Bank lending data, researchers said there was not evidence that voluntary commitments were effective in reducing emissions.
By ESHE NELSON
April 9, 2024
https://www.wsj.com/articles/elizabeth-warren-israel-gaza-genocide-matthew-miller-tim-kaine-6975a436
Elizabeth Warren on Israel and Genocide
Biden’s drumbeat of blame and criticism empowers the radicals.
By The Editorial Board
April 9, 2024 5:51 pm ET
Three examples from Monday are instructive. First, a video emerged of Sen. Elizabeth Warren’s response last week at the Islamic Center of Boston to the question: “Do you think that Israel is committing a genocide?”
Her instinct was to dodge: “For me, it is far more important to say what Israel is doing is wrong,” she said, and accused Israel of deliberately starving Gazan children and worse. That whetted the crowd’s appetite for more. “It was a yes-or-no question!” they shouted.
Ms. Warren then pandered: “If you want to do it as an application of law, I believe that they’ll find that it is genocide, and they have ample evidence to do so.” The Islamic center crowd broke out in applause. It had goaded her to lump Israel with the Nazis and Hutu militias.
Biden’s drumbeat of blame and criticism empowers the radicals.
By The Editorial Board
April 9, 2024 5:51 pm ET
Three examples from Monday are instructive. First, a video emerged of Sen. Elizabeth Warren’s response last week at the Islamic Center of Boston to the question: “Do you think that Israel is committing a genocide?”
Her instinct was to dodge: “For me, it is far more important to say what Israel is doing is wrong,” she said, and accused Israel of deliberately starving Gazan children and worse. That whetted the crowd’s appetite for more. “It was a yes-or-no question!” they shouted.
Ms. Warren then pandered: “If you want to do it as an application of law, I believe that they’ll find that it is genocide, and they have ample evidence to do so.” The Islamic center crowd broke out in applause. It had goaded her to lump Israel with the Nazis and Hutu militias.
The Black Market That Delivers Elon Musk’s Starlinks to U.S. Foes
The satellite-internet devices are helping Russian fighters in Ukraine and paramilitary forces in Sudan; SpaceX hasn’t shut them off
By Thomas Grove, Nicholas Bariyo, Micah Maidenberg, Emma Scott and Ian Lovett
April 9, 2024 12:01 am ET
A salesman at Moscow-based online retailer shopozz.ru has supplemented his usual business of peddling vacuum cleaners and dashboard phone mounts by selling dozens of Starlink internet terminals that wound up with Russians on the front lines in Ukraine.
Although Russia has banned the use of Starlink, the satellite-internet service developed by
The satellite-internet devices are helping Russian fighters in Ukraine and paramilitary forces in Sudan; SpaceX hasn’t shut them off
By Thomas Grove, Nicholas Bariyo, Micah Maidenberg, Emma Scott and Ian Lovett
April 9, 2024 12:01 am ET
A salesman at Moscow-based online retailer shopozz.ru has supplemented his usual business of peddling vacuum cleaners and dashboard phone mounts by selling dozens of Starlink internet terminals that wound up with Russians on the front lines in Ukraine.
Although Russia has banned the use of Starlink, the satellite-internet service developed by
China Plays Tense Game of ‘Russian Roulette’ With U.S. Ally
Chinese coast guard ships have slammed Philippine boats with water cannons, shattering a windshield and injuring Filipino crew
By Niharika Mandhana
Updated April 9, 2024 12:03 am ET
SINGAPORE—China is intensifying a dangerous game in the South China Sea, in ways that risk drawing the U.S. into its fight with the Philippines.
In early March, two Chinese coast guard ships slammed a Philippine boat with high-pressure blasts of water cannon, smashing its windshield and preventing it from delivering supplies to a military outpost. A few weeks later, during another Philippine resupply run, Chinese water cannons hit the boat again, leaving its interior in shambles and injuring three Filipino navy personnel.
Six-Month Federal Budget Deficit: $1.1 Trillion
Interest on the public debt rose 43%, and now exceeds defense outlays.
By The Editorial Board
Updated April 8, 2024 9:14 pm ET
Washington continues to spend like deficits and debt don’t matter, and the politicians would rather you don’t know. For the record, the Congressional Budget Office reported Monday that the federal budget deficit for the first six months of fiscal 2024, ending in March, was $1.064 trillion. Enjoy it, because you’ll eventually pay for it in higher taxes.
The problem isn’t a shortage of tax revenue, which rose 7% from a year earlier to $2.19 trillion. Individual income-tax and payroll-tax revenue both rose 6%, while corporate income taxes rose 35%. Is a 7% increase what President Biden would call a “fair share” increase? Probably not, because he wants to raise taxes even higher if he’s re-elected.
Japan Knows the Ukraine Stakes
Tokyo sees that a Russian victory may encourage Chinese imperialism.
By The Editorial Board
April 8, 2024 5:29 pm ET
Critics of Ukraine aid sometimes say the war in Europe is a distraction from more serious threats in Asia. Perhaps Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida can disabuse them of this notion when he visits Washington this week.
Japan’s current security environment is “as severe and complex as it has ever been” since the end of World War II, says Noriyuki Shikata, a spokesman for the Prime Minister. “From the Japanese viewpoint, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is not a faraway European question. If we allow Russia to unilaterally change its borders by force, this could have a negative impact on the Pacific region.”
Tokyo sees that a Russian victory may encourage Chinese imperialism.
By The Editorial Board
April 8, 2024 5:29 pm ET
Critics of Ukraine aid sometimes say the war in Europe is a distraction from more serious threats in Asia. Perhaps Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida can disabuse them of this notion when he visits Washington this week.
Japan’s current security environment is “as severe and complex as it has ever been” since the end of World War II, says Noriyuki Shikata, a spokesman for the Prime Minister. “From the Japanese viewpoint, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is not a faraway European question. If we allow Russia to unilaterally change its borders by force, this could have a negative impact on the Pacific region.”
U.S. ready to sanction Chinese banks if they aid Russia’s war machine, Yellen says
PUBLISHED MON, APR 8 2024
Rebecca Picciotto
The United States is prepared to sanction Chinese banks and companies, as well as Beijing’s leadership, if they aid Russia’s military in its invasion of Ukraine, U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said Monday.
The comments were part of a broader economic message that she has delivered to Chinese officials during her visit to the country over the past several days.
The U.S. and China have been working to heal their relations even as the two superpowers manage ongoing economic tensions.
PUBLISHED MON, APR 8 2024
Rebecca Picciotto
The United States is prepared to sanction Chinese banks and companies, as well as Beijing’s leadership, if they aid Russia’s military in its invasion of Ukraine, U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said Monday.
The comments were part of a broader economic message that she has delivered to Chinese officials during her visit to the country over the past several days.
The U.S. and China have been working to heal their relations even as the two superpowers manage ongoing economic tensions.
Putin and Xi’s Unholy Alliance
Why the West Won’t Be Able to Drive a Wedge Between Russia and China
By Alexander Gabuev
April 9, 2024
If the China-Russia tandem is here to stay, Western leaders must build a long-term strategy that will help maintain peace by accounting for all the ramifications of having to compete with China and Russia simultaneously. For a start, the West will need to find the right balance between deterrence and reassurance with Moscow and Beijing to avoid dangerous escalatory situations that could arise from accidents, misperceptions, and miscommunication. Western governments should consider the second-order effects of the coercive economic measures they have applied to Russia and China and how retaliatory countermeasures further erode the fabric of globalization. And while they should not tolerate Russian and Chinese disinformation and attempts to subvert the functioning of international institutions, Western countries should seek to make some of these institutions, such as the United Nations and its related agencies, functional again even with Beijing and Moscow on board. When considering how to protect European and Asian security, rein in climate change, govern new disruptive technologies such as artificial intelligence, and address the challenges facing global financial architecture, Western policymakers must now reckon with the reality of an increasingly resolute Sino-Russian axis.
Why the West Won’t Be Able to Drive a Wedge Between Russia and China
By Alexander Gabuev
April 9, 2024
If the China-Russia tandem is here to stay, Western leaders must build a long-term strategy that will help maintain peace by accounting for all the ramifications of having to compete with China and Russia simultaneously. For a start, the West will need to find the right balance between deterrence and reassurance with Moscow and Beijing to avoid dangerous escalatory situations that could arise from accidents, misperceptions, and miscommunication. Western governments should consider the second-order effects of the coercive economic measures they have applied to Russia and China and how retaliatory countermeasures further erode the fabric of globalization. And while they should not tolerate Russian and Chinese disinformation and attempts to subvert the functioning of international institutions, Western countries should seek to make some of these institutions, such as the United Nations and its related agencies, functional again even with Beijing and Moscow on board. When considering how to protect European and Asian security, rein in climate change, govern new disruptive technologies such as artificial intelligence, and address the challenges facing global financial architecture, Western policymakers must now reckon with the reality of an increasingly resolute Sino-Russian axis.
The Middle East Is Still Post-American
The Gaza War Exposes the Limits of Washington’s Power—and the Risks of Overreach
By Steven Simon and Jonathan Stevenson
April 9, 2024
Although the current crisis may reflect a serious regional breakdown, it has also starkly exposed the limits of American power in the region and illuminated the risks that the large and enduring U.S. presence in the region poses. The irony in the situation is that the United States has had greater influence in Tehran than in Jerusalem. Even leaving aside the question of American power and influence, there is really no power vacuum for Washington to fill. The major states in the region are figuring out, albeit sloppily and improbably, how to manage their problems themselves. It is a self-regulating system. In that light, Washington may be best able to protect its interests in the Middle East from a distance.
The Gaza War Exposes the Limits of Washington’s Power—and the Risks of Overreach
By Steven Simon and Jonathan Stevenson
April 9, 2024
Although the current crisis may reflect a serious regional breakdown, it has also starkly exposed the limits of American power in the region and illuminated the risks that the large and enduring U.S. presence in the region poses. The irony in the situation is that the United States has had greater influence in Tehran than in Jerusalem. Even leaving aside the question of American power and influence, there is really no power vacuum for Washington to fill. The major states in the region are figuring out, albeit sloppily and improbably, how to manage their problems themselves. It is a self-regulating system. In that light, Washington may be best able to protect its interests in the Middle East from a distance.
Ukraine’s Cheap Drones Are Decimating Russia’s Tanks
But experts say they’re not a long-term solution to a lack of artillery rounds.
By Jack Detsch
APRIL 9, 2024
But experts say they’re not a long-term solution to a lack of artillery rounds.
By Jack Detsch
APRIL 9, 2024
Russia’s Rosatom Fuels Putin’s War Machine
The nuclear company’s expanding corporate empire is an urgent target for sanctions.
By Lloyd Doggett
APRIL 9, 2024
The nuclear company’s expanding corporate empire is an urgent target for sanctions.
By Lloyd Doggett
APRIL 9, 2024
The Messy Battlespace That Would Be a U.S. vs. China War
Warfare in the Pacific between the U.S. and China promises to be an all-service, all-domain, and allied endeavor. Waging it will demand the utmost not just from naval forces but from fellow services that operate from dry earth.
by James Holmes
APRIL 9, 2024
Warfare in the Pacific between the U.S. and China promises to be an all-service, all-domain, and allied endeavor. Waging it will demand the utmost not just from naval forces but from fellow services that operate from dry earth.
by James Holmes
APRIL 9, 2024
The Widening Willpower Gap
The weakness of adversary powers relative to the United States should not deceive us from their very clear advantage in willingness to execute decisive, if risky, strategies.
by Connor Fiddler
APRIL 9, 2024
The weakness of adversary powers relative to the United States should not deceive us from their very clear advantage in willingness to execute decisive, if risky, strategies.
by Connor Fiddler
APRIL 9, 2024
Did North Korea Really Test a Hypersonic Missile?
North Korea is working toward the deployment of hypersonic missiles that it claims could render South Korean and U.S. missile defenses useless. Still, its claims of a successful test this month appear greatly exaggerated
by Bruce W. Bennett
APRIL 9, 2024
North Korea is working toward the deployment of hypersonic missiles that it claims could render South Korean and U.S. missile defenses useless. Still, its claims of a successful test this month appear greatly exaggerated
by Bruce W. Bennett
APRIL 9, 2024
South Korea Launches Its 2nd Military Spy Satellite as North Korea Vows to Do the Same
The Koreas each launched their first spy satellites last year – North Korea in November and South Korea in December – amid heightened animosities.
By Hyung-jin Kim
April 09, 2024
The Koreas each launched their first spy satellites last year – North Korea in November and South Korea in December – amid heightened animosities.
By Hyung-jin Kim
April 09, 2024
Self-kidnappings by Chinese Students Abroad: Mystery Solved
The puzzle presented by these incidents can only be understood in the context of China’s police brutality and growing transnational repression.
By Magnus Fiskesjö
April 08, 2024
The puzzle presented by these incidents can only be understood in the context of China’s police brutality and growing transnational repression.
By Magnus Fiskesjö
April 08, 2024
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‘Relying on US to contain China’ brings illusions and dangers to Japan: Global Times editorial
By Global Times
Published: Apr 09, 2024
In plain terms, under the obsession with great power competition among some in the US and Japan, the “upgrading” of the US-Japan alliance merely further strengthens Japan’s role as a tool for containing China.
By Global Times
Published: Apr 09, 2024
In plain terms, under the obsession with great power competition among some in the US and Japan, the “upgrading” of the US-Japan alliance merely further strengthens Japan’s role as a tool for containing China.
Turkey becomes 10th nation to join Chinese-Russian led International Lunar Research Station program
Russia confirmed on Monday that Turkey has applied to participate in the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) jointly initiated by China and Russia, making it the 10th nation to join the group following Thailand. The news coincided with the arrival in Beijing of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov for a visit to China. Russia has also invited other BRICS members to join the lunar research.
By Global Times | 2024/4/10
Russia confirmed on Monday that Turkey has applied to participate in the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) jointly initiated by China and Russia, making it the 10th nation to join the group following Thailand. The news coincided with the arrival in Beijing of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov for a visit to China. Russia has also invited other BRICS members to join the lunar research.
By Global Times | 2024/4/10
China realizes first in-orbit application of 3D-printed storage tank technology
China’s space development achieved another milestone with the successful operation of the propulsion subsystem of the Tiandu-2 satellite. Launched on March 20, the satellite is dedicated to testing communication and navigation technology for lunar exploration. Since April 3, the propulsion subsystem has been operating normally, marking the first successful application of the liquid ammonia cold gas micro-propulsion system in deep space exploration. Additionally, this signifies the maiden in-orbit application of China’s 3D-printed storage tank technology, the Global Times learned from the subsystem developers on Tuesday.
By Deng Xiaoci | 2024/4/9
Sweden’s reported expelling of Chinese citizen ‘politically driven, affects people-to-people exchanges’
The Chinese government has always requested Chinese citizens to comply with the laws and regulations of their country of residence, the Chinese Embassy in Sweden said on Monday local time in response to media reports about Sweden expelling a Chinese journalist, accusing her of posing a national security threat. The journalist, a 57-year-old woman, was arrested by the Swedish security service in October and expelled by the government in Stockholm last week, the Associated Press (AP) reported on Monday, citing Swedish broadcaster SVT. She is banned from returning.
By Chen Qingqing | 2024/4/9
Kishida starts visit to US with alarming military ambition
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida arrived in Washington, US for the first state visit by a Japanese leader in nine years, with full ambition to reinforce alliance with the US. Analysts warned that Japanese government’s steps to alter pacifism are dangerous and its hyping of “China threat” won’t successfully conceal its military ambitions. Rather than being a foundation of peace in the Asia-Pacific the US-Japan alliance is a primary destabilizing factor that undermines regional peace.
By GT staff reporters | 2024/4/9
China slams Campbell’s linking AUKUS with Taiwan question, calling trilateral pact a case of ‘typical Cold War mentality’
China’s Foreign Ministry slammed recent remarks made by senior US diplomat Kurt Campbell on linking the AUKUS military pact to the Taiwan question, expressing strong dissatisfaction and resolute opposition toward the remarks. And concerning the possible AUKUS expansion to include Japan, the ministry said China does not support provoking bloc confrontations and opposes increasing the risk of nuclear proliferation. In a press conference on Tuesday, the ministry’s spokesperson Mao Ning said Campbell’s remarks disregard the facts, reverse black and white, fan the flames of conflict, and are malicious in intent. “China is strongly dissatisfied with this and resolutely opposes it.”
By Chen Qingqing | 2024/4/9
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More details of PLA South China Sea joint combat patrol revealed
The Southern Theater Command of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) on Tuesday released more details of the recent joint naval and air combat patrol in the South China Sea, which further illustrates the PLA’s firm resolve and strong capability to safeguard China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, according to Chinese military analysts on Tuesday.
By Guo Yuandan and Deng Xiaoci | 2024/4/9