Courtesy a friend on Whatsapp.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jijOAey7CGw
SHAKSGAM VALLEY AND PLA ROADS NEAR SIACHEN / LT GEN P R SHANKAR (R)
GUNNERS SHOT
01 may 2024
GUNNERS SHOT
01 may 2024
Huawei Secretly Backs US Research, Awarding Millions in Prizes
Chinese telecom maker is sole funder of optics competition
Huawei says role kept private to avoid appearing promotional
By Kate O’Keeffe
May 2, 2024
Huawei Technologies Co., the Chinese telecommunications giant blacklisted by the US, is secretly funding cutting-edge research at American universities including Harvard through an independent Washington-based foundation.
Huawei is the sole funder of a research competition that has awarded millions of dollars since its inception in 2022 and attracted hundreds of proposals from scientists around the world, including those at top US universities that have banned their researchers from working with the company, according to documents and people familiar with the matter.
Chinese telecom maker is sole funder of optics competition
Huawei says role kept private to avoid appearing promotional
By Kate O’Keeffe
May 2, 2024
Huawei Technologies Co., the Chinese telecommunications giant blacklisted by the US, is secretly funding cutting-edge research at American universities including Harvard through an independent Washington-based foundation.
Huawei is the sole funder of a research competition that has awarded millions of dollars since its inception in 2022 and attracted hundreds of proposals from scientists around the world, including those at top US universities that have banned their researchers from working with the company, according to documents and people familiar with the matter.
Beijing Is Playing a Dangerous Game in the South China Sea
Billions of dollars of oil and gas reserves — along with Asian nations’ sovereign rights to the contested waterway — hang in the balance.
May 3, 2024 at 1:30 AM GMT+5:30
By Karishma Vaswani
How should Japan and Australia, key US partners, manage the escalating tensions in the South China Sea? It’s a question that will be keeping war-game planners up at night, as the possibility of an accidental conflict draws closer with each new incident.
So far these incursions — on Tuesday, Chinese coast guard ships fired jet-stream pressure water cannons at two Philippine vessels near Scarborough Shoal — have not triggered the mutual defense treaty between the US and the Philippines, which would compel Washington to come to Manila’s aid against Beijing.
Billions of dollars of oil and gas reserves — along with Asian nations’ sovereign rights to the contested waterway — hang in the balance.
May 3, 2024 at 1:30 AM GMT+5:30
By Karishma Vaswani
How should Japan and Australia, key US partners, manage the escalating tensions in the South China Sea? It’s a question that will be keeping war-game planners up at night, as the possibility of an accidental conflict draws closer with each new incident.
So far these incursions — on Tuesday, Chinese coast guard ships fired jet-stream pressure water cannons at two Philippine vessels near Scarborough Shoal — have not triggered the mutual defense treaty between the US and the Philippines, which would compel Washington to come to Manila’s aid against Beijing.
Xi’s European Tour Is a Salvage Mission
The best the Chinese leader can hope for is to prevent ties from deteriorating further and look for new opportunities if Donald Trump wins in November.
May 3, 2024 at 12:30 AM GMT+5:30
By Minxin Pei
When Chinese President Xi Jinping lands in Europe this weekend, for the first time since 2019, he will find the geopolitics of the region altered beyond recognition. What might once have been a triumphal tour is now a salvage operation.
As recently as December 2020, with US-China tensions rising, Xi appeared to have secured Europe’s strategic neutrality by striking an investment agreement with the European Union. Inked less than a month before the inauguration of President Joe Biden, the deal was rightfully seen as a slap in the face to the US and a huge boost for China.
The best the Chinese leader can hope for is to prevent ties from deteriorating further and look for new opportunities if Donald Trump wins in November.
May 3, 2024 at 12:30 AM GMT+5:30
By Minxin Pei
When Chinese President Xi Jinping lands in Europe this weekend, for the first time since 2019, he will find the geopolitics of the region altered beyond recognition. What might once have been a triumphal tour is now a salvage operation.
As recently as December 2020, with US-China tensions rising, Xi appeared to have secured Europe’s strategic neutrality by striking an investment agreement with the European Union. Inked less than a month before the inauguration of President Joe Biden, the deal was rightfully seen as a slap in the face to the US and a huge boost for China.
US Spies See China, Russia Militaries Working Closer on Taiwan
By Daniel Flatley
May 2, 2024 at 10:02 PM GMT+5:30
US intelligence officials assess that Russia and China are working more closely together on military issues, including a potential invasion of Taiwan, prompting new planning across the government to counter a potential scenario in which the countries fight in coordination.
“We see China and Russia, for the first time, exercising together in relation to Taiwan and recognizing that this is a place where China definitely wants Russia to be working with them, and we see no reason why they wouldn’t,” Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines said Thursday in testimony to Congress.
By Daniel Flatley
May 2, 2024 at 10:02 PM GMT+5:30
US intelligence officials assess that Russia and China are working more closely together on military issues, including a potential invasion of Taiwan, prompting new planning across the government to counter a potential scenario in which the countries fight in coordination.
“We see China and Russia, for the first time, exercising together in relation to Taiwan and recognizing that this is a place where China definitely wants Russia to be working with them, and we see no reason why they wouldn’t,” Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines said Thursday in testimony to Congress.
China Launches Rockets From Sea in Bid to Win the Space Race
Offshore launches can improve takeoff positioning and save money on transporting rockets, but there are logistical challenges.
By Bloomberg News
May 2, 2024 at 1:30 AM GMT+5:30
With trips to a new space station, a sample-return mission to the moon and a record number of satellite launches, China’s space program has a packed calendar. The country is planning 100 launches through the end of 2024, up more than 40% from last year, as it tries to overtake the US and become the dominant power beyond Earth.
But in a land of 1.4 billion people, these efforts face a fundamental challenge: finding a safe place to launch. Although almost all US rockets take off from coastal sites where the flight path is over water—thus reducing the risks to people and property—three of China’s launch sites are deep in the interior, forcing rockets to fly over land after takeoff. The fourth is on the coast of the southern island province of Hainan, with a half-million people living nearby.
Offshore launches can improve takeoff positioning and save money on transporting rockets, but there are logistical challenges.
By Bloomberg News
May 2, 2024 at 1:30 AM GMT+5:30
With trips to a new space station, a sample-return mission to the moon and a record number of satellite launches, China’s space program has a packed calendar. The country is planning 100 launches through the end of 2024, up more than 40% from last year, as it tries to overtake the US and become the dominant power beyond Earth.
But in a land of 1.4 billion people, these efforts face a fundamental challenge: finding a safe place to launch. Although almost all US rockets take off from coastal sites where the flight path is over water—thus reducing the risks to people and property—three of China’s launch sites are deep in the interior, forcing rockets to fly over land after takeoff. The fourth is on the coast of the southern island province of Hainan, with a half-million people living nearby.
New Zealand ‘Seriously Concerned’ by China’s Pacific Ambitions
By Matthew Brockett
May 3, 2024 at 3:00 AM GMT+5:30
New Zealand is “seriously concerned” by China’s increased interest in the Pacific, Foreign Minister Winston Peters said.
“China has a long-standing presence in the Pacific, but we are seriously concerned by increased engagement in Pacific security sectors,” Peters said in a speech to the New Zealand China Council Friday in Wellington. “We do not want to see developments that destabilize the institutions and arrangements that have long underpinned our region’s security.”
By Matthew Brockett
May 3, 2024 at 3:00 AM GMT+5:30
New Zealand is “seriously concerned” by China’s increased interest in the Pacific, Foreign Minister Winston Peters said.
“China has a long-standing presence in the Pacific, but we are seriously concerned by increased engagement in Pacific security sectors,” Peters said in a speech to the New Zealand China Council Friday in Wellington. “We do not want to see developments that destabilize the institutions and arrangements that have long underpinned our region’s security.”
Saudi Arabia Steps Up Arrests Of Those Attacking Israel Online
Kingdom cracking down on online comments on Israel-Hamas war
Saudi Arabia and US working on closer ties to tempt Israel
By Sam Dagher
May 2, 2024
Saudi Arabia has stepped up the arrest of citizens for social-media posts related to the Israel-Hamas war as the kingdom signals a readiness to agree to diplomatic relations with the Jewish state — if it commits to Palestinian statehood.
Detaining people for online comments — even those more than 10 years old — and restrictions on free speech and political expression are the norm in Saudi Arabia. Yet the recent spate of arrests are motivated by security concerns specifically linked to the deadly Oct. 7 invasion of Israel by Hamas and its aftermath, according to Riyadh-based diplomats and human rights groups.
Kingdom cracking down on online comments on Israel-Hamas war
Saudi Arabia and US working on closer ties to tempt Israel
By Sam Dagher
May 2, 2024
Saudi Arabia has stepped up the arrest of citizens for social-media posts related to the Israel-Hamas war as the kingdom signals a readiness to agree to diplomatic relations with the Jewish state — if it commits to Palestinian statehood.
Detaining people for online comments — even those more than 10 years old — and restrictions on free speech and political expression are the norm in Saudi Arabia. Yet the recent spate of arrests are motivated by security concerns specifically linked to the deadly Oct. 7 invasion of Israel by Hamas and its aftermath, according to Riyadh-based diplomats and human rights groups.
Are US-China relations destined to end up as a ‘new cold war’?
Antony Blinken is the latest senior US official to visit China, but some analysts believe Washington needs to set out a clear vision for future relations
Although both sides may wish to avoid outright conflict, there are profound differences and a lack of trust that will be very difficult to overcome
Dewey Sim
2 May 2024
Antony Blinken is the latest senior US official to visit China, but some analysts believe Washington needs to set out a clear vision for future relations
Although both sides may wish to avoid outright conflict, there are profound differences and a lack of trust that will be very difficult to overcome
Dewey Sim
2 May 2024
China-Russia military exercises near Taiwan force US to revise plans, intelligence chiefs say
Admission comes before the Senate Armed Services Committee while discussing Beijing’s evolving military support for Moscow
Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines says joint exercises show ‘China definitely wants Russia to be working with them and we see no reason why [Russia] wouldn’t’
Robert Delaney
3 May 2024
Admission comes before the Senate Armed Services Committee while discussing Beijing’s evolving military support for Moscow
Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines says joint exercises show ‘China definitely wants Russia to be working with them and we see no reason why [Russia] wouldn’t’
Robert Delaney
3 May 2024
How the US is hustling China relations towards another cold war
While maintaining diplomacy and setting up guard rails, Washington is also painting an ‘axis of evil’ narrative and courting allies to isolate Beijing on every front
Listen to this article
Josef Gregory Mahoney
2 May 2024
While maintaining diplomacy and setting up guard rails, Washington is also painting an ‘axis of evil’ narrative and courting allies to isolate Beijing on every front
Listen to this article
Josef Gregory Mahoney
2 May 2024
Nuclear fusion reactors a step closer to being economically viable after scientific breakthrough
In experiments, Chinese and US researchers have overcome two of the main challenges with making fusion energy economically viable
Using a tokamak reactor, scientists created a density gradient which allowed plasma to reach a density high enough for commercial goals
Victoria Bela
2 May 2024
In experiments, Chinese and US researchers have overcome two of the main challenges with making fusion energy economically viable
Using a tokamak reactor, scientists created a density gradient which allowed plasma to reach a density high enough for commercial goals
Victoria Bela
2 May 2024
South China Sea: US-Philippine forces fire rockets towards disputed waters, insist drill not meant to be provocation
The rockets were launched towards the South China Sea as part of the Balikatan joint military exercises
Officials emphasised that the live fire drill was not aimed at any specific nation, despite its proximity to the disputed waterways
Jeoffrey Maitem
2 May 2024
The rockets were launched towards the South China Sea as part of the Balikatan joint military exercises
Officials emphasised that the live fire drill was not aimed at any specific nation, despite its proximity to the disputed waterways
Jeoffrey Maitem
2 May 2024
China’s C919 passes ‘deep level’ post-flight safety tests, ramps up rivalry with embattled Boeing
A crew of more than 60 checked a China Eastern Airlines C919 during four days of tests in Shanghai
Home-grown narrowbody jet is only certified to fly in China, and China Southern Airlines said on Tuesday it would receive its first C919 in August
Ralph Jennings
2 May 2024
A crew of more than 60 checked a China Eastern Airlines C919 during four days of tests in Shanghai
Home-grown narrowbody jet is only certified to fly in China, and China Southern Airlines said on Tuesday it would receive its first C919 in August
Ralph Jennings
2 May 2024
U.S. Navy to identify which Indo-Pacific shipyards it can use in wartime
Up to six repair availabilities requested in countries like Japan, South Korea and India
KEN MORIYASU, Nikkei Asia diplomatic correspondent
May 3, 2024 05:47 JST
WASHINGTON — The U.S. military will carry out maintenance work on as many as six American naval ships at international shipyards next fiscal year if approved by Congress, aiming to keep up with China’s naval capacity.
If the military’s request is authorized later this year, it would expand the use of foreign shipyards for such work on U.S. Navy ships and lead to certifying shipyards that match U.S. standards.
“If we should have to go to war, we will then have full knowledge of which shipyards and what countries we could actually send these ships to be able to do the damage repair that’s going to be necessary,” Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro told a House Armed Services Committee hearing on the fiscal 2025 budget on Wednesday.
Under the current structure, if there were a conflict in the Taiwan Strait, the U.S. would have to return damaged ships to Guam, Hawaii or the U.S. West Coast to conduct repairs. By doing the repairs in shipyards closer to the action, the U.S. would be able to return them quickly to the battlespace.
Maintenance activities would take under 90 days, Del Toro said. The Pentagon’s fiscal 2025 runs from October 2024 to September 2025.
The Navy has experimented with small-scale repairs at shipyards of U.S. allies and partners in recent years.
Last month, President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida agreed to explore repairs of U.S. naval ships at Japanese shipyards.
This followed a trip by Del Toro in February to a Mitsubishi Heavy Industries shipyard in Yokohama, Japan, where the USNS Big Horn fleet replenishment oiler was undergoing repairs. Before that, he was in South Korea to tour shipyards in the southeastern city of Ulsan.
In a joint statement after a September 2023 meeting, Biden and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed “India’s emergence as a hub for the maintenance and repair of forward-deployed U.S. Navy assets and other aircraft and vessels.”
In India, the USNS Charles Drew and USNS Matthew Perry dry-cargo ships, as well as USNS Salvor rescue-and-salvage ship, have docked for repairs one after another since 2022 at Larsen & Toubro’s Kattupalli shipyard, near Chennai.
While repairs of U.S. naval vessels offer a new business opportunity for shipyards, Del Toro’s direct reference to the use of the yards in wartime could put allies on edge.
“Once identified, they could be the first to be targeted by an adversary if war breaks out,” a former admiral in Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force said.
Up to six repair availabilities requested in countries like Japan, South Korea and India
KEN MORIYASU, Nikkei Asia diplomatic correspondent
May 3, 2024 05:47 JST
WASHINGTON — The U.S. military will carry out maintenance work on as many as six American naval ships at international shipyards next fiscal year if approved by Congress, aiming to keep up with China’s naval capacity.
If the military’s request is authorized later this year, it would expand the use of foreign shipyards for such work on U.S. Navy ships and lead to certifying shipyards that match U.S. standards.
“If we should have to go to war, we will then have full knowledge of which shipyards and what countries we could actually send these ships to be able to do the damage repair that’s going to be necessary,” Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro told a House Armed Services Committee hearing on the fiscal 2025 budget on Wednesday.
Under the current structure, if there were a conflict in the Taiwan Strait, the U.S. would have to return damaged ships to Guam, Hawaii or the U.S. West Coast to conduct repairs. By doing the repairs in shipyards closer to the action, the U.S. would be able to return them quickly to the battlespace.
Maintenance activities would take under 90 days, Del Toro said. The Pentagon’s fiscal 2025 runs from October 2024 to September 2025.
The Navy has experimented with small-scale repairs at shipyards of U.S. allies and partners in recent years.
Last month, President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida agreed to explore repairs of U.S. naval ships at Japanese shipyards.
This followed a trip by Del Toro in February to a Mitsubishi Heavy Industries shipyard in Yokohama, Japan, where the USNS Big Horn fleet replenishment oiler was undergoing repairs. Before that, he was in South Korea to tour shipyards in the southeastern city of Ulsan.
In a joint statement after a September 2023 meeting, Biden and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed “India’s emergence as a hub for the maintenance and repair of forward-deployed U.S. Navy assets and other aircraft and vessels.”
In India, the USNS Charles Drew and USNS Matthew Perry dry-cargo ships, as well as USNS Salvor rescue-and-salvage ship, have docked for repairs one after another since 2022 at Larsen & Toubro’s Kattupalli shipyard, near Chennai.
While repairs of U.S. naval vessels offer a new business opportunity for shipyards, Del Toro’s direct reference to the use of the yards in wartime could put allies on edge.
“Once identified, they could be the first to be targeted by an adversary if war breaks out,” a former admiral in Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force said.
Xi Jinping’s vision of war seen in creation of ‘Information Force’
New branch likely to handle electronic warfare and psychological operations
Anushka Saxena
May 2, 2024 05:00 JST
The latest restructuring of China’s People’s Liberation Army has put a spotlight on President Xi Jinping’s concept of information as a central element of modern warfare.
New branch likely to handle electronic warfare and psychological operations
Anushka Saxena
May 2, 2024 05:00 JST
The latest restructuring of China’s People’s Liberation Army has put a spotlight on President Xi Jinping’s concept of information as a central element of modern warfare.
Analysis: Xi Jinping sends a message but no flowers to Antony Blinken
China’s symbolism indicates that relations with U.S. are deteriorating further
KATSUJI NAKAZAWA, Nikkei senior staff writer
MAY 2, 2024 04:05 JST
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has made two China visits within 10 months, both culminating in high-profile meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The first came last June and the second last week, both being held in the Fujian Hall of the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.
China’s symbolism indicates that relations with U.S. are deteriorating further
KATSUJI NAKAZAWA, Nikkei senior staff writer
MAY 2, 2024 04:05 JST
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has made two China visits within 10 months, both culminating in high-profile meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The first came last June and the second last week, both being held in the Fujian Hall of the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.
Japan eyes high-level talks on U.S. nuclear umbrella: defense minister
New framework would elevate discussion on American extended deterrence
SHINNOSUKE NAGATOMI, Nikkei staff writer
May 3, 2024 02:15 JST
TOKYO — Japan will seek to establish a cabinet-level dialogue with the U.S. on extended deterrence as early as this year, Defense Minister Minoru Kihara says, as the allies respond to the growing nuclear capabilities of China and North Korea.
“Extended deterrence” refers to the U.S. commitment to use its nuclear and conventional forces to deter attacks on allies, encompassing the “nuclear umbrella.”
New framework would elevate discussion on American extended deterrence
SHINNOSUKE NAGATOMI, Nikkei staff writer
May 3, 2024 02:15 JST
TOKYO — Japan will seek to establish a cabinet-level dialogue with the U.S. on extended deterrence as early as this year, Defense Minister Minoru Kihara says, as the allies respond to the growing nuclear capabilities of China and North Korea.
“Extended deterrence” refers to the U.S. commitment to use its nuclear and conventional forces to deter attacks on allies, encompassing the “nuclear umbrella.”
Russia has also become a lot more important to China
Image of dependence on Beijing overlooks role of geoeconomic strategy
Philipp Ivanov
May 3, 2024 05:00 JST
Western sanctions against Moscow have focused attention over the last two years on the critical support China has provided for Russia’s wartime economy.
Image of dependence on Beijing overlooks role of geoeconomic strategy
Philipp Ivanov
May 3, 2024 05:00 JST
Western sanctions against Moscow have focused attention over the last two years on the critical support China has provided for Russia’s wartime economy.
The West’s new infrastructure imperative
Countries are finally waking up to the need to invest more in public goods and services
DIANE COYLE
May 1, 2024
A dim future awaits any society that allows its infrastructure to degrade and underinvests in new needs. Bridges and cables may seem unglamorous, but these common assets will form the basis of economic growth for years to come and the countries investing in them are creating the conditions they need to thrive. As the conversation about broadening the scope of infrastructure grows louder in the West, there are glimmers of hope that these societies are finally waking up to the need to invest in the common good.
Countries are finally waking up to the need to invest more in public goods and services
DIANE COYLE
May 1, 2024
A dim future awaits any society that allows its infrastructure to degrade and underinvests in new needs. Bridges and cables may seem unglamorous, but these common assets will form the basis of economic growth for years to come and the countries investing in them are creating the conditions they need to thrive. As the conversation about broadening the scope of infrastructure grows louder in the West, there are glimmers of hope that these societies are finally waking up to the need to invest in the common good.
U.S. and Saudis near defense pact meant to reshape Middle East
BY ALBERTO NARDELLI, JENNIFER JACOBS AND PETER MARTIN
May 2, 2024
Though many obstacles remain, there is optimism Washington and Riyadh could reach a framework defense deal within weeks.
The U.S. and Saudi Arabia are nearing a historic pact that would offer the kingdom security guarantees and lay out a possible pathway to diplomatic ties with Israel if its government brings the war in the Gaza Strip to an end, people familiar with the matter said.
BY ALBERTO NARDELLI, JENNIFER JACOBS AND PETER MARTIN
May 2, 2024
Though many obstacles remain, there is optimism Washington and Riyadh could reach a framework defense deal within weeks.
The U.S. and Saudi Arabia are nearing a historic pact that would offer the kingdom security guarantees and lay out a possible pathway to diplomatic ties with Israel if its government brings the war in the Gaza Strip to an end, people familiar with the matter said.
U.S.-China tensions rise as the tides begin shifting
The visit by America’s top diplomat to Beijing revealed a growing strain in relations
BRAD GLOSSERMAN
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Apr 30, 2024
Can you feel the ground shifting? I’m not referring to the temblors that recently struck Japan. Rather, I’m talking about what looks like a growing sense of frustration in China as it deals with the United States.
The Asian giant is a country that once exulted in a rise to power ordained by historical forces and has been looking shaky and uncertain as it competes — my word, not that of the Chinese; they don’t believe that concept captures this moment — with the West.
Irritation colored last week’s brief visit to China by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, with Chinese officials from President Xi Jinping down making clear their displeasure with U.S. policy. Other developments amplify Chinese anxiety. Europe, once viewed as a reliable softener of Western policy against Beijing, appears to be taking a harder line. Add recent measures to update and strengthen Indo-Pacific security mechanisms and mounting unease seems reasonable.
The visit by America’s top diplomat to Beijing revealed a growing strain in relations
BRAD GLOSSERMAN
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Apr 30, 2024
Can you feel the ground shifting? I’m not referring to the temblors that recently struck Japan. Rather, I’m talking about what looks like a growing sense of frustration in China as it deals with the United States.
The Asian giant is a country that once exulted in a rise to power ordained by historical forces and has been looking shaky and uncertain as it competes — my word, not that of the Chinese; they don’t believe that concept captures this moment — with the West.
Irritation colored last week’s brief visit to China by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, with Chinese officials from President Xi Jinping down making clear their displeasure with U.S. policy. Other developments amplify Chinese anxiety. Europe, once viewed as a reliable softener of Western policy against Beijing, appears to be taking a harder line. Add recent measures to update and strengthen Indo-Pacific security mechanisms and mounting unease seems reasonable.
On contradiction between the US and China
The true nature of the contradiction will determine whether conflicts can be solved through discussion or will lead to war
By FRANCESCO SISCI
MAY 2, 2024
The true nature of the contradiction will determine whether conflicts can be solved through discussion or will lead to war
By FRANCESCO SISCI
MAY 2, 2024
The reckoning: Chinese car wars
Demographics rule: US, EU, Japan, Korea can’t keep up as China adds 6 million tech grads a year to its workforce
By HAN FEIZI
MAY 3, 2024
Demographics rule: US, EU, Japan, Korea can’t keep up as China adds 6 million tech grads a year to its workforce
By HAN FEIZI
MAY 3, 2024
When will US come to the Philippines’ defense?
Latest Chinese water cannon attack damages Philippine vessels in South China Sea, stoking the potential for a US mutual defense treaty intervention
By RICHARD JAVAD HEYDARIAN
MAY 2, 2024
Latest Chinese water cannon attack damages Philippine vessels in South China Sea, stoking the potential for a US mutual defense treaty intervention
By RICHARD JAVAD HEYDARIAN
MAY 2, 2024
Yen’s plunge raises specter of new Asia currency crisis
Tokyo seems unbothered by yen’s non-stop fall but other regional currencies may soon follow suit in a beggar-thy-neighbor race to the bottom
By WILLIAM PESEK
MAY 1, 2024
Tokyo seems unbothered by yen’s non-stop fall but other regional currencies may soon follow suit in a beggar-thy-neighbor race to the bottom
By WILLIAM PESEK
MAY 1, 2024
Europe makes missiles for Patriots as Israel retires them
Israel’s Patriots are unlikely to head for the scrap heap as they can still play a useful role in Europe
By STEPHEN BRYEN
MAY 2, 2024
Israel’s Patriots are unlikely to head for the scrap heap as they can still play a useful role in Europe
By STEPHEN BRYEN
MAY 2, 2024
China’s AI-powered satellites imperil US aircraft carriers
Taijing-4 03 satellite captures detailed images of US naval assets at Norfolk, revealing its advanced surveillance and possible targeting capabilities
By GABRIEL HONRADA
MAY 1, 2024
Taijing-4 03 satellite captures detailed images of US naval assets at Norfolk, revealing its advanced surveillance and possible targeting capabilities
By GABRIEL HONRADA
MAY 1, 2024
Russia’s new economy may end up prolonging its war
Fears of a hard landing may force the country to persist in militarisation
Elina Ribakova
MAY 2, 2024
Fears of a hard landing may force the country to persist in militarisation
Elina Ribakova
MAY 2, 2024
How Ukraine broke Russia’s grip in the Black Sea
Attacks on Moscow’s warships have helped to establish an export corridor that could boost Kyiv’s war effort
Sam Joiner, Dan Clark, Ian Bott in London, Sam Learner in New York and Irene de la Torre Arenas in Madrid
MAY 2, 2024
Attacks on Moscow’s warships have helped to establish an export corridor that could boost Kyiv’s war effort
Sam Joiner, Dan Clark, Ian Bott in London, Sam Learner in New York and Irene de la Torre Arenas in Madrid
MAY 2, 2024
US includes Chinese groups in sanctions over aid to Russian military
Latest measures come as Washington steps up support for Ukraine
Felicia Schwartz and Demetri Sevastopulo in Washington and David Sheppard in London
MAY 1, 2024
Latest measures come as Washington steps up support for Ukraine
Felicia Schwartz and Demetri Sevastopulo in Washington and David Sheppard in London
MAY 1, 2024
Houthis extend attacks on shipping to wider Indian Ocean
Maritime experts see new round of threats from Yemen after drone strike on container vessel
Robert Wright in London
MAY 1, 2024
Maritime experts see new round of threats from Yemen after drone strike on container vessel
Robert Wright in London
MAY 1, 2024
Poland probes state oil group’s Swiss subsidiary for alleged Hizbollah links
Orlen Trading Switzerland investigated for losses on trades and potential connections to Iran-backed group
Raphael Minder in Warsaw
MAY 1, 2024
Orlen Trading Switzerland investigated for losses on trades and potential connections to Iran-backed group
Raphael Minder in Warsaw
MAY 1, 2024
Nihilistic, ignorant pro-Palestinian protests are a harbinger of much worse to come
Western society is being poisoned by the virus of ‘victimhood’ and entitlement
ALLISTER HEATH
1 May 2024
Western society is being poisoned by the virus of ‘victimhood’ and entitlement
ALLISTER HEATH
1 May 2024
If these mollycoddled anti-Israel students are America’s future, the West truly is doomed
Pampered Ivy League protesters will have no influence on events in the Middle East, but Heaven help us when they walk into the top jobs
MICHAEL DEACON
COLUMNIST & ASSISTANT EDITOR
1 May 2024
Pampered Ivy League protesters will have no influence on events in the Middle East, but Heaven help us when they walk into the top jobs
MICHAEL DEACON
COLUMNIST & ASSISTANT EDITOR
1 May 2024
Pro-China candidate wins Solomon Islands PM vote
Frances Mao
MAY 2, 2024
Lawmakers in the Solomon Islands have selected a pro-China candidate as their prime minister, in an indication the Pacific nation will remain a close Beijing ally.
Jeremiah Manele won the prime minister vote on Thursday, beating out his opponent Matthew Wale in a 31-18 count.
He will succeed former PM Manasseh Sogavare, a vocal critic of the West.
Mr Manele was foreign minister in 2019, when the Solomons chose to switch its longstanding diplomatic recognition of Taiwan to China – a move that shocked regional neighbours.
He has already indicated that he will continue the nation’s close ties with China – including the island’s secretive defence and security pact. Opposition candidates had suggested the deal could be revoked, or at the very least have its full details disclosed to the public.
Frances Mao
MAY 2, 2024
Lawmakers in the Solomon Islands have selected a pro-China candidate as their prime minister, in an indication the Pacific nation will remain a close Beijing ally.
Jeremiah Manele won the prime minister vote on Thursday, beating out his opponent Matthew Wale in a 31-18 count.
He will succeed former PM Manasseh Sogavare, a vocal critic of the West.
Mr Manele was foreign minister in 2019, when the Solomons chose to switch its longstanding diplomatic recognition of Taiwan to China – a move that shocked regional neighbours.
He has already indicated that he will continue the nation’s close ties with China – including the island’s secretive defence and security pact. Opposition candidates had suggested the deal could be revoked, or at the very least have its full details disclosed to the public.
‘Close enough to see their faces’: Chased down by China in South China Sea
Jonathan Head
MAY 1, 2024
We could see the larger Chinese ship moving closer, both our ships going at high speed. The Chinese crew were close enough for us to see their faces. Two of them filmed us, as we filmed them.
The BBC was onboard the Philippines coast guard vessel BRP Bagacay when it was accosted by Chinese vessels on Tuesday.
Filipino crews raced to hang yellow foam barriers over the side, preparing for a collision. Suddenly the Chinese ship made a sharp turn across our bow, forcing the Filipino captain to slow down abruptly. The two vessels were less than five metres apart.
We were racing towards Scarborough Shoal, a tiny coral atoll 220km (137 miles) west of the Philippines coast, but also claimed by China.
The Filipino captain relied on the speed and manoeuvrability of his Japanese-made ship to outrun the Chinese, and got to within 600m of the shoal, the closest yet, he told us.
But there was a new barrier installed recently by the Chinese, just visible under the water. Their ships were right behind us, two positioning themselves on either side of the Filipino ship, at which point they began firing their powerful water cannon.
We were rushed inside, from where we could hear the jets of water thundering against the metal walls of the ship. They smashed the awning in the stern, and mangled a railing on one side.
The second ship in our convoy, carrying supplies for Filipino fishermen, was more badly damaged, after taking 10 direct hits from the water cannon.
This game of maritime cat-and-mouse is nothing new in the South China Sea. But these encounters have become more frequent, and more serious, since President Bongbong Marcos authorised the coastguard to challenge the Chinese presence in disputed areas far more robustly than in the past.
Jonathan Head
MAY 1, 2024
We could see the larger Chinese ship moving closer, both our ships going at high speed. The Chinese crew were close enough for us to see their faces. Two of them filmed us, as we filmed them.
The BBC was onboard the Philippines coast guard vessel BRP Bagacay when it was accosted by Chinese vessels on Tuesday.
Filipino crews raced to hang yellow foam barriers over the side, preparing for a collision. Suddenly the Chinese ship made a sharp turn across our bow, forcing the Filipino captain to slow down abruptly. The two vessels were less than five metres apart.
We were racing towards Scarborough Shoal, a tiny coral atoll 220km (137 miles) west of the Philippines coast, but also claimed by China.
The Filipino captain relied on the speed and manoeuvrability of his Japanese-made ship to outrun the Chinese, and got to within 600m of the shoal, the closest yet, he told us.
But there was a new barrier installed recently by the Chinese, just visible under the water. Their ships were right behind us, two positioning themselves on either side of the Filipino ship, at which point they began firing their powerful water cannon.
We were rushed inside, from where we could hear the jets of water thundering against the metal walls of the ship. They smashed the awning in the stern, and mangled a railing on one side.
The second ship in our convoy, carrying supplies for Filipino fishermen, was more badly damaged, after taking 10 direct hits from the water cannon.
This game of maritime cat-and-mouse is nothing new in the South China Sea. But these encounters have become more frequent, and more serious, since President Bongbong Marcos authorised the coastguard to challenge the Chinese presence in disputed areas far more robustly than in the past.
Fresh chaos, arrests on US college campuses as police flatten camp at UCLA
By Lisa Richwine and Arlene Washington
LOS ANGELES, May 2 (Reuters) – Police forcibly removed scores of defiant pro-Palestinian protesters at several colleges on Thursday, including taking down an encampment at UCLA in a jarring scene that underscored the heightened chaos that has erupted at universities this week.
In the pre-dawn hours, helmeted police swarmed a tent city set up at the University of California in Los Angeles, using flash bangs and riot gear to push through lines of protesters who linked arms in a futile attempt to halt their advance.
By Lisa Richwine and Arlene Washington
LOS ANGELES, May 2 (Reuters) – Police forcibly removed scores of defiant pro-Palestinian protesters at several colleges on Thursday, including taking down an encampment at UCLA in a jarring scene that underscored the heightened chaos that has erupted at universities this week.
In the pre-dawn hours, helmeted police swarmed a tent city set up at the University of California in Los Angeles, using flash bangs and riot gear to push through lines of protesters who linked arms in a futile attempt to halt their advance.
Exclusive: Russian troops enter base housing US military in Niger, US official says
By Phil Stewart and Idrees Ali
WASHINGTON, May 2 (Reuters) – Russian military personnel have entered an air base in Niger that is hosting U.S. troops, a senior U.S. defense official told Reuters, a move that follows a decision by Niger’s junta to expel U.S. forces from the country.
The military officers ruling the West African nation have told the U.S. to withdraw its nearly 1,000 military personnel from the country, which until a coup last year had been a key partner for Washington’s fight against insurgents who have killed thousands of people and displaced millions more.
By Phil Stewart and Idrees Ali
WASHINGTON, May 2 (Reuters) – Russian military personnel have entered an air base in Niger that is hosting U.S. troops, a senior U.S. defense official told Reuters, a move that follows a decision by Niger’s junta to expel U.S. forces from the country.
The military officers ruling the West African nation have told the U.S. to withdraw its nearly 1,000 military personnel from the country, which until a coup last year had been a key partner for Washington’s fight against insurgents who have killed thousands of people and displaced millions more.
US official urges China, Russia to declare only humans, not AI, control nuclear weapons
By Greg Torode
HONG KONG, May 2 (Reuters) – A senior U.S. official on Thursday urged China and Russia to match declarations by the United States and others that only humans, and never artificial intelligence, would make decisions on deploying nuclear weapons.
State Department arms control official Paul Dean told an online briefing that Washington had made a “clear and strong commitment” that humans had total control over nuclear weapons, adding that France and Britain had done the same.
By Greg Torode
HONG KONG, May 2 (Reuters) – A senior U.S. official on Thursday urged China and Russia to match declarations by the United States and others that only humans, and never artificial intelligence, would make decisions on deploying nuclear weapons.
State Department arms control official Paul Dean told an online briefing that Washington had made a “clear and strong commitment” that humans had total control over nuclear weapons, adding that France and Britain had done the same.
Methane emissions from gas flaring being hidden from satellite monitors
Use of enclosed combustors leaves regulators heavily reliant on oil and gas companies’ own flaring data
Tom Brown and Christina Last
Thu 2 May 2024
Use of enclosed combustors leaves regulators heavily reliant on oil and gas companies’ own flaring data
Tom Brown and Christina Last
Thu 2 May 2024
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/columbia-university-protests-students-arrests-palestine-wjppbtpkm
Columbia arrests ‘will uncover outside agitators stirring up protests’
More than 200 people were detained at the New York university on Tuesday night after police raided a student takeover of a campus building
updated
Josie Ensor and Andrea Blanco in New York | Keiran Southern, Los Angeles
Thursday May 02 2024, 6.15am, The Times
Columbia University officials have blamed “outside agitators” for the escalation of pro-Palestinian campus protests as they defended their decision to send in police to remove and arrest student activists.
American universities are on edge after officers from New York to Los Angeles entered campuses where demonstrators protesting the war on Gaza had erected encampments and seized academic buildings.
At Columbia, the epicentre of student action, about 230 people were arrested and arraigned on charges of trespass and vandalism. In dramatic, well-coordinated scenes late on Tuesday evening, a stream of officers wearing riot shields and helmets used a ladder to climb through a second-floor window of Hamilton Hall, a campus building occupied by demonstrators.
As South Korea comes knocking — will Aukus become the Asian Nato?
Several Pacific nations are interested in joining Britain, America and Australia’s security pact to work on weapons and tech. Is it worth China’s wrath?
Richard Lloyd Parry, Asia Editor
Wednesday May 01 2024, 2.55pm BST, The Times
It was presented as an agreement between three close allies to build submarines for Australia, creating jobs and protecting the peace and prosperity of east Asia. Now the “Aukus” grouping is being expanded to include new members, arousing the anger of China and provoking accusations that it is destined to become an Asian version of Nato and the engine of a new cold war.
South Korea confirmed on Wednesday that it was in talks about joining the three original members of the grouping: Australia, Britain and the United States. The announcement comes soon after Fumio Kishida, Japan’s prime minister, discussed his country becoming an Aukus member with President Biden. There have also been expressions of interest from New Zealand and Canada.
Who Could Catch Bird Flu First? These Experts Have an Idea, and a Way to Help.
We need to start aggressively testing dairy workers for bird flu to safeguard their health as well as ours — now.
By ERIN M. SORRELL, MONICA SCHOCH-SPANA and MEGHAN F. DAVIS
May 1, 2024
Bird Flu Is Spreading. Did We Learn Nothing From Covid?
Zeynep Tufekci studied the U.S. response to Covid. Now she’s concerned about the nation’s response to bird flu.
By ZEYNEP TUFEKCI and VISHAKHA DARBHA
May 1, 2024
Zeynep Tufekci studied the U.S. response to Covid. Now she’s concerned about the nation’s response to bird flu.
By ZEYNEP TUFEKCI and VISHAKHA DARBHA
May 1, 2024
Sheryl Sandberg Screams Back at the Silence
A powerful new documentary gives voice to the rape victims of Oct 7.
By BRET STEPHENS
April 30, 2024
A powerful new documentary gives voice to the rape victims of Oct 7.
By BRET STEPHENS
April 30, 2024
Collusion in Health Care Pricing? Regulators Are Asked to Investigate
A data analytics firm has helped big health insurers cut payments to doctors, raising concerns about possible price fixing.
By CHRIS HAMBY
May 1, 2024
A data analytics firm has helped big health insurers cut payments to doctors, raising concerns about possible price fixing.
By CHRIS HAMBY
May 1, 2024
U.S. Imposes Sanctions on Chinese Companies for Aiding Russia’s War Effort
The penalties came after top Biden administration officials warned China not to help Moscow restock its arsenal to attack Ukraine.
By ALAN RAPPEPORT
May 1, 2024
The penalties came after top Biden administration officials warned China not to help Moscow restock its arsenal to attack Ukraine.
By ALAN RAPPEPORT
May 1, 2024
Bulgarian Distrust of Russia Simmers Over a Black Sea Oil Terminal
Russia has been losing its grip on the Rosenets Oil Terminal, near the port city of Burgas, as Bulgarian authorities seek to assert greater control over the Russian-run facility.
By ANDREW HIGGINS
May 1, 2024
Russia has been losing its grip on the Rosenets Oil Terminal, near the port city of Burgas, as Bulgarian authorities seek to assert greater control over the Russian-run facility.
By ANDREW HIGGINS
May 1, 2024
Rules for Campus Radicals, 2024
A website reveals the planning and strategy behind the current college mayhem.
By The Editorial Board
May 2, 2024 5:48 pm ET
The recent anti-Israel protests are often portrayed as a spontaneous uprising of student indignation against the Gaza war. But we’re learning that behind the young idealists is an organized movement of leftists who want to spread disorder and whose candid strategy is to defy school administrators and police to achieve their radical goals.
A window on this movement is CrimethInc.com, a website that has become a hub for anarchists, Antifa activists and radical leftists. In recent weeks it has published anonymous reports from around the country drawing lessons from various campus protests. They reveal the method behind the mayhem—and a plan to use violence and break the law.
“It’s clear that in order for this crisis to develop further, student occupations should take buildings whenever possible,” says an analysis of events at Cal Poly Humboldt. “We can wield the most power by occupying the spaces where classes are held and administrators have offices.”
A website reveals the planning and strategy behind the current college mayhem.
By The Editorial Board
May 2, 2024 5:48 pm ET
The recent anti-Israel protests are often portrayed as a spontaneous uprising of student indignation against the Gaza war. But we’re learning that behind the young idealists is an organized movement of leftists who want to spread disorder and whose candid strategy is to defy school administrators and police to achieve their radical goals.
A window on this movement is CrimethInc.com, a website that has become a hub for anarchists, Antifa activists and radical leftists. In recent weeks it has published anonymous reports from around the country drawing lessons from various campus protests. They reveal the method behind the mayhem—and a plan to use violence and break the law.
“It’s clear that in order for this crisis to develop further, student occupations should take buildings whenever possible,” says an analysis of events at Cal Poly Humboldt. “We can wield the most power by occupying the spaces where classes are held and administrators have offices.”
Putin Thanks North Korea for Its Missiles
Russia rewards Kim Jong Un by vetoing a U.N. panel that monitors nuclear-weapons sanctions.
By The Editorial Board
May 2, 2024 5:45 pm ET
Some Republicans may not see how the war in Ukraine affects interests far beyond that country’s borders. But Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping certainly do.
On Tuesday the United Nations panel to monitor North Korean sanctions expired. It did so because in March Russia vetoed a Security Council resolution to extend its mandate. Russia was the only nation on the 15-member Security Council to oppose the extension—though China pointedly abstained.
The panel was created in 2009 to ensure that sanctions imposed on Pyongyang because of its nuclear program are monitored and enforced. In a joint statement after Russia’s veto, the U.S., France, the U.K., Japan and South Korea accused Russia of killing the panel because Mr. Putin worries it might report “Moscow’s own violations of Security Council resolutions.”
The world had a fresh reminder this week, when the U.N. sanctions monitor said a missile recovered from the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv was a North Korean Hwasong-11 ballistic missile. This is on top of 10,000 containers of military munitions the Kim Jong Un regime has delivered in support of Russia’s war effort. The fear is that Moscow may also be helping Pyongyang gain access to the international banking system—another end run around international sanctions.
Russia rewards Kim Jong Un by vetoing a U.N. panel that monitors nuclear-weapons sanctions.
By The Editorial Board
May 2, 2024 5:45 pm ET
Some Republicans may not see how the war in Ukraine affects interests far beyond that country’s borders. But Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping certainly do.
On Tuesday the United Nations panel to monitor North Korean sanctions expired. It did so because in March Russia vetoed a Security Council resolution to extend its mandate. Russia was the only nation on the 15-member Security Council to oppose the extension—though China pointedly abstained.
The panel was created in 2009 to ensure that sanctions imposed on Pyongyang because of its nuclear program are monitored and enforced. In a joint statement after Russia’s veto, the U.S., France, the U.K., Japan and South Korea accused Russia of killing the panel because Mr. Putin worries it might report “Moscow’s own violations of Security Council resolutions.”
The world had a fresh reminder this week, when the U.N. sanctions monitor said a missile recovered from the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv was a North Korean Hwasong-11 ballistic missile. This is on top of 10,000 containers of military munitions the Kim Jong Un regime has delivered in support of Russia’s war effort. The fear is that Moscow may also be helping Pyongyang gain access to the international banking system—another end run around international sanctions.
Why Won’t Biden Enforce Sanctions Against Iranian Oil?
His reversal of Trump’s policy has fed the Islamic Republic’s campaign of terror against the U.S.
By Brian Hook
May 2, 2024 1:55 pm ET
Iran’s oil exports hit a six-year high last month. In a normal country, this wouldn’t be news. But the Islamic Republic isn’t a normal country.
The regime in Tehran is a violent theocracy under U.S. and international sanctions. President Trump reimposed energy sanctions on Iran in 2018 when he left the Iran nuclear deal. These sanctions remain in effect, but the Biden administration is failing to enforce them, which has created a financial windfall for Iranian terrorism.
His reversal of Trump’s policy has fed the Islamic Republic’s campaign of terror against the U.S.
By Brian Hook
May 2, 2024 1:55 pm ET
Iran’s oil exports hit a six-year high last month. In a normal country, this wouldn’t be news. But the Islamic Republic isn’t a normal country.
The regime in Tehran is a violent theocracy under U.S. and international sanctions. President Trump reimposed energy sanctions on Iran in 2018 when he left the Iran nuclear deal. These sanctions remain in effect, but the Biden administration is failing to enforce them, which has created a financial windfall for Iranian terrorism.
Boycotting Israel Is an Attack on Science
Academic deans showed me critiques of research papers that ignored the scientific merits and attacked the country’s military actions.
By Leor S. Weinberger
May 2, 2024 5:53 pm ET
My plan was to pick fruit on a farm in Israel. I ended up giving science lectures across the country.
I’m a professor who leads a research lab in San Francisco that develops medicines to treat viruses and cancers. A few weeks ago, I shared my laboratory’s work with researchers at institutions across Israel. Such “seminar visits” are common in science, where the exchange of knowledge is our lifeblood. Like many colleagues, I give between 20 and 30 seminars a year around the world. Sadly, Oct. 7 halted most of these exchanges between Israeli and foreign scientists. The suspended seminars mask a more sinister trend: The global scientific community is beginning to sideline Israel’s scientists.
Academic deans showed me critiques of research papers that ignored the scientific merits and attacked the country’s military actions.
By Leor S. Weinberger
May 2, 2024 5:53 pm ET
My plan was to pick fruit on a farm in Israel. I ended up giving science lectures across the country.
I’m a professor who leads a research lab in San Francisco that develops medicines to treat viruses and cancers. A few weeks ago, I shared my laboratory’s work with researchers at institutions across Israel. Such “seminar visits” are common in science, where the exchange of knowledge is our lifeblood. Like many colleagues, I give between 20 and 30 seminars a year around the world. Sadly, Oct. 7 halted most of these exchanges between Israeli and foreign scientists. The suspended seminars mask a more sinister trend: The global scientific community is beginning to sideline Israel’s scientists.
Europe Takes Radical Steps to Boost Production; ‘There Is No Other Option’
EU official Thierry Breton wants state spending to support domestic manufacturing to compete with China and the U.S.—a reversal of longtime policy to clamp down on national subsidies
EU official Thierry Breton at a nuclear power plant in Flamanville, France.
By Tom Fairless and Kim Mackrael
FLAMANVILLE, France—Early this year, a top European Union official made an eye-catching proposal: A €100 billion public fund that would curb Europe’s reliance on U.S. defense manufacturers, who make nearly two-thirds of Europe’s military hardware.
The cash could subsidize European companies to develop and manufacture more weapons at home at a time when the continent faces a growing threat from Russia.
EU official Thierry Breton wants state spending to support domestic manufacturing to compete with China and the U.S.—a reversal of longtime policy to clamp down on national subsidies
EU official Thierry Breton at a nuclear power plant in Flamanville, France.
By Tom Fairless and Kim Mackrael
FLAMANVILLE, France—Early this year, a top European Union official made an eye-catching proposal: A €100 billion public fund that would curb Europe’s reliance on U.S. defense manufacturers, who make nearly two-thirds of Europe’s military hardware.
The cash could subsidize European companies to develop and manufacture more weapons at home at a time when the continent faces a growing threat from Russia.
The Exodus of China’s Wealthy to Japan
Frustrations with China’s autocratic political system and economic slowdown provoke the flight, helping Tokyo’s luxury property market
By Miho Inada
Updated May 2, 2024 12:05 am ET
TOKYO—Last year, China native Tomo Hayashi, the owner of a metals-trading firm, moved to Tokyo. He quickly adopted a Japanese name, spent the equivalent of about $650,000 on a luxury waterfront condo and, in March, brought his family to join him.
The 45-year-old, whose two boys just started in a Japanese elementary school, is one of the many wealthy Chinese driving a boom in high-end Tokyo properties and reshaping the city.
Frustrations with China’s autocratic political system and economic slowdown provoke the flight, helping Tokyo’s luxury property market
By Miho Inada
Updated May 2, 2024 12:05 am ET
TOKYO—Last year, China native Tomo Hayashi, the owner of a metals-trading firm, moved to Tokyo. He quickly adopted a Japanese name, spent the equivalent of about $650,000 on a luxury waterfront condo and, in March, brought his family to join him.
The 45-year-old, whose two boys just started in a Japanese elementary school, is one of the many wealthy Chinese driving a boom in high-end Tokyo properties and reshaping the city.
As Ukraine Loses Ground, Baltic Countries Ask: Are We Next?
Estonia’s border city of Narva—singled out by Putin as historically Russian land—is among potential targets for destabilization
By Yaroslav Trofimov
Updated May 2, 2024 12:03 am ET
NARVA, Estonia—The city council of Narva sits just a few steps from the border crossing with Russia, on a square named after Russian Emperor Peter the Great. Almost everyone here in Estonia’s third-largest city speaks Russian as a mother tongue, and one out of three residents hold Russian rather than Estonian citizenship.
Back in 1993, before the Baltic country joined the European Union and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Moscow-backed Narva council members organized a referendum on regional “autonomy,” a byword for alignment with Russia. Estonia rejected the vote, in which residents backed the proposal with a turnout of 54%, as a grave threat to its independence and territorial integrity.
Estonia’s border city of Narva—singled out by Putin as historically Russian land—is among potential targets for destabilization
By Yaroslav Trofimov
Updated May 2, 2024 12:03 am ET
NARVA, Estonia—The city council of Narva sits just a few steps from the border crossing with Russia, on a square named after Russian Emperor Peter the Great. Almost everyone here in Estonia’s third-largest city speaks Russian as a mother tongue, and one out of three residents hold Russian rather than Estonian citizenship.
Back in 1993, before the Baltic country joined the European Union and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Moscow-backed Narva council members organized a referendum on regional “autonomy,” a byword for alignment with Russia. Estonia rejected the vote, in which residents backed the proposal with a turnout of 54%, as a grave threat to its independence and territorial integrity.
Dear Columbia Students, Divestment From Israel Won’t Work
Even if the university surrenders, it will be making a statement, not doing anything financially meaningful
James Mackintosh
April 30, 2024 6:14 am ET
Student protesters who have brought Columbia University to a halt want the institution to sell its investments in companies linked to Israel. Their demands appear to be about finance, but to the extent the money makes a difference—not much—it would leave them worse off and Israel’s friends better off.
The divestment campaign, along with the student demand to break academic ties to Israeli universities, can only succeed by isolating Israel culturally. It can’t work financially, so its only chance is that Israelis fed up with being treated as the bad guys will push their government to change direction.
Even if the university surrenders, it will be making a statement, not doing anything financially meaningful
James Mackintosh
April 30, 2024 6:14 am ET
Student protesters who have brought Columbia University to a halt want the institution to sell its investments in companies linked to Israel. Their demands appear to be about finance, but to the extent the money makes a difference—not much—it would leave them worse off and Israel’s friends better off.
The divestment campaign, along with the student demand to break academic ties to Israeli universities, can only succeed by isolating Israel culturally. It can’t work financially, so its only chance is that Israelis fed up with being treated as the bad guys will push their government to change direction.
SK Hynix’s AI-Related Memory Chips Sold Out for Year
The South Korea-based chip supplier plans to mass-produce its most advanced product, the 12-stack HBM3E chip, in the third quarter
By Kwanwoo Jun
May 2, 2024 3:55 am ET
SK Hynix said its high bandwidth memory products were sold out for this year and almost fully booked for 2025 due to brisk demand for artificial-intelligence chips.
The South Korea-based HBM chip supplier said in a statement Thursday it plans to mass-produce its most advanced product, the 12-stack HBM3E chip, in the third quarter of 2024.
The South Korea-based chip supplier plans to mass-produce its most advanced product, the 12-stack HBM3E chip, in the third quarter
By Kwanwoo Jun
May 2, 2024 3:55 am ET
SK Hynix said its high bandwidth memory products were sold out for this year and almost fully booked for 2025 due to brisk demand for artificial-intelligence chips.
The South Korea-based HBM chip supplier said in a statement Thursday it plans to mass-produce its most advanced product, the 12-stack HBM3E chip, in the third quarter of 2024.
Already a Travesty, the ICC Eyes Charges Against Israel
The court at The Hague considers bringing wholly specious charges against leaders of the Jewish state.
By Eugene Kontorovich
May 1, 2024 5:28 pm ET
The prosecutor of the International Criminal Court is reportedly considering arrest warrants against Israeli leaders for alleged war crimes. This would be the first time the ICC has taken this step against a liberal Western democracy. Such charges would allow unaccountable bureaucrats in The Hague to put Israel’s elected officials on trial for decisions they made to defend the Jewish state against Hamas.
Like many other international organizations, the ICC was created with high ideals. Its officials, however, have since discovered that going after Israel is easier than making a difference for global justice.
The court at The Hague considers bringing wholly specious charges against leaders of the Jewish state.
By Eugene Kontorovich
May 1, 2024 5:28 pm ET
The prosecutor of the International Criminal Court is reportedly considering arrest warrants against Israeli leaders for alleged war crimes. This would be the first time the ICC has taken this step against a liberal Western democracy. Such charges would allow unaccountable bureaucrats in The Hague to put Israel’s elected officials on trial for decisions they made to defend the Jewish state against Hamas.
Like many other international organizations, the ICC was created with high ideals. Its officials, however, have since discovered that going after Israel is easier than making a difference for global justice.
The Cookie-Cutter Campus Protests
Columbia’s Gaza encampment invaded Hamilton Hall this week via Instagram.
Daniel Henninger
May 1, 2024 5:28 pm ET
There must be something in the gene pool of the hard political left in this country. Eventually, the violence arrives.
On Saturday, Columbia University administrators wrote in an email that they wouldn’t call in the New York City Police Department to avoid “further inflaming” what was happening on their besieged campus. Columbia President Minouche Shafik, they said, was “focused on de-escalating the rancor on Columbia’s campus.” Naturally, the unrestrained left escalated.
Columbia’s Gaza encampment invaded Hamilton Hall this week via Instagram.
Daniel Henninger
May 1, 2024 5:28 pm ET
There must be something in the gene pool of the hard political left in this country. Eventually, the violence arrives.
On Saturday, Columbia University administrators wrote in an email that they wouldn’t call in the New York City Police Department to avoid “further inflaming” what was happening on their besieged campus. Columbia President Minouche Shafik, they said, was “focused on de-escalating the rancor on Columbia’s campus.” Naturally, the unrestrained left escalated.
How China’s ruling party fuels the U.S. fentanyl crisis
Beijing is subsidizing Chinese companies to produce fentanyl precursors and sell them abroad.
By Mike Gallagher and Raja Krishnamoorthi
May 1, 2024
Beijing is subsidizing Chinese companies to produce fentanyl precursors and sell them abroad.
By Mike Gallagher and Raja Krishnamoorthi
May 1, 2024
US says Russia used choking agents against Ukrainian troops, breaching chemical weapons ban
By Jessie Yeung and Brad Lendon, CNN
May 2, 2024
The United States has formally accused Russia of using chemical weapons “as a method of warfare” against Ukraine and imposed sweeping new sanctions on Russian firms and government bodies.
In a statement on Wednesday, the US State Department said it had “made a determination … that Russia has used the chemical weapon chloropicrin against Ukrainian forces in violation of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC).”
It added that Russia had also used “riot control agents,” or tear gas, during the war in violation of the CWC.
“The use of such chemicals is not an isolated incident, and is probably driven by Russian forces’ desire to dislodge Ukrainian forces from fortified positions and achieve tactical gains on the battlefield,” it said.
The US conclusion tallies with testimony from Ukrainian troops who say they have faced increased encounters with gas and other irritant chemicals on parts of their frontline with Russia’s forces in recent months.
By Jessie Yeung and Brad Lendon, CNN
May 2, 2024
The United States has formally accused Russia of using chemical weapons “as a method of warfare” against Ukraine and imposed sweeping new sanctions on Russian firms and government bodies.
In a statement on Wednesday, the US State Department said it had “made a determination … that Russia has used the chemical weapon chloropicrin against Ukrainian forces in violation of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC).”
It added that Russia had also used “riot control agents,” or tear gas, during the war in violation of the CWC.
“The use of such chemicals is not an isolated incident, and is probably driven by Russian forces’ desire to dislodge Ukrainian forces from fortified positions and achieve tactical gains on the battlefield,” it said.
The US conclusion tallies with testimony from Ukrainian troops who say they have faced increased encounters with gas and other irritant chemicals on parts of their frontline with Russia’s forces in recent months.
China is an enemy of the U.S. for a growing number of Americans, Pew poll shows
PUBLISHED THU, MAY 2 2024
Dylan Butts
As many as 42% of Americans see China as an enemy of the U.S., up from only a quarter two years ago.
For the 5th year in a row, about four of five Pew Research respondents viewed China unfavorably, while 43% held a very unfavorable opinion of the country.
Older Republicans were found to be the most hawkish on China, as well as those with negative views on the current economic situation of the U.S.
PUBLISHED THU, MAY 2 2024
Dylan Butts
As many as 42% of Americans see China as an enemy of the U.S., up from only a quarter two years ago.
For the 5th year in a row, about four of five Pew Research respondents viewed China unfavorably, while 43% held a very unfavorable opinion of the country.
Older Republicans were found to be the most hawkish on China, as well as those with negative views on the current economic situation of the U.S.
Biden replaces Obama-era infrastructure protections to defend against Chinese cyberthreats
PUBLISHED TUE, APR 30 2024
Rebecca Picciotto
President Joe Biden updated an Obama-era policy from 2013 to protect U.S. critical infrastructure sectors like energy and financial services from foreign attacks.
Public officials have repeatedly warned of cyberthreats from foreign adversaries like China and Russia.
This new policy intends to bring U.S. infrastructure protection up to speed with the new environment of cyberattacks, which has become more sophisticated over a decade of technological advancement.
PUBLISHED TUE, APR 30 2024
Rebecca Picciotto
President Joe Biden updated an Obama-era policy from 2013 to protect U.S. critical infrastructure sectors like energy and financial services from foreign attacks.
Public officials have repeatedly warned of cyberthreats from foreign adversaries like China and Russia.
This new policy intends to bring U.S. infrastructure protection up to speed with the new environment of cyberattacks, which has become more sophisticated over a decade of technological advancement.
The Myth of the Asian Swing State
Great-Power Competition No Longer Dominates the Region’s Politics
By Paul Staniland
May 2, 2024
American strategy in Asia is best served by focusing on adapting to specific local contexts. Washington should resist the urge to search for stable pro-America factions with which to partner and pro-China ones to denounce or oppose. While such factions sometimes exist, more often these alignments are fluid and shifting. U.S. policymakers must become more comfortable with ambiguity, focusing on what the United States and its partners can best offer in a particular setting, regardless of China’s influence.
Washington will be most effective when it approaches Asia’s swing states as they are: complicated and autonomous countries, not pieces on a chessboard maneuvered by Beijing and Washington. Most Asian countries have many needs. Even if they choose to engage with China in one arena, the United States and its partners can advance their strategic goals in others.
Great-Power Competition No Longer Dominates the Region’s Politics
By Paul Staniland
May 2, 2024
American strategy in Asia is best served by focusing on adapting to specific local contexts. Washington should resist the urge to search for stable pro-America factions with which to partner and pro-China ones to denounce or oppose. While such factions sometimes exist, more often these alignments are fluid and shifting. U.S. policymakers must become more comfortable with ambiguity, focusing on what the United States and its partners can best offer in a particular setting, regardless of China’s influence.
Washington will be most effective when it approaches Asia’s swing states as they are: complicated and autonomous countries, not pieces on a chessboard maneuvered by Beijing and Washington. Most Asian countries have many needs. Even if they choose to engage with China in one arena, the United States and its partners can advance their strategic goals in others.
Russia’s Murky Future
A Conversation With Stephen Kotkin
May 2, 2024
When Russia botched its invasion of Ukraine and the West quickly came together in support of Kyiv, Russian President Vladimir Putin’s grip on power appeared shakier than ever. Last summer, an attempted coup even seemed to threaten his rule. But today, Putin looks confident. With battlefield progress in Ukraine and political turmoil ahead of the U.S. election in November, there’s reason to think things are turning in his favor.
The historian Stephen Kotkin joins us to discuss what this means for Russia’s future—and how the United States can be ready for whatever that future holds. Kotkin is the Kleinheinz Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution at Stanford University. He is the author of the forthcoming book Stalin: Totalitarian Superpower, 1941–1990s, the last in his three-volume biography of the Soviet leader.
A Conversation With Stephen Kotkin
May 2, 2024
When Russia botched its invasion of Ukraine and the West quickly came together in support of Kyiv, Russian President Vladimir Putin’s grip on power appeared shakier than ever. Last summer, an attempted coup even seemed to threaten his rule. But today, Putin looks confident. With battlefield progress in Ukraine and political turmoil ahead of the U.S. election in November, there’s reason to think things are turning in his favor.
The historian Stephen Kotkin joins us to discuss what this means for Russia’s future—and how the United States can be ready for whatever that future holds. Kotkin is the Kleinheinz Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution at Stanford University. He is the author of the forthcoming book Stalin: Totalitarian Superpower, 1941–1990s, the last in his three-volume biography of the Soviet leader.
Iran Makes a Play in South Asia
President Ebrahim Raisi’s recent trip to the region was an opportunity for Iran to showcase its engagement amid instability in the Middle East.
By Michael Kugelman
MAY 1, 2024
President Ebrahim Raisi’s recent trip to the region was an opportunity for Iran to showcase its engagement amid instability in the Middle East.
By Michael Kugelman
MAY 1, 2024
A Declining China Is a Dangerous China
Even if the United States has fallen into decline in absolute economic and military terms, China may have crested early and plunged into yet steeper decline. In that case, the margin between the contestants would widen even if both countries were on the wane. If that’s how Xi Jinping & Co. size things up, they might order the People’s Liberation Army into action while China stands its best chance of success. There is ample precedent.
by James Holmes
May 2, 2024
Even if the United States has fallen into decline in absolute economic and military terms, China may have crested early and plunged into yet steeper decline. In that case, the margin between the contestants would widen even if both countries were on the wane. If that’s how Xi Jinping & Co. size things up, they might order the People’s Liberation Army into action while China stands its best chance of success. There is ample precedent.
by James Holmes
May 2, 2024
Don’t Mind the Missile Gap
Although calls for a nuclear build-up in response to Russia’s and China’s enlarged capabilities are dominating the debate, they risk repeating another dangerous arms race.
by Lucas Robinson
May 2, 2024
Although calls for a nuclear build-up in response to Russia’s and China’s enlarged capabilities are dominating the debate, they risk repeating another dangerous arms race.
by Lucas Robinson
May 2, 2024
China Wants to Conquer the South China Sea
China’s aggressive claims over the South China Sea, including areas like the Second Thomas Shoal, are part of a broader strategy to secure regional dominance, particularly in preparation for potential future conflicts, such as with Taiwan.
by Brandon J. Weichert
May 2, 2024
Short-Term Gain for Long-Term Pain: Why a North Korea Deal Could Come At a High Price
North Korea may be prepared to reduce his provocations and provide a more peaceful atmosphere on the peninsula in exchange for what would be longer-term gains for Pyongyang. But is short-term peace worth making it possible for North Korea to establish a dominant position on the Korean peninsula in the coming years?
by Bruce W. Bennett
MAY 1, 2024
North Korea may be prepared to reduce his provocations and provide a more peaceful atmosphere on the peninsula in exchange for what would be longer-term gains for Pyongyang. But is short-term peace worth making it possible for North Korea to establish a dominant position on the Korean peninsula in the coming years?
by Bruce W. Bennett
MAY 1, 2024
To Defend Taiwan, America Needs To Upgrade Its Defense-Industrial Base
All proposed solutions to the deterrence problem on the Taiwan Strait require the United States to modernize and expand manufacturing facilities and infrastructure to increase the production and availability of military hardware.
by Walker Robinson
MAY 1, 2024
All proposed solutions to the deterrence problem on the Taiwan Strait require the United States to modernize and expand manufacturing facilities and infrastructure to increase the production and availability of military hardware.
by Walker Robinson
MAY 1, 2024
The Next Six Months Will Be Critical for Moldova
After Ukraine, Moldova is the next line of defense against Russian aggression. Here are six critical steps to strengthen this Eastern European nation.
by Daniel RundeLeah Kieff
MAY 1, 2024
After Ukraine, Moldova is the next line of defense against Russian aggression. Here are six critical steps to strengthen this Eastern European nation.
by Daniel RundeLeah Kieff
MAY 1, 2024
China-US Great Power Rivalry a Boiling Hot Pot
As election season in the United States approaches, the temperature of the China-U.S. broth is unstably high.
By Monish Tourangbam
May 01, 2024
As election season in the United States approaches, the temperature of the China-U.S. broth is unstably high.
By Monish Tourangbam
May 01, 2024
Millions of Afghans Made Pakistan Home to Escape War. Now Many are Hiding to Escape Deportation.
Some 600,000 Afghans have returned home since last October, when the crackdown began, meaning at least a million remain in Pakistan in hiding.
By Riazat Butt and Adil Jawad
May 01, 2024
Some 600,000 Afghans have returned home since last October, when the crackdown began, meaning at least a million remain in Pakistan in hiding.
By Riazat Butt and Adil Jawad
May 01, 2024
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China slams US unilateral illegal sanctions against Chinese entities over Russia-Ukraine conflict
The Chinese Embassy in the US slammed Washington’s latest sanctions against Chinese entities over the Russia-Ukraine conflict, saying that China firmly opposes the US imposing unilateral illegal sanctions on Chinese entities, Russian news agency TASS reported on Thursday.
By Global Times | 2024/5/2
The Chinese Embassy in the US slammed Washington’s latest sanctions against Chinese entities over the Russia-Ukraine conflict, saying that China firmly opposes the US imposing unilateral illegal sanctions on Chinese entities, Russian news agency TASS reported on Thursday.
By Global Times | 2024/5/2
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China’s 3rd aircraft carrier the Fujian begins first sea trial
The Fujian, China’s third aircraft carrier, also the first equipped with electromagnetic catapults, on Wednesday started its first sea trial session, a move analysts said will test newly integrated technology and lay a solid foundation for the commissioning of the 80,000 ton-class warship.
By Liu Xuanzun and Guo Yuandan | 2024/5/1