The Spanish Housing Crisis

 

Spain's housing crisis has become a national emergency. Increasing rents and lack of affordable housing has induced a wave of protests. What induced public anger was the eviction of  Maricarmen Abascal. The senior citizen was being removed from her rented space. A number of investment companies buy property and then increase the rent. Reports of this only created discord among the Spanish public. Her death made Maricarmen a symbol for the need for housing. The Spanish government's response was limited. Demonstrations are spreading through the cities and now a snap election is scheduled. Spain also has not constructed enough housing based on the population of their urban areas. Home ownership is out of reach for the youth. Income and availability are obstacles. If the Socialist government fails to create a solution, the snap election will result in a conservative victory. Regulations on real estate, rent controls, and business leaders are needed. The result of inaction will be mass homelessness. Unless Spain is willing to construct more homeless shelters,  the population is at risk. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez is making attempts to get reforms through the parliament. The question remains if it will happen fast enough to help those in need. Tourism is a large part of Spain's economy, but it seems revenues are not being used for improvement of the country. The Tenants' Union intends to continue with protests until new laws are in place. Campaign promises of building new housing will not placate those struggling to get accommodations.  

Robert Mugabe Opposes Multiracialism (1962)

 

Robert Mugabe was active in pushing for political rights in Rhodesia in the 1960s. The reason Robert Mugabe was opposed to multiracialism was because it  put emphasis on hierarchy. White minority rule regimes of Southern Africa used racial classification to control the African population. Asians were brought over for labor purposes. Coloureds were a mixture of Africans, Europeans, and with some Asian ancestry. They tended to act as a middle group between Europeans and Africans.   Mugabe stated in a CBC interview that multiracialism's foundation was that the races were not the same species. Robert Mugabe's position was that saying the races are different becomes a justification for racial segregation. Robert Mugabe asserted rights and freedom should be given to all who reside in Rhodesia. The British Empire would never extend freedom to its colonies. It would take the Rhodesian Bush War for Zimbabwe to gain its independence from European rule.  

The Skydance Warner Bros. Discovery Paramount Merger

 

The law was unable to prevent the Warner Bros. Discovery and Paramount merger. Paramount's purchase of Warner Bros.-Discovery by legal definition is a violation of anti-trust laws. Monopolies are resurging and it is a pattern that was started by Disney. The trend began in the 2010s and continues. Skydance will have ownership to a number TV channels, film production companies, and news stations. Layoffs are now predicted to take place across various companies. Not only does this reduce competition, it harms quality of entertainment. Unrestricted corporate power also negative impacts reporting and news. A single narrative or the suppression of dissenting voices will become more common in cable news. More viewers recognize bias or deceptions and will no longer watch. The film industry is struggling to get customers back into movie theaters. Forming conglomerates is not going to make film production recover.  A concern also arises that a collapse of Skydance could put the entertainment industry in crisis. There are limited legal pathways to force Skydance to break up. Anti-trust laws need updates to counter a new wave of corporations.    

Venezuela's Independence Comes Under Threat

 

Venezuela's independence is under threat. With the head of state still prisoner after being kidnapped, the interim administration is unwilling to get Nicolas Maduro back. Interim President  Delcy Rodriquez is focused on opening more of Venezuela to foreign investment and changes to the oil industry. Rodriquez was seen meeting with President Donald Trump at the UN General Assembly. The Trump administration claims they are in the process of negotiating a number of energy deals. Venezuelan  leftists see this as a surrender to an imperial power in a decades long war. Efforts to make Venezuela fall under US influence have been active since 2002. The socialist movement that Hugo Chavez started appears to be defeated. Chavismo and the Bolivarian revolution was designed to assert South American independence and national sovereignty. If the oil agreement is reached with the Trump administration, this ensures the loss of a valuable resource. The supporters of the legitimate president are not going away. Elections are going to be difficult to win under such conditions. Venezuela is part of a gradual process to transform into a puppet state. The head of the CIA made a visit to Venezuela after the kidnapping of  President Nicolas Maduro. Venezuela will be in such as state it will not be able to make its own foreign policy. Overtime, Venezuela will be pushed away from Cuba and Nicaragua. Efforts are being made to place it in an alignment with right-wing governments in South America. The attack on Venezuela had a motive beyond South America. Before President Maduro was kidnapped, he met with Chinese diplomats. The relations between Venezuela and the People's Republic of China undermine US hegemony in South America. The race to gain rare earth minerals and fossil fuels has created global tensions among the major powers. Venezuelans are now in a struggle to keep their freedom as an independent country.        

Ethiopia's Armed Insurgency

 

Ethiopia is facing a mass armed insurgency. A collection of armed groups are now seeking to overthrow the government. The TPLF appears to have convinced the Oromo Liberation Army, the Amhara Fano National Movement, the Ogaden National Liberation  Front,  Afar Revolutionary Democratic Unity Front, and the Benishangul Peoples' Liberation movement to be part of an alliance. Gumuz Peoples' Democratic Movement also is fighting with other groups for this coalition. The new alliance is referred to as the Ethiopian Peoples' Alliance for Survival. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's ambitions of getting greater Red Sea access and the construction of the Ethiopian Grand Renaissance Dam also caused tensions with neighboring states. Egypt could not stop the construction of the dam and wants to see other Ethiopian projects halted. The Blue Nile is an area in which Ethiopia can attain greater hydroelectric power. Egypt acts as if it owns all the Nile River, when it crosses between borders. Eritrea has been accused of arming the TPLF. Sudan is aligned with Egypt. Ethiopia has accused Egypt, Sudan, and Eritrea for the increase in rebel insurgency. A weakened Ethiopia would benefit those three countries. Sudan's might not have an extensive role in the violence considering its fight with the RSF. The internal insurgency could spread into other East African countries. Even if the TPLF is deposes the government, ethnic hatreds would prevent a peaceful transition. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed was democratically elected in 2021. The TPLF know they could not win a national election and decided to use violence to get power. The Prosperity Party is not Derg. Attempts to mold public opinion to the sentiment can be challenged with basic facts. The TPLF want regime change and they are using other armed groups to do so. The TPLF does not want a multi-party democratic government, rather a one party state.  

Burkina Faso Opens Its First Gold Refinery

 

Burkina Faso is accelerating plans for economic development with opening its first gold refinery. The objective is to control the mineral wealth and protect it from external theft. Raffinor-BF is also seeking to have the gold valued and certified in Burkina Faso. Raffinor-BF is state owned and also intends to make trade agreements that benefit the country. New policies also include chaining mining codes, reduction of the export of raw materials, and government ownership of business. Burkina Faso is not the only African nation implementing these policies. Ghana and Guinea are following this economic approach to development. Raffinor-BF plans to 515 tonnes of gold next year. This is an ambitious target and depending on the size of the workforce may not be reached in that time frame. The new economic policies are not a case of nationalization. The private sector was active in the establishment of Raffinor-BF. The National Precious Metals Company was also a contributor to the gold refinery. The benefit of the gold refinery enables higher employment. The hinderance is that more gold refineries are needed to reach production targets. The total cost was 11 billion CFA francs. More funds are going to be needed for the construction of refineries. Getting loans from the World Bank or IMF should be avoided. Accumulation of debt only delays economic development and industrialization. Burkina Faso appears to have found a model which could possibly be replicated in other parts of Africa.  

President Salva Kiir Dissolves Government

 

South Sudan appears to be sliding into an authoritarian system. President Salva Kiir has dissolved the government. The result means elections are going to be delayed. Since 2011, South Sudan has only had one head of state. The process for a permanent South Sudanese Constitution is underway. Prior to the announcement, the National Elections Act was signed into law. This allows for the National Assembly to be reduced to 270 members. Before the NEA, the total number of members was 650. State assemblies and legislative councils are also being reduced in seats. The South Sudanese are getting less representation in government. The Kirr government claims it is acting in accordance with the 2018 peace agreement. Leader of the opposing SPLM-IO Riek Machar remains under house arrest. He was been charged with murder and treason, some suspect Machar is imprisoned for political purposes. The dangerous aspect of this is all armed groups are not unified. The potential for another civil war remains a concern. Elections probably will not happen and Kiir is making it possible to retain the presidency. Replacing the head of the elections commission indicates a consolidation of more executive power. The government of South Sudan will resemble that of Togo, The Republic of the Congo , or Cameroon. Presidents staying in power for years and criminalizing their political opponents. The fragile unity government was unable to address ethnic conflict, abuses of the executive power, and armed factions. 

Toys "R "Us Intends To Open More Stores

 

Some businesses can be revived. Toys "R "Us at one stage filed for bankruptcy, but was able to resurrect itself. The nature of toy purchases has changed. The concern was that children no longer are interested in toys. Electronics, video games, and tablets are getting more attention from youth. However, another demographic is becoming part of toy purchases. Adults and teens are collecting toys. Like stamps, sports cards, or comic books toys are now a type of hobby. Toys also have a connection to other fandoms of popular  TV and film franchises. The company intends to open 120 stores. This was done before the holiday season and the intent is to see sales expand. Prior to the 2017 bankruptcy, Toys "R" Us had more than 1000 stores in the United States. The company is now owned by WHP Global. The private equity firm might not see keeping toy stores open as a long term business model. Either WHP Global would sell it or liquidate the subsidiary. Mismanagement and failure to interest buyers resulted in Toys "R" Us facing bankruptcy. Companies must adopted to the shift in consumer habits and an evolving market place. A new strategy of offering popular toy brands is a positive direction. Lego, Hot Wheels, Barbie, Marvel action figures, and Pokemon products will be in stores. Tariffs and increasing prices pose a threat to the company's objectives.     

Lithuania's Miliary Expansion

 

Lithuania continues a military expansion. The reason for this is to counter a possible Russian invasion. There is no indication of any military strike targeting Lithuania. Estonia and Latvia share a direct border with Russia. If such an invasion were to happen, those two countries would have to be invaded. A drone was shot down thought to be directed at Lithuania. The consensus now is it most likely was directed at Ukraine. The Baltic states claim they are under threat from the Russian Federation, when that area is not the focus. The only reason Lithuania is undergoing military expansion is to fight on the behalf of NATO. The Russo-Ukrainian War has been a proxy war and a trap for Russia. The provocation worked, yet Ukraine struggles. Lithuania could be used to either attack Belarus or be a drone launching site against Russia. Ukraine could lose the war and getting other countries involved extends the conflict. Belarus is not going to get involved in war. Lithuania's borders are secure, yet the European Union intends to escalate. The militarization of Lithuania goes beyond  adding NATO presence. Lithuanian children are being given military training in school. This opens up the possibility for the use of child soldiers. Provoking an attack on a NATO member would trigger Article 5. Disturbance in the Baltic would be used as a justification for a Western European war against Russia. Lithuania and the rest of the Baltic then would be sacrificed as a shield for advances armies. Lithuania's militarization will have negative consequences, both in domestic affairs and foreign relations.     

Tomb Discovery of Chimu Civilization

 

Peru is uncovering more of its history. During an archeological expedition a tomb  was uncovered. The structure was part of what was Chimu civilization. A total of 37 skeletons were found. These could have been people of royalty  or the warrior class . The remains have not been analyzed thoroughly. Their sex, rank, or occupation has not been determined. Weapons that were made of metal were found including other artifacts. The tomb was located in a section of Chan Chan. The area happens to be one of the largest adobe cities in the Americas. The challenge doing archeology in South America was that many artifacts were stolen. Spanish invasion resulted in artifacts being sold, shipped away, or in an individual's private collection. The tomb contained textiles, jewelry,   gold and copper objects. From a perspective of anthropology, these discoveries can provide information on the societal structure of Chimu civilization. The funerary platform remained untouched for 600 years. Spanish colonizers were unable to locate it. That means the tomb was intact, assuming thefts from residents did not occur in those six centuries. The newly discovered tomb is part of the Utzh An complex. Chan Chan is immense and requires more exploration. South America's history has ancient foundations, which were ignored by academia. Universities and researchers are now taking a renewed interest in Amerindian civilization.  

CNN Claims Palestinians Celebrated The 2001 Terrorist Attacks

 

CNN ran a report of Palestinians celebrating the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon. The Anti-Arab and anti-Muslim sentiment is projected by showing an unverified clip of  celebration. A liberal channel was engaging in similar arguments with right-wing media. The CNN report ignores the long history of the United States arming Israel. Occupation, invasions, and being colonized was enabled by the United States. Most Palestinians understand Israel's power is reliant upon aid from the United States. CNN claimed that some "blamed the United States." US policy continues to be anti-Palestinian and it was almost shocking that large celebrations did not happen. Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza Strip for 78 years remained victims of Israeli terrorism. Combined with the support for the Gulf monarchies and forming armed groups in the Soviet-Afghan War blowback was inevitable. As long as Arab populations are subject to abuse, armed resistance will continue. The aftermath of the 2001 terrorist attacks was aggressive war and the reduction of civil liberties in the United States.   

Charlie Kirk's Second Amendment Statements

 

Charlie Kirk was a conservative media figure and commentator was killed in 2025. The irony was that he was a victim of gun violence. American conservatives ignore gun violence, even when they assert crime is their concern. Decades of reducing gun control makes criminal activity more likely. The second amendment was discussing states having their own militias, not about the arming of individual citizens. Nowhere in the US Constitution does it say a person has a right to weapons. Armed resistance against an oppressive government would be futile if all branches of government were merged. Neoconservatives have been trying to enhance the power of the executive branch for 25 years. Kirk then uses car accidents as a comparison for gun deaths. More people die from gun violence than car accidents. What reduces car accidents is traffic laws, safer roads, and tickets for violations. Seeing as gun control is actively being undermined, the deaths will increase. Red states experience more gun violence and gun related crime. The obsession about guns or the myth gun rights are being taken away has an ulterior motive. It is designed to prepare armed groups for violence against the federal government and non-white people. Charlie Kirk's death was used as political propaganda for the MAGA movement and Turning Point USA. During the media coverage of his death, gun control was not the focus rather partisan politics.   

The Rise of The AfD

 

The Alternative for Germany Party is seeing success in elections. The far-right political party does not have a majority in the state legislature. The AfD tends to have more support in the eastern states of Germany. The reason relates to economic disparities and the aftermath of the collapse of East Germany. The disdain for leftism or socialist ideas comes from memories of living under a Soviet supported state. Racism was a part of German history and did not disappear with the defeat of Nazi Germany. The migrant crisis was also a factor. The AfD emerged in 2013 during the early stages of the migrations from West Asia and Africa. The claim is that the AfD is pro-Russian, but what they desire is an end to the Russia-Ukraine War. The AfD still sees Eastern Europe and Russia in particular as lower. The new agenda to expand Germany's military demonstrates renewed hostility to Eastern Europe. Few political parties want to work with the AfD, but proposals have come form an unexpected place. The BSW, which is classified as left-wing could ally with the AfD. The traditional political labels do not matter when Germans are unified in racial hostility. The misnomer for this phenomenon is called populism, but the movement is xenophobic nativist nationalism. The reason political parties like the AfD are gaining momentum is due to the political establishment. Seen as oblivious to realities of the world and elitists voters in European countries are turning to far-right political parties. The Christian Democrats are facing possible losses in power. The AfD on its own is not formidable based on the election results. It could become a threat if it builds a large enough coalition to counter establishment political parties.  

The United Nations Adopts A New World Map

 

The United Nations has moved forward with a map show true scale of the continents. The Mercator projection  was being used and this is the type presented to the public. This map was used for navigation and does not show the right size of continents such as Africa. Educators and students are getting an inaccurate presentation about world geography. Cartography is essential to understanding the world's environment. Maps should display correct sizes and locations. The continued use of the Mercator projection has become dated. The equal earth map wants to be accurate to science and geography. The motivation in keeping the Mercator projection has a political purpose. Europe and other northern hemisphere nations were shown a bigger than they actually were. The notion that Europe was all powerful and superior to Africa reveals the legacies of imperialism.  Africa was shown to be smaller. The resolution from the UN cannot be enforced. Certain nations are going to continue the use of the Mercator projection. The Equal Earth Map was produced in 2018 and now it is  being used as an alternative.  The map provides better visuals for size comparisons. Togo and the African Union brought the concern over maps to the United Nations. It will take some time for schools and teachers  embrace a new map projection     

Chad's Exit From The ICC

 

Chad is undergoing the process of withdraw from the International Criminal Court. The reason relates to the bias against African nations. While African nations suffered under war, authoritarian leaders, and cases of human rights abuse, the ICC has ulterior motives. Critics notice that African nations are targeted for their natural resources and that the ICC indirectly contributes to neocolonial imperialism. International law should be applied to all nations. European countries or their leaders  rarely face any criminal charges . More African nations are going to leave the ICC. The reason is to protect their own independence and national sovereignty. Chad is not making a Pan-Africanist statement. The country's motivation is to carry out a violent campaign against rebels and insurgents seeking to depose the Deby regime. President Mahamat Deby is positioning himself to be Chad's longtime leader, just like his father before his assassination. There could be possible cases of war crimes committed when Mahamat was a commander in Chad's intervention in Mali. This occurred in 2013, when the government fell to a number of armed groups and terrorist organizations. President Mahamat Deby wants to ensure that he never comes into custody of the ICC. While his alliance with France protects him to an extent, there is no way to know if that country will betray Chad.   

Gloria Steinem Reveals Her Work With The Independent Research Service

 

While many praise Gloria Steinem's efforts for women's liberation and rights, elements of her background were questionable. During Steinem's youth she worked for the Independent Research Service. The organization founded by the CIA was designed to counter World Youth Festivals. These gatherings were held by communists and Marxists to promote socialist ideas. It was design to inspire the next generation of socialists and revolutionaries. American youth were unaware they were being used for intelligence gathering or efforts at sabotage. Gloria Steinem's activities in the Independent Research Service  were controversial. During an interview Gloria Steinem did not condemn the CIA, but spoke of it as a liberal institution. The intelligence organization was responsible for destabilization, violence, and various intrigues across the Third World in the Cold War era. The CIA continues to be a threat to Global South nations in the present. No record exists of Gloria Steinem continuing to work as a CIA asset. Critics assert to criticize her involvement is nothing more than ludicrous conspiracy theory. No one can be an activist for social justice if they work for the power structure. The feminism she promoted was about obtaining power for white women, while leaving others behind. This added more division to the civil rights movement. Despite this, Steinem was anointed social justice icon.     

Iceland Rejects EU Membership

 

Iceland voted in a referendum on European Union membership.  The results rejected the proposal for membership. Critics of the attempts to join the EU cite possible economic disadvantages related to fishing waters. Iceland has the European Economic Area agreement and some question why EU membership is necessary. Based on polling data only 42.7 % were in favor of being part of the European Union. There was a 52.8% that rejected EU membership. The motivation to bring Iceland into the EU is not about economic opportunities for all parties. Rather there seems to be a military purpose. Iceland is a NATO member, yet has not standing army of its own. EU members could seek to station forces there under the excuse of Iceland's security. Iceland is not under threat from any other nation and has no plans to wage war. The reasoning is likely directed at being a base for Arctic competition with the Russian Federation. Iceland has maintained its independence and national sovereignty without EU membership or participating in war. The push to adopt the euro might not benefit Icelanders. Supporters of  EU membership see it as a means of solving inflation and high interest rates. EU membership is not going to reduce higher prices. The effect on interest rates would be minimal. Iceland has seen an increase in salaries, so prices on various products are not harming the public. European Union membership would seem more like wealth extraction from Iceland, rather than a beneficial economic partnership.    

Kamala Harris Comments On The 2024 Election

Former Vice President and Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris expressed her views about the outcome of the 2024 presidential election. Speaking in 2025, Harris claimed that the election was the closest in US history. Then stated that Donald Trump does not have a mandate. The first claim is not historically accurate. The US presidential election of 1876 and 2000 were much closer than 2024. Donald Trump won both the popular and electoral vote. He did not win the popular vote in 2016. The reason for Trump's success in 2024 was wining the seven battleground states. This included Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania. President Joseph Biden did better in these states in 2020. Dissatisfaction with domestic policies, inflation, foreign policy, and shift in political party affiliation were factors in the 2024 election . Political centrism is no longer winning elections and in the power void more progressives and democratic socialists could get elected. Frustration over economic inequality, struggles for employment, and decline in the standard of living only empowered far-right movements. Kamala Harris' claims project anger over the loss of the election and promote a dishonest narrative. Rather than analyze what happened or develop new strategies, instead blame is refocused. Unconfirmed reports have been made that Kamala Harris intends to run for 2028. Unless there is a change in approach and policy, the outcome will be similar to the previous presidential election. Some Democrats do not want her to run and getting the nomination would be a challenge.   

 

Nicolas Maduro's Speech In Support of The Hugo Chavez Administration (2002)

 

Nicolas Maduro gave a speech in support of the Hugo Chavez government. At a rally held on April 13, 2002 Maduro praised the actions of the public and military for stopping efforts by coup plotters. President Hugo Chavez was technically removed from office for a total of 47 hours. The military coup failed, because it underestimated the support for the government and its policies. Nicolas Maduro would later be elected to the presidency. Since the 2000s, the US has made attempts to depose the legitimate government. A military coup would not work in Venezuela in the 2020s. Instead, the United States kidnapped President Nicolas Maduro. A head of state is being held captive by an aggressor nation. The trial has little evidence to convict him of crimes. Therefore, President Nicolas Maduro is being detained as a political prisoner. The abduction itself can be considered a criminal offense. The sabotage directed at the Chavez and Maduro government expose the network of  US imperialism operating in South America.  

Bashar Al-Assad Sentenced To Death

 

Former Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad has been sentenced to death. This was done in absentia seeing as Assad now resides in Russia. The circumstances surrounding this verdict are questionable. The ruling could be a deterrent for stopping him from ever returning to Syria. The government is a combination of terrorist organizations and armed groups. This is not a legitimate government and was not elected by the citizens of Syria. The charges against him include premeditated murder, torture, arbitrary detention, and crimes against humanity. The presence of foreign human rights groups generates suspicion. Other countries or NGOs could be influencing the trial. The trial itself is questionable considering President Ahmed al-Sharaa is guilty of war crimes by the HTS. The Syrian Civil War saw atrocities committed by various armed factions. Syria still is operating under an authoritarian model of government this time under Islamism. Russia refuses to extradite Assad, because they provided him asylum. The only reason they recognize the al-Sharaa government is to preserve their military bases. Bashar Al-Assad would not have a fair trial. His execution would be more of warning to those who still support the Baath Party or any other political opposition. Elections or democratic government is not coming to Syria. Assad would be used as test for normalizing show trials.      

The UK Housing Crisis

 

The United Kingdom is experiencing a shortage of affordable housing and increase in homelessness. The UK housing crisis is not a new development. The Central Bank of England recognized that challenges related to housing resulted in long term harm to the UK's economy. Landlords and real estate are exploiting the population by increasing prices. Building more homes would make the existing ones less valuable. That means the prices of homes will increase to rate more than they are worth. The UK is experiencing population growth and limited housing. This only creates more discord in the wider society. This will project in the form of election results. As long as political figures do not provide for the population, winning seats in parliament is going to be difficult. The refusal to apply adaptive reuse to older buildings creates wasted opportunities. Studies have even made the correlation between poor housing and reduction of health. Low quality housing has been linked to respiratory diseases and mental health decline. This was based on data from the UK Housing Review. The middle class and poor are most effected by the housing crisis. The upper class elite are not only gaining more wealth, but more property. Economic inequality and laws that enable unfair business practices are to blame. Owning a home is out of reach and renters are at the mercy of landlords. The private rented sector must be subject to more regulation to stop abuses or possible criminal offenses.   

Condoleezza Rice Praises The Iraq War (2008)

 

Aggressive war tends to have a false justification. Condoleezza Rice who served as Secretary of State from 2005 to 2009 asserted that the United States liberated Iraq from Saddam Hussein. The falsehood was that the war was a humanitarian cause to save Iraqis from oppression. Instead, Iraqis lost their freedom and were under US military occupation. This was no only about Iraq, but a demonstration to the world about how violent America can be. The need to intimidate and be a threat allows the United States to have dominance over the international stage. Condoleezza Rice then distorts history by ignoring the fact the US armed Saddam Hussein during the Iran-Iraq War. The invasion of Kuwait was repercussion of the eight year conflict, which effected oil prices. The West did provide the materials for chemical weapons. However, Iraq abandoned nuclear and chemical weapons programs. The sanctions were intended to harm the population of Iraq. The oil for food program demonstrated the objective of try to extract Iraq's valuable resources. The Iraq War did not make the world safer. The conflict cause more destabilization in West Asia and an increase in terrorism. Condoleezza Rice's interview reveals how war criminals justify their violence under the mask of a noble cause. 

Spain Struggles With Migration Waves

 

Spain is facing a migration crisis. The consequences of European interference in the domestic affairs of African Nations and military invasions has created unstable conditions. The migrants did  not reach Spain, but a remanent of European colonialism. Ceuta  is autonomous to a degree, but is Spanish territory.  Spain has maintained this colony since 1580. Bordering Morocco, the city  is on the African continent. The fact that Spain contains a few African territories should be unacceptable. There will be more waves of migration as economic and political factors force people to flee. Italy has used Spain's difficulty for political purposes. Anti-immigrant hatred is used in Italian politics to get more votes for far-right parties. Spain uses migrants for an easily exploited labor force. An aging population means certain jobs will remain unfilled. Getting migrants to apply for residence and work permits makes it appear as if  Spain is helping them. Low pay and poor working conditions await for immigrants coming to Spain. The media focus does not even examine the deaths involved attempting to get to Spain. Police and soldiers halted the migrants from even reaching Europe. Yet, there was panicked reporting in the European press. Racism and xenophobic nativist nationalism are becoming normalized in European society. The reaction to Spain's policies related to migrants demonstrates the popularization of intolerance.   

The Causes of The Argentina Soccer Riots

 

When Argentina was eliminated from the World Cup, riots broke out. To viewers it is perplexing to see sports fans engage in acts of violence. This was more than just losing a soccer game. The violence was rooted in racism, football hooliganism and fanatic nationalist ideas. The loss to Spain saw Argentina's  players assaulting the opposing team. Losing to Spain, the former colonizer was seen as an insult. The fanatic nationalism of Argentina translates into disrespect to other nations. The behavior of fans during matches and in public displayed blatant racism. Racial slurs and harassment was being done by Argentinians. The riots had soccer fans attacking property, fighting police, and threatening public safety. Buenos Aires was unsafe due the criminal activity of soccer fans. Argentina throughout its history used warfare and violence to make its demographic composition more white. The desire to be seen in a European classification alienates the Afro-Latino and indigenous populations. Football hooliganism has a connection to far-right extremists and hate groups. More crime will come as a result of  racial hatred and conservative governments. The causes of the riots were Argentinian racism, lack of efficient security, and a growing frustration from the public projected in criminal acts. Argentina was trying to use the World Cup as a way to show national superiority. Losing the World Cup undermined this belief. Despite the riots and  the team's loss, a celebration was held for the team. Argentina intends to also make a holiday as well. These actions show how the Javier Milei presidency wants to use soccer and the violence culture around it for political purposes. Soccer riots could become more frequent under these conditions.    

Concerns About The Nicaraguan Elections

 

The international press has erroneously reported that Nicaragua is suspending elections. The accusation was made that President Daniel Ortega plans on terminating elections. No evidence was given accept from a speech given by President Ortega. The speech itself was about preventing foreign interference and a criticism of opposition groups. Latin American leftist governments are under attack. Cuba, Venezuela, Peru,  and Colombia have been subject to a United States effort to impose right-wing regimes. This is not the first time the Sandinistas and Daniel Ortega were attacked. During the 1980s, the Ronald Reagan administration funded the Contras to depose Ortega's first administration. The Sandinistas lost the 1990 elections, but made a successful return in 2006. Nicaragua is now being harassed onece more for the objective of regime change. The Cold War is over, yet there is a fixation on suppressing socialist and other leftist governments. The Frente Sandinista de Liberacion Nacional made it their goal to expand public education, healthcare, and programs for development. Building roads and hospitals demonstrate that the government wants to see national improvement. This explains why the FSLN remains popular. Political opposition parties are not offering or do not care to have platforms that benefit the public. The reason why certain opposition groups seek foreign help. The 2018 coup attempt was are realization the Trump administration was following a similar policy of the last years of the Cold War. The real concerns about Nicaragua's elections is no a speech from a head of state. Nicaragua's elections are going to be subject to foreign interference, possible espionage, and violence. If the FSLN cannot be voted out of office, the US could induce a coup. Nicaragua is now another target in the campaign to undermine South American independence and sovereignty.  

The 2026 Canada Wildfires

 

The negative impacts of climate change have become more apparent. Canada is witnessing intense wildfires that are now a threat to public safety. Air quality is undergoing rapid deterioration and the smoke is spreading to other parts of North America. Wildlife protection becomes impossible with forests being destroyed. Firefighters are struggling to put out the  wildfires. Some observers fear that some will have to burn until it ends on its own. With temperatures going up, this only makes the situation more precarious. If multiple wildfires happen, it makes it impractical to attempt to put out. Climate change has changed the ecology of the Earth. Canada is going to experience more wildfires under these climate conditions. The decrease in air quality means a spike in respiratory diseases. The denial about climate change can no longer be acceptable. The environment can no longer sustain long term abuse caused by human industrial activity. The smoke from the wildfires from 2026 are not going to dissipate. The Northern and Midwestern states of America are seeing a drop in air quality and a rise in wildfire smoke. Canada's provinces of British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, and Saskatchewan are the worst effected by the 2026 wildfires.       

Keiko Fujimori Elected President of Peru

 

Peru has become the next South American nation to shift to a right-wing government. Others celebrate that Peru elected its second female president. The mistake is to assume that the election of female leaders means progress. Peru struggles with extreme political factionalism and administrations that never last. The run off election was close, so it is apparent that the conservatives do not have an immense mandate. Keiko Fujimori previously made several attempts to get elected to the presidency. Being the daughter of the former president raises concerns. Alberto Fujimori was convicted of human rights violations, embezzlement, and corruption. Keiko Fujimori claimed that her father's administration had a positive impact on Peru. For those who were victims, the Fujimori administration was a period of trauma. A Keiko Fujimori government could engage in the same criminal activity and abuses. The Peruvian Congress has made attempts to persecute Pedro Castillo supporters. Those who are in Mexico do not want to return to Peru for fear of imprisonment or persecution. Peru and Mexico have strained relations and a Keiko Fujimori administration might not seek a resolution. Peru has to survive Fujimorism and the Popular Force Party. If it cannot, Peru could revert to some degree of authoritarianism. Keiko's failed presidential campaigns of 2011, 2016, and 2021 allowed her to engineer a 2026 success. The electoral results also have to do with the time period. South America is seeing right-wing governments coming to power and suppressing the left.     

The 2026 European Heatwave

 

Western Europe saw a dramatic increase in temperatures starting in May. As June progressed, the heatwave became a public health concern. Based on the data collected from the Copernicus Climate Change Service, the month of June has been the hottest month recorded. France, Spain, and Belgium are the most effected by this heatwave. When temperatures get to high, the risk of wildfires also increases. Framing and wildlife are going to face negative impacts from the 2026 heatwave. The shift in temperature has formed a heat dome. Drought could occur in Eastern Europe. Thousands of deaths have been reported, which means heatwaves can be designated as a public health concern. France does not have enough air conditioning and cooling centers are not equipped for such a sudden temperature change. Chances of July and August being less intense are minimal. Sources estimate that there were a total 2,000 deaths. Heat stroke and dehydration become dangerous to the elderly. The youth are still susceptible to ailments related to heat, but have a greater chance of survival. France was not prepared, because many stores to not have enough air conditioning units. That generated a panic over getting them. Fights and public disorder required police to be alert in Paris. If the summer is this hot, winter might be as intense. The more powerful heatwaves are linked to fossil fuel use. Efforts to find new sources of energy are not happening fast enough and corporate interference prevents technological advancement.  

The Keir Starmer Resignation

 

Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to resign. The UK has struggled to keep a functional government with a number of heads of state going through a rotation. Over the span of seven years there have been six prime ministers. Observers claim that political instability came with Brexit. The challenges facing the UK were past abuses of the British Empire, economic decline starting with the Thatcher years, and mounting anti-immigrant sentiment. The Labour Party was successful in the election, but failed to manage government. Political centrism is not a solution to the UK's economic and social problems. The Peter Mendelson scandal, which Mendelson had a connection to Jeffery Epstein damaged the governments image. Previous governments impose fiscal austerity, which harmed the average citizen. Critics assert that Starmer did not have a lucid public policy direction. Despite the defeat, this only strengthened the position of the Conservative Party. Growing debt, financial insecurity, and reduced economic growth created a disgruntled population the will move further to right-wing political parties. The parliamentary system has shown its limitations with rotating governments and new elections. Prime Minister Keir Starmer promised an orderly transition. The Labour Party is no longer about the working class or the protection of worker's rights. The centre-left centrists favor corporate power and a more bellicose foreign policy. This trend could happen throughout Europe as more economic challenges increase.   

Mauritania's Crackdown On Refugees and Migrants

 

Mauritania is pursuing a  policy of cracking down on refugees and migrants. The influx of  people is the result of conflict in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. Terrorist organizations and armed groups are attacking these nations. Refugees have no choice but to find safety elsewhere. Migrants are coming for economic reasons. Mauritania is used as an access point to the Canary Islands. From there getting to Spain could mean reaching France, Germany, or the UK. The dangerous travels, smuggling networks, and being detained by Mauritanian authorities put people's safety at risk. Migrants come from Senegal, Gambia, and Guinea. The renewed crackdown is part of a partnership by the European Union. The EU is getting Sahel and North African countries to participate in pushing back refugees and migrants. The EU asserts this is on humanitarian grounds directed at smuggling networks. The economic decline and unsafe conditions are a direct result of EU interference in Africa. Regime change, support of authoritarian leaders, and providing weapons to armed groups creates human migration. African countries refuse to use diplomatic leverage. A method of controlling European behavior would be to simply let migrants and refugees enter the EU. Mauritania would most likely not do this. The racism against Sub-Saharan  Africans and West Africans  is intense in the Sahel and North Africa. Mauritania is seeing a new wave of xenophobia presented in law and daily life. The immigration agreement undermines Mauritania's sovereignty, because it aids the objectives of Europe. Despite the barriers, migrants and refugees are still coming to Mauritania.   

A New Species Of Spider Discovered In Angola

 

New species of arachnids are being discovered. The most recent addition known to scientists comes from Angola. The new  spider's habitat is located on the Lisima Plateau. The area is remote and could contain more unknown organism to zoology. The new arachnid has been called the crowned crab spider. An official scientific name has not be given to the organism.  The spider glows blue under ultraviolet light, but the reason is unknown. The adaptation could either be some type of defense mechanism or means of navigating dark areas. During this wildlife survey, more insects were found as well. Some of these insects could be the sustenance arachnids consume. The challenge of detecting new animals relates to geography and environment. Reaching certain areas can be difficult for wildlife expeditions. More interest has been generated in protecting the Lisima Plateau. The ecological diversity of Angola means that it can sustain various wildlife. Documenting  the organisms would be beneficial to biological knowledge. The Wilderness Project was involved in this expedition not just for taxonomy of new animals, but for the preservation of their habitats. The crown crab spider most likely is unique among other arachnids.   

Hillary Clinton Answers Questions For The 2008 Presidential Campaign

 

Hillary Clinton made her first attempt to win the White House in 2008. The problem with her campaign was that was political centrist oriented. Appearing on MSNBC's Hardball, Clinton was doing a visit of college campuses. When answering questions, she refused to condemn the wars of aggression in both Iraq and Afghanistan. Al-Qaeda was not the most powerful terrorist network around the world. While she admits that there was no evidence of an Iraq and Al-Qaeda alliance, Hilary Clinton favored military intervention. During this interview, the audience voiced their discontent with her vote for the Iraq War resolution. When discussing social issues, Hilary Clinton expressed that she did not favor same sex marriage. Clinton's response to reproductive rights protection appears to be deflection. There was no mention of the codification of Roe v. Wade. Hilary Clinton sounds closer to a moderate Republican and does not criticize the errors of the Bush administration. Hilary Clinton's 2008 presidential campaign failed because she did not offer solutions or new approaches to leadership. Voters wanted a new candidate with effective solutions.    

The Enhanced Games Controversy

 

The Enhanced Games is the first professional sports competition that allows athletes to used pharmaceutical aids. The controversy developed when questions about bioethics, fairness, and health were discussed. The creation of the Enhanced Games was more than a debate about performance enhancing drugs. Pharmaceutical corporations are trying to promote more drug use among the public. The movement for health optimization is becoming more obsessive. Normalizing people who are healthy and fit taking various medications creates an opportunity for  more profits. One of the developers of the Enhanced Games Aron D'Souza asserts the IOC and WADA have failed in their objectives. His view is that human enhancement is inevitable and drug use in sports will never be stopped. The intention is not about pushing human athletic accomplishment. Transhumanism is being made into a venture capitalist project. Athletes are being used as test subjects for transhumanist research. Prominent billionaires are invested in the Enhanced Games such a Peter Theil. Bioethical questions are present. People enhancing their own bodies can create concerns. However, the fact biomedical science extends lives does alter nature. Athlete health is an aspect of the controversy. Professional sports are not good for a person's health depending on the competition. Concussions, repetitive motion injuries, or ACL tears can happen. The fairness in sports argument lacks cogency. Weight classes and the absence of  drugs will not make competition fair. Individuals with various physiological advantages are going to be dominant. The lowest performing athletes are never going to have a fair chance at success. The IOC and WADA condemned the Enhanced Games, yet their refutation was not convincing. Athletes might be willing to go to the Enhanced Games, because of the financial reward. Olympic athletes are not paid for competing, even though they are providing  entertainment. International sports competition is about to be changed by technological enhancement of the body and pharmacology.       

President Zelensky Makes A Proposal For A Peace Agreement

 

President Volodymr Zelensky has proposed a meeting with the Russian Federation. President Vladmir Putin responded by rejecting any peace talks. The Minsk Accords were violated before and attempting more negotiations would not be effective. The letter for a possible peace settlement was reported to have some taunts and was making offers that were disingenuous. Russia has made proposals to end the war, but were ignored by the European Union and NATO. The war has now lasted for five  years and Ukraine has suffered major casualties. President Zelensky would not be sending letters if the war was being won. European media created a narrative that Russia was losing the war. Ukraine has not recaptured any of the territory lost. Even with drone attacks on Russian land, Ukraine makes little progress. The letter asserts that the conflict was a "war without a real  reason." The claim ignores the 2014 coup, NATO expansion, and the attempts to force Russia into a European integration project. President Zelensky then makes the unverified claim that Russia is using North Korean soldiers for military assistance. Then an accusation was made about Russia being dependent on China. Russia and China have a strong alliance that emerged from the West attempting to maintain a hegemonic world power system. At times it seems as if President Zelensky is using anti-Asian sentiment as a political device. Drone attacks in St. Petersburg and incursions into Kursk will not make Russia surrender. A new offensive could be the last confrontation of the Russia-Ukraine War. The letter was written with the purpose of preventing a major defeat, which would halt further NATO expansion. European countries are at some stage going to stop funding Ukraine, due to economic pressures of an energy crisis and inflation.     

Ebola Detected In The DRC and Uganda

 

Ebola has been detected in both the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda. According to some sources 40 people have died since the new outbreak. The governments of both countries are working with a number of international aid organizations to contain the transmission. The challenge relates to security and maintaining a functional healthcare system. The DRC is fighting  the M23 rebels, which diverts resources for public health. The strain that has been detected is known as Bundibugyo virus. Doctors Without Borders is active in the DRC and has expressed difficulty with contact tracing. Uganda appears to be handling the outbreak better at the moment. The reason could relate to its internal stability. What makes the public, world leaders, and medical professionals nervous is the possibility of another pandemic. Memories of the COVID-19 pandemic remain in the public's mind. The difference now is that the emergency  response was faster. The Democratic Republic of the Congo has been through 17 outbreaks. Despite that number, each time the DRC has defeated each Ebola outbreak. The DRC was able to contain epidemics from becoming an international health crisis. The 2026 reveals the need of African nations to cooperate across the continent for public health protection. Discovering the origin of new strains can also help with the development of effective vaccines and treatments.    

Bolivians Are Protesting Their Government

 

Bolivians are protesting the government. The frustration over the current Rodrigo Paz government has escalated into a major national crisis. Labor Unions and miners are at the front of the demonstrations. Calls for President Rodrigo Paz to resign are growing. Paz tends to be associated with centrism, but is more of a conservative in terms of political alignment. Supporters of Evo Morales are also expressing their anger. The former president did not come to trial. Morales was accused of having relations with a teenage girl and was charged with trafficking a minor. There is no evidence that this occurred and that it was allowed by a family for certain favors. Being the first indigenous president of  Bolivia, this created a racist and far-right backlash. A faction  of his supporters are willing to resist any attempts to arrest the former president. Efforts are also being made to prevent Evo Morales for running for the presidency. Morales was deposed by a coup and then President Jeanine Anez abused the office. Evo Morales' lawayers claim they never got a court summons and this was more of an edict. The intent becomes clear. President Rodrigo Paz realizes Morales still has support and could win an election if not under a repressive atmosphere. Imprisoning him would stop any formidable political opposition. The corruption of the government becomes more evident with Jeannine Anez's release from prison. Inflation and fuel shortages are creating hardship for the Bolivian citizen. Combined with low wages and shift to an Argentina model of economics, Bolivia has fallen into a worse condition. The Movement Toward Socialism was diligent in poverty reduction and asserting Bolivia's national sovereignty. This crumbled after the overthrow of Morales. Bolivians are now fighting foreign inference and a president unwilling to address their concerns.      

The Conspiracy Against Cuba

 

Cuba faces a renewed effort by the United States to depose the government. The Cuban Communist Party has resisted the United States for close to 65 years. The war of aggression directed at Venezuela was not just to procure its oil, but to ensure US dominance in South America. Leftist governments are being targeted in the region. Cuba's fall would be a means of the United States having more direct control over the Caribbean. The US Justice Department is seeking an indictment of former head of state Raul Castro. The charge is related to the shooting of planes in 1996 operated by Brothers to the Rescue. Raul Castro left office in 2021 and appears to have little influence over current Cuban policy. Brothers to the Rescue has been criticized for its activities. The organization claims to wants to help Cubans fleeing Cuba, but focuses on efforts related to infiltration and possible espionage. The Cuban exile group is less of a human rights organization and more of an instrument for regime change. The founder of the group Jose Basulto has been thought to have connections to the CIA. Some Cubans would take rafts and make the dangerous journey to the United States. Brothers to the Rescue claimed they were just saving people, but were also dropping propaganda leaflets. Since the Bay of Pigs invasion, Cuba has been harassed by the United States. Blockades and sanctions are an extension of economic warfare. The pattern of behavior provides evidence of a wider conspiracy that involves Cuban exile organizations, spying, and foreign interference. Cuba has an energy blockade imposed upon it by the US. The result is frequent black outs and a reduced oil supply. Mexico is attempting to substitute what was Venezuela's role as Cuba's energy supplier. The Trump administration continues to threaten Mexico and Colombia for assisting Cuba.   

Joseph Biden Expresses Support For The Iraq War (2003)

 

Senator Joseph Biden supported the Iraq War. As a ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, he pushed the false narrative that the US was enforcing UN resolutions. Senator Joseph Biden was asserting that this was not a war of aggression. The foundation of this argument was the Iraqi Liberation Act of 1998. That legislation was passed into law and was the basis for regime change in Iraq. Joseph Biden's positions explain why he was willing to aid the Russo-Ukraine War and interference in Somalia. As Vice President Joseph Biden was not an advocate for peace. Biden supported the attacks on Libya and arming rebel groups in Syria. When elected to the presidency, much of his positions in foreign policy did not change. Failure to revive the Iran nuclear agreement and the destabilization of Eastern Europe will have lasting consequences. Biden's support of neoconservative foreign policy enabled the rise of  a more vitriolic far-right conservatism. The Bush administration was the major culprit in developing this atmosphere, but it had political centrist Democratic allies. The war was a preemptive strike, yet Senator Biden attempts to frame this as enforcement of UN resolutions. The UN found no weapons of mass destruction and Saddam Hussein did not violate treaties.    

President Felix Tshisekedi Suggests Running For A Third Term

 

The Democratic Republic of  the Congo continues to face internal conflict and economic challenges. President Felix Tshisekedi implied he might run for a third term. The only way this would happen is with a change to the constitution. The question remains if he President Tshisekedi has enough support to change or create a new constitution. The only was this would be done is through a referendum. Article 220 states that term limits are imposed on the office of president. However, former President Joseph Kabila term ended in 2016 and he left office in 2019. According to the law, this was a violation of the 2006 constitution. Political opposition accuse the attempt at a third term as a means of keeping power. Having a referendum would be a solution if it is free and fair. Concerns are growing over a possible delay in election due to insurrection in the Eastern DRC. Mediation efforts are showing limited signs of success with the M23 rebels. Those under M23 rebel controlled and Rwanda backed territories are not able to cast ballots. The 2028 elections are facing either possible cancellation or delay. Fear of another large scale Congo War are present. The DRC also faces foreign interference in its internal affairs seeking to steal its mineral wealth. It is unclear if an expansion of  presidential terms is a solution.  

Ted Tuner CNN Launch Speech (1980)

 

Ted Turner (1938-2026)  was one of the founders of CNN. This was the first 24 hour cable news network. CNN was a major innovator in broadcasting, but it signaled the problems with  modern journalism. The control of news by large corporations and billionaires made it impossible to present alternative perspectives on domestic and foreign affairs. CNN has throughout is existence presented itself as a liberal leaning channel, yet as time passed it became more political centrist directed. Ted Turner's motivation for creating CNN was not to have the public informed. Rather it was to generate higher profits and have dominance in television. Turner Broadcasting System went on to become a force in cable. Having this much control over entertainment and mass media can result in the manipulation of public opinion. Media literacy is lowered when only a few sources of information are available and viewers do not question what is being reported. Ted Tuner's creation of CNN harmed media literacy and the quality of journalism. It made a path for more vitriolic broadcasting with the emerging competitors such as Fox News in 1996. CNN now has to compete with a word of digital media and some question if it can adapt.    

Newshour: Nintendo Saves The Video Game Industry (1988)

 

The 1983 video game crash was devasting to electronic entertainment. Nintendo in order to survive decided to produce home consoles. The Famicom was released in Japan in 1983 and the Nintendo Entertainment System came to North America in 1985. The video game industry remained intact due to Nintendo's new business strategy. The Famicom and NES was marketed as a toy. According to the report from Newshour in 1988 sales hit an estimate of $1.8 billion. Nintendo at the time had two major competitors. This included Sega and Atari. Going into the 1990s, competition would become known as the console wars. The technology was also becoming more advanced. The 8-bit era was considered high tech, but that would not compare to what would come later. Nintendo's rise demonstrates how globalization changed the world economy and culture. A Japanese corporation was seeing success internationally. When new forms of media are introduced, detractors tend to attack it. Some parents were concerned about the time children spent playing video games. Others objected to the focus on boys being the major demographic for sales. Some women complained that female characters were all damsels in distress in Nintendo's games. The 1988 news report criticizes a video game for girls that involved aerobics. Child psychologist Laura Kastner voices this complaint. Kastner did not understand video games are for everyone. Metroid  has female protagonist Samus , Kastner would rather have a game about a woman being promoted in a corporation. Regardless of detractors, Nintendo was able to function in the US. The biggest challenge is not from parents, competitors, or the false notion video games are a horrible influence.  US imposed multiple tariffs in 2025. The following year Nintendo sued the US government. The tariffs caused the increase in prices of Nintendo products. 

Coordinated Attacks By Terrorist Organizations and Rebel Groups Strike Mali

 

Mali has been under attack from multiple terrorist organizations and rebel groups. Since 2012, Mali has been a state of civil war. The attacks were done in coordination and the intent might be to depose the military junta. Bamako was saw breach in security. Besides the capital, other cities and towns were targets. The outbreak of this violence resulted in an assassination. Defense Minister Sadio Camara was killed. So far, there has been no investigation into how security collapsed when Camara's house was attacked. Assimi Goita remains unharmed. The Front for the Liberation of Azawad and Jama' at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin have been identified as the sources of violence. Most of the attacks are directed at military compounds and bases. More armed groups could be forming with the help of foreign assistance. The Alliance of Sahel States faces a major security challenge. The presence of French troops and UN missions did nothing to end the insurgencies in Mali. France's intent was to exploit Mali's natural resources. The UN wants some type of international relevance, when their credibility is declining. The insurgency can now be described as transforming into a full scale civil war. Malian refugees are seeking safety in Mauritania. The increase of refugee camps has further caused deterioration in human rights in West Africa. ECOWAS or the African Union are not willing to provide assistance to the Malian government fighting a civil war. 

Hu Jintao Removed From National Congress of the CCP (2022)

During the National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party , former president Hu Jintao was removed. The incident generated much international attention in 2022. The explanation was that Hu Jintao was feeling unwell. The escorting of the former president was thought to be political removal. President Xi Jinping has become one of China's most powerful head of state. Making Hu Jintao retire or no longer participate in the National Congress demonstrates a change in political direction. During the Hu Jintao era, China was expanding its foreign relations and opening up to more foreign investment. The 2000s was the period of being more open, which was demonstrated by the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. The era of  coexistence and understanding was ended with the Asia pivot. President Xi Jinping responded to the sudden anti-China foreign policy from North America and Europe. When President Hu Jintao left office in 2013, relations were already in deterioration due to the rebalancing to the Pacific. Hu Jintao no longer has a large role in the CCP. His removal during the National Congress session demonstrates that President Xi Jinping wants move the CCP away from the influence of senior leaders.