Russia Strikes Kiev

 

Russia launched strikes on Kiev. This symbolizes how precarious Ukraine situation has become. Ukraine is losing the war and Russia could retain the Donbas. President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that the Russian Federation does not want peace. Peace proposals were presented prior to 2025, but rejected. NATO expansion is not ending and Ukraine desires to become a member. The European Union wants to militarize, while the US is trying to get warring parties to accept a 20 point peace plan. According to President Zelensky, Russia is using a large number of drones to target civilian infrastructure. The Russian Federation striking civilian targets constitutes war crimes. Ukraine is not guilt free considering its efforts going after targets in Russia. More debates are going on about what are the next steps. President Vladimir Putin insisted the only path is resolution through military force. The Minsk Accords were violated not by Russia, but by Ukraine and the EU countries funding far-right militias .  The US-EU block does not want to lose influence over Ukraine. While its unlikely that all of Ukraine would get absorbed into the Russian Federation, the Donbass will be lost. The Russia-Ukraine War is not an attempt to rebuild the Soviet Union or Russian Empire. Rather, this was the result of two world powers trying to make Ukraine a sphere of influence and the transformation of NATO into an anti-Russian alliance. Now discussions are taking place of a formation of a European Army. The Russia-Ukraine War is being used to justify the militarization of Europe. France and the UK are advocating a dangerous policy. Europe would not be able to recover from another continent wide conflict. The war could end either with the fall of the government or opting for an unconditional surrender.  

Burkina Faso Is Constructing Its First Expressway

Burkina Faso is focusing on construction and modernizing the country. Part of this new policy objective is to add more roads. Burkina Faso is in the process of building the first expressway within its land. The expressway will connect Ouagadougou to Bobo Dioulasso. An estimated $357 million will be invested in the infrastructure project. More roads are going to be built to facilitate trade  and travel.  Burkina Faso is seeking to transform itself through the Faso Mebo initiative. The new agenda involves improving the standard of living and developing Burkina Faso through a series projects. The new freeway can aid in getting Burkina Faso more access to ports. Constructing a large network of freeways would help with the exchange of goods and services. The contemporary period operates on fast transport. Equipping Burkina Faso with better infrastructure can allow it to be a better competitor in the global economy. Getting connected to the ports in Ghana or Ivory Coast  improves Burkina Faso's economic condition. To ensure that projects are successful more funds and expertise is required. This means increasing the number of skilled workers and keeping employment high. The building of infrastructure indicates that Burkina Faso is on a pathway to modernized national development.      

Tanzania's Political Upheaval

 

Post election violence and discord has swept Tanzania. The circumstances surrounding the election questioned the legitimacy of the political process. The opposition parties were prohibited from participation. President Samia Suluhu Hassan won 97% of the vote due to the suppression of other political parties. The Chama Cha Mapinduzi Party has been the dominant force in Tanzania's politics for decades. CCM was created out the merger of the Tanganyika African National Union and Afro-Shirazi political parties. The merger was done in 1977 and like other African national liberation political parties remain in power. At the time, these political parties were revolutionary yet now they are promoting de facto one party authoritarian governments. The Samia Suluhu Hassan government responded to protests with more violence by law enforcement. Now demonstrations are banned and to participate would be charged as attempting a coup. Tanzania is aware of the fall of Mali, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Niger, and Chad. President Samia Suluhu Hassan does not want to create a Madagascar situation. This would result in President Hassan being exiled or  the  military  seizing power. The violence is not coming to an end. The police and military were unleased to inflict harm on demonstrators. Certain patrols were present just to intimidate protesters. The threat of violence and  a deterrent for  other citizens joining protests.       

Attempted Military Coup In Benin

 

Benin thwarted an military coup. Military coups are becoming more common across West Africa. The interior minister has reported that President Patrice Talon was safe. President Talon's exact location remains unknown. The administration did provide a statement. The coup plotters were condemned for disturbing the peace. A response from ECOWAS was to deploy soldiers. Forces from Ghana, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, and Sierra Leone are coming to support Benin's military. The concern with this relates to Benin's sovereignty and independence. Beninese are going to view such actions as occupation of their country. ECOWAS does not want governments like Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger. Africans are questioning institutions like ECOWAS, who at times as more of  an alignment to Europe and North America. All the coups of the 2020s are not revolutionary movements. Chad's coup was the assertion of the power of the Deby family. Little is known about the coup plotters. The name they give themselves is the Military Committee for Refoundation. This coup plot makes some more suspicious of the Beninese Armed Forces. Certain soldiers could be sympathizers with the Military Committee for Refoundation. Instability can cause intervention from neighbors and EU interference. The coup plot should be a reminder to the Beninese government to confront discord and corruption. Those grievances become the catalyst for military coups in African countries.      

Netflix Set To Purchase Warner Bros.

 

After being purchased by Discovery, and then separating Warner Bros. is going into a new phase. Netflix is set to purchase Warner Bros. for an estimated $72 billion. Concerns have been raised about the problem of too much media amalgamation. Consumers are trying to figure out what the status of HBO Max will be. The fear is that it will be shutdown and Netflix has one less streaming competitor. Discovery buying Warner Bros. was more of a spiral. Warner Bros. operated as its own company since 1923. The 2022 merger with Discovery was an error. Subsidiary companies are at the will of the parent companies. Meaning, they could be terminated or sold to another corporation. As movie theaters struggle, the concern is that Netflix is leading the charge to make them relics of the past. Entertainment production is becoming more of a monopoly. Corporate  avarice also comes at the expense of creativity and filmmaking. Netflix insists that it will continue to allow Warner Brothers to release films in theaters. The wise choice would be to maintain streaming services and do theater releases. Simultaneously, combining various resources produce more content. Netflix would diversify catalogues of entertainment. There is a benefit to making coproduction projects with Warner Bros. film studios. A number of popular franchises could expanded with this business model. Warner Bros is no longer a parent company and might never get that status back. Warner Bros. has existed for 102 years and it is not disappearing anytime soon. Netflix was only been a company since 1997. Starting in 2007, the DVD rental service began streaming. Having the Warner Brothers intellectual properties and a popular streaming service could be a success, if managed correctly.      

 

Guinea-Bissau Falls To Military Rule

 

Guinea-Bissau has become another African nation to fall under military rule. The military coup was induced when disputes over the presidential election were escalating. The military asserted the coup was launched to prevent a deterioration of security. Election results were not announced. The error of opposition candidate Fernando Dias and President Umaro Sissoco Embalo was to claim victory before all votes were tabulated. Besides internal political discord, Guinea-Bissau struggles with foreign interference. Guinea-Bissau is a transport area for illicit drug trafficking. Drugs coming from South America are smuggled into the country and make their way to Europe. A series of coups continue to occur across West Africa and Central Africa. Corrupt governments and failures of liberal democracy have pushed militaries to act. All the coups are not revolutionary acts or objections to neo-colonial imperialism. While the coups in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Gabon were welcomed Guinea-Bissau is a different case. A number of  government institutions  are suspended and the electoral commission has done nothing to confront the junta. A prime minister has been appointed, but real administrative power rests with General Horta Ina-A. The military junta claims it will release the election results, but this could be a means of deflecting unconstitutional actions. Dias and Embalo are no longer in Guinea-Bissau. Fernando Dias accused President Embalo of inducing a self-coup. Little evidence exists of this claim and the junta made no further statements. Guinea-Bissau had military coups in 1980, 2003, and 2012. More coups could happen if  transition of power, electoral process, and the public are not respected. 

The Epstein Files Are Set To Be Released

 

After protests and political contention, the Epstein files are going to be released. The motivation for keeping the files hidden relates to who was complicit or guilty of crimes. Various political figures, celebrities, academicians, and other public figures made contact with Jeffery Epstein. Members of  both the Republican and Democratic Party were known to be associated with the disgraced financier. Even as the files are being prepared for release, redactions will be made. This means certain individuals part of the Epstein network will never be arrested or stand trial. After must research, it has been found that Jeffery Epstein was involved with intelligence. Epstein's connections to the Mossad are gradually being uncovered. The Justice Department has a month to make the documents public. President Trump's vacillation related to the release of the files cause a rift amongst the conservative movement. Previously, President Trump refused to push for release of the documents. The reversal of the past position was either out of pressure or the hope the documents would contain damaging information related to his political opponents. The speculation was that President Donald Trump was involved in the abuses on Epstein's estates or was helping him with criminal activities. Another possible explanation is the White House wanted to use the Epstein files as method of extortion against members of  the US Congress. So far these speculations have not been proven. What is known is that criminality and corruption are operating at the highest levels of society.      

Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Sentenced To Death

 

Three judges on the International Crimes Tribunal issued a verdict related to the former prime minister. Sheikh Hasina is to be sentenced to death. The problem with this is that there was no trial and Hasina has been in exile in India. She does not have legal defense organized or representation. The charges assert that Sheikh Hasina was responsible for murders by law enforcement  during the 2024 protests. The demonstrations became so intense that her government collapsed. The Awami League Party was forced from power. Demands are growing for her extradition. India has not plans to send her back to Bangladesh. Accusations of extrajudicial killings, use of drones, and massacres have been made. Indications are present that there is a political motivation for the verdict. The Awami League is prohibited from participating in next year's elections. Capital punishment can polarize the public. The 1975 military coup resulted in her fathers assassination. This resulted in her first exile. The first exile was a political motivation and the government criminalizing political opponents. Sheikh Hasina's experiences molded her politics and ideology. A strong government would have to come at the expense of  democratic institutions. This was for the unity of the country, but was undermined by nepotism. Sheikh Hasina may never be able to return to Bangladesh. Complicating relations with India over the matter of extradition need to be considered. More violence could breakout if the former prime minister is executed. 

Edward Said on The Claims To Palestine (2003)

 

As Israel continues to violate the ceasefire and colonize land, history must be revisited to understand the violence. Edward Said (1935-2003) was a literary critic and activist who provided insight into Israel's abuses.  The basis of Zionist colonization is that they are the only people who claim to that land. The Israelites based on history and archeological examination, had dominance for only two centuries. Edward Said explained that was only 250 years. The ancient Israelites are not the Zionist settlers of the present. Palestine was inhabited by Canaanites, Philistines, Jebusites, Moabites, and many other people as Said explained. The Arabs have a greater claim to the land than the European Jews who came after 1947. The only way Zionist colonization can justify violence is to say God mandates it. Edward Said expresses this is not a rational argument. Now that Israel is expanding influence into Syria, it becomes a weaker claim. The Jewish settlers are from Poland, Russia, UK, US, and other nations of Europe. They identify more with the West, than with the Middle East. This is explains why a number of Israelis returned to Europe when the Israel-Gaza War broke out. Zionist settlers are being used to impose an imperial design on the entire region. Europe's support is not out of concern for Jewish security, but to ensure a subordinate Middle East. Said's analysis contributed to the development of post-colonial studies. Israel  is an example of the abuses of neocolonial imperialism and the mechanisms of an oppressive system . 

Pennies Are Ending Production

 

Pennies are no longer going to be produced. The United States has produced the penny since 1793. The reason for this decision was that pennies were getting too expensive to produce. This is according to the US Department of  Treasury. If legal tender is getting expensive to produce, then it indicates concerns about the economy. Increasing national debt means the ability to perform certain domestic tasks are limited. Currency production should not be a challenge for a high income country. Ending penny production is not going to save large amounts for the US. Pennies can still be used and will remain in circulation. An estimated billions of pennies still remain in stores, banks, and among the population. It will take time for pennies to become rare. Coin collectors might see an increase in acquisition as the supply becomes smaller. Retailers are trying to navigate the end of penny production. Making change could be an issue. One solution is to round down prices or ask customers to exchange pennies for rewards. Those who own large amounts of pennies should not dispose of them. The coins can still be used and as time passes more valuable. What would be helpful to consumers is to exchange pennies at your bank. Taking time to count the value, the banks will give cash for large amounts of pennies. The 230 year history of the penny will be of interest to numismatics and economics. The last penny was the Lincoln cent . Introduced in 1909 to commemorate  President Abraham Lincoln's birth, the currency itself became an icon.    

Nubian Artifacts Are Under Threat In Sudan

 

The civil war in Sudan has brought Nubian artifacts under threat. Thefts, looting, and damage to historical objects is becoming widespread. The criminal activity mostly comes from the Rapid Support Forces. The reasons have ethnic overtones. The RSF was formed from the Janjaweed militia, which were mostly Arabs. The Janjaweed were fighting to end rebellion in Darfur. The RSF has been reported to have assistance from the United Arab Emirates. Throughout history there have been Arab attempts to wide out African history. West Asian invasion has ancient roots in Nile Valley civilization. The RSF has a goal of establishing an Arab state and part of this involves the destruction of  Sudan's ancient  treasures. Sudanese Arabs, Nubians, Zaghawa, Beja, and Nubians form the population of the country. Sudan as a rich and unique history, which needs to be preserved. The attacks on the Sudan National Museum are a major concern. The Sudan National Museum was established in 1959 for preserving antiquities. At the time, flooding from Egypt's Aswan Dam put artifacts and monuments  at risk. The Sudan National Museum became a sanctuary for cherished relics. The Sudan National Museum has an estimated 100,000 artifacts. Now, the collection is at risk of becoming prizes of war or being sold by the RSF. The Sudanese Armed Forces are not focused on securing artifacts. Their primary objective is to take back the areas  that the RSF is in control of. Sudan cannot allow the history of Kerma, Kush, and Meroe to be erased. Sudan should consider shipping artifacts to other African nations. Securing museums and the artifacts needs to be part of  the strategy the Sudanese Armed Forces. Archeologists, historians, and academics need to document all the information they can to prevent it from becoming lost.  

Nancy Pelosi's Visit To China (1991)

 

Nancy Pelosi announced she will not seek reelection. She was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1987. Her visit to China in 1991 became performative politics. The Democratic representative made decided to stop by Tiananmen Square and make statements about the protests in 1989. What attracted attention from authorities  was holding up a memorial banner. This was more than just a visit and paying respects to victim of police brutality. A choreographed ceremony was being done so she could boost her political profile. Pelosi was not concerned about the welfare of the Chinese people. Rather as a US leader there was a growing disdain for China's economic rise. Nancy Pelosi would disparage trade and tariffs with China in the US House of Representatives in 1996. As Speaker of the House she would visit Taiwan in 2022. Nancy Pelosi had a consistent anti-Chinese political position for the sake of US dominance in Asia. Human rights was being used as a mask to disguise an ulterior geopolitical objective. Foreign interference into  protests in other nations is way to manipulate them. A faction of Tiananmen Square demonstrators wanted to use perestroika as a political model. Chinese were not demonstrating for a western liberal democracy. The demand was for reforms. Pelosi's 1991 comment on free speech in China was contradictory. Just a decade later, free press and speech were under attack in the US due to anti-terrorism laws.    

Richard Cheney Discusses The Gulf War (1994)

 

Richard Cheney ( 1941-2025) was a prominent neoconservative who served as Vice President under George W. Bush. Cheney was considered the architect of the the 2003 Iraq War.  As Secretary of Defense under George H.W. Bush, his attitude differed in regards to policy. Speaking to C-Span in 1994, Cheney insisted that Removal of Saddam Hussein would have been an error. Syria and Iran would become more powerful. More conflict would emerge for the demand for Kurdish national self-determination. What change Richard Cheney's mind was his connection to Haliburton. Cheney was CEO of the oil service company from 1995 to 2000. The reason he left was to be on the Republican ticket as Vice President. The invasion of Iraq was not only to have more control of West Asia, but to make the region more favorable to US energy corporations. Haliburton benefited financially from the invasion of Iraq. Vice President Cheney promoted aggressive war to ensure profits for oil corporations. His war crimes and links to torture will never br prosecuted. During the 2010s, Cheney was still seen as respectable in political circles. Violence and corruption can no longer be sanitized with Iraq becoming a failed state.  

Japan Comes Under The Leadership of Sanae Takaichi

 

Japan elected its first female prime minister. Sanae Takaichi now is Japan's head of state. The election of a female prime minister does not mean women's rights will be a priority. Japan is a conservative leaning country. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has expressed her admiration  for Margret Thatcher. Japan could see Thatcherism being applied to Japan with reduction in regulation and monetarist economic policy. The foreign affairs of Japan are going to more hostile to China and North Korea. This explains plans to increase spending on defense.  The push for dismantling the pacifist constitution continues. Japan, like other countries is seeing a wave of anti-immigrant sentiment. Sanar Takaichi is most likely going to crackdown on foreigners working in Japan. The complication is that Japan is seeing decline in population and a growing number of senior citizens. Labor shortages are going to increase, if immigrant labor is curtailed. The work visa program was created to compensate for empty job positions. The Liberal Democratic Party is struggling to hold  political power. The LDP needs to maintain a coalition with the Japanese Innovation Party. Divisions in the political coalition are present over the debate on spending. Sanae Takaichi might not have a long premiership based on the degree of political factionalism. Japan was going through a number of prime ministers until the election of Shinzo Abe. Only illness forced him to resign. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi might have intentions on being head of state for a number of years. Much of this is dependent on how inflation and domestic affairs are handled.     

 

Inflation's Effect on Halloween

 

Inflation is impacting Halloween celebrations. As food prices increase, candy is also effected. Part of a Halloween celebration is that children trick or treat. The amount of candy distributed could be lower than previous years. Supermarkets and retailers are hoping that inflation will not change consumer buying habits. It might not for some, but others living on a strict budget must make adjustments. Retailers are not doing themselves favors by price gouging. Buyers will look for other alternatives. Halloween costumes are subject to the mechanisms of globalization. Materials required to make masks or clothing come from other countries. The majority of  Halloween costumes are made overseas. Imposing new tariffs and the world's reaction to them means a consumer will pay more. The company or corporation makes still generates a profit, at the expense of the buyer. Inflation and the cost of living increases negatively effect celebrations. Workplaces may not have Halloween parties, because prices are too high. Large amounts of food and drinks become expensive. Depending on how many employees attend a Halloween party, it is not financially sustainable. Halloween celebrations over time could be scaled back, due to economic decline. Spending habits can be an indirect measure of economic health. Normally, spending is higher around certain holidays. Candies, costumes, and Halloween decorations cannot escape the negative results of inflation.  

The Impact of Hurricane Melissa

 

Hurricane Melissa struck the Caribbean. Jamacia, Cuba, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and the Bahamas were effected by the storm. Hurricane Melissa is one of the most powerful storms to date. Hurricanes also bring about death. So far, only 28 deaths have been recorded. This might not include those who are missing and later found to be dead. Total deaths are subject to change when more information is uncovered.  A low casualty rate demonstrates the effectiveness of emergency preparation. The aftermath of the storm causes complications. Jamacia has reported an increase in homelessness and property damage. Most of Jamacia does not have power. Without electricity it is difficult for a country to function. Cuba's concern relates to possible landslides. Recovery is difficult under sanctions imposed on Cuba. Haiti's situation was made worse by the hurricane. Violence by armed groups and UN occupation damaged Haiti's internal stability. Haiti now has to deal with flooding of various areas. Food security poses another concern for Caribbean nations. Temporary shelters are not adequate if the number of homeless increase. Hurricane Melissa is not finished. Bermuda could be at risk based Hurricane Melissa's pathway.  

Argentina's Financial Bailout

 

Argentina is entering a new phase in relation to its bailouts. The Trump administration is seeking to provide Argentina with a $ 20 billion bailout. Argentina also got an IMF bailout in 2025 and was provided assistance from the World Bank. The World Bank's package was reported to be $12 billon. The recent negotiations with the United States marks a shift. Instead of going to the IMF or World Bank, Argentina is allying itself with the United States in regards to financial matters. The Trump administration has an ulterior motive to bailing out Argentina. Argentina is being used to counter leftist governments in Venezuela, Nicaragua, Brazil, and Cuba. The desire to undermine socialism is South America is part of Trump administration policy. President Javier Milei  describes himself as an anarcho-capitalist , but espouses libertarian and monetarist concepts. Mass privatization and supply side economics will not solve Argentina's economic crisis. As Argentina is forced into more fiscal austerity measures, the population suffers. Numerous programs for the public were terminated and unemployment increased. After a total of 23 bailouts from the IMF  since 1956, these policies are not effective. Growing poverty is going to cause more protests and civil disturbance. The Trump administration is trying to create a secure outpost in Latin America. Argentina accepting a US bailout would undermine Argentina's sovereignty. The contemporary world is operating on a system of economic colonization. While Argentina receives billions, no explanation was given for how the funds are utilized. It is unlikely the bailout funds would go to increasing employment, infrastructure, job training, or other public services.    

The End of MTV

 

MTV could be phased out. A number of channels are being terminated. There are multiple factors for this decision. Paramount the parent company probably does not think its profitable to continue. The consumption habits of consumers changed. The major error was that MTV put emphasis on reality television. When the channel launched in 1981, it was focused on music videos. Programming was dedicated to music, with other shows with a teenage focus. The demographic was the youth, but interests change among viewers. MTV struggled to adapt in a shifting media consumption landscape. Video sharing and easier access to music was making MTV dated. Digital devices changed the way people get their music. While certain MTV channels are disappearing, MTV is not officially coming to and end. Rather, it could be going through a period of slow death. The countries most effected are the UK and Ireland, which will lose a number of MTV channels. Trying to make MTV a reality show channel could be its downfall. MTV would be just like all other channels, with nothing unique about it. At some stage the channel will not be called MTV. Either it will undergo a major rebrand or be gradually terminated. Both film and television are struggling. The sudden changes to MTV are an indication of a wider problem. Parent companies are more fixated on buying subsidiaries, without make an effort to maintain quality of all their properties. Paramount has fallen to this short sighted business model. MTV could be come a relic of nostalgia in coming years.   

Nicolas Sarkozy Will Serve Five Years In Prison

 

Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy will serve five years in prison. He is now the third French head of state to be sent to prison. Sarkozy was charged in a campaign finance scandal. The former leader was charged in accepting funds from Muammar Qaddafi in 2007. An appeal has been filed for the court ruling. Despite President Nicolas Sarkozy's actions as head of state, supporters did come to protest his imprisonment. France's republic could be experiencing a crisis and an increase in corruption. Five years in prison seems to be a minimal sentence for crime of this nature. France through out its history has cycled through various republics. Erosion of the criminal justice system could be the spark for another collapse of the Fifth French Republic. The criminal charges explain why Nicolas Sarkozy wanted to participate in the NATO war on Libya. The murder of Qaddafi would cover-up the campaign finance connection. At the time, Sarkozy was seeking reelection and was low in the polls. Attacking Libya was also a means to increase prospects of retaining the French presidency. The unfortunate element is that Nicolas Sarkozy will never be charged for war crimes or a war of aggression. Limited outrage is seem when France attacks the African continent. The French as time progresses will lose faith in the presidency. Sarkozy minimal prison sentence demonstrates the criminal justice system privileges powerful public figures.  

Madagascar Under Military Rule

 

Madagascar is now subject to military rule. Protests by youth groups caused the fall of President Andry Rajoelina. The head of state fled the country and this left a power void. Colonel Michael Randrianirina was in a position to seize power and it has been alleged that the High Constitutional Court invited him to do so. This leads to speculation that other parts of the government were plotting Andry Rajoelina's removal. The unit responsible for military rule is known as CAPSAT. President Andry Rajoelina was last seen departing on a French military  plane. He never officially resigned and claimed there were threats on his life. The 2025 coup was not the first military takeover of Madagascar. President  Marc Ravalomanana was deposed by a coup in 2009. Andry Rajoelina would take control of the High Transitional Authority being head of state from 2009 to 2014. The following period would be known as Madagascar's fourth republic. Rajoelina would be elected in 2019. It appeared as if he was a permanent fixture in the politics of the island nation. The error in 2025 was making an attempt to dissolve the National Assembly. The response from the governing body was to impeach the president. A military government is not going to stop protests. As long as power and water cuts continue demonstrations will increase. Corruption has cause much of the public discord and youth can no longer wait for gradual change. The African Union responded to the coup by suspending Madagascar. 

A Decade of Apple News

 

Apple News was launched in 2015. It was a replacement for Newsstand which lasted as iOS application for 14 years. The application is an aggregator, which collects news from various sources. The aggregator is designed to help a use get their news in one place. The user of the application gets to select their sources, however algorithms are going to favor establishment media. Bias and polarization are becoming large problems in reporting. Apple did face a scandal in 2025, when artificial intelligence was used for news summaries. Apple's AI was creating false headlines. Apple then disabled the AI feature and began working on updates to fix the issue. False information or fake news was a problem before the 2010s. Establishment media either made incorrect statements or distorted particular events. Some critics argue that the public should obtain enough media literacy. Even the most knowledgeable and educated people can still be manipulated by the media. The older generation might be more susceptible seeing as they are not as familiar with various apps. AI is going to be used more in aggregators. Trying to determine truth or mendacious claims become more complicated. Combined with Google's dominance as a search engine, information is becoming more controlled. Apple News still provides newspapers in digital format such as the Washington Post and Wall Street Journal. Many independent media related materials would not be on Apple News. At some stage Apple News could be completely run and managed by AI. Assuming it adapts, Apple News also could be retired in favor of a completely different application.   

The Wave of Generation Z Protests

 

The world is witnessing protests across continents by Gen-Z. Kenya, Morocco, Madagascar, Serbia, Italy, Nepal, Peru, and Bangladesh are just a few countries confronting demonstrations. The biggest concentration of the demonstrations are focused Southeast Asia. While each of these protests happen under different circumstances a common theme appears. Economic inequality is the central focus. Frustrations only mount under conditions of censorship and autocratic governance. Generation Z is not getting the benefits it was promised by these governments. Vexed at the use of police violence, this has caused many to lose faith in the political system. This seems to be the case with the Philippines and Indonesia. The concentration of protests in one region almost seems similar to the Arab Spring. A series of regime changes are not revolutions. The color revolutions in the 2000s were more or less foreign interference in parts of Europe and Asia. It would be erroneous to call this a beginning of a world revolution. The Gen-Z protests across continents are not connected to one another. The movements lack centralization and do not have major leaders. The amorphous model is useful in particular circumstances. The limitation is that changing conditions in a country requires more organization. Another obstacle is that most do not attain political consciousness. Older generations are not concerned about the youth or what happens in the future. They are not going to change their positions, because they were raised in the current system. Others refuse to acknowledge flaws in government or economic policy and direct their ire at activists. If the world economy declines further and governments become more corrupt protests will spread. Discord and struggles of the youth must be taken seriously if there is to be functioning nation-states.      

South Korean Youth Are Dropping Out of The Labor Force

 

South Korea faces a labor concern related to the youth population. South Korean youth are dropping out of the labor force. A harsh labor market and the growing economic downturn are causes. Then there is a shift in the nature of employment. Recent graduates are no longer going to accept jobs in the service sector or manufacturing. The notion that a person that spent effort on higher education to work in low skill or semi-skilled work is unrealistic. The expectation of working long hours with little benefits does not attract employees. As various companies and corporations suspend hiring, the youth grow more frustrated. Between filling out applications, job interviews, and searching the youth do not envision financial security. Those who are no longer looking or drop out of the workforce see no point contributing. The realization that the employee and workers are disposable created this sentiment. Technology at some stage is going to replace much of the white collar workforce. The working class will expand from those who lose their middle class status. South Korea manufacturing and construction sectors are effected by those who drop out of the labor force. Companies are only making it worse by doing ad hoc hiring. South Korea is seeing companies move away from graduate recruitment. Education was thought to be a pathway of acquiring better jobs and financial security. Over the past decade, this is not the case. Corporate avarice and the failures of neoliberal capitalism are driving South Korean youth away from the labor market.    

Why Maria Corina Machado Was Awarded The Nobel Prize

 

Maria Corina Machado was awarded the Nobel Prize. The choice comes at a period when Venezuela is under threat from foreign powers. Machado being given the Nobel Prize was related to her activism. This was not some humanitarian campaign, rather it was her effort to depose the legitimate government of Venezuela. Those not familiar with her political career would see her as an activist. For two decades Maria Corina Machado tried to depose the government by extralegal means. Sumate claims to be a civil volunteer organization, but it motivation when established was to have President Hugo Chavez removed from office. It was in 2004 Sumate launched a referendum to recall  President Hugo Chavez . When evidence surfaced that the National Endowment for Democracy was funding Sumate the government acted. When President Hugo Chavez died, Machado became an enemy of the Nicolas Maduro administration. Being a participant in the 2014 protests boosted her political profile . Machado is similar to Juan Guaido. A political opposition figure trying to obtain the presidency to rule on the behalf of foreign interests. Maria Corina Machado has expressed a desire to privatize state run sectors and dismantle socialist policies. Awarding Machado the Nobel Prize was method of undermining the legitimate government of Venezuela. There is speculation that Maria Corina Machado could be working in some capacity with foreign intelligence. No evidence of this claim as been uncovered. Machado's Nobel Prize was more of a public relations operation promoting military action.   

Peter Mutharika Returns To The Malawian Presidency

 

Peter Mutharika served as president from 2014 to 2020. Now, Mutharika has made a political comeback winning the 2025 presidential election. The year 2019 was a low point in which the Supreme Court nullified the election results. The accusation of irregularities in voting were the charges. President Peter Mutharika obtained 56% of the vote. This is a little more than half, which indicates Malawians are still divided. The defeat of former President Lazarus Chakwera was linked to the economic crisis Malawi faces. Inflation made it difficult for citizens to acquire basic necessities. Food shortages have been reported and few solutions to combat the concern. Fuel shortages further harm Malawi, because the modern world is dependent on rapid transport of consumer goods. The economic challenges explain the 33% result for former President Chakwera. Agriculture is a large part of the Malawian economy, yet it is under threat. Droughts and cyclones destroy farms. Climate change also remains a security risk to framing and food security. President Mutharika faces a Malawi with economic and regional challenges. Malawi is going to need investment from its neighbors in Southern Africa. Detail programs are required so that Malawi can reach developed nation status. There is speculation the second Mutharika administration will be different. Economic and political conditions could cause this, but there is no way of predicting how the presidency will progress. The Malawian Constitution has a two term limit, which are a length of  five years. This is going to be President Mutharika's last time in office. At age 85, there are concerns about his health and if President Mutharika can finish the second term.   

Remembering Jane Goodall (1934-2025)

 

Jane Goodall was a pioneer in the fields of primatology. Here decades long career was spent studying chimpanzees. The study of primates allows for a greater understanding of anthropology. Chimpanzees have an intricate system of social behavior. Jane Goodall was able to direct observation of these primates in Gombe National Park. Jane Goodall first when to the park to do research in 1960. What she observed were animals that were capable of various emotions, but were also intelligent. Goodall thought that chimpanzees generally were peaceful. Although she did note troops would engage in violence. Chimpanzees also are capable of tool making. Chimpanzees Jane Goodall observed were also omnivores. They will eat a combination of insects and fruit. During the late 20th century, Goodall became more concerned about the environment and the protection of animal life. She became active in conservation and warned about the dangers of climate change. Chimpanzees are under threat from deforestation, poaching, and human inflicted damage to the environment. Conservation is needed to not only protect wildlife, but to ensure Earth's survival. Jane Goodall's research and activism provides a blueprint for zoological study and preserving species who are at risk for extinction.   

The 80th Anniversary of The United Nations

 

It was in 1945 that the United Nations was established. The devastation of World War II required a new international platform to confront international disputes. The failure of the League of Nations to confront fascism resulted in its demise. The United Nations was intended to be a platform of diplomacy as a method to prevent war or a wider global conflict. The United Nations since its birth has failed to meet these objectives. During the Cold War, the UN was unable to provide a peaceful solution to the Vietnam War, challenge Apartheid South Africa, or the Soviet Union's invasion of Hungary and Czechoslovakia. The United States was never subject sanctions for wars of aggression in Asia, Latin America, and  the Middle East. Controversies over peacekeeping forces and the question of national sovereignty is a constant issue. The United Nations continues to be dominated by major world powers. The Security Council needs to become more democratic to include more nations. The five permanent members include France, the UK, US, China, and the Russian Federation. Five nations with ten rotating non-permanent members should not be making global security decisions  for the entire world. The UN policies directed at certain nations reveals a bias. North Korea and Iran are subject to UN sanctions, yet Israel is not punished for the Gaza War. The UN has not proposed peace agreements related to the Russia-Ukraine War. The UN's actions and in Libya, Iraq, the Democratic Republic of the Congo  and Haiti are reminders of institutional failures. If reform does not take place, the UN could disband like the League of Nations. The United Nations over the years has been not a place of diplomacy. Rather, it legitimizes waging war against nations mostly in Africa and Asia. If a large scale global war takes place, the United Nations would not survive. Too much faith and legitimacy has been lost in the institution. Changing internal governance structure, an equal application of international law,  and emphasizing diplomatic solutions can ensure the survival of the United Nations.      

Assata Shakur Articulates The Importance of Socialism (1996)

Assata Shakur (1947-2025) was an activist and one of the leaders of the Black Liberation Army. The BLA split from the Black Panther Party and promoted socialism as well as black nationalism. The FBI during the 1970s was on a campaign to wipe out leftist organizations in the United States. Assata Shakur was accused of murder of state troopers, but evidence for the 1973 case was lacking. The 1977 Werner Foerster murder case made another accusation, but despite disputable claims Assata was convicted of murder. What appeared to be happening was the FBI was persecuting Assata Shakur as a means of dismantling the Black Liberation Army. Shakur believed that socialism could be a means of fighting economic inequality, imperialism, and oppression. Assata Shakur escaped prison and was granted political asylum in Cuba . It was 1984, when Assata Shakur was given protection from the US government. Cuba has since 1962 been threatened by the United States. US empire continues to cause deaths. During the Cold War Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia were subject to atrocities by the United States. The  people of the Global South share a common oppressor as African Americans Assata Shakur stated in 1996. The illusion of progress is the idea that African Americans becoming more active in capitalist enterprise means freedom. Accepting the economic system preserves an authoritarian political structure. Shakur never stopped being an activist, even though she was in exile.   

 

The Concerns of The Central Bank of Nigeria

 

The Central Bank of Nigeria is facing a series of challenges. The new tax reforms going into effect next year have generated controversy. Nigerians could find that their bank accounts are going to be subject to more taxation. The wave of tariffs continues to disrupt the economies of various countries. The CBN in April had to sell a total of $200 million to protect the naira. During that month, crude oil prices dropped, which made for a more precarious crisis. Nigeria is reliant on crude oil for foreign exchange. The CBN has not formulated a policy to address tariffs, debts to the IMF, or the decline in oil prices. CBN this year also sold $197.71 million   to banks to secure Nigeria's position in the foreign exchange market. To certain economists, this appears to be a massive transfer of wealth out of  Nigeria. The oil wealth and the CBN's banking system have not translated into financial security for the population. Concerns about liquidity and regulations are growing. The recommendations made were to use commercial papers to manage possible risk. The commercial paper is a temporary debt tool designed to manage future payments. The CBN began using cash stuffing to manage the situation. While budgeting physical cash was the responsible course of action, the result was increased costs on deposits for consumers. The debt to World Bank is estimated to be $18.2 billion. The CBN's biggest concern is the growing debt from international banking institutions.     

Israel's Attack on Qatar and Expansion of Aggressive War

 

Israel's strike against Hamas leaders residing in Qatar was a turning point. Gulf monarchies are no longer safe from Israel's military aggression. The Gulf monarchies decided to align with the West and the result was a lapse in security. Now, there is a possibility that Jordan and Egypt will break treaties with Israel, because the public's ire continues to grow. Failure to respond forcefully, could induce mass uprising in Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Kuwait. Israel continues to starve and bomb Gaza, but the resistance continues. The Gulf monarchies do not have the military strength to confront Israel, but there are certain options. The shutting down of US bases, an alliance with Iran, and supporting various armed groups could do much to halt Israeli expansion. Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani expressed his desire to see an independent Palestinian state. Qatar has been known to arm a number of Islamist groups. These armed groups were active in Syria and Libya. Qatar could direct armed groups against Israel if more strikes continue. Violations of national sovereignty and blatant anti-Arab racism are not going to be tolerated. The following months could see immense blowback either from the Gulf monarchies or other non-state actors. Ministers are gathering to discuss punishments that Israel should face. The Doha attack signals the death of the Abraham Accords. The more violent Israel becomes, the more unity is created among Arab states. Diplomatic isolation in West Asia could have major economic consequences. Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, or Kuwait are not dependent on Israel for trade. The attack on Qatar somewhat parallels the attack on Tunisia in 1985. The PLO's base in the country was attacked and the sovereignty of a country was violated.     

The Nepal Protests and Violence

 

The Nepalese public became even more vexed with the ineffectiveness of their government. The youth became active in demonstrations, which resulted in attacks on government buildings. Gen Z was represented the most in the protests. Images are now being seen of the parliament building being set into flames. Prior to this, there was an attempt to ban social media. The reason was to stop organizing and undermine free press. The protests forced Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli into resignation. His own safety is at risk, with protesters attacking his residence. Economics was a factor  in the violence. Large amounts of unemployed youth are struggling. The upper class of Nepal is able to maintain a higher standard of living. Simultaneously, Nepal is dependent on finances from citizens living abroad. Personal remittances are transfers of funds that are non-commercial. Individuals do send money to their families, yet this should not be the basis the the gross national product. Decades of this practice left Nepal in an unstable economic condition.  No party obtained a majority, so forming a new government would be difficult. Nepal could descend into a coup or a possible civil war. If the military takes over, violence will escalate. Law enforcement has already engaged in violence against protesters. A change in government at some stage will attract the attention of India and Pakistan. More instability might cause certain citizens to propose reestablishing the monarchy. The question remains is if the protesters and the government can reach a consensus.  

President Umaro Sissoco Embalo Seeks Another Term

 

Political factionalism continues to be a part of the government of Guinea-Bissau. President Umaro Sissoco Embalo wants to seek a second term. At first, President Embalo expressed that there was no intent to extend his presidency. Guinea-Bissau has struggled with coup attempts and instability since independence. The current controversy facing the politics of the country is the debate over term limits. The opposition claims that the president's term expired. The Supreme Court holds the position the presidential term expires in September. The political opposition does not dictate presidential term limits. The Constitution of Guinea-Bissau lists the powers and rules of the presidency. The political opposition most likely wants to remove him by extra legal means. A coup was allegedly thwarted in 2022. The start of the Embaldo administration was met with conflicts with the parliament. The dissolving of the parliament in 2022, resulted in rescheduling elections. Guinea-Bissau has not experienced a coup since 2012. The military establishment retains an abnormal influence on government. President Umaro Sissoco Embalo navigates between a contentious parliament and a ubiquitous military. Tensions are rising about what happens with the next elections. Guinea-Bissau has gone 13 years without a coup and it was during the Embalo presidency ECOWAS troops left.  

Corus Entertainment Shuts Down Nelvana

 

Nelvana one of Canada's prominent animation studios had ended production. Established in 1971, the studio produced a number of animated series and films. Corus Entertainment amassed immense debt. This was Nelvana's parent company since the year 2000. Between that year of purchase to 2025, $1,000,000,000 of debt was created. No explanation was given for how that debt emerged. The speculation is that funds were wasted, went to executives, or used for failed projects. What happened to Nelvana is a warning to other animation studios. The actions of the parent company tend to harm the subsidiaries. Nelvana was not producing low quality work, but mismanagement . Corus Entertainment might not exist in a few decades if debt can not get under control. The entertainment industry is still adjusting to streaming and the changing consumption habits of viewers. Corus Entertainment did not mention layoffs when speaking with the press. Those who work in animation or seeking to begin a career are struggling. What becomes more questionable is the amount of bonuses executives were paid. A serious discussion about executive bonuses never takes place. Never do they offer to take a cut in bonuses to prevent the company failing or to contribute to debt payments. Nelvana would have survived if it was not owned by another company. Corus Entertainment's solution to the debt concerns is to manage existing properties. Corus Entertainment  insists the Nelvana brand will remain, but production of new content has ended. Canadian animators are going to have to find work at another animation studio or go abroad. 

Thailand's Growing Political Instability

 

Paetongtran Shinawatra has been removed from office. The charge was an ethics violation, however upon further analysis there was a political motivation. A phone call with former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen was deemed an ethics violation. Prime Minister Paetongtarn's crime was she criticized the Thai military. The phone call was and discussion was not a serious criminal offense. No evidence exists of acts of treason or conspiracy. The dialogue between two figures was an act of diplomacy and conflict resolution. The removal of another Thai head of state could result in another coup. Thailand's 2006 and 2014 coups demonstrate that the military has more power than a civilian government. The Shinawatras can never govern effectively  due to the interference of the Thai military and the weaponization of the Constitutional Court. Whoever becomes the next prime minister will confront political factionalism, the military, and the attacks from the Constitutional Court. The elites, military, and the monarchy itself do not support a liberal democratic system. Various political parties are fighting to get majorities in the parliament. When neither can obtain dominance, fragile coalition governments are formed. The political impasses are used as a justification for the military to depose the government.  The Pheu Thai Party's strategy is to seek a means of dissolving parliament. Taking this action would be a means of preventing a military coup or deadlock with other political parties.  Thailand has the risk of becoming more like Myanmar and a wider conflict with Cambodia breaking out. The Thai public might want some authoritarianism as an alternative to ineffective government. Snap elections could be coming in the following months, yet this will not resolve domestic and regional challenges.  

The Global Unemployment Rate And Accuracy of Data

 

The condition of the economy is determined by the amount of employment. Using the global unemployment rate as a measure provides incite. Over the past 34 years, there have been fluctuations in unemployment. A number of circumstances cause this. The fall of the Soviet union caused unemployment in Eastern Europe. The global financial crisis in 2008 harmed the labor market and COVID-19 change the nature of employment. The data from over the decades is not precise. While it can be argued it was accurate, the total number of unemployed was higher. The period between 1991 to 2016 does not reflect all people without work. Much of the data used comes from either the World Bank or International Monetary Fund. These institutions have been criticized related to their conduct in regards to Global South nations. Errors can occur in data collection and the way unemployment is measured is subject to change. People who given up seeking work or not trying are excluded from the data. This  distorts the statistics of global unemployment. The number is much larger and growing. A trend can be seen with certain events. The next wave of global unemployment will come from automation and artificial intelligence. The effects of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic caused another mass global unemployment event. The world has not recovered in terms of business security and income. The working class suffers the most, but the middle class will be the next victim. Many skilled jobs are going to be replaced. The middle class could cease to exist with the full integration of automation and artificial intelligence. Data collection must be as precise as possible to help formulate solutions to increases in global unemployment. Otherwise, economic reports from various institutions will not be useful.  

No Reports Related To Former President Biden's Health

 

Former President Joseph Biden was diagnosed with prostate cancer in May of 2025. The media and Democratic Party tried to ignore the significance of the former president's health. If he had remained in the 2024  presidential campaign, this could have been a serious crisis for government. When diagnosed, President Biden stated he was expected to make a full recovery. President Joseph Biden's health issues were becoming obvious during his administration. The first debate President Biden was showing signs of cognitive decline. While there is an order of succession for the office of president, a transition unexpectedly can be a cause of concern. An unhealthy head of state becomes a reflection of the healthcare system. A president who is supposed to have quality medical care was failed by White House doctors. The average US citizen fares worse in terms of fighting disease and maintaining  health. Paying for medical care still causes financial ruin and bankruptcy. The only reason this was not a bigger scandal was that the diagnosis was made when Biden was no longer in office. President Trump's mental health is subject to scrutiny, yet there was silence over President Biden's memory issues. The leaders of the US are aging and there is a need for youthful politicians. After President Obama, US heads of state have been senior citizens. Health and age should be factors in selection of a candidate for the presidency. The Democratic Party nominated twice an leader who was older and displaying signs of deteriorating health. This must change if the Democratic Party is to retake the White House in 2028. President Biden continues to remain active in public life, despite having health issues.          

Botswana's Healthcare Emergency

 

Botswana is facing a healthcare crisis. A massive shortage of medicine and medical equipment is the country's major concern. President Duma Boko stated funds are being amassed to counter lack of supplies and the military will act as distributor. The healthcare crisis is being blamed on the decline of the global diamond market and cuts from foreign aid. The failure to not utilize the diamond trade to healthcare demonstrates mismanagement. The crisis also reveals how foreign aid is not protection. The accumulation of debt creates dependency. The objective for Botswana should have been to independent in its healthcare services. A domestic ,medical supply chain must be developed. Central Medical Stores has been accused of corruption and links to the current medical supply chain issue. The CMS is a state procurement agency, which works with various intermediaries. The increase in drug prices and reduced medical service will harm low income Botswanans .Despite these challenges Botswana has dramatically reduced the rate of HIV. African nations must assist others on the continent. Rather than being reliant on foreign aid, programs should be created by the African Union. Botswana does have options. Some of these would required greater cooperation with South Africa, Malawi, and Tanzania. Botswana's healthcare crisis is a warning to all nations that do not have a stable domestic medical supply chain.      

Venezuela Threatened

 

Venezuela since 2002 has been the target of US interference. Now, tensions have risen with US naval forces being detected off the coast. What was deployed to Venezuela were Aegis guided-missile destroyers. Three warships were detected indicating possible military aggression directed at Venezuela. Prior to this provocation, the US government issued a bounty for President Nicolas Maduro. The Trump administration asserts this is an effort to stop drug cartels and that Venezuela contributes to the traffic of  illegal substances. President Donald Trump without evidence claimed President Nicolas Maduro was in control of drug trafficking throughout the region. The true motivation is to obtain Venezuela's vast oil reserves. The official statements from the White House, Department of Defense, and Justice Department was the warships were part of an operation to stop the transport of narcotics. Fighting gangs and drug cartels are a cover to either intervene or possibly occupy Latin American countries. Designating gangs and drug cartels as terrorist organizations provides the justification. The United States of America continues to undermine South America's sovereignty and attack leftist governments. If Venezuela is invaded, it could induce a massive refugee crisis. Colombia, Brazil, and Guyana would be effected. The War on Drugs has become a curtain for an invasion of the entire South American continent. Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia do have challenges related to drug cartel crime. There is no evidence cartels are being directed by Venezuela. President Nicolas Maduro announced that he seeks to mobilize 4.5 milita members to defend the country if military action is taken by the United States.    

MSNBC Seeks Rebranding

 

MSNBC will change its name in an effort to rebrand the cable news channel. The new name of the channel will be called MS NOW. This stands for my source, news, opinion, and world. MSNBC has been struggling with ratings over the past few years. The failure to adapt is the primary reason. Many viewers are going to alternative or independent media sources. Social media, websites, and video sharing platforms are now major sources of news. The rebranding will not be effective unless changes are made. Corporate media seeks to uphold a certain narrative, which does not present political or social realities. Media bias can be present in any source, but MSNBC was more blatant with its coverage. the channel favors a political centrist and corporate Democrat perspective. The majority of the audience it appeals to is the baby boomer demographic. That generation does not represent the majority of the public. The channel focuses too much on domestic news, while international affairs are ignored. Biased reporting related to Israel and Ukraine becomes more obvious as conditions change rapidly. To an extent coverage of the Trump administration keeps the channel going. Other cable news networks have followed this model and it is not sustainable. The failure to update to the new era of digital media demonstrates how out of touch cable news channels are. Renaming the channel seems like they want viewers to think they are getting something different. Many viewers see MSNBC as an official press organization for the Democratic Party. Considering viewers want actual information and not political party press releases, ratings declined. The MS NOW transformation is not enough to fix the cable news network. 

The Changes Coming To Eastern Europe

 

The Alaska Summit was held by President Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. The meeting did not produce any peace settlements or an end to violence. The speculation was that it was a discussion of partition of Ukraine. President Zelensky is set to meet with President Trump after the Alaska Summit.  The Russia-Ukraine War has changed Eastern Europe. Belarus is viewed with more hostility due to its alliance with the Russian Federation. The country has not sent any forces, but is subject to sanctions by the European Union. The rest of Eastern Europe is becoming more militarized. Poland does host US air defense systems and military bases. Even if a peace settlement is reached, US military bases will not be removed. Ukraine will lose territory and the western section under a US- European Union sphere of influence. Hungary being closer to the Russian Federation is seeing a decline in relations with the UK and Germany. The war is also causing changes in the Balkans and the Baltic. Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia are going to be given more arms. Kosovo is going to be pushed to be recognized to undermine Serbia.  NATO members in Europe are expected to increase spending to 5% of their GDP. The economic consequences are going to be negative for the citizens of the UK, Germany, France, and Italy. As taxation increases and social services are cut, public discord will grow. The demographic shift in Ukraine is going to effect the rest of Europe. Since 2022, Ukrainians have fled to avoid military service, violence, and seek safety. As more people die, the country is feeling the consequences of population decline. The Ukrainians that are refugees, might not decide to return. More refugees are going to come when the war is over. Sudden increases of refugee traffic from inside Europe will generate resentment. The loss of the Russia-Ukraine War will halt efforts at European integration. Eastern Europe is becoming divided between EU-NATO supporting countries and those that want diplomatic relations with Russia.