Ceasefire Talks Commence to End War in Yemen
This comes at a point of increasing domestic and international diplomatic activity to end the country’s eight-year conflict before the current truce ends.
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Author: Drew Starbuck
China Proposes Peace Plan for Russia-Ukraine War
The basis of these proposals lie on many enduring Chinese foreign policy positions such as the consistent guarantee that all nations’ sovereignty and territorial independence be respected along with a rejection of the “Cold War” mentality by Western nations.
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As the Global Population Reaches 8 Billion, What Does That Mean for Food Security?
The dangers of a rapidly increasing world population amidst a consistent decline in the Earth’s natural environment cannot be understated as humanity progresses further into the 21st century.
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The Protests in Iran Mark a Turning Point for the Country
Reuters states that these protests represent the first major challenge to Iranian leaders in years. In fact, furious protestors are calling for the death of Iran’s leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, chanting “death to the dictator.”
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FOCUS on the Global Energy Crisis: Europe
Germany, along with the greater European Union, has promised to boost its lending to major energy firms as rising energy prices threaten to extend their crushing grip on the industry. According to Reuters, the European Commission has targeted specific paths to reduce electricity consumption along with placing a revenue cap on non-gas fueled plants.
Read MoreFOCUS on the Laws of War: The Geneva Conventions
War, like any other human endeavor throughout history, has historically had rules. The invasion of Ukraine by Russia and the actions of its soldiers in alleged incidents, such as in the suburb of Bucha the capital of Kyiv, have led members of the international community to accuse the Russian government of war crimes. The modern outlook on what constitutes a war crime can be traced far back, most notably to 20th-century agreements like the Geneva Conventions.
Read MoreU.S. Launches Sanctions Against Houthi Financers
On February 23, the United States took a major step in supporting allies Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates by announcing sanctions against key members of an international financing network accused of diverting funds for Yemen’s Houthi rebels, reports The Independent. The sanctions were launched in response to recent conflict escalation by the Houthis, who have launched an increasing number of missile and drone strikes against Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
Read MoreFOCUS on Sports Geopolitics: Sportswashing
Saudi Arabia recently made headlines in the sporting world with its purchase of a stake in the English Premier League club Newcastle United as part of their Public Investment Fund, according to NPR. This fund, which is owned by the Saudi Arabian government, ended up purchasing an 80% stake of Newcastle United for 300 million pounds, the equivalent of $400 million.
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Thucydides’ Trap: A New Era of Great-Power Competition Between the United States and China
Thucydides’ Trap posits that when a great power’s hegemony is threatened by a rising power, there is a high likelihood of war between the two nations. This proposition is relevant when examining the relationship between the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and the United States. Allison coined this term precisely to characterize increasing U.S.-China tensions, worrying that it would eventually result in a war between the world’s two greatest powers.
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FOCUS on Pariah Leaders: Kim Jong-un
North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong-un is a pariah within the international community for the often brutal nature of his rule and his no-holds-barred approach to any dissent. The infamous leader succeeded his father, Kim Jong Il, in 2011, and has since bent the nation to his will.
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