The news of China covering up the sinking of their newest submarine has caused quite a stir in the international community. Some may say it’s not a big deal, after all, submarines are designed to sink. But the real issue lies in the fact that China failed to disclose the incident and attempted to hide it from the world.
It’s understandable that countries may not want to broadcast their military mishaps for the world to see. However, in the case of a submarine sinking, transparency is crucial. The lack of transparency from China raises questions about their intentions and capabilities in the naval sphere.… Continue reading
In China, criticism can silence even the most prominent voices. The recent disappearance of a top Chinese economist, Zhu Hengpeng, after allegedly questioning President Xi Jinping’s economic policies in a private chat, is a stark reminder of the consequences dissent can bear in an authoritarian regime. The fact that Zhu has been missing since April, stripped of his role at a think tank, underscores the extent to which the Chinese government will go to stifle opposing opinions, even from respected professionals.
While President Xi’s attempts to revitalize China’s economy amidst a protracted slowdown may be met with skepticism, the disappearance of Zhu reveals a deeper issue at play – the fear of speaking out against the ruling party.… Continue reading
Well, well, well, it seems like Russia is facing yet another obstacle in its tumultuous relationship with China. Reports now claim that Russian banks have run out of yuan as Chinese firms are pulling away from the nation. This news comes as a blow to Putin’s aspirations of forming a strong alliance with China, which seems to be playing the long game and reaping the benefits at Russia’s expense.
The idea of the two countries being allies seems to be crumbling before our very eyes. China’s strategic maneuvering to distance itself from Russia reflects a larger truth: Russia may have overplayed its hand in its dealings with China.… Continue reading
China recently announced an eye-popping offer of $51 billion in fresh funding for Africa, coupled with the promise of creating a million jobs on the continent. At first glance, it may seem like an act of goodwill – China investing in the development of African nations, boosting their economies, and providing job opportunities for the local populations. However, upon closer inspection, it becomes evident that there may be more to this seemingly generous offer.
As standards of living in China rise and wages increase, the country is looking to Africa as a strategic investment opportunity. By positioning themselves as investors in Africa’s infrastructure and economy, China hopes to secure a stake in the future manufacturing and industrial landscape of the continent.… Continue reading
No arrest for Putin as he arrives in Mongolia, and the reactions are not the least bit surprising. Mongolia finds itself in a unique position, sandwiched between two major world powers, Russia and China. The idea of arresting the leader of either of these countries is not only improbable but would also bring severe consequences for the nation. Last year, Russia’s power play with cutting off essential supplies to Mongolia highlighted the level of control it exerts over the country, especially in the energy sector.
The reality is that Mongolia’s geopolitical positioning leaves it with little room to challenge or antagonize either of its powerful neighbors.… Continue reading
Mongolia’s recent decision not to arrest Putin may have raised a few eyebrows, but let’s get real here – did anyone seriously expect Mongolia to arrest him? I mean, come on, that’s just not a realistic expectation. It’s like asking the smallest kid in school to stand up to the bully. Mongolia is sandwiched between Russia and China, with no strong allies in sight. They import a massive portion of their petroleum products and electricity from their neighbors. Putin, the man with the power and influence of a major world player, pays them a visit, and the world expects Mongolia to take him down?… Continue reading
The recent reports of Chinese banks halting transactions with Russia en masse have sparked a wave of discussion and speculation. The move highlights the increasing caution among Chinese financial institutions to avoid secondary sanctions from the United States. This decision comes amidst the growing impact of U.S. sanctions on Russia and raises questions about the extent of China’s alignment with Western sanctions.
Chinese banks are faced with a dilemma, caught between the risk of losing U.S. customers and corporations that heavily rely on dollar transactions and the potential fallout from processing Russian transactions. The sheer size of China’s customer base intertwined with U.S.… Continue reading
Imagine being in a position of trust within the United States military, entrusted with sensitive information crucial to national security, and then choosing to betray that trust for a mere $42,000. That’s the reality for Sgt. Schultz, an intelligence analyst who pleaded guilty to selling military secrets to China. It’s truly baffling how someone could value their integrity and loyalty to their country at such a low price point.
Sgt. Schultz claimed he wanted to emulate the fictional character Jason Bourne, a daring and resourceful spy. But instead of using his position to protect his country and its interests, he chose to sell out and compromise vital information related to missile defense, artillery systems, fighter aircraft, military tactics, and defense strategy for Taiwan.… Continue reading
An age ago, I worked for NORAD while stationed in Alaska, maintaining the computers that were used to track these interceptions. They used to give photographs of the intercepted Soviet bombers to everyone on duty at the ROCC during the vent. I have a folder of Tu-95 photos. After the Berlin Wall came down, the number of interceptions dropped to almost nothing for many years. During the Cold War this was called “Wednesday”. Obviously in response to the 2 B-52s the other day. Sabre rattling no doubt… this dance is as old as time.
The recent incident where NORAD jets intercepted 2 Russian and 2 Chinese bombers off the Alaskan coast has caused a stir in the media and amongst the public.… Continue reading
Hungary quietly takes record $1 billion loan from Chinese banks, and the implications are certainly raising eyebrows. The fact that this large sum of money will be loaned to North Macedonia, despite assertions that it wouldn’t be from China, is quite dubious. The political connections and implications involved in this transaction raise serious concerns about where the money will truly end up.
It’s worrying to think that this loan, when it inevitably defaults, will leave taxpayers to foot the bill. The close relationships between politicians and those benefiting from these loans are shady at best. The idea that Hungary would opt for such a generous loan from China, and potentially turn away from financial support from the EU, is questionable at best.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker