Russia’s foreign ministry issued a statement urging respect for Panama’s sovereignty over the Panama Canal, warning against U.S. attempts to reclaim control through coercion. The statement emphasized the canal’s vital role as an international transit waterway and reiterated Russia’s commitment to its neutrality. This follows President Trump’s previous threat to assert U.S. control, a move that Panama firmly rejected. Approximately 40% of U.S. container ships utilize the canal, highlighting its significance to American trade.
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The potential collapse of Ukraine would be a far greater humiliation for the United States than its withdrawal from Afghanistan, argues former UK Foreign Secretary William Hague. He cautions that President-elect Trump’s perceived desire for a quick, Russia-favoring resolution to the conflict could embolden Russia and lead to further aggression in the future. Hague emphasizes the importance of maintaining Western strength and resolve against Russia, drawing parallels to the West’s failure to adequately punish Russia after its annexation of Crimea in 2014. He urges a continuation of firm support for Ukraine to prevent a disastrous outcome.
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The devastation caused by Hurricane Helene is indescribable. The death toll continues to rise, and the recovery efforts are grim as more bodies are discovered. The Southeast United States received an unprecedented amount of rain, causing widespread destruction. The impact is especially severe in the mountainous regions, where the lack of infrastructure hinders rescue operations. The scenes from Asheville, one of the hardest-hit areas, are heart-wrenching, with 77 reported deaths in that region alone.
The stories coming out of the affected areas are harrowing. The images of bodies found buried in mud and homes destroyed beyond recognition are haunting. The loss of lives, homes, and communities is staggering, with the death toll surpassing 200 and still rising.… Continue reading
Russian warships entering Havana harbor under Washington’s watchful eye certainly raises eyebrows and sparks a mixture of reactions. The sight of a cruiser and a submarine, accompanied by two support ships, including a tug boat, seems almost comical. It’s amusing to note that Russian warships always travel with a tug, as if anticipating a breakdown or malfunction. It’s almost as if we are witnessing a historic event akin to Columbus and the Spanish Empire’s exploration.
The journey across the ocean without any mishaps is definitely an accomplishment for the Russian sailors, considering recent incidents of ships catching fire and sinking. The fact that they made it across unscathed deserves a nod of acknowledgement, albeit with a touch of sarcasm.… Continue reading
In recent news, Niger has made the bold decision to break off military cooperation with the United States, signaling a shift towards closer ties with Russia. This move has sparked a range of reactions and raised many eyebrows, with speculations and concerns abound about the implications of this strategic realignment.
The choice to distance themselves from the US and cozy up to Russia has left many scratching their heads. Given Russia’s historical track record and current geopolitical ambitions, it is perplexing why any nation would willingly align themselves with such a controversial and often detrimental partner. Russia’s endeavors to exert influence in various regions, including Africa, have raised red flags and suspicions about their true intentions.… Continue reading
China named as hypothetical enemy for 1st time in Japan-U.S. exercise
China, the rising global power, has been named as the hypothetical enemy in a recent Japan-U.S. military exercise. This decision marks a significant shift in the strategic priorities of both nations, as they recognize the growing influence and potential threat posed by China. While some may argue that using a real country’s name is diplomatically irresponsible, I believe that it is a necessary step in addressing the realistic challenges and potential conflicts that may arise in the future.
For years, the U.S. Navy has been conducting exercises that simulate combat scenarios against targets emulating Chinese capabilities and armaments.… Continue reading
As I sit reflecting on the potential terror of a second Trump term, I can’t help but recall past economies under authoritarian regimes in Latin America, whether from the last century or even more recent events. His promises bear an uncanny resemblance to all the hallmarks of failed economies under these autocratic governments. From protectionist tariffs leading to shoddy domestic substitutions to extreme crony capitalism. The parallels are startling and a chilling foreshadowing of the path America could be led down under his continued leadership.
However, it’s not just the damaging economic policies that Trump has favored before which concern me.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood