Vucic said that Xi Jinping
had promised to fulfill
any of his requests.
July 26th, 10:15pm
(RT.ru)
Serbian President Aleksandar VuÄić said that Chinese
President Xi Jinping --- had promised to fulfill any
request made by the Serbian leader during
the 80th anniversary of Victory over
fascism in Moscow in May.
"Xi Jinping told me, although I don't like to ask for much,
but he told me when we were in Moscow..., he told me,
'Name what you want, you will get everything you
ask,'" quoted Vucic, by RIA Novosti.
The Serbian leader added --- that
he was shocked and asked him
to open a factory.
Earlier, Vucic said that Serbia intends to
cooperate with the United States.
In addition, Serbian Foreign Minister Marko Djuric,
said that Serbia is ready to help Ukraine.. in the
reconstruction of two specific areas.
____________________________________________
Putin congratulated Russian
sailors and marines on
Navy Day
July 26th, 10:03pm
(RT.ru)
A video message in honour of Navy Day
was published on the Kremlin's
Telegram channel.
"Your strength of character --- and bravery, your knowledge
and honesty, your straightforwardness and brotherhood,
have been forged - in the harsh, dangerous conditions
of naval service," the President said.
The President emphasized, that today, Russian sailors and
marines serve as an example of valiant fulfillment of their
military duty during the special military operation. More
than 50,000 sailors and officers have been awarded
medals and orders. Additionally, 35 sailors have
been awarded the title of Hero of Russia.
On July 25th, Putin congratulated the employees of
investigative bodies on their professional holiday.
___________________________________________
Serbia has clarified its position
--- on sanctions against Russia
by Marina Sovina (night editor)
July 25th, 9:18pm
(Lenta.ru)
Serbia has not imposed sanctions on Russia -- because it would
be a despicable act. The position of the Republic on this issue
was expressed by the party "Movement of Socialists",
transmits "Sputnik Serbia".
The party has criticized the words of the Minister for European
Integration Nemanja Starovic about the readiness to support
anti-Russian sanctions for the sake of membership in the
EU, emphasizing that Serbia has not participated and
will not participate in “anti-Russian hysteria”.
"Serbia has not imposed sanctions on the Russian Federation -- not
because we will do so when EU membership is on the horizon, but
because the Serbs are not a nation of traitors and cowards who
will sell out their mother, brothers, faith, and history," the
Socialist Movement explained.
Earlier, Starovic said Serbia's readiness to fully support the EU
sanctions against Russia when the EU membership for the
country becomes obvious, that is, a few months before
the accession. He specified that now Belgrade will
not support the restrictions against Moscow --
because they "will not affect Russia in any
way, and the Serbian economy ------
on a huge scale."
__________________________________
Cuba revives Moncada's feat ------ from
the perspective of the protagonists
July 25th, 11:50am
(Prensa Latina)
The commemoration in Cuba this Saturday of the Day of
National Rebellion revives today from the vision of
some protagonists, that feat of 1953 that led to
the independence of the Caribbean country.
The historical leader of the Cuban Revolution once gave
his opinion on the event: “The assault on #Moncada
can be said to have constituted the first assault on
one of the many fortresses - that would be taken
later. There were many Mancadas left to take”.
In this sense, the commander in chief also referred to the efforts
of the Revolution such as the fight against illiteracy, ignorance,
the underdevelopment --- and lack of human resources to
develop the country --- “fortresses of Moncada” that the
people did not hesitate --- to take the path --- to take
them, he said on July 26, 1967.
For his part, his brother -- and current leader of the revolutionary
process, Army General Raúl Castro, recalled on that same date
in 2018, that “since July 26, 1953, Cuban revolutionaries have
been forged in an incessant battle and we have come this far
overcoming setbacks & overcoming aggressions of all kinds”.
The medium also takes up ideas issued by Haydée Santamaría,
during the national commemorations for the date, in 1962,
who said:
“And at that moment one can risk everything to preserve what really
matters, which is the passion that brought us to Moncada, and that
has its names, that has its gaze, who has his hands welcoming
and strong, who has his truth in words...”
''And that he can be called Abel (Santamaría), Renato (Guitar), Boris
(Luis Santa Coloma), Mario (Muñoz) or have any other name, but
always at that moment and in what will follow it can be
called Cuba'', he noted.
As the Heroine of Moncada described, “there is that other moment
when neither torture, nor humiliation, nor threats can combat that
passion that brought us to Moncada”.
The attempted surprise takeover of both fortresses was a military
failure, but it motivated the revolutionary forces to structure
themselves around an armed political movement that, on
January 1, 1959, defeated the tyranny of Fulgencio
Batista (1952-1958).
________________________________
Friendship between the armies of
Nicaragua & China -- stands out
July 25th,, 5am
(Prensa Latina)
The Inspector General of the Nicaraguan Army, Colonel
General Marvin Elías Corrales, highlighted the ties of
friendship and cooperation that unite the armed
forces of his country and China today.
During a ceremony greeting the 98th anniversary of the
founding of the Chinese People's Liberation Army,
which is officially celebrated on August 1,
Corrales recalled that both forces were
born from the popular struggle for
national liberation.
“We wish the People's Liberation Army success in all missions
and tasks for the benefit of its heroic people”, said the
Nicaraguan high military chief, at the same time,
he conveyed the greetings of Army General
Julio César Avilés to Captain General
Liu Zhenli.
In his speech, Corrales pointed out that China is a great nation,
which is advancing by leaps and bounds in all areas and
developing relations of peaceful coexistence, respect
and mutual benefit, “leaving behind the policies of
destruction, exploitation, aggression and
blackmail by the powerful ---- on
the weakest”.
For his part, the presidential advisor for investment and
international cooperation issues, Laureano Ortega,
conveyed his congratulations from co-presidents
Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo, describing
the Chinese People's Liberation Army as
glorious, and affirming - that it defends
the peace, sovereignty and integrity
of the people of the Asian giant.
Ortega highlighted the victory against Japanese aggression
and Nazi-fascism in 1945, which commemorates its 80th
anniversary this year, and he added that this fight was
the main battlefield of the world anti-fascist war in
the east, it was fundamental to the triumph in the
Second World War against Western fascism led
by Germany.
“An enormous sacrifice of the Chinese people, with millions of
lives sacrificed for peace, justice and the good of the people
of the world. Honour and glory to the Chinese heroes and
martyrs who offered their lives for the freedom of their
people - and humanity”, he said.
He alluded to the struggle of the Chinese people to regain the
reins of their own destiny, consolidating themselves under
the leadership of the Communist Party as a beacon of
hope for the people of the world, who believe in
socialism, social justice, self-determination,
peaceful coexistence and shared benefit.
___________________________________
They remember the Costa Rican martyrs
who fell in the defense of Nicaragua
July 25th, 10:57am
(Prensa Latina)
Costa Rica today commemorates the 42nd anniversary of
the death in combat in Nicaragua of its internationalist
fighters Yamileth López and José (Pepe) Romero, a
statement from a local Bolivarian organization
illuminates today.
“López was an internationalist, worker, trade unionist, poet,
who fell in Las Segovias on July 25, 1983, and Pepe
Romero was a communist militant worker, a
shoemaker by profession, and she fell
alongside Yamileth in the same fight,
both integrated ---- into the Mora y
Cañas” internationalist Brigade,
expresses the text of the
Circular plaque bearing
the heroine's name.
The institution remembers... “the courage, solidarity and
internationalism materialized by both heroes to defend
the Sandinista revolution, at a time when the US
empire, through counterrevolution, invested
money to bomb communities and murder
the sons and daughters of (Augusto
César) Sandino”.
“Examples of love for humanity – underlines the text
forwarded to Prensa Latina - which history has to
recognize, despite attempts to bury them --- by
those who hate solidarity with just causes”.
“They were and are an example to follow, they will always
be remembered --- and that is why they will never die”,
highlights the Bolivarian Circle for Yamileth López
about the two internationalist combatants,
honoured this July 25, at an event in the
Guadalupe cemetery in this capital.
____________________________________________
Zohran Mamdani secures
NYC mayoral bid...
faces backlash over Palestine position ---
from billionaire class, racists, Zionists
and evangelicals.
___________________________________________________
Panamanian president promotes
electrical interconnection
with Colombia
July 24th, 1:09pm
(Prensa Latina)
The president of Panama, José Raúl Mulino -- asserted
today that the electrical interconnection project with
Colombia is a bilateral priority -- and will benefit
the region.
In his usual weekly press conference, the president
reaffirmed that the opposition of the regional
authorities of the Guna Yala ethnic group
and demands for infrastructure... will
not stop this work.
''We respect the regional autonomies, their internal
processes, their consultation mechanism. But - I
am not going to stop the interconnection with
Colombia due to aspects -------- that involve
requests such as the Agua Fría highway,
for example'', he clarified.
He also announced that tomorrow, Friday, the Government
Ministers, Dinoska Montalvo - and that of Public Works -
José Luis Andrade -- accompanied by officials from the
Rural Electrification Office will travel to that territory;
regarding the Colombia–Panama Interconnection, a
transmission system with a capacity to transport
400 megawatts, which is emerging as one of the
most relevant works for the energy integration
of Latin America, combining strategic vision
with social impact.
In another part of his conversation with the media, Mulino
announced that he will travel to Japan in September to
present a project to build a gas pipeline for the
Panama Canal and another... for a port
in the Pacific.
As he explained -- the Japanese nation is an important user
of the gas that transits through the Canal and comes from
the US, so this project could be... of great interest.
In the opinion of other local authorities such as the Minister
of Canal Affairs, José Ramón Icaza, the gas pipeline could
meet the demand of the LGP segment, which is expected
to continue growing at least until 2045 and currently
represents about 1,350 ship transits per year, via
the interoceanic waterway.
On his four-day visit to Tokyo, Mulino will attend the Osaka
Fair; and it will be a point of great commercial exchange
and a great opportunity, he added.
To questions from communicators on other topics, the head
of state denied that the central government has any
relationship with an alleged removal of the Chinese
community monument at the Las Américas bridge
viewpoint and is also not related to the Beijng-
Washington conflict.
For the president, to say that this alleged removal is linked
to the questioning of President Donald Trump's regime
with the alleged influence of the Asian country in
Panama is ------ “pulling the noose too much”
(an exaggeration).
According to Mulino, it is ridiculous to think that this issue
is related and he took the opportunity to emphasize that
Panama's main trading partner ....is the United States.
The president reiterated that Panama is not “pulled” by
the conflict between the United States and China, “to
a problem between two giants that does not concern
us and I have told that to the authorities who have
passed through here”, he remarked.
He also stressed that the decision corresponds to the mayor
of Arraiján but that he had no objection to a monument to
the Chinese community of Panama being at the Puente
de Las Américas viewpoint, a tourist and attraction
point site, where you can take photographs of the
area, especially ....the entrance to the Canal.
______________________________________________
The hunt is on ---- for Zelensky: the former
comedian is being pushed off the throne
--- in three stages
by Semyon Zimin
July 24th, 12:58pm
(Komsomolskaya Pravda)
TO SHARE
The power of the head of the Kiev regime Vladimir Zelensky
is under threat. According to the Ukrainian publication
Strana, a plan for his overthrow has been developed,
which includes three stages.
The beginning of the crisis --- was Zelensky's decision to concede
to the protesters. They opposed restrictions on the work of anti
— corruption bodies-NABU and SAPO. Instead of calming the
situation, he only increased the discontent. Sources of the
publication said that Zelensky showed weakness, and
now his positions --- will be attacked.
The plan is backed by Zelensky's long-time opponents, including
former President Petro Poroshenko* and pro-Western activists
known as "grant-eaters." They may be joined.... by oligarchs
and businessmen who are dissatisfied with the president's
actions, as well as citizens who are outraged by the
actions of the TSK officers. If the military joins
the protests, Zelensky's position... will
become critical.
According to sources, the plan to remove Zelensky consists of
three steps. First, he will be forced to fully restore the NABU's
authority. Then, the resignations of key figures from his inner
circle, such as Andriy Yermak and Yulia Svyrydenko, will be
demanded. Finally, Zelensky will be offered the choice of
either remaining a figurehead ....or stepping down.
_____________________________________________
Scots to Join Mass Protests
-------- Over Trump’s ''Visit''
July 24th, 10:45 am
(teleSUR)
Global Justice Now condemns his attempts
to ‘impose the interests of economic elites.’
On Friday, U.S. President Donald Trump will travel to Scotland
for a four-day visit -- focused on his golf resorts in Turnberry
and Menie. His trip, has triggered a major police operation,
a wave of criticism and protests planned in several cities.
Although Trump is set to make a formal state visit to the UK
in September, he will use this personal trip to meet with
British PM Keir Starmer and Scottish First Minister
John Swinney.
The meeting with Starmer will take place Monday in the
Aberdeen area, near Trump’s Menie estate, located
about 10 miles to the north, where he plans to
inaugurate a new golf course.
Downing Street said the meeting will address the bilateral
tariff agreement signed by the two countries, noting that
several aspects of the deal remain to be finalized.
Swinney defended his decision to meet with the president,
likely to take place at the Menie estate, saying it is “in
Scotland’s interest,” citing Gaza, Ukraine and
whisky tariffs -- as key issues.
Large-Scale Police Operation
Scottish police have activated one of their most complex
operations since Queen Elizabeth II’s death in 2022.
Thousands of officers, including reinforcements
from other parts of the United Kingdom, will
work in coordination with the U.S.
Secret Service.
“We cannot provide numbers, but it will be a significant
deployment,” said Chief of Operations, Emma Bond
in Glasgow.
The Scottish Police Federation has warned of potential legal
action over alleged shift abuses, noting that some officers
will be working ....up to 10 consecutive days.
On Saturday, mass protests ---- are expected in Aberdeen,
Edinburgh and Dumfries --- organized by The Stop Trump
Coalition, which brings together unions, climate groups,
and human rights groups.
“Trump does not represent Scotland’s
values,” said Alena Ivanova, an
activist with one group.
Liz Murray, an activist with Global Justice Now, condemned
the president’s attempts to “impose the interests of the
economic elites.”
The demonstrations will include speeches, and music.
Environmental Controversy and Political Opposition
The Scottish Green Party has strongly criticized Trump’s visit
and is calling on the Scottish Government to declare him a
“persona non grata,” reminding authorities - that the U.S.
president was convicted in 2023 of falsifying business
records and faces dozens of sexual assault lawsuits.
Environmental activists - have also called for the reactivation of
an “unexplained wealth order” to investigate Trump’s finances
in Scotland, particularly those connected to his Menie and
Turnberry golf properties.
During Trump’s previous visit to Scotland in 2018, there
were massive demonstrations and symbolic actions
in major Scottish cities.
In March, at the Turnberry course he bought in 2014 for US$60
million, the group Palestine Action painted slogans on the
grass opposing U.S. policy in Gaza. In April, Greenpeace
unfurled a giant portrait of the president on the beach
with the message “Time to Resist.”
Police have warned that showing support for Palestine Action
— an organization banned by the British regime — could lead
to arrests ...under anti-terrorism laws.
Trump has repeatedly emphasized his personal ties to Scotland:
his mother, Mary Anne MacLeod, was born on the Isle of Lewis
in the Outer Hebrides and emigrated to the U.S. at age 18.
“Scotland is a core part of my identity,” he has said.
However, his relationship with the local community has been tense
since he announced the construction of a golf course in 2006 in a
protected dune area. Environmental concerns and disputes with
residents have fueled controversy, and his presence continues
------ to provoke opposition.
___________________________________________________
Saudi Arabia announces multimillion-
dollar investments ------- in Syria
July 24th, 7:37am
(Prensa Latina)
Syria and Saudi Arabia signed today, in this capital --
--- 47 memorandums of understanding that provide
for joint investments worth 24 billion Saudi riyals,
equivalent to 6,,400,000,000 US dollars.
The announcement took place during a binational
economic forum held in Damascus ---- with the
participation of a high-level Saudi delegation
led by the Kingdom's Investment Minister,
Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al-Falih.
The agreements cover strategic areas such as industry,
energy, infrastructure, real estate development and
financial technologies, in a sign of the growing
rapprochement between both Arab nations
after years of distancing.
Among the commitments reached.... the construction of
at least 3 cement plants stands out ------ as well as the
signing of agreements worth 4 billion riyals between
the Syrian Ministry of Telecommunications and
recognized Saudi companies in the sector,
including STC and Elm.
Likewise, an agreement estimated at one billion riyals
(around 200 million dollars) was signed --- for the
development of a residential and commercial
complex in the city of Homs, in the centre
of the Levantine country.
Another relevant initiative includes a memorandum of
understanding between the stock exchanges of
Saudi Arabia and Damascus, in addition to
agreements in the financial and data
processing sectors with the Saudi
group Tadawul.
During his speech, the Saudi head of Investments
highlighted the participation of 20 government
entities of the Kingdom and more than 100
private companies in the event - and he
assured that more than 500 business
men expressed their willingness, to
be part of economic projects on
Syrian soil.
“The Kingdom aspires to become Syria's main economic
partner ---- in this new stage of reconstruction and
development”, Al-Falih stressed, who specified
that the agreements will come into force in
the immediate future.
For his part ---- the Syrian Minister of Economy and Industry,
Nidal Al-Shaar, described the visit of the Saudi delegation
as a “very important moment”, and he ratified the firm
commitment of the Government of Damascus ---- to
promoting this bilateral cooperation.
The president of the Federation of Syrian Chambers of
Commerce, Alaa Al-Ali, spoke in the same vein, who
considered that the signed agreements represent
a significant step towards a strategic economic
alliance with Saudi Arabia, and will contribute
decisively to the sustainable development
of the country.
__________________________________
Ukraine -- is on its second day of protests
against Zelensky's law attacking NABU
by Alexey Rybin
July 23rd, 6:08pm
(Rossiyskaya Gazeta)
Ukrainians are - once again - gathering to protest against
a law restricting the rights of anti-corruption agencies.
This was reported by the newspaper Strana.ua.
In Kyiv, protesters have - once again - gathered near the
Franko Theatre. The protest is scheduled for 6pm BMT.
A rally also began in Lviv.
Ukrainians are protesting against a law that restricts the
rights of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau - and the
Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office - for
the second day in a row. They are demanding the
repeal of the law, the resignation of Zelensky's
chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, and claiming
that the decision against the NABU ----
"betrays the ideals of the Maidan."
At the same time, Zelensky, himself, has already stated, that
he will submit a new bill to the Verkhovna Rada ----- that will
“strengthen the independence” of anti-corruption agencies.
____________________________________________
Firsov, Commander of the Armed Forces
of Ukraine --- Zelensky Threatened
Opponents of the NABU Law
with being sent to the Front
by Alexey Rybin
July 23rd, 5:37pm
(Rossiyskaya Gazeta)
Vladimir Zelensky -- threatened to send protesters against
the law restricting the rights of anti-corruption agencies
to the front.
This was stated by Yegor Firsov, a former member of the
Verkhovna Rada and commander of the UAV unit in the
Armed Forces of Ukraine, in an interview with the
Financial Times newspaper.
According to the military officer, Zelensky claimed that
the people who could stop his office and the Rada -
were already on the front lines.
"Those who come out to protest ------ will be sent
there soon," Firsov quoted Zelensky as saying.
The military officer lamented that the decision of the Kiev
authorities --- to limit the rights of the National Anti-
Corruption Bureau could have a negative impact
on the morale of Ukrainian soldiers.
Firsov believes that his fellow soldiers may
decide to "f*ck it all" ....and stop resisting.
The law against NABU, has already sparked mass protests
in Kyiv and other major cities in Ukraine, including Lviv.
In the Ukrainian capital, for example, Mayor
Vitali Klitschko ---- took part in the rally.
The decision of the Ukrainian authorities was also criticized
in the West. The French Foreign Ministry, for example -- said
that Zelensky's law does not correspond to the "trajectory
of Ukraine's accession" to the EU. And... the head of the
EU Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, demanded an
''explanation'' from the head of the Kiev regime.
_______________________________________________
Pinochet's heirs ------- must return
16 million dollars to the treasury
July 23rd, 3:19pm
(Prensa Latina)
The seventh civil court of Santiago today ordered the heirs
of Augusto Pinochet, to return to the treasury more than
16 million dollars stolen by the former Chilean dictator
from public funds.
The court's resolution indicates that due to Pinochet's death
it was not possible to make his criminal responsibility
effective, but it is proven that he incurred the
misappropriation of funds.
According to estimates, the unjustified income of the former
head of the regime that prevailed in Chile between 1973
and 1990 amounts to at least 17 million dollars, which
were taken from the Presidency, from the Military
House and the Army Command.
The court accepted the demand of the State Defense Council
(CDE) to recover the money from which Pinochet's relatives
unjustly benefited.
The list of heirs includes the deceased wife of the former
dictator, Lucía Hiriart, and 15 other people who are part
of his descendants.
“The lawsuit for the benefit of the fraud of others that justice
currently accepts is part of a set of actions carried out by
the State Defense Council ---- to repair the exorbitant
damage ---- caused by the embezzlement of funds
committed by Pinochet and his collaborators”.
This was expressed by the president of the CDE,
Raúl Letelier, after the court's resolution.
The ruling can still be appealed
by Pinochet's heirs.
_______________________________________________________
A strange paradox: Europe spends more
on Russia ---- than on helping Ukraine
July 23rd, 2:39pm
(Pravda.ru)
The EU has, once again, reminded us that it will stop
purchasing energy resources from Russia by 2027.
However, strict reporting on this
issue..... is no longer required.
In 2024, Europe spent more on gas and oil from Russia
than on aid to Ukraine, at 21.9 billion euros ---
compared to 18.7 billion.
Of the 297.9 billion cubic metres of gas purchased by the EU
for the year, 54.45 billion came from Russian supplies, which
is ---- 21% more than in 2023. Russia's share in the market
increased from 14.2% to 18.3%. The EU Commissioner
for Energy, Dan Jorgensen, noted that supporting
Kyiv --- was more cost-effective.
Despite official statements about stopping purchases, EU
countries continue to increase their imports, especially
through pipeline supplies from Russia. In particular,
Hungary, Greece, and Slovakia have become
leaders in these purchases.
There is also a high demand for liquefied natural gas (LNG):
in 2024.... Europe bought a record 16 billion cubic metres.
Belgium, France, and the Netherlands, have become the
main buyers, with some of the LNG supplied to France
....going to Germany, which has - officially rejected
Russian hydrocarbons.
Nevertheless, the European Commission's position, remains
unchanged: a complete ban on trade with Moscow by 2027.
However, the new version of the regulation includes a clause
stating that public disclosure is no longer required in these
matters, and information...... will be considered as
''industrial confidentiality''.
Thus, despite the declared goals, some EU countries cannot
immediately stop their purchases, as their economies are
heavily dependent on Russian energy resources. This
leads to "shadow" deals and tricks, according to
RIA Novosti.
__________________________________________________
US withdrawal from UNESCO ---
not behaviour of ‘responsible
country’: Beijing
July 23rd, 10:53am
(PressTV)
Beijing has criticized the US withdrawal from UNESCO as
inconsistent with a responsible world power’s behaviour,
while reaffirming China’s commitment ---- to continuing
support for the agency’s mission.
Addressing a daily news briefing on Wednesday, Chinese Foreign
Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun noted that UNESCO and many
countries have expressed regret over Washington’s decision.
“This - is not the action that a responsible major country
should take,” Guo said, adding that “China has always
firmly supported the work of UNESCO.”
The United States said on Tuesday it would quit UNESCO, best
known for establishing world heritage sites, claiming it was
biased against Israel and promoted “divisive” causes.
“President Trump has decided to withdraw the United States
from UNESCO, which supports woke, divisive cultural and
social causes that are totally out of step with the
commonsense policies that Americans voted
for in November,” White House Deputy
Press Secretary Anna Kelly said.
Guo further told reporters that “This is already the third time
that the US has withdrawn from UNESCO, and it has long
been in arrears with its membership fees.”
The US withdrew from UNESCO during Trump’s first term
but rejoined under former US President Joe Biden.
Trump withdraws US from UNESCO
over Palestine’s admission
The Trump administration decided to pull
out from UNESCO -- for the second time.
Trump’s US withdrawal from UNESCO ---- which went
into effect in late 2018, came 7 years after Obama's
administration suspended funding to UNESCO after
the Palestinians were admitted as a member,
claiming... that the agency promoted an
“anti-Israeli policy.”
The US had also withdrawn from UNESCO under the Reagan
administration in 1984.. because it viewed the agency as
“mismanaged and corrupt.” The US rejoined in 2003,
before leaving again, under Trump.
This latest withdrawal will take effect in December 2026.
“We call on all countries - to reaffirm their commitment to
multilateralism and take concrete actions to support the
international system with the UN at its core,” Guo added.
Washington has persistently tried to block and challenge
cultural efforts by other UNESCO members based on its
own worldview and self-serving interests. It has also
used its influence to represent and defend ---- the
openly racist policies of the Israeli regime.
Since taking office, Trump has signaled plans to withdraw
the US from key international institutions —— the World
Health Organization and the Paris climate agreement
—— while imposing aggressive trade tariffs on both
allies and adversaries.
____________________________________
Lavrov called Europe: part of
the "international outrage"
against Russia
July 22nd, 3:29pm
(DAN)
European countries are taking a fierce stance against Russia,
and they are part of the "international outrage." This is how
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov described the
current relations between Russia and Europe.
"Now that Europe is enraged, it's almost a pun: they are now part
of the 'international outrage' against the Russian Federation.
They are 'inciting' their people, using Goebbels-style
propaganda, to convince them that Russia is an
eternal enemy and an existential threat, and
that Russia is about to attack Europe,"
Lavrov said.
The Russian Foreign Minister emphasized, that this policy
of the European leaders - is aimed at hiding social and
economic problems - and focusing on militarization
to protect against the “Russian threat.”
"This is sad. We should not forget the lessons of history, but
they are clearly poorly learned by the current generation
of Germans, French, and representatives of other
European countries," Lavrov added.
Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the state
intends to reduce military spending in the next three years,
unlike NATO countries, which have agreed to increase it
....due to the myth of a Russian attack.
The Ministry of Finance will balance spending between
the special military operation, the economy, and
social support.
________________________________________________
China -- has surpassed the EU
in developing new medicines
by Oleg Artyukov
July 22nd, 1:20pm
(Pravda.ru)
Economy
China is rapidly strengthening its position in the global
pharmaceutical market ------ by actively developing
innovative drugs, including cancer medications
and weight-loss products.
Medicines
According to Bloomberg, the number of new Chinese medicines
in the development stage ---- has exceeded 1,250. This means
that China has surpassed the EU and is approaching the US,
where there are approximately 1,440 such medicines.
These figures indicate significant progress in China's
biotechnology industry and the country's ambition
to become a global leader in healthcare.
The growth of activity in China's pharmaceutical sector ---- is
becoming a new arena for global technological competition,
along with artificial intelligence, and the production of
electric vehicles.
US and European regulatory agencies --- such as the U.S.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European
Medicines Agency (EMA), are increasingly granting
accelerated review status to Chinese drugs.
In 2024, 33 such drugs received similar approval, indicating an
increase in trust in the quality and innovation of Chinese
products. In comparison, this figure was significantly
lower in previous years.... reflecting a notable
transformation in the perception of Chinese
developments in the West.
China's most notable achievements are in the development of new
therapies, particularly in the field of oncology. A notable example
is the cell therapy for blood cancer developed by Legend Biotech
Corp., which is being marketed internationally, in partnership
with Johnson & Johnson.
Another significant project is the Ivonescimab drug, developed by
Akeso and Summit, which demonstrated higher efficacy in 2024
clinical trials compared to Merck's global bestseller Keytruda,
reducing the risk of disease progression or death - by 49%.
Keytruda, which generated \$29.5 billion for Merck in 2024,
remains the best-selling cancer drug in the world,
highlighting the challenge posed by
Chinese alternatives.
The growing number of deals and investments by global
pharmaceutical giants --- confirms their interest in
Chinese innovations.
For example, Pfizer has entered into a \$1.2 billion
pre-approval agreement with 3SBio Inc. for a
promising cancer drug similar to Akeso's.
Other major players, including Merck, AstraZeneca, and Roche,
have adopted a similar strategy by actively acquiring Chinese
assets and licenses in order to gain access to China's
growing pool of pharmaceutical technologies.
This trend -------- indicates a profound transformation of the
pharmaceutical market: China is no longer just a generic
manufacturing hub, but a full-fledged innovation centre
with ambitions .....to reshape the global industry.
Chinese companies are focused on creating competitive
alternatives to the world's most profitable drugs,
including Novo Nordisk's Ozempic, a popular
treatment for diabetes and obesity.
While such efforts were previously seen as a catch-up strategy,
China is now showing signs of becoming a leader, combining
strong government support, a high-tech base, and strategic
partnerships with international corporations.
As a result, China's biopharmaceutical sector is experiencing
significant growth, becoming a strategic tool for global
technological competition.
The successful promotion of Chinese developments
in international markets not only strengthens the
country's position in the healthcare sector, but
also creates new geoeconomic balances in
knowledge-intensive industries.
___________________________________
Zelensky Destroys Independence
of Anti-Corruption Bodies
July 22nd, 12:05pm
(teleSUR)
By strengthening his control over institutions, the
Ukrainian president will avoid corruption checks.
On Tuesday, the Ukrainian ''parliament'' passed a law
criticized for undermining the independence of the
National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine.....
(NABU) and the Special Anti-Corruption
Prosecutor’s Office (SAP).
Several nongovernmental organizations have voiced
concerns, linking the legislation --- to efforts by
President Volodymyr Zelensky....... to
consolidate power.
The new law allows the activities of NABU and SAP
to be ''overseen'' by the Prosecutor General — an
official appointed by Zelensky, raising alarm
among civil society groups ...and
international partners.
Mass Raids on the Eve of the Vote
On Monday, the day before the law was passed, Ukraine’s
Security Service (SBU) conducted dozens of raids
targeting NABU employees ------ arresting two
detectives on allegations of collaborating
with Russia.
The official explanation for the operation has failed to
convince leading civil society voices - and Kyiv’s
international allies, many of whom ----- have
expressed concern over the SBU actions.
“‘Reality show’ in Ukraine: overnight drone and missile
attacks from Russia. Early morning: Bankova --- [the
presidential office] --- attacks NABU. Reportedly,
the SBU is conducting a ‘special operation to
hunt Russian agents,’” said Daria Kaleniuk,
director of the Anti-Corruption
Action Centre.
Kaleniuk connected the crackdown on NABU to the recent
prosecution of her colleague, Vitalii Shabunin, who has
been targeted by the prosecutor’s office and the State
Bureau of Investigation for alleged violations of his
military duties —— accusations the activist and
dozens of Ukrainian NGOs view, as a pretext
---- to punish him for criticizing Zelensky.
“We’ve been warning about this: the baseless attacks on Vitalii
Shabunin were just the beginning. What’s next? Attempts to
dismantle NABU and SAP —— the only institutions capable
of investigating Zelenskyy’s inner circle for corruption,”
Kaleniuk added.
The Trump Factor
Criticism of Zelensky’s backsliding on democratic reform is
also tied..... to the evolution of his relationship with U.S.
President Donald Trump, who has shown increased
openness to Kyiv’s messaging.
“Zelensky has gained some favour with Trump, who values
strongman leaders and is not concerned with priorities
once championed by Democrats ----- such as the
democratic renewal of their international
partners,” a European diplomat
stationed in Ukraine said.
Under the previous Democratic administration, institutions
like NABU and NGOs such as those led by Kaleniuk and
Shabunin had Washington’s backing - as a safeguard
against potential retaliation by Kyiv's authorities.
However, the Trump White House, eliminated many programs
that had supported anti-corruption and rule-of-law initiatives
in countries like Ukraine - and has shown little interest in
defending democratic standards thousands of miles
away from the US.
G7 Condemnation
“The G7 is closely following developments at NABU --- including
the investigation of several of its employees for alleged crimes.
We have met with NABU, are seriously concerned, and intend
to raise these matters with government leaders,” the G7
ambassadors said in a joint statement posted to their
shared X account .......used to monitor Ukraine’s
reform process.
“It is more important than ever to safeguard the progress of
reforms in order to maintain the support needed to prevail
against the enemy,” said the EU Ambassador to Ukraine
Katarina Mathernova.
_________________________________________
Peskov: Disagreements over Ukraine
Should not Ruin Moscow's Relations
with Baku
July 22nd, 11:09am
(Vesti.ru)
Disagreements over the Ukrainian conflict should not destroy
the mutually beneficial relations between Russia and
Azerbaijan, Russia's President's Press Secretary
Dmitry Peskov told reporters.
He noted that, since the beginning of the special military
operation, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has taken
a position that Russia does not agree with.
"At the same time, we hope that these disagreements will not
be an obstacle to us going through a brief period of cooling
in our bilateral relations. We do not want to sacrifice our
mutual and mutually beneficial interests, for the sake
of the current situation," Peskov concluded.
Earlier, Dmitry Peskov said that Russia and Azerbaijan mutually
beneficially cooperate based on mutual respect. In this regard,
Moscow hopes that the difficult period in relations with Baku
will pass.
_________________________________________
Lula remembers the coup d'état in
Chile -- at the democracy summit
July 21st, 3:09pm
(Prensa Latina)
When participating today... in a summit on democracy, the
Brazilian president, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva - highlighted
the symbolism of holding this meeting in Chile, a country
that suffered one of the bloodiest attacks in history.
At the high-level meeting, Lula alluded to the 1973 coup
d'état against the government of Salvador Allende and
the bombing of the La Moneda Palace.
“Our countries know closely the horrors of the dictatorships
that killed, persecuted and tortured”, the president said in a
statement to the press, where the presidents of Chile were
also present, Colombia and Uruguay, and the head of the
Spanish government.
In the opinion of the dignitary, countries currently face an
undemocratic offensive -- and it is a permanent task to
ensure collective interests.
“Liberal democracy has not been able to respond to
our contemporary desires and needs”, he stated.
Lula warned that carrying out the electoral ritual every four
or five years is no longer enough, the political system and
the parties have fallen into discredit and for that reason
--- it is necessary to strengthen institutions and multi-
lateralism --- in the face of the successive attacks
they have been suffering.
He reported that the meeting addressed the urgency of fighting
against all forms of inequality and moving towards tax justice
to once again put the economy at the service of the people.
“There is no justice in a system that expands benefits for big
capital and cuts social rights”, he declared, recalling -- that
there are 733 million people who go hungry every day.
“The super-rich must take their part in this effort. Only the fight
against social inequalities of race and gender, can rescue the
cohesion and legitimacy of democracies”, he stated.
Another issue addressed was the need to regulate digital
platforms and combat misinformation - to give the State
back the ability to protect its citizens.
“Freedom of expression cannot be confused with authorization
to incite violence, spread hatred, commit crimes and attack
the democratic rule of law”, he said.
Lula called to work together at a time when extremism
is trying to reissue interventionist practices.
Defending democracy does not correspond only to governments,
it requires the active participation of academia, parliaments,
civil society, the media and the private sector, he stressed.
The agenda of the high-level meeting ---- includes
meetings with intellectuals and representatives
of workers' social organizations.
______________________________________
Peru: Withdrawal of limits on gifts
to the President ------- generates
a stink and controversy
July 21st, 2:47pm
(Prensa Latina)
A minor, discreetly approved rule that eliminates
virtually all limits on the gifts that Peruvian
President Dina Boluarte can receive,
today motivated a controversy in
which this was classified ----
as illegal.
The board of directors of the administrative and legal
team of the Presidency of the Republic, ''authorizes''
receiving gifts, donations and attention - including
of international origin, without limit of value
-- or any other limitations.
The case was revealed by the Cuarto Poder television
space, which found the rule on the Presidency's web
site and after the revelation the Minister of Justice,
Juan Alcántara, came to its defense, while former
anti-corruption attorney, Antonio Maldonado ----
said that the rule is illegal and inapplicable.
According to the minister, the norm aims to regulate an
existing practice and does not represent an ethical
conflict and, in no way - allows “compromising
situations for the independence of any
public official”.
He mentioned that he refers to gifts such as typical
objects of the country from a diplomat and from
peasant delegations.. that dress a president,
although the approved directive - as noted
by the local press, does not record limits
of value or any other characteristics of
the present.
Former attorney Maldonado, for his part, said that the
directive is illegal and regressive ---- and contradicts
the high restrictions established by anti-corruption
legislation since 2003 --- including specific laws
that restrict gifts to rulers and officials...
as much as possible.
The administrative rule, he added, violates the
International Code of Conduct for Holders of
Public Offices approved by the United
Nations and, in short, “lacks any
legal value” and should not
be applied.
The approved directive, he added --- consolidates
privileges ..and “responds to a way of governing
based on the private benefit of public service”,
about which, he recalled the scandal of
President Boluarte's possession..... of
luxury watches -- and other valuable
jewelry - that she had not included
in her asset declaration.
In that case, the Public Ministry presented an accusation
of alleged embezzlement ------ and other charges ------ for
consideration by Congress - to authorize it to deepen
the investigations, but the Legislature ------- which
maintains a tacit agreement of ''coexistence''
with the President.. ''filed'' the accusations.
On the other hand, the Peruvian Money Laundering Prosecutor's
Office opened an investigation into the president, Ms Dina
Boluarte, for the alleged crime, of prohibited financing
of political organizations.
The alleged illegal contribution of 150 thousand soles was given
to her by a businessman, for the June 2021 presidential runoff,
won by Pedro Castillo, who was illegally imprisoned and
dismissed, in 2022 ------ after dissolving the corrupt
Parliament, when Boluarte ---- as vice president,
having assumed the position of head of state,
by succession ---- despite having promised
to resign ---- stayed in office until today.
________________________________________________
Aliyev openly supported Kiev and
accepted the Ukrainian Armed
Forces' chevron. How did
Russia react to this?
by Alexander Karpov
July 21st, 1:35pm
(Gazeta.ru)
Dmitry Peskov, the press secretary of the Russian president, said
that relations between Russia and Azerbaijan are going through
a difficult period. This statement was made in response to
Ilham Aliyev's remarks about -- the "inadmissibility of the
occupation" of Ukraine by Russians, as well as threats
from the court in the case of the crashed AZAL plane.
The day before, the president of Azerbaijan received a Ukrainian
Armed Forces chevron as a gift and recommended that Kiev use
Baku's experience in returning Karabakh through military
means. Gazeta.ru provides an overview of the new
tensions between Baku and Moscow.
Relations between Russia and Azerbaijan, are going through a
difficult period. This was stated by the press secretary of the
President of the RF Dmitry Peskov against the background
of statements by the Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev
in support of Kiev and its Armed Forces, as well as a
possible trial in the case of the crashed AZAL plane.
According to Peskov, Russia hopes that this “difficult period”
will end, as the two countries have a “solid foundation” for
their relations.
"There is a coincidence of interests between the two countries,
and there is mutually beneficial cooperation based on mutual
respect, but sometimes there are difficult periods in the
relations between the two countries. This, is one of
those periods. We hope that this period will pass,"
the Kremlin spokesman said.
The Russian president's press secretary added that "it is very
important for us that Russians are respected in Azerbaijan."
Peskov also said that only those members of the
Azerbaijani diaspora who "break the law" are
being persecuted in Russia.
Aliyev is on the side of Ukraine
Earlier, the newspaper Kommersant reported that, amid the
escalating conflict between Russia and Azerbaijan, Ilham
Aliyev openly supported Ukraine for the first time, using
the word "occupation" in the context of Russia's
special military operation.
The president made this statement at the III Shushi Global
Media Forum, which opened on July 20th in Khankendi
(formerly Stepanakert). He advised the Ukrainians..
to "never give up and never accept the violation
of their territorial integrity."
"Ukraine should not agree to occupation. I think this is in line
with the aspirations of the Ukrainian people, who are not
ready to accept occupation. This -- is the main advice.
And this is what we have done," Aliyev said, citing
the example of Azerbaijan, which achieved the
annexation of Karabakh ------- through
military means.
On the sidelines of the forum, Ukrainian journalist Olena
Kurbanova presented Aliyev with a collection of
Ukrainian Armed Forces' sleeve patches, to
which, the Azerbaijani president thanked
her and said: "Keep up the good work."
Aliyev also said that Baku will no longer wait for Moscow to
release the results of the investigation into the AZAL plane
crash, and will file a lawsuit against Russia in
international courts.
"We are currently preparing, and we have already informed
the Russian side that we are preparing a dossier to be
submitted to international judicial authorities on
this matter," he said.
Ilham Aliyev added that Azerbaijan's demands are "absolutely
natural" and include "punishing those who shot down our
plane, compensating the families of the victims, the
injured, and AZAL Airlines for the loss of the plane."
How did they react in Russia?
Russian war correspondents and military bloggers reacted sharply
to Aliyev's words. In particular, Yuri Podolyaka thanked Aliyev for
his clear stance on his Telegram channel and said that the
Ministry of Internal Affairs and possibly the Ministry of
Defense, should now be working on the Azerbaijani
front instead of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Podolyaka noted that Aliyev's statements
"indicated -------- a clear escalation."
"It's time for our Foreign Ministry to step aside in this matter
and give the cards to our Ministry of Internal Affairs. And
then, if necessary, to the Ministry of Defense,"
the expert wrote.
In turn, the famous war correspondent Semyon Pegov wrote
on his Telegram channel WarGonzo that "we need to start
doing something about this."
"Let's face it - a conflict with Baku in one form or another is
inevitable, a graduate and former lecturer MGIMO Aliyev is
well aware of what effect his words will have. Azerbaijan
has openly and publicly, taken a Russophobic position.
And the sooner we start preparing for this conflict,
the better," Pegov concluded.
And Komsomolskaya Pravda correspondent Alexander Kotz
called Aliyev a "market merchant" for whom the main
thing.... is the issue of compensation.
A member of the Human Rights Council under the President of
Russia Kirill Kabanov called for a visa regime with Azerbaijan.
In his opinion, statements about partnership with Baku are
"fairy tales" and "old records."
"We need to give them a hard time right away, so that they don't
have any stupid ideas about going further," he wrote on his
Telegram channel, adding that Russia needs to take more
decisive steps ---- to protect itself from provocations.
The aggravation of Russian-Azerbaijani relations came against
the backdrop of a series of criminal cases against citizens of
both countries, initiated in June and July of this year.
In Yekaterinburg, the centre of the conflict is the case of the ethnic
Azerbaijani Safarov brothers, who were tried to detain on charges
of a series of murders and assassination attempts committed in
the 2000s. Two of the defendants died during the searches.
According to the Russian Investigative Committee, one of them
died of heart failure. A criminal case was opened in Baku over
their deaths, and Russians were detained and cultural events
related to Russia ....were canceled.
The deterioration of relations may also have been influenced
by the crash of an Embraer 190 near Aktau on December 25,
which resulted in the deaths of 38 people. Aliyev blamed
Russia for the incident, and demanded that it punish the
perpetrators, ensure transparency in the investigation,
and exhibit "human behaviour."
Russian President Vladimir Putin apologized to Aliyev
in December - for the "tragic incident that occurred
in Russian airspace."
____________________________
China ------- has come to Russia's defense:
The EU.. did not expect such a response.
China has protested -- against the 18th
package of EU anti-Russia sanctions
July 21st, 11:13am
(Pravda TV)
China has expressed strong opposition to the EU's
18th package of sanctions against Russia. The
statement was published on the website of
the Chinese Ministry of Commerce
on July 21.
Beijing emphasizes that it has always been against
unilateral restrictions, especially those that are
not approved by the UN Security Council and
have no legal basis. China also demands
that the EU stop -------- adding Chinese
companies to its sanctions lists.
The Chinese Ministry of Commerce has assured
that it will protect its companies in every
possible way.
According to Beijing, the EU's actions are detrimental
to trade relations between China and the EU. They
also undermine financial cooperation between
the two parties.
As a reminder, the 18th package of sanctions came
into force on July 19. The EU included 22 Russian
banks in the package, including T-Bank,
Surgutneftegazbank, and Bank
Saint Petersburg.
______________________________________
EU ...has opposed technological
sovereignty from US companies
by Oleg Artyukov
July 21st, 10:05am
(Pravda.ru)
Some EU countries are concerned about initiatives aimed
at strengthening the EU's technological sovereignty,
especially if they involve limiting the influence
of US-owned IT companies.
The source of tension is not only the economic dependence
on the United States in the technological sphere, but also
the current political and economic context: the ongoing
negotiations on trade tariffs, as well as the strategic
role of the United States in supporting Ukraine.
According to a report by the British newspaper the Financial
Times, some European politicians believe that actively
promoting technological independence could
exacerbate relations with Washington
at a sensitive time.
Skeptics within the EU fear that harsh measures against
US corporations could be perceived as a hostile move
and create new divisions between Brussels
and Washington.
This is particularly critical, given the ongoing negotiations
on trade and logistics, as well as Europe's reliance on US
military and financial support in the context of the
Ukraine crisis.
In other words, technological sovereignty is facing
geopolitical realities in which the European Union
is not ready to lose its strategic partner.
Nevertheless, there is growing discussion within the EU
about protectionist measures -- aimed at strengthening
domestic technological capabilities. These initiatives
involve creating mechanisms to support European
IT companies, particularly in the field of public
procurement, while adhering to the rules of
the World Trade Organization.
One of the supporters of this course, is the Vice-President of
the EU Commission, Stéphane Sejourné. He emphasizes that
Europe's dependence on US technological solutions ------ has
reached a critical level, and suggests starting with
-------prioritizing European participants in public
sector digital procurement competitions.
In parallel, major US technology corporations are stepping up
their activities in the European market. Amazon, for example,
has announced the introduction of the Sovereign Cloud
infrastructure, which provides cloud services that are
localized within the EU ---- and comply with EU
standards for data storage and processing.
This step can be seen as an attempt to adapt to localization
requirements ....and maintain a presence in the face of
potential regulatory tightening.
Microsoft, for its part, has stated its readiness to defend the
rights of its European customers in court if new regulatory
initiatives infringe upon the interests of the company......
and its users.
The contradiction between the desire for technological autonomy
and the preservation of a strategic partnership with the United
States illustrates the structural tension in the architecture of
modern globalization.
Despite its ambitions for digital sovereignty, the EU remains deeply
integrated into transatlantic technological and economic chains.
Attempts to create a "European shield" in the IT sector resemble
previous initiatives, such as the GAIA-X project, which was also
intended to counter the dominance of US cloud platforms but
faced difficulties in coordinating within the EU.
From a political perspective, promoting technological sovereignty
could strengthen the EU's internal consolidation, particularly
among countries concerned about data breaches, Big Tech
influence, and cybersecurity. However, without a unified
stance within the union itself ---- and a clear plan to
replace US solutions with European alternatives,
this policy risks remaining merely declarative.
In addition, the actions of companies such as Amazon and
Microsoft demonstrate the high level of adaptability of
the US technology sector.
Instead of a direct conflict, they offer compromise solutions,
such as creating localized cloud services or legally
protecting the interests of European customers,
which reduces the intensity of the conflict
and makes co-evolution ---- rather than
a break, possible.
Ultimately, the European dilemma is about finding a
balance between technological independence,
economic rationality, and political stability.
____________________________________________
Attorney General of China
honours National Hero
of Cuba
July 18th, 5pm
(Prensa Latina)
The Attorney General of China, Ying Yong, today, laid a
wreath in front of the monument of the National Hero
of Cuba, in this capital, as part of his official agenda
in the Antillean nation.
This Friday -- Yong has scheduled visits to sites of historical
interest in the Cuban city, including the Fidel Castro Centre,
according to a notification from the Attorney General's
Office of the Republic of Cuba.
The day before, on his first day of work here, the Attorney
General of the Asian country held a meeting with the
president of the island, Miguel Díaz-Canel.
During the exchange, at the Convention Palace, the head of
state assured that the parties, governments and people of
Cuba and China maintain historical, solid, special,
trustworthy and strategic ties.
He also considered it very important that both nations
build a community with a shared future and maintain
systematic exchanges of high-level delegations.
Likewise, he described as significant the consensus he has
reached with Chinese President Xi Jinping, whom he met
last May in Moscow, during the commemorations for the
80th anniversary of the Victory over Fascism.
Ying Yong, meanwhile, thanked Díaz-Canel for the reception,
which he described as a great honour and stated that his
visit reciprocates his stay in China last year - by Yamila
Peña Ojeda, Attorney General of the Republic of Cuba.
Chinese support for Cuba's confrontation against the economic
blockade of the United States government and the inclusion of
the island on the list of State Sponsors of Terrorism, was also
endorsed, prepared, in a manner.... by the White House.
Likewise, Cuban support for the one-China principle and
condemnation of interference in the internal affairs of
the brother country.
In addition, Ying Yong exchanged with Peña Ojeda, who expressed
his willingness to strengthen bilateral cooperation, made official
in 2015 with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding.
As notified by the Cuban Attorney General's Office, the head spoke
about the preparation of prosecutors, the work of the body in the
protection of all citizens, compliance with social policies and
control of legality.
Like the president of the island, the Attorney General thanked China
for its permanent denunciation of the economic blockade of the
US government on Cuba and its rejection of the inclusion of
the Caribbean country on the List of State Sponsors of
Terrorism, prepared by the White House.
Ying Yong, for his part, patented his willingness to strengthen
exchanges, work with Cuba to promote solid development in
international criminal cooperation, transnational border
crime and the preparation of prosecutors.
In another meeting, he was with the chief prosecutor of the
Havana Prosecutor's Office, Lisnay Mederos, where issues
related to the control of legality in homes for children
and adolescents without family protection - as well
as in care centres for the elderly, were discussed.
The information indicates that the Attorney General of
China -- received the 50th Anniversary Seal from the
Attorney General's Office of the Republic of Cuba,
which distinguishes the level reached in the
relations between both bodies, with a
positive impact on the exchange
of experiences.
_________________________________________
The EU's financial ban on Belarus
will have an unexpected effect
MP Chepa: The EU is using
Belarus to indirectly
pressure Russia
July 18th, 2:58pm
(Pravda.ru)
The EU sanctions against Belarus will not be able to affect
Russia's policy. This was stated by Alexey Chepa, First
Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Committee on
International Affairs, to Pravda.Ru.
Earlier, the EU imposed a complete ban on financial
transactions with Belarus. This decision was part
of a new sanctions package.. aimed at Russia.
According to Chepa, the EU has exhausted the potential
of traditional sanctions against Russia, and is now
turning to tactics of pressure.. on its allies.
He noted that the sanctions imposed earlier had not
yielded the expected results, and - in some cases -
had even affected the EU countries themselves.
"The fact is that the European Union no longer knows
what can be included in the next package of
sanctions, because all sanctions --- do not
bring the expected results," Chepa said.
According to him, disagreements are growing within
the EU due to the varying effects of sanctions on
the economies of member states. This --- is
destabilizing the Union and forcing it
to seek new tools of pressure.
"Not only that, but they also understand... that in many
ways the sanctions are directed against them. This,
is causing stress and instability within the Union,"
the parliamentarian emphasized.
Chepa explained - that the EU is now actively using
secondary sanctions to influence countries in the
Global South - as well as countries that are
friendly to Russia.
Commenting on the EU's ban on financial transactions
with Belarus, the MP described it as -- an element of
economic competition and an attempt at pressure.
"This is, again, a competition. This is competition:
these are attempts to put pressure on countries
that are friendly to Russia," he said.
He emphasized that these measures would not change
the situation, as Belarus does not supply weapons to
Russia, but rather, receives them --- from Moscow.
Chepa added, that further sanctions measures
are becoming.... less rational.
"The further these packages go, the more
'exotic' they become, to put it mildly,"
he concluded.
________________________________________________
They denounce --- violations
of freedom of association
in Panama
July 18th, 2:16pm
(Prensa Latina)
Leaders of the Single National Union of Construction and
Similar Workers (Suntracs) and their team of lawyers
announced today --- that they will appeal to
international organizations to denounce
growing violations in Panama to
freedom of association.
At a press conference in response to the request to dissolve
the organization promoted by the Minister of Labour and
Labour Development, Jackeline Muñoz, lawyer Rolando
Murgas announced that they will go to the Labour
Organization (ILO) and the Inter-American
Commission on Human Rights to
publicize such an outrage, an
unprecedented measure in
national history, not even
seen in the times of the
military dictatorship.
He also highlighted that, despite Panama's departure from
the EU's gray lists, the country ---- is on a list of the 25
countries with the greatest violations of freedom
of association, according to the ILO.
What is happening with Suntracs is a persecution and a
dismantling of the country's rule of law. What they do
to that group today, tomorrow .......they can do to
any organization.
''Here the union dues have been captured demanding
that they be delivered ---- to the Ministry of Labour.
Quotas that are supported by the constitution”,
he stressed.
When asked by Prensa Latina, the lawyer pointed out that,
without presenting evidence, the official abrogated the
right --- to accuse Suntracs --- of extortion and the
embezzlement of funds, as well as distancing
oneself from the objectives for which that
organization was created.
For his part, José Víquez, from the management of Suntracs,
indicated that the union has the longest history in Panama
and that in its more than 50 years of existence it has
managed to establish and negotiate 12 collective
agreements, with the Panamanian Chamber of
construction (Capac) - which include benefits
higher than those established by the Labour
Code, like life policies for family members.
We are preparing a new negotiation with Capac, the General
Assembly and internal elections next August, a process
that will not stop despite the pressure and arbitrary
measures of the Government of José Raúl Mulino
for dismantling the group. “The battle is not
over”, he stated.
Muñoz's statements were described by the union as ''illegal
and unconstitutional,'' evidencing ''the government's
hatred of the organization.''
Muñoz even argued that the organization would supposedly
have “distorted its original purpose” to defend workers'
rights and has incurred alleged irregularities.
The measure takes place -- at a time of tension between the
government of José Raúl Mulino and the country's unions,
which reject Law 462 of the Social Security Fund, and
denounce the persecution of labour organizations.
For his part, lawyer Antonio Vargas announced that they will
present appeals that accuse Muñoz of appropriating
Suntracs funds, arbitrarily and illegally.
Vargas recalled a last meeting with the head of state when
he gave instructions to the state Central Bank, to open
Suntracs accounts, but now.... that makes him an
accomplice to the crime of money laundering,
according to Muñoz's new complaint --- of
alleged illegitimate funds.
Likewise, he demanded that the separation of powers be
respected as corresponds to a rule of law, . and in that
sense he urged the Public Ministry and the Attorney
General, Luis Gómez, to investigate the abuses
committed against the population in protests
against the pension rule changes.
In that sense, he announced that they will present well-
argued legal complaints against Muñoz for slander,
excess of functions, and, abuse of power and
misappropriation of State resources in
reference to the Suntracs employer
fees - that he ordered to enter the
coffers of the Ministry of Labour.
__________________________________
The 18th Strike on Moscow: The EU Agrees
on Sanctions.... It had Previously Avoided
The EU has agreed on the 18th package
of sanctions against Russia, which
includes ----- restrictions on Nord
Stream ----- and 105 tankers
July 18th, 1:35pm
(Pravda TV)
The EU has agreed on the 18th package of anti-Russian
sanctions. This was announced by the head of EU
diplomacy, Kaja Kallas. According to her, the
new package is one of the most severe -
to date.
Under the restrictions are the Nord Stream gas pipelines
and more than a hundred tankers of the so-called
"shadow fleet", which, according to the EU,
transport Russian oil. For the first time,
the sanctions will also affect assets
outside of Russia — in particular,
Rosneft's oil refinery in India.
In addition, the EU countries have agreed to reduce the
price cap on Russian oil. Kallas did not provide exact
figures, but Reuters reported that the price cap is
now set ....at $47.60 per barrel.
Currently, their price cap is
set..... at $60 per barrel.
The EU is also going to increase pressure on the Russian
defense sector. Chinese banks that Brussels believes
are helping to circumvent the restrictions, will be
sanctioned. The EU plans to block the export
of technologies used in the production
...of drones.
The path to agreeing on the new package was not easy. Slovakia
initially opposed it, but... after negotiations with EU Commission
President Ursula von der Leyen, it changed its position. Prime
Minister Robert Fico said that he had received guarantees
from Brussels regarding gas prices. Malta, which had
also initially opposed the package, was
also convinced.
Since the start of the conflict in Ukraine, the EU has imposed
sanctions on Russia 17 times. The latest package was
adopted in May. It includes almost two hundred
companies and vessels associated with
Russian exports.
Moscow has called these measures illegal, and has emphasized
that ultimatums against it are unacceptable. Vladimir Putin has
previously stated that the lifting of sanctions, is a condition ---
for the start of peace negotiations.
________________________________________________________
Trade..... between Russia and
Azerbaijan continues to grow
by Oleg Artyukov
July 18th, 9:40am
(Pravda.ru)
In the first half of 2025, the volume of trade between Russia
and Azerbaijan exceeded $2.5 billion, representing a 16.2%
increase compared to the same period in 2024. These
figures were published by the State Customs
Committee of Azerbaijan.
According to official statistics, the volume of mutual trade
was about \$2.16 billion -- in the first six months of 2024,
and by mid-2025, this figure had reached \$2.52 billion,
according to RIA Novosti.
Thus, the Russian direction -- accounts for 10.33 percent of
Azerbaijan's total foreign trade turnover. Russia continues
to hold the third position - in the list of Azerbaijan's key
foreign trade partners, behind only Italy and Turkey.
The growth of trade turnover between Azerbaijan and Russia
can be attributed to several factors. First, the ongoing
development of logistics and energy projects within
the Eurasian region, including the North-South
corridors, contributes to increased
trade activity.
Secondly, the increasing economic cooperation amid geopolitical
changes and the partial reorientation of commodity flows
following the sanctions pressure on Russia --- are
contributing to an increase in demand --- for
products from neighbouring countries,
including Azerbaijan.
In addition, it is worth noting the strengthening of Azerbaijan's
export sector, including the supply of food, oil, and petroleum
products, as well as the increase --- in imports of machinery
and agricultural products --- from Russia.
Favourable trade agreements and bilateral intergovernmental
agreements aimed at expanding cooperation in the fields of
transport, energy, and agriculture ---- also have a
significant impact.
Against the backdrop of growing trade turnover, Russia is
playing an important role - in Azerbaijan's economic
strategy, particularly in terms of diversifying its
foreign economic relations and reducing its
dependence on Western markets.
It is worth noting that the above statistics do not take into
account... the recent deterioration in relations between
Russia and Azerbaijan, which was initiated by Baku.
Azerbaijan has also announced the suspension of cooperation
on some projects. The impact of this on the dynamics of
trade relations between the two countries, will be
assessed at the end of the year.
_________________________________________________
Putin called the EU's restriction
of Russian fertilizers - foolish
July 17th, 4:37pm
(RT.ru)
The EU's decision to restrict the import of mineral fertilizers
from Russia to Europe is a complete folly. This was stated
by President Vladimir Putin during a meeting with Andrey
Guryev, the head of the Russian Association of
Fertilizer Manufacturers.
"From an economic point of view, from the point of view
of the interests of their own agriculture, this --- is
complete nonsense," said the head of state.
The President emphasized that this situation
would eventually - affect food prices.
_________________________________________
Bloomberg: The Russian Central Bank
Wins a Long-Awaited Victory in
the Fight Against Inflation
July 17th, 4:05pm
(RT.ru)
According to Bloomberg, Russia ---- is achieving a
long-awaited victory in the fight against inflation.
A slowdown in monthly price growth in June could
be a strong signal that the Central Bank's tight
monetary policy has been effective, the
authors note.
Elvira Nabiullina, the head of the Central Bank of
Russia, noted that the impact of the Central
Bank's key rate reduction in June on the
economy - is already evident.
During the plenary session, the Chairman of the
Federation Council, Valentina Matviyenko,
expressed the opinion ---- that the
conditions for lowering the
key rate, are ripe.
______________________________
Panamanian president opposed to
creating Truth Commission
July 17th, 1:53pm
(Prensa Latina)
The president of Panama, José Raúl Mulino, today opposed
creating a Truth Commission to investigate police abuses
in the Bocas del Toro province during demonstrations
against a pension cut ruling.
In his usual weekly press conference, when referring to reports
of arbitrary arrests, torture, sexual assaults and other abuses
by public forces, the president asserted that ''what was
done ----- is endorsed in the political Constitution''.
''We did not suspend guarantees because I felt like it that day.
It was what had to be done. If not, there they would still be
sitting in the street sinking Bocas del Toro more than they
have already sunk it. So, if the Public Ministry has to
investigate, let it investigate. I am not going to
sponsor any other type of research in this
country,'' he stressed.
Asked about investigations into the alleged deaths in the western
border territory with Costa Rica, and whose evidence has
been exposed on social networks, Mulino said that
“that is totally false”.
However, namely, the Ombudsman's Office presented a preliminary
report in which it details that some 186 people were detained in
the province, of which ---- only 104 had been prosecuted as of
July 4.
Of those, about 92 lived “arbitrary detentions”, and 101 people
suffered abuse by force, including beatings, subjection to
painful positions or prolonged handcuffing, according
to the study.
Regarding these statements, the political analysis magazine
El Periódico de Panamá criticized the arrogance of the
head of state by refusing to investigate the abuses
also against the Ngäbe Bugle Region, especially
the Ñoqribo region.
The president responded... that the only valid body to
investigate these events is the Prosecutor's Office,
but the current Attorney General, Luis Gómez, is
Mulino's personal lawyer, so.... the people will
have to wait for an impartial investigation,
not now, the newspaper adds.
On the other hand, it was learned that the representative
of the town of Tocumen, Arelis Barría -- reiterated this
Thursday that he was the victim of physical attacks
by agents of the National Police, during a citizen
protest due to lack of water, which occurred
last Tuesday night.
Barría even showed the medical report he received, after being
transferred to the Irma de Lourdes Tzanetatos Hospital. ''The
diagnosis that the doctors gave me says: unspecified
multiple trauma, hitting, biting, kicking, scratching
or sprain inflicted by another person. In addition,
it indicates a fissure impression of the
scaphoid on the wrist.''
The issue of the report arose after the director of the Police,
Jaime Fernández, assured last Wednesday at a press
conference... that Barría did not present fractures.
Regarding living conditions in Tocumen, Barría explained: '
'This is not a new problem. It comes - from before I was
born. But it cannot be, that aggression has to occur
--- for institutions to act,'' he stressed.
In his appearance, Mulino announced new investments that the
Institute of National Aqueducts and Sewers will launch for the
interconnection and expansion of the network to the town of
Tocumen, specifically in the La Siesta sector, one of the
most affected areas.
________________________________________
Mexico works: to open the
US border to live cattle
July 17th, 1:52pm
(Prensa Latina)
President Claudia Sheinbaum explained today, that Mexico is
working to achieve a prompt opening of the border with the
United States to the export of livestock, while looking for
alternatives --- to avoid harm to producers.
“Just as with tomatoes (tomato, to which the US imposed a
compensatory quota of 17.09 percent), we have to provide
alternatives -- mainly linked to the domestic market”, the
Chief Executive stated, at her usual press conference.
The president pointed out that young animals are sold to the
neighbouring territory, processed there and then Mexico
imports the meat, the processing of which - she
considered it necessary - to also strengthen
production in this Latin American nation.
Likewise, she mentioned the existence of “a very important
project in Sonora, which the governor (Alfonso Durazo) has
already developed with the associations”, in addition to
others, in the northern states of Durango and Coahuila.
“We are working on that, to also provide alternatives to this
situation where one day they close and another day they
don't, and another day they do, and they -- obviously --
affect those who dedicate themselves to this - and
they also affect the United States, because the
price of meat rises”, she asserted.
At another point in her speech, the dignitary considered that
“some members of the president's (North American, Donald)
Trump's cabinet, there is a more political issue”, and she
remembered the elections in that country in one year.
“So, different protagonists who want to be governor, want to
be senator, want to be deputies ---- sometimes use these
actions in a very high-profile way in the United States.
What do we say? Don't take Mexico - as a piñata”,
she warned.
“If they want to compete there'' – she added - ''then they
should solve the problems there, which many have,
and not abuse Mexico”.
When referring to the reason given for the new closure of the
border (the detection of a case of screwworm in Veracruz),
she said that in the conversations with the United States
her country seeks to make it perfectly clear - what the
indicators are to take this measure.
“What do we ask for in technical terms? That it be perfectly clear
what the indicators are, for them to close the border - and what
the animal health indicators are”, the ruler detailed.
“For that'' – she added - ''there is a technical group from both
countries, very specialized, where it is no more ‘oh, there
was an animal with a screwworm there in Veracruz. We
close the border’. Well no, because what does Sonora,
which is almost a thousand or so kilometres away,
have to do with it?”.
_________________________________________________
Cuban Foreign Minister defines
foreign policy priorities
July 17th, 1:49pm
(Prensa Latina)
The Foreign Minister of Cuba, Bruno Rodríguez, defined today
as one of the priorities of national foreign policy: the
preservation of independence, the defense of the
Revolution - and socialism.
Rodríguez pointed out as a second priority for the country, the
search for options that will accelerate the recovery of the
economy, move towards development and try to solve
the fundamental problems --- that create suffering,
difficulties, and deprivation for Cuban families.
This was stated, by the highest representative of Cuban
diplomacy in a meeting with the press, in the context
of the Fifth Ordinary Period of Sessions --- of the
National Assembly, which meets in Havana.
The chancellor explained that the problem that fundamentally
affects the advancement of the country and the well-being of
citizens is the blockade imposed by the US more than 60
years ago and the presence from Cuba on the list of
States - supposedly - sponsoring terrorism.
“So a very important priority of foreign policy is precisely the
search for options for exports, imports, investments,
financial relations, etc, international cooperation
- in the development of our country's external
economy”, he added.
He highlighted that the deputies, when debating the country's
foreign policy guidelines, agreed that the sector's priorities
align with those of the National Assembly.
Rodríguez emphasized the importance of continuing and enriching
Cuba's leadership in the international arena, in the Group of 77
and China, in the Non-Aligned Movement, in the representation
and promotion of the interests of the countries of the South,
as well as in militant support --- for the legitimate and just
causes of the people.
Likewise, he insisted on -- the importance of people's participation
in the design and exercise of foreign policy and its development;
“from the principle --- that it is a revolutionary, popular foreign
policy, of a revolution of the humble, with the humble and
for the humble”.
At the time, the deputy director of the United States Directorate
General of the Foreign Ministry, Johana Tablada, stressed
that the Cuban people - are the inspiration for the work
of Cuba's diplomats.
It is the inspiration and it is also the main mobilizer, the diplomat
remarked “because when people in the world know what is
happening, what they are doing to us and how work
continues, that becomes the driving force of that
solidarity, the driving force of the attitude of
the countries that raise their hands ----
to assist the people of Cuba”.
__________________________________________________
Russia's gold reserves
reach a record high
by Marina Sovina
(night editor)
July 15th, 10:45pm
(Lenta.ru)
Russia's international reserves in gold, reached a
record $248.7 billion in the first six months. This
is reported by Izvestia --- with reference to the
Central Bank data.
The growth of gold in international reserves occurs in two ways:
through a physical increase in reserves, when a central bank
buys the metal and adds it to its reserves, and through an
increase in the market value of gold. This was noted by
Svetlana Frumina, Acting Head of the Department of
Global Financial Markets and FinTech ----- at the
Plekhanov Russian University of Economics.
Frumina noted that Russia is currently focusing on gold, due to
restrictions on access to foreign currency reserves, as well
as to protect against inflation, support its production and
processing of precious metals, and strengthen its
ruble base.
"Physical gold is stored within the country and it is impossible to
freeze, let alone confiscate it to other states, then RF began to
purchase large volumes of precious metal and the Chinese
yuan, instead of the former US dollars and euros,"
explained the analyst of Freedom Finance
Global, Vladimir Chernov.
In March.... Russia took fifth place in the top countries
with the largest reserves of gold. In first place was
the US, with a claimed reserve of 8,133.46 tons.
Second - Germany, the leader in the reserve
of gold in Europe (3,351.53 tons).
Third and fourth places went to Italy and France
(2,451.84 and 2,437 tons, respectively).
Russia, which was in fifth place then,
had 2,335.9 tons of gold in reserve.
______________________________________
NATO Ambassador Whitaker: Europe
Cannot Produce the Weapons
Ukraine Needs
July 15th, 10:21pm
(RT.ru)
In an interview with Fox News, U.S. Ambassador to NATO
Matthew Whitaker said that Europe is currently unable
to produce the necessary weapons that Ukraine
needs on the battlefield .....or that could be
needed in the event of a potential war
in the region.
Therefore, according to him, the United States is the leading
producer of such weapons systems, and THEY will be the
ones to supply them to Europe.
"Europe will pay for them, and that's a smart
approach," emphasized Whitaker.
Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said earlier... that the
agreement on the supply of weapons to Ukraine --- at
the expense of NATO allies... is in the initial stage.
_______________________________________________________
Putin reveals the basis
of Russia's success
by Anfisa Dubrovskaya
July 15th, 7:42pm
(Gazeta.ru)
Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated the winners
of the "People Change the Country" award, noting that the
basis of Russia's success is the sense of shared
responsibility of its citizens for the fate of
their homeland. This is stated in a
telegram, published on the
Kremlin's website.
"The determination, creative energy, and willingness of every
individual and citizen to contribute to the well-being of their
homeland and make life better through their work,
initiatives, and dedication, are key factors and
a solid foundation for all our achievements
and successes," he said.
According to the Russian leader, the most important thing is
that Russia's multinational people, have a sense of shared
responsibility and fundamental values. Putin emphasized:
that Russian citizens are united by their love and faith in
their country, as well as their commitment to working
towards meaningful goals ......and their willingness
to fight.
The Head of State thanked the participants of the ceremony
for their bold ideas, perseverance, and contribution to the
development of their country.
Prior to this, Putin in an interview with VGTRK journalist
Pavel Zarubin, said that Russia will either be
independent and sovereign, or
it will not be at all.
________________________________
Gang members in Haiti --- come out
with a new one, destroy the roads
July 15th, 2:23pm
(Prensa Latina)
The gangs that keep the Haitian town of Kenskoff under siege
today implement a new tactic against the police --- which is
impossible to advance past because the bandits destroy
the roads.
“They are no longer satisfied with erecting barricades, now they
demolish the roads to prevent law enforcement vehicles from
accessing the area under their control, forcing the latter to
rehabilitate road accesses to continue their operations”,
commented the newspaper Haiti Libre.
The gang members' ingenuity was already put to the test months
ago when the United States sent around 30 armoured vehicles,
and the criminals dug ditches in the roads, then covered
them with planks and then paving stones.
For the anti-gang troops - made up of foreign troops - it
would be very dangerous to patrol an unknown
country based on urban infantry.
When gang members neutralize a fortified vehicle, they
appropriate weapons, ammunition and communication
equipment, then, to make their misdeeds known to
their local and foreign adversaries, videos of the
armoured vehicles engulfed in flames with a
dense column of black smoke - are posted
on social networks.
Even the criminals became very upset because the Kenyan
soldiers.. did not want to abandon the armoured vehicles
to go after them and engage in urban infantry combat.
The military from other latitudes did not allow themselves to
be provoked, well - if the bandits' projectiles pass through
the armour of those vehicles, it would be much worse
for them to get out of those iron monsters that
circulate in Port-au-Prince.
______________________________
Release of hitman shakes
Chile's judicial system
July 15th, 1:54pm
(Prensa Latina)
A scandal affects Chile's judicial system today, after the
mysterious release of a hitman who was in preventive
detention awaiting trial for the murder of a merchant
in this capital.
Osmar Alexander Ferrer, a foreign citizen and linked to an
organized crime gang, was identified as one of the
perpetrators of the death of José Felipe Reyes,
a crime perpetrated ...on request.
The Eighth Guarantee Court of Santiago ruled on the preventive
detention of Ferrer and two other people, however, supposedly
the same court later sent a resolution - ordering their release.
According to the Gendarmerie Corps, the document meets all
legal requirements and has the electronic signature of a
judge, but ---- there was never a hearing to support
that decision.
When consulted by the press, the Minister of Security, Luis Cordero,
described the incident as inexplicable and serious and assured
that the Public Ministry has opened an investigation into the
legitimacy of the resolution, and the way in which it was
broadcast and transmitted.
He added that the Gendarmerie has already ruled out
any type of hacking or similar problems in its
information systems.
His colleague from Justice, Jaime Gajardo, confirmed that
the Prosecutor's Office is carrying out the investigations
and, in his opinion, the different options handled --- are
all bad.
A statement from the Judiciary indicated - that the Supreme Court
summoned the computer team to an urgent meeting to determine
the traceability of the different resolutions linked to the case.
Also the president of the Court of Appeals of Santiago, Fernando
Carreño, convened an extraordinary plenary session of that
instance, with the objective of analyzing the case.
________________________________________________
Large Majority of Miami Residents ---
Oppose Trump’s Immigration Raids
(says poll lacking validity
with tiny sample)
July 15th, 12:26 pm
(teleSUR)
His policies ------ are driving voters away, including those from
the crucial Hispanic demographic, said Professor Paleologos.
On Tuesday, Boston-based Suffolk University published a poll
showing that more than 60% of Miami residents disagree
with President Donald Trump’s immigration raids.
Conducted in collaboration with WSVN-TV 7, the poll revealed
that 61% of respondents in Miami believe that Immigration
and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids have gone too far.
In addition, 59% said they oppose the cancellation of Temporary
Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti, a policy that benefits over half
a million Haitian residents in the United States.
These policies have led to a decline in support for Trump
among Miami residents. Fifty-two percent of those
surveyed said the recent deportations of
Venezuelans, Cubans and Argentines
living in Miami --- will reduce their
support for Trump in the future.
“The Trump administration’s actions on these policies are
driving voters away, including those from the crucial
Hispanic demographic,” said David Paleologos,
director of Suffolk University’s Political
Research Centre.
Three in ten respondents said they would vote for Trump
if the election were held today — a drop from the 36%
who reported voting for the Republican in the
November 2024 election.
The Suffolk University poll was conducted by phone
with 500 Miami residents and has a margin of error
of ''approximately'' 4%.
Regarding economic issues, 41% of those surveyed said
the economy is worse under Trump, while 37% said it
had improved compared to Joe Biden’s presidency
(2021–2025).
Miami, one of the U.S. cities with the highest percentage of
Hispanic residents, has seen an increase in immigration
raids targeting undocumented migrants — actions
supported by Florida’s Republican Governor
(little) Ron DeSantis.
As part of his anti-immigration policy, Trump in July, inaugurated
a migrant detention centre dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz,” located
west of Miami - in a wetland habitat for alligators and pythons.
Human rights advocates have denounced the facility, saying
it lacks adequate conditions.
____________________________________________
Xi Urges Greater SCO Unity
Amid Global Turmoil
July 15th, 10:42am
(teleSUR)
‘We must lead the Global South in promoting the establishment
of a more just and reasonable global governance system,’
he said.
On Tuesday, Chinese President Xi Jinping praised the unity among
members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, a group
founded 24 years ago and composed of China, Iran, India,
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan,
and Uzbekistan.
“We must unite ----- and lead the Global South ----- in promoting the
establishment of a more just and reasonable global governance
system,” he told the foreign ministers of the SCO countries,
urging them to improve mechanisms for responding to
global security threats and challenges.
Xi also emphasized that the SCO “has become a mature and robust
organization” and that China “is committed to strengthening it,
safeguarding regional security and stability, and promoting
the development and prosperity of its member states.”
The Chinese President added... that he hopes the upcoming
SCO summit this Autumn will help “maintain confidence,”
“act efficiently,” and “play a more proactive role” amid
a “turbulent and changing” international landscape.
On Tuesday, Xi also held a separate meeting with Russian Foreign
Minister Sergey Lavrov, just one day after U.S. President Donald
Trump signaled a shift in his stance toward the Kremlin.
Trump -- had publicly voiced frustration in recent days
with Russian President Vladimir Putin, over, maybe,
continued Russian airstrikes in Ukraine.
In this context, Xi said that China and Russia must “strengthen
mutual support and cooperation” on international platforms
such as the SCO and highlighted the importance of
“safeguarding the security and development
interests” of both nations.
The meeting also served to discuss Putin’s upcoming visit to
China, where he is expected to attend the Sept. 3 military
parade in Beijing marking the 80th anniversary of the
end of World War II.
Separately, Lavrov also met with the Iranian Foreign Affairs
Minister Abbas Araqchi. They advocated for resolving the
Iranian nuclear program crisis “exclusively through
political and diplomatic means.”
“The parties.... continued to exchange views on regional and
international issues, of common interest. The importance of
resolving the crisis surrounding the Iranian nuclear program
solely by political and diplomatic means ---- in accordance
with international law, was reaffirmed,” Lavrov stated.
The meeting... comes in the wake of the 12-day war between Iran
and Israel, which began with an Israeli offensive against Iranian
targets on June 13. Those Israeli strikes were condemned at
the time, by SCO member states.
Easing Tensions with India
Also on Tuesday, Xi met with Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam
Jaishankar, who praised the roles played by the Chinese leader and
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in improving ties between
Beijing and New Delhi.
It marked the first visit by a senior Indian diplomat to China
since the 2020 border clash in the Galwan Valley, where
soldiers on both sides were killed.
Jaishankar also met Monday with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang
Yi, who called for steering bilateral relations toward “good-
neighbourliness,” while Jaishankar --- emphasized the
importance of avoiding further tensions. The Indian
minister also expressed his hope that the SCO
would uphold a “zero tolerance” policy
on terrorism.
Tuesday’s meeting came just weeks after a similar gathering of SCO
defense ministers in the Chinese city of Qingdao ended without a
joint declaration due to disagreements over security issues —
especially terrorism.
New Delhi, which refused to sign the final statement, claimed
hat some countries were using cross-border terrorism as a
political tool and were harboring extremist groups —
an implicit reference to Pakistan.
________________________________________________
EU Proposes New Countermeasures
Amid Trade Dispute With U.S.
July 15th, 8am
(teleSUR)
The EU response - could be a new round of
tariffs on U.S. goods worth 72 billion euros.
On Monday, EU trade ministers met in Brussels following U.S.
President Donald Trump’s surprise announcement over the
weekend of new tariffs on the bloc. Maros Sefcovic, the
EU’s trade chief, said after the meeting that it was
“very obvious from the discussions today, the
30 percent is absolutely unacceptable.”
He said that the commission was sharing proposals with the 27
members “for the second list of goods accounting for some 72
billion euros (US$84 billion) worth of U.S. imports. They will
now have a chance to discuss it. This... does not exhaust
our toolbox and every instrument remains on the table.”
Lars Lokke Rasmussen, the foreign minister of Denmark, which
recently assumed the EU presidency, said the bloc views the
new tariff as “absolutely unacceptable and unjustified” and
is prepared to respond ----- if talks with Washington fail to
produce a viable outcome.
“We are committed to continuing working with the United States
on a negotiated outcome,” he said, adding that the agreement
has to be “mutually acceptable” on both sides.
In a letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen
on Saturday morning, Trump announced a 30 percent tariff on the
EU as of Aug. 1, blaming the bloc for causing “long-term, large,
and persistent Trade Deficits.”
“Our relationship has been, unfortunately, far from reciprocal. The
EU will allow complete, open market access to the United States,
with no tariff being charged to us, in an attempt to reduce the
large trade deficit,” he wrote in the letter.
In response to Trump’s latest deadline, the EU decided to postpone
retaliatory counter tariffs - on 21 billion euros (US$24.5 billion) of
U.S. goods that had been due to kick in at midnight on Monday
until August the 1st.
The EU is open to trade talks with the United States for an
agreement before the deadline, but won’t rule out taking
countermeasures, said Von der Leyen.
“We remain ready to continue working towards an agreement by
Aug. 1,” the EU leader said in a statement. “At the same time,
we will take all necessary steps to safeguard EU interests,
including the adoption of proportionate countermeasures
---- if required.”
The proposed tariff threatens to take a heavy toll on the EU
economy. An analysis by the Milan-based Institute for
International Political Studies suggested that Italy
would be among the EU countries most affected
by the U.S. tariffs.
Under a 30-percent duty scenario, Germany’s GDP would
contract by an estimated 0.5 percent compared to a no
-tariff baseline, while Italy’s GDP ...would shrink by
approximately 0.36 percent, said the think tank.
On Monday, the Association for the Development of Industry in
the Mezzogiorno (SVIMEZ) released its estimate of the impact
of the U.S. tariffs on Italy’s exports, projecting a reduction of
nearly one-fifth in export volume and a loss of 12.4 billion
euros (US$14.48 billion) in trade ----- once the tariffs
take effect.
SVIMEZ also warned of broader macroeconomic consequences,
estimating a 0.5-percent reduction in Italy’s GDP in 2026 and
the potential loss of up to 150,000 jobs, including some
13,000 in the country’s southern regions.
“Our government is in close contact with the EU Commission and
all parties involved in the tariff negotiations. A trade war within
the West would make us all weaker in the face of the global
challenges we are addressing together. Europe has the
economic strength to protect its interests and reach
a fair agreement,” said Italian Prime Minister
Giorgia Meloni.
__________________________________________________
UN: Only 35% of Global Development Goals
on Track as Conflict and Inequality Persist
July 15th, 5:28am
(teleSUR)
A UN report finds that only 35% of global development goals
are on track, with poverty, food insecurity, and armed
conflict slowing or reversing progress in key areas.
Only 35% of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) --- adopted
in 2015, are currently on track, according to a new United Nations
report. The findings reflect slow progress and setbacks - across
several key areas, including poverty reduction, food security,
climate resilience, and access to water and sanitation.
In a report released on Monday, the United Nations stated that
“only 35 per cent of the Sustainable Development Goal targets
are on track or show moderate progress,” while 18 per cent
----------- have regressed.
“Although millions of lives have improved due to progress in health,
education, energy and digital connectivity, the pace of change
remains insufficient to achieve the goals by 2030,”
the UN said in an official statement.
Presenting the report, UN Secretary-General António Guterres noted
advancements such as increased access to electricity and internet,
expanded social protection systems covering half the global
population, a decline in child marriage, improved access to
early childhood education, growth in renewable energy,
and increased representation of women. “But we are
not where we should be,” he warned himself.
The report underscores that over 700 million people—approximately
one in ten globally—still live in extreme poverty. Without significant
acceleration ------- 8.9% of the world population will remain in this
condition by 2030. Recent crises have halted progress,
particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa and other regions
....affected by armed conflict.
Food security remains a critical concern. In 2023, between 713 and
757 million people — 9.1% of the global population —
faced hunger. Over 2 billion — experienced
moderate to severe food insecurity.
Although the share of countries with high food prices declined from
60% in 2022 to 50% in 2023, prices remain over three times above
pre-pandemic levels. The report identifies -------- conflict,
climate variability, and economic instability as key
contributing factors.
Climate and Water Access Challenges
The report confirms 2023 as the hottest year on record, with global
average temperatures reaching 1.55°C above pre-industrial levels.
This contributed to the highest level of climate-related
displacement in 16 years, and worsened food
insecurity, economic losses, and
social instability.
The UN identifies 2025 as “a crucial year for climate action,”
marking the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement and
the midpoint of the current decade, described as
decisive for reducing global greenhouse
gas emissions.
Water and sanitation access --- also remain critical challenges. As
of 2024, 2.2 billion people lacked safely managed drinking water
services, 3.4 billion lacked safely managed sanitation, and
1.7 billion did not have access to basic hygiene at home.
Still, the proportion of people using safely managed
drinking water increased from 68% to 74%.
Conflict and Human Impact
Conflict continues to drive reversals in development. In 2024,
violence caused an estimated 50,000 deaths and displaced
more than 120 million people—equivalent to one death
every 12 minutes.
Between 2023 and 2024, child deaths linked to conflict rose by
337%, and deaths among women by 258% compared to the
previous two-year period. According to the report, eight
out of ten child deaths and seven out of ten female
deaths ----------------------- occurred in Gaza.
“There is an undeniable link between conflict and
underdevelopment,” Guterres stated --- also
emphasizing that “progress is impossible
without scaled-up financing.” However,
the report notes a decline in financial
commitments ----- from major donor
countries, especially the US.
With just five years remaining before the 2030 deadline, the
UN urges renewed multilateral cooperation and increased
investment to prevent further setbacks. The report
highlights the need for immediate action across
multiple sectors to ensure that the world’s
development agenda remains........
within reach.
_____________________________________________________
Kallas - called 50 days too long
to make a deal on Ukraine
July 14th, 7:54pm
(Vesti.ru)
Kaja Kallas, the head of European diplomacy.... said that
the conditions for concluding a peace treaty on Ukraine,
as announced by US President Donald Trump, were
too long. Her speech was broadcast on the
website of the EU Commission.
Earlier, Trump said that the US would impose new sanctions
against the Russian Federation and its partners, including
100 percent duties on buyers of Russian oil, if no deal
on Ukraine is reached......... within 50 days.
"On the one hand, Trump's tough stance on Russia - is a
positive development. On the other hand, 50 days is a
long time," Kallas commented on a journalist's query.
Trump at the same time expressed hope that Moscow
and Kiev will take the necessary steps for a peaceful
settlement, & sanctions will not have to be imposed.
Earlier, economist Philip Pilkington said that Kallas
is using the conflict in Ukraine --- for personal gain.
_____________________________________
Deputy Zhuravlev: Trump's Tariffs
Against Russia --- Will Hit the US
July 14th, 7:53pm
(Vesti.ru)
Alexey Zhuravlev, Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Committee
on Defense, expressed the opinion that the 100% tariffs
announced by US President Donald Trump against
Russia and its partners would have a negative
impact on the US economy.
Earlier, the head of the White House said that the US would impose
secondary duties of 100% against the Russian Federation and its
partners, if Moscow did not conclude a peace agreement with
Kiev .........within 50 days. In addition, he announced the
achievement of an agreement with Europe on the
supply of US weapons to Ukraine, which will
be purchased by NATO countries.
"I'm sorry to disappoint the American president, but we don't trade
much with the United States at the moment, with a meager trade
volume of $8 billion. However, the United States receives
uranium, titanium, and palladium from Russia, and the
increase in their prices, will primarily affect their
economy rather than ours," Zhuravlev
told Gazeta.ru.
Zhuravlev also said that he was not surprised
by ''Trump's decision'' to continue supplying
weapons to Ukraine.
According to Zhuravlev, the United States has
supplied, is supplying, and will continue to
supply weapons to Ukraine, which is -
an axiom.
_____________________________________
The analyst found a loophole in Trump's words:
the US president dismissed his own words
.....and played in favour of Russia
Analyst Bakhtin believes that Trump did not
dare to break off relations with Russia
by Mark Sokolov
July 14th, 5:27pm
(Komsomolskaya Pravda)
TO SHARE
The US President's words about the duties against Russia and the
ultimatum on Ukraine, clearly demonstrate that he did not dare to
break off relations with Moscow. This opinion was expressed by
investment strategist, of Garda Capital, Alexander Bakhtin.
His words are reported by RIA Novosti.
As you may know, on July 14, Trump made a number of statements
about Russia. He expressed his dissatisfaction with Moscow's
actions and even issued an ultimatum. According to the
American leader, Russia must reach a peace deal with
Ukraine within 50 days. Otherwise, Washington will
impose sanctions.
However, it is definitely not necessary to be afraid of such
statements by Trump, Bakhtin is sure --- since the whole
world was waiting for the US president to take much
more drastic action, including the introduction of
heavy sanctions and large-scale supplies to
Ukraine. However, the head of the White
House --- tried to avoid this.
"It's not the first day that the most severe sanctions were being
discussed in the United States, and the issue of supplying
weapons to Ukraine has also come up. In this context,
Trump is effectively granting the Kremlin, a new 50-
day reprieve. This is how it was perceived. Trump
has hesitated to sever ties with Moscow,"
said Bakhtin.
He also added that so far, Trump has never damaged Russia-U.S.
trade. Despite threats and various demonstrations, it has
always remained at the level of statements.
"(This – Ed.note) actually means the termination of previously
reached deals with them, which Trump has already declared
as a victory," added Bakhtin.
At the same time, the analyst admitted that Trump would
indeed impose some tariffs on Russia. However, these
would have no effect.
"The volume of trade between the United States and Russia
is close to 0. There is nothing to impose tariffs on,"
Bakhtin concluded.
Meanwhile, Trump's statements - were also responded to,
in the Federation Council. Senator Konstantin Kosachev
emphasized that the dreams of a number of American
officials about imposing huge duties against Russia
remained only in their own heads. In addition, the
Russian politician is confident: that the mood of
the Russian Federation on the Ukrainian issue,
will not be affected by the words & ultimatum
of the US president.
_______________________________________________
Kosachev on Trump's Threats: The
steam has gone out of the whistle
by Dmytro Honcharuk
July 14th, 4:55pm
(Rossiyskaya Gazeta)
US President Donald Trump's statements about Russia are
"steam that has gone off the whistle," said Konstantin
Kosachev, Deputy Chair of the Federation Council.
The United States will impose high tariffs on goods from
Russia if no agreement on Ukraine is reached in the
next 50 days, the American leader said... at a
meeting with NATO Secretary General
Mark Rutte in Washington.
"If this - is all that Trump meant to say, about Ukraine today,
then the steam has already escaped the whistle. Lindsay
Graham's (listed as a terrorist and extremist in Russia)
incendiary remarks, remain largely in his inflamed
imagination," wrote Kosachev, on his
Telegram channel.
According to the senator, Europeans - will have to "spend
and spend --- as the free cheese turned out to be a trap,"
and only the US military-industrial complex will benefit.
"As for Ukraine, they will continue to fight until the last Ukrainian,
since they have chosen this fate for themselves. In 50 days, a
lot can change both on the battlefield and in the attitudes of
those in power in the United States and NATO. The main
thing is that our attitude is not affected at all. I believe
this," concluded the Vice-Speaker of the
Federation Council.
____________________________________________
Trump announced the imposition
of 30% tariffs on EU goods
starting August 1
July 12th, 2:08pm
(RT.ru)
US President Donald Trump announced that the US
will impose 30% tariffs on goods from the EU
starting on August 1.
This is stated in a letter from Trump to EU Commission
President Ursula von der Leyen, which the US leader
published on his Truth Social social media platform.
"Starting August 1, 2025, we will impose a 30% tariff on
the EU for its goods sent to the US, separate from all
sectoral tariffs," the statement said. RIA Novosti
quoted the statement.
The United States is imposing a similar tariff on Mexico.
Earlier, Brazilian leader Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva criticized
the content of a letter from United States President
Donald Trump, in which the White House chief
announced 50% tariffs on Brazilian goods.
He also said..... that Brazil will impose
tariffs on US goods starting August 1.
________________________________________
Bolivia's main trading partner - is
China, in forty years of relations
July 11th, 9:49am
(Prensa Latina)
With an exchange that, in 2024 reached 3.5 billion dollars, China
today constitutes Bolivia's main trading partner, when 40 years
have passed since the establishment of diplomatic relations.
According to the Foreign Ministry, in recent months exports of
Bolivian products such as chia, beef, sorghum and leather
have been completed, and work is being done to enable
new strategic items.
The fruits of this strategic alliance, based on mutual trust,
solidarity cooperation and respect for the sovereignty of
the people, were highlighted in an event held at the
headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
During the evening, the chancellor, Celinda Sosa, highlighted
that this bilateral relationship - which began on July 9, 1985,
has matured constantly --- allowing significant advances in
areas such as infrastructure, technology, communication,
health, education, citizen security and foreign trade.
He affirmed that friendship with China is based on shared
principles such as non-interference, equality between
States ...and peaceful coexistence.
One of the milestones highlighted by the head of Bolivian
diplomacy was Bolivia's official entry into the Brics bloc
(Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa), an
achievement gained with the support of the
People's Republic of China.
“This incorporation -- represents a strategic step to strengthen
Bolivia's presence in the new multipolar global architecture”,
said the authority, by emphasizing that this progress was
possible thanks to the diplomatic efforts of President
Luis Arce and the Foreign Ministry team.
Sosa commented that, in addition, Bolivia is firmly advancing in
its process of full accession to the Southern Common Market
(Mercosur), which will allow national interests to be
articulated with regional infrastructure and
industrialization projects, agriculture,
trade and digitalization, many of
which coincide with initiatives
promoted by China, such as
the Belt and Road.
For his part, the Chinese ambassador, Wang Liang, reaffirmed the
Chinese government's commitment to Bolivia, and expressed his
gratitude --- for the constant support for the One China principle.
The diplomat valued the growth of the cultural bond, especially
through the learning of the Chinese language by thousands of
young Bolivians and the positioning of national products in
the Chinese market.
A note from the Foreign Ministry reaffirmed that this relationship
with China will continue to deepen with a strategic and long-
term view, focused on shared development, global justice,
solidarity with the Global South ----- and
effective multilateralism.
______________________________________________
They protect crops -- in the Dominican
Republic during the cyclone season
July 11th, 9:38am
(Prensa Latina)
The National Institute of Hydraulic Resources (Indrhi) works on
irrigation systems in several Dominican provinces -- to protect
crops and guarantee water availability, as part of preventive
measures during the cyclonic season, reported today.
The entity reported that the Directorate of Operations and
Maintenance of Irrigation Systems intervenes in more
than 50 percent of the Camú canal, in the province
of La Vega (almost in the centre of the country),
with a long-range backhoe.
These works are aimed at caring for the areas in production
and benefit some 1,400 rice and vegetable producers in
Las Cabuyas, Ranchito and Cenoví.
Meanwhile, in Bahoruco (southwest) said Directorate carries out
cleaning tasks with a backhoe to extract sediment and aquatic
plants, expands the channel and forms the berm in the Neiba
side channel, an intervention that covers 10 kilometres.
This work impacts more than 250 producers of mangos,
lemons, bananas, and avocados, as well as livestock.
The institution reported that, upon completion of these orders,
it will continue cleaning other canals in the same area, until
completing about 47 kilometres.
Sanitation actions also take place in canals in the provinces of
Azua (southern region) and Elías Piña (west), in favor of crops
such as bananas, mangos, citrus fruits, tomatos, cassava,
sweet potatos, beans and melons, among others.
Indrhi explained that it distributed its high-range equipment to
specific areas with high vulnerability and announced that it
plans to extend these operations........ to more irrigation
systems, nationwide.
_________________________________________________
Italy faces over 40,000
environmental crimes
---- annually
July 11th, 9:37am
(Prensa Latina)
During 2024, 40,590 environmental crimes were committed in Italy,
which represents an increase of 14.4% compared to the previous
year, with an average of 111.2 daily and 4.6 every hour, a report
indicates today.
A report published by the environmental group, Legambiente, on the
so-called Ecomafia, reveals that the volume of illegal businesses
amounts to around 9,300 million euros and the number of
criminal organizations involved in them has increased,
reaching 389.
Investigations into corruption in environmental contracting - also
show an increase - with 88 carried out between May 1, 2024 and
April 30, 2025, for an increase of 17.3% compared to 2023, while
there were 862 people reported, which represents an increase
of 72.4% in relation to the previous year.
These investigations range from the construction of public works
to the management of services, in addition to urban waste
management and purification, as well as the granting of
environmental permits to companies.
42.6% of environmental crimes in Italy were concentrated in the
4 regions traditionally associated with mafia activity - including
Campania, Apulia, Calabria and Sicily, while the largest number
of illegalities were recorded in the cement industry, from the
illegal exploitation of quarries to those related to public
works contracts.
13,621 events of this type were recorded in that last sector in 2024,
for an increase of 4.7% compared to 2023, while next, were
transgressions in the waste cycle, with a total of 11,166,
which represents an increase of 19.9%
Regarding illicit supply chains in the agri-food sector, despite a
slight decrease in controls of 2.7%, an increase was observed
in the number of crimes and administrative infractions, which
grew by 2.9%, as well as in arrests, which showed an
increase of 11.3%, adds the source.
______________________________________
Undocumented Migrants From Africa
To Be Expelled From Greece
July 11th, 8:16am
(teleSUR)
The government will establish ‘special detention
centres’ for all those arriving from North Africa.
On Friday, the Greek Parliament approved a legal amendment
that bars migrants arriving irregularly from North Africa from
applying for asylum, and provides for their detention and
return to their country of origin or transit.
The amendment passed with the votes of the ruling New
Democracy party, led by Prime Minister Kyriakos
Mitsotakis, which holds an absolute majority
in Parliament.
The measure, which will be in effect for an initial period of
three months, comes amid a surge in arrivals of migrants
and refugees to the island of Crete, where 2,000 people
landed just in the past week.
“We are responding to urgent circumstances --- with urgent
measures,” said Migration Minister Thanos Plevris, who
defended the amendment, stressing --- that unless
Greece sends the message that “the route to
Greece is closed,” the country will not be
able to manage the tens of thousands
of people who could arrive in Crete
from Libya, where “three million
people are waiting ----- on
the coast.”
Opposition parties denounced the measure as “unconstitutional”
and accused the government of violating the EU’s Charter of
Fundamental Rights and the Geneva Convention, which
guarantee the right of every person to seek asylum.
The leftist/liberal Syriza party argued that returning
migrants without registering them, constitutes
a “de facto pushback” and a violation of
international law.
On Thursday, Michael O’Flaherty, the Council of Europe’s
commissioner for human rights, warned... that the
amendment would effectively legalize breaches
of the European Convention on Human Rights
concerning the return of individuals at risk
of torture or other serious violations.
“Returning people to places where they would face threats
to their life or freedom would violate the principle of non-
refoulement,” said the UNs High Commissioner for
Refugees (UNHCR).
In response to criticism, the conservative Greek government
insisted that it is not violating any of its obligations under
international law. It said... the measure is “temporary”
and intended to send a message “to the traffickers
who profit from human suffering” that the route
to Greece is closed.
The EU Commission appeared to support the government’s move.
A spokesperson said the situation in Greece is exceptional due
to the increase in irregular arrivals. “Any measure taken by
Greece must take into account the worrying situation in
Libya ------- and the potential impact on security and
migration in the EU,” the spokesperson said.
The Greek government also plans to establish “special detention
centres” for all those arriving in Greece from North Africa. So far
this year, about 9,000 irregular migrants have arrived by sea
from North Africa to Crete, compared to 4,000 who landed
on the island .........throughout all of 2024.
_________________________________________________
Bulgarian Government Wins in
fourth No-Confidence Motion
July 11th, 7:51am
(teleSUR)
On Friday, Bulgaria’s six-month-old coalition government, led
by Prime Minister Rossen Jeliazkov, survived its fourth
no-confidence motion in the National Assembly.
The motion, brought forward by opposition parties over alleged
failures in the environment and water sectors, was supported
by 83 deputies in the 240-seat legislature. Backing came
from members of the Revival party, Alliance for Rights
and Freedoms, Greatness, and Mech, along with
nearly half of the We Continue the Change –
Democratic Bulgaria alliance.
A total of 131 members of Parliament voted against the motion,
including representatives from the ruling GERB-UDF coalition,
BSP-United Left, There Is Such People (ITN), and the 29-seat
Movement for Rights and Freedoms – New Beginning.
To succeed, a no-confidence vote must secure the
backing of over half of the Assembly’s members.
On Thursday, Jeliazkov expressed confidence that the motion
would fail, calling it a “sectoral no-confidence vote” lacking
substantive grounds. “The topic itself does not affect the
work of this cabinet, and this cabinet is making efforts
to resolve inherited problems,” he said.
The first no-confidence motion, which criticized the government’s
foreign policy, failed on April 3. The second one, accusing the
government of inadequately combating corruption, was
rejected on April 17. The third one, filed over the
government’s alleged failure in its fiscal policy,
shared the fate of the other two on July 4.
Under Bulgaria’s constitution, a no-confidence vote can be
initiated by at least one-fifth of the Assembly’s members.
However, a second motion on the same grounds can
not be filed within a six-month period.
Jeliazkov’s administration was sworn in on January 16 after
Bulgaria’s October 2024 snap elections, the country’s 7th
parliamentary election in just three and a half years.
___________________________________________________
Trump Announces 35% Tariffs
on Canadian Imports Starting
August 1
July 11th, 2:43am
(teleSUR)
U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed on Thursday ---- that a 35%
tariff will be applied to all imports from Canada starting August 1,
marking an expansion of the current trade restrictions.
In a letter posted on his social media platform, Trump informed
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney that the new tariff rate
will come into effect next month and may increase ------- if
Canada imposes retaliatory measures.
This new tariff adds to existing duties, including a 25% tariff on
Canadian auto parts announced in March and a 50% tariff on
steel and aluminium imposed in June. With this latest
measure, nearly all Canadian imports ----- will be
subjected to tariffs.
Trump stated in an interview with NBC News that not all countries
receive formal notification letters and that the administration is
setting tariff rates for remaining trade partners. He indicated
these tariffs could range between 15% and 20%.
Trade negotiations between the United States and Canada are
ongoing, with both sides aiming to reach an agreement by
July 21. In May, Carney met Trump at the White House.
However, talks were suspended last month after
Canada introduced a digital services tax,
which was later rescinded to facilitate
continued negotiations.
In addition to Canada, Trump has imposed tariffs on other
countries, including a 50% tariff on copper and duties
on Japan and South Korea.
The tariffs have also affected Southeast Asian nations. Myanmar’s
Senior General Min Aung Hlaing has requested a reduction of
the 40% tariff on exports and offered to send negotiators
to Washington.
The Philippines’ Foreign Secretary Theresa Lazaro confirmed that
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will meet with Trump later this
month to discuss the 20% tariffs on Philippine goods - and
bilateral defense issues.
Canada and Mexico continue to work to uphold the United States-
Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which replaced NAFTA in
July 2020 following renegotiation efforts led by Trump.
Although a review was scheduled for 2026, recent
tariff measures have altered the timeline.
Initially, Canadian and Mexican goods were subjected to 25%
tariffs, though exemptions were made for products covered
under the USMCA, including potash used as fertilizer,
which was taxed at a lower rate.
A court hearing scheduled for July 31 will examine whether the
administration exceeded its authority by imposing tariffs
without declaring a national emergency.
The outcome may influence future U.S. trade policies
amid ongoing tensions affecting countries in
the Global South.
___________________________________________________
The President of South Korea called for
the active restoration of ties with
North Korea
by Igor Ryabov
July 10th, 5:22pm
(Gazeta.ru)
South Korean President Lee Jae-myung called for
.....actively restoring ties with the DPRK. This is
reported by the South Korean agency, Yonhap.
"We must make an effort - to restore the deteriorating
relationship between the South and the North," the
president said at the first meeting of the National
Security Council since his inauguration.
According to him, peace between the two countries is
the most realistic way to strengthen national security.
On July 3, Lee Jae-myung stated that the Republic of
Korea should strive for peaceful unification with the
DPRK. He reminded that the constitution is written
about the desire for peaceful unification, and not
absorption. The second option ---- could lead to
greater losses, the head of state emphasized.
The President pointed out that 80 years have passed since
the Korean War, which is a short time from an historical
perspective. He suggested that the two sides could
unite ----- "even after several hundred years"
if "homogeneity is restored."
In mid-June, Lee Jae-myung ordered the immediate restoration
of inter-Korean dialogue channels. According to the politician,
his administration will “cease useless military activity and
resume dialogue and cooperation.”
The President emphasized that the two Koreas must move
away from confrontation and the logic of the Cold War,
showing wisdom and patience.
Earlier, South Korea had turned off
loudspeakers aimed at the DPRK.
_____________________________________
Von der Leyen survives... confidence
vote - as dissent surprises Brussels
July 10th, 12:54pm
(TASS)
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen suspects
certain "external forces" are trying to divide the EU, but
her narrow escape in today's no confidence vote
shows that the problems may be internal.
"As external forces seek to destabilize and divide us,
it is our duty to respond in line with our values.
Thank you, and long live Europe," von der
Leyen wrote on X.
The EU "needs strength, vision, and
the capacity to act," she argued.
Earlier, a diplomat in Brussels told TASS --- that the
results of the no-confidence vote on the EU chief
"sent shockwaves....... through Brussels."
Even supporters of the motion expected some 15% to 20%
of members to support the move, and "the share of those
dissatisfied with the work of the European Commission
exceeded these expectations," he said.
The diplomat also opined...... that the vote "will not affect the
political course being pursued by the European Commission."
According to him, next, the EC "will probably launch a large-
scale media campaign for damage control, one that is likely
----- to attribute the discontent with how the European
Commission runs things..... to external forces,"
he explained.
Von der Leyen survived a no-confidence vote in the European
Parliament at a plenary session in Strasbourg on Thursday.
The vote followed allegations of corruption and misconduct in
the EU’s procurement of COVID-19 vaccines. Out of 553 MEPs
who showed up to cast a ballot, 360 voted to reject the
motion, with 175 in favour and 18.... abstaining.
_______________________________________
UN secretary-general’s remarks blindly
support criminal Kiev regime —
Russian MFA
July 10th, 8:52am
(TASS)
The statements by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres
condemning Russia in the context of the Ukraine conflict
demonstrate his political leaning and lack of foresight,
showing blind support for the criminal Kiev regime,
according to a statement from the Russian
Foreign Ministry.
"On July 5, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres once again
made inflammatory remarks regarding the Ukrainian crisis.
Guterres strongly condemned 'the latest series of large-
scale drone and missile attacks ---- by the Russian
Federation, reportedly the largest in over three
years of war', which - allegedly - has led to
disruptions in the power supply, to the
Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant
(ZNPP) and expressed concern
about a 'dangerous escalation
and the growing number of
civilian casualties,'" the
statement reads.
"The UN Secretary-General's remarks are yet another vivid
demonstration of his political bias and shortsightedness,
which manifest in virtually unconditional support for
the criminal regime in Kiev, including the North
Atlantic Alliance behind it," the Russian
Foreign Ministry stated.
"The basis for such assessments --- has largely been provided by
ambiguous and essentially distorted evaluations in the reports
compiled by the Director General of the International Atomic
Energy Agency regarding the situation at the ZNPP, which
fail to mention attacks by Ukrainian armed groups on
the plant."
Moscow has emphasized the absurdity of suggestions that Russia
could have any reason to create difficulties for the safe operation
of the Russian NPP in Zaporozhye.
"It is Moscow -- that bears responsibility for ensuring the safety of
the ZNPP, and the Russian side is doing everything to fulfill this
obligation. Moreover, such matters do not fall within the
competence of the UN Secretary-General," the
statement noted.
Actions of militants
What truly deserves unequivocal condemnation "are the actions
of militants from the Kiev regime, which led to the disruption of
power supply to the ZNPP, and those responsible ---- will not
escape punishment," the Foreign Ministry emphasized.
During the special military operation, the Russian side - "has been
taking exhaustive measures - to strictly comply with international
humanitarian law ------- striking exclusively at Ukrainian military
targets using high-precision weapons," the statement said.
"The Ukrainian Bandera regime, meanwhile, systematically targets
Russian civilians specifically ----- as well as civil infrastructure,
thereby confirming its terrorist nature," the ministry stated.
Propagation of lies
Guterres and his subordinates "regularly echo and repeat lies
devised by the Kiev regime and Western capitals in order to
discredit Russia," the Foreign Ministry emphasized.
"They systematically ignore egregious violations of international
humanitarian law by Kiev or, at best, restrict themselves to
urging restraint from both sides," the statement reads.
"The Secretariat’s double standards grossly violate Article 100
of the UN Charter, which requires it to adhere to principles
of impartiality and independence."
Russia "insists -- that UN officials abandon their biased course,
demands that they cease acting as a mouthpiece for Western
propaganda and a distributor of disinformation and fake
news, and instead, adopt a neutral and responsible
position..... befitting their status, relying only on
verified sources of information," the Foreign
Ministry emphasized.
_______________________________________________
Trump imposed 50% tariffs
on goods from Brazil
July 9th, 9:49pm
(Izvestia.ru)
US President Donald Trump has imposed a 50% tariff on goods
from Brazil, as he announced in a letter from the White House
on July 9. The law will take effect on August 1.
It is noted that the reason for such a high tariff is the unequal
trade relations between the countries and Brazil's alleged
interference in the US presidential election.
"In part due to Brazil's insidious attack on free elections and the
fundamental right of Americans to freedom of speech, we will
impose a 50% tariff on any Brazilian goods imported into the
United States, separate from all sectoral tariffs, effective
August 1, 2025," Trump wrote in the document.
Trade War: The US Increases Tariffs on China to 104%
The Chinese authorities have already announced that
they will take decisive measures in response to the
US leader's tariffs.
Earlier, on July 8, Trump warned --- about
imposing 10% tariffs on BRICS countries.
____________________________
Trump praised the President of English-
speaking Liberia for his language skills
July 9th, 9:26pm
(RT.ru)
US President Donald Trump asked Liberian President Joseph
Boakai where he had learned to speak English so well, the
official language of both countries.
At a meeting with African leaders at the White House,
Trump said that there were people in the room
who didn't speak English well.
"Such good English, where did you learn to speak so
beautifully, in Liberia?" Trump asked, according
to RIA Novosti.
Earlier, the Semafor portal reported that the head of
the White House will hold his first summit with
African leaders...... on July 9-11.
___________________________________________
InfoBRICS: Putin's negotiating position
is more advantageous - than Trump's
July 9th, 9:11pm
(RT.ru)
Russian President Vladimir Putin's negotiating position is more
advantageous than that of US President Donald Trump.
This is what Cairo-based economic researcher Ahmed Adel
writes about ---- in his article for infoBRICS. He noted
that Putin does not have the task of symbolically
defeating Trump, as he already surpasses
the US president strategically.
"Since the start of the phone conversations... it has become
clear that Putin is in a better position to engage in dialogue
with his American counterpart, despite Trump's threats
of sanctions," Adel said.
Earlier, Russian President's Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov
said that the Kremlin calmly accepts the tightening of
Trump's rhetoric.
____________________________________________________
Orban: Europe will be forced to admit
the defeat of the EU and Ukraine
in the conflict
July 9th, 8:57pm
(RT.ru)
Europe's politicians will be forced to admit that the EU and
Ukraine have lost the conflict. This was stated by the
Hungarian Prime Minister, Viktor Orban.
According to his words, which were voiced in an interview
with the YouTube channel Patriota, Hungarian and Slovak
politicians will be the exception. For the rest, Orban
noted, there will be a “bitter moment.”
"I think the EU has already lost this war, and Ukraine is holding
on to the front, although it is retreating, but I think Ukraine
has also lost," said Orban.
Earlier, the Hungarian Prime Minister spoke about the vote
on the EC President's case, saying that July 10 will be
the moment of truth for the EU.
______________________________________________________
Slovakia has blocked the adoption
of a new EU sanctions package
against Russia
July 9th, 8:50pm
(RT.ru)
Slovakia has blocked the EU's adoption of a new package of
sanctions against Russia for the second time this week.
This is reported by Euronews TV channel, citing sources.
"Slovakia confirmed on Wednesday that it will retain the right
to veto the new sanctions package that the EU intends to
impose on Russia," the publication says.
Earlier, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico said that Bratislava's
refusal to support new sanctions against Russia is based on
protecting the republic's interests, which are threatened
by the EU Commission's idea of stopping any Russian
gas supplies to the EU.
________________________________________________________
Poland warns: risk of country's collapse
----- due to its faith in the EU and NATO
by Alexander Afonin
July 8th, 9:28pm
(Gazeta.ru)
The authorities in Poland fear that the country may collapse
due to blind faith in the promises of the EU and NATO. This
is reported by the Polish publication Mysl Polska (MP).
According to the publication, in January, Polish deputies
demanded the cancellation of several provisions of the
Green Agreement. The initiative aims to reduce green
-house gas emissions in European countries by 2040.
However, Poland believes that the implementation
of the agreement may have a negative impact
on the country's industry.
The article also states that the Polish authorities are concerned
about the militarization of EU and NATO countries. According to
the journalists, as part of the implementation of the decision,
several countries may be forced to purchase weapons --- by
investing large amounts of money in their defense budgets.
In May, Polish presidential candidate Grzegorz Braun tore the
EU flag and wiped his feet on it. The incident took place, at
the Ministry of Industry in Katowice. According to RFM 24,
Braun arrived there as a parliamentarian to investigate
the "liquidation of the Polish mining industry."
Earlier, the President of Poland expressed his opinion
against Ukraine's accession to the EU and NATO.
________________________________
The Tunisian President called
for a radical overhaul of the
global economic system
by Alexey Merkulov (Tunisia)
July 8th, 7:52pm
(Rossiyskaya Gazeta)
During a meeting with Tunisian Finance Minister Meshket Salama
Al-Khalidi, the President of the North African Republic, Qais
Sayed, made a sharp criticism of the existing global
economic model.
The statement of the Tunisian leader was published on
the official page of the presidential administration on
the social network Facebook (banned in Russia,
belongs to Meta, recognized in Russia as
extremist and also banned).
According to the statement, the head of state discussed with
the minister --- the results of her participation in the Fourth
International Conference on Financing for Development
in Seville, where harsh assessments of the global
economic order were made.
Syed emphasized the urgent need to abandon traditional
approaches that he believes exacerbate inequality
between countries.
"The world today needs new, fundamentally different solutions
that completely break with the established practices that
have led to such an imbalance in development," the
Tunisian president said.
He emphasized the plight of developing countries, which, despite
their efforts, have been unable to achieve genuine growth due to
the "unfair global economic system and the numerous crises in
which they are not the perpetrators but the victims."
It is noteworthy that Sayed's position came amid the ongoing
economic crisis in Tunisia and on the eve of US President
Donald Trump's announcement - of Washington's plans
to impose tariffs of 25% or more on goods from 14
countries, including the Republic of Tunisia,
starting from August 1.
For his part, the head of the Tunisian-American Chamber of
Commerce and Industry (AmCham Tunisia), Marouen Ben
Jemaa on the air of the local radio station Mosaique FM,
hastened to reassure the Tunisian leadership, stating
that negotiations are currently underway with the
US leadership to reduce customs duties for the
republic to 10%.
"It is unlikely that this rate (25%) will be maintained. However,
if this decision is made, it will affect Tunisian exporters, but
they will not leave the US market," said the head of
AmCham Tunisia.
"Therefore, it is necessary to adapt and accept a reduction in
profits." According to him, the products that Tunisia exports
to the US, mainly olive oil and dates, are still highly sought
after by US consumers, due to their superior quality.
"No one can impose anything - on Tunisia. Our sovereignty
is inviolable. And in the end, everything will return to
normal after the necessary time has passed,"
Ben Jemaa concluded.
__________________________________
The dollar - experienced its
worst decline since 1973
- in June
by Oleg Artyukov
July 8th, 5:15pm
(Pravda.ru)
In June, the US dollar fell by 10.7 percent, marking the largest
half-year decline since 1973. This sharp weakening of the
national currency has caused concern in financial
markets, particularly on Wall Street.
Investors are increasingly reevaluating their strategies in order
to diversify their assets and reduce their dependence on the
dollar, amid increasing economic and geopolitical risks.
Against the backdrop of current instability, there is
an increased interest in more stable and secure
forms of investment.
The reasons for the dollar's decline include a combination
of macroeconomic and political factors. These include
the high level of the US national debt, which is
approaching $30 trillion, and the ongoing
federal budget deficit.
Forecasts suggest that the deficit could reach two trillion
dollars by 2025. This undermines the credibility of the
dollar as a key global reserve currency.
An additional factor putting pressure on the exchange rate
is the expectation of lower interest rates from the US
Federal Reserve. Stimulative monetary policy
could accelerate inflationary processes
and further weaken the dollar, amid
a slowdown in economic growth.
In addition, ongoing trade tensions, particularly between the
United States and China ---- are increasing uncertainty for
exporters and investors, reducing the competitiveness
of U.S. products abroad, despite the depreciation of
the dollar.
The growing instability is also reflected in the desire
of central banks around the world to diversify their
international reserves.
According to the World Gold Council, there has been a
noticeable increase in the volume of gold purchases.
In the first half of 2025, the demand for gold from
government institutions reached record levels,
indicating a growing trust in physical assets
as a safe haven -- in the face of currency
fluctuations.
Historically, a strong dollar has served as an indicator
of US economic stability. However, the current
dynamics - point to structural changes in
the global financial system.
The shift of capital towards alternative assets such as
gold, commodities, and, to some extent, digital
currencies, reflects increased doubts about
the dollar's ability to maintain its status
in the global economy.
_______________________________________
Czech President Pavel: Conflict - with
Russia Threatens Europe's Economy
by Artem Kozhevnikov
July 8th, 2:42pm
(Rossiyskaya Gazeta)
The reality shows - that an endless conflict with Russia is
impossible, as it could lead to the collapse of European
economies. This was stated by Czech President, Petr
Pavel, in a comment to the BBC (blocked in Russia).
He noted that a confrontational approach with Russia would
only lead to losses for European economies. The Czech
president did not rule out the possibility of considering
cooperation with Moscow ...after the Ukrainian crisis
is resolved.
Pavel added that European countries and Russia would
probably be able to "discuss cooperation and the
business we have previously conducted."
____________________________________________
Pakistan highlights potential
for cooperation with Asean
July 8th, 10:27am
(Prensa Latina)
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar highlighted
here today the potential for cooperation between Pakistan and
the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in
recognition of the solid links between both parties.
In a meeting in Islamabad with the mission heads from ASEAN
member countries, Dar highlighted the possibilities to further
deepen ties in areas such as trade, tourism, connectivity,
information technologies and education, according to
a report by the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP).
Representatives of Myanmar, Brunei Darussalam, Vietnam,
Thailand, Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia - visited the
Pakistani deputy prime minister and foreign minister
before his participation in the 32nd Ministerial
Meeting of the Association of Southeast
Asian Nations Forum at the end of this
week, APP stressed, citing
diplomatic sources.
Participants agreed - on the importance
of Pakistan's collaboration with Asean
and its member states, the news
outlet said.
Pakistan and Asean have areas of practical
cooperation, within the framework of the
Sectoral Dialogue Partnership between
both countries renewed for the period
from 2024 to 2028 to consolidate
common ties, according to the
regional group's website.
This mechanism also contributes to the achievement
of the objectives of ASEAN Community Vision 2025
and its successor document, as well as to
strengthening relations between
both parties.
In this regard -- they agreed to progress cooperation in
policy and security with the emphasis on combating
illicit drug trafficking & human trafficking, through
the abuse of technology, terrorism, violent
extremism and radicalization, and
addressing ---- the conditions
conducive to terrorism.
Also... joint work for peace and reconciliation,
collaboration in economic and socio-cultural
areas, among other areas.
____________________________
India confirms aspiring to a
$300 billion bioeconomy
July 8th, 9:46am
(Prensa Latina)
Minister of Science and Technology Jitendra Singh stated
today, that India aspires to a $300 billion economy by
2030 based on the application of biotechnology
for national development.
In the presentation of the country's vision on biotechnology
on World Bioproducts Day ---- the Indian minister called for
greater public understanding and inclusive participation
towards the Government's project for the
country's bioeconomy.
Singh celebrated as an example of this objective the event
Voices in Cities: A National Synchronized Series of
Dialogues by the Hour, organized by the Dept of
Biotechnology (DBT) and its agencies, which
led to thematic debates in several cities on
marine biomass, industrial valorization,
forest resources, and innovations in
agricultural waste.
He added that the participation of students, startups
and industry leaders in such outreach initiatives
was essential to the sustainability of the
fundamental mission of advancing
future goals.
The Indian minister also stressed the need to establish
alliances with the industry from the beginning - and to
have financial support for biotechnology companies.
He highlighted the growth of India's biotech ecosystem
from just about 50 startups a decade ago
to almost 11,000 today.
Regarding the recent BioE3 Policy, Singh noted that it
lays the foundation for India to lead sustainable
biomanufacturing ----- aligning bioeconomy
goals with environmental sustainability,
economic growth and equity.
“Bioproducts... are no longer limited to laboratories. It's about
livelihoods, from biodegradable packaging to green
personal care products, from rural employment,
to green jobs”, he said.
The Indian incumbent recognized the importance
of preparing young academics in biotechnology
to support the goals.
________________________________________________
State Duma Deputy -- responds to
Western concerns about BRICS
July 7th, 2:47pm
(Izvestia.ru)
The concerns about BRICS are absolutely justified, as its
members oppose any hegemony and really want to
destroy Western hegemony. This was stated by
State Duma Deputy, Dmitry Novikov, on
Monday, July 7.
The parliamentarian noted in an interview with Lenta.Ru that it
is not about replacing one hegemony with another, as BRICS
includes too many countries representing different
continents, different economic scales, and
different cultural traditions. He believes
that the countries of the organization
are united in their desire: for a fair,
multilateral, and multipolar world
where there will be no hegemony.
"If Western countries or Western politicians believe that such a
constructive approach poses a threat to Western hegemony,
then they are taking an extremely harmful and
unconstructive stance," Novikov said.
He added that -- if they are not ready to reconsider this position,
the majority of the world's nations will still work to prevent the
formation of a new colonial system... and create a more just
world... through various means.
Earlier, the German newspaper Bild wrote that the West sees the
BRICS countries' initiatives as an attempt to reshape the world
and destroy their hegemony, according to 360.ru. According to
the publication, the initiative to create a New Development
Bank in the BRICS system is also ''dangerous'', as
reported by NSN.
On June 6th, Vladimir Putin joined the BRICS summit in Rio de
Janeiro via video link, according to the website kp.ru. Earlier,
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov arrived at the event,
as reported by RT.
The Russian Foreign Minister is expected to meet with
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, among others,
according to Pravda.Ru.
_____________________________________________________
Siluanov announced that all BRICS
countries support the creation of
an investment mechanism
July 5th, 11:20pm
(Izvestia.ru)
All BRICS members have supported the creation of a
guarantee mechanism to increase investment in the
organization's countries. Russian Finance Minister
Anton Siluanov announced this to journalists on
July 5.
"I can say that a new topic has been added (for discussion. —
Ed.). This is the creation of a guarantee mechanism based
on the New Development Bank [BRICS]," the minister said
during a conversation with journalists after the annual
meeting of the NDB Board of Governors... and the
meeting of finance ministers and central bank
governors, of the bloc's countries.
According to him, many countries currently have development
institutions that guarantee loans for large infrastructure
projects. He added that the BRICS countries plan
to provide such guarantees for bank loans
under the auspices of the New
Development Bank.
In addition, he clarified that the members of the association
also discussed the use of digital financial assets (DFA) in
cross-border settlements. Furthermore, they agreed to
continue this discussion in the future, the
minister added.
Russia is Creating a BRICS Grain Exchange.
Siluanov said on July 4 that, within the BRICS, it is necessary to
create its own insurance organizations that can compete with
Western companies. According to him, to date, the main
insurance companies are organizations of Western
countries, and therefore “additional insurance
capacity” should be formed, among the
members of the association.
____________________________________
Siluanov: The New BRICS Development
