Ukraine, Russia Near Deal on Gas Bill

Russia and Ukraine move closer to resolving their dispute over natural-gas prices. Moscow has threaten cutoff of supplies if deadline of Tuesday is not met. Moscow has been demanding that Kiev pay more than 3.5 billion in outstanding dues from February and March.

The two sides will continue negotiating natural-gas prices on Monday afternoon once the payment arrives. However, officials say Ukraine wired the money on Friday through New York to Moscow, which means Moscow will not see the payment till at least Monday. It also means that there is little time to negotiating once the payment is received. Ukraine's acting Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk stated that Monday's talks would "either end in the signing of an agreement or the filing of a lawsuit".

http://online.wsj.com/articles/ukraine-military-pressing-on-in-east-official-says-1401446327?tesla=y&mg=reno64-wsj&url=http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702303633604579593581739073924.html

-Jackie Bland

U.S. Sway in Asia is Imperiled as China Challenges Alliances

In this week's update, China is reported as starting conflicts deliberately with the intent of driving U.S. alliances out of the East-Asian jurisdiction so to exemplify that China is a powerful country that can achieve prospective prosper without western intervention.  Such attempts have been conflicts in air and sea zones as well as quarrels in countries like Japan and Vietnam.  Even in the speech given by president Xi of China, the foundation of China's future implicitly does not include U.S. aid. 

We have been presented with a graph exhibiting the rise and fall of power between two countries and a small window in which conflict occurs that will define which of the two countries will be the more powerful, and this recent news update clearly exemplifies catalysts that can lead to warfare.  It's like the old saying goes: "if you can't beat them, join them."  But the issue being faced now is China sees potential that the U.S. can be beat. 

Scott Bishop

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/05/31/world/asia/us-sway-in-asia-is-imperiled-as-china-challenges-alliances.html?hp&_r=0

Japan Wants A Greater Role In Asian Security

A Shangri-La Dialogue expected to take place in Singapore on Friday will include Japan's Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe, who is expected to push for Japan to have a greater role in Asian security. Mr Abe wants to promote Japan as a counterbalance to China, a move that China is not very happy about. This summit (also known as the Asia Security Summit) does come amid territorial disputes between China, Vietnam, the Philippines, and even Japan with disputed islands in the East China Sea. Mr Abe, who is giving the keynote address, is expected to push for Japan and the US to play a "greater role in security cooperation in Asia".

This urge is to open up some discussion about Asia's peace and safety. This seems to be a particularly good time for that discussion, considering the situation that is currently going on in the South and East China Seas. China is not happy about this, and is angered by "Mr Abe's call for a new interpretation of Japan's constitution", which would ban any threats and acts of war as a solution to international disputes. Some countries are hesitant to go against China and support Japan because of their economic and political ties. Others, however, are growing more angry with China because of the territorial disputes.

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-27630604

Ann Nenoff

"US Military in Afghanistan by the Numbers"

by Luis Martinez

Note: It surprised me this last memorial day when it surprised my friend when a 5K we were at listed a number of names that had been killed in military action this past year. He thought that nothing was happening in Afghanistan anymore. So when I saw this article, it stuck out at me.

The war in Afghanistan has been going on for 13 years. All troops are not supposed to pull out until 2016. This will have been one of the longest wars the United States has ever been a part of. It started in 2001 when the United States bombed Al Queda training camps.

Overall, there has been over 800,000 military that served for various time spans on very in Afghanistan. The peak of military serving at one time was 100,000 in 2010. There are currently 32,800 military service members in Afghanistan. The Obama administration is calling to reduce that to 9,800 by the end of this year. This number is supposed to be halved by 2015. All troops are supposed to be pulled by 2016.

The war cost 537.8 billion dollars.

2,184 died in the line of active duty in Afghanistan. 19,600 more were wounded.

Link and video can be found at ABCnews here

Katie Madel

Low Voter Turnout in Egypt

Egypt recently had elections, however, hardly anyone came out to the polls. Turnout rate was so low that the Egyptian government extended the voting hours until 10pm that night. It was also declared a state holiday, where many businesses were shut down for the day in order to give people time to vote. It was even reported that police were instructed to help the sick or elderly get to the polls. The government also declared a $70 fine for those who chose not to vote. In addition, the military-backed government extended the voting period by a day. Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, the former army field marshal who helped oust the previous president, is expected to win this election in a landslide. The low voter turnout rate, though, suggests that he is not as popular as the media portrays him. It also means that his presidency will not have as much legitimacy as the  fiercely and competitively elected president during the 2011 elections.

Alexandria Corriveau
PSC102

http://search.proquest.com/nationalnewsexpanded/docview/1528752583/42FB5486167A4D6APQ/6?accountid=44854

Ancient Rivalries are Stirred by Mass on Mount Zion

The Pope's visit to Jerusalem has stirred up ancient rivalries when an intimate Mass was held in the Cenacle on Mount Zion which is venerated by Christians as the room of the Last Supper. While the Pope's visit was meant to be peaceful, Mount Zion is considered holy to Jews and Muslims and therefore has caused competing religion claims to the land and one of the most sensitive issues in the the Middle East conflict. While control of Mount Zion has passed from religion to religion over the years, the Vatican is now seeking increased prayer rights to the Cenacle which is usually devoid of any Christian symbols. The lower room is mostly reserved for Jewish prayer and is basically a synagogue. The Pope's visit has caused opposition to the extension of Christian prayer times. Rumors have also been circulating that the Vatican is trying to buy the Cenacle and that the Pope wants to move to Mount Zion. The rumored transfer of ownership of the Cenacle has been denied.

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/05/27/world/middleeast/mass-planned-on-mount-zion-stirs-ancient-rivalries.html?src=me

-Ambrielle Barker

The Real News About the South China Sea, Philippines, Vietnam and the Spratly Islands

In a May 23, 2014 online article on Reuters.com, titled "China Warns Japan, Philippines Accuses China in Maritime Spat," authors Sui-Lee Wee and Manuel Mogato describe the quickly evaporating relationship between Japan, the Philippines, Vietnam, Brunei, and the United States and China.
Many people see China as an aggressor in the South and East China Seas, as they have repeatedly bullied their way throughout the disputed Spratly Island chain using their superior naval strength. Unfortunately, China has been delaying talks to resolve the dispute, hurting their reputation around the world. The Philippines has possibly been the most outspoken about China's aggression in the region, as they might feel the most threatened because their territories hold some of the most abundant natural resources in the region - both oil and natural gas. China wants everything and will stop at nothing it seems until they get their grimy hands all over it.

The Philippines released a statement this week accusing China of delaying talks that the Philippines have desired for almost a decade. China insists that the Philippines, the United States, and Japan are antagonistic, while Beijing is the only party causing real damage. Fortunately for the world, technology allows the truth to surface; complete with full video and high definition pictures, the world sees China for what they really are - greedy, ambitious communists.

Small nations like the Philippines have to try to go head to head with China, and they might have to do it alone. It seems China will stop at nothing, as they continue to flaunt their navy in the face of peaceful demonstrations by citizens of Vietnam, the Philippines, and Japan, among others. There is hope for these small, defenseless nations, however.

The United States has pledged full support, both militarily and legally for the Philippines and Japan. Vietnam is also looking for support from others, as protests continue to plague the tiny nation's capital. A 67 year old Vietnamese woman denouncing China died earlier this week after self-immolation in Ho Chi Minh City, carrying signs calling for Vietnamese action.

It won't take much more for the "UNited States" to get involved, but if they do, it could spell economic chaos throughout the world, as both the American and Chinese economies are closely dependent upon one another.

More to come on this topic, I'm sure.

best,
Christopher M. Vacek

http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/05/23/us-southchinasea-idUSBREA4M04Y20140523

Pushback on Globalization

The European Parliament elections took place today. The overwhelming trend, across Europe, was the success of anti-Euro, anti-immigrant parties -- this is not to say that they are all xenophobes, they are not. Near the beginning of the term, for this blog, I wrote about Marie le Pin and the National Front in France. At the time the party won a number of local elections across the country. I didn't know on what level they would be able to affect the situation of France on the continent from their local positions of authority. But as of today the Front in France holds 26% of the French seats in the European Parliament. In other countries Anti-Euro parties had the same level of success, which means that they will attempt to dismantle, or at least further minimalize, the institution from the inside -- not to say that the European Parliament really has any authority, it is a symbol more than anything. The assumption is that the nationalism will continue with the sluggish recovery. The Euro-zone has helped with the integration of the "European Community." We Talked about the Democratic Peace Hypothesis of Thomas Friedman, but in Europe the peace should be greatly attributed to the economic integration and interconnection. If the European Community falls apart, we could see the reigniting of old racial tensions across the continent as the states will no longer be affected by the misfortune of other countries. If the Euro dies, old currencies will be brought back and we will see divisive currency wars within Europe. Mitch Wood http://www.foxnews.com/world/2014/05/26/euroskeptic-anti-immigrant-parties-make-big-gains-in-european-union-elections/

In East, Separatists and Fear Stop Voters

The country of Ukraine is now split between pro-Russians and Ukrainians. There was a recent presidential election. In the west, many people voted for a new government, which has been building up since February. In Donetsk, in the west, only 2% of people voted in the election. One man in the west had this to say about the election. "That happened in Ukraine... We don't live there anymore". The problem with this statement is that Donetsk actually is in Ukraine. The tension has steadily risen between the East and West. It is to the point that a war to many seems to be on the horizon.

“I think there will be war,” said a 56-year-old mining engineer who gave his name as Alexander. “Anyone who thinks logically and isn’t riding a wave of emotion understands this now.”

 

Ahead of Ukraine elections, a generational split on nationalism

There is a divide between the old and the new generation that seperates their opinions on whether or not they all feel more Russian or Ukranian. Since the new generation has no recollection of the Soviet life like their elders, the young generation say that they feel Ukrainian. The new generation does fluidly speak both Ukrainian and Russian like their parents and the older generations, and they say that the spirit of democracy "could counter the corruption that has plagued Ukraine since independence in 1991. After many weeks of violence, there will be an election of 44 million that will determine whether voters will have the opportunity to cast their ballots in some parts of the east. I am curious to see the outcome that will essentially influence whether Ukraine pursues a federal form of government giving more autonomy as Russia wants, or if they will go towards the EU and align with NATO.

-Monica Gryszowka


http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/ahead-of-ukraine-elections-a-generational-split-on-nationalism/2014/05/24/3072c82f-8c34-475a-b26d-e19032f7d485_story.html

International Investors Help Brazil Protect Rainforests

In a recent announcement, Brazil has stated that it will partner with many governmental and private funders in order to fund an expansion of protection for parts of the Amazon. This funding, $215 million, will help protect 15 percent of the Brazilian Amazon or about 200,000 square miles. This story caught my attention after reading the chapter on the environment. It seems as though Brazil and other philanthropists are fighting to protect the rainforest, since so much of Brazil is made up of the Amazon.

I found the backers of this project particularly interesting. I expected there to be some companies trying to get good publicity by backing the project, but instead found investors such as World Wildlife Fund, the German government and the Inter-American Development Bank. These backers really echoed the lecture on Friday showing that NGOs, other governments, and even international entities can all lend a hand to help a country maintain its powerful and much needed resources. Humanitarianism aside, I'm sure that the Brazilian Amazon holds a lot of economic and political power for Brazil and many countries around the world. Interdependence will cause other countries and entities to treat that land as their own and avoid a "tragedy of the commons" scenario.

Posted by Evy Lopez

http://search.proquest.com.libproxy.noctrl.edu/nationalnewsexpanded/docview/1526714009/DE72539F5935481BPQ/24?accountid=44854

Al-Shabaab attacks Somali Parliament

At least ten individuals have been killed in an attack on a Somalian Parliament building in Mogadishu. The attackers used car bombs to gain entry into the building, then opened fire on the building before blowing themselves up. The U.S. released a statement condemning the attacks and assured that they would continue to stand behind the Federal Government of Somalia as it tries to root out al-Shabaab. Interestingly enough, one Somali military police officer said that the attack highlights the weak government of Somalia, and the ineffectiveness of their efforts to root out al-Shabaab from the area. Following the attack the Somali security minister resigned and stated that he hoped another individual could come in and help to solve the problem.

Alec Phillipp
http://www.cnn.com/2014/05/24/world/africa/somalia-attack/index.html?hpt=wo_c2

Slivers of Land Crowd Disputed Waters

As we have recently discussed in class, the Chinese, Philippines and Vietnamese have been creating unusual settlements on small islands throughout the South China Sea to help strengthen their government's territorial claims. However, it has been creating high tensions between the countries.

China has recently created an island on a shallow reef in the South China Sea where in oil rig waters. Conveniently, its located in an area already claimed by vietnam. This incident has caused anti-chinese riots in Vietnam and damaged the bilateral relationship.

The Philippines has reacted by also creating a chain of communities on small islands throughout the South China Sea. They believe it was ultimately the best way for the Philippines to defend its economic interests. Since Vietnam and China have been constructing these projects, it is essential for them to build now-and fast.

In addition, many of these islands are unable to grow food due to the sandy soil. Therefore many of the islands rely on freighters to transport food and medicine to them. Some of the islands even have schools, health clinics and post office's on them. Innovations of solar panels and Internet has been added to the islands to make life a little easier. Recently China has even promoted Telecom's recent rollout of 3G mobile internet in parts of the islands. Since some of the islands do not create revenue, only territory strength, it is costly for them to operate.

http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB30001424052702303480304579576380113652304?mg=reno64-wsj&url=http%3A%2F%2Fonline.wsj.com%2Farticle%2FSB30001424052702303480304579576380113652304.html

-Jackie Bland

Pope Francis invites Israeli, Palestinian leaders to Vatican peace talks

Pope Francis once again showed that he has a different approach and invited the leaders of Israel and the Palestinian Authority to travel to the Vatican for a “peace initiative”. The Pope also called for a two-state solution to the conflict. Pope Francis called for the recognition of a Palestinian state; he made the same demand on behalf of Israel. It is nice to see Pope Francis efforts to end conflict in the Middle East. And maybe because he is neutral to the situation, and he is such a powerful figure, the two countries will engage in peace talks. The Pope’s trip to the Holy Land has been rooted in faith not in politics, but in a region where religion and politics are so closely intertwined, his every remark takes on an added significance.

Link: http://www.cnn.com/2014/05/25/world/pope-mideast-trip/index.html?hpt=hp_t3

PSC 102

Mariana Cury

3 Shot Dead at Brussels Jewish Museum

On Saturday, 3 Jewish people were shot and killed at the Jewish Museum in the center of Brussels. The gunman was unidentified and fled the scene. Officials are saying that this appears to be an anti-semantic attack. Two of the three dead we're Israeli tourists, a man and a woman. Security is being tightened up at Jewish sites all across the country. This shooting would be the first anti-semantic attack in Brussels since WWII. The Prime Minister said that the site of the shooting was a symbolic site and that the Country will stand united. The shooting happened on the eve of the European Parliament  and national legislature elections. The president of the European Union's executive arms said that this was an attack on European values which that will not tolerate. Typically the Jewish community in Belgium will not report anti-semantic attacks because they feel it will not help and that they are not protected.

Monique Martinez

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/05/25/world/europe/3-shot-dead-at-brussels-jewish-museum.html?ref=world&_r=0

President Suprises the Troops in Afganistan

The article made it sound like this visit took place a week ago but I'm pretty sure that it happened this weekend. Anyway, the point is President Obama made a surprise visit to a gathering of troops in a hangar at Bagram Airfield. He gave a speech to the troops and thanked them for their service. He even took Brad Paisley with him and the country singer performed at the event. I guess this surprised me because one of the main reasons I know who Brad Paisley is, is his song "Accidental Racist". You'd think that would have some implications as far as working with the President goes but I'm glad it doesn't. On the flip the singer is an example of the all American country singer, which is probably why he was chosen for this event. What was most interesting about this event is that Mr. Obama did not meet with Afghanistan’s president, Hamid Karzai. This makes me wonder if the President or any U.S. presence is welcome in the country. I know that Mr. Obama and Mr. Karzai have had disagreements in the past so I guess this isn't surprising Of course, it could have been the case that the Afghan leader was just busy that day, but the article also talked about how there are elections soon and there is a pretty good chance for some new leadership to take office. I wonder if the other candidates have a more open mind to U.S. presence in their country because from the sounds of it the President doesn't plan on leaving soon. The president said in his speech that, “America’s war in Afghanistan will come to a responsible end.” among other motivational statements. I hope that this is true and that it is better than withdrawing all troops. The article also outlined the problems the president is having defining foreign policy in a number of countries. I'm hoping that America can find a way to figure some of this stuff out.

You can find the article here.

Katie Krupica

Ukraine New President

On Sunday May 25, 2014 voters handed Petro Poroshenko “chocolate tycoon” a glorious victory in Ukraine’s presidential election. Poroshenko won the election taking over 55 percent of the votes.  Poroshenko will now have to address the violence that is escalating in eastern Ukraine. Many cities across the east have been occupied by pro-Russian separatists, who vowed to disrupt the vote wherever possible. Pro-Russian separatists attacked polling places, one man was killed and another was wounded in a skirmish near the town of Novoaidar, Ukraine. With this step forward, maybe Ukraine has a brighter future ahead.

-Antonio Sobevski

 http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/ukrainians-head-to-the-polls-to-elect-a-new-president-except-in-the-restive-east/2014/05/25/2680fad4-e9f7-4118-923e-852b01351b39_story.html?hpid=z1

Mosquito's know no boarders

An outbreak of Chikungunya virus has been seen in the Caribbean. The virus, more commonly found in Africa and Asia has been carried over to the Caribbean islands. Thousands of patients are being seen daily in small clinics and hospitals across islands searching for a cure for the severe fevers, headaches and muscle spasms.  Haiti and the Dominican Republic are attempting to  respond to the surge of medical demands, all steaming from this virus.

Unfortunately, there is no vaccine or cure for the virus and over the counter painkillers is the only medicine being proscribed to reduce fever and headache. Even these limited medicinal resource are dwindling and the price for paracetamol (the painkiller/fever reducer) has doubled in Haiti over the past week. The World Health Organization predicts that chikungunya will continue to spread, specifically in Haiti and the Dominican Republic due to mosquito's tendency to breed around open, stagnant water, much like the water containers seen in Haiti homes due to lack of running water. 

-Alexandra Dominguez 

http://america.aljazeera.com/articles/2014/5/23/chikungunya-caribbeanvirus.html

It's not ALWAYS about politics...

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/05/26/world/asia/obama-in-afghanistan.html?ref=world&_r=0

President Obama, like so many Presidents before him, has now mastered the art of doing things under the radar and not letting the media get a hold of it (until after). The Commander in Chief made a surprise visit to Bagram Airfield base in Afghanistan early Sunday morning on this Memorial Day weekend not to meet with departing President Hamid Karzai but to simply...thank the troops. Of course, that is what Memorial Day is all about. To honor those who have served, are serving and will serve; whether they be fallen heroes or veterans. This weekend is about sacrifice and the President went on to thank the 3,000 troops in attendance for the sacrifices they've made; all in an effort to ensure that America will never be used as target for terrorism again.  This was a celebration, followed by a speech from the leader of the free world. Country singer Brad Paisley (who I'll be seeing this Saturday night) rode on Air Force One and performed for the troops for an hour before the speech.

This is the fourth time Obama has visited the country while in office and the questions facing the relations between the two nations are up in the air. The President did not travel to Kabul, the country’s capital. But he vowed that he would work with whoever wins the presidential runoff election scheduled for June 14: either Abdullah Abdullah or Ashraf Ghani.

-Max Kachinske 

Japan/China incident in South China Sea

Japan and China accused each other’s air forces of behaving dangerously yesterday in the South China Sea.  China said Japanese planes took dangerous actions during Chinese joint maritime exercise with Russia while Japan claims that Chinese air forces came within meters of its warplanes.  Japan went on into more detail to say that a Chinese SU-27 came within 50m of a Japanese OP-3C plane and within 30m of a YS-11EB plane.  Japan officials have said that this is an over the top way for China to handle the dispute.  China responded that Japan planes entered into a no fly zone despite notices and that China felt the need to respond because Japan should respect both the Chinese and Russian navies during their exercises. China also said, “…Japan will bear any and all consequences from this.”   

Alexandra Avery
http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/front/archives/2014/05/26/2003591244

"Pope Calls for Religious Tolerance in Visit to the Middle-East"

by William Booth

This Saturday, Pope Francis arrived at Jordan in a visit to the Holy Lands.

During his visit, he praised Jordan's help to refugees and called for religious tolerance.

Jordan has had a history of refugees, with Palestinians having fled there in 1948 and 1967. Now, Jordan also houses 700,000 Syrians that moved there before the war broke out and another 600,000 registered refugees that have escaped to the Holy Lands since then. As of right now, Jordan suffers economic hardship, which officials hope are helped by tourists visiting through the example of the Pope.

While in Jordan, Pope Francis met with the king of Jordan to discuss ways in which to encourage interfaith dialogue between Christians and Muslims. The Pope is quoted on his trip calling for the freedom of the Christians minority living in the Islamic region. There is still a number of Christian biblical spots among the Muslim region that demands interfaith cooperation. There are many words said about the importance of promoting peace and cooperation, notably the Pope mentions the importance of even the smaller acts.

Will Christian-Muslim relations become better through the help of this new Pope? Will Palenstine-Israel relations smooth over? I think from what I have seen from this new pope so far, anything is possible.

Full article can be found here

Katie Madel

UN Chief Urges Delivery of Aid to Syria, Even Without Consent

The United Nations security general Ban Ki-moon has urged the Security Council to authorize delivery of aid (including food and medicine) to Syria, even without the consent of the government. Syria has rebuffed appeals by the United Nations to send aid to the insurgent held areas. Because of this, 85% of food aid and 70% of medicines are in areas under the control of President Bashar al-Assad (who is running for another 7 year term). Syria asserts its right to admit or deny anyone entry because it is a sovereign nation. This blockade of humanitarian relief is a big issue, and Council members are frustrated. Some are discussing a draft that may open up specific border crossings to deliver aid. However, Assad's government stated that if this were to happen, they would expel all United Nations agencies. This could mean that millions of people in territories under Assad's control could lose their most reliable sources of food and medicine.
This issue of a lack of humanitarian relief is frustrating and there should be something done about it.

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/05/24/world/middleeast/un-chief-urges-aid-deliveries-to-syria-without-its-consent.html?ref=world

Ann Nenoff

Russia & China Strike Gas Deal

China and Russia have signed a $400 billion natural gas deal which will span 30 years. This is significant because it demonstrates the relationship that has been warming between Russia's Vladmir Putin and China's Xi Jinping. This deal has been discussed by these two countries for over ten years, and it was prompted largely in part by the invasion of Ukraine and annexation of Crimea. Europe has typically been Moscow's main energy market, but due to the Ukraine situation Europe has placed sanctions against Russia, forcing Russia to find a new energy market. This new market is China. This deal between gas companies Gazprom and China National Petroleum Corporation is the biggest deal Russia has sealed since the fall of the Soviet Union.

Alexandria Corriveau
PSC102

http://search.proquest.com/nationalnewsexpanded/docview/1526714609/2E22CE0E6FCE4FBDPQ/6?accountid=44854

Open letter to Obama calls for new steps to promote change in Cuba

An open letter composed and signed by forty-four policy reform advocates and former U.S officials calling for all Americans to be allowed to travel to Cuba has been sent to President Obama. The letter released on Monday was signed by John Negroponte, the Director of National Intelligence under President George W. Bush, retired Admiral James Stavridis, who stepped down last year as Supreme Allied Commander of NATO, and several former senior State Department officials and prominent Cuban Americans. 

This is just one of the latest increase in pressure on President Obama to enact change upon the Cuban embargo. The embargo has continued on ineffectively since the Cold War as it's original intent being to bring Fidel Castro out of power. Fifty four years have passed with the embargo put into place, and the Castros are still going strong. Even more confusing is that the embargo and travel restrictions/remittances continue regardless of the change in demographics of the Cuban American population.Scholars have found throughout various polls done on the Cuban American population, that a majority of Cuban Americans oppose the policies that have been put into place by the United States on to Cuba. The blending of post-Revolution immigrants, Mariel-boatlift immigrants, and post-Mariel immigrants is the reason for this new majority taking place. Before the influx of post-Mariel immigrants, the Cuban embargo was held strongly into place by interest groups such as the Cuban American National Foundation and the Cuban Liberty Council. There was strong support for the policies the United States was implementing onto Cuba due to the fact most of the immigrants in the U.S. from Cuba at that time had been uprooted by Castro and the Revolution and forced to give up their high-class status in the new communist regime.

Those who immigrated during the Mariel-boatlift ( Castro allowed for anyone who wanted to leave the island to do so in 1980, resulting in over 125,000 Cuban immigrants) had grown up under the communist regime and were more adapted to the Castro regime. They immigrated for more economic reasons rather than political. Post-Mariel immigrants have immigrated mostly due to family economic status. They come to the U.S. to earn money to send back to their relatives in Cuba. With more post-Mariel immigrants beginning to crowd the Miami area, opinions are shifting. Pressure to change the embargo has been growing in the past few years as more and more polls reflect opposition to U.S foreign policy. The open letter is just one of the few. However, it focused more on the travel restrictions and remittances to Cuba rather than the economic embargo itself. Reducing U.S. restrictions on travel and financial activity in Cuba would help "by giving greater freedom to private organizations and individuals to directly and indirectly serve as catalysts for meaningful change in Cuba," the letter said.This is important because it is reflecting the opinions of the post-Mariel immigrants rather than those who came before them. The post-Revolution immigrants and Mariel boatlift immigrants have shown in polls that they are less likely to travel back to Cuba, do not plan to ever return to Cuba, and send less money on average to family members than post-Mariel immigrants. Post-Mariel immigrants are more connected to their relatives in Cuba and keep close ties with them, sending back large amounts of money whenever possible. 

The director of the US-Cuba Democracy PAC, (a special interest group that has been very influential on U.S foreign policy) Mauricio Claver-Carone, rejected the open letter proposal and stated that "History has proven that Castro only eases economic measures when he's forced to, not as a 'good-will' measure" It will be interesting to see what other Cuban American interest groups have to say about the open letter and politicians who have been receiving large campaign funds from Cuban interest groups to keep the embargo going. 

Tess Godhardt

http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/05/19/us-usa-cuba-policy-idUSBREA4I0AU20140519

Imposing Martial Law, Thai Military Denies Plans for Coup

Thomas Fuller reports on the life in Bangkok one specific Tuesday as the military announced a coup to snuff out the protest groups responsible for many deaths of political figures.  Fuller states that to the public life carried on naturally with traffic jams and work and agendas, the only difference were the presence of military personal dispersed throughout the city streets and the cyclical intervention of television programs for public announcements. 

One aspect that is somewhat concerning - while the execution of the coup seemed civil - Fuller states that the military has shut down the government and current running the governmental duties.  Government shut down is never a good thing, but it seems that the military is compelled to do so because of how ill the government was at handling the many deaths of people through protesting groups. 

Personally, I feel that let the military take government over for as long as it takes to instate a capable government, only for as long as how the military coup maintains what seems like a civil approach and daily lives are no more disrupted by these conflicts in Thailand.  Of course, I also presume another side of the story from a pedestrian perspective to say otherwise.

Scott Bishop

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/05/21/world/asia/thailand.html?hp&_r=0

Chinese ships reach Vietnam to extract thousands of citizens after deadly attacks

This morning, there were two Chinese ships that arrived in Vietnam two collect Chinese citizens. These ships were sent to Vung Ang in Ha Tinh, a coastal province where some violence has occurred. This was due to deadly attacks which occurred in Vietnam last week. It is said that two Chinese citizens were killed by this violence and over 100 were injured.  The ships are going to be used to bring back a reported, 4,000 citizens and it is said that 3,000 have already been evacuated. This has increased a tension between Vietnam and Chinese, Vietnam has demanded that China back down and withdraw. China hasn't stopped and are still going in. Only time will tell where this issue ends up.


By Jethro Mullen, CNN
-Larry Holman PSC 102
http://www.cnn.com/2014/05/19/world/asia/vietnam-china-tensions/index.html?hpt=wo_c2

Mali Rebels Attack and Seize Hostages

In Bamako, Mali, Separatists Tuareg rebels launched an assault on the city of Kidal. This attack killed eight soldiers and they also rushed government buildings taking 30 hostages in a "declaration of war" on the government. The attack was prompted by the new Prime Minister Moussa Mara. The attack started on Saturday morning into the governor's office. Mara stayed in the government barracks and then left Kidal on Sunday for Gao. The fighting went on throughout the day killing eight soldiers and 25 were wounded. The Defense Ministry also said 28 assailants were killed and 62 wounded. They regained control over all the administrative buildings except the governor's office. They also don't know where the hostages are being held. Rachel Rodewald http://www.nytimes.com/2014/05/19/world/africa/mali-rebels-attack-and-seize-hostages.html?ref=world

Student Debt Grows Faster at Universities With Highest-Paid Leaders, Study Finds

A recent study has shown that Universities with the highest paid presidents have the highest student debt. The study done by Andrew Erwin and Marjorie Wood has found that administrative expenditures outnumber spending on scholarships 2 to 1. They don't believe that there is a direct cause between the two, but they believe it is the tip of the iceberg. Athletic coaches also make up 70% of public university employees that make over a million dollars. These universities have been classified as "unequal". Due to their rising debt and the amount paid to their officials.

Jordan Messick

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/05/19/education/study-links-growth-in-student-debt-to-pay-for-university-presidents.html?hp

South Korea To Disband Coast Guard, Leader Vows

President Park Geun-hye has vowed to get rid of the South Korean coast guard. This comes after a ferry disaster that left many people dead. Over 250 people passed away in the disaster and 18 people are still missing. The coast guard failed to save this disaster, rather failing disastrously. Many people have been upset with the coast guards attempt to save lives. She is attempting to disband the coast guard and build from the ground up. She wants to find an effective way to resolve accidents. This was one of the biggest peace-times disaster in South Korea's history.




John Kissel
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/05/19/world/asia/south-korean-president-vows-to-disband-coast-guard-over-ferry-sinking.html?hp&_r=0

South Korean President Dismantles Coast Guard

Chandler Olah

http://www.cnn.com/2014/05/18/world/asia/south-korea-coast-guard/index.html?hpt=hp_t1

The president of South Korea plans on dismantling the Coast Guard after she feels it didn't take the proper steps in formulating a rescue mission for the ferry that sunk on the morning of April 16th. The sinking caused the the deaths of 286 people and while 18 others are still missing. The president publicly stated that the Coast Guard failed to due it's duty in carrying out the rescue mission. The responsibilities previously held by the coast guard will be transferred to the police while the rescue and salvage operation and ocean security roles will be transferred to the department for national safety which will be newly established. The president felt that she was responsible for what happened to the people involved and sent her condolences while under tears during her speech to the people of South Korea.  The Sewol disaster caused widespread outrage in South Korea over lax safety standards and the failure to rescue more people as the ship foundered. A chief prosecutor announced last week that the captain and three other crew members have been charged with murder. The remaining 11 crew members have been indicted on charges of abandonment and violating a ship safety act.

Narendra Modi elected to be India's next prime minister

Narenda Modi was elected to be the next prime minister of the world's largest democracy. Modi and India's opposition party beat Gandhi and the Congress party. It seems that Modi's messages of hope, revitalization, and change resonated with the Indian people. For the past 128 years, Indian politics has been mostly dominated by the Congress party, and the rule hasn't proven to be that great or effective. Even Gandhi noted that the "Congress party has done pretty badly". Modi, a Hindu nationalist and economic reformer, has made promises for a "shining India". A big part of Modi's success came from his ability to win the votes of the young voters, who make up a large part of India's population. The United States was also quick to congratulate Modi for his win, even though there has not been the best relationship with Modi and the U.S in the past, partly due to his actions as chief minister of Gujarat (in 2005 he was denied a visa). Even with this history, Obama called and offered Modi a visit to Washington at some point in the future. The relationship that the United States and India will have is very important and is something to be followed. The task of being prime minister of the world's largest democracy will not be easy, but it seems like Modi is excited for this challenge. It will be interesting to see how this will change/affect India in the near future and in the long run. 

http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/hindu-nationalist-narendra-modis-party-heads-to-victory-in-indian-polls/2014/05/16/c6eccaea-4b20-46db-8ca9-af4ddb286ce7_story.html

Ann Nenoff

China Showing A "Kostić Gambit"

             In the May 16, 2014 article on the Philippine Star's website titled "US Says 'Militarization' Of Mabini Reef Can Raise Tensions," author Louis Bacani describes recent photographs taken of a tiny nearby island called Mabini by the Philippines and Chigua by the Chinese. The Chinese government lays claim to the small island (which actually belongs to the Philippines according to International Law) and it appears from the photographs taken last week that the Chinese are building a small, offshore military base (within the 200 nautical mile EEZ) off the coast of the Philippines. Some might say there is a Cuban Missile Crisis brewing in the South China Sea.
            Furthermore, the United States, along with the others have urged Beijing to honor their treaty obligations under the UN charter, UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Seas). The United States has also vocalized concerns stating that if China does not cease building what appears to be a military base off the coast of the Philippines, that it will cause tensions to rise from all interested parties. Who is to say that China will not stop with the Philippines, but also Vietnam, Japan, and others including Brunei, Malaysia and Taiwan?
            It still is not clear what China's intentions are regarding the island, but it appears they are constructing a landing strip and small base. This seemingly small skirmish is quickly escalating into a conflict and could possibly lead to war.

By Christopher M. Vacek

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/05/16/1323799/us-says-militarization-mabini-reef-can-raise-tensions

Britain Passes Legislation to Strip Citizenship

On May 15th, The New York Times posted an article about Britain passing legislation that removes the restrictions on revoking citizenship for suspected or convicted terrorists. After four months, the House of Lords has finally decided to nullify the clause that kept the government from stripping citizenship that rendered the accused as stateless. This law seems to be inspired by the events following the Hilal al-Jedda, who was stripped of his British citizenship in 2007, after he was suspected of smuggling explosives.

I have a lot of questions about why a country benefits from stripping someone's citizenship. With Hilal al-Jedda's case he was detained in Iraq and then lost his citizenship, which leads me to believe that Great Britain is essentially saying "We have no association with him." If someone is suspected of terrorism on British soil, does the national security benefit from stripping their citizenship?

On the other hand, if a country strips a person of their citizenship, does that mean they do not have to abide by the rights that a person would have otherwise like due process or a speedy trial? Can they be detained indefinitely? And if the person has dual citizenship is it the responsibility of the other country to intervene in violations of rights? What if the person is now stateless?

Posted by Evy Lopez

http://search.proquest.com.libproxy.noctrl.edu/nationalnewsexpanded/docview/1524324424/7459068C7072499BPQ/22?accountid=44854

US and Britain to boost support to Syrian rebels, says Kerry

Ahmend Jarba, president of the Syrian National Coalition, spent last week lobbying in Washington for the delivery of Manpad portable missiles. He exemplified the devastating effects the Syrian government's barrel bombs have had on opposition-held areas. Jarba's speeches may have paid off as John Kerry announced after talks in London about the issue, that the U.S, Britain, and European and Arab states are to increase all aspects of support for the mainstream Syrian opposition fighting to overthrow President Bashar al-Assad.

Kerry stated that he would not discuss specific weapons systems or who might supply them but that the U.S. and Britain would only provide non-lethal aid. Kerry also mentioned that "every facet of what can be done will be ramped up, and that includes a political effort, aid to the opposition, economic efforts and sanctions." Britain's foreign secretary, William Hague, said Britain would also increase UK humanitarian efforts in Syria.

Tess Godhardt

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/may/15/us-britain-boost-support-syrian-rebels-john-kerry

After Nearly a Week of Violence, Anti-Chinese Protests End in Vietnam

The Vietnamese government has stopped anti-Chinese protesters from gathering outside the Chinese Embassy in Ho Chi Minh City on Sunday. The strong anti-Chinese demonstrators have been creating violence from almost a week in response to the positioning of a Chinese oil rig in the disputed waters of the South China Sea. The Chinese Consulate was under heavy police guard as well as squads of officers outside the building urging pedestrians to pass on. As a response to the violence created by protesters, the Vietnamese government announced that any demonstrators would be arrested. The Chinese government has been sending aid to help Chinese workers in Vietnam to return to China to escape the violence, and many have up and left by themselves. While Vietnam has put a stop to the protesters' violence, coast guard vessels by both China and Vietnam remain in the East Asian Sea, surrounding the billion-dollar oil rig. So far the ships has rammed each other and the Chinese have fired water cannons, but so far no major damage has occurred. However, American experts say the chances of a major standoff is high, possibly until August 18th when China plans to move the oil rig because of typhoon season. So far, there has been no progress towards a solution to the impasse between the two states.

-Ambrielle Barker

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/05/19/world/asia/anti-chinese-protests-end-in-vietnam.html?ref=world

Unfinished Apartment Building Collapses in North Korea WIth Families Inside

An apartment building in North Korea collapsed in the city of Pyongyang. Reports say that it was a 'serious accident' and that it 'claimed casualties'. Although it is unknown the exact number of lives taken, its safe to say that it was a reasonable amount. A Officials say that it is not uncommon for families to move into apartment buildings before they are finished being built. Officials also said that the building was not properly built enough for the families to move in. This particular building was 23 floors high and it was estimated that approximately 92 families living in the complex. What is so unusual about this article was the fact that it mentioned, North Korean Leader, Kim Jong Un's reaction. Reports said that when he got word of the accident, he was very upset and stayed up most of the night feeling 'painful'. Kim Su Gil, Chief Secretary of the Pyongyang City Committee said that the accident was 'unimaginable' and that authorities are taking steps to help those effected by the accident.

The thing that I find interesting about this article is that this story was even released. North Korea is extremely private about anything that happens inside of borders. They released stories of natural disasters, but never anything like this. I also think that Kim Jong Un's reaction is one that the rest of the world is not used to. If its true that he felt sympathy towards those lost or those who were effected by this accident, then I think it shows that he isn't the robot that most make him out to be. Just as the people of North Korea love their leader, he, I would like think, cares for them back. I know that they are a whole nation that is taught to hate America and Americans are offended by that, but there is so much that we may never know about North Korea or its leader.

for more on the story: http://www.cnn.com/2014/05/18/world/asia/north-korea-building-collapse/index.html?hpt=ias_c2

-Elizabeth Brennan

The Globalization... of Anti-Semitism

Polling data this week from The Anti-Defamation League found that many stereotypes about Jews are widely believed to be true. The Survey polled over 100 countries, many of whom have no direct relationship with Israel, to find that the main concentration is found in Middle Eastern Countries, which is not surprising, but also that prejudice beliefs are found in all countries surveyed. I would like to speculate that this is a product of globalization. In a globalized economy where the wealthy are owning stock in, or outright owning, textile production in the sweat shops of South-East Asia, or unsafe mining operations in Africa, or minimum wage offering businesses in the United States, laborers will more often look to the wealthy as the cause of their discontent. The chances of pointing to a Jewish person when doing that are fairly high. The Survey tries to make sense of a nation like South Korea, which has an estimated 100 permanent Jewish residents (It said that in the article, I doubt its true), having a higher than average level of anti-Semitic tendencies. They determined that Anti-Semitism is no product of proximity to Israel or of a large Jewish demographic. In a post for the Clash of Civilizations reading someone questioned why Jews were not one of the seven major cultures. This is because Jews has been transient -- meaning that they have been able to establish themselves in every country they have migrated into (or helped establish). There is no block of Jewish Culture bordering with other cultures, and because of this there is a higher probability of doing business dealings with Jewish people. Globalization has increased communication between all cultures, and therefore also increased the communication with Jews. There is little to dispute the fact that Jews are well represented among the elite, 1% class (if you will) when compared to their representation in the population. Many of those who, since 2008, have looked to Jews specifically as the root cause of the recession are extremists attempting to provoke political populism, but the same can be said of Occupy Wall Street, only that it anti-Semitism is veiled in greater goals such as egalitarianism. The Holocaust, and greater Western anti-Semitism at the time, could to an extent be attributed to the Depression -- people wanted a scapegoat. I wonder if this data points to the same type of thing, only now on a Global level. The Survey also found that The Holocaust, as a historical event from which to learn lessons, is meaning less and less as the generations the lived through it are dying. Its scary to think that such a powerful, moving tragedy could be diminished to the extent that it has in less than a century. http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702304655304579551974194329920 Mitch Wood

Colombia Strikes Historic Deal to Halt Drugs

Last Friday, Columbia's government reached an agreement with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), a drug-trafficking group, to fight the cocaine trade. This is a very important step for the country because Colombia's conflict is rooted in it's poor countryside and drug battle over cocaine fields. If their plan succeeds, it would also influence a huge change on the war of drugs in the Andes, which is the epicenter of the world's cocaine trade. The article also noted that it would make the work for the government easier as well.

With the help of FARC, the government asks that coca growers transition their growing to legal crops from African palm oil to fruit and yucca. The government would then increase aid to poor countryside farmers and expand programs.In addition the plan would allow FARC to form a political movement and run for elections. The FARC has an enormous influence over these farming areas and if they tell the farmers to get rid of the coca, they will.

The central objective of this agreement is to provide a better life to the poor countryside. They believe if they remove the cocaine, peace and prosperity will come.  However the U.S is optimistic but believes it is a very important step in the right direction. The deal would alter a 14-year old accord in which the U.S provided about $700 million annually to Colombia for military and anti-narcotics aid. Some critics argue that the agreement will create friction between the U.S government and Colombia. However, it is also states that the Obama Administration considers the President of Colombia-Juan Manual Santos their closest ally in Latin America.

http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB20001424052702304908304579566081051865314?mod=itp_wsj&mg=reno64-wsj&url=http%3A%2F%2Fonline.wsj.com%2Farticle%2FSB20001424052702304908304579566081051865314.html%3Fmod%3Ditp_wsj

-Jackie Bland

Libyan Attack

Militia allied with the former government general attacked Libya's parliament on Sunday May 18, 2014. This is the worst violence seen since the 2011 revolution to reform Libya. The violence on Sunday was the latest struggle for resources like oil and overall power since Moammar Gaddafi. The militia also kidnapped many lawmakers in Libya. This event is causing more trouble and may need involvement of other countries like the United States.

Antonio Sobevski

http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/libyan-militias-led-by-former-general-attack-parliament-and-declare-it-dissolved/2014/05/18/579e18da-deb7-11e3-810f-764fe508b82d_story.html?hpid=z1

AFRICAN LEADERS PLEDGE 'TOTAL WAR' ON BOKO HARAM

A recent attack in Cameron, with suspected linkage to Boko Haram, has pushed African leader to launch a “total war” on Boko Haram. There was a summit on Saturday in Paris and leaders feel that Boko Haram is not only a treat to Nigeria but also to the rest of West and Central Africa. French President Francois Hollande is encouraging for an immediate effect of comprehensive plan to exchange information, coordinate action, and protect borders. I think this is something that should have taken place from the very beginning. It is so upsetting that the Nigerian government has waited this long to even consider such things. The girls are still missing and Boko Haram is still threatening of selling the girls into slavery if the government is not willing to exchange girls’ lives for jailed rebels

Zahabu Lenning 

.http://america.aljazeera.com/articles/2014/5/17/west-african-leadersmeetinparistodefinebokoharamstrategy.html 

Nigeria Leader Nixes Visit Where Girls Kidnapped

     Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan decided to cancel his visit to the town where over 300 girls were kidnapped by Islamist extremists. He apparently showed no respect toward the families emotion to the devastating event. The outrage over the kidnappings has exposed Johnathan's government to criticism. According to a  U.S. official, "the government was slow to adapt to the rebel threat, while a British minister said Abuja had faced huge challenges with aspects of its response". I understand that the president was in danger because of his planned visit to the town as it was announced on the front page of the news paper however it was in his best interest as well as everyone else's to go to support the families and step up and reassure them that something will be done about it. I am interested to see what his plan will be and am very hopeful that the girls will return home safely. 

-Monica Gryszowka


http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/africa/nigeria-leader-nixes-visit-where-girls-kidnapped/2014/05/16/429506aa-dd3c-11e3-8009-71de85b9c527_story.html

Putin's Possible Motives for Annexing Crimea

Although Russia's justification for the annexation of Crimea was that it was only reclaiming its rightful territory, there may have been other motives. Along with acquiring the landmass of Crimea, Russia also gained rights to the maritime zone 230 statute miles off the coast of Crimea. Russia's president, Vladmir Putin, denies that this was even a factor; however, his denials are weak. It is clear that Russia could benefit from the maritime zone that accompanied Crimea. These new waters of the coast of Crimea allow Russia to possibly drill for oil, which would boost Russian economy. This angers Ukranians, because they claim this is their rightful land and they deserve the rights to drill, since Crimea should be part of Ukraine.

Alexandria Corriveau
PSC102

http://search.proquest.com/nationalnewsexpanded/docview/1525569008/CB15D7B8E4CE451CPQ/3?accountid=44854

China evacuates thousands of citizens from Vietnam after deadly attacks

China has evacuated more than 3,000 citizens from Vietnam after anti-Chinese protests in Vietnam descended into deadly violence. The unrest was provoked by disputed waters. Earlier this month, Chinese platform began drilling for oil near the Paracel Islands, which are claimed by both countries. Five Chinese ships will travel to Vietnam to help with the evacuation. Sixteen critically injured Chinese citizens were flown out of Vietnam. Two Chinese citizens were killed and more than 100 are injured. Vietnamese authorities have arrested hundreds and are calling for protests to stop.

Link: http://www.cnn.com/2014/05/18/world/asia/vietnam-china-tensions/index.html?hpt=hp_inthenews

Mariana Cury

PSC 102

North Korea Discloses Apartment Collapse in Pyongyang

North Korea is not known for disclosing information that could potentially make its government look bad. However, this Sunday, it disclosed that an apartment building in its capital collapsed from poor construction. The building was supposedly still under construction when it collapsed, but the Washington Post article said that this was a common practice in North Korea- for households to move in before the building was finished.

The last time the North Korean media admitted anything besides its governments' headship and indomitably was in April 2012 after a "botched satellite launch." This time, it came with poor timing as North Korea had been shaming South Korea for its response to the ferry that sunk, leaving "more than 300 people dead or missing".

The apartment building was thought to have 92 households in it, which would bring the death toll up to the triple digits. The blame is being laid mainly on North Korea's minister of people's security, Choe Pu II. "Choe's crime against the people 'can never be pardoned,'" according to the North Korean news. Meanwhile, the country's leader is said to have "sat up all night" feeling pain after learning about  the accident.

The full article can be found here.

Katie Madel

Nigerian Leader Cancels Visit to Village of Abducted Girls

President Goodluck Jonathan was set to visit the Village of Chibok last week, but security problems forced him to skip the trip for now. The article described Mr. Jonathan's visit as having symbolic importance, which is probably true. The problem I have with that though, is that even though symbols can be very powerful, the whole #bringourgirlsback campaign is symbolic and not much has happened to help the situation so far. This is making a pretty good case for realism. Even as United States, Britain, China, and France weigh in on what to do from here and offer their assistance the condition seems to be getting more complicated. It seems that the Nigerian government has never really dealt with the problems the Boko Haram have caused and now they are being force into action. I think this is both good and bad. On one hand, the way the government was slow to their feet on this one is unfortunate and may have severe consequences, but on the other, I don't think any country could come with a way to fix this. If there was a way, I feel like it would have been suggested by now, especially since so much time has passed. With that being said it seems the general consensus is that the Nigerian government is ill equipped to handle these events. I also thought it was interesting that Nigeria was the one to release the statement that the United States, the European Union and Britain will all be in attendance at this meeting on approaching the problem. I think that this is their way of saying some the major players a on the world stage are now entering the game and backing us, to the Boko Haram. I would hope that some of these intimidation strategies will force some talks between the two sides of this issue. It will be interesting to see how this all unfolds and I'm hoping for the best and  I think I speak for everyone when I say I'm rooting for those girls.

The link is here.

Katie Krupica

War waged on Boko Haram

A war has been waged against militant group Boko Haram. President Holland of France and President Goodluck Jonathan of Nigeria came together at a summit held in Paris to address the issue of Boko Harams presence in Africa and the threat the terrorist organization poses in neighboring regions. A pledge was made to share intelligence and coordinate action against Boko Haram in the hope of abolishing the militant group for good. Other countries concerned and pledging their support are Benin, Cameroon, Niger and Chad. 

Following the abduction of the school girls last month, a video was released by Boko Haram reveling several of the young girls. The video was taken to be a prof of life statement, but was later followed by a proposition of exchange, the girls in exchanged for terrorist prisoners. Officials are reporting the President Jonathan is taking a "nonnegotiable" stance against the Boko Haram and is rather, looking to respond with force.  

-Alexandra Dominguez 

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-27451966

Russian Bans U.S. Sales of Rocket Engines

Essentially this article speaks of Russia cutting the United States out of major space programs and cutting the supplies the United States uses to utilize such research. 

Russia feels that the U.S is potentially using rocket engine imports for military purposes, and Dmitry Rogozin said that supply will only continue if Washington can prove the engines are not for military use.  Rogozin also threatened to turn off GPS tracking systems if the U.S. does not allow Russia to establish GLONASS satellites on U.S. soil.

Ultimately, if the U.S. fails to comply with demands, Russia will pull out to spend money on more important space programs and leave the large funds required to run the laboratory on U.S. shoulders.

It seems that this conflict between Russia and Ukraine as the U.S. intervention created a bickering argument that affects facets outside of social reform and IR.  Russia is threatening the well-being of space research in partnership with the U.S., the only question I have is what other aspects will Russia blackmail through demands and pull out of and if this conflict between Russia and the U.S. will reverberate for many years to come.

Scott Bishop

http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702304081804579560303296380332

Narendra Modi wins India election

Narendra Modi recently won the election in India to become it's next Prime Minister. Modi is the leader of the Hindu Nationalist party, who dethroned the National Congress Party which was dominant in the area for over 60 years. Despite the revolutionary turn, his victory comes amidst numerous questions. His relationship with the U.S. has been historically rocky, and he was denied a visa at one point. Furthermore he was the chief minister of Guajarat in 2002 when 1,000 Muslim people were killed and he was criticized by many for not doing enough to stop the violence. A source from the U.S. State Department recently said that once Modi takes office he could be granted a visa. Nonetheless, the less than satisfactory past of Modi and the U.S. could cause future tensions if he once again comes into question for anti-Muslim support.

Alec Phillipp
http://www.cnn.com/2014/05/16/world/asia/india-election-result/index.html?hpt=wo_c1

France’s Sale of 2 Ships to Russians Is Ill-Advised, U.S. Warns

In 2010, the French struck a deal worth more than $1.6 billion with Russia to sell two large naval vessels that were built to carry troops, helicopters and serve as a landing craft. The initial problem was that France was unsure how they could sell something so important but tell the world that they still do not trust Russia. As Russia as intervened in Ukraine, the deal is still set to be on track and go through in October. Regardless of US objections, the deal is still on track with the delivery of ships later this year.

On Tuesday, French foreign minister Laurent Fabius said that his government would still decide in October whether to proceed in the delivery of the ships to Russia. However, John Kerry has openly stated that the sale was not helpful to what is going on in Ukraine. Despite Kerry disagreeing with the deal, he has not demanded that the sale be cancelled. It will be interesteing to see the action of the French as we move forward.

For more information, here is the link to the full article: http://www.nytimes.com/2014/05/15/world/europe/frances-sale-of-2-warships-to-russia-worries-us.html?partner=rss&emc=rss&smid=tw-nytimesworld&_r=0

-Mike Prosia

China Targeted by Vietnamese in Fiery Riots

China Targeted by Vietnamese in Fiery Riots

In BINH DUONG PROVINCE, Vietnam there were dozens of foreign factories that were burned down. These buildings were burnt down by thousands of Vietnamese workers who were outraged with China’s latest efforts to control the South China Sea just off the coast of Vietnam. The workers began rioting and attacking businesses from countries that had invested in their nation. On Wednesday, the Philippines began protests against China but no other Southeast Asian nation is backing the two most likely because of China’s investment and aid in their countries. When China had deployed an oil rig with other ships along the coast of Vietnam, the Vietnamese began ramming the Chinese ships while the Chinese used water cannons at the Vietnamese vessels. The protests by the Vietnamese were reported to have had around 19,000 workers involved. The protests escalated and rioters began looting out of the anger towards China. One Taiwanese factory tried to avoid the attacks by handing a banner outside of the building that said, “No Chinese working here.” The companies that had Chinese signs hung were destroyed or damaged while those who had flags of other countries were for the most part untouched by the protestors. There were 447 suspects that were detained and the government looks to restore order as soon as they can.

-Monique Martinez

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/05/15/world/asia/foreign-factories-in-vietnam-weigh-damage-in-anti-china-riots.html?ref=world&_r=1

International Criminal Court Reopens Probe of Alleged U.K. Soldiers' Abuse of Detainees in Iraq

This Tuesday May 13th the International Criminal Court has announced that it has reopened a preliminary probe into alleged systematic abuse of detainees by U.K. soldiers in Iraq from 2003-2008. It has been reopened due to new information on the alleged war crimes. 250 pages of testimonies and analysis was submitted to the ICC in January by the Berlin-based European Center for Constitutional and Human Rights and U.K.-based Public Interest Lawyers. It was reported that more than 400 previously detained Iraqis had allegations of mistreatment. The public version of the documents underlines how the detainees recall the incidents, "U.K. soldiers beat them brutally—often in front of their families or while they were hooded or blindfolded—deprived them of food, drink and sleep by playing loud music or pornographic movies." The U.K. signed up to the ICC therefore, the crimes committed by its nationals on foreign territory fall under the ICC's jurisdiction. The secretary-general for the European Center for Constitutional and Human Rights, said, “...the ICC may, for the first time, assign responsibility for alleged war crimes to Western officials." The first thing the ICC will do is conduct a preliminary investigation. It is also stated that many probes take years to lead to formal charges.

Alexandra Avery
http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303851804579559862296089956?mg=reno64-wsj&url=http%3A%2F%2Fonline.wsj.com%2Farticle%2FSB10001424052702303851804579559862296089956.html

China may build an undersea train to America

According to a report in the Beijing Times China seems to be planning on making a train that connects from Beijing to the U.S.  Expert at the Chinese Academy of Engineering, says that Chinese officials are thinking about having a route  start in the country's northeast, go through eastern Siberia and cross the Bering Strait, a 125-mile long underwater tunnel into Alaska. This idea seems to be a great new way for importing and exporting goods. "China’s wisdom for building an open world economy and open international relations is being drawn on more and more each day," It's interesting to see how this idea develops more along the way considering that Russia has already had similar ideas of this. If China is able to create this with the right technology then it should be an interesting start for new improvements with shipping and being able to reach to possibly every part of the world, creating more opportunities world wide.



-Monica Gryszowka

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/worldviews/wp/2014/05/09/china-may-build-an-undersea-train-to-america/?tid=pm_world_pop

Al Qaeda Attempts to Kidnap US Staff in Yemen

Chandler Olah
Al Qaeda Attempts to Kidnap US Staff in Yemen
http://www.cnn.com/2014/05/10/world/meast/yemen-qaeda-kidnapping-attempt-us-embassy/index.html?hpt=wo_c2

While violating security protocol and visiting a local barbershop in Yemen, two US embassy nationals were the victims of an attempted kidnapping by two al Qaeda gunmen. After being confronted by the two gunmen, the US nationals engaged in a gun fight and stopped the two suspected kidnappers. US-Yemeni officials believe that the kidnapping attempt was bigger than initially believed and could be an al Qaeda response to the drone attacks in other parts of Yemen, these strikes on al Qaeda forces have been going on for some time and have been taking a toll on the forces that are trenched down in Yemen.

Polls Close to Avoid Fraud

In Eastern Ukraine polls have been shut down for voting due to cheating and pretty much corruption.  People have been sighted voting twice on very controversial issues.  People have even been arrested for having boxes of yes or no ballots in their cars.  The head of the voting committee denied the claims of voter fraud even though he shut down the voting stations to avoid it.  The organization in Eastern Ukraine is extremely poor and sad.  People are just getting in line to vote again.  In America voting policy is so strictly enforced and their it seems like its not being taken as serious.  He only shut down the voting stations because he felt the pressure from reporters making allegations of the incidents happening. 

http://edition.cnn.com/2014/05/11/world/europe/ukraine-crisis/index.html?hpt=hp_t1

Jordan Messick

Nigerian Girls Escape Extremist

John Kissel
http://edition.cnn.com/2014/05/11/world/africa/nigeria-escaped-schoolgirl-speaks/index.html?hpt=hp_c1

Last week I wrote about the large number of Nigerian girls who were kidnapped from there school by militants.  This week the girls have still not been rescued but a small group of girls some how escaped the Boko Haram. These girls saw a chance to flee when all of the girls were being changed into cargo trucks.  These girls were interviewed.  The girls said they were threatening to sell them and they were extremely shaken up during the interview.  During the night of the kidnapping, when the attack started the whole village including the police fled and hit to save themselves.  Nobody stood up for these girls who were asleep in there dorms.  This really disturbs me, that no one there can feel safe.  Its extremely anarchical.  People get scared of cities here because of what could happen. I couldn't even imagine living there, knowing the police are afraid to protect people. 

John Kissel

Iran: West's calls to limit missiles 'stupid'

"They expect us to limit our missile program while they constantly threaten Iran with military action. So this is a stupid, idiotic expectation," Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei told the IRNA news agency.

The Supreme Leader also called on the country's Revolutionary Guards to mass-produce missiles. The United States and its allies have been worried about Iran's missile program and the possibility of Iran carrying nuclear warhead. Iran denies having any atomic bombs or any development of such weapons.

Earlier in February, Khamenei expressed deep skepticism about the next round of nuclear negotiations with world powers, saying the session is likely to "lead nowhere."


http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/sns-rt-us-iran-khamenei-20140511,0,6130469.story

-Crystal Madrigal

Venezuela leader reacts angrily to threat of US sanctions

Venezuelan president, Nicolás Maduro, had some strong words for the United States during a press conference Saturday. The threat of U.S sanctions being imposed due to alleged rights abuses had Maduro calling the United States stupid. "It's hardly worth responding to the stupid things the imperialist elites in the north do. They can keep their threats and stupidities," the 51-year-old successor to late socialist leader Hugo Chávez added.

Demonstrations against the Venezuelan government that began in February have led to forty-two deaths, 800 injuries, and 3000 arrests. Maduro has claimed the arrests were to suppress an attempted coup, but opponents say it is a repressive action. 

President Obama and U.S. government has stated that sanctions may cause more harm than good, and might further prevent political reconciliation. 

Tess Godhardt

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/may/10/venezuela-nicolas-maduro-us-sanctions

President of China Tells Country to Get Used to Slower Growth

Over the weekend, President Xi Jinping has told the people of China to get used to slower growth, which has diffused expectations of a possible stimulus as many believed would soon be launched. The President's comments follow a 7.4% decrease in economic growth the last quarter. In an attempt to combat heightening unemployment rates, the government has increased spending on building railways and other public works, but other leaders have ruled out further stimulus. Xi's comments have only confirmed China's latest indications of declining trade and manufacturing rates. The president also commented that the government will be focusing on more long-term attempts at stabilizing economic growth.

-Ambrielle Barker

http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2014/05/11/world/asia/ap-as-china-economy.html?ref=world

Armed Men in Eastern Ukraine Open Fire on Crowd

On Sunday, armed, Ukrainian national guards open fired outside a crowd at town hall. An official said there were fatalities. This occurred after they shut down voting in a referendum on sovereignty for the region. A press photographer said he saw 2 people on the ground not moving. Several hours earlier, the men came into town and took control of the building. After people began rough housing around the building, the shots were fired. The men began yelling and telling everyone to go home. Then one man stepped towards a gunman to talk to him and had a warning shot fired over his head. When that doesn't send him away, he is shot and falls to the ground. Rachel Rodewald http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/ukraine-guardsmen-open-fire-crowd-23674112

Saudis seize dozens of militants said linked to al Qaeda

The Saudi Arabian government is determined to put an end to terrorist activity linked to Al Qaeda. On Tuesday, they began a counterterror operation where they arrested 62 militants they believed to be linked to Al Qaeda, and police officers pursued 44 more militants. Security believed this terror group was planning on targeting installations inside the kingdom. A Saudi government official who wishes to remain anonymous stated that this was a big step, and it shows just how determined the government is to end any activity related to Al Qaeda. He also stated that they plan to do more operations and continue their search for more terror groups like this one.

Here is the link to the full article:
http://www.cnn.com/2014/05/06/world/meast/saudi-militants-roundup/index.html?hpt=wo_bn8

-Reyna Herrera

Merkel and Hollande Send Russia a Warning

Chancellor Angela Merkel meet this weekend with Presiden Francois Hollande of France. Despite the rough history of tension between Germany and France, this meeting was a clear sign to the world and specifically Russia of the strength of Europe and the alliances amongst the world powers. Merkel invited Hollande to Stralsund, Germany where Germany and Russia have used this part of the country as a port for many Russian trade goods. President Hollande and Chancellor Merkel warned Russia that it would again face tough sanctions if it did not defuse the conflict in Ukraine. Putin has stated that he made steps to pull back troops from the Ukraine border, but NATO and Western leaders claim they have seen no evidence of a withdrawal by Russian Troops.

A major discussion point of the trip is surrounding the presidential election on May 25th in Ukraine, stating that the election must proceed freely and fairly and that nonmilitary combatants should turn in weapons on Thursday. However, the leaders did not explain how Europeans sent to observe and monitor the event could carry out their task.

Despite major differences between France and Germany, both sides were pictured in harmony, visitng the beautiful port of Germany. France's economy has struggled and Hollande has not been able to improve the unemployment rate. Germany, on the other hand is thriving and other European countries envy their growth.

For the full article visit the link here: http://www.nytimes.com/2014/05/11/world/europe/merkel-and-hollande-send-russia-a-warning.html?partner=rss&emc=rss&smid=tw-nytimesworld

-Mike Prosia

China Blames U.S. For Tensions in South China Sea; Philippines Seizes Chinese Vessel - China Warns They Will Retaliate

In an article on Reuters.com titled, China Blames U.S. For Stoking Tensions in South China Sea, the authors describe what seems to be the beginning of an even more strenuous relationship in the pacific between China, the Philippines, Japan and the United States.  According to the Chinese government, the United States is the provocateur in the South China Sea by encouraging other countries in the region to “engage in dangerous behavior.” Unfortunately, the Chinese government has no evidence of their claims, as there is ample evidence suggesting exactly the opposite.

On May 8, Chinese Coast Guard ships were photographed using water canons on Vietnamese ships in the South China Sea, yet China blames the United States for this situation because Vietnamese vessels were “intentionally colliding with its ships.” This is a metaphor, as no Vietnamese ships rammed Chinese vessels, but rather Chinese ships rammed no less than 8 Vietnamese Marine Guard ships on May 3, 2014.  China is blaming the United States for the increased bravery of smaller nations when faced with Chinese threats in the region. They might not be wrong.

Manipulation is a longstanding diplomatic tool utilized by the United States since World War II. The US has encouraged nations to fight back, discouraged nations from fighting, and even supplied arms legally and illegally to nations fighting against an enemy of the United States.

China’s Hua News Daily issued a statement labeling the United States as irresponsible, dangerous, wrong, and acting against peace and stability. This doesn’t sound like the United States – or does it?

In the West Philippine Sea, the Philippines seized a Chinese fishing boat that was in Philippine territorial waters and was hunting sea turtles – an endangered species.  China of course states that this is an illegal action, as those waters rightfully belong to China, not the Philippines.  The Filipino government issued a statement and evidence corroborating their assertion that the vessel was in Filipino territorial waters and shows the Chinese vessel hunting sea turtles just 60 miles off the coast of Palawan – a popular vacation spot for Westerners (including myself) in the Philippines.

Ironically, the seizure of the Chinese fishing boat was during the annual war games in the Philippines – a joint training exercise between about 5,500 American and Filipino marines.  I am sure there is more to come on this conflict soon.

Christopher M. Vacek