Covid: FBI chief Christopher Wray says China lab leak 'most likely'

 The FBI just made a new assessment as of late, claiming that the COVID-19 virus was likely a lab leak from the Covid research center in Wuhan, China. One of the central beliefs for this theory is the fact that the COVID research center in Wuhan, China, is 40 minutes away from where people predicted the virus to have originated. Although other US government agencies have drawn different conclusions, China has repeatedly denied these claims. The US Department of Energy decided to say with low confidence the Covid research center had a lab leak that’s leading to the global pandemic that we all experienced personally for the past two years. There has been a world health organization investigation, but it is being intensely criticized as its director general has called for a new inquiry. In the meantime, Chinese propagandists have also been pushing a conspiracy saying that the United States caused the COVID-19 pandemic with no evidence to back up their statement. This shows how the United States and China are still finding ways to hate each other.

Ryan Lawrence

 https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-64806903

26 million student loan forgiveness could be declined by the Supreme Cour.

 Last august Biden announced a plan to forgive loans that were up to 10,000 or 20,000 depends on your status. A lot of the higher power have disagreed with Biden on this plan because one he didn’t get permission from them before going along with it and also the government believing this will put them in higher debt. There’s a lot of different sides going on with what should happen with this student loan forgiveness plan. With the pause date coming up and people having to go back to find a way or find out if they to pay their schools loans coming up, a lot of people wonder what will congress decision will be for it. In my opinion I don’t think this shouldn’t be up to anyone expect the person who made the decision which is Biden. I don’t know what congress is afraid of especially loosing more money. The money the United States has nothing to do with the people living here anyways so. 

https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/28/politics/supreme-court-student-loan-forgiveness-what-matters/index.html 

China is rolling out the red carpet for a key Putin ally as US warns against aiding Russia’s war

 China is hosting a meeting with the president of Russia, Vladimir Putin. Putin and the leader of China, Xi Jinping, will be talking about diplomatic topics as well as possible trade deals and other political banter. However the United States warns China not to aid in the war between Russia and Ukraine and if they do, it would cause a global catastrophe. If China aids Russia it its war, then everyone who is allies with Ukraine will be involved in the war as well. 

https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/28/china/belarus-lukashenko-visits-beijing-china-xi-jinping-intl-hnk

Jonathan Cotsiomitis

Finland starts construction of Russia border fence

Finland has begun building a 124-mile-long fence on its border with Russia to help and boost security amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine. Border guards said it is going to be 10 feet tall with barbed wire on top. As of now, the border is secured by light wooden fences but due to the rise in Russians seeking to escape Russia in order to not be conscripted to fight in Ukraine Finland had decided to build a more secure fence. In July Finland passed new amendments to its Boarder Guard act that allowed the building of stronger fences. 

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-64802457

-Jessie Anaya 

U.S. Navy reconnaissance flight over Taiwan Strait draws angry response from China

 A U.S. Navy reconnaissance jet flew over the Taiwan strait on Monday. The purpose of this was to assert the U.S. ability to fly in international airspace despite the Chinese military's objections.  U.S. states that this flight adheres to the international law; however, China argues that it's just increasing tensions. 

https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/28/asia/us-navy-plane-taiwan-srait-transit-intl-hnk-ml

Julia Benes 

Mexican Asylum On Brink of Collapse with Overwhelming Number of Refugees

 An unprecedented number--over 13,000 people requested to seek asylum from Mexico's refugee agency COMAR in January 2023. Experts believe the agency is being stretched beyond its budget means and the system is being misused. Many people seeking refuge in Mexico come from Haiti and corrupt South American countries. They see Mexico's agency as an ideal pit stop to head toward the United States, so the agency is seeing more traffic than it should since refugees can't directly request the U.S. for refuge--there's currently a capacity limit. Recently, Biden restricted its own refugee system's capacity, which is increasing the number of people seeking assistance from Mexico. Mexico's agency COMAR is being prompted to restrategize to prevent the agency's collapse like setting restrictions on how asylum seekers use the system and its documents to prevent them from prematurely receiving documents that would allow them to travel to the northern Mexico border. COMAR is essentially restricting the travel of asylum seekers so that it deters people who don't want to make Mexico their new home. 

Link: https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/24/americas/mexico-asylum-policy-intl-latam

Juan Castro

Turkey arrests nearly 200 people over alleged poor building construction following quake tragedy

Following the catastrophic earthquake that hit Turkey earlier this month, 200 of the 626 suspects have been arrested according to Turkey's Justice Minister Bekir Bozdag. More than 5,000 buildings have collapsed according to the country's disaster agency and although some of the suspects died in the the quake, police are still  hunting for others. Many questions have been asked about the integrity of the structures in the affected areas as building codes were tightened after previous disasters. 

https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/26/europe/turkey-earthquake-arrests-intl

By: Raegan Stinger 

Rising popular support for Putin in Russia marks the first anniversary of the invasion. Arayan Khare

 https://www.nytimes.com/2023/02/19/world/europe/ukraine-war-russia-putin.html?action=click&module=RelatedLinks&pgtype=Article

This article talks about the changes in Russian society after an year of the invasion of Ukraine. The prolonged crisis has ratchted up the popular support of Putin's cause domestically.
"The longer this war lasts, the more Russian society is cleansing itself from liberalism and the Western poison." - Konstantin Malofeyev, a russian conservative business tycoon.

Israeli settlers rampage after Palestinian gunman kills 2

Israeli settlers went rogue in the northern West Bank late Sunday, setting cars and homes on fire after two settlers were killed by a Palestinian gunman. This incident immediately raised doubts about Jordan’s declaration that it had received pledges from Israeli and Palestinian officials to calm a year-long wave of violence. Palestinian media said at least 20 vehicles and buildings were torched, and the Palestinian Red Crescent reported over 100 wounded.

link: https://www.politico.com/news/2023/02/26/israel-palestinians-west-bank-violence-00084474

4.5 million Pills of Fentanyl, Over 3000 Pounds of Methamphetamine seized in Arizona

 Over 150 people related to the Sinaloa drug cartel have been charged in an Arizona investigation of over three years, which has most recently resulted in a seizure of a large quantity of illegal drugs. The DEA stated that over 4.5 million pills of fentanyl, 3100 pounds of Methamphetamine, and heroin, cocaine, and fentanyl powder were seized. Additionally, about $2 million in cash and 49 firearms were included in the seizure. Sources say the total worth of the drugs is an estimated $13 million. Arizona and federal authorities view this as a win in the drug war, but the Sinaloa cartel and the drug war will continue to rage on.

Article Source

Joseph Kaminski

60 Killed in a Boat Shipwreck off the Calabria Coast

Around 59 migrants, including 12 children, died due to a shipwreck near the Calabria coast. The ship broke while trying to land by the town of Crotone in Calabria. According to the article, around 150 people were on the ship with about 30 people still missing. It is said that the boat came from Turkey and carried passengers from Afghanistan, Pakistan, Somalia, and Iran. This is a common occurrence in Italy as many migrant flee there to get away from conflict or poverty. 

Article Link

CHINA POLITICS ‘Crisis point’: Foreign policy experts and investors are divided on China

 Foreign policy experts express grave concerns over U.S. and China relations at a council on foreign policy meeting. The emergence of the alleged Chinese spy balloon over the continental united states raised concerns over China's serious surveillance efforts. It was quoted that the crisis point has been reached due to both the U.S and China being 'quick to blame the other for their self-inflicted problems.". Fund managers are less worried about China's geopolitical effects and more about Beijing's economic revival in 2023.

https://www.cnbc.com/2023/02/17/crisis-point-foreign-policy-experts-and-investors-are-divided-on-china.html

-Jessie Anaya

China refuses to condemn Russia's Ukraine invasion during G20 deadlock - Carter Vance

 China is unwilling to condemn Russia's aggression against the Ukraine at the G20 Summit this week in India.  All countries at the summit agreed on the assessment of the Ukraine invasion and on the sanctions imposed on Russia except for Russia and China.  China in response proposed a 12 point plan to end the war in Russia however, it did not include a point regarding Russia withdrawing their troops from Ukraine.  The other 18 participating countries feel if the war continues there will be a negative impact on global economy from global tax to food insecurity.  The war in the Ukraine is more than just a turf war and the longer this war drags on the greater chance of Putin doing something more extreme making this global issue!

Article Link

Carter Vance

Tensions Flare Between Israel and Palestine

 Earlier this week, the Israeli government conducted a day time raid in attempts to get rid of 3 Palestine militants. This raid occured in the West Banks and led to the death of over 10 people. Tension is very thick in the country as innocent people were killed during the raid. The last large raid conducted by Israeli government resulted in 7 Israelis being murdered while attending a synagogue. Some people are calling this right wing terrorism as the prime minister's cabinet has changed to feature much more radical right wingers.

https://www.google.com/amp/s/amp.theguardian.com/world/2023/feb/22/israeli-troops-west-bank-raid-palestinian-deaths-nablus

Frankie Wozniak

Rally for Ukrainians held at capitol building as war marks 1 year since Russian Invasion-Olivia Walko

 Groups of American Russians and Ukrainians met at Colorado's capital to express their support for the Ukrainian people and urge for more U.S. support in ending the genocide.

Biden promises new military aid for Kyiv during 'historic' visit- Hailey Morsovillo

 

Biden promised the new military for Ukraine worth $500 million during the surprise to Kyiv. Biden was really putting a lot of effort into the Ukraine because he thinks freedom is important. People of Ukraine really love Biden and how much he is doing for their country. Siren blared as Biden arrived in Ukraine.

Mississippi lawmakers seek to return to Jim Crow with separate white system of justice

In 2023,  According to Mississippi today, they have proposed a new law that will let the state whites chief justice of the Mississippi Supreme Court, white attorney general, and white state public safety commissioner appoint new judges, prosecutors, public defenders and police officers to run a new district in the city where most of the population and location is white people. We know Mississippi is main 83% black people, so what does that mean for them? Do the people think they can’t aren’t able to govern from themselves? This is the same state that continues to make laws and that keep taking us back into the old times? What is this saying? Could this lead to something more dangerous for the black community and why are these laws being passed so easily? It’s crazy how the black community is seen as in the wrong every time they’re trying to fight for their freedom or rights that they’re slowly getting taken away again but its okay for the other group to do whatever they want.

https://amsterdamnews.com/news/2023/02/13/mississippi-lawmakers-seek-return-to-jim-crow-with-separate-white-system-of-justice/ 

Ukraine Expects Increased Attacks on War's Anniversary

 Ukraine is preparing for increased attacks on the one year anniversary of the Russia-Ukraine war. Officials are urging schools to hold remote classes now through Friday rather than have in person classes. They are suggesting this due to Russia's past history of attacking schools and other civilian gathering centers. Many companies are having employees work remotely as well. Authorities have advised residents to stay inside as much as possible and asked humanitarian groups to discourage large gatherings. Additional safety measures have been put in place to guard against a potential attack. 

russia-ukraine-news

Emily Bartel

Biden Administration rolls out new refugee policy

 The Biden Administration has announced new asylum restrictions that some are comparing to Trump-era policies. It significantly restricts the asylum of other eligibility of migrant at the U.S.-Mexico border who traveled through other countries on their journey. The intention is to encourage asylum seekers to utilize "lawful, safe, and orderly pathways into the United States" or to seek asylum in the countries through which they travel. Officials in the administration emphasize these restrictions are intended to increase legal pathways and some programs have been implemented to accomplish this. This policy has faced wide scale condemnation from Democratic lawmakers and supporters of asylum. 

https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/21/politics/asylum-policy-biden-administration/index.html

Abigail Black

 

Israeli West Bank Raid -- Sydney Park

Israeli troops carried out a daytime arrest operation that triggered fighting and killed at least 10 Palestinians and wounded many others. This raid also caused a lot of property damage and was one of the "bloodiest" battles in what has been about a year of fighting in the West Bank/East Jerusalem. There was a raid last month that a Palestinian group responded to with an attack outside of a Jerusalem synagogue, and they said that their "patience is running out." There were no Israeli casualties, and they say they were able to confiscate two automatic rifles from the site. The Palestinian Health Ministry says that 102 people were wounded, 6 were in critical condition, and only 3 of those 6 were members of the militant group.

https://www.npr.org/2023/02/22/1158703503/israeli-west-bank-raid-kills-10-palestinians-and-hurts-more-than-100-others 

Israel's Parliament Advances Bill That Allows For The Overturning Of Supreme Court Decisions

 On Wednesday the Parliament of Israel advanced the bill that would allow for the Parliament to overturn Israel's Supreme Court decisions with a majority vote in the Parliament. This bill would limit the authority of the Supreme Court of Israel and allow the Parliament to decide what will stand or what will fail in the court. The bills face committee approval after winning in the parliament 61-52. Critics of the imposed law claim it will erode and destroy the democracy of Israel and will get rid of the checks and balances system that is currently in place. The imposed haw has gained foreign and domestic opposition because of the law's nature of overthrowing the Supreme Court and giving complete power of the law to the Parliament. 

By Michael Gill 

https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/israeli-parliament-advances-bill-override-top-court-97381769

Husband called to finish serving his prison sentence after wife speaks out against Iranian mandatory hijab laws

 Khandan, husband of active human rights lawyer Sotoudeh, was arrested for supporting his wife's efforts and her fight against mandatory hijab laws in Iran. He was charged with “gathering and collusion against national security," “propaganda against the regime,” and “spreading and promoting not wearing hijab.” He was held in prison briefly in 2018 but wasn't sentenced until 2019. He was never brought in to serve his five-year term, until now. Doing this shows that Iran has no plans to change the hijab laws anytime soon and wants to show all activists that they will be punished for speaking out.

https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/15/middleeast/reza-khandan-iran-prison-sentence-intl

Lauren Pesola

Belarus claims it won’t send troops to Ukraine unless it is attacked, as tensions escalate at border

 With rising tensions in Ukraine over the invasion of Russia, border tensions between Ukraine and Belarus continue with Ukraine fearing Belarusian troops will aid Russia in their invasion. Belarus has come forward with a statement saying that they will not send any troops to fight Ukraine unless Ukraine decided to fight or invade into Belarus. This gives Ukraine some breathing room to focus on their efforts to get rid of Russia from Ukraine. Belarus is one of the countries that has joined the Warsaw Pact against NATO and with Ukraine fighting to join NATO we'll have to see how the future plays out between these two countries. 

https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/16/europe/belarus-ukraine-troops-russia-border-intl

Jonathan Cotsiomitis

Biden Promises New Military Aid for Kyiv 'historic' visit

 US President Joe Biden made a surprise visit to Kyiv, Ukraine, to meet with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskiy on February 20th, almost a year to the day of Russia invading Ukraine. Biden pledged $500 million to new military aid in Ukraine, with artillery ammunition, anti-armour systems, and air surveillance radars being most of the tech we are giving. This visit from Biden is seen as a message to Russia, which they referred to as "the swamp". The US has been the main supporter of Ukraine since the beginning of the war, and they don't plan on letting up any time soon.

https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/us-president-biden-visits-war-time-kyiv-ahead-invasion-anniversary-2023-02-20/

-Riley Johnson

2/20/2023

South Africa Connections with Russia Resurface Amidst Invasion

 According to writer David McKenzie, it seems that South Africa is not afraid to show lack of support for Ukraine. Both China and South Africa currently host naval exercises using Russian naval vessels. With South Africa being in the BRICS pact involving Brazil, Russia, India and China, it puts the United States diplomats in a difficult position to be criticizing South African practices due to the fear of rising economic and political conflicts.

Link: https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/19/africa/south-africa-russia-china-military-drills-intl-cmd

Juan Castro

Biden wants Poland’s opinion — but he still has the power

 As President Biden travels to Poland to speak to world leaders about the one year anniversary of the Russia's invasion of Ukraine, it demonstrates that the following war has drawn more attention to the Eastern European countries in Europe. However, this does not diminish the Eastern NATO bloc's dependence on Western Countries such as The US and Germany. The increasing prominence of China also sheds doubts onto how long NATO's Eastern Bloc will be in the limelight.

Garrett Geraci

https://www.politico.eu/article/biden-poland-ukraine-natio-eastern-flank-bucharest-nine/

Could China start getting involved with in the Russo-Ukraine War?

  After a recent diplomatic meeting conducted by Blinken AND the top, Chinese diplomat Wang Yi, this Saturday, Mr. Blinken expressed deep concern over Chinese companies, providing non-lethal support to Russia for use in Ukraine and talked about whether or not there would be a possibility of the Chinese supporting lethal equipment to Russia during these times of war. Wang then refused to elaborate on whether or not China would assist Russia in providing weapons or ammunition. The US has responded to this by beginning a sanction against a Chinese company for allegedly providing satellite imagery of Ukraine to the Russian government. These are very important times in the relations between America and China with the two nations' relationships already being on the edge. If China were to start supporting Russia in the battle in Ukraine it would only worsen relations further.

Ryan Lawrence

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-64695042

In Retaliation, North Korea Demonstrates Reliability of ICB Missiles

As a response to the United States' and South Korea's plans to perform joint exercises, North Korea fired one of their intercontinental ballistic missiles in a "surprise" drill. The missile landed in Japan's exclusive economic zone, west of Hokkaido. Officials out of Pyongyang supplemented the drill with verbal threats of retaliation in belief that there are plans to invade North Korea. Of course, countries and committees across the world condemned North Korea's actions, saying it "threatens regional and international peace and security."

Link to Article

Joseph Kaminski

China to Possibly Send Aide to Russia

 According to the US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken, China is debating on sending weapons to Russia for the war in Ukraine. Allegedly, Chinese companies have already been sending "non lethal" aid, but there is now evidence that Beijing could send "lethal"support. However, China has denied reports that Moscow has requested equipment despite being close allies with Russia. If China does send military weapons to Russia, this could severely disengrate any US-China relations (more so than they already were), especially with the alleged Chinese spy balloon fiasco. 

Article Link

Turkey Halts Most Rescue Efforts for Earthquake Survivors

 Two weeks post Earthquake, Turkey is has ended most of their search and rescue operations. Survivors fortunately have continued to be found under the rubble alive. The key is that they have enough oxygen to breathe. One professor of disasters at University College London has found it very unusual that so many people have survived this long. 

https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/19/europe/turkey-stop-earthquake-rescue-intl

Julia Benes

China’s balloon surveillance program has been ‘exposed to the world’: Blinken (Olivia Walko)

 https://globalnews.ca/news/9497236/china-ballon-surveillance-program-exposed-blinken/

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with the PRC's top diplomat Wang Yi to stress that Chinese survellience in the US mainland will not be tolerated and that the PRC's continued assistance with Russia's invasion of Ukraine through material support undermines international rules-based order and is discouraged.

Kyiv Says It Shot Down Russian Balloons Over Ukraine's Capital - carter Vance

 In the news this week, there was not one but six balloons traveling over a country however, this time it was a Russian balloon traveling over the Ukraine.  It was assumed to have reconnaissance equipment on board as it travel over the capital.  The Ukrainian government felt this strategy was to exhaust their air defenses as they used their Ukrainian air forces to shoot down the balloons. Two neighboring countries, Romania and Moldova also saw the balloons and moved their military to protect their airspace.  Are these balloons for spying or to drain a country's military resource... that is the question. 

Article Link

Carter Vance

Canada will send naval vessels to Haiti, but stops short of military intervention

    Canada will send naval vessels off the coast of Haiti in the upcoming weeks as there is rising insecurity and gang violence within the country. these vessels will conduct surveillance and gather intelligence off the coast of Haiti. Canada's prime minister Trudeau stated that it is important to confirm the severity of the situation going on in Haiti but would not give any military aid on the ground in the Caribbean Nation. Within the past year, Haiti has been engulfed in chaos as anti-government groups run by criminals protest, increased kidnappings, and a resurgence of cholera within the nation. Haiti urges the international community to consider deploying forces amidst this humanitarian and security crisis happening within Haiti. 

https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/16/americas/haiti-canada-naval-vessels-intl-latam

Jessie Anaya

Another object shot down over Lake Huron in Michigan- Hailey Morsovillo

 As there were many unidentified objects in the air recently in the air there was an object found flying over Michigan. Which then was shot down over Lake Michigan. No one was hurt during the shooting down of the unidentified object. The object is now under investigation.  There have been many other sightings of the flying objects. Which now is getting concerning for the American government.

Buffalo Shooter Sentenced to 10 years to Prison for Racist Act

 Peyton Gendron, a white supremacist who killed 10 black people in super market last year was sentenced to prison for 10 years. Family of the victims are upset and questioned why is this man getting only ten years of prison for such a horrible act and also a targeting act. Peyton wore a bullet proof vest, brought 100 more of ammo and also a helmet with a live stream camera, carrying a rifle. He shot 13 people who he  had in mind targeting before coming to the supermarket. Families of the victims grieve but also give Peyton some words while he was walking the aisle in court. 

This is crazy because I don’t think his sentence isn’t enough for his crime and I heard he would be facing a death sentence if chosen and I hope it is. Peyton knew exactly what he did when he drove three hours to a grocery store that mostly black people attend. This wasn’t only an act of violence but a racist act as well. I think a much worse sentence should come his way because this isn’t fair at all. I didn’t know any of the victims but my heart hurts every time I read or hear about this. He also has the nerves to cry during his court date, there’s nothing you should be crying about. You killed all those innocent black people with motive. 

https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/buffalo-supermarket-gunman-to-be-sentenced-to-life-for-racist-attack-killing-10

Russia Sends Another Missile Attack

 Early Thursday morning, Russia sent another wave of missile attacks into Ukraine. This attack killed at least one person and damaged vital infrastructure. This was just hours after Russian balloons were seen floating over Kyiv, a likely distraction from the missile attack that was to come. Most of the balloons were shot down before the missile attack. It's still unclear what all of the reasons behind the balloons were. Ukraine claims that up to 80% of Russias assault units have been killed. It appears that Russia is sending large masses of armed units in sacrificial assaults. 

Emily Bartel

russia-ukraine-news

Tensions mount at the Belarus-Ukraine border amid concerns of a Russian spring offensive

 Fearing another Russian invasion through the Belarusian border, Ukrainian miliary is setting up its defense's across its border. This causes a problem because Belarus and Russia are allies with each other and Belarus supports the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Belarus could eventually join the war against Ukraine in order to aid Russia in its endeavors. This could create global tension however and would cause Ukraine to gain many NATO allies to help defend Ukraine. 

https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/15/europe/russia-ukraine-belarus-border-tensions-intl

Jonathan Cotsiomitis

Nikki Haley's

  Nikki Haley officially announced her running for the Republican nomination in the 2024 election because she believes that she will be able to get higher support over Donald Trump and Ron DeSantis, the current two leading candidates for the Republican seat. Nikki Haley looks to challenge these two opposing runner-ups as she believes that “ our best days are yet to come“. As she believes that she can act as a useful and diverse Republican candidate, who is not being too Trumpy as she put it, but many do agree that she will do well due to the fact that the republican party is quite split with diehard Trump fans, and more moderate Republicans, making up the majority.

As Netanyahu's plan to weaken the Israeli judiciary is protested by thousands, the president warns of 'social collapse'

The nation's parliament was flooded with flag-waving Israelis Monday amid warnings that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's plan to weaken the judiciary could cause a "social collapse". Protestors arrived with posters with messages against Netanyahu's plan as well as Palestinian flags. Despite the protest and plea from President Issac Herzog, the government began introducing the reform bill. The bill passed the committee vote and will face a first reading on Wednesday. The reform seeks to change the way judges are selected, and remove government ministries’ independent legal advisors. The reform would also allow a simple majority in the Knesset to overturn Supreme Court rulings.

https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/13/middleeast/israelis-knesset-protest-netanyahu-judiciary-intl

-Raegan Stinger

Portugal Catholic Church Child Sexual Abuse Scandal

 Almost 5,000 individuals may be victims of child sexual abuse at a Portugal Catholic Church. This number was estimated by a psychiatrist who is heading the panel on the investigation of these crimes. 512 possible victims have come forward, but the church claims only a handful have actually happened. Clergymen sat and listened to the details of each case be read out with vivid descriptions. An expert panel is beginning to look into each of these cases and the history of abuse in the church. A committee called The Independent Committee for the Study of Child Abuse in the Catholic Church was set up last year to investigate child abuse accusations from 1950 to currently. The Church is keeping all of the victim's and clergymen accused names private for now, but the police and bishops are receiving a list of clergymen accused who are still active in the Church. The Portugal Catholic Church has not yet released if they will pay the victims compensation. 

https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/portugal-church-sex-abuse-study-finds-512-alleged-97075357

Lauren Pesola

Chinese Officials Accuse the U.S. of Flying a Balloon Over Chinese Airspace

 China has recently accused the United States of flying a balloon across Chinese airspace. As tensions rise after the United States shot down a Chinese balloon off the coast of South Carolina last week, China claims the United States has flown a high altitude balloon over China’s airspace on Sunday, February 12th. China has also claimed that there have been ten incidents of the U.S. flying balloons over the country since January 2022. The state run news outlet, “The Paper” claims that Chinese officials were ready to shoot the balloon down and warned fishermen in the area about falling debris and asking them to help in the recovery effort if conditions allowed. This leads to increased tensions as both sides continue to blame each other on the flying of aircraft over both nations airspace. As of today, February 13th the Chinese government has not provided any updates if the balloon has been shot down or not. CNN reports that the citizens of China are waiting for the aircraft to be shot down and it is trending on several sites in China. 

By Michael Gill

https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/13/china/china-unidentified-flying-object-intl-hnk-mic

Wagner strengthening its position in Eastern Ukraine - Arayan Khare

 Russian Paramilitary forces Wagner said that they have captured the outskirts of Bakhmut, a city in Eastern Europe. Wagner is backed by Kremlin. Ukraine has denied this claim by saying that they are still holding positions near and around Bakhmut and they didn't acknowledge any lose of territory.

https://www.wsj.com/articles/russias-wagner-group-claims-gains-near-bakhmut-in-eastern-ukraine-77faa1cd?mod=world_lead_pos3

Another object shot down over Lake Huron in Michigan

 Another object have been shot down by the US air force fourth day after shooting down the spy ballon. It is reported that the object that was shot had not been found yet as the object was significantly small as was seen flying 20000 feet above Lage Huron. The object was shot down immediately after the direction of President Joe Biden. An F-16 was used to take down the object. Air force report that shooting it down the lake was the best idea as it would not hurt any civilian in the area. 

link: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2023/02/12/another-object-shot-down-over-lake-huron-michigan/11243985002/

NATO military exercises are looming over Russia

 A current NATO military exercise with Estonian, French, British, Danish and US troops in Estonia and simulating a firefight in the forest. This exercise is used to build teamwork and trust between the different allied countries as a way to send a message to Russia that if they take any more steps, it won't end well for them. Meanwhile, the Danish are teaching their soldiers how to operate high tech German Leopard 2 tanks for upcoming war confrontations with the Russians.

https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/07/europe/estonia-nato-tank-exercises-intl-cmd

-Riley Johnson

Rally for Uyghur Rights in DC

 The ongoing genocide of native Uyghur people residing in China has been met with backlash from global organizations, though there is still limited power to combat the actions happening within China's borders. But on February 11th, a rally led by the Interfaith Council at Cornell was held on Capitol Hill to bring awareness to the issue and the Uyghur HR Protection Act. Students who attended were able to voice their opinions and generate support to enact the Act. Some speakers talked about the protection of refugees. Other speakers denounced the countries refusing to put a stop to the genocide.

Sources:

https://cornell.campusgroups.com/IntfaithCoun/rsvp_boot?id=2032316

https://uhrp.org/responses/

https://thediplomat.com/2023/02/two-ways-indonesia-is-helping-china-persecute-the-uyghurs/

-Juan Castro

China Says It's Preparing as To Shoot Down Unidentified Flying Object Near Yellow Sea

 Chinese officials are preparing to shoot down an unidentified flying object over the Shandong province. This happens after a flying balloon conducting surveillance from China was spotted over the U.S state of Montana. It subsequently traveled across the continental United States before it was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean. Since then, other similar balloons have been spotted and shot down over Alaska, and the Canadian Yukon Territory. All if these “spy balloon” incidents spell out more concrete implications of another Cold War currently occuring between the US, UK, Canada, abd China, Russia, and Iran.

Garrett Geraci

https://www.forbes.com/sites/mattnovak/2023/02/12/china-says-its-preparing-to-shoot-down-unidentified-flying-object-near-yellow-sea/amp/

Turkey arrests building contractors as earthquake death toll mounts

 The death count for the earthquake in Syria and Turkey reached 33,000 and could double in the coming days. The president of Turkey in an effort to shift blame issued arrest warrants for over 100 contractors engineers and builders associated with some of the buildings that collapsed. 12 people are already in custody. It is likely this is a tactic of the president who is facing a difficult election in May. 

Robert Szabad

Link

Israeli Government Authorizes Nine Outposts in the West Bank

 The Israeli Government is stirring relations in the Middle East by authorizing nine Jewish settlements in the West Bank, which is considered the main territory of a potential Palestinian state. The move is seen as a violation of international law, and the Palestinian government condemns and rejects the move. Some US officials see this move as an obstruction of peace in the Middle East.

Link to article

Joseph Kaminski

Countless Children Orphaned by the Earthquake in Turkey and Syria

 On Monday, a deadly 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit Syria and Turkey, thus, taking the lives of many and leaving some children without their parents. For instance, a newborn baby was found under the rubble of an apartment building while her mother was found dead. Unfortunately, there are more (unknown) children out in Syria and Turkey who have been orphaned, and both countries are faced with a race against time. As of now, the death toll has reached above 40,000 in both Syria and Turkey. 

Article Link

PAKISTAN IS AT RISK OF DEFAULT - Carter Vance

 Pakistan ravaged by a monsoon last summer is facing economic challenges due their main export resource, cotton, being destroyed in the monsoon.  Complicating the issue are political struggles with the past extremist leader trying to regain power and another group deemed as terrorist are also trying exert their authority.  Pakistan has the fifth largest population in the world and is currently facing 27% inflation. All of these challenges are very similar to what the Ukraine faced which led their economic crisis and is being watched closely for the future of Pakistan. 

Carter Vance

Article Link

Derailed Traincar in Palestine Ohio

10 traincars containing highly toxic chemicals derailed in Palestine Ohio. The chemical known as vinyl chloride, a highly volatile and colorless gas, was being transported in 5 of the 10 traincars. Individuals within a mile of the location were ordered to evacuate to prevent further exposure to the carcinogen. Videos and photos show a large black plume of smoke rising from the controlled burn. As of now, the evacuation order has been lifted, but many question just how safe the area actually is. There are many reports of animals becoming sick, or outright dying after exposure to the chemicals. 

https://www.google.com/amp/s/abcnews.go.com/amp/Health/toxins-ohio-train-derailment-posed-deadly-threats-residents/story%3fid=96978394

Frankie W

Talk of banning Russian athletes from the 2024 Olympics is at an all time high-Olivia Walko

 https://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2023-02-10/not-so-rosy-russian-athletes-face-prospect-of-olympics-ban

Though it has been stated by the International Olympic Committee that Russian athletes will be allowed to compete in the 2024 games as neutrals in Paris in light of Russian conflict with Ukraine, international calls to ban these athletes have skyrocketed and it is likely the committee will reconsider.  The head of Russia's athletics foundation, Irina Privalova has stated that those within the country should not compete as "refugees", for those disagreeing with the Russian military operation have "already left."

US says XI didn't know about the balloon

 the U.S. believed that the balloon was apart of an extensive Chinese surveillance program. However, it has been noted that Xi Jinping, who is China's most powerful leader in decades may bot have known about it. If this was true this would lead to an assumption that there is a huge lack of coordination in the Chinese system. What's interesting is that a senior state department official has noted that China has flown these balloons over 40 other countries without providing much detail about it.   

https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/10/china/china-balloon-xi-jinping-unaware-intl-hnk

Julia Benes

Death toll increases significantly in Turkey, UN aids Syria

 After the earthquake on February 6th, the death toll has risen significantly and reports are now that almost twenty-one thousand people have been found dead due to the devastating earthquake. Rescue work has been completed in the cities of Diyarbakir, Adana, and Osmaniye according to Vice President Fuat Oktay. UN has said that they are aiding Syria and six trucks of “shelter items and non-food item kits, including blankets and hygiene kits" reached Bab al-Hawa.

-Asal Sharma Dhungana

link: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2023/02/09/turkey-earthquake-live-updates-death-toll/11218360002/

Mexico sends its beloved dog search and rescue teams to Turkey- Hailey Morsovillo

Mexico sends dogs and a rescue team to Turkey because of the earthquake that hit Turkey. The main dog they talked about is Frida. Frida rescued over 43 people from 2010 to 2019 and then retired. She will unfortunately die in 2022. I think the main idea of this article is how Mexico was helping out Turkey. Also how rescue dogs are important and they are a good necessities.

State of the Union Address

This week the state of the union address was given by Joe Biden to show the positive impact his administration has been making on the United States along with new visions for the future such as the "Four-part Unity Agenda" which is a collaborated plan to start making a massive push to enhance cancer research, support for veterans, tackling the mental health crisis and bring health care to more everyday citizens. 

https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/02/07/fact-sheet-in-state-of-the-union-president-biden-to-outline-vision-to-advance-progress-on-unity-agenda-in-year-ahead/

 

North Korea Unveils New Missile

 North Korea unveiled a new ballistic missile in a military parade on Wednesday night. This is just North Koreas newest move in increasing its arsenal of nuclear weapons. The parade celebrates North Korea's 75th anniversary of its military. North Korea often holds these parades to boost morale as well as show of their arsenal to other countries.  It's unclear if the missile actually functions like they say it will or if it's just for show to scare North Korea's enemies. Theres a chance it is real but it's more likely that it was for show although North Korea could continue to develop and test this technology.

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/02/09/world/asia/north-korea-parade-solid-fuel-missile.html

Emily Bartel

Mexico Aids Turkey After Devastating Earthquake

 Mexico has agreed to help Turkey after a massive earthquake has devastated cities and landscapes. over 1000 people have died during these earthquakes and more are trapped under all of the ruble and debris from the falling buildings. To help with rescuing these trapped individuals, Mexico has agreed to send its search and rescue dog squad to help find people trapped under buildings. Turkey continues to be devastated by the earthquakes. 

https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/07/americas/mexico-rescue-dogs-turkey-intl-latam

Jonathan Cotsiomitis 

New Zealand Seizes Batman Cocaine Boat

 Heading across the Pacific, 3.2 tonnes of cocaine totaling about $316 million was seized by New Zealand military. It was believed to have been headed for Australia. New Zealand says this was their biggest drug bust to date. Some of the packages were labeled with a Batman symbol or a black four-leaf clover. Apparently, these are trademark logos for drugs coming from South America. New Zealand sent a boat out to retrieve the drugs off the boat and discovered 81 bales of cocaine. New Zealand shows their pride for a job well done by saying, "We believe to have dealt a significant blow to an international criminal syndicate's operation." They also added that Australia, the UK, the US, and Canada helped with the bust. 

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-64565454

Lauren Pesola

Turkey earthquake live updates: Fevered rescues underway as death toll tops 7,000 in Turkey, Syria

 Death toll at more than 7,000 after 7.8 magnitude earthquake hits southeastern Turkey and northeastern Syria. The Earthquake was centered in the town of Pazarcik in Turkey's southeastern Kahramanmaras province and was later hit by several aftershocks. At least 1,872 were killed in government and rebel-controlled areas of Northeastern Syria. 

https://abcnews.go.com/International/live-updates/turkey-earthquake/?id=96913081

Jessie Anaya 

EU Bans Russian Oil

A European ban on imported products made from Russian oil, including diesel fuel and gasoline, took effect on February 5th. This act is following in the footsteps of a similar act targeting Russian crude oil in December. Because of this, European countries will have to seek other suppliers for their oil. Possible options include countries in the Middle East, India, and the United States. Meanwhile, Russia will have to find other buyers for its oil, especially as oil and natural gas sales are a majority of Russia's government funds. Russia could end up selling their oil to East African countries, Asia, Latin America, or could increase sales to India and China. Whether this act will sway Russia and President Putin's war on Ukraine remains to be seen.

https://www.npr.org/2023/02/03/1153833640/europe-russian-oil-products-ban

Abigail Black

NYC Women Found using Bitcoin to fun Terrorist Group

 Thirty-Four year old Victoria Jacobs was accused of running and also providing weapons to a terrorist  group in Syria through bitcoin. Jacob would launder the money through money gram and western union which she wired to bitcoin wallets or google gift cards which raised amount of money of $10,661. Jacob’s has been running this group since 2018. Back in December 2021 they found out that Jacob’s sent $5,000 to Malhama tactical group, a group known for military training in that area. She also got into contact with people who are specialized in making bombs in Syria and also was associated with higher group leaders also. Jacob’s was later found out about her operation after she posted pictures online on account which exposed her of what she was doing. This also ended around in 2019 but more information everything came into final results February 1st, 2023

https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2023/02/01/new-york-woman-charged-bitcoin-funding-terrorists/11165781002/ 

Earthquake in Turkey and Syria causes over 1500 Deaths

 An earthquake occurred near the border of Turkey and Syria. A 7.8 magnitude earthquake occurred in Turkey near the Syrian border on Monday, February 6th at around 4:17 in the morning. The Earthquake is said to have caused around 2,000 deaths in Turkey and Syria. This is said to be the largest earthquake to every happen in Turley and it continues to cause harm as the dangerous aftershocks occur. At the time of the article over 7,000 people are injured, with more casualties being reported. Many buildings have collapsed and search and rescue teams have been on the sites that have been hit. The Turkish organization called the Red Crescent has called for people to donate blood and over 45 countries have offered support according to the Turkish president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Some of the countries that have offered support are France, The United Kingdom, The United States, Israel, Germany, and most notably Russia and Iran. Even though NATO and Russia and Iran have not been on good terms due to recent events both Russia and Iran have offered help the both Turkey and Syria. This shows an interesting level of relations between NATO and Russia because of the recent conflicts between the two parties. Turkey continues to ask for help as the crisis continues. By Michael Gill

Article- https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-64533851 

Ex-Miami Rep. David Rivera Arrested in Venezuela Probe

 David Rivera (R-FL), a one term former congressman from the Miami area has been arrested on charges of representing a foreign government without registering and money laundering. The charges are related to a consulting contract that Rivera has with the Venezuelan government. The charges allege that at the beginning of the Trump Administration , Rivera began lobbying on behalf of the Venezuelan government to attempt to ease tensions with between it and the US's government, to resolve a dispute with an U.S oil company, and to retract sanctions that the U.S has placed on Venezuela without registering as a foreign agent.  

Garrett Geraci

https://www.usnews.com/news/politics/articles/2022-12-05/newsbreak-ex-miami-congressman-arrested-in-venezuela-probe 

Chinese Spy Balloons Surface US

A foreign object in the sky was ordered by President Biden to be shot down by the US Air Force after appearing on the East Coast. It was later revealed in a press release that the balloon belonged to the Chinese government. This sparks international controversy since it poses the risk of revealing surveillance footage of foreign territories. The Chinese spy balloon is the first public appearance of government surveillance on U.S. soil and it also raises the question if any other countries are spying on each other, including the U.S.

Source: https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/04/politics/china-spy-balloon-us-latest/index.html

- Juan Castro

Powerful Earthquake Strikes Turkey With Fears of High Casualties

A total of 100 dead body has been found after Turkey was hit by a 7.8 Magnitude earthquake near the Turkey-Syria border. It is reported that a total of 145 buildings collapsed due to the earthquake and a rescue team is dispatched to help the people who are effect by the incident. It is also reported that there were 5 aftershocks and people were reported not to enter the building anytime soon. This is the most powerful earthquake in Turkey after 1999 which killed almost 18,000 people.

-Asal Sharma Dhungana

Link: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2023/02/05/turkey-earthquake-authorities-damage-victims/11194607002/

ASEAN vows to conclude pact with China on disputed territory

 The Association of Southeast Asian Nations met in Jakarta do discuss disputed territories in the south China sea. The claims are over islands that lie between the nine dash line of China and the Exclusive Economic zone of countries of the region. The leaders of the nations met to establish norms and rules to allow for humanitarian aid and trade to be able to continue efficiently. The organization has also criticized the United States for melding in an affair that concerns Asia. The ASEAN made vows to explore new approaches and push for an advancement in negotiations giving hope that the conflict can be resolved peacefully.

Link

Robert Szabad

The Balloon and US-China Relations

 Roughly a week after it entered United States airspace, a suspected Chinese spy balloon was shot down by a United States F-22 fighter jet off the coast of South Carolina on Saturday. The Chinese foreign ministry claimed it to be a civilian research balloon that accidentally drifted out of China and condemn the US's handling of the situation, calling it "clearly overreacting." There are worries among US citizens that the balloon was not eliminated soon enough and that China had obtained all the information they needed. However, President Biden has mentioned that he wanted the balloon shot down several days earlier. Nonetheless, it appears that this is a win-win situation for China: obtain surveillance information of the United States mainland and paint the United States in a bad light by calling attention to their "aggression."

Joseph Kaminski

Source

Why Philippines Is Letting the U.S, Expand It's Military Footprint in the Country Again

 Previously, the Philippines has advocated shrinking the presence of the United States military; as it represents American colonialism to Filipino natives. Yet, amongst increasing tensions with China, the U.S. and Filipino governments have announced the creation of four new military bases for the island. The United States already has five operating bases, but the number is now increasing to nine. This reminds me of our class discussion where we mentioned the U.S. General who expects global conflict between the United States and China within two years. In my opinion, this expanding military action reflects the tensions that the General we discussed warned us about. 

Article Link

The Causes and Consequences of the Ukraine War. - Arayan Khare

The Causes and Consequences of the Ukraine War.
This Article by Prof. Mearsheimer has presented a strong and compelling argument about how the West is responsible for the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Prof Mearsheimer has presented the arguments of conventional wisdom that demonise Putin and works on Russophobia to put the blame of the conflict solely on Russia. He has brilliantly tackled all the arguments of conventional wisdom by putting forward rational arguments in favour of the strategic importance of Ukraine to Russia as compared to the West and how the NATO expansion to Ukraine is an imminent security threat to Russia. Instead of redressing Russia's concern, the West has taken on a course of action to economically weaken Russia through reducing reliance on its energy exports and other economic sanctions. But economic measures will not deter Russia because it sees NATO expansion as an existential crisis.

Prof. Mearsheimer has also given an eye-opening example that if China plans to make a military coalition with Canada and Mexico, allowing China to have a strategic military presence in the Western Hemisphere, the US wouldn't like that either and would respond on the lines of Russia in the Ukrainian Context.
https://www.russiamatters.org/analysis/causes-and-consequences-ukraine-war)

Navy Divers Work to Recover Debris From Chinese Spy Balloon- Carter Vance

 The Chinese spy balloon that was allowed to travel across the United States was shot down Saturday morning over the Atlantic Ocean.  Biden Administration chose to delay shooting down the balloon to limit the debris fall out over land and said the same information could have been gathered from satellites.  The Navy was deployed to the site to gather all the pieces of the balloon for investigation. It was shot down in shallow waters making it easier to gather as much as possible although it was noted the cold temperatures of the water have made the recovery mission slower. 

Article Link

Carter Vance

Ukraine Expects Russian Offensive in Late Feb

 Ukranian defence minister, Oleksiy Reznikov, has publically stated they expect another Russian offensive. This may pose a serious threat as Ukraine will not have received all of the Western supplies by then. He also suspects that Russia is not yet fully equipped to launch this offensive, but may do so anyways as a symbolic gesture of the war's anniversery. Ukraine is supposed to receive new long range missiles that they pledged to only use against Russian occupied Ukranian territory. 

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-64528580

Frankie Wozniak

Balloon from China being tracked by Pentagon

 Adding to the strain on China and US relations, a suspected surveillance balloon sent from China is being tracked by the US government. A spokesman from the Pentagon said that the balloon is traveling at a high enough level that it doesn't pose any threat to planes in the air or a military threat to the citizens of the US. President Joe Biden wanted to shoot that balloon down but was advised against it for it could hurt people on the ground or possibly release some deadly chemical attack. The balloon's current flight path is going to carry it over several sensitive areas, but the US government doesn't believe it will actually be able to collect any useful information. China claims the balloon entered US territory accidentally, but the US is still keeping a watchful eye on this balloon and China. 

https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/02/politics/us-tracking-china-spy-balloon/index.html

Lauren Pesola 

Russian missile strike in Kramatorsk, Ukraine

 The missile struck right in the heart of the city: Kramatorsk, Ukraine. Given that it's a densely populated area, and unexpected missile strike, it can be extremely dangerous for citizens just going about their daily life. Moscow's attack on Kramatorsk came after a top Kyiv official said that Russia is gearing up for a "maximum escalation". 

Julia Benes 

https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/02/europe/russia-ukraine-kramatorsk-missile-attack-intl

 

Iranian couple handed prison sentence for dancing in the streets

 An Iranian couple had posted a video of them dancing on the internet to show their love and affection for each other. They were then convicted of "Spreading corruption and vice" and "assembly and collusion with the intention of disrupting national security" Both people has received 10 and a half years in jail for these crimes. The citizens of Iran had protested the arrest and have called out the Iranian government as corrupt and unjust to its people. 

Jonathan Cotsiomitis

https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/01/middleeast/iran-couple-dancing-prison-intl

Four Suspects in the Murder of Haiti's Leader (Jovenel Moise) Sent to the US for Trial

 On July 7, 2021, Haiti's President, Jovenel Moise, was shot dead in his home. According to the police, it was "a hit squad of mainly foreign mercenaries." Of the four suspects, three are US-Haitian citizens (by dual citizenship), and the other is Colombian; they are to appear in a federal court in Miami. However, the investigation into the murder itself has been stalled due to death threats posed upon investigators and judges. Still, the court proceedings are scheduled in the US because it is alleged that Haitian-Americans in Florida created the assassination plan.  

Article Link 

Finland says a ‘time-out’ is needed in talks with Turkey over Nordic NATO membership

    Finlands Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto is calling for a 'time out' during talks with turkey over Finland and Sweden's accession to NATO. Turkey refuses to sign over disputes between Turkey and Sweden. Recently there was a demonstration in Stockholm where far-right participants burned a Quran in front of the Turkish embassy as well as a handful of military issues like Sweden’s support for Kurdish groups that Turkey considers to be terrorists

This has led to a roadblock to NATO for Finland and Sweden as Turkey has given Sweden eight-ten weeks to make the changes demanded by Ankara.

https://www.cnbc.com/2023/01/24/finland-time-out-needed-in-talks-with-turkey-over-nato-membership.html

Jessie Anaya

Africa's Debt Crisis

Two United States financial officials made separate visits to African countries because some of them are looking to restructure their debt. On separate visits, they visited Zambia, which was "the continent's first pandemic-era defaulter on foreign debt in 2020." China helped reframe Zambia's debt, but they are also being blamed for slow progress because China is pushing its own agenda first. 

The US officials are almost acting as a mediator in the relations between Zambia and China to hopefully speed things along, but the Chinese Embassy responded that the US should focus on their domestic debt before trying to help others (the US has a national debt of $31.5 trillion). 

Some reasons for states in Africa having a high debt are because of low tax collection and high interest loans. (Foreign Policy).

-- Sydney Park