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

South Korea Finds North Korean Drones.

South Korea has found three drones that are suspected to come from North Korea. While the drones did not have any immediate danger attached to them, they did have cameras installed to their undersides. The cameras were reported as looking like digital cameras that one could buy at Best Buy. Two of the drone's camera pictures were recovered but South Korean officials, but one of the cameras was taken by a man who wanted to keep it for himself.. so he deleted all of the pictures taken. On the pictures that were recovered, South Korean military bases looked to the main target for these drones. Luckily, the drones were not able to process the pictures back to North Korea in real time. A weapons analyst examined the drones and reported that the drones were not made to go on long distance missions and would not be able to carry that much weaponry on them. They were painted light blue in order to blend in with the sky, but they were located and brought down.

Honestly, I think that this was a big mistake by the North Koreans. Now, South Korea and the US know that they are watching them and they are not going to take this lightly, obviously because North Korea is a loose canon. It scares me, just a bit, that they are watching and that they have a vendetta against us... but, I don't think it would be worth it for them to wage a war with the US and South Korea.

For more on this story: http://www.cnn.com/2014/05/09/world/asia/koreas-drones/index.html?hpt=wo_c2

-Elizabeth Brennan

Unoffical Voting in Eastern Ukraine Raises Questions

Separatist demonstrators in eastern Ukrainian provinces Donestk and Luhansk cast votes to show their overwhelming support of the annexation by Russia; the same opinion that is held by the Crimean Peninsula. Though opponents of the annexation generally agreed to stay away from the polls in order to keep the voting illegitimate, a large portion of the population from these two large cities are in favor of greater autonomy from the Central Ukrainian government, which is located in the capital, Kiev. With tension high and violent outbursts occurring in random hotspots, independent city-states look to separate themselves from the central government, a decision that is not officially backed by the United Nations, nor even the Russian government.

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/05/12/world/europe/ukraine-referendum.html?hp

Ryan Woods

Nigeria state governor says abducted girls 'sighted'

Governor Kashim Shettima of Nigeria's Borno state has announced that he has received information on the whereabouts of around 200 kidnapped school girls. The group known to have kidnapped the girls is an Islamist group called Boko Haram. The group has admitted to kidnappings the girls and issued statements saying the girls should have never been in school and should get married instead. Boko Haram has also threatened to sell the girls as slaves. Violence is nothing new to this group; they have been involved in violence with the Nigerian government since 2009. The whereabouts of the girls has been passed on to the Nigerian military to confirm the sighting information. Many think that the majority of the girls are Christians but a there are a few Muslim girls as well. In response to the abductions the president of France offered to host a summit on Boko Haram with countries neighboring Nigeria.  If the countries agree the summit should happen by next Saturday.  The countries that will be invited are Cameroon, Niger, and Chad, although the US, UK, and EU will most likely also attend the summit.

Alexandra Avery
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-27368744

Brazil border operation launched ahead of World Cup

In June, Brazil is hosting the 2014 World Cup. They are also scheduled to host the 2016 Olympics as well. As part of the preparation for the coming World Cup, Brazil has launched border security operation in hopes of eliminating illegal immigration, drug, and arms smuggling. Brazil is expecting more than 600,000 tourists for the tournament and security is top priority. They have increased troops and have partnered with other South American nations to ensure that they are well prepared. However, how well Brazil is prepared is a question that is up for debates.  

Although Brazil is undergoing important changes like border security and infrastructure to accommodate guests, citizens seem to think that Brazil, with its government insecurities, is not ready to host these monumental events. Currently, Brazil has the support of less than half of its citizens on hosting the World Cup. So interesting because Brazil is such a huge fan of soccer! From my understanding, citizens are feeling that the government is wasting money that could be used to bring social changes and ensure the well-being of its citizens.  There have been numerous protests related to this matter.  This event is also crucial for President Dilma Rousseff who is expected to be reelected in October. If the World Cup is not a success, it might shake her reelection. 

Zahabu Lenning

 http://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-27359685

Putin Signs "Blogger Law", Restricting Freedom of Speech to Internet Users

Putin has quietly signed a law that puts restrictions on bloggers. If a blog has 3,000 hits daily, then it will be required to register with the government in order not to stay anonymous. They will also be put under the same “accuracy” laws as news outlets. The article talked a lot about different countries and their own internet restrictions and laws, like China’s ban on major western social media sites and reports of Venezuela blocking online images for its users.

These types of censorships seem to come with their benefits and hindrances. For example, the idea of putting accuracy laws on bloggers that could influence many people seems, at first, like a good idea. It could help keep people who are blantly trying to stir up conspiracies. On the other hand, the idea of “accuracy” will be controlled and defined by a government—a government that would want to keep secrets and Intel hidden.

I’m curious to know if states have interfered with internet freedoms. If America’s foreign policy focuses on “spreading democracy” and protecting its interests, has it gotten involved by trying to protect freedom of speech through the ways of the internet. I know they’ve been working to develop social media sites in countries to promote communication between citizens, but can the help enhance voices that want to speak out?

Posted by Evy Lopez

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/05/07/world/europe/russia-quietly-tightens-reins-on-web-with-bloggers-law.html?_r=0