China Is Priming Its People and the World for a New Pressure Campaign on Taiwan

U.S. banks have abandoned a proposed $20 billion bailout plan for Argentina, opting instead to discuss a smaller, short-term facility aimed at assisting the country with a $4 billion debt payment due in January. This decision reflects ongoing challenges in securing substantial financial support for Argentina amidst its economic struggles.

The Abu Dhabi National Oil Company is negotiating to acquire Russia's stake in the Serbian energy company NIS, as reported by The Wall Street Journal. This development follows U.S. sanctions that have pressured Russia's influence in Serbia's energy sector.

Recent arrests in China underscore the government's ongoing ideological hostility towards religious practices, particularly targeting Christians. Despite severe repression, religious life continues to thrive, highlighting the tension between state control and individual belief systems.

Swiss watch exports fell by 4.4% in October compared to the same month last year, primarily due to a decline in demand from the U.S. market. This downturn reflects ongoing challenges faced by the Swiss watch industry amid tariff impacts.

Asim Munir, Pakistan's Army Chief, has solidified his power through a series of constitutional changes that grant him a new position and lifelong immunity from prosecution. This development has raised concerns regarding the implications for governance and accountability in Pakistan.

The Trump administration has proposed a new 28-point plan aimed at ending the ongoing war in Ukraine. This proposal, drafted by close aides to the president, is expected to encounter significant resistance from Ukraine, as it may require concessions that align closely with Russian demands.

The Netherlands has suspended an order that granted it control over the Chinese-owned chipmaker Nexperia. This decision is seen as a step towards resolving a dispute that had disrupted essential chip supplies to the auto industry.

Treasury yields increased as Federal Reserve officials signaled a likelihood of pausing interest rate cuts on December 10. This development reflects growing uncertainty in the economic landscape.