How China’s Chokehold on Drugs, Chips and More Threatens the U.S.

The return of three Chinese astronauts from the Shenzhou-20 mission has been postponed due to their spacecraft being hit by debris. Initially scheduled to land on Wednesday, this delay raises concerns about the safety of space missions and the increasing risks posed by space debris. As nations continue to explore space, incidents like this highlight the need for better tracking and management of debris to ensure the safety of astronauts and spacecraft.

In a striking parallel, observers in China see echoes of Mao-era chaos in Trump's America, where demands for loyalty and institutional attacks are prevalent. Comedian Vickie Wang, performing in New York, navigates this landscape carefully, avoiding direct criticism of the administration to protect her voice and career.

Brazil is grappling with the aftermath of its deadliest police raid, raising questions about whether the ongoing war on drugs is exacerbating violence rather than ensuring safety.

China has criticized the Netherlands for delays in chip supplies caused by a dispute over technology transfer. This situation is impacting car manufacturers who rely on these essential components.

China has accused the Netherlands of exacerbating the ongoing chip war by interfering with the operations of the seized chipmaker Nexperia. This dispute is significant as it threatens to disrupt the global supply chain, particularly impacting car factories that rely on these essential components. The tensions highlight the fragility of international trade relations and the potential consequences for industries worldwide.

Russia and China are increasingly conducting trade in their own currencies, with over 99% of payments now made in rubles and yuan, according to Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov. This shift is significant as it reduces reliance on Western currencies, potentially strengthening economic ties between the two nations and enhancing their financial independence. The move reflects a broader trend of countries seeking to bypass traditional financial systems dominated by the West.

Europe's claim of 'de-coupling' from China is under scrutiny, especially in light of the Nexperia case, which suggests that European actions may still be heavily influenced by the United States. This situation raises questions about the true independence of European policies and their ability to navigate global trade dynamics without US pressure. Understanding this relationship is crucial as it impacts international relations and economic strategies.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping is looking to strengthen ties with Russia, meeting with Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin in Beijing shortly after his summit with US President Donald Trump. This meeting highlights the ongoing collaboration between China and Russia, especially in the face of challenging global conditions. Strengthening these ties could have significant implications for international relations and trade.

A powerful typhoon has devastated the Philippines, resulting in over 60 fatalities and forcing hundreds of thousands to evacuate their homes. This disaster highlights the increasing severity of weather events in the region, raising concerns about climate change and the need for better preparedness and response strategies.

M&S has disclosed that a recent cyber attack has severely impacted its profits, nearly wiping them out. This incident highlights the growing threat of cybercrime to businesses, emphasizing the need for robust cybersecurity measures. As companies increasingly rely on digital operations, the financial repercussions of such attacks can be devastating, affecting not just profits but also consumer trust.

Paris Saint-Germain faced a disappointing defeat against Bayern Munich in the Champions League, losing 2-1. The match was further marred by injuries to key players Ousmane Dembélé and Achraf Hakimi, which could impact the team's performance in upcoming fixtures. This loss highlights the challenges PSG faces in their pursuit of European glory.

In a historic victory speech, New York mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani took a bold stance against Donald Trump, condemning the oligarchy and authoritarianism that he believes threaten democracy. This moment is significant not only for Mamdani's win but also for the broader success of Democrats in key elections across California, New Jersey, and Virginia, showcasing a shift in political momentum that could influence future policies and governance.

Israel has confirmed the return of the remains of Itay Chen, an Israeli-American soldier who was held hostage by Hamas. The transfer took place on Tuesday through the Red Cross, highlighting ongoing tensions in the region as seven other hostages remain unaccounted for in Gaza. This development is significant as it underscores the complexities of hostage situations and the humanitarian efforts involved in such exchanges.

Mamdani's unexpected victory in the New York City mayoral race has caught many by surprise, but the real test begins now as he prepares to face significant scrutiny in office. This matters because it highlights the challenges new leaders often encounter, especially in a city as complex and dynamic as New York.