The Kremlin warned that U.S. efforts to force countries to use the dollar would backfire after President-elect Trump threatened tariffs on BRICS nations if they pursued a new currency. Trump demanded BRICS countries not create or support a currency to replace the dollar, threatening 100% tariffs otherwise. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov noted the dollar’s declining appeal as a reserve currency, with more countries opting for national currencies in trade. He predicted U.S. economic force would accelerate this trend. Penelope Kingsley 02/12/2024 11:30 pm
President Joe Biden made history as the first U.S. president to visit Angola, highlighting U.S.-backed infrastructure projects linking Angola, Zambia, and Congo. During his visit, Biden will meet Angolan President JoĂŁo Lourenço, speak at the National Slavery Museum, and announce initiatives on global health and security. He will also visit Lobito to promote a U.S.-funded railway project aimed at connecting the Atlantic and Indian oceans, enhancing U.S. presence in a region rich in critical minerals. This effort counters China’s significant investments in Africa. Ava Sinclair 02/12/2024 11:30 pm
Iranian-backed Iraqi militias have entered Syria to support the government’s counteroffensive against rebels in Aleppo. Around 200 militiamen crossed into Syria, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. Fighting continues in Aleppo and Idlib, with Syrian and Russian airstrikes killing at least 25 people. The US, EU, and UN urge de-escalation and a political resolution. The UN reports at least 44 deaths and 48,500 displacements since late November. UN Secretary General Guterres emphasizes the need for a peaceful future for Syrians. Noah Prescott 02/12/2024 11:30 pm
Hezbollah fired two projectiles at Israeli-occupied territory, marking the first such action since a ceasefire began. This was in response to Israel’s daily strikes in Lebanon, which have reportedly killed one person. Israel claims its strikes are reactions to Hezbollah threats, while Hezbollah accuses Israel of ceasefire violations. The U.S. and France have warned Israel about breaching the ceasefire. UNIFIL reports Israel has violated the truce around 100 times. Israeli officials argue they are enforcing the ceasefire, demanding Hezbollah’s withdrawal from the border area. Ava Sinclair 02/12/2024 11:30 pm
The Baltic States—Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania—have imposed national sanctions on Georgian officials following a crackdown on pro-EU protesters. The sanctions target 11 figures, including the Georgian minister for internal affairs and oligarch Bidzina Ivanishvili. This move pressures the EU to consider similar sanctions, though unanimity is uncertain, with Hungary potentially opposing. EU discussions are ongoing, with further meetings planned. The situation remains fluid, and the EU’s response is yet to be determined. Penelope Kingsley 02/12/2024 8:00 pm
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is hearing a case to clarify governments’ legal responsibilities regarding climate change. Initiated by Vanuatu, the case involves nearly 100 countries and seeks to address what actions countries should take to combat climate change and repair related damages. Although the outcome isn’t legally binding, it could influence global climate lawsuits. The initiative began with Fijian law students and was propelled by Vanuatu’s severe climate impacts, including a devastating double cyclone. The UN General Assembly referred key climate questions to the ICJ, focusing on countries’ obligations and consequences for environmental harm. Ava Sinclair 02/12/2024 8:00 pm
Omer Maxim Neutra, a 21-year-old American-Israeli tank platoon commander, was killed in the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack, the Israeli military confirmed. Initially believed to be held hostage in Gaza, his body remains there. Neutra, remembered for his love of sports and warm personality, died heroically near Nir Oz, a community severely affected by the attacks. His parents expressed their pain and disappointment over missed opportunities for a hostage deal amid shifting global focus. Neutra was one of seven American hostages in Gaza, four of whom have been declared dead. Penelope Kingsley 02/12/2024 8:00 pm
French Prime Minister Michel Barnier faces a no-confidence vote after using special powers to pass a social security budget without parliamentary approval. The vote, likely on Wednesday, was initiated by the radical left and far-right parties. Despite concessions, Barnier couldn’t secure support for the budget aimed at reducing France’s deficit. The New Popular Front, a left-wing alliance, opposes Barnier’s government, forcing him to rely on the far-right for survival. Using Article 49.3, Barnier bypassed a vote, risking his government’s future. Ava Sinclair 02/12/2024 8:00 pm
Syrian rebels prepared to seize Aleppo a year ago, but delayed their assault due to conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, according to Hadi al-Bahra, head of Syria’s main opposition. The attack was launched last week when a ceasefire took hold in Lebanon, allowing rebels to capitalize on Hezbollah’s distraction. The Turkish military, allied with some insurgents, was aware of the plans but did not participate. Rebel commanders feared earlier action might appear as aiding Israel against Hezbollah. Ava Sinclair 02/12/2024 8:00 pm
Belgium has enacted a groundbreaking law granting sex workers employment benefits like health insurance, maternity leave, and pensions. This legislation allows them to have employment contracts and the same rights as other employees, including legal protections and the ability to refuse clients without repercussions. While consensual prostitution was decriminalized, it existed in a legal gray area until now. The law excludes self-employed sex workers and bars employers with criminal histories from the field. Advocates see this as a significant step in protecting sex workers’ rights and dignity. Noah Prescott 02/12/2024 8:00 pm
