Global Pulse

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  • The French university where spies go for training

    The French university where spies go for training

    At the Sciences Po Saint-Germain campus on the outskirts of Paris, an unconventional academic program operates behind intimidating metal gates and dour 20th-century buildings. Here, Professor Xavier Crettiez conducts classes where many students use pseudonyms—because they are active French intelligence agents undergoing training alongside traditional university students.

    The unique Diploma of Intelligence and Global Threats (Diplôme sur le Renseignement et les Menaces Globales) represents a collaborative effort between the prestigious university and France’s intelligence training arm, Académie du Renseignement. Established a decade ago following a government request that gained urgency after the 2015 Paris terrorist attacks, the program serves dual purposes: training potential new spies while providing continuous professional development for current agents.

    The four-month intensive course comprises 120 hours of instruction covering critical topics including organized crime economics, Islamic jihadism, business intelligence gathering, and political violence. With tuition set at approximately €5,000 for external participants, the program attracts both government agents typically aged 35-50 and conventional students in their early 20s.

    Professor Crettiez notes the significant expansion of French intelligence services, now numbering approximately 20,000 agents across major agencies including the DGSE (overseas intelligence, equivalent to MI6/CIA) and DGSI (domestic security, equivalent to MI5/FBI). Beyond counterterrorism, the curriculum addresses growing concerns about financial crimes, with Tracfin—France’s money laundering intelligence agency—playing an increasingly important role against surging mafia activity in southern France.

    The program’s practical relevance has attracted substantial corporate interest. Major French companies including mobile operator Orange, defense giant Thales, and luxury conglomerate LVMH actively recruit graduates to combat escalating cybersecurity threats, corporate espionage, and sabotage attempts. Even energy titan EDF contributes instructional expertise.

    Current enrollment stands at 28 students, including six intelligence professionals who maintain noticeable discretion during breaks. These agents describe the program as a potential fast-track to promotion from office work to field operations. Meanwhile, younger students like 21-year-old Alexandre Hubert seek understanding of economic tensions between Europe and China, while Valentine Guillot draws inspiration from French spy television dramas.

    Notably, nearly half the students are women—a significant shift according to technology-in-espionage specialist Sebastien-Yves Laurent. “Women’s interest in intelligence gathering is new,” he observes, noting their motivation to “provide for a better world” and a renewed patriotism among young applicants.

    Despite this openness, security remains paramount. French citizenship is essentially required (though some dual citizens are accepted), and applications from suspiciously qualified Russian or Israeli candidates are immediately rejected. The program’s discreet nature was evident in a recent class photo where several students—presumably active agents—chose to stand with their backs to the camera.

    Professor Crettiez emphasizes that despite the athletic appearance of many participants, most intelligence careers remain desk-bound, contradicting popular James Bond fantasies. The reality of modern espionage involves meticulous risk analysis rather than cinematic adventure, preparing graduates for the complex security challenges of the contemporary world.

  • India wants more passenger jets. Can it also build them?

    India wants more passenger jets. Can it also build them?

    India’s rapidly expanding aviation sector faces a critical juncture as it navigates supply chain constraints and ambitious domestic production goals. With IndiGo and Air India controlling over 90% of the market and having placed orders for nearly 1,500 aircraft over the next decade, the country’s dependency on Boeing and Airbus has become increasingly problematic. Both manufacturers reported historically high delivery backlogs in 2024, creating delays that directly impact Indian carriers.

    This supply challenge has revitalized discussions about India’s long-standing aspiration to develop indigenous passenger aircraft capabilities. The recent preliminary agreement signed between Delhi and Moscow to manufacture Russian SJ-100 planes in India represents the latest attempt to address this dependency. The SJ-100, a twin-engine regional jet capable of carrying up to 103 passengers, is already operational with several Russian airlines according to manufacturer United Aircraft Corporation (UAC).

    However, aviation experts question the project’s feasibility amid multiple complexities. Western sanctions imposed after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine have fundamentally altered the aircraft’s certification and component sourcing. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency revoked its certification, effectively banning the SJ-100 from European airspace. UAC was forced to replace approximately 40 systems to create an ‘import-substituted’ version in 2023.

    India’s historical attempts at aircraft manufacturing reveal a pattern of ambitious projects with limited commercial success. Since establishing the National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) in 1959, the country has developed small training aircraft like the two-seater Hansa but has struggled with larger passenger planes. Previous collaborations include licensed production of UK-designed Avro 748 jets in the 1960s and partnership with Germany’s Dornier for 19-seat aircraft in the 1980s.

    The most notable setback occurred with the Saras project, a 15-seater developed with Russian assistance that stalled in 2009 following a fatal prototype accident. While revived as the 19-seater Saras MK2, the program remains uncertified. Similarly, the Regional Transport Aircraft (RTA) project for a 90-seater comparable to the SJ-100 has seen minimal progress since feasibility reports were submitted in 2011.

    Dr. Abhay Pashilkar, director of NAL, identifies key structural challenges: ‘Lack of large domestic demand until recently, along with a shortage of highly skilled manpower and a small domestic manufacturing ecosystem, has held back growth in the sector.’ He emphasizes that engagement with both Indian and global manufacturers represents the most viable path forward.

    Despite these challenges, the Russia partnership offers strategic advantages for both nations. For India, it provides immediate manufacturing capability while domestic projects remain years from completion. For Russia, successful international production would demonstrate its ability to create civilian aircraft without Western technology. Gopal Sutar, former spokesperson of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, notes that Russia’s role as a ‘steadfast supporter’ of India remains strategically significant, with both nations presumably accounting for potential sanction-related challenges.

    The agreement nevertheless involves considerable trade-offs and leaves unanswered questions about technology transfer, production timelines, and market acceptance. Meanwhile, India’s aviation expansion faces additional constraints beyond aircraft availability, including crew shortages evidenced by recent IndiGo flight cancellations that stranded thousands of passengers due to inadequate pilot roster planning.

  • Surprise interim leader Delcy Rodriguez emerges in Venezuela after Maduro’s capture

    Surprise interim leader Delcy Rodriguez emerges in Venezuela after Maduro’s capture

    MEXICO CITY — Venezuela has entered a period of profound political uncertainty following the capture of President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. military forces. Delcy Rodríguez, Maduro’s vice president since 2018, has assumed interim control of the oil-rich nation amid escalating tensions with Washington.

    Rodríguez’s ascension to power came through a Saturday ruling by Venezuela’s Supreme Court, which declared Maduro’s absence temporary and authorized her takeover. The decision received immediate backing from the country’s military leadership, solidifying her position despite international skepticism.

    In her first televised address as interim leader, Rodríguez struck a defiant tone against the Trump administration, referring to American officials as “extremists” while emphatically stating, “The only president of Venezuela is President Nicolás Maduro.” Her remarks directly contradicted earlier suggestions from Secretary of State Marco Rubio that she might cooperate with U.S. interests.

    The 56-year-old British and French-educated lawyer brings considerable political experience to her new role. As Maduro’s vice president, she oversaw Venezuela’s oil-dependent economy and intelligence services, developing strong relationships with both military leaders and international energy stakeholders. Unlike many in Maduro’s inner circle, Rodríguez has avoided U.S. criminal indictment, though she faced sanctions during Trump’s first term for allegedly undermining Venezuelan democracy.

    Analysts note Rodríguez maintains particularly strong ties with Venezuela’s military establishment, which has historically served as the ultimate arbiter of political disputes. According to Ronal Rodríguez of Rosario University’s Venezuela Observatory, “She has developed very strong ties with elements of the armed forces and has managed to establish lines of dialogue with them, largely on a transactional basis.”

    The constitutional timeline for new elections remains unclear. While the charter typically requires elections within 30 days when a president becomes permanently unavailable, the Supreme Court cited provisions allowing for temporary transfers of power without immediate electoral requirements. This legal interpretation could permit Rodríguez to remain in power for up to six months through National Assembly approval.

    International observers question whether Rodríguez’s强硬 stance against the U.S. represents genuine defiance or strategic positioning. Geoff Ramsey of the Atlantic Council suggested her rhetoric might be an attempt to “save face” within revolutionary circles, noting that Maduro’s capture likely required some level of internal collaboration.

    As Venezuela navigates this political transition, Rodríguez faces the dual challenge of unifying fractious socialist party factions while managing external pressure from a U.S. administration that has threatened “very big price” consequences if she fails to align with American expectations.

  • Ashes series: Brook finally shows the patience and control his critics have demanded

    Ashes series: Brook finally shows the patience and control his critics have demanded

    On a rain-shortened opening day of the fifth Ashes test, England’s Harry Brook delivered a masterclass in controlled aggression, finishing Sunday’s play on an unbeaten 78. His innings, characterized by uncharacteristic patience, formed the bedrock of England’s solid position at 211 for three against Australia.

    The 26-year-old Yorkshire batsman, often criticized for his flamboyant shot selection during this disappointing tour, showcased a newly disciplined approach. While he occasionally succumbed to temptation against Australia’s persistent short-pitched bowling strategy, Brook largely curbed his natural instincts in a 93-ball knock that featured just six fours and a single six.

    His crucial 154-run partnership with fellow Yorkshireman and former captain Joe Root provided England with much-needed stability after early wickets. The partnership was building significant momentum before deteriorating light conditions and eventual rain forced an early conclusion to the day’s play.

    In post-day remarks, Brook acknowledged his intentional shift in mindset. ‘I’ve just got to be a little bit more patient and take my ones here and there, and thankfully I did that today,’ he stated. He emphasized the importance of absorbing pressure through rotation of strike rather than seeking boundary opportunities, marking a significant evolution in his approach to test match batting.

    This innings represents Brook’s highest score of the series, coming after he faced considerable scrutiny for performances that fell below expectations for the world’s second-ranked test batsman. Despite previous frustrations with converting starts into substantial scores, his Melbourne contribution of 41 on a challenging pitch had hinted at this return to form, helping England secure a consolation victory in the fourth test after Australia had already claimed the series 3-0.

  • Trump’s actions in Venezuela unlawful but consistent, says Russia’s Medvedev

    Trump’s actions in Venezuela unlawful but consistent, says Russia’s Medvedev

    Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of Russia’s Security Council, has characterized former U.S. President Donald Trump’s interventions in Venezuela as unlawful yet strategically consistent with American foreign policy objectives. In statements reported by Tass news agency on Sunday, January 4, 2026, Medvedev asserted that while Trump’s actions violated international norms, they demonstrated a coherent approach to advancing national interests.

    Medvedev elaborated that the United States has historically treated Latin America as its strategic ‘backyard,’ with Trump’s administration particularly focused on securing control over Venezuela’s substantial oil reserves. ‘Uncle Sam’s primary motivation remains fundamentally straightforward—the acquisition of others’ resources,’ Medvedev stated, employing critical rhetoric to underscore his perspective.

    The Russian official further contended that similar interventions against a more militarily capable nation would likely be interpreted as acts of aggression. His comments reflect Moscow’s ongoing diplomatic friction with Washington regarding interventionist policies in regions with significant natural resources.

    This analysis emerges amid continued geopolitical tensions between Russia and Western powers, highlighting contrasting interpretations of international law and national interest defense. Medvedev’s position as both former Russian president and current security council official lends institutional weight to these remarks, which align with Russia’s broader criticism of American foreign policy in resource-rich regions.

  • South Korea’s ‘movie of the year’ is an indie story about a teen’s trauma

    South Korea’s ‘movie of the year’ is an indie story about a teen’s trauma

    South Korean indie filmmaker Yoon Ga-eun has unexpectedly captured the nation’s cinematic consciousness with her groundbreaking film ‘The World of Love,’ emerging as an unexpected box office phenomenon and cultural touchstone. The film, which has been hailed as “movie of the year” by Korean media, presents a revolutionary approach to portraying sexual violence survivors through the lens of everyday life rather than trauma recreation.

    The narrative centers on Joo-in, a high school student navigating typical adolescent experiences—school dynamics, romantic relationships, and family interactions—while carrying the secret of childhood sexual assault by a relative. The film’s tension emerges not from graphic depictions of violence but from Joo-in’s refusal to sign a petition containing the statement: “Sexual violence leaves deep wounds that never heal and completely destroys a person’s life and soul.”

    Yoon’s directorial approach deliberately avoids labeling her protagonist, instead focusing on Joo-in’s assertion that her trauma, while significant, does not define her entire identity. The filmmaker personally handwrote letters to journalists requesting they avoid mentioning sexual violence in their coverage, emphasizing her commitment to reframing the narrative around survivors.

    The film has achieved remarkable commercial success, grossing over $1.1 million since its October release and earning a 9/10 rating on Naver, South Korea’s largest search portal. It has become the highest-grossing indie film of 2025 in South Korea, with acclaim from industry luminaries including Bong Joon-ho, director of ‘Parasite,’ who declared himself the “head of the Seoul branch of Yoon Ga-eun’s fan club.”

    Beyond its artistic achievements, ‘The World of Love’ has sparked crucial conversations in South Korea’s patriarchal society about how survivors are perceived and treated. According to Cho Eunhee, director of Korea Sexual Violence Relief Center, the film arrives at an “incredibly right” cultural moment, building on the foundation of the 2017-2018 MeToo movement while creating space for discussing previously taboo subjects like familial abuse.

    Audience responses have been profoundly emotional, with viewers reporting transformative cinema experiences. One children’s book editor described leaving the theater determined to become “a good adult who can stand beside all the children and teenagers who are trying so hard to grow up.” A survivor expressed feeling empowered, as if Joo-in was telling her, “I am living well, so let’s keep living well together.”

    While some critics and survivors have noted the film may downplay the lasting damage of abuse and present idealized family support systems, film critic Min Youngjun emphasizes that the film’s true value lies in creating “a healthy space for talking about sexual violence and its victims.” The film demonstrates that meaningful dialogue emerges not from universal approval but from creating platforms for essential conversations about complex social issues.

  • After Maduro, who’s next? Trump’s comments spur anxieties about his plans for Greenland and Cuba

    After Maduro, who’s next? Trump’s comments spur anxieties about his plans for Greenland and Cuba

    WASHINGTON — In a striking demonstration of renewed hemispheric ambition, the Trump administration has simultaneously escalated tensions with multiple Western Hemisphere nations through both rhetorical assertions and military action. The recent U.S. military operation in Venezuela that ousted Nicolás Maduro has served as a catalyst for broader regional claims, including President Trump’s renewed push for American acquisition of Greenland and heightened warnings toward Cuba.

    President Trump explicitly reaffirmed his administration’s interest in acquiring the Danish territory of Greenland, describing the strategically positioned Arctic island as essential to U.S. security interests. “We do need Greenland, absolutely,” Trump stated in an interview with The Atlantic, noting the territory’s significance amid increasing Russian and Chinese naval presence in Arctic waters. When questioned about potential parallels between the Venezuela operation and future actions regarding Greenland, Trump offered an ambiguous response: “They are going to have to view it themselves. I really don’t know.”

    The administration’s position draws historical precedent from the 19th century Monroe Doctrine and Roosevelt Corollary, which Trump has referenced to justify an assertive approach toward American neighbors. This philosophical framework, which Trump has jokingly rebranded the “Don-roe Doctrine,” emphasizes American preeminence throughout the Western Hemisphere.

    Denmark responded with firm opposition to Trump’s territorial aspirations. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen issued a statement asserting that the United States has “no right to annex” Greenland and reminded the administration of existing security agreements that already provide U.S. access through NATO frameworks. Frederiksen strongly urged the U.S. to “stop threatening a historically close ally and another country and people who have made it very clear that they are not for sale.”

    The situation intensified when a former Trump administration official turned podcaster, Katie Miller, posted an illustrated map of Greenland adorned with American flag colors captioned “SOON,” further provoking Danish officials. Denmark’s ambassador to Washington, Jesper Møller Sørensen, emphasized the need for “full respect for the territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Denmark.”

    Concurrently, Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued stern warnings to Cuba, Venezuela’s primary ally, declaring the communist government “in a lot of trouble.” Rubio alleged that Cuban personnel provided security and intelligence services for Maduro’s government, claiming “It was Cubans that guarded Maduro. He was not guarded by Venezuelan bodyguards. He had Cuban bodyguards.”

    President Trump characterized Cuba as “very similar” to Venezuela and suggested the nation might become a future focus of administration attention, noting “Cuba is going to be something we’ll end up talking about, because Cuba is a failing nation right now.”

    Cuban authorities responded by convening rallies supporting Venezuela’s government and issuing statements warning that “the threat hangs over all of us” in the region. Cuban citizens expressed concern about potential U.S. actions against sovereign states, with biochemical laboratory worker Bárbara Rodríguez noting, “It can happen in any country, it can happen right here. We have always been in the crosshairs.”

    The administration’s multifaceted approach signals a comprehensive strategy to reassert American influence throughout the Western Hemisphere, employing both military action and diplomatic pressure to reshape regional dynamics according to U.S. security and strategic interests.

  • Trabelsi sacked by Tunisia after last-16 Afcon exit

    Trabelsi sacked by Tunisia after last-16 Afcon exit

    In a decisive move following Tunisia’s heartbreaking elimination from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, the Tunisian Football Federation has severed ties with head coach Sami Trabelsi. The announcement came just 24 hours after the Carthage Eagles suffered a dramatic last-16 defeat against Mali under circumstances that left fans and pundits astonished.

    The knockout match in Casablanca turned dramatically in Tunisia’s favor during the opening minutes when Mali’s Woyo Coulibaly received a red card, forcing the Eagles to play with ten men for virtually the entire contest including extra time. Despite this significant advantage and taking a late lead in the 88th minute, Tunisia inexplicably conceded a penalty during stoppage time, ultimately collapsing in the subsequent penalty shootout.

    The Federation’s official statement characterized the separation as a mutual agreement to terminate the contractual relationship with the entire technical staff. This departure marks Trabelsi’s second exit from the national team leadership, having previously resigned in 2013 following another disappointing AFCON group stage elimination.

    Trabelsi, who had only returned to helm the Tunisian squad last February, acknowledged full responsibility for the devastating loss, describing it as causing ‘great disappointment and pain.’ His team had shown promise during the group stage, finishing second in Group C with a convincing 3-1 victory against Uganda, despite subsequent setbacks against Nigeria (3-2) and Tanzania (1-1).

    The coaching change comes at a critical juncture for Tunisian football as the team prepares for its participation in the 2026 World Cup, raising questions about the future direction of the national program.

  • Eels settle on Zac Lomax replacement with Brian Kelly heading to Parramatta on a two-year deal

    Eels settle on Zac Lomax replacement with Brian Kelly heading to Parramatta on a two-year deal

    In a significant roster move, the Parramatta Eels have successfully acquired experienced centre Brian Kelly on a two-year contract, effectively addressing the void created by Zac Lomax’s unexpected departure. The strategic acquisition comes after the Eels granted Lomax an early release to explore opportunities beyond rugby league, with strong indications pointing toward a code switch to rugby union.

    Kelly brings substantial high-pressure experience to Parramatta, having represented both Country Origin and the Indigenous All Stars during his career. While his defensive capabilities have drawn some scrutiny, the 29-year-old veteran compensates with exceptional offensive prowess, demonstrated by his remarkable record of 66 tries across 190 NRL appearances for Manly and Gold Coast Titans.

    Eels football general manager Mark O’Neill emphasized the strategic nature of the signing: “We identified an opportunity to strengthen our outside backs, which represented a positional area of critical need. Brian perfectly addresses that requirement while bringing nearly 200 games of NRL experience that will undoubtedly benefit our broader squad dynamics. Our coaching staff anticipates integrating his distinctive attacking dimensions into our gameplay.”

    The transition materialized through Kelly’s early release from his final contract year with Gold Coast Titans, where he had spent seven productive seasons. This departure significantly alters the Titans’ left edge composition, following Kieran Foran’s retirement and the recent exit of speedster Alofiana Khan-Pereira to Warriors.

    Gold Coast management acknowledged Kelly’s contributions in an official statement: “The Titans extend gratitude to Brian for his dedicated service across seven seasons and wish him success in his future professional endeavors with Parramatta.”

  • Premier League: Cunha rescues Manchester United in draw with rivals Leeds

    Premier League: Cunha rescues Manchester United in draw with rivals Leeds

    In a fiercely contested Premier League derby at Elland Road, Matheus Cunha emerged as Manchester United’s savior with a crucial second-half equalizer against arch-rivals Leeds United. The Sunday fixture culminated in a 1-1 draw, extending Leeds’ winless streak against United to eight matches since their 2010 FA Cup victory.

    The breakthrough came in the 62nd minute when American midfielder Brenden Aaronson capitalized on defensive hesitation from United’s teenage defender Ayden Heaven. Aaronson’s composed finish past goalkeeper Senne Lammens threatened to give Leeds their first home victory against United since 2002.

    United manager Rubem Amorim’s tactical substitution proved decisive as replacement striker Joshua Zirkzee delivered an impeccable through ball to Cunha just three minutes after conceding. The Brazilian international demonstrated exceptional composure to slot home from 12 yards, marking his third goal in five appearances and signaling his growing adaptation following his summer transfer from Wolves.

    The match featured numerous scoring opportunities for both sides. United’s Benjamin Sesko missed two clear chances, while Leeds’ Dominic Calvert-Lewin saw his first-half header rebound off the post. Both goalkeepers produced outstanding saves, with Leeds’ Lucas Perri denying Leny Yoro and United’s Lammens palming away Noah Okafor’s overhead kick attempt.

    The result leaves United in fifth position with only one victory in their last five league outings, missing a crucial opportunity to break into the top four. Meanwhile, Daniel Farke’s Leeds extended their unbeaten run to seven matches, moving eight points clear of relegation concerns.