Global Pulse

作者： admin

  • French feminists outraged by Brigitte Macron’s comment about activists

    French feminists outraged by Brigitte Macron’s comment about activists

    A political and cultural firestorm has erupted in France after First Lady Brigitte Macron used vulgar language to describe feminist protesters, triggering a widespread online movement reclaiming the insult. The controversy began when activists from the organization Nous Toutes, which campaigns against violence toward women, disrupted a stand-up performance by comedian Ary Abittan on Saturday. The protesters, wearing masks of Abittan, shouted “Abittan rapist” during his show—referencing 2021 rape allegations against the comedian that were later dropped due to insufficient evidence.

    The following day, Mrs. Macron attended Abittan’s performance with her daughter and met with the comedian beforehand. In a video recording of their conversation, Abittan expressed feeling “scared” about potential further disruptions. Mrs. Macron responded with “if there are any stupid bitches we’ll kick them out,” using the French phrase “sales connes” while smiling and laughing. Her team subsequently told AFP that her comments were intended to “critique the radical method” of the protest rather than target women specifically, emphasizing that “Brigitte Macron does not approve of this radical method.”

    Instead of quelling the situation, Mrs. Macron’s remark ignited a digital uprising among French celebrities and feminists. The term “#salesconnes” (stupid bitches) has been widely adopted across social media platforms as a badge of honor rather than an insult. Prominent figures in French entertainment have joined the movement, including actress Judith Godrèche—who has previously accused a film director of historical rape—who declared on social media: “I too am a stupid bitch.”

    Belgian comedian Florence Mendez expressed pride in identifying with the term, while actor and singer Nadège Beausson-Diagne posted on Instagram: “I too am a stupid bitch in summer, winter, spring and autumn.” She further voiced support for the “courageous” woman who had initially accused Abittan of rape and praised Nous Toutes, predicting the group would “come back stronger to fight together against sexual violence.” Actor Rachida Brakni similarly thanked the “bitches” in her social media post, directly tagging the feminist organization.

    Stand-up comedian Marine Leonardi offered a different perspective, asserting that “Feminists are never stupid bitches” in her Instagram post. The overwhelming response has transformed the First Lady’s derogatory comment into a unifying symbol for those advocating against sexual violence and supporting women’s rights movements in France.

  • Former executive of Chinese financial firm executed for bribery

    Former executive of Chinese financial firm executed for bribery

    In a landmark demonstration of China’s intensified anti-corruption campaign, former China Huarong International Holdings general manager Bai Tianhui was executed on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. The execution followed the Supreme People’s Court’s final validation of his death sentence for accepting bribes exceeding 1.1 billion yuan ($156 million).

    The Tianjin No. 2 Intermediate People’s Court carried out the sentence after formally notifying Bai of the supreme court’s decision and granting him a final meeting with family members. This concludes a legal process that began with his initial conviction on May 28, 2024, when he received the death penalty, lifetime deprivation of political rights, and confiscation of all personal assets.

    According to judicial authorities, between 2014 and 2018, Bai systematically exploited his executive positions to illicitly benefit certain entities in project acquisitions and corporate financing operations. The Supreme People’s Court characterized the case as exceptionally severe, noting the ‘extremely large’ bribe amounts, ‘extremely serious’ offense circumstances, ‘extremely negative’ social impact, and ‘extremely huge’ losses to national and public interests.

    The case represents the second major execution within China Huarong Asset Management’s leadership, following the 2021 execution of former chairman Lai Xiaomin for accepting 1.78 billion yuan in bribes. China’s legal framework requires all death sentences to undergo mandatory review by the Supreme People’s Court before execution, ensuring judicial oversight of capital punishment cases.

    This development occurs amidst heightened judicial scrutiny of corruption cases, with top courts recently demanding severe penalties for grassroots corruption offenses, signaling continued commitment to anti-graft measures across all levels of society.

  • Fire breaks out after explosion in S. Korea’s thermal power plant

    Fire breaks out after explosion in S. Korea’s thermal power plant

    A significant industrial incident unfolded in South Korea’s southwestern region on Tuesday when a powerful explosion ignited a major fire at a thermal power plant in Taean. The emergency was reported to local fire authorities at approximately 2:43 PM local time (0543 GMT), according to coverage by Yonhap News Agency.

    The facility, located approximately 150 kilometers southwest of the capital city Seoul, experienced the blast accompanied by a loud audible detonation that signaled the beginning of the emergency. Initial reports indicate that the explosion preceded the rapid development of the fire within the plant’s infrastructure.

    Emergency response units immediately mobilized to address the critical situation. Firefighting personnel and specialized equipment were dispatched to the scene following standard protocol for industrial accidents of this magnitude. An unnamed fire official confirmed the deployment of resources, though the exact scale of the response and specific number of units involved remains undisclosed at this early stage.

    The Taean thermal power plant represents a significant component of South Korea’s energy infrastructure, though specific operational details regarding capacity and output remain unverified in the immediate aftermath of the incident. Thermal power plants typically generate electricity through combustion of fossil fuels, presenting inherent fire risks that require sophisticated safety systems and protocols.

    Authorities have not yet released information regarding potential casualties, structural damage assessments, or the impact on regional power supply. The investigation into the root cause of the explosion and subsequent fire will likely involve multiple governmental agencies and industry experts once the immediate emergency is contained.

  • Sacked agents sue FBI, saying they were punished for taking the knee

    Sacked agents sue FBI, saying they were punished for taking the knee

    Twelve former FBI agents have initiated legal proceedings against the bureau, claiming their dismissals constituted unlawful termination directly linked to their decision to kneel during a racial justice demonstration in Washington D.C. in June 2020. The lawsuit, filed in the District of Columbia, names FBI Director Kash Patel as a primary defendant.

    The plaintiffs detail how they were deployed to manage escalating tensions in the capital on June 4, 2020, following the police killing of George Floyd. Confronted by what they describe as a volatile situation for which they were inadequately prepared, the agents made a unanimous tactical decision to adopt the kneeling gesture synonymous with the protests. They contend this action successfully de-escalated potential violence and mirrored community outreach practices used by law enforcement nationwide during that period of civil unrest.

    Despite receiving initial approvals from both FBI and Department of Justice leadership following internal reviews of their conduct, termination notices citing ‘lack of impartiality’ were issued over five years later. The former agents allege this delayed disciplinary action occurred under Director Patel’s administration, which they characterize as conducting a systematic purge of personnel perceived as disloyal to then-President Donald Trump.

    The lawsuit seeks reinstatement to their positions with full back pay and benefits. This case follows similar litigation from other former FBI officials, including ex-acting director Brian Driscoll, who likewise allege politically motivated dismissals. The White House has recently reiterated its support for Director Patel, calling him ‘a critical member of the president’s team’ working to ‘restore integrity to the FBI.’ The bureau has declined to comment on ongoing litigation.

  • A coup too far: Why Benin’s rebel soldiers failed where others in the region succeeded

    A coup too far: Why Benin’s rebel soldiers failed where others in the region succeeded

    West African nations demonstrated unprecedented military coordination in neutralizing a coup attempt against Benin’s President Patrice Talon, marking a strategic reversal from previous ineffective responses to regional power grabs.

    Nigerian warplanes conducted precision strikes against mutinous soldiers occupying Benin’s state broadcaster and military installations near Cotonou’s airport, while the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) rapidly deployed ground troops from Ghana, Nigeria, Ivory Coast and Sierra Leone. This robust intervention came just days after Guinea-Bissau’s presidential election was interrupted by military takeover.

    The failed putsch represents the ninth attempted overthrow in West Africa since 2020, occurring against the backdrop of last year’s withdrawal of Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger from ECOWAS. Unlike those successful coups that enjoyed popular support, the Benin conspirators fundamentally misjudged the national mood despite widespread grievances against Talon’s administration.

    ECOWAS learned critical lessons from its mishandling of Niger’s 2023 coup, when delayed intervention allowed junta leaders to consolidate power. This time, the bloc acted within hours while Talon maintained constitutional authority and could legitimately request regional support. The swift response prevented rebel consolidation despite their lethal resistance against loyalist forces.

    Benin’s distinctive political culture proved crucial to the operation’s success. While citizens share frustrations about the exclusion of Les Démocrates opposition party from upcoming elections, they maintain strong commitment to democratic processes forged during Benin’s pioneering role in Africa’s 1990s democratization wave. The coup plotters found zero popular support for their violent methods, with civilian casualties instead generating public anger.

    Regional analysis reveals that while West Africa faces shared challenges including Islamist violence, economic pressures, and political disillusionment, each coup attempt stems primarily from localized circumstances. The Benin conspirators appear motivated by military grievances and political complaints, contrasting with Guinea’s 2021 popular uprising against constitutional manipulation or Sahelian coups driven by security failures against jihadist threats.

    Security forces continue hunting coup leader Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri and accomplices after rescuing two abducted military officials. The incident demonstrates ECOWAS’s renewed commitment to military intervention when constitutional order faces immediate threat, potentially establishing a new precedent for regional security response.

  • Chinese academic wisdom continues to inspire global universities

    Chinese academic wisdom continues to inspire global universities

    At the recent 11th Forum on Empirical Education Research in Shanghai, renowned Canadian educator Ruth Hayhoe from the University of Toronto advocated for the global adoption of Chinese educational principles rooted in traditional culture. The event, hosted by East China Normal University, highlighted how China’s educational wisdom offers transformative insights for universities worldwide.

    Professor Hayhoe emphasized the Confucian concept of ‘harmony without conformity’ (和而不同) as particularly valuable for contemporary higher education systems. This philosophy, she argued, provides a framework for creating inclusive learning environments that celebrate diversity while maintaining social cohesion. She called for a fundamental shift from a global knowledge economy toward a global knowledge society that prioritizes public good over commercial interests.

    Hayhoe’s distinguished career spans over five decades, beginning as a teacher in Hong Kong in 1967 and evolving through roles as scholar, diplomat, and university administrator. This unique background has positioned her as one of the few Western scholars capable of bridging Eastern and Western educational philosophies with deep cultural sensitivity.

    The forum recognized Hayhoe’s contributions with the Global Award for Innovation in Education Research Methods for her groundbreaking ‘dialogue among civilizations’ research paradigm. This methodology requires deep immersion in other cultures’ historical, philosophical, and value systems, moving beyond binary oppositions between Eastern and Western approaches to education.

    Four other distinguished scholars received the same honor: Stephen Raudenbush (University of Chicago), Manabu Sato (University of Tokyo), Wang Shanmai (Beijing Normal University), and Rupert Wegerif (University of Cambridge). The award, inaugurated in 2024, represents the world’s first recognition program specifically dedicated to innovation in educational research methodology.

    Professor Yuan Zhenguo, head of East China Normal University’s Faculty of Education and key architect of the award, stated the initiative aims to foster international exchange and advance empirical education research. ‘We hope to guide China’s empirical education research to better engage with the world,’ Yuan remarked, highlighting China’s growing role in shaping global educational discourse.

  • Global leaders plant Juncao grass, symbolize China ties

    Global leaders plant Juncao grass, symbolize China ties

    In a distinctive display of international diplomacy, ten state leaders including the King of Tonga have personally participated in Juncao grass planting ceremonies at Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University. The symbolic gestures represent growing friendship and cooperation between China and partner nations through agricultural technology exchange.

    Professor Lin Zhanxi, the pioneering inventor of Juncao technology, confirmed these diplomatic planting activities have become a significant tradition at the university. The ceremonies typically involve foreign dignitaries planting Juncao grass—a hybrid plant developed through Chinese innovation that serves both ecological and agricultural purposes.

    Juncao technology, which literally means “fungus grass,” represents one of China’s notable agricultural exports, particularly to developing countries. The technology enables mushroom cultivation using grass instead of traditional timber substrates, providing sustainable livelihood opportunities while addressing environmental conservation concerns.

    These planting ceremonies have evolved into diplomatic rituals that symbolize deepening bilateral relationships. The participation of monarchs, presidents, and prime ministers underscores the international recognition of China’s technological contributions to sustainable development. Each planting event is documented as both a scientific exchange and a milestone in international relations.

    The university has become an unexpected diplomatic hub where agricultural technology serves as a bridge for international cooperation. These events typically include technical demonstrations and discussions about implementing Juncao technology in the visitors’ home countries, creating practical partnerships beyond symbolic gestures.

  • China issues wanted notices of 100 telecom fraud fugitives

    China issues wanted notices of 100 telecom fraud fugitives

    In a sweeping crackdown on transnational organized crime, China’s Ministry of Public Security has launched an international manhunt for 100 high-profile fugitives allegedly orchestrating massive telecom and internet fraud operations. The unprecedented operation, announced on December 9, 2025, targets the masterminds and key operatives behind sophisticated criminal networks that have preyed upon Chinese citizens through elaborate financial scams.

    Among the most sought individuals are four family-based syndicate leaders operating from northern Myanmar: Wu Qiping, Wu Qingzheng, Fu Xiaobin, and Ou Changhua. These criminal enterprises have allegedly established sophisticated operations beyond China’s borders, leveraging foreign sanctuaries to coordinate long-term fraudulent activities targeting mainland citizens.

    According to investigative findings, these networks have orchestrated complex financial deception schemes resulting in enormous monetary losses for victims. The ministry characterized these operations as particularly malicious in nature, with evidence indicating systematic organization and recruitment of personnel specifically for fraudulent activities.

    Multiple municipal public security bureaus across China—including those in Hangzhou, Wenzhou, Quanzhou, Longyan, Pingdingshan, Shenzhen, Kunming, and Chongqing—have jointly issued reward notices for information leading to captures. The coordinated effort demonstrates the national priority being placed on combating cross-border financial crimes.

    Authorities are simultaneously pursuing a dual approach: encouraging voluntary surrender with promises of lenient treatment while mobilizing public assistance through financial incentives for information. The ministry emphasized that individuals providing credible intelligence or assistance in apprehending suspects will receive legal protection and monetary rewards, signaling a comprehensive strategy combining law enforcement action with community engagement.

  • China launches new remote sensing satellite

    China launches new remote sensing satellite

    China has successfully deployed a new Earth observation satellite into orbit, marking another significant advancement in the nation’s space capabilities. The Yaogan-47 remote sensing satellite was launched aboard a Long March-4B carrier rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China at 11:41 a.m. Beijing Time on December 9, 2025.

    The satellite achieved its predetermined orbit following a flawless launch operation, according to official reports. This mission represents the 614th flight of China’s Long March rocket series, demonstrating the country’s growing expertise and reliability in space launch technology.

    The newly deployed satellite is designed to serve multiple civilian purposes including comprehensive land resource surveys, urban development planning, transportation infrastructure design, and agricultural production assessment. Additionally, the satellite’s advanced sensing capabilities will contribute to environmental monitoring and disaster management programs, providing valuable data for natural disaster prediction and mitigation efforts.

    China’s expanding constellation of remote sensing satellites enhances the nation’s ability to monitor Earth’s surface with increasing precision and frequency. The successful launch continues China’s pattern of regular space missions that support both scientific research and practical applications for sustainable development and resource management.

  • Congress ups pressure to release boat strike video with threat to Hegseth’s travel budget

    Congress ups pressure to release boat strike video with threat to Hegseth’s travel budget

    US legislators are leveraging budgetary authority to compel the Trump administration into releasing controversial footage of a military engagement. A provision embedded within the extensive National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) would impose travel budget restrictions on Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s office until the Pentagon provides unedited video of a September 2nd incident involving consecutive strikes on a vessel in the Caribbean.

    The legislative maneuver emerges amid bipartisan demands for transparency regarding the so-called ‘double-tap’ strike that resulted in eleven fatalities. According to Washington Post reporting, an initial attack killed nine individuals aboard a suspected drug-trafficking vessel, with a subsequent strike eliminating two survivors clinging to the wreckage.

    President Trump has characterized the release decision as resting solely with Secretary Hegseth, despite contradicting his own previous on-camera statement that he would have ‘no problem’ with public disclosure. The administration maintains that these operations target designated terrorist organizations and fall within legal armed conflict parameters, though international law experts have raised concerns about the second strike’s compliance with protocols regarding wounded survivors.

    The proposed budgetary restriction, first reported by Politico, would cap Hegseth’s office travel funding at 75% of allocated 2026 resources until compliance is achieved. The $901 billion defense bill has garnered unusual cross-aisle support, reflecting widespread congressional unease about the operation’s legal justification and the administration’s transparency.

    Divergent reactions emerged from lawmakers who viewed the classified footage in briefings led by Navy Admiral Frank Bradley. House Intelligence Committee Democrat Jim Himes described the video as ‘deeply troubling,’ while Republican Senator Tom Cotton defended the strikes as ‘entirely lawful and needful.’

    The White House continues to assert its adherence to armed conflict laws, emphasizing that operational decisions rest with military commanders rather than political appointees. Secretary Hegseth remains noncommittal regarding potential release, stating only that the matter remains ‘under review.’