Global Pulse

分类： politics

  • Trump terror policy massively expands US list of bad guys

    Trump terror policy massively expands US list of bad guys

    In a dramatic shift from established norms, the Trump administration has executed the most substantial expansion of the US Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) list since its inception in 1997. Within the first year of his second term, President Trump has designated 26 new groups as terrorist organizations—a staggering increase compared to the historical average of approximately two additions annually.

    The FTO list now exceeds 90 designated groups, surpassing the previous peak of 60 during the Islamic State’s dominance in the mid-2010s. This designation carries severe consequences: providing material support to listed groups becomes a felony offense, financial institutions must freeze associated assets, and alleged associates face entry bans or deportation from the United States.

    Most controversially, the administration has expanded the terrorist designation beyond traditional ideological groups to include numerous drug cartels and criminal organizations. Groups such as Mexico’s Sinaloa cartel, Haiti’s Gran Grif, and Ecuador’s Los Lobos now appear alongside organizations like Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps, which continues to direct international attacks.

    This policy shift has enabled military actions traditionally reserved for counterterrorism operations. The administration has conducted 35 missile strikes against alleged drug trafficking operations, resulting in approximately 120 casualties. These actions culminated in the January overthrow of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, whom the administration accused of leading the Cartel de los Soles—though the Justice Department subsequently dropped claims of the cartel’s existence just two days after his capture.

    The expansion has created significant strain on enforcement resources and drawn criticism from analysts who question the strategic wisdom of applying counterterrorism frameworks to criminal organizations. Research indicates that such approaches often backfire, potentially increasing violence rather than containing it.

    Notably, this transformation represents a decoupling from traditional US allies on counterterrorism policy. While historically following US designations, major allies including the United Kingdom and Australia have declined to similarly expand their terrorist lists to include criminal organizations. Instead, some allies have focused on designating far-right extremist networks—a category conspicuously absent from the US expansion.

    The policy shift reflects broader changes in US foreign policy alignment, with only a few Trump-aligned Latin American countries and Canada (reportedly for trade considerations) following the US lead in designating cartels as terrorist organizations.

  • White House backtracks on Minneapolis claims

    White House backtracks on Minneapolis claims

    MINNEAPOLIS — The Trump administration has acknowledged potential procedural violations by immigration agents during operations in Minneapolis that resulted in the fatal shooting of a nurse, signaling a shift in tone amid growing national outcry. White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller stated Tuesday that Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents may have failed to adhere to established protocols during the incident that claimed the life of 37-year-old Alex Pretti.

    The administration’s conciliatory stance emerged alongside a disturbing security breach targeting Minnesota Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, who was assaulted with an unknown liquid from a syringe during a town hall meeting where she had been criticizing the administration’s immigration policies. The simultaneous developments underscore the volatile atmosphere in the city following weeks of escalating tensions between federal authorities and local communities.

    President Trump, in comments to Fox News, indicated his administration would “de-escalate a little bit” its operations in Minneapolis while emphasizing the move did not constitute a full withdrawal. The president distanced himself from previous inflammatory rhetoric, specifically rejecting the “assassin” label previously applied to Pretti by Miller, and called for “a very honorable and honest investigation” into the shooting.

    The administration’s reassessment includes the expected departure of Border Patrol commander Gregory Bovino, whom Trump characterized as “a pretty out-there kind of a guy” whose presence may have exacerbated tensions. Top border security official Tom Homan has been dispatched to Minneapolis for meetings with local officials, including Mayor Jacob Frey, who reiterated the city’s position that it “will not enforce federal immigration laws.”

    The Pretti shooting marks the second fatal incident involving federal immigration agents in Minneapolis in recent weeks, following the death of US citizen Renee Good. Both cases have drawn national attention to the tactics employed by masked, heavily armed immigration agents operating in urban centers, with multiple video recordings contradicting initial official accounts that portrayed Pretti as a threatening “domestic terrorist.”

  • German leader hails Europe as an ‘alternative to imperialism and autocracy’

    German leader hails Europe as an ‘alternative to imperialism and autocracy’

    BERLIN — German Chancellor Friedrich Merz articulated a robust vision of the European Union’s global role on Thursday, characterizing the bloc as a compelling “alternative to imperialism and autocracy” in an increasingly competitive international landscape. Addressing the German parliament during a significant foreign policy address, Merz emphasized the EU’s capacity to establish partnerships with like-minded democracies through mutual respect and reliability rather than coercion.

    The Chancellor’s remarks came precisely one week after U.S. President Donald Trump retracted tariff threats against Germany and seven other European nations—a pressure tactic initially deployed to advance American claims over Greenland, the semi-autonomous territory of Denmark. Merz noted this episode demonstrated the EU’s capacity for rapid, unified response, stating unequivocally that the bloc “would not be intimidated again by tariff threats.”

    Merz acknowledged the emerging “world of great powers” where “a harsh wind is blowing,” but positioned this reality as creating opportunities for European leadership. He contended that open democracies with expanding markets actively seek what Europe offers: partnerships grounded in mutual respect rather than domination.

    While reaffirming Germany’s commitment to NATO and trans-Atlantic cooperation, Merz established clear parameters for this relationship. “We will always reach out the hand of cooperation to the United States of America,” he stated, while simultaneously asserting that “as democracies, we are partners and allies and not subordinates.”

    The Chancellor indirectly addressed recent controversial remarks by President Trump regarding NATO allies’ military contributions. Without directly referencing Trump’s claims that non-U.S. NATO forces avoided front-line positions in Afghanistan, Merz highlighted Germany’s significant sacrifices—59 troops killed and over 100 wounded during their nearly two-decade deployment. He firmly declared that Germany “will not allow this deployment, which we also performed in the interest of our ally, the United States of America, to be disparaged and demeaned today.”

    Merz advocated for European strategic autonomy through enhanced defense capabilities, technological independence, and economic growth, urging the continent to “learn the language of power politics.” Simultaneously, he endorsed expanding the EU’s network of trade agreements, specifically mentioning recently concluded deals with Mercosur and India, while maintaining that existing alliances like NATO remain fundamentally valuable.

  • Unmentioned but present, Trump is a common denominator in efforts to strengthen Asia-Europe ties

    Unmentioned but present, Trump is a common denominator in efforts to strengthen Asia-Europe ties

    BEIJING — A strategic realignment is unfolding across Asia as multiple nations establish strengthened diplomatic partnerships, responding to growing uncertainties in the global order. This week witnessed three significant agreements demonstrating how countries are seeking stability through renewed international cooperation.

    In China’s capital, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Chinese leader Xi Jinping committed to a “long-term, stable, and comprehensive strategic partnership” between their nations. This agreement revitalizes a relationship that had seen limited progress since its initial proposal a decade ago, with both leaders emphasizing the need for consistency during what Starmer described as “challenging times for the world.”

    Simultaneously, Vietnam and the European Union formalized their upgraded relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership, placing Vietnam on equal diplomatic footing with major global powers including the United States, China, and Russia. The agreement, signed in Hanoi, represents a significant elevation of Vietnam’s international standing.

    Earlier in the week, the European Union and India concluded years of complex negotiations by reaching a comprehensive free trade agreement. The landmark deal encompasses numerous sectors from textile manufacturing to pharmaceutical products, and will substantially reduce India’s protective tariffs on European automobiles and wines.

    While not explicitly named in these discussions, the shadow of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s policies loomed large over the proceedings. Multiple leaders referenced the need for stability amid global uncertainty, with European Council President António Costa noting in Hanoi that “the international rules-based order is under threat from multiple sides.” The agreements reflect a broader trend of nations seeking to reduce dependency on any single market while strengthening multilateral relationships in response to shifting global dynamics.

  • Senior CPC official highlights united front work to support 15th Five-Year Plan

    Senior CPC official highlights united front work to support 15th Five-Year Plan

    In a significant national conference held in Beijing on January 28, 2026, senior Communist Party of China official Wang Huning delivered a comprehensive address emphasizing the critical role of united front work in supporting China’s upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030). Wang, who serves as a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference National Committee, addressed leaders of united front work departments from across the nation.

    Wang articulated the necessity for enhanced implementation of the CPC Central Committee’s decisions regarding united front operations to ensure a successful commencement of the country’s next developmental phase. He stressed the fundamental importance of maintaining the Party’s overall leadership, particularly the centralized and unified guidance from the Party Central Committee, in all united front activities.

    The senior official outlined several strategic priorities for united front work, including adherence to established principles and methodologies to drive high-quality development across relevant sectors. He emphasized the need to strengthen the capacity of united front work to support the central objectives of both the Party and the state.

    Wang specifically highlighted several key areas requiring focused attention: the improvement of China’s distinctive political party system, fostering a robust sense of national community among the Chinese people, establishing stronger legal frameworks for religious affairs governance, and enhancing engagement with non-CPC intellectuals, emerging social groups, and private sector representatives. Additionally, he addressed the importance of advancing work related to Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, and overseas Chinese communities.

  • Fujian strengthens cross-Strait ties

    Fujian strengthens cross-Strait ties

    Fujian Province has solidified its status as mainland China’s primary destination for Taiwanese investment for four consecutive years, according to Governor Zhao Long’s address at the Fujian Provincial People’s Congress. The eastern coastal region is accelerating its transformation into a demonstration zone for cross-Strait integrated development, implementing concrete measures to foster national reunification through economic collaboration and cultural connectivity.

    The province’s 2025 performance metrics reveal substantial progress, with 2,612 newly established Taiwan-funded enterprises and $724 million in actual utilized Taiwanese capital. A landmark achievement came with the introduction of China’s first local regulations on cross-Strait standard commonality, resulting in 41 new shared technical standards that facilitate smoother business operations.

    Infrastructure development features prominently in Fujian’s integration strategy. The province is advancing projects to supply water, electricity, and gas to Taiwan-administered islands of Jinmen and Matsu. Xiamen authorities aim to complete their section of the Xiamen-Jinmen Bridge this year while promoting shared usage of the newly constructed Xiamen Xiang’an International Airport as a regional hub for Jinmen residents.

    Economic integration efforts include creating a “common market” targeting electronic information, machinery, and biomedicine sectors, alongside expanded recognition of Taiwanese professional qualifications. The province plans to launch at least 30 new joint rural vitalization projects in 2026 to enhance Fujian’s appeal to Taiwanese compatriots.

    Cultural initiatives form a crucial component of the integration strategy. Governor Zhao emphasized ancestral connections through the “Taiwan Compatriots Root-seeking Platform” and proposed legislation for tracing cross-Strait family genealogies. The successful TV drama “Silent Honor,” filmed in Fujian and based on historical events, has resonated across the Strait by showcasing shared landscapes and historical bonds.

    Political advisers proposed additional measures including leveraging Mazu culture—worshiped on both sides—as a gateway for “emotional integration” and comprehensive tourism cooperation. Other recommendations focused on youth engagement through systematic support for Taiwanese participation in urban renewal and rural construction projects, alongside simplified financial services and optimized residency policies for Taiwanese professionals.

  • More foreign cases landing in IP Court

    More foreign cases landing in IP Court

    China is rapidly establishing itself as a premier global jurisdiction for international intellectual property litigation, with foreign entities increasingly opting for Chinese judicial channels to resolve complex IP disputes. Judicial authorities from China’s Supreme People’s Court have revealed significant growth in international cases, signaling growing international confidence in China’s legal framework for intellectual property protection.

    Since its inauguration in January 2019, the specialized Intellectual Property Court has adjudicated 2,546 foreign-related cases, demonstrating an impressive average annual growth rate of 18.7 percent. Deputy Chief Judge He Zhonglin disclosed these statistics during a recent press conference, highlighting that approximately 30 percent of these cases involved invention patent authorization and confirmation proceedings.

    The court’s foundational principle of equal protection for all litigants, regardless of nationality, has been instrumental in attracting international participation. “We’ve consistently upheld the equal protection of IP rights holders, regardless of their origin,” Judge He emphasized. This commitment to impartiality has significantly enhanced the credibility and global standing of China’s judicial system in intellectual property matters.

    Senior Judge Zhang Xinfeng elaborated on the court’s comprehensive approach, noting that judicial authorities remain dedicated to delivering “fair, just, convenient, efficient, and humanized legal services” to both domestic and international participants. The court adopts a global perspective while respecting litigants’ autonomy, striving to achieve substantive conflict resolution and foster mutually beneficial cooperation among parties.

    This judicial philosophy has garnered trust from international innovators, resulting in a increasing number of foreign-related cases being successfully resolved through mediation. The specialized court, which handles appeals concerning invention patents, plant varieties, integrated circuits, technical secrets, software, and monopolies, has implemented a streamlined appeals process that bypasses provincial high courts, enhancing both efficiency and consistency in complex technical hearings.

    Over its seven-year operation, the court has imposed punitive damages in 58 cases totaling 2.05 billion yuan ($295 million), while identifying monopolistic practices across multiple sectors including pharmaceuticals, telecommunications, e-commerce, and public welfare services. This robust enforcement mechanism has strengthened IP protection frameworks and stimulated innovation within China’s evolving knowledge economy.

  • Hundreds of Iraqis rally against US interference in gov’t formation

    Hundreds of Iraqis rally against US interference in gov’t formation

    Central Baghdad witnessed significant public unrest on Wednesday evening as hundreds of Iraqi citizens mobilized near the heavily secured Green Zone to voice strong opposition against perceived United States interference in their nation’s political sovereignty. The demonstration, organized in response to escalating diplomatic tensions between Washington and Baghdad, saw protesters congregating near the Suspension Bridge adjacent to routes leading toward the US Embassy.

    Participants chanted anti-American slogans while demanding complete preservation of Iraq’s autonomous decision-making capabilities regarding government formation. Although the protest remained predominantly peaceful, minor confrontations occurred when security personnel prevented demonstrators from advancing closer to embassy grounds. No casualties were reported during the event.

    The catalyst for these demonstrations emerged from recent statements by US President Donald Trump, who explicitly warned that America would withdraw support from Iraq should former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki return to power. Trump cited substantive concerns regarding al-Maliki’s previous governance approaches and ideological orientations during his tenure from 2006 to 2014.

    In a firm rebuttal, al-Maliki condemned what he characterized as ‘blatant US interference’ in Iraq’s domestic affairs, asserting that such actions violated national sovereignty and undermined democratic processes established post-2003. His comments came shortly after the Coordination Framework (CF) – an alliance of Shiite parties representing the largest parliamentary bloc – formally nominated him for a third premiership term last Saturday.

    Iraq operates under a unique power-sharing structure instituted following the 2003 regime change, which reserves governmental positions among major ethno-sectarian groups: the presidency for Kurds, parliamentary speakership for Sunni Muslims, and prime ministership for Shiite Muslims. This protest highlights deepening sensitivities surrounding foreign influence in Iraq’s delicate political equilibrium.

  • Starmer says ‘good progress’ on tariffs and visa-free travel in China talks

    Starmer says ‘good progress’ on tariffs and visa-free travel in China talks

    In a landmark diplomatic engagement, British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer concluded a historically significant meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping at Beijing’s Great Hall of the People, marking the first UK prime ministerial visit to China in eight years. The extensive 80-minute dialogue yielded substantial progress on multiple fronts while addressing contentious bilateral issues.

    The summit produced concrete agreements including reduced tariffs for British whisky exports, potential visa-free travel arrangements for UK citizens, and enhanced cooperation on combating irregular migration. A particularly significant outcome involves joint UK-China law enforcement efforts to disrupt criminal networks supplying small boat engines used for Channel crossings, with over 60% of these engines previously identified as Chinese-manufactured.

    President Xi characterized the relationship as having endured ‘necessary twists and turns’ while emphasizing the imperative of dialogue in today’s ‘turbulent and fluid’ global landscape. He acknowledged previous Labour governments’ contributions to Sino-British relations and invoked Chinese philosophical wisdom, urging both leaders to ‘range far your eye over long distances’ in pursuing mutually beneficial cooperation.

    The Prime Minister accompanied his diplomatic mission with a symbolic gesture—presenting President Xi with a football from the recent Premier League clash between Manchester United and Arsenal, reflecting their respective club allegiances while demonstrating cultural diplomacy.

    Despite these developments, the visit occurs amid heightened geopolitical tensions and domestic criticism. Opposition leaders have questioned the timing and substance of the engagement, with Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch advocating for alignment with nations sharing Britain’s strategic interests rather than those perceived as undermining Western economies.

  • Germany to harden critical infrastructure as Russia fears spike

    Germany to harden critical infrastructure as Russia fears spike

    In a decisive move to bolster national security, the German parliament is set to enact sweeping legislation on Thursday mandating enhanced protection for critical infrastructure. This action comes as escalating geopolitical tensions with Russia amplify fears of sabotage, hybrid attacks, and systemic vulnerabilities.

    The comprehensive security package, designed to align with EU directives, will impose stringent new requirements on approximately 1,700 essential service providers. These entities—spanning energy, water, food supply, healthcare, transport, IT, telecommunications, finance, and waste management—must now implement rigorous physical security upgrades, enhance alarm systems, conduct frequent risk analyses, and report incidents without delay. Facilities serving over 500,000 people fall under the new mandate.

    The impetus for this legislative overhaul was starkly illustrated by a recent far-left militant arson attack on a Berlin power cable. The assault, which plunged tens of thousands into darkness for nearly a week and crippled mobile networks, heating, and transit, exposed critical gaps in the nation’s defensive preparedness. In response, the government has issued a €1 million reward for information leading to the arrest of the perpetrators.

    Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized the necessity of shifting from transparency toward resilience, noting that sensitive data—such as publicly accessible grid maps—must be safeguarded to prevent exploitation by malicious actors.

    While many security experts endorse the bill in principle, opposition figures like Greens MP Konstantin von Notz criticize it as ‘wholly inadequate,’ ‘poorly crafted,’ and dangerously delayed. Business associations have also raised concerns over potentially burdensome compliance duties and significant financial penalties.

    Defence Minister Boris Pistorius highlighted the broader context of hybrid threats facing Europe, including cyberattacks, espionage, disinformation campaigns, and physical disruptions like the severing of Baltic Sea data cables. He warned that such threats directly impact private industry and supply chains, underscoring the need for robust civil defense.

    Experts like Daniel Hiller of the Fraunhofer Institute argue that complete invulnerability is unattainable; instead, redundancy, contingency planning, and system resilience are paramount. Sabrina Schulz of the European Initiative for Energy Security echoed this, stating that fortifying infrastructure is ‘at least as important as tanks and drones’ in contemporary defense strategy.