Global Pulse

博客

  • China urges Japan to reflect on history of aggression

    China urges Japan to reflect on history of aggression

    BEIJING — The Chinese government has issued a renewed call for Japan to engage in meaningful introspection regarding its historical acts of aggression, emphasizing the necessity of demonstrating genuine repentance through concrete measures. The appeal was formally presented by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian during a regular press conference on Friday.

    This diplomatic position emerged in response to recent statements from Russian foreign ministry officials, who suggested that Japan should establish a memorial hall dedicated to victims of Japanese militarism as a gesture of atonement for historical crimes. The Chinese spokesperson endorsed this proposition while articulating Beijing’s consistent stance on historical accountability.

    The Chinese position underscores the importance of Japan confronting its militaristic past with substantive actions rather than symbolic gestures. This includes showing proper respect for victims and acknowledging the full scope of historical atrocities committed during periods of military expansionism.

    This development occurs within the broader context of ongoing regional diplomatic dialogues concerning historical reconciliation and the complex legacy of 20th century conflicts in East Asia. The Chinese government maintains that addressing historical grievances transparently is fundamental to fostering genuine mutual understanding and stable international relations in the region.

    The spokesperson’s remarks reflect China’s persistent diplomatic efforts to keep historical accountability on the international agenda, particularly as it relates to Japan’s actions during World War II and earlier conflicts. This position aligns with China’s long-standing view that proper historical acknowledgment forms the foundation for future-oriented bilateral relationships.

  • China’s Genhe city witnesses extremely cold weather

    China’s Genhe city witnesses extremely cold weather

    The northern Chinese city of Genhe, renowned as the nation’s coldest permanent settlement, has been gripped by an intense cold snap with temperatures plummeting to a bone-chilling -45°C (-49°F) on Friday morning. Located in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, this frigid community experienced one of the most severe temperature drops of the winter season on December 26, 2025.

    Despite the extreme arctic conditions, daily life continued with remarkable resilience. Morning markets remained operational as local residents ventured out to purchase essential supplies, demonstrating their adaptation to the harsh climate that characterizes this remote region. Photographic evidence captured citizens navigating the frosty environment while engaging in routine shopping activities, their breath visible in the supercooled air.

    Meteorological officials have confirmed that such extreme temperatures, while notably low, remain within seasonal expectations for this area situated near China’s northern frontier. Genhe has long held the unofficial title of ‘China’s cold pole’ due to its consistently frigid winter conditions, which regularly rank among the most severe nationwide.

    Local authorities have implemented standard cold weather protocols, ensuring that infrastructure remains functional and that vulnerable populations receive appropriate support during this period of intensified cold. The city’s unique geographical position and high latitude contribute to its extreme winter climate, which has become both a challenge for residents and a point of fascination for climate observers.

  • 4 UAE residents who helped accident victims honoured for saving lives

    4 UAE residents who helped accident victims honoured for saving lives

    In a ceremony recognizing exceptional civic responsibility, Abu Dhabi Police have formally honored four residents for their courageous intervention at a traffic accident scene. The individuals demonstrated remarkable composure and humanitarian spirit by providing critical first aid to multiple injured victims following a collision.

    The recognition was announced through Abu Dhabi Police’s official social media channels, highlighting the residents’ swift response and effective emergency care that significantly contributed to preserving lives and minimizing the accident’s severity. Brigadier Mohammed Dahy Al-Humairi, Director of the Central Operations Sector at Abu Dhabi Police, personally commended the honorees for their exemplary cooperation, profound sense of responsibility, and humanitarian courage.

    Brigadier Al-Humairi emphasized that such acts of bravery reflect deepening community awareness and social solidarity, which substantially enhance public safety systems. The initiative aligns with Abu Dhabi Police’s ongoing commitment to encourage and celebrate community members who proactively assist others during critical emergencies. These values of compassion and altruism represent fundamental principles that the police force continuously promotes throughout the emirate.

    The recognition ceremony underscores how civilian intervention during the crucial golden hour following accidents can dramatically improve outcomes for trauma victims. Abu Dhabi Police reaffirmed their dedication to fostering a culture of mutual assistance and community responsiveness, where citizens and residents alike actively participate in safeguarding public welfare.

  • Nigerian villagers are rattled by US airstrikes that made their homes shake and the sky glow red

    Nigerian villagers are rattled by US airstrikes that made their homes shake and the sky glow red

    A nocturnal military operation in northwestern Nigeria has left residents of the remote village of Jabo in a state of fear and bewilderment. What began as an ordinary Thursday night transformed into a scene of terror when villagers witnessed what they initially perceived as a catastrophic plane crash, only to learn they had become unintended witnesses to a multinational counterterrorism strike.

    Sanusi Madabo, a 40-year-old local farmer, described being startled by a deafening explosion while preparing for bed. “The sky turned bright red, creating an artificial daylight that persisted for hours,” he recounted. The source of this disruption was subsequently revealed to be a coordinated military action between the United States and Nigerian governments targeting an alleged Islamic State stronghold.

    President Donald Trump characterized the operation as a “powerful and deadly strike” against “ISIS Terrorist Scum,” while Nigeria’s Foreign Ministry confirmed the joint nature of the mission. This collaboration marks a significant development in bilateral relations, which had recently been strained by American allegations of Christian genocide in Nigeria—claims firmly rejected by the Nigerian government.

    Security analysts identify the likely target as the Lakurawa group, a relatively new insurgent organization composed primarily of foreign fighters from Africa’s Sahel region. Though its connection to Islamic State remains unverified, the group has established operational presence in Nigeria’s northwestern region since approximately 2018.

    The immediate aftermath has generated profound anxiety among villagers who report no prior experience with terrorism despite regional instability. Abubakar Sani, residing near the impact site, described intense heat and structural shaking followed by outbreaks of fire. Local traditional leader Aliyu Garba expressed concern about villagers scavenging potentially dangerous debris from the strike site.

    The human impact extends beyond immediate security concerns. Balira Sa’idu, a 17-year-old bride-to-be, revealed how the attack has disrupted wedding preparations: “My family is afraid, and I don’t even know if it’s safe to continue with our plans in Jabo.”

    Security analyst Bulama Burkati emphasized the critical need for transparency: “The opacity surrounding operational details and casualties exacerbates civilian panic. Clear communication about targets and outcomes is essential for de-escalating tension.” Nigerian Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar characterized the operation as a “new phase of an old conflict,” indicating potential future actions while acknowledging the longstanding nature of violence affecting both Christian and Muslim communities across Nigeria.

  • Man sentenced to death for killing his children

    Man sentenced to death for killing his children

    In a landmark ruling that has shocked the nation, a Chinese court has imposed the death penalty on a father convicted of deliberately poisoning his two young children. The Zunyi Intermediate People’s Court in Guizhou province delivered the verdict on Friday, December 26, 2025, following a thorough examination of the horrific case.

    The convicted individual, Liu Zhongjie, received the maximum punishment after being found guilty of intentional homicide for administering a lethal insecticide to his own children. According to court documents, the tragic incident occurred amid unresolved marital conflicts between Liu and his spouse.

    The court established that Liu exploited his parental relationship to manipulate his vulnerable children, aged 10 and 7, into consuming DDVP—a highly toxic pesticide. Judicial authorities emphasized that the defendant not only deceived the minors into ingesting the poisonous substance but also deliberately withheld medical assistance, resulting in their agonizing deaths.

    In its first-instance judgment, the judiciary characterized Liu’s actions as particularly cruel and morally reprehensible, representing a fundamental violation of both ethical standards and legal principles. The ruling further noted that the severity of the crimes, combined with their devastating social impact, warranted the most severe punishment available under Chinese law.

    Beyond the death sentence, the court additionally ordered the permanent deprivation of Liu’s political rights, reflecting the gravity of his offenses against society and the basic tenets of human decency. The case has sparked widespread discussion about parental responsibility, child protection laws, and appropriate punishment for crimes against vulnerable family members.

  • Flu cases fall to moderate level

    Flu cases fall to moderate level

    China has witnessed a significant downturn in influenza activity, with national surveillance data indicating a descent to moderate transmission levels across most regions. According to the latest epidemiological report from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the country’s flu positivity rate among influenza-like illness cases dropped to 41.9% during the week beginning December 15, 2025, marking a substantial decrease from the previous week’s 50.2% rate.

    The epidemiological landscape shows varied regional patterns, with northern, northeastern, southwestern, and northwestern provinces experiencing the most notable improvements. However, eastern, southern, and central regions continue to report elevated flu activity, maintaining high transmission levels despite the overall national decline.

    In parallel developments, educational institutions have reported a dramatic reduction in infection clusters, suggesting effective containment measures in school environments. Meanwhile, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) has demonstrated an upward trajectory, particularly in northern provinces, indicating a possible epidemiological shift.

    The surveillance data further reveals fluctuating patterns for rhinovirus while confirming that SARS-CoV-2 and other monitored respiratory pathogens remain consistently at low prevalence levels, highlighting the specific nature of the current respiratory disease landscape.

  • UAE issues law to protect children from digital risks, ensure safe use of technology

    UAE issues law to protect children from digital risks, ensure safe use of technology

    The United Arab Emirates has established comprehensive federal legislation addressing child protection in digital environments through a new decree-law focused on safeguarding minors from online risks. This pioneering legal framework emerges as the nation prepares to designate 2026 as the ‘Year of the Family,’ reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing children’s quality of life in the digital age.

    The legislation imposes binding obligations on internet service providers and digital platforms operating within or targeting UAE users, encompassing an extensive range of services including websites, search engines, mobile applications, messaging services, social media, online gaming platforms, streaming services, live broadcasting platforms, podcast services, video-on-demand platforms, and e-commerce marketplaces. The law additionally delineates specific responsibilities for caregivers regarding the digital safety of children under their supervision.

    Core provisions establish a robust national framework for child digital protection that promotes responsible technology usage while shielding minors from harmful content and practices affecting their physical, psychological, and moral development. The legislation mandates creation of a specialized Child Digital Safety Council, which will operate under the Minister of Family’s leadership and receive oversight from the Education, Human Resources, and Community Development Council to coordinate national efforts toward building safer digital environments for children.

    Further measures significantly enhance privacy protections for minors by implementing clear regulatory controls for handling children’s personal data. The law establishes an integrated approach defining responsibilities across digital platforms, internet providers, and parents with emphasis on preventive measures and guidance. Additionally, it creates a national awareness framework targeting families and children to foster cultures of positive technology use while strengthening familial roles in protection and prevention. The legislation also formalizes reporting mechanisms for harmful content targeting children and ensures expedited handling of cases involving digital abuse or exploitation.

  • Dubai: 48 fireworks displays across 40 locations to light up New Year’s Eve 2026

    Dubai: 48 fireworks displays across 40 locations to light up New Year’s Eve 2026

    Dubai is poised to host its most ambitious New Year’s Eve celebration to date, announcing a citywide extravaganza featuring 48 distinct fireworks displays across 40 strategic locations for December 31, 2025. This represents a significant 33% increase from the previous year’s 36 displays, setting a new benchmark for global New Year’s festivities.

    The scale of the event has necessitated an unparalleled security and logistical operation, officially declared the most comprehensive in the emirate’s history. A formidable force of over 23,000 security personnel will be deployed to ensure public safety. This coordinated effort brings together 55 government and private entities, meticulously planning for the influx of millions of residents and international tourists anticipated to descend upon the city.

    Leading the security front, Dubai Police will commit 9,884 officers, bolstered by an additional 13,502 private security staff. The multi-faceted surveillance strategy will encompass 1,625 security patrols, 36 bicycle units, 34 mounted patrols, and a fleet of 53 marine rescue boats for comprehensive land and sea coverage.

    Addressing the critical challenges of transportation and medical readiness, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) will mobilize an extensive network. This includes 14,000 taxis, 1,300 public buses, and 107 metro trains, all managed by 5,565 RTA employees to facilitate seamless public mobility. Concurrently, a robust medical response system will be on high alert, featuring 236 ambulances, 635 paramedics, and 1,900 medical professionals. Twelve hospitals and numerous outdoor clinics are prepped for potential incidents, supported by the Civil Defence’s contingent of 1,754 personnel and 165 emergency vehicles.

  • Thailand bombs a village in Cambodia even as both nations hold border talks to end armed clashes

    Thailand bombs a village in Cambodia even as both nations hold border talks to end armed clashes

    BANGKOK (AP) — A severe escalation of military conflict unfolded along the Thailand-Cambodia border on Friday, casting a shadow over concurrent diplomatic negotiations aimed at halting hostilities that reignited in early December. This recent outbreak of violence shattered a fragile five-month ceasefire previously brokered by regional leaders.

    Cambodia’s Defense Ministry reported a significant aerial assault by Thai forces, alleging that F-16 fighter jets conducted bombing operations targeting a village within the northwestern Banteay Meanchey province. The ministry confirmed substantial damage to civilian infrastructure and residential areas, though immediate casualty figures remained unverified.

    Thai military authorities acknowledged the offensive, characterizing it as a necessary joint army-air force operation to protect Thailand’s territorial integrity in the adjacent Sa Kaeo province. This region represents one of several areas where the neighboring nations maintain overlapping territorial claims, a historical point of contention that initially sparked armed conflict in late July.

    The current military engagement occurs alongside continued diplomatic efforts. Military representatives from both nations conducted their third day of working-level talks through the established General Border Committee framework. These discussions, occurring at a checkpoint between Cambodia’s Pailin province and Thailand’s Chanthaburi province, are anticipated to conclude Saturday with the anticipated participation of both countries’ defense ministers.

    Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul outlined a potential path to de-escalation, indicating Thailand’s expectation for a 72-hour ceasefire from Cambodia. He suggested that successful implementation could lead to the repatriation of Cambodian prisoners of war.

    The human cost of the conflict continues to mount. Thai officials report 26 military personnel and one civilian killed directly in combat since December 7th, with an additional 44 civilian deaths attributed to collateral effects. Cambodia acknowledges 30 civilian fatalities and 90 injuries but has not released official military casualty figures. The violence has prompted the evacuation of hundreds of thousands of residents from border regions.

    International mediation efforts persist despite challenges. Former U.S. President Donald Trump previously claimed successful ceasefire negotiation during December 12th calls with both leaders, though Thai authorities denied such an agreement. Current U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed Washington’s readiness to facilitate peace discussions during recent communications with Cambodian leadership.

    In a remarkable sidelight to the military conflict, Thai authorities reported the rescue of five malnourished wild animals—including two lions, a sun bear, and two Asiatic black bears—from a casino compound allegedly serving as a Cambodian military stronghold. The animals, transported to Thai wildlife breeding centers, arrived in time for Christmas, with the lioness named “Merry” and the lion “Christmas” to commemorate their liberation.

  • Zelensky plans to meet Trump on Sunday for talks on ending Russian war

    Zelensky plans to meet Trump on Sunday for talks on ending Russian war

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has confirmed an upcoming high-stakes meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump scheduled for Sunday in Florida, marking a significant diplomatic push to resolve Russia’s ongoing invasion. The leaders are expected to deliberate on a comprehensive 20-point peace proposal brokered by Washington alongside discussions regarding U.S. security assurances for Ukraine.

    This development follows extensive diplomatic engagements, including Zelensky’s hour-long Christmas Day discussion with Trump’s chief negotiators, Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and senior advisor Jared Kushner. The Ukrainian president characterized these preliminary talks as productive, noting they had yielded ‘new ideas’ for conflict resolution.

    Central to the proposed peace framework is the establishment of a demilitarized economic zone in eastern Donbas, requiring both Ukrainian and Russian forces to withdraw approximately 40 kilometers from current frontlines. This arrangement would effectively create a buffer territory while postponing definitive resolution on the region’s legal status.

    The negotiation process has evolved significantly since November’s leaked 28-point draft, with Ukraine securing multiple revisions to terms initially perceived as disproportionately favoring Russian interests. Current provisions include security guarantees modeled after NATO’s Article 5 commitment, ensuring military support should Russia launch future aggression. The agreement would maintain Ukraine’s military strength at 800,000 personnel despite Kremlin demands for reduction.

    While diplomatic efforts intensify, combat operations persist unabated. Ukrainian authorities report at least four civilian fatalities from Christmas Day strikes, with air defenses intercepting 73 drones overnight. Russia claims to have neutralized British-supplied Storm Shadow missiles, while Ukraine confirms targeting energy infrastructure in Rostov and Krasnodar.

    The Kremlin has acknowledged continued diplomatic channels, with President Putin’s senior aide Yuri Ushakov conducting phone negotiations with White House officials. Russian officials describe progress as ‘slow but steady’ while expressing skepticism regarding certain territorial aspects of the updated American proposal. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova accused Western European states of attempting to undermine diplomatic achievements.

    Outstanding contentious issues include the status of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant—currently Russian-occupied but proposed under the plan to have its energy output divided between both nations—and the complex matter of territorial sovereignty in disputed regions.