Global Pulse

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  • Sudan’s RSF launches offensive in Blue Nile state

    Sudan’s RSF launches offensive in Blue Nile state

    Sudan’s ongoing civil conflict witnessed a significant escalation as Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary units, in coordination with allied fighters from Abdelaziz Adam al-Hilu’s Sudan People’s Liberation Army-North (SPLA-N), initiated a large-scale offensive against Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) positions in the strategic Blue Nile state on Sunday. The border region, which shares boundaries with both Ethiopia and South Sudan, became the epicenter of intense combat operations.

    According to intelligence sources within Sudan who characterized the assault as ‘exceptionally heavy,’ military reinforcements had been strategically deployed to the area weeks in anticipation of such an attack. Fierce engagements were reported in proximity to Ad-Damazin, the provincial capital, with RSF units reportedly advancing from the Ulu area in the Baw district. Video evidence analyzed by conflict monitors indicated RSF progression toward a remote SAF garrison at al-Silk, approximately 16 kilometers from their starting point.

    While pro-RSF media channels circulated footage purportedly showing paramilitary fighters within captured military installations, SAF command sources maintained that their forces successfully repelled the assault and retained control of the garrison. The origin of the offensive has become a subject of intense international speculation, with SAF-aligned sources alleging cross-border involvement from South Sudan and Ethiopia. Specifically, Sudanese intelligence suggests the RSF utilized a suspected base in Ethiopia’s Benishangul Gumuz region to stage the operation—a claim that, if verified, would directly implicate both neighboring nations and their regional ally, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), in the conflict.

    The UAE continues to deny allegations of providing material support to the RSF, despite mounting evidence from flight tracking data, satellite imagery, and extensive field reporting. Military analysts aligned with the SAF interpret the Blue Nile offensive as a strategic diversion intended to redirect SAF resources away from the Kordofan region, where fierce fighting has recently culminated in the SAF’s capture of the Habila locality in South Kordofan. The conflict has increasingly employed drone warfare, with both sides utilizing unmanned aircraft that have resulted in civilian casualties, including women and children. The RSF claims to have recently shot down a Turkish-manufactured Bayraktar drone in the al-Farshaya area.

    Since its inception in April 2023, the Sudanese civil war has resulted in a devastating humanitarian catastrophe, claiming tens of thousands of lives and displacing over 14 million people from their homes, creating one of the world’s most severe displacement crises.

  • Erdogan lobbies EU’s von  der  Leyen to protect Turkish auto exports

    Erdogan lobbies EU’s von  der  Leyen to protect Turkish auto exports

    Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has formally escalated concerns regarding proposed European Union procurement regulations that would disadvantage non-EU manufacturers, warning of significant consequences for regional economic integration. In a diplomatic letter dated December 4th to European Commission leadership, Erdogan expressed apprehension that draft legislation prioritizing ‘Made in Europe’ products in public procurement could fundamentally undermine the EU-Turkey Customs Union established in 1995.

    The contested regulations would establish minimum local-content requirements for green technology procurement including electric vehicles, batteries, and renewable energy components. This policy shift would deprioritize lowest-cost bidding in favor of European-origin products, effectively excluding Turkish manufacturers from competitive participation in EU public contracts.

    Industry analysts highlight the substantial stakes for Turkey’s automotive sector, which exported approximately $30 billion worth of vehicles and components to EU markets in 2025, representing 72% of Turkey’s total automotive exports. The customs agreement currently covers industrial goods and processed agricultural products but excludes services, agriculture, and digital trade sectors.

    The draft legislation’s definition of ‘Made in Europe’ encompasses EU member states and European Economic Area countries (Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein) while explicitly excluding Turkey. Though the proposal acknowledges exemptions for countries with existing free trade agreements, it remains uncertain whether Turkey’s unique customs union status would qualify.

    Diplomatic sources indicate the legislation remains subject to ratification processes that could require several months of negotiation within European parliamentary bodies. Officials familiar with the matter suggest potential flexibility for accommodations given Turkey’s deeply integrated supply chains with European manufacturers.

    Business representatives argue the proposed regulations would effectively terminate customs union benefits for critical Turkish industries, particularly automotive suppliers whose growth has been fundamentally tied to EU market access. Experts urge Turkish companies to enhance direct lobbying efforts in European capitals to protect their commercial interests.

  • Bangladesh alleges huge overpricing of electricity with India’s Adani supply deal

    Bangladesh alleges huge overpricing of electricity with India’s Adani supply deal

    A Bangladeshi government investigation has uncovered substantial irregularities in a major cross-border electricity supply agreement with Indian energy giant Adani Group, raising serious concerns about systematic collusion and financial misconduct. The National Review Committee on Power Purchase Agreements revealed on Monday that the state-owned Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) has been paying approximately 50% above market rates for power supplied from Adani’s coal-fired Godda plant in India’s Jharkhand state.

    The committee’s report identified what it termed “egregious anomalies” in the contract negotiation process, suggesting deliberate overpricing that generated excessive profits distributed among businesses, politicians, and bureaucrats. According to the findings, Bangladesh is overpaying by 4-5 cents per kilowatt-hour under the 25-year agreement, resulting in annual payments of approximately $1 billion to Adani Power.

    The Godda power facility, which commenced operations in 2024 as a $2 billion project including transmission infrastructure, supplies between 7-10% of Bangladesh’s baseload electricity demand, serving a population of 170 million people with 13 GW of power requirements. The committee reported that BPDB incurred losses totaling $4.13 billion during the 2024-25 period directly attributable to the unfavorable contract terms.

    In response to the allegations, Adani Power stated that it had not yet received the official report but maintained that its pricing remains highly competitive within the regional energy market. The company emphasized its continued power supply despite accumulating receivables and urged the Bangladeshi government to address outstanding payments that are affecting its operational capabilities.

    The investigation specifically targets contracts negotiated during the administration of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who maintained close ties with India before being ousted in August 2024. The political transition has significantly altered bilateral relations between the neighboring nations and prompted comprehensive reviews of previously established agreements.

    The committee has recommended immediate contract cancellations where evidence of corruption exists and called for widespread renegotiation of pricing terms with private power providers to align with market-competitive levels. These developments occur amidst Bangladesh’s preparation for parliamentary elections scheduled for February 12, which will determine new leadership following extended political turmoil.

  • Venezuela releases dozens of prisoners in 2 days, hundreds more still detained

    Venezuela releases dozens of prisoners in 2 days, hundreds more still detained

    CARACAS, Venezuela — In a significant development for human rights in Venezuela, the nation’s leading prisoner advocacy organization confirmed the release of dozens of detainees over the weekend. This action comes amid sustained international pressure and follows the recent political upheaval that saw the ouster of former leader Nicolás Maduro.

    Foro Penal, Venezuela’s prominent rights monitoring group, reported through its president Alfredo Romero that 266 individuals classified as political prisoners have gained freedom since January 8. This date marks when Venezuela’s interim government committed to liberating a substantial number of detainees as part of a national reconciliation initiative.

    The prisoner releases occur during a period of dramatic political transition. Maduro was apprehended by United States authorities in a January 3 operation, leading to Vice President Delcy Rodríguez assuming the role of acting president. Rodríguez, a seasoned insider within the ruling party apparatus, now leads the nation through this transitional phase.

    Among those recently released are prominent cases including an opposition activist, a human rights attorney, and a journalism student imprisoned since March. The student’s detention followed his publication of complaints regarding his hometown’s sewage infrastructure, for which he faced charges of “inciting hatred.

    Despite these releases, Foro Penal estimates that at least 600 dissidents remain incarcerated in Venezuelan detention facilities. This number includes several members of the Vente Venezuela party, which operates under the leadership of opposition figure and Nobel Peace Prize laureate María Corina Machado.

    Acting President Rodríguez stated on Friday that her administration has secured the freedom of more than 620 prisoners total. She further announced intentions to request verification of these release figures from the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.

    However, domestic human rights organizations have raised concerns about potential inflation of the government’s release statistics. Outside Venezuelan prisons, family members of those still detained continue to organize regular vigils, maintaining public pressure for the liberation of all remaining political prisoners.

  • Tokyo pandas head for China, leaving Japan bereft of beloved bears

    Tokyo pandas head for China, leaving Japan bereft of beloved bears

    Japan enters its first panda-free period in over half a century as twin bears Lei Lei and Xiao Xiao depart Tokyo’s Ueno Zoological Gardens for China on Tuesday. The four-year-old pandas, born and raised at the renowned zoo, were transported via specialized truck in a move that has left countless Japanese admirers heartbroken.

    The sudden repatriation, occurring approximately one month ahead of their official loan expiration in February, coincides with notable diplomatic tensions between Tokyo and Beijing. These strains emerged following comments by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggesting potential military intervention regarding Taiwan—a position that provoked strong opposition from China, which considers Taiwan part of its sovereign territory.

    Pandas have long served as symbols of Sino-Japanese friendship since the normalization of diplomatic relations in 1972, operating under China’s strategic ‘panda diplomacy’ program. On Sunday, Ueno Zoo hosted a final viewing event for 4,400 selected lottery winners, though many additional fans gathered outside wearing panda-themed apparel and carrying memorabilia to express their affection.

    Despite current geopolitical friction, experts suggest the pandas’ return might not be exclusively politically motivated. Professor Masaki Ienaga, an East Asian relations specialist at Tokyo Woman’s Christian University, noted that China routinely recalls pandas from international locations and indicated that future improvements in bilateral relations could facilitate the return of pandas to Japan.

    Meanwhile, China has recently discouraged tourism to Japan and restricted exports of critical rare-earth materials, further complicating the relationship. Japanese officials have reportedly initiated efforts to secure a new pair of pandas, hoping to restore this cherished cultural and diplomatic bridge.

  • This musician’s GRAMMY at 70 is a reminder that it’s never too late to begin

    This musician’s GRAMMY at 70 is a reminder that it’s never too late to begin

    Chandrika Tandon’s remarkable trajectory from corporate leadership to Grammy-winning musician stands as a powerful testament to lifelong creative potential. At age 70, Tandon secured music’s highest honor for her album ‘Triveni’ – a meditative fusion of Vedic chants with classical instrumentation that represents her decades-long musical journey pursued alongside an illustrious business career.

    Speaking during her appearance at Dubai’s Global Fusion event, the former McKinsey partner revealed how music became her anchor during a spiritual crisis twenty-five years ago. ‘The happiest moments of my life were often tied to music,’ Tandon reflected. ‘Through music, I found stillness, healing, and discovered more beautiful parts of myself.’

    Her Grammy victory, while personally meaningful, represents something far greater than individual achievement. Tandon emphasizes that her artistic pursuit was never about awards but about sharing music’s transformative power. ‘The Grammy provides a platform to amplify my message of music and healing,’ she noted, acknowledging how the recognition facilitates broader collaboration and connection.

    In an industry often obsessed with technical complexity, Tandon champions artistic simplicity and spiritual accessibility. ‘I don’t make music to show off virtuosity,’ she explained. ‘I want people to listen so it moves something deep within them and allows them to find their own music.’

    Performing in Dubai held particular significance for Tandon, who described the city as ‘a perfect melting pot of multiple cultures’ that welcomes fusion and celebrates differences. The collaboration with musicians from diverse backgrounds exemplified music’s unifying power across cultures.

    While often identified as former PepsiCo CEO Indra Nooyi’s sister, Tandon has carved a distinct legacy spanning business, philanthropy, and now music. Her philosophy centers on daily impact rather than lasting legacy: ‘I want each day to count, empowering people both economically through STEM education and emotionally through music.’

    Tandon’s story challenges conventional narratives about creative expiration dates, demonstrating that artistic fulfillment and recognition can arrive at any stage of life when pursued with genuine purpose and spiritual intention.

  • Thousands enjoy freshly cooked laba porridge in Sichuan

    Thousands enjoy freshly cooked laba porridge in Sichuan

    A vibrant scene unfolded at Chengdu’s historic Wenshu Monastery on Monday as thousands of residents and visitors gathered to partake in a cherished annual tradition. The occasion was the Laba Festival, celebrated on the eighth day of the twelfth lunar month (January 26 this year), which serves as a ceremonial prelude to the upcoming Chinese New Year.

    The monastery, maintaining a practice spanning more than three centuries, distributed complimentary bowls of freshly prepared laba porridge to enthusiastic crowds who formed extensive queues around the temple grounds. This philanthropic culinary event represents one of Sichuan province’s most enduring cultural customs, symbolizing community harmony and spiritual preparation for the Spring Festival season.

    Laba porridge, a special ceremonial dish typically containing glutinous rice, nuts, dried fruits, and beans, carries profound cultural significance in Chinese tradition. The communal consumption of this nutritious concoction at Wenshu Monastery demonstrates the continuing relevance of ancient customs in contemporary society, blending religious tradition with community engagement.

    The massive turnout included both local Chengdu citizens and domestic tourists, many of whom specifically planned their visits to experience this unique cultural event. Monastery volunteers worked tirelessly throughout the day to prepare and serve the traditional delicacy, ensuring all participants could enjoy this symbolic meal marking the traditional beginning of Lunar New Year celebrations.

  • Short videos highlight the beauty of Hebei

    Short videos highlight the beauty of Hebei

    The Hebei Photographers Association has unveiled a captivating visual project titled “Beautiful Hebei,” transforming curated photographs into dynamic short video presentations. This multimedia initiative showcases the province’s diverse attractions through three distinct thematic lenses: breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage sites, and impressive modern urban development.

    Drawing from the association’s extensive image archives supplemented by a recently concluded themed photography competition, the project represents a concerted effort to present Hebei’s multifaceted beauty in easily digestible digital format. The timing of this release aligns strategically with the approaching Spring Festival holiday period, serving as an open invitation for both domestic and international travelers to explore the region’s offerings firsthand.

    Through these visually stunning compilations, the association aims to provide virtual tourists with an immersive preview of experiences awaiting them in Hebei. The videos highlight not only picturesque destinations but also emphasize opportunities to engage with local traditions and cultural practices that gain special significance during the festive season. This innovative approach to regional promotion demonstrates how photographic artistry can be enhanced through motion and sequencing to create compelling narrative content for digital audiences.

  • Trump abandons attack mode as Minneapolis shooting backlash grows

    Trump abandons attack mode as Minneapolis shooting backlash grows

    The Trump administration has executed a notable strategic pivot in its response to the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by federal agents in Minneapolis, moving from its characteristic confrontational stance to a more measured approach as political tensions escalate.

    Initially, officials deployed aggressive rhetoric characterizing the 37-year-old nurse as a ‘domestic terrorist’ and ‘would-be assassin.’ Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem claimed Pretti intended to ‘inflict harm’ while Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino described the incident as an attempt to ‘massacre law enforcement.’

    However, as multiple video recordings surfaced contradicting the official narrative—showing Pretti filming agents with his phone and assisting a knocked-down woman before being pepper-sprayed—the administration’s position became untenable. The footage clearly showed Pretti unarmed when wrestled to the ground, though authorities later confirmed he legally carried a concealed firearm.

    Facing mounting criticism from both political parties and deteriorating public opinion, the White House altered its communication strategy. President Trump labeled the incident ‘tragic’ on Truth Social while blaming ‘Democrat-ensued chaos,’ and dispatched former Obama administration official Tom Homan—considered a more moderate figure—to oversee operations in Minnesota.

    The political ramifications continue to intensify as Senate Democrats now threaten to block Department of Homeland Security funding, potentially triggering a partial government shutdown. Republicans meanwhile express growing unease, with Vermont Governor Phil Scott condemning the federal response as ‘a complete failure of coordination’ at best and ‘deliberate intimidation’ at worst.

    With recent polls indicating 61% of Americans believe ICE operates ‘too tough’ in detainments, and 58% disapproving of Trump’s immigration handling overall, the administration faces mounting pressure to recalibrate its approach while maintaining its enforcement priorities.

  • Parkway Shanghai Hospital launches new international diagnosis and treatment center

    Parkway Shanghai Hospital launches new international diagnosis and treatment center

    Parkway Shanghai Hospital, operated by IHH Healthcare on the Chinese mainland, has officially launched its International Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diagnosis and Treatment Center in a strategic move to position itself as Asia’s leading comprehensive care hub for complex abdominal organ diseases.

    The newly inaugurated center represents an innovative public-private healthcare collaboration, bringing together international medical expertise from the University of Hong Kong, Japan’s Keio University, Shanghai First People’s Hospital, and the Wu Mengchao Foundation. This partnership leverages IHH Healthcare’s global network to create an integrated treatment platform that combines resources across multiple specialties including gastroenterology, surgical oncology, critical care medicine, interventional ultrasound, and pathology.

    Medical experts emphasize that the center will implement a systematic approach to hepatobiliary and pancreatic care, incorporating advanced preventive medicine protocols, precision diagnostics, and minimally invasive treatment technologies. The facility aims to assemble renowned specialists from across the globe to create a diversified international platform that addresses the full spectrum of patient needs from early detection through complex surgical interventions.

    As Shanghai’s designated pilot demonstration base for international medical tourism, Parkway Shanghai Hospital will continuously introduce cutting-edge treatment methodologies and global technological innovations through IHH’s extensive healthcare network. The center is positioned to deliver high-quality, specialized care not only to patients within the Yangtze River Delta region but throughout the Asia-Pacific, potentially transforming regional standards for hepatobiliary and pancreatic disease management.