white-creek-opinion

The Age of Elite Guilt and the Politics of Philanthropy

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 17:37:07 GMT

White Guilt, Elite Guilt, and the New Moral Economy

The West's Democratic Crusade Is Arrogance Masquerading as Virtue

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 16:58:29 GMT

The West's Democratic Crusade

The Strait of Hormuz Is the World's Weak Spot — And We Pretend Not to Notice

Sun, 05 Apr 2026 16:39:16 GMT

The Strait of Hormuz is the world's most indispensable shipping lane — and the world's most neglected security failure.

The New Faces of Absolutism

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 15:54:27 GMT

What Khomeini's Revolution Teaches About Power — And Why It Matters Now

When 'Antichrist' Becomes a Political Shortcut

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 14:00:38 GMT

When 'Antichrist' Becomes a Political Shortcut

Iran's Suicidal Government and the Consequences for World Peace

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 15:28:11 GMT

The Iranian Government and the Consequences for World Peace

Epstein Wasn't an Anomaly — He Was a Symptom of a System Built to Protect Men Like Him

Sun, 15 Mar 2026 15:14:17 GMT

Epstein Wasn't an Anomaly

The Board of Peace: When Ideals Collapse, Structure Governs

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 14:39:44 GMT

The Board of Peace: When Ideals Collapse, Structure Governs

The Philanthropic Class War: How Activism, NGOs, and Legal Warfare Replaced Democratic Power

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 14:27:12 GMT

The Philanthropic Class War: How Activism, NGOs, and Legal Warfare Replaced Democratic Power

The Influence Machine Hides Behind Virtue: David Trone and the Total Wine Playbook

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 21:49:54 GMT

The Influence Machine Hides Behind Virtue

The Shadow Government as a Live System

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 21:37:20 GMT

The Shadow Government as a Live System

Voter ID, Sanctuary Cities & the Real Reason America Can't Govern Itself

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 16:13:15 GMT

Voter ID, Sanctuary Cities & the Real Reason America Can't Govern Itself

Sanctuary Politics Isn't Compassion — It's Open Defiance of Federal Law

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 22:13:34 GMT

Sanctuary Politics Isn't Compassion — It's Open Defiance of Federal Law

From George Floyd to Abolish ICE: How Local Defiance Undermines the Rule of Law

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 21:38:47 GMT

From George Floyd to Abolish ICE: How Local Defiance Undermines the Rule of Law

A World No One Can Win — and Why Ideology No Longer Matters

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 20:50:41 GMT

A World No One Can Win — and Why Ideology No Longer Matters

Zero-Profit Groceries, ACA Logic, and the Myth of Cheap Healthy Food

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 19:56:08 GMT

Zero-Profit Groceries, ACA Logic, and the Myth of Cheap Healthy Food

Selective Outrage: From Greenland to ICE

Sun, 25 Jan 2026 16:26:10 GMT

Selective Outrage: From Greenland to ICE

The Blue Wave Isn't About Democracy — It's About Control

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 16:13:47 GMT

The Blue Wave Isn't About Democracy — It's About Control

The Denmark-Cuba Confusion: What Democratic Socialism Really Means

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 15:21:13 GMT

The Denmark-Cuba Confusion: What Democratic Socialism Really Means

The Hidden Architecture of America's Protest Politics

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 14:50:00 GMT

The Hidden Architecture of America's Protest Politics

The Capture of Maduro: Venezuela, Drugs & the Fight for Global Power

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 19:41:01 GMT

A 2026 Wishlist: Resolutions for America & the World

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 15:59:43 GMT

Solving Immigration: Border Security vs. Open Doors

Fri, 26 Dec 2025 15:20:44 GMT

Before There Were Borders: America's Immigration Story

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 15:05:02 GMT

Big Pharma, Insurance Profits & The Healthcare Crisis

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 22:35:48 GMT

NATO in Freefall: Europe's Ukraine Gamble

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 20:20:15 GMT

Selective Outrage: Epstein, MeToo & the Almighty Judges

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 17:09:16 GMT

Hegemony, Wars & the American Interest

Sun, 07 Dec 2025 15:34:21 GMT

Immigration, Deportation & the $6 Billion Legal Battlefield

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 14:43:23 GMT

From Epstein to License Fraud: The Democratic Party's Scandals, Implosions, and Obama's Shadow Presidency

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 14:23:13 GMT

America's Champagne Revolutionaries: The DSA's Violent Theater, California's Power Play, and China's Green Energy Checkmate

Sun, 23 Nov 2025 14:19:11 GMT

Economic Warfare and Strategic Realignment: China's Rise, Western Tariffs, and the Battle for Global Economic Dominance

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 14:11:53 GMT

Global Power Struggles and Failed Diplomacy: The Russia-Ukraine Conflict, EU Autocracy, and Middle East Peace Prospects in 2025

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 14:10:02 GMT

US News November - Lawfare, Tariffs, and the Socialist Dream: Inside America’s Dysfunctional Machine

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 19:56:35 GMT

US News November - Faith on Trial: Hamas’s Return, Religious Censorship in Europe, and America’s Political Divide

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 19:24:16 GMT

The Return of Diplomacy and the Limits of Global Ideology

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 13:03:00 GMT

October, 2025: Disarming Hamas, Palestinian Sovereignty, and Israel’s Internal Religious Conflict

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 12:30:16 GMT

US News October - No Kings, Just Chaos: Who's Really Running the Resistance?

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 20:32:20 GMT

US News October - Mercenary Lawyers and Missing Laptops: Justice in the Swamp

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 20:23:32 GMT

October 2025 - Israel, Charlie Kirk, Peter Thiel, and Venezuela: Global Politics from Gaza to the Nobel Peace Prize

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 14:12:51 GMT

October, 2025: Europe’s Pro-Palestinian Protests, the Hamas Question, and the Push for a European Army

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 13:47:28 GMT

October, 2025 - Religion, Military Standards, Obama’s Legacy, and the LGBTQ Divide: A Cross-Section of America in 2025

Sat, 11 Oct 2025 12:35:55 GMT

US News: October - ANTIFA, the Shutdown, and a Divided Public

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 12:10:27 GMT

The Democratic Party Shutdown Strategy: We've got ANTIFA and Weathermen in Congress, and a shutdown to please the 5%—is that a winning strategy? Perhaps a clear indication that the Democratic Party no longer exists. It is a Kimmel–Colbert–Springsteen sound-setting orchestra, with tunes from Rosie, Joy Reid, The View and Psaki, and MSNBC and other leftist commentators. Schumer and Jeffries are no longer relevant; the squad rule is on. Thank you, Bernie and Soros, but the shutdown will hopefully silence all government waste, a shutdown DOGE? If we miss you, we let you know, but for now, it is the Republicans in favor 70:30. Here's an explainer: fight, fight, fight against Trump—the only reasoning the Democrats offer these days. We need to elect politicians, not litigators and Soros activists.

Axios has reported throughout the year how Hill Democrats have been besieged by an increasingly angry base demanding that they " fight harder " and "do something" about Trump.

– In February, shortly after President Trump's inauguration, it was voters blowing up Democrats' phone lines with demands to "fight back" against DOGE.

– In March, it was angry crowds gathered at town halls to chew Democrats out for purportedly not doing enough to resist Trump, which some lawmakers compared to the rise of the Tea Party.

– By July, Democratic lawmakers were expressing concerns about their base demanding they put themselves in harm's way to draw attention to the administration's use of physical force.

But it looks like the Democrats are united, with presidential candidates proposing and supporting the radical stance. Just wonder: Gavin Newsom urged Democrats to stand firm amid the government shutdown Friday, saying, "You lose leverage, you lose this country." ANTIFA leverage? The shutdown —essential and non-essential—or why are there government non-essential functions? Are the SPLC (no leftists), ACLU, ANTIFA , and the Redneck Revolt all part of non-essential feeding grounds? And what about academia ? Or are we at the start of a John Brown revolution, with unidentified actors/founders ?

Portland, Oregon: Portland Oregon —why is ICE and the Trump administration so focused on Portland? It looks like an Eldorado to live in the state and city , but also a hotspot of the rebellion, because the elite rulers use it to provide what? A one-party state for many years .

Oregon hasn't always had a lack of affordable housing, costly and poor-performing public schools, high taxes and heavy regulations on businesses, rampant drug addiction and homeless campers everywhere. Whom do you blame for all of this? Perhaps because people move there to live a hippy life—I mean a happy life—or the political mix. The people in rural areas don't care if the cities get waxed by anti-fascists. A 2008 analysis by political statistician Nate Silver on states' political ideology noted that the state's conservatives were the most conservative of any state (more so than Utah or Tennessee) and that the state's liberals were more liberal than any state (more so than Vermont or D.C.).

For now, a Trump judge ruled in favor of ANTIFA . Let the demolition go on—happy winter. 'Justice has been served': Gov. Tina Kotek, others praise judge's ruling blocking troops to Portland.

FBI Political Affiliations: Is the FBI politically Republican-charged? There is some social media claim that since the 1950s, no Democrat was leading the FBI. If you are counting James Comey, Robert Mueller, and Christopher Wray as Republicans, you perhaps need to note there is a litany of Trump haters in the Republican Party. But for good measure, it is called the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and nominations are approved by Congress and controlled by the AG and the US intelligence committee. Wonder why this is a question when Trump is president? Looks to me, with 90% lawyers on committees, like a straightforward legal matter. And shifting priorities —left and right have extreme activism . It is just a question of who you ask, so why not check them both accurately? But mental sickness is not part of an ideology—unless some publishers are politically biased.

September 2025: Energy, Alliances, and the New Geopolitics: Ukraine, BRICS, and the Middle East

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 16:32:33 GMT

Global Reactions to Charlie Kirk’s Assassination and the Weaponization of Law

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 16:25:09 GMT

US News: From Celebrity Resorts to Authoritarian Drift: Law, Media, and American Outrage

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 14:56:10 GMT

US News: September, 2025 - ANTIFA, Charlie Kirk, and the Politics of Violence

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 14:42:24 GMT

Geo Political News - September 2025:China’s Global Governance, Brazil’s Reckoning, and the Future of Western Power

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 16:50:07 GMT

China’s Global Governance, Brazil’s Reckoning, and the Future of Western Power

Geo Political News - September 2025: Immigration Battles, Middle East Proxy Wars, and Europe’s Gamble in Ukraine

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 16:21:32 GMT

Immigration Battles, Middle East Proxy Wars, and Europe’s Gamble in Ukraine

US News: September, 2025 - Epstein | The Fourth Amendment & Illegal Immigrants | Private Equity & the US Economy

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 18:01:28 GMT

US News: September, 2025 - School Shootings, Worker Shortages, and Political Theater

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 17:51:10 GMT

Geopolitical News: Shifting Fault Lines: How Ukraine, Gaza, Brazil, and Global Elites Redraw the Map of Power

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 20:44:23 GMT

US News: August, 2025 -Statistics, Crime, and Political Power Games

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 19:41:31 GMT

US News August, 2025 - The Authoritarian State? ICE, Immigration, and Political Narratives

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 19:08:27 GMT

Global News, August 2025:Nationalism, Faith, and Foreign Influence - From Germany’s AfD to Gaza and Brazil

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 17:26:35 GMT

Global News, August 2025: Zelensky, Putin, and the Alaska Summit: What’s Really at Stake

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 16:55:35 GMT

US News: August, 2025 -From Epstein to Ukraine: How Scandals and Global Shifts Shape U.S. Politics

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 21:18:00 GMT

US News: August, 2025 - Inside the Democratic Divide: Old Guard vs. Progressive Wing

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:28:54 GMT

Geopolitical News: Tariffs, Ukraine, Russia/China, and Global Strategy

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 21:50:09 GMT

Global News, July 2025: Europe, Palestine, and Immigration

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 21:27:39 GMT

US News July, 2025 - Politics, Immigration, and the Deep State

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 19:18:08 GMT

July, 2025 - Economics, Global Affairs, and American Health

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 20:20:18 GMT

US News July, 2025 - The Big Beautiful Bill & More

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 13:37:05 GMT

US News: July, 2025 - Legal Warfare, Media Distrust, and the Weaponization of Politics

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 13:03:38 GMT

Global Politics 2025: Alliances, National Interests, Economic Decline, and the Rise of China

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 15:33:50 GMT

The Middle East: Religious Extremism and the Failure of International Institutions

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 17:42:52 GMT

US News: June, 2025 - A Parade honoring 250 years of Military - Leads to Trump being negatively labeled a "King"

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 16:52:47 GMT

US News: June, 2025 - Immigration, Social Policy, and Institutional Responses

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 16:36:58 GMT

Global Diplomacy and Religious Conflicts in the Middle East

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 14:57:13 GMT

War, Media, and Democratic Institutions at the Global Level

Sun, 15 Jun 2025 14:49:16 GMT

US News June 2025 - Beyond the Three Branches: Legal Influence, Trade Wars, and Immigration Reality

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 15:55:40 GMT

US News June 2025 - When Elite Institutions Serve Foreign Interests: Media Bias and the Harvard-China Connection

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 15:24:21 GMT

China, Taiwan, and the Future of Global Power

Fri, 30 May 2025 19:02:20 GMT

Israel, Palestine, South Africa, and Western Morality

Thu, 29 May 2025 18:47:13 GMT

As a continuation of the summit in Helsinki , the following conference that included Presidents Bush and Gorbachev took place in November 1990 in Paris. The conference included 34 nations, each a part of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe (CSCE) . The conference resulted in the signing of the Conventional Armed Forces in Europe (CFE) treaty by members of NATO and the Warsaw Pact. The states of the CSCE also made arrangements to hold similar high-level political meetings regularly to build upon efforts to prevent conflict, control arms, and safeguard elections within these countries. [4]

Netanyahu, Israel’s Premier, invokes the Old Testament—an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. Since Israel and its supporters portray it as the homeland of Jesus, perhaps the phrase love your enemies was forgotten when the British mandate over Palestine expired and the State of Israel was born—with official recognition from both the U.S. and USSR. With the latest escalation in the conflict and a vow to eliminate Hamas , it appears that the escalation includes the elimination of Gaza . Those unable to flee are seemingly treated as legitimate targets in what some interpret as a strategy to clear the territory for Israeli expansion. What about Trump’s plan to buy the territory and rebuild? That would involve resettling many refugees, but is that worse than killing them? Trump is turning his focus to the broader Middle East , aiming to unite the “non-violent” actors and build a peace coalition, thereby restraining Iran’s allies (presumed to have UN protection), who are often seen as the root of instability. So why are evangelicals supporting the violence —alongside the Jewish elite— while the Left and Europe begin to reconsider their stance ? Are all Palestinians terrorists? What is the true meaning of “from the River to the Sea” —a call for democracy or a religious conflict between Islam and Christianity? And then there’s the UN, watching? And the new Pope, pleading for aid —but peace talks? Only Trump?

Shortly after his inauguration, Chancellor Merz made his mark on German politics by deploying permanent troops to Lithuania— you be the judge —possibly to support allies under the guise of protection. His actions won’t help global stability, and insiders in Germany do not dismiss the possibility of aggression reminiscent of WWII, now reframed under the narrative that Russia is the enemy. He will certainly support Zelensky unconditionally, using the war as justification to rebuild EU military strength. European Union leaders concluded a busy defense-focused week by endorsing a landmark plan to unlock €800 billion ($866 billion) in European military spending—though internal political divisions remain.

Nelson Mandela, upon becoming South Africa’s president, emphasized moving forward together—not retaliating for the past. One reason for his divorce was reportedly that his wife had a more radical, vengeance-driven outlook, which he believed was incompatible with building a democratic society. Yes, apartheid was real, but reversing the oppression with retribution only prolongs emotional wounds. One has to ask what is just . Perhaps Trump has a point— crime is rampant . But of course, there are always two sides to a story .

Nelson Mandela's greatest accomplishment was to unify South Africa and push for reconciliation between blacks and whites in the post-apartheid era, F.W. de Klerk, the country’s last white president, said on Thursday.

"He was a great unifier and a very, very special man in this regard beyond everything else he did. This emphasis on reconciliation was his biggest legacy," de Klerk, 77, said in an interview with CNN after the announcement of Mandela’s death at age 95.

Almost thirty years later, amid high levels of poverty and deprivation, and the deterioration of social services, the question is being asked ever more urgently: did the ANC sell out the ideals of the liberation struggle?

split

Russia vs. NATO: A Crisis of Democracy, Sovereignty, and Western Interests

Tue, 27 May 2025 18:38:25 GMT

US News May 2025 - Are "Tariffs the New Covid"? | The Role of Judges in Deomcracy

Fri, 23 May 2025 18:27:39 GMT

US News - May 2025 - James Comey Message and the Health of Joe Biden

Fri, 23 May 2025 18:07:31 GMT

86 – 47 : No more drinks for the President - That was Mr. Comey’s message from the beach .

With that, did he intend to demonstrate his incompetence as former FBI Director? He may have heard the word MAFIA, but does he realize the President doesn’t drink? Is he coordinating assassination attempts, just as he was the mastermind behind the Hillary Clinton private server investigation, acting as an asset of the deep state?

In the mafia, the term "86" refers to taking someone "eight miles out of town" and putting them "six feet under."

Visiting Angel’ at the White House, the Hur report may indicate that Dr. Jill was the President, and best friend Hunter the Influencer—was he not present on nearly every trip and a permanent resident at the White House? That might be an unfair attempt to give them any credit, but they certainly did a great job for the so-called saviors of democracy who organized Biden’s elections and declared him fit for re-election, fooling a nation for power. But that is also democracy, as the people voted for him.

This only raises the question: what is the definition of deception and a lie? If the Mafia were a legitimate organization, the punishment would be an 86. Imagine the call for all Biden supporters in politics and the media, while the same people think Trump is a NAZI and a dictator? Here’s a short read on TDS, Trump derangement symptoms —unfortunately, is the only cure an 86 on him?

May 2025 - Geo Political News Round Up

Tue, 20 May 2025 17:45:19 GMT

As the tariff negotiations with China are currently underway in Switzerland, it appears the US and UK have agreed to a deal that seems to be an icebreaker in the ongoing saga of tariffs. However, in the end, there will be changes to the world order and a shift in focus toward more discussions about saving the planet rather than war. As of this writing, a 90-day pause with China was agreed , lowering tariffs, while China will likely have to consider some of the US demands. Here is a lesson in journalistic economies ?

Friend shoring demonstrates that there are no friends or foes in politics , only interests. Even when the world’s resources were not material but simply dirt—more or less fertile—even in agricultural societies, wars and contests were common, whether for territory, ideology, or personal gain. So when people promote friend shoring, it’s more complicated these days. Just look at rare earths—it's not just dirt, is it? Friend shoring for military technology is another example; read about it for yourself.

Still, there is ongoing dialogue but no long-term resolution. After Trump’s plan to control Gaza, Israel appears set to take charge instead, once again negotiating for the release of hostages and the evacuation of civilians , while the world looks on as bystanders . If trade can solve the problem , then make a deal.

Here’s some food for thought —liberals may be rebellious about it, but the trend all over Europe is clear: MAGA is going global, especially with an economy in tatters and failing negotiations with Ukraine. There are more sanctions, but what can they sanction that the rest of the world cannot counter? The EU is simply a bureaucratic ideology serving its own interests.

The EU wants more liberal students —which is fine, as long as we keep the STEM talent. They need more protesters , as long as the UK remains the leading provider of education ?

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Monday slammed U.S. President Donald Trump's campaign against American higher education as she unveiled a half-billion-euro plan to attract foreign researchers.

Victory, Aftermath, and the Endless Game: Reflections from WWII to Ukraine

Fri, 16 May 2025 17:39:31 GMT

May 8, a day in history, marks the end of WWII in Europe with the surrender of Germany , but was it really an ending? As with many wars, especially the ongoing Ukraine and Gaza conflicts, and the renewed animosities between India and Pakistan, one might wonder: have enough people died in wars? Perhaps some wars are justified, but often only after provocation. If you consider the basics of relationship building, communication is a key concept, but there is a difference between communication and simply talking. Perhaps we need more communicators and unified voices in government, whether rooted in realism or liberalism . Are these better choices, or in the end, are NGOs and individual voices the problem after all? We hope that reason will prevail—the only lasting fundamental principle—but is it really, or is it just another cause or excuse?

Reason, the cause of an event or situation , or something that provides an excuse or explanation : War forever, according to this lawyer, yes . The UN Security Council is another voice that only speaks after the war, sometimes fueling the fire. Consider the Oxford Guide to Treaties —are these more sources of conflict than resolution? And historians—well, some of them are just presenting a version of their own vision of the world.

How was Germany rebuilt after WWII ? Was it help on one side, and taking what you can on the other? The USSR suffered greatly and had to rebuild on its own, but why was the offer of the Marshall Plan rejected—was it due to mistrust, as we see today? Perhaps the reset button requires talks among all, but please, let the haters and ideologues out of the room—only communicators and stakeholders should be present, haters out, which probably means no Selinsky.

Beginning immediately after the German surrender and continuing for the next two years, the United States pursued a vigorous program to harvest all technological and scientific know-how, as well as all patents in Germany. John Gimbel comes to the conclusion in his book, Science Technology and Reparations: Exploitation and Plunder in Post-war Germany, that the "intellectual reparations" taken by the U.S. and the UK amounted to close to $10 billion, equivalent to around $150 billion in 2024, [3] [4] concurrent to Operation Paperclip .

The plea for a two-party political system (translation needed) stands in contrast to the idea of a global one-party or multi-party system as seen in European countries. Attempts at a global one-party system were made by the Romans and some other early cultures , but none proved sustainable by force or government—though that was before the advent of modern communications. Would things be different today? There are still forces hoping that may be realized, for global peace or power, as reflected in Elon Musk’s warnings about a single world government, Einstein’s global perspective , and people attempting to establish it, such as government by AI and supercomputer . Compare that to today’s European coalition building —for example, in Germany, Black/Blue coalitions seem politically unfeasible. In multi-party systems, the need to form coalitions to gain power may end in stalemates and concessions to the detriment of the people. Here is an overview of global systems and drivers of globalization .

The ongoing cat-and-mouse game between advocates for peace and war continues as representatives try to negotiate an end to the Ukraine conflict. Does it matter that Europe seems unified in the effort to defeat Russia with sanctions and arms, while the US seems to favor a negotiated peace? You can argue endlessly that Putin is the aggressor and invaded, but he will counter that with claims about NATO expansion and broken treaties by the West .

Is Germany evolving into the powerhouse of Europe, as it should be? After the election and the ousting of Chancellor Scholz, Friedrich Merz has somehow managed to establish himself as the new leader and has immediately begun to exert influence over Europe—at least, that’s what the German “Democrats” are hoping for.

So, when Trump appoints loyalists, it's called a dictatorship, but when Germany does it, it's considered democratic? Also worth noting: another Carnegie piece—and apparently every member of the German Cabinet favors war? Expect

Germany's defense Minister to keep Kaja Kallas as informant, hating in politics is never a good start. Imagine, 5 years to build up the military and then eliminate the hate, for good, using the Ukraine invasion as a reason.

Merz has deliberately centralized foreign and security policy coordination in the chancellery. To start, he has done away with the long-standing tradition of giving the Foreign Office to the main coalition partner, a practice that baked in foreign-policy dysfunction by setting up a separate power base held by a different political party. Now, for the first time since 1966, the chancellor and foreign minister will be from the same party—in this case, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU). New Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul is a party loyalist who will ensure alignment rather than competition with the chancellor.

Within the chancellery—where all important foreign-policy decisions are made—Merz has appointed close confidants to key posts: Jacob Schrot, a trusted trans-Atlanticist, as head of the newly created German National Security Council; veteran diplomat Günter Sautter as foreign-policy lead; and Michael Clauss to handle European Union affairs, which Merz wants to make a core strategic portfolio and to which Clauss brings credibility and experience, including significant work on China.

US Political News Round Up: Lawyers, Investors, and the New Age of Power and Policy

Fri, 09 May 2025 19:06:37 GMT

Remember the Biden-era stock market jubilations ? It was all about the Magnificent Seven —overhyped and overvalued. The tariff talk came at just the right time to disguise an overdue market correction. The administration framed it as “uncertainty over tariffs.” But no worries, like COVID, it will be “cured” by the same people who created it . Political noise on both sides continues to serve as distraction— like whistling at a referee during a soccer match.

Are lawyers and investors the most destructive forces in America? On one side, there are legal maneuvers that deter people from investing. On the other, roll-up acquisitions concentrate wealth that was once shared broadly. Bernie Sanders is on his “Oligarchy Tour,” pointing fingers at Elon Musk—but what about private equity groups (PEGs) ? Are they not a form of oligarchy? And PEGs owning law firms is legal—and mostly supported by Democrats. Try buying a house and living in peace ; your appreciation goes to investors. Under Bernie, it might become a kleptocracy ; under Kamala, a kakistocracy.

There are a variety of flavors of corruption. Currently, the most concerning kind is grand corruption . Grand corruption is when public institutions are co-opted by networks of ruling elites to steal public resources for their own private gain. It involves a wide variety of activities including bribery, extortion, nepotism, favoritism, cronyism, judicial fraud, accounting fraud, electoral fraud, public service fraud, embezzlement, influence peddling, and conflicts of interest.

The “party of youth” —as someone once said, “If you’re still a socialist at 40, you have no brain.” Harsh? Maybe. But look at the Democratic Party: do they seem to get wiser with age?

“If a man is not a socialist by the time he is 20, he has no heart. If he is not a conservative by 40, he has no brain.” — Winston Churchill

Why is fake news so persistent? It follows the same rule as bad customer service—the reputation sticks.

On fake news, consider Isaiah Berlin and Friedrich Hayek , knights of classical liberalism. Maybe that’s why Trump won—elites don’t put food on the table.

Liberalism and the Pursuit of Happiness

The root of fascism, communism, and all totalitarian ideologies lies in the naïve belief that there is only one correct way to live and that intellectuals can determine it with the certainty of natural sciences. Liberalism, by contrast, does not prescribe a singular way of life and this is its strength. It enables individuals with diverse beliefs, goals, and ambitions to coexist. This principle is embodied in the Declaration of Independence, which proclaims the “pursuit of happiness”—a pursuit meant for individuals to discover, not for the state to dictate. This is the core belief of liberalism.

With the Pope absent from climate advocacy, perhaps churches can fill the role . Whether lawyers act out of conviction or cash is debatable, but climate lawfare is on the rise. Are we heading back to gladiator justice—only with no one to fight?

The public trust doctrine had little to do with environmental law until the 1970s, when Joseph Sax argued it could support lawsuits to defend public resources.

Are law firms above the law ? Consider the government’s action against Perkins Coie , blocked by Judge Beryl Howell , an Obama appointee. Will we ever find answers to the big questions—like assassination attempts?

President Trump’s executive order against Perkins Coie was ruled unconstitutional and retaliatory. It cannot be enforced.

This ruling marks the biggest legal setback in Trump’s campaign against firms representing his political adversaries— many of which challenged the order in court .

It’s all in the family. Once lawyers secure a case , the food chain never ends. Knowing the system matters—justice is second. And sometimes the lawyers themselves become the story.

Abbe Lowell’s communications were ruled outside attorney-client privilege in a 2020 opinion by Judge Howell. The reason: potential evidence of crimes and involvement of non-lawyer third parties.

And finally, on tariffs: if your population can’t afford the goods they produce, your export model collapses. Without a home market , tariffs eventually hit hard. Two years from now, Democrats may still hate DJT—but maybe they'll admit he saw it coming.

U.S. News – May 2025: Could American Education & Athletics benefit from the Integration of Apprenticeships and Academys?

Wed, 07 May 2025 18:12:27 GMT

The betrayal of the American school system is evident when education becomes a secondary priority—supplanted by sports and social wellbeing. While some countries prioritize STEM in their education systems, the U.S. seems increasingly focused on “alternative” social issues. The value system now places lawyers, judges, and welfare programs front and center—paving the way for more lawfare, entertainment, and injustice dressed as justice. Yes, football players generate revenue , but so do scientists and engineers. Imagine if every ambulance chaser became an engineer designing fault-proof devices—the only downside? An hourly rate of $50 versus $250–$1500.

Where is Congress in setting the tone? Nearly all members are lawyers. And while student loan debt exceeds $2.8 billion , we’re still debating whether to pay a third-grade volunteer assistant coach. It’s legal insanity. Next up? Pool, pickleball, darts, and cricket just to earn a buck. Maybe we should only have Division I colleges—and let sports fund all education. That, of course, would be a myth for the ACLU .

Claudia Wilken is the jurist who will have the final say on the pending $2.8 billion settlement of a class-action lawsuit that is set to end the NCAA’s decades-old rules that have prohibited players from getting paid. It’s no exaggeration to say that the future of college sports rests on her decision.

The deal Wilken is scrutinizing would award back pay to thousands of athletes, while allowing schools for the first time to pay their athletes directly from the billions of dollars they help generate. For an NCAA that had long sold the public on unpaid amateurs as central to the appeal of college sports, it is an earthquake. To athletes, it’s a revelation.

European countries with apprenticeship systems educate roughly 60% of their college-age population. Even China implemented apprenticeships to address labor skill gaps. Meanwhile, the U.S. nurtures a college-for-everyone model, wasting millions for the profit of lenders and sports leagues that draft “free” talent. Sports are not an academic curriculum. The education and sports industries must be separated—eliminating the need to “draft” students to fill classrooms. The NFL could easily run junior leagues with the money colleges spend on coaches .

Adopting apprenticeship programs in the U.S. would have clear benefits. But what happens to colleges that lose 60% of their students? And where does that leave the millions glued to TVs each March and fall? Education versus entertainment. With only 0.1% of college players turning pro, what happens to the 99.9% after graduation? Watching from the couch?

In much of the world , especially in soccer, elite athletes are developed from a young age by professional clubs—not schools.

Take Alan Carleton , as an example of how the system could succeed in the US.. The summer before his junior year, he became the first “homegrown” player to sign with Atlanta United FC in Major League Soccer.

Atlanta United’s owner, Arthur Blank—who also owns the Atlanta Falcons—picked up Carleton from his Powder Springs, GA home in a Mercedes-Benz van to take him to a signing ceremony at The Varsity, a local Atlanta diner.

Is it time for the U.S. to adopt a European-style model where pro clubs develop athletes and schools focus solely on academics?

Another cultural debate making waves is the missed opportunity of not following seahorses in the sexual evolution cycle. Today, anything outside of “gender neutral” is treated as scientific radicalism. Gender ideology debates rage on, while perhaps Elon Musk has a solution he’d never use. Like it or not, we are male and female. Clothes and cosmetics don’t change biology. Feelings— no matter how intense —aren’t science. Ask Meta AI , or just be yourself—and be tolerant in both directions.

But that's not their only oddity. Seahorses swim vertically, lack pelvic fins, have bony plates over their bodies, and move their eyeballs independently. Perhaps most distinctively, the males carry babies and give birth to them instead of females.

Global Power, Trade, and Rising Nationalism - GEO April 2025

Thu, 01 May 2025 15:29:55 GMT

The Western War Paradigm – Russia, Ukraine, and the Rise of Hardliners

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 15:06:30 GMT

Democratic Divides: Immigration Policy, Party Tensions, and Defining Gangs

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 12:58:28 GMT

Generational divide - The Democrats dilemma

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 13:24:38 GMT

Generational divide, ideological alliance —the Democrats' dilemma. In the search for a new leader, Bernie Sanders with AOC may appear as the perfect ideological duo—but will their platform ever become mainstream? Probably not. Oligarchs exist on both sides of the political aisle—some overt, others working as lobbyists or influencers.

George Clooney could be an intriguing candidate; he arguably has as much intellect as Joe Biden and could deliver a performance on par with Volodymyr Zelensky. Maybe someone will convince him. After all, Ronald Reagan became a great president. Clooney’s favorite, Wes Moore , could be the first president from Maryland—and that may be enough for Democrats. This thought is permeated by the fact that his wife, Amal Clooney, is a British-Lebanese activist who specializes in international law and human rights. She's known for representing high-profile clients like former Ukrainian prime minister Yulia Tymoshenko and WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange. She's also advocated for causes like the release of Al Jazeera journalists and the return of the Elgin Marbles.

February 21, 2025: George didn’t think he’d have “much of a chance” with Amal when they first met. In an interview with The New York Times , Clooney said he didn’t expect Amal to be interested because of their age gap. “Then I didn’t really think I’d have much of a chance with her because I was 17 years older and she seemed to have everything she needed,” he said. He also admitted he wasn’t initially “in the market for being a dad,” but that quickly changed.

“Then I met Amal, and we fell in love. I have to say that, after that, everything made sense,” he said.

Then there's the infighting and wishful thinking. Take your pick. Maybe Thom Hartmann should run in 2028—he certainly offers the kind of fantasy-based commentary needed to stir debate. He’s from Grand Rapids, a town devastated by outsourcing to China. He could have starred in “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest,” but instead, Amway revitalized the area, and now, the city is back on its feet.

It’s time to retire some dinosaurs from Congress. Pelosi, Schumer, McConnell—their visibility is fading. While the rallying cry is to “save democracy,” what we often get is lawfare, not leadership. From immigration to budget battles, ideology seems to drive opinion polls more than solutions. The opposition seems more focused on ensuring the administration fails, just to say “I told you so.” Take tariffs —there’s a case to be made, but it requires action. Instead, it’s easier to redefine economics to fit a narrative or litigate the issue endlessly. The 50501 movement claims to speak for the people , but it dismisses the outcome of November 2024 and the agenda voters elected.

Overall, the median age of House Democrats is 57.6, while House Republicans average 57.5.

In the Senate, the median age of Democrats is 66.0, slightly higher than Republicans at 64.5.

According to the Congressional Research Service, 170 House members and 60 Senators are lawyers. Out of 535 total legislators, lawyers make up 43% of Congress—60% of the Senate, and 37.2% of the House. There are 81 Republican lawyers and 123 Democrat lawyers who list "lawyer" as their profession. Some may also hold law degrees but work in other roles, such as doctor, industrialist, teacher, or real estate agent or broker. The medical and real estate professions are also strongly represented in Congress.

April 2025 Geopolitical Round Up: Tariffs, Tesla & the "Global Green Outcry"

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 12:41:54 GMT

Geopolitical News: The Tariff War & Social Contagion

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 12:24:21 GMT

US Politics Round Up - April 2025: Unions Win, Kids Lose—Chicago’s Costly Education Stalemate and the National Fallout

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 13:55:14 GMT

Tariffs, Protests, and the Media's War on Trump

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 13:04:17 GMT

US News: Teachers, Tariffs and Immigration

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 14:07:08 GMT

Government shutdown averted, but at what cost for the Democratic party ? Is the new generation of Democrats so ideological that it raises the question of renaming them "Dementor-crats," taking ideology to defy any logic . Their hatred for Elon Musk and Trump runs so deep that they end up contradicting themselves. There is no question that the budget deficit now requires immediate action —not more taxes that suppress overall spending, but policies that fuel economic growth and increase tax revenue.

Immigration : With border crossings at near-zero levels , we now have an opportunity to implement a merit-based immigration system to attract the skilled labor needed to support reshoring efforts. While it may not reduce the overall number of immigrants, it would shift budgets—moving from dependency to immediate economic contribution. The skilled labor gap is a documented reality —there is no denying it.

The Teachers Union continues to claim it's helping everyone, yet it’s failing to educate children. Anger over budget cuts distracts from years of waste, and most states arguably perform better. The U.S. education system is currently ranked #31 globally , yet—like many Democrats—the union blames everyone else for its failures. Despite ranking #1 in per-pupil spending , the system cannot deliver the diversity and choice families want. So, who are we listening to—parents or unions ?

The left’s hysteria and the moralist justification of a “better world” have become the Democrats’ response to Donald Trump. There is no debate—just ideological warfare, with opponents labeled as criminals. Are there too many litigation lawyers like Jamie Raskin in government, or ideological foot soldiers like Maxine Waters and AOC? Ultimately, voters decide—or is it the ideological elite’s money machine that pulls the strings toward a one-party state? Will we see another “Summer of Love” (see 2019) and morality war ? “Moralistocrats”—a word you won’t find in any dictionary.

If politics cannot divide a country, try tariffs . Is it a trade war or just leveling the playing field ? Opinions split along party lines as globalist thinkers rally to align the world against Trump . Could this be another attack on democracy—driving Americans into recession with help from the Canadians and European elite , propping up failing economies? Maybe it’s time to return to the GATT agreement and move on from the WTO.

A tariff is a tax imposed by one country on the goods and services imported from another country to influence it, raise revenues, or protect competitive advantages . Governments impose tariffs to raise revenue, protect domestic industries, or exert political leverage over another country.

US News - From War Mongers to Peace | DOGE Hysteria & More

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 13:17:06 GMT

March 2025 Geopolitical Round Up: Global Tensions and Shifting Alliances

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 20:26:38 GMT

Trump's Foreign Policy: Strength, Negotiation, and Global Realignment

Sat, 15 Mar 2025 20:16:24 GMT

US Political News Round-Up – March 2025

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 21:36:28 GMT

Tariffs, Dogecoin, and the Popper Paradox: Navigating Trade, Tolerance and much more in 2025

Karl Popper serves as a good reminder in the Paradox of Intolerance .

The linked video explains it best, but the "Karl Popper paradox of tolerance" is essentially the idea that a truly tolerant society must paradoxically be intolerant of intolerance to maintain its tolerant nature. Popper argued that if a society is boundlessly tolerant, including towards those who are intolerant, it risks being overtaken by the intolerant, ultimately leading to the destruction of tolerance itself

Guantanamo Bay —is it solving a problem or creating new ones? Is it aiding or punishing? Perhaps it could be repurposed as a detention center for cartel members and violent illegal immigrants with a proven criminal record. - For other illegal immigrants whose only offense is unlawful entry, would it be more effective to process their paperwork in fast-track transition camps within 45 days? - Is today’s world worse off than 1939-1945 ? Perhaps, but we have many more lawyers now. Maybe enlisting a million of them for a 12-month service would help. - For now, the immigration department is catching up. A facility is already opening in Texas , but let’s see if the ACLU files a lawsuit before it even begins operations.

It is pretty busy out there—have you ever imagined that container traffic is this dense? - Could reshoring and reducing reliance on global shipping help save the planet ? - And what’s happening in the air ?

Hampton Dellinger —what exactly are his responsibilities , and why does it take a politically active judge to protect his position? - Is his role really about protecting whistleblowers ? - The list of accomplishments isn’t particularly groundbreaking—does it function more like a grievance board?

“The Special Counsel’s job is to look into and expose unethical or unlawful practices directed at federal civil servants, and to help ensure that whistleblowers who disclose fraud, waste, and abuse on the part of government agencies can do so without suffering reprisals.” – Judge Amy Berman Jackson

Is Mr. Sunshine already ruining his chances for the presidency before the midterms? - According to a survey of Californians , political extremism is a bigger concern than the economy. - While Silicon Valley and Hollywood thrive, many Californians are falling behind on their bills . Time will tell.

Solving the world’s problems —trade deals worked after WWII, but then ideological wars disrupted stability. - Could President Trump build a better world by prioritizing economic opportunities over conflicts? - A new semiconductor deal might secure chip supplies and make Taiwan less of a target for China.

DOGE resistance is heating up —not politically, but in legal disputes. - Twenty-three attorneys general are pushing back, but expect many more legal challenges. - Meanwhile, union membership is increasing, and taxpayers will foot the bill. - Will Elon Musk’s legal battle set new precedents?

Tariffs may have a short-term impact on the economy, but with negotiations in progress , it is too early to indulge in doomsday predictions. Common sense will likely prevail, leading to compromises that may not satisfy everyone but could bring us closer to the WTO ideal. Why is the WTO not involved in these negotiations? Was Biden simply not interested, or are there more sinister interests at play?

The Anti-Trump Agenda: Democratic Strategies, Internal Divisions, and the Role of Influencers

Sun, 09 Mar 2025 13:24:54 GMT

Timothy Snyder is an American historian specializing in the history of Central and Eastern Europe, the Soviet Union, and the Holocaust. His most recent analysis displays that " Hate" is not a good advisor .

But if you checked the Democratic representation during the Joint session of Congress , their body language suggested otherwise. As long as the Democrats are represented by "Dinosaurs" like Sanders, Waters, and Pelosi, even their strongest strategists may face challenges.

James Carville , who is often outspoken, is shifting in rhetoric. Meanwhile, even a well-placed analyst will not change the overall impression .

Her family farm was part of Hygrade Meat Company, founded by her great-grandfather Samuel Slotkin, who emigrated from Minsk in 1900. Hygrade was the original company behind Ball Park Franks , now owned by Tyson Foods .

Chris Murphy commented via MoveOn.org but offered no solutions. Mary Trump , a psychologist, has long been a staunch critic of her uncle, frequently warning of the risks he poses.

She said she was traumatized by his 2016 election win, fearing that he was uniquely ill-qualified to govern in a crisis.

Let's follow all legal challenges for now. The Supreme Court has addressed the USAID ruling . Ultimately, the government will need to navigate these legal hurdles.

Imagine: The endgame could be avoiding a Russia–BRICS alliance and instead fostering a Russia–US alliance, which could change the landscape of global peace. Given Russia and China's vast rare earth reserves, integration could be more beneficial than conflict.

Gaza remains a focal point, and time will tell how the situation evolves. If diplomatic efforts succeed, we may see meaningful negotiations unfold in the near future.

America's Role in Ukraine: Pivoting Policy, Peace Talks, and Strategic Trade Futures

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 21:17:16 GMT

Is Zelensky now running the world ? It appears so after his historic tantrum at the White House. Or is he merely a figure acting on behalf of the EU, Kaja Kallas, and European leaders (France, UK, Germany) to secure a seat at the table for “peace negotiations”? - Most likely, he is maneuvering to ensure continued EU support, including troops, while hoping that the EU convinces the Boltons of the US to send reinforcements as well. - Unfortunately for him, the US halted its advance in Berlin in 1945. Some on both sides may still be unhappy with that outcome. - Had Churchill and a real army continued, they could have pushed the Soviets back then.

Note: The longer this conflict drags on, the only real losers are Ukraine and Europe. It's time for the US to explore trade agreements with Russia and South America. Accessing Russia via Alaska or Greenland remains an option. Should Europe be left to the Romans ?

A Swiss newspaper featured an image of Mr. Murphy, who went on CNN after the meeting to ridicule JD and the President for their failure. Is he a traitor?

Note: Kaja Kallas is a staunch warmonger, believing only in dead Russians as a solution.

European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stated, “Today, it became clear that the free world needs a new leader. It’s up to us, Europeans, to take this challenge.”

Here is an excellent analysis of how it all came to be and the potential long-term downfall of Europe. The solutions, however, may be much closer than expected , less costly, and capable of fueling economic recovery.

A final reminder: All US Presidents have maintained a direct line to their Russian counterparts. Why isn’t anyone talking to Putin? Because Axios says so?

US Politics February 25 Round-Up: Kash Patel, DOGE Coin and Trump's Use of Executive Action

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 22:08:23 GMT

Geo-Political News Round Up - February 2025

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 22:51:11 GMT

The Trump-Musk Alliance: Reshaping America's Political and Economic Landscape

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 21:46:13 GMT

Democrats' Leadership Void | Declining American Education | Trump Holds Zelensky Accountable | US Politics - February 2025

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 21:21:13 GMT

The State of Leadership in Europe | Trump's Effect on Global Leadership

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 22:37:46 GMT

While all of Europe protests, Ursula von der Leyen , continues to consolidate her power, leading with an iron grip. Thanks to Trump, we did not see her escalate NATO and the EU into a full-scale war with Russia. On the other hand, she is a candle in the wind , deregulating the very policies that contributed to the decline of European industry.

It is all part of a pattern in which she and a close-knit circle of largely German advisers run the show, avoiding scrutiny from the European Parliament while maintaining strict control over messaging and communication.

So, Trump is disrupting European Biden allies and Zelensky's ambitions , preventing the flow of more weapons aimed at defeating Russia. Europe eagerly fell into the trap of uniting behind NATO under the guise of democracy, much like past historical strategies. Now, one after another , European leaders rush to Washington, and their unity is already unraveling as they begin throwing each other under the bus. Meanwhile, Britain still clings to the illusion of Churchill-era global influence. Perhaps a more realistic perspective is needed, along with an understanding of the origins of the Trump-Zelensky dispute . Trump, however, remains steadfast in his assertion that Zelensky is a poor actor.

All eyes are now on Germany. As expected, the conservative CDU/CSU won about 29% of the vote , with the AFD, labeled as a far-right party, securing 20%. Friedrich Merz is set to lead Germany, potentially isolating Europe from the U.S., viewing any U.S.-Russia diplomacy as an alignment with Moscow. However, Germany and the EU remain dependent on both U.S. and Russian energy. Given their limited natural resources and financial constraints, their posturing may prove to be little more than bluster. Meanwhile, Trump has the numbers to support his approach.

Friedrich Merz has long aspired to lead the EU, aiming to transform Germany and Europe into a military powerhouse. However, if Trump maneuvers wisely, peace in Ukraine could be achieved before Merz even forms a coalition. Interestingly, the AFD, with its 20% support , advocates for ending the war, whereas the other parties seek its continuation. This paradox sees the AFD branded as extremist for promoting peace, while Merz, pushing for long-range missile deployment, embraces the role of a war hawk. Perhaps a lesson on how to lose a war is in order before Merz assumes leadership.

For more context, here is an analysis from The Guardian . Time will tell if Merz’s ties to BlackRock influence his policies. Given BlackRock’s vested interests in Russia, their alignment with Trump’s approach may not be surprising.

As biographers Falke-Ischinger and Goffart write, Merz was expected to accompany the company’s management to client meetings, promote BlackRock at investor conferences, and facilitate discussions with members of the Bundestag and other political decision-makers. He described himself as an "active chairman of the supervisory board," leading the sales efforts. Meanwhile, his longtime political rival, Angela Merkel, maintained her preference for simplicity—symbolized by her fondness for traditional Pomeranian potato soup with bacon.

Geo-Political Focus - February: War, Resources, and the Battle for Global Influence in 2025

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 20:21:31 GMT

From Ukraine to the Middle East, global alliances are shifting as economic, military, and ideological battles redefine the world order.

US Politics - February 2025 | Bluesky, Biden, and the Deep State: How Politics, Media, and Big Tech Shape the Narrative

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 20:27:21 GMT

From Kamala Harris' future to Twitter’s exodus, legal battles, and Biden’s Hollywood ties—an inside look at the forces driving America’s political landscape in 2025.

Geo-Political Focus January 2025 (2) -The Global Reaction to Trump Taking Office

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 20:41:26 GMT

Global Power Struggles, Economic Realities, and the Shifting World Order

US Politics January 2025 - Trump Enters Office

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 15:22:23 GMT

Post-Inauguration Insights: Global Leadership, Domestic Realities, and Historical Reflections

Geo-Political Focus January 2025 - Shifts in Power as we Enter the New Year

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 19:44:29 GMT

Geopolitical Shifts, Leadership Legacies, and the Challenges Ahead in 2025

US Politics January 2025 - RIP Jimmy Carter | Biden's Final Pardons

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 16:26:35 GMT

A Reflection on Policy, Pardons, and Political Consequences

Geopolitical Focus - December, 2024 # 2

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 21:25:29 GMT

2025: A Call for Peace Amid Power Struggles and Global Tensions

US Politics | December, 2024 #2

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 20:03:21 GMT

Closing out 2024 in the United States with Border Controversies, Leadership Reflections, and the Future of Democracy

Don Lemon does not like Donald J Trump the 47th President elect being the Person of the Year by Time Magazine . What did Lemon forget, who he would have nominated, perhaps Jussie Smollett for his heroic staging of a reprehensible act of racism? Great for Mr. Trump, almost resurrected from the dead, more measured, controlled and likeable.

Jacobs said Thursday on “Morning Joe” that the choice to name Trump “Person of the Year” was “obvious,” precisely because of these historic moments — including the assassination attempt against Trump in July — and posited that “we are living in the Age of Trump.”

“For marshaling a comeback of historic proportions, for driving a once-in-a-generation political realignment, for reshaping the American presidency and altering America’s role in the world, Donald Trump is Time’s 2024 Person of the Year,” he wrote in an article Thursday .

While the AI leading state in the Nation finally finalized the election results, how come it takes 6 some weeks and then find 200 votes difference, now the house of representatives is only 5 votes apart , but that means democracy works and discussion and consensus are needed, some commentators however see it as a mandate for resistance, perhaps rather than DEI, we should teach democracy in our Schools , and practice it, some of it may last until adult age?

Why it matters: This could cause all kinds of problems for House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) and President-elect Trump as they try to quickly pass a sweeping conservative policy agenda through Congress.

Democrats are already formulating ways to kill party-line GOP votes and force Republicans to pursue a bipartisan approach to governance.

Driving the news: Rep. John Duarte (R-Calif.) told Axios he conceded to Democratic challenger Adam Gray after nearly a month of vote-counting.

Gray, who won by under 200 votes, declared victory in a statement saying he is "honored to become the Congressman-elect for California's 13th district."

House Democratic caucus chair Pete Aguilar (D-Calif.) boasted in a statement on Gray's win, "Republicans now have no room for error because of their historically narrow margin."

Never thought how little things make a difference, here is what some analysts think made the difference in the election, a mood swing to the Trump comeback with a small gesture, care about people.

Where are we heading with Trumps Cabinet picks , the so-called Trump cult, well one thing for sure, resistance and lots of noise, especially the DOGE activities will rock the house, imagine, Elon fired 80% of the Twitter employees for X, and what happened, nothing to notice, imagine Government got reduced by 80% and functions better? Hopefully Lobbying will be another topic that should be addressed, the US is the only Country with legal corruption, in all others it is listed under corruption .

Here a global look, population vs government size .

The number of people working for the government varies depending on the country. In the United States, there were around 19.23 million people working for state and local governments in 20221. This is much higher than the number of federal government employees, which stood at about 2.87 million people in that year. The federal government employs nearly 9.1 million workers, comprising nearly 6 percent of total employment in the United States.

And this from 2019 - As I outlined in an opinion column earlier this year, federal workers often enjoy pay and benefits that private sector workers can only dream of. For example, they receive pay that is 17 percent higher on average than private sector employees who perform comparable work, even though they work 12 percent fewer hours on average. Meanwhile, federal workers face a 0.2 percent chance of getting fired in any given year. That is more than 45 times lower than their private sector counterparts.

While full-time federal employee compensation and benefits are above market, at least these figures are relatively transparent and accountable. However, many taxpayers may not realize they are additionally subsidizing a ballooning shadow government of some 5.3 million contract and grant employees. While politicians often promise to cut the size of government, many fail to acknowledge the increasing number of contract workers.

The controversial , Pete Hegseth, Robert Kennedy Jr., Tulsi Gabbard, Kristi Noem, Elon Musk, well they may not be yes Sir people, however all of them have at least one thing in common, a vision of their own, and yes in line with the election agenda, so what is wrong. Probably one word, Fear, that they might be successful. I really look forward to two people, Robert Kennedy to take on big Pharma and the Food Industry, so both should help to lower cost, not eat more and take more pills, a paraoxons first class. Here a look what is on the Pharma Menu, and here part one of the MAHA Agenda. (Part 2) See what obesity delivers to the Pharma, and the Food people laugh all the Way to the Bank as well. Thank you Ozempic. It’s a circular economy folks, Biden economics?

Novo Nordisk, a pharmaceutical company, reported a 28% year-on-year increase in net profit1 . The company's profit rose 62% to $3.19 billion, and sales climbed 37% to $65.86 billion. For 2023, Novo Nordisk reported $33.7 billion in sales, beating analysts' expectations, and operating profit exceeded expectations by climbing 44% to $15 billion.

Remember the Words Joe Biden uttered, the most transparent Government ever. Well one thing he and Obama did well is spying , but really no surprise, for their understanding of transparency?

A new report by Open the Books , a nonpartisan government watchdog, has revealed that since 2021, the Biden administration has spent hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars on research related to "misinformation," a significant rise compared to the first Trump administration.

The increase in spending raises serious concerns about civil liberties and free speech online, especially on social media platforms, where much of the Biden administrations’ efforts were directed.

Since 2021, the Biden-Harris White House has spent at least $267 million on research grants and contracts related to "misinformation" or "disinformation."

Will AOC replace Nancy Pelosi , bet the chances are good and she may have a few Fetterman moments , that actually start to show some common sense, good for them, bad for the Pelosi partisans. Nothing wrong with people having an opinion and debate, that is a healthy democracy.

Freedom Cities , buzzword or an actual project , don’t worry, Trump will make it happen and it will be affordable housing for a lot of people, call them tech hubs or whatever, but it solves a problem.

On the campaign trail, President-elect Donald J. Trump outlined many big plans, from achieving energy dominance to carrying out the largest deportation operation in American history. Now, as his administration begins to take shape, enthusiasm is building for Trump’s proposed solution to the housing crisis: chartering new “Freedom Cities” using millions of acres of what is currently federal land.

“We’ll actually build new cities in our country again,” Trump said in the 2023 “ Agenda 47 ” video announcing his plan, which hinges on a contest to create up to 10 such cities.

The Clemency President, wonder what goes on in Bidens head, but certainly he has developed kind of a Mother Theresa approach distributing Money, forgive student loans and free people , or pardon, from protecting his Family with Hunters pardon, perhaps Diddy and Epstein post hum might be on the list, certainly no logic but was there ever any? Other items on the list, stonewall the Trump agenda with last minute actions and blue state policies.

And what about selling or auctioning elements of the Border wall? It is taxpayer paid and owed by the Government, being auctioned for cents on the Dollar to sabotage the further build of the Border Wall, bet Biden will pardon himself the last Day in office.

Alarming footage taken by a US Customs and Border Agent captured numerous flatbed trucks hauling away dismantled sections of the steel wall near Tucson, Arizona – a hotspot for illegal crossings – with the agent estimating a half-mile’s worth of parts are being removed daily, The Daily Wire reported.

“They are taking it from three sections: Nogales, Tucson, and Three Points,” the agent, who spoke under the condition of anonymity, told the outlet.

“The goal is to move all of it off the border before Christmas.”

The materials are being transported to Pinal Airpark in Marana, Arizona, where it’s being sold through GovPlanet , an online auction house specializing in military surplus, with bidding starting at just $5.

Online auctions for the parts — listed as Steel Bollard Wall Sections w/Grout — already happened this month, with another scheduled for Dec. 18.

So much we will do in the last 42 days, perhaps just step away and let go, 3 years and 11 month of chaos are enough, we do not need another 42 Days.

Who would have thought during his playing time that Prime Time would become Coach Prime . A Great story to tell , and a testament to a Men who lived it all, not saying he is easy, but you can never deny a great heart and it looks, the showman is not only a talent, but hard at work.

Living the Dream of democracy, what best to demonstrate your fight for democracy then to refrain from the inauguration? While some people buy their way (even Zuckerberg – in English Sugar Mountain) to participation, the resistance Elite boycott , and go on TV to save democracy.

Delusionists , Bidens people on all foreign policies and actions have not progressed the standing of the US in the world as a partner and dominant Power . Anthony Blinken may have had an agenda, but it all ended in Chaos. There is no denial, that on every continent, the Biden people lost, yeah Assad is gone but that was a coup with only worse outcome, see Afghanistan and Iraq, not to speak of all the people killed in the Israel / Gaza conflict, looks like Biden wanted more people killed than GWB? You can’t be any more cynical than what Blinken writes.

When President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris came into office, these revisionist powers were already aggressively challenging U.S. interests. These countries believed that the United States was in irreversible decline at home and divided from its friends abroad. They saw an American public that had lost its faith in government, an American democracy that was polarized and paralyzed, and an American foreign policy that was undermining the very alliances, international institutions, and norms that Washington had built and championed.

Just don’t look up – Drones above your head are just a nuisance and no one really wants to talk about, anyone really believes that no one knows , and no one can figure it out? Really, so we find all the bad guys in Gaza and Syria, but Hostages and Drones on our soil, nope. Maybe we should ask Netanyahu for some help. Maybe Zelinsky can’t try them out in the Ukraine , so they fly them over the US, in another favor for Hunters income, it will soon dry up?

Ukraine has dramatically amped up domestic production of both attack and reconnaissance drones since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. This year, the Ukrainian government allocated $2 billion to produce at least 1 million first person-view, or FPV, drones, which are equipped with cameras that transmit video to remote pilots. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told foreign arms manufacturers earlier this month that the country had already surpassed that, contracting 1.5 million drones in the first three quarters of this year. He added that Ukraine is now capable of producing 4 million drones annually. The government, military, private companies and regular citizens are all involved.

No Labels, Never Trumpers and Mitt Romney, the demolition crew in the 2024 election cycle, what is next? Let’s just call them what they are, perhaps the good old boys and girls, including Mitch O’Connell’, Nancy Pelosi, and all the forever politicians. Time for term limits, 12 years for Senate and Congress, and a ban / limit on lobbying, DOGE will clear the path.

That is it for 2024, enjoy a wonderful Christmas if you are a believer, if not enjoy the time in between the Years with your beliefs and spiritual guidance. For 2025 we all look forward, hopefully we find a way to talk to each other over a healthy meal, enjoy our freedom and work towards a more peaceful world, engage in dialogue not monologue and yes, respect and tolerance are part of that. We will be back in 2025, Happy, successful and Healthy New Year.

Geopolitical Focus | December, 2024

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 14:03:02 GMT

Geopolitical Focus – December, 2024: Global Power Plays: Politics, Media, and Economic Shifts as we head into 2025

US Politics | December, 2024

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 20:55:22 GMT

Post-Election America: Mandates, Resistance, and the Road Ahead

Just in time - US Manufacturing is a bit in a recovery mode, still not above the 50% mark but improving. The best indicator for the high paying jobs. You may have to wait well into 2025 to see the economy booming for all people again.

S&P Global’s U.S. Manufacturing PMI, released on Dec. 2, painted a similar picture of a manufacturing sector that remains in contraction, although with signs of improvement. The headline manufacturing index edged up to 49.7 from 48.5 in October, reflecting a slower pace of decline as demand conditions improved. While the ISM report showed new orders expanding, the S&P Global data indicated a contraction, albeit slight, with both reports pointing to stronger demand.

Geopolitical Focus- November, 2024 # 2

Sat, 30 Nov 2024 15:32:51 GMT

The Absence of Global Leadership and Its Impact on World Politics

US Politics | November, 2024 #2

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 17:41:49 GMT

Red Shift: The Aftermath of the 2024 Election and America’s Changing Landscape

And then, it was all red and silent for a minute. The Electoral College count stood at 312 to 226, with 76 million popular votes to 73 million. A US map showed a few scattered blue ink spots . This is the People’s Republic of the United States—a democracy resilient enough to withstand the test of time, reminding us of its core values when needed. And the best part? Message and connection triumphed over money and glamour.

The billion-dollar bubble surrounding Kamala Harris (try explaining that to a McDonald’s worker) after the “working-class Joe” had left, was nothing more than a showcase of elitism, woke ideology, and disdain for democracy . Substance was never part of the agenda. There was a propagandistic move to the “middle,” though progressive actions weren’t denied. Most of the campaign consisted of staying hidden, with occasional public appearances among like-minded supporters. It was a clear demonstration of democracy versus ideology. Whether you love or hate Trump, he single-handedly, without deterrence, led his team to victory—much like Michael Jordan did in his prime. Alongside him came a Republican-controlled Senate and House, completing the trifecta. If you want to see the numbers spent (and wasted), here’s an overview . The sheer amount of money tossed around is almost sickening.

Liberal pundits initially labeled the 76 million Trump voters as fascists and Nazis, but they soon realized the gravity of what had occurred. After a few days of internal disputes, it became clear that the Democratic Party was scattered like dirt after an explosion , with no one left to blame but themselves—or maybe the mirror. Snow White may even return in her original dress.

Without psychologists preparing them for election losses, what would the “snowflakes” do? Perhaps one reason Kamala lost is that 76 million people did not see Trump as Hitler, while many believed Biden had brought us closer to nuclear war than Trump ever had. It’s called peace through strength.

Maybe it’s time colleges prepared people for real life—learning to win and lose—rather than following “The View” standards . Hopefully, Canada and other countries are prepared for the Hollywood elite who might now seek asylum or refugee status . Michael Moore, who once predicted Trump’s loss, now finds himself, metaphorically, at a “toaster” in northern Michigan, steps from the Canadian border. The rhetoric from the left, however, often lacks taste. The Trump administration, for all its controversies, never publicly spoke against anyone but political opponents. So, why does the left stir its own supporters into desperation with yet another hate doctrine? Trump’s message has always been that the help people need belongs to the people—not paid administrators with an agenda.

Let’s conclude that the Democrats’ hypocritical care for the average American has simply worn out. Racism, woke ideology, and elitism are now a minority stance, and the liberal media has lost all but the hard-core haters—probably as few as the members of the U.S. Communist Party.

Nielsen Media Research revealed that on November 5, an estimated 42.3 million people watched the election across 18 networks. This marked a 25% drop from 2020’s 56.9 million viewers and a staggering 41% decline from 2016’s 71.4 million viewers.

These numbers highlight the diminishing influence of mainstream media, a decline driven by reduced public trust and a growing preference for digital platforms over traditional media.

Throughout the campaign, both Donald Trump and Kamala Harris largely avoided the mainstream media. Harris became the first presidential candidate to bypass an interview with Time magazine, while Trump used podcasters and social media platforms to amplify his campaign messaging.

Some side effects of the election results include criticism of spending priorities like the Clean Energy Act . Meanwhile, a North Carolina Democrat suggested copying the British political tradition by creating a Shadow Cabinet . (George Washington would have fallen off his horse at the suggestion!) Would Kamala Harris or Joe Biden be expected to “shadow” Trump? Interestingly, the person proposing this idea, a loyalist of Al Gore and Obama, has relocated to North Carolina after being deemed too moderate for California Democrats. It makes one wonder if law school teaches “ambulance chasers” how to play politics too.

Nickel, who ran for Congress in North Carolina’s newly drawn 13th Congressional District , claimed to be moderate despite a left-wing voting record, according to local analysis. He managed to secure the Democratic nomination.

Bill Maher, love him or hate him, spoke his mind after the election, urging Democrats to “look in the mirror.” One wonders if Nancy Pelosi has one—and whether she recognizes herself in it. Perhaps her political missteps reflect the same symptoms as Joe Biden’s gaffes.

And then there is Jen O’Malley Dillon , a Biden-appointed Kamala Harris campaign manager. Perhaps we should thank her for Trump’s election victory, as her poorly orchestrated campaign played no small part—or maybe it was just a bad actor in a bad script?

This year, while some states experienced smooth elections, others—like Arizona, Nevada, and Pennsylvania—again faced disputes. In Pennsylvania, for instance, the controversy wasn’t about the presidency but the Senate election . Why is it still impossible to establish clear rules that avoid lengthy recounts? Instead of declaring results after 24 hours, disputes drag on for weeks as “new ballots” are found. It may not be outright cheating, but it certainly feels like a system that rewards inconsistencies.

Now that it’s over, we move forward. Expect Trump’s second term to be different. This time, he won’t rely on sycophants from opposing parties, nor the military-industrial complex. He will take direct control, leaving the press to “eat crumbs” rather than influence policy. His Cabinet picks will reflect his vision: smart, accomplished individuals who prioritize voters’ interests over political labels. Business leaders and proven politicians will make up his team—not career political actors like Schumer, Pelosi, or McConnell. Full Cabinet portraits will follow in the next edition.

What will the international impact be? Perhaps “peace through strength” will regain its original meaning: dealing with reality while keeping weapons as a last resort. Dialogue will return, and the U.S. may shift from being a hegemon to a partner in global peace efforts.

Relations with Europe may remain tense, as the EU takes a backseat to individual nations. NATO could evolve into a peacekeeping alliance with more balanced contributions from its members. Leaders who joined the global chorus of Trump criticism may now have to reassess their stances. In a surprising move, Olaf Scholz and Trump have both called Vladimir Putin after years of silence. This signals a shift toward diplomacy and conflict resolution.

War mongers who feared a loss of U.S. influence may see a reversal of their expectations. Recognizing diversity while fostering cooperation could increase global influence and loyalty, signaling a new chapter in American leadership. France’s interpretation of Trump’s policies may soon require revision. China’s role in this evolving puzzle will be explored further in the geopolitical edition of November 2.

The final act of U.S. aggression under the previous administration came with the authorization of long-range missiles for Ukraine . While Trump advocates for peace, this decision pushed the U.S. closer to another Afghanistan-like quagmire—this time with the risk of nuclear escalation. U.S. troops actively guiding missiles in Ukraine represents a dangerous precedent. Could North Korean troops in Russia justify a declaration of war against Korea? Such reckless moves risk global stability under a president perceived as vengeful and short-sighted.

Perhaps, as Trump’s message resonates, more people will awaken to the potential for unity and practical governance. Even the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung , a liberal paper, acknowledges that Trump is not as unpredictable as critics claim.

FAZ: "Trump is not so unpredictable"

According to the FAZ , Trump avoids military conflicts and shifts the financial burden to other countries. NATO strategy may shift, limiting guarantees to nations meeting defense spending targets. For Europe, this signals a need to step up militarily. Meanwhile, Trump’s approach to the Ukraine conflict could involve a ceasefire and a demilitarized zone monitored by European forces, though its feasibility remains uncertain.

As Europe grapples with its next steps, it must decide whether to strengthen defenses or pursue rapprochement with Russia.

Geopolitical Focus | November, 2024

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 15:18:40 GMT

Geopolitical Focus – November, 2024: Aftermath of the US Election & Trump's Impact on the Global Scale

The US Election is Over , sort of. The man nobody expected to win has claimed victory—a triumph in the war of words, but not on the battlefield. There are now ample tools, such as tariffs, and a coalition of like-minded leaders ready to build a world based on tolerance and cooperation, rather than the elite-driven, war-mongering, two-class system perpetuated by the Democrats.

International cooperation may also be on the horizon. France, England, and Germany have all faced significant challenges due to the Ukraine conflict, leaving dissatisfaction among their people. For these nations, the time is ripe for a renewed focus on diplomacy. While optimism about change is growing after four years of preparation for this victory, there remain those who cling to outdated policies. Positive signs suggest a redirection of resources to more constructive efforts. However, under Biden and Blinken, many still believe Ukraine can win and are willing to deliver the goods , despite the high costs. The results in Gaza and Ukraine reflect clear losses. For some, war and propaganda are indistinguishable; for others, peace is the ultimate goal. But the significant challenges facing Ukraine, including a growing issue of deserters , remain overlooked.

Ironically, Biden promised to save democracy in the U.S., but he and his administration seem to have a skewed understanding of the term. While many right-wing leaders champion peace, the contrast is stark. Listening to figures like Putin, one wonders: does he sound any more debilitated than Biden?

The EU and NATO pundits often display clear biases. When the Georgian people elect a pro-Russian parliament, it’s labeled as interference. However, a pro-European win in Moldova is deemed entirely legitimate. The U.S. and EU might be better off stepping back and allowing the UN to mediate on a global scale. Although Antonio Guterres attended the BRICS summit, he is no longer regarded as a democratic leader. Perhaps Trump will convene a global peace summit early in 2025 to lay the groundwork for lasting diplomacy.

The EU may eventually realize that Obama-era tactics like spying on Angela Merkel are not conducive to diplomacy. Yet Ursula von der Leyen still pushes for a European spy agency. Perhaps she doesn’t trust the CIA, Mossad, or MI5. One wonders how Europeans feel about funding dual armies: one for their homeland and one for the EU.

Populism is populism , yet the global media often fails to understand the concept of people, popularity, and democracy. Leaders who follow election rules are labeled populists. By this measure, even Bernie Sanders might qualify—though communism rarely attracts mass appeal.

As Western democracies face internal struggles and increasing taxation, BRICS nations appear poised to assert global influence. With Trump in power, the U.S. may resist the socialist agenda and focus on peace through strength and diplomacy, ensuring prosperity and stability.

Some of those who have repeatedly been referred to as "populists" in a pejorative sense have subsequently embraced the term while seeking to shed it of negative connotations. [24] The French far-right politician Jean-Marie Le Pen for instance was often accused of populism and eventually responded by stating that "Populism precisely is taking into account the people's opinion. Have people the right, in a democracy, to hold an opinion? If that is the case, then yes, I am a populist." [24] Similarly, on being founded in 2003, the center-left Lithuanian Labor Party declared: "we are and will be called populists." [28]

Following 2016, the year which saw the election of Donald Trump as president of the United States and the United Kingdom's vote to leave the European Union —both events linked to populism—the word populism became one of the most widely used terms by international political commentators. [29] In 2017, the Cambridge Dictionary declared it the Word of the Year . [30]

The Axis of Evil – Losers and War, the definition of Evil by GWB, the Losers by the Elitist in the US Media, and the AXIS of War, the Western Democracies. The Words of War are not a definition of Donald Trump, they have been used for as long as the World exist. What has changed is the recipients, not on the World stage, that is part of the Game, but within the Media and the public here in the US, but it is not the Words they are upset about, it is only the one who speaks it. So, when the left globally define everyone not in alignment NAZI and Hitler or any other definition of Evil, it is all right.

Their concern on a global scale are a Woke War and Wars on sentiment, there is not a lot of historical reasoning and consideration, it is all about the moment, sympathy and emotions, and the War Mongers globally know how they play it, but listening to controversial voices, or different opinions , that may resolve issues, nope. (you may need to hit the translate button)

How do we prevent World War III ? Eurasia is the great hope for peace at the Valdai Conference in Sochi, on a snow-covered high plateau, a kind of Switzerland on the Black Sea. President Putin and Foreign Minister Lavrov come to classify the US elections.

So, what is the advice to Trump , probably plenty on the World stage but have the Leaders in support of the Ukraine learned anything, and continue the fear monger, Russia is bad approach or are we at a point to talk with all Leaders. It is astonishing, in 2016 everyone was afraid of War – even nuclear, then came Biden in 2020 and joy and hope, but since we have never been closer to WWIII? But all was good in democratic countries (per Media), and as soon as the US election is over, the bad one is coming? The foundation for Peace , excellent diplomatic relations, good economy, a solid justice system, and yes peace through strength, but please without Nukes, there is plenty of firepower without. There used to be a League of Nations , and an Economic Community , and it worked well, perhaps with the drawback of currencies, but then came the “visionaries” to create the EU , that has brought nothing but cost and division, and lots of politicians and lawyers to power, for all the wrong reasons. It is a completely unnecessary construct in today’s time, modelled after the US, which we all know works best if the Power resides in the States. You can note with sarcasm that they protect Europe from Russia; they are the co architects with the Expansion of NATO. The Pyromaniac at the Water hose. Here some US visionaries , among many others, peace through strength, but everyone has a place in this World, some in Prisons, others as refugees, but all within a countries order, otherwise the citizens become the prisoners. Hello California?

In Germany , Chancellor Olaf Scholz is battling a myriad of challenges, from a faltering economy to political opposition. His administration’s green energy mandates and perceived lack of leadership have alienated voters. Calls for re-election are growing louder, but logistical hurdles, such as delays in printing ballots, have postponed immediate action. As Germany navigates its internal crises, many wonder if the nation is shifting further to the right politically.

The German economy, once a European powerhouse, is facing severe de-industrialization. Skyrocketing energy costs have driven companies like Volkswagen to cut jobs and shutter factories. Industrial production has plummeted, with many attributing this decline to short-sighted climate policies and a lack of strategic planning.

In the UK , Keir Starmer’s government is under increasing scrutiny. Once hailed as a savior, Starmer now faces criticism for his leadership and policies. Figures like Elon Musk’s father have openly condemned the UK government’s actions, labeling them as authoritarian. Meanwhile, conservatives are rallying behind more economically focused and pragmatic leadership. As public sentiment shifts, the possibility of a political reset looms large.

The younger generation in Europe has been influenced by socialist ideals, but many question whether these policies can deliver long-term prosperity. Critics argue that increasing taxes and centralizing control have only exacerbated economic struggles, driving investors away and stifling innovation.

As Europe wrestles with these challenges, the dependency on the U.S. remains a central issue. Military and economic reliance on American support has limited Europe’s ability to act independently on the global stage. According to historian Yuval Noah Harari, Europe’s focus on trivialities has further weakened its geopolitical stance. Harari notes that the continent’s overreliance on U.S. technology and military power hampers its potential for self-reliance.

The Western Global Demise is evident as BRICS nations strengthen their influence. Countries like England, France, and Germany are raising taxes and burdening their citizens with increasing costs. However, in the U.S., Trump’s administration offers a stark contrast, focusing on economic growth, diplomacy, and peace through strength. As Europe grapples with socialist policies, the U.S. may chart a different course, prioritizing individual freedoms and economic innovation.

The government spending ratio is to increase by 2 percentage points of GDP, and taxes are to be increased by 40 billion pounds. Higher capital gains and inheritance taxes, the abolition of tax privileges for rich foreigners, higher social security contributions, etc. will drive investors out of the UK and drive up interest costs. Large corporations from the aviation and energy sectors and property owners are also to pay massively more taxes.

The young socialists in Europe continue to follow the principles of the 1968 movement . These ideals, rooted in the Communist Manifesto, focus on centralized control and collective benefit.

In doing so, the Jusos are faithfully following the "Communist Manifesto" of 1848, in which Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels nationalize and centralize and use for the benefit of society as a whole large parts of the communist workers' worldview, which was later referred to as "Marxism." In doing so, it is developed: "Once political power has been achieved, the use of violence will be unavoidable. The following measures must be implemented:

1. Expropriation of all land ownership.

2. Implementation of a strong progressive tax system.

3. Abolition of inheritance rights.

4. Confiscation of property from emigrants and rebels.

5. Centralization of financial institutions under state control.

6. Nationalization of transportation systems.

7. Establishment of state-sponsored industrial initiatives.

8. Creation of a mandatory industrial workforce.

9. Integration of urban and rural industries.

10. Provision of free public education and the abolition of child labor.

And what do the " Media Elite " have to say about it? Increased poverty and taxes, while peace, prosperity, and common sense are dismissed as unrealistic ideals?

US Politics | November, 2024

Sun, 03 Nov 2024 13:26:50 GMT

Election Countdown: Bidenomics, Strikes, Union Power, and the Political Landscape of 2024"

Geopolitical Focus- October, 2024 # 2

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 19:34:44 GMT

Observations of the 2024 Democratic Ticket: Political Maneuvering and Media Narratives

US Politics #2 | October, 2024

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 18:24:16 GMT

Final US Politics Update Before Election Day 2024

Geopolitical Focus | October, 2024

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 18:21:51 GMT

Geopolitical Focus – October, 2024: Is Global Leadership in Crisis Mode? -The Failures of Diplomacy, Trade, and War in 2024

US Politics | October, 2024

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 18:45:41 GMT

Election Countdown: Bidenomics, Strikes, Union Power, and the Political Landscape of 2024"

As we enter the last 30 days to the US election, President Trump returned to Butler to address a crowd of 60,000, while the Biden-Harris team seems to be showing cracks no one in the party wants to acknowledge. Biden is not over his ouster and is being kept off the campaign trail. Meanwhile, Harris appears desperate to distance herself from both her and Biden’s records over the past three and a half years. She is hoping to convince voters with non-substantive personal appeals, focusing on themes like it being "time for a woman," or highlighting her race. She also appears to see abortion as the defining issue for the next century. Much of their campaign, it seems, is fueled by disdain for Trump, coupled with vague promises about an "opportunity economy." Zero substance?

We hear little from the Democrats on the trail about accomplishments in solar and wind energy or progress on electric vehicle production, which has stalled. The Infrastructure Bill has produced no tangible results, and the Inflation Reduction Act hasn't shown any success either.

High-paying manufacturing jobs have been replaced by positions in bartending, retail, health care, and government sectors (see the September report). Despite these economic shifts, Biden still found time to hold a press conference, though he failed to mention Hurricane Helene and the FEMA disaster, focusing instead on the money being spent on immigrants and crossing paths with Harris’s "successes."

As CNN and MSNBC run out of fact-checkers, they’ve started importing them from Canada . God help the U.S. Governor Kemp stated that multiple calls had to be made, but there’s no organized press from Biden, Harris, or Mayorkas about the slow response in a quiet hurricane season.

So, what better arguments do they have other than January 6th, Liz Cheney, and Obama pulling the strings? Hollywood has gone quiet under the Diddy cloud, and hedge fund billionaires on LinkedIn throw money around (note, they’re all socialists). But does that really send a message other than "we want four more years of misery"?

The Insiders like the Biden family affairs, bringing in nepotism galore.

And here we find a selection of corporate U.S. interests that thrive on misery and perhaps prefer to keep the current system to their advantage.

Wall Street and corporate America aren’t known for embracing uncertainty, which might explain why over 90 business leaders recently endorsed Kamala Harris for president, saying the vice president would continue to "advance fair and predictable policies" that promote the rule of law, stability, and a sound business environment.

They claimed that a Democrat election is "the best way to support the continued strength, security, and reliability of our democracy and economy."

The endorsers include billionaire Mark Cuban, Earvin "Magic" Johnson, and former 21st Century Fox CEO James Murdoch. Laurene Powell Jobs, widow of Steve Jobs, is also supporting Harris, along with former heads of American Express, Merck, Starbucks, and Yahoo.

Now, let’s look at this hit piece on Donald Trump Jr. by the same author who wrote a book about Pelosi—the same Pelosi who helped her husband make millions through insider trading while claiming to advocate for the poor.

The War and Elite's Principal-less Party — as we approach the election, wars are escalating in Ukraine and Israel/Gaza, and diplomatic efforts seem to be failing or nonexistent. Money is being thrown around for political gains (see the Infrastructure Bill), while the key topics for the Democratic Party appear to be abortion, the end of democracy, and more government handouts. Everything else is just shallow rhetoric. And, as we’ve seen with elections or important issues in democratic nations, reason and critical thinking seem to be replaced with feel-good slogans and movements like #MeToo. Meanwhile, Wall Street loves Kamala, as do Hollywood and the social media giants—anyone with high morals or tolerance. Is that because our value system has adjusted to a time when wealth defined moral standing? We may not have a formal class or monarch system anymore, but the divide between the "haves" and the "have-nots" has never been clearer.

The UN Summit as a Global Power Act , and President Biden’s last act on the global stage , involves him telling us how he rescued the world from collapse, and that thanks to him, a few Ukrainians are still alive. The ceasefire between Gaza and Israel, he assures us, is just around the corner for a mere 12 months. And to top it off, he says he rescued the world’s democracy, which is why Kamala got on the throne, right? If he weren’t the President of the U.S., you’d call him a delusional moron.

"We must never forget who we’re here to represent," Mr. Biden said. "We, the people. These are the first words of our Constitution, the very idea of America, and they inspired the opening words of our U.N. Charter. I’ve made the preservation of democracy the central cause of my presidency." This summer, I faced a decision whether to seek a second term as president. It was a difficult decision.

Being president has been the honor of my life. There’s so much more I want to get done. But as much as I love the job, I love my country more. I decided after 50 years of public service, it’s time for a new generation of leadership to take my nation forward. My fellow leaders, let us never forget, some things are more important than staying in power."

Hillary Clinton , the inventor of the "deplorables" phrase, is still out there making comments about others being responsible for everything. Despite his media perception, she has stuck with her Husband Bill through thick and thin. Kamala’s husband, meanwhile, doesn’t seem to have any moral issues and is considered a great father. But if you think about the abortion angle, was it perhaps needed because the mother didn’t have an elite background?

So, while Kamala, with the help of ideological and moral defects in the media, the elite money donors with a communist agenda, Hollywood’s pseudo champagne-sipping socialites, and world improvers (as criminals and war movie actors), pushes forward—what logic is left in that? What are the morals and ideology of someone like Taylor Swift, besides a worship attitude from her followers and her advocacy for abortion? She’s dating a football player in one of the sports with the least respectful players—masculine to the point of perversity—celebrating bone-crushing hits with ape-like behavior. Yes, they do a lot of good off the field, but what does it say about a country when sports are your kid's parent? I used to watch football until the NIL rules turned academics into the loser.

But watch Catholics vs Convicts from some years ago—it sounds like a political drama in 2024. One team even scored 31 points against the odds. So, we’re not really looking at candidates based on their records; it’s like a DEI hire. Although the left-wing media might think that's racist, wasn't it Biden who wanted the most diverse administration? And who else was black and female? Her background with the Browns and inner circles certainly makes her attractive to Democrats’ understanding of democracy.

One of Biden's biggest appointees is the Chief of the Secret Service, Alejandro Mayorkas , a Cuban who likely thinks his parents betrayed his communist ideals by fleeing Cuba for the U.S. He is probably the most progressive immigration advocate ever. Are we really wondering why the Secret Service is dysfunctional? Considering both assassination attempts on Trump—especially the second one—are we really that naive to believe they were just random weirdos with weapons? Or did they have some help? The investigations in both cases reflect the mess of this administration. Make up your own mind, one way or the other.

Harris surrogate and President Biden's Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo called for Trump to be "extinguished for good" during an interview on Wednesday, just two weeks after the second attempt on his life.

Nomination — In December 2020, Cardona emerged as a candidate for United States Secretary of Education in Joe Biden's cabinet . Biden leaned toward Cardona over two high-profile teachers' union leaders, Lily Eskelsen García and Randi Weingarten , avoiding a potential rivalry between the NEA and AFT. [ 18 ] [ 19 ]

Cardona talks with reporters during a press briefing on August 5, 2021, at the White House.

Cardona was brought to Biden's attention by Linda Darling-Hammond , leader of the transition's education secretary search efforts, a role she filled for Barack Obama in 2008. The two had worked on numerous projects together. [ 12 ] Politico noted that "Hispanic lawmakers are stressing in particular the need for a Latina to join the administration." [ 20 ]

Cardona appeared before the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions on February 3, 2021. On February 25, his nomination was advanced by the Senate on a cloture vote of 66-32. He was confirmed on March 1, 2021, by a 64-33 vote. Cardona took his oath of office on the same day and was ceremonially sworn in by Vice President Kamala Harris on March 2, 2021. [ 23 ]

The fact-checkers debacle—during the VP debate, moderators cut JD’s mic after he explained the status of illegal/legal immigrants. Meanwhile, substantive answers were only requested from Republicans, as Harris and Walz were given free rein. Despite this, both Harris and Walz lost on content.

We will create high-paying manufacturing jobs through the so-called Bidenomics, now rephrased as the 'opportunity economy' (inspired by Tim Scott’s opportunity zones). However, in today’s world, the only apparent way forward is through strikes, with the support of the President and Vice President. The Longshoreman strike demonstrates this. Despite the millions made by union leaders, the workers will return to work after a 61% wage increase, preventing further price hikes. Kamala Harris, without a doubt, understands how price gouging and extortion work. Strikes are just another form of expression, compensating for the ongoing manufacturing slump . Imagine automotive workers striking due to automation, while the government boasts about productivity. This all feels unreal, much like everything else this administration does. The union president hails from New York, and his connections aren’t always clear. At least he enjoys a better life economically than 95% of Americans, which is why we should all join unions—though that will likely make everything cost 250% more.

Disputes with the government

The Justice Department has lost two cases against Daggett, where he was accused of being an associate of the Genovese crime family . [ 9 In 2005, during a trial, George Barone—a former Genovese 'soldier' turned state witness—testified that Daggett was under Mafia control. In his own testimony, Daggett portrayed himself as a Mafia victim, claiming Barone had threatened to kill him in 1980. [ 9 Daggett and his two co-defendants were found not liable in November 2005 for civil RICO charges of extortion conspiracy and fraud. [ 7 One of the co-defendants, Lawrence Ricci, disappeared during the trial; his body was found weeks later in a New Jersey diner, decomposing with multiple gunshot wounds. The murder remains unsolved. [ 9 Daggett has frequently clashed with the Waterfront Commission , which was established in 1953 to reduce organized crime influence at the Port of New York and New Jersey . Daggett has denied that any significant Mafia influence remains on the docks.

The fact-checking debacle during the VP debate resulted in moderators cutting off JD Vance’s mic after he clarified the differences between illegal and legal immigrants. Much like the Presidential debate, substantial answers were only requested from Republicans, while Harris and Walz were free to respond however they pleased. Yet, they still lost on content.

Trump's assassination Attempt —and the questions about who and why—is becoming more of a mystery than North Stream II. Like many other investigations into Trump (DOC, CIA, FBI, military, political), we may not want to dig too deep, as the files could disappear if Trump becomes president again. Marines were reportedly seen at the scene of the North Stream explosion, and now it's said that the drunken Ukrainians only lit the match. Google Trump assassination investigation, and you find nothing. Google North Stream II, and again, nothing. If Trump’s foreign policy voices have any say, they’ll give you a clue on how to save democracy forever —keeping Democrats in power forever. Note that JFK also questioned the military-industrial complex.

As former U.S. President Donald Trump takes another run at the White House, many observers are concerned about how his second term could shape civil-military relations. The Constitution enshrines civilian control over the military, but this relationship has been fraught at times. During Trump’s first term, senior military leaders, both active and recently retired, helped talk him out of his most dangerous ideas. Critics of the Trump administration were grateful for these officers who served as the "adults in the room," while Trump and his supporters believe the military thwarted his accomplishments.

Mark Cuban once said he'd like to buy Fox News and X (formerly Twitter). He talks a good game, but, unlike Elon Musk, Cuban hasn’t made a move. Yet he seems to understand Harris’s economic plan. Lesson learned: you can always start a business when someone goes on strike, but that doesn’t drive a Tesla.

Business Career

On July 7, 1982, Cuban moved to Dallas , Texas, where he first found a job as a bartender for a Greenville Avenue bar called Elan [26] [27] and then as a salesperson for Your Business Software, one of the earliest PC software retailers in Dallas. [28] He was fired less than a year later, after meeting with a client to procure new business instead of opening the store. [29] [19]

Mark Cuban co-founded MicroSolutions with support from his previous customers at Your Business Software. Initially, MicroSolutions operated as a systems integrator and software reseller. The company was an early proponent of technologies such as Carbon Copy , Lotus Notes , and CompuServe . [30] One of the company's largest clients was Perot Systems . [31]

The company grew to more than $30 million in revenue, and in 1990, Cuban sold MicroSolutions to CompuServe —then a subsidiary of H&R Block —for $6 million (over $14.7 million today). [22] He made approximately $2 million after taxes on the deal. [32] [33]

Geopolitical Focus - September, 2024 # 2

Sun, 29 Sep 2024 20:13:44 GMT

Observations of the 2024 Democratic Ticket: Political Maneuvering and Media Narratives

US Politics | September, 2024

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 20:23:03 GMT

Reactions to the Harris/Trump ABC Debate & More

The Walt Disney News welcomed the hosting of the debate, which was aired by ABC, a network owned by Disney. This raised concerns about controlling the narrative. The chairwoman of ABC, Dana Walden , is not just a donor, but a long-time friend of Democratic politicians. Does this smell of election interference or party favors? It certainly brings to mind Chris Wallace's role in assisting Joe Biden during their debate. Speaking of Wallace, where is he now? Oh, he's a Trump basher at CNN , another defender of Democrats but not democracy. He must feel relieved that this time, it wasn't an incoherent figure who was declared the winner, but a bully. That's okay, as long as the winner is blue—or should we say, a little more red? In Germany, they call this type of contradiction "melons" (green on the outside, red on the inside). So, what do you call blue on the outside and red on the inside? Google it, most of them are poisonous.

Walden has donated to Democratic Party politicians and has hosted fundraising events for the party. [ 1 ] She and her husband are also longtime friends of Kamala Harris and her husband, Doug Emhoff .

ABC debate hosts, David Muir and Linsy Davis , likely prepared under the guidance of George Stephanopoulos, the long-time ally of Hillary Clinton. It seems to take a certain "Swiftian" intellect to interpret the debate's outcome, especially after Taylor Swift herself endorsed Kamala. AI is dangerous, especially if it creates fake endorsements or "Swiftian" ideals. As for Swift, maybe her relationship with Jason Kelce is more about expanding her business to a different demographic. You can read more about her past relationships here and here .

Within just five minutes of the debate, it was obvious the questions were designed to put Trump on the defensive. Kamala appeared presidential, while Trump was painted in an aggressive light. But we already know where Trump stands on issues, just as we know Kamala aligns with the elites, war hawks, and the far left. Substance was not the priority—it was about appeasing those focused on abortion and the "blue generics." Don’t expect economic improvements after the election. Instead, focus remains on how Ukraine should defeat Russia, not on border security, the economy, or peace. While Kamala claims to prevent Russia from invading Alaska, Ukraine burns to ashes. Welcome to the Meta and Google virtual world, where AI creates the narrative. As for the winner of the debate? Don’t be surprised if opinions shift 360 degrees. And as Google and its allies sit near Alaska, they might want to be cautious about potential U-boat missiles.

Since Coaching plays a big role in campaigns, it wouldn’t be surprising if one of the most prolific consultants, Karen Dunn , coached Kamala while gathering insights into the debate’s inner workings. Having worked with Hillary Clinton, Dunn is skilled at crafting elusive answers and deflecting questions. She likely had an ear on what was on the moderators' minds through her extensive network of connections.

That outside Harris adviser, Karen L. Dunn, a high-powered Washington lawyer, has trained Democratic presidential and vice-presidential candidates for debates in every election since 2008.

The phrase "Ri(n)sible," loosely translated as rinse, blow-dry, and look new, brings to mind Annalena Baerbock’s habit of 360-degree policy shifts. By January 21, 2025, Kamala will complete her own 360, continuing as a California socialite—perhaps better described as a Leninist or Maoist. Or, as some in simpler terms might say, a communist. She finds herself in good company with the likes of Annalena Baerbock , Ursula von der Leyen , and Kaja Kallas . They view powerful men like Trump, Putin, and Musk as their adversaries. Kamala, after her three years as Biden’s understudy, seems ready to step into the spotlight—perhaps with a bit more vengeance than Obama. And who could blame her, given her controversial personal life? After all, she’s married to a lawyer who allegedly got a nanny pregnant, then had the child disappear. High morals indeed! But when you can pay hush money for such affairs, maybe it doesn’t matter. Compare that to Trump, who paid $300,000 for an alleged affair and got publicly crucified. Lawyers may have a credibility rating below that of politicians, but Kamala assures us she will reinvent the country. Let’s see how far she can go before the swamp consumes her.

“Doug and I decided to end our marriage for a variety of reasons, many years ago,” Kerstin Emhoff told the Washington Post in a statement. “He is a great father to our kids, continues to be a great friend to me, and I am proud of the warm and supportive blended family Doug, Kamala, and I have built together.” Emhoff’s affair with a blonde nanny, Najen Naylor, reportedly resulted in a pregnancy. Kerstin Emhoff, Doug’s first wife, supported her ex-husband publicly after he admitted to the affair. Naylor did not keep the baby, a close friend with knowledge of the situation told the Daily Mail .

The Cat Woman is not responding to Trump’s comment about how illegals eat cats and dogs. Is that more offensive than performing abortions? If you’ve traveled the world, you’ve probably eaten something unknowingly. If not, you can always visit a country where dog is on the menu and see for yourself. Read more here . If you have nothing to eat, and the choice is between a worm or a lost dog, what would you choose? Ask a fisherman, he might go for the dog. But the elite call such things delicacies, and the hypocrisy is clear when millions are spent on animal shelters while wars kill millions of people. It’s ironic. Some fly to Central America to rescue three-legged dogs while preaching about environmentalism. In my world, I’d rather feed the hungry. And when my dogs die, they’ll be cremated, but I won’t keep the ashes at home—they’ll go into the wild.

At least people are talking about Springfield. Maybe 15,000 migrants descending on a city of 30,000 wasn't the excitement they hoped for, but it certainly gave the media something to talk about.

Dick and Liz Cheney are so concerned with maintaining power that they have abandoned their principles. The inventor of the "Weapons of Mass Destruction" hoax is now voting Democrat to continue their destructive policies. He must truly be an asset to the Democrats, even Kamala proudly mentions them both in her speeches. Well, typical, no morals, just a vote , so welcome to the fold.

Papa Biden can no longer cover for Hunter once he leaves office in 2025. Should we really believe Hunter has turned into a sacrificial son to take the fall? The logical conclusion would be to plead guilty to all charges, get sentenced right before January 25th, and then either Joe or Kamala will announce that Hunter saved the country from more headaches and deserves praise rather than punishment.

They’ll likely reunite and retire together, living off government funds—democratic, of course, because the Democrats say so. Perhaps they'll even travel to Rome, making a large donation to the church to secure forgiveness. The Pope will surely offer absolution after a few Our Fathers and some generous offerings. Maybe that’s enough to secure a place in heaven, unless Putin vetoes it on behalf of the countless victims of global hegemony. Makes you wonder why Jesus used words to heal; if he exists, Biden may find himself chatting with Putin in the afterlife—perhaps in hell.

About half an hour before potential jurors were questioned, Hunter Biden’s attorneys informed the judge they wished to enter an Alford plea. This maneuver allows the defendant to acknowledge that the prosecution has sufficient evidence to convict, while maintaining a claim of innocence.

Prosecutors immediately objected. Lead prosecutor Leo Wise told the judge, “Hunter Biden is not innocent. Hunter Biden is guilty.”

The Catholic Church teaches that there is no sin, no matter how serious, that cannot be forgiven (Catechism of the Catholic Church). To imply otherwise challenges God's omnipotence. God's mercy is greater than any human wrongdoing, though humans still retain free will.

What is Project 2025 , and who is behind it? The Heritage Foundation has positioned itself as a think tank focused on topics like war and governance. While some of their ideas might conflict with the Constitution, the project exists within the realm of free speech. To connect Trump with Project 2025 is simply an unfair attack, but in today's climate, even listening to differing opinions brands you an outlaw.

Project 2025 is a historic movement, organized by over 100 conservative groups to dismantle the Deep State and return the government to the people. Its Mandate for Leadership: The Conservative Promise, published in April 2023, was created by more than 400 scholars and policy experts. The book outlines policies to tackle the country's most pressing challenges, including:

- Secure the border, finish the wall, and deport illegal aliens
- De-weaponize the federal government by increasing accountability of the FBI and DOJ
- Unleash American energy production to reduce energy prices
- Cut government spending to reduce inflation
- Make federal bureaucrats more accountable to the President and Congress
- Improve education by transferring control from DC bureaucrats to parents and local governments
- Ban biological males from competing in women's sports

Trump's team acknowledged that Project 2025 aligns well with his Agenda 47 proposals [10] [86] , but the project has caused friction with his campaign, which prefers to avoid specific policies. [60] Trump has never publicly endorsed Project 2025. In November 2023, his campaign, without directly mentioning it, said, "Policy recommendations from external allies are just that—recommendations." [54] [94] [95]

Read Agenda 47 —every voter should compare it to Harris's proposals.

It’s the economy, stupid, and Mark Cuban believes Kamala is the better economist. He must be eyeing a government role under her administration. Give him credit as an entrepreneur, but if he’s counting on Shark Tank becoming a government platform, it’s questionable. Now he’s asking if Trump has a plan to lower grocery prices—what a setup. You raise prices for three years, then promise to lower them, and people fall for it? Maybe Cuban should buy a couple of farms in Cuba. Kamala's ideology in action. Perhaps he’ll start a pharmaceutical company next; after all, he must be a better chemist than a real estate mogul. Would his portfolio take a hit if real estate prices fell?

The billionaire co-founder of Cost Plus Drugs and Shark Tank host expressed satisfaction with a deal that allows him to keep control of basketball operations, stating, “This is what I love to do.” But “I’m also self-aware,” he said on Wednesday, just before a game.

"If you look at the teams spending the most right now," he added, "it's not because of media deals. It's because of their real estate empires. And I have no expertise in that at all."

Elite communist thinkers are leading the charge, spending trillions on teleprompter-led campaigns, dragging the "deplorables" along. Best example? The Cheneys—what's their business? Killing for democracy. Ask them why they didn’t share their wealth with their workers. "It takes a village" to raise a child, but only if you’re a Democratic donor. Think of what election money can buy next to a teleprompter?

Boeing workers claim they deserve a 40% pay raise, bringing their annual salary to $105,000. Maybe McDonald’s workers should burn the fries and demand equal pay to the UAW. Wonder when Kamala will head to Seattle to lead the rally, praising those workers. The Wright brothers built better planes, and now Boeing is leaving astronauts stranded.

A little earlier, King acknowledged that Harris had drawn a crowd, partly by promising a free concert in return.

"Megan Thee Stallion has taken the stage at the Harris rally, performing her biggest hits, 'Hot Girl' and 'Mamushi,' with her dancers all dressed in blue suits," King noted . "It's the clearest illustration yet of how much Harris is energizing the Democratic coalition."

We have a choice to make: a president with a record of good policies, no new wars, and relative stability, despite COVID, or a litigator with no record, taking us down the current path of war and selective "equality." You don’t have to like Trump to vote for him—just turn on Taylor Swift and let Trump handle the country. He doesn’t need your worship, just your vote.

A closing note on the Current US Voting System -

If a grocery store operated like the vote-counting process, all the food would come in aluminum cans to prevent it from spoiling. Similarly, mail-in ballots start arriving from September and continue until Election Day, giving officials an idea of the number of ballots to expect. A proper system of checkers, counters, and auditors should be planned accordingly. The process is fundamentally one of math and logistics. So, who are the individuals responsible for this process, and why does it seem to fail year after year? A search for "who qualifies as a vote counter" yields no clear results. In an ideal system, an independent panel would deliver the final results to the press the morning after the ballots are fully counted.

Counting mail ballots takes more time because there are more steps involved. A variety of security measures, including signature verification and ensuring that voters did not also try to vote in person, are required. Election officials must open the ballots and flatten them out before they can be put in a tabulator to be counted.

Geopolitical Focus | September, 2024

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 15:01:15 GMT

Geopolitical Focus – September 2024: Germany votes for the Alternative | The Fight for Democracy in the West

US Politics | August 2024 #2

Sat, 31 Aug 2024 19:23:34 GMT

The Influence of Polling and Projections on Media.

Geopolitical Focus - August, 2024 # 2

Sat, 31 Aug 2024 17:22:14 GMT

Observations of the 2024 Democratic Ticket: Political Maneuvering and Media Narratives

US Politics | August, 2024

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 20:21:02 GMT

Harris and Walz's Media Rise

Geopolitical Focus – August, 2024

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 19:23:51 GMT

Geopolitical Focus – August, 2024: Global Response to the US Presidential Debate

US Politics | July 2024 #2

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 19:29:04 GMT

Biden's Replacement for Re-election, Media Scrutiny, and Political Intrigues

Geopolitical Focus – July, 2024 # 2

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 20:46:51 GMT

Geopolitical Focus - July 2024: NATO's Expanding Role: Implications for Global Stability and Power Dynamics

US Politics | July 2024

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 20:20:06 GMT

The Presidential Debate: A Liar vs a Teleprompter

Geopolitical Focus – July, 2024

Sun, 07 Jul 2024 20:02:25 GMT

Geopolitical Focus – July, 2024: Global Response to the US Presidential Debate

US Politics | June 2024 #2

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 18:52:11 GMT

Student Loan Forgiveness & Biden's Agenda

Geopolitical Focus – June, 2024 # 2

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 18:15:07 GMT

Geopolitical Focus - June 2024 (#2): Escalating Tensions and Missteps in Global Diplomacy

US Politics | June 2024

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 20:02:55 GMT

"Inflation in the United States & The 2024 Election"

Has the U.S. lost its mind? Why are the residents in these states still driving cars ? Could it possibly be another lawfare by ambitious lawyer-politicians? What exactly is climate change in a world filled with subjective views? And why are we observing such limited adoption of hybrid and electric vehicles? Instead of focusing on improving electric grids, politicians are now gearing up for natural disaster scenarios to line their pockets and increase gasoline prices with legal tactics, turning ambulance chasers into hurricane chasers.

Vermont to Require Fossil-Fuel Companies to Pay for Climate Damage

Under the country’s first “climate superfund” law, Vermont will charge large emitters for climate-related damage to the state.

The New York Senate passed a similar bill for the second time earlier this month .An effort to pass the bill into law last year was unsuccessful as Governor Kathy Hochul did not incorporate it in the budget, leading to its failure in the legislature. Massachusetts , California and Maryland have also introduced climate superfund bills.

After the New York Jury found Mr. Trump guilty of all 34 accounts , whatever it is, the leftist and anti-Trumper’ could not hold their joy. A couple weeks later, he has risen in popularity and hauled in record fundraising and united the Republican party at a meeting in Washington June 13. And what is the response of the liberals and haters , pure desperation but none understands that the people committed to Trump are here to stay, and the trend of the undecided with the current Trump presentation, toned down, trending towards him? Writing horror scenario’ and made-up stories. If you have followed some people on the WAPO ( Especially Jennifer Rubin seems to have red Trumps Horoscope, or Dana Milbank , another prophet) or Newsweek (a WAPO owned Speaker), it is their mission to generate multiple stories on Trump and its followers daily, not even realizing how unimportant their messages are and charged with their personal negative emotion. Where is Jeff Bezos Leadership, he would not tolerate those people at Amazon, so perhaps Biden is a better option for his Business. Certainly the 2020 donors had their favorites, and if you know the LinkedIn Owner, Reid Hoffman, he probably is the biggest Trump hater of them all. But of all, they simply disrespect peoples own thinking.

And this is what they should be, read the WAPO principles and read the Paper for a Day, especially the opinion pieces it takes your breath how opinionated they are? But are there changes coming or are they following Bidens approval ratings.

The Seven Principles for the Conduct of a Newspaper

The first mission of a newspaper is to tell the truth as nearly as the truth may be ascertained.
The newspaper shall tell ALL the truth so far as it can learn it, concerning the important affairs of America and the world.
As a disseminator of the news, the paper shall observe the decencies that are obligatory upon a private gentleman.
What it prints shall be fit reading for the young as well as for the old.
The newspaper’s duty is to its readers and to the public at large, and not to the private interests of its owners.
In the pursuit of truth, the newspaper shall be prepared to make sacrifices of its material fortunes, if such course be necessary for the public good.
The newspaper shall not be the ally of any special interest but shall be fair and free and wholesome in its outlook on public affairs and public men. Eugene Meyer, March 5, 1935

Defending the changes, Lewis told staffers at one point : “We are losing large amounts of money. Your audience has halved in recent years. People are not reading your stuff. I can’t sugarcoat it anymore. So I’ve had to take decisive, urgent action to set us on a different path, sourcing talent that I have worked with that are the best of the best.”

If you are not enough confused, this may make more sense, not sure if it is a January 6 hit piece or going back to Christopher Columbus, what this people do not understand, they might have been born in happy places like Guatemala instead.

The Biden announcements about virtual cost savings ,Yet another landmark in the government's spending spree / effort to entice voters (consumers) to embrace electric vehicles for the betterment of our planet. While this may be seen as a mix of incentives and penalties, it begs the question: what about advancements in grid infrastructure and the overall strategic plan?

Total Consumer Savings on Fuel and Maintenance of Up To $3.2 Billion; Estimated Savings of $18,000 to $24,000 Over Life of Vehicle

WASHINGTON — Yesterday, the U.S. Department of the Treasury and IRS announced consumers have saved more than $1 billion in upfront costs on their purchase of more than 150,000 clean vehicles since January 1, 2024, marking a major milestone in the Biden-Harris Administration’s work to lower transportation costs for Americans.

This milestone translates to consumers saving $1,750 annually on average on fuel and maintenance costs, or $21,000 of discounted savings over the typical 15-year lifespan of a vehicle, compared to a comparable gasoline vehicle. For the more than 150,000 vehicle sales that have used the upfront discount to date, this equates to around $262 million annually on fuel and maintenance costs, and up to $3.2 billion in costs over the life of the vehicles.

Since the passage of President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, the U.S. has experienced significant growth in the clean vehicle industry. In 2023, the U.S. saw around 1.5 million passenger clean vehicle (battery electric, fuel cell, plug-in hybrids) sales — the highest annual total ever, and a 50 percent year-over-year increase from 2022. Yesterday’s announcement demonstrates the significant related cost savings Americans are benefitting from as a result.

Bidens latest Border proposal is another smoke screen to avoid sinking approval ratings, and they try to put Kamala Harris in the spotlight.Have you ever thought about the data from the most recent job report in May? Despite the increase of 339,000 jobs, it is evident that the Health Care and Government sectors, as well as numerous part-time and retail positions, continue to be dominated by individuals working under work permits, some of which may not have been legally obtained. Those within these industries will confirm the prevalence of "fake" work permits that appear to be authentic. Perhaps they are printed at the Border? And the Immigration activists , already want the Border reopened, in another democratic move, say Lawfare while some 70% of Americans are unhappy about it.

Employment showed little or no change over the month in other major industries, including mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction; construction; manufacturing; wholesale trade; transportation and warehousing; information; financial activities; and other services

Aren’t those the jobs we were all promised? Just another left touting the Horn as the overall picture may not be as rosy as the unemployment number show a slight uptick and some prominent people question the numbers .

The household survey also showed that full-time workers declined by 625,000, while those holding part-time positions increased by 286,000

The Border Patrol arrested Gerardo Henao 14 hours after President Joe Biden suspended asylum processing at the U.S. border with Mexico this week. But instead of being summarily deported, he was dropped off by agents the next day at a San Diego bus stop, where he caught a train to the airport for a flight to Newark, New Jersey.

Henao, who said he left his jewelry business in Medellin, Colombia, because of constant extortion attempts, had one thing working in his favor: a scarcity of deportation flights to that country. Lack of resources, diplomatic limitations and logistical hurdles make it difficult for the Biden administration to impose its sweeping measure on a large scale.

The policy, which took effect Wednesday, has an exception for “operational considerations,” official language acknowledging the government lacks the money and authority to deport everyone subject to the measure, especially people from countries in South America, Asia, Africa and Europe who didn't start showing up at the border until recently.

The Homeland Security Department said in a detailed document outlining the ban that “demographics and nationalities encountered at the border significantly impact” its ability to deport people.

Are we truly choosing Joe Biden or Kamala Harris for elective office, a nd why does this decision always seem secondary, particularly considering the factor of age? Here are some thoughts , if you ever are comfortable with the thought of President Harris?

What truly defines the heartbeat of the nation? Whether Trump is poised for a landslide victory remains to be seen. Current polling data favors him, yet there is still plenty of time until the election, with the first debate coming up .

Who is Jake Sullivan ? Upon Googling him, the first result is his wife's account of a tragic stillborn baby and the impact of abortion laws that propelled him into the realm of politics. Surprisingly, she seems unfazed by the fact that her husband is a staunch advocate of war. In examining Mr. Sullivan's professional journey through a global lens, his legal defense tactics align him with a pattern of being on the "wrong side" of history much like his boss, rendering him notably ineffective.

On March 13, 2022, Sullivan warned of a full-fledged NATO response if Russia attacks any part of NATO territory. [49] He reportedly advised Zelenskyy not to try to retake Crimea or attack the Crimean Bridge , fearing that Russia might respond with a nuclear strike . Sullivan also reportedly imposed restrictions to prevent Ukraine from using Western-supplied weapons for retaliatory attacks on Russian territory. [50]

On March 14, 2022, he warned China that it would face consequences if it helped Russia evade sanctions . [51]

On July 6, 2023, President Joe Biden authorized the provision of cluster munitions in support of a Ukrainian counteroffensive against Russian forces in Russian- annexed southeastern Ukraine , bypassing U.S. law prohibiting the transfer of cluster munitions with a failure rate greater than one percent. [52] Sullivan defended the use of cluster munitions, saying that "Ukraine would not be using these munitions in some foreign land. This is their country they're defending." [53]

On October 2, 2023, Sullivan stated in an article in Foreign Affairs that the Biden administration had "de-escalated crises in Gaza". Five days later, Hamas launched a large-scale attack on Israel from the Gaza Strip , sparking the 2023 Israel–Hamas war . The article was later edited for online release. [54]

Where have the Democrats missed the turn ? Here a piece from 2022, and since the moderate democrats have all fallen in line with the party-line, hanging on their ideological messaging about abortion and all their pet projects but missing out completely what the democrats once stood for? Have they really become the Elite intelligence, decoupled from any common sense?

The video was a television advertisement from Bill Clinton’s 1996 re-election campaign . Over images of construction workers and children and police officers, a series of bold captions touted Clinton’s first-term accomplishments: “WELFARE REFORM, WORK REQUIREMENTS”; “TAXES CUT FOR 15,000,000 FAMILIES”; “DEATH PENALTY FOR DRUG KINGPINS.” His promises for a second term followed: “BAN ‘COP-KILLER’ BULLETS”; “CAPITAL GAINS TAX CUT FOR HOME OWNERS”; “BALANCE THE BUDGET FOR A GROWING ECONOMY” “We are safer, we are more secure, we are more prosperous,” Clinton said. When the ad was over, Gottheimer says, he looked at Pelosi. “This is how we won,” he told her, “and this is how we win again.”

Do you believe Kamala Harris, Michelle Obama, Gavin Newsom, or any other name currently being considered for the 2028 ticket possesses any of these qualifications? Stay tuned for more on the VP selection in the upcoming discussion.

Geopolitical Focus – June, 2024

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 20:07:37 GMT

Geopolitical Focus – June, 2024: The War for "Democracy" Isn't actually about Democracy..

The EU election results have shown a significant setback for the current liberal-green far-left coalition. Rather than reflecting on these results, the elite and ideological radicals have branded the voters as far-right extremists, using familiar derogatory terms. The EU, with its NATO compliance under the guidance of the US, may face stiff headwinds regarding current wars and migration issues. Time will tell, but Macron, already in a Napoleon-like posture, is challenging the French for a new vote. Ms. Le Pen and Italy's Premier Meloni, both declared right-wing extremists by the elites, see solid support. This supports the narrative that the political guard has lost touch. More good or bad news, depending on your perspective, is that Germany's AfD (the NAZI Party) has its strongest support among young people.

I n other words, the much-maligned AfD is on an equal footing with the conservative center among young people. And clearly ahead of the Left and Greens.

Leftists assume that they have leased young voters. For this reason, many red-green parties are calling for a lowering of the voting age.

In Germany, 16 and 17-year-olds were allowed to vote in a European election for the first time. All the greater the shock for the left-wing strategists.

The US has a somewhat Biden-like approach, while the left-leaning EU block is called centrist and the opposition is labeled right-wing. It appears that immigration and wars are now supported by the peace-loving West, reminiscent of Napoleon's and Hitler's footsteps.

Overall, it remains to be seen if the left and middle block will continue the current policies despite growing uneasiness . There seems to be no indication from Ursula von der Leyen, who clearly sees herself as a centrist, while labeling all true conservatives as right-wingers. One thing is for sure: the US and Ukraine need her desperately, and here are the preliminary new powers elected.

A Ukraine peace summit in Switzerland, without Russia as demanded by Zelensky? Following an interview with the Swiss organizers, they admitted that the absence of Russia was a result of Zelensky's demand that participants agree to Ukraine's terms. Therefore, the entire meeting is a war strategy session, with Jake Sullivan and Kamala Harris representing the Victoria Nuland version, and the killing goes on.

The architect of the Libya debacle , however, continued his rise unchecked. First, he advised President Obama, then Vice President Biden brought him on board as security adviser. In this position, Sullivan followed the Maidan protests in Ukraine at close quarters. He was a liaison to Victoria Nuland, who coordinated US support for the opposition in Kiev.

Sullivan was a leading member of the Hillary Clinton team that launched "Russiagate": the false claim that Trump had secretly colluded with Putin. (translated)

And how about engaging some NAZI with Weapons, because of dramatic needs? Another Jake Sullivan move, if a Russian did that he would be called a Butcher? Another Cluster Ammunition moment, no rules for the losers? And Mr. Biden becomes the most unsuccessful War President of all Times, with the G7 becoming a non-factor after the EU vote and desperately clings together in an Elite bubble, with the public disapproval growing.

T he US military has lifted the weapons ban on the controversial Ukrainian Azov brigade. According to the Washington Post , the unit is now allowed to use American weapons in the fight against Russia. This after the US State Department checked the Ukrainian special forces to see if they were complying with the so-called Leahy laws. These rules prohibit the US from providing military assistance to foreign units suspected of committing human rights violations.

Ten Years, the massacre of Odessa and the start of the Ukraine – Russia War, also called Maidan Coup. (German). If you study the origins of Wars, this has all the handwriting of the CIA.

On the afternoon of May 2 , the fleeing Russian friends were covered with a hail of cobblestones, pyros were ignited, young women dragged gasoline canisters for Molotov cocktails. First, tents of the pro-Russian camp in front of the trade union building were set on fire. About a hundred people had sought refuge there in the meantime and barricaded the entrance. But the Ukrainian nationalists set fire to the barricades, whereupon fire, smoke and immeasurable heat spread rapidly in the stairwell. The besiegers constantly threw more incendiary devices at the facades; shots were also fired.

Several of the pro-Russians who fled jumped from the fourth and fifth floors and smashed them on the asphalt. Survivors were insulted, rounded up and beaten with clubs. Odessa's law enforcement officers watched the goings-on without intervening. It took an endless 45 minutes for the fire brigade to arrive - despite a distance of a few hundred meters. A total of 45 pro-Russian activists were murdered by Ukrainian ultras. The youngest victim was just seventeen years old.

Ukraine and the Western war mongers , while many people question the outcome or the strategy, perhaps the easy answer is the surrender of Russia. It is almost a question of DNA: freedom versus a restrictive government, or closer to home, Biden versus Trump, with a deep-seated hatred in the case of Ukraine forever, and in the case of Biden-Trump since 2015.

Could it be that the hatred is perhaps fueled by the same sources and originally in spirit originated with Manifest Destiny ?

Provocations against Russia never stopped, under the argument that we cannot trust them and therefore need to eliminate them.

Some indications of what might happen, if you take the time to research some books: Russia’s destruction is a long way coming, as the idea of “evil” and non-compliance is unbearable.

Schlachtfeld Europa, oder, Amerikas letztes Gefecht : Gewalt und Wirtschaftsimperialismus in der US-Aussenpolitik seit 1840 by Bruhn, Jürgen
- Battlefield Europe, or, America's Last Stand: Violence and Economic Imperialism in U.S. Foreign Policy since 1840 by Bruhn, Jürgen

There seem to be no other plausible theories but to continue with provocations and escalations. However, Russians are not Native Americans, and the West would likely need closer to 500,000 to 900,000 troops to succeed. Missiles are on both sides; it is just a question of whether the first US or German missiles hit Russia and how they will cope with some missiles hitting NATO HQ or German bases inside Germany.

With D-Day celebrations ongoing, Russia had to bury its 25 million dead along the way to Berlin and, in the process, helped destroy the Hitler regime, probably as much as the Allies. You would have thought that with the end of the Stalin era and the Bay of Pigs incident, the two superpowers should have found some way of cooperation. But with the US no longer controlling China or the South American continent, losing Russia to Europe would essentially isolate the US. So, the Ukraine story was "invented," and there is another war, as destructive as WWI and WWII, in the making. Who would have guessed that Napoleon's and Hitler's descendants, led by the US, are trumpeting the horns?

Russia invading Europe—perhaps that term better fits NATO and the US if you look at the military presence. Since Ukraine is not a NATO member, every nation engaged in the war is part of it.

Zelensky’s war activism, in the build-up to the "Peace Conference" in Switzerland, saw the Ukrainian President travel around the world, using the D-Day celebration as a rallying cry for money, support, and the destruction of Russia. Biden apologized for the hold-up in Congress and the continuation of support to prevent Russia from invading Europe. It is all a lie by hegemonial forces to seek reasons to invade Russia, no question about it.

The reporting about the war does not include the actual destruction, the lack of soldiers in Ukraine, and the strategic/tactical reasoning about Russia. Yes, Russia tried to take Kiev as a response to the Maidan coup and to install a different regime in Ukraine (why did Zelensky not allow elections?), but since then, it has focused on creating a buffer zone to defend the Russian-aligned territories.

On the one side you have the Western momentum reports, on the other side the more restrictive sources warning of a potential WWIII? Why don't the UN, NATO, and EU take the democratic approach and organize a vote by the people in all countries, including Russia and Ukraine, to determine if they want a peaceful resolution or war? One of President Biden's 2020 promises was, "I know these people for centuries," but he did not say, "I’m a captive of the system."

Yes, while Mr. Orban calls for peace, he gets schooled by some US reporters in the Biden ranks.

Renouncing peace means "accepting dying for Ukraine". Do we want to give Hungarian blood to Ukraine? We don't want it! We will not go to war and we will not die for others in a foreign country, said Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, Fidesz leader, in his speech to the participants of the peace march on Margaret Island on Saturday.

He added: "This is the truth of the Hungarians," and now it is your task to "make the truth of the Hungarians the European truth."

BUDAPEST, Hungary (AP) — A crowd of tens of thousands gathered in Hungary’s capital on Saturday in a show of strength behind Prime Minister Viktor Orbán a week before the European Parliament election , a contest he has cast as an existential turning point between peace in Europe and a world war.

War must go on, and some reporters are fantasizing in an almost bizarre and doomsday scenario, with a complete disregard for human decency.

Israel and Hamas have somehow disappeared from the news front, likely due to the criticism the pro-Israeli side faces among the population, as not all countries are singing the same praises as the US. But was the attack really a surprise? Perhaps for Jake Sullivan, but not for others. Finally, a ceasefire seems close, and the Biden administration took a victory lap, without the two actors who said, "not so fast."

"When it rains, it pours" is an English proverb. Since Sullivan has been taking the scepter for Biden in Washington, dark clouds have also been gathering over other parts of the world.

Sullivan, of course, did not notice the approach of the heaviest thunderstorm. A few days before the Hamas attack in Israel, the worst mass murder of Jews since World War II, he published an article in Foreign Affairs in which he noted with satisfaction that the Middle East is "calmer than it has been for decades."

After the massacre, Sullivan reacted immediately. And in the online version of the article, he had the reference to the "calm" situation removed.

The Bilderberg’s, or the sacred secret ritual of an Elite, here is a list of the 2024 participants but there are no summaries or press conferences, its all secret, but I take it part of democracy .

So what is the result of this conference? What are the conclusions that the assembled elites have come to? What did all these people, some of whom hold official offices, discuss in secret?

The answer is: We don't know. The public doesn't know that. And it looks like he won't find out.

The elite circle has not published any conclusive statement, and the participants are also silent.

Is it too much to ask – in the spirit of democracy – that politicians inform the public about what was said at such an exclusive conference? After all, each of the participants has enormous power to act.

It is not absurd that in a consensus forge like Bilderberg, the reach power of the assembled elites is increased many times over. And anyway: How does it fit in with the face of democracy when politicians in office and dignity submit to a pact of silence?

Bilderberg is not a "secret world government", but it is clear that there is a political formation process of power elites upstream of democratic institutions. An influence on the politics then estimated in the parliaments is anything but absurd.

The Bilderberg Group, EU, and WEF aim to unite Europe, including Russia, to gain some perspective. Why can't Europe or the world leave countries as they are, with the prospect of a global economy driving towards a better life, whether it's capitalism, some social system, or a communist system? Who is to say which one is better but the people themselves? Learn how many wars Europe fought to get to today . I f you think AI is for peace, think again.

Geopolitical Focus – May, 2024 # 2

Fri, 31 May 2024 19:14:24 GMT

Geopolitical Focus – May, 2024 (#2) Global Media Bias & the Consensus on Democarcy

Global media bias is evident in Axel Springer Conglomerate, with distinct guidelines potentially prioritizing politics over journalism. This alignment mirrors the ethos of publications like The New York Times and The Washington Post.

Core Principles Pledge

Upon acquisition of Insider in 2015, and again in 2021 with Politico, Mathias Döpfner allegedly stated that staff would need to adhere to Axel Springer's principles, including support for a united Europe, "reconciliation between Germans and Jews" [63] and Israel's right to exist and a free-market economy, and that staff who disagree with the principles "should not work for Axel Springer, very clearly". [64] [65] In an interview with New York Magazine, Döpfner emphasized that Axel Springer's commitment to these core principles, particularly the right of Israel to exist, stems from Germany's historical context rather than activism. [66] He claimed that while Springer employees in Germany are required to support these values, American employees are not asked to sign such a pledge. He also insists that journalistic integrity remains paramount, clarifying that the company's stance does not equate to uncritical support of Israel, but recognizes its right to exist in light of historical threats. [66]

Accusations of editorial interference in Poland

In 2017, Mark Dekan of Ringier Axel Springer Polska expressed support for European unity and the role of free media in a letter to employees, amidst political debates in Poland. His comments, which included criticism of Jarosław Kaczyński , and highlighted the company's values and the importance of European integration, especially among younger Poles, was interpreted by critics as editorial interference. [67] [68]

If you follow Business Insider , Politico and Politico EU, it aligns well with a green – red, WOKE political agenda, the War in the Ukraine and supports all Bidens activities, including the political persecution of a former President, now you know the anti-Trumper’ and everything NAZI that is not in line with Axel Springer in Europe and the US.

The European Union is having elections from June 6 to 9. Political involvement of Facebook is increasing, possibly seeking favorable outcomes. Check Politico for more. Views diverging from open immigration, War in Ukraine, or alternative energy are labeled right-wing. Interested in democracy? Here's an example. Learn about a War activist supporting Zelensky and historical events. Curious about current polls?

WHAT DO THE POLLS SAY?

Recent seat polls show gains for the far-right Identity and Democracy, although the EPP and S&D continue to dominate.

Klaus Schwab , the Father of the WEF has announced that he will step down but has yet to name a successor. It makes one wonder how democratic the Leadership Team was over the years?

The WEF did not spell out who would officially take the helm. The number-two executive behind Schwab is currently President Borge Brende, a 58-year-old former Norwegian foreign minister.

The Geneva-based forum, which employs some 800 people worldwide and raked in 409 million Swiss francs ($447 million) in annual revenue in the last fiscal year, said it had been transitioning from being merely a “convening platform” to “the leading global institution for public-private cooperation”.

Although Borge Brende is the number two, expect more like a McKinsey for the continuation , strategic partner seems more like we are in charge, and builds a bridge what they do currently? Speculation has also been made about Christine Lagarde ?

Klaus Schwab made a lighthearted comment, joking that he needs to stay fit. This was amid rumors in 2019 of Christine Lagarde potentially succeeding him as ECB chief. Lagarde, a key board member, has been a valuable ally to Schwab.

The ICC and the ICJ , Both are UN institutions, both exhibit more show than substance, their influence largely driven by politics rather than concrete authority. Despite occasional displays of strength, can they truly outperform tangible political actions? Ultimately, with numerous global institutions in existence, why is there a need for the courts when dominant powers such as democracy seem to overpower them? In a practical sense, the Ukrainian conflict would have been resolved by now, yet the US and NATO continue to heighten tensions with Russia through potential long-range missile deployments. Is this a strategic maneuver to deter Russian actions, or merely a tactical ploy to ensure President Biden's political success in November? While it may offer economic gains for Biden, the Ukrainians bear the brunt of the consequences in bloodshed, all while he touts himself as the world's premier negotiator.

Two State solution, why Hamas is not Palestine, and Hamas cannot be defeated with weapons?

BIBI’S YOUNG GUNS - BREADING HATRED AND THE US ISRAELI RELATION? ITS NOT ALL LOVE?

For at least 15 years, in-depth studies have shown firm right-wing trends among young Israeli Jews. There are two immediate explanations for this phenomenon. One is demographics: more young Israeli Jews are religious than was the case in earlier decades because religious families tend to have many children, and religious Jews are reliably more right-wing than less religious Jews in Israel. The second is the prevailing political environment in Israel during the past two decades: young Israelis today have grown up in the heavily nationalist right-wing era of Netanyahu. They carry no memories of any peace process and have plenty of experience of war, having grown up amid numerous rounds of fighting with Hamas, frequent rocket attacks, and waves of conflict-related violence.

In fact, the rightward tilt of younger Israeli voters has closely coincided with Netanyahu’s own efforts to make the U.S.-Israeli relationship more partisan. Shortly after Netanyahu returned to power in 2009, a plurality of Israelis held positive views of President Barack Obama, more than those who held negative views. But Netanyahu and his proxies began systematically attacking Obama—tellingly, for taking positions that were close to a policy consensus at the time, such as the president’s 2011 support for a two-state solution based on the 1967 borders, the 1949 armistice lines, with adjustments. Netanyahu’s accusations ricocheted back to the United States, where Mitt Romney, the Republican nominee for president in 2012, accused Obama of “throwing Israel under the bus.”

But how can this issue be resolved? Is the US's support for Israel driven by unconditional love, hegemonic ambitions, or other less than ideal interests? Jews in the US as there are in Israel ,With a global Jewish population reaching 90%, one may ponder the contrast of the UK, the initiator of the Jewish State, with a mere 312,000. The disparity raises questions about global interests. It is worth noting that Israel's total population stands at 10 million, including 7.5 million Jews, while the combined Jewish and Palestinian populations of the West Bank, Gaza, and Palestinian Authorities amount to about 15 million. Perhaps a two-state solution, akin to Vatican City as a neutral territory, is needed, particularly with Jerusalem's status as a holy site.

In comparison to a Swiss Forum's viewpoint advocating for both Israel and Palestine, it is important to recognize that the military wing of Hamas is not synonymous with the Palestinian Authority.

Some excerpts. Elimination impossible? Here is the Authors link + the opinion on the Gaza situation .

According to its own charter of 2017, Hamas is a "Palestinian national liberation and resistance movement" with the goal of liberating Palestine. She was elected in 2006 in free elections organized by the Palestinian Legislative Council, one of the few free elections the Arab world has ever seen.

Hamas consists of hundreds of thousands of members and is a multi-layered and complex organization that is deeply rooted in Palestinian society. In the Gaza Strip, she is responsible for all public services and does everything that the state is responsible for in Switzerland: from taxes to garbage collection. Therefore, the Israeli declaration to completely destroy Hamas is a political slogan and not a feasible military goal (as is true today).

Furthermore, Hamas is home to different parts within itself, including a social services sector, a political wing based in Doha and a military wing – the so-called Qassam Brigades. It was the latter, and among them a close circle of masterminds around Yahya Sinwar, who planned and carried out the terrorist attack of October 7. This is precisely why it came as a surprise to Hamas' political leadership in Doha, as well as to Hezbollah and the Iranian government (Hamas' closest international allies).

– When asked whether Hamas was dangerous, I said: Yes, it is certainly dangerous, but first and foremost for Israel and less so for us here in Switzerland. According to its own statement, Hamas has a national mission and is not, like the Islamic State, a hybrid organization consisting of eighty nationalities with the mission of establishing a global caliphate. Moreover, Hamas has neither the capacity, nor the networks, nor the intention to carry out terrorist attacks in Western capitals, precisely because it struggles for legitimacy with the international community.

However, Hamas' national focus does not mean that the October 7 terrorist attack does not give a significant boost to global political Islam. We see this in the example of imitation, which led to the anti-Semitic knife attack on an Orthodox Jew in Zurich in March 2024. This kind of anti-Semitism is on the rise and poses a dangerous threat not only to Jewish communities, but to liberal, democratic societies in general.

– I also stressed that the terrorist attack of 7 October was an atrocity and must be condemned in its entirety. The decimation of innocent civilians and the kidnapping of hostages are a war crime and as such morally completely unacceptable.

– Parallel to this, however, there is also the issue of a 57-year illegitimate Israeli occupation of the Palestinian territories and a 17-year hermetic closure of the Gaza Strip. These are also unacceptable and contrary to international law, creating an intolerable and inhumane situation for the Palestinian population. In addition, the killing of 7,000 civilians in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including thousands of innocent women and children, is contrary to international law and must therefore be clearly condemned.

And not helping is the US wishy washy political stand , appeasing, fueling both sides and not really offering any solutions?

Switzerland , as a neutral country is arranging a peace summit, with no Russia and no President Biden. He prefers to attend a George Clooney Fundraiser in California, co-hosted with Julia Roberts? But as long as Russia is not part and has no voice, NATO is considering sending Troops and the US long-range missiles, it may be a great deal for the Hotel in Switzerland, and forget the rest? By the way, George Clooney is perhaps a great representative for middle class Joe, as the latest indication is that the old White Male is the strongest supporter for Biden.

There's a massive shift among nonwhite voters overall, while older voters and college-educated white voters — men in particular — are moving heavily in Biden's direction.

Clooney has property in Los Angeles . He purchased the 7,354-square-foot (683.2 m2) house in 1995 through his George Guilfoyle Trust. His home in Italy is in the village of Laglio , on Lake Como , [159] near the former residence of Italian author Ada Negri . [160] Clooney also owns a home in Los Cabos , Mexico, that is next door to the home of Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber . [161] In 2014, Clooney and his new British wife Amal Alamuddin bought the Grade II listed [162] Mill House on an island in the River Thames at Sonning Eye in Oxfordshire , England [163] at a cost of around £10 million. [164] In May 2021, The Economic Times reported Clooney plans to buy a vineyard near the village of Brignoles , in France, which includes an 18th-century manor with its own swimming pool and a tennis court. [165]

China and the China – Russian relations, There may be a misconception about China being seen as a mere imitator relying on the West, and the use of tariffs and trade wars as a political rather than an economic strategy may not be effective. While imposing tariffs for fair trade is justified, using tariffs as political sanctions is a different matter. President Biden's use of tariffs to showcase successful government spending may be applauded by some, but it may not necessarily lead to increased competition. The Chips Act seems more like a defensive measure to safeguard US interests in the event of conflict with Taiwan, but relocating semiconductor production to the US raises questions about what exactly is being protected in Taiwan. It appears to be a mere tactic to buy time. The US seems to overlook the fact that it no longer carries the same level of intimidation it once did. The concept of "peace through strength" only works when paired with diplomatic finesse and a coherent strategy. Currently, the US lacks a clear strategy in both Ukraine and Israel. Winning individual battles does not equate to winning the overall war or achieving long-term stability. In these instances, it seems more about saving face than anything else.

While Blinken was in China to deter, weeks later Putin and China are strengthening their cooperation on all levels, and especially on the military level ? To believe that the West can take on the ROW militarily is simply a pipe dream, yes, the US has the strongest Military and the most Military bases on the Planet, but China will never let it happen that Russia becomes a multi – state entity, controlled by Western interests, nor will Russia allow NATO weapons in the Ukraine. And perhaps more dangerous, long range missiles from the West will promptly be answered ?

WEST VERSUS XI AND PUTIN?

Putin's visit comes weeks after U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken flew to China to raise concerns about China's support for Russia's military.

That trip appears to have done little to dent Xi's deepening relationship with Putin.

By picking China for his first foreign trip since being sworn in this month for another six-year term, Putin is sending a message to the world about his priorities and the strength of his personal ties with Xi.

China’s rise, see this article For the discerning eye, it becomes evident that it was the people themselves, rather than the Government, who spearheaded the transformation of China—an undeniably potent force that continues to propel progress.

None of these transformations were initiated by the state. “Instead, they were all born out of the strong desires of the population, who were desperate and determined to improve their lives,” Wang writes. “Such grassroot initiatives were often resisted by the government at first, before being accepted and embraced by them.” It was the Chinese people, and not their leaders, he argues time and time again, that produced the “China miracle.”

And then you may question Joe Biden's personality traits after 45+ years in the Business, and ponder how the funds flowing into the Biden conglomerates might impact his sway?

Xi and Putin are believed to have a close personal relationship. Ever since Xi assumed power, he has engaged in forty-two meetings with Putin, a significantly higher number than his interactions with any other world leaders. Xi has even called Putin his “ best friend and colleague ,” while the Russian president has addressed his Chinese counterpart as a “ dear friend .” Putin has also praised the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), China’s global infrastructure project, as an attempt to achieve a more “equitable and multipolar world order.”

Global Democracy , remember GDR – German Democratic Republic, was a totalitarian regime. In current Germany, the Alternative for Germany (AFD) is being pursued as a totalitarian Group, under surveillance and sought to be banned from politics. At the same time, the green-red coalition has an approval rating below, only the C DU/CSU has a higher rating . So, democracy is in our current society a very stretchable word? Note – Trump is far right, so is the AFD?

Europe is facing a demographic crisis: only 38 percent of Germans aged eighteen and over are staunch supporters of democracy. In France, this figure is only 27 percent. In Italy and Poland, too, less than 45 percent of the population consistently support democratic values, according to an analysis by the Open Society Foundation , cited by Politico .

The survey results show that more and more Europeans are questioning democratic norms. More and more people agree with the statement that a strong leader who ignores election results and the legislative power is acceptable, or that a non-democratic government is preferable to democracy. According to the survey, the increasing skepticism towards democratic principles is particularly evident among the younger generation. Young people are increasingly considering alternative forms of government.

Demographic change is further exacerbating this problem, writes Politico. With an aging population and a falling birth rate, the generational gap is growing. Young people often no longer feel represented by existing political structures and lose confidence in democracy's ability to shape their future. Here the original in German .

Worried about Mexico’ Cartels and its influence on US Politics? While our immigration Czars and the President are literally watching the Southern Borders crossings with applause, the Mexican President seems to throw a blind eye on the Cartels activities, and basically ignoring international (NAFTA) agreements, leaving the democracy to a terrorist Groups, aka Cartels, Pablo Escobar all over again? Where is the US cry for Democracy, Cartels better than Putin? Imagine killing of politicians or supporters becoming legal?

To maximize their profits, hydra-headed criminal groups need pliant elected officials. Threats and bribes can ensure that a small-town mayor or City Council member turns a blind eye to illicit activities. But as the bloodshed in cities around Mexico makes painfully clear, analysts say, candidates daring to veer from such cooperation face getting killed.

As a result, scores of them have dropped out of races. Some political parties have pulled out of certain towns after failing to find people willing to run. Instead of reaching out to voters in public, some local campaigns have largely moved online.

US Politics | May 2024 #2

Thu, 30 May 2024 19:33:23 GMT

Student Loan Forgiveness & Biden's Agenda

Biden Election Interference – Student Loan Forgiveness?

Yes, the elite want you to go to college. We need psychologists, justice and woke advisors, political activists, and you can only breed them in indoctrination institutions. Blue-collar workers are only to vote for the rulers to get a handout. Remember the "deplorables"? It's another government-failed construct, throwing money at students to get a $25,000 job, while an apprenticeship, with no debt, will pay you $50,000. And what about using the money to pay student-athletes? Where is Biden on the abuse of capitalism , or are athletes not already well-paid with mostly free tuitions?

And what about government-backed lenders like Sallie Mae ? It seems more profitable than your neighbor's grocery store.

Operating income

US$1.89 billion (2021) [4]

Net income

US$1.16 billion (2023)

Total assets

US$20.4 billion (2023)

Total equity

US$2.15 billion (2023)

Is money really the major problem for a college education ? Is a college education simply a political/society proclaimer to be better off? See a PEW research here . What are the most popular majors, earth-shaking resolvers of worldly problems or creators of them ?

Copilot

A liberal arts major encompasses a diverse range of academic disciplines, fostering a well-rounded education. Here are the four main areas within liberal arts:

Humanities : These majors focus on the study of humans and human society. Some examples include:

Communication : Explore topics like public speaking, mass media, and digital literacy. This degree prepares you for roles in public relations, human resources, or marketing.
Philosophy : Study the nature of knowledge and existence, honing skills in clear communication, persuasive arguments, and critical thinking. Careers in law, counseling, or teaching may follow.
History : Delve into the past to build a better future. History coursework develops research, critical thinking, writing, and presentation skills, leading to careers in politics, journalism, law, or museum curation.
Language : Majoring in a foreign language enhances cross-cultural communication, analytical thinking, and problem-solving. Opportunities in health care, education, foreign service, travel, or translation await.
English: By interpreting English literature, you become an analytical and accurate writer, as well as a careful editor .

Social Sciences : These majors explore human behavior, societies, and institutions. Examples include:

Psychology : Study the mind and behavior, preparing for careers in counseling, research, or human resources.
Sociology : Examine social structures and interactions, leading to roles in social work, policy analysis, or community development.
Economics : Analyze production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services, with career paths in finance, consulting, or government.
Political Science : Explore government systems, international relations, and policy-making, opening doors to politics, diplomacy, or advocacy.

Arts : These majors focus on creative expression and aesthetics. Examples include:

Art History : Study visual art across cultures and time periods, leading to careers in museums, galleries, or education.
Graphic Design : Develop visual communication skills for roles in advertising, branding, or web design.
Music : Explore musical theory, performance, and composition, with opportunities in teaching, performance, or production.
Interactive Media : Combine technology and creativity for careers in game design, user experience, or multimedia development.

Natural Sciences : These majors explore the natural world and scientific principles. Examples include:

Biology : Study living organisms, genetics, and ecosystems, leading to careers in research, healthcare, or environmental science.
Chemistry : Investigate matter and its interactions, with applications in pharmaceuticals, materials science, or forensic analysis.
Physics : Explore fundamental laws of the universe, paving the way for careers in engineering, academia, or technology.
Geology: Study Earth’s processes, minerals, and landscapes, with opportunities in environmental consulting or energy exploration

A liberal arts major provides a foundation for critical thinking, effective communication, and problem-solving, making graduates adaptable and well-prepared for various employment opportunities2 . If you have any specific interests within these disciplines, feel free to ask for more details! ��

Who owns the student loans ? Is forgiveness a double dip for the government on the backs of taxpayers, or is the forgiveness money only from the government? How are the people reimbursed who have already paid off their debt?

Key Takeaways

Student loans in the U.S. are generally either owned by the federal government or financial institutions.
The federal government fully guarantees almost all student loans.
Some student loans are held by agencies like Sallie Mae or a third-party loan servicing company.
Federal student loans can include Direct Loans, Perkins Loans, and Federal Family Education Loans.

Why did tuitions i nflate at the rate they have ? Wouldn't that again be a government investigation? But since they also control the financing, it’s a circular economy.

Overall Increase in Costs for Service Industries Like Education

One primary reason for the huge jump in college prices since 1980 is a concept called cost disease, argue Robert B. Archibald and David H. Feldman, economics professors at the College of William & Mary.

Unlike other areas of the economy, like manufacturing, it’s difficult to increase productivity in higher education while maintaining the same experience. New technology and improved methods can increase production at a steel mill, for example, but there’s not much innovation to introduce in a traditional 10-person literature seminar without sacrificing quality.

And who gets the f orgiveness and the transfer scheme ?

What if lawyers were counselors ? Yes, parents sue, but is it also parents that fail their kids when they stray from the norm? Does money really solve the problems? Take the Glyphosate cases—there is no real evidence, no clear good vs. bad (farmers vs. hobby gardeners), but a lawyer lobby that makes a killing on the cases, while the farmers and consumers get hit with no alternative and higher prices. Are the settlements real representations of damages or allocations of money by empathetic jurors?

Roundup and Cancer: Lawsuit Decisions

Thousands of lawsuits, including class actions and individual claims, have been filed against Bayer, the manufacturer of Roundup, since 2018. Previously, the chemical was manufactured and marketed by Monsanto, which was acquired by Bayer in 2018.

One of the most significant outcomes was a $10 billion settlement in 2020, which Bayer paid to end tens of thousands of lawsuits. A portion of that amount was set aside to cover future lawsuits.

Decisions have not been limited to class action suits. In 2019, a California jury delivered a $2 billion verdict to a couple who claimed Roundup caused their non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, though a court reduced the final settlement amount. In that same year, a California man was awarded $80 million in a trial verdict. A 2018 landmark trial awarded $289 million to a groundskeeper who was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. That verdict was finalized at $78 million.

Despite numerous settlements, including the $10 billion decision, Roundup litigation is ongoing and law firms continue to take on clients seeking justice.

Here is Bayer's opinion on it and a statement from their website . Perhaps not all jury members are scientists? But all the lawyers need a job, and ethics may not always be the prime driver.

Like all herbicides, glyphosate has been subject to rigorous testing and oversight by regulatory authorities. The leading health regulators around the world have repeatedly concluded that glyphosate-based products can be used safely as directed. Most recently, in November 2023, the EU Commission re-approved glyphosate for 10 years, following the favorable scientific assessments by its health and safety agencies, including the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) , which “did not identify any critical areas of concern.” The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the regulatory authorities in

Japan , Australia , Korea , Canada , New Zealand , and elsewhere have also recently reaffirmed that glyphosate-based products can be used safely as directed.

As of January 1, 2023, there were 1,331,290 active lawyers in the United States. In terms of absolute numbers, the American legal profession was the largest in the world as of 2015, and it is thought to be the largest in the world in proportion to domestic population.

The same could be said about immigration—we need more immigration lawyers to get the borders under control, and then we need more social workers and teachers for a union-organized association, all fueling the base of indoctrinated people. Once they collect the money (immigration lawyers), they feel good about solving their income problems, letting other people pay the price .

The U.S. military and its reputation have probably suffered more under President Biden than in any other administration since inception. The latest incident sounds like a joke . So far, it’s operational—really?

The US Military and its reputation , has probably suffered more under President Biden than in any other administration since inception, and the latest incident sounds like a joke ? So far, it’s operational, really?

Four boats stabilizing the $320 million structure detached, U.S. Central Command, which is responsible for military operations in the Middle East, said Saturday. Two of them floated northward, eventually landing on the beach in Ashdod, Israel, it said. Two others are now anchored on the beach near the pier, the military said, adding that the dock is still operational despite the damage. It said that no U.S. military personnel would enter Gaza.

“Efforts to recover the vessels are under way with assistance from the Israeli Navy,” U.S. Central Command said.

The Trump Hush Money political trial will be decided in the coming days or weeks. The Judge and Prosecutor Teram certainly have delivered the setup for a potentially damaging outcome for a staged and created case, perhaps orchestrated directly by the White House by one of the AG implants into the case . That the Jurors are not in seclusion and basically can get their daily dose of CNN politics and friends unlimited support speaks volume of the politics in the case? Wonder if it will change the needle for Biden,

The 12 jurors deciding Trump’s fate include an investment banker, physical therapist, teacher and two lawyers. Their closed-door deliberations will come after more than a month of testimony in the first and perhaps only trial Trump will face before the election. Three other prosecutions of Trump, one in Georgia and two at the federal level, are facing legal hurdles and procedural delays.

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, a Democrat, brought the hush-money case. His prosecutors have argued that Trump falsified business records to cover up a payment to porn star Stormy Daniels, who alleged an affair with the former president, on the eve of the 2016 election. The bogus records, prosecutors allege, constitute a felony because they were intended to conceal an unlawful effort by Trump and others to boost his electoral prospects by removing negative stories from the market.

Any outcome will certainly fuel the fodder for the Anti – Trumpers, craving for any momentum in the election cycle as for far all attempts to put current President Joe Biden in a favorable spotlight have failed.

Not sure if the outcome is definite, as the left propaganda Machine will continue in case of a missing guilty verdict pounce on the “guilty” narrative as others may see it more like Mr. Law. Alan Dershowitz?

“The only way it’s not extortion is if the money was paid to avoid a lawsuit, and if the money was paid to avoid a lawsuit, it’s a legal expense,” Mr. Dershowitz said.

Describing the case as a “fabrication of a crime” against the former president, Mr. Dershowitz added on social media that Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg “made up a crime” and used a “witness” who he knew “could not tell the truth,” referring to Mr. Cohen. “There are so many ethical violations” at play, he added.

If anything , President Biden may have good legal advice to visit his Sons Beau’ Widow the eve of Memorial Day. What a show of empathy on the start of the legal trial for Hunters Gun charges , where she is a Witness, no Gag orders here? And no outcry over the transparency to release the transcripts of the Hur interview, claiming executive privilege.

Biden’ support with Hollywood, the view , and Guess who, Robert the Niro? That may well be more comedy than all if TV can produce at this time, but certainly if you look at Robert de Niro’ life, it seems like a Shakesperean comedy, while the view looks more like a Muppet show, but if it gets you votes I guess, but so goes the decline of democracy.

Anti-Trump actor Robert De Niro lent his staunch support to the Biden-Harris campaign this week, narrating a new ad that painted Trump as an unstable "dictator" who will do anything to grab power.

De Niro , who has gained notoriety throughout the Trump years by trashing the former president on many occasions, provided a voice-over for the new ad which trotted out some questionable or debunked narratives about Trump that the Democratic Party and media outlets have pushed.

"Trump wants revenge, and he’ll stop at nothing to get it," De Niro began in the quick 30-second spot, which also included quotes from Trump that prominent conservatives say have been taken out of context.

De Niro married actress Diahnne Abbott in 1976. They have a son, Raphael , a former actor who works in New York real estate. [250] De Niro also adopted Abbott's daughter Drena De Niro from a previous relationship. He and Abbott divorced in 1988. Afterwards, he was in a relationship with model Toukie Smith between 1988 and 1996. The couple has twin sons, Julian and Aaron, conceived by in vitro fertilization and delivered by a surrogate mother in 1995. [251] [252]

In 1997, De Niro married actress Grace Hightower . [253] Their son, Elliot, was born in 1998 and the couple split in 1999. The divorce was never finalized and in 2004 they renewed their vows. [253] In December 2011, their daughter Helen was born via surrogate. [254] In 2014, he and Hightower moved into a 6,000-square-foot, five-bedroom apartment at 15 Central Park West . [255] [256] Four years later, De Niro and Hightower separated after 20 years of marriage. [257] De Niro has four grandchildren: one from his daughter Drena and three from his son Raphael. [258] [259] On April 19, 2021, De Niro's lawyer argued in a virtual divorce hearing presided by a Manhattan judge that he is "working at an unsustainable pace" in order "to support Hightower and pay off all his back taxes". Hightower's lawyer claimed that since the pair filed for divorce in 2018, De Niro had been "unfairly decreasing" the agreed-upon payments to her. [260]

In April 2023, De Niro welcomed his seventh child, a daughter Gia, with his girlfriend Tiffany Chen. [261] [262] [263] [264] At age 79, De Niro is one of the oldest fathers on record . [265] [266]

In July 2023, it was announced that De Niro's grandson through his daughter Drena, Leandro De Niro Rodriguez, had died at age 19. [267] The cause of death was determined as a combined drug intoxication involving particularly fentanyl and cocaine . [268]

Sounds like a socio.. No, psychopath to me. Perhaps fitting for a supporter of Biden.

The UAW’ 40 million waste in Alabama , blamed on Corporate Greed, so who financed their campaign ? Anyone who pays a dime to the Union, is simply wasting his own Money to fill pockets of scammers. In today’s world, the Unions are simply an outdated relict of greedy (Mafia Style) bosses, achieving nothing different then any Companies employer council can. To say the strike in Michigan was a success, is simply a view of a hostile environment, not of a cooperation? Good for the Workers in Alabama to see the scheme?

US Politics | May 2024

Wed, 22 May 2024 15:38:29 GMT

"Shrinkflation", Election Interference & More Trump Gossip

The Democrats' shrinkflation election campaign
While the President called out mainly the grocery chains for shrinkflation, his election campaign has now adapted the practice to his messaging. Short and concise, so the maximum duration of a speech may be 10 minutes. In short:

We have the greatest economy ever.
Inflation is not a problem; it was 1.9% when I took office.
I created, with all the bills that may become effective after 2024, at least 100 million jobs on paper, all great union jobs. So far, 15 million are created (counting the COVID recovery).
We have a unified United States; only the MAGA people don’t get it.
Guest workers coming across the southern border (called illegal immigrants) are a great addition to our social fabric and economy, so please join me in welcoming them. They will all get green cards or citizenship as soon as we have majority power.
However, Homeland Security has done a tremendous job under the leadership of Kamala. There is no longer illegal border crossing; they are all legal now with ankle monitors, and we saved all the money to build a wall.
Crime is eradicated, and so is homelessness, with people given extra special care in hotels and free reign to commit crimes unless you are a Republican. For those, we have special counsels and fines for free speech.
All the people who vote for me will be rewarded with loan forgiveness, special government programs, and direct handouts. Just bring me a copy of your voting record, and the check will be in the mail.
If you have any questions, please address them to Binder, CNN, or MSNBC. They will answer everything and keep the narrative of my campaign running.

If this was not enough, his Mother’s Day address was probably drafted by Jill. This guy has no ethics; turning a celebratory day into a campaign day.

The Biden campaign is using Mother's Day to criticize former President Trump in a new campaign video, urging Americans to "Stop Trump."

"Happy Mother's Day. At the Biden campaign, we are asking Americans to do the moms in their lives a favor. Stop Trump," the Biden campaign wrote in a press release.

In the video , the Biden campaign says that "On Mother’s Day, a reminder: Donald Trump stands only for himself and not mothers across America and their families."

Election interference has many angles. One of them is Biden's appeal to the UAW: we can’t let the US EV market be dominated by the Chinese, so tariffs are now good to save votes. So, when is the attack on Tesla coming? And to make sure it becomes a real trade war , include Mexico in it.

Election interference has many angles , one of them is Bidens appeal to the UAW – can’t let the US EV Market be dominated by the Chinese so Tariffs are now good , to save votes, so when is the attack on Tesla coming? And to make sure it becomes a real Trade War , include Mexico in it.

Officials are particularly focused on electric vehicles, and they are expected to raise the tariff rate to roughly 100% from 25%, according to the people. An additional 2.5% duty applies to all automobiles imported into the U.S. The existing 25% tariff on Chinese electric vehicles has so far effectively barred those models, often cheaper than Western-made cars, from the U.S. market. Biden administration officials, automakers and some lawmakers worry that wouldn’t be enough given the scale of Chinese manufacturing.

Tesla is the only major American auto manufacturer not represented by a union in the US as of January 2024. None of the unionization attempts between 2016–2023 by United Auto Workers (UAW), United Steelworkers (USW), International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), and Workers United were successful.

UAW membership has declined in recent decades, and the auto industry is moving to electric vehicles. EV battery and production plants thus far in the United States are mostly non-union . To grow, the UAW will have to make inroads at EV plants.

“ Tesla is the biggest threat in the long term to UAW wages and benefits. UAW doesn’t have any choice but to take on [Tesla],” said John Logan, a professor of labor and employment studies at San Francisco State University.

Tesla controls around 50% of the e lectric vehicle market in the United States, and Detroit and foreign automakers in the South are racing to catch up. Tesla workers earn on average about $55 an hour in wages and benefits, compared to $66 to $71 an hour at Detroit’s Big Three, according to industry estimates. If you can do Math – the Union dues are the difference?

But will it sell more EV’s? or will the billions of investments on charging networks simply be expenses?

When Extortion becomes legal , and the payee is criminally charged? Let’s assume Stormy and Donald, in a weak half hour had Sex? Yeah, she really wanted to say no, but kept quiet, and he known for a quicky, went for it. Was that in 2006? Imagine Stormy would have used the #Metoo to allege Trump of rape? Did they just release a Mr. Weinstein from prison , (not yet) for people making false claims? What if it just did not pay out for Stormy, neither in the apprentice program nor any of her desires to become famous? So as with the Russian Dossier, paid for by Hillary, to throw a wrench into Trumps election, was it Stormy to the rescue of the democrat party failures, and we thought it to be a 134,000-dollar financial scheme, now we know it was about the sex position, potentially instilled in her from death people’s voices, but well she may have blacked out because it did not happen? And the left media calls it a threat to democracy? Let’s face it, it’s nothing short of an extortion, and the Judge, NY County District Attorney, the Biden surrogates , especially Matthew Colangelo should all be prosecuted for conspiracy and with the real Crime, election interference. Wonder which Hollywood producer provided the script?

For Manhattan prosecutors , putting Daniels, 45 years old, on the stand was a gamble . Her testimony helped bolster the account of her former lawyer, Keith Davidson, and gave jurors a firsthand look at her efforts to sell her story and negotiations around her silence. But Trump’s lawyers raised objections over what she told the jury and later demanded a mistrial. They accused Daniels of changing her story and of providing details outside the scope of the trial.

Daniels said at one point that she blacked out during the encounter, but clarified she wasn’t drunk or drugged.

Todd Blanche, a Trump lawyer, said Daniels’s testimony was meant to inflame the jury and wrongfully raise questions about whether the sex was consensual.

US Elections coming up, for the defenders of Democracy – check out the Players.

The Federal role in elections , a visual aid you may start reading now to see through the channels that may have the power to play interference, depending on the interest? Do we think they all are neutral to the vote, and simply carry out the mission.

The Governments role , do we think they are all politically neutral and to no avail self-serving? Government employees may be different from the Administration, but there might be a bit of leaning to personal interest and political.

Confidence in government employees has declined among both Republicans and Democrats since 2018. Among Republicans and independents who lean toward the Republican Party, 38% say they have a great deal or a fair amount of confidence in civil servants, down from 48% in December 2018.

Political Donations from Federal Employees

Several agencies have employee donations in the 2020 political cycle that total in the millions. The agency with the largest total donations was the State Department with more than $5.2 million. This agency also had the largest percentage of donations to Republicans (46.14%). The Department of Defense was a close second with more than $5.2 million donated during the same political cycle. 65% of donations from these employees went to Democrats.

The Department of Justice had more than $2.3 million in donations with 87.6% going to Democrats.

The agency with the highest percentage going to Democrats was the Federal Communications Commission (also, probably the smallest agency depicted and the one with the smallest amount of total donations). 99.29% of donations from people in this agency went to Democrats. The largest total amount going to Democrats was $3,356,391 from the Department of Defense.

Why do we have DEI requirements, would a political equivalent not require a balanced employee count, but perhaps like MSNBC, the left needs a safe heaven for extremists?

The Corporate role in elections , do we think for 2024, Facebook, Google and all the others will simply refrain from endorsements, contributions and direct influence , you can always but a spin on it to justify? It may well be, as the public is much more aware of the Medias interpretation of infrastructure support. Perhaps some of the CEO simply are to be embarrassed by the current Leadership to publicly support it, but this is a thematic to follow.

And the dark Money – start with Arabella

Schmitt's first guest was Scott Walter, president of the Capital Research Center and the author of the new bestseller " Arabella: The Dark Money Network of Leftist Billionaires Secretly Transforming America ."

In " Arabella ," Walter shows how billionaires like Soros, Mark Zuckerberg, the Pritzker family, and even investor Warren Buffett have used the shadowy group to pour billions into radical groups.

Arabella Advisors calls itself a philanthropic consulting company, but its network of subsidiaries, including the Sixteen Thirty Fund, rake in billions, but because the way they are structured, they do not have to disclose their donors.

And the Media , here a list of News outlets, have you ever thought which ones are balances, which ones plain left or right and which ones just a messenger for the Administration.

Biden’s Tax plan, we have not heard much about it lately, perhaps he is taking Warren Buffets blueprint, and starts with the ones on the top , as a start? Wonder what the 80 billion in IRS investment will produce, studying Trumps tax returns? See the hypocrisy?

U.S. IRS to hire nearly 20,000 staff over two years with $80 billion in new funds.

Fair enough: At Berkshire Hathaway’s 2024 annual meeting, CEO Warren Buffett stated “if we send in a check like we did last year we send in over 5 billion to the US federal government and if 800 other companies had done the same thing no other person in the United States would have had to pay a dime of federal taxes whether income taxes no social security taxes no estate taxes…”

Valuable advice: At the time of this writing the U.S. national debt is heading towards 40 trillion dollars, let’s give it the benefit of the doubt that no U.S. citizen wants to pay income tax, Warren’s suggestion is actually a profound way to pay off the U.S. national debt within a decade.

For reference: If the top 800 U.S. companies paid a minimum of 5 billion annually to the federal government that equates to 4 trillion dollars per year.

U.S. IRS to hire nearly 20,000 staff over two years with $80 billion in new funds.

The tax agency, in its long-awaited Strategic Operating Plan, opens new tab , said it will obligate about $8.64 billion of the new funding during the 2023 and 2024 fiscal years, and that 7,239 of the new hires during those years will be enforcement staff.

"The IRS is going to hire more data scientists than they ever have for enforcement purposes," U.S. Deputy Treasury Secretary Wally Adeyemo told reporters, adding that these would complement more traditional tax attorneys and revenue agents in using new data analytics technology to identify audit targets.

Since abortion is still a high priority for some voters, here may be some help. Rather than pay for a surrogate, just adopt one? But if you read the story below, perhaps some rethinking of values might be appropriate. Or is it all Business rather then high ethics? You are not allowed to shoot a dog, but abort a Child up to birth? Get your perspective?

USA: Man with makeup and fake fingernails receives a just-born child. How LGBTQ ideology is destroying the tried-and-tested values of our society. A man with long braids, make-up and artificial fingernails lies on a hospital bed and receives a child that has just been born. He bought it because he can afford it and another woman offered her body and her biological baby for sale. The innocent worm lies on his hairy chest, and the man seems quite animated.

While the legislator grants puppies an eight-week period during which the small dog must stay with its mother, people are not so merciful with human children. In the USA, it is increasingly common for the orderer’s to even be present at the birth in the delivery room. Just like in this video .

Geopolitical Focus – May, 2024

Tue, 14 May 2024 18:04:01 GMT

Geopolitical Focus – May, 2024: The War for "Democracy" Isn't actually about Democracy..

Do we think the Biden Administration understands the European map, or do they simply believe that Russia is the only obstacle to Europe from the Atlantic to the Bering Sea? This perspective leaves out the Middle East, India, Pakistan, and China on the other side, while neglecting Africa and South America, as if they pose no threat to US hegemony. But are we so sure that is the case?

While Biden's top diplomat courts China's leaders to join their side, Mr. Xi also travels to Hungary and other open-minded, yet authoritarian European states to hear their voices. China has its tentacles globally, and we will see if Germany, France, or other countries can divest from China and survive. Here are two sides of the picture:

China’s economic ties with Europe are increasingly being perceived under the guise of economic security and reduced dependencies. For now, concrete steps pale in comparison to Japan’s new security law which is gradually being implemented or the new export controls announced by the United States in October. Vigilant of one-sided dependencies, the United States’ Inflation Reduction Act—among many other objectives—effectively aims to oust Chinese companies from American battery supply chains. The increasingly difficult business environment for Chinese firms in some countries bolsters the relative attractiveness of Chinese investments in Europe. The first visits to Beijing since the outbreak of the pandemic by French president Macron and German chancellor Scholz recently–the latter with a business delegation in tow–seem to indicate that some European leaders place high emphasis on continued good economic relationships with China. Still, the stumbling blocks for Chinese investments in Europe are growing larger, not only with regard to economic security but also in terms of the increasing political differences.

On the other side -- "The US view": That New York Times reporter seems like a relic of Stalin's times - Perhaps a lesson from the Vietnam War would be helpful. Note that all European leaders who refuse to regurgitate the Biden Doctrine, are often labeled as dictators?

So, when Mr. Xi returned to the region this week , after a visit to France, he headed for Serbia, arriving there late Tuesday before moving on later in the week to Hungary — two countries whose long-serving authoritarian leaders still offer a haven for China in increasingly turbulent political and economic waters.

“The Czechs, the Poles and nearly everyone else are really pissed at China because of the war,” said Tamas Matura, a foreign relations scholar at Corvinus University of Budapest. “But in Hungary that is not a problem, at least not for the government” of Prime Minister Viktor Orban, Mr. Matura said.

Here is a link to the reporte r, based in Warsaw, discussing one of the key dictator issues that the previous Polish president installed. Donald Tusk succumbed to the "laws" of the EU. Note that this article is from The Guardian. If time permits, scroll all the way down.

Back to Vietnam

The American journalist Mark Bowden writes in his major Vietnam book about the Turning Point Battle of Hue in 1968: "The painful experience should have taught Americans – it did not – to be guided in foreign policy not by ideologies, but by an effort to understand."

Is the same thing happening to the Americans and their allies today? The Ukraine war also follows more complex patterns than is prepared to be perceived in the command centers of the West. "Trust only those," concludes author Bowden, who approach the world "modestly" and with "cautious insight".

So what can be learned from this? Perhaps that democracy can only be defined by the CIA?

Ukraine: Suffering for Biden and the Military Complex – The Democracy Lie?

Strange chessboard? Later , Mackinder would call this region "Heartland", and under this name his theory is still alive today. Mackinder had warned the Empire that it must be in the interest of Britain's undisputed naval power to prevent the land powers of Europe and Asia from closing ranks. Specifically, these were Germany and Russia at the time. Today, the United States is the world's undisputed maritime power, and it sees things in the same way as its British cousins once did.

For two years now, Mackinder's theory has been more relevant than ever – in the war in Ukraine. Ostensibly, it is about an invasion by Russia of its neighboring state, in fact it is a proxy war between America and Russia, but at its core is the age-old goal of the United States to prevent the unification of Eurasia. Ukraine is only, as the American geo-strategist George Friedman put it, Washington's "weapon of choice".

He also formulated unequivocally like no other what is actually at stake: "The primal fear of the United States is that German capital and German technology will ally themselves with Russian raw materials and Russian workers. This is the only combination that has terrified the US for centuries because this cooperation would lead to the loss of power and control over Europe. A Germany/Europe-Russia axis cannot be allowed!"

Source content in German - https://weltwoche.de/story/kampf-ums-herzland/

The Ukraine Peace Summit

As Switzerland has given up neutrality in the Russia/Ukraine War by abiding by US sanctions, it will now host a peace summit . A better title would be: "The Dissection of Russia – A Strategic Approach for a Unified West to Dismantle Russia." No participation from Russia, so how is it a peace summit? Read the Zelensky version here .

Remember the Versailles treaties after WW I – history is not held in high regard in American schools.

The result of these competing and sometimes conflicting goals among the victors was a compromise that left no one satisfied. In particular, Germany was neither pacified nor conciliated, nor was it permanently weakened. The United States never ratified the Versailles treaty and made a separate peace treaty with Germany, albeit based on the Versailles treaty. The problems that arose from the treaty would lead to the Locarno Treaties , which improved relations between Germany and the other European powers. The reparation system was reorganized and payments reduced in the Dawes Plan and the Young Plan . Bitter resentment of the treaty powered the rise of the Nazi Party , and eventually the outbreak of a second World War .

Imagine a conference discussing whether the US needs missile capability in Finland, Sweden, and Ukraine. Note, what if the Bay of Pigs deal had included no Russian missiles in Cuba and no expansion of US missiles in Turkey or east of it? In 1961 , the result was the red telephone hotline, later frozen by GWB, and the pathetic reset button by Hillary. NATO in 1961?

In 1961, the US government put Jupiter nuclear missiles in Italy and Turkey. It had also trained a paramilitary force of Cuban exiles , which the CIA led in an attempt to i nvade Cuba and overthrow its government. Starting in November of that year, the US government engaged in a violent campaign of terrorism and sabotage in Cuba, referred to as the Cuban Project , which continued throughout the first half of the 1960s. The Soviet administration was concerned about a Cuban drift towards China , with which the Soviets had an increasingly fractious relationship. In response to these factors, the Soviet and Cuban governments agreed to place nuclear missiles on Cuba to deter a future invasion. An agreement was reached during a meeting between Khrushchev and Castro in July 1962, and construction started later that summer.

The Cuban Missile Crisis was resolved through a series of secret meetings between Robert F. Kennedy and Soviet Ambassador to the U.S. Anatoly Dobrynin. Kennedy offered Dobrynin a diplomatic deal: a pledge not to invade Cuba coupled with a parallel commitment to withdraw U.S. nuclear- tipped missiles in Turkey .

So the US sent the Aid package to Ukraine, but our country is too caught up with the the Trump trial to notice. So Zelinsky is left with its dying Army, but at least we sent ammunition? Another Pontius Pilate moment from Biden?

What if a direct democracy with an Initiative selects to be a Kalifate State with Sharia Law? It is an interesting Question, circulating among some Swiss politicians , as Immigration in Europe questions the Integration of Kalifate believers, especially among the demonstrators for a Palestinian State. It may be just hypothetical, but think of the consequences should President Biden allow Palestinians to relocate to the US , for a two State solution in MI and MN? Well, there are a total of 5 million, that’s about a 6 month of the Southern Border crossings. Northern Michigan would be as good as a place as the GAZA Strip? Rashida could be their President. Since the British orchestrated the Jewish State, why not offer the Olive Branch to the other side, Biden may just need the votes in MI? Election Interference as Humanitarian Aid. You can read here about a bit of their suffering and info on the State .

You almost need to be a prophet or better a card reader to follow Biden Israel / GAZA policies. Like the Ukraine, we stand with you until I decide otherwise, and when I decide otherwise you will eventually figure it out.

How on the Planet would any Nation build negotiations around political maneuvers like this, and then throwing in a 2 State solution, Hamas Palestine, and Israel? To eliminate the problem at the source, needs a revisit to the source in 1948 and all the political maneuvers over the last 1000 years. For what, imperialism and dominance? Or just plain hatred? Here is another source .

Conclusion

Anti-Semitism was not a creation of Hitler. It has been part of European society for over 2000 years. The Jewish religion and the attempt to maintain it, when the Jews were expelled from their homeland by the Romans, was the key factor in their survival as a group; but by being a recognizable group who had power they seemed to threaten many of their adopted societies.

And then, it may be that reconciliation is not possible. Think about Germany and Russia: there was more openness to cooperate in the last 70 years than to fuel a war. But remember Mackinder? Some people think it was the Romans who created the mess in the first place, or even earlier, according to biblical scholars. So perhaps removing Hamas will bring some reasoning, but memories go back 2000 years, and so do opinions . What has changed? Warfare has; politics has not. History in politics is a 4-year cycle, with the Jewish population, besides Israel, well represented all over the world .

For centuries, Palestine was an Ottoman province with no clear boundaries .

Muslims were the majority, living alongside small Christian and Jewish communities. The Jews were almost entirely Sephardic and native to the region, with few nationalist aspirations.

The relationships among Muslims, Christians and Jews began to shift in the beginning of the 20th century as a group of young socialist revolutionaries — including founders of the future state of Israel, like David Ben-Gurion — immigrated in waves from Russia and Eastern Europe. Fleeing ghettos, impoverishment, and the violence of pogroms, they believed that the only answer to the global affliction of antisemitism was Zionism .

So, rooting out Hamas on a global scale seems reasonable, but it may lead to more antisemitism, which could create the next generation of Hamas. This looks like a potential circular war. Or will the British call for another round of their supposed genius?

US Politics | April 2024

Sun, 28 Apr 2024 19:33:06 GMT

Joe Biden and the "Middle Class", Civil War, & Authoritarian Hush Money

Joe Biden and the "Middle Class"

In his 2020 campaign , haven't we heard repeatedly about his humble upbringing and commitment to the "workers" or the so-called middle class? Looking at the situation in 2024, the stock market has gained, corporate profits are up, but the real income of the middle class has shrunk. His rhetorical attack on the rich is nothing but window dressing on his image. Just look at his donors then and now. His politics of appeasement – the Biden doctrine – blowing smoke to all sides, is typically reserved for sociopaths who assume they are the smartest people in the room. He is surrounded by yea-sayers and incompetence on all levels of his administration. If you check some of the names in all the efforts, there is not much allegiance to the US, but rather to the party ideology.

The blessing of the group, Future Forward, marks a changing of the guard in the important world of big-money Democratic politics. Since the 2012 election, a different group, Priorities USA, has been the leading super PAC for Democratic presidential candidates.

“In 2020, when they really appeared from nowhere and started placing advertising, the Biden campaign was impressed by the effectiveness of the ads and the overall rigorous testing that had clearly gone into the entire project,” Anita Dunn, a senior White House adviser to Mr. Biden, said of Future Forward. The group, she added, had “really earned its place as the pre-eminent super PAC supporting the Biden-Harris agenda and 2024 efforts.”

Future Forward represents a one-party democracy, with the looming threat of authoritarianism at stake. They call it perks , while in other countries we would call it corruption. If you follow some leading politicians, they also use the Chips Act for political purposes .

The Biden administration has reached an agreement to provide $6.1 billion in government support for Micron Technology to produce advanced memory computer chips in New York and Idaho.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., personally courted Micron to build what would ultimately be a set of four chip factories near Syracuse in the town of Clay. He noted in a Wednesday interview that the announcement was a sign to voters about how Democrats were reviving the manufacturing sector.

In October 2022, Micron Technology pledged $100 Billion for a giant semiconductor complex in the White Pine Commerce Park located in Clay, NY.

As a comparison, the Unions are gaining in popularity thanks to the strikes in Michigan. Wonder why pay disparity is most noticeable between Hispanics and Asians when Food and Gas are up by some 20% and wages on average are down 2.1%? It is considered a great economy?

Average income by race and ethnicity: The lowest earners in the U.S. were Hispanics and Latinos, with an average of $45,968, and the highest earners were Asians, with an average of $79,456.4

Do you think “newcomers” undocumented will get the $25.00 minimum wage, while fast food and grocery stores are asked to absorb it in their profits? Inflation is caused only by the Government.

The Trump haters lack substance and facts

No one represents the Trump haters better than Jennifer Rubin and its corrupted news reporting. She, along with all the liberal reporters on CNN and elsewhere, simply base their standards on personal resentment that their political favorites have not won, and personal resentment of a person’s communication style, rather than anything of substance. None of these opinion writers understand democracy or policy; they are simply addressing the interests of their employers and personal opinions.

Criticism of Donald Trump

Rubin has been one of the most vocal conservative writers to criticize Donald Trump , as well as the overall behavior of the Republican Party during Trump's term in office. Rubin denounced Donald Trump's decision to withdraw from the 2015 Paris Agreemen t as "a dog whistle to the far right", and designed to please his " climate change denial , right-wing base that revels in scientific illiteracy." Previously, after Barack Obama had approved the agreement, Rubin characterized it as "nonsense" and argued that it would not achieve anything. Rubin described Trump's 2017 decision to not implement parts of the I ran nuclear deal as the "emotional temper tantrum of an unhinged president." She had previously said that "if you examine the Iran deal in any detail, you will be horrified as to what is in there." Rubin strongly supported the United States officially recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital and moving its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Early in his presidency, she criticized Trump for not doing so, saying that it was indicative of his tendency to "never keep his word." She concluded that Trump "looks buffoonish in his hasty retreat". In December 2017, after Trump announced that he would move the embassy, she said it was "a foreign policy move without purpose." [33]

In a tweet referred to by CNN Media, Mike Huckabee questioned Rubin, writing: "Jen Rubin is WAPO's excuse for conservative," and adding that Rubin's "contempt for all things Trump exposes her and WAPO as fake news "

Here is her latest rant on MAGA ; incompetence is no high crime. Sadly, this is true also for journalists, politicians, and members of the Administration. Killing for the Mafia’ interest is considered a symbol of status. “Newcomers“ killing and raping Americans, ignoring the rule of law is simply fine, topped with a milkshake?

The CIVIL War movie, a Brit's lesson for America?

If you have not heard about it in media, CIVIL WAR is a movie from the play originated by Sinclair Lewis, and it forces some fantasies to face reality. But at least he writes about an authoritarian President, and the fictive California – Texas dispute should rather be a real reason to have a fight, that is about immigration, and that is manifest of an authoritarian President? Well, you can learn more about the Director here.

Civil War focuses on a band of four war correspondents. Kirsten Dunst plays our hero, Lee Smith, a photojournalist well aware that the most celebrated female World War II photographer was also named Lee. At her side is Joel (Wagner Moura), a reporter for Reuters. In the back seat are veteran journalist Sammy (Stephen McKinley Henderson), who works for “what’s left of the New York Times,” as well as newbie photographer Jessie (Cailee Spaeny), who idolizes Lee and fits nicely as a screenwriting crutch to explain the front lines to the audience. The four decide to travel from New York City to Washington, D.C., before the White House falls. Joel wants a quote from the president and Lee wants to get the shot.

This is the entirety of their motivation. Any political opinions they might have about the state of the nation are sublimated in pursuit of this goal. Lee even goes so far as to say, “We record so other people ask. That’s the job.” Civil War is a lot of things, but it is certainly not subtle.

Immigration and Impeachment

While the Democrats see nothing wrong with Alejandro N. Mayorkas and the handling of the Homeland Security Department, some people may question if they have no right to be involved in deciding who sits with them at the kitchen table. Furthermore, some people need to go through a costly legal process to get visas and green cards, while others simply ignore it and get the administration's blessing. Ever wondered why we don't simply open US prisons to get the labor needed for the farmers, gang members included? Some people find more solace in statistics and justifications on who shot who and where than in solving problems. Well, farmwork is an unacceptable burden.

At least, since the department knows how to get the American system to work, especially the Democrat-friendly organizations, in one of the most horrific crimes, closing and screening the border entries would be too easy and would not showcase the hard work of Mr. Mayorkas.

There Were Over thirty-six million Reports of Suspected Child Sexual Exploitation in 2023, More Than Twice the Number Reported in 2019

Department’s New Know2Protect.gov Campaign to Provide Young People, Parents, Community Leaders, and Educators with Resources to Better Prevent and Educate Themselves on These Crimes

Mr. Mayorkas thinks, since his parents were immigrants, all people are like him and deserve a better life. What happened to his parents to overthrow Castro like the BLM movement? Does he think Americans just go to Russia if they do not like his policies? Does that give him the right to use US generosity to lecture all of us? Perhaps, Rep. Rashida Tlaib is free to voice her opinion as a defender of democracy, but representing more Jihadi law?

The authoritarian regime and the Hush Money.

Prosecutors accused Mr. Trump of falsifying business records to cover up a sex scandal. It is the first criminal trial of a former president .

What is Mr. Trump accused of?

The charges trace back to a $130,000 hush-money payment that Mr. Trump’s fixer, Michael D. Cohen, made to Ms. Daniels in the final days of the 2016 campaign. The payment, which Mr. Cohen said he had made at Mr. Trump’s direction, suppressed her story of a sexual liaison that she said she had with Mr. Trump.

Paying hush money is not always illegal.

But while serving as the commander in chief, Mr. Trump reimbursed Mr. Cohen, and the way he did so constituted fraud, prosecutors say.

In internal records, Mr. Trump’s company classified the repayment to Mr. Cohen as legal expenses, citing a retainer agreement. Yet there were no such expenses, the prosecutors say, and the retainer agreement was fictional too.

Those records underpin the 34 counts of falsifying business records: 11 counts involve the checks, 11 center on monthly invoices Mr. Cohen submitted to the company, and 12 involve entries in the general ledger for Mr. Trump’s trust.

Make your case. All legal proceedings so far against Trump have come out as hoaxes, so the state of New York chooses a Democrat bench, Democratic judges , and a jury pool, most of them getting the news from CNN and MSNBC. And we should believe it's all democratic and fair. Hunter Biden, at the same time, is wetting his pants in joy, and the Democrats in Congress applaud. In most countries, including democracies, sex is a personal matter, whether one time or more, married or not. If it involves a person who sees it as a profession , you pay for the service, and that includes secrecy. Otherwise, it is an extortion attempt. It does not matter who or what pays for it. But with a current Roman Catholic President who advocates the killing of babies, sex must have some traumatizing effects. Here's an example of the Fixer . Wonder if that money came from donations or government grants?

Falwell scandal involvement

In 2015, President of Liberty University Jerry Falwell Jr. reached out to Cohen and asked him for a personal favor. Falwell had told Cohen that a third party had obtained compromising nude photos of Falwell's wife Becki Falwell. Cohen met with the third party, and after the meeting, the person destroyed the photos. Shortly after Cohen did this favor for Falwell, Falwell endorsed Trump's 2016 presidential campaign. In August 2020, Cohen told CNN that there was no link between the favor and the endorsement, saying “There is absolutely no connection between the photos and my personal request to the Falwell’s to assist the Trump campaign. "

History has lots of examples, one a Catholic should really know. Perhaps Jesus got a more fair trial ? And who should get out of jail in exchange – Julian Assange? Here's a list to pick from

8. Jesus or Barabbas:

On their return, Pilate resumed his place on the judgment seat outside. What followed, however, properly formed no part of the legal trial, as it was a mere travesty upon law as well as upon justice. Pilate resolved to make another attempt to secure the consent of the Jews to the release of Jesus. To this end, he summoned not only the chief priests and the rulers but "the people" as well, and after mentioning the failure to prove any of the charges made against Jesus, he reminded them of the custom of releasing at the feast a prisoner selected by them, and offering as a compromise to chastise or scourge Jesus before releasing Him. At this point, Pilate's anxiety to release Jesus was still further increased by the message he received from his wife concerning her disturbing dream about Jesus and warning him to "have nothing to do with that righteous man" (Matthew 27:19). Meanwhile, the chief priests and elders were busily engaged in canvassing the multitude to ask for the release of Barabbas, the notable robber, and destroy Jesus. When Pilate urged them to release Jesus, they cried out all together, "Away with this man, and release unto us Barabbas"; and upon a further appeal on behalf of Jesus, they cried, "Crucify, crucify him." A third attempt on his part met with no better result.

The US and its Wars

It was U.S. President Dwight Eisenhower who warned his compatriots about the military-industrial complex, the sinister interplay between the Pentagon and the defense industry. What is less well known is that he added a third accomplice: Congress, which must sign off on the expensive contracts.

Congress approved the so-called aid package to Israel, Taiwan, and Ukraine. Call it an aid package, but it is nothing short of an extended war declaration with no strategies or solutions attached. The most striking part is that most of the weapons are already available in storages around Europe, sounding more like an inventory clearance to protect the shelf life. All this maneuvering is from an incompetent administration lost in a global world. Zelinsky has no people to shoot, and if we escalate this with NATO troops, the chances of winning are slim. European politicians may support it, but the people certainly do not. And Israel, at one point in time, will need to realize that with all biblical history, the Old Testament with an eye for an eye is not necessarily a diplomatic approach. So the settlers may have to share the territory with their Palestinian neighbors. If you follow this story , agitation seems to be the buzzword, in the hope that NATO and Israel can kill everything east of the Bosporus. And why should China be enthused if the US installs rockets in Taiwan? Read “ USA, The Ruthless Empire ” and think about the defenders of democracy, or the latest from Zelinsky on the money. Thank you for defending democracy. I did not approve of elections so we make sure I am right, a Biden playbook? Put Trump in Jail?

While peace was near , the warriors prevailed. Boris Johnson, Joe Biden, and Zelinsky wanted to be hero's, but also thought it was a comedy show.

To put a finer point on it: if the United States and its allies were unwilling to provide Ukraine such guarantees (for example, in the form of NATO membership) before the war, why would they do so after Russia had so vividly demonstrated its willingness to attack Ukraine? The Ukrainian negotiators developed an answer to this question, but in the end, it didn’t persuade their risk-averse Western colleagues.

Do you think the US wanted this war, or was it just pure ignorance that got us here?

Geopolitical Focus – April, 2024

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 20:26:27 GMT

Geopolitical Focus – April, 2024: The WEF & Zelensky's version of Democracy

How did we reach this point where we witness a cohesion among Western Leaders galvanized during Covid, all united in the belief that we must save the world from extinction? The concept of the "great reset" still lingers, though those words are no longer spoken. In Germany , scrutiny has fallen upon the Covid management during the height of the pandemic, with many blacked-out pages obscuring the details. However, one thing can be assumed with a high degree of certainty: Science was not the driving force behind the decision-making, but rather a plethora of opinions and politics. Nevertheless, the main goal was achieved: to further intimidate anyone not in alignment with the government and media. If you analyze some stats from US states , the same can be said. Lockdowns or not, vaccine or not, the label was bigger than the impact. And if you question the political elite, ask JFK Junior . The left and the Democrats despise him as much as Trump, and the CIA as much as JFK.

You may wonder why we began with the WEF. There's a program within it called Young Global Leaders . Look into some of the names involved, and you might speculate whether for some, the indoctrination has permanently impacted their independent thinking. This raises questions about their role as elected officials: are they truly representing the people, or are they driven by ideology?

"For the past 19 years, we have embarked on a journey to identify, support and facilitate connections between young leaders who are committed to improving the state of the world. We provide learning opportunities, resources and platforms to help Young Global Leaders unlock their full potential, launch new initiatives and scale existing efforts. Amid these complex times, the YGL community has demonstrated resilience, unity and a vision for a sustainable and inclusive world."

— Nicole Schwab, Chair of the Forum of Young Global Leaders Board, World Economic Forum

If you examine the names prominent in politics over the last 5 years, you can certainly draw parallels to the obedience to the “Uebervater” Klaus Schwab and the reset. This may seem like a conspiracy to those who believe in the reset, a belief held predominantly by left-leaning media outlets globally. Simultaneously, the green agenda, climate initiatives, and DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) are at the forefront of politics and moralist creed, while opposition tends to align with right-wing ideologies and anti-democratic sentiments, particularly in the Western (WEF) world.

Davos 2024: Recognize the names? - NEW YORK, Jan 9 (Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, French President Emmanuel Macron and key Middle East leaders are slated to attend next week's World Economic Forum, putting talks to end wars in Gaza and Ukraine at the top of the agenda for the global elite. -- And the wars have escalated daily ever since?

If we contrast this with the largest democracies in the West and compare it to the approval ratings of some of the Presidents, especially in cases where the legal system (as in the US) holds a stronger position than the vote, what is amiss here? Why are we electing politicians who seem to prioritize serving the Climate Czars and Health Gurus (like the WHO) more than the people themselves? In the cases of Germany and the US, where the AFD (notably strongest in the former GDR) stands as an Alternative for Germany party, advocating against the War in Ukraine and unrestricted immigration, the legal system is attempting to build a case to ban them from participating in elections. Does this sound very familiar? Here is the German document ..

The most unpopular political leader is Olaf Scholz. This is shown by a negative ranking of Western heads of state and government by the New York Times . According to the survey, 73 percent of those surveyed were dissatisfied with the German Chancellor.

Emmanuel Macron (France) follows in second place with a rejection rate of 71 percent. Yoon Suk Yeol (South Korea) and Fumio Kishida (Japan) both come in with 70 percent, followed by Rishi Sunak (UK) with 66 percent, Justin Trudeau (Canada) with 59 percent and Joe Biden (USA) with 54 percent rejection. Alexander De Croo (Belgium) has the lowest rejection rate at 46 percent.

Note how the NYT used the “democrats” numbers for Biden's approval? Then journalists and governments call the Russian and Hungarian elections a sham, orchestrated by the inner circles of the parties in power, and cite voter intimidation, dismissing the 80% approval rating as a coerced opinion. Isn’t that similar to what the same media labeled the elections in Italy ? Are they to be shamed as Fascist because they did not unquestionably support all EU policies?

The 2022 Italian general election was a snap election held in Italy on 25 September 2022. After the fall of the Draghi government , which led to a parliamentary impasse, President Sergio Mattarella dissolved Parliament on 21 July, and called for new elections. [1] Regional elections in Sicily were held on the same day. The results of the general election showed the centre-right coalition led by Giorgia Meloni 's Brothers of Italy , a radical-right political party with neo-fascist roots, [2] [3] [4] winning an absolute majority of seats in the Italian Parliament . [5] Meloni was appointed Prime Minister of Italy on 22 October, becoming the first woman to hold the office. [6]

A nd now, by March 2024 she has the highest approval rating in the EU? But they still call her fascist?

And what happened to the elections in the Ukraine? Has anyone noticed in the West that Zelinsky singlehandedly (with the Bandera faction and inner circle) decided that there will be no election during War Time -- In order to avoid spliting the country?

So, we spend billions to defend democracy, but Zelinsky denies his people the vote to decide if they want to elect a potential Russian loyalist? Do you smell the rats? It’s the same as the no vote on where the people of Crimea want to be?

As seen n the agendas against Russia, the media, the White House, and the EU are putting up hours of coverage for anti-Putin reports, while Zelinsky demotes all people who are not part of his NATO trip.

(By the way, Stoltenberg now says NATO will support the war but no longer support Ukraine to be a Member?)

Meanwhile he jails journalists like Putin, who are not a part of the grand Western Strategy. Nevertheless, the search for WMD in Iraq was to lower the oil price; Is Democracy is still lacking?

Zelinsky is arguably the most delusional politician in the Western World, betting the house that he can beat Putin with Western aid. He's not the first to lose such a bet; perhaps a history study during his comic career would have helped? But if the US ends up with another Afghanistan result, we might just elect Stephen Colbert as President. He fits the loyalty crowd and the ideology, not much brain but at least a loyal democrat for life.

To top off the hypocrisy surrounding Zelinsky and the West's stance on democracy, it's acceptable for Ukraine to enlist NAZI sympathizers (Russians) to bolster their war efforts inside Russia with terror attacks, potentially guided by the CIA? This wouldn't be the first instance of such support; just look at the Maidan Coup and AZOV.

The Russian Volunteer Corps are an "official part" of the Ukrainian army, he said, "but we have serious political ambitions and political agenda". And that agenda is to "march to Moscow and dismantle the Putin regime", which is "obviously in the interests of Ukraine".

Here's an article from El Pais —note the picture featuring hard-core supporters of the war. It offers some interesting views. And here's a note from Al Jazeera about banning pro-Russian groups. Democracy seems to sound different; representing political global interests is perhaps a more accurate definition.

At least since Sherlock Holmes and the Hound of the Baskervilles, we know that what you don't hear is often more important than what you hear.

Like the meeting of NATO foreign ministers, who are preparing the birthday party for the 75th anniversary of the alliance.

Of course, the focus is on Ukraine and the desire of Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg to provide permanent opulent support to Kiev.

But one thing that has been indispensable at NATO meetings so far is missing: the commitment to admit Ukraine to NATO.

This promise was secretly hidden in a bottom drawer. This is astonishing when you consider that the offer of membership was the trigger for the war in the first place.

But unlike in Europe, the United States has realized that sooner rather than later it will not be possible to avoid an agreement with Russia. This includes a non-aligned Ukraine.

As a consolation, the Ukrainians are allowed into the EU. Win-win for Washington. Let the Europeans have to deal with the expensive problem child.

Another sign of the times: elections in Slovakia won by a pro-Russian candidate advocating for peace.

Pellegrini's victory is considered a success for the government of Robert Fico, of which he was one of the candidates. Pellegrini is now expected to support or at least not hinder the plans of the government, which is made up of left-wing populists and right-wing nationalists. This development could mark a departure from the liberal, pro-European policies of outgoing President Zuzana Caputova and signals a possible shift in Slovak domestic and foreign policy – especially with regard to relations with Russia and support for Ukraine.

As Israel works to eliminate Hamas and carries out military operations across the region, there's surprisingly little coverage of the progress or the civilian casualties and destruction. While Israel may argue that Hamas operates from civilian areas, one must question whether the use of force truly achieves the intended goal. If the goal of eliminating Hamas does not extend to Iranian territories, achieving peace will remain distant. Perhaps the recent escalation, such as the bombing of the Iranian Embassy in Damascus, will spark further conflict, but it appears more like a desperate attempt to demonstrate success. Israel must engage in serious reflection if it wishes to ensure its existence for another decade and come to terms with coexisting with its neighbors, as it will not enjoy unanimous support from the West.

With AI systems identifying targets , warfare has entered a new era. One wonders if these systems make decisions with civilians in mind or solely focus on strategic military targets. Imagine a world where every bomb has 100% accuracy with GPS systems, following cell phone and other signals—a concept called target bombing. We receive warnings for hail, tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, and sometimes mandatory evacuations, yet in wars, civilians are considered legitimate targets. Global military powers are observing these developments closely. Warfare used to be among armies, but as we create more laws and institutions to regulate warfare, conflicts become increasingly brutal, often disregarding these laws in the name of democracy.

The killing of foreign aid workers and the high number of civilian casualties in Gaza are increasingly causing criticism of Israel's conduct of the war. Even the United States, Israel's most important ally, is raising a warning finger. Israel emphasizes that the employees of an aid organization were selected as targets because of a false identification. But how does Israel choose its targets in the Gaza war in the first place?

According to research by the British Guardian , Israel is increasingly relying on systems that use artificial intelligence. The focus is on the AI platform "The Gospel". It is used by the Israeli military to quickly analyze large amounts of data and identify potential targets.

The former President of the EU Commission and current Polish Prime Minister, Donald Tusk, follows the European Russian haters in warning of a potential Putin invasion in Europe. It seems another COVID moment, aiming to remind people of the essential nature of paying NATO the 2% for supporting Ukraine and fueling anti-Russian sentiments. It's as if Russia started WWII and escalated NATO's presence in Eastern Europe. Let us be reminded of these words: 'G.M. Gilbert.'

Hermann Göring to G. M. Gilbert in Nuremberg: "[...] Of course, the common people don't want war; neither in Russia, nor in England, nor in America, nor in Germany. That's clear. But in the end, it is the leaders of a country who determine the policy and it is always easy to get the people to participate, whether it is a democracy, a fascist dictatorship, a parliament, or a communist dictatorship [...]". Nothing new under the sun.

It is not all smooth sailing for inland wind power in France, as construction comes to an end, deemed unconstitutional due to the high burden on people and infrastructure. This marks a new development that requires further research.

Meanwhile, the European Court of Human Rights has ruled in favor of the so-called " Climate Seniors " in Switzerland, who sued the Swiss government for not doing enough against climate change. It's intriguing to see courts shaping our future based on scientific findings—perhaps they're following the example of ambulance-chasing lawyers in the US?

According to the ECtHR , climate change, which affects all of humanity, allows the admission of complaints from organizations active in the field of climate issues. Its goal must be to protect its members from the consequences of climate change and to act in the interests of them.

The Grand Chamber of the ECtHR explained the failure to respond to the complaint of the individual plaintiffs by the fact that individuals must specifically demonstrate their so-called victim status in relation to the inaction of a state.

The Court also held that Switzerland had not presented sufficient and convincing arguments as to why it had not wanted to take the action in response to the complaint lodged by the Climate Seniors Association.

The Court operates in the same spirit as the EU, with the latest accusations against their Leader, who allegedly ordered the COVID vaccines on her own terms ? This leads one to believe RFK Jr has a point with his book "The Real Anthony Fauci"?

Top European prosecutors are investigating allegations of criminal wrongdoing in connection with vaccine negotiations between European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and the CEO of Pfizer, according to a spokesperson from the Liège prosecutor's office.

US Politics #2 - March, 2024

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 19:40:18 GMT

US Politics #2 - March, 2024: The Biden Doctrine

The Biden doctrine ; or the reactionaries and relativists
Following Afghanistan, Ukraine, and Israel, the conflict raises questions: has the leading nation truly stopped violence, war, and hostilities? There has been no progression of democracy, only the resurgence of extremists and terror, further dividing nation-building and economic development. Finding common ground in politics seems reserved for "friends" only. At home, crime no longer appears as such, making statistics look favorable. Essentially, ideology (DEI, Green) trumps logic, favoring autocracy over people power. The Biden administration's doctrine appeases supporters but divides others. This strategy for re-election seems to target the electorate math, while condemning the rest, and has been evident throughout the campaign.

Instead of being celebrated as popular and successful, however, what the Biden team soon encountered was a series of rude surprises. The planned withdrawal from Afghanistan turned into an embarrassing fiasco. Vladmir Putin refused to be parked, and instead invaded Ukraine. Iran slapped away the hand of accommodation, continuing its campaign of violent proxy warfare in the Middle East. And the rallying cry of multilateral cooperation around rules-based liberal order turned out to be less powerful than the Biden team had anticipated. Internationally, the president quickly alienated key allies and partners such as Saudi Arabia. The Chinese were uninterested in cooperating on respectably liberal US terms. And at home, much of the American public remained unimpressed by Biden’s foreign policy leadership, awarding him low grades on this issue as on most domestic matters.

The Orwellian Candidate - George Orwell, in his famous novel "1984", predicted the consequences of the information wars of our time: "And if everyone else believed the lie spread by the party [the warring parties and the media] – if all the records were the same – then the lie went down in history and became the truth."

As the Presidential election enters its final stages, it seems that instead of a democratic process, there will be individual contests to determine the winner. On one side are the defenders of democracy: the Democratic Party, the administration, and the President. They are crafting a strategy focused on incriminating Trump and dividing the GOP with their right-wing/Nazi rhetoric. Simultaneously, they label JFK Jr. as a non-democratic candidate due to his views on vaccines and other core issues of the Democrats.

No Label's candidate has yet to be produced but we can expect the poison to flow as soon as the name is known. The founding fathers probably had it right with the democratic republic and the electoral college , assigning proportional voices.

Thomas Jefferson once remarked, "A democracy is nothing more than mob rule, where fifty-one percent of the people may take away the rights of the other forty-nine." While unfortunately true, direct democracies can also function effectively, with referendums serving as checks and balances.

Swiss referendums take three forms:

Popular initiatives, which are citizen proposals to create a new law and require 100,000 valid signatures on a petition to get on the ballot.
Facultative or optional referendums, which are citizen proposals to approve or reject a piece of existing law and require 50,000 valid signatures on a petition to get on the ballot.
Mandatory referendums, which are required to revise the constitution, join an international organization or introduce emergency federal legislation for over a year.

Any member of the electorate who is opposed to a new or amended law passed by the Swiss parliament can launch an optional referendum . Individuals can join forces with other people to form a referendum committee.

A democratic republic is a form of government operating on principles adopted from a republic and a democracy . As a cross between two similar systems, democratic republics may function on principles shared by both republics and democracies.

While not all democracies are republics ( constitutional monarchies , for instance, are not) and not all republics are democracies, common definitions of the terms democracy and republic often feature overlapping concerns, suggesting that many democracies function as republics, and many republics operate on democratic principles, as shown by these definitions from the Oxford English Dictionary :

Republic: "A state in which supreme power is held by the people and their elected representatives, and which has an elected or nominated president rather than a monarch." [1]
Democracy: "A system of government by the whole population or all the eligible members of a state, typically through elected representatives." [2]

Imagine if the popular vote decided the election -- Would that really change the outcome ? Below is a summary and a reminder of how the 2020 elections went, along with a summary just to show how tight it can be.

What are the real differentiators the Democrats want to win on? Well, if you listen to the pundits, it's POT (legalizing) and Abortion, and trash talk. There is no coherent strategy internationally or domestically, a green agenda that is doctrine and authoritarian, reflecting the global climate concerns of the religious zealots with no real thought about feasibility or economic impact. Immigration and the economy are not topics because of no results and negative polling. Then there is the Infrastructure and Inflation Reduction Act, big spending but nothing to show for yet. So, as Mr. Biden, the transparency candidate, holds secret fundraisers with an elect crowd in New York and touts a massive money haul, his advertising campaigns seem to end in no man’s land, the trust factor other than to his 30%ers is long gone. And by all means, should not the public have a right to know who the elect crowd are, here a Biden loyal reporting , a little about what but nothing about who? And you can see more on the architect of the financial machine here.

Need more proof that the rich and powerful are dominating the democratic party? Democracy or a secret society?

The morning after President Biden’s fund-raiser with former Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, his campaign has planned a daylong retreat on Friday for 175 of his biggest financiers and fund-raisers in New York.

The gathering of what the campaign calls Mr. Biden’s national finance committee will feature a half-dozen briefings from his top political advisers, including his campaign manager, Julie Chavez Rodriguez, and two former top White House advisers who have moved over to help lead his campaign , Jennifer O’Malley Dillon and Mike Donilon.

The meeting at the InterContinental New York Barclay hotel is a sign of how the president has drawn his financial strength not only from grass-roots contributors but also from major donors who can cut checks as large as $929,600 to the Biden Victory Fund, a shared venture of Mr. Biden and the national and state Democratic Parties.

To qualify as a member of Mr. Biden’s national finance team, donors are asked to write a check for at least $47,900.

But that is just the entry level. To be considered a “presidential partner,” donors have been asked to raise $2.5 million, while a “principal shareholder” is asked to raise $750,000.

While there was a bridge collapse in Baltimore, which was not truly a bridge collapse but rather a takedown by a container ship, the President was quick to promise government funding for the rebuild and announced plans to visit the scene within a week. This gesture may be seen as nothing short of support for a blue, bankrupt city and his allies. However, is there any clarity on what Buttigieg is enforcing ( Boeing, etc .)? Perhaps as long as the unions have a say, safety is not deemed as important.

Note, you pay $4.00 to cross the Bridge, (one way) + Port fees , but it seems inspecting a ship before entering a port is not included? It leaves you to wonder what control mechanisms are implemented in Washington DC. Is it only the Lobbying Industry that handles all Government affairs? Let me know if you find one lobbying on behalf of the people -- And even more importantly - where the money goes .

So, the real Biden message is that he can spend money without results. There was an infrastructure bill, but not on measures and budgets based on state input . You would think that each state would submit a budget based on documented needs, along with an annual priority plan with completion dates, to allocate money. It seems simple, but politics about party achievements take priority.

2) Investment

If the United States is serious about achieving an infrastructure system fit for the future, some specific steps must be taken, beginning with increased, long-term, consistent investment. To close the nearly $2.6 trillion 10-year investment gap, meet future need, and restore our global competitive advantage, we must increase investment from all levels of government and the private sector from 2.5% to 3.5% of U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2025. This investment must be consistently and wisely allocated, and must begin with the following steps:

a. Congress should fully fund authorized infrastructure programs.

b. Infrastructure owners and operators must charge, and Americans must be willing to pay, rates reflecting the true cost of using, maintaining, and improving infrastructure.

c. The surface transportation investment gap is the largest deficit in the categories of infrastructure that ASCE evaluates. Continuing to defer maintenance and modernization is impacting our ability to compete in a global marketplace and maintain a high quality of living domestically. Congress must fix the Highway Trust Fund.

d. All parties should strive to close the rural/urban and underserved community resource divide by ensuring adequate investment in these areas through programmatic set-aside.

e. All parties should make use of public-private partnerships, where appropriate.

So, here is one of Biden's 2024 achievement campaigns : he takes credit for a bipartisan bill with lots of money, but do we have results?

Roads and bridges: Headlining the 2,702-page bill ’s spending, roughly $110 billion of new funds would go toward improving the nation's roads and bridges, and investments in other major transportation programs.

Rail: Today, the Federal Railroad Administration announced its Northeast Corridor Inventory, outlining major backlog projects that will get funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, including the East River Tunnel in New York, the Connecticut River Bridge, and the Susquehanna River Bridge and Frederick Douglas Tunnel.

More about Trump and Kennedy, no label in the next issue. Just for an introduction , "There is no comparison to summoning a mob to the Capitol and promising to be a dictator on day one. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. laid to rest tonight any doubts that he's a spoiler candidate by pushing his MAGA talking points in prime time," she said.

In the interview, Kennedy added: "People who say that the election is stolen … we shouldn't make pariahs of those people. We shouldn't demonize them. We shouldn't vilify them. What we should be doing is saying, Let's all get together, Republicans and Democrats, and fix the election system."

Just to show how sinister Congress can be; another bill that is all-inclusive as a money distributor and a border bill , basically comprising a million words and a sieve built in that allows everyone to come in -- with lawyers waiting to stamp the green card w/ a ticket price $20 million. All while we still deliver aid to Israel and Zelensky, but have no power over their proceedings -- Both running as totalitarians and autocrats. Note: Zelensky, in Ukraine, did not hold its presidential election -- so much for democracy, as the available candidates may choose talks with Putin, but more on that in the geopolitical issue.

It's all money for democracy - Everyone seems have the same priorities, yet no detail. Who is really running this show; Zelensky, Netanyahu, and the Mexican President? Nothing have been provided that is thought out or is credible.

Geopolitical Focus #2 – March, 2024

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 14:29:34 GMT

Geopolitical Focus #2 – March, 2024:

Biden's contributions to geopolitics since his election are questionable. Has his administration abandoned energy independence in favor of fulfilling the World Economic Forum's (WEF) agenda by throwing money at various climate initiatives?

Energy independence, particularly in oil and gas, would have allowed the US to control prices and distribution, possibly without impacting emissions. However, drilling elsewhere still amounts to drilling. Remember Trump's move to block the Nord Stream 2 pipeline and offer gas to Germany, initially criticized as foolish. Unexpectedly, Nord Stream 2 faced sabotage, prompting the US and Germany to construct gas delivery docks. Nevertheless, the significant consequence was the surge in oil prices, resulting in record profits for countries like Iran and Russia. These profits bolstered their military capabilities and support for aggressive actions, worsening global tensions. Meanwhile, gasoline prices soared globally, compounded by economic injections fueling inflation. This underscores criticism of the current administration's apparent lack of understanding of global dynamics and finances, relying on lofty visions that have repeatedly fallen short. Additionally, negotiations are not Biden's strength, nor is deal-making, with his diplomats criticized as costly travelers. The silence from the World Economic Forum (WEF) and its chief architect, Klaus Schwab, on these matters is notable.

Is Brett Baier the new war hero supporting the ideas of the French President in sending NATO troops to Ukraine? In an interview conducted by Jennifer Griffin with the Estonian President , she expressed the same if not similar sentiments back in 2022 . Griffin is seen as a influential voice in the Ukraine war propaganda and is known for her affinity for television. She is a darling of NATO, directing resources towards war rather than peace efforts. When did Putin make a threat to invade Estonia? NATO must address this independently. There are articles suggesting Russia is preparing for a war with NATO. Does this imply NATO intervention in the current conflict? It seems the Estonian President desires a piece of Russia, and the EU and the West share similar aspirations, perhaps banking on the preservation of oil and gas reserves amidst the rubble. As neighbors, there are two choices, as seen in Ukraine: negotiation or instigation, with careful consideration for the consequences. The current situation in Europe and Germany hints at escalation to a nuclear level. Is this desperation or bluffing, a test to determine which side will yield to negotiations first ? Negotiation strategy is integral to resolving this seemingly unwinnable war.

These factors could lead to a devastating, years-long conflict that does not produce a definitive outcome. The United States and its allies thus face a choice about their future strategy. They could begin to try to steer the war toward a negotiated end in the coming months. Or they could do so years from now. If they decide to wait, the fundamentals of the conflict will likely be the same, but the costs of the war—human, financial, and otherwise—will have multiplied.

An effective strategy for what has become the most consequential international crisis in at least a generation therefore requires the United States and its allies to shift their focus and start facilitating an endgame.

Russia held elections, and to no one’s surprise, Putin was re-elected. While Navalny's widow protested, Western media attempts to magnify the nationwide protests. However, they resembled more of a Biden rally, often staged for optics. But is that justification for labeling the election as fraudulent or illegitimate?

Perhaps you can always make the point that his party had the best-oiled Machine, like our democrat friends in the US, at least Russia can vote and count in three Days without Dominion systems? Any idea, should the War with NATO / Ukraine further escalate and Putin is replaced in a Coup by Russian Hardliners , perhaps Putin may be a good balance, or Selinsky has aspirations of a extended Ukraine once he is part of NATO, all scenarios are open as long as you do not count the dead.

One of the loudest critics finds himself in prison, while the article references a figure named Bill Browder, who once contemplated purchasing or possibly seizing all of Russia in 1990. This begs the question: how does this situation compare to the January 6 insurrectionists? After all, their actions were largely characterized as protests.

At the same time, although there was no need to talk about significant violations during the voting, they still tried to prevent the expression of the will of citizens, both at traditional polling stations and in the REV system. Already on the first day of voting, March 15, several similar cases of provocations became known: visitors to polling stations tried to pour dye on ballot papers in the ballot boxes. There was also one attempted arson, though not inside the polling station, but at the entrance to it. The perpetrators of the incidents have been detained, they face punishment not only under Article 141 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation (obstruction of elections), but also under more serious articles.

During the Russian election, voting was allowed in Russian-occupied territories in Ukraine , which led to unelected EU officials rejecting the vote. However, it raises the question: Why have neither the EU nor Western officials ever granted Russians in Ukraine the opportunity to declare their allegiance to a country?

Iran and the democracies in the West, have one thing in common, their leadership is viewed as elitist and disconnected from the people. The EU, Germany and the US, the leading authorities enjoy an approval rating from 8 to 30 some percent, while in Iran 60 percent of the people think of change. For the animosities with Iran go back to the 1950’s, Oil and Weapons .

For more than 20 years, Khamenei has relentlessly winnowed the political elite, turning many former establishment members into disgruntled outliers and dissidents. In the current round of elections, the
regime disqualified scores of regime loyalists who still didn’t pass muster. Khamenei has staffed all the critical sectors of government with the likes of President Ebrahim Raisi, a dull but sinister functionary .

Disenfranchised members of the elite understand that they don’t have a bright future in the post-Khamenei era. Former President Hassan Rouhani loudly complains about his predicament, while Mohammad Khatami, the first and last reforming president to have any power, warns that “there is no sign of the ruling system’s desire for reform and avoiding the mistakes of the past.”

And guess who got it all started … The CIA. Animosities will remain consistent as long as the US is controlling the region… Along with the help of Israel?

Mohammad Mossadegh was a beloved figure in Iran. During his tenure, he introduced a range of social and economic policies, the most significant being the nationalization of the Iranian oil industry. Great Britain had controlled Iran's oil for decades through the Anglo-Iranian Oil Co. After months of talks the prime minister broke off negotiations and denied the British any further involvement in Iran's oil industry. Britain then appealed to the United States for help, which eventually led the CIA to orchestrate the overthrow of Mossadegh and restore power to Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the last Shah of Iran.

Yes, Biden and Blinken are on their way to resolve the GAZA situation diplomatically, after some 30,000 civilians lost their lives in the hunt for the members of Hamas. Since killing Hamas is the prime goal – Filling their tunnel system with water or perhaps tranquilizers, or just turn the power off for a couple Days would have had about the same effect to bring them to the surface and at the same time secure the Border to Israel? Displacing millions of people, in the process is not even a topic unless it ends in famine and death, so the US is simply doing damage control? And Hamas and its philosophy, well they just move on to another country and regroup?

The risk of famine in Gaza is imminent, according to a new report published Monday by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC). Extreme food shortages have reached famine levels, and without establishing an immediate cease-fire and increasing humanitarian aid to the region, mass death may occur by the end of May. The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry estimates that at least 23 children and four adults in Gaza have died from malnutrition or dehydration thus far.

“In my 25 years as a humanitarian this may be, pound for pound, the grimmest analysis I have ever seen,” Refugees International President Jeremy Konyndyk wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

And in the background, we offer millions to Israel to kill Hamas and also beg Iran to stop the Houthis-- another failed attempt on diplomacy.

The UN is dominated by the US, Russia, and China as the latest vote on GAZA cease fire shows, so is this ever going to be resolved, a 2 State proposition certainly not, unless the Palestinian form a “democracy”, but does that stop the expanding settlers, or the US dominance in the region. I would not call these negotiations, but appeasing Israel?

France, the U.K. and the U.S. voted in favor of the resolution. The five permanent Security Council members and nine council members in total must vote in favor for a resolution to be adopted.

“I don’t think Russia and China wanted to let the U.S. start to shape Council diplomacy over Gaza,” said Richard Gowan, an expert on the U.N. for International Crisis Group. “If this resolution had gone through, Washington would have been able to mold future Council debates on the war, sidelining the Russians and Chinese.”

And why would you send the CIA Spy Chief to negotiate a peace agreement? This is possibly just another sign that he US Military complex is making political decisions.

Months of on-and-off indirect talks between the warring parties have failed to deliver a breakthrough. Blinken arrived in Israel on Friday, as the U.S. and its Arab and Western allies raise pressure on Israel and Hamas to reach a deal aimed at freeing Israeli hostages and alleviating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza .

Blinken is making his sixth visit to the region since the war began.

Central Intelligence Agency Director Bill Burns arrived in Qatar on Friday evening to meet Israel’s spy chief, David Barnea, Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani and the head of Egyptian intelligence, Abbas Kamel. Qatari and Egyptian officials have played a key role in mediating talks between Israel and Hamas, and helped secure a week-long cease-fire in November.

The "Trump syndrome" can be seen in America, but the "Biden Groupies" can be found in the international media -- blowing their horns with warning of another doomsday scenario in Europe and Asia.

It must have been a terrible time under Trump for the "wanna-be" politicians, but what was that so bad? NATO countries are now paying their fair shares and considering defending their own territories. The US is selling natural gas to Germany, and the China policy remains intact. Importantly, there have been no wars. However, Biden tries to blame Iran's aggression on the killing of Qasem Soleimani, rather than on the ease of sanctions and failed diplomatic efforts.

The latest news just in: the attack on Russian concert-goers, following US warnings of public attacks around Moscow. So, what did President Biden have to say about Nord Stream 2? He stated that it will conclude one way or another, with no one held accountable. Could it be that after the unfortunate death of Navalny failed to spark public outcry in Russia, this is another attempt to tarnish Putin's image? Even before any details emerge, does the party issuing the warning already have an idea of who didn't carry it out?

“Our thoughts are going to be with the victims of this terrible, terrible shooting attack,” Kirby said. “There are some moms and dads and brothers and sisters and sons and daughters who haven’t gotten the news yet. This is going to be a tough day.”

The attack followed a statement issued earlier this month by the U.S. Embassy in Moscow that urged the Americans to avoid crowded places in the Russian capital in view of “imminent” plans by extremists to target large gatherings in Moscow, including concerts. The warning was repeated by several other Western embassies.

Asked about the embassy's notice issued on March 7, Kirby referred the question to the State Department, adding: "I don’t think that was related to this specific attack.”

Responding to a question about whether Washington had any prior information about the assault, Kirby responded: “I’m not aware of any advance knowledge that we had of this terrible attack.”

ISIS is claiming responsibility -- You can read about their reasons (if any) here .

For further evidence of the US's double standard in the Ukraine War, and how it resembles the situation in Israel, see this report from Business Inside r. It's another platform for Biden's stance on war, potentially influenced by Ukrainian propaganda.

And who fuels the Nazis in the anti-Russian movement, akin to the Azov Battalion in Ukraine? Perhaps Germany's far-right advocates? Like Adolf, who never accepted the loss in WWI, are they now instigating WWIII?

Nikitin has garnered a great deal of personal notoriety even before the formation of the RVC and the beginning of the war in Ukraine. After making a name for himself among neo-Nazi soccer hooligans, he went on to found the "White Rex" clothing brand and became a mainstay in far-right mixed martial arts circles.

He is believed to have lived in Germany for some time before moving to Ukraine in 2017, where Webber said he formed connections with the Ukrainian National Guard's Azov Battalion, also known for its far-right tendencies . As such, the RVC appears to have at least some sort of relationship with the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

Our next focus will be on all European elections and the shift towards right-wing ideologies -- With some speculation on what could happen if BRIC nations come to dominate US military presence in the world.

US Politics - March, 2024

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 14:52:40 GMT

US Politics #1 - March, 2024: Reflecting on Biden's State of the Union

Remember Lance Armstrong ? The legendary cyclist with quadruple lungs and four legs?

2012: Federal prosecutors drop their criminal investigation against Armstrong and the U.S. Postal Service team in February, with no charges filed. However, the United States Anti-Doping Agency accuses Armstrong of doping and trafficking of drugs in June. In October, the USADA formally charges him with using, possessing, and trafficking banned substances and recommends a lifetime ban. In choosing not to appeal the findings, Armstrong is stripped of all his achievements from August 1998 onward, including his seven Tour de France titles. Armstrong still publicly denies the use of performance-enhancing drugs.

2013: In a January interview with Oprah Winfrey , Armstrong finally admits to doping during each Tour de France win from 1999 to 2005.

Why is this article in US Politics? A) Firstly, because the US Government was seemingly willing to turn a blind eye to doping in order to protect the Postal Service. B) Secondly, charges were not pursued in the government's interest. Does this sound familiar? Throughout his entire career, Armstrong has been quick to throw his competitors under the doping bus whenever they posed a threat to his cycling dominance. Was it all about power and ego, or was there a deeper threat to democracy at play?

In the State of the Union address, President Biden appeared to have fully recovered, energized, and well-prepared to deliver his speech. It's known that he spent five days preparing at Camp David with his team. Drawing analogies to Lance, a medical team that ensured he was ready for the task, perfecting dosage and timing, and striking the right tone in his address seems apt. The content was meticulously prepared down to the semicolon and pauses, turning the delivery into more of a reading exercise.

However, his success seemed limited to the reading aspect. The tone came across as somewhat aggressive, which could perhaps be attributed to a slight overdose or, as some Democrats might argue, his assertiveness and clarity. The mystery of who left the white powder at the White House remains unsolved, with numerous possibilities to consider. Maybe he simply needed a long bath. The prescriptions he offered appear to be sustainable and direct from the top.

Stimulants come in both legal and illegal forms. Prescription stimulants include Adderall, Dexedrine, diet aids like Preludin, Fastin, Meridia, and street drugs such as methamphetamine, cocaine, methcathinone, and other synthetic cathinones known as “bath salts.”

If you read the transcript of Biden's speech and listened closely, what was the true message conveyed? Each point addressed seems meticulously tailored to appeal to a specific group of voters crucial for his 2024 campaign. It feels like an election-focused critique, highlighting select events and incidents that serve his agenda while distorting facts about the economy, job creation, and even his own history. However, the most significant issue that could potentially harm him in the long term is his call for democracy both domestically and internationally, alongside fair elections. The ongoing investigations into Trump are increasingly reminiscent of autocratic actions, reminiscent of the very systems we've fought wars over.

Nothing resembling a Biden doctrine, nor a comprehensive global strategy; instead, we witness Trump bashing, Republican bashing, reminders of the oath of office on Jan 6, all while creating open borders. Democrats craft laws to their liking, not to the benefit of 'we the people.' Does this mean there is no crime? It's remarkable how the WAPO, Washington Times, CNN, MSNBC, and other liberal/leftist media outlets praised the presentation but overlooked its substance, perhaps hoping that public perception would sway the polls – yet, so far, it has not; quite the opposite.

Only two fact checks were conducted: sanctions on Russia showed no impact, and the long-term banking outcome will only be evident in 2-3 years, with Europe bearing the brunt of the economic harm. The real beneficiaries of the war? The US defense industry.

The 15 million workers are simply part of the recovery from COVID, which was all in place for him to take. Employment participation has not changed. What he did not say is that he made Wall Street rich but blames the stock market on company profits. Need more explanations? Note that high-paying manufacturing jobs have moved down a notch since 2021.

Manufacturing Payrolls in the United States decreased by 4 thousand in February of 2024, missing market forecasts of a 10 thousand rise, following a downwardly revised 8 thousand increase in the prior month. source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

And Labor participation and productivity are actually showing downward trends. So more people are somehow producing less?

The labor force participation rate in the United States was 62.5% for the third consecutive month in February 2024, remaining at its lowest level since February 2023. Labor Force Participation Rate in the United States averaged 62.84 percent from 1948 until 2024, reaching an all-time high of 67.30 percent in January of 2000 and a record low of 58.10 percent in December of 1954. source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Dysfunctional Congress? Good. If it were functional like the Democratic Party, the only beneficiaries would be the government and its cronies. Pork, which perhaps goes both ways, allocation of money, school curriculum, abortion, border, freedom of speech, Second Amendment – on all these issues, you have a Democratic House and Senate speaking essentially in one voice, and all other arguments are labeled as polarizing, populist, or right-wing. Have you seen a Democrat standing up to Woke or the curriculums in our schools? Did the President just announce that we need to improve public schools to compete in the future, with his visionaries being the union bosses , while suggesting that parents are too ignorant?

Here, you can search for schools in your neighborhood . It's all a well-orchestrated politics-media machine, complaining about autocrats around the world and yet failing to notice that their own complaints about polarization, populism, moralism, and characterization are nothing short of dictatorship. A US politics shaped by Joe Biden, Nancy Pelosi, now Hakeem Jeffries, and Chuck Schumer is nothing but a blue state dictatorship, with the opposition not strong enough to stand up, and those who do stand up are labeled and scorched. Joe Biden promised the most transparent administration in history – transparent, hm? Check his garage.

Jamie Raskin, one of the Jan 6 committee members and a staunch defender of its findings, exhibits the same intensity in criticizing the Hur investigation, labeling it a charade. He's never hesitant to defend Joe Biden and all his son's actions while being vehemently critical of everything Trump. Although he's a constitutional lawyer, his interpretations may seem clouded, leading some to question whether he's in government to change the constitution, a sentiment shared by many of his colleagues. While his activity sheet may show contributions, they often appear biased to the core.

The hearings into the Hur report have left everyone with their own interpretation. Democrats stressed the word "exonerate" at every turn, while the special counsel clarified that his report did not explicitly say that. However, he stands by his argument that the only reason he didn't file charges was due to the President presenting himself as an elderly man with memory problems, which could have influenced a jury. Alternatively, some speculate that the special counsel believed a panel, like in Hillary Clinton's case, would be comprised of like-minded individuals and thus dismissed the idea of pressing charges. Ultimately, the country remains divided on the decision: one side sees it as him getting away with it, while the other views it as a witch hunt.

Likewise, with Hunter Biden , there seems to be a lack of seriousness in the way he presents himself, making it difficult to prove any evidence of criminal or national security issues. These cases highlight the highly politicized nature of the legal system, leaving many skeptical about its integrity. However, Jamie Raskin may hold a different perspective. It's never too early to start a crooked career for Dad, isn't it?

MBNA hired Hunter Biden (then 26 years old and a recent law school graduate) during the years when his father, then-Senator Joe Biden , was pushing for bankruptcy reform legislation supported by the company, which became law and makes it more difficult to acquire bankruptcy protection. [15] Because of the close relationship between Biden and MBNA, an article in the conservative political magazine National Review referred to Biden as the "Senator from MBNA". [16] [17] [18] [19]

MBNA was one of the companies mentioned on a 2004 Frontline WGBH Boston PBS special about unfair business practices by credit card companies. [20] Some practices that Frontline claimed MBNA has engaged in included doubling or tripling of interest rates, shifting billing due dates/payment cycles monthly and raising rates for customers whose payments were a day or two late. MBNA has been found to be one of the leading implementors of rate-jacking. For further information and links, see credit card .

In Ireland, MBNA was accused of calling consumers up to eight times a day who were behind in making payments, which prompted the state debt advisory service to publicly state that harassment is outlawed. Affected people were advised to complain to the relevant authorities. [21] The company in December 2009 admitted overcharging 500,000 Irish consumers up to €18 million. [22] [23]

In the UK, MBNA has come under fire for its interpretation of rules under which credit card providers must allocate payments to the debt with the highest interest rate first: one consumer site called MBNA's interpretation of these rules a "disingenuous money-making tactic". [24]

The tip of the iceberg for political judgment surely belongs to Fanni Willis in the Georgia case . For those following closely and with a decent understanding of the law and appropriate, ethical behavior, this case is certainly on top. With so much evidence about ethical issues, how can this case move forward? However, there are always people defending everything to hang Trump .

That brings us to the conclusion, even with the commentary from the left bloggers and never-Trumpers, the damning pictures they have placed on Trump may all be self-destructive in the end.

Chuck Schumer and VP Mike Pence .

Chuck Schumer, the friend of Israel, is calling for new elections in Israel. Are the Democrats so desperate to retain the support of Michigan voters that they're willing to throw one of the best allies in the Middle East under the bus? Netanyahu has long been seen as a hardliner, and few had issues with the settlers or called for their removal, knowing that Hamas was stoking conflict. So, to salvage Joe Biden's image, Schumer feels he must rescue his own reputation, despite the loyalty-over-common-sense approach.

And Mike Pence—why can't he support Donald Trump? Is it because the former president doesn't share his values? Is it because of Stormy Daniels or Jean Carroll, or perhaps he's privy to information we're not? Maybe Pence's conscience and morals, guided by his Christian background, can no longer align with Trump's actions after four years. Whatever the reason, politics is a dirty game, and winning often requires playing along, a feat only achieved by a small percentage.

All this hate against Trump — what is it really? Is it his hair, his personality, his policies, his ego, his narcissism, his tweets, his opinions on opponents, his rhetoric, his view of the world? If you read his opponents' comments or visit a liberal commentary site, there's hardly any evidence presented; it's mostly mob rules, each trying to describe him worse than the commentary before. Perhaps Jennifer Rubin is an example, caught in the dilemma of an early emotional, irrational decision to become a Trump hater. As a Jew, she should have more support for moving the US Embassy to Jerusalem than criticizing Biden's handling of the Gaza situation.

A conservative political commentator throughout most of her career, she became a vocal critic of President Donald Trump and in September 2020, she announced that she no longer identified as a conservative . [2] In 2021, she became a staunch advocate of the Biden administration . [3] [4]

Biden's supporters reported that following the HUR Report and SOTU address, democrats donated to at record fund raising rate. You can see the 2020 election political donations for the democratic and the republican side by clicking those respective links. If you want some more background on Biden’s campaign Manager, read on, activism (communism) is not far away in her vocabulary, see the praise from NPR.

“ We’re proud of the record-breaking fundraising machine we’ve built that is going toward reaching the voters about the stakes of this election,” campaign manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez said in a statement. She added that the money would help expand the campaign’s state-level operations, invest in paid media and pay for Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and their spouses to campaign across the country.

The campaign also touted $2 million from small-dollar contributors donated just on Feb. 29.

Julie Chávez Rodriguez (born April 7, 1978) [1] is an American political rights activist and campaign manager for President Joe Biden 's 2024 re-election campaign .

She grew up in California in a well-known family of American labor and civil rights activists, the granddaughter of American labor leader César Chávez and American labor activist Helen Fabela Chávez .

From 2008 to 2016, Chávez Rodriguez served in the Obama administration , initially working for the United States Secretary of the Interior and later in the White House Office of Public Engagement . In 2016, She was appointed state director for Senator Kamala Harris and from 2017 to 2019 served on her 2020 presidential campaign . In 2020, Biden, the eventual Democratic presidential nominee, hired Chávez Rodriguez as senior advisor for Latino outreach in his presidential campaign . In 2021, Chávez Rodriguez was appointed to be the director of Biden's White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs . In 2022 she was appointed senior advisor to the president , and, in 2023, as his campaign manager.

Geopolitical Focus – March, 2024

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 17:29:40 GMT

Geopolitical Focus – March, 2024:

The global picture for 2024 remains somewhat clouded by high energy prices, with one side being the sanctions against Russia and the green energy enthusiasts advocating for dual systems, especially in the Euro Zone. This situation carves a hole in a country like Germany, which exports 50% of its goods, and poses a dilemma for the EU, given that Germany is the strongest of the European Union partners. While trades with China are slow due to its political system and demand constraints, China itself continues to invest heavily in Europe. It controls the solar market and aggressively expands its electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing in Europe, thanks to mandates set by European politics to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. The EU exports to both China and the US, with the US exports notably affected by sanctions, particularly in the EV market . If China dominates both the domestic and EU markets, the US, through the EU, attempts to restrict activities with China , indicating China's pivotal role in Europe's success.

So, what if the German economy fails to recover? Will the spending or printing of money for social and defense needs still be effective? Was the expansion of NATO truly a smart move, or merely a wish? Just imagine all the money spent on war being invested in peace.

When it comes to the German economy, however, recent trends are more concerning. The loss of cheap Russian gas has undermined Germany’s industrial model. Although the initial spike in energy prices after the 2022 invasion has abated, costs are not expected to return to prewar levels any time soon. In 2023, Germany’s economy shrank by 0.3 percent. Vice Chancellor and Economy Minister Robert Habeck, warning of “rough waters” ahead, has projected that the country’s 2024 growth will reach a mere 0.2 percent. New pressures account for the recent contraction, but Germany’s economic problems run deeper. Over the last decade, Berlin has avoided making critical investments and reforms to attract skilled workers and adapt to a data-driven world. And Berlin has often insisted that what is good, restrained fiscal policy for Germany is also right for the EU—a prevailing mindset that, by limiting public investment in many member states, has prevented European economies from adapting to new conditions.

Environmental groups prevent many projects from developing, but does attacking EV manufacturing defeat their purpose? Perhaps some "social-green" organizations simply want you to acknowledge their presence, especially in Germany, where conservative thinkers are often labeled as NAZIs. The Merkel-led welcoming culture, with its nearly unlimited immigration, is beginning to divide the country, while a strong-arm justice system suppresses opposition. Does this sound familiar? What the left often labels as "far-right" is sometimes just people disillusioned with the current direction of the country and who are part of the political system. Until the next German elections, do not expect a resurgence, and this will not benefit the current course of global development.

BERLIN (AP) — Germany's top prosecutor has taken over the investigation into an alleged arson attack on the power supply of the electric car company Tesla near Berlin.

A spokeswoman said there is an initial suspicion that a terrorist organization may have been involved in the attack. In such cases, the federal prosecutor's office, the top law enforcement agency in Germany, is responsible for the investigation.

Hospital and nursing home without electricity. Edeka's logistics warehouse was affected and the supply of supermarkets was restricted. A production loss of the Tesla plant in Grünheide of probably just under two weeks with property damage in the high millions. This is the result of an attack on Tuesday on the power supply in Brandenburg this week. The radical left-wing " volcano group " has claimed responsibility for this attack via Indymedia.

But, just as the Summer of Love in the US saw protests and criminal actions from the left, while all those critical of it are branded as right-wing, does it seem fair? This excerpt is translated from the FAZ, a rather left-leaning paper in Germany. All of this makes one wonder if NATO and the EU are truly the great evolutions of our time or merely tools to restructure the world order.

At the latest, the chaotic withdrawal of Western troops from Afghanistan and Russia's invasion of Ukraine have shown everyone: the old global order is broken , the former world policeman USA is withdrawing, the hope of change through trade seems to have been shattered, as well as that economic power can replace military power forever. But what does this mean for our lives in Germany, for the near future? Rainer Schmidt, editor in charge of the Frankfurter Allgemeine Quarterly, spoke to Herfried Münkler about this. The emeritus professor of political science is an expert on geopolitics and has examined in his latest book "World in Turmoil" what new order could develop from the current situation: "We must also be clear: If Ukraine collapses militarily, we will be confronted with huge migration movements in Western Europe – with five or ten million people."

Or perhaps Russia is not a bad destination for most of them. This 2020 report by the UN :

Migration to and from Ukraine. As of mid-year 2020, 6.1 million migrants from Ukraine resided abroad. While more than 53 per cent of them resided in the Russian Federation, other top destinations included the United States of America (6%), Kazakhstan (5.8%), Germany (4.7%), Poland (4.4%), Italy (4%), Belarus (3.6%), Czechia (2.1%), Israel (2.1%) and Uzbekistan (2%)

As the war in Ukraine persists, President Putin's recent remark while speaking to Tucker Carlson, alleging that Boris Johnson sabotaged peace talks, seems to be gaining credibility. However, it's possible he was merely being used by Joe Biden as the messenger.

The fact remains that in 2022, Russia made an offer for negotiation that was outright rejected by the US and the West. While Zelensky has recently expressed willingness to negotiate, the US and EU still perceive Putin as harboring intentions to invade the world. President Biden echoes these sentiments, often reciting them from a prompter during the State of the Union address.

Here are some links and excerpts , but it's important to consider the biases of the reporters, who may lean towards favoring the Ukrainian side. It's worth noting that the original 17-page document was not made public in the US or by the reporters, so their perspective should be taken with caution. All negotiations begin with a particular viewpoint, and rejection doesn't necessarily mark the end, unless there's a desire to escalate towards war. Why is there such widespread fear of Putin, and why hasn't our president called for a direct meeting with him to address these concerns?

Jens Stoltenberg, NATO Secretary General, speaks at the meeting of the European Parliament's Joint Committee on September 7, 2023: "President Putin stated in the fall of 2021 and actually sent a draft treaty that NATO was supposed to sign to promise that NATO would not expand any more. That's what he sent us. And it was a precondition for not invading Ukraine. Of course, we didn't sign that. The opposite was true. He wanted us to sign a pledge never to expand NATO. He wanted us to dismantle our military infrastructure in all the allies that have joined NATO since 1997, that is, half of NATO, all of Central and Eastern Europe, we should dismantle NATO from this part of our alliance and introduce a kind of B membership or second-class membership. We rejected that. So he went to war to prevent NATO, more NATO, near his borders." From John J.Mearsheimer ist Professor für Politikwissenschaft an der Universität Chicago in the Weltwoche .

Some noteworthy news: Victoria Nuland, the architect of the Maidan Coup and the US's influential figure in Ukraine, has silently resigned. While praised by Blinken, one might wonder if she has simply lost credibility . Perhaps her departure signals the first step towards initiating dialogue, offering a glimmer of hope. Meanwhile, German and Czech politicians in uniform have transitioned into war strategists, considering how to deploy Taurus long-range missiles to target locations in Crimea and potentially within Russia itself, in an effort to update their outdated ammunition inventory. As the German Chancellor hesitates, the British have offered to facilitate the delivery of the Taurus missiles via the UK, thereby avoiding direct delivery. Is this escalation or merely war games? It's becoming evident that the CIA and British are already engaged in clandestine operations, so why not another attempt by the Germans against Russia?

800,000 rounds of artillery ammunition is more than the whole of Europe produced in 2023. The announcement by Czech President Petr Pavel that his country would organize such a delivery within weeks and transport it to Ukraine is therefore causing a stir. For comparison, in the summer, during the counteroffensive, the Ukrainians fired 4,000 to 7,000 shells a day. At that time, the warehouses were full thanks to Western supplies. Now, however, Kiev is suffering from an acute shortage of ammunition, and the hunger for supplies is huge. Note, Peter Pavel was the former NATO General)

And what is Putin’s reaction to the leaks concerning Taurus Missiles? See Below:

President Putin knew about the conversation even before his speech (this is a partial download – but you can translate the entire content from the link, or email us)

We can consider it fabricated that it was the Russian secret services that intercepted the conversation and that the content of this conversation was known to President Putin before his speech on February 29.

It is therefore worth sifting through Putin's speech of February 29 for clues to his knowledge and his reaction to it. Clues to the wiretapped conversation and the possible consequences are truly not difficult to find.

Accurate reproductions – sentence by sentence

We reproduce this part of the speech precisely.

First, Putin calls the West's claim that Russia wants to attack Europe inaccurate:

"Now they have the audacity to claim that Russia intends to attack Europe. Can you believe that? We all know that their claims are completely unfounded."

SPEECH BY PRESIDENT PUTIN, 29 FEBRUARY 2024, P. 4

And immediately afterwards he mentions the discussion of the German officers:

"And at the same time, they choose targets to attack on our territory and think about the most effective means of destruction."

SPEECH BY PRESIDENT PUTIN, 29 FEBRUARY 2024, P. 4

Then he mentions the official discussion about the deployment of NATO troops. We know – confirmed by the officers in the wiretapped telephone conversation – that NATO troops are already in Ukraine.

"Now they have begun to talk about the possibility of sending NATO military contingents to Ukraine."

SPEECH BY PRESIDENT PUTIN, 29 FEBRUARY 2024, P. 4

The next statement refers unmistakably to the German invasion of the Soviet Union in 1941.

"But we remember what happened to those who have already sent their contingents to our country."

SPEECH BY PRESIDENT PUTIN, 29 FEBRUARY 2024, P. 4

Now Putin declares that Russia will not defend itself on Russian soil, but due to the capabilities of Russian weapons (which he described again in a previous section of his speech), Germany must expect targets in Germany to be attacked:

"Today, potential aggressors will face far more serious consequences. They need to understand that we also have weapons – yes, they know that, as I just said – that can hit targets on their territory."

SPEECH BY PRESIDENT PUTIN, 29 FEBRUARY 2024, P. 4

Following this quote, President Putin also points to the danger of nuclear escalation. The Western press combines these two statements and claims that Putin is threatening nuclear war – this is not the case. Putin is openly threatening Germany with a conventional strike. It is astonishing how sloppy the West reads statements by President Putin. Or better – how purposefully he bends them to himself.

A Final Warning

How are these statements by President Putin to be evaluated? If you follow Putin's speeches over the last 23 years, they are characterized by one thing above all: In contrast to Western politicians, Putin has always stood by what he says. He does what he says. Putin was and is transparent in his statements. However, his warnings come very early so as not to lose the element of surprise in an emergency.

Applying these principles to his speech on February 29, Putin's statements can be classified as follows:

He believes that NATO is already at war with Russia, as confirmed by the officers of the wiretapped conversation.

In my opinion, his statements are to be interpreted in such a way that President Putin holds out the prospect to NATO or Germany in the event of an attack – e.g. on the Crimean bridge – that Russia will feel free to attack targets in Germany in this case, since an attack on the Crimean bridge by Taurus is not possible without the direct participation of the German armed forces.

Possible Target

The German headquarters of MBDA, the manufacturer of Taurus, is located in Schrobenhausen, about 60 km north of Munich, just over 1,600 km from the Russian border.

Result

NATO is already at war with Russia, as we discussed back in early February 2023. Now existing doubts have been dispelled by statements from Germany.

President Putin has warned – probably for the last time – NATO and especially Germany against climbing the next level of escalation – this is unmistakably clear from the Russian president's speech on 29 February.

Here are some voices suggesting that Ukraine is running out of options without US assistance. Or thoughts on how they can pave a way to peace . As long as the US and President Biden continue to pursue military action, there will likely be war. This sentiment echoes the State of the Union address, where the approach was likened to asking Congress, " Do you want total war? " and receiving a resounding "yes" in response. While the President urges Congress to approve funding, a clear strategy remains elusive. Perhaps the intention is to pursue full-scale military engagement, following a similar path as was attempted with Saddam ?

Then came the 9/11 attacks . In their wake, the George W. Bush administration decided to solve not only the terrorism problem but the Iraq one as well, choosing to conquer the country and forcibly eliminate Saddam’s regime. The conquering part went largely as planned, but the aftermath proved chaotic. Liberation turned into occupation; local uncertainty turned into insurgency and then civil war. U.S. troops ended up staying in Iraq and fighting one foe or another there for almost two decades.

There might be a valid reason for the world to prepare for more conflicts, especially with the current US government and the never-Trumpers aligning to gather support for such endeavors. Notably, General Jack Keane , a frequent guest on Brett Baier's Fox program, sees some positives in war, particularly in replenishing outdated inventories to pave the way for building new ones. Additionally, President Biden has suggested that engaging in war is beneficial for the economy and has assured that there will be no boots on the ground, at least for now.

It raises the question: if your livelihood is centered around warfare, can peace only be achieved through battle? Furthermore, when a president lacks negotiation skills, is it a common recourse to defer to the generals, perhaps as a means of deflecting blame if negotiations falter?

We know that the Ukraine and Israel (UN) have called on international law and other organizations to investigate rape and War Crimes on Ukrainians and Hamas. It certainly deserves investigation, but so does the fact in Palestine to corner Millions of people and in the process of eliminating Hamas, kill thousands of them. And speaking of Rape, why is the US not investigating themselves? Consider smugglers and traffickers on the Southern Border an act of War on sovereign territory, but no one speaks up for the travesties that happen.

Considering all this, one must question whether these developments are truly beneficial for the US. While our Administration commends the united front against Russia, it could potentially worsen the ongoing conflict in Israel. This raises doubts about the Reagan doctrine of 'peace through strength,' which emphasized diplomatic efforts, with force as a last resort for deterrence and containment. In contrast, the current administration lacks a clear doctrine or strategy. Instead, it relies on an ideological and reactionary approach, spearheaded by a diplomatic team driven by a bellicose and vengeful President. Despite his purported connections with world leaders, diplomatic resolutions seem elusive. Is this a matter of inability or unwillingness?

To call for a two-state resolution in the Israel conflict and to initiate a military operation under the guise of humanitarian aid are reactionary moves amidst the current explosive and emotional global climate. They do little to contribute to conflict resolution. Similarly, advocating for further military intervention in Ukraine under the pretext of defending a democratic nation essentially amounts to a call for war with Russia , as many decisions are pointing in that direction.

The ongoing global developments do not seem to favor the US as a world leader. Despite the presence of hundreds of US think tanks with elite prestige, many still adhere to outdated worldviews reminiscent of the Stalin-Eisenhower era. Furthermore, most of these think tanks primarily focus on military strategies, led by critics of Russia and pro-Israel groups. Nothing new here, just history buffs in DC ?

Both China and the United States could soon be faced with even bigger problems, with FP columnist Steven A. Cook assessing that “it is likely that there is going to be a war between Hezbollah and Israel within the next six to eight months.” Cook notes constraints on the two sides are breaking down—and that “there is no diplomatic solution to the zero-sum relationship between Hezbollah and Israel.” FP will continue to bring you expert analysis on this rapidly evolving situation as it unfolds.—The editors .

US Politics # 2 - February, 2024

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 21:16:06 GMT

US Politics #2 - February, 2024:

The US-Ukrainian War against Russia: This report by The New York Times is nothing short of a historical piece of warfare the US was planning in a strategic hegemonic move, utilizing Ukrainian AZOV (Nazi People) to stage the Maidan Coup and prepare for the war. It only supports the fact that all negotiations with Russia and NATO expansion were a farce, and the US is the aggressor in this case. You can shout as long as you want, but the CIA embedded in Ukraine is an active participant in the war and will certainly give Putin and the Russian people to be more alert about their position. This is not a defensive move by the US; this is an offensive move to defeat Russia. All the hype we hear now about NATO troops is just another escalation, and the question begs, who is running the US? The CIA and the Financial Complex—the financial people tried hard to buy the assets in the Russia bankruptcy? Bill Browder comes to mind.

The listening post in the Ukrainian forest is part of a C.I.A.-supported network of spy bases constructed in the past eight years that includes 12 secret locations along the Russian border. Before the war, the Ukrainians proved themselves to the Americans by collecting intercepts that helped prove Russia’s involvement in the 2014 downing of a commercial jetliner, Malaysia Airlines Flight 17. The Ukrainians also helped the Americans go after the Russian operatives who meddled in the 2016 U.S. presidential election.

Around 2016, the C.I.A. began training an elite Ukrainian commando force — known as Unit 2245 — which captured Russian drones and communications gear so that C.I.A. technicians could reverse-engineer them and crack Moscow’s encryption systems. (One officer in the unit was Kyrylo Budanov, now the general leading Ukraine’s military intelligence.)

Translated from a European Paper - In addition, Ukraine has served as a huge "information gathering center" for the United States and its partners for years.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly accused the US and NATO of expanding military and intelligence infrastructure in Ukraine. According to him, this was also the main cause of Russia's invasion.

The election of Donald Trump in 2016 threatened to be a setback for the CIA , according to the report. There are indications that the activities in Ukraine were kept secret from Trump.

Read here, (article in German) the 2 plus 4 contracts that were worked out before the unification of the two Germanys. And here is what is listed on the Federal Foreign Office Political Archive

Navalny – here is information from the Kyiv Post and others . They state that he died of natural causes, perhaps to the disappointment of the US War Mongers. Did Ukraine have a better reason than Putin? One would think the CIA knows the facts as much as they do about North Stream 2, as it was also reported that he was considered for an exchange with Russian prisoners . Check Navalny’s political development , perhaps it's just genuine resentment?

So, for all people, no one in the US press felt obligated to pursue the story; it would have interfered with the sanctions and the aid package. Let’s see how BRIC reacts.

As the US election in November started to get closer to two candidates, the Trump haters, mostly the War Mongers and the ones a bit more on the sensitive side of things, with the help of mega donors and Democrats , keep an alternative on life support. Nikki Haley has vowed to stay the course and fight for her place in history, hoping to get the frustrated votes from the Biden Camp and the Trump Haters, and War Mongers. It tells you a story for a Presidential candidate running as a Party person, to accept support from Democrats, the opposing party, simply to continue the Spoiler. It is manifest that many of the votes, as many as 5 out of 10, are cast in her support to defeat Trump from Democrats but would never be a vote for her in the General election. You can ask about the ethics and morals here, but perhaps you can justify it under the label saving democracy. For a bit of a taste of Democrats' morals and ethical standards, here you have it . Substance does not matter; it’s all about power, election interference, no, not all, justification, the other side is evil. Here is another list of Haley backers.

So, what is her endgame, committing political suicide or pulling a Selinsky, with the help of Oligarchs, yes, they exist in the US, and the influence of self-interest peddlers, who feel a Trump presidency would derail their favorite positions and the political corporations' interest with lobbying in Washington? Or is there speculation she will be nominated in the 'no labels' party? Hardly, as that would certainly derail the chance for Trump to win a general election, and perhaps all three candidates would not get the electoral votes, but a rematch Biden – Haley? The Democrats would certainly favor that. Check who the 'no labels' are and whether they could secure a spot on the ballot in all states. It's probably not a realistic scenario, so she will likely continue with her own movement for 2028. Whether she endorses Trump or not, only time will tell.

The Democrats and women keep reminding us of that abortion, women’s rights are very high on their list of who they vote for. It is interesting to note that one of the countries with the least restrictive and highest abortion rates was Russia. It is a historical law, implemented by Lenin of all people?"

According to UN data, Russia 's abortion rate is 53.7 per 1,000 women. Vietnam has the second-highest rate at 35.2, followed by Kazakhstan with 35. On the opposite end, Mexico has the lowest abortion rate of 0.1, followed by Portugal with 0.2. Abortion is legal in all of these nations.

The Soviet government was the first government in Europe to legalize abortion. In October 1920 the Bolsheviks made abortion legal within the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic with their "Decree on Women's Healthcare". After the RSFSR the law was introduced in Ukraine (5 July 1921) and then the remainder of the Soviet Union. [3] The government saw legalization as a temporary necessity, as after the economic crisis and nearly a decade of unrest, war, revolution, and civil war, many women would be seeking abortions due to not being able to take care of their child. Restrictions were placed on the criteria for abortions and by 1924 it was only permitted where pregnancy risked the life of the woman or the unborn child. [8] The Soviet Union encouraged pronata l policies; however, Soviet officials argued that women would be getting abortions regardless of legality, and the state would be able to regulate and control abortion only if it was legalized. In particular, the Soviet government hoped to provide access to abortion in a safe environment performed by a trained doctor instead of babki. [9] While this campaign was extremely effective in the urban areas (as much as 75% of abortions in Moscow were performed in hospitals by 1925), it had much less on rural regions where there was neither access to doctors, transportation, or both and where women relied on traditional medicine. [10] In the countryside in particular, women continued to see babki, midwives, hairdressers, nurses, and others for the procedure after abortion was legalized in the Soviet Union. [11]

The current laws state: the Russian Parliament passed a law restricting abortion to the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, with an exception up to 22 weeks if the pregnancy was the result of rape , and for medical necessity it can be performed at any point during pregnancy. [1] The new law also made mandatory a waiting period of two to seven days before an abortion can be performed, to allow the woman to "reconsider her decision". [1] Abortion can only be performed in licensed institutions (typically hospitals or women's clinics) and by physicians who have specialized training. The physician can refuse to perform the abortion, except the abortions for medical necessity. [1]

The 12/22-week solution appears to be a standard practice in the civilized world , assuming that within that timeframe, one should be able to determine if they are pregnant or not. The argument "my body – my choice" raises questions; there are many choices before one gets pregnant, and that includes, in most cases, our bodies – our choices. Is this another emotionally driven noise-maker?

Biden's laws seem different from those set for regular citizens. Consider Biden's dogs; if your dog attacks someone twice, you are typically forced to find a final solution, and you may have "ambulance chasers" seeking emotional and physical damages for the victims. However, Biden's dog attacked 24 times , and they can claim hero status. The dog lives on, even receiving psychiatric help. Must be a family thing?

Turning to Biden's border, only after a woman was killed by a person entering the US by foot, without any legal papers or official escort, causing havoc in NY, and then brutally murdering a woman on a Georgia campus, and an announced visit by the former President, did the Commander in Chief decide to visit the border. For all we know, this is what he decided since he was elected.

Executive actions to undo executive actions for an immigration policy, and after three years, blame the inaction of Congress, then call for executive action to implement the previous executive action (basically) after a bluff that the lawyers need to find ways to make them legal. Saying "come in" is legal, but closing the border is illegal? If you are not confused, logic has some way to go. But it appears in the DEI and moralist society, there's no double standard to call for billions to kill people (note: all wars are unjustified) without pleas for peace, while uncontrolled immigrants are all declared contributors to society, with NGOs and others doing the hard work, perhaps even working with cartel smugglers. It's a crazy world again, with money for everyone but the US, following the same pattern of people - the elite political machine or swamp ensuring the US will not run out of cheap labor and liberal support. Seven million in 2023 and counting, with 2-3 million integrated into the president's labor statistics? Here are some good reasons to keep them coming.

Overall, median weekly earnings for full-time foreign-born workers in 2022 was 86.9% of what their native-born counterparts earned . Foreign-born men brought home $1,000 a week, compared to $1,185 for native-born men. Foreign-born women earned $861, compared to $975 for native-born women.

The US has about 170 Million registered voters, with party affiliation democrat, republican and independent. The number of Independents probably fluctuates and can be as high as 50% in a year as 2024 with the dislike higher than the like for both current candidates the independent but also the immigration population may decide the election.

As of November 2022, there were at least 53 distinct ballot-qualified political parties in the United States. There were 209 state-level parties. [1] Some parties are recognized in multiple states. For example, both the Democratic Party and the Republican Party are recognized in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. These two parties account for more than half of the 209 total state-level parties. [2] [3] [4] Three minor parties were recognized in more than 10 states as of November 2022:

Libertarian Party : 39 states
Green Party : 27 states [5]
Constitution Party : 15 states [6]

Let’s be hopeful that substantive issues like world peace and prosperity (in their homelands) drive the 2024 election, and money spent on global hegemony is invested in partnerships and democratic education, not ideological warfare. "Peace through Strength" should not be a license for carpet bombing. In reality, the independent vote would need to shift to a candidate with the stamina and courage to take on the war machine embedded in Washington.

We need to show U.S. kids our real ancestry, create movies about it, and use it as an educational tool. Slavery, the Civil War, Prohibition, and yes, human rights – instead of using the past to forge unity, we use it as a divisive tool, creating political castes and hate. If people globally would only work and govern based on the past, it would be an experiment we are about to relive. This time, gender and DEI versus the rest who simply want to live. As long as we cannot define equity and justice, let's aim to provide everyone with a better opportunity. Not everyone can make millions being a baller; someone has to work the farms too . For now, let the good times (swift times) roll and hope for some good for all in the world.

Geopolitical Focus #2 – February, 2024: The War & The Woke

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 19:06:29 GMT

Geopolitical Focus – February, 2024: The War & the Woke - Carlson/Putin Interview, Biden's rant, and the Ware in Ukraine.

What a series of events in the early months of 2024: Tucker Carlson interviews Putin, Special Counsel Hur sends Biden’s document report, the Ukraine, Israel, Taiwan, and the US Border Bill stall in Congress. Ukraine loses more ground, and global forces are fighting over War Crimes in Russia and Israel. No one wants peace. War is and will always be war, with atrocities and dead people, no matter who or where. But not talking and negotiating peace is the real crime.

To drum up more money for war, the timing of Mr. Navalny came at a very good time. Forget the crocodile tears of politicians and the press; it benefits their narrative, and judgments are made in seconds. And who believes that this was not an orchestrated act? (And do not claim Hollywood is not political .) The global press and Mr. Biden all used the dead for their agenda for more support.

No one knows what his activities were other than overthrow the Russian Government. Who paid him? What was his political motive? Perhaps his thinking is more of a hardliner than Western values, and so on. Was he a hero? Perhaps for the Russia haters, just as Julian Assange is for the free world but not for the leaders of the free press and democracy.

It is a sickening game that is played, not for a shared world but for world views. Iraq all over again, and we still do not know who blew up North Stream 2, and for what the CIA is recruiting Russian agents. Epstein was hanging himself too, his security detail asleep. If anyone, Mr. Biden may be in control of all senses, but his stubbornness is manifest second only to either being played by the war mongers or corruptive forces he is part of. Perhaps they are all in the same boat? Together with the British, it's like the War on London propaganda, and peace is a distant thought for the US and the paranoid imperialist, Boris Johnson . They must have a lot to lose, perhaps land access to China.

Here are a couple of links related to Mr. Navalny; Was he a British agent? (translated)

Compared to the mainstream junk media, which has degenerated into a megaphone of transatlantic one-size-fits-all propaganda, KenFM represents an increasingly influential counterweight. For example, KenFM readers and listeners have learned that the racist rioter Navalny, of all people, had received an expensive "scholarship" from the US embassy in Moscow in 2010 for a course at the US university Yale, for a course that the CIA misuses to search for talent for its "future, global leaders". Can anyone report whether he or she has learned anything about this background in one of the self-proclaimed "quality media"? This is important, because Navalny's stay in the United States was not without consequences.

Was he a Right Wing radical, converted?

Navalny's first political engagement took place from 1999 to 2007. He was a member, sometimes even on the board, of the liberal party "Jablonko" and at the same time made a name for himself as a blogger against corruption. Navalny claims that there were personal reasons for his expulsion from the party, and that he criticized the party's founder, Grigory Yavlinsky, at the time. But he says that nationalist and racist statements have led to his expulsion.

And what about Gonzalo Lira ? No one talks or writes about him. Was he on the wrong side of the media, so he deserved to die? Or Julian Assange , who simply published some truth. If you rot in jail, house arrest, or die, can only the person itself decide how it feels?

Navalny, a pawn sacrificed in the hope to fuel Russia hate and an internal revolution? He was a small price to pay, and his wife was already waiting in the wings together with Aleksei Miniailo . Better than losing support in the Western world or the war?

Is there any difference in the US or anywhere else? Just a question of who is in power. Unless you believe lawyers and judges are not of the same fabric. Call Soros (he probably fits the description of an insurrectionist; he does not use democratic but legal principles) or the Jan 6 insurrectionists ?

Designation as extremist

On 16 April 2021, the Moscow prosecutor office requested the Moscow City Court to designate organizations linked to Navalny including the FBK and his headquarters as extremist organizations, claiming: "Under the disguise of liberal slogans, these organizations are engaged in creating conditions for the destabilization of the social and socio-political situation." [321] In response, Navalny aide Leonid Volkov stated: "Putin has just announced full-scale mass political repression in Russia." [322]

Compare, in a quiet minute, Tucker's interview with Putin and Biden's 5-minute rant after the Hur report . Look at the content; forget for a minute the Russian dictator or the demented President. Well, Putin may have put on a nice face, but that would only prove that he has one. On the other hand, Biden and the Western press simply run a demolition campaign and declare the US President the best ever. Perhaps an argument could be made that Russia’s and Biden's deep state are not much different? While Hunter is chastised, all journalists supporting Zelinsky unconditionally are heroes?

Covid, climate change, woke culture, and war—the unifying forces of the West and a moralist system replacing democracies. The latest manifestation of such a world is Mr. Biden's comments in support of the latest Ukraine package, selling it as an investment in the defense industry, with 90 cents on the dollar, supporting the US economy . And this comes from the leader of the world's democracy, paid in death bodies and blaming Putin? Is this really the intelligence we can expect from our leaders, fear-mongering at its best? And, by the way, who is going to do the fighting ? Ukraine may need a miracle like a migrant invasion.

All of this is a result of NATO, the EU, and Western leadership's total miscalculations and a total failure in negotiations over years, with a view of Stalin’s Russia in the 1930s . Yes, the current Russian Constitution calls for 4-year terms, and Putin has managed a basic lifetime term, making him a “dictator”. But does that call the constitution off, and what are the indications Russia wants to go to war with all the West? The argument could be made the other way as well; NATO has been expanding East since 1993, and the current rhetoric may sound like regrets that Germany did not win the war in 1945 against Russia. Read about the fabric of Russia and its government structure .

The stupidity of the Western political elite and its obsession with Russia, and the fear-mongering about a threat to the rest of Europe , is almost impossible to swallow for someone who lives—not only exists—on this planet. Perhaps a sit-down with Putin may resolve the conflict quickly, but that goes against the wishes of the Navalny’s. Germany, in unisono, now calls for unrestricted support with long-range missiles and ammunition, claiming it is a must to defeat Russia. Germany started WWI and WWII; now, do they see a chance to finally get to Russia after they lost in WWII? Will Russia rain missiles all over Europe?

When it is said that "President Putin and his regime must lose this war", it becomes clear what the policy envisaged by Germany will ultimately lead to: a direct war between NATO and Russia. Anyone who knows about Russia's motivation in the Ukraine war understands that, from their point of view, the country must not lose this war. Too much is at stake, both domestically and internationally.

And the Polish , still resenting some actions the Russians did, although Mr. Putin apologized, are among the biggest Fear Mongers, perhaps betting on more Military spending by the US for their defense?

WARSAW — Two decades ago, when Poland rallied behind the United States in the contentious lead-up to the Iraq war, the president of France chided Warsaw, saying it had “missed a good opportunity to shut up.

The latest sanctions on India and China by the EU will not help , and Europe will be in the Mincer between the BRIC and the Moralists? Neither India nor China want NATO or the US meddling in Russia.

In reality, the security conference in Munich was nothing short of a War tribunal and a fear monger festival orchestrated by a misguided alliance that believes Russia will invade the World. No resolutions but accusations, and self-interest?

The other War in Israel and Gaza has basically become a side show, and why has the US has to pay billions, yes its an ally but really, are they listening to anyone about resolving the issues with their neighbors. Why are always the other at fault, and are Palestinians expendables as are the Russians? Here as well, we send the CIA, the Secretary of State, and others but they have no influence about Israels killing of people, but we give more money to kill and the end resolutions is, killing more people. There are always two parties to a conflict, and it is a pipe dream to kill all Hamas, everyone who lost a Hamas Soldier may create two.

Israel’s assault in Gaza has killed more than 29,000 Palestinians since Oct. 7, the territory’s Health Ministry said Monday, marking another grim milestone in one of the deadliest and most destructive military campaigns in recent history.

Since the US economy is ‘booming,’ Trump haters still think he had it all wrong. The oil price was at $40 a barrel when Mr. Biden decided to help Iran and the rest of the world drive prices up to $100, stirring the inflation we still chew on. The intelligence globally makes a big fuss about Trump calling out NATO states for not paying, but they all forgot that with $40, Russia could never have afforded the war, and Iran could not finance attacks on Israel or the Red Sea. So, a circle closed in a circle economy?

On the other hand, Germany, willingly bowing to the US President's demands to support Ukraine, with some voices even calling for the elimination of Russia, may suffer an actual economic collapse. There are endless bureaucratic and regulatory decisions and a green coalition that defies any growth factors from the past but has not established a base for a solid future. Therefore, the German and European economy may suffer at least through 2024. Here are the current PMI , 2023 , and economic forecast .

BRICS , on the other hand, seems to be doing well—perhaps another concern for the US? I wonder if these countries would ditch Russia for the USA. Perhaps all the money buried in wars should be spent on diplomatic and economic efforts, as they have a better prospect of lasting peace.

US Politics - February, 2024

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 20:26:31 GMT

US Politics - February, 2024: The Super Bowl & It's ties to the Liberal Elite

The Swift–Kelce Bowl , orchestrated by the liberal elites, highlights an interesting dynamic. Good-paying manufacturing jobs often can't afford the steep ticket prices, starting at $5000 or more, or suites that go for over a million dollars. One-minute ads during the event can cost around $15 million, often performed by Hollywood actors attempting humor. This leaves the average blue-collar Joe questioning the democratic process.

Never mind, Taylor Swift brings enough support, and one second of her smile is sufficient for many to compensate for five hours of TV. Three of which are spent on advertisements, and a politically correct halftime show. All for a football game featuring about 100 players on each side, 30 coaches, but perhaps only 5 key players. The remaining hard-working individuals seem to be relegated to the status of "nobodies." The message is clear: it's an elite democracy, where gladiators are welcome.

The NFL strives to be a model of diversity and inclusion. The NFL defines diversity as the respect and appreciation of race, skin color, gender, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical abilities, age, parental status, work and behavioral styles. Accordingly, it is the goal of the NFL to honor and celebrate the broad ranges of human difference among us, while also embracing the commonalities we share, and to provide each individual with the opportunity to achieve his or her full potential as organizational goals are pursued. To achieve organizational success each individual must take ownership of the diversity initiative.

You might be surprised to learn that the Super Bowl half-time show is not a paying gig . But while the NFL doesn’t pay performers, the league does cover the considerable production costs of the entire show, including artists' travel expenses. Despite having a short running time—usually between 12 and 15 minutes—the half-time show is a hugely expensive undertaking. For reference: Jennifer Lopez and Shakira's performance in 2020 cost the NFL somewhere in the region of $13 million.

It isn't even realistic to compare the multi-million dollar salaries of NFL players with that of the typical citizen/fan.

While acknowledging the risk and short career span, earning $15 an hour over a lifetime of work would amount to $1,350,000. This calculation doesn't even consider the added perks like free college, something many players may not have had the luxury of during high school due to financial constraints. It's rarely on the agenda, though some players deserve credit for engaging in social & charitable activities. That said, working only 6 months of the year as a professional athlete isn't attainable for the majority of the US population.

Don’t get me wrong; sports is a great thing in society. Let's avoid poisoning it with politics. No one is crying that 80% of the players are of one origin. Perhaps consider being on the right side of history? But that would involve politics.

Concerning college sports budgets, it's essential to note that there is no contribution from professional sports; it operates as a draft system for free money, and the profits often get funneled into social activities. While NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) can be profitable for certain college athletes, it is still not attainable for all college athletes. Sorry if you are a cross-country runner, as social justice may not be on your side. Outside of the top players in major sports, most NIL athletes would require a skillset closer to that of a social media influencer to earn that kind of money.

A person of great fame, like Taylor Swift, aims to be on the right side of history. In both financial and ethical senses, Flying from Tokyo to Las Vegas and back for a game doesn't seem to bother her. Not even John Kerry or Al Gore seem concerned.

On the outside it appears to be for love and the sake of seeing her boyfriend, with no price or sacrifice too steep. Perhaps she has TV sponsors, and ratings were certainly higher with her presence. Some people may speculate that a political party may be highly interested in her opinion.

While she claims to be a Christian and is outspoken about sexual assaults (which is commendable), issues such as immigration with child trafficking, drugs, and crime do not seem to affect her. She aligns with the Democratic party, and it is assumed she supports free abortion and their agenda, including her boyfriend's political support of vaccines. Morally, anything can be justified by applying one of the three philosophies.

Questions of justification arise in moral philosophy in at least three ways. The first concerns the way in which particular moral claims, such as claims about right and wrong, can be shown to be correct. Virtually every moral theory offers its own account of moral justification in this sense, and these accounts naturally differ from each other. A second question is about the justification of morality as a whole – about how to answer the question, ‘Why be moral?’ Philosophers have disagreed about this, and about whether an answer is even possible. Finally, some philosophers have claimed that justification of our actions to others is a central aim of moral thinking. They maintain that this aim provides answers to the other two questions of justification by explaining the reasons we have to be moral and the particular form that justification takes within moral argument.

Update at the Border

The Border Czar , Kamala Harris, has been notably silent on the border situation. Aside from her travels abroad to address the root causes of migration and discourage leaders from sending people, there has been little communication or action from her regarding the border crisis.

Vice President Kamala Harris is supposedly the White House point on the border surge, but the issue has vanished from her schedule, the Los Angeles Times reports ; she hasn’t hosted an immigration event in nine months.

She appears to be busy discussing women's rights, and as a MeToo member, she seems to be okay with issues like human trafficking, drugs, and the misuse of minors. Perhaps, in reality, her main concern is "MeToo." Some pundits think she is the real deal, especially if you're a Trump basher. Welcome to California.

Mayorkas not impeached yet, as expected. Representatives from CA, CO, and WI gave him a thumbs up, possibly because they need farmers' aid funded by questionable sources . All Democrats seem to adhere to the Omerta rule, so no surprise there. Is he not simply following orders from the Czar and the President? The problem will exist no matter what.

The border issue has now become President Biden's responsibility, with him blaming Trump for the failed vote on the border deal . Biden reversed all of Trump's policies on the border without any debate, using executive actions. It raises questions as to why any logically thinking representative in Washington would support a bill that includes both domestic and foreign aid. There's also a lack of accountability for the funds allocated to Ukraine, and Israel seems to be a loose cannon.

The Border Bill primarily aimed to provide more legal support for faster entries, limit the number of crossings, increase the Border Control staff, and construct a wall in specific sections. Despite the total bill amounting to 118 billion dollars, questions arise about whether all the laws to secure the border are already in place, and considering the power of executive orders, whether anyone can stop them even if someone calls for it.

Regarding Nikki Haley, being the only remaining challenger in the Republican race, her endgame is uncertain. Speculations include hoping for Trump's legal challenges to impede his candidacy or relying on the Never Trumpers and Bush-Cheney coalition to continue the wars. However, at this time, it's challenging to substantiate any legal claims against Trump, and his Twitter chaos might not be worse than the ongoing wars. If her strategy involves counting on an independent/Democrat crossover, she could face challenges, leaving her with approximately 30% of the votes in a general election. Trumpers may view her as a traitor, and Democrats might revert to their party, making her path difficult. Hoping to stay in the race for a vice-presidential position might burn bridges for 2028 unless she runs as an independent.

Haley’s campaign strategy hinges on recruiting independent voters and Democrats to cast their ballots for her in protest of Trump in open primary states, where voters are allowed to cross party lines and cast their ballots in either party’s primary.

But there is a deeper reason that Trump's opponents should consider as they consider how to defeat him. As publicists like Tablet's Alana Newhouse have noted, the word "broken" has become an integral part of Americans' lives: broken families, broken public schools, broken downtowns, broken universities, broken health care, broken media, broken churches, broken borders, broken state—at best, shells of what they once were. And everywhere it is clear that America's institutions and their brain-dead and complacent leaders cannot continue forever on autopilot

Mr. Robert K. Hur, Special Counsel in the Biden document investigation, has concluded that Mr. Biden is an elderly man with a bad memory, and any jury would see him as unfit to stand trial due to his lack of recollection of important information. Consequently, the case is considered closed.

The question arises whether the DOJ/Biden administration played a good cop/bad cop strategy, as Mr. Biden addressed the case in his 5-minute presidential announcement , and the complacent press and the inner circle, including fully capable Senators, confirmed that Mr. Biden has full mental capacity. In this scenario, either the President willfully deceived the Special Counsel, or the Special Counsel interpreted his answers as incoherent. Regardless, it hasn't provided clarity on the inner workings of this administration. As always, it pits multiple parties against each other, and Mr. Biden emerges victorious, emphasizing his interpretation that he did nothing wrong while suggesting Mr. Trump should go to jail.

For further details, you can read the full paper here , or just look at the pictures of the boxes, questioning whether there were moles in Biden's garage. Notably, Mr. Biden's personal lawyer is Mr. Bob Bauer , whose opinion might raise questions. Additionally, his wife, Anita Dunn, who has been associated with Biden for 40 years, may have insights into his secrets. The full extent of these matters may only become clear in a future Trump presidency.

Bauer was President Obama's personal attorney and the general counsel of the Barack Obama 2008 presidential campaign . He has also previously served as the general counsel to the Democratic National Committee , [3] and had advised President Obama since 2005. [4]

As general counsel for the 2008 campaign, Bauer asked the Justice Department to investigate the officers and donors of American Issues Project after it ran a negative ad about Obama. [5]

Anita Dunn ( née Babbitt; born January 8, 1958) is an American political strategist serving as a senior advisor to U.S. President Joe Biden , having originally held the post from January 20, 2021, to August 12, 2021, [1] and returning May 5, 2022. [2]

Previously, she served as acting White House Communications Director in the Obama White House. Additionally, she served as managing director at SKDK , a strategic communications firm in Washington, D.C. , [3] and an advisor to the Biden presidential transition . [4] Dunn has worked on six Democratic presidential campaigns over a period of 40 years. [5]

Is there a cognitive test for President Biden, or is it simply a matter of observing his public appearances to gauge his sharpness and cognitive state?

The tech industry in California is expressing concerns about the image San Francisco portrays, fearing talent loss . It raises the question of whether the city is genuinely thriving or if these concerns are primarily about safeguarding the industry's lifeblood. Meanwhile, Nancy Pelosi seems preoccupied with trading stocks alongside her husband, leaving more important matters to be handled by others .

The Bidenomics agenda appears to favor certain industries, espcially insurance and the tech giants . Despite touting a strong labor market, there are doubts about its actual robustness, and an increase in Food Stamp usage is noticeable . Some speculate that the Green hype, particularly in electric vehicles and associated support, may not deliver as promised, potentially leading to economic troubles in 2024. There's a growing concern about the emergence of a two-class system – the haves and the have-nots, exemplified by events like the Super Bowl. More on this topic next time.

Geopolitical Focus – February, 2024

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 21:06:09 GMT

Geopolitical Focus – February, 2024: The Elites and Democracy

The Elites and Democracy? The WEF, EU, UN, WHO, and countless others, all claiming to be democratic institutions serving the interests of the people. However, there's a common thread among them, forming a power structure that tends to control both people and territories.

The WEF 2024 boasted 2800 attendees from across the globe, including politicians, entrepreneurs, consultants, and various other representatives. The star guests were Vladimir Zelinsky and AI guru Sam Altman. But what about figures like Al Gore and John Kerry? Where are the lessons learned from the Covid era? The public remains skeptical. Let's set them aside for a moment.

The Forum’s new Global Cooperation Barometer showed that global cooperation has been resilient for much of the past decade, particularly in the areas of trade and capital, innovation and technology, and climate and natural capital, but has been pulled down by a sharp decline in cooperation on peace and security. A new white pape r offered diverse ideas on what global cooperation can look like in a fragmenting world.

Perhaps the decline in peace and security is a deliberate choice made by the participants, driven by the desire to achieve greater hegemony, or at least as Zelinsky puts it.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced plans for a potential global summit to push for peace and called for renewed investment in the country. “Strengthen our economy, and we’ll strengthen your security,” he told participants, adding that there will be growth in Ukraine once the war is over. More than 80 national security advisers from governments and international organizations met in Davos to advance a blueprint for peace in Ukraine at the Fourth National Security Advisors Meeting, hosted by Switzerland in collaboration with the Forum.

Unfortunately, peace talks, as he suggested, are unlikely to happen. If he looks at history and the current global scenario, he might struggle to keep himself safe. The rest of the WEF mainly consists of technocratic and autocratic statements, hoping that "representatives and the media" will spin them into democratic agendas back home.

Perhaps the best overview is summarized here :

In Davos we hear so much about the enormous promises of technology – and these promises are certainly real. But technology might also disrupt human society and the very meaning of human life in numerous ways, ranging from the creation of a global useless class to the rise of data colonialism and of digital dictatorships.

Some are referring to the industry leading product producers as the magnificent five or seven : Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, Alphabet (Google), Tesla, Nvidia and Meta Platforms .

The Ukraine War has disappeared from the International Media but occasional reports about corruption , the CIA recruiting Russian dissenters to overthrow Putin with another Maidan Coup, and how Russia is invading Sweden and Finland . So does this make funding essential? What these individuals fail to mention is that the US signed a treaty with Finland to deploy weapons, potentially instigating another conflict similar to the situation in Ukraine. This move is justified through media sensationalism, jeopardizing over 50 years of peace between these nations. Additionally, Mr. Zelinsky expresses dissatisfaction with other countries providing refuge to those who left the war for peace, only to face potential repercussions if caught at the border.

Is the triangle formed by Germany, the EU, and the US truly a lasting future relationship, or does it reveal a weakness and disorientation on the European side? Migration has been a shared challenge for all three, with open borders but a lack of concrete plans for integration or a legal foundation to control it. While liberal forces advocate for assistance, they simultaneously contribute to pushing their own people into poverty.

There is a unanimous stance that Russian frozen assets rightfully belong to Ukraine, even though they are funds belonging to Russian citizens, not the state. The primary distinction lies in the surging US economy (thanks to the war), while the EU/ German economies are stuttering due to the consequences of the war , notably sanctions.

Despite a shared commitment to the green agenda, all three entities struggle with stagnant electric vehicle sales, ongoing issues with solar and wind energy, and an economic reliance on printed money. Additionally, they face challenges in securing raw material resources and long-term access to them.

However, the driving force behind the unity is NATO , using the Ukraine War, which was instigated by the US, to force a military alliance to tie the EU to the US, divide and weaken Russia, to either split it up or destroy it politically. There is no political alignment in Europe; the so-called Fascists by the Power Elite (note the AFD is what the Trumpers are in the US) are under attack by the current regimes in EU countries and the US, but especially Germany. All these democratic supporters (for them, it is a one-party state) use all legal means and the press to force opinions and labels on the people. But no one wants peace with Russia; leave NATO where it belongs. Tell Zelinsky that Russia is a neighbor and at the same time integrate Russia into an extended Europe. Will there be local tribe conflicts? Yes, but not a war of destruction and death if you understand history. This war was all but avoidable, with one big beneficiary, the US; the rest of the world lost. And Zelinsky is begging for crumbs ; he still believes he can win, and no one reasons with him. Note, the world is not a win-lose game but a win-win, perhaps.

The U.S. recorded a new record in arms exports last year. With an increase of 16 percent, exports reached a total value of 238 billion dollars, as announced by the State Department on Monday. The sale of weapons is considered "an important foreign policy tool of the United States."

Here is an Interview with a person who has experienced both sides of political systems and is respected in the West.

Ai Weiwei, the renowned Chinese artist, has compared the cancellation of his exhibition at the Lisson Gallery in London to the repressive measures taken during Mao Zedong's Cultural Revolution in China. In an interview with Sky News on Sunday , the 66-year-old expressed his concern about what he perceives as political censorship in the West. "I grew up with this fierce political censorship," says Ai Weiwei. "I'm now realizing that people in the West are doing exactly the same thing today."

Chinese influence in Europe, but especially Hungary is growing, with leading the Green Revolution with advanced technologies, and the process to flood the European Market with E Cars , built in Hungary. Meanwhile the US and the EU spend money on Ukraine and NATO, consider if Putin were to intervene in Hungary, potentially sparking a war with China. The idea of invading Sweden or Finland seems impractical, given the abundance of snow, ice, and forests, all readily available in Russia. The conflict in Ukraine is perceived as a civil war, and perhaps it's best to let them find their own solutions. The US already has a significant military presence in the Middle East, close to Russia; there's no need to deploy forces to Ukraine for Zelensky's aspirations.

Hungary, a small, landlocked country of 9.6 million people, has emerged as an increasingly important production hub in Europe for automotive suppliers, particularly from China.

Chinese firms, such as battery giant CATL and carmaker Nio ( NIO ), have invested heavily in manufacturing in the country in recent years, alongside German competitors Mercedes, BMW and Audi. BYD already had a presence there, opening an electric bus facility in the city of Komárom in 2017.

With its new plant in Szeged, the company will gain free trade access for its passenger vehicles as well. And not just to Hungary — a longtime economic partner of China — but 26 other members of the European Union, according to Matthias Schmidt, a European autos analyst who leads the firm Schmidt Automotive Research.

It will also be able to reap “all the benefits that Western European countries provide at a fraction of the cost,” he told CNN, citing lower labor and energy costs in Hungary than those in other regional automotive hubs such as France or Germany.

While the site has likely been planned for years, experts say it is especially timely, because it will allow BYD to dodge European tariffs of 10% on cars imported from the world’s second largest economy, along with any further duties imposed as a result of an ongoing EU investigation into China’s state support for EV makers.

Regarding the Build Back Better and other expenditures by the US government , it may take another 15 years to see the fruition of those well-paying jobs from US manufacturers. Additionally, the US is issuing threats of war to China over Taiwan.

Trina, like other Chinese solar giants here, is working to show it has good intentions. All of the U.S. unit’s 80-odd employees are U.S. citizens, Zhu says. The company plans to reinvest much of the money it makes into the U.S. market rather than send it back to China. Trina is trying to bring its suppliers to the U.S., and Zhu says he is “pretty sure” the company will decide to build a factory that makes solar cells—the building blocks of panels—here, too.

The U.S. market needs Chinese solar manufacturers for their technological know-how, ability to bring suppliers from China, capital and appetite for investment, Zhu says.

Zhu knows there is pushback from U.S. politicians on Chinese manufacturers. But he says “we’re not politicians. We just do the business.”

Israel's war with Hamas , retaliatory strikes in sovereign states, two-state solutions, and sanctions on settlers in Gaza have led to a dispute on how to handle the conflict, resulting in more destruction and death, aiming to eradicate Hamas and causing collateral damage to about 30,000 civilians. Legitimized under the rules of engagement, the issue arises from the forced relocation of Palestinians, which is not Israel's business; it should instead control its settlers.

So, we have a US government seen as friendly to Israel, accumulating frequent flier miles but largely ineffective in diplomacy. The prioritization of domestic issues, including concerns about fascism, raises questions. The media's focus on reporting military successes lacks examination of why the US maintains military bases in Iraq , in contrast to Russian or Chinese approaches. The conflict doesn't seem to offer solutions, potentially fueling tensions without deterrence.

The US may benefit economically from the war, aligning with a historical pattern where wars are advantageous, especially when others do the fighting—part of what some term "Bidenomics." Meanwhile, philosophical perspectives vary, with some viewing it as a life-or-death task for humanity, while others criticize a situation where elites enjoy their cake while the deplorables starve.

US Politics #2 - January, 2024

Fri, 26 Jan 2024 02:25:14 GMT

US Politics - January, 2024: Determining the Direction of our Country

Ron DeSantis, merely opposing something while engaging in similar political actions may not be the most effective strategy. Is this the reason for his resignation?

The "Never Back Down" PAC, led by former Trump-era Department of Homeland Security senior official Ken Cuccinelli , is expected to be the main outside group backing a potential 2024 DeSantis run, according to two people familiar with the governor's planning.

During the 2016 Republican National Convention , Cuccinelli led an effort to prevent Donald Trump from receiving the Republican presidential nomination. [102] He was a staunch Ted Cruz supporter during the 2016 Republican primaries. [112]

So, according to Nikki Haley, it's about a woman and a man playing the gender card versus the race card. Does it truly make a difference? Well, she aligns herself with the staunch "Never Trumpers" and war hawks , evident in her strong rhetoric against Russia and other non-US allies. Does this mean their financial support will influence her decisions? While forming alliances with progressives may secure votes and funding, what about integrity? Is she compromising her political stance to win, making her a potential sellout?

Stanley Freeman Druckenmiller (born June 14, 1953) [1] is an American billionaire investor, philanthropist and former hedge fund manager . He is the former chairman and president of Duquesne Capital, which he founded in 1981. He closed the fund in August 2010. [2] At the time of closing, Duquesne Capital had over $12 billion in assets . From 1988 to 2000, he managed money for George Soros as the lead portfolio manager for Quantum Fund . [3] He is reported to have made $260 million in 2008. [4]

For former President Trump not to be nominated would require concerted efforts in legal maneuvering. Do not rule it out in a system that appears corrupted, evident on both the Democratic and Republican sides, like McConnell, perhaps with some China connections through his wife. Additionally, there's the megalomaniacal hype and support from Hollywood and the press. But Money definitely counts . Or is it ideological incest , based on megalomaniacal behavior?

McConnell's relationship with the Biden administration has been portrayed in media as one of comity. Biden has described McConnell as "a friend, colleague and 'man of his word.'" McConnell, for his part, has praised bipartisan legislation they worked on together, and had been the only Republican to attend the funeral of Biden's son, Beau (in 2015). [104]

On the other side of the coin, the Democrats are strategically maneuvering within the caucuses, eliminating competition for President Biden. Meanwhile, Kamala Harris remains convinced that the Biden/Harris ticket will secure victory in 2024, just as they did in 2020. They label the opposition as "NAZI" and liken them to characteristics close to feces, all in the name of defending democracy.

Despite the global norm of restricting abortion to around 12 weeks or, with doctor permission, 24 weeks, Kamala Harris dedicates her time to advocating for unrestricted abortion, supported by Pope-approved Joe Biden. The fact that many women support these efforts raises questions about ethical values.

Meanwhile, Biden on Monday is expected to convene two dozen senior officials in the White House for a meeting of his reproductive health task force, where he will be joined by several physicians who have practiced in states with abortion bans. Vice President Harris is slated to kick off a multistate reproductive rights tour with a visit to Wisconsin, where she is expected to criticize a proposal by state Republicans to ban abortion after 14 weeks of pregnancy. Wisconsin’s Democratic governor has already said he will veto the bill.

“On this day and every day, Vice President Harris and I are fighting to protect women’s reproductive freedom against Republicans’ dangerous, extreme, and out-of-touch agenda,” Biden said in a statement.

John Kerry calls it quits as Climate Czar ,receiving an endorsement from Al Gore to support Biden in the 2024 election process. Others would argue that, despite his extensive travels and speeches, it remains uncertain what he will consider as accomplishments.

“John Kerry’s tireless work to deliver global progress on the climate crisis has been heroic,” former Vice President Al Gore, who has focused primarily on climate in his post-public office life, said in a statement Saturday. “He has approached this challenge with bold vision, resolute determination, and the urgency that this crisis demands. For that the U.S. and the whole world owe him a huge debt of gratitude.”

While his gravitas has made him a central climate figure around the world, Kerry also has strong critics who argue America’s climate policies don’t amount to leadership in fighting global warming. The Inflation Reduction Act, the largest climate law in U.S. history, is pumping billions of dollars into renewable energies. But many facets of the law emphasize domestic production, thus leading other nations to complain that the law is protectionist and detrimental to their own green industries.

Just in time for Government hand out’ from the Infrastructure Investment the ESG Champions at Black Rock are buying up a Company who will certainly benefit, and the Company will be led by a Goldman Sachs Person, who resigned from his post. As you can see, Goldman and Black Rock seem to see some dividends for their election investments, and now create good paying Union Jobs, don’t bank on it, however.

Five of the six founding partners, including Chief Executive Bayo Ogunlesi, are joining BlackRock. Ogunlesi will sit on BlackRock’s board and resign as lead director of Goldman Sachs . He will lead BlackRock’s new infrastructure group. “Infrastructure is one of the most exciting long-term investment opportunities, as a number of structural shifts re-shape the global economy,” BlackRock Chief Executive Larry Fink said in a statement. “Policymakers are only just beginning to implement once-in-a-generation financial incentives for new infrastructure technologies and projects.”

Goldman Sachs is out of the gate with fourth-quarter earnings, and its bet on asset and wealth management seems to be paying off. Revenue in that division was up 23%.

-Profit rose 51% from one year ago, to $2.01 billion.

-That amounted to $5.48 per share. Analysts polled by FactSet had expected $3.62 per share.

-Revenue increased 7% to $11.32 billion, beating the $10.8 billion analysts expected.

-Investment banking revenue was $1.65 billion, down 12% from a year ago

-Trading revenue of $4.64 billion was down 2.5%.

-Like its peers , Goldman had to recognize a special assessment by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. The agency charged lenders as a way to refill its coffers from last year’s bank failures. Goldman took a $529 million charge, roughly in line with what it had already predicted.

-For the year, profit fell 24% to $8.52 billion. Revenue fell about 2% to $46.25 billion.

Reporters without Borders ,viewed through one's perspective, is certainly a left-leaning organization. However, if freedom of the press is an indicator for democracy, it's worth examining where these ideals lie. It's important to note that the claim of fake news due to Trump and labeling the other side as NAZI contributes to a higher rating. Therefore, watching CNN or MSNBC continuously calling Trump a criminal and suppressing Hunter's laptop — is this an example of freedom of the press?

In the north, in the United States (down 3 at 45th), the Biden administration has also shown a much better disposition towards the media than the previous administration. Nonetheless, the country’s slight decline in the 2023 index was due to the continuing economic difficulties of the media, the murders of two journalists (Jeff German in 2022 and Dylan Lyons in 2023), and the end of efforts to support freedom of the press at the legislative level (the PRESS Act), as well as former President Donald Trump’s continued attacks on the media.

What Economy? If it contracts slower than the Month before it grows? So we talk abortion in the Biden administration, Ukraine, Israel, Border, its all not so great? But abortion, that’s most important. And growing the Government?

Government employment increased by 52,000 in December. Employment continued to trend up in local government (+37,000) and federal government (+7,000). Government added an average of 56,000 jobs per month in 2023, more than double the average monthly gain of 23,000 in 2022.

ISM Report: Manufacturing Contracts at a Slower Rate in December, Of 17 industries, 16 reported contraction in December; only Primary Metals reported growth.

For the 14th consecutive month, manufacturing economic activity contracted in December, according to the Institute for Supply Management’s December 2023 manufacturing sector report. The Purchasing Manager’s Index reading of 47.4% is up 0.7 points from the previous month, indicating a slower rate of contraction.

“None of the six biggest manufacturing industries registered growth in December,” said Timothy Fiore, chair of the ISM’s manufacturing business survey committee. “Four out of the five subindexes that directly factor into the Manufacturing PMI are in contraction territory, down from all five in November .” The PMI also suggests contraction of the overall economy.

The production index entered expansion territory with a reading of 50.3%, 1.8 points higher than November’s figure. Anything lower than 50% represents contraction.

Although remaining in contraction territory, the employment index reading of 48.1% is a 2.3-point increase from November. The new orders index is contracting faster, registering 47.1%, 1.2 points lower than the previous month.

Several respondents expressed optimism for 2024 in the comments of the survey, with one computer & electronic products executive noting, “As budgets get approval after the start of the calendar year, this should help drive investment and increase manufacturing activity once again.”

Geopolitical Focus #2 – January, 2024

Thu, 18 Jan 2024 17:44:27 GMT

Geopolitical Focus – January 2024: Rebuilding Trust

About 2800 people will descend upon Davos for the WEF 2024 under the theme 'Rebuilding Trust.' It seems that after COVID and climate change, the narrative of the 'Great Reset' must change due to a lack of results. Therefore, AI becomes the next focus for a reset .

LONDON — More than 60 heads of state and government and hundreds of business leaders are coming to Switzerland to discuss the biggest global challenges during the World Economic Forum's annual gathering next week, ranging from Israeli President Isaac Herzog to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The likes of U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Chinese Premier Li Qiang, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, French President Emmanuel Macron, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and many others will descend on the Alpine ski resort town of Davos on Jan. 15-19, organizers said Tuesday.

But the real star will be President Zelensky, the savior of the elite world. He will be asking for millions again, emphasizing his role in democracy. Surely, the elites will keep him on the pedestal for a little while longer. It would be a disaster if they failed in another global calculation. As a start, he will have a special audience as he invited the world to his peace conference (without Russia), aiming to convince them that he has utilized all the money and ammunition, and now Russia needs to retreat for the sake of saving face. He seems to think it is still 2014, and so do the US war mongers, including the latest, Nikki Haley, who believes Putin is already in Spain. Regarding the sanctions, most companies in Russia undergo changes in ownership. Have you ever heard the term 'onshoring' or 'friend-shoring'?"

Just about 350 international companies have completed their exits from Russia, a tracker from the Kyiv School of Economics shows. Another 1,606 international firms are continuing operations as usual, while 1,741 foreign firms are in various stages of pausing their investments or operation in Russia.

And just in, while we all are informed about Russian atrocities with regime critics, nobody knows about the Zelinsky barbarian ? Insurrectionists, defined by the Media?

On May 8, 2023, we reported on the scandalous arrest of American blogger Gonzalo Lira – now he is dead.The reason for the arrest was a video in which Gonzalo Lira criticized the Ukrainian regime.

For sure, McKinsey won't be missing out; I bet they will secure a record number of consulting gigs, both on the government and private sector sides. The global domain seems poised to benefit McKinsey the most, all in the name of democracy and the elites.

So, what is the WEF really? Is it another UN conference, a mingling among equals and like-minded individuals, a serious global problem solver, or just an organized networking party for the pockets of its master, Klaus Schwab, and the President of the WEF, Borge Brende , the failed politician?"

I n October 2014, Brende – in his capacity as Chairman of the Ad-Hoc Liaison Committee (AHLC) – co-hosted the Cairo Conference on Palestine, an international donor conference on reconstructing the Gaza Strip , which garnered $5.4 billion in pledges. [9]

The foundation is mostly funded : by its 1,000 member multi-national companies . [6]

The WEF is mostly known for its annual meeting at the end of January in Davos , a mountain resort in the eastern Alps region of Switzerland . The meeting brings together some 3,000 paying members and selected participants – among whom are investors, business leaders, political leaders, economists , celebrities and journalists – for up to five days to discuss global issues across 500 sessions.

Think about it, much like the EU – It is non elected “officials” who determine the democracy of the World..

The NATO complex recently welcomed Finland and Sweden amid growing concerns about the global Russian threat. The narrative of an "imminent" Russian assault, fueled by Western media, has become a focal point, especially as Zelensky seeks additional funding. Notably, Finland is testing a wall along its 1300-km border with Russia, a response to economic challenges caused by Biden's sanctions. Meanwhile, Sweden is advising its citizens to prepare for the worst. It raises questions about Russia's motivations, considering the absence of resources in Sweden or Finland that they lack and whether, akin to the situation in Ukraine, it revolves around the discomfort of having US missiles stationed on another border.

Martial border fence

Nothing has remained of the former statesmanlike wisdom since the takeover of power by politicians who have forgotten history, such as Sanna Marin, who was voted out of office in June 2023 and celebrated internationally in the media. Since joining NATO in April 2023, Finland has pursued an aggressive policy against Russia politically and in the media, while at the same time allowing itself to be militarily instrumentalized by the United States. The war in Ukraine serves as a hook. Economically, Finland is suffering massively from its rigorous boycott measures against Russia, which mainly harm its own industry. This is because it has purchased extensive imports, such as chemicals for the paper industry, from its eastern neighbour. The Finnish state-owned railway company VR Group has been banned from passenger trains and freight trains in traffic with Russia. The state-of-the-art tilting trains for the route from Helsinki to St. Petersburg, which were procured jointly with Russia in the Karelian Trains joint venture, have so far rusted away in Finland.

Finland is suffering massively from the rigorous boycott measures against Russia.

It remains largely hidden from the West that the Finns have begun to erect a martial border fence with Russia. The height is four meters, and on top of that there are two rolls of barbed wire. In September, a three-kilometre-long "test fence" was completed near Imatra at a cost of six million euros. In addition to the actual fence, the structure also includes electronic surveillance and a road for customs and military that runs along the fence. The Finns have decided to place this monstrosity along the Russian border for an initial length of two hundred kilometers.

Far more significant is the bilateral Defence Cooperation Agreement (DCA) negotiated between Finland and the United States, which was signed in Washington on 18 December. This means that the permanent presence of the US military in Finland directly on the Russian border has been decided, as well as the stationing of US military equipment. The deployment of nuclear weapons is not prohibited in the DCA Treaty. The only thing that stands in the way of this is a previous Finnish provision against the storage of nuclear weapons.

Swedish defense officials’ warning to brace for war as the nation nears NATO membership has prompted some panic and caused supplies to fly off shelves, according to reports.

"For a nation for whom peace has been a pleasant companion for almost 210 years, the idea that it is an immoveable constant is conveniently close at hand," Swedish Civil Defense Minister Carl-Oskar Bohlin said at Folk och Försvars, or "Society and Defense," annual national conference in Sälen on Sunday.

Simultaneously, Biden's support for Iran is contributing to heightened tensions in the Middle East. The lack of a clear plan or strategic vision is akin to the impact a leader without direction would have on a small company, raising questions about his role as a global leader. The surge in crude prices is notably benefiting Russia and Iran, despite concerns about the funds reaching the Ayatollah. Additionally, the U.S. bombing of targets, while condemning Houthi attacks, lacks legitimacy under international law, as there is no UN Security Council resolution or authorization for such military action.

"All American and British interests have become legitimate targets for the Yemeni armed forces in response to the aggression,” said a statement from the Supreme Political Council of the Houthis, which controls the capital San’a and swaths of territory.”

And we all thought the US converted Iraq into a democracy, so why are our people still there?

Looking ahead, the US might find itself with the UK and Israel as its primary allies. The recent uptick in oil prices could potentially benefit the war parties, and there are concerns about the US entertaining ambitions to initiate a global conflict. However, it remains uncertain if Taiwan and Japan share the same perspective, as they likely prefer peaceful solutions unless the US faces challenges in the realm of resources, such as the supply of chips.

US Politics - January, 2024

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 15:01:16 GMT

US Politics - January, 2024: Determining the Direction of our Country

Are we on the path to becoming the old Roman Empire , evolving into a George Soros society, or heading towards a DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) landscape dominated by gender-affirming guilt and blame on controlled minorities? Or is there a way back to democracy? One of the significant threats to democracy, aside from the current President's apparent lack of understanding of the term fascism, lies in the actions of elected officials, ideological judges , and the misuse of the law by lawyers driven by ideology . Is there a coalition forming, led by figures like Liz Cheney and Luttig , organizing a war-mongering force akin to the Bush/Cheney War Machine? Are the media outlets controlled by ChatGPT, generating similar stories under different labels, becoming propaganda machines?

These questions may reflect a Federalist opinion , but it's worth noting that even they claim the Trump card, creating confusion in the political landscape.

In its most radical forms , DEI is derivative of neo-Marxist identitarian ideologies that attribute virtually all average group differences — from arrest rates to medical school admissions — to systemic discrimination. However, average group differences in outcomes can reflect a variety of factors (see Jared Diamond’s “ Guns, Germs and Steel ”). The unexamined acceptance of DEI, however defined, is surprising in a free society where critics are encouraged to challenge and debate significant social changes. The time for a national debate over the conflicting values of DEI and MFE is long overdue.

For example, one-fifth of the advertisements for higher education faculty jobs (and more for prestigious posts) require applicants to write statements of allegiance to DEI . Academic employment often depends on DEI relevant presentations at scholarly conferences and publications in scholarly journals. Increasingly, scholars are required to explain in advance how their research supports DEI. Such litmus tests are traditionally associated with totalitarian regimes and, in America, with McCarthyism. We all know how well those turned out.

Here some thoughts from the DEI and left Wing political Machine, In January 2019, The Washington Pos t wrote that the Federalist Society had reached an "unprecedented peak of power and influence." Of the current nine members of the Supreme Court of the United States , at least five are current or former members of the organization— Brett Kavanaugh , Neil Gorsuch , Clarence Thomas , Samuel Alito , and Amy Coney Barrett . [1] [11] Chief Justice John Roberts previously served as a member of the steering committee of the Washington, D.C. chapter, but denies ever being a member. [12] Politico wrote that the Federalist Society "has become one of the most influential legal organizations in history—not only shaping law students' thinking but changing American society itself by deliberately, diligently shifting the country's judiciary to the right." [13]

On June 16, 2022, Luttig testified during a televised hearing conducted by the United States House Select Committee on the January 6 Attack . [41] Before the hearing, Luttig wrote a statement for the record, [42] stating that Trump and his allies "instigated" a war on democracy "so that he could cling to power." He continued, "It is breathtaking that these arguments even were conceived, let alone entertained by the President of the United States at that perilous moment in history" and that January 6 "was the final fateful day for the execution of a well-developed plan by the former president to overturn the 2020 presidential election at any cost." At the close of the hearing, Luttig said:

Donald Trump and his allies and supporters are a clear and present danger to American democracy. They would attempt to overturn that 2024 election in the same way that they attempted to overturn the 2020 election, but succeed in 2024 where they failed in 2020. I don't speak those words lightly. I would have never spoken those words ever in my life, except that that's what the former president and his allies are telling us. [43]

Having recently watched the Netflix series on John Gotti, it's striking how Sammy the Bull managed to manipulate jurors, aided by Mafia-embedded lawyers, to claim Gotti's innocence. This leads to the question: Could the current procedures against the former President be a manipulated effort to prevent him from participating in elections, possibly culminating in states invoking the 14th amendment ? Consider this NPR interview defending George Soros as a philanthropic genius with a clear goal of undermining democracy through the judicial system, not unlike the Democrats' intention to pack the Supreme Court. Research reveals that those involved in Trump's prosecution are aligned with the Open Society framework or the Jan 6 committee, and, worse yet, connected to the current administration .

The question remains: What is truly happening under US leadership, or rather, what was not happening in 2023, aside from rhetorical fireworks?

Among Biden’s goals in foreign policy were to repair frayed relations with several U.S. allies, to cooperate in global efforts to ameliorate climate change, and, in general, to return the United States to a position of global economic and political leadership.

Yep, Ukraine is still the proxy to beat Russia, the receiver of all Mother of all Sanctions, no one talks about? Russian Gas and Oil , flowing through China and perhaps via black market back to Europe to contain inflation? What happened to investigating North Stream 2 , other than that Norway got a sweet heart deal with Germany to deliver the Gas? What about the Counter Offensive, as the latest info claims the Ukraine running out of Ammunition, perhaps never get involved in a War without a Goal or Strategy? Diplomatic efforts failed?

War from Hell ; If U.S. President Joe Biden wants to check the pulse of the arsenal of democracy, all he has to do is look at Bill LaPlante’s wall in the Pentagon. The U.S. Defense Department industrial chief’s office is covered with production charts for every weapon that the United States is building to fend off a potential war with China while helping countries such as Ukraine and Israel fend for themselves in wars of their own.

It’s like an electrocardiogram of the U.S. defense industry: There’s a line going up to count the number of units moved and a line going sideways for the time that it took to move them. There are production rates for the Patriot missiles that the United States has sent to the Middle East to provide backup for Israel, the sea-launched Standard Missile-6 that the United States has deployed to the Indo-Pacific to potentially bloody China’s nose if it launches an assault on Taiwan, and the guided multiple launch rockets—known as GMLRs—that helped the Ukrainians liberate Kherson and the areas around Kharkiv in a one-two punch to the Russian army in 2022.

“It’s a whole stair step,” LaPlante told a small gaggle of reporters at the Reagan National Defense Forum in California in early December 2023. The chart, he said, “keeps going and going.”

And even though business is booming, Defense Department officials are facing a problem from hell. How can the Pentagon mobilize the U.S. defense industry to respond to not just one conflict or two, but potentially three wars? Foreign Policy talked to a dozen defense ministers, officials, and experts across the NATO alliance. They described an almost Sisyphean task to rebuild the trans-Atlantic—and trans-Pacific—defense industrial base to fight three wars not during a world war, but when much of the Western world is at peace.

Israel and GAZA, on the on side we accept territorial advances, on the other we call all people not accepting it terrorists, another failed diplomatic effort. ISIS and Afghanistan are still here, and if some people thinking of eliminating Hamas, with each killed 2 are made?

Saudi – Arabia and Iran are two countries to enter BRICS in 2024 , as well as Egypt, and the Emirates? Another failed diplomatic effort. Interesting that the DC called right winger in Argentina prefers not to join?

Domestically, cracks are beginning to appear in the President's immigration policies. The absence of high-paying manufacturing jobs, coupled with a focus on service and government roles, has come to the forefront. Inflation has undergone a transition, yet prices remain a concern. Additionally, the President's approval rating for representing all citizens is currently at an all-time low.

So, we're witnessing a shift in focus from topics such as friend-shoring (taking stock of our remaining allies) and onshoring, with billions of dollars allocated to programs advised by McKinsey and similar entities, which initially advocated for benefiting from globalization in the 1980s and 1990s. Simultaneously, there's a trend of demonizing those who question these strategies with nationalist labels, prompting questions about the logic behind such measures. The allocation of billions for initiatives like the Chips Act and Green Energy is now under scrutiny, with hopes that they will prove effective in 2024.

Geopolitical Focus – January, 2024

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 20:37:14 GMT

Geopolitical Focus – January 2024: A Year in Review

If someone were to ask you to encapsulate 2023 in a couple of paragraphs, likening it to your personal life, would you consider it a year best left in the past? Alternatively, do you view any achievements worth celebrating?

The Climate Actions and the global movement, climaxing with COP 28 , involved significant effort, but results, regardless of their impact, seemed to be overshadowed by political motives for gaining power. Describing COP 28 as anything but successful is fitting, and the global investments have adversely affected the EU economy. As for the US, there are no apparent results yet from the allocated funds, but can it be said that we saved the planet for another year?

This summary document provides an overview of the key outcomes of global climate action across the four pillars set by the COP 28 Presidency: i) fast-tracking a just, orderly, and equitable energy transition; ii) fixing climate finance; iii) focusing on people, lives and livelihoods; and iv) underpinning everything with full inclusivity .

Regardless of the climate or weather, the excessive cold and snow in Scandinavia are seemingly overlooked in the discourse of climate change. Not to mention fallen trees and massive rains in hurricanes that fail to materialize where reporters are stationed—pure drama without evidence, except for the assertion of it being the hottest year ever recorded in the past 150 years. A mere 0.2 degrees, a figure that science might categorize as a statistical error. And what a letdown for Al Gore!

Unlike the global record, the contiguous U.S . did not have its warmest year. Through the first 11 months of the year, the country hovered around an anomaly of 1.1 degrees Celsius (nearly 2 degrees Fahrenheit) above average, which was warm enough for a top-10 finish.

A cold end to winter and start to spring in 2023 caused the year to miss breaking 2012’s record of 1.81 degrees Celsius (3.26 degrees Fahrenheit) above average.

The Electric revolution continues, with solar and wind installations popping up worldwide, a positive trend. Germany, for instance, aims to generate 80 percent of its energy during sunny and windy periods, leaving the other 50% of the time to be covered by coal or nuclear sources. Notably, electricity prices in Germany have doubled since 2021. Now, the decision lies in either doubling the investment to 160% during optimal conditions or consulting with climate activists to extend the days suitable for solar energy.

While battery technology and storage solutions offer assistance, a mix of diverse energy sources might provide a more transitional approach. However, the underlying factor remains political power at risk, necessitating the people in an elite democracy to bear the financial burden. Enthusiasm for the electric vehicle (EV) market exists , but it's worth noting that Norway subsidizes its EV fleet with revenue from oil sales. Looking at the overall perspective, one might argue for balance. Perhaps countries where technology is driving change are better positioned, but considering predictions over the last four years, optimism has waned. Greta Thunberg is currently no longer at the forefront of climate activism. In a recent development, Germany is facing financial constraints to continue subsidizing EVs.

In a time of communication, social media, influencers, political analysts, and experts in every field, global cooperation seems to have devolved into a fight for dominance of opinions and control. Newspapers, bloggers, Google, and Facebook are no longer politically neutral with respect to democracy. Instead, they may be sellouts to the highest bidder and their personal ideology. There seems to be a lack of reason, exemplified by "The VIEW" with its 5:1 ideological overload and suppression of opposition, all while shouting to defend democracy.

One could excuse "The VIEW" as substandard journalism, but what about the White House and particularly the Democratic party? Omnibus Bills the size of 5000 Amtraks, for Israel, the Ukraine, and, oh, the Southern Border to hire more attorneys to pass out Green Cards at entry? To fill the 8 million job openings? There's no clarity on how the money is used, as long as Ukraine continues to engage in a conflict that results in a high casualty rate.

If anyone in our military or congress had an understanding of "people" and not just hegemonic or financial interests, the conflicts in Ukraine and Israel might never have happened. After around 800,000 killed in Ukraine and 100,000 in Gaza when it's all said and done, diplomacy never had a chance. Power was the chosen medium to get results, and by the end of 2024, both might backfire.

This brings us to war crimes and international law, respectively the UN. Perhaps the US and Britain forgot to invite Stalin to the Malta conference, a main contributor to defeating the German Army. Perhaps Eisenhower was a Russia-phobe and Churchill had his own agenda? However, they did invite Stalin for the Yalta conference, and rather than a negotiation, it became a power game back then.

The Malta Conference was held from January 30 to February 3, 1945 between President Franklin D. Roosevelt of the United States and Prime Minister Winston Churchill of the United Kingdom on the island of Malta . The purpose of the conference was to plan the final campaign against the Germans with the Combined Chiefs of Staff (the United States Joint Chiefs of Staff and the British Chiefs of Staff Committee ). Politically, the overriding purpose was to present a united front against Stalin in the Yalta Conference a few days later. That did not happen once Yalta began, much to Churchill's disappointment. Both leaders agreed on the undesirability of the Red Army advancing into central Europe.

Each of the three leaders had his own agenda for postwar Germany and liberated Europe. Roosevelt wanted Soviet support in the Pacific War against Japan , specifically for the planned invasion of Japan ( Operation August Storm ), as well as Soviet participation in the United Nations . Churchill pressed for free elections and democratic governments in Central and Eastern Europe , specifically Poland. Stalin demanded a Soviet sphere of political influence in Eastern and Central Europe as an essential aspect of the Soviets' national security strategy, and his position at the conference was felt by him to be so strong that he could dictate terms. According to US delegation member and future Secretary of State James F. Byrnes , "it was not a question of what we would let the Russians do, but what we could get the Russians to do". [11]

The UN with all its good intentions has degraded into a Climate – end of the World doomsday prognostic , unable to define any political solutions and completely under the control of the US, as is NATO. It is a sad scenario, but national interests are the determining factor in all of it.

The history of the United Nations as an international organization has its origins in World War II beginning with the Declaration of St James's Palace . Taking up the Wilsonian mantle in 1944-1945, US President Franklin D. Roosevelt pushed as his highest postwar priority the establishment of the United Nations to replace the defunct League of Nations. Roosevelt planned that it would be controlled by the United States, Soviet Union, United Kingdom and China. He expected this Big Four would resolve all major world problems at the powerful Security Council. [1] However the UN was largely paralyzed by the veto of the Soviet Union when dealing with Cold War issues from 1947 to 1989. Since then its aims and activities have expanded to make it the archetypal international body in the early 21st century.

What have we learned since Yalta? Germany is a united country, Russia withdrew its troops, and NATO is moving closer to Russia to defend Ukraine, deemed the most corrupt democracy, as claimed by Victoria Nuland and her husband.

In some European elections held in 2023, the global elite and universal one-party socialists faced setbacks, like in Italy or the Netherlands, resulting in hysterical cries about fascism and white supremacy in defense of democracy. Similar sentiments might surface, particularly in Germany. In summary , anticipate some hysterical reactions .

Israel, Ukraine, sanctions, Green Deals, G-7, G-20—all political organizations appear divided and without leadership. Nothing seems to be working, with blame directed towards fascist and right-wing conspiracy figures such as Italy's Meloni, Orban, Holland's Geert Wilders, and Germany's AFD. In contrast, the US and German governments have support in the 30 percentiles, yet the media continues to advocate for "democracy."

While the US President focuses on domestic priorities like combating white supremacy, he appears lost in global affairs. His administration is perceived as biased in either the anti-Trump war machine or ideological fervor, resulting in a series of disasters, including the loss of Afghanistan and uncertainty about Ukraine and Israel's survival in 2024.

So, what is the real global reset? If 2023 was supposed to ignite it, it seems to have only produced a lot of smoke. Following the liberal media on a global scale reveals a narrative advocating for more ammunition factories, more money for wars, more ideological warriors, and a propaganda front against any countries deviating from the green/red political spectrum.

Looking ahead to 2024, don't expect significant changes. Predictors of the free world , who endorsed Hillary Clinton in 2016, seem to forget that we are engaged in wars on different fronts, all under the pretext of defending democracy. The same papers blame Russia as a nationalist country , while our actions reflect efforts to become a hegemon, resorting to aggression, sanctions, and misleading the public about the real reasons for being at war.

Foreign Policy endorsed Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton in the 2016 US presidential election . This was the first time in its 50-year history the magazine endorsed a candidate. [9]

And they claim journalism as their profession, ideological power grab is a better term?

Let’s just sit back, as for the Ukraine, let them continue the with fireworks, there is nothing for them to Win, because it will not happen unless NATO and the US send 500,000 troops. Then they could succeed, perhaps?

Let's make some predictions; however, it's unlikely that the global wave of fascism and right-wing criticism will triumph in the elections. It requires more substance, but that is hard to find in the red/green dictatorships. So, let's observe the developments in 40 countries globally, where the US might be on the losing end of influence, akin to the situation in Ukraine. This scenario may persist despite McKinsey offering productivity improvements and emphasizing the necessity of strong governments. Yes, the same McKinsey that guides the WEF Global Forum.

But the economy? It all depends on Sanctions and International conflicts, but if you wear a Military hat, it is then what you know best? Fight Wars, at least for the US economy it was a blessing in 2023.

And for the Biden Economics skillful diplomacy with China, hm?

It was just a smartphone , and yet: when the Mate Pro 60 from Chinese manufacturer Huawei was launched in August 2023, it sent shockwaves through Washington. Because it contained something that many experts had hardly thought possible – a main chip with very advanced technology. How did the engineers at Huawei and the Chinese chip manufacturer Smic manage to develop and – above all – produce such an advanced processor?

Artificial intelligence, fast computers and modern weapons – if you want to be at the forefront of this, you need the latest, most powerful chips. The small silicon platelets have long since become the most critical technology in the world. The battle over this between the US and China has just reached a new level. The U.S. government brought forward a ban on certain machines for chip production, originally planned for the turn of the year, by a few weeks, as has now been announced.

Pressure from Washington

Since the Huawei shock, experts from politics, business and certainly also the intelligence services have been puzzling over how this could have worked. A crucial question concerns the machines of the Dutch manufacturer ASML. The production of high-performance chips, such as those found in the iPhone, has become so complicated that ASML is the only company in the world to master an important process for this. In 2019, under President Trump, the U.S. had already imposed an export ban on ASML's most advanced machines. The Biden administration expanded the export ban in 2023 to include the next weaker generation of machines, but was unable to enforce an immediate ban. It was not until the turn of the year 2023/24 that the export of these machines was to be banned.

As a result, many Chinese companies still ordered machines in stock. In the third quarter of 2023, business in China accounted for almost half of ASML's sales. Washington, in turn, did not like this at all, which is why national security adviser Jake Sullivan is said to have exerted pressure on the Dutch government and on ASML. This is reported by the Bloomberg news agency, citing informed circles. The goal: to bring forward the ban for the machines, so to speak. Which is exactly what happened. Weeks before the delivery stop was actually announced, the delivery of some machines was prohibited.

Energy - November + December 2023

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 19:38:42 GMT

Climate and Energy Update – November + December, 2023

When a product is required, there's always a means to obtain it. Europe and other nations recently experienced a frenzy in their quest for gas, yet for politicians and dealers, maintaining legitimacy takes precedence before saving face. If an event isn't featured in mainstream news, it's often dismissed as nonexistent, though it may indeed be unfolding.

Despite sanctions: The EU buys more liquefied natural gas from Russia than before the Ukraine invasion . The European Union has increased its imports of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine – although at the same time it has moved away from Russian pipeline gas. This is reported by the FAZ . The focus is on the Russian LNG group Novatek, which is benefiting from this development.

In the first seven months of 2023, the EU imported around 40 percent more LNG from Russia compared to the period before Russia's invasion of Ukraine, as calculated by the organization Global Witness based on data from the industry service Kpler.

The EU's increasing LNG imports from Russia are at odds with the Russia embargo, which actually prohibits gas imports.

Check it in Mr. Habeck of Germany, If Russian gas does not flow through Ukraine to Europe, there is a risk of Germany's economic standstill. Economics Minister Robert Habeck warned of this as early as June 14, 2023 in an article by the newspaper Die Welt . Literally, it says: "If Russian gas did not come to Eastern Europe to the extent that it still flows through Ukraine, what was agreed at European level applies: Before the people there freeze, we would have to curtail our industry or even shut it down."

The statement at that time is interesting in the current context: the government of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky does not want to participate in talks with Russia on the transit of Russian gas through Ukrainian territory. "We will certainly not take part in talks with the Russians, that is absolutely clear," said Ukrainian Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko.

"Next year will show whether Europe can do without Russian gas," he added to the Ukrainian service of the US government-funded channel - Voice of America .

The UN Climate Conference concluded on 12/12 . However, if you peruse the US mainstream media, not a single page has been dedicated to the discussions. While the US Biden-Kerry Press insists that the era of fossil fuels will come to an end, European voices express uncertainty about this assertion.

Baerbock on the barricades:

The final declaration of the climate conference in Dubai does not provide for a binding end to fossil fuels. Do-gooders from the US and EU are horrified.

Because half the world thinks differently than she does, Baerbock has to go into extra time in Dubai. But the disastrous development in Germany makes it difficult for her to promote her climate goals.

If the UN Climate Change Conference in Dubai had ended as planned at noon today, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock would have gone home with a hefty defeat, and with her the negotiators from the United States and the European Union.

This is because the Dubai Final Declaration does not provide for a binding end to fossil fuels. And the way in which their share of the energy supply can be reduced in the first place also remains vague.

To follow along and read all about the conference, click here . It is interesting; for climate issues, the UN appears to be a reliable partner, but for peace, it seems to stand in the way of wars.

Perhaps with 84,000 people attending, they all contributed to the increase of 1.5 deg; This report from Australia sums it up well . John Kerry is just what he always was, a talker, and Al Gore a Preacher who still reels his 2020 election loss.

“They’ve come out with a document that says, ‘well you know, some point in the future we’ll get rid of the fossil fuels’.”

Germany, with its red-green coalition, is building the land of milk and honey (the mythical land of Cockaigne if you will). And linked here is their instruction manual for how it should all work out.

And if you need more proof of politicians going crazy and becoming overly ideological. They are justifying all actions as legal if it's for the green cause.. See below for an example of how this has worked out.

Sleeping Beauty is dead : Rapunzel on the run. Because the German fairytale forest is dying. Harvesters have torn holes in one of Germany's largest contiguous mixed forests. The tree-eating machines bite fourteen kilometers of highway-wide construction roads through the Reinhardswald in n orthern Hesse so that 241-meter-high monster wind turbines can be erected!

The people of the Reinhardswald have tears in their eyes. All day long they hear the screaming of the tree harvesters and the cracking of the trees, which are up to 200 years old. The machines plough through the dense forest to clear paths. This was allowed by the Administrative Court – after a months-long construction stop. Since then, animals have been fleeing the forest, including rare and strictly protected lynxes.

And then you have other projects going completely unnoticed, because it is “Russian”.. Even if it offers just as much benefit to restoring Forests around the Globe?

Like this one: The former Swiss-based oligarch Andrei Melnichenko wants to recreate ice age conditions in the tundra in order to curb methane emissions from the thawing Siberian permafrost – including mammoths. Melnichenko's foundation has set up an extravagant pavilion at COP 28 to promote the project. A 360-degree video installation shows how wolves, buffaloes, tigers and mammoths are once again roaming Russia's gigantic polar climate zone.

Additional Reading: You may find some interesting perspectives on sustainability here . Enthusiasm is part of it; however, achieving realization requires a bit more.

US Politics - November, 2023

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 13:45:10 GMT

US Politics - November, 2023

The debate over who is better, Trump or Biden, continues, while global challenges persist, including the role of XI. Recent news reveals that Russian President Vladimir Putin intends to run for re-election in March next year. Putin made this announcement on Friday during a medal ceremony at the Kremlin, as reported by Russia's three largest state news agencies. This contradicts claims from the Western press suggesting Putin's political demise.

The question arises: outside the U.S., is there a genuine contender for leadership? It's noted that Biden seems inclined toward war. Is this why figures like Robert Kagan are suggesting extreme measures, such as an assassination, if legal actions fail to prevent Trump's candidacy? Kagan's warning of a potential dictatorship under Trump's re-election appears desperate. Kagan, with his background in war zones under Obama and Clinton, is married to Ukraine Czar Victoria Nuland, known for her role in the Maidan Coup. The situation between Russia and Ukraine, seemingly fueled by NATO and EU interests, raises concerns, especially with a significant troop presence at the Western Ukraine Border.

Here is some logic the Western War Supporters cough up to make the War look practical or beneficial.. Sounds like Bidenonomics. Is the solution truly to just throw money at a problem?

Mark Cancian 's calculation is simple: "Before the war, the U.S. produced about 8,000 artillery shells a month. There are now 30,000. Even if the Europeans produce about the same amount, the Ukrainians fire between 180,000 and 240,000 artillery shells per month."

The former U.S. Navy colonel and current military analyst at the Center for Strategic and International Studies think tank shakes his head: "It's disappointing to see that the U.S. Congress doesn't seem to be fulfilling its commitment to Ukraine."

All this while the Western press tells us that Russia’ Army is running out of recruits, but the Ukrainian Army is actually running out of people through dissertion, battle fatigue and loss of life, no matter how many shells you produce.. They have one there to shoot, especially accurately. If Women can solve the problem , That seems to be good enough for Biden Supporters.

And here we see the Biden interpretation, The impact of refusing further U.S. support for Ukraine on the global political stage prompted President Biden to make one of his extremely rare off-the-cuff appearances this week: "Congressional Republicans are about to give Putin the greatest gift he can dream of: giving up American leadership, not only in Ukraine, but beyond."

It is currently a War Ukraine cannot win , as it is an existential threat to Russia, and no doubt the Russian people see it that way. So, diplomacy, but do not expect that from people that shoot by my math 120,000 to 180,000 empty artillery shells? This War is about as corrupt and useless as our administration is unless you are invested in the military. Then -- an interview with the French news portal Le Point , Orbán stressed that Hungary is Ukraine's neighbor and knows the situation well. He criticized corruption in Ukraine as a "joke" and rejected any discussion of Ukraine's admission to the EU.

If the same rules apply in the U.S. as in this war regarding (mis)information, figures like rhetorical flamethrowers such as Kagan, the President himself, and the press should, for once, explain the American people the definition of democracy or the term "we the people." Democracy is not about converting people of one faith into another; instead, it is about finding common values and compromises for all, creating better citizens.

Speaking of democracy, the fact that the Florida Democratic Party allows only Biden's name on the ballot raises questions. Isn't this akin to what they accuse XI and Putin of, resembling dictatorial practices?

While those opposed to Trump are supporting second-place candidates, enhancing the democratic process, some of the rhetoric from these candidates seems aligned with war-mongering. Considering the Zbigniew Brzezinski doctrine of global dominance, perhaps the U.S. would be better served by someone with high-level negotiation skills, fostering peacemaking and cooperation among nations.

Looking ahead to the 2024 elections, a significant reshuffle in U.S. politics is anticipated, with many Senate and Congress members choosing to retire. The question is whether this will truly alter the political landscape, mirroring shifts observed in some European countries and Argentina towards more conservative values. Alternatively, will the anti-Trump machinery succeed in re-electing Joe Biden? Taking a cue from Plato's apology, being a thorn in the government's side, as acknowledged by Joe Biden himself, prompts speculation about his successor post the XI meeting in California. When Joe announces a change in his VP choice to secure the election remains to be seen. According to the latest polls, he may need to deliver more than rhetoric. If, as Joe Biden claims, the sole reason for running is to defeat Trump, what options remain if current strategies prove ineffective? Perhaps resorting to unconventional methods, akin to a move by John Gotti? Newsweek, MSNBC, CNN, Raw Story, and various other "Biden" cult news outlets would likely defend such actions as defending democracy. A thought-provoking scenario indeed.

An icon in U.S. politics, Henry Kissinger, has passed away. Regardless of one's opinion—whether considering him a war criminal or a peacemaker—for almost 100 years, he remained an icon, understanding the world deeply and mastering diplomacy. Rest in peace. To be absolutely sure of something, one must either know everything about it or know nothing, as exemplified by Henry Kissinger.

And for the future of the US and its policy decisions, No one power or group can uphold the international order anymore—and that means much more geopolitical uncertainty ahead. In other words, relationships matter, and everyone is a participant. Credibility on a global stage with 30% approval at home?

If you take Joe Biden at his word, that his primary motivation for running is to be the sole candidate capable of defeating Trump, what alternatives exist if current strategies prove ineffective? Could he resort to unconventional tactics, perhaps following in the footsteps of someone like John Gotti? The prospect of such actions raises questions about how outlets such as Newsweek, Raw Story, and other staunch "Biden" cult news platforms would respond. Would they defend such actions under the guise of defending democracy? It's certainly something to ponder.

The latest News on the War against Hamas, the US has blocked a cease fire to let the civilian flee, but where do they go ? Why not Germany, the State of Israel would not have happened without WWII? And the Israelis want to flood the Tunnels, after they leveled the buildings, perhaps flooding to start with would have been a good option?

Geopolitical Focus – November 2023

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 18:52:06 GMT

Geopolitical Focus – November 2023: The Law of the Power in Israel and Ukraine

The issue of Jewish settlements is one of the most contentious between Israel and the Palestinians.

About 600,000 Jews live in about 140 settlements built since Israel's occupation of the West Bank and East Jerusalem. The settlements are widely considered illegal under international law, though Israel has always disputed this.

The Palestinians have long called for the removal of all settlements, arguing that their presence on land they claim for a future independent Palestinian state makes it almost impossible to make such a state a reality.

In the shadow of the war in Gaza , violence has also increased in the West Bank. According to the UN, more than 180 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank since Hamas attacked Israel. Hundreds were driven from their villages. The violence also emanates from radical Jewish settlers, among others. Journalist Gisela Dachs in Tel Aviv on the situation in the West Bank.

So, when Russia invades Ukraine, International Law will be interpreted in favor of the West. However, when Israel does the same, the same sources call it legal, and in both cases, a war was the welcome result to justify it. In both instances, history is completely blended out or distorted to the benefit of the aggressor (provocateur) in the first place. Is the endgame eradication of Palestine and Russia, or Hamas and Putin’s allies? (Note: Condemning the Hamas attacks of Oct 7, yes, but as with Ukraine, is there a story in the buildup?)

Have any of these people ever studied the backgrounds? Are the Jewish people just more successful in integrating into political systems, or do they really integrate or simply build a power structure within?

Of the 2016 and 2020 presidential candidates , many front runners were either married to Jews, had children who were married to Jews, or were Jewish themselves. Presidential candidates Bernie Sanders , Michael Bloomberg , and Marianne Williamson are Jewish. Michael Bennet 's mother is Jewish. Beto O'Rourke and Kamala Harris are married to Jews. Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka converted to Judaism and married the Jewish real estate developer Jared Kushner . Both were active in Trump's administration. Bill and Hillary Clinton's daughter Chelsea Clinton married the Jewish investor Marc Mezvinsky , the son of U.S. Representative and felon Edward Mezvinsky . Lastly, all three of Joe Biden 's children who lived into adulthood married Jews.

And here are the Jewish people in the current administration . I wonder what makes them all so special, and perhaps George Soros, the most famous Jew fighting for democracy globally—again, what makes them special? Is there another reason to fund the war in Ukraine, besides the Western-owned grain fields? Just asking the questions we all should. The world is more than power.

As of 2012, Ukraine had the fifth-largest Jewish community in Europe and the twelfth-largest in the world , behind South Africa and ahead of Mexico . The majority live in Kyiv (about half), [9] Dnipro , Kharkiv and Odesa . [147] Rabbis Jonathan Markovitch of Kyiv and Shmuel Kaminetsky [148] of Dnipro are considered to be among the most influential foreigners in the country. [149] Opened in October 2012 in Dnipro, the multifunctional Menorah cente r is among the world's largest Jewish community centers . [150] [151]

A growing trend among Israelis is to visit Ukraine on a "roots trip" to learn of Jewish life there. [152] Kyiv is usually mentioned, where it is possible to trace the paths of Sholem Aleichem and Golda Meir ; Zhytomyr and Korostyshiv , where one can follow the steps of Haim Nahman Bialik ; Berdychiv , where one can trace the life of Mendele Mocher Sforim ; Rivne , where one can follow the course of Amos Oz ; Buchach – the path of S.Y. Agnon ; Drohobych – the place of Maurycy Gottlieb and Bruno Schulz . [152]

If you study The Grand Chessboard : American Primacy and Its Geostrategic Imperatives (1997) you will understand or follow the current world order, especially the hatred he held for Russia. The book is one of the major works of Zbigniew Brzezinski .

Brzezinski was prominently critical of the Clinton administration 's hesitation to intervene against the Serb forces in the Bosnian war . [89] He also began to speak out against Russia's First Chechen War , forming the American Committee for Peace in Chechnya . Wary of a move toward the reinvigoration of Russian power, Brzezinski negatively viewed the succession of former KGB agent Vladimir Putin after Boris Yeltsin . In this vein, he became one of the foremost advocates of NATO expansion . He wrote in 1998 that "Without Ukraine, Russia ceases to be a Eurasian empire." [90] He later came out in support of the 1999 NATO bombing of Serbia during the Kosovo war . Zbigniew harbored a deep hatred of the Soviet Union, something that he was not afraid to voice out time and again. He spoke out against former President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s political decisions, including his policy of rollback that he believed may cause Europe to build an alliance with Russia instead of the United States. His stance against Russia came to a forefront during the four years that he served as Carter’s National Advisor. He backed China’s decision to support the inhuman reign of Pol Pot in Cambodia for the single reason of not letting the Vietnamese gain control of the region, since the latter was backed by the Soviet Union. He also rallied behind the sanction of massive military aids for Islamic militants who were battling the Soviet troops trying to invade Afghanistan.

Sometimes, you just wonder if war is always the best choice, or if investing the money for real democratic and economic reasons would be more beneficial. Imagine if all the military bases were educational and economic institutions, especially in Africa and South America, rather than sources of cheap labor.

This idea provides a link to the so-called G-7, or the 'Club of Democracies' as some people call it, united in the fight against war in Ukraine. As the sound of defeat becomes louder, perhaps bankruptcy awaits at least the EU, as the autocrats in Brussels continue to spend money they do not have. Other voices are more clearly pointing to provocation and defeat, as seen in the articles in German.

"The background was that President Putin declared in the fall of 2021 and actually sent a draft treaty that Russia wanted NATO to sign. In it, NATO should promise no further expansion. That's what he sent us. And was a prerequisite for not invading Ukraine. Of course, we didn't sign that." - Stoltenberg

As Ukraine appears to be losing the war, most analysts believe this outcome, differing from the perspective of propagandists.

The stated goal of last summer's long-awaited Ukrainian counteroffensive was to inflict a major strategic defeat on Russia by cutting through the land corridor to Crimea. But hardly anyone in the military and political establishment of the West with real expertise believed that Kiev would be able to achieve such a result. It would have been strange to expect anything else: throughout the war, the Ukrainians never managed to break through the fortified defenses of the Russian troops.

Some optimists are placing their bets on the G7 , akin to Ukraine winning a war against Russia to fulfill Brzezinski's prophecies. Here's a look at the world population from 1950 to 2023 and projections for 2050, along with a glance at religion around the world. Take your pick for 2050.

Meanwhile, as US elites dine with President Xi , they are also lamenting Putin as evil.

The apparent aim is to strip Muslims of any adherence to their faith, ethnicity, or independent political views. Detainees’ ability to recapture their freedom depends on persuading their jailers that they are Mandarin-speaking, Islam-free worshipers of Xi and the Communist Party. This brazen endeavor reflects a totalitarian impulse to reengineer people’s thinking until they accept the supremacy of party rule.

Perhaps its not as bad, as we all fight Islam – or Christianity in the West, for the same reasons? So the World gathers at the COP28 to save the world from climate destruction, while the Leader of the free World keeps its focus on Wars?

Energy - October, 2023

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 19:47:02 GMT

Energy – October, 2023

Are dreams of electric vehicles (EVs) coming to an end? Perhaps not, but there is a growing shift in sentiment. The initial all-out optimism, promoted by some media and supporters who overlook the facts, is giving way to a more realistic or pessimistic outlook. Ultimately, it will be the consumers who decide the fate of EVs, and their hesitancy stems from three key concerns:

Price : The cost of EVs remains a significant obstacle for many potential buyers.
Battery Life and Sustainability Issues : Questions persist about battery recycling and whether lithium is a long-term solution or if there are viable alternatives.
Charging Infrastructure and Time : Concerns about charging infrastructure and the time required for recharging continue to be hurdles.

While EV sales continue to rise, driven by enthusiasts and more affluent buyers seeking to showcase their "green" credentials, as well as institutional users benefiting from taxpayer incentives, the coexistence of EVs and traditional fossil fuel vehicles well into the 2050s seems increasingly likely. It might even lead to scenarios where hydrogen or, in a less optimistic future, horses return as viable transportation options. This shift reflects a similar buyer profile and the pursuit of sustainability.

It may sound unconventional, but in the long run, it appears to be the only path to true sustainability. After all, most current transportation methods rely on mined resources, and eventually, we could run out of essential materials like metals and plastics since they don't grow on trees. With a global population of 12 billion people, the demand for resources could outstrip both food and natural resources like trees, especially when considering that around 30% of land might be covered by solar panels and wind turbines to power AI computers and other electric essentials.

While EV sales have been growing healthily for the past couple of years , that trend has accelerated this year. US consumers bought nearly 300,000 new battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) in the second quarter – a new record, according to Cox.

Not only is that more than 48% higher than last year, but it’s also more EVs than were sold in all of 2019. That’s not even counting sales of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), which can run on gas or electricity and a battery that can be recharged with either a charging cable or a generator powered by the engine.

Cox Automotive now predicts sales of fully electric vehicles in the US will break the 1 million vehicle barrier in 2023 for the first time ever . More than 557,000 BEVs have already been sold so far this year through the end of the second quarter.

Experts say EV sales are being propelled by a number of compounding factors, such as price cuts, a wider variety of available vehicles and more government and manufacturing investments.

“It’s just this perfect storm of all these things coming together,” said Stephanie Valdez-Streaty, the director of industry insights at Cox Automotive.

The Inflation Reduction Act is also driving sales growth, Valdez-Streaty told CNN.

How many Tesla vehicles were delivered in 2023? Tesla's vehicle deliveries in the third quarter of 2023 amounted to over 435,000 units. Quarterly deliveries decreased by around 6.67 percent during the third quarter of 2023, compared with the second quarter of that same year. Between April and June 2023, deliveries crossed the 466,000-unit threshold, a new record for the brand.

Price - here's an article from 2021 and one from the UK . Initially optimistic in the early 2020s, suddenly, reality sets in with many questions that should have been asked before pumping trillions of government money into the industry.

Ford is pumping the brakes on $12 billion in planned EV investments , including a battery factory. General Motors nixed its target of building 400,000 EVs by the middle of 2024 and delayed the opening of a revamped factory that will produce electric GMC and Chevrolet trucks.

Both said they were responding to slower-than-expected growth in EV demand.

It's true that EV demand has shown signs of a slowdown. Although US sales of electric cars have exploded in recent years, increasing for 13 quarters straight , the rate of that growth has tapered slightly. That's pushed some dealers to turn away some EV allocations and forced automakers to pile on incentives to keep vehicles selling.

President Biden, along with the U.S. Departments of Transportation and Energy, is investing $5 billion over five years to launch a national EV charging network. The National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program provides over $1.5 billion in funding for states to build out electric car charging networks.

It was just recently announced that all 50 states, along with Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico submitted their plans on time and have had them approved. This means that reimbursement funds are now available to all U.S. states and territories. Once complete, the charging network will service about 75,000 miles of highway across the U.S.

Hopefully, most of the states will use the funds to deploy DC Fast Charging stations. However, it’s not required, and the funds can be used for a variety of charging-related projects and options. For this reason, we’ll have to wait and see how it all plays out.

Battery life and development: Expect some positive results with less space needed and longer recharge sequences. However, do not anticipate miracles, as the current investments in lithium do not indicate rapid improvements, possibly not until 2040.

Charging Infrastructure : Can the US sustain a dual-system infrastructure?

In the first quarter of 2023, there were around 286 million vehicles operating on roads throughout the United States. Almost 38.4 million used vehicles changed owners in the U.S. between the first quarter of 2022 and the first quarter of 2023, while new registrations of vehicles came to about 13.9 million units during that period.

Give or take 10 years life expectancy of a Fossil Fuel Car, 2040 would probably be an all-electric world if as of 2025, only EV are on the Markt. Would such a scenario not ask for a regional approach starting with high populated areas, it probably would make more sense to subsidize Rental cars for long distance travel or remote travel from an EV hub then subsidize new sales and charging stations in the wilderness, and use the Gas station infrastructure to offer chargers, use Buc-ee's or build them around malls, they can use traffic. And make it mandatory that each home has a charging station, and make the once on the road paid by the customer. You do not get free Gas at a Holiday Inn, but free chargers as in parking Garages? Such a scenario would also be more sustainable for the Car Manufacturer’s, as currently most investments into the EV manufacturing are on hold? Or do we all have questions about electro mobility, including the government?

Additionally, making it mandatory for each home to have a charging station and having customers pay for the charging service on the road could be a sustainable solution. This approach might also be more beneficial for car manufacturers, as many investments in EV manufacturing are currently on hold. There seems to be ongoing uncertainty and questions about electric mobility, including government policies.

The U.S. government's blueprint for battery production relies on lithium-based technology, aiming to create good-paying union jobs. However, it raises questions about the security of the Southern border. It's worth noting that during Jennifer Granholm's term as Michigan's governor, many people were leaving the state. The future outlook on batteries from MIT provides further insights into the technology.

Projections suggest that EVs might phase out by 2050 along with the hype. Explore some scenarios here.

Regarding forest fires and the science behind them, it's essential to consider the potential differences between scientific understanding and political actions.

And here the blue print from the US Government to get the Batteries, its all Lithium based with good paying Union jobs, sound like the Southern Border is secure, or check Granholm’ term as Michigan’ Governor, everybody was leaving, and here some more future outlook on Batteries from the MIT.

Projections, EV’ will be gone by 2050 and so is the hype? See some scenario’ here.

Forest Fires and the Science , any difference to politics? - The case of Patrick Brown is making headlines. In September, the American climate scientist described in an online post how he manipulated a study on forest fires. He overemphasized the influence of global warming on fires and ignored other causes. In this way, he wanted to ensure that he could publish in the renowned journal Nature.

Brown lamented that scientists who want to succeed in their research have to serve the narrative of dire global warming. "Climate science is now less about understanding the complexity of the world and more about serving as a kind of Cassandra and urgently warning the public about the dangers of climate change."

Windmills, often touted as already used by our ancestors, but no one in the Industry looks at Wind patterns over 30 years, (lifetime of such sustainable thing, if lucky) which actually do change, read here how to blame climate change for it , or better 1000 years, but its all our fault. The result, the overzealous activists managed to spend a lot of money on projects, that look good on paper, but are simply not feasible . And then they blame simple logistics? And here some others , inflation is down to normal according to the inflation reduction act, what is down is the efficiency of this constructs when they are on the field, because the wind is changing perhaps 20%? If you can find a statistic let me know. And here some projections .

Investment is one side , cost the other . According to the latest spot benchmarks offered by sellers to buyers priced in megawatts per hour (MWh), the price of electricity in Germany has increased by 321.80% since the beginning of 2023, reaching 62.89 EUR/MWh as of October 31, 2023 1. The average price of electricity for households in Germany was 40.07 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh) in the second half of 2022, compared to 32.16 ct/kWh in the previous year 2 .

And here is a great example; if the Sun shines and the Wind blows , once we calculate the storage prices for the future, we may be in for a surprise.

Perhaps subsidizing solar panels on every roof, coupled with energy storage, could offer an efficient alternative to government investments. This approach would enable most EV charging to occur at home, covering about 80% of charging needs, while the remainder could be fulfilled through rentals. Additionally, focusing energy infrastructure around major users makes sense.

But there's another concern. AI is advancing rapidly and finding applications in various sectors, from autonomous vehicles to healthcare and economics. Scientists worldwide are eager to harness AI's potential for positive changes.

An Amsterdam-based scientific team has discovered that AI's electricity consumption is already comparable to that of an entire country. Data processing centers, including AI, currently contribute to 4-5% of global energy consumption, which increases to 8% when you factor in standard hardware like computers and phones.

Projections indicate that this share could surge to 30% in the near future. For example, training an AI model involves the continuous operation of multiple graphics cards, each consuming around 1,000 watts, a process that spans several weeks.

It's evident that AI systems demand significant energy. However, it's highly likely that solutions will be found in the future to address this issue effectively.

Economics - October 2023

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 20:03:42 GMT

Economics – October 2023

The core principle of Bidenomics is to provide support to the lower and middle classes, with the idea that corporate profits and individuals with significant wealth should contribute to funding these initiatives, rather than solely relying on the government or the taxpayers.

Bidenomics is a term used to describe the economic policies of the Biden administration. It is a wordplay on Reaganomics, the nickname for the Reagan administration’s economic policies1. Bidenomics is centered around three key pillars: making smart public investments in America, empowering and educating workers to grow the middle class, and promoting competition to lower costs and help entrepreneurs and small businesses thrive. It is an economic vision where the economy is grown from the middle out and the bottom up, not the top down.

His campaign ads laud the passage of COVID emergency funds , the bipartisan infrastructure law , the inflation reduction act and funding the semiconductor manufacturing .

See here all the progress as touted by Fact Check , financed and led by the Anneberg Foundation, which is also a NPR donor? (Annenberg Foundation) . If you look at the details, it can all be reported in the brightest possible picture, compare the wages increase here, the 13 plus million new jobs may have come as a result of the end of Covid, or according to Statista 2019 was 157,53 and 2023 159,38 million, that is about 2 million, of which the good paying Manufacturing jobs are not leading the charge but Service, Healthcare and Government?

And here the other sides of the Coin,

The impetus for these massive deficits is federal government spending, which tipped the scales at $6.1 trillion last year. Government receipts, meanwhile, were $4.4 trillion, woefully short of the $5 trillion previously forecasted. A slowing economy and counterproductive tax increases were key drivers behind the $457 billion drop in receipts from the prior fiscal year.

Yet, even these reduced revenues would have resulted in a balanced budget if President Biden had simply allowed spending to return to its pre-pandemic level. Instead, Treasury outlays are up 38 percent today compared to pre-pandemic times.

The number of Americans suffering from hunger and food insecurity exploded by more than 10 million under President Joe Biden, according to a U.S. Agriculture Department report this week that provided fresh evidence of inflation‘s impact of a basic staple of life.

The report found 44.2 million Americans were living in food-insecure households in 2022, compared to 33.8 million the year before.

And the profits go to the War (Defense) Industry and the big Corporations , all of which wanted a big Government, just wondering who ends up paying the Bills?

Corporate profits in the United States increased 0.5 percent to USD 2.60 trillion in the second quarter of 2023, less than preliminary estimates of a 1.6 percent rise and following a 4.1 percent fall in the previous period. Net cash flow with inventory valuation adjustment, the internal funds available to corporations for investment, rose 1 percent to USD 3.20 trillion, and net dividends went up 0.8 percent to USD 1.86 trillion. Meanwhile, undistributed profits fell 0.3 percent to USD 0.75 trillion. source: U.S. Bureau of Economics Analysis

T he labor force level is the number of people who are either working or actively looking for work. On the other hand, the labor force participation rate is the percentage of the civilian noninstitutional population that is in the labor force.

The labor force participation rate is calculated by dividing the labor force by the total adult population that is at least 16 years old and multiplying by 100

In summary, while the labor force level is an absolute number of people who are either working or actively looking for work, the labor force participation rate is a percentage of the total adult population that is at least 16 years old and in the labor force

Here a bit more on labor participation rate and Labor shortage , and we all wonder if immigration will close the Gap, with aging Boomers leaving. Perhaps the next bill will be educational, for all the jobs needed.

Wonder why President Bidens approval on the Economy is not improving, but this is how the Biden supporters see it , blame the others, sounds familiar. Money spent, no one can point the success to the Money spent, improving for the big guys? Note the references to Europe, it is a direct result of the Sanctions on Russia, and devastating for Europe, and the drive to Green and renewables, other than Meloni to which the same paper upon election branded her a Fascista and NAZI, the same as our President calls the Trumpers.

So all in all, the only ones that see success in Bidenomics are his base, which are the 2020 donor circle? The approval ratings below would have every CEO fired?

Yes, Biden’s approval rating in another Morning Consult survey is a dismal 40%. But that’s better than Canada’s Justin Trudeau (33%), the UK’s Rishi Sunak (28%), France’s Emmanuel Macron (26%), Germany’s Olaf Scholz (25%) or Japan’s Fumio Kishida (22%). The only leader of a G-7 country with better numbers than Biden is Italy’s Giorgia Meloni, at 44%. Not coincidentally, Meloni took office only about a year ago — mostly after the major inflationary episode of 2021-2022 had begun to improve.

This leads us easily to the Global stage, and bar the world is crazy enough to sacrifice the economy to democracy by War, in which situation no prediction will hold up, but then again perhaps the US will remain the global power, much like the approval ratings.

Here the latest from the WEF , and the Economist , but the Credit Card debt , the Housing Market and Grocery cost, will certainly circle back to the Food Stamps, note under Obama it added 40 million recipients and they still voted for him. More on economics next Month, but the people feel confident living on debt, as much as the Government.

Americans’ total credit card balance is $1.031 trillion in the second quarter of 2023, according to the latest consumer debt data from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York . That’s up from the first quarter of 2023’s record number, leaving the balance the highest since the New York Fed began tracking in 1999.

This is the first time credit card debt has topped $1 trillion in this country. The $45 billion second-quarter increase comes on the heels of a first quarter in which the credit card debt level remained unchanged. That lack of movement was noteworthy since it bucked decades-long historical trends, marking the first time since 2001 in which credit card debt didn’t fall in the first quarter. In fact, the only times card debt didn’t fall in the first quarter of the year since the New York Fed report began were 2000 and 2001. Every year since, card debt fell at least a little bit — until this year. That lack of a decrease may not bode well for Americans’ credit card debt numbers for the rest of the year.

With this latest increase, credit card balances have risen by $175 billion since the fourth quarter of 2021. Americans’ credit card debt is $104 billion higher than the record set in the fourth quarter of 2019, when balances stood at $927 billion. However, thanks to still-rising interest rates, stubborn inflation and myriad other economic factors, credit card balances are likely only going to climb, at least in the near future.

These record balances are light years above the $478 billion seen more than 20 years ago in the first quarter of 1999.

US Politics - October, 2023

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 15:29:30 GMT

US Politics - October, 2023

The world has reacted with shock and outrage to the Hamas attacks on Israel, which is understandable if you support Israel. Shockingly, there are still individuals in the US and a significant number of people in Germany who hold antisemitic views. But then again, the world and especially the US should be shocked that Hamas actually won the election in in 2006 , or in other words, "took out" its opponents on it's way to power .

But we need to ask another question: Why did the 2006 elections take place? The explanation lies in the political ideals—or, more correctly, the naïveté—of President George W. Bush. (Much of this comes from the reporting for my 2008 book, Daydream Believers: How a Few Grand Ideas Wrecked American Power .)

To start, here is the Hamas Charter ( from Wikipedia ). Perhaps this is the reason why the CIA is involved in influencing elections, as seen in the Ukraine during the Maidan Coup. However, it raises questions about what is happening at the border. According to the prevailing view, the individuals crossing are mostly beautiful women with scarves and freedom fighters. If this is indeed the case, why didn't Mr. Bush ensure that democratic principles were the primary foundation of a democracy? Furthermore, when Bush made his recent statement , it makes one wonder if he was hoping for such an event to occur sooner so that he could have initiated the war.

And then there is this issue: Bush claimed not to negotiate with terrorists. However, it seems that the war hawks, particularly Netanyahu, did not want them to gain that much. It resembles the situation in Ukraine, possibly an attempt to provoke a war. In Germany, there is a comprehensive history of Palestine available, titled " Palestine's Tragedy: The Story of a People's Suffering," offering a different perspective on the Middle East conflict .

In 2017, Hamas amended its charter and agreed to accept a mini state in the West Bank and Gaza, like the PLO and the Arab states. This and many other things were bitterly disputed within their ranks, but the new charter was approved by the "Shura" assembly. Prior to this, senior Hamas members secretly met with Knesset members, including those from the Likud, to seek mutually acceptable solutions. They risked their lives, the Israelis their political careers and a prison sentence. But Netanyahu dismissed the charter amendment as a deception even before it was passed, preferring to support the violent Hamas wing so as not to have to make peace.

Trumps Deals – or when Tweets change the World Order, Neocons support Netanyahu unconditional, in its entire context this may fit perhaps the conditions of a War Crime?

Finally, the Republicans have a speaker, and it is someone the left-leaning media and the over 100 left-wing bloggers will need to divide their resources to continue their rhetorical assault on the as-yet-unproven accusations against Trump. However, it seems that the word "peace" is non-existent in their vocabulary, and they are determined to dismantle anything that doesn't align with their ideology. Note the Words Southerner and Trump Supporter , perhaps he is one of Biden's “NAZI’S”.

But it remains to be seen how well Johnson will fare at uniting his fractured conference as the House immediately plunges into debates over government spending — or in gaining trust from Democrats who are deeply suspicious of his socially conservative record and support for Trump's efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 election.

Here is a taste from MSNBC Democrat Strategist Chai Komanduri , while the whole world is laughing supporting a lost President?

When it comes to winning, Gamesmanship has little rules, and while we claim democracy and humanity; the War Mongers continue to come out swinging. This seems to align with President Biden's doctrine, as he takes on the role of a global leader or world figure, unless he is overshadowed by an even larger egomaniac like Gavin Newsome, who even attributes homelessness to climate change. One may wonder when he plans to unite the Republic of California with China to prevent secession from his own people. It's a curious thought whether tech giants like Apple, Facebook, and Yahoo effectively run the State of California.

Now we have Israel to defend, so no one is reporting about the Ukraine. Did you notice globally how Selinsky fell from the reporters Chair? The "Bloggers" of the world have picked up the pace reporting his winnings, one tank and square foot a week, while reports surface that the US is actively engaged in the War..

Assassination squads of Ukrainian intelligence services have murdered dozens of people at home and abroad in the last twenty months alone. Among them were Russian military personnel and civilians both in the Russian-occupied territories and in Russia itself, as well as Ukrainian collaborators and "traitors". However, who is considered a "traitor" has not been specified.

This reports the Washington Post relying on interviews with over two dozen active and retired Ukrainian, American and Western intelligence officers. All murders had been approved by President Volodymyr Zelensky.

And the NY Times , A group of Ukrainian Army soldiers pierced by Russian grenades and mortar shells arrived at a hospital recently in need of surgery. It would have been a familiar scene from the bloody war grinding on in Ukraine, except for two crucial differences: Most of the wounded soldiers were American, and so was the hospital — the U.S. Army’s flagship medical center in Germany.

Is it an answer for the desperation ? A ll reasonable voices would like to know where things stand, as we bury another 150 million in money we do not have .

And the Biden Administration prides themselves on transparency, yet has nothing to say. Do they not see the need to tell the people?

Let's hope that amidst all this turmoil, the U.S. can still hold elections next year. At some point, the FBI and DOJ will need to emerge from the challenges they face, and President Biden may run out of excuses, especially if international politics continue to backfire. Israel, with the assistance of the U.S., may eliminate Hamas, but the hatred that's created in the process and the absence of peace in Ukraine won't be easily resolved, especially concerning the Ukrainian "Russians." It appears that in Biden's perspective, "woke" and "inclusion" aren't solely about race but also about ideology, which aligns with the Neocons' viewpoint.

The recent rightward shift in European elections, sometimes labeled as "Nazi" by some, seems to be fueled in part by Biden's allies in NATO and the green/red alliances, which are struggling to transition away from coal, gas, and oil, as they still serve as backup for the intermittent energy production from the sun and wind. It's a complex issue, but there's room for technology to help solve these problems. Many people believe that individuals are generally more intelligent than what is portrayed in the media and in Washington.

Geopolitical Focus – October 2023

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 14:58:01 GMT

Geopolitical Focus – October 2023

Hegemonial Global Forces : are the Ukraine and Israel Wars part of it or merely 'saviors of democracy'? Both have a long history leading up to the recent wars, but are they not also the results of failed negotiations and disagreements in the interpretation of life philosophies? And who is genuinely in charge of determining each country's destiny? As a starting point, consider the military expenses of each country. Note that NATO made military investments to keep the Russian Federation and the rest of Europe at arm's length. However, with the fall of the Russian (USSR) Federation, NATO has become the hegemonial driver, all under the banner of democracy.

Remember the origins of the UN:

After the Second World War , the United Nations was established, and the five strongest global powers (China, France, the UK, the US, and the USSR) were granted permanent seats on the U.N. Security Council , the organization's most powerful decision-making body.

We have not only the UN but numerous institutes, such as the ISW . However, if you specifically examine their composition, anything involving Ms. Kagan (and her husband ) and Mr. Kristol can only be described as proponents of war (Bush/Cheney strategists) and leaders of the anti-Trump movement. Coincidence? It's challenging to find any objective global reporting or conflict resolution that doesn't involve weapons. Or The International Institute for Strategic Studies (iiss.org), but they all seem to predict and strategize in wars. What about the 5 million American Muslims? That doesn't seem to concern anyone; they may actually side with Palestine.

The conflict was designed in 1948 .

The British government publicly committed itself to the creation of a Jewish homeland. Arab nationalism opposed this plan, asserting Arab rights over the former Ottoman territories and seeking to prevent Jewish migration. As a result, Arab-Jewish tensions grew in the succeeding decades of British... Read full article here

Wars are brutal, and we know from Al Qaeda and ISIS about their barbaric understa nding of war and terror. But in any war, there are no winners, and the losers are those with no way to escape . It's an ideology, so is Woke and Genderism, so is BLM and Antifa, relentless and intolerant, and it starts in pre-school. As long as the UN, EU, and all non-political organizations have roadmaps for peace and co-existence, prepare for more wars.

Do we really believe the Hamas attack came out of the blue? Should we now have reason to believe it was planned for 2 years? Do we have any questions about tracking all the equipment left in Afghanistan and shipped to Ukraine? Perhaps some of it found its way to Palestine? But CNN is close to knowing it all , it's all Russian and Chinese obsolete stuff? And how quickly the US had ammunition ready? Are we sure Ukraine does not profit from all the ammunition we send?

This equipment is now in a country that is controlled by the very enemy the US was trying to drive out over the past two decades: the Taliban. The Defense Department has no plans to return to Afghanistan to 'retrieve or destroy' the equipment, reads the report, which has been provided to Congress.

The US gave a total of $18.6 billion of equipment to the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF) from 2005 to August 2021, according to the report. Of that total, equipment worth $7.12 billion remained in Afghanistan after the US withdrawal was completed on August 30, 2021. It included aircraft, air-to-ground munitions, military vehicles, weapons, communications equipment and other materials, according to the DoD report.

The US has also transferred over 15 million rounds of Ball rifle ammunition, over 99,000 40mm high-explosive/fragmentation grenade cartridges, and about 119,000 82mm high-explosive mortar rounds to Ukraine from material that was previously procured for Afghanistan, the report states.

These munitions have been transferred to Ukraine under presidential drawdown authority, the report states.

US military equipment and weapons left behind

Aircraft worth $923.3 million remained in Afghanistan. The US left 78 aircraft procured for the government of Afghanistan at Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul before the end of the withdrawal. These aircraft were demilitarized and rendered inoperable before the US military left, the report states. The US military conducted its non-combatant evacuation from Afghanistan in August, primarily through that airport.

A total of 9,524 air-to-ground munitions, valued at $6.54 million, remained in Afghanistan at the conclusion of the US military withdrawal. The 'significant majority' of the 'remaining aircraft munitions stock are non-precision munitions,' the report states. Over 40,000 of the total 96,000 military vehicles the US gave to Afghan forces remained in Afghanistan at the time of the US withdrawal, including 12,000 military Humvees, the report states. 'The operational condition of the remaining vehicles' in Afghanistan is 'unknown,' the report states.

More than 300,000 of the total 427,300 weapons the US gave to Afghan forces remained in Afghanistan at the time of the US military withdrawal, according to the report. Less than 1,537,0 00 of the 'specialty munitions' and 'common small arms ammunition,' valued at a total of $48 million, are still in the country, the report states. '

Nearly all' of the communications equipment that the US gave to Afghan forces, including base-station, mobile, man-portable, and hand-held commercial and military radio systems, and associated transmitters and encryption devices also remained in Afghanistan at the time of the withdrawal, the report states.

Don't get me wrong, Hamas is a terrorist group, Russia the aggressor, but we do not look at the instigators. Do Russians or Palestinians not have a legitimate right to exist, or do we simply assess the Western moralizers as a superior species, and everyone must accept their expansion plans? Hamas and Hezbollah are not new and originated during negotiations between Israel and the PLO as responses to conflicts. Does anyone remember Yasser Arafat and the negotiations, and the resulting failure to find solutions? It's the same with NATO. We negotiate with Iran for oil but do not make it a condition to use the money for good; we accept it to sponsor terrorists. Energy independence was a strategy and opposed in the 2020 US election, with the Kaplans and Kristols, and we exchanged it for a war. There's no way Russia or Iran would have the funds for wars without oil.

But with Rabin's assassination by a Jewish extremist in November 1995 and the election in May 1996 of Benjamin Netanyahu —leader of the Likud, a right-wing political party , and an opponent of the Oslo Accords—as prime minister, relations grew strained. Negotiations became deadlocked, even after an intervention by Clinton, who arranged a summit meeting with the two leaders at the Wye Plantation in eastern Maryland in 1998. Negotiations were revived after the election of Israel Labour Party leader Ehud Barak as prime minister in 1999, but in a very tense context. The unabated continuation of settlement activity—some 100,000 more settlers arrived in the West Bank between 1993 and 2000 (without taking Jerusalem into account)—created great discontent among the Palestinians and strengthened the Ḥamās opposition to the Oslo Accords. For his part, Arafat proved unable to create the structures of an independent state (for reasons linked with his own shortcomings and with the fact that most of the West Bank and Gaza Strip were still occupied).

In July 2000 Clinton convened a summit at Camp David in northern Maryland, where the historic Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt had been negotiated in 1978. The aim was to find a final agreement to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict after five years of Palestinian self-rule. The summit was hastily prepared, however, and, since the most contentious issues—the question of the right of return for Palestinian refugees, control of Jerusalem, borders, and Jewish settlements in the West Bank and Gaza Strip—were being discussed for the first time, it was unlikely that these sensitive and complex matters would be resolved quickly. From the beginning, Arafat was suspicious of the summit and its timing, and although some progress was made, in the end, there was no final settlement.

Negotiations continued after the failure at Camp David, but a visit by Likud leader Ariel Sharon to the Temple Mount in Jerusalem in September 2000 sparked the second intifāḍah, and the dwindling talks ground to a halt. A spiral of harsh repression by the Israeli army and violence by different armed Palestinian groups subsequently led to both sides’ total loss of confidence in the peace process. In spite of the January 2001 negotiations at Ṭābā, Egypt, which were held independently of the United States and made important progress, the Barak government lost the February 2001 general elections and Sharon—a strong opponent of both the Oslo Accords and the creation of a Palestinian state—was elected prime minister. 'We have no partner for peace' was once more the general sentiment of many Israeli political parties.

Arafat lost much of his diplomatic credibility with the West after the election of U.S. Pres. George W. Bush in November 2000 and the launch of the 'war on terror' in 2001, which followed the September 11 attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. In 2001, following suicide attacks in Israel that Sharon blamed Arafat for instigating, Arafat was confined by Israel to his headquarters in Ramallah. In October 2004 Arafat fell ill and was transported to Paris for medical treatment, where he died the following month. Fatah later passed a unanimous resolution that held Israel responsible for Arafat's death.

I found this article in the Times of Israel interesting as it is currently questioned if the declaration of Independence was created by an unelected body?

Did an unelected body create the Declaration of Independence?

The People’s Council that drafted and signed Israel’s Declaration of Independence was not elected as a council, Naor said, but it did pull its membership from other elected bodies, as well as solicit appointments from the community.

And here's the question of whether I srael is a Jewish State or a Democracy?

At the same time, the document pledges that the state of Israel would be faithful to the U.N. charter, protecting the rights of all minorities: 'The State … will be based on freedom, justice, and peace as envisaged by the prophets of Israel; it will ensure complete equality of social and political rights to all its inhabitants irrespective of religion, race, or sex.'

David Ben-Gurion, Israel’s first prime minister, suggested that once the country was created, Zionism would wither away. The nation, as a Jewish state with laws that protect minorities, would resolve the contradictions inherent in Zionist ideology.

But as long as the majority of Israelis felt a sense of existential threat – both from neighboring Arab states and dire economic conditions – Zionism continued to provide a unifying ideological umbrella to most Israelis.

After 1967, a transformation

In the aftermath of the 1967 Six-Day War, when Israel conquered the Sinai Peninsula from Egypt, the West Bank from Jordan, and the Golan Heights from Syria, the country emerged as a regional military and economic power.

It was a time of significant social, political, and economic change.

A growing number of Israelis – especially those from the more secular, upper classes – began to question the country’s particularism, which conceived of the country as a shelter for Jews that would protect them from external threats. For these upwardly mobile Israelis, known as the post-Zionists, the founding myths of a vulnerable young state no longer seemed relevant.

They wanted Israel to become a fully normal part of the American-led global order. They believed the country should integrate into the region by resolving the conflict between Jews and Arabs. And they wanted to participate in the global economic market as the country transitioned from a state-run economy to the free market.

Here's a link to all the wars in the region , and here's a view from Reuters :

In the war that followed, some 700,000 Palestinians, half the Arab population of what was British-ruled Palestine, fled or were driven from their homes, ending up in Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria, as well as in Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem.

Hopefully, we can find a diplomatic resolution soon, but it must be a lasting one. Genocide in Palestine is as unjustified as any genocide. And rest assured, once the Israeli ground troops arrive, all Hamas will wear civilian clothing. Yes, fret about it; it's a fact known for years. But have we learned nothing?

In all the global reporting, the war in Ukraine has become a sidecar, no longer important as we may lose it. See Jeffrey D. Sachs' analysis .

We are entering the end stage of the 30-year U.S. neoconservative debacle in Ukraine. The neocon plan to surround Russia in the Black Sea region by NATO has failed. Decisions now by the U.S. and Russia will matter enormously for peace, security, and the well-being of the entire world. Four events have shattered the neocon hopes for NATO enlargement eastward, to Ukraine, Georgia, and onward. The first is straightforward. Ukraine has been devastated on the battlefield, with tragic and appalling losses. Russia is winning the war of attrition, an outcome that was predictable from the start but which the neocons and mainstream media continue to deny.

The second is the collapsing support in Europe for the U.S. neocon strategy. Poland no longer speaks with Ukraine. Hungary has long opposed the neocons. Slovakia has elected an anti-neocon government. EU leaders, including Macron, Meloni, Sanchez, Scholz, Sunak, and others, have disapproval ratings far higher than approvals.

And Russia has offered to negotiate peace between Israel and Hamas, says Palestine.

To this end, Moscow must maintain dialogue with, but also at an equal distance from, both sides. 'There is no doubt that the acts that can only be described as terrorism are to be condemned. But we must also not forget what the precursors of this situation were,' he said.

On Tuesday, the Kremlin had already confirmed that it would continue its contacts with the Palestinians. Russian President Vladimir Putin will also receive the President of the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank , Mahmoud Abbas, during his visit to Moscow, which was agreed upon before the start of the war, it said.

Perhaps it's time to reconsider the hegemonial approach and become servant leaders, all-inclusive, without an ideology but with respect for all human beings?

Economics – September 2023

Sat, 30 Sep 2023 18:15:24 GMT

Economics – September 2023

Will political turmoil or instability influence economics and globalization, and will a shift away from international relations towards political economy truly benefit the people? In today's world, politicians are increasingly taking control of domestic and international economic decisions, possibly with the intention of addressing global challenges like climate change in accordance with the Paris Climate Agreement and the policies proposed by the World Economic Forum. But is this approach yielding the desired results?

While China continues to chart its course and is perhaps the only country with a firm grip on its economy, questions persist regarding the rights of its citizens. In contrast, other "freedom" countries like Germany or the US demonstrate that government influence can have both positive and negative consequences. China maintains its leadership in green energy and electric vehicle development but also relies on Russian oil and coal, even expanding its coal plants.

Depending on one's perspective, the outlook for China varies. Bidenomics proponents argue that China faces significant challenges, as reported by NPR and CNBC. However, more open reports suggest that China may have turned the corner and is back on a growth trajectory.

In 2024, global geopolitics will play a pivotal role, with volatility evident in various regions. The ongoing Ukraine War will continue to demand significant resources and scrutiny. Some European Union and other countries may reconsider their commitment to US-led NATO efforts, with public sentiment possibly influencing their decisions.

Sanctions against Russia, initially touted as effective, have led to accusations of circumvention and assistance from certain countries. This includes the purchase of oil via India to sustain European and US economies.

Additionally, there is significant controversy surrounding arbitrary sanctions imposed on Ukrainian oligarchs. In Europe, these sanctions face heavy criticism for being hastily implemented and lacking robust evidence. They may even result in legal action in the US, incurring costs for taxpayers.

Despite perceptions of Russia's economic decline, such as a declining ruble, Russia has found ways to work around sanctions and adapt its domestic economy with willing partners, while increasing military spending.

It more than doubled its 2023 gross domestic product growth forecast to 2.8%, up from 1.2% in April, and raised its 2024 forecast to 2.3% from the 2.0% April forecast. Unemployment, currently at a historic low in Russia, will remain at 3.1% for the period, the ministry said, underscoring the acute shortages on the labor market.

And then we head to Germany and Europe, where Germany seems to struggle immensely on implementing the green agenda and the US ordered sanctions on Russia.

German GDP fell 0.3% in the first three months of 2023, compared with an earlier estimate of zero growth, as last year’s energy price shock took its toll on consumer spending. If you like to see what subsidies do check on this paper in one year, it’s a blueprint also for the US.

Germany's economic forecast has been sharply corrected: an increase of 0.3 percent turns into a minus of 0.6 percent. The traffic light coalition is partly to blame for the recession (read red/green) Almost not a day goes by without the announcement of new crisis summits or emergency measures: refugee crisis, energy crisis, housing shortage, chemical industry crisis, de-industrialization, budget dispute. But the discussions and even the stylization of problems as a "boss thing" have so far achieved little or nothing.

On the contrary.

They have created new legal uncertainties and thus accelerated the economic slump. Many of the negative trends have been evident for years and the traffic light coalition would have had enough time to take countermeasures in good time.

But it did nothing, and that is why the economy is now slumping at an accelerated pace, instead of growing by 0.3 percent, the five leading German economic institutes now expect a contraction of 0.6 percent for 2023.

The industrial policy of the Federal Republic of Germany is particularly problematic. First, the traffic light coalition is massively increasing the price of energy in order to force the economy to consume more economically. Households are also under additional strain, also as a result of the shifting of higher energy prices from producers to consumer goods and services.

As energy-intensive companies such as the chemical industry want to relocate their production abroad, new subsidies are now being promised to reduce electricity prices. Low-income households are also subsidized. Energy prices are not falling because of this. Because of such redistributive actions, they are paid only through taxes instead of the market. This money is then lacking for investments in productivity increases and the repair of the infrastructure.

Germany's industry has been running on state crutches since 2022, when EU rules on aid to industry were relaxed. As is well known, the EU Commission must approve state aid. Their data shows that Germany has allocated almost half (48.4 percent) of all state aid approved in the EU since February 2022. As of 4 September, Germany had granted state aid worth 742 billion euros. They are followed by France and Italy with 22.6 and 7.9 percent of the EU total, respectively.

The "debate" on the federal government's data strategy at the end of September turned out to be a non-starter, and the recent call for a reduction in administrative burdens was a clumsy election campaign bluster. For the digitization of the administration, even state funds are being cut. The Digital Infrastructure Special Fund, which was fed from the proceeds of the mobile telephony licenses, will even be dissolved. The existing 4.2 billion will flow into the state budget.

The housing shortage is mainly a consequence of mass immigration, state intervention and threats from politicians with rent caps, nationalizations, expensive building regulations or long approval procedures. Recently, they have been joined by rising construction costs and inflation, which were partly caused by the energy transition and shortage in connection with the Ukraine war. Persistent inflation, in turn, led to interest rate hikes by the ECB. However, housing prices also include high taxes and levies of all kinds. But politicians are not prepared to cut taxes and abolish the requirements. Housing construction will collapse massively.

Uncontrolled immigration is becoming an ever-increasing burden on the economy. The overloading of municipal infrastructures and the billions spent on asylum seekers also lead to taxpayers' money flowing into unproductive sectors. But the ruling know-it-alls believed that mass immigration would even replace the lack of skilled workers, even though nine out of ten immigrants from the top eight countries of origin have no specialist training.

The traffic light coalition is unwilling or unable to initiate a change of course, which is why the economic experts' forecast for 2024 of 1.3 percent real growth could still be too high.

US Politics - September, 2023

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 17:07:44 GMT

US Politics - September, 2023

What is on the agenda – and who is running it?

The current situation involves a series of complex issues such as the UAW strike, immigration concerns, the Ukraine war, government shutdowns, and the UN General Assembly, which often devolve into a blame game on a global scale. Despite these challenges, the United States continues to assert itself as a global leader in democracy. However, some critics argue that the U.S. government, along with the EU and Germany, exhibits authoritarian tendencies, with the UK and NATO supporting these actions while also trying to influence outcomes. Additionally, media outlets are often accused of serving as propaganda vehicles, influenced by the ideologies of their owners.

One specific point of contention is the UAW strike, which followed President Biden's endorsement of unions as vital to the nation's workforce. Some question this stance, pointing out that only around 150,000 workers are part of the UAW, a relatively small percentage of the overall workforce. They suggest that the growth of non-unionized labor may indicate a different trend among workers. These concerns are underscored by various statistics.

It's worth noting that there are suspicions of special interests playing a role in influencing democratic processes, as well as allegations of corporate culture warriors being hired to advance certain agendas. Additionally, sponsored bloggers and media outlets like Soros , Ukrainska Pravda, and Raw Story have come under scrutiny for their potential impact on public perception and opinion. Some interesting stats here:

European and international car manufacturers are closely monitoring the situation and preparing to increase their production capacity. On the flip side of the UAW strike, the question arises: is it just about the strike, or is it also about wages? The participation of the U.S. President in the picket line suggests that a quick resolution is unlikely. Some argue that while Tesla may benefit from the situation, the underlying motivations might be rooted in ideology rather than purely economic considerations.

Turning to the U.S. role in the Ukraine War, there are debates about whether the United States' involvement goes beyond providing weapons. Some speculate that there could be more to it than meets the eye, with accusations of cheerleading and one-sided interpretations reminiscent of old Western movies. It's worth noting that certain individuals have been removed from the Ukrainian side of the equation, further adding complexity to the situation

The Russian human rights commissioner has interpreted her remarks as an indication of imminent assassination attempts . Ashton-Cirillo responded on Twitter by saying that the most surprising thing about this assessment is that Russia has a human rights commissioner at all.

In the U.S., the trans woman is considered by many to be a hero due to her personal history and a wound she sustained as a medic in the Ukrainian army. Her appointment to an official post is seen as an attempt to use her popularity in America in favor of Ukraine.

It's important to emphasize that there is a significant lack of comprehensive information regarding the death toll on both sides of the war, and estimates suggest it may have reached a total of around 500,000 lives lost. Furthermore, the endgame of the conflict remains unclear, leading to uncertainty regarding strategy and the allocation of resources. This lack of transparency has raised questions about the nature of the situation.

Some have drawn parallels between this uncertainty and the Bush doctrine, which, in brief, had the idea of "either you're with us or against us," often associated with neoconservative ideology. These comparisons suggest that the conflict may be driven by a similar mentality, but it's essential to recognize that the situation is complex and multifaceted, with numerous factors contributing to the ongoing conflict.

Bloody resistance to American control of Iraq and attempts to eradicate the country's existing political systems in favor of American modes of governance damaged the credibility of the Bush Doctrine. Most damaging was the absence of weapons of mass destruction in Iraq. Any "preventive war" doctrine relies on the support of good intelligence, but the absence of WMD highlighted a problem of faulty intelligence.

By 2006, the military force in Iraq was focusing on damage repair and pacification, and the military's preoccupation with and focus on Iraq had enabled the Taliban in Afghanistan to reverse American successes there. In November 2006, public dissatisfaction with the wars enabled Democrats to reclaim control of Congress. It also forced Bush to usher the hawk - most notably Rumsfeld out of his Cabinet.

Examining the possibility of U.S. involvement or influence in the Ukraine conflict, it's notable that throughout history, powerful nations, like the Romans and Stalin, have used military force or other means to incite or inspire conflicts in different regions

The Strategic Case for Risking War in Ukraine

An invasion would be a diplomatic, economic, and military mistake for Putin. Let him make it if he must. Or some supporting info from Rand Corp , or here.

And here some thoughts, money for the War in the Ukraine, or investing elsewhere ? Do we really believe that all Ukrainians are preferring to die, rather than live with the Russian? As a democratic approach, let the people decide not NATO and the US?

If you followed the UN General assembly, the main summary, Zelinsky as the main attraction but is anyone listening? The General Secretary l aments the violence all over the World , and Joseph Biden, all is well and we will work it all out.

It's crucial to consider both this statement and the Rand article, which emphasize that ending a war cannot be accomplished by a single party alone. Respecting the sovereignty of nations is essential. The deployment of long-range missiles in Ukraine, potentially crossing into Russian territory and beyond to China, is not a path towards peace. It raises questions about the underlying motivations, which do not seem to align with the goal of defending democracy in Ukraine. It's worth noting that Zelensky's implementation of martial law has played a significant role in preventing the war from coming to an end.

"We strongly support Ukraine in its efforts to bring about a diplomatic resolution that delivers just and lasting peace," Mr. Biden said Tuesday. "But Russia alone, Russia alone bears responsibility for this war. Russia alone has the power to end this war immediately. And it's Russia alone that stands in the way of peace because the Russians' price for peace is Ukraine's capitulation, Ukraine's territory and Ukraine's children."

Finally, as we delve into the U.S. election cycle, which some may describe as a chaotic spectacle, including the debates, it's important to note certain observations. For those who followed the Republican debates, there's been a noticeable lack of substantive discourse. Rather than delivering meaningful content, some candidates seemed more interested in performing for a specific audience. The Republican field included various contenders, with a few echoing former President Trump's policies, while others adopted similar rhetoric without adding much depth. Among them, Mike Pence stands out but may face significant challenges in pursuing higher office.

Now, as the political landscape evolves, some candidates who have distanced themselves from Trump are gaining attention. It's evident that Trump remains a polarizing figure, with both staunch opponents and ardent supporters. The upcoming Virginia Governor's race could serve as an example of this dynamic.

For President Biden, his platform emphasizes unity and a return to more traditional politics, contrasting with the Trump era's divisive rhetoric. However, some critics argue that his approach leans towards authoritarianism, with slogans like "Make America Great Again" being viewed as an enemy of the people. Biden's bid for a third term is seen by some as a test of whether a governing style rooted in rhetoric and less substantive policy can succeed.

It's essential to consider that in a democracy, the people's will should be central. Nevertheless, the current political climate often seems dominated by media narratives and partisan divisions. Encouragingly, some advocate for a shift toward problem-solving over rigid ideological stances.

Amidst the backdrop of a seemingly tumultuous world, characterized by climate change concerns and a media cycle that often highlights crises, it's important to maintain a sense of perspective. The current state of governance can be likened to a reflection of these complex times. As we navigate this environment, it's crucial to prioritize fair elections and promote solutions-oriented candidates over zealous ideologues or divisive politics.

Energy - September, 2023

Sun, 17 Sep 2023 19:28:12 GMT

Energy – September, 2023

The climate crisis is often seen as the root cause of many global issues, such as the persistent problem of malaria in Africa, despite its existence for over a century. Read Manuela Andreoni's article below on the subject!

Humankind has never been better at fighting diseases. Researchers are coming up with new vaccines and treatments at an astounding speed.

But climate change is making public health gains a lot harder to achieve and undoing some of the world’s hard-earned progress.

Consider the mosquito, which kills more humans than any other creature.

Until very recently, fatalities from malaria, which is spread by mosquitoes, were on the decline. The widespread use of insecticides and bed nets had brought the number of deaths from malaria down to fewer than 600,000 in 2021, according to the World Health Organization , from roughly 900,000 in 2000.

But climate change has expanded the warm areas where the most dangerous species of mosquitoes, those that carry deadly diseases, can breed. As a result of those factors, and also because of the rapid evolution of mosquitoes, malaria deaths are once again on the rise, as my colleague Stephanie Nolen, The Times’s global health reporter, writes in an astounding new series about the insects and all the ways we have to fight them.

Not to mention the Heat Deaths in Europe , if you look at historical death rates in Europe, it takes some good analysis to find the 60’000 next to Covid, but in todays world ideologues feed on the title?

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Meat Eater and Cows , but also Onion Soup should be banned as it causes Methan in Human? Are we seeing a cultural revolution in the idea that it will save the planet and all animals no longer have to fear being slaughtered but enjoy a pet life. Yeah, all of them but the Methan producers, they must be made extinct ? How about starting in New York, eliminating all Rats? Or perhaps a better way to keep the Milk, Butter and Cheese from Dairy’ Farm, manage the Cow stuff , better than Windmills? Here is a Report (in German) for the future of eating, and note Venture Capital makes more Money here than with Cows?

One way to handle the problem is through anaerobic digestion of manure stored in closed vessels. The captured methane can be used to generate heat and electricity. The 7,000+ dairy and swine operations in the U.S. could generate enough electricity to power nearly 600,000 homes annually , preventing the release of 1.3 million tons of methane into the atmosphere

Where did all the Money go, hopefully Lithium Batteries are the future for a long time. Here you can check the current and future Investments.

After people have trumpeted for Solar and Wind Energy, they now start to realize that Climate might be changeable, but the Weather so we have only Sunny and Windy days? And at the same time lament about receding Ground Water and Snowfall, at least temporarily. So, a new Buzzword to save the Planet has to be invented, Geothermal Energy. It is astonishing as we can drill Water well as deep as we like that we had to wait for Fracking technologies to find heat in the Ground.

States like California are increasingly desperate for clean energy sources that can run at all hours. While wind and solar power are growing fast, they rely on fossil fuels like natural gas for backup when the sun sets and wind fades. Finding a replacement for gas is an acute climate challenge , and geothermal is one of the few plausible options.

“Geothermal has historically been overlooked,” Senator Lisa Murkowski, Republican of Alaska, said at a hearing . But with innovation, she added, “the potential is out there, I think, that’s pretty extraordinary.”

Manufactured Climate Crisis? More and more voices start to question the hype especially considering the sources such as the UN, WEF and some Hedge Funds, changing their funding sources from fossil to renewable. Here some content and here the voice behind it, and here the religious opinion . See level raising, The remaining or 60%, percentage was caused by natural wind-driven ocean circulation unique to the Southeast and Gulf Coast, the researchers found. So when a Glacier in Switzerland reduces about 10% - they never tell you that in relation to Sea Level change, maybe a fraction of a millimeter?

Don’t get me wrong here, all about sustainability but decisions made in panic mode usually do not have a good outcome, Al Gore gave us Swim Vest in 2000, the planet will survive him.

Geopolitical Focus – September 2023

Sun, 10 Sep 2023 14:49:28 GMT

Geopolitical Focus – September 2023

While the US remains deeply involved in the conflict in Ukraine and is dedicated to providing all necessary assistance, as evidenced by Secretary Blinken's recent visit with another financial contribution, the international community may begin to question the high toll of lives sacrificed in the name of democracy. Ukraine may face a depletion of its population sooner rather than later, and potential volunteers may become increasingly reluctant to join the cause. Here are a couple of translations from European sources, including Ukrainian and Russian perspectives.

Simultaneously, there are voices raising concerns about the democratic status of Ukraine, which currently seems more autocratic with a President fully committed to the "War" effort. While the Western world insists that he was democratically elected, some individuals with a deeper understanding of the underlying power dynamics may argue that the election had a predetermined outcome. For instance, President Biden asserts the democratic nature of the process, but some may contend that opinions can be influenced when certain information is presented with a degree of manipulation.

You can read about the details of the latest US package here . After Cluster Bombs, The Biden administration will for the first time send controversial armor-piercing munitions containing depleted uranium to Ukraine, according to a document seen by Reuters and separately confirmed by two U.S. officials.

And here is the document about Selinski and Democracy. Does this also include the press and Selinski’s propaganda machine?

In addition, the government is very present – if not over-present – and usually reports positively on its own work. Of course, the people in Ukraine do not miss the fact that an unrealistic picture of the situation in the country is often painted. Many are aware: "It's our propaganda, but it's still propaganda."

The presidential organization around Zelensky has thus become a kind of shadow government. He won in 2019 in a free and fair election and is accordingly democratically legitimized. This does not apply to his advisers, who have concentrated a great deal of power on themselves since the beginning of the war. The parliament and even the government with the prime minister, on the other hand, have lost influence.

Considering all the previous information and the recent change in the defense minister, which occurred amidst allegations of corruption, one could interpret this as a group within the government that might be using corruption to consolidate power within government circles. They may be doing so to further the interests of the US President in Ukraine and safeguard Western investments, reminiscent of how Guatemala defended the interests of the United Fruit Company in the past.

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky dismisses Defense Minister Oleksiy Reznikov. Rustem Umerov, head of the state wealth fund, is to follow him.

While Western media often present a positive view of the situation in Ukraine, there are alternative sources that paint a different, more grim picture. According to these sources, approximately 400,000 Ukrainians have been either killed or wounded, and a substantial number have fled the country. Others are in hiding due to the general mobilization ordered by President Zelensky. Additionally, reports suggest that those on the front lines of the conflict are expressing concerns about inadequate NATO training and demoralization among the soldiers. This conflicting information can make it challenging to determine which narrative to believe.

Conscripted Ukrainians are fleeing. The government has so far stopped 20,000 of them. But hundreds of thousands have long been abroad.

After Russia's invasion, Ukraine had declared a general mobilization. Since then, men of conscription age between the ages of 18 and 60 have not been allowed to leave the country.

However, many of them still try. For the first time, the Ukrainian border guard has published figures on this.

Accordingly, around 20,000 men were prevented from escaping. Most of them wanted to cross the border secretly, another part was on the road with fake exit permits.

But far more have made it. According to the EU statistical office Eurostat, more than 650,000 men of conscription age are registered in the 27 states of the European Union as well as in Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein.

The government in Kiev is currently considering demanding that the EU extradite these illegal migrants. Retirements for health reasons are to be re-examined to see whether they have been justified.

In addition, the bribery market is flourishing in order to avoid being drafted into the army. In some cases, more than 13,000 euros are said to have been paid for exemption from military service.

And here some other staggering numbers;

The Centre for Economic Strategy, a Ukrainian non-governmental organization, has made calculations based on various sources and surveys.

According to the report, up to 6.7 million Ukrainians were abroad at the end of June due to the war. That's up to half a million more than estimates at the end of 2022. The reason for the increase lies in Russian attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure and on individual cities.

And here some voices from the front; Ukrainian soldiers criticize the effectiveness and realism of the NATO training they received for fighting on the front line in Kharkiv during three weeks in Germany. This is reported by the online portal The Kyiv Independent .

And for your conclusion, here an article that sums up the current status and an idea of the cost, with the EU promising Money it does not have? Ukraine aid: Europe pledges Kyiv a whopping €156 billion, while US solidarity with Zelensky costs less than €70 billion

While the remaining Western leaders gather at the G20 summit, it's notable that Russia and China's Presidents have chosen not to participate. Russia's absence is likely due to the ongoing Ukraine situation, whereas China's President might have declined because President Biden sought a one-on-one meeting, which may not align with China's priorities.

The G20 conference itself may revolve around these dynamics, as not all 20 member states share the same views on using military power to resolve conflicts or have different historical perspectives on the causes and effects of international developments. Finding a solution to conflicts is a pressing demand, not merely a necessity, considering the global context.

This situation could lead to discussions about BRICS, which the US may want to approach cautiously, as its development could potentially pose more challenges than a Europe-Russia economic alliance due to the shift in global economic power dynamics.

China and Russia see the G-20, the association of the world's 20 largest industrialized countries, as an obsolete model and will therefore reduce their participation in this organization. This is the reason why neither Chinese leader Xi Jinping nor Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin will travel to the upcoming G-20 summit in the Indian capital New Delhi. The international arrest warrant against Putin has no effect in India.

This is the conclusion reached by British analyst Alexander Mercouris in a conversation on the vlog "The Duran".

A second reason for Xi's absence: The Chinese is not interested in a personal meeting with US President Joe Biden. Washington, however, had worked hard behind the scenes to ensure that such a meeting could take place in Delhi. Xi, however, deeply distrusts Biden and told him this personally during a phone call: Biden promises something, but his administration does the opposite.

As the tragic conflict in Ukraine continues, the world also grapples with other noteworthy issues:

In the realm of sports, an incident involving the suspension of an official over an unwelcome celebratory kiss and the dismissal of a successful coach in Spain raise questions about decision-making and perceptions. These incidents prompt discussions about gender dynamics in sports, with some advocating for inclusivity, while others express concerns about biological differences.
Shifting our focus to politics, we witness the impact of the Biden administration's policies, often referred to as "Bidenomics" and "Bidenbiology." Despite diplomatic challenges and concerns about rhetoric, the United States maintains formidable military capabilities that serve as a counterbalance.
Reflecting on international relations, there was once an opportunity for a vote in Ukraine regarding regional affiliations, with the possibility that the contested region might have chosen to join Russia by a significant margin. However, this proposal was rejected by certain Democratic leaders who argued that such an election could be manipulated. It remains a question whether President Zelensky and President Biden possess insights that elude the general public.
The reluctance to pursue such a vote may be influenced by the continued presence of political figures associated with the Bush/Cheney wing of the party.

Bloody promotion : U.S. warmonger Victoria Nuland becomes Deputy Secretary of State

Those who had hoped that the US would end the Ukraine carnage were disappointed: Victoria Nuland, ruthless warmonger, was promoted. Now she has more opportunities to advance her hard-hitting agenda.

Nuland is said to be deputy secretary of state for the time being. For a permanent vocation, obstacles still have to be cleared out of the way.

The hawks rejoice. After all, Nuland played a major role in the outbreak of war in the first place. It orchestrated the overthrow of Ukrainian President Yanukovych, it installed Arseniy "Yaz" Yatsenyuk as a loyal prime minister, it gave the Europeans the middle finger: "Fuck the EU."

She irritated Russia to the point of blood.

She was always up for wars: for President George W. Bush, the diplomat drummed for the Iraq war, under Barack Obama for the invasion of Afghanistan.

Now that it's finally up against Russia, her favorite enemy, Nuland isn't going to stop anytime soon. Her career move will cost many people their lives.

Economics – August 2023

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 13:02:46 GMT

Economics – August 2023

While the United States boasts about its Oil and Liquefied Gas exports to Europe, and European political pundits applaud their decision, there is a significant downside to this. It renders the European, especially German, industries less competitive. In the event that Ukraine were to halt gas deliveries – a possibility if Germany were to cease complying with US directives – the consequences could be severe.

If no Russian gas flows through Ukraine to Europe , there is a risk of Germany's economic standstill. Economics Minister Robert Habeck warned of this as early as June 14, 2023 in an article in the newspaper Die Welt . Literally, it says: "If Russian gas did not come to Eastern Europe to the extent that it still flows through Ukraine, what was agreed in Europe applies: Before the people there freeze, we would have to reduce or even shut down our industry."

The statement at the time is interesting in the current context: the government of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky does not want to participate in talks with Russia on the transit of Russian gas through Ukrainian territory. «We will most certainly not participate in talks with the Russians, this is absolutely clear,» said Ukrainian Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko.

While no one is openly discussing sanctions anymore, they have indeed proven effective for the United States. In contrast, Germany is facing a hefty price to pay, potentially putting the entire European Union in a precarious position. It's worth noting that while the EU is increasing taxes, it continues to spend lavishly. Meanwhile, Germany needs to pass its own industrial bill to weather a significant recession. This situation appears to be part of Bidenomics, an effort to strengthen ties between Germany and the US, possibly with the expectation that Germany will invest more in the US.

Regarding BRIC and its impact on the future, as the US solidifies its status as a global democratic leader, it seems that the free world may be contracting due to questionable economic decisions like sanctions and interference in global conflicts. The Ukraine War raises questions about whether it's primarily about promoting democracy or securing economic interests in Ukraine's resources and, ultimately, weakening Russia and gaining access to its natural resources. One might consider the evolution of trade from the early ages and ponder whether the proliferation of associations, regulations, and influence has led to what we've lost. Is it not possible for organizations like the WTO or similar regulatory constructs to effectively lead complex negotiations and provide a calming influence?

BRIC, as discussed in this article , may become more attractive to certain European countries if the Ukraine War drags on. With its connections in Africa and South America, BRIC could potentially become a formidable force countering Western alliances in the next 15 years and challenging Western influence or dominance on the world stage.

As for the United States, despite the fanfare and investments, inflation persists, leading to weakening consumer confidence. Nevertheless, the overall economic picture remains somewhat positive, with a growth rate of perhaps around 1%. Recent delegations, including Secretary Raimondo's, have been engaging in discussions with China, and some financial elites are advocating for the removal of Trump's tariffs. Germany's reluctance or economic impossibility to distance itself from China, coupled with BRIC's growing influence, might indicate that the US elite is concerned that China's progress could proceed without significant US involvement. This doesn't seem to be a position of strength.

Another intriguing article you mentioned pertains to the Biden administration's emphasis on the effectiveness of sanctions, despite the Ruble's devaluation. Interestingly, the Russian economy still outpaces that of the EU. With various companies withdrawing from Russia, it raises questions about whether they underestimated Russia's ability to manage without their presence. The economic impact of the war, with hundreds of thousands of casualties in Ukraine and Russia, prompts one to ponder the cost and purpose of it all. And as for the source of cheap energy, it remains a topic of interest.

Despite the sanctions regime, Europe is importing record volumes of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG), the Financial Times reports. In the first seven months of this year, Belgium and Spain were the second and third largest buyers. Only China purchased more LNG from its neighboring country. This was the result of an analysis by the NGO Global Witness.

Overall, European liquefied natural gas imports from Russia increased by 40 percent between January and July compared to 2021, before the start of the Ukraine war. The jump is so high because the EU states previously mainly purchased pipeline gas. Nevertheless, the increase is surprisingly high, as Russia's LNG exports have increased by only 6 percent overall.

Part of the Economy and perhaps the reason GDP growth kept steady? Global military spending has reached a new high. Mainly due to the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, they rose by 3.7 percent to 2.24 trillion dollars in 2022 after adjusting for inflation, the equivalent of around 2.04 trillion euros, according to the Stockholm peace research institute SIPRI. For the eighth year in a row, the countries of the world invested more money in the military than in the previous year.

The USA remains the clear leader, Germany seventh. "The continuous increase in global military spending in recent years is a sign that we live in an increasingly uncertain world," said Sipri researcher Nan Tian. In response to the deteriorating security environment, states strengthened their militaries - and they did not expect this environment to change for the better in the near future.

And now what is the word about Ukraine Corruption? Was Mr. Biden asking to remove the wrong Prosecutor, so that the channels do not get interrupted?

Nearly all surveyed Ukrainians — 89% — in a newly released survey said corruption was the country's most serious problem after the war against Russia. The poll came out as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy launched an investigation into bribery related to military recruitment.

Energy - August 2023

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 20:36:31 GMT

Energy – August, 2023

Are rational voices gaining more influence in the climate and energy debate? Once it becomes clear that Germany, despite its progressive green agenda, is facing significant economic challenges, there are voices emerging that argue the future will require a balance of all available resources, including fossil fuels.

Here, the new President of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, a UN advisory board, delivers one of his initial addresses on this matter.

Together with co-authors of the latest reports of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, he has always attached great importance to seeing the "silver lining". The technologies and instruments to mitigate climate change are available, they just need to be applied. "The future of mankind is in our hands. Let's take advantage of that," said Skea, 69.

This opinion analysis, though slightly tangential to the climate and energy discourse, remains just as intriguing and is relevant across various debates within the Western world. While the study was carried out in Europe, its applicability to the US is not diminished. As a personal observation, could hunting and fishing also be considered potential sources of intolerance?

In future conversations, consider the notion of YIPS within your family dynamics: YIPS stands for "Young Illiberal Progressives."

" Left-wing, urban, educated – and intolerant". This is the title of a study by the Mercator Forum on Migration and Democracy at the Center for Constitutional and Democracy Research at the Technical University of Dresden. This shows the urban-rural divide in Europe. Their conclusion: Those who consider themselves to be particularly open are the least accepting of political opinions. On the contrary, with this attitude they contribute significantly to the increasing polarization.

The study "Polarization in Germany and Europe – A Study on Social Divisive Tendencies in Ten European Countries" with a total of 20,000 respondents focused on seven major topics – climate change, immigration, Covid, equality of women, dealing with sexual minorities, war in Ukraine, and social benefits and their financing. It was not only about the attitudes of the respondents to these issues, but also about how they perceive dissenters.

The results show that the common cliché that people in urban areas are more tolerant and open than in rural areas does not correspond to reality. Rather, it was found that the more educated, richer, urban, and left-wing someone is, the less they accept people with deviant worldviews. Conservative people with lower incomes and less education were more generous and tolerant.

If you've had the chance to read " White Guilt " by Shelby Steele, it's intriguing to observe how the blueprint outlined in that book seems to have manifested in various aspects of activists and pseudo-scientists.

We live in a period of guilty conscience: wrong diet, wrong holiday destination, wrong means of transport, wrong friends and so on. Every piece of news, no matter how absurd, that hits one of these notches releases the guilty conscience that has been painstakingly kept in check. The professor's opinion is therefore the excitement of the day today.

We should get rid of it, the guilty conscience. Then absurdities don't stand a chance.

Has the ESG dream reached the end of its cycle? Here's a perspective from 2022: In light of recent political upheavals, it's becoming evident that ESG initiatives may have been primarily motivated by financial portfolio performance goals rather than genuine ESG content. Put simply, it raises questions about whether ESG has been wielded as a manipulative political tool to determine winners and losers, potentially undermining the democratic process .

On a different note, it's intriguing to note the relative silence surrounding the Tonga Hunga Volcano. While some scientists argue that an eruption over land could have led to catastrophic consequences, it's worth considering whether the Tonga eruption might have played a role in certain weather outcomes.

Global warming is being accelerated by gigantic underwater volcanic eruptions. Nevertheless, research is sticking to the fixed idea that CO2 is to blame.

Water instead of ash and sulfur

On January 15, 2022, the eruption of the undersea volcano Hunga Tonga occurred in the South Pacific Ocean near the Tonga archipelago. 146 million tons of water were thrown up forty kilometers into the stratosphere. Water vapor, by far the world's dominant greenhouse gas, increased by 10 to 15 percent in the stratosphere. According to NASA, the Hunga Tonga explosion is the largest known water eruption into the stratosphere.

Normally, volcanoes such as Pinatubo shoot ash and sulfur compounds into the atmosphere, causing cooling. The Hunga Tonga, meanwhile, lies 150 meters below the surface of the water and has therefore mainly catapulted water upwards. Water vapor in the stratosphere leads to an increase in temperature. Due to the lack of wind currents in the stratosphere, the water vapor disperses only slowly, so that the peak of the temperature increase can be expected one to two years after the event, i.e. this year. According to Susan Solomon, a stratospheric physicist at MIT, the global temperature will increase by about 0.05 degrees Celsius for three to five years. Precipitation on Earth will also increase over the next five years. Given an average increase in temperature over the last forty years of 0.014 degrees Celsius per year, the increase is about doubled by Hunga Tonga.

Climate and atmospheric impact

The eruption produced a high eruption column , reaching elevations of 57 kilometers (35 mi) and thus reaching into the mesosphere ; this is the highest known eruption column in history. [69] The column developed multiple "umbrella"-like clouds, a higher one in the stratosphere and a lower at about 17 km (11 mi) elevation, [70] and generated a terrestrial gamma-ray flash . [71] The column injected a large quantity of water into the stratosphere, where it disturbed the local temperature balance and caused the formation of anomalous winds. [72]

Large volcanic eruptions can inject large amounts of sulfur dioxide into the stratosphere, causing the formation of aerosol layers that reflect sunlight and can cause a cooling of the climate. In contrast, during the Hunga Tonga–Hunga Haʻapai eruption this sulfur was accompanied by large amounts of water vapor, which by acting as a greenhouse gas overrode the aerosol effect and caused a net warming of the climate system. [73] One study estimated a 7% increase in the probability that global warming will exceed 1.5 °C (2.7 °F) in at least one of the next five years, [74] although greenhouse gas emissions and climate policy to mitigate them remain the major determinant of this risk. [75]

Fact or Fiction: Today's reporting presents options of starvation, drowning, or heat exhaustion, urging readers to explore the link for more insight and contemplation.

The CO2 Coalition was established in 2015 as a 501(c)(3) for the purpose of educating thought leaders, policy makers, and the public about the important contribution made by carbon dioxide to our lives and the economy. The Coalition seeks to engage in an informed and dispassionate discussion of climate change, humans’ role in the climate system, the limitations of climate models, and the consequences of mandated reductions in CO2 emissions.

Climate Investment – see where the Money goes, The recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic and the response to the global energy crisis have provided a major boost to global clean energy investment .

This new World Energy Investment 2023 (WEI 2023) report is the eighth in our annual series where we provide the global benchmark for tracking capital flows in the energy sector. The last few years have been a period of extreme disruption for the energy sector. The new WEI 2023 offers an opportunity to take stock of what this has meant for investment, and what those investments might mean in turn for the future security and sustainability of the energy sector. The shock to the system from the global energy crisis has come at a time of increasingly visible impacts of a changing climate and has taken many forms. Price spikes created strong economic incentives to increase supply and to find alternative or more efficient ways to meet demand. Energy security shocks created powerful incentives for policy makers to reduce vulnerabilities and dependencies, while also – for many developing economies in particular – draining the financial resources available to address them.

US Politics - August, 2023

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 17:03:51 GMT

US Politics - August 2023

Hunter and Joe Biden's " Nothingburger ," seriously? I'm not sure if the original write-up is by Robert Kelly , but let's use it as an example of "opinion news," perhaps from a "Never Trumper." However, it seems to rely more on "wishful outcomes" rather than the objectivity you'd expect from experts and reporters. None of them have actually posed the question: why was Joe Biden present in the room when Hunter had these non-business calls? Why was Hunter officially on Air Force 2 if not for business trips? What was his purpose at that time, and how were U.S. taxpayers reimbursed for the private use of Air Force 2? Did Joe Biden truly need Hunter to make calls just to say hello?

It would truly take a considerable oversight or a strong activist approach for reporters not to delve into this investigation and provide evidence, if there's no involvement from the Vice President. Therefore, they should at least clarify Hunter's business model and the reason he needed Joe in the room. By "business model," I mean which projects were financed through the money transfers—were they solely political maneuvers? These questions should be relatively easy to answer.

On the other hand, former President Trump, according to the same media, is portrayed as guilty of a wide range of allegations, including ruining the country, undermining democracy, engaging in criminal behavior, corruption, conspiracy, and whatever Trump detractors can uncover. On the contrary, if we examine the ongoing investigations and court cases, they often seem to be presided over by judges appointed by Obama, Clinton, and Bush II, resulting in a largely Democratic-leaning judicial landscape. This includes even the Jan 6 panel.

Here's a concise overview of all these ongoing cases . I encourage you to take a look and assess whether there's a discernible political bias influencing them.

If one upholds the principles of democracy and stands in its support, it's crucial to remember that fundamental elements include effective communication and mutual respect—respect for the people and their diverse opinions. In every society, there exist fringe elements, which can be considered as undemocratic forces. It's worth noting that groups like Antifa, from a political standpoint, are equally accountable as any right-wing organization. Neither faction should be given a platform to propagate their ideologies.

The exploitation of the George Floyd case for political purposes is just as misguided as the events of Jan 6—by that, I mean not just the demonstration itself, but the subsequent breach of the Capitol building. Both incidents chip away at the core principles of democracy and should be subject to the same legal treatment.

Hopefully, both political parties can eventually return to more civil and transparent politics. On a global scale, it's important to have leaders who refrain from instigating local conflicts that could escalate into global wars. Military power should not be wielded for political gain or to further fuel conflicts.

I've noticed the latest polls for 2024, and if you're hoping for opponents with different names, you might be an optimist. It seems the establishment prefers Biden due to his compliance with orders and his drive for personal power. Meanwhile, no one seems to be able to overshadow Trump—his following remains steadfast. And should the "never Trumpers" once again align with the Democrats, as they did in 2022, there's still a year for them to contemplate that choice.

Speaking candidly, the bias in reporting is evident, especially when it comes to the media's extensive coverage of Trump's golfing habits.

With the Ukrainian conflict continuing, it's worth examining what truly motivates U.S. interests in this situation. Here's an article from Europe that reflects voices from Germany, shedding light on the matter.

What is actually being defended in Ukraine? The billions invested by American mining and agricultural corporations? The business of the president's son Hunter Biden? The stock prices of U.S. defense contractors? For heaven's sake, no! They are our values, our freedom, our democracy.

In any case, Sabre-rattlers such as Michael Roth (SPD), Anton Hofreiter (Greens), Roderich Kiesewetter (CDU), and Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann (FDP) are preaching. Good for them that Ukrainians are being killed for the noble goal. After all, it probably wouldn't work with their own compatriots: they adorn themselves. The number of Germans who do not want to shoot in the war has increased fivefold. In order to defend his values, the German soldier prefers to keep auxiliary troops. What does this insight do to the talk show war drummers? In any case, mouth heroes. They are cowardly and embarrassing. But mouth heroes who send others to their deaths with martial talk are not embarrassing. They are inhumane.

Here is an article from 2015 about Ukrainian Farmland . Notice 2014 was the year of the Maidan Coup, and here we see Bill Bowder , with an interesting case of political investing as well. Note when Yeltsin bankrupted the Russian people in 1990, western sharks like Bill Browder sought to get control or Russian assets, which lead to the Oligarch system, but its certainly always political. Here is a Wiki on the Hermitage Fund . And what does Bill Bowder do today, sour grapes because he did not get his way and personal revenge? He certainly has Anthony Blinken’ Ea r . Now the Oligarchs send the Money to Dubai.

We now wonder if all the Money he made had nothing to do with Special Friends? Perhaps he should have bought US Farmland and Oil Fields. You can ask yourself, "why would we sell Farmland to the Chinese but invest in the Ukraine and elsewhere?

And the last thought, remember the Bush Doctrine:

Is that so far from the current situation we are seeing in Ukraine?

Reading liberal News in the US like the Washington Post or Swiss and German outlets, many refer to sources close to the War. One of the weekly columnists in Switzerland has this to say about Russians:

Empathy and imagination, Sergei Gerasimov is a Ukrainian who makes no secret of his hatred of the Russians. He refers to them as "orcs". This name fits "damn well with them", Gerasimov thinks, because Russians are "malicious, aggressive monsters", stupid, simple-minded, and dirty. "All the Russians we see on the news are ugly." He avoids the Nazi word "Untermensch". But it sweats through such lines.

Gerasimov lives on the third floor of an apartment block in the eastern Ukrainian city of Kharkiv and experiences the war – depending on the course of the front – sometimes more, sometimes less directly. His hatred is nourished anew every day, by his own appearance, but also by the consumption of Ukrainian media. His hatred is as legitimate as it is emotionally, as justified as it is irrational.

The only mystery is why the Neue Zurcher Zeitung has provided a forum for this hate preacher since the beginning of the war. She has published many dozens of his texts – called "War Diary". The author combines "powers of observation and knowledge of human nature, empathy and imagination, a sense of the absurd and inquiring intelligence," the editors enthuse. Forgotten in this list was the author's omnipresent Russophobia, which is likely to occasionally violate the Swiss anti-racism penal norm.

Note Chris Christie on Brett Bair drew from the same sources when talking about the War in Ukraine, if you visit Zelinsky, this is a picture you get.

If you follow the War on a daily basis, look for the Ukrainian propaganda bloggers, and according to the WAPO, President Biden can do no wrong? Note Sergei had no problem when AZOV people killed Russians since 2014, after the Maidan Coup, but then Obama and Biden could do no wrong? Russia phobia, the same outlets suffer Trump phobia, and the US led NATO perhaps the culprit, while the US is burning more Money in the Ukraine?

While the US is busy with Bidenomics and DEI politics, is the World forming a new alliance?

“BRICS is a grouping of the world economies of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa formed by the 2010 addition of South Africa to the predecessor BRIC. The original acronym "BRIC" (or "the BRICs") was coined in 2001 by Goldman Sachs economist Jim O'Neill to describe fast-growing economies that would collectively dominate the global economy by 2050."

More on this after the next Conference later in August in South Africa.

As the Women's World Cup in Australia/New Zealand is currently underway, it's noteworthy that some of the top teams, such as Germany and the US, have been eliminated either in the group stages or the initial knockout round. Is this due to chance, coaching decisions, or player representation? It might be a combination of factors. In the case of the US, however, there's a notable absence of questioning regarding whether some members of the older generation prioritized their personal ideologies over the national team's success.

It's important not to be misled into believing that Megan Rapinoe couldn't have been replaced after the 2019 World Cup to kickstart a rebuilding process. Could political pressure within the US Soccer Federation have played a role in retaining her, given her advocacy for kneeling, support for the Black Lives Matter movement, and other social issues? Her continued presence doesn't seem to be solely due to soccer skills, but it may have come at the expense of numerous talents who have had their opportunities deferred for an additional five years due to Rapinoe's presence.

Geopolitical Focus – August 2023

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 18:22:10 GMT

Geopolitical Focus – August 2023

What should people value in today's global politics, especially considering how even light bulbs have become political, and non-democratic systems are often challenged through warfare, if not meeting US standards?

What's NATO's role, encompassing all of Europe except Russia, while the EU, a political entity, excludes some NATO members? If China invaded the US, would Europe (NATO members) need to send troops to the US or show solidarity by defending Taiwan?

Previously, the EU primarily focused on trade, addressing wealth disparities to a degree, but now, higher taxes and debt distribution under EU regulations raise concerns of suppressed democracies, akin to past powers.

Why impose Ukraine-related sanctions and EU rules on sovereign nations like Switzerland with true people's democracy and neutrality? With a strengthened NATO supported by legal and financial means and a global green agenda, it's possible NATO could become the EU's military arm, while the EU enforces compliance on non-members through sanctions. The US already does this with Ukraine, and Western democracies follow suit. Diplomacy, not war, is the answer – through inclusive trade agreements that benefit the world, embracing both poorer nations and those with different democratic standards.

Wer gehofft hatte, dass die USA das Ukraine-Gemetze l beenden würden, wurde enttäuscht: Victoria Nuland, unbarmherzige Kriegstreiberin, wurde befördert. Nun hat sie mehr Möglichkeiten, ihre knallharte Agenda voranzutreiben.

Those who had hoped that the US would end the Ukraine carnage were disappointed: Victoria Nuland, ruthless warmonger, was promoted. Now she has more opportunities to advance her hard-hitting agenda.

Victoria Nuland, CIA operative and responsible for the 2014 Maidan Coup:
From 2003 to 2005, Nuland served as the principal deputy foreign policy adviser to Vice President Dick Cheney , exercising an influential role during the Iraq War . From 2005 to 2008, during President George W. Bush 's second term, Nuland served as U.S. ambassador to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in Brussels, where she concentrated on mobilizing European support for the NATO intervention in Afghanistan . [15]

In May 2013, Nuland was nominated to act as assistant secretary of state for European and Eurasian affairs [18] and was sworn in on September 18, 2013. [19] In her role as assistant secretary, she managed diplomatic relations with fifty countries in Europe and Eurasia, as well as with NATO, the European Union and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe.

She departed from the department during the Trump administration, and her husband, Robert Kagan, who is associated with Billy Krystal, seems poised to sustain the momentum of the war machine.

Kagan has stated that "all Republican foreign policy professionals are anti-Trump," which raises the question whether this implies they are proponents of imperialism. Both Kagan and Krystal are staunch backers of the anti-Trump movement.

In 2003, Kagan's book Of Paradise and Power: America and Europe in the New World Order, published on the eve of the US invasion of Iraq , created something of a sensation through its assertions that Europeans tended to favor peaceful resolutions of international disputes while the United States takes a more "Hobbesian" view in which some kinds of disagreement can only be settled by force, or, as he put it: "Americans are from Mars and Europe is from Venus."

The situation seems unending, with ongoing Western propaganda and a death toll surpassing half a million on both sides, not to mention the significant number of people left disabled. Furthermore, the US has recently increased efforts in the production of ammunition. Interestingly, there's a pursuit of sanctions against Switzerland, while Russia appears to be shifting its focus towards Dubai.

U.S. parliamentarians are convinced that Switzerland is one of the most evil sanction breakers in favor of Russia. Not only the banks, but also commodity traders. According to agency reports, the U.S. Treasury Department wanted to make representations to the Commodity Trading Association in Geneva on Monday. Suspicion: circumventing sanctions in the oil business.

Recovery due to Ukraine crisis

Perhaps it would not be a bad idea if the American investigators did not look around in Geneva, but in Dubai. The glittering city has become an important hub for the Russian oil trade and has replaced Geneva as the main location for traders who sell Russian oil to consumers all over the world.

It remains to be seen how durable the notion of a united Western front will prove. China will likely navigate a strategic balance among various countries, weighing tariffs against the prospect of conflict with the US, along with considerations of future investments. There's also noteworthy German expansion toward China on the European front, which, while not excessively detrimental, still holds significance. On another note, due to the aftermath of Ukrainian War sanctions and the emphasis on the green agenda, Germany is grappling with a substantial economic downturn, resulting in numerous smaller companies facing bankruptcy.

Top export destinations of commodities from Germany in 2022:

USA with a share of 9.92% (165 billion US$)
France with a share of 7.31% (121 billion US$)
Netherlands with a share of 6.83% (113 billion US$)
China with a share of 6.8% (113 billion US$)
Poland with a share of 5.67% (94 billion US$)
Italy with a share of 5.51% (91 billion US$)
Austria with a share of 5.2% (86 billion US$)
United Kingdom with a share of 4.68% (78 billion US$)
Switzerland with a share of 4.59% (76 billion US$)
Belgium with a share of 3.86% (64 billion US$)

And here is the import side, mostly minerals / materials form China

Germany's imports 2022 by country

Top trading partners (import sources) of Germany in 2022:

China with a share of 12.9% (204 billion US$)
Netherlands with a share of 7.57% (119 billion US$)
USA with a share of 6.21% (97 billion US$)
Poland with a share of 5.16% (81 billion US$)
Special Categories with a share of 5.13% (80 billion US$)
Italy with a share of 4.82% (76 billion US$)
France with a share of 4.65% (73 billion US$)
Belgium with a share of 3.88% (61 billion US$)
Czech Republic with a share of 3.84% (60 billion US$)
Switzerland with a share of 3.82% (60 billion US$)

Is the EU acting as a warmonger under the guise of humanitarian aid, essentially fueling conflict with funds from European taxpayers through an unelected organization? Is this truly the role the EU should play, or should conditions require a ceasefire before allocating funds? While NATO's support for Ukraine extends the conflict with US backing, the EU seemingly aligns with Washington's objectives, potentially leaving EU member states in a state of collective defeat.

As for evidence of the US's transparency and openness about the war, consider that Erdogan might have consented to Sweden's NATO entry in exchange for continuing to supply Russian oil to Ukraine. What alternative fuel sources does Ukraine have? Could it turn to the Middle East, even Iran, or any nation deemed adversarial by the US? Perhaps even the US itself through its strategic reserves via China? It's all part of a political game orchestrated by politicians.

Unbelievable, but true: Ukrainian tanks are increasingly running on Russian fuel. According to Ukrainian customs, the diesel comes from Hungary and Turkey – which source the oil for their refineries from Russia.

Especially in recent times, these imports of crude oil are said to have increased noticeably. At the same time, Hungary's leading oil company MOL, in which the state holds a stake of almost 25 percent, has doubled its sales to Ukraine in the past six months. Due to an exemption from the European Union, the company is allowed to continue importing Russian oil. - This is reported by the German Handelsblatt.

Economics – July 2023

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 19:53:45 GMT

Bidenomics is proving effective, as evidenced by a positive and supportive article highlighting the driving force of investments in infrastructure, chip technology, and green initiatives. However, some people question the basis for crediting these recently approved plans for the success. Additionally, they wonder if the 2.4% growth in one quarter truly provides a comprehensive picture. It's possible that we are merely returning to the pre-COVID normal state.

Or are the fifteen million jobs created merely hypothetical?

An infrastructure program would create 3.4 million jobs in the Southeast, 3.2 million jobs in the Pacific Coastal region, 2.8 million jobs in the Midwest, 2.4 million jobs in the Mid-Atlantic, 1.9 million jobs in the Southwest, and 713,000 jobs in New England. ( source )

The PMI index does not reflect the momentum for sustained growth, leading to doubts about its accuracy. Some speculate that the apparent growth may be attributed to increased weapons deliveries, depleting strategic reserves, and the sale of "Russian" gas and oil, which might have been imported via China to Europe. These factors could potentially be influencing the economic situation and need to be considered in assessing the overall economic performance.

US Factory Activity Shrinks the Most in Nearly 3 Years: ISM

The ISM Manufacturing PMI in the United States fell to 46 in June 2023, from 46.9 in May and below forecasts of 47. The reading pointed to a faster rate of contraction in the manufacturing sector since May 2020, with companies managing outputs down as softness continues and optimism about the second half of 2023 weakening. “Demand remains weak, production is slowing due to lack of work, and suppliers have capacity. There are signs of more employment reduction actions in the near term", Timothy Fiore, Chair of the ISM said. In June, declines were seen in new orders (45.6 vs 42.6), production (46.7 vs 51.1), employment (48.1 vs 51.4), inventories (44 vs 45.8) and backlog of orders (38.7 vs 37.5). Also, price pressures eased (41.8 vs 44.2) and the supplier deliveries index increased to 45.7 from 43.5, a sign manufacturing lead times improved again. On the other hand, the customers’ inventories index dropped into ‘too low’ territory (46.2 vs 51.4), a positive for future production. 2023-07-03

Germany on the other Hand is a bit different and its growth perspective has improved.. Well if if you include statistical errors.

And what about the Sanctions and its influence on the Russian Economy? Information provided h ere from the Vienna Institute for International Economic Studies.

After a sharp downturn in Q2 2022, the economy stabilized in the second half of the year and is projected to broadly stagnate in 2023. The overall picture masks the very uneven impact of the war and the sanctions across sectors: while domestic trade and industries that depend heavily on cross-border linkages have suffered, military production and certain import-substituting sectors have flourished. The recently imposed energy sanctions have dealt government revenue a heavy blow and will contribute to budget deficits being much higher in the years ahead.

The recession in Germany and inflation are weighing on the economies of the region, especially in the Visegrád countries. Russia will grow due to an arms boom, Ukraine should recover somewhat.

The Russian Economy in a Graph?

A good year and a half after the start of the Ukraine war, Western sanctions against Russia have missed their target, according to a leading economist. "The sanctions have failed," said Vasily Astrov of the Vienna Institute for International Economic Studies. Despite Western punitive measures and the burdens of the war, Russia is experiencing remarkable economic growth.

"The state and companies have adapted to the war of aggression against Ukraine and Western sanctions at an impressive pace," he said in an interview with the German news channel NTV. Even wages and salaries would rise.

The population will be affected to varying degrees by the sanctions. While the middle class is feeling the sanctions, poorer classes are experiencing positive effects due to labor shortages and higher wages. In general, private consumption has recovered quickly after a brief slump at the beginning of the war.

Overall, the sanctions have largely failed, Astrov concludes. Only the European import embargo on oil and the restrictions in the high-tech sector could have a long-term impact on Russia. Nevertheless, this is not enough to force President Putin to give in, according to experts.

Read the original German text here .

Finally, here is an opinion piece on Russia from people that claim Bidenomics work.. You may notice some good differences. As for the Ruble, not sure why they claim it lost all its value? Graph Source

Energy - July 2023

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 15:56:25 GMT

Energy – July, 2023

Burning Forests for Wind and Solar? Are we really suffering under the Sun or is it just political greening?

On the Greek island of Rhodes, it is "forest fire dry" every year: "Whether it comes to a forest fire depends solely on whether any person sets fire there – intentionally or negligently." Vegetation only burns at 250 to 300 degrees. At 40 degrees, a forest does not start to burn faster than at 0 degrees. "The fact that many people have not yet understood this is devastating. Some debates make me feel like I've been transported back to the early Middle Ages."

Auf der griechischen Insel Rhodos sei es jedes Jahr «waldbrandtrocken»: «Ob es zu einem Waldbrand kommt, hängt einzig und allein davon ab, ob irgendein Mensch dort Feuer legt – absichtlich oder fahrlässig.» Vegetation brenne erst bei 250 bis 300 Grad. Bei 40 Grad beginne ein Wald nicht schneller zu brennen als bei 0 Grad. «Dass dies viele Leute noch nicht verstanden haben, ist verheerend. Bei manchen Debatten fühle ich mich ins Frühmittelalter zurückversetzt.

While all the Climate activists and the believers in the doomsday scenarios including the green parties and left leaning politicians and media’s are touting every opportunity as Forest Fires, hot days as record on a daily basis, we hear nothing about other weather conditions that actually might be as normal or out of line as ever.

The peak of information about Forest Fires might have been Greece and Spain, but we all know that tourism and real estate investments are both keys in those countries for its GDP, and as California and perhaps Canada Forest mismanagement is the real culprit, its is more deliberate burning, and some even argue that in Greece the Forest were burned to erect wind and photovoltaic infrastructure? Well if Land is tight and you want to convert to Green, the easiest way is to burn the Land you need, it is all to save the Planet?

Here two competitive reports, one that is supporting the Climate change as dramatic as possible as quasi arm of the European Union, if you take the time to read through these reports, it may not be as bad as politics wishes? Nius.de in German but the Graphs show the essence, and here from EU Science Hub .

The supposedly steadily rising average temperature is also put into perspective: According to official data from the US space agency Nasa on climate change, the average temperature in 2022 did not exceed the value of 2015.

Auch die vermeintlich stetig emporkletternde Durchschnittstemperatur wird relativiert: Laut offiziellen Daten der US-Raumfahrtbehörde Nasa zum Klimawandel hat die Durchschnittstemperatur im Jahr 2022 den Wert von 2015 nicht überstiegen .

Perhaps the whole panic mode is nothing but political fabric to justify the global Energy crisis and its conversion to Green, that especially has thrown Germany into a recession as the Energy prices have stalled investments and the German Companies rather move out, and one preferred destination is the US as it offers great incentives with Government supported plans as the Infrastructure Bill, Jobs Act and others.

If you wish it was bit cooler, see Johannesburg , but that is certainly as well attributed to Climate Change? But that is once a decade, so still important to remember that it might not be worth mentioning in a conversation.

You may ask what climate has to do with Energy, everything as it drives the Energy agenda? A German transition in desperation, as in this report there was no mention of any positives but Government subsidies and shortage, and a daily changing plan, with the latest strategy hydrogen, but at what cost of the entire transition.

Following a John Kerry visit to China, to push the urgency the West and especially the UN (the world is burning) end of time scenario, China is going its own way and is under no rush to give in the Mr. Kerry’s plea to save the World.

If you think the Solar and Wind world energy will be sufficient, have you ever thought about the storage capacity needed, or the cost of a dual (fossil or nuclear if needed) system, but if Batteries are the carriers for storage, Lithium needs a refresher that could come in the form of a solid-state Battery?

The battery of the future comes from Switzerland – and will soon be ready for use. In October, the Managing Director of Swiss Clean Battery (SCB), Thomas Lützenrath, plans to publicly present the world's first solid-state battery in series production.

A single cell measures 13 by 13 centimeters and fits into most battery-powered applications, from power storage systems for grid stabilization to industrial and home storage systems to cars, ships, and, eventually, airplanes. The technology could outshine the previous lithium-ion batteries.

Die Batterie der Zukunft kommt aus der Schweiz – und ist demnächst bereit für den Einsatz. Im Oktober will der Geschäftsführer von Swiss Clean Battery (SCB), Thomas Lützenrath, die weltweit erste Feststoffbatterie in Serienfertigung öffentlich vorstellen.

Eine einzelne Zelle misst 13 mal 13 Zentimeter und passt in die meisten batteriebetriebenen Anwendungen, von Stromspeichern zur Netzstabilisierung über Industrie- und Heimspeicher bis hin zu Autos, Schiffen und später einmal auch Flugzeugen. Die Technologie könnte die bisherigen Lithium-Ionen-Akkus in den Schatten stellen.

It has become a bit quiet on the EV front, although our administration is still pushing the nationwide charging net, but unresolved issues remain and perhaps we will in 2-3 years find out that Batteries and EV’s are not the solution? See this article from the Manhattan Institute and think for yourself.

And here from the Battery experts themselves – it is not a real rosy picture, especially looking at the natural resources available?

For the ones worried about a disintegrating world from the Power of the Sun, who buy into the narrative that the hottest Day on Earth (+0.3 deg) are a matter of life and death may have been too long in an Air-conditioned room, thus heat becomes a real issue. Wonder how the people survived 100 deg days without AC and mostly physical labor in the fields picking? But here is John Kerry of the UN , he will make sure we keep burning, his name Jim Skea.

US Politics - July, 2023

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 21:36:33 GMT

US Politics - July 2023

What is the precise strategy of the US for Ukraine? During the NATO summit (attended by G7 Members and other Western alliances), the US President reaffirmed promises to support Ukraine. However, there have been instances where the President also promised F-16 fighter jets to President Erdogan in an apparent attempt to influence Turkey's stance on Sweden's acceptance into NATO. Additionally, prior to the summit, the US allowed the delivery of Cluster Bombs to Ukraine, a move that has now seemingly garnered acceptance from various parties. This raises the question of whether the end justifies the means.

(Note: Both the Turkish Parliament and the US Congress must approve Sweden's acceptance and the provision of F-16s to Turkey. Considering Turkey's NATO membership since 1952, this situation prompts speculation about whether it is a strategic move or a bribery attempt.)

Who produces cluster bombs?

Sixteen countries are still believed to be cluster munition producers, including China, Russia, and Israel. The United States no longer produces cluster munitions but retains the option to produce them in the future. A total of fifty-nine countries stockpiles several million cluster munitions worldwide. The United States has an estimated stockpile of three million cluster munitions. In contrast, Germany, France, Italy, and the United Kingdom, who have signed the Convention on Cluster Munitions, recently destroyed all of their stockpiles.

What does the Convention on Cluster Munitions say?

The Convention on Cluster Munitions (Oslo Convention) entered into force in August 2010. It has been signed by 119 States. The Convention bans the use, production, trade and stockpiling of cluster bombs. It also requires States Parties to provide victim assistance and to clear contaminated areas.

You can read the full report here.

However, the parties at the NATO summit pay great homage to the US President, particularly the NATO Secretary General, whose assignment was extended as the Alliance couldn't agree on a successor. This raises questions about whether the US seeks someone they can rely on with 100% ideological unity.

During a speech in Lithuania, Mr. Biden emphasized that the US has formed a coalition of 50 nations to ensure Ukraine's defense both presently and in the future. The coalition likely includes 31 NATO Members, Australia, New Zealand, some Pacific regions, Japan, and Taiwan. Notably, China, India, South America, the Middle East, and Africa are not part of this coalition. These 50 nations, often referred to as the Western alliance, appear to be placing their bets on green, renewable, and sustainable technologies, aiming for a future with reduced dependence on natural resources for survival.

In response to Russia's aggression, President Biden authorized an additional three thousand Reserves, bringing the total US troops in Europe to over 100,000. This includes new rotations of 10,000 troops in Poland, which has become a critical hub for supporting and supplying Ukraine. It's intriguing to question the necessity of troops "on the ground" in this context.

Furthermore, President Biden's promise to be around for the next five years seemingly guarantees a win in the 2024 elections. Despite the noise surrounding Hunter, it appears to have little impact on the media or political establishment. In the democratic process, this could potentially be a more significant factor than all of Trump's legal woes.

The Republicans are currently diverting campaign money to counter Trump's candidacy, but it hasn't diminished his lead. The nominee will face a well-funded democratic machine, backed by elite and left-leaning big donors while also claiming small donors, averaging $39 apiece. It remains to be seen if this money is well spent, as some may seek to radically change America and continue an elite-globalist agenda.

Certain Western news outlets have noted the unity among the US/NATO/G7 while also highlighting the importance of the Western world compared to the rest of the world and the unity among non-Western nations. This calls for the US and its allies to acknowledge that there can be multiple value systems, and a global world should engage in dialogue, accept differences, and address local skirmishes when they arise.

As for the press, there may be concerns about conformity and propaganda, similar to the issues surrounding Hunter and the Woke movement. People may perceive the climate change discussion as inducing fear about the end of the world, akin to a new Bible of the universe.

Let's observe if, by the end of the summer, the press adopts a more normalized language and fosters free speech for all, including diplomats, rather than promoting warmongering puppets in the administration. Such a change would be a beacon of hope.

Geopolitical Focus – July 2023

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 19:58:20 GMT

Geopolitical Focus – July 2023

Europe is currently at a pivotal juncture, particularly in countries like France and Germany, where a green-leftist agenda is gaining traction. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the undemocratic nature of the European Union, likening it to a dictatorship.

"Seit Einführung der Cancel-Culture sind die Parallelen zu autoritären Staaten nicht mehr zu übersehen"

"Since the introduction of the cancel culture, the parallels to authoritarian states can no longer be overlooked"

While Europe may seem stable on the surface, a closer examination of its domestic issues and the influence of globalists reveals underlying pressure points. In Germany, there is a growing concern about the authoritarian nature of the government's approach to green policies, climate change, and immigration. Similarly, France is grappling with significant social security and immigration challenges, which are taking a toll on its economy and welfare system. As the primary driving forces behind the European Union, one cannot help but question where this path will ultimately lead. The EU has been spending money it doesn't possess, with Germany and France relying on borrowed funds. This is highlighted in the latest report from the European Central Bank (ECB).

The outlook for euro area financial stability remains fragile amid weak macro-financial conditions and unexpected stress in the banking sectors of some mature economies.

As the European Union moves forward with its ambitious plans, the funding mechanism is often obscured under the term "own resources." In reality, these resources consist of money contributed by European citizens, akin to the historical example of the Habsburgs who collected a 10% tax on all goods. In essence, the EU budget relies on the financial contributions from its citizens to sustain its operations and initiatives.

"The current three main sources of revenue for the 2021-2027 EU budget are customs duties, contributions based on the Value Added Tax (VAT) collected by Member States, and direct contributions by EU countries, also known as Gross National Income (GNI)"

In simpler terms, the funding for the EU comes from the money paid by consumers. Additionally, the EU has the authority to impose other taxes, such as the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) taxes, without facing significant scrutiny or questioning. However, it is important to note that the democratic nature of the EU can be subject to debate. Similarly, organizations like the World Economic Forum (WEF) and other ideological entities can be seen as assuming a role of global governance rather than simply serving the world's interests. These organizations often operate based on a moralistic compass, viewing their actions as inherently good and labeling anything else as evil. Their mission statement presents:

"According to the European Union's official website , the union's purpose is to promote peace, establish a unified economic and monetary system, promote inclusion and combat discrimination, break down barriers to trade and borders, encourage technological and scientific developments, champion environmental protection, and, among others, promote goals like a competitive global market and social progress ."

Joe Biden and Vladimir Zelensky , who is running the war in Ukraine? The recent decision by the US to deliver Cluster Bombs to Ukraine, with a typical cynical explanation, raises concerns. This escalates the situation further and suggests desperation at the White House and Zelensky's end. Despite continuous demands for support, the Ukrainian people find themselves stuck in a cycle of escalating aggression from Russia. The senseless killings are expected to continue as both parties seek a favorable position for negotiations, without realizing that Zelensky may be jeopardizing the country's future. As we await the findings of the North Stream II bombing and Dam explosions, only Biden and Zelensky may know the true culprits. Speculation arises that Zelensky may hold more Trump cards than Biden, involving Hunter's payments.

There are parallels to be drawn with China as well, as mounting potential evidence suggests that the Bidens may be compromised. This could be one of the reasons for recent visits by Yellen and Blinken to China. However, the strategic approach and intentions of the US towards China remain unclear. Is it a "Good Cop Bad Cop" strategy, with Biden focusing on US-based manufacturing for job creation while others work towards a long-term relationship with China to prevent a takeover of Taiwan? Only the White House truly knows the answer.

In a hypothetical scenario, if Cuba were to invite China to build long-range missile capabilities to defend against potential US aggression, what would the argument be this time? Although Cuba remains a non-democratic nation and subject to sanctions, as it was in the 1960s, the justification for such actions remains uncertain.

Let me be clear, I have chosen the US as my country for all that it represents. Like any other country, it faces difficulties and challenges, past and present. However, taking a moment to reflect, one may wonder if a more diplomatic approach and democratic leadership would shine a better light. Currently, we are coercing Europe under our umbrella with the argument of defeating Russia in Ukraine, as the alternative would be Russia marching towards the Atlantic Ocean. Simultaneously, Russia adamantly opposes NATO presence in Ukraine. It raises the question of whether we have a global strategy or simply a global military defense mechanism.

Imagine having two toddlers, a sandbox, two shovels, but only one bucket. The situation could escalate into something sinister, so you decide to equip both toddlers with bigger shovels or get another bucket, or you may even sanction them by taking away their shovels. But what about the bucket? They may resort to using their fists. This is akin to what we see happening in Ukraine, with two children involved and many negligent "parents."

In essence, a different approach could be considered. Instead of placing 150,000 NATO troops around Ukraine (rather than spread across Europe), positioning them strategically within NATO territory (Poland), ensuring no NATO presence in Ukraine, and giving it one year for those Ukrainians who wish to join Russia to do so, while providing border security to those who despise Russia. Additionally, offering Russia genuine economic opportunities to integrate into the EU could be a win-win solution. However, this would be an absolute nightmare for war hawks. It is important to remember that Russia is not another Yugoslavia and can be easily reached by China, which still possesses enough military power to invade Taiwan. Negotiation and diplomacy should be pursued, focusing on a win-win outcome, rather than adopting the mindset of "we won the Cold War, so forget about them" as declared by the elder Bush, which initiated the process of marching east while Russia moved its troops from Berlin back home.

Energy - June 2023

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 14:47:08 GMT

Energy – June, 2023: Energiewende

In this June Report, we will keep it concise, with a particular focus on Germany and its ambitious goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2045, also known as the " Energiewende . "

" The German government has set a goal to become climate-neutral by 20451 . The EEG 2023 is the largest energy policy law reform in decades, and it lays the foundation for Germany to become climate neutral. With a consistent and significantly faster expansion, the share of renewable energies in gross electricity consumption should rise to at least 80 percent by 20302 . "

Germany stands out as one of the most advanced countries in terms of alternative energy. This achievement can be attributed to the influence of a Green/Socialist government that has garnered extensive public support and implemented its agenda with remarkable authority. Nevertheless, an increasing number of dissenting voices have surfaced, expressing concerns about the cost and sustainability of the program. Many individuals have come to realize that during periods of ample wind and sunlight (daytime), not all generated electricity can be consumed, and storage capabilities remain limited. Consequently, the surplus electricity is sold to other nations at discounted prices. However, the situation shifts at night when wind and solar sources are insufficient. During these periods, electricity must be imported, including from reactivated coal power plants and nuclear sources, both of which come at higher-than-market prices. This scenario translates into additional costs for consumers and unfavorable conditions for energy companies.

Deutschland und die EU müssen Billionen investieren für die Energiewende - und das in einer Zeit, in der seit Jahrzehnten erstmals die Zinsen stark gestiegen sind und damit Geld teuer geworden ist. Damit werden Investitionen in die Energiewende immer teurer - die Europäische Kommission schätzt aktuell für die EU ein Bedarf von 700 Milliarden Euro jährlich, wobei der Betrag noch einmal deutlich steigt, wenn man die dafür zu zahlenden Zinsen berücksichtigt. Nun droht China mit Exportbeschränkungen für Rohstoffe, die für die Energiewende unabdingbar sind - und zeigt uns damit, auf welch unsicheren Beinen unsere Klima- und Energiepolitik steht. Nun verbünden sich Energie-reiche Länder, die vorher verfeindet waren - und binden sich immer enger an China..

With the West asking more and more to decouple from China, China is limiting critical materials to Germany, adding another negative spiral to the picture. So, will it become the change or a barrel booster?

Are we going full circle? Some government voices in Germany are now pushing to end the War in Ukraine, so Germany can go back to the gas supply from Russia?

Perhaps in an effort to make global warming more dramatic, the White House (source: link )—yeah, the House on Pennsylvania Avenue—is pushing a study to cool the Earth by reflecting sunlight. What are your thoughts? But starting to mess with the solar system may leave us in the dark and cold rather sooner than later. For me, I accept the 1.5 degrees warming for the next 50 years. However, solar, wind, and all other renewables should be maximized in their useful use. Religious and ideological zealots have never improved the world for the better, but they have brought about change, haven't they?

Population growth will be a major factor in energy consumption, and here's another study (source: link ) that suggests oil will remain the top source for quite a while to come.

Economics – June 2023

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 18:43:24 GMT

The President of the United States claims that the US economy is the strongest globally and takes credit for it. However, let's examine the situation in Europe. The region experienced a recession due to US sanctions on Russia, while the US economy was fueled by the war effort. The Biden administration's economic approach relies heavily on stimulus packages, which have led to inflation. Upon closer inspection, it becomes apparent that the period from Q4 2021 to Q3 2022 may have shown some positive growth, but there are concerns that the momentum may fade.

The Labor force is still rebuilding and there are no new jobs created other than bringing people back to work after Covid.See the Interactive Data Here

It is worth considering the GDP performance of countries like China and Russia in comparison to the United States. In the case of China, their Q1 GDP is expected to grow by 4.0% year-on-year, compared to 2.9% in Q4. Looking ahead, GDP growth is projected at 5.4% in 2023 and 5.0% in 2024. In terms of inflation, China is expected to experience a rate of 2.3% in both 2023 and 2024. The central bank is anticipated to maintain key lending rates until the end of 2023.

As for Russia, their economy ministry recently revised their GDP forecast, projecting growth of 1.2% in 2023 and 2% in 2024.

Other Outlooks

The U.S. will enter a downturn in the fourth quarter, followed by a “year of contraction and a European recession in 2024 ,” according to HSBC Asset Management .

In its midyear outlook, the British banking giant’s asset manager said recession warnings are “flashing red” for many economies, while fiscal and monetary policies are out of sync with stock and bond markets.

Joseph Little, global chief strategist at HSBC Asset Management, said while some parts of the economy have remained resilient thus far, the balance of risks “points to high recession risk now,” with Europe lagging the U.S. but the macro trajectory generally “aligned.”

It’s a rare thing to happen, but Germany now looks like the sick man of Europe , a phrase previously often used to describe Britain.

The health of the business sector dropped significantly in June, according to recent data. The Ifo Business Climate index for Germany, which measures the health of the commercial sector, registered 88.5 in June, down from 91.5 in May. Higher numbers show economic strength, whereas lower ones show a weakening of the economy.

This sign of weakness comes hot on the heels of the manufacturing Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) released last week, which also showed a dramatic fall. It fell to 41 in June from 43.2 in the previous month. Figures less than 50 show contraction; this latest data point is the 11th straight drop.

Printing Money the only thing that drives inflation, think what you will, and inflation if not controlled will eventually lead to Bank failures. German and the European Central Bank may have to support the Deutsche Bank while the US and Germany invest (spend) billions in infrastructure and Green Energy, without any evidence that it will simply be spent money?

Look at the US blueprint for Lithium Batteries , I’m sure it is drafted by very smart people, but is it a comprehensive economic plan, or defined by the safe the planet at all cost, while at the same time there is no evidence that renewables will simultaneously be available to support the growing EV Market?

Let Morgan Stanley do the math for you, or is it just an investment advertisement? It is called the global battery economy, it is a paper from 2022, but still interesting.

Sustainable Economy, or circular economy, a coined phrase in the 1990s, was a concept to run your Car 15 or so years, shred it, and use all materials to build a new one. Well, if it were that easy on the hardware, it still needs tires, gas, electricity, etc., to run. Combine this with thoughts by the Climate activists projecting doomsday scenarios with ten billion people by 2050 (or more) that calls more for a dinosaur or Inka scenario, than drowning in water in Canada? Combine the population growth with the initiatives in healthcare, aging, better food supply, or in summary, we are all going to live 150 years or more by 2100, going closer to 30 billion people. Perhaps Mars or outer space can help by then, but for the planet with or without oil, climate change will inevitably remain either warmer or colder as in history, and the planet will still be here even after Greta.

And lastly, another doomsday article by the WEF, discussing how the world could implode. Ever wonder what message we send to our kids, that the only future is, well, like Covid: get vaccinated or die?

On a positive note, here is what 2050 might look like , where we all get along nicely. Think of it, Russia and Europe together could well take the #2 or #3 spot, especially if US/EU relations were to sour. There is a strong link to hate the Russians, weaken the EU so they need the US, but now we are entering politics.

US Politics - June, 2023

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 19:54:53 GMT

US Politics - June 2023

After lifting the debt ceiling and keeping all spending plans intact, what better opportunity than to delve into real politics? The woke movement, Trump's alleged indictment, and all the stories surrounding Hunter Biden and other questionable moves by Democrats deserve attention. However, as a nation, where are we truly headed? Do we want to be known for military aggression in the name of defending democracy? The concept of "peace through strength" only works if we establish clear boundaries and take forceful measures to deter potential threats. Alternatively, should we strive to become strong partners in win-win negotiations? It seems illogical that while China builds spy bases in Cuba, gaining Biden's approval, we feel threatened by Russia. Perhaps the Republicans in the House and Senate should direct their efforts towards uncovering the truth behind the Biden administration's policies rather than solely focusing on the January 6 incident.

Debt ceiling negotiations have raised concerns about potential criminal behavior and irresponsible spending. It appears that allocated funds meant to combat COVID-19 have been used for other purposes. Instead of rewarding such spending, we should be questioning why the allocation was flawed in the first place. One may wonder if, had the debt ceiling not been increased, we would have faced dire consequences similar to those during the pandemic when we did not adhere to government rules. Here is an article that sheds light on the matter, revealing the gravity of the situation. Additionally, a summary of the agreement can be found here .

The COVID-19 pandemic , although declared over, will have lasting effects, especially for the younger generation who will bear the burden of the financial aftermath. While pharmaceutical investors may enjoy substantial profits, we must carefully consider the cost-benefit analysis of the dollars spent on vaccines versus natural immunity, keeping in mind the inherent margin of errors and statistical limitations. Only time will tell if the money spent was truly wise.

With emotions running high ahead of the presidential primaries, the Republican Party has garnered significant support, positioning itself for second place. Various polls suggest that unless the Democrats can prevent Trump from running, there will ultimately be only one winner. Regardless of the efforts made by the never-Trumpers or the Lincoln Project to promote other candidates like DeSantis, it seems that these individuals are merely wasting resources, with the exception of Tim Scott, whose common sense approach resonates well. It's important to note that the policies we admire are inherently tied to the individuals who negotiated and implemented them.

On the other side, the Democrats are making every effort to avoid any competition for the presidency. It appears that the establishment and the political "swamp" are content with the current state of affairs, while the majority of the population, excluding college-educated Democrats (which is a staggering 80%), holds a greater dislike than favorability. In a world where politics has become a substitute for religion, with woke culture, reproductive rights, and gender issues at the forefront, it almost feels like a war. For these individuals, Joe Biden, with his lack of firm principles, becomes the preferred candidate by default. It is worth considering if there is anyone else capable of combatting the dominant narrative in the media circus, which currently revolves around Trump and his alleged misdeeds. Therefore, let us observe and see how the situation unfolds. If individuals like Robert Kennedy Jr. are considered threats to the establishment, it suggests that the swamp runs deep.

Amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which offers no signs of progress, religious topics have once again risen to the top of Biden's agenda. The focus on topics such as transgender rights, pride, drag queens, gender fluency, and the education of children for the purpose of sexual orientation distortion raises concerns. While I am neither a psychologist nor a medical doctor, it seems logical to allow children to be themselves and prepare them for life. Unless one resides in a country where legal marriage at the age of 10 is permitted, the focus should be on providing children with education, sports, or any other curriculum that equips them for life. Drawing from personal experience with my own children, they are aware of their surroundings, and as long as educators do not unnecessarily interfere, they are capable of navigating life with the guidance of parents or other responsible adults. It is important to remember that Ms. Weingarten , you are a divider rather than a supporter of children. Please let go of your past and the lingering effects of your own childhood, as it only serves to hinder progress.

This brings us to the intriguing topic of transgender men in women's sports. One could argue that women are largely indifferent to the presence of transgender women in sports, as they do not represent a significant percentage of the female athletic community. Furthermore, team sports, whether at the collegiate level or otherwise, do not typically encounter such issues since transgender athletes are often directed towards individual sports that offer better publicity and a higher chance of winning. It would be interesting to hear the opinions of the US Soccer team if their opponents fielded half their team with transgender athletes. Megan Rapinoe, for instance, might consider this acceptable, as it would eliminate the suicide epidemic among athletes. Care to place a bet? It is absurd to assume that all transgender individuals solely rely on sports, while other non-physical activities could also provide them with fulfillment. Thus, this topic seems more like political fodder, driven by the loudest voices.

At the very least, these discussions divert attention from Biden and Hunter. If we were to approach their investigation with the same level of seriousness as the hypothetical lawsuits and crimes involving Trump, we could benefit from the press. However, for now, it may be best to turn off the TV, seek news from a variety of sources spanning the political spectrum, and form our own opinions.

Geopolitical Focus – June 2023

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 16:15:42 GMT

Geopolitical Focus – June 2023

Examining global developments, it seems that individuals specializing in Gender and Social studies are assuming positions within governments, supported by elected officials from the Green party, in order to establish an alliance aimed at informing the majority, known as the 99%-ers, that our understanding of history has been fundamentally flawed. They argue that this misconception has persisted since the initial arrival of settlers on American soil or the subsequent human population expansion after the split between Neanderthals and Homo Sapiens. Is it possible that we should have allowed Mexico and Britain to retain control of the country and repatriated all settlers back to Europe? Considering Britain's historical involvement in the slave trade, it might be worthwhile for Gender and Social studies advocates to begin their analysis from that point in history.

It is not definitively known how or when Native Americans first settled the Americas and the present-day United States. The prevailing theory proposes that people from Eurasia followed game across Beringia , a land bridge that connected Siberia to present-day Alaska during the Ice Age , and then spread southward throughout the Americas. This migration may have begun as early as 30,000 years ago [2] and continued through to about 10,000 years ago, when the land bridge became submerged by the rising sea level caused by the melting glaciers. [3] These early inhabitants, called Paleo-Indians , soon diversified into hundreds of culturally distinct nations and tribes.

This pre-Columbian era incorporates all periods in the history of the Americas before the appearance of European influences on the American continents, spanning from the original settlement in the Upper Paleolithic period to European colonization during the early modern period . While the term technically refers to the era before Christopher Columbus ' voyage in 1492, in practice the term usually includes the history of American indigenous cultures until they were conquered or significantly influenced by Europeans, even if this happened decades or centuries after Columbus's initial landing.

Here you can read the entire story . Further, you can take a look at The Men Who Built America: Frontiersmen , and check the term "Empire or Liberty" - In this series, individuals were covertly assigned the task of instigating a rebellion to seize California, ultimately leading to a war with Mexico. This acquisition of the 31st state proved lucrative due to the discovery of gold. It begs the question: does history repeat itself even this far back? Are we now willing to disregard past accomplishments as entirely negative and venture into empire-like states resembling the Romans, with authoritative governments and ideological boundaries? When will the world prioritize integration based on diversity rather than ideology? We are all equal but different, and tolerance appears to be diminishing rather than democracy, particularly among global moralists.

European countries are experiencing wake-up calls, and I have come across an interesting article highlighting these developments. Initially, when conservative thinkers—distinct from right-wing or fascist ideologies—were elected as country leaders, the EU responded dismissively. Instead of electing an EU leader, they simply appointed someone who aligned with left-wing and green interests, as well as displayed animosity towards Russia. Germany followed suit by demonizing the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, falsely linking them to the Nazis, despite the fact that they now hold a 19% support base and are limited in their parliamentary representation. This trend mirrors what we see in the US, where opposition is often labeled as MAGA or fascist, while those who label themselves as Democrats do the same. CNN's perspective on this issue is as follows...

While our reactions to the war in Ukraine may differ, we cannot help but admire how Zelensky skillfully garners global attention and how he is being manipulated by world leaders who seek to advance their own interests under the guise of Western values (which values precisely?). Here are some notable trips Zelensky has taken in recent years, and one cannot deny his ability to generate significant funds. However, with the latest speculative yet highly probable revelations that Ukraine may be responsible for the attacks on Nord Stream 2 and the dam implosion, one cannot help but question who truly benefits from these events. The former incident undoubtedly benefits the US as gas exports have skyrocketed, while the latter may be seen as a tactical move to initiate a significant counteroffensive.

Do Harry Truman's words still ring true this time, but with Ukrainians and Russians as allies instead of Germans?

Während des Zweiten Weltkriegs , am 24. Juni 1941, wurde ein US-Politiker in der New York Times zitiert: «Wenn Deutschland gewinnt, sollten wir Russland helfen. Wenn jedoch Russland siegt, sollten wir Deutschland helfen. Lass sie sich doch gegenseitig so weit wie möglich ausrotten.» Sein Name: Harry S. Truman. Er wurde im April 1945 nach dem Tod Franklin D. Roosevelts US-Präsident und befahl am 6. und 9. August den Abwurf der Atombomben auf Hiroshima und Nagasaki.

Bilderberg and other Global Elite thinkers – Why do democratically elected politicians engage in secretive meetings with these private organizations to discuss global issues? If we examine their agendas, we notice the inclusion of topics relevant to everyday people and democracies. Can you imagine a scenario where AI-generated and controlled media dominates the Western world, orchestrated through institutions such as the World Economic Forum (WEF), World Health Organization (WHO), United Nations (UN), European Union (EU), and the influence of these elite thinkers? Would this result in mass manipulation?

Amidst this global turmoil, it is remarkable that Mr. Zelensky has managed to capture the attention of numerous world leaders. However, none of them seem interested in halting the madness, establishing a ceasefire, and addressing the genuine interests of the affected regions and their people. Instead, they passionately proclaim the defense of democracy while simultaneously pursuing agendas of hatred towards opposing forces. The EU labels Italian or Hungarian leaders as fascists, Germany targets the AfD, and the US associates everything with MAGA. Perhaps they should study the nature of fascism, as they appear to be closer to Putin than democracy itself. As for Mr. Zelensky, he may be an exceptionally talented comedian or even a skilled manipulator, but his achievements remain noteworthy.

US Politics - May, 2023

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 22:12:55 GMT

US Politics - April 2023

And here's the income side. Finding 1 trillion – perhaps start working on global peace and a healthy population? But since paying interest is a small portion, borrowing seems to be a simple solution, and everyone still gets their candy at the end of the day.

With some Republican contenders entering the race for the 2024 presidential election, it appears that the Lincoln Project, instead of working on an electable candidate of their own, is on one side aiding Democratic support and defaming all things Republican. It's reminiscent of the clappers and Brennan's of the political elite, cashing in on opinions that can be traced to the deep state's interests, rather than supporting workable political solutions.

In fact, Mr. Schmidt and the three other men who started the Lincoln Project — John Weaver, Reed Galen, and Rick Wilson — had already quietly moved to set themselves up in the new enterprise, drafting and filing papers to create TLP Media in September and October, records show. Its aim was to transform the original project, a super PAC, into a far more lucrative venture under their control. More here.

Reading news on a regular basis, most of the reporting on all news channels echoes the Lincoln Project sentiment, in unison, supporting all the bad things Trump and DeSantis have up their sleeves. And in the case of Trump, there seems to be a daily increase in lawsuits that may influence his reputation, while the DOJ, FBI, and the White House suggest that all Republicans are a mental illness that needs Biden indoctrination. Are they referring to corruption, political deceit, and misrepresentation covered under a biblical umbrella? The fact that the current President calls himself a practicing Roman Catholic is a good reason to leave the Church. We may end up with Greek and Roman gods and goddesses and some satanic cults if we follow the current path to self-destruction. Revolt against superstition and arbitrary authority, meaning a man can be a woman and everything in between, and everything else is arbitrary authority, as defined by their authoritarian definition.

"Rather, Satan — the fallen angel who defied God — is a metaphor for the revolt against superstition and arbitrary authority."

If you're still with me, here are a couple of links that may have you reconsider our support to the end in Ukraine, as many global news outlets do not support what our news outlets make of the war. And always remember that your kid may have to do the fighting once Ukraine is short of cannon fodder for Biden's and Victoria Nuland's proxy war. According to European news, she proclaimed that the Ukrainian counteroffensive will start in July. Cross-border insurgencies and who is Denis Kapustin? Biden seems to have no problems with neo-Nazis fighting in Ukraine for democracy, nor does he have any denouncements for Zelinski's death list, death squadrons, and political assassinations once carried out by the Gestapo, all in the name of democracy. Since the 2014 Maidan coup, they have been systematically eliminating Russians. And one of the HUR leaders may well end up as a contender to Zelinski, making the Taliban leader of Afghanistan look like child's play, along with a Nazi regime in Poland-Ukraine and parts of the Russian opposition in a full-out war destroying Russia. Is that the "all-in" approach as touted even by peaceniks in Germany? That is a dimension that would surpass the destruction of World War II, and the US is the main supporter and coordinator. And it all started in 2012 with the slogans "Hope" and "Change We Can Believe In." Or is our democracy in danger? Hypocrisy at its finest?

G7 – Is Zelinski manipulating the US and Europe while we see the Ukrainian President jetting from one country and event to another to inform all of us to spend more money for democracy and war to save the world? Are we not fueling destruction and death? What has the G7 in Hiroshima really achieved? Is there any measurable outcome, and have there been any discussions or public statements of significance about the outcome? Our President always reiterates that we will support Ukraine to the end, meaning the complete liberation of anything Russian within Ukraine, which will inadvertently result in US troops on the ground as we talk ourselves into active war at the rate Ukrainian troops die. At the same time, our democratic leadership wants to cancel any discussion about nuclear arms treaties and peace and insists that we have the right to station nuclear weapons anywhere we decide, while others are only allowed to station them with US sanctions.

Is the US the leader of NATO and the G7? Perhaps, but does that equate to its position in the world? Read here what the Chinese say, and remember that there are another 140 countries in the world, not to mention the G20, which differs greatly from the G7 doctrines.

There was, however, no specific mention in the leaders' communique to the Global South, though there were the usual references to the concerns of developing countries, such as funding climate transition, the setback in the progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the need to reform multilateral development banks (MDBs) and development financial institutions (DFIs), including acceleration of their efforts to leverage private finance. With India's G20 presidency giving primacy to the concerns and issues of the developing countries and the focus of the G7 firmly on the Ukraine crisis, it remains to be seen how the world's seven largest economies will be able to find common ground with the other members of the G20 at the summit to be hosted by India in September.

So, is the US, with its focus on global dominance by force, sending the right signals around the world? What if China changes its markets from the US to other countries? And what if India is not interested in war but negotiations?

The G7 wants to build a broader alliance to resist Chinese and Russian coercion. Russia's annual trade with China is expected to exceed $200 billion this year, according to some headlines. So, are we shooting ourselves in the foot, leaving our economy in decline compared to the rest of the world?

Well, form your own opinion. Here's an overview of military bases around the globe and here are the military budgets of other countries, as well as the personnel actively serving in the military – all with a lot of destructive potential.

Top 10 Countries with the Highest Military Expenditures (2020):

The United States — $778 billion
China — $252 billion [estimated]
India — $72.9 billion
Russia — $61.7 billion
United Kingdom — $59.2 billion
Saudi Arabia — $57.5 billion [estimated]
Germany — $52.8 billion
France — $52.7 billion
Japan — $49.1 billion
South Korea — $45.7 billion

US Debt Ceiling and Elections 2024

If anything, the partisanship has not eased a bit, and Congress and the Senate are still negotiating along party lines, rather than focusing primarily on the issue at hand. Each side presents end-of-the-world scenarios if their demands are not met, which means spending reasonably, just like every household must do. Borrow more when you are short, and by the way, what does default mean? Not paying interest? That seems like pocket money compared to overall spending.

Economics – May 2023: Economic Outlook Growth Projections

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 16:02:47 GMT

The outlook is uncertain again amidst financial sector turmoil, high inflation, the ongoing effects of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and three years of COVID.

Per the International Monetary Fund:

The baseline forecast is for growth to fall from 3.4 percent in 2022 to 2.8 percent in 2023, before settling at 3.0 percent in 2024. Advanced economies are expected to see an especially pronounced growth slowdown, from 2.7 percent in 2022 to 1.3 percent in 2023. In a plausible alternative scenario with further financial sector stress, global growth declines to about 2.5 percent in 2023 with advanced economy growth falling below 1 percent. Global headline inflation in the baseline is set to fall from 8.7 percent in 2022 to 7.0 percent in 2023 on the back of lower commodity prices but underlying (core) inflation is likely to decline more slowly. Inflation’s return to target is unlikely before 2025 in most cases.

The natural rate of interest is important for both monetary and fiscal policy as it is a reference level to gauge the stance of monetary policy and a key determinant of the sustainability of public debt. Chapter 2 aims to study the evolution of the natural rate of interest across several large advanced and emerging market economies. Public debt as a ratio to GDP soared across the world during COVID-19 and is expected to remain elevated. Chapter 3 examines the effectiveness of different approaches to reducing debt-to-GDP ratios. Supply-chain disruptions and rising geopolitical tensions have brought the risks and potential benefits and costs of geoeconomic fragmentation to the center of the policy debate. Chapter 4 studies how such fragmentation can reshape the geography of foreign direct investment FDI and how it can affect the global economy.

Here is the expected growth rate by country. It is interesting that Germany has experienced a bigger fall than Russia for 2023, and possibly for 2024 as well.

T he Ukraine Sanctions Gamble

According to this article , India, China, and Turkey have compensated for most of the sanctions on oil and gas from Russia, as well as other goods. It is interesting to observe the future economic impact of a united G-7 compared to the rest of the world.

Energy - May 2023

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 15:43:13 GMT

Energy – April 2023: Global Influencers

The Biden administration has set a goal of achieving 100% clean electricity nationwide by 2035, and solar power plays a crucial role in this transition.

In the past decade, solar energy in the United States has experienced a remarkable average annual growth rate of 42%, thanks to federal tax credits, declining costs, and increasing demand. Projections indicate that by 2030, more than one in seven American homes will have a solar power system.

To provide perspective on this trend, the following graphic utilizes data from the United States Department of Energy to estimate the land area required to generate enough solar power to meet the entire country's energy needs.]

So, is a 13% or even 20% efficiency rate merely a rhetorical figure? Keep in mind that it is necessary to account for variations in sunlight, including both high and low levels, as well as the need for battery storage to compensate for intermittent power generation. However, when we consider dividing Lake Michigan's area among the 50 states and Washington D.C., the land requirement becomes more manageable. One might even question whether utilizing all the rooftops across the United States could potentially make the Infrastructure Bill redundant. For further details, please refer to this resource, which does not take efficiency into account.

The IEA (International Energy Agency) – www.iea.org – is often criticized as another doomsday agency, similar to WEF (World Economic Forum) or WHO (World Health Organization). Are their approaches fundamentally different from how they handled the COVID crisis?

The report focuses on key areas, including the latest data and analysis on renewable power capacity additions in 2022 at a global level and for major markets. It also provides forecasts for 2023 and 2024.

This update examines critical topics related to renewables in the coming years, such as the impact of the energy crisis on deployment in the EU, the influence on energy affordability, and the latest trends in the United States, China, and India. Additionally, it explores the implications of developments affecting major technologies like solar, wind, and biofuels, covering aspects such as market dynamics, financing, energy security priorities, manufacturing, and power system integration.

The report presents the IEA's most recent assessment of the current state of renewables markets since the publication of our Renewables 2022 report in December.

By analyzing the latest market and policy developments as of April 2022, our Renewable Energy Market Update provides forecasts for new global renewable power capacity additions and biofuel demand in 2023 and 2024. Furthermore, it discusses key uncertainties and policy-related implications that may impact projections for 2024 and beyond.

This report is part of the IEA's contribution to the initial global stock take of the Paris Agreement, which will be finalized leading up to COP28, the upcoming UN Climate Change Conference at the end of 2023. For additional reports in this series, please visit the IEA's Global Energy Transitions Stock take page.

The world currently finds itself in the midst of an unprecedented and multifaceted global energy crisis. While Europe serves as the epicenter of this crisis, its ramifications extend to markets, policies, and economies worldwide. As is often the case, the most vulnerable and economically disadvantaged populations are expected to bear the brunt of the consequences. It is important to note that the origins of these strains predate Russia's invasion of Ukraine, although the situation has significantly worsened as a result. Skyrocketing prices have prompted a reevaluation of energy policies and priorities, while the Europe-Russia energy relationship is in disarray.

This calls into question the viability of decades of fossil fuel infrastructure and investment decisions built on this foundation, leaving the need for a profound reorientation of international energy trade. As we navigate this new world, it is crucial to acknowledge that there is no going back to the way things were. Past energy crises have shown us that the process of adjustment is unlikely to be smooth. Moreover, this adjustment occurs within the context of governments' commitments to clean energy transitions.

Speaking of energy independence, it is worth noting that the United States was once energy independent and even offered Europe oil and gas in exchange for North Stream 2. It raises questions about the role of government agencies and their motivations. Does the Infrastructure Bill, for instance, serve more as a political tool disguised as an infrastructure investment?

Additionally, why aren't we placing more emphasis on hydrogen or hybrid vehicles? While the cry for electric vehicles (EVs) is loud, we must consider the need for a robust public and private recharging system. Similar to public transportation, the cost-effectiveness of such a system depends on population density. While gas stations are widespread across the country, the feasibility of EV charging stations relies on the production of electricity from green resources. It appears that we may be prioritizing the adoption of EVs without ensuring the necessary infrastructure is in place.

Perhaps it is time to devise a plan that focuses on highly populated areas and builds a sufficient number of cost-competitive charging stations, leveraging solar resources and benefiting from economies of scale. This raises questions about the Infrastructure Bill itself, especially when we see companies like Tesla building their own charging stations. Consider this as a starting point for such a plan.

Finally, let's examine the government map to determine if we already have sufficient coverage in terms of infrastructure and resources.

Geopolitical Focus – May 2023

Tue, 23 May 2023 20:42:02 GMT

Geopolitical Focus – May 2023

While we do not know the number of casualties, there is a consensus in the Western world, particularly Europe, that only President Biden can bring an end to the war in Ukraine. However, President Zelensky has recently completed his latest mission trip to England, Italy (including a private audience with the Pope), Germany, and France prior to the G7 meeting in Japan. His purpose was to once again ensure the respective leaders that he is a champion of democracy worldwide.

It seems that his mission was successful, resulting in another round of sanctions, increased weapons supply, and potentially the training of pilots (with F16s from Poland). The United States has pledged its support and made it clear that the war will only cease when Ukraine has regained control of all territories it held before 2014. However, one must question the effectiveness of these measures. While the killing continues, sanctions are being introduced that further punish individuals who are not responsible for the war and commit to a still-corrupt regime in Ukraine.

Consider the image of the world, led by the President of the United States, obstructing an investigation into his family's dealings. Why would there be a need for a network of 20 fake companies, none of which serve any legitimate purpose? Additionally, the President refers to white supremacy as the biggest threat to the US and includes within that label anyone who disagrees with his views. Can anyone truly follow the reasoning behind wars fought in the name of democracy?

Yes, it is true that Russia invaded Ukraine after the 2014 Maidan coup, but one must not forget that there was a US President at that time who had been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. What contribution did he make to NATO to transform it into a peacekeeping force rather than a tool for US expansionist politics?

President Zelensky receives ample support from the elites, the US military complex, and the media. Thus, more Ukrainians are being used, with their leader portraying them as heroic freedom fighters, as cannon fodder for the moralistic ideals of US democracy. Afghanistan serves as a poignant example, and the mothers of fallen US soldiers likely understand the true cost. Is Ukraine now an ideal democracy? Ukraine will always have a population with Russian heritage, unless Zelensky plans to carry out an ethnic cleansing. But then, if he achieves his glorious victory, who will prevent him from invading Russia? Certainly not Poland, as both countries share a deep-seated animosity towards Russia.

Could the G7 meeting mark the beginning of reshaping the world and allowing Japan unlimited military buildup? Is Hiroshima an appropriate location for such discussions? Would the G7 alliance then become the harbinger of global dominance? This would undoubtedly be a step backward, as it would exclude the rest of the world that does not share our value system. It raises the question of whether President Biden's struggles with opening an umbrella are indicative of his global perspective. Negotiation is clearly not his strong suit, which tends to align with more dictatorial behavior, as demonstrated by his left-wing administration at home. It leaves one wondering why he is not on good terms with Putin.

In conclusion, what is the recipe for uniting the planet? How can we avoid wars and adhere to principles of gender equality, sustainability, social justice, and other causes that activists care deeply about in a world dominated by intolerance, fearmongering, and the pursuit of power? The current world leaders are a far cry from individuals like Mahatma Gandhi or Nelson Mandela, who truly lived and governed in alignment with their principles. It seems to be all about "me" nowadays, so we must brace ourselves for more conflicts.

If you are interested in learning more about Russia, here is an article available in German . Additionally, there is a letter written in German to President Biden prior to the G7 meeting in Hiroshima. As a result of this letter, there has been training of Ukrainian pilots on F16s, with the aim of having them ready by 2024, in the hope that the war will be over by then. One could refer to this approach as "Biden diplomacy," which is being implemented alongside sanctions. Perhaps an unconventional suggestion would be to have some drag queens negotiate with Putin, specifically the ones who entertain US troops and children.

Energy - April 2023

Sun, 30 Apr 2023 21:01:45 GMT

Energy – April 2023: Global Influencers

The Global Influencers: Ever wondered what coordinates and fuels the energies behind the Paris Climate Accord and other Global Climate Initiatives? Here are a few examples that remain relevant despite being published a couple of years ago.

One intriguing institution to consider is the University of Oxford . Of particular interest is the EU-US association, where it becomes apparent that the US Administration closely mirrors Germany's approach, except for their departure from nuclear energy.

Council on Foreign Relations : Regarding the Green New Deal, although it has never been fully implemented, it has now found support within the infrastructure and other stimulus measures approved by the US Congress.

The Green New Deal is a contested concept, but all of its various version’s center on a common vision of a government-led, society-wide effort to dramatically reduce U.S. greenhouse gas emissions and quickly shift the U.S. economy to be less carbon intensive. The term might have originated in a 2007 New York Times column by Thomas Friedman, and by 2018 the concept had become a rallying cry in Democratic Party politics. In February 2019, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) and Senator Ed Markey (D-MA) introduced a nonbinding resolution in support of the idea.

You must also consider the influence of Green Parties around the World . What is the Berne Union and what is its significance? Per their website :

The Group will leverage its diverse expertise and global network to encourage the development of innovative products, incentives, and financing opportunities; to promote alignment around low-carbon methodologies; and to foster greater collaboration across the financial sector.

ESG: Origins, Trajectory, and Measurement through PRI Signatories.

Is ESG here to stay, or have successful companies always operated with ESG in mind since their inception? While the term "ESG" has gained global prominence in the past two decades, the underlying principles have a longer history. Has it become a political issue? Are financial institutions like BlackRock and others leveraging global green initiatives as a tool for personal gain? The "Who Cares Wins" movement seems to be predominantly led by financial institutions. Additionally, how does performance align with the World Economic Forum's assessment? Here, we explore the leading entities that may influence global emissions by less than 5%. Please note that the referenced report is from 2021.

US Politics - April, 2023

Sun, 30 Apr 2023 20:25:38 GMT

US Politics - April 2023

Where is the US heading?

It seems that Democrats are putting more effort into prosecuting Trump and constantly finding new issues from New York to make Americans believe that Trump is less desirable than Biden for the 2024 elections. Is this to cover up Biden's approval ratings and re-election polls? With Biden officially signing on to run again in 2024, are we facing the prospect of a deep state and democratic superpower that will defeat any and all other prospects for election in 2024? Did this all start in 2008? Perhaps the motive is much more sinister?

What has actually worked in the Biden Administration, other than demonizing Nazis and Fascists and using fake investigations, which we know are financed by liberal donors to dismantle Trump? Why can't the Democrats accept fair elections to determine the candidates? Their focus is currently on the destruction of ideas and people who are not in lockstep with their agenda. There is also a secrecy about their agenda that would even make Putin proud.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has filed for the 2024 election to challenge Biden, but it appears he is a person non grata for publishing his book "The Real Dr. Fauci" and expressing his views on the wars around the world, which are no longer values of the current Democratic party that prominently features an agenda that caters to big money, blue states, and unions. Who else could be in the Democratic lineup? Can you name one Congress member, senator, or governor? Perhaps Michelle Obama or Barack himself? Kamala Harris seems unlikely, so maybe Bernie Sanders will make another effort. However, all Democratic candidates need to abide by the Biden rules that are now established goods, making even Karl Marx electable as a conservative in comparison, without even touching on the word corrupt or liar.

On the Republican side, Trump is Trump, and who else could win the nomination without being crushed by the media? Therefore, we are most likely stuck with 70% of people voting for hate against policies that actually worked, which is a great achievement from the elites, leaders of social media, and the Uniter in Chief himself, whose mantra is "MAGA anti-ism" rather than carving a clear path around the world.

Currently, people are talking about reasoning, middle ground, and values. Perhaps we need to redefine the values first, and are they still anchored in the Constitution? Maybe the Biden administration should lead the way by offering a manifesto rather than a commercial for re-election that offers nothing but, well, nothing.

What is actually working at the moment? Is it the war in Ukraine, sanctions, or the border? Have you heard any recent news on these topics? Instead, we hear about the infrastructure plan, mostly to build battery plants by European or other foreign companies. It begs the question: What is the Biden administration doing to address the pressing issues that affect Americans directly? It's time for our leaders to refocus their priorities and address the issues that truly matter.

Economics – April: The Impact of Sanctions on Russia

Sun, 30 Apr 2023 17:14:53 GMT

It has been just over a year since the implementation of sanctions against Russia, and now is an opportune time to assess their effects. Surprisingly, various forecasts indicate that the Russian economy is projected to grow at a faster rate compared to both the United States and Germany, with different outcomes depending on the political landscape.

While reports boast of the US economy's robustness, there are lingering concerns about the sustainability of the government's policies. For almost 18 months, forecasters have been predicting an imminent recession, with the latest projections for 2023 estimating a GDP growth of 1.5% and first-quarter data revealing a modest 1.1% increase. This leads us to question whether the investments in the Military and the Green Deal are truly transformative or merely short-term expenditures. To illustrate this, a chart depicting global growth, including adjustments for countries such as Russia, is provided below.

The unemployment rate is expected to inch higher, and the labor force participation, although we are made belief is at the highest rate ever, is still below the 2019 values when individual income was steady increasing but is still declining since 2021.

How does National debt shift global economies and how do you feel running about a business going to the bank asking for a debt ceiling increase, without an income plan, other than cutting the peoples salary? Do we really think unlimited spending is sustainable?

United States

The United States boasts both the world's biggest national debt in terms of dollar amount and its largest economy, which resolves to a debt-to GDP ratio of approximately 128.13%. The United States' government's spending exceeds its income most years, and the US has not had a budget surplus since 2001. Perhaps surprisingly, the countries to which the US is most in debt are Japan, which itself has significant debt, and China, which is often viewed as the United States' greatest economic competitor.

China

China’s national debt is currently over 10 trillion USD—however, because of China's massive economy, the country's debt is only 68.06% of its GDP. China's current debt level is a significant increase from 2014, when the national debt was 41.54% of the country's GDP. An International Monetary Fund report from 2015 stated that China’s debt was relatively low, and many economists have dismissed worries over the size of the debt both in its overall size and relative to China’s GDP. China currently has the world’s second-largest economy and the largest population, with approximately 1,425,821,667 people.

Russia

Russia’s debt ratio was one of the lowest in the world at 16.99% of its GDP in 2021—though the country's war with Ukraine , which began in early 2022, will likely have some effect on this ratio. Russia is usually one of the ten least-indebted countries in the world. Russia’s debt is currently at a total of just over 302 billion USD. Most of Russia’s external debt is private.

Click here to read he Government comments for April 2023

Statistics are what they are, but somehow it appears when the Government added 52000 jobs per Month over the last 6 Months, yes below the 2020 number but does not include Contractors, more on this next time.

Geopolitical Focus – April 2023

Sat, 29 Apr 2023 19:29:46 GMT

Geopolitical Focus – April 2023

Who is running the world? Is it the WEF with the Young Global Leaders , the G7 (8), the G20 , or the UN? Or is it Soros and the left-founded activist groups, or an adaptive EU, American plutocracy consisting of Wall Street, Hedge Funds, and Private Equity groups active in ESG and DE&I? All of these entities are part of a global governance system that promotes self-interest under the guise of saving the world, but it actually divides the world, as one WEF critique phrase puts it, into the elite, the workers, and the useless eaters!

While all of the aforementioned groups, including religious leaders, are becoming part of moralizing and behavioral institutions, they are not fundamental traits of Western societies and their values. Instead, they create a substitute for religion that itself creates their values as if they were God's. Never mind the comparison. Yes, technology and science allow us to replicate a lot, and religion has not always served its purpose. However, people are moralizing on good or bad. Will that bring us to advancement or tribal activism? As much as we want to make everyone equal, perhaps we should develop and agree upon a manifesto that all of the aforementioned institutions can support, which would serve a better plan than the Paris Climate Accord, which is a dislodged agreement of no consequence.

What is the US supposed to teach the world? According to some individuals with on-the-ground knowledge of Russia, Putin has an approval rating of 80%, and Russians have a better life under his administration than previous ones. However, failed global policies and an overly aggressive NATO provoke wars. One might wonder what purpose NATO serves other than being a puppet for the US and the EU. For more information, one can check the original mission of NATO:

NATO is a collective security system: its independent member states agree to defend each other against attacks by third parties. During the Cold War , NATO operated as a check on the threat posed by the Soviet Union . The alliance remained in place after the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the Warsaw Pact , and has been involved in military operations in the Balkans , the Middle East , South Asia , and Africa. The organization's motto is animus in consulendo liber [5] (Latin for "a mind unfettered in deliberation")

Note that when the Berlin Wall came down, all Russian troops stationed in the GDR went home to Russia. However, the US stayed, and under the then-leadership of war hawk Bush senior, NATO began its eastward expansion without pursuing an integration policy. Instead, they promoted Russia phobia or the idea that communism is bad, all while opening the flood gates to China. So, what is the world's next move to create peace?

After the US sold out to China, thanks to the elites' profit-making, it appears that the same people now fear for our national security and prepare for potential wars. On the other side, we use Ukraine as a proxy, with European consent and support, to fight a war against Russia all in the name of defending democracy or claiming global superiority. Meanwhile, the Chinese work around the world with diplomacy, India is more interested in Russia's cheap oil, and the West is invested in woke culture, green no-plan investments, and fighting wars.

Most impressively, the leading draft dodgers in Germany in the 1960s and 1970s are now the heads of the Green Party and the loudest voices for war support in Ukraine, claiming moral grounds, portraying Putin as evil, and Zelinski as an angel, ignoring all history of the Minsk agreement and NATO expansion. Biden, a Catholic, must have special permission from the Pope to engage in wars over peace talks.

That brings us back to the beginning. Everyone talks of a restart and an optimal world, but all are quiet on the wars. They adopt useless sanctions and dream that Russia will disappear. Perhaps we should start with ending special interests in US politics and Ukraine, where there is more interest in silencing opposition than in Russia. Unless there is a real interest in occupying Siberia, which would make strategic sense to invade China and hit Russia from the rear, posting rockets and artillery in Ukraine does not prevent Russia from cooperating with China and India, which represent 40% of the world's population and combined strongest economic power.

And if all goes south, Germany will no longer be a partner with China, but form a superpower with the US. Is that why Mrs. Baerbock and Macron recently visited China, to bully Xi? Well, China still sits comfortably on global resources in Africa and South America, despite Western news outlet propaganda.

Economics – March: Global Economy Overview

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 17:04:33 GMT

Credit Suisse, like other failed banks, has not faced any investigation into its management. Major investors and management have been compensated, while small investors and thousands of employees lose everything. The winners in this situation are the US, who intervened and forced the UBS-CS deal in its global dictatorship. This can be seen through the Russia sanctions and interference in Swiss neutrality via its ambassador. Instead of negotiating, does the US also play economics through wars? The other winner is for you to decide: democracy?

When we consider the two major players in the world and look at their populations, is it really wise to think that military might can resolve everything? In the 1980s and 1990s, not outsourcing to China was almost considered a crime. This was led by the government, big advisors, and multinational companies. Perhaps it was thought that small and midsize businesses could be minimized to have control by big corporations? Was it political or economic? With the chip investments and infrastructure bill in today's world, it looks more political than ever.

If we examine the associations and influence in the world, we can see that China has already become the largest economy. Meanwhile, the US, in the definition of democracy, has been fighting wars all over the world, losing trust and allies. In contrast, China has been quietly building alliances. Power and coercion, words not synonymous with peace and democracy, best describe US behavior, led by a President whose negotiation tactics throughout his life have looked more like a bully's textbook.

Is it symptomatic that Britain, the economic powerhouse of early industrialization, and the US are the two closest allies on the global stage today? Is the US using colonial tactics to maintain power? Let's look at the graphic and decide. Let's balance the import/export and talk about it then.

This brings us to the topic of educational economics. While the government and the elites preach that every child is entitled to a college degree, and we have a lawyer for every car, jobs that actually build the economy and maintain your house are still stigmatized and considered second class. Have you ever wondered what the elites' long-term prospects are in this situation?

Take a look at the burden of debt. What do you think will happen to your money if the US defaults?

The United States with the highest global national debt of $23.2 trillion has a $70,180 debt per person. On the other hand, China with a population of about 1.4 billion debt per citizen is over 15 times lower than Japan’s, and over 11 times lower than the United States. Each Chinese national owes $5,866.

Geopolitical Focus – March 2023

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 14:05:49 GMT

Geopolitical Focus – March 2023

AIs Joe Biden a world leader who is leading the Western world towards a utopia or towards a Stalinist era of power? While China has been traveling the world in Africa, the Middle East, and South America, and has recently visited Russia to strengthen its ties, offer financial and other aid, and secure resources in minerals, food, and energy (gas and oil), the US is busy keeping the NATO alliance together for the proxy war that Ukraine is fighting against Russia to prevent the creation of a Europe/Russia powerhouse.

Germany's industry is so heavily involved in China that it might be difficult to follow any sanctions that the US may impose, as everyone in Europe followed the US's lead on Russia. By now, all of Europe knows that the sanctions on Russia benefited the US the most, had no impact on Russia, and, thanks to a mild winter, averted a real crisis.

The oil and gas that Russia sent to the West as a result of sanctions is silently finding its way around the world, keeping costs bearable but still filling Russia's war chest. Russia, following its history, will not surrender. Putin might be replaced, but a regime change like in Ukraine will never happen, as Russia will not trust any influence that the US tries to wield.

The NATO East expansion, which is equivalent to an EU East expansion, is a pipe dream of the left-leaning globalist elite, which includes most of the hedge fund and PEG/VC culture, in their never-ending interest to gain more influence and power. ESG, inflation, and other current events are clearly filling their pockets. I cannot fathom shooting Ukraine to rubble; the endgame can only be the destruction of Russia. Good luck, Iraq is still Iraq, and so is Afghanistan, and both Napoleon and Hitler failed miserably.

So, what about the rest of the world? India and Pakistan have no interest in siding with anyone but will work with everyone peacefully. Taiwan, Japan, and our neighbors, Mexico and Canada, and the EU, which has no political mandate and acts as a totalitarian state, will be a real powerhouse. The rest of the world is no longer in our pocket.

At this stage, is it really worth having confrontational approaches, even within the US? Starting with the imprisonment of a former president on political grounds, claiming that January 6 was an insurrection, and jailing thousands of people, and bulldozing an ESG, woke, and green agenda on disguised infrastructure and inflation reduction act bills, and re-shoring battery and chip manufacturing, not to bring jobs back but as a defensive act to prevent being shut down by China. At the same time, destructive societal forces like Facebook, Soros, and other left-leaning political sponsors are meddling in elections and everyday activities. Note that Hungary's President Orban banned any Soros activity, which led Soros to invest in the US unchecked, much to the joy of Democrats. BLM and Antifa say thanks.

It is such a bizarre and busy White House, but there is no strategy or plan for an endgame. A Western utopia of the world disappearing under water because of global warming for 25 years, Greta Thunberg becoming an honorary science doctor without the slightest clue of science, and Democrats disguising themselves as fascists to discredit anyone who does not believe in ESG, woke, and zero emissions while the rest of the world, which we call dictatorships, uses and combines all forms of energy to drive.

Perhaps it is time for Afghanistan in Ukraine. Tell Mr. Zelinski that he is down to 1/4th of his army. Germany may send tanks but no people, and NATO's 25,000 are no match for Russia. If Biden sends active troops to Ukraine, Taiwan will inevitably become a battleground. Do we think we can build battery and chip plants fast enough? Perhaps humility and an end to NATO East is a small price to pay. Sorry hedge funds and Zelinski, the world is bigger and better without aggression. The Maidan Coup, if history will prevail, will be the culprit.

Mr. Biden, you may dream of being the world leader, but the world's jokester may be the endgame. Keep Mr. 45 out of jail and start negotiations as a real Catholic, humble and honest, around the globe and within the US. Currently, your party, especially the left-leaning part and Dr. Fauci, are the only fascist-trending factions, including BLM and Antifa. The others, with a few exceptions, are peaceful protesters.

Just as a freebie, using sporting events to coerce people to wear uniforms for solidarity and excluding them without committing a crime other than thought is a real fascist move. Sport is a uniter; see black people on soccer or any other sport, a real tool for social change. Do not misuse it for coercion of issues of only political minority interest. Perhaps if the US government (admin) were as politically diverse as it is biological, hope would be on its way.

Energy - March 2023

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 15:03:06 GMT

Energy – March 2023

What is sustainability and 100% renewable energy? Is it just politics, wishful thinking, anti-corporate activism, or actual meaningful work in progress? If you research a bit about energy usage and green technologies, you can find many smart papers. However, when compared to current energy sources, can wind and solar power really compensate, especially considering that cars will also convert to electric vehicles?

The other day, I walked by a Tesla and a bumper sticker caught my eye: "powered by fossil fuel." In preparation for this letter, I searched for global energy data to understand the current status of what drives the world.

And here the grow of the World population in the same time period.

And here the users, on a global scale:

If we look at this in perspective, Germany with its policies and green agenda claims to be the Leader in Climate change, perhaps but its impact is about as much as one coal plant in China? And if you look at the traditional biomass, for 8 billion people that may consume the entire food chain? Why does the World not develop a scenario that allows the use of all forms of resources, until we know what is doable and sustainable without sacrificing the planets beauty?

Look at some of the statistics here , interesting that 2 of the top 3 build the most Coal plants in the last 10 years, while signing the Paris Climate agreement? Seriously, you decide?

What are renewables:

Call Solar and Wind – once the Material used to build and operate are renewable, currenlty they are not even recyclable? And Landmass will be non usable for a couple million square miles. Battery for storage, is non-renewable, and only partial recyclable?

Geothermal – yes, as long as the Water is in a closed loop and the Earth temperature long term is stable?

Hydropower – limited and mostly used to 90%; lucky who can use it.

Ocean Energy – on a large scale a pipe dream?

Biomass – creates emissions, but at a lower rate, and uses natural resources used for other means?

All of them are good for certain applications, and should be used to its full extent, however they have big shoes to fill. Here the article if you like to read . (one of many)

Nuclear a renewable, it has to be at one point in time if we want to move away from Oil and Gas. A good opinion here

Carbon Capture and Reuse – couple of million trees might have the same impact, but who wants to be a tree planter, but I take you can make all into a benefit? Here from ASME , Battelle Solutions , and Exxon Mobile .

Next issue, will report on the many Bloggers and advisory Companies, who are much smarter than all of us when it comes to saving the planet.

Here is the growth of the world population in the same time period:

And here are the global users:

If we look at this in perspective, Germany, with its policies and green agenda, claims to be a leader in climate change. However, its impact is about as much as one coal plant in China. And if we look at the traditional biomass, it may consume the entire food chain for the 8 billion people on the planet. Why doesn't the world develop a scenario that allows the use of all forms of resources until we know what is feasible and sustainable without sacrificing the planet's beauty?

Look at some of the statistics here , interesting that 2 of the top 3 build the most Coal plants in the last 10 years, while signing the Paris Climate agreement? Seriously, you decide?

What are the renewable options?:

Solar and Wind – possible once the material used to build and operate are renewable.. currently they are not even recyclable. Also Landmass will be non usable for a couple million square miles. Battery for storage, is non-renewable, and only partially recyclable?

Geothermal – yes, as long as the Water is in a closed loop and the Earth temperature is stable for a long term period of time.

Hydropower – limited and mostly used to 90%; Those who can use it are lucky.

Ocean Energy – on a large scale? Is this a pipe dream?

Biomass – creates emissions, but at a lower rate, and uses natural resources used for other means?

All of them are good for certain applications, and should be used to its full extent, however they have big shoes to fill. Here the article if you like to read . (one of many)

Nuclear a renewable, it has to be at one point in time if we want to move away from Oil and Gas. A good opinion here

Next issue, will report on the many bloggers and advisory companies, who are much smarter than all of us when it comes to saving the planet.

US Politics - March, 2023

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 19:34:20 GMT

US Politics - March 2023: Silence Tells the Story

Since there isn't much to report on the Ukraine-Russia war, the silence itself speaks volumes. Investing money in a losing party has never been wise, but then-Vice President Biden was never accused by Robert Gates of being intelligent when it comes to foreign policy. However, the media silence from the supposedly transparent administration is blatant. Let's take it one step at a time:

The investigation into the North Stream pipeline has yielded no evidence of US involvement, and no further comments have been made on the matter.
Environmentalists worldwide are calling for a complete investigation into the pipeline and for those responsible to clean up any environmental damage caused.
What was the purpose of Mr. Scholz's visit on March 3rd? Was it to express gratitude and congratulations for the delivery of non-functioning Leopard tanks, or to reprimand for failing to deliver more? Was there a discussion about how to minimize losses and maintain face? Was there a commitment to deploy troops, so that victory remains an option despite the ineffectiveness of the weapons delivered, which cannot be operated by deceased individuals? Do we believe that the American public is not entitled to know where their investments are being directed? Here is the CNN version , along with some remarks from UnHerd on these issues.
President Biden welcomed the ICC indictment of Putin on charges of Child Deportation , which has drawn comparisons to child trafficking at the Southern Border under the Biden administration. Neither the US nor Russia recognizes the ICC, with reasons ranging from Mr. Bush 43's actions in Iraq to the killing of civilians in the name of democracy.

So in the end, all we get are empty words and promises, and a political agenda that pushes all Media towards irrelevant issues while inflation and other issues get sidelined. With all of this democratic propaganda, you have to wonder who pays for it all.

Credit Suisse Bank failing brings up an interesting point. Its focus was not on Banking, but to become the “politically correct" bank embracing "Woke", Gender, Equality, Diversity, ESG and LGBTQ topics to please the masses. Sounds like the US Government, diversity in Biology but unity in Ideology, resulting in totalitarianism, called in their words, "Democracy"? Or by banking standards, we achieved all the quota numbers, and buried about 150 billion in Company value in the process? Check out the SVB in California, insider may tell you the same story for their failure?

That is the same approach we see the Biden administration take on all their actions, everything ideological is more important than policy.

Sanctions and Cease Fires.. Remember when we were told that all Mother of Sanctions will cripple Russia? Still some Biden STASI like journalists (and the DOJ and some other departments) are walking the line of destruction of the US by supporting the War, but neglecting the Bank failures as a result of Inflation and thus jeopardizing our future? By rejecting the Cease Fire approach twice, Biden is willing to support the Ukraine with Weapons and let them burn their people?

I have been in Europe for the last week, and the Ukrainian refugees are willing to agree to a Cease Fire, but Zelinski leaves them no choice. It is a fight or get shot as traitor type situation if you are not part of the population that has already fled. Sanctions have been useless, as much as it will be useless to continue fighting. Mr. Biden can explain why the US is willing to accept the bloodshed, as it's certainly not for democracy. Even Europe sees that as a lie, as the playbook aligns too much with US geopolitical interest.

And then the most important observation: Have you seen Mr. Zelinski on public TV or invited to some special event recently? Falling out of favor perhaps?

So much like January 6th, we have invited the Manhattan DA to start another Circus. Lets run through the scenario, and say he gets the Jury to sideline the frontrunner of the Republican party. Does this open the way for Biden term 2?

Energy - February 2023

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 21:06:22 GMT

Energy – February 2023

As the US plans to inject trillions of dollars into a green world to counter the worst-case climate doomsday scenario of 2.1 degrees of global warming by 2100, which, according to global disaster theories, will lead to the extinction of all life, is 1.5 degrees no problem? Before the first Industrial Revolution, the world was mostly sustainable, with manual labor dominating and travel by horse or ox and wagon. There was some mineral mining for tools and weapons, but the rest came from the land and animals.

Windmills were used in early times as water pumps and grain mills, while waterwheels date back to ancient times as a means of transforming human labor. Since the beginning of the world, its inhabitants have strived for explanations of how the world works, from the sky to water and earth, and more importantly, how to improve life.

All of this "thinking" from alchemists to philosophers started a revolution from the 1600s to the 1700s, which the current world calls prosperity. However, has every part of the world profited from it? Not necessarily, as some countries lack the political definition to prosper or were implicated by imperial or other means ( History of Science ).

In the 14th century, windmills became popular in Europe; the total number of wind-powered mills is estimated to have been around 200,000 at the peak in 1850, which is modest compared to some 500,000 water wheels . Windmills were applied in regions where there was too little water, where rivers freeze in winter and in flat lands where the flow of the river was too slow to provide the required power. With the coming of the industrial revolution , the importance of wind and water as primary industrial energy sources declined, and they were eventually replaced by steam (in steam mills ) and internal combustion engines, although windmills continued to be built in large numbers until late in the nineteenth century. More recently, windmills have been preserved for their historic value, in some cases as static exhibits when the antique machinery is too fragile to be put in motion, and other cases as fully working mills.

Mobility, electricity, and quality of life were the early drivers of technology, and industrial optimization was the latter driver, which produced, as a byproduct, medication, beauty products, and many other enjoyable items derived from crude oil.

While forests were converted to landmasses and wood was used as a source for construction and energy early on, and later to support the food supply, one natural resource that absorbed CO2 was constantly diminished globally, with unknown impact and neglected by climate analysts.

Fast forward to Greta Thunberg, the current most active and visible climate activist, supported by millions of people around the world through various organizations. After achieving celebrity status among the climate activist elite, she is joined by a chorus of ESG financial powerhouses to punish all those who do not follow greenhouse gas limits developed by climate science and government. What is the actual contribution to minimizing or neutralizing the effect of carbon on the climate? Here is an excerpt from Greta's book if you are interested in reading.

The best shot we have at minimizing the future impacts of climate change is to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. Since the Industrial Revolution began, humankind has already raised the average global temperature by about 1.1 degrees. If we continue to emit greenhouse gases at the current rate, the world will probably surpass the 1.5-degree threshold by the end of the decade.

That sobering fact makes clear that climate change isn’t just a problem to solve someday soon; it’s an emergency to respond to now. And yet, most people don’t act like we’re in the midst of the greatest crisis humans have ever faced — not politicians, not the media, not your neighbor, not myself, if I’m honest. That’s what I realized after finishing The Climate Book by Greta Thunberg.

As a counterpoint to the activists, the idea that 1.5 degrees to 2.1 degrees is the end of the world seems overblown. We know that oil and gas are limited resources, but so are many other minerals that we dig out of the ground, such as lithium for batteries and other rare metals used in the computer industry. Sustainability is important, but can all the current efforts really be done at once and be government-driven? What if each house had its own source of electricity, with solar panels on the roof and some battery packs? Would that be a problem for the electric companies? It would eliminate the need for thousands of power lines, which could be invested in households. This isn't necessarily a "money issue" either, as affordable loans could be paid back in amounts previously paid to the power companies. Each household would already have the source for an EV charging station for local transport.

Why did we invest billions of dollars in California's bullet train, a waste of money that could have easily been spent on insulating houses for a reduction in AC units? Why aren't we ready for EVs in high-concentration populated areas, with EV hubs? I'm sure a Ford F-150 farm truck in Montana could easily survive. It's all a chaotic approach based on the hype of the climate activists. More reasonable voices call oil and gas a needed resource for years to come, to avoid a collapse of our current system and develop sustainable substitutes. But if we think 200-300 years ahead, we will eventually run out of all we dig out of the earth, and the only renewable resources will be what we had before the great industrialization: dirt, stone, wood, and plants. Hopefully, by then, science will still exist, and all activities can be supplemented by those resources.

All other steps may cool the earth and emotions. The metaverse will only make you feel good; it does not provide any essentials for life. Nor does a social world system, where everyone is treated equally. The human species is the only one that kills for power, while animals kill for food, and some fight for territorial control, but in most cases, that is settled with leaders and submission.

One approach in Switzerland suggests agglomerations of sustainable cities. Work local, shop local, live local, and eliminate traffic with public transportation, and housing is all climate-neutral. That sounds a lot like dirt, stone, wood, and plants, and solar power is the metaverse. During the Roman Empire's time, you had to walk to the Coliseum. Zuckerberg, with the help of anti-aging (plant-based) drugs, will still be running it for your entertainment.

So, in essence, all activists should become scientists and take their sponsors' money to develop the next big thing, as should the financial world. Congratulations to Tesla and all other pioneers who are doers. But since they have become billionaires in the process, I bet they will be the next target.

Geopolitical Focus – February 2023

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 21:06:26 GMT

Geopolitical Focus – February 2023

Although reports on the Ukraine-Russia proxy war in the US have subsided and balloons are flying too high to be identified, one might wonder if Mr. Biden's physical state is hiding more than just a bit of arthritis. Annalena Baerbock , the German counterpart of Blinken, returned from a trip to Finland and was enthusiastic about Finland's nuclear bunkers, which are capable of housing the entire population underground in case of a nuclear attack. She was so impressed that she plans to ask the German government, who can actually protect about 10% (the elites), to follow suit. This is surprising, coming from a member of the Green Party and a peace-loving activist who studied politics and international understanding. She is also among the biggest war-mongers in Germany, according to information from Wikipedia.

As a child, Baerbock grew up with her two sisters and two cousins and joined her parents at anti-war and anti-nuclear power protests organized or supported by the Green Party. She attended the Humboldt School in Hanover and spent an exchange year at Lake Highland Preparatory School in Orlando, Florida, at the age of 16.

It is ironic that two generations after the Russian Army spent 25 million lives to destroy the Third Reich on the East Front, the German never-again-war activists are the loudest in supporting Ukraine, in a world where they have failed greatly to negotiate (the Minsk Treaty). Perhaps they still feel bad that they lost to Russia and are happy that Zelinski is carrying out the duty to restore the feel-good story. There are actually democracies in Europe, such as Hungary, which is called a dictatorship by the EU, but they consulted with the population to decide whether they should actively engage in the war. They decided not to. It remains to be seen if Mr. Biden will sanction them, as he has done with Switzerland, coercing a neutral country to deliver weapons. It is worth noting that the Green and Socialist parties are all in, and solidarity is in their blood. That the socialist members actually favor Russia as an ideological ally can wait.

The Munich Security Conference opened with a video conference from President Zelinski, predicting victory over "Goliath" Russia to save Western civilization. However, at home, he censors the press, removes opponents, and the British accuse him of firing ammunition into no man's land, thus wasting resources while always demanding more weapons. While Zelinski claims the war has killed 200,000 soldiers, the British say Russia lost 50,000, which would leave 150,000 Ukrainian dead. But according to Western news, only Russians die. The Munich Security Conference does not include Russia but rather a set of war-oriented interests waiting for Russia to fall so they can prey on the resources. They have all forgotten about Napoleon and Hitler and are repeating what led to WWI, where everyone talked about war and no one about peace. Meanwhile, Mr. Stoltenberg, the NATO commander, stated that the war started in 2014 when Russia entered Crimea, but he said nothing about the Maidan coup, which really started the confrontation under the guidance of the CIA.

The next escalation point is that Europe and the US are ramping up the production of ammunition and preparing for the delivery of fighter jets. Russia has 3,800 aircraft, with 1,500 fighter jets, so the economy will likely recover with solar panels and wind power. However, until the multi-trillion-dollar investment package impacts the economy, war will likely do it to avoid a global recession. This administration is trigger-happy against everyone except China, which is at least worth considering given Hunter and the rest of the family's potential influence on the conflict with Ukraine and the soft gloves on China.

Where will this all lead? Will the US lead Europe to split up Russia into smaller countries, allowing for greater access to its resources? Will a new EU and EEU, led by Zelinski, emerge to counter China? This seems like a long way off. After all, South America has more strategic resources for an electric world. Russia may have gas, oil, and coal, but it lacks lithium.

US Politics: Biden's State of the Union - February 2023

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 20:45:53 GMT

US Politics - February 2023: Biden's State of the Union

The State of the Union address, the event of the month, was another rhetorical display from the president's speechwriters to stir up more hot air for middle-class Joe. Although well-delivered, the speech's content lacked substantiated detail, nor was it fact-proof regarding social security. It can be summed up in one line - don't be fooled by the patriarchal threats of the '50s; if you don't obey, we'll put you in line, sweetened by the promise to work across the aisles, but I set the conditions.

There is nothing authentic in the speech, nor has there been anything positive for the middle class, nationally or internationally, in the last two years unless the president's definition of the middle class includes union jobs and people making over half a million dollars a year.

Inflation, which only the government controls, could have been stabilized if US produced energy was not restricted. US gas and oil independence and export to Europe could have given the US more negotiation power on a global scale and reduced CO2 emissions. However, printing and distributing money into a recovering and growing economy is the real driver of inflation. Nevertheless, election promises must be kept, and there is always someone to blame.

The economy was already in recovery mode, and the passing of the infrastructure and other bills merely provided money for failed blue states or cities . Each project comes with the label of diversity, inclusion, and equity (and union jobs) as a political tool. Pork is still present, but this is at another level. What if you have a diverse population of only ten percent?

To unite the divided country, the president made his usual rhetorical call for democracy, which we have heard before the midterm and throughout his career. If he wants unity, he must address crime and police reform, secure the border (which would take care of gun law reform), and accept that people have differing opinions. If he is a leader, that is what is expected. The 90% in the middle are okay to negotiate, but tolerating the burning of cities for political gain and jailing demonstrators as political prisoners if you disagree with them requires some rethinking before unity can be reached.

The most hypocritical and almost surreal part of the address was the call for American jobs and reshoring (MAGA). Was it not his party and financial backers who fought the reshoring efforts of the previous administration? The 44th president even called it ridiculous. Now the current president, middle-class Joe, plagiarizes the previous administration's efforts. Perhaps there is good money available for hedge funds, PEG, and VC from the trillion dollars the administration will spend to sweeten the spot. The Chip Act certainly has a whiff of it. Look at the states most interested in it.

What was missing from the speech was the war in Ukraine. What is the strategy and global implications, and what are we doing for peace and real prosperity around the globe, other than fighting wars for democracy? What about the sanctions? There may be a project, but it is not worth mentioning.

Drugs and abortion, both destructive to human life, seem to have different support systems, but it appears that the administration in either case does not have much thought or interest in preserving life, only their political interests. Maybe Biden attests that, in the case of abortion, he sees the separation of church and state and hopes that, as a Catholic, he will be judged by a worldly panel when he goes to heaven. Or sometimes he appears to be above the pope and God.

What about the international sanctions on Russia? When the war started, we heard promises of imposing the "Mother of all sanctions" that would bankrupt Russia like in 1990, but have we seen any effective action? The war is a terrible thing, and both sides are unable to win militarily without complete destruction, leading to more destruction and loss of life. As the death toll and number of refugees continue to rise, not negotiating with a so-called dictator becomes more questionable.

According to sources, 200,000 soldiers and 50,000 civilians have been killed, and an estimated 14 million people have been relocated. While Western news only talks about refugees going to NATO-friendly countries like Poland, around 7 million people have left Ukraine, with 2.5 million going to Russia. The situation seems never-ending, and we wonder where it will all end.

Russia has successfully outmaneuvered other countries' attempts at imposing sanctions by negotiating with other nations. Taking money from oligarchs and their yachts has made good headlines but has not resulted in any significant changes. The IMF predicts that Russia's GDP will grow in 2023, outgrowing Western Europe in 2024. Russia still sells gas and oil to the West, and just recently, they announced cutting output as the EU put a cap on crude oil, leading to a global price increase.

While Europe buys Russian gas from Australia to reduce CO2 emissions, the delivery process may not be environmentally friendly. Sending more weapons to Ukraine may not help the situation, and the shortage of Ukrainian soldiers is a concerning issue. The US recession was avoided, and now we are already involved in directing missiles and strategic support in Poland. The situation is questionable, and the most transparent administration must be asked.

The North Stream 2 explosion is a significant concern. According to Seymour Hersh , the US is the culprit, and this thesis is elaborated with one source. While no one on the planet has asked for an investigation, the explosion could be seen as a terrorist attack or an attack on a sovereign country. If German Chancellor Scholz was briefed on the coup, he would be a traitor. However, no one seems to want to investigate the issue.

The world has many other challenges, and it is time to focus on negotiating with Russia and China rather than escalating conflicts. Biden and his administration should focus on the promises made at the start of their tenure and elevate negotiations on both fronts. Passing unilateral bills does not support the rhetoric on integration and negotiation, and it is time to move away from the MAGA Cult rhetoric. Talk is cheap, and it is time to take effective action.

Economics – World Economic Forum

Sun, 29 Jan 2023 19:38:34 GMT

The World Economic Forum (WEF) is an organization founded by Klaus Schwab. Every year, the WEF holds its annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland. The following is an introduction to the WEF, as taken from Wikipedia:

The World Economic Forum ( WEF ) is an international non-governmental and lobbying organization[1] based in Cologny , canton of Geneva , Switzerland. It was founded on 24 January 1971 by German engineer and economist Klaus Schwab . The foundation, which is mostly funded by its 1,000 member companies – typically global enterprises with more than US$ 5 billion in turnover – as well as public subsidies, views its own mission as "improving the state of the world by engaging business, political, academic, and other leaders of society to shape global, regional, and industry agendas".

The WEF is mostly known for its annual meeting at the end of January in Davos , a mountain resort in the eastern Alps region of Switzerland. The meeting brings together some 3,000 paying members and selected participants – among whom are investors, business leaders, political leaders, economists , celebrities and journalists – for up to five days to discuss global issues across 500 sessions.

Aside from Davos, the organization convenes regional conferences in locations across Africa, East Asia, Latin America, and India and holds two additional annual meetings in China and the United Arab Emirates . It furthermore produces a series of reports, engages its members in sector-specific initiatives and provides a platform for leaders from selected stakeholder groups to collaborate on projects and initiatives.

The Forum suggests that a globalized world is best managed by a self-selected coalition of multinational corporations , governments and civil society organizations (CSOs), which it expresses through initiatives like the " Great Reset " and the "Global Redesign".

The World Economic Forum and its annual meeting in Davos have received criticism over the years, including the organization's corporate capture of global and democratic institutions, its institutional whitewashing initiatives, the public cost of security, the organization's tax-exempt status, unclear decision processes and membership criteria, a lack of financial transparency, and the environmental footprint of its annual meetings. As a reaction to criticism within Swiss society, the Swiss federal government decided in February 2021 to reduce its annual contributions to the WEF. The WEF has also been the target of conspiracy theories .

The cost to be paid by companies for a delegate to the WEF were $US70,000 in the early 2000 years, and in 2022 were $US120,000.

The World Economic Forum (WEF) used to be seen as a gathering for networking and meeting individuals from various industries. Approximately 70% of its attendees and members come from finance, health, and environmental sectors, while politicians from various countries are also in attendance. However, with the advent of the Covid-19 pandemic, the concept of the "great reset" has arisen, leading to questions about whether the WEF is truly a forum or if it is instead orchestrating a fundamental change in the world.

This year, two notable absences were George Soros and Russia. George Soros did not attend without reason, while Russia was disinvited as a result of a sanctions measure, making the WEF a more political event. There are rumors that Klaus Schwab runs the organization as a one-man show and functions like a dictatorship, only allowing those who align with his principles to hold leadership positions. Despite this, many companies still pay a large sum of money to attend the forum, suggesting that there are benefits to be had.

Given that the European Union has non-elected members, it is unclear how the WEF can promote democracy. Furthermore, as an elitist forum, it is questionable how the WEF can dictate the lives of those governed by democracy, especially if global governments and lobbyists are in agreement with the agenda and use the WEF as a coordinating effort.

At this year's political-economic forum, President Zelinski asked for more weapons and the EU promised significant spending support. However, no discussions were held on peace talks, suggesting that war may be good for the economy. Meanwhile, Al Gore and John Kerry, along with other financial groups profiting from green investments, promised once again that the world would end, with many followers espousing the same sentiment. However, as Federal Reserve Chair Yellen noted, this change may be only temporary.

A young leader in Danish politics proposed a future where individuals give their salary to the government and the government pays for their life, with a tax rate of 56%. Some liberal individuals may label this as a conspiracy theory, but it is worth keeping an eye on.

With sanctions against Russia and the decision not to buy oil and gas, Putin's inflation has increased, although it has eased slightly due to European countries reviving some coal plants and Russia exporting oil and gas that finds its way back into the Western world. However, this just shows that staying in power is the most important factor, rather than transparency.

The outcome of the debt limit talks is uncertain, but a dissection by a public advisory board instead of career politicians, or an audit by a real third party not associated with McKinsey, would be beneficial.

Geopolitical Focus – January 2023

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 21:08:58 GMT

Geopolitical Focus – January 2023

The war drags on and we're left wondering who will be held responsible for the cost. We're told that we're winning, but the recent speeches by Zelinski calling for more "big guns" at the Golden Globe were met with applause. However, it's easy to forget that their political views are supposed to be based on understanding and tolerance, as long as it doesn't affect their own interests. Social welfare politicians have adopted a global moral high ground, something that even the Pope with his millions of followers couldn't achieve in 2000 years. But, what can we expect in a time when history is forgotten if a tweet is 30 seconds old?

It's been evident for the past 20 years that a conflict between Ukraine and Russia was brewing. A better understanding of the situation may lie in Angela Merkel's comment that the Minsk agreement was not meant to achieve what it claimed, but rather to buy time. So, is she lying or is the Russian President right when he claims that the West never took Russia seriously in any peace negotiations? For those who only follow the US's democratic defense reasoning for all wars, a closer look at history and the involvement of Zelinski and Joe Biden is necessary. These two presidents, in my opinion, are experts at playing the game of deception, as we've seen in the recent documents released in the US.

As it stands, the killing machines continue, with more weapons being sent to Europe and the US, and Russia showing no signs of letting up. The idea of NATO installing missiles and other weaponry on the Russian border is simply not acceptable. The current path leads to no solution and Ukraine will pay the price with too many lives lost. The only way to truly win this war is with NATO (US) troops on the ground, if that is the goal.

The blow up of the NS pipeline has been met with silence, despite the impact on European countries' energy and living expenses. The focus is solely on the war in Ukraine and Russia is being painted as defeated and on the brink of collapse. But, how can that be true if Russia's economy is still going strong? Putin has even stated that the Russian economy is in better shape than expected and that all major economic indicators point to further stabilization. He's mocked the opponents' attempts to crush it with sanctions.

So, who pays in the end? The Ukrainian people, who will see a decline in their quality of life, but also the West, who ignored the security aspects. Democracy is being threatened as Zelinski resorts to authoritarian measures. The European people (not the governments or the EU) will see an increase in energy prices and will also have to pay for the EU (NATO) contributions for infrastructure, humanitarian aid, and weapons. And who are the winners? The US weapons industry and, in the end, Russia will still be there.

It's worth noting that the speculation of Russia invading Western Europe was more of a wish to use the Ukrainian people to weaken Russia in the hope of a united Europe without Russia, but a stronger Western alliance. And what about Kazakhstan, Kirgizstan, Tadzhikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan? Is NATO going after them next?

With all the human potential and global organizations such as the UN and WEF, as well as the money spent on equity and inclusion, it seems that the focus is on enhancing NATO's presence in Ukraine, even as the Ukraine continues to kill Russians in the Donbass at will.

As in all wars, it's the ordinary people who are expendable, as long as the establishment and the elite maintain their power. It's important to be aware of the media and who you elect, as countries like Brazil could quickly become another Venezuela, with the rest of the world (on the left) applauding.

US Politics – January 2023

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 18:01:31 GMT

US Politics - January 2023 | Is Democracy Really at Stake?

Before the election, our President called out the opposing party as sinister and warned that democracy was at stake. But is democracy really at stake, or is it just the rhetoric of a dictator-style leader who sees his power diminishing?

In a company, if the annual budget is made by the department head or their influential group and it does not project a minimum profit for the company's survival, it is rejected and needs to be streamlined. Everyone knows this. In government, budgets and finances are nothing more than a mathematical exercise, approved by the people under the assumption that the rich will pay for it by increasing taxes. However, what the people need to see is that politicians and institutions calling for the most spending are often the biggest beneficiaries in a self-fulfilling way. This is often disguised as investments in climate change, equity, and democracy (as seen in the war in Ukraine) in a 4000-page document with a review time of just 2 days and no control mechanism. This can only happen in an ideological political environment without responsibility or respect for the people, which they call democracy.

We are in the first week of the new Congress, and while the "democracy democrats" are united behind their leader in the House (perhaps chosen by the fringe left but not opposed by their moderate colleagues), they claim to represent the voters. While it may be seen as ugly and unprofessional, the Republicans have fought to present their own speaker. Isn't this the process of democracy to reach a compromise and the responsibility of the people in power? What is wrong with having a documented path forward and having everyone agree on it, including the option to remove a speaker who fails to perform? We will discuss this more later, but it is better late than never to avoid a representative like John Boehner.

Is Mitch McConnell just another dinosaur politician hanging on to his job with all his manipulative powers? Why don't we have a system that cuts the salary of a responsible person based on their negative ratings? Bi-partisan politics does not approve of the $1.7 trillion Omnibus Bill and then celebrate it in the President's home state. I would call this selling out the party for personal gain. But for dinosaurs like Pelosi, Schumer, and Biden, this is all they have done in their lifetimes, and even Republican voters fall for it.

Have you heard any news lately about Ukraine? Why is our President supporting the war with Zelensky (saying "we are with you all the way") when even his top military brass is suggesting talks? Can it really be defending democracy when we strive for a one-party system like in California or New York at home, and Zelensky is eliminating opposing parties and press in Ukraine? Hardly. If you study the history of the two countries and Western involvement, there are only two winners: the EU, hoping that a weakened Germany will align and unite the powers to Brussels, and the US, hoping to avoid a recession going into the election through weapon exports and then control all of Europe through a central government. The biggest losers are Ukraine and all the people and countries involved, other than the political powers claiming to defend democracy. Think about it: sanctions are a weapon of war used by ideological fringe elements in the US to suppress and destroy the opposition, the same party as the President who supports Ukraine for democracy.

Everyone should read " Dirty Wars " and understand the reasons behind them in a time when we all call for equity, diversity, and inclusion, but forget about tolerance and coexistence as long as we have someone to blame.

US Politics – November 2022

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 22:00:47 GMT

US Politics – November 2022 | Republicans winning the House

All the anticipation and hype has given way to emotional reactions, both positive and negative. However it is almost certain the democrats will lose the House, and this will create a better balance of power.

What have we learned from this election cycle?

The country is still split 50-50 in competitive States – with marginal victories on either side. As long as there are opportunities created to extend and accept votes after election Day (postmarked?) election integrity will be questioned. Interestingly, this time it shifted from PA to Arizona and Nevada.
Voter intimidation can have many forms, and I’m not quite sure how you feel about a President openly declaring opponents NAZI’ or racist and using Fascist tactics on the way.
The media, almost all of them, including commentators on social media are no longer informing people but are government compliers. Thus they are a part of a power structure that pushes for what they call the Republicans out for.
There have always been extreme elements in political view, and that should be welcomed. It is better to have their voices open, then like Soros or Sam Bankman-Fried, who donate billions to push one extreme are tolerated by the media, while other opposing views are demonized and vilified. For what reason, free abortion and unlimited Wars?
Abortion and unlimited Wars; talk about election deciders? It is hardly a question of candidate quality, both sides offer good and party liners. We see two major factors; abortion mobilized the youth and the old “birthing people” mostly organized by the 1960 activists who are still living in the past with no birth control, to preserve their legacy, and their lifetime passion; secondly, the elite establishment and the War-Monger Bush / Cheney clan (moderates by Liz Cheney standard) needed to avoid a “Red Wave” at all costs to continue their influence. I questioned the united support of all Republicans for the War in Ukraine… As in my humble opinion it took all opposition out leading to the elections. The “unifier” trick?
Has democracy really won? We will know when we enter the 2024 election cycle which starts November 15, probably with all knifes out.
Economy: It was well played, Inflation eased a bit with the strategic reserve consumption. The War in the Ukraine was good enough to ease the GDP, perhaps the real reason for the War?
International relations, don’t matter, especially if we plan to settle with wars if things do not go our way.
Green Deal, Infrastructure, Student Loan etc., – people are happy for free deals, under the impression someone else pays. Imagine asking your neighbors to pay for you.

The real winner, if any, is the leadership team of Pelosi, Schumer and the President. They orchestrated a media and political campaign focusing mostly on demonizing people, questionable facts, accomplishments, and a core that is only interested in retaining power.

The real loser is McConnel, who sided (for reasons only known to him) for nothing. This leads to speculations, is he compromised? And do the democrats know? Is his allegiance with the War Mongers or has he simply put his ego above country and did it to take revenge on Trump?

And there are a lot of little losers in the Republican party, like Lindsey Graham, who is almost as good as Biden to screw things up with a minute of TV glory. For example, his comments on abortion.

Going forward, the Republicans winning the House means that the most proficient and ruthless political person will be reduced to a voice, and removed as the Speaker of the House. That is Nancy Pelosi. Give her credit for what she did, if it was good for the Country.. history will tell. But DON’T count her out, she works in the background as some might say former President # 44 does.

For the Republicans – vote for a speaker that can unite, not a hardliner nor a War Monger nor a Rhino. ,

And then there is the Minority Senate Leader – he has been outmaneuvered by Schumer – Pelosi in the last 2 years, call it to compromise but he did not get anything in return? However as long as Schumer is the Majority Leader, whoever comes in will have to be on his toes, as his negotiation tactics are New York style. More so in reference to the Mob than negotiating, but that is a reference to the party he choose. Certainly, a new Republican leader would show that we are willing to take on the establishment.

For Schumer, as he travels, his constituents in the press continue to congratulate him on the win. He indicates openness to compromise. Whatever that means is his secret, and after the CRT and environmental activists were traded for abortion in the buildup, we will see how long they keep quiet.

The bright spot in all this? Do we have another entertaining time in front until at least 2024. Or just better said; nothing new in the west?

Geopolitical Focus – November 2022

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 18:32:34 GMT

Geopolitical Focus – November 2022

The US election night has come and gone. Now we wait and ask…”will that change the world view?”

The answer: Probably not , as the establishment has prevailed and international politics will continue the path of good and evil, or whatever pleases the elite.

Have you ever wondered what military presence the US has globally, and asked the question what is the purpose? When you run a Company, you ask yourself once in a while if your strategy is aligned with reality.

For example, at the end of WWII, Europe set its focus on peace and prosperity. Since then, Western Countries have resolved all conflicts peacefully… And although each has maintained its military forces, these efforts have been more or less successful.

With the development and extension of the EU & NATO, Kosovo and its related countries were the most significant occurrence in extended Europe. And the conflict was by definition a tribal war , perhaps instigated, but more to that in another write-up.

In its current form, the EU is in an excellent position, with no mandate nor political power, but with aggression and pure totalitarian intent, to ruin it all.

The definition of EU is not a European Parliament with power over the individual Countries, but by his own definition:

By definition - As enshrined in the Treaty on European Union, ‘the Union is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities. These values are common to the Member States in a society which pluralism, non-discrimination, tolerance, justice, solidarity and equality between women and men prevail.’ These values are an integral part of the European way of life.

Human dignity must be respected, protected, and constitutes the real basis of fundamental rights.

Being a European citizen also means enjoying political rights. Every adult EU citizen has the right to stand as a candidate and to vote in elections to the European Parliament, whether in their country of residence or country of origin.

Equality is about equal rights for all citizens before the law. The principle of equality between women and men underpins all European policies and is the basis for European integration. It applies in all areas.

The EU is based on the rule of law. Everything the EU does is founded on treaties, which are voluntarily and democratically agreed by its member countries. Law and justice are upheld by an independent judiciary. The EU countries have given final jurisdiction in matters of EU law to the European Court of Justice, whose judgments have to be respected by all.

If you read historians and scholars of the subject, there has been an on-going debate if the EU should be guided by its members, or if the EU itself is the central government for EU Members? Essentially, you must ask “who are these decisions being made by and for?”

The latest developments and aggressive tactics of the EU Leadership show that they are clearly focused on a central leader (dictatorship) as the US’s current government tries to take central control of individual States.

With the most recent War in Ukraine, the EU/NATO alliance under the guidance of the US has become a Union of War, not Peace. Russia is and always has been part of Europe, and has fought for the freedom from unwanted regimes as has the US or UK, but also had its own internal and external conflicts with lots of human suffering.

It is therefore astonishing to me, after the 2014 Maidan Coup, which was clearly a violation of International Law, (=War Crime) the EU has not taken an aggressive stand to avoid a conflict.

With all the current international issues, energy, infrastructure, labor shortage, supply chain, inflation, and national deficits… Do we really need wars other than to deflect from the real problems? The fight for democracy has not worked in any of the previously attempted wars and would be a parody of the EU, overusing its power as an autocratic one.

While we fly thousands of people around the world to save the planet, currently in Sharm el-Sheikh Egypt, all the same people are enthusiastically supporting the war. Is this because they hate one man or is it the political system? Hardly, we have opened Pandora's Box, possibly unleashing a string of never-ending global conflicts.

So going back to the past military strategy of the US, and looking at the real threats:

Japan yes, because we did not allow them to have their own Military after WWII – or Korea, Taiwan. Italy may have a reason for naval purposes, but Turkey can cover for that – however if Russia is the threat, it appears that all NATO troops in Europe should perhaps be in Poland, and the Countries in between Russia and Poland should work on agreements with the EU and Russia to guarantee individual Nationalities remain able to access to strategic ports and enact a free trade zone integrated with and within Europe.

With that said, if you follow geo-political US policies, a strong Europe is at par with China and the US. The US wants an EU dependent on the US. It begs the question, what is the root cause of US involvement in this war?

US Politics | Elections: Is the Choice Really That Hard?

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 13:16:33 GMT

Elections: is the choice really that hard?

With only days to go until the elections, we can hear a shift in messaging, with the blue team instantly offering solutions on inflation and crime.

For the last 12 months, we heard about abortion, January 6th, labeling everyone with another opinion a racist or fascist/ a collaborator against democracy. The loudest voices we heard were not the voices of the so-called socialist democrats.. but the voices of National Media aligned with the Elite and the Leader of the Free World.

If we look at the word democracy – whether a republic or direct – it all goes back to people who speak the loudest at elections. Luckily for democracy, most of them are paying attention to their lives and their impact on daily struggles and prefer real life as opposed to the desire of interest Groups.

If you wish to be part of another never-ending War in Ukraine, one starting in Korea and potentially in Taiwan, with an EU parliament officially asking, and the US Government complying, sending Nukes to Europe, then vote blue.

If you believe the current Administration has done a good job, then you truly believe your future hinges on abortion, CRT, and preserving democracy. On top of that, one must consider if one major party’s demands to take action in Ukraine are considered a threat of war from the whole country.

In times like this, we need leaders who are representative of the people. A democracy does not elect people to follow blindly, as most on the blue team do to show unity. For complicity may even be a better description. We need leaders that will stop with the finger-pointing, the blaming, and the suppressive behavior. On top of that, they must have the courage to speak loudly and with facts, instead of promoting propaganda. Let us elect people who work to deliver and not to defend their job. Let us get rid of the dinosaurs and sycophants, and especially the “safe the democracy” shouters, who have demonstrated a one-party, our-way-only power party.

Vote for people respecting the constitution, accept the US with all its flaws (no country is perfect), but improve, protect and respect countries around the world. Understand politics should utilize the weapons of words and peace, not War (sanctions are a Weapon of War). Most importantly, vote for officials who represent the people, not the Elite and all of its cronies.

US Politics Week 42

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 18:39:43 GMT

US POLITICS: How does Roe v Wade impact the Inflation reduction Act?

How does Roe v Wade impact the Inflation reduction Act? Listen to Stacy Abrahms, she seemingly sees both as an economic measure. As we enter the final stretch of the mid-term election, and the blame game (is that the # 1 weakness in leadership?) is starting to wear thin. Current leadership wants you to Remember red is the cause of all problems, inflation is still temporary until it is over and oil is abundant from the strategic reserve because (blame) the world is not complying with the current administration's global command.

With the willing help of the media, the blue momentum was built on blame, calling all who disagreed names and pushing through legislation they thought would be a hit with all Americans.

Once the initial actions from President 46 started to impact, everything started moving in the wrong direction. Inflation and oil shortage (caused by executive orders), food shortages, and others soon could all be blamed on a War, that has been pre-emptively instigated by the US actively since 2014. It was further pushed over the line by President 46. If you follow global politics, you will see that the shortages do not impact the US by much but Europe and other countries.

As President 46 entered the highest Job in US Government, he had all Tools in place to steer a Country into a global power, the conflict between Ukraine and Russia was begging for diplomacy – OPEC was at peace and cooperative, the Border under relative control, the economy on a solid path of recovery and the COVID vaccinations on a table to distribute. Unresolved was the situation in Korea, and with re-shoring, China was left in a situation to re-think its global strategy.

However, rather than seeking cooperation with the architects of the positive moves, the Media Mob (or better Mafia), the anti-Pres 45 crew, as well as the entire blue party teamed up to lead us to the golden age, as we currently have it, it seems more like the dark ages.

The War in Ukraine , has its blame on all of US Congress, as the War Hawks and “Russia-Phobes”, still living in the 1950’s used a 100-year conflict, first warmed up during the 2014 maidan coup and then escalated it to the point of bursting, with an open letter from Biden (Blinken) to Zelinsky, offering full support for NATO entry and unwavering support (military) to Ukraine to defend itself. International experts, who call out the US for a so-called War to defend democracies, are shut down as Putin Puppet (see Hillary the architect of the Russian Dossier, referring to Trump as a Russian Puppet and so did the Press) and basically enter the field for no negotiation? (Note, Merkel as Chancellor always said no to the NATO aggression about Ukraine, as it was clear it will lead to War.)
Energy Independent , as the US was never 100% Oil independent, in 2018 we imported only about 10%, if you count Mexico and Canada within North America, thus leaving us globally in a strong position to negotiate treaties and peace agreements not possible before. All other Energy resources (except batteries and solar panel) was ready for export. Hindsight, a Merkel – President 45 – Putin Team, would have been able to negotiate a deal for Peace, that kept Zelinsky in line and the EU a bit on the sideline, however, the powers in the dark were torpedoing all potential approaches – Aimed at a mad man on twitter Twitter, who found himself now in a position of ultimate power. That put powder kegs all around the world, are the fuses now activated?
Border , remember the media and its trojan Horses in politics, the pictures of kids in Cages etc., and now we all are led to believe that all the people coming in are simply a blessing for the entire country, with no restrictions. Redistribution by blue officials is ok and done in secret, red distribution is blamed by the press with the standard accolades.

As the election are now getting closer, it appears that the general public is somehow fed up with all media and administrative communication, especially as certain moves like the release of strategic oil reserves to curb inflation, and student debt relief are seen as political appeasers. On top of that, none of the greatly proposed legislation - The infrastructure Bill or the Inflation Reduction Act simply has not produced any results. Then of course you have “the great new deal”, although Climate Change is a topic, with no strategy, there should be no trust. So what is left for the blue team? A 6-year vendetta on President #45, since sworn in blame and call names on the 70 – 80 million who decided not to vote for the agenda brought forward by #46. Of course, it lit some fires around the globe, and for about 5 days, the War in Ukraine has disappeared from the News agenda, with the focus shifting to Energy independence. Full circle in less than 2 years…., but only a step backward or at best status quo.

In summary you cannot vote blue without also welcoming unrestricted abortion (note the States still have the right to decide and it is not a ban on abortion) and a party that will once in power again line up behind Ms. Pelosi in attention and do as told. We want leaders, like Tulsi Gabbard , who says what is right for the Country. Not a yes man, but someone who produces facts and can debate and compromise. Party affiliation yes, but respecting the country's democratic - republic underlining definition is required.

Geopolitical Focus – Week 42

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 01:36:20 GMT

Geopolitical Focus – Week 42

With China set to appoint current political leader President Xi for another term, expect a continuation of the nation’s Mao stratagem, but also an aggressive expansion of international interests. They may not be able to buy land in North Dakota, and with strains on trade between the United States and its allies, the process is slow, but look for the superpower to place tentacles in nations globally to build a formidable military power.

With coverage of the war in Ukraine slowing by the day, the average citizen unaffected by the conflict grows further from the stresses. The situation nears a head with a mighty ultimatum upcoming: either negotiate a surrender of territories, or Russia will mobilize its vast military for the winter, placing a greater strain on Europe’s energy crisis.

In the US, it’s all hands on deck for midterm elections. The talking points grow grimmer and grimmer for incumbent democrats without a victory for Ukraine and dragging negotiations with Iraq creating havoc within the gas and oil industry globally. On a domestic front, the administration refuses to acknowledge the harrowing border crisis and crumbling infrastructure while failing to feasibly implement the Inflation Reduction Act.

Biden’s administration and fellow democrats have resorted to forcibly pushing unheard of freedoms for abortion rights, CRT taking presedence to STEM topics, ESG and Green Deal without concrete concepts, and most importantly, blaming Biden’s predecessor for No. 46’s shortcomings. Incumbent politicians typically campaign on successes. However, all we currently see are empty promises reminiscent of antiquated prophecies.

In recent memory, our diplomats have angered Saudi Arabia, stunned the Japan Prime Minister, and have worked backwards in establishing relationships with North Korea and Iraq. The Vice President’s scorecard looks equally as blank as the stare given when hit with any sort of real pushback.

The international strategy remains hammering home that Putin is bad. However, we’ve known that for 25 years. Maybe Putin thinks just as low of Joe Biden. Maybe somebody should sit the two down for a conversation. Chris Wallace would provide excellent moderation.

All we have are political allies in the administration, pulling on a centralized, Chinese government model with total control, while demonizing Putin.

Since the European Press is totally in line with the likes of CNN, MSNBC, and other left-leaning one-party progressives, it is no surprise that they are fed the good news the Biden administration is putting out, and blindly believing and following the decree from Washington almost unquestioned, without thinking of any consequences.

For now, we remain impaired yet optimistic as we resort to Angela Merkel’s favorite phrase – we can do this. But this time, hope is the recipe to muddle through in place of a plan.

Economics – Week 42 Economic Sanctions – Weapon of War? What is Friend shoring?

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 23:55:17 GMT

Economic Sanctions – Weapon of War? What is Friend shoring?

We’ve all seen the boycotting of certain products or services demanded by activists or other politically motivated entities. Where does that fit into the category of economic sanctions?

Regardless of the official nature of these sanctions, are they an effective form of punishment? Without a sense of the source – whether it stems from we the people or via an executive order – how can it effectively receive proper measurement?

Imposed sanctions from nearly every democratic governing body have had a minimal impact on Russia’s efforts in Ukraine, nor have they impacted Russian citizens in any tangible sense. The more dramatic aftermath appears in European countries unintentionally suffering the consequences of theoretically hefty punishment.

As the latest economic concept, the same people that drove globalization are now featuring a concept of friend-shoring, meaning only countries that share the same principles are encouraged or allowed to do business with each other.

However, rebranding does not make this a fresh concept. The ideals behind friend-shoring dates back to the Romans and other ancient empires. Unfortunately, each attempt ends in a fight between protectionism and globalization.

More than twenty years ago, the idea of free trade brought a glimpse at the ideal relationship between countries able to build transactional relationships. However, political power and interest crept into the veins of the concept, bleeding smaller nations dry of their resources, reverting to a relabeled form of globalization.

But in today’s society, it’s a group of financial elite and politicians branding themselves as holding high morals that inevitably push those beneath them toward financial decisions that heavily favor the ‘moralists’.

Curb ‘big finance’ and the elite to allow an ideal free trade system to become the driving force of economies. The need for regulations creates a vicious cycle of governing bodies that seem for the people, but line their pockets. Why feed the egos of the World Trade Organization’s governance while the United Nations provides a better partnership for fair trade?

That partnership provides a glimpse at what we seek with the EU only temporarily in the grand attempt to bust Russia’s attempts for globalization. However, the success of breaking the superpower into smaller states leaves Volodymyr Zelensky salivating at the vision of controlling all territory from Germany’s eartern border to Anadyr.

Alternative Energy – Week 42:Energy – Politics and the Implications for your life.

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 23:51:00 GMT

Energy – Politics and the Implications for your life.

If you follow the New Green Deal on a global scale, you may have heard that 19-year-old activist Greta Thunberg recommended that Germany might be better off returning to nuclear power rather than firing up coal plants in the midst of the country’s well-documented energy crisis.

Does this stem from fear over Russian President Vladimir Putin’s control over Germany’s energy, or is this based on the straying from single-sourcing? Regardless, Europe is short on gas and oil. And with energy prices nearly quadrupled over the last calendar year, industries continue to falter while residents become frozen out of their homes.

However, the German Government – like United States President Joe Biden – travelled the same countries begging for more oil and gas only to return empty-handed. With means of distribution uncertain, and short-term solutions considered as much of a pipe dream as shipping from the US to Germany, the cost of energy would make Germany’s industrial infrastructure non-competitive.

Stuck in a no-win situation, and in all the desperation created by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, what outcome creates a sense of global relief? The collapse of Russia creating immediate access to all of the country’s resources? Napoleon and Hitler tried it – both with a sense of almighty military dominance – nearly starving all of Russia to death, only to face the realization that a dead Russian was still willing to fight.

So, while the west is focused on what we do not have – enough solar and wind power, effective grids, loading stations for EV – we focus on an unnecessary war with mandates that cripple a logical transition from fossil fuel to real alternatives in a sustainable time frame.

Do we entertain competing concepts of sustainability and ESG, with sustainability the overarching investment, and ESG – a governed, “big money” driven (tax) system that benefits finance and allows government power at will?

With election season a stone's throw away, and opponents able to point to incumbents to hurl blame for rising oil prices, those in office are opting for the strategic release of oil. However, the release of barrels does not magically create a sustainable source necessary for a permanent drop in price.

Once the well runs dry and countries like the United States require a doubled amount to not only supply the current demand, but also replenish the reserve, prices skyrocket dramatically.

In conclusion, if you want to follow leaders and problem solvers, and be presented with a long-term energy strategy, vote for people with two feet on the ground, which current leadership in the White House or Blue Leadership severely lacks.

Geopolitical Focus - Ukraine

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 13:00:58 GMT

What does the Conflict in Ukraine Mean for Eurasian Geo-Strategy?

At this moment in time, the ultimate objective of American policy should be benign and visionary; In order to shape a truly cooperative global community, a large focus must be placed on long-range trends that fall in line with the fundamental interests of humankind. In the meantime, it is imperative that no Eurasian challenger emerges, as someone capable of dominating Eurasia and is thus also fully capable of challenging America. This concept has been called upon in book, “The Grand Chessboard”, written by former US security Advisor, Zbigniew Brzezinski. The formulation of a comprehensive and integrated Eurasian geostrategy is therefore the purpose of this book.

(Brzezinski, Zbigniew. The Grand Chessboard (p. xvi). Basic Books. Kindle Edition.)

What Brzezinski did not publicly state, is that a Europe that aligns with Russia would be considered a Superpower by geostrategic definition. So, if Europe as a whole (and most notably Germany) must rely on cooperation with Russia, it begs the question as to whether or not this has been Russia’s plan all along. Was Zelinsky just the willing puppet? What is the Strategy and what are the unexpected consequences in a geo-political world? Democracy..? We will have to see.

Yes, the US reacted to a call from the Ukrainian President, in another case to defend Democracy, as it did in Iran 1953, Guatemala 1954, Egypt 1956, Cuba 1961, Vietnam 1964, Nicaragua 1981, Serbia 1999, Afghanistan 2001, Iraq 2003, Libya 2011, Ukraine (Maidan Coup) 2014, and Yemen in 2015?

What is the definition of an illegal War?

Per the International Criminal Court, it is the first and only permanent international court with jurisdiction to prosecute individuals for the international crimes of genocide , crimes against humanity , war crimes , and the crime of aggression . It is distinct from the International Court of Justice , an organ of the United Nations that hears disputes between states.

Note the US is not part of the ICC, as the Bush / Cheney administration never approved it.

The ineffectiveness of the UN Council is a result of the US and other VETO powers; The US is governed by the “Oligarchs”, the political and financial elites, with elected officials who represent not necessarily the interest of the people, but finance and special interests. In this case, it seems like they are using the UN as a geopolitical tool.

At the same time, the US is the operational and Strategic Leader of NATO. While its original intention was to be a peace force, recent expansion into areas near the Russian borders has also turned them into an aggressor. Yes, it is for the sake of establishing a “peace” agreement with Turkey early on to be placed strategically at ports close to Russia, and yes the other Eastern European Countries asked to be part of NATO. With this in mind, this was a unilateral decision made by all, with the exception of Russia, who received no say.

In the current European structure, the EU favors and willingly aligns with the US, as both seek the same benefits. Weak states or countries in the EU make it easier to install a central government, which is similar to the thought process in the US. But how does one make the central government more effective? So should we ask the question; Was having all European countries wholly aligned with the ineffective sanction on Russia the intended result in Europe this whole time?

First off – Looking at all the Wars fought in the Name of Democracy; In what situation has it actually resulted in Democracy, peace, and improved relationships of the US with said States? Or improvement of the lives of the people in those countries? You will realize it is difficult to name one situation in which that was the case.

Second – we all enjoy the US as the System of freedom, democracy, and prosperity. But who has the say to aggressively impose the same values on other states, other than for geo-political purposes? People in Iran are still oppressed, and we are on standby while people roam the streets for freedom.

Third – Nation Building has occurred over thousand of Years, with Switzerland objectively being the most direct democracy in the world in its current form. This of course came after fighting hundreds of wars to shape up in it’s current form. This was displayed as recently as 1979, when the people of the Region of Jura who wished to separate from Bern added another state. After plenty of formal debate concluded, the change was approved by a fair vote.

So, let’s put this in perspective. The Ukrainians are fighting a War for Democracy, which is essentially a proxy war for United States’ Geo – Political interests, to avoid an alignment with Germany – and further limit Russia’s emergence as a potential superpower. This leaves us with NATO (financed by the US) and the EU flexing a Centralized Power that is non-existent.

The Ukraine / Russia conflict dates back over 50 years and was only intensified in WWII, with the Bandera interests collaborating with the 3rd Reich. Some people say that was the better option than Stalin, on both the way in and out of the Invasion. However, the Allies may have suffered a much higher cost, or not won the Invasion if not for Russia crippling Adolf’s Army to pieces under the suffering of twenty-five million people. Yes, many Eastern European Countries have since joined NATO and enjoy a more democratic life, with the exception of Hungary who is now being singled out as a Fascist country because it does not bend to the socialist/centralized rulers of the EU.

As long as Merkel was the German Chancelor, a Ukraine entry to NATO was always rejected, simply for the fact that Russia always (since 2008) strongly objected to having NATO Troops and Weapons installed in a neighboring state.

The 2014 Maidan Coup, installing a pro-NATO “democracy” in Ukraine was a US lead Coup, covering Ukrainian atrocities in the Russian territories, which led to the “invasion” of Crimea. The CIA and Ukrainian underground forces continued the preparation for a Ukrainian Counter Offensive since the 2014 Coup, for Putin as a response to the 2021 agreement (Biden/Zelinsky) for an unconditional acceptance of the Ukraine into NATO, which resulted in Russian Aggression. Or perhaps the Afghanistan withdrawal was seen as US weakness?

Circling back to the top, what is the US Strategic intent? With all the influence in South / Middle America, with which Country did we gain the trust to build an Alliance? Have we built a system that proposed democracy – we mostly send the Corporate Raiders – and the poor are all still poor? And Brazil with its newest affair with China? We rather bash Brazil’s current President as MAGA’ type and blame the influx of Migrants on Communist Venezuela. Does that seem logical?

What is the unifying part in Europe, as the US claims? NATO alliance and Energy independence? Yes, they all accepted the US Sanction measures, as promised to end the War. Fact is, Europe is the big looser on the Sanctions, and Russia next to the US the big Winners? Yes, Finland and Sweden want to additionally join NATO, but those voices are quiet, especially since Sweden elected a more (as CNN would say) Fascist right wing governance?

So perhaps the whole unifying rhetoric may be words, and the time window for the unified support may close as soon as Winter?

So where does that leave the conflict, as the US from the top is claiming unconditional support for the Ukraine and is determined to claim military victory.

So, if the Ukraine becomes victorious, are we assuming that Russia will collapse and as when Gorbachev bankrupted all the people, which led to the rise of Putin, the corporate raiders will come in again and try to undermine the sovereign of the Russian people? Probably not a good assumption, as the sanction have not deterred life in Russia and once the conflict is about Russia the resolve is much stronger. Or is the goal here to have all Russian speaking people in the Ukraine driven out and secure the Donbas / Crimea region?

And what if the Ukrainian Border is re-established? Do we think Russia and its 140 million will be isolated? For that they have to many resources the world needs, like it or not? And if Putin gets ousted, is the believe like in the Maidan Coup, the US can install a Washington friendly puppet regime like the Shaw in Persia?

As we discuss lots of issues with Iran and other totalitarian countries, are we so weak in negotiating, or have simply offended to many people too many times, that it will take a long time to re-establish good relations?

Why in the world are we not negotiating a neutral Ukraine, why do they need to be NATO partners to be their own country? If we station a one million NATO Army directly in the Ukraine or its Western Border, would it make a difference in Russia aggression? So why is it not possible to let the people of Ukraine decide where to go? Some parts are undoubtedly more inclined to join Russia then the Ukraine? Or can the current administration, after the Afghanistan withdrawal, not afford another debacle, say loss in the Ukraine, so it appears that the Military solution, will last for a while.

It would be worthwhile to negotiate, Russia has the greatest Landmass of all Countries globally, and the most natural resources. It also has demonstrated that it can suffer to its dead, and still lives on. So, considering all the facts, can someone ask for a dialogue for a resolution before the Ukraine has lost all its people? Fifteen million have already fled the country, more to come should Russia mobilize its Grand Army, which it certainly will if it feels unrecognized and threatened in its existence.

Yes, we know since he came in Power, Putin is bad, so were all the Russian Leaders since Stalin, when the Russia Phobe became a US household word, and it has never left since?

Neutrality for Ukraine, or at least the Donbas region, no NATO troops or weapons in the Ukraine and start making Russia part of Europe, as it geo-strategically belongs there?

All white creek articles are our personal opinion, no political agenda or position with any party. Our intent is to have people form their own opinion, but provide thoughts mainstream media may not offer

Welcome to White Creek Opinion

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 13:00:55 GMT

In today’s political landscape, cable news networks value the speed of information over the accuracy of reporting.

Modern news consists of popular soundbites and recognizable visuals, but the coverage lacks in-depth conversations and introspective reflection. As a working-class, we scramble through our day, with limited time to consume and understand opposing beliefs, minimizing our individual worldview.

White Creek Opinion brings a grander scale platform, incorporating the news on a macro scale — opening the impact of the news beyond your own backyard — providing a strategic, practical view, and shedding personal anti-empathetic behaviors.

We are not journalists or politicians, but retired individuals with global experience and great interest in politics and history. We are not political ideologues, but common-sense enthusiasts who understand global complexities and yearn to grow diversely and openly.

We see this as an opinion blog — as a tool to reflect and form truth-based opinions. We do not want politics to become religion but a choice in a civilized way.