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China Urges Trump to “Stop Doing the Wrong Thing” Amidst Trade Tensions

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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Following a significant downturn in US markets, attributed to China’s recent imposition of reciprocal tariffs, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun has issued a statement urging the United States to reconsider its trade policies. In a Facebook post, Jiakun asserted that “the market has spoken,” suggesting a direct correlation between US protectionist measures and economic instability.

Jiakun further emphasized the need for “equal-footed consultation” to resolve trade differences, calling upon the US to “cease its wrongful actions.” This sentiment is echoed by several Chinese commerce associations representing key industries, who have issued statements encouraging diversification and warning of inflationary pressures within the United States as a result of the escalating tariffs.

The current escalation stems from a recent announcement by former President Donald Trump of an additional 34 per cent tariff on Chinese goods, prompting a swift retaliatory response from China, including further levies on American goods and restrictions on rare earth element exports. The situation remains tense, with both sides demonstrating a firm commitment to their respective positions.

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“Take It Down Act” Signed Into Law: Federal Protection Against Non-Consensual Image Sharing.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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President Donald Trump has signed the “Take It Down Act” into law, criminalizing the non-consensual sharing of intimate images, including those generated by artificial intelligence. The legislation mandates the prompt removal of such content by digital platforms and carries a penalty of up to three years imprisonment for offenders.

The law garnered bipartisan support and addresses growing concerns surrounding the proliferation of deepfakes and non-consensual pornography. Platforms failing to remove flagged content within 48 hours face civil penalties. First Lady Melania Trump, a vocal supporter of the bill, attended the signing ceremony.

While praised as a significant step in protecting individuals from online exploitation, the law has also drawn criticism. The Electronic Frontier Foundation, for example, warns of potential for misuse, suggesting the legislation may grant excessive censorship powers and stifle lawful speech. Digital platforms are now mandated to implement rapid response systems for content removal upon receiving complaints.

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Romania Elects Nicușor Dan Amidst Political Turmoil.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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Romania’s recent presidential election culminated in a narrow victory for Nicușor Dan, the pro-European mayor of Bucharest. Securing 53.6% of the vote, Dan defeated far-right nationalist George Simion in a runoff election marked by significant political upheaval and deep divisions.

The electoral process was fraught with challenges, including a previously annulled election citing allegations of foreign interference and subsequent disqualification of a leading candidate. These events fueled discontent among certain segments of the electorate, contributing to Simion’s strong showing.

Despite early exit polls, Simion initially refused to concede, highlighting the intensity of the political climate. Ultimately, he acknowledged defeat, but his significant support underscores the continued resonance of nationalist sentiment within Romania.

Dan’s victory has been met with international approval, particularly from neighboring Moldova and Ukraine, as well as from the European Commission. He now faces the formidable task of unifying a polarized nation and navigating a complex political landscape following the collapse of the coalition government. His commitment to a pro-European trajectory signals a reaffirmation of Romania’s alignment with Western values amidst regional instability.

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Travel Influencer Arrested on Suspicion of Espionage.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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Haryana police have apprehended Jyoti Malhotra, a prominent YouTuber and travel influencer, on allegations of espionage and maintaining suspicious connections with Pakistani intelligence. The arrest follows heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, stemming from recent military actions.

Authorities allege Malhotra had frequent contact with Ahsan-ur-Rahim, a Pakistani High Commission official previously expelled from India on espionage charges. She is further implicated in potential connections to the recent Pahalgam attack in Kashmir.

While Malhotra’s father vehemently denies the accusations, citing her legitimate travel vlogging activities, police cite discrepancies between her known income and travel expenses. The investigation is ongoing. This arrest underscores the persistent tensions and ongoing espionage concerns between the two nations.

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