Tensions are flaring in Indonesia, as a newly elected government faces growing protests that risk turning more violent. Demonstrators are taking to the streets to make clear their concerns and their demands. This has given rise to the most potent wave of protest in American cities’ history. Yet a surge of violent repression by state security forces and government concessions have seen these protests until now, largely tamed.
In a shocking juxtaposition, inspiration came in the form of a glowing tale from Mexico. Isela Anahí Santiago Morales, a teen who faced an empty quinceañera celebration before the community rallied to give her a dream celebration when her story went viral on Facebook. One of the things this shift demonstrates is the profound ability of social media to raise massive community support when least expected.
Chinese President Xi Jinping let down his guard the other day at a summit in Bali, Indonesia. Such a demonstration would indeed point towards possible changes in the contours of international diplomatic relations. At the same time, he and Russian President Vladimir Putin are apparently working together to reorder the global balance of power as tensions between great powers continue to escalate.
A powerful earthquake just hit Afghanistan, leaving many in fear and panic. In response, emergency responders immediately jumped into action to respond to the crisis. The destruction from this natural disaster only compounds the challenges facing this region that is still reeling from nearly two years of war and bloodshed.
In the Caribbean, U.S. forces carried out a “kinetic strike” against a vessel known to be transporting terrorists. This military action highlights the deepening fight against the spread of terrorism in volatile areas. The question seems especially urgent today, after the Pope expressed his profound disappointment at what he termed a ‘pandemic of arms’, following the latest shooting spree in America. He emphasized the critical need for international conversation about violence and control of weapons.
In Gaza City, mothers and children face harrowing evacuation under heavy bombardment as military escalation ensues, with violence surging rapidly on all fronts in the region. As missiles drop and the humanitarian crisis deepens, civilians are caught in the crossfire — many fleeing in search of peace and security.
Ukrainian forces struck several important bridges inside Russia today. This new, aggressive step deepens their entrenched military policy as relations between the two countries continue to sour. This latest announcement demonstrates a sustained strategic effort by Ukraine to target and upset supply lines and military logistics.
In a lighter development, two Scottish brothers broke a record by rowing across the Pacific Ocean, demonstrating remarkable endurance and determination. Their victory should inspire us all to remember what humans are capable of when faced with enormous challenges.
