Key takeaways: Xi and Putin discussed a range of issues, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Xi made a strong show of solidarity with Putin…
Posts published in “World”
President Biden announced the establishment of two new national monuments in Nevada and Texas, as well as the creation of a marine sanctuary in U.S. waters near the Pacific Remote Islands southwest of Hawaii. The move will bring more than half a million federal acres under a new set of protections. At the White House Conservation in Action Summit, Biden emphasized the need to preserve these natural wonders for future generations, calling it a "birthright to pass down from generation to generation." The announcement comes despite Biden's approval of a controversial fossil fuel drilling project in the Alaskan Arctic.
The US is accelerating the delivery of Abrams tanks to Ukraine to support their fight against Russia’s invasion. The older M1A1 model of America’s main battle tank will be sent instead of the newer M1A2 version, as it is easier for Ukrainian forces to learn to use and maintain. 65 Ukrainian soldiers are currently training on the systems at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, and the tanks could be there before the end of the year.
Saad Ibrahim Almadi, a 72-year-old dual U.S.-Saudi national and retired project manager, has been released from prison in Saudi Arabia after more than a year of imprisonment for tweets critical of the Saudi crown prince. His son, Ibrahim Almadi, has expressed concern for his father's health and hopes he will be able to return home to Florida soon. The case has highlighted the kingdom's strict laws on freedom of expression, which have been criticized by human rights groups.
An independent review into the Metropolitan Police Service has concluded that the police force has lost the confidence of the public due to deep-seated racism, misogyny and homophobia. The report calls for a major overhaul of the police force, including steps to address the identified issues and ensure all officers are held to the same standards of conduct. It also recommends that the police should be more transparent and accountable, and proactive in engaging with the public.
Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping held a face-to-face meeting in Moscow on Monday, days after the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Putin. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the visit indicates China's support for Russia in the face of international criticism. The three-day state visit is seen as a sign of strengthening ties between the two countries, and the outcome of the visit will be closely watched.
President Joe Biden has designated the Avi Kwa Ame National Monument in Southern Nevada as a national monument, protecting 506,000 acres of Nevada's Spirit Mountain and the surrounding desert. This is a major victory for the Fort Mojave Indian Tribe, who have been advocating for the site for three decades, and is part of Biden's larger effort to protect the environment. The monument is one of the largest tracts of land to come under federal protection so far during Biden's presidency.