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A page telling the story of a unique magical village - Penrhys, in the Rhondda !
Poet's Page
music and opinion from Wales' wandering poet.
One Union
D'you Wanna know the Difference Between Heaven and Hell? Well..... in one we trust and put aside all lies. While down in Hell .....nobody even tries..
Palestine Action ban‘disturbing misuse’
of UK terror law: UN rights chief
July 25th, 7:12pm
(PressTV)
The UN human rights chief has sharply criticized Britain’s
ban on the activist group Palestine Action, calling it --- a
“disturbing” misuse of the UK’s counterterrorism laws
and urging the government to reverse the decision.
“The decision appears disproportionate and unnecessary,”
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk,
said in a statement on Friday.
The statement further stated the ban raised “serious concerns
that counter-terrorism laws are being applied to conduct that
is not terrorist in nature, and risks hindering the legitimate
exercise of fundamental freedoms .........across the UK”.
“It limits the rights of many people involved with and supportive
of Palestine Action who have not themselves, engaged in any
underlying criminal activity but rather, exercised their rights
to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly
and association.”
The statement underscored that ''terrorist acts should be confined
to criminal acts intended to cause death or serious injury or to
the taking of hostages --- for the purpose of intimidating a
population or to compel a government to take a certain
action - or not.''
But the ban, among other things -- makes it a criminal offence to be
a member of Palestine Action, to express support for the group or
wear items of clothing that would arouse “reasonable suspicion”
that the person is a member or supporter of the group, Turk
pointed out.
The group, which takes direct action against Israeli weapons
factories in the UK and their supply chain ---- was officially
designated a “terrorist organization” earlier this month.
Under the new legislation, membership of or public support for
the group is now a criminal offense in the UK, punishable by
up to 14 years in prison.
Protesters in recent days have gathered at Parliament Square,
defying a warning from the Metropolitan Police, who said:
expressing support for the group “is a criminal offence.”
The UN rights office said the UK police have arrested at least
200 people during protests, many of them peaceful, over the
ban ....since it took effect.
The rights chief warned that the British government’s decision
“also conflates protected expression and other conduct, with
acts of terrorism - and so could readily lead to a further chilling
effect on the lawful exercise of these rights - by many people”.
“I urge the UK government to rescind its decision to proscribe
Palestine Action and to halt investigations and further
proceedings against the protesters who have been
arrested on the basis of this proscription,”
Turk said.
The UN rights chief also called on the UK government to revise
its counter-terrorism legislation ---- to bring it fully in line with "international human rights norms and standards.”
Palestine Action has focused much of its campaign on Elbit
Systems UK, Israel’s largest weapons manufacturer, which
it accuses of manufacturing and supplying weapons to the
Israeli military -- amid the regime’s genocidal war on Gaza.
Reacting to the ban on the group, a spokesperson for Palestine
Action said, “While the government is rushing through
parliament absurd legislation to proscribe Palestine
Action, the real terrorism is being committed
- in Gaza."
Moldovan decision to open only
two polling stations in Russia
is criticized --- as an offence
July 24th, 11:15am
(Prensa Latina)
Chisinau's plan to open only two voting centres in Russia
for the parliamentary elections on September 28, is an
offence --- to Moldovans, Russia's Foreign Ministry
spokesperson, Maria Zakharova, said today.
The Central Election Commission of Moldova announced
that only two polling stations will be opened in Russia
for the next elections --- both in Moscow --- despite
various estimates, of Moldovan citizens living in
Russia .....at up to half a million.
In the 2024 presidential election, only two polling stations
opened, causing long lines.... and many of those who
wanted to vote, did not have the time to do so.
''For 250 thousand Moldovans in Italy --- the authorities plan to
open 73 electoral centres, while for 350 thousand in Russia
there will only be two centres. This is a spit in the face
of the citizens of Moldova'', Zakharova said, at a
press conference.
The spokesperson pointed out that for each electoral centre
there are five thousand ballots, so in Russia ------ only 10 thousand Moldovan citizens will be able to vote.
''What the regime of the Moldovan president, Maia Sandu, does, is
bandit arbitrariness. This turns parliamentary elections abroad
literally into a political circus. There can be no talk of any
justice in this case'', she stressed.
Zakharova also accused the current Moldovan government of
trying to get rid of its competitors, after refusing to register
the opposition bloc Pobeda (Victory!) in the elections.
''In addition, the Central Electoral Commission of Moldova, has requested the Ministry of Justice of this country to cease the activities of four parties, that are part of this political bloc'', the spokesperson added.
She commented - that these actions are a copy of the Romanian
scenario, where, according to Zakharova, alternative forces are
banned or canceled. On July 19, the Moldovan Central Electoral
Commission denied the opposition bloc Pobeda, its registration
- to participate in the parliamentary elections. The spokesman
for that party, deputy Vasili Bolya, described the commission's
decision as politically motivated.
The opposition filed a lawsuit against
the electoral commission's ruling.
365 days of mosque ban in Germany
July 25th, 9:07am
by Dieter Reinisch
Press TV, Hamburg
A year ago, German police raided and banned
several Shia mosques and Islamic centres.
A public protest was held in front of the closed
Imam Ali Mosque in Hamburg ------ to mark
the first anniversary of the ban.
[Rhondda Records adds: the two ''gifts'' of capitalism --- unemployment and racism.]
Beijing has criticized the US withdrawal from UNESCO as
inconsistent with a responsible world power’s behaviour,
while reaffirming China’s commitment ---- to continuing
support for the agency’s mission.
Addressing a daily news briefing on Wednesday, Chinese Foreign
Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun noted that UNESCO and many
countries have expressed regret over Washington’s decision.
“This - is not the action that a responsible major country
should take,” Guo said, adding that “China has always
firmly supported the work of UNESCO.”
The United States said on Tuesday it would quit UNESCO, best
known for establishing world heritage sites, claiming it was
biased against Israel and promoted “divisive” causes.
“President Trump has decided to withdraw the United States
from UNESCO, which supports woke, divisive cultural and
social causes that are totally out of step with the
commonsense policies that Americans voted
for in November,” White House Deputy
Press Secretary Anna Kelly said.
Guo further told reporters that “This is already the third time
that the US has withdrawn from UNESCO, and it has long
been in arrears with its membership fees.”
The US withdrew from UNESCO during Trump’s first term
but rejoined under former US President Joe Biden.
Trump withdraws US from UNESCO over Palestine’s admission
The Trump administration decided to pull
out from UNESCO -- for the second time.
Trump’s US withdrawal from UNESCO ---- which went into effect in late 2018, came 7 years after Obama's administration suspended funding to UNESCO after the Palestinians were admitted as a member, claiming... that the agency promoted an “anti-Israeli policy.”
The US had also withdrawn from UNESCO under the Reagan
administration in 1984.. because it viewed the agency as
“mismanaged and corrupt.” The US rejoined in 2003,
before leaving again, under Trump.
This latest withdrawal will take effect in December 2026.
“We call on all countries - to reaffirm their commitment to
multilateralism and take concrete actions to support the
international system with the UN at its core,” Guo added.
Washington has persistently tried to block and challenge
cultural efforts by other UNESCO members based on its
own worldview and self-serving interests. It has also
used its influence to represent and defend ---- the
openly racist policies of the Israeli regime.
Since taking office, Trump has signaled plans to withdraw
the US from key international institutions —— the World
Health Organization and the Paris climate agreement
—— while imposing aggressive trade tariffs on both
allies and adversaries.
____________________________________
Lavrov called Europe: part of
the "international outrage"
against Russia
July 22nd, 3:29pm
(DAN)
European countries are taking a fierce stance against Russia,
and they are part of the "international outrage." This is how
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov described the
current relations between Russia and Europe.
"Now that Europe is enraged, it's almost a pun: they are now part
of the 'international outrage' against the Russian Federation.
They are 'inciting' their people, using Goebbels-style
propaganda, to convince them that Russia is an
eternal enemy and an existential threat, and
that Russia is about to attack Europe,"
Lavrov said.
The Russian Foreign Minister emphasized, that this policy
of the European leaders - is aimed at hiding social and
economic problems - and focusing on militarization
to protect against the “Russian threat.”
"This is sad. We should not forget the lessons of history, but
they are clearly poorly learned by the current generation
of Germans, French, and representatives of other
European countries," Lavrov added.
Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the state
intends to reduce military spending in the next three years,
unlike NATO countries, which have agreed to increase it
....due to the myth of a Russian attack.
The Ministry of Finance will balance spending between
the special military operation, the economy, and
social support.
________________________________________________
China -- has surpassed the EU
in developing new medicines
by Oleg Artyukov
July 22nd, 1:20pm
(Pravda.ru)
Economy
China is rapidly strengthening its position in the global
pharmaceutical market ------ by actively developing
innovative drugs, including cancer medications
and weight-loss products.
Medicines
According to Bloomberg, the number of new Chinese medicines
in the development stage ---- has exceeded 1,250. This means
that China has surpassed the EU and is approaching the US,
where there are approximately 1,440 such medicines.
These figures indicate significant progress in China's
biotechnology industry and the country's ambition
to become a global leader in healthcare.
The growth of activity in China's pharmaceutical sector ---- is
becoming a new arena for global technological competition,
along with artificial intelligence, and the production of
electric vehicles.
US and European regulatory agencies --- such as the U.S.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European
Medicines Agency (EMA), are increasingly granting
accelerated review status to Chinese drugs.
In 2024, 33 such drugs received similar approval, indicating an
increase in trust in the quality and innovation of Chinese
products. In comparison, this figure was significantly
lower in previous years.... reflecting a notable
transformation in the perception of Chinese
developments in the West.
China's most notable achievements are in the development of new
therapies, particularly in the field of oncology. A notable example
is the cell therapy for blood cancer developed by Legend Biotech
Corp., which is being marketed internationally, in partnership
with Johnson & Johnson.
Another significant project is the Ivonescimab drug, developed by
Akeso and Summit, which demonstrated higher efficacy in 2024
clinical trials compared to Merck's global bestseller Keytruda,
reducing the risk of disease progression or death - by 49%.
Keytruda, which generated \$29.5 billion for Merck in 2024,
remains the best-selling cancer drug in the world,
highlighting the challenge posed by
Chinese alternatives.
The growing number of deals and investments by global
pharmaceutical giants --- confirms their interest in
Chinese innovations.
For example, Pfizer has entered into a \$1.2 billion
pre-approval agreement with 3SBio Inc. for a
promising cancer drug similar to Akeso's.
Other major players, including Merck, AstraZeneca, and Roche,
have adopted a similar strategy by actively acquiring Chinese
assets and licenses in order to gain access to China's
growing pool of pharmaceutical technologies.
This trend -------- indicates a profound transformation of the pharmaceutical market: China is no longer just a generic manufacturing hub, but a full-fledged innovation centre
with ambitions .....to reshape the global industry.
Chinese companies are focused on creating competitive
alternatives to the world's most profitable drugs,
including Novo Nordisk's Ozempic, a popular
treatment for diabetes and obesity.
While such efforts were previously seen as a catch-up strategy,
China is now showing signs of becoming a leader, combining
strong government support, a high-tech base, and strategic
partnerships with international corporations.
As a result, China's biopharmaceutical sector is experiencing
significant growth, becoming a strategic tool for global
technological competition.
The successful promotion of Chinese developments
in international markets not only strengthens the
country's position in the healthcare sector, but
also creates new geoeconomic balances in
knowledge-intensive industries.
___________________________________
Zelensky Destroys Independence
of Anti-Corruption Bodies
July 22nd, 12:05pm
(teleSUR)
By strengthening his control over institutions, the
Ukrainian president will avoid corruption checks.
On Tuesday, the Ukrainian ''parliament'' passed a law
criticized for undermining the independence of the
National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine.....
(NABU) and the Special Anti-Corruption
Prosecutor’s Office (SAP).
Several nongovernmental organizations have voiced
concerns, linking the legislation --- to efforts by
President Volodymyr Zelensky....... to
consolidate power.
The new law allows the activities of NABU and SAP
to be ''overseen'' by the Prosecutor General — an
official appointed by Zelensky, raising alarm
among civil society groups ...and
international partners.
Mass Raids on the Eve of the Vote
On Monday, the day before the law was passed, Ukraine’s
Security Service (SBU) conducted dozens of raids
targeting NABU employees ------ arresting two
detectives on allegations of collaborating
with Russia.
The official explanation for the operation has failed to
convince leading civil society voices - and Kyiv’s
international allies, many of whom ----- have
expressed concern over the SBU actions.
“‘Reality show’ in Ukraine: overnight drone and missile
attacks from Russia. Early morning: Bankova --- [the
Russia's international reserves in gold, reached a
record $248.7 billion in the first six months. This
is reported by Izvestia --- with reference to the
Central Bank data.
The growth of gold in international reserves occurs in two ways:
through a physical increase in reserves, when a central bank
buys the metal and adds it to its reserves, and through an
increase in the market value of gold. This was noted by
Svetlana Frumina, Acting Head of the Department of
Global Financial Markets and FinTech ----- at the
Plekhanov Russian University of Economics.
Frumina noted that Russia is currently focusing on gold, due to
restrictions on access to foreign currency reserves, as well
as to protect against inflation, support its production and
processing of precious metals, and strengthen its
ruble base.
"Physical gold is stored within the country and it is impossible to
freeze, let alone confiscate it to other states, then RF began to
purchase large volumes of precious metal and the Chinese
yuan, instead of the former US dollars and euros,"
explained the analyst of Freedom Finance
Global, Vladimir Chernov.
In March.... Russia took fifth place in the top countries with the largest reserves of gold. In first place was the US, with a claimed reserve of 8,133.46 tons. Second - Germany, the leader in the reserve of gold in Europe (3,351.53 tons).
Third and fourth places went to Italy and France
(2,451.84 and 2,437 tons, respectively).
Russia, which was in fifth place then,
had 2,335.9 tons of gold in reserve.
______________________________________
NATO Ambassador Whitaker: Europe
Cannot Produce the Weapons
Ukraine Needs
July 15th, 10:21pm
(RT.ru)
In an interview with Fox News, U.S. Ambassador to NATO
Matthew Whitaker said that Europe is currently unable
to produce the necessary weapons that Ukraine
needs on the battlefield .....or that could be
needed in the event of a potential war
in the region.
Therefore, according to him, the United States is the leading
producer of such weapons systems, and THEY will be the
ones to supply them to Europe.
"Europe will pay for them, and that's a smart
approach," emphasized Whitaker.
Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said earlier... that the
agreement on the supply of weapons to Ukraine --- at
the expense of NATO allies... is in the initial stage.
The authorities in Poland fear that the country may collapse
due to blind faith in the promises of the EU and NATO. This
is reported by the Polish publication Mysl Polska (MP).
According to the publication, in January, Polish deputies
demanded the cancellation of several provisions of the
Green Agreement. The initiative aims to reduce green
-house gas emissions in European countries by 2040.
However, Poland believes that the implementation
of the agreement may have a negative impact
on the country's industry.
The article also states that the Polish authorities are concerned
about the militarization of EU and NATO countries. According to
the journalists, as part of the implementation of the decision,
several countries may be forced to purchase weapons --- by
investing large amounts of money in their defense budgets.
In May, Polish presidential candidate Grzegorz Braun tore the EU flag and wiped his feet on it. The incident took place, at
the Ministry of Industry in Katowice. According to RFM 24,
Braun arrived there as a parliamentarian to investigate
the "liquidation of the Polish mining industry."
Earlier, the President of Poland expressed his opinion
against Ukraine's accession to the EU and NATO.
________________________________
The Tunisian President called
for a radical overhaul of the
global economic system
by Alexey Merkulov (Tunisia)
July 8th, 7:52pm
(Rossiyskaya Gazeta)
During a meeting with Tunisian Finance Minister Meshket Salama
Al-Khalidi, the President of the North African Republic, Qais
Sayed, made a sharp criticism of the existing global
economic model.
The statement of the Tunisian leader was published on
the official page of the presidential administration on
the social network Facebook (banned in Russia,
belongs to Meta, recognized in Russia as
extremist and also banned).
According to the statement, the head of state discussed with
the minister --- the results of her participation in the Fourth
International Conference on Financing for Development
in Seville, where harsh assessments of the global
economic order were made.
Syed emphasized the urgent need to abandon traditional
approaches that he believes exacerbate inequality
between countries.
"The world today needs new, fundamentally different solutions
that completely break with the established practices that
have led to such an imbalance in development," the
Tunisian president said.
He emphasized the plight of developing countries, which, despite
their efforts, have been unable to achieve genuine growth due to
the "unfair global economic system and the numerous crises in
which they are not the perpetrators but the victims."
It is noteworthy that Sayed's position came amid the ongoing
economic crisis in Tunisia and on the eve of US President
Donald Trump's announcement - of Washington's plans to impose tariffs of 25% or more on goods from 14
countries, including the Republic of Tunisia,
starting from August 1.
For his part, the head of the Tunisian-American Chamber of
Commerce and Industry (AmCham Tunisia), Marouen Ben
Jemaa on the air of the local radio station Mosaique FM,
hastened to reassure the Tunisian leadership, stating
that negotiations are currently underway with the
US leadership to reduce customs duties for the
republic to 10%.
"It is unlikely that this rate (25%) will be maintained. However,
if this decision is made, it will affect Tunisian exporters, but
they will not leave the US market," said the head of
AmCham Tunisia.
"Therefore, it is necessary to adapt and accept a reduction in
profits." According to him, the products that Tunisia exports
to the US, mainly olive oil and dates, are still highly sought
after by US consumers, due to their superior quality.
"No one can impose anything - on Tunisia. Our sovereignty is inviolable. And in the end, everything will return to normal after the necessary time has passed,"
Ben Jemaa concluded.
__________________________________
The dollar- experienced its
worst decline since 1973
- in June
by Oleg Artyukov
July 8th, 5:15pm
(Pravda.ru)
In June, the US dollar fell by 10.7 percent, marking the largest
half-year decline since 1973. This sharp weakening of the
national currency has caused concern in financial
markets, particularly on Wall Street.
Investors are increasingly reevaluating their strategies in order
to diversify their assets and reduce their dependence on the
dollar, amid increasing economic and geopolitical risks.
Against the backdrop of current instability, there is
an increased interest in more stable and secure
forms of investment.
The reasons for the dollar's decline include a combination
of macroeconomic and political factors. These include
the high level of the US national debt, which is
approaching $30 trillion, and the ongoing
federal budget deficit.
Forecasts suggest that the deficit could reach two trillion
dollars by 2025. This undermines the credibility of the
dollar as a key global reserve currency.
An additional factor putting pressure on the exchange rate
is the expectation of lower interest rates from the US
Federal Reserve. Stimulative monetary policy
could accelerate inflationary processes
and further weaken the dollar, amid
a slowdown in economic growth.
In addition, ongoing trade tensions, particularly between the
United States and China ---- are increasing uncertainty for
exporters and investors, reducing the competitiveness
of U.S. products abroad, despite the depreciation of
the dollar.
The growing instability is also reflected in the desire
of central banks around the world to diversify their
international reserves.
According to the World Gold Council, there has been a
noticeable increase in the volume of gold purchases.
In the first half of 2025, the demand for gold from
government institutions reached record levels,
indicating a growing trust in physical assets
as a safe haven -- in the face of currency
fluctuations.
Historically, a strong dollar has served as an indicator
of US economic stability. However, the current
dynamics - point to structural changes in
the global financial system.
The shift of capital towards alternative assets such as
gold, commodities, and, to some extent, digital
currencies, reflects increased doubts about
the dollar's ability to maintain its status
in the global economy.
_______________________________________
Czech President Pavel:Conflict - with
Russia Threatens Europe's Economy
by Artem Kozhevnikov
July 8th, 2:42pm
(Rossiyskaya Gazeta)
The reality shows - that an endless conflict with Russia is
impossible, as it could lead to the collapse of European
economies. This was stated by Czech President, Petr
Pavel, in a comment to the BBC (blocked in Russia).
He noted that a confrontational approach with Russia would
only lead to losses for European economies. The Czech
president did not rule out the possibility of considering
cooperation with Moscow ...after the Ukrainian crisis
is resolved.
Pavel added that European countries and Russia would
probably be able to "discuss cooperation and the
business we have previously conducted."
____________________________________________
Pakistanhighlights potential
for cooperation with Asean
July 8th, 10:27am
(Prensa Latina)
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar highlighted
here today the potential for cooperation between Pakistan and
the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in
recognition of the solid links between both parties.
In a meeting in Islamabad with the mission heads from ASEAN
member countries, Dar highlighted the possibilities to further
deepen ties in areas such as trade, tourism, connectivity,
information technologies and education, according to
a report by the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP).
Representatives of Myanmar, Brunei Darussalam, Vietnam,
Thailand, Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia - visited the
Pakistani deputy prime minister and foreign minister
before his participation in the 32nd Ministerial
Meeting of the Association of Southeast
Asian Nations Forum at the end of this
week, APP stressed, citing
diplomatic sources.
Participants agreed - on the importance
of Pakistan's collaboration with Asean
and its member states, the news
outlet said.
Pakistan and Asean have areas of practical
cooperation, within the framework of the
Sectoral Dialogue Partnership between
both countries renewed for the period
from 2024 to 2028 to consolidate
common ties, according to the
regional group's website.
This mechanism also contributes to the achievement
of the objectives of ASEAN Community Vision 2025
and its successor document, as well as to
strengthening relations between
both parties.
In this regard -- they agreed to progress cooperation in
policy and security with the emphasis on combating
illicit drug trafficking & human trafficking, through
the abuse of technology, terrorism, violent
extremism and radicalization, and
addressing ---- the conditions
conducive to terrorism.
Also... joint work for peace and reconciliation,
collaboration in economic and socio-cultural
areas, among other areas.
____________________________
India confirms aspiring to a
$300 billion bioeconomy
July 8th, 9:46am
(Prensa Latina)
Minister of Science and Technology Jitendra Singh stated
today, that India aspires to a $300 billion economy by
2030 based on the application of biotechnology
for national development.
In the presentation of the country's vision on biotechnology
on World Bioproducts Day ---- the Indian minister called for
greater public understanding and inclusive participation
towards the Government's project for the
country's bioeconomy.
Singh celebrated as an example of this objective the event
Voices in Cities: A National Synchronized Series of
Dialogues by the Hour, organized by the Dept of
Biotechnology (DBT) and its agencies, which
led to thematic debates in several cities on
marine biomass, industrial valorization,
forest resources, and innovations in
agricultural waste.
He added that the participation of students, startups
and industry leaders in such outreach initiatives
was essential to the sustainability of the
fundamental mission of advancing
future goals.
The Indian minister also stressed the need to establish
alliances with the industry from the beginning - and to
have financial support for biotechnology companies.
He highlighted the growth of India's biotech ecosystem
from just about 50 startups a decade ago
to almost 11,000 today.
Regarding the recent BioE3 Policy, Singh noted that it lays the foundation for India to lead sustainable
biomanufacturing ----- aligning bioeconomy
goals with environmental sustainability,
economic growth and equity.
“Bioproducts... are no longer limited to laboratories. It's about
livelihoods, from biodegradable packaging to green personal care products, from rural employment, to green jobs”, he said.
The Indian incumbent recognized the importance
of preparing young academics in biotechnology
to support the goals.
________________________________________________
State Duma Deputy -- responds to
Western concerns about BRICS
July 7th, 2:47pm
(Izvestia.ru)
The concerns about BRICS are absolutely justified, as its
members oppose any hegemony and really want to
destroy Western hegemony. This was stated by
State Duma Deputy, Dmitry Novikov, on
Monday, July 7.
The parliamentarian noted in an interview with Lenta.Ru that it
is not about replacing one hegemony with another, as BRICS
includes too many countries representing different
continents, different economic scales, and
different cultural traditions. He believes
that the countries of the organization
are united in their desire: for a fair,
multilateral, and multipolar world
where there will be no hegemony.
"If Western countries or Western politicians believe that such a
constructive approach poses a threat to Western hegemony,
then they are taking an extremely harmful and
unconstructive stance," Novikov said.
He added that -- if they are not ready to reconsider this position,
the majority of the world's nations will still work to prevent the
formation of a new colonial system... and create a more just
world... through various means.
Earlier, the German newspaper Bild wrote that the West sees the
BRICS countries' initiatives as an attempt to reshape the world
and destroy their hegemony, according to 360.ru. According to
the publication, the initiative to create a New Development
Bank in the BRICS system is also ''dangerous'', as
reported by NSN.
On June 6th, Vladimir Putin joined the BRICS summit in Rio de
Janeiro via video link, according to the website kp.ru. Earlier,
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov arrived at the event,
as reported by RT.
The Russian Foreign Minister is expected to meet with
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, among others,
All BRICS members have supported the creation of a
guarantee mechanism to increase investment in the
organization's countries. Russian Finance Minister
Anton Siluanov announced this to journalists on
July 5.
"I can say that a new topic has been added (for discussion. —
Ed.). This is the creation of a guarantee mechanism based
on the New Development Bank [BRICS]," the minister said
during a conversation with journalists after the annual
meeting of the NDB Board of Governors... and the
meeting of finance ministers and central bank
governors, of the bloc's countries.
According to him, many countries currently have development
institutions that guarantee loans for large infrastructure
projects. He added that the BRICS countries plan
to provide such guarantees for bank loans
under the auspices of the New
Development Bank.
In addition, he clarified that the members of the association
also discussed the use of digital financial assets (DFA) in
cross-border settlements. Furthermore, they agreed to
continue this discussion in the future, the
minister added.
Russia is Creating a BRICS Grain Exchange.
Siluanov said on July 4 that, within the BRICS, it is necessary to
create its own insurance organizations that can compete with
Western companies. According to him, to date, the main
insurance companies are organizations of Western
countries, and therefore “additional insurance
capacity” should be formed, among the
members of the association.
____________________________________
Siluanov: The New BRICS Development
Bank ---- Has Now Proved Its Viability
July 6th, 10:56pm
(RT.ru)
The new BRICS Development Bank --- which is expected to
establish a guarantee fund to increase investment in the
member countries, has demonstrated its viability.
This opinion - was expressed by Russia's Finance Minister,
Anton Siluanov, following the annual meeting of the NBR
Board of Governors and the meeting of BRICS finance
ministers and central bank governors.
"The New Development Bank has been operating for ten years.
The Institute ---- has demonstrated its efficiency and
effectiveness," RIA Novosti quotes the head
of the department.
Earlier, Siluanov spoke about the discussion of measures on
cross-border settlements within the BRICS framework.
Also, according to him, the total volume of financial
assets of the BRICS countries, exceeds $60 trillion.
_____________________________________________
Oreshkin: BRICS is shaping new rules for
the world in the interests of its peoples
July 6th, 10:49pm
(RT.ru)
Maxim Oreshkin, Deputy Head of the Russian Presidential
Administration, said at the BRICS Business Forum in
Brazil that the new global development system is
being born within the BRICS group, rather than
being imposed from outside, as was the case
in the era of old globalization.
According to him, new rules for a new world are being born
from within BRICS today — through innovation, business
initiative, and the genuine interests of the people
and countries of the association.
“Our countries are new growth centres: dynamic, rapidly
urbanizing societies with huge domestic markets...
BRICS ---- offers tremendous opportunities in
infrastructure, logistics, and technology...
We can create a powerful, sustainable
platform for global development and
growth,” RIA Novosti quoted him
as saying.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva
called BRICS a community of prosperous
economies.
__________________________________________
Progress MS-31 has arrived at the ISS
July 6th, 10:43pm
(RT.ru)
The Progress MS-31 spacecraft... carrying equipment,
supplies, fuel, and other cargo has arrived at the ISS.
This is reported by Roscosmos.
"Docking --- is complete: Progress MS-31
has arrived at the ISS," the agency said.
It is noted that the cargo ship automatically docked
with the Poisk module of the Russian segment.
The spacecraft was launched from
Baikonur by a Soyuz-2.1a rocket
on July 3.
______________________________
Oreshkin: Russia's Economy
Outpaces Global Growth
July 6th, 10:18pm
(RT.ru)
Maxim Oreshkin, Deputy Head of the Russian Presidential
Administration, said at the BRICS Business Forum in
Brazil that the Russian economy is showing steady
growth despite the sanctions and is outpacing
global development rates.
According to him, Russia's GDP has been growing
by more than 4% annually ------ for four years.
"This ---- is higher than the global average,"
Oreshkin is quoted saying by RIA Novosti.
He added that the country's unemployment
rate ------ is at an all-time low of 2.2%.
Oreshkin also emphasized ---- that countries that try
to inflict economic damage on Russia...... through
sanctions, are losing their own competitiveness.
_________________________________________
Fraud in Ecuador vote proven!
July 5th, 8:14pm
(original source:
teleSUR)
The text reads: We did it!
This is how they committed the fraud:
1.- Ink transfers from A to B and disappears from A.
2.- These are the “stains” observed by the OAS.
3.- They did this by introducing Inkreíble
pens in the second round.
4.- This explains why photographing the votes was banned
—they have QR codes and it was possible to detect the
insertion of prepared votes—and why Luisa falls
behind in almost 16,000 polling stations—the
ink transfer produces one more vote for
Noboa and one LESS for Luisa.
We will release a video soon. Any doubts?
OPEN THE BALLOT BOXES.
Noboa is an illegitimate president, and they know it.
Former president Rafael Correa -- has called for the
reopening of ballot boxes to verify votes, insisting
that Noboa’s presidency is illegitimate.
He announced an upcoming video to further expose
these irregularities and urged Ecuadorians --- to
demand electoral justice.
Noboa’s victory was ''recognized'' by Ecuador’s National
Electoral Council and international observers, but the
opposition, led by González and backed by Correa,
has consistently challenged the results,
alleging widespread fraud.
The political climate remains tense --- with accusations
of vote manipulation and suppression -- inside the
''president's'' security-focused regime.
______________________________________
The Netherlands has decided to double accommodation fees for workingUkrainians
by Semyon Alexandrov
(Senior Editor Mir Dept)
July 5th, 6:17pm
Lenta.ru)
The Netherlands has decided to double the rent
for working Ukrainians living in municipal
housing. This was reported by NOS.
The monthly fee will increase from October 1
and will be..... 244.22 euros. The head of the
Ministry of Refugees and Migration, Mona
Keizer, noted that the decision is aimed
at reducing inequality and partially
covering utility costs.
Earlier, the mayor of the Swiss city of Wigoltingen,
Franca Burkhardt, criticized Ukrainian refugees,
accusing them of ingratitude. According to
Burkhardt, Ukrainians do not want to
integrate into society, do not follow
generally accepted rules and
avoid interacting --- with
refugees from other
countries.
_______________________
The Brics are described in Brazil
as the driving force of the
global economy
July 5th, 1:50pm
(Prensa Latina)
Brazilian Vice President Geraldo Alckmin stated today that,
in the last 10 years, the Brics meetings have become a
key actor in planetary geopolitics, and also, the bloc
now constitutes the engine of the global economy.
Initially composed of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South
Africa, the Brics was recently expanded and tomorrow a
two-day summit of leaders of the 11 member countries
of the alliance begins in Rio de Janeiro.
''Brics are the engine of the global economy. They represent
more than 40 percent of the world's GDP (Gross Domestic
Product) and grow well above the world average.
Therefore, they are the promoters of global
development,'' Alckmin said during the
group's Business Forum in Rio.
He highlighted the importance of this meeting to promote
''reciprocal investment opportunities between our
countries, strengthen foreign trade and promote
innovation -- so we can advance even further.''
One of the objectives of this Saturday's event - is to expand business between the 11 nations that make up the alliance.
''Currently, intra-block trade is experiencing significant
growth, since, despite the individual economic
relevance of each nation, the volume of trade
between us represents very little compared
to what we trade with the rest of the world''
highlighted the president of the National
Confederation of Industry, Ricardo Alban.
For Francisco Neto, coordinator of the Brics Business
Council (Cebrics) ---- it is necessary to expand trade
and integrate the supply chain of these countries.
Cebrics recommendations include, Neto noted,
''expanding air routes, especially to connect
small and medium-sized cities, improving
access to capital, sustainable financing
and facilitating international
investment flows.''
Also recommended, he added, is modernising
commercial logistics and digital commerce,
and strengthening cooperation with the
new development bank for targeted
infrastructure financing.
__________________________________
G.A. Zyuganov: Justice and Socialism
Are the Main National Ideas
July 5th, 2025, 1:08pm
(Press Service of Central Committee
of the Communist Party of the
Russian Federation)
After the debate on the main report at the 19th Congress
of the Communist Party of the Russian Federation -- the
Chairman of the Central Committee of the Communist
Party of the Russian Federation, G.A. Zyuganov,
delivered a closing speech.
Gennady Andreevich recalled that, almost thirty years ago, in
1996, the people's patriotic forces gave battle to the Yeltsin clique. At that time, the Communists failed to secure the
upper hand, due to the deception of the younger
generation --- by the liberals/reformers.
However ---- the Communist Party of the Russian Federation
achieved broad support from workers across the country,
which the party retains to this day. "Our work, has
borne fruit," concluded the Chairman of the
Communist Party Central Committee.
G. A. Zyuganov thanked his fellow party members --- for their
collective work in preparing the materials for the Congress.
He noted that all the proposals received had been
considered in the preparation of the report.
The Communist leader expressed confidence that the
implementation of the set tasks is impossible
without uniting efforts and mobilizing
the party activists.
"Justice and socialism are the main national idea," said
Gennady Andreevich. He urged everyone to carefully
study both the materials of the Congress, and the
experience of Leninist-Stalinist modernization.
G. A. Zyuganov drew historical parallels, showing by a
number of examples how the political will of leaders
allowed the country to overcome its crisis stages
of development. He noted that, today, against
the backdrop of growing external threats,
we face similar challenges.
The Communist leader emphasized the need to strengthen
the people's patriotic forces, expand the party ranks, and
highlighted the role of allies, in the political struggle.
"Let's take the spirit of dedication and unity with us from
this Congress," concluded Gennady Andreevich.
_________________________________________________
Foreign Minister of Mexicoin Rio
de Janeiro for the Brics Summit
July 5th, 12:46pm
(Prensa Latina)
Foreign Minister Juan Ramón de la Fuente arrived in
Brazil today to represent Mexico as an observer
country at the XVII BRICS Leaders Summit,
to be held tomorrow and Monday
in Rio de Janeiro.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign
Affairs, the head will hold bilateral meetings with
other delegations within the framework of the
meeting, which Mexico attends after the
invitation of the host nation ---- which
holds the pro tempore presidency
of the group this year.
The Brics, a political and economic coordination forum
initially made up of Brazil, Russia, India, China and
South Africa and joined by Saudi Arabia, Egypt,
Ethiopia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, and
Indonesia, seeks to strengthen cooperation
between emerging economies.
Also, the note adds, promote more
balanced international governance.
Under the motto Strengthening cooperation in the
Global South for more inclusive and sustainable
governance, the Summit agenda includes two
axes: the consolidation of the collaboration
between these nations and the promotion
of reforms, in international governance.
The Mexican delegation also includes the
Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs, María
Teresa Mercado; the general director
for South America, Pablo Monroy
----- and the consul general of
Mexico in Rio de Janeiro,
Héctor Valezzi.
The chancellor was received by Ambassador
Marcia Maro, head of the representation of
the Brazilian Foreign Ministry in
Rio de Janeiro.
____________________________
Meeting of food producers and
processors begins in Cuba
July 5th, 12:40pm
(Prensa Latina)
The First Meeting of food producers and processors in Cuba
constitutes a space for collaboration between the state
and non-state sectors, vice Minister of Agriculture
Maury Hechevarría, noted today.
At the opening of the meeting, which is being held until
tomorrow at the Boyeros fairgrounds, in this capital,
Hechevarría explained... that the event was born
with the purpose of being a strategic meeting
point where the countryside and industry
converge with traditional knowledge,
& at the same time, their dialogues
with technology and commercial
networks..... are interwoven.
This --- is in order to allow producers to access
new markets, both local, national and global,
Hechavarría stated.
Here, he said, the experiences of our productive and
transformative capacity, will be presented; to
identify, promote and disseminate the good
practices developed in local food systems
in the provinces and municipalities of the
country ----- as well as evaluating its
generalization.. as a contribution
to the nation's food sovereignty.
It is not the first time that fairs and events have been held in a complicated context in Cuba, the vice minister recalled, since for more than 6 decades, the country has faced an inhumane economic financial & commercial blockade, illegally imposed by the US, as the main obstacle to Cuba's economic development ---- as well as its unfair inclusion..... in the list of nations that supposedly, support terrorism.
But this reality does not stop the nation from moving
towards agri-food independence, even knowing our
structural, financial and technological limitations,
he assured.
On the contrary, it consolidates the conviction that the
development of agribusiness, is a strategic need of
the nation, and that Cuba must introduce change,
develop cooperation, and identify partnerships
that help to drive forward and meet that goal.
_____________________________________________
Zhang Hanhui, Ambassador Extraordinary and
Plenipotentiary of the People's Republic of
China - addressed the 19th Congress of the Communist Party of the
Russian Federation.
July 5th, 12:11pm
(Press Service Central Committee
of the Communist Party of the
Russian Federation)
''On the occasion of the opening of the 19th Congress of the
Communist Party of the Russian Federation, the Communist
Party of China cordially congratulates the Congress --- and
sincerely welcomes all participants and party comrades,
as well as expresses its best wishes!
''80 years ago, the peoples of China and Russia, having made
an invaluable contribution to the victory over fascism,
sealed their unbreakable friendship with the
blood shed in the common struggle.
''Currently, under the strategic leadership, of President Xi
Jinping of China and President Vladimir Putin of Russia,
the China-Russia comprehensive partnership - and
strategic cooperation in the new era ----- is
continuously filled with new vitality,
serving as an example, of a new
type of relationship between
major countries.
''The friendly relations between the CCP and the CPRF have
only grown stronger, over the years. The two parties have
long maintained institutionalized friendly exchanges and
cooperation -- which has played an important role in
deepening political and strategic trust between
China and Russia, as well as in developing
China-Russia relations in the new era.
''We are ready to continue working with the Communist Party
of the Russian Federation -------- to implement the important
agreements reached by the leaders of our countries, and
to steadily elevate inter-party relations to new heights
in order to make a new contribution, to deepening
the comprehensive partnership and strategic
cooperation between China and Russia
in the new era ---- and giving it a new lease of life.
''We wish the XIX Congress of the Communist Party
of the Russian Federation ------ complete success!
''May the Communist Party of the Russian Federation achieve
new outstanding achievements - in the noble cause of
realizing the prosperity and power of the country -
and improving the welfare of the people!
Central Committee
Communist Party
of China
_______________________________________
Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a greeting
--- to the delegates of the 19th Congress of the
Communist Party of the Russian Federation July 5th, 8:38am
(by content kremlin.ru)
To the delegates and guests of the XIX Report, and Election
Congress of the Communist Party of the Russian Federation
Dear friends!
I welcome the delegates and guests of the 19th Report
and Election Congress of the Communist Party of the
Russian Federation.
As one of the oldest and leading political parties in the country,
the Communist Party of the Russian Federation, represents the
interests of a significant number of voters. More than 10,000 of
your deputies, who serve in representative bodies at all levels,
have put forward specific initiatives and proposals -- aimed at
protecting the social and labour rights of citizens, supporting
the industrial sector, military-industrial complex, agriculture,
education, and science. The Communist Party's supporters
actively participate in projects --- that contribute to
strengthening Russia's sovereignty in all areas
and promoting patriotic education among
young people.
You always strive for open dialogue with the people,
highlighting pressing issues and offering solutions.
Today, when we are facing serious challenges
and defending the future of our country, it is
extremely important to have broad, truly
national consolidation. In this regard,
I welcome your commitment - to
constructive cooperation with
other political parties and
public associations - on
key issues of national
development.
I would like to highlight the highly professional work of your
faction in the State Duma ------- including in areas such as
Roland Lumumba shared profound reflections on his father’s legacy, which transcends borders: “My father saw himself
as an idea without limits. He once said: ‘I have no father,
no mother, no religion. I am an idea. The Congo created
me, and I will find a way to create it.’”
Explaining his decision to travel to Venezuela
for the commemoration, he said:
“I was in France, preparing to return to the Congo, when
I received a request... to record a video for this tribute.
I didn’t hesitate — I told them I wouldn’t send a video;
I would go in person. Venezuela is a country that has
led a struggle similar to ours. For years... its leaders
have fought for their people -- just as Lumumba did
to liberate the Congo from colonialism. I'm certain
that if Lumumba were alive today, he would be a
brother to Simón Bolívar... a friend to Nasser,
Nkrumah, Hugo Chávez - and all those who
have dedicated their lives to justice and
the liberation of their peoples.”
Despite the distance.... Roland felt it was essential to be
in Venezuela: “I traveled - thousands of kilometres from
Lumumba’s birthplace to commemorate his centenary.
I knew I had to be here, because the struggle is the
same: to fight fascism and seek the well-being of
our people. That’s why I came.”
Modern Colonialism and the Historical Debt
Speaking on the criminalization of migrants, Zionism, and
U.S. policies, Roland condemned: “This is a new form of
colonization. The wealth of the West comes from the
exploitation of our resources ---- in Africa, Latin
America, and Asia. Some nations --- believe
themselves superior and oppress others.
But if we speak of justice they owe us
a colonial debt. They robbed us...
brought us hunger and misery,
and now demand our silence.
Yet what they took from our
parents and grandparents
was our inheritance. We
do not seek violence —
only a fair solution. But
the problem -------- was
created by the West.”
The Failure of International Institutions
On the role of the UN -- and other organizations -- Roland was
critical: “Many countries did not fight for their independence;
it was granted under an agenda that maintains exploitation
in a different form. When some nations wake and denounce
these injustices, they are criminalized. But for us, this is a
process of evolution. Today, some African countries are
taking the first steps toward political, cultural, and
economic independence. We hope others.....
will follow.”
He recalled his father’s words: “Independence is not a gift.
We cannot import democracy or revolution; we must
create our own. What works in the United States
- may not suit Burkina Faso. Venezuela has
chosen its path and each country must
decide what is best for its people.”
Keeping Lumumba’s Legacy Alive
For Roland, awareness is key: “We must explain why, despite
the Congo being one of the richest nations in resources, our
people remain impoverished. We export diamonds, gold,
uranium… Even the uranium in the bomb dropped on
Japan came from our soil. We take no pride in this,
but it shows how we are plundered. We hold 70%
of the world’s reserves -- of minerals critical for
technology, yet multinationals & neighboring
countries exploit them at low prices. They
give us crumbs .....and call it aid. This
mentality -------- must change.”
Unity Between Africa and Latin America
Roland stressed the need for stronger alliances: “Though
labeled ‘poor,’ if we unite, we can find solutions. We’ve
had over 60 years of ‘independence,’ yet the struggle
continues. Some nations progress, but each defends
its own interests. It’s a chess game. We ---- must create our own mechanisms.”
He criticized the UN system: “Who created it? Security Council
members wield veto power - over issues that don’t affect them. Africa as a continent, should have that right too. The Congo --- is four times larger than France and far richer in resources -------- why can they veto and we cannot? The UN is obsolete; it must be reformed.”
In this regard, Roland praised an initiative by President Maduro:
“He hosted the first Congress of Afro-Descendants here - and I
was honoured to speak for Africa. I proposed ------- that this congress become a permanent structure, to defend our
interests, not just a one-time event. We --- must build
our own institutions.
The African Union is a step forward, but we need more:
an alliance between Africa and Latin America —
continents with shared struggles.”
Author: OSG
Source: teleSUR
___________________________________________
3 insights from ‘trade war truce’ .....between US and China: Global Times editorial
July 4th, 6:25pm
(Global Times)
Recent reports indicate that the US has lifted export
restrictions on China for three of the world's leading
electronic design automation software developers
and has resumed exports of products such as
ethane and aircraft engines.
On Friday, China's Ministry of Commerce confirmed the
development, stating that China is reviewing the
applications for export licenses for eligible
controlled items in accordance with laws
& regulations, while the US has taken
corresponding steps - to remove a
number of restrictive measures.
According to Reuters, the "trade war truce" between the US
and China is progressing as planned, with bilateral trade
tensions continuing to ease.
China and the US -- are accelerating the implementation of the
outcomes of the London Framework, sending positive signals
both technologically and strategically. More importantly, at
the strategic level ------ both sides have demonstrated a
mutual willingness - to prevent trade disputes from
spiraling out of control; choosing to resolve their
concerns through dialogue on an equal footing
and way of cooperation rather than through
escalating confrontation.
This message has had an immediate, positive impact on
markets: from US stocks to Asian equities, technology
shares have seen notable gains ------ Cadence soared
6.1 percent, reaching a record high, and Samsung's
stock jumped nearly 3 percent. The international
community -- including the business sector --
widely hopes for --- stable, enduring, and
mutually beneficial China-US relations.
The implementation of the London Framework, once again,
underscores that the essence of China-US trade relations
lies in mutual benefit and win-win cooperation.
In 2024, sales from the Chinese market accounted for 27% of
Intel's total revenue, with Qualcomm deriving nearly half of
its income from China. China's vast market size and its
steadily upgrading industrial demand ---- offer US
companies - an almost irreplaceable space
for growth.
At the same time, the smooth flow of American technological
products plays a vital role in supporting China's construction
of a modern industrial system. Cooperation between the two
countries helps stabilize global expectations and hedges
against systemic risks, while uncontrolled competition
would lead to a "lose-lose scenario" with spillover
effects that threaten global economic stability.
The multiple rounds of "engagement" between China and the US
over the past few months can be seen as a sample - from which
Washington should draw at least three lessons. First, China is
not a "soft target" that the US can manipulate at will;
Washington needs to abandon the notion of dealing
with China through "maximum pressure."
Second, cooperation between China and the US brings mutual
benefit, while confrontation harms both sides, and the
"winner takes all" scenario that some in the US
fantasize about will not become reality.
Third, artificially "building walls" and "decoupling" will not make
America safer and more prosperous, as the laws of objective
reality do not bend simply because it is the US - they will
punish anyone who disregards them, equally. These
lessons... should also serve as an inspiration for
other countries engaged in trade negotiations
with the US.
The US has recently taken a step in the right direction toward meeting China halfway. However, in many areas, such as semiconductors, biotechnology, and new energy, most of the restrictive measures against China....
still remain in place.
For example, the regulations regarding semiconductors issued
by the US government on October 17, 2023 adopted the De
Minimis Rules for the first time. For certain lithography
equipment, as long as it contains US elements, an
export license from the US is required before it can be shipped to China.
In addition, there are numerous other wrong actions, such
as restricting normal US outbound investment to China
and removing the tax exemption for small parcels
shipped from China to the US.
These practices, not only harm both China and the US, but
also seriously disrupt the stability of global industrial and
supply chains. The recent positive move by the US to lift
certain export restrictions -- should serve as a starting
point for broader policy adjustments. It is hoped, that
the US will further correct previous missteps..... and
gradually eliminate more unreasonable restrictions.
The mutually beneficial and win-win relationship between China
and the US is driven by macro-level trends, is an inevitable
outcome of industrial development - at the medium level,
and is a practical necessity for the micro-level interests
of businesses and consumers. In sectors such as high
-end manufacturing, the digital economy, agricultural
products, and energy, China and the US are deeply
intertwined --- and complementary, creating a
network effect, where each is embedded
in the other.
For ordinary American households, the scale and efficiency
dividends embodied by "Made in China" act as a "price
For Chinese consumers, "intelligent manufacturing in the US"
and "US services" are an important source of growth for
mid-to-high-end demand and a driver of innovation
and vitality.
Although the international community is "anarchic," it is, by no
means "unregulated," and major countries, in particular, must
not act without any bottom line. In recent years, China-US
trade relations have lingered at a low point since the
establishment of diplomatic ties. The reality of
mutual interdependence between the two
countries has been ignored, the history
of win-win cooperation distorted, and
many channels for dialogue and
communication -- blocked.
So-called "strategic competition" ---- is defining and
influencing China-US relations in a dangerous way.
As an old Chinese saying goes, "When your actions do not
yield the desired results, you should examine yourself for
the reasons." The US attempt to alter market principles
through unilateral pressure - is as futile as trying to
swim against the tide. China-US economic and
trade relations are mutual and reciprocal.
If we respect each other and cooperate on an equal footing,
mutual benefit and win-win results will be achieved, while
if the US reneges on commitments and provokes
disputes, it will inevitably trigger firm counter
measures from China.
China and the US have a combined economic output --- that
accounts for over one-third of the global total and the total
population of the two countries accounts for nearly one
quarter of the world's total. A healthy, stable, and
sustainable development of bilateral economic
and trade ties is crucial, not only for both
countries, but for the entire world.
We hope the US will take concrete actions -- to uphold and
implement the important consensus reached by the two
heads of state, during their 'phone call, and work
together to ensure the steady and long-term
development of China-US economic and
trade relations.
________________________________________
Zakharova: Russia Rejects New
US Sanctions Against Cuba
July 4th, 5:14pm
(RT.ru)
Russia has rejected the new US sanctions against Cuba,
according to Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman,
Maria Zakharova.
"Any manifestations of unilateral sanctions pressure - are
categorically unacceptable to us. We resolutely reject
the prohibitive measures against Havana,"
the diplomat said, in a statement.
Earlier, Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of the
Russian Security Council, called Cuba a friend -
and a strategic partner of the country.
________________________________________
Support for street protesters in Serbia......
fading by the day, says Serbian president
July 4th, 2:18pm
(TASS)
People in Serbia are growing less and less enthusiastic about
the protest movement in the country, Serbian President
Aleksandar Vucic said in an interview with
the Pink TV channel.
"Hold no illusions. Support for blockades and the political forces
behind them is rapidly shrinking with each passing day. People
just aren't having it," Vucic stressed.
The authorities have the situation under control, he said. "We
do not want anyone to get injured. Putting garbage bins on
the streets --- without warning [to erect barricades] can
result in the death of civilians. That is what troubles
me," the president noted.
The protesters' "brave deeds" mostly end in tears at police
stations. "You cannot attack those avoiding street
blockades. Such assaults are punishable,"
Vucic noted.
Law enforcement agencies --- ensured order on the streets of
Belgrade despite all provocations, the Serbian leader noted.
"I would like to thank Interior Minister Ivica Dacic, Police
Director Dragan Vasiljevic and all police departments.
They accomplished this arduous and unsung task
with dignity, bravely, licitly, soberly and
rationally," Vucic said.
On Friday night, Serbia's Interior Ministry officers continued to
suppress violation of public order by protesters. The ministry
specified that several incidents were recorded in various
cities, including Belgrade.
Overall, the identity of 636 people was found, and 19 of
them were taken to police stations. While the majority
were detained for administrative offenses ..three
people, were suspected of committing crimes.
One police officer was injured in the clashes.
Situation in Serbia
According to Serbia’s Interior Ministry, on June 28, about 36,000
people participated in an unauthorized opposition protest rally.
During clashes with the protesters, law enforcement operatives
had to use crowd-control measures to push them out of the
central streets. As a result of disturbances in Belgrade,
48 police officers were injured, and 77 individuals
were detained, including one minor.
The rioters... continue blocking key transportation hubs in
Belgrade and other cities, erected barricades and tents,
demanding the release of those detained and that new
elections be held ----- and the tent camp of Vucic’s
supporters near the parliament building,
be dismantled.
___________________________________________
The IMF reminded Kiev about
the restructuring of its
national debt
July 3rd, 4:10pm
(RT.ru)
The IMF reminded Ukraine about the restructuring of its
national debt, as this is important for restoring the
sustainability of the debt burden.
"It is important that Ukraine completes the remaining
elements of its debt restructuring in line with the
program's objectives, and this will be crucial to
fully restore debt sustainability," Julie Kozak,
Director of the International Monetary
Fund's Communications Dept, told RIA Novosti.
According to her, it is important for Kyiv to continue
implementing the required reforms and mobilizing
domestic revenues.
Kozak added that the IMF will review Ukraine's
current loan program... at the end of 2025.
Earlier, the fund approved another loan
for Ukraine worth $500 million.
__________________________________
Panama asks Mercosur for support:
for its sovereignty over the Canal
July 3rd, 1:44pm
(Prensa Latina)
The request for international support to defend
Panamanian sovereignty over the Canal was
the focus today.. of President José Raúl
Mulino's speech at the LXVI Mercosur
Summit in this capital.
The president dedicated a good part of his speech in
that forum of the bloc, to which the isthmus joined
as Associated States, to explain the inefficiency
in administration of the interoceanic waterway
delivered by the US --- in 1999.
Mulino classified as a storm what his country has been
going through since January of this year after
President Donald Trump's statements about
regaining control of the route and in that
sense, he thanked the solidarity from
the international community.
''The Canal is and will continue to be Panama's, no matter
what happens, or what is said. It will continue to be
Panamanian, as a heritage -- that took 100 years
to recover to our sovereignty, and incorporate
it into our geography ---- and whose
administration has been pristine
for the last 25 years,''
he asserted.
The head of state compared this situation with the dispute
that Argentina faces.. over the Malvinas Islands, pointing
out that that country has all rights over the archipelago.
On the other hand -- he also requested support for
the construction of a freshwater reservoir, your
Government's project in the Indio River, is to
benefit the operations of the Canal and the
utilisation of this vital liquid... for the
population, but is criticized by the
residents of that territory, amid
complaints ---- about the future
eviction of their communities.
For the dignitary, the reservoir is essential to face
drought seasons and the effects of the El Nino
phenomenon, he stated.
''I require the support, mainly from users and the
international community, for this project to be
successful - and its construction to be
completed as soon as possible; as
more and more.... the climate
affects us,'' he added.
He also recalled that after the transfer of the waterway
into Panamanian hands, more than 14 thousand ships
passed through and he emphasized that, among his
counterparts in the region he saw 2 large clients
of the Canal and members of the Southern
Common Market (Mercosur):
Chile and Ecuador.
A statement from the Palacio de las Garzas (headquarters
of the Executive) indicated that within the framework of
the Mercosur Summit, Mulino was received by the host
- his Argentine counterpart, Javier Milei..
In official talks, the parties agreed to increase air transport
between Argentina and Panama, and the possibility of
reaching an agreement on security.
Mulino also held bilateral exchanges with his counterparts
from Paraguay, Santiago Peña; and from Uruguay,
Yamandu Orsi, adds the official source.
_____________________________________
Syria recovers antiquities before
they are smuggled .....abroad
July 3rd, 1:41pm
(Prensa Latina)
The head of the Department of Antiquities and
Museums of the northern Syrian province of
Aleppo, announced his frustration at the
attempt to smuggle archaeological
pieces of great value that were
going to be illegally removed
from the country.
The head of the aforementioned Department, Munir
Al-Qasqas ---- explained that the recovered
antiquities were officially delivered to
the National Museum of Aleppo.
A technical committee of specialists was formed to
distinguish between original pieces --- and other,
counterfeit ones, with the aim of documenting
them --- and digitally archiving them in the
museum records, the manager said.
He clarified that these pieces include coins and ceramic
pieces dating back to Greek, Byzantine & Islamic times.
These antiquities will undergo extensive cleaning - before
being sent to the appropriate departments for statistical
analysis and scientific classification, said Sabina
Baslan, the administrator of the Classical-
Islamic Museum.
Meanwhile, Ahmed Othman, the administrator of the
Museum of the Ancient East, called the operation
a successful example: of coordination between
competent authorities that contributed to the
protection of a cultural heritage that reflects
the identity and ancient history of Aleppo.
At the end of last June -- the International Council of
Museums (ICOM) issued an official alert about the
escalation ---- of looting and illicit trafficking of
Syrian cultural heritage.
The Council explained in a report, that the country is
facing the largest wave of antiquities predation in
its modern history - in the context of a lack of
supervision..... and growing international
demand for contraband items.
The report also explained, that there is a significant
increase in the circulation of counterfeit objects -
particularly ancient coins - making it extremely
difficult to document the origin & legitimacy
of the items.
The document criticized the silence of the international community in the face of this growing phenomenon,
despite repeated warnings -------- over the years.
________________________________________
Nicaragua promotes improvements to the
health system --- with modern equipment
July 3rd, 1:37pm
(Prensa Latina)
The Government of Nicaragua today promotes the
development of the country's public health
system with the delivery of modern
equipment to hospitals, which
guarantees better care and
quality of life for patients.
According to local media, at the Manuel de Jesús Rivera
pediatric hospital “La Mascota”, in this capital, the day
before, the Ministry of Health (Minsa) delivered
angiography equipment that will be used to
perform ------ cardiac, neurological and
peripheral vascular procedures.
It is a versatile piece of equipment that different
specialists can use, not only the cardiologist,
but also neurologists - to make diagnoses,
and for therapeutic treatments, in such
a way that for some children it won't
be necessary - to do open heart
surgery... the coordinator of
the heart surgery service,
Cristian Ramírez, told
the press.
According to what was known, the team uses X-rays
and a contrast medium to show the tilting anatomy
in a high resolution, which will allow a greater
number of surgeries to be performed.....
through cardiac catheterizations.
“We plan to perform about 120 surgeries this year,
of which, half could be done -- through cardiac
catheterizations”, Ramírez explained.
The development of the public health system in
Nicaragua has been part of the Sandinista
Government's policies, since its return
to power 18 years ago, with the aim
of guaranteeing the population
free, quality medical care.
_____________________________
U.S. --- Maintains World’s Largest
Immigration Detention System
Amid Alarming Abuses
July 3rd, 8:40am
(teleSUR)
Less than 6% ....of the 59,000 migrants
detained by ICE have a criminal record.
The US operates the largest immigration detention
system in the world, where thousands of people
— including longtime residents and recent
arrivals fleeing violence or poverty - are
arrested, and held in inhumane and
negligent conditions.
Currently, more than 59,000 people are in the custody
of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
(ICE). Of that figure, less than 6% of migrants
have a criminal record. Yet - they are
subjected to mass raids that have
become a veritable “manhunt.”
These operations have overwhelmed the capacity of
detention centres, worsening overcrowding, the
lack of adequate health care ---- and the
psychological suffering of detainees.
One of the most harrowing accounts, comes from Ariel Lara,
a former detainee at the Cromb Detention Centre in Florida,
who described enduring an ordeal marked by unsanitary
conditions and constant fear. Stories like his ----- are
echoed at other facilities across the country.
In April, detained migrants used their bodies to spell out SOS
in the courtyard of the Bluebonnet Detention Facility in
Anson, Texas. Images from the site have alarmed the
international community.
The abuses go beyond overcrowding. At least 13 deaths in ICE
custody have been documented - since the start of intensified
immigration policies under Donald Trump.
Among the victims was a 75-year-old Cuban man whose death
was reportedly met with indifference by the authorities.
Additionally, there have been reports of women
losing their babies and individuals taking
their own lives, while detained.
The situation has worsened, with the creation of a new
makeshift detention centre in the Florida swamps,
nicknamed “Alligator Alcatraz.” Surrounded by
mosquitoes, snakes and alligators, the site
will hold approximately 5,000 immigrants
in tents ---- with limited air conditioning
& no medical or sanitary guarantees.
In a widely condemned remark, Trump mocked the conditions,
advising people to “run in zigzags” to escape the alligators.
Protests have erupted nationwide. Thousands have taken to
the streets to demand humane and dignified treatment for
migrants. Human rights defenders and even experts
within the U.S. government - have described the
system as “barbaric and negligent” and called
for urgent reform. Yet --- with each new raid,
the number of detainees rises, worsening
prison overcrowding and amplifying
the calls for justice.
The failure of the United Nations Office of the High
Commissioner for Human Rights to act on these
allegations - highlights a lack of commitment
to its mandate: to safeguard human dignity
and justice.
_________________________________________
"Minister since the birth of Christ."
The NATO Secretary General
Nark Rotter Insults Lavrov
by Mikhail Sinev
July 2nd, 9:54pm
(Gazeta.ru)
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte called Sergey Lavrov
"the minister since the birth of Christ" and asked not to
pay "too much attention" to him. This reaction came
in response - to the Russian Foreign Minister's
statement about the possible dissolution
of the alliance. In response, Rutte has
already been nicknamed the
"NATO Aphid."
The Secretary General of the North Atlantic Alliance, Mark Rutte, was scathing on the US TV channel Fox News, about Russia's Foreign Minister, Sergey Lavrov, after he spoke of a possible disintegration of NATO.
"Lavrov is the Russian foreign minister, I think, since the birth of
Jesus Christ? And nothing useful has come out of his mouth
since then. So let's not pay too much attention to
Mr. Lavrov," he said.
Rüttel's attack was promptly responded to, by the
official representative of the Russian Foreign
Ministry, Maria Zakharova.
"It's not for nothing that Sergey Lavrov worked for so many
years, if he made the NATO Secretary General remember
Jesus Christ," she remarked, in the Telegram channel.
TV presenter Vladimir Solovyov emphasized that Rutte had
insulted Lavrov with his statement. In addition, he called
the Secretary General of the alliance a "NATO aphid".
What was Lavrov talking about?
In late June, the Polish Radosław Sikorski said that Russian
President Vladimir Putin was allegedly following in the
footsteps of former Soviet leaders.
"He [Putin] once said that the Soviet Union collapsed, because it
spent too much on weapons, and now he's doing the same. He's
waging a very expensive war and has also provoked the entire
West to increase its defense spending," Sikorski said, in an
interview with PAP.
After the meeting of the Collective Security Treaty Organization's
Council of Foreign Ministers on June 30th, journalists asked
Lavrov to comment on his Polish counterpart's statement.
"He [Sikorski] probably foresees, since he's such a predictor,
that the catastrophic increase in NATO countries' budgets,
as I estimate, will also lead to the collapse of this
organization," the minister said.
Lavrov also recalled Putin's words, who announced plans
to reduce military spending and follow common sense,
according to TASS.
"Instead of making up threats and sucking them out of their
fingers, as NATO member countries do, including Sikorski,"
the Russian Foreign Minister concluded.
Militarization of NATO countries
Deputy Foreign Minister of Russia Alexander Grushko on the air
of the TV channel Russia 24 on July 2, said that the amount of
military budgets of NATO countries is now 10 times higher
than the military expenditures of the Russian Federation.
Despite this, the states of the organization continue to
fear Russia and attribute aggressive intentions to it,
he stressed.
"As of today, this is the latest updated data, the total military
spending of all NATO countries has reached the incredible
amount of 1,506 billion US dollars. This represents 55%
of the global total. In other words, 32 NATO countries
are spending more ----- than the remaining 163
countries in the world," he said.
On June 24–25, a NATO summit was held in The Hague, where
the leaders of the organization's member countries agreed to
increase defense spending to 5% of GDP. Rüttte emphasized
at a press conference that the North Atlantic Alliance must
be confident that it can defend itself against..... the
Russian threat.
"We have heard from open sources and from many high-ranking
military leaders in Europe that they [the Russians] are building
up their armed forces at a rate that will allow them to be
ready for an attack in three, five, or seven years,"
he said.
According to Rutte, the West should not be "naive about Russia."
It is worth noting that on May 21, the ambassadors of the EU
agreed on a €150 billion plan to militarize Europe. This plan
was proposed by the head of the European Commission,
Ursula von der Leyen.
"An agreement (sic) has been reached on SAFE. The more the EU
invests in its armies, the better it will be able to deter those
who wish to harm it," the statement said, posted on the
Polish Council of the EU presidency's page - on the
social network X.
In early June, during a meeting with heads of world news
agencies on the sidelines of SPIEF, Putin called those
who seriously talk about Russia’s “attack” on NATO
“stupid.”
"They're saying that Russia wants to attack NATO. Are you
crazy? Are you as stupid as this table? Who came up with this idea?" Putin responded.
The president concluded, that claims that Russia
will attack NATO countries, are “nonsense”...
and “dog-eat-dog nonsense.”
_______________________________________
"A course towards self-destruction":
Zakharova --- described the EU's
entire foreign policy in 2 words
by Maria Pavlova
July 2nd, 6:42pm
(Komsomolskaya Pravda)
TO SHARE
Zakharova commented on the results of the EU summit.
The EU countries have set a course for self-destruction.
This was the comment of the official representative of
the Russian Foreign Ministry, Maria Zakharova, on the
last summit of the European Council held in Brussels
on June 26.
"They call it a course against Russia, but in fact, they are
engaged in some kind of self-destruction," Zakharova
said, during a briefing, answering a
corresponding question.
The diplomat also pointed out that the West's calls for Russia
to "show political will" to end the conflict, sound false and
foolish ------ given the arms being pumped into Ukraine.
"The hysteria surrounding the so-called Russian threat, is being
used as a pretext ------ for the accelerated militarization of the
European Union, which is detrimental to the socio-economic
development of the member states," Zakharova added,
ironically suggesting that the European Union should
adopt the abbreviation "EB" ---- as it effectively
becomes a European NATO bloc.
As a reminder, the European Union summit failed to adopt
a statement aimed at supporting Ukraine. It was
blocked by Hungary.
The EU also confirmed the failure to approve the
18th package of sanctions against Russia
at the last summit.
_____________________________________________
Unicefwarns about the impact of
conflicts on millions of children
July 2nd, 1:24pm
(Prensa Latina)
More than 12 million children were murdered, mutilated or
displaced during the conflicts recorded in the last two
years in the Middle East and North Africa, Unicef
warned today.
According to the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF),
in 2025 around 45 million minors in that region will need
humanitarian aid, which represents an increase of
41 percent since 2020.
This organization expressed its concern and warned that
the financing deficit is affecting the implementation of
vital programs such as those related to the treatment
of severe malnutrition, the production of drinking
water and vaccination against deadly diseases.
It is alarming that 110 million children in these territories live
in countries affected by war, with homes, schools and health
facilities damaged or destroyed in the fighting, indicates a
report from that entity.
In recent statements, Unicef regional director Edouard
Beigbeder indicated that, “as the situation of children
in the area worsens, resources to respond are --
increasingly -- scarce”.
''Conflicts must end. International advocacy to resolve
these crises must be intensified and support for
vulnerable children must increase ----- not
decrease,'' he asserted.
___________________________________________
Young summer in Cuba - with
musicalityand in fullcolour
July 2nd, 1:23pm
(Prensa Latina)
Always young and in full colour, summer in Cuba today exhibits
a range of cultural proposals in which the most varied and
attractive expressions of art converge, because the
public enjoys and appreciates it.
One of the initiatives comes from the Musical Recordings
and Editions Company (Egrem), with the holding of the
I Innovation Fair at the Cultural Center 31 and 2,
in this capital, Havana.
With the participation of artists, researchers, creators
and managers, the space will become the epicentre
of creativity, science and innovation at the service
of music ----- this July 9.
Workshops, presentations, and an expofair with institutional
materials and products linked to sound art - will distinguish
InnovaEGREM, as stated by the Organizing Committee
in a meeting with the press... in the May Hall of the
Cuba Pavilion.
Under the slogan ''Summer --- that sounds like Egrem,'' music
will reach squares and communities in this capital to add
flavour to the summer season: Karamba, Buena Fe,
Arnaldo and his Talismán, Maykel Blanco y su
Salsa Mayor, Issac Delgado, Elain Morales
and Alain Pérez ---- will be some of the
invited artists and groups.
This summer welcome campaign will also celebrate the
45 years of Siboney Studios, located in the eastern
province of Santiago de Cuba.
Adding to the festivities is the second edition of Zona
Sonora, which will bring together prominent local
DJs and producers this Saturday ------ at John
Lennon Park, in El Vedado neighbourhood.
Designed for the Cuban community and family, the meeting
will promote enjoyment in a pleasant environment where
music will become the main protagonist. There will be
sales of books, vinyls, CDs and souvenirs, that
address this artistic manifestation.
Other initiatives make up this attractive and varied agenda,
which will also reach the rest of the Cuban provinces,
including the Barrio Art Project, the usual concerts
at La Piragua and a recital that promises to raise
the sound of the flute.
This ---- is the presentation ''From Lima to Havana,'' which
will bring together the Peruvian flutist César Peredo, the
Argentine quenista Rodrigo Sosa and the prominent
Cuban musician Orlando Valle ''Maraca'' and
Camerata Cortés ---- this Saturday, in the
Cuban Art Building of the National
Museum of Fine Arts.
______________________________________________
Guatemala created Strategic Command
Against Transnational Threats
July 1st, 3pm
(Prensa Latina)
Guatemala today made official the reactivation of a Strategic
Command Against Transnational Threats (Cecat), aimed at
protecting national sovereignty against possible threats
by air, sea, land and cyberspace.
Through the official Diario de CentroAmérica - government
Agreement Number 110-2025 stated that among the main
functions of the new military organization, is conducting
defense operations and coordinating actions with other
local and international institutions.
Signed by the president of the country, Bernardo Arévalo, the
Minister of Defense, Henry Saenz, and the Secretary General
of the Presidency, Juan Gerardo Guerrero, explained that
Cecat will operate as a special military command.
It will have jurisdiction throughout this Central American territory
and will be led by a General or Colonel, or a similar rank, in the
Sea Force, that he has completed Higher Strategic Studies,
or its equivalent, abroad, he added.
The Defense Staff has a period of 30 days from tomorrow, when
it will come into force, to prepare the regulations, design the
budget ...and establish the operational structure of
the command.
With this measure, the Guatemalan Executive seeks
to strengthen security and respond effectively to
transnational challenges that may compromise
the country's stability.
The idea of reactivation came after the incursion of Mexican
soldiers into the Chapín department of Huehuetenango
and an armed incident in that area at the beginning
of last June.
This force is designed to facilitate coordination, both within the
National Civil Police and with security organizations from other
States that face similar situations, Arévalo previously detailed.
Authorities from Guatemala and Mexico have met several times
after the incident ---- to determine an agenda within the
framework of monitoring a border strategy.
_____________________________________
Díaz-Canel -- congratulates
scientific centres in Cuba
July 1st, 2:57pm
(Prensa Latina)
The president of Cuba, Miguel Díaz-Canel, today congratulated
the workers of the National Centre for Scientific Research
(CNIC) and Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology
(CIGB), on the occasion of their 60th and 39th
anniversaries, respectively.
Through the social network, as projected by the
historical leader of the Cuban Revolution,
Fidel Castro.
The CNIC was founded on July 1, 1965 and
represented the first multidisciplinary
centre in Cuba.
It is currently a company that is part of the Biotechnology
and Pharmaceutical Industries Group (BioCubaFarma),
dedicated to scientific research, and the production
and marketing of pharmaceutical and
biotechnological products.
For its part, the Centre for Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology
constitutes a large research-productive complex equipped with
cutting-edge equipment --- and staff busy developing new
products in all their phases, from cloning and protein
expression with DNA recombination techniques
to production on industrial scales.
Among its main lines of work are the recombinant obtaining
of proteins and hormones, vaccines and diagnostic means,
and the production of monoclonal antibodies, the use of
biomass and its transformation by chemical-enzymatic
means and the micro-propagation of cells and
tissue cultures.
_______________________________________
President of Mexico reiteratesrejection
of criminalization of migrants
July 1st, 2:14pm
(Prensa Latina)
The president of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, today rejected
the treatment of migrants as criminals and reiterated the
importance of compatriots and other Latin Americans
for the United States economy.
“We do not agree with treating migrants as criminals. A family,
a man, a woman, a young man who goes to the United States.
The United States was formed from migrants”, she asserted
when answering a question about a new immigration
detention centre in the neighbouring country.
She emphasized that particularly Latinos and Mexicans are
very important for the economy of the northern territory.
“Wanting to classify a migrant as a criminal --- or seeking the
deportation of millions of migrants, as they say, will affect
the United States economy..... seeing it from their
perspective. But, in addition, it totally violates
human rights”, she noted.
What we have stated “in diplomatic notes, in conversations every
time we are there, is that, in the case of a Mexican who does not
have papers, that he is detained... that we immediately receive
him in Mexico, but in conditions that do not violate his rights”,
she said.
The president of the United States, Donald Trump, visited
Alcatraz Cayman this Tuesday, the new immigration
detention centre --------- built in record time.
Images in local media showed protesters at the doors of the
controversial facility waiting for the president, who upon
his arrival in the state was seen with the Secretary of
Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, and the Florida
Governor, Ron DeSantis.
_______________________________
They offer new revelations
of terrorist plans against
Venezuela
July 1st, 2:11pm
(Prensa Latina)
The Minister for Interior Relations, Justice and Peace,
Diosdado Cabello today offered new statements of
terrorist plans planned against Venezuela by the
national extreme right, in complicity with drug
trafficking and foreign agents.
In statements to the press, the owner reiterated that it is
a single plot, in which drug trafficking, conspiracy and
armed violence through gangs are associated, in
which judges, mayors, police officers, business
men, among other people involved, have been
captured in several states.
“We denounce to the world that the United States continues
to plan plots against Venezuela”, he asserted, and revealed
implications of the US Federal Bureau of Investigation, of
which he gave his opinion, “they have to be authorized
by their bosses”.
Cabello insisted that this is a single articulated conspiracy and
stated that “the political leadership of the opposition lost its
shame” for its projection and actions; he revealed “their
alarming level of despair” and stressed, that they are
the same... as always.
He alluded to the capture of Venezuelan citizen Marco José
Balbuena Rodríguez, alias Patas Largas, from the state of
Zulia, from where he moved to Sucre (northeast), and
whose front man and payer for the purchase of
weapons ---- was captured today.
The sectoral vice president of Politics, Citizen Security
and Peace showed a batch of captured weapons such
as grenade launchers, rifle and RPG-7 grenades,
machine guns, Israeli-made rifles, cell phones,
radio equipment, GPS, among others.
He assured -- that everything is linked to José Balbuena and
as part of the operations of the security agencies, a citizen
of Trinidadian origin, Venezuelans and Colombians, was
captured.
“These weapons were not for trafficking drugs, but for
carrying out terrorist attacks within the country”,
he certified.
When referring to the issue of narcotics, Cabello pointed out
that they continue working and reported that, between
yesterday and today “they captured a very significant
amount of drugs”, including 317 kilos of marijuana
in the state of Apure (southwest) and 3,161
kilograms in Falcón (northwest).
He reported that the amount of drugs captured in the first half
of this year exceeds that seized in 2024, just as 396 aircraft
used for drug trafficking --- were shot down.
Cabello declared that they are currently carrying out an
operation in La Cañonera, state of Zulia (southwest),
where 163 kilograms of cocaine were seized, in
addition to those already announced, they
also made several arrests.
All of these drug trafficking actions, he reaffirmed, are linked to
terrorism operations, paramilitarism, conspiracy in Venezuela
and money laundering.
The political leader stressed the links of the extremist
opposition, led by María Corina Machado, with
Colombian drug trafficking and identified
former presidents Álvaro Uribe, Juan
Manuel Santos, Iván Duque and
Andrés Pastrana, as their
political bosses.
_______________________________________________
Russian Ambassador Botan-Kharchenko
said that the situation in Serbia...
is under control
July 1st, 12:53pm
(Vesti.ru)
The situation in Serbia is quite stable and is under the control
of the authorities, Russian Ambassador to Serbia Alexander
Botsan-Kharchenko said on the Russia 24 TV channel.
This was the diplomat's comment on the mass protests in Serbia.
"In general, we can say that it [the situation in Serbia] is quite
stable. And in any case, this is probably the main thing, it is
under the control of the authorities. It is.... quite calm, at
least in Belgrade, in the main cities," the diplomat said.
However, it is too early to talk about a complete end to
the protests, according to Botsan-Kharchenko.
On June 28, protesters blocked Slavia Square in the centre of
Belgrade and the surrounding streets. They demanded early
parliamentary elections. On the same evening, they issued
an ultimatum to the authorities, demanding a date for the
vote. On June 29th, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic,
declared victory for the government over the protesters.
The day before, Serbian protesters announced on social media
that they had started a total blockade of roads, streets, and
intersections in the country.
_______________________________________
A floral bouquet was laid in Moscow
on the occasion of Belarus'
Independence Day
by Yuri Sizov
June 1st, 11:53am
(Rossiyskaya Gazeta)
On July 1, a wreath was laid at the Kremlin Wall to
commemorate the Independence Day of Belarus,
according to the Belarusian diplomatic mission
in the Russian capital.
"Ambassador Alexander Rogozhnik... and diplomats of
the Belarusian Embassy in Russia laid a wreath and
flowers at the Eternal Flame --- at the Tomb of the
Unknown Soldier and the memorial signs "Hero
City Minsk" and "Brest Hero Fortress" in the
Alexander Garden of the Kremlin, on the
occasion of the Independence Day of
the Republic of Belarus" ------ the
Embassy of Belarus informed.
The solemn ceremony, according to BELTA, was also
attended by representatives of the leadership and
staff of the Permanent Committee of the Union
State, the Parliamentary Assembly of the
Union of Belarus and Russia, plus the
Eurasian Economic Commission,
the CIS Executive Committee,
Russian diplomats.... and
representatives of the
Belarusian diaspora.
________________________
Without the Communist Party ---
There Would Be No New China:
Xi Jinping
July 1st, 10:24am
teleSUR)
The Chinese leader emphasized that his country’s
modernization requires strengthened unity
and diligence.
The Communist Party of China (CPC), which has led its
country through a remarkable transformation over the
76 years since it came to power, marked the 104th
anniversary of its founding, on Tuesday.
Ahead of the anniversary, President Xi Jinping, the Communist
Party’s top leader, presided over a group study session of the
Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, during which
he stressed ------- advancing full and rigorous Party
self-governance, by promoting good conduct.
“The tasks of advancing Chinese modernization entrusted to our
Party are extremely challenging, and the governing environment
is unusually complex. We must pull the string of self-reform
tighter,” said Xi, who believes that the Party must keep
strengthening itself, to always be the backbone of
the Chinese nation.
“Without the Communist Party of China, there would be no new
China and no national rejuvenation. The Party was chosen by
history and the people,” he said, as recalled by China Daily.
According to the latest tally, the CPC had more than 100 million
members and 5.25 million primary-level organizations at the
end of 2024. Monday’s group study session centred on a
theme that Xi has made a key task this year -- for
strengthening the Party, namely, bolstering
the whole Party’s compliance with the
principles of a landmark code of
conduct, known as the
eight-point rules.
The code was introduced under the aegis of Xi in December
2012, shortly after he was elected general secretary of the
CPC Central Committee. The document sets out rules for
Political Bureau members when they conduct research
tours, meetings and paperwork — and banning
extravagances such as lavish banquets,
red carpets and luxury perks.
The code has evolved into a consistent, Party-wide measure to
curb unnecessary formalities, bureaucratism, hedonism, and
extravagance — tendencies that risk alienating the Party
from the people.
Having profoundly reshaped official work styles in China over
the past decade, the eight-point rules --- continue to drive
efforts in this regard today. To sustain this momentum,
a nationwide education campaign was launched this
year, with Xi warning against the resurgence of
undesirable practices, in disguised.... or
mutated forms.
The code has served as a breakthrough point ---- for
comprehensively strengthening Party governance,
said Shen Chengfei, the dean of the School of
Marxism -- at Sun Yat-sen University. By
enforcing the code, the CPC showed
it delivers on its word. That is how
the Party builds and maintains
public trust, Shen added.
Under Xi’s leadership, efforts to strengthen the Party
have since been implemented with consistency and
determination. With this spirit, Xi has reshaped the
Party from within. What was once lax and weak
self-governance in Party organizations -- has
been tackled at the root.
Moreover, an overwhelming victory in the fight against
corruption has removed serious hidden dangers in
the Party, the country and the military. Italian
scholar Francesco Maringio, said the CPC’s
ability to reform itself is a key factor in
its success
UNYIELDING MISSION
A strong governing Party - has proven instrumental to China’s
progress, with achievements over the past decade including
lifting nearly 100 million rural residents out of poverty,
maintaining its status, as the world’s second-largest
A bill that provides for the introduction of US 500% duties for
countries that import Russian oil and gas could lead to a
new trade war and the collapse of the US economy.
This is the opinion of industry experts
interviewed by Izvestia.
According to Igor Yushkov, an expert at the Financial University
and a leading analyst at the National Energy Security Fund, the
bill allows the US president to impose such sanctions, but
does not oblige him to do so.
"If [US leader Donald] Trump wanted to impose sanctions,
he would do it by presidential decree. He wouldn't need
a separate bill," he said.
Ekaterina Kosareva, Managing Partner of VMT Consult, agrees
with her colleague. She recalled that Donald Trump did not
support the G7's initiative to reduce the price cap on
Russian oil from $60 to $45 per barrel.
Tamara Safonova, General Director of the Independent Analytical
Agency for the Oil and Gas Sector (NAANS-MEDIA LLC), believes
that a fivefold increase in customs duties will lead to buyers of
Russian hydrocarbons ceasing trade with the United States,
as well as a new round of transformation of supply chains,
with these countries' products finding buyers ----- in
alternative friendly markets.
According to her estimate, Russia's share in global oil
exports is 11%, pipeline gas is 28%, and LNG is 10%.
"Let's say the United States imposes such a duty, but China
continues to purchase Russian oil. What will happen? Will
all trade relations with China be terminated immediately?
How long --- will the American economy survive?
Moreover, the United States is currently
close.. to signing a trade agreement
with China, so it would be unwise
to re-engage in a conflict with
Beijing, over Russian oil. The
same applies to India which
has a warmer relationship
with the United States
than China.''
Valery Andrianov, an associate professor at the
Financial University under the Government
of the Russian Federation, noted that
Washington is unlikely to want to
sever its cooperation with New
Delhi .......over Russian
raw materials.
_________________________
The IMF - has approved another
$500 million loan - for Ukraine
June 30th, 7:41pm
(RT.ru
The IMF has approved another $500 million loan
for Ukraine under the ''Extended Fund'' Facility.
"The IMF Board of Directors today - completed the
eighth review of the Extended Fund Facility and
approved the allocation of \$500 million to
Ukraine, which will be used to support
the state budget," the fund said in a statement.
At the same time, the total amount of support
provided to Ukraine by the fund has reached
$10.6 billion.
Earlier, the author of an article in the newspaper
The Wall Street Journal, wrote ------ that the
International Monetary Fund, ''had
doubts'' about financing Kiev
due to a credit default.
______________________________
Lawyer Trunov: Ukraine's Western Allies
Funded the Terrorist Attack at Crocus
June 30th, 7:21pm
(RT.ru)
The Western allies of the Kiev regime financed the terrorist
attack at Crocus, and Ukraine itself was the organizer and
customer. This was reported by one of the terrorists in
his testimony, according to Igor Trunov, a lawyer for
the victims, as told to RT.
"From the testimony of Fariduni... the attack was ordered - by
the US, Germany, and the UK through funding. The organizer
was Ukraine, which attracted representatives of the Islamic
State*," he noted.
According to the defendant's lawyer, Ukrainian intelligence
agencies are hiring volunteers for subversive activities
within Russia.
According to Trunov, Fariduni wanted to stay in Ukraine after
the terrorist attack and participate in the fighting against
Moscow. The organizers promised to provide him with
a corridor to Kiev.
Earlier, it was reported that the perpetrators of the terrorist
attack at Crocus were waiting for a group near Bryansk to
escape to Ukraine.
* The Islamic State (IS, ISIS) is an organization recognized as
a terrorist organization by the Russian Supreme Court on December 29, 2014.
______________________________________
Ukraine - received $1.7 billion from
Canadain revenues from Russia's
''frozen'' assets
June 30th, 5:50pm
(Izvestia.ru)
Canada has transferred a $1.7 billion tranche to Ukraine,
the funds were received from the proceeds of Russia's
frozen assets. This was announced by Ukrainian
Prime Minister, Denys Shmyhal, on June 30.
"Ukraine has received about \$1.7 billion from Canada.
These are funds - secured by revenues from frozen
Russian assets," he wrote on Telegram channel.
Shmyhal said that, since the beginning of the year, Kyiv
has already received $17.6 billion from frozen Russian
assets, including the aforementioned tranche.
On June 17, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney
announced that Ukraine would receive a $1.7
billion loan from Russia's assets. At the
same time, he stated that Ottawa
would provide Kyiv with a new
military aid package worth
$1.5 billion.
___________________________________
Putin called the potential of the DPR, LPR,
Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia regions ---
enormous
June 30th, 3:41pm
(RT.ru)
The potential of the Donetsk and Lugansk People's
Republics..... as well as the Kherson and
Zaporizhzhia regions, is enormous,
and it is important to unlock it,
Russian President Vladimir
Putin said.
He said this - at a meeting on
the development of Russia's
new regions.
Putin noted - that it is necessary to build or reconstruct
educational, cultural, healthcare, and sports facilities,
as well as to develop roads, housing, public utilities,
and the entire social infrastructure.
"It will be necessary to... in general, to reveal
the enormous potential of Donbass and
Novorossiya," the head of state said.
Putin emphasized that by 2030, the new regions must
reach the average Russian level in all indicators,
and it is necessary to create jobs with
decent salaries.
___________________________________
A post - calling for the extermination of Roma
cost a resident of Khabarovsk 10,000 rubles
by Marfa Mamaeva
June 28th, 9:32pm
(Gazeta.ru)
In Khabarovsk, a woman was fined 10,000 rubles for
commenting on a video of a child.... sitting in a toy
machine. This was reported by “Caution, News”.
According to the Telegram channel, the Lazo District
Court of the Khabarovsk Krai issued a decision on
the case of a 48-year-old woman on the charge
of inciting hatred on June 25. Her comment
was a response to a post that read: "In
the Khabarovsk Krai, Roma people
forced their younger brother into
a toy machine, so that he
could steal toys."
According to the publication, the woman wrote under
the post that the Roma had never worked, and were
used to stealing, and called for their extermination.
__________________________________________
Vucic rejected the Belgrade protesters'
ultimatum --- for early elections
June 28th, 9:21pm
(RT.ru)
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic rejected an
ultimatum to hold early elections, which was
presented to him by protesters in Belgrade.
This is reported by Rossiyskaya Gazeta
with reference to state television RTS.
"The ultimatum has not been accepted,
there is no need to wait...," Vucic said.
According to him, the protests are part of
a foreign conspiracy to overthrow
the government.
Earlier, it was reported that demonstrators
clashed with law enforcement officers
in Belgrade.
According to the Serbian Interior Ministry, the
unauthorised protest in Slavija Square, is
attended by about 36 thousand people.
Police used force against protesters
in the centre of Belgrade.
_______________________________
Zakharova is right --- Nazis are being
brought to power in Europe: A lover
of the purity of the Greek race, has
been appointed Minister in Greece
by Sergey Gapchuk
June 28th, 6:22pm
(Komsomolskaya Pravda)
TO SHARE
The Greek Minister of Immigration and Asylum is a far-right
politician who has advocated for the "purity of the Greek
race," Thanos Plevris. This was reported by the British
newspaper, the Daily Mail.
The publication noted that he is known for calling for
shooting migrants at the border, not providing them
with medical care, and not giving them food when
they arrive in Greece.
In addition, Plevris's father, who denies the Holocaust,
has been described by local media as the "founder of
Greek neo-fascism" and the "theorist of the
fascist state."
As the website KP.RU reported, the official representative of
the Russian Foreign Ministry, Maria Zakharova, commented
on the biography of the recently appointed head of British
intelligence, Blaze Metreveli.
Her statement was prompted by information that Metreveli's
grandfather, Konstantin Dobrovolsky, collaborated with the
Nazis during World War II and ---- according to archival
documents, participated in crimes against civilians.
The diplomat highlighted a trend - where individuals
are purposefully and deliberately appointing Nazi
descendants to leadership positions in the
collective West.
Earlier, it was reported that back in 2023, Russian President
Vladimir Putin addressed German citizens in German and
warned them against supporting Nazism.
______________________________
A Democrat socialist from Uganda
could become mayor of New York.
Why is this important?
June 28th, 8am
(Izvestia.ru)
As part of the election of the mayor of New York, the
Democrat Party held primaries, which ended in an
unexpected way. The winner of the vote and the
main candidate for the post was a native of
Uganda, Zohran Mamdani, who calls
himself a socialist.
He promised to freeze the price of housing and tax the richest
residents of the city. Mamdani's victory was a success of the
radical wing of the Democrats, which can change the
political landscape of the USA. On why these
preliminary results of local elections are
important - is in this material of
the "News".
How did the primaries go?
The Democratic primary for the New York City mayoral election
took place on June 24, and was supposed to be a fairly routine
procedure that was unlikely to attract much attention. The
main favourite of the vote was the establishment
candidate, former New York Governor Andrew
Cuomo, who left office in 2021 amid
accusations of harassment -- and
an unsuccessful fight.. against
COVID-19. The only potential
rival for Cuomo, would have
been incumbent Mayor Eric
Adams, but... he declined
to run, for the Democrat
nomination ------- due to
corruption allegations
and low popularity.
Given that the Republicans' position in New York
is extremely weak -- the winner of the Democrat
primary is almost guaranteed to become mayor.
Until the final day of voting, Cuomo.. was confidently
leading the polls. However, the first results showed
that the experienced politician had been defeated
and unexpectedly lost to 33-year-old Zohran
Mamdani, who had virtually no support
in the spring.
The results of the primaries have not yet been finalized. They use
a so-called ranked voting system, where voters choose not just
one candidate from a ballot, but five at once, placing them in
order of preference. The results are tallied, using a system
that eliminates unpopular candidates, and transfers their
votes to other candidates. This process continues until
one candidate receives more than 50% of the votes.
This type of voting avoids a second round, but requires a long
count. However, it is already known that Mamdani won and
Cuomo conceded defeat, and for the United States, this
event, which is formally only of a local level, became
a national sensation due to the personality and
views of the winning candidate.
Who is Zia Mamdani?
Zohran Mamdani was born in 1991 in Uganda. His father, an
Indian Muslim, is a professor of colonialism at Columbia
University, and his mother, a Hindu, is known in India
as a film director and producer.
When the future politician was five years old, his family moved
to South Africa, and two years later, they settled in New York.
In his youth -- Mamdani provided counseling to members of
ethnic minorities who were at risk of eviction from their
rental housing, and he also tried to establish himself
as a rapper. It was only 20 years after he moved to
the United States, that he obtained citizenship.
Mamdani began his political career --- as an aide to various
Democrat candidates in city and state elections. In 2020,
he ran for the New York State Assembly for the first time
and has since served as a congressman. Notably,
Mamdani.. has been the only candidate in his
district without any Republican opposition
in every election.
Mamdani calls himself a democratic socialist - for the US, this is
a fairly rarely used term, which of the well-known politicians
only identifies himself with the senator Bernie Sanders.
Some views and promises made by the candidate
during the participation in the primaries for
US society... are extraordinary.
The popularity of Mamdani's candidacy may also be influenced
by the current situation in the city. In recent years, New York
has been plagued by poverty, garbage, and an increase in
crime, with an increasing number of homeless people on
the streets, and the city's authorities struggling to
address these issues. As a result, real estate
prices have been on the rise, and Mamdani
has emerged as a representative of those
who are tired of the current situation and
the government's inability to address it.
In his campaign, Mamdani emphasized -- fighting inequality and
protecting the poor. He promised to limit rent increases, which
have made New York one of the world's most expensive cities
& build social housing by gentrifying wealthy neighbourhoods. Mamdani supports raising the minimum wage and increasing
the corporate tax rate, to match neighbouring New Jersey.
Among his proposals... which are particularly controversial in the
United States, is the introduction of a 2% tax on those who earn
more than $1 million per year. According to Mamdani, this
measure would generate $20 billion in revenue and fund
free university schools, freeze subway fares, make bus
travel free, and protect renters.
Mamdani, as a local-level politician, is an active critic of the State
of Israel, accusing it of the genocide of Palestinians in the Gaza
Strip. He regularly participates in pro-Palestinian protests that
take place in New York City, the city with the largest Jewish
population in the world. At the same time, Mamdani
emphasizes that he is not an anti-Semite, and
has attracted a number of Jewish
organizations to his side.
What does his nomination mean for the United States?
Mamdani's victory in the New York primary was a major event
in U.S. politics, with far-reaching implications. It was a
notable success for the left-wing faction within the
Democrat Party. The centrist core --- which had
previously dominated the party -- but failed in
last year's federal elections, has now been
defeated in the internal arena, which
could signal a complete renewal
of the party.
Experts are already talking about the fact that the Democrat
Party is ripe for its own analogue of the MAGA movement -
a radical wing that will attract young people to its side
with its bold slogans and populist promises and will
become a formidable force in the next elections.
It is difficult to say yet that it will be led by
Mamdani, but the socialist ideas he has
proposed -- will definitely attract new
leaders who are ready to shock the
US in the same way as the current
president Donald Trump did in his
time. The radical left -- which the
White House chief ------ has been
scaring the US with, for so long,
will now be sufficiently inspired
to form a new force. Trump has
already expressed his opinion
quite clearly ----- about the
emerging popularity of
socialists..... calling
Mamdani a “crazy
communist.”
Mamdani also taught an important lesson to his party colleagues
on how to run a campaign. He did not focus on identity issues,
which the neutral majority was tired of. Mamdani prioritized
economic and social assistance issues, which were more
important to the public ----- than protecting the rights of
various minorities. He actively engaged with voters
on the ground, which was unconventional for the
democrat establishment.
Finally, Mamdani's clear and unambiguous stance on Palestine ---
contrasted with the compromise statements that typically come
from Democrats, which do not satisfy either Israel's supporters
or its opponents. The fact that a person with an active pro-
Palestinian stance has achieved political success -- could
potentially, lead to a shift in the traditionally favorable US attitude towards Israel, which seemed to be an
unwavering mainstream. Given Trump's active
efforts in this direction, the anti-Israeli
approach in US politics has a
promising future.
However, for now, only interim results should be drawn with
regard to Mamdani ----- and the revolution made within the Democrat Party. He has not yet become the mayor of the
largest and richest city in the United States.... as the
election.. is still more than four months away. The
defeated Cuomo may attempt to run again as an
independent candidate, and early polls suggest
his chances are roughly equal to Mamdani's.
Given the weakness, of the Republican position
in New York and the candidacy of Curtis Sliwa,
the two Democrats can afford to meet again
on the ballot without the threat of losing
the city to a different party.
Why this is important!
The election of the mayor of New York will now be
the starting point for changes in the Democrat
Party, which has been struggling.. to recover
from a series of defeats at the federal level.
The outcome of these elections -------- will
determine whether the party remains on
a centrist platform or fully transforms
into a left-wing force ------ capable of
challenging the Republican Party's
similar transformation. If this
happens, the US will divide
further into right and left
factions, exacerbating
the societal divide.
When preparing this article, Izvestia
interviewed - and considered - the
opinions of the following people:
US political scientist Malek Dudakov;
political scientist Dmitry Drobnitsky;
& the Americanist Roman Romanov.
After the NATO summit, the West -----
pointed to Putin's fulfilled prediction
by Ekaterina Volkova
June 27th, 10:15pm
(Gazeta.ru)
Russian President Vladimir Putin's prediction: of Europe's
subjugation to the United States came true at the NATO
summit in The Hague, according to journalist Clara
Statello of L'Antidiplomatico.
"The alliance leaders understood that in order to avoid a
disgraceful failure in The Hague, they had no choice
but to return to Trump on their knees,"
Statello said.
The journalist recalled that Putin said, in an interview with
Pavel Zarubin that Trump would “quickly restore order in
Europe” and that Western leaders would “fall at the
master’s feet.”
Statello clarified that the NATO summit in The Hague was
intended to hide growing disagreements over Russia,
the Middle East, and international trade.
Prior to that, Putin at a press conference on the results of
the EAEU summit in Minsk, said that it is not Russia that
is aggressive, but the collective West.
The President also noted that amid the rhetoric about
Russia's alleged aggressiveness, there is a need for
Europe to arm itself.
Earlier, the Russian Embassy accused NATO
of destroying the “peace dividend”.
_____________________________________
Trump: The US is ending trade negotiations
with Canada ---- and will impose tariffs
by Alexey Merkulov
June 27th, 7:45pm
(Rossiyskaya Gazeta)
US President Donald Trump announced the immediate
termination of all trade negotiations with Canada in
response to the country's introduction of a digital
services tax that affects US technology firms.
A statement by the White House chief of staff, published
on the Truth Social social network, noted Washington's
plans to impose tariffs on its northern neighbour.
The US leader noted that the US had just learned that
Canada had imposed a digital services tax on US
technology companies. "This is a direct and
blatant attack on our country," Trump
wrote on his social media platform.
According to him, Canada's actions are similar to those
of the EU..... which is also considering introducing a
similar tax, increasing tensions in trade relations
between the United States and its partners.
_________________________________________
"We paid for it with inflation."Putin revealed
Russia's defense spending & may reduce it
by Anastasia Alympeeva (editor of the
operational information department)
June 27th, 7:29pm
(Lenta.ru)
Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday, June 27th, spoke
at a press conference in Minsk -- and said that the RF may
reduce budget spending on defense, the growth of which
has become ''one of the reasons'' ...for the increase in
inflation rates. At the moment, according to him,
the agencies are discussing such plans.
''We have a considerable [defence] spending today, it is
6.3 percent of GDP. Is it a lot or a little? I think it is a
lot, and this is, of course, one of the problems,
including for the budget, we have to solve.''
The Russian leader specified --- that 6.3 percent of GDP is
13.5 trillion rubles (the total volume of GDP in monetary
terms is 223 trillion). "We paid for it (the increase in
budget expenditures) in inflation, but we are now
struggling with this inflation," he stressed.
The Russian president noted that while the country's
plans include reducing defense spending, NATO
countries, on the contrary, plan to increase
spending in this area. "So ---- who, is
behaving aggressively?"
he asked.
In general... describing the economic situation in both
Russia and Europe, he pointed out that the European
colleagues are constantly “burying” Moscow,
despite the fact that they themselves are
experiencing great difficulties and are
literally on the verge of survival.
''They'll be dead soon! And they're
burying us ---- nonstop.''
He specified that last year, the Russian economy grew
by 4.3 percent. At the same time, in 2025, according
to him, this is... "much more modest, with the aim
of combating inflation - but we are doing it
purposefully."
"And - in the Eurozone, growth is 0.9 percent," Putin recalled.
The same happened in the country with the growth of
salaries, which last year added 9.7 percent, and at the beginning of this year - 4 percent.
Speaking at a Defense Ministry board last year, Putin
emphasized that the increase in defense spending
has its limit.... and cannot go on forever. As of
December 2024.. spending on increasing
defense capabilities had increased
to 6.3 percent.
The President noted that in addition to defense, it is
necessary to develop other areas as well: the
economy, science, education, healthcare,
and others --- that are important for
Russian society.
The Russian budget for 2025-2027 ---- envisaged the following
expenditures: 41,469.5 trillion rubles in 2025 (19.3% of GDP),
44,022.2 trillion rubles in 2026 (19.1% of GDP), and 45,915.6
trillion rubles in 2027 (18.5% of GDP).
At the same time, this week budget parameters for this year
were adjusted with an increase in the deficit from 0.5% to
1.7% of GDP. Also.. the annual decrease in the share of
defense spending in the budget was laid in the plan
until 2027. And in 2026, there is an increase in
spending on social policy, and the national
economy, but in general in the structure
of spending in 2025-2027, the largest
volume will be spent on national
defense, social policy and
the national economy.
At the end of last year, the head of the State Duma Committee
on Defense Andrey Kartapolov provided specific figures for
the National Defense section: 13.49 trillion rubles in 2025,
12.79 trillion in 2026, and 13.07 trillion in 2027.
"The allocated funds will allow us to continue developing our
army, which includes the needs of the special military
operation and, of course, the social protection of
our soldiers. This is an absolute priority,"
he said.
Global military spending has skyrocketed
According to the Stockholm International Peace Research
Institute (SIPRI), global military spending reached almost
$2.72 trillion last year. By 2023 --- it had increased by a
record-breaking 9.4% since the end of the Cold War.
Europe and the Middle East showed the fastest growth
in this area, while the US, China, Russia, Germany,
and India, accounted for 60 percent of global
defense spending.
In total - 100 countries increased
their defense spending last year.
___________________________________
Carney announces that Canada and the US
will continue their negotiations after
Trump's harsh remarks
by Alina Kochneva
June 27th, 7:25pm
(Komsomolskaya Pravda)
TO SHARE
Canadian Prime Minister Calls
Talks with Trump "Difficult"
The Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney responded to
the statements of Donald Trump about negotiations.
He emphasized - that the parties will continue
the dialogue. At the same time, Mark Carney
admitted that he had not yet spoken with
Donald Trump after the statement about
the termination of US contacts with
Canada. The Prime Minister
said this to journalists.
Mark Carney described the dialogue as "difficult." The Prime
Minister also declined to answer a question about Canada's
readiness to eliminate the digital services tax, a topic that
sparked a heated reaction in the White House.
"We will continue to conduct these difficult negotiations
based on the interests of Canadian citizens,"
Mark Carney concluded.
Donald Trump also described the dialogue with Canada
as difficult. He condemned Ottawa for imposing a tax
on US digital services.
_____________________________________________
Human Rights Council: More than 90 percent
of political fake news is generated by AI
by Anna Spitsyna
June 27th, 1:28pm
(Rossiyskaya Gazeta)
More than 90 percent of all political fakes are generated
by artificial intelligence, said Elina Sidorenko, head of the White Internet NGO and a member of the
Presidential Council for Civil Society
Development and Human Rights.
According to her, AI has become very involved in politics:
more than 90 percent of political fake news --- is generated by artificial intelligence.
According to her, AI generates such fake news
that "strikes at the heart of problems" and
affects a wide range of people.
"People sometimes don't have time to counter this
by verifying the information......... because the
avalanche - is huge," she emphasized.
According to experts, the use of deep fakes will grow
by 300 percent per year. Experts from the Human
Rights Council believe that this will have to be
countered "very soon and very seriously."
According to their estimates, deepfakes are also being
used in militarized areas. The current "era of drones"
is proof of this.
In this situation, the need to regulate the digital sphere is
becoming increasingly urgent. According to Sidorenko,
such regulation is already taking place through
"pilot modes."
However, it is crucial to consider
comprehensive legal protection.
__________________________________
Putin: The EAEU's trade turnover
is comparable to that of the
world's leading powers
June 26th, 5:24pm
(RT.ru)
The EAEU's trade volume is comparable to that
of the world's leading economic powers.
This was stated by Russian President Vladimir Putin
at the plenary session of the Eurasian Economic
Forum. RT is live streaming.
He specified that trade with third countries
increased by 38% and amounted to
$800 billion.
"This is a comparable trade turnover between the
world's leading economic powers, and it is a
substantial trade turnover," Putin said.
Earlier, the head of the RDIF, Kirill Dmitriev, said
that the internal trade of the BRICS countries
reached $1 trillion.
________________________________________________
Kosachev on the NATO summit:The West
is losing its illusion of permissiveness
towards Russia
June 26th, 11:11am
(Vesti.ru)
Western countries are losing the illusion of
permissiveness and impunity... in their
relations with Russia. This ---- was
stated by Konstantin Kosachev,
the Deputy Chairman of the
Federation Council of the
Russian Federation,
on the Russia 24
TV channel.
Commenting on the results of the NATO summit held
in The Hague, the senator noted that Russia was
mentioned only once in the final document,
compared to 63 mentions in 2021.
He also emphasized that individual European leaders
have repeatedly stated that they do not perceive a
threat from Russia.
"For me, the good news is that, finally -- in Western Europe,
or at least in Europe to the west of Russia, the illusion of
permissiveness and impunity... that they have nurtured
for as long as they have felt unwavering support from
the United States of America ----- is gone. It is no longer a factor," Kosachev said.
Earlier, the senator said that Germany - judging by the
summit held in The Hague - has strayed... from the
usual NATO formula which was declared by the first Secretary General of the alliance,
Hastings Ismay.
This gentleman picks holes in the intellectual ''mistakes'' of the West and points to the best solution for the world's people.
Britain's enemy is not Russia but its own ruling class, UN report confirms by John Wight November 19th, at 2:48pm
John Wight has written for a variety of newspapers and websites, including the Independent, Morning Star, Huffington Post, Counter- punch, London Progressive Journal, and Foreign Policy Journal.
As the UK political establishment rips itself to pieces over Brexit, a far greater crisis continues to afflict millions of victims of Tory austerity.
A devastating UN report into poverty in the UK provides incontrovertible evidence, that the enemy of the British people, is the very ruling class that has gone out of its way these past few years to convince them it is Russia.
Professor Philip Alston, in his capacity as the United Nations Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights, spent two weeks touring the United Kingdom. He did so, investigating the impact of 8 years of one of the most extreme austerity programs among advanced G20 economies in response to the 2008 financial crash and subsequent global recession.
What he found was evidence of a systematic, wilful, concerted and brutal economic war, unleashed by the country's right-wing Tory establishment, against the poorest and most vulnerable section of British society – upending the lives of millions of people who were not responsible for the aforementioned financial crash and recession, but who have been forced to pay the price.
From the report's introduction:
"It…seems patently unjust and contrary to British values that so many people are living in poverty. This is obvious to anyone who opens their eyes: to see the immense growth in foodbanks, and the queues waiting outside them, the people sleeping rough in the streets, the growth of homelessness, the sense of deep despair - that leads even the Government to appoint a Minister for Suicide Prevention - and civil society to report in depth, on unheard of levels of loneliness and isolation."
Though as a citizen of the UK, I respectfully beg to differ with the professor's claim, that such social & economic carnage, seems "contrary to British values,"(on the contrary - it is entirely in keeping with the values of the country's Tory establishment, an establishment for whom, the dehumanization of the poor and working class, is central to its ideology), the point he makes about it being "obvious to anyone who opens their eyes," is well made.
For it is now the case that in every town and city centre in Britain, it is impossible to walk in any direction for more than a minute, before coming across homeless people begging in the street. And the fact that some 13,000 of them, are former soldiers, casualties of the country's various military adventures in recent years, undertaken in service to Washington, exposes the pious platitudes peddled by politicians & the government as reverence for the troops & their 'sacrifice,' as insincere garbage.
As inequality increases, the wealthy and powerful become more desperate to cling onto their gains and distract us - with imagined threats and political sideshows - such as Jingoism, Russophobia and red-baiting...
Overall, 14 million people in the UK are now living in poverty, a figure which translates into an entire fifth of the population. Four million of them are children, while, according to Professor Alston, 1.5 million people are destitute – that is, unable to afford the basic necessities of life.
And this is what the ruling class of the fifth largest economy in the world, a country that parades itself on the world stage, as a pillar of democracy and human rights, considers progress.
The values responsible for creating such a grim social landscape, are compatible with the 18th, not the 21st century. They are proof positive, that the network of elite private schools – Eton, Harrow, Fettes College et al. – where those responsible for this human carnage are inculcated with the sense of entitlement and born to rule ethos that defines them, are Britain's hotbeds of extremism.
Professor Alston:"British compassion for those who are suffering, has been replaced by a punitive, mean-spirited, and often callous approach, apparently designed to instill discipline where it is least useful, to impose a rigid order on the lives of those least capable of coping with today's world, and elevating the goal of enforcing blind compliance, over a genuine concern to improve the well- being of those at the lowest levels of British society."
Here, set out above in bold relief, is the barbarism that walks - hand in hand - with free market capitalism. It is the same barbarism that was responsible for pushing post-Soviet Russia into a decade-long economic and social abyss, in the 1990s, and the values that have pushed 14 million people in the UK into the same economic and social abyss, in our time.
Austerity, it bears emphasizing, is not and never has been, a viable economic response to recession, in a given economy.
Instead, it is an ideological club, wielded on behalf of the rich and big business, to ensure that the price paid for the said economic recession, is borne exclusively by those least able to bear it - namely the poor and working people. It is class war by any other name, packaged and presented, as legitimate government policy.
However in Britain's case in 2018, this is a war like no other, because, as Professor Philip Alston's report lays bare, one side in this war has been throwing all the punches and one side has been taking them.
As the saying goes, wars take place when the government tells you who the enemy is; revolutions take place when you work it out for yourself.
(Source - RT)
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Keiser Report: Reality of Creditor Jubilees
- fantastic - asks ''why don't we act like Jesus preached - and forgive debt?''
When what we do now, is what led to the slavery of feudalism: by refunding the creditors, instead!
Cleaners form a picket line with their UVW comrades
Marx's theory still shines with truth: Xi May 4th, at 10:53am
Xinhua - Two centuries on, despite huge and profound changes in human society, the name of Karl Marx is still respected all over the world and his theory still shines with the brilliant light of truth, Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Friday.
Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks at a grand gathering in Beijing to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Marx's birth.
Xi said Marx is the "teacher of revolution for the proletariat and working people all over the world, the main founder of Marxism, creator of Marxist parties, a pathfinder for international communism and the greatest thinker of modern times."
"Today, we hold this grand gathering with great veneration to mark the 200th anniversary of Marx's birth, to remember his great character and historic deeds and to review his noble spirit and brilliant thoughts," Xi said at the event.
''With noble ideals and no fear of difficulty or adversity, throughout his life, Marx devoted himself to perseveringly striving for the liberation of humanity, scaling the peak of thought in his pursuit of truth, and the unremitting fight to overturn the old world and establish a new one'', according to Xi.
''Marx is not only a great figure who bore the weight of the world, but also an ordinary person with a passion for life, who was sincere and true to his friends'', Xi said.
''The most valuable and influential spiritual asset that Marx left us is the scientific theory named after him -- Marxism. Like a spectacular sunrise, the theory illuminated the path of humanity's exploration of the law of history, and humanity's search for their own liberation'', Xi said.
"The thought and theory of Marx are of his times and go beyond his times," Xi said. "They are the essence of the spirit of that times and the essence of the spirit of all humanity."
Xi said Marxism is a scientific theory that reveals the rules of human society's development, in a creative manner.
Having developed the materialist conception of history and surplus value theory, Marx showed how humanity would leap from the realm of necessity, to the realm of freedom, and also showed the road for people to realize freedom and liberation, Xi said.
Marxism, the first ideology for the liberation of the people themselves, is a theory of the people.
"Marxism, for the first time, explored the path for humanity's freedom and liberation from the stance of the people, and pointed out the direction, with scientific theory, toward an ideal society with no oppression or exploitation, where every person would enjoy equality and freedom," Xi said.
Stressing that practicality is a prominent characteristic of Marxism that makes it different from other theories, Xi said Marxism is a theory of practices that directs the people to change the world.
It is an open theory that is constantly developing and always stands at the frontier of the times, Xi said.
"That is why it is always able to keep young, explore the new issues in the development of the times and respond to the new challenges for human society."
The general secretary said that over the 170 years since publication of The Communist Manifesto, Marxism had been spread around the world, unrivaled in the history of human ideology in terms of the breadth and depth of its influence.
After the end of World War II, a large number of socialist countries were established, Xi said, stressing that the founding of the People's Republic of China, especially, has greatly increased the socialist strength in the world.
"There might be setbacks in the development of socialism in the world, but the overall trend for human society's development has never changed, and it will never change," Xi said.
"Marxism has not only profoundly changed the world, but also China," Xi said.
The reverberations of the October Revolution in Russia brought Marxism-Leninism to China, pointing out the direction forward, offering a brand new choice for the Chinese people in their struggle to survive, and setting the scene for the birth of the CPC.
Since the CPC's birth, it has combined the fundamental principles of Marxism with the reality of the Chinese revolution and construction, transforming the Chinese nation from "the sick man of East Asia" to one who has stood up, by uniting and leading the people through long-term struggle.
"This tremendous transformation serves as cast iron proof that only through socialism, can we save China," Xi said.
Since reform and opening up, the CPC has combined the fundamental principles of Marxism, with the reality of China's reform and opening up, and the nation who stood up, has grown rich.
"This tremendous transformation serves as cast iron proof that only through socialism with Chinese characteristics, can we develop China," Xi said.
In the new era, the CPC again combined the fundamental principles of Marxism with the reality of China in this new era, uniting and leading the people in "under- taking the great struggle, building the great project, advancing the great cause and realizing the great dream."
The Chinese nation has come to embrace a tremendous transformation, as the one who has grown rich, now, is becoming strong.
"This tremendous transformation serves as cast iron proof that only by adhering to and developing socialism with Chinese characteristics, can we realize national rejuvenation," Xi said.
"It is perfectly right for history and the people to choose Marxism, as well as for the CPC to write Marxism on its own flag, to adhere to the principle of combining the fundamental principles of Marxism, with China's reality, and continuously adapt Marxism to the Chinese context and the times."
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China lifts 740 mln rural poor out of poverty since 1978 September 3rd, at 12:57pm
Xinhua - China lifted 740 million people in rural areas out of poverty from 1978 to 2017, roughly 19 million each year, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said on Monday.
The poverty ratio in rural areas dropped 94.4 percentage points during the same time period with an average annual decrease of 2.4 percentage points, according to the NBS.
NBS data shows that China's poverty relief achievements have contributed more than 70 percent to global poverty alleviation work, in the past 40 years.
The average annual income of rural residents in impoverished areas rose an average of 10.4 percent each year from 2012 to 2017, up 2.5 percentage points from the average for rural residents.
Over the past five years, over 68 million people were lifted out of poverty in China. The country aims to further lift 10 million people out of poverty this year and eradicate poverty by 2020.
China recently released guidelines on winning the battle against poverty in the next three years, in order to prepare the nation for eradicating poverty by 2020.
According to the guidelines, the impoverished people should be guaranteed food & clothing, and children from poor families should be guaranteed a 9-year compulsory education. Basic medical needs and living conditions of the impoverished, should also be guaranteed.
People whose annual income is lower than 2,300 yuan (337.3 U.S. dollars), are defined as living below the poverty line, in China.
Almost half of Russians see USSR collapse as shameful – poll January 17th, at 12:11pm
The collapse of the Soviet Union is considered a reason to be ashamed, by 45 percent of Russians, according to a recent opinion poll. The only option that scored higher, is Russia’s failure to eradicate poverty.
The poll, conducted in late 2018, by the Levada Center is its latest study of what Russians are proud and ashamed of, about their nation. The demise of the USSR, saw a rebound in popularity from a low point of 28 percent in mid-2015, and is at a level comparable with the late 1990s and early 2000s.
The only more popular answer is Russia’s failure to eradicate poverty, which was named as a reason to be ashamed, by 61 percent of the people polled. This answer has topped Levada’s polls, for decades.
Russians are also ashamed of fellow countrymen treating each other disrespectfully (37 percent), Russia’s failure to catch up economically with the Western powers (24 percent), the out- come of Mikhail Gorbachev’s reforms (24 percent), and Joseph Stalin’s reign of terror (21 percent).
On the opposite side of Russians’ national identity are the qualities and events, people are proud of.
Defeating Nazi Germany in World War II remains the one thing Russians are overwhelmingly proud of (87 percent).
There is also the role that the country played in space exploration – about half are proud to belong to a space pioneering nation.
The third most popular option is accepting Crimea (the breakaway former Ukrainian region) as part of Russia again, which is seen as a point of national pride, by 45 percent.
Many people are also proud of Russian literature, science, and martial prowess, Soviet-era industrialization and the best qualities of the Russian character, like resolve and patience.
A record 75 percent said Russia is definitely, or most likely, a great nation today, while 88 percent believe that it should be one.
There was no apparent correlation between wishing greatness for Russia and regretting the USSR’s collapse, the agency noted, suggesting that Russians expect a great nation to - first and foremost - provide social justice, and protection.
Sixty-two percent said the Russians are a great people.
Levada remarked that about 80 percent of the people polled, identified themselves as Russians.
When asked what makes them feel connected to their people, most respondents named national history (53 percent), Russia’s land (35 percent), their place of birth (33 percent), and the nature that they call their own (25 percent).
The formal national symbols, including the flag, the coat of arms, and the national anthem, was the least popular option (5 percent).
Interestingly, religion is a relatively small factor in Russian national identity (9 percent).
(Source - RT)
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Number of Russians who regret collapse of USSR hits 10-year high December 26th, 2017, at 7:20am
The number of Russians who regret the collapse of the Soviet Union has reached its highest level since 2009, with almost an equal share saying the event could have been avoided.
A public opinion poll conducted by the independent Levada Center in late November this year found that 58 percent of Russians now regret the collapse of the USSR. Twenty-five percent said they felt no regret about this, and 16 percent could not describe their feelings in one word.
When researchers asked those who regret the end of the USSR what the primary reasons were behind their sentiments, 54 percent said that they missed a single economic system, 36 percent said they had lost the feeling of belonging to a real superpower, 34 percent complained about the drop in mutual trust among ordinary people, and 26 percent said that the collapse had destroyed the ties between friends and relatives.
The same research showed that 52 percent of Russians think that the collapse of the USSR could have been avoided, 29 percent said that the event was absolutely inevitable, and 19 percent did not have a fixed opinion on the matter.
The share of those who regret the demise of the Soviet Union has risen continuously over the past decade, but in 2009 it was even higher than today – at 60 percent. The all-time high – 75 percent – was recorded in 2000.
President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly addressed the issue of the collapse of the USSR in his speeches. In an address to the Russian parliament in 2005 he called the event the greatest geopolitical disaster of the 20th century and a cause of major disruption for the Russian people. In September 2016, Putin said the Communist Party should have transformed the Soviet Union into a democratic state, rather than see it break into separate nations.
At the same time, Putin has always emphasized that he and other Russian officials have no plans to revive the USSR, and has expressed anger that people cannot accept this. He's also accused Western governments of deliberately confusing modern Russia with the USSR and harming the interests of ordinary people, on the pretense of preventing an imaginary threat.
Historian:Russia's October Revolution Was Inevitable, Relatively Bloodless November 10th, at 4:33pm by Ekaterina Blinova
The October Uprising of 1917 became the logical conclusion of the February Revolution, Michael J. Carley, a professor of history at the Universite de Montreal has told Sputnik. According to the academic, the Russian Revolution was inevitable and occurred because evolutionary processes of change to benefit the lives of ordinary people had failed.
"February 1917 marked the beginning of a revolutionary change in power in Russia, that was accomplished in October," Michael Jabara Carley, professor of history at the Université de Montréal and the author of "Silent Conflict: A Hidden History of Early Soviet-Western Relations,"told Sputnik, commenting on the 100th anniversary of the Great October Socialist Revolution.
"The tsarist order was bankrupt and doomed. Almost everyone at the time said so. The immediate cause of the bankruptcy was the Great War [The First World War]," the Canadian academic stressed, adding that "the result was calamity marked by millions of casualties, large territories lost and an economy thrown into chaos, by the unsustainable financial and economic demands of fighting a world war."
Russian Provisional Government: 'Neither Revolutionary, Nor Democratic'
The so-called February Revolution, which is regarded as a combination of a popular uprising with an elitist anti- monarchist plot, led to the abdication of Russian Emperor Nicholas II and the establishment of the Provisional Government.
Still, the Provisional Government"was neither revolutionary nor democratic,"the academic pointed out: The crux of the matter was that it was largely controlled by the "bourgeois" urban and rural elites and old tsarist establishment"that was opposed to the revolution and attempted to block its further development."
October Uprising Was Relatively Bloodless
The professor explained why, contrary to popular belief, the October Revolution of 1917 that took place on November 7 (October 25 in the Julian calendar) was relatively bloodless.
"Well, in the first instance because the Provisional Government was utterly discredited. It had no popular support. It was a head without a body. It could give orders or issue decrees, but had no power to enforce them. In a revolutionary period, power comes from the support of the insurgent masses and the Provisional Government had none,"Carley told Sputnik.
The professor suggested that 1917 could have been averted if old elites as well as their forebears had not blocked"political and economic evolutionary processes"in Russia.
'Provisional Government Became a Cork in the Bottle'
"The Provisional Government became a cork in the bottle holding back the revolution,"the historian said."The revolutionary masses in Petrograd [Saint Petersburg] and elsewhere put pressure on their socialist leaders to blow the cork out of the bottle…. It was the Bolsheviks who put themselves at the head of the mass movement & articulated its demands, essentially peace, bread and land."
He pointed out, however, that"the Bolsheviks themselves were not united on all the big issues and most importantly on the seizure of power in October (the Julian calendar)."
"I would propose that the Provisional Government collapsed of its own rot. The insurgent masses led by the Bolsheviks only had to kick it over,"Carley remarked.
Was the October Revolution of 1917 Inevitable?
"It is a question impossible to answer except in this way: popular revolutions come about because political and economic elites over time are too selfish to share wealth and power with the masses,"Carley responded."Like the tsarist autocracy, they treat the masses as a resource to be exploited and rung dry. When evolutionary processes of change fail, revolution is often the result."
According to the academic, it is wrong to think that such revolutions succeed "because of the evil genius and cruelty of a small revolutionary elite"
"They succeed because of mass support and effective, responsive leadership."
The question then arises as to whether it was possible to follow an evolutionary path, rather than go through a revolution.
"A revolution occurred because evolutionary processes of change to benefit the lives of ordinary people had failed,"the professor responded."Serfdom, inequality, exploitation, violence, continued unabated until 1917."
October 1917: 'Driver of Transformations Across the Globe'. Revisiting the October Revolution of 1917.
Addressing the 14th Annual Meeting of the Valdai Discussion Club, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that"the largely utopian social model and ideology" the Soviets tried to implement initially following the 1917 revolution became "a powerful driver of transformations across the globe, caused a major revaluation of development models, and gave rise to rivalry and competition, the benefits of which were mostly reaped by the West."
The Canadian professor disagrees that the term "utopian" could be used with regards to the "Communist model," for instance.
"Is free, public education for everyone, no matter what their class, nationality or religion, utopian? Is the elimination of illiteracy, utopian? Are women's rights, or universal health care, utopian? Was the desire to create a more equal society, socially, economically and politically, utopian?"Carley asked, adding"in fact, that Soviet society was eventually able to withstand and then to destroy almost single- handedly, the so-called invincible Nazi 'colossus.'"
Still, he believes that the 1917 revolution certainly was"a powerful driver of transformations"around the world since it"inspired successful revolutionary movements in China, Vietnam, Korea, and Cuba."
As Putin noted during his Valdai speech "many Western achievements of the 20th century were an answer to the challenge posed by the Soviet Union," such as"raising living standards, forming a strong middle class, reforming the labour market and the social sphere, promoting education, guaranteeing human rights, including the rights of minorities and women, overcoming racial segregation."
Red October: Allied Intervention and 'Beginning of Cold War'
The October Revolution became the trigger for the Civil War (1917-1922) and prompted the Allied intervention of major foreign powers in Russia.
The Canadian academic pointed out that the October Uprising "produced an immediate violent reaction by the United States, France and Britain, whose elites attempted to overthrow the Soviet government."
"The foreign intervention against Soviet Russia fed a civil war and exacerbated the violence of the counter-revolution by many times over,"Carley said."On its own, the former tsarist elite could never have mounted such violent resistance to the October Revolution."
The professor underscored that after their failure to overthrow the Soviets,"the Western powers spent the next 70 years, with the exception of a truce between 1941-1945, in trying to harm or bring down the USSR and all those revolutions to which it had given birth."
According to the academic, the Cold War started in October (November) 1917.
"Just ask the Chinese, Vietnamese, Cubans, or N. Koreans about the frightful price of resistance to US and Western hegemony,"Carley remarked."Or for that matter, we might ask, if we could, the soldiers, sailors and workers of Soviet Russia, what price they had to pay, to defend their revolution."
(Source - Sputnik)
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Communist leader dispels new Russian budget as "oligarch orientated" October 28th, 2017 Fort Russ News - KtovKurse translated by Inessa Sinchougova
Communist Party leader, Gennady Zyuganov, called the draft federal budget for 2018-2020, "a budget of the oligarchy", which will increase stagnation and poverty.
On Friday October 27th, the State Duma considered the first reading of the draft budget for 2018 for the planning period 2019-2020. According to the draft of the Ministry of Finance, the budget deficit in 2018 will be 1.3 trillion rubles or 1.37% of GDP, in 2019 it will be 867 billion rubles or 0.84% of GDP, and in 2020 - 960 billion rubles or 0.87% of GDP.
Such a budget Zyuganov considers "a budget for the oligarchy, where further stagnation and deepening of poverty in the country will occur."
In his opinion, the draft budget does not meet the current challenges and can only aggravate the split in Russian civil society.
The Communist Party leader stressed that incomes and expenditures are constantly declining. Zyuganov noted that "in plain language" this means that the "share of the national pie" created by the working people is constantly shrinking in the budget.
Zyuganov's main issue with the budget was the reduction in government expenses for 14 out of 13 articles listed within. He explained that for eight of these articles, expenses are simply cut, and for four other articles, a small increase is offset by inflation, and as a result, real costs are below the ones prophesized.
According to Zyuganov, the current budget policy "creeps of the old Gaidar-Chubais reforms. It does not smell of modernization, nor a breakthrough for the future."
"I do not know why the president has not reacted to this helplessness, to this impotence of the financial and economic blockade on behalf of the government," Zyuganov said.
President Vladimir Putin does not oversee forthcoming bills until they pass all the stages of parliamentary negotiation - that is until his signature is required. It remains to be said that a majority of Russia's parliament and governmental organs, are liberal representatives, both economically and culturally, whereby it is only the President that stops certain bills being passed.
Without looking at the document in detail (which is not yet available to the public) it makes sense to assume that the Communist Party leader has every right to become concerned at this early stage.
Zyuganov's Communist Party enjoys the second most popular rating in the Russian political sphere, after United Russia (Vladimir Putin.)
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And a Record Number of Russians Want Socialism Back !!!
First published in Komsomolskaya Pravda Translated by Kristina Kharlova
The number of those nostalgic for the Soviet Union, is now growing steadily.
According to the findings of sociologists, 56% of respondents now express regret for the collapse of the Soviet state.
A majority of Russians regret the collapse of the Soviet Union, and do not mind if it's restored — conclude the sociologists of "Levada-centre".
2016 sees a record number of respondents nostalgic for the Soviet Union, in the whole history of public opinion surveys.
At the same time, the percentage of those who don't long for the Union, decreases over time: if, in November of last year it was 37%, today only 28% do not feel any pity.
58% of Russians would like a socialist system and the Soviet Union to be restored, and 31% say they don't want the Soviet Union back.
Over half of respondents, 51%, believe that it was still possible to save the country in 1991 while 33% of Russians say the collapse was 'inevitable'.
Experts, meanwhile, note that those most nostalgic for the Soviet Union don't yearn so much for the Soviet ideology, as for the stability, justice, confidence in the future, secure jobs, free education, medical care and housing.
Serbia:Mass anti-NATO demonstrations silenced Nothing has been the same since NATO brutally bombed Yugoslavia 17 years ago. The 5th column, trained by NATO, took over the destroyed country to continue the job that the West had started.
The economy collapsed, the country was ripped apart, and the Army, dismissed.
Year by year, malicious plans brainstormed by NATO, and executed by the government, are pushing all of the Balkans into the deep maw of the West's 'modern' imperialism.
The latest move was the Agreement with NATO about logistics. Parliament has approved, and the President has signed, an agreement which gives NATO soldiers immunity and freedom of movement on the territory of Serbia. The same people who killed thousands of innocent Serb civilians are now given freedom and immunity. NATO personnel rule the roost in Serbia
NATO personnel are exempt from paying taxes, VAT and/or customs duties. The adoption of the Individual Partnership Action Plan (IPAP), lets NATO soldiers use Serbia's infrastructure, with free transit across the whole territory of Serbia, as well as protection from the law -- being given 'special status' while staying in Serbian territory.
However, although almost two decades have passed since NATO's cruel attack, most Serbs have not forgotten how important freedom is -- which is the main problem for the ruling elite.
In the mainstream media, news about signing the agreement with NATO, was published as small & irrelevant. In a couple of sentences, mainstream journalists wrote about it, as if it was tomorrow's weather forecast, but they couldn't fool people.
Boiling situation hidden by Government
The situation was boiling. A few patriotic parties and war veterans managed to organize a protest -- & expected no more than a thousand people in Belgrade, to show their disagreement with the ruling party's decisions.
On the 20th February, more than 15,000 Serbs, mostly youth, came onto the Belgrade streets to join in with the protesters. Even the police were surprised, quickly trying to reinforce -- fearing nonverbal shows of disagreement.
The mainstream media weren't at all interested in massive protests in the capital city. They just reported, after the protest, that there were only a couple of hundred demonstrators.
Amongst all media, just one, the alternative patriotic website, Srbin info, sent reporters to the vicinity, to cover the whole protest.
It was the only media that had pictures and videos of the massive protests, showing the huge number of protesters.
During the protest, over 2,000 readers per second were following their live streaming of the demonstrations. Each minute, their website was gaining more followers.
Just a couple of minutes after the end of the peaceful protest, huge cyber-attacks began.
The weak website couldn't defend itself from the biggest attacks in its history, & the web- site eventually crashed. Attacks continued for 24 hours, never letting the website repair.
The only possible source of the attacks on the website & freedom of the speech, is the ruling elite. There is no one else who would be able to manage such strong attacks.
The main problem for the alternative, free media in Serbia is that the web providers, most of them belonging to the SBB company, part of the Soros foundation, don't want to reveal who was behind the attacks. However, some opposition forces, also attacked by hackers, discovered that the IP address of the hacker belongs to one of the directors of SBB company.
It is also interesting that 25% of web providers and some mainstream media in Serbia - belong to David Petraeus, former director of the CIA.
Despite their crashed website, Srbin info reporters managed to find way to send the real story & used Facebook to spread the truth. A video showing the masses of people protesting, was viewed by over 1,700,000 Facebook users --- a huge number for Serbia, with its 7 million population.
For 48 hours after the attack, the website was closed.
Thanks to its loyal readers, who appreciate Srbin info's fight for freedom of speech, donations were collected to make a new website, with better protection.
But the problem of having a neutral web provider who will not sabotage the website -- after orders from the Government -- still exists. A much worse problem.... is that the once proud and honorable Serbia, is now under the boots of imperialists.
LEN RE-ELECTED - VICTORY FOR LEFT!
"Serving you, our members, is the greatest privilege of my working life. I'm proud to have stood shoulder- to-shoulder with you in your struggles and proud to have been asked by so many, to continue to fight for you"
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The Corbyn Supporters From Hell - Attila The Stockbroker,15th Oct 2015 at The Blue Boar Hotel, Maldon, Essex, UK
ONE UNION
Two weeks before Brexit, the African Union announced a new single African passport that permits holders to enter any of the 54 AU member states without a visa – an interesting turn in African history which NO-ONE in the West knows or cares about ! What a stunning reflection of how far our mindset and media are, from the 'world community' we say we love.
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ADAM JOHANNES, CO-CONVENOR, PEOPLE'S ASSEMBLY
“Most people under 40 have never been a member of a trade union. So unions are irrelevant, right? Wrong. Unions are more relevant than ever before. With in- work poverty, zero hours contracts and precarious employment, trade unions urgently need to make inroads into the private sector where the majority of us work, but a majority are still un-unionised.”
3 recent campaigns show how this might be done -
1. BETTER THAN ZERO
"Better than Zero" is an exciting campaign launched last year by the Scottish TUC to combat employers using zero-hours contracts. It is run by young people for young people to take on the issue of insecure work. Its activists are mostly in their teens or twenties. The campaign calls upon an older generation not to stand by while a generation of young people are forced into insecure work.
It has responded to tip off from employees in workplaces charging staff for training or uniforms, and bars and restaurants where workers tips are taken by the company. It's fought against people routinely expected to work additional late hours at short notice, with little or no thought given to how they'll get home & whether they will be safe.
The campaign uses direct action, stunts and creative protests such as targeting bars and restaurants with 'flash mob choirs', activists and former staff posing as customers, before each stand up in a restaurant to make speeches while other activists leaflet out- side, Halloween funeral marches on exploitative employers, or, memorably, activists clad in chemical-spill clean up garb placing several popular bars & restaurants in 'quarantine', for exploitative work practices. A recent campaign victory saw restaurant chain Las Iguanas end a policy of deducting money from staff tips.
2. SPORTS DIRECT
Unite has waged a dynamic fightback against Sports Direct including pickets of over 30 stores across the UK, occupations, direct action such as the unfurling of a #SportsDirectShame banner by Newcastle United fans at the club owned by Sports Direct boss, Mike Ashley, other banner drops from bridges, shareholder action, and a social media campaign,
Sports Direct is Britain's biggest sportswear company. It made over a billion in profits last year, but the majority of its workers agency staff are on zero hour contracts with no holiday or sick pay, and no guaranteed work from one week to the next. It has been called more 'workhouse' than workplace with intense surveillance and searches of staff, a culture of fear, bullying and intimidation rife.
Unite's campaign had forced the issue of its Victorian working conditions into national media & a company review. Unite demands all staff are re-employed on permanent contracts on a living wage. So far they have won a pay rise for staff and the company is now being investigated by HM Revenue & Customs after the union exposed it for effectively paying under the minimum wage.
3. PIZZA EXPRESS
Unite scored a victory against Pizza Express after exposing and ending the company deducting a proportion of staff's hard earned tips as an 'admin fee', recruiting new members. The campaign involved union activists going into Pizza Express branches to speak to waiting staff, weekly pickets, handing out hundreds of flyers with customers given a ‘scrap the admin fee’ postcard to leave with their cash tips, and finally a 'meal of justice' when protesters went into a restaurant, enjoyed a meal and when the bill came, one person stood up and told customers about the admin fee while others handed out postcards. Customers often respond with spontaneous applause.
We need to think creatively of how to bring politics into the workplace whether collections for refugees in Calais, foodbanks or local homeless, organising delegations from our work to local protests, or even setting up People's Assembly networks with likeminded people we work with.
Cardiff People's Assembly is part of The People's Assembly Against Austerity, a UK anti-cuts network sponsored by eight trade unions. Locally we have worked with Unison defending our city's library service & PCS to organise solidarity with museum workers, we will be supporting Unite Community's day of action against benefit sanctions. With much of our nation's workforce unorganised in their workplace in unions, joining movements like ours can boost people's confidence to stand up to their employers and build workplace organisation.
In the 1980s Thatcher declared war on the unions --- as a prelude to letting the market rip through society --- transforming us into a highly unequal low pay, low skill economy. The assault on the 'social wage' means we now have the highest private rents, highest energy bills, highest rail fares, and most expensive university education in the EU. Now the Trade Union Bill aims to take out a key part of the resistance to extend the cuts, privatisation and outsourcing agenda and shift even more power and wealth from the 99% to the 1%.
Our economy is dominated by low paid jobs. Low pay makes people insecure. A low pay economy and tax avoiding corporations make it hard to invest in public services. Joining a union is one way to fight back.
Profit Is The Only Concern For Railway Privateers 2016 Thursday 29TH DEC
The only way to have a public transport system worthy of the name is to have a fully nationalised railway,says GORDON MARTIN
All things transport have been making the news in Scotland for a number of months and the signs are this isn’t going to change in the dark winter months ahead.
Scotland’s railways have been subjected to an unprecedented level of scrutiny and criticism with opposition politicians, media columnists and some trade union officials calling for Nicola Sturgeon to sack her Transport Minister, Humza Yousaf MSP.
In my view the roots of the public’s dissatisfaction with Scotland’s railways goes back to the Scottish government’s ill-conceived decision to award the ScotRail franchise to a state-owned rail operator.
Unfortunately for passengers and the ScotRail workforce, the state in question was not our own — and the Netherlands now benefits from profits made by its state company, Abellio, out of ScotRail.
A public-sector bid from Scotland was not allowed when the franchise was awarded to Abellio for a 10-year period. With profit the first and only concern of the profiteers at Abellio, a major dispute with Scotland’s biggest rail union RMT was highly predictable.
Abellio’s attack on the role of the guard on our trains brought a summer of discontent as industrial action spread across much of the Scottish rail network.
The Scottish government quickly showed its true colours. The normally very assured and competent First Minister committed a monumental blunder when she disgracefully inferred the strike was only about who pushed a button to open and close train doors.
While the SNP government very often claims to be on the side of working-class communities, it remains very much a political party wedded to capitalism. The First Minister should have taken the trouble to speak to disabled passengers or those travelling on Scotland’s trains who feel vulnerable in any way about how crucial the role of the guard is in making their journey a safer, more relaxing experience.
Thankfully the Scottish government and Abellio ScotRail finally saw sense and a negotiated settlement was reached which was favourable to RMT and which will see safety-trained guards remain in place.
Following on from our successful efforts to Keep The Guard on the Train, RMT has launched a high- profile “Safer Scottish Trains” campaign designed to ensure trains, stations & rail infrastructure in general are properly resourced and managed to ensure the best possible service is delivered.
Everyone, in particular disabled people, should be able to travel on a 21st-century rail network without having to check ahead days in advance to ensure staff will be in place to assist them.
At the same time, Westminster and the European Union have also intervened in a negative way which may have serious repercussions for rail workers and passengers in the years ahead.
Earlier this month Chris Grayling, Transport Secretary in Theresa May’s rotten Tory government, delivered a speech which potentially takes the rail industry back to the complete fragmentation foisted upon the people of Britain by the hapless government of John Major in the 1990s.
Grayling now seeks to reintroduce “competition” into rail infrastructure, maintenance and repairs.
Inevitably this will eventually lead to the complete break-up of Network Rail. The centralised standards implemented by this public-sector organisation will be discarded and profit and loss will become the decisive factor in deciding the standards for maintaining the rail infrastructure. This is a frightening scenario with potentially deadly outcomes and RMT will fight this with everything we have.
The latest plans for railways across the EU, the ultimate bosses’ club, are contained within the Fourth Railway Package which MEPs are voting on. These proposals make it mandatory to put rail passenger services out to competitive tender. With the Scottish government recently beginning to engage with the rail unions and others regarding a public-sector bid for the ScotRail contract, the 4th Railway Package underlines how fragile and fleeting this public-sector bid could ultimately be.
Scotland’s ferry sector also had a fair amount of publicity in the last year or so, with RMT engaged in a high-profile, long-running and ultimately successful campaign to keep CalMac ferries in public ownership.
RMT stands by our assertion that the Clyde and Hebridean ferry service did not have to go out to tender under the Teckal exemption.
Unfortunately, the Scottish government are keen to be seen as good Europeans, despite the negative impact on the Scottish people, and meekly went along with directives from the EU.
The uncertainty for island communities and the stress for the CalMac workforce while their future was unclear, was not high on the government’s agenda.
Unfortunately it looks highly likely that the workforce and the islanders on the Northern Isles are about to be put through the same uncertainty as their counterparts on the west coast.
The government is once again meekly following diktats from Brussels by putting the Northern Isles ferry service out to a competitive tendering process, despite the people of Britain voting to leave the EU, including a sizeable section of the Scottish working class.
RMT has a clear and principled position which is to insist that the Northern Isles contract is brought back into public ownership forthwith.
We demand an immediate end to the exploitation of eastern European seafarers. These workers, employed on a Scottish government contract, are being paid wages at a derisory rate while being denied the protection of a trade union agreement with wages and conditions covered by collective bargaining agreements.
As part of our ongoing Save our Seafarers campaign, we have highlighted this disgraceful fact to the media and the public with our slogan SNP — Ships of Shame.
This is causing the government and, in particular, the Transport Minister a great deal of embarrassment. I make no apologies for this and I sincerely hope the embarrassment will lead to action before too much longer.
It is clear to everyone, with the possible exception of right-wing profiteering zealots, that the only way to have a public transport system worthy of the name is to have a fully nationalised railway, properly resourced, with adequate staffing levels --- together with a publicly owned ferry operator, working exclusively on behalf of ferry users and the Scottish government, & money raised reinvested --- instead of lining the pockets of private shareholders.
Gordon Martin is Scottish regional organiser of the RMT.
(source - Morning Star)
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Tory aid-dumping revelation means the money should be seized and used by Mike Sivier
The worst part of this is, it suggests that people who said the International Aid budget could be used in better ways, were right.
The Times reports that the Tories have been ‘dumping’ billions of pounds in aid into shady World Bank funds, to sit unused indefinitely – in order to "keep up the appearance" of meeting the government’s commitment to donating 0.7% of the UK’s GDP in foreign aid.
According to the Times, at least £9 billion has been transferred like this in the past 5 years. Rather than helping developing countries, the money, which is spread across over 200 different bank accounts, simply sits there – doing nothing except rack up World Bank ‘administration fees’.
UK International Development Secretary Priti Patel’s only qualification for her job appears to be the fact that she had previously wanted to get rid of it and the funding it oversees. This seems to be the standard Tory qualification for any ministerial role that is supposed to help people – Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt infamously wrote a book, before becoming Health Secretary, that called for abolition of the ’60-year-old mistake’ of the NHS.
Clearly, to a Tory, maintaining the appearance of doing something is far more important than actually doing it – especially if it helps you put cash into the bank accounts of your backers and allies and ideally while you get rid of the very thing you’re supposed to be looking after. If you hear Tories say ‘reform’, run for cover – or better yet, get the pitchforks out.
Source: Keeping up appearances: aid-dumping shows Tories care for PR, not people The SKWAWKBOX
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Left Looks To Unite To Protect Its Power Base CHARLEY ALLAN
The Labour right was desperate to see the back of “Red Len,” as the tabloids call him.
But Len won his victory. Now’s the perfect time to join Unite, with full membership costing just £3.50 a week, reduced to 50p for the unemployed.
The AWL and its allies may have won the national committee battle, but they won’t win the OMOV war --- if the movementists get organised.
A new current called Opening Momentum has rallied round the point that anti-OMOVers had denied members their advertised right to “vote in national-level elections.”
And it’s crucial that every member who really believes in the fabled “new kind of politics” turns up to their local branch meetings - if they have them - to halt plans for a parallel party.
This is bigger than Momentum. We need to see much more direct democracy in Labour itself, although there will always be resistance from those who benefit most from the delegate system.
There are literally hundreds of thousands of new Labour members and Momentum’s top priority --- should making sure their voice is heard at next year’s party conference.
The Labour left can’t afford to be crushed again on the conference floor, as happened this year.
While Momentum was dazzling everyone with its World Transformed free festival, right faction Labour First was distributing fliers to let delegates know when and where vital votes were taking place.
Critically, Momentum must:- have slates of candidates ready when local constituency parties select conference delegates in thecoming months.
The new left movement needs to get serious if it wants to win the looming electoral battles within Labour, the trade unions and the grassroots.
Defending, strengthening and expanding this power base at the ballot box, will take back the leadership, and keep the movement fighting fit for the general election.
• Chat to Charley on Twitter: @charleyallan.
(source - Morning Star)
A New Lucas Plan For The Future by David King
The ideas pioneered by the Lucas workers are just as, or more, relevant now than in the 1970s, and there are strong political similarities in the situation.
As in the ’70s, we have an economic crisis caused by unjust economic policies and the failure of successive governments’ industrial strategy.
As usual, this has hit the working class hardest, and anger over this is being channelled into racism against immigrants. Now, the environmental effects of industrial capitalism are far more evident than 40 years ago, already creating wars, militarisation and widespread concern about insecurity.
Finally, introduction of new technologies threatens structural unemployment on a scale considerably greater than the ’70s.
The Tory government’s response to the economic and political crisis, despite continuing to publicly espouse neoliberal principles, looks a lot like a classic Keynesian economic stimulus package.
In the last few months it has made decisions to go ahead with a range of industrial infrastructure megaprojects — Hinkley C, fracking, HS2 and the Heathrow third runway, as well as pressing ahead with spending £200 billion on Trident renewal.
A key element in the case for all these projects is the jobs that they will generate or preserve, although the jobs estimates are bound to be inflated, while the price tag will be massively underestimated.
Compared to the ’70s, far fewer jobs will be created in this way because, due to automation and mechanisation, they are all highly capital rather than labour-intensive.
The Lucas Aerospace workers’ idea of socially useful production suggests a far better way forward.
Even in the early phase of the environmental movement, before most socialists realised the significance of these issues, the Lucas Plan acknowledged that protecting the environment is part of the concept of socially useful production.
With the exception of HS2, all the new projects are environmental anathema, and the damage that project would do to the English countryside and people’s homes and communities, for the sake of saving 30 minutes of executives’ time, makes it emblematic of neoliberalism.
The working-class people who voted for Brexit are demanding jobs and regeneration of their communities, but these industrial vanity projects are not the solution.
Now is the moment to realise the proposals of the Campaign Against Climate Change Trade Union Group (Million Climate Jobs Campaign), which is often seen as a successor to the Lucas Plan.
We should be investing in renewable energy, home insulation, public transport etc as part of the international trade union initiative of Just Transition, ie transition to a low-carbon economy with job protection for workers in industries that need to be phased out.
Imagine what could be achieved in regional economic renewal and environmental benefits with the Trident billions.
But exactly how that money should be spent should not be decided by economic planners alone.
One of the great strengths of the Lucas Plan was that it came from the bottom up, from workers, not managers.
Recognising that they could not, by themselves, define what people need, the Lucas workers began to work with various regional communities to develop “popular planning for social need.”
In London, the Greater London Council created technology development networks that involved users, for example disabled people, in technology design.
These traditions of bottom-up local planning have been continued by various citizens’ local planning initiatives, such as Just Space in London, and would be vital to a democratic solution to the crises.
The current economic and environmental crises are symptoms of a deeper crisis in the industrial capitalist mode of production, and they demand a fundamental rethink of how we produce the basic things that people need for a decent life.
One of the less well-remembered, but crucial aspects of the Lucas Plan was the workers’ struggle against the automation and deskilling of their work with computer-controlled machinery, a struggle shared with trade unionists around the world in that period.
As Phil Asquith of the Lucas Combine puts it, “Harold Wilson’s ‘white heat of the technological revolution’ was burning up workers’ jobs.’
The continuation of this trend over the last 40 years is a major source of the jobless recoveries and income polarisation that are creating the “squeezed middle” of angry, Daily Mail- reading, Brexit voters.
Forecasts suggest that digital technology will eliminate half the jobs in the economy over the next 20 years, but its track record shows that it creates far fewer new jobs to replace them.
One response to this that has become popular on the left is the belief that automation will usher in a post- capitalist society, if we can only feed those useless human workers with basic income.
This is a complex argument, but one thing for sure is that this was not the Lucas workers’ philosophy.
Instead of: “Demand Full Automation, Demand Universal Basic Income, Demand the Future,” they would have reminded us that the romance of high-technology leads to what historian of technology David Noble aptly called: “Progress without people.”
The Lucas workers’ slogan would likely have been: “Demand Democratic Control of Technology, Demand Socially Useful Production, Demand Equality and Sustainability.”
They were very clear that the idea of socially useful production is also about how things are produced.
There is no point in socially useful products if they are made in a way that alienates and deskills the workers who produce them.
They went on to design “human-centred technologies,” in which the point was to use and develop workers’ skills, rather than design them out of the production process.
A skills and people-based, more labour-intensive approach is, in the era of Brexit and environmental crisis, a much better way to create a socially just, sustainable economy than old-fashioned, capital- intensive high-tech mega projects. This is the agenda we will be discussing in Birmingham today.
(source - the Morning Star)
Construction Workers Can’t Be Expected To Work Into Their Sixties by Brian Rye (source - The Star)
British governments seem to think one of two things about construction workers: they're either superhuman, or they don’t give a toss about them. That would be the logical conclusion, given the raise in the pension age, to 68.
With the state pension age due to rise to 67 by 2026 and 68 by 2044, our political elites seem to believe that we are breeding a race of human beings with quite exceptional physical capabilities.
While professional sportspeople are pretty much done by their mid-thirties, with their strength, speed and stamina leeching away by the day, the British construction worker - if you believe our politicians - lives in a world that defies conventional science.
Despite the early starts, the exposure to the elements, the heavy lifting, the long hours, the poor diet & susceptibility to minor injury, these lions of the labour force are all going to get their telegram from the king - because the stats say we’re all living longer.
Sadly, if you have a shred of common sense you will immediately know this is not true.
Construction workers are the same as any other human being. Like professional sportspeople, they can feel their physical abilities start to wane from their mid-thirties.
The only difference being: construction workers have to stay in the game. & not only that, given the increase in the pensionable age, the game just went into extra time.
Empathy is a wonderful characteristic for a human being to possess because it creates understanding and caring for others.
So we have to ask ourselves, as our besuited, overweight politicians sit back in their comfy chairs before skipping off to their subsidised three-course meal in the House of Commons - with a glass of wine or two — how much empathy are they feeling with their compatriots in construction?
Can they imagine the freezing mornings, the hours of standing up, the repetitive physical work or the greasy chips for lunch? It would seem not.
Recent research carried out by the TUC, in a report called Postponing the Pension, shows that a significant proportion of the population won’t reach the pensionable age of 68 in any fit state to enjoy their retirement.
The results show that half a million workers within five years of the state pension have had to leave work for medical reasons, and that nearly half of 60 to 64-year-olds stopped working before their official retirement age.
This is why Ucatt is currently trying to get the Labour Party to support policies that would mean a future Labour government would introduce a flexible pension age for physically demanding professions.
Construction work is hugely physically demanding because it involves prolonged standing, highly repetitive work, heavy lifting, working with the hands lifted to shoulder height or higher, and working with the back twisted or bent forward. It can lead to musculoskeletal disorder, cardiovascular disease and long-term sickness absence.
These work conditions and their effects need to be factored into the calculation of a pensionable age. It is only fair.
At 60, most politicians are on a few company boards, are picking up consultancies, maybe writing a book and reaping the benefits of a lifetime’s work.
The current presidential candidates in the US are 68 (Hillary Clinton) and 70 (Donald Trump) - beneficiaries of a lifetime of comfort, good food, little or no physical exertion and excellent healthcare on demand.
These individuals see no reason to retire - they’re feeling fine. Construction workers often aren’t feeling fine.
We all know that one in four people in Britain will now live to 100 — but what about the other three? At what age will they be checking out? And what jobs are they doing?
According to figures from the government’s own Office for National Statistics, doctors and accountants are outliving builders and cleaners, by as much as eight years.
Men in professional occupations can expect to live to 80, almost eight years longer than those in unskilled jobs, whose life expectancy is 72.7. So people are not all the same - shock, horror! Comparing the accountant to the construction worker is comparing apples with oranges - and yet our governments conveniently ignore this.
Our ageing population and the fears surrounding the viability of the state pension in the future has caused the political class to legislate in a heavy- handed, insensitive and unsophisticated way.
The phrase “we’ve all got to work longer” is bandied about by those sitting comfortably behind a desk. For those leading a more active life, this phrase is just a plain, old-fashioned threat.
To quote ex-Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn: “Living longer doesn’t mean we are able to work longer in physically demanding jobs like that of the firefighter, police officer or paramedic. And it’s not just in the emergency services. Construction workers, care workers and prison officers cannot be expected to work into their sixties. We need a flexible pension age that allows people to work for as long as they want to.”
Ucatt’s campaign plainly states “68 is too late.” It’s a campaign that needs to be fought to a victory - for the sake of thousands of British workers. We need to present our case, find broad support and build empathy within the country. And we have to find acceptance that it may cost us all a little bit more while we’re of working age.
Otherwise we will all be using another well- known phrase: “flogging a dead horse.”
We’ll leave the last words to Mr Corbyn: “If we want dignity for all in old age, then it has to be paid for.”
Brian Rye is acting general secretary of Ucatt.
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Britain’s workers feel stressed and insecure (originally in the Morning Star) by Carolyn Jones
The UK's 31 million workers are among the most insecure, stressed and unhappiest in Europe.
No wonder! According to the latest report by the Institute of Employment Rights (IER), the evidence is damning.
On average, UK workers work more hours per week, more days per year, more years before retirement -- after which, they receive lower levels of pension -- than most of their European counterparts.
In comparison to other European workers they generally receive less education and training, and (because of lack of employer investment) their productivity is lower.
They get fewer paid holidays than almost all European comparators and their pay is so low that a great proportion of them are in poverty --- with the state subsidising employers’ low wages.
And it doesn’t end there. The UK has a high proportion of its workforce in so-called “self- employment,” agency work, temporary work, and/or on zero-hours contracts.
It has more part-time workers who want full- time jobs, than other European countries.
UK workers have less entitlement to redundancy pay, sick pay, and maternity pay, than most European workers.
Workers’ rights to remedies for unfair dismissal and discrimination are set low and have been made practically unenforceable by the imposition of high access fees.
In the UK, unlike most European countries, there is no ministry of labour, no labour inspectorate and a negligible complement of health and safety inspectors.
All this in the fifth richest nation in the world. It is obscene. So what’s to be done?
An excellent starting point is the establishment of Jeremy Corbyn’s Workplace 2020 initiative. Launched in May 2016, the aim of the project is to start a national conversation on what work should be like in 2020.
Under the chairmanship of Ian Lavery, shadow trade union minister, the Labour Party wants to hear the good, the bad and the ugly stories about working life in Britain.
On a recently launched website people can submit their comments, complaints and suggestions on a range of workplace issues.
So whether it’s job security, pay and pensions, training and apprenticeships, diversity and equality, trade unions or health and safety that raises your passion, there’s scope to feed into the policy agenda.
Once again the Labour leadership team is turning out to the country for ideas rather than assuming it knows best in the corridors of power.
Labour is already committed to raising the minimum wage, banning zero-hours contracts, ensuring workers are given access to justice, and giving temporary workers the same rights as permanent staff. But it recognises that more needs to be done -- not just to secure fairness at work but to rebuild the UK's economy and industry.
So, at the request of Jeremy Corbyn and Ian Lavery, the IER drafted a contribution to the review, using 15 of its academic and legal experts. At the heart of our proposals is the need to ensure the voice of the UK’s 31 million workers is heard & respected -- in government (via a ministry of labour), in the economy (via a national economic forum) and in industry (via sectoral employment commissions).
The manifesto offers 25 major policy recommendations for consideration.
It proposes changing the way in which working conditions are regulated. It moves responsibility for workplace regulation from legislation to collective bargaining.
It calls for the repeal of the Trade Union Act 2016, the removal of tribunal fees and the introduction of fundamental & enforceable rights for workers, enforceable in a labour court with the assistance of labour inspectors.
The Thatcher concept of individual rights for individual workers has to go. It does little for workers, it’s costly to enforce and it fails to deliver fairness at work.
IER’s manifesto offers a system based on the collective voice of workers, negotiating collectively agreed standards & delivering collectively enforced fairness at work.
A new framework of labour law should be built on the following 10 points:
A ministry of labour
A national economic forum
Sectoral employment commissions
Sectoral collective agreements and wages councils’ orders
Workplace bargaining
A strengthened framework of statutory employment rights
Labour courts and labour inspectors
Employment tribunals
Stronger support for freedom of association and collective rights
The right to strike
Carolyn Jones is director of the Institue of Employment Rights
A manifesto for labour law: Towards a comprehensive revision of workers’ rights --- is available from IER. Go to www.ier.org.uk for more information.
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Why Labour is putting energy reform at the heart of its green agenda Jeremy Corbyn
No issue better connects the environment to people’s lives than energy. To deliver clean, affordable electricity,we need to change our undemocratic system of supply.
We are on course for a climate catastrophe. 2016 is set to be the hottest year on record. Unless the Paris agreement’s target of limiting the rise in temperatures by 1.5C is met, heatwaves like that in 2003, which killed tens of thousands of people in Europe, will become the norm. And that's before considering rising sea levels and desertification, that will sink cities, and kill and displace millions, or the fact that the Earth has already lost half its wildlife, in the past 40 years.
The task for politicians is to propose real solutions to the single most important issue facing humanity. Too often, the environment is considered a matter for scientists, enthusiasts & activists. To increase public understanding and energise the political debate, we need more than facts – we need a programme that resonates with people’s every- day experiences, offering not just warnings, but opportunities and improvement.
No issue better connects the environment to people’s lives than energy. In Britain today, 7 million households struggle to pay their bills because of spiralling costs, while the big six energy companies have seen their profits rise by more than tenfold since 2007. The energy market is not just expensive, inefficient and polluting – it is, above all, undemocratic.
In order to deliver clean, affordable heating and electricity we need to change the whole system of energy supply. When energy is driven by the needs of people, it will be greener – because saving the planet is in the interests of everyone.
That is why I am today announcing a bold new set of policies which will pioneer a democratic, community- led system of energy supply. Over the course of the next parliament, we will use public investment and legislation to promote the creation of over 200 local energy companies, giving towns, cities & localities the powers they need to drive a clean, locally accountable energy system with public, not-for-profit companies.
At the heart of this policy will be a new generation of community energy co-operatives. We will create 1,000 of these co-operatives with the support of a network of regional development banks, and legislate to give them the right to sell energy directly to the communities they serve.
At the same time as building a new publicly run, locally accountable energy system, we will invest in the high quality homes & insulation needed to make Britain environmentally sustainable. We will create a National Home Insulation programme to insulate at least 4m homes to energy efficiency standard B or C. In the private rented sector, we will set compulsory standards at the same level & end the misery of cold rented accommodation. This would save millions of people money on their bills as well as saving energy that is currently wasted on poorly insulated homes.
In order to have any hope of keeping the rise in temperature to 2C – let alone meeting our Paris agreement target of 1.5C – we need to keep 80% of fossil fuels in the ground. This can and must be done. Scotland is already on course to generate 100% of its electricity by renewables, & Britain has an ample supply of wind & water. In government, I'll commit to generating 65% of Britain’s electricity from these sources by 2030.
All of these measures will create secure, skilled employment for hundreds of thousands of people. As part of our transition to a low-carbon economy, we estimate that we will create 316,000 jobs in wind, solar and wave power. We'll use a £500bn national investment programme, with a National Investment Bank and a network of regional development banks, to ensure that these jobs and opportunities are created in places where they are most needed – in coastal towns and areas with high unemployment.
Too often, environmental catastrophe is explained in the same terms as an asteroid hitting the earth. But the problems and the solutions are political – they are about the prioritisation of profit over the needs of people and, at the heart of it all, a lack of democracy in how decisions are made. By democratising our energy supply, and giving people power over their own destinies, we can rebuild and transform Britain so that no one and no community, is left behind.
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Together --- Stronger!
Change, when it comes, will not come from Westminster. The campaign to save our NHS must become a visible reality on every high street and a priority for Labour members.
The NHS is at breaking point, and as Keep Our NHS Public secretary John Lister says: “by 2020 it will all be over.”
To reverse the damage of four more years of A&E closures, outsourced or pared-down services and reduced access, could verge on the impossible.
MPs who obsess over the need to attract Tory voters may find that the champions who saved a local A&E win more hearts and minds than a lorryload of anti-immigration mugs ever could.
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HELP JOHN DUNN
John Dunn, ex-miner and a Labour Party member for 45 years, was blocked from voting for Corbyn, because he challenged Owen Smith for exploiting the legacy of Orgreave for electoral purposes.
He has been told he is suspended from the Labour Party.
John says: "45 years continuous membership and they couldn't even address me by my name"
It looks like the NEC are creating their very own blacklist.
Labour grew hugely under Corbyn and the ''guess'' is --- most of new members were Corbyn supporters.
A DREAM COME TRUE
Support for Jeremy Corbyn from Tyrone O’Sullivan, a fourth-generation south Wales miner, who led a workers’ buy-out of Tower Colliery, to save it from closure.
"I’ve been close to Jeremy since the miners’ strike. Knowing the man, knowing his abilities and his education, it was a dream come true for me when he became leader. His ideas and values are more necessary, here in south Wales, than probably anywhere else in the country. He wanted victory for Labour, but only under our terms - for a change."
O’Sullivan, a lifelong Labour member, says Jeremy is the only true socialist we have had as leader --- for 20 or 30 years.
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PEOPLE DESERVE RESPECT
Jeremy Corbyn’s leadership opponent flaunted his contempt for democracy by backing a second referendum on UK membership of the EU.
And MPs pressured Jeremy Corbyn to resign, by constant smears, media lies and attacks on Labour's membership !!!
No wonder the Unite policy conference has overwhelmingly backed mandatory reselection of MPs - to ensure genuine democratic accountability in the party.
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Unite pushes for reselection of MPs by Conrad Landin
Candidates ‘should reflect members’ views’
Labour's largest affiliate is now behind the push for mandatory reselection of MPs, as Jeremy Corbyn critics have “destabilised” the party, to ditch anti-austerity policies.
Delegates at general union Unite’s conference are resolved to support the approach, in order “to ensure democratic accountability, and the rights of party members to select candidates that reflect their views.”
Currently, sitting MPs are only subject to a “trigger ballot” -- where they automatically become the candidate -- unless a super- majority of branches in the constituency support a new selection.
London and eastern region's delegate, Kevin Parslow: “The current trigger mechanism is difficult, & weighted in favour of the incumbent.
“We put ourselves up as reps and branch officers for election regularly.
“I don’t think it’s unreasonable for MPs to put themselves up for re-selection. They should be accountable to us, and not to Murdoch’s press: they're there because they have the Labour Party name on the ballot paper.”
Mike Hedges, another London delegate: “Four weeks ago I would have spoken against this motion--- but after the treachery of 172 MPs --- we have no option.”
The union’s leaders are also mandated to “support moves to bring more democracy into policy-making -- by returning powers to the party conference.”
A Unite spokesperson:
“This vote simply reflects the immense frustration that our members feel. They look at the conduct of some within the party, the challenge to the elected leader, and they feel angered.
“They want Labour fighting the Tories, not among themselves.”
KEEP FIGHTING FOR MORE DEMOCRACY!
Momentum and Labour are engaged in a huge consultation to expand democracy in Labour...
WHY NOT PASTE THE LINK BELOW AND JOIN THE DISCUSSION?
http://www.peoplesmomentum.com/democracy-review
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If you haven't done so already, join Labour, join Momentum, and let's rebuild #BuildOurMovement.
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GMB Wins Lidl Recognition by Peter Lazenby Ruling affects hundreds of warehouse staff
The Star - General union GMB has won a landmark legal ruling giving hundreds of warehouse workers at giant cut-price supermarket chain Lidl the right to be represented by the union.
The German-owned chain opposes union recognition and resisted the union’s claim.
But the Central Arbitration Committee, whose decisions are legally binding, supported the GMB case, and gave the union full rights to represent and negotiate on behalf of its 223 members among warehouse workers at Bridgend, south Wales.
GMB now presses ahead with its campaign for recognition at 8 more Lidl warehouses across England and Scotland.
National secretary Justin Bowden says: “Lidl’s attempts at union-busting were quite properly thrown out by the judge --- in a massive victory for rights at work.
“[Wednesday’s] ruling opens the gates to not only improving employees’ pay & terms and conditions at the Bridgend site, but is also a major victory for the GMB’s campaign for a trade union voice at the workplace.
“The suggestion that Lidl’s workers don't need the option of a trade union to stick up for them and fight for their interests is baloney, pure and simple.
“As a result of today’s ruling, employees will get the chance to decide for them- selves, if the company’s own ‘personal personnel hotline’ is any match for an independent union taking their side & defending their interests in the workplace.”
GMB Wales and south-west regional secretary John Phillips adds: “Regrettably, Lidl continues to show both hostility towards GMB & shameful disregard for the wishes of its own workforce, with expensive challenges against fair and objective decisions made by independent third-party organisations.”
Lidl is also resisting attempts by shop workers’ union Usdaw to recruit and represent staff in its supermarkets.
An Usdaw spokesperson said: “Lidl will not even let our representatives into stores, to talk to staff.”
Lidl has 637 stores & 9 regional distribution centres --- employing over 18,000 staff. Its ambitions to expand in Britain, could see it more than double in size --- with plans for 1,500 stores & 2 more distribution centres.
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Tax offices’ own cleaners don’t get minimum wage
Cleaners at 6 government offices on Mersey- side walked out over their employer’s failure to pay them the legal minimum wage.
The staff began the two-day strike, because they have not received that £7.20-an-hour rate the government introduced on April 1.
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Wales: 50,000 days lost due to teacher stress
The number of teachers off sick due to stress in Wales has soared by thousands in just one year, new research shows.
Stress-related illness caused the 51,795 sick days: an increase of 2,568 on 2014, freedom of information figures revealed.
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Unions stood by Corbyn & McDonnell
The entire labour movement could have been concentrating all of our efforts - on bringing down this mean government.
Instead, 172 Labour MPs launched an attempted coup on Corbyn. If it's true that Angela Smith MP described the 10,000 activists, including general secretaries of affiliated trade unions, who were at a recent pro-Corbyn rally, as “dogs,” --- then serious questions need to be asked about the relationship between the PLP and the trade union movement.
Every trade union in Britain has regular elections for shop stewards, branch secretaries, and their general secretary.
It's time those who fund the Labour Party demanded the same level of democracy for sitting MPs.
Anything less than a mandatory reselection of MPs before every parliament is now untenable.
Let’s get this straight: none of these MPs backed Corbyn for leader, most of them abstained in the Welfare Reform Bill, many of them voted for the Iraq war, & to this day, hero-worship Tony Blair.
The 172 Labour MPs aren't just trying to change the Labour leader -- they are plotting to drag the movement back to a Blairite view of politics.
The vote of no confidence wasn't just an attempt to oust Corbyn --- it was a declaration of war on the entire organised left.
The gloves are off and there’s no going back. Everyone will need to decide: which side are you on? I stand with Corbyn and McDonnell.
Dave Smith is co-author, with Phil Chamberlain, of Blacklisted: The Secret War between Big Business and Trade Unionists, (New Internationalist Publications).
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RMT: We Must Fight Assault On Our Rights Union ‘disappointed’ with lack of action from TUC
Unions should move to take “generalised” strike action: with or without a go-ahead from the TUC, RMT activists insisted.
The union was meeting in Cardiff that week --- but you wouldn't know it, if you'd read the Welsh press!
Delegates at the transport union’s annual general meeting in Cardiff expressed disappointment that fiery rhetoric about defeating new anti-strike laws was not followed up with action.
The union unanimously passed a motion expressing concern at the TUC’s “lack of campaigning” on the issue and called for a “high-profile campaign.”
Leeds delegate Trevor Howard said: “Personally, my own view is that the TUC is a waste of space and it needs to be reorganised.”
The Trade Union Act, which received Royal Assent last month, imposes arbitrary thresholds on strike ballots & other curbs on labour movement activity.
RMT general secretary Mick Cash said: “It’s fundamentally undemocratic when you put these thresholds in.”
He said unions must respond to the law by ramping up their organising. “Whatever we do, we’ve got to make sure we get our members’ support,” he said.
And he praised Jeremy Corbyn’s Workplace 2020 agenda, which aims to introduce new labour rights.
“What we need to be doing is turning the tables,” he added: “We’ve got to get an alternative to this legislation --- to get us positive rights.”
Cash blasts ‘self-indulgent MPs’ for sabotaging left’s moment
“Self-indulgent” Labour MPs have squandered the left’s best moment to go on the offensive, RMT's general secretary, Mick Cash, stressed.
He used his address to the transport union’s annual general meeting to warn of “massive fights ahead” amid “political and economic turmoil.”
He said the divisions in the Tory Party and shockwaves in the world of capital should have been an opportunity for the left to get its message across. But he said this had been sabotaged by the frontbenchers resigning and calling for Jeremy Corbyn’s head.
He fumed: “What have they done? Self-indulgence. They’ve created division, they created a lack of leadership of progressive forces.
“They’ve created a situation where, if we’re not careful, we’ll have a Tory government ------ and worse, a Tory government supported by Ukip.
“We need to seize the opportunity to put forward an agenda to fight against austerity, against cuts and for workers’ rights. But that won’t happen if our politicians in London are playing the game they’re playing.
“Ordinary working people are sick of the political class and what they’re doing --- and yet they’re doing it again.”
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Putschist MPs ‘Let The Tories Off The Hook’ Unions rally round previous Labour leader
Union reps on Labour’s ruling executive signed a defiant statement to show that Mr Corbyn still has institutional support.
The leader of Labour’s most recent affiliate Fire Brigades Union general secretary Matt Wrack pointed his hoses at the quitters, saying their action was “co-ordinated to cause maximum damage” to Mr Corbyn.
“It is bizarre that some of the MPs making the loudest criticism of Jeremy Corbyn over the referendum -- completely failed to convince the electorate in their own constituencies,” he said.
“After the referendum, Labour should be setting out policies to defend jobs, public services & wages, as an exit from the EU is negotiated. Instead, some Labour MPs are playing irresponsible & silly games, from their Westminster bubble.”
Unite south-east secretary Jenny Formby, one of the executive members behind the statement in support of Mr Corbyn, said it was “nonsense” to blame him for the result. “Now, more than ever, is a time for loyalty and unity,” she stormed.
Communication Workers’ Union leader Dave Ward fired off a missive, stating Mr Corbyn “has our full support” as leader.
“Jeremy Corbyn is, and remains, the catalyst for change in the Labour Party and the country,” he said. “Those who seek to oust him, represent the politics that forgot ordinary people.”
And food union BFAWU turned up the heat. They said plotters would “only serve to let the Conservative government off the hook for the damage they've heaped upon our communities & the crisis they've caused in pursuit of power.”
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WHERE IS MOST UK YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT?
WALES!
(WHERE IN WALES? GUESS !!!)
Youth unemployment rates in some parts of Britain, such as the North East, have reached the highest recorded level ever, recent data gathered by the GMB union shows.
The GMB report says unemployment rates among people aged between 18-25 have hit record levels.
Wales is top of the unemployment list, with almost 23,000 claimants. The GMT reveals that some parts of Wales have a jobless rate of 37%.
Paul Kenny, GMB general secretary:
"In the UK there are nearly 400,000 young workers aged 18-24 claiming jobseeker's allowance. When you add to that number the rest of the young people not in jobs, but seeking work, the real number is more than double that figure.”
The number of young UK job seekers is really almost one million;- which makes this young generation the real victims of the current recession in Britain.
Kenny again: “The Government is in denial that it is deliberately creating unemployment.”
This is while reports say almost 150,000 jobs are under threat across the country.
What Wales needs is AN ECONOMY
ONE THAT WILL LAST
"Regional aid" - artificially importing factories that owe no allegiance to Wales - has failed.
Innovation means NEW ! New thinking.
Stop moaning about the past. Start building an economy NOW, for our youngsters.
Or else!!!
New means old, if you want to build a genuine economy. From the ground up, means exactly that!
Agriculture, producing smart new food and drinks. But based on our strengths.
All the land we need is here, and if we look up, 80 percent of Wales' "valley" land is up in the air, like Penrhys!
And it's almost unused. Imagine! All that land from the Rhondda over to Aberdare and beyond.
I'm sure people with vision can see orchards and new products... new ways of working, etc.
All it requires is a WILLINGNESS TO CHANGE.
ALL TOGETHER NOW FOR PEACE
The UK's TUC is calling on the UK government to end its meddling policies in the Middle East and North Africa. “The “war on terror” is still continuing and has failed, after ten years, to bring the promised peace and stability to either the Middle East or the wider world,” the motion says...
UK FOLLOWING US DOWN THE DRAIN
Last year’s table of 10 top EU economies - assessing income, prices, working culture & public spending, put the UK in last place.
The UK now has the 4th-highest retirement age of any country averaging 63.1 years - and this,thanks to the Tories AND a supine work-force, is set to keep rising higher and higher.
Average net household income after tax, (and remember, this "average" includes the stinking rich) is £37,172 a year, but even after ignoring the ridiculously high "average", this is now much lower than the average amount earned in Ireland, the Netherlands & Denmark, where there are less of the obscenely rich, to distort the figures.
In Wales, we know that the "average" worker earns far less than this: (£15,000 after tax)
Life for most in the UK is set to get even worse - if people don't fight back - as public services are to be cut more, after the next Spending Review ..and will lead to budget cuts of up to 40% in many public service departments.
France and Spain again top the quality of life index, as workers there have more paid holidays, earlier retirement, lower prices, longer life expectancy and, just to rub it in... better weather.
There are no separate figures for Wales.... why?
Could it be that knowing... might lead to discontent or is it because Welsh workers, with their vibrant economy, as they stop mindlessly following London... and build their new economy, are now so well off, that the English might get jealous? Yeah, right!
The lesson is obvious. Strong unions with gutsy membership abound on the continent, while UK residents sink apathetically down & down & down.
As Tony Blair said: we British are "special".
We think life gets better for us if we let the bankers of London exploit the rest of the world, and our non-working workforce sinks into apathy and selfishness...
Makes you proud, doesn't it! Does it?
WORKERS ACROSS EUROPE UNITE & FIGHT TO STOP CUTS PEACE - NOT WAR AND LOOTING !
Workers from across Europe took part in a major demonstration in Brussels --- to demand that austerity measures be dropped in favour of an end to wars & for peaceful reconstruction.
Europeans took to the streets of Brussels to demonstrate against wage & pension cuts and diminishing job opportunities.
The European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC), one of the EU's leading unions, says that about 100,000 people from 30 countries took part, and police estimates say 20,000.
“Cutting in a recession's crazy and we must fight it,” AFP quotes the ETUC's general secretary, a prominent UK union leader.
Marches also took place in Portugal, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, the Czech Republic, Cyprus, Serbia, Romania, Poland, Ireland and France.
The rallies coincided with a general strike in Spain where the government froze pensions and cut the salaries of government workers.
“This is the worst economic crisis in the post- war history of Western Europe,” the eTUC leader adds.
"We call for a rethink and a change - in Spain and in Europe. We are mobilizing, and they will have to listen to us."
The union says European workers could be the main victims of a financial crisis set off by bankers and traders.
Many European governments have imposed reductions in wages, pensions & employment - to deal with the escalating economic issues.
The OECD has released its long awaited Action Plan to curb "base erosion and profit shifting" (BEPS) by large multinational enterprises.
"The OECD Action Plan has the ambition to effectively curb tax evasion by large multinational enterprises – but it is a plan, and it needs effective commitments by governments and effective implementation,” says ITUC General Secretary Sharan Burrow.
The Action plan consists of 15 measures to strengthen corporate income tax rules and prevent tax avoidance through manipulating intra-group transfer pricing between subsidiaries, and the use of empty shell companies in low tax jurisdictions.
Tax challenges created by globalised production and service systems, the digital economy and increasing importance of "intangibles" – r & d, and intellectual property – feature prominently in the OECD Action plan.
