In this week’s Progressive Pulse… The world is on edge as tensions between the US, Israel, and Iran escalate, threatening a wider conflict. Trump’s policies, from military interventions to attacks on immigrants, are facing widespread resistance. The global economic order is shifting, with China playing an increasingly prominent role. Meanwhile, grassroots movements are fighting for social justice and economic equality.

International

Trump sends the military to suppress protests in Los Angeles and launches a war on Iran. The US and China hold trade talks amid ongoing tensions. Experts discuss whether China’s RMB can shield the world from a collapsing dollar system. The G7 summit concludes without a joint communique.

China

China is seen as the Iron Bank, with commercial interests, not political ambition in the West. Beijing depends on China’s rare earth minerals. Chinese views on the situation in LA focus on protests, democracy, and immigration. Trump is criticized for getting everything wrong about “Made in China.”

South Asia

An Air India plane crashes shortly after takeoff in Ahmedabad. Families await the bodies. Nepal’s survivors of wartime sexual violence are highlighted.

Southeast Asia

China, GCC & ASEAN are shifting $1 trillion. Singapore and Indonesia sign deals to accelerate the growth of their green economies. Malaysia is pushing to fast-track the ASEAN Power Grid.

East Asia

Japan’s researchers develop ocean-friendly plastic. Filipinos protest after senators delay VP Duterte’s impeachment trial.

Central Asia

China and Central Asian countries sign a landmark treaty, vowing to boost cooperation. Xi arrives in Kazakhstan for the China-Central Asia Summit.

West Asia (Middle East)

Israel’s attacks on Iran have triggered retaliatory missile strikes, pushing the region closer to full-scale war. Reports suggest the US may have been involved in the initial attacks, which targeted nuclear facilities and military leaders. Trump demands Iran’s “unconditional surrender, “ while analysts warn of a dangerous escalation. Civilians are caught in the crossfire, and a global march to Gaza activists were attacked and detained in Egypt. There are concerns about the potential for regional destabilization and wider international involvement.

Russia

Discussions focus on Russia’s retaliation and NATO’s declining relevance. US-Russia talks are seen as a potential way to transform relations.

Europe

Friedrich Merz is not expected to survive a single term in office, and France may be the next country to exit the EU. Citizens in England shut down a factory that supplies military weapons to Israel.

Africa

Europe’s neo-colonial attack on Africa continues. Persistent clashes occur in Central Nigeria over land and resources. A US visa ban on Sierra Leone is hampering students’ dreams.

North America

Trump sends in Marines to quell LA unrest. He is accused of targeting immigrant communities. A US senator is forcibly removed from a Department of Homeland Security event.

Latin America and The Caribbean

Lula vs Empire: How Brazil Fights Back Against US Interference. Massive demonstrations by Colombian workers against anti-labor reforms.

Oceania

Australia is packing a parachute as America descends. Australians want to be free from US entrapment.

Miscellaneous