In this week’s Progressive Pulse… Geopolitical tensions are escalating, with the US preparing for potential conflict with China and a renewed focus on the war in Ukraine. Trump’s policies, including his travel ban and budget cuts, are facing widespread condemnation. The crisis in Gaza continues, with accusations of war crimes and humanitarian disasters. Meanwhile, movements for social and economic justice are gaining momentum, from protests against ICE raids in the US to calls for European unity against militarization. The role of international institutions like the UN is being questioned.

International

The US military is preparing for potential war with China. Asia is uniting, creating a new global order. A worldwide march from Egypt to Gaza is planned. BRICS nations are strategizing their gold reserves. Trump’s travel ban sparks global outcry. The US vetoes a UN Gaza ceasefire resolution.

China

China is building a power triangle to change the world. It slams the UN for inaction on Gaza. A top military strategist pushes for a stronger nuclear deterrent. Xi and Trump discuss trade and Taiwan. China introduces more traveler-friendly policies.

South Asia

A stampede in Bengaluru, India, results in casualties. Muslims in India celebrate Eid al-Adha. Hundreds of prisoners break out of a Pakistani jail after an earthquake. Deadly monsoon rains lash northeast India.

Southeast Asia

The US prepares for war in the South China Sea, potentially using the Philippines as a pawn. Retired generals in Indonesia call for the impeachment of the Vice President. Tensions rise between Thailand and Cambodia. The Philippines introduces 14-day visa-free entry for Indians.

Singapore

Singaporean Harvard students can continue studies back home. Local production of vegetables and seafood falls. Police Coast Guard steps up patrols around Sentosa after security barriers are damaged.

East Asia

South Korea’s new president takes office, aiming to revitalize the economy. Japan’s Self Defence Forces holds an annual exercise. Japanese shoppers scramble for government-issued rice.

Central Asia

Reports highlight Uzbek culture in Tashkent, a contemporary ethnic music festival, and celebrations of Corban Festival in Beijing.

West Asia (Middle East)

Israel is accused of luring starving Palestinians with aid and then shooting them. The death toll in Gaza surpasses 54, 000. Greta Thunberg speaks from an aid ship heading to Gaza, facing Israeli threats. Israeli forces intercept a Gaza-bound aid ship.

Russia

Discussions focus on drone attacks on Russian bases and potential responses. Russia and Ukraine exchange accusations over a POW swap delay. The Russian central bank cuts rates amid slowing GDP.

Europe

Ukraine is seen as accelerating the collapse of Europe’s political center. Europe’s left must unite to oppose NATO’s rearmament and austerity. Poland elects a right-wing nationalist as president. Cambridge students relaunch a Gaza encampment.

Africa

Reports discuss Europe’s neo-colonial actions in Africa. South Sudan declares a state of emergency in Warrap. The Gambia leverages solar for a green transition. African nations react to the US travel ban.

North America

Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill” is criticized as a wealth transfer. ICE raids spark community resistance. The Supreme Court lets Trump strip protections for immigrants. Protests erupt in Los Angeles over immigration raids.

Latin America and The Caribbean

Mexico votes for their own judges. The US military returns to Panama amid Canal control controversy. A presidential pre-candidate in Colombia survives an assassination attempt.

Miscellaneous