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China Warns United States Over Taiwan Visits and One-China Policy

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From the Media of The Hard News Daily
From the Media of The Hard News Daily

China has just sent a strong warning to the United States, requesting that all visits to Taiwan be stopped and that the One-China policy be followed. This caution arises in the midst of intensifying hostilities and heightened military operations surrounding the autonomous island.

Wang Wenbin, the spokeswoman for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, underscored that the United States will be responsible for any repercussions resulting from congressional travels to Taiwan. This warning is a response to a sequence of actions and remarks made by Beijing, which demonstrate its enduring assertion of control over Taiwan and its firm disapproval of any involvement between the United States and Taiwanese officials.

China’s cautionary statement is indicative of a wider trend of reactions to U.S. activities on Taiwan. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s scheduled trip to Taiwan in 2022 received similar criticisms from Beijing, highlighting China’s unwavering opposition to perceived meddling in its domestic affairs.

The One-China policy, recognized by the United States, asserts that there exists a singular China and that Taiwan is an integral part of it. Nevertheless, the United States maintains a strong and unofficial relationship with Taiwan, which includes the provision of weapons to enhance its defensive capabilities. This issue has been a major source of disagreement with China.

The frequency of recent visits by U.S. Congress members to Taiwan has escalated, exacerbating tensions in U.S.-China ties. China has responded by conducting military exercises and issuing diplomatic warnings, emphasizing its determination to reunify Taiwan with the mainland, even if it requires the use of force.

The position is also complex because to the United States’ commitments under the Taiwan Relations Act, which mandates the provision of adequate military hardware and technology to Taiwan in order to discourage invasion. As a result, there has been a persistent flow of weapon shipments to Taiwan, a move that China strongly opposes.

The global community closely monitors the escalating tensions. The capacity of the United States and China to handle this delicate matter will not only influence their mutual relations but also carry substantial consequences for regional and global stability.

China’s recent warnings to the United States demonstrate its resolute position on Taiwan and its commitment to uphold the One-China policy. Amidst the complexity of this subject, it is desired by the global world that diplomacy and conversation triumph over war as both countries handle the situation.

Source : https://www.oneindia.com/videos/china-warns-us-rejects-accusations-of-arming-moscows-troops-in-ukraine-conflict-4148136.html

(The story is published based on the data from a syndicated feed. However there can be minor changes from the original source article.)

China Ends War Games, Taiwan Details Surge of Warplanes and Warships

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From the Media of The Hard News Daily
From the Media of The Hard News Daily

China has recently completed a two-day period of rigorous military exercises near Taiwan, which including conducting simulated bombing assaults and practicing the boarding of ships.

The defense ministry of Taiwan provided a comprehensive account of the notable escalation in Chinese military operations during these exercises, which Beijing characterized as a form of “retribution” against Taiwan’s newly elected president, Lai Ching-te.

The military station of Chinese official television stated on Friday evening that the drills, named “Joint Sword – 2024A,” had ended.

The official People’s Liberation Army Daily has verified that the military exercises took place from Thursday to Friday, in accordance with previous declarations. China’s defense ministry did not provide any additional comments on Saturday, despite several attempts to contact them.

China initiated the exercises shortly after Lai Ching-te became Taiwan’s president, as China considers Taiwan to be its own territory.

Beijing criticized Lai’s speech, in which he highlighted that the two sides of the Taiwan Strait are “not subordinate to each other.” China took this phrase as a proclamation of Taiwan’s independence.

Despite Lai’s persistent attempts to initiate dialogue, Beijing has continually rejected these proposals, asserting that the determination of Taiwan’s future lies solely in the hands of its people.

The Taiwanese administration denounced the military exercises, affirming its resilience against Chinese coercion. On Friday, Taiwan’s defense ministry announced that 46 Chinese military aircraft breached the median line of the Taiwan Strait, which has traditionally served as an unofficial boundary between the two sides.

A total of 62 Chinese aircraft and 27 military ships were identified, which included modern Su-30 fighters and H-6 bombers capable of carrying nuclear weapons.

The Taiwan air force has released footage featuring a Chinese J-16 fighter and an H-6 bomber. However, the specific location was not disclosed.

In the last four years, China has consistently engaged in military operations near Taiwan, which have included extensive military exercises in 2022 and 2023.

The People’s Liberation Army Daily, which functions as the official mouthpiece of the military, censured President Lai, alleging that he is working as a mere instrument for external forces seeking to impede China’s progress.

The commentary issued a stern warning, stating that if Taiwan independence separatist groups persist in pursuing their own path or engage in risky actions, the PLA will dutifully follow orders and take strong measures to firmly thwart any separatist schemes.

Taiwan maintains a resolute position against Chinese aggression, emphasizing its entitlement to self-determination and sovereignty as the situation unfolds.

The international community closely monitors the situation, acknowledging the possible consequences for regional stability and global geopolitical dynamics.

Source : https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/china-ends-war-games-taiwan-details-warplane-warship-surge-2024-05-25/

(The story is published based on the data from a syndicated feed. However there can be minor changes from the original source article.)

Massive Landslide Hits Papua New Guinea’s Highlands: Fears of Significant Loss of Life

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From the Media of The Hard News Daily
From the Media of The Hard News Daily

An catastrophic landslide occurred in the isolated Enga province of Papua New Guinea on Friday morning, resulting in the burial of more than 100 dwellings and instilling considerable concern about substantial casualties. The catastrophe transpired at 3 AM (local time) in the settlement of Kaokalam, situated in the elevated regions of the southwest Pacific island nation.

The provincial governor, Peter Ipatas, verified the consequences of the avalanche, stating that there has been a “destruction of life and property.” Although the precise number of casualties is uncertain, community leader Andrew Ruing said Reuters that over 300 lives may have been buried beneath the rubble and boulders. “Food, gardens, the people, and properties worth millions have been lost, completely covered by all of these things,” Ruing continued.

The images posted on social media show a large portion of rock and soil breaking away from a heavily forested slope, resulting in a lengthy and wide scar filled with rocks the size of cars, fallen trees, and dirt extending all the way down to the valley level. At the bottom of the landslide, one can observe the remnants of houses and makeshift shelters made of corrugated tin.

The survivors promptly initiated endeavors to remove the debris and locate individuals who were trapped, employing elongated axes, machetes, and head torches. The atmosphere was replete with lamentations and shouts as individuals scoured the wreckage in quest of their cherished ones.

Aid organizations, such as the Papua New Guinea Red Cross and CARE, have verified the occurrence of the landslide and are actively collecting additional data. The humanitarian organization Care Australia has raised concern about the potential for a significant number of deaths, noting that although the area is not heavily populated, there is a risk of a disproportionately large death toll. In addition, they observed that the process of clearing the roads will be time-consuming, impeding the evaluation and provision of assistance.

Papua New Guinea, located in close proximity to the equator, regularly encounters substantial precipitation. This year has experienced very heavy precipitation and flooding, which has increased the probability of these natural calamities.

While the rescue activities persist, the primary focus remains on removing the debris and delivering assistance to the impacted communities. The global world attentively monitors the situation, anticipating prompt assistance and recuperation for those affected by this calamitous incident.

Source :

  1. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c877jnjn4m5o
  2. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/rest-of-world/100-feared-dead-after-landslide-strikes-papua-new-guinea/articleshow/110380898.cms
  3. https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/world/more-than-300-buried-in-papua-new-guinea-landslide-local-media-says-12731814.html

(The story is published based on the data from a syndicated feed. However there can be minor changes from the original source article.)

ICJ Orders Israel to Halt Military Campaign in Rafah Amid Growing Diplomatic Pressure

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From the Media of The Hard News Daily
From the Media of The Hard News Daily

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has issued a significant ruling, instructing Israel to halt its military activities in Rafah, located in southern Gaza.

This verdict represents the most recent addition to a sequence of diplomatic and legal measures taken against Israel, highlighting its increasing international seclusion.

The ruling is a response to a request made by the International Criminal Court (ICC) to apprehend the prime minister and defense minister of Israel. This request has received backing from other traditional allies, including France.

In addition, three European nations have lately acknowledged Palestine as a sovereign state, while others such as Turkey, Belize, Bolivia, and Colombia have terminated their diplomatic relations with Israel.

The increasing strain is a result of Israel’s continuous war with the Palestinians and its recent military operation in Gaza.

Alon Pinkas, the former consul general of Israel in New York, stated that while the level of isolation in Israel is not as extreme as in North Korea, Belarus, or Myanmar, it is nevertheless a sort of isolation. “It generates an immense feeling of pressure.”

Alon Pinkas - Political Consultant - Arsenal Strategic Partnership - From the Media of The Hard News Daily
From the Media of The Hard News Daily

Although the International Court of Justice (ICJ) does not possess the authority to execute its rulings, the decision indicates a notable change in global opinion.

The United Nations Security Council has the potential to execute the order, but the United States, a crucial ally of Israel, possesses veto authority over any resolution of this nature.

Itamar Rabinovich, the former Israeli ambassador to Washington, observed that these trends indicate a more extensive transformation in global affairs.

“The rest of the world is making progress in surpassing the United States,” Rabinovich stated, highlighting the strategic transition towards international courts where the influence of the United States is restricted.

The United States and other unwavering allies, such as Germany, have embraced a more discerning position regarding Israel.

President Biden, following his early affirmation of U.S. support for Israel, has since voiced growing apprehension with its military tactics in Gaza, to the extent of temporarily halting a supply of bombs to Israel.

During a visit to Tel Aviv, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has expressed doubts about the exorbitant expenses associated with Israel’s military operations.

These international actions have had a multifaceted effect within Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has capitalized on the worldwide criticism to garner home backing, casting himself as the protector of Israel against international condemnation.

Analysts suggest that Israel may persist in its military endeavors, even in the face of international isolation, as long as it continues to get significant financial and military assistance from the United States.

The verdict by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) is occurring during a period of increased tensions and protests across the globe.

University campuses in the United States have witnessed substantial anti-Israel protests, while some European colleges have severed connections with Israeli institutions.

Artists and cultural luminaries have also participated in the demand for boycotts, further demonstrating the magnitude of Israel’s diplomatic difficulties.

Yair Lapid, the leader of Israel’s opposition, denounced the ICJ finding, recognizing that the actions and remarks of the current government have worsened the issue.

Lapid asserted that Israel was subjected to a devastating bombardment from Gaza and was compelled to protect itself against a heinous terrorist organization.

Nonetheless, a rational and competent government would have taken measures to avoid irrational statements made by ministers, apprehended criminals responsible for setting aid trucks on fire, and carried out discreet and efficient political endeavors.

Israel is currently at a crucial point in its diplomatic and military plans due to increasing international pressure.

The decisions made in the upcoming weeks are expected to have significant consequences for its future on the international platform.

Source : https://www.nytimes.com/2024/05/24/world/middleeast/the-courts-decision-highlights-israels-growing-diplomatic-isolation.html

(The story is published based on the data from a syndicated feed. However there can be minor changes from the original source article.)

FSSAI Confirms Everest and MDH Spices Are Safe for Consumption, Easing Public Concerns Over Harmful Substances

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From the Media of The Hard News Daily
From the Media of The Hard News Daily

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has officially confirmed that Everest and MDH spices have been deemed safe for consumption after undergoing thorough testing and examination.

The consumers, who were worried about the safety of these well-liked spice brands, have experienced considerable relaxation due to this announcement.

The presence of hazardous chemicals, including ethylene oxide, in spices has caused public concern, leading to extensive discussions and demands for reassurance. The FSSAI conducted thorough examinations on Everest and MDH spices to ascertain their safety.

The test findings have been publicly disclosed, demonstrating that both products are devoid of ethylene oxide and other noxious chemicals.

The FSSAI certification has been extensively circulated on various social media platforms, eliciting a sense of relief and restored trust among users who now feel more confident about incorporating these spices into their everyday cooking.

A representative from the FSSAI stated that comprehensive testing has been carried out to verify that Everest and MDH spices comply with all safety regulations. Consumers can confidently continue using these items.

The news has elicited favorable responses from both consumers and industry experts. The FSSAI has received much acclaim for its meticulousness and openness in dealing with the matter.

Comments from contented consumers who are pleased to persist in using their preferred spices without concern have generated a lot of activity on social media.

“I have been utilizing Everest and MDH spices for an extended period of time.” “It is indeed a source of comfort to learn that they are unharmed,” expressed a Twitter user.

Another user shared similar views, expressing gratitude to FSSAI for providing clarification on this matter. Now I can confidently prepare my favorite foods without any reservations.

The certification from FSSAI is anticipated to enhance consumer confidence and strengthen the reputation of Everest and MDH as dependable and secure brands.

This occurrence emphasizes the significance of food safety standards and the function of the FSSAI in guaranteeing that food items accessible in the market are secure for consumption.

As consumers savor their culinary creations seasoned with Everest and MDH spices, the statement by the FSSAI serves as a reminder of the crucial role that food safety regulators play in safeguarding public health.

The proactive actions implemented to tackle and resolve concerns regarding the safety of spice highlight the dedication to upholding stringent standards in the food business.

Everest and MDH spices have received the FSSAI’s endorsement, ensuring their continued use in kitchens throughout the country. These spices enhance flavors and contribute to delectable dishes, while also meeting safety standards.

Medha Patkar Convicted in 2001 Defamation Case Filed by Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena: Potential Jail Time and Fine Loom

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From the Media of The Hard News Daily
From the Media of The Hard News Daily

Medha Patkar, a well-known activist and leader of the Narmada Bachao Andolan, has recently been found guilty in a defamation case that dates back to 2001, marking a significant legal milestone.

VK Saxena, who was the Chairman of the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) at the time, filed the complaint.

He currently holds the position of Lieutenant Governor of Delhi. The defamation lawsuit arose from a press release released by Patkar under the title “True Face of Patriot,” which Saxena alleged had defamed him.

The ruling, announced today, brings an end to a protracted legal dispute between the two notable individuals.

As a consequence of the conviction, Patkar may get a prison sentence of up to two years, a monetary fine, or both. This result emphasizes the significant ramifications of defamation cases and the possible repercussions for persons engaged in such conflicts.

Medha Patkar is renowned for her activism, namely her prominent role in the Narmada Bachao Andolan, a movement advocating for the rights of individuals impacted by the Narmada Dam project.

The outcome of this case is expected to have substantial consequences for her and her continued efforts in advocacy.

Saxena initiated the case in response to the charges stated in the press notice, claiming that they harmed his reputation.

The matter has undergone multiple court proceedings over the years, ultimately resulting in today’s verdict.

Patkar’s legal team is anticipated to provide a response to the conviction, and it is uncertain whether they will challenge the ruling.

The possibility of facing imprisonment or monetary penalties highlights the significant consequences associated with defamation lawsuits, especially those involving well-known individuals.

The verdict also highlights the wider concern of defamation laws in India and their influence on the ability to express oneself.

The legal community and the public are expected to continue discussing and analyzing the case of VK Saxena vs. Medha Patkar in response to this outcome.

This conviction is a crucial turning point in the lengthy legal story that has lasted for more than twenty years, bringing an end to a chapter that started with the release of a contentious press statement.

Both Patkar and Saxena face enormous repercussions as they deal with the consequences of this legal ruling.

Kolkata Police Commissioner Enforces Section 144 IPC, Banning Unlawful Assembly of Five or More Persons for 60 Days Starting May 28, 2024

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From the Media of The Hard News Daily
From the Media of The Hard News Daily

Kolkata’s Commissioner of Police, Vineet Kumar Goyal, has implemented Section 144 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) to ensure public order by forbidding any unauthorized gathering of five or more individuals. The duration of this order will span 60 days, commencing on May 28, 2024, and concluding on July 26, 2024, unless otherwise specified.

Section 144 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) is a precautionary measure employed by law enforcement authorities to suppress possible turmoil or disruptions. This provision imposes restrictions on the assembly of individuals, which is considered essential for the preservation of peace and order in the city. The decision is a direct response to intelligence reports and assessments that have shown the necessity of implementing this safeguard.

Commissioner Goyal emphasized that this measure is crucial in order to guarantee the well-being and protection of the public. We implore the general public to collaborate with the authorities throughout this duration.

Section 144 application renders any gathering of five or more individuals illegal and subject to police intervention. Individuals who fail to comply with this directive may be subject to legal consequences, such as apprehension and court proceedings. The purpose of the move is to preempt any possible disruptions, demonstrations, or assemblies that have the potential to evolve into more significant confrontations.

Section 144 is frequently implemented in India, particularly where there is a perceived risk to public safety. It is frequently employed during periods of political turmoil, celebrations, or other occasions that may result in significant congregations.

Individuals are recommended to remain updated with the prevailing regulations and adhere to the guidelines provided by the police. The authorities have provided assurance that vital services and activities will be unaffected, and the order is specifically aimed at preventing illegal gatherings.

The consequences of this order on everyday life will be thoroughly observed, and the police department will furnish updates as required. The general population should anticipate an intensified police presence and more attentiveness in public spaces to ensure the restrictions are enforced efficiently.

In order to maintain peace and order in Kolkata during this period, it is essential for the city’s citizens to cooperate. The implementation of Section 144 serves as a reminder of the authorities’ dedication to upholding law and order and safeguarding the welfare of its residents.

China Conducts Mock Missile Strikes on Taiwan Amid Rising Tensions Following President Lai Ching-te’s Inauguration

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From the Media of The Hard News Daily
From the Media of The Hard News Daily

China recently conducted military exercises targeting Taiwan, which included simulated missile strikes and the deployment of fighter jets armed with live missiles, demonstrating a strong display of power.

The state media CCTV publicized these drills with the intention of “penalizing” Taiwan’s newly inaugurated president, Lai Ching-te, shortly after he assumed office.

The exercises, named “Joint Sword – 2024A,” entailed the strategic coordination of bombers and naval vessels to simulate strikes in the waters east of Taiwan.

The objective was to assess China’s capabilities to assert dominance and establish authority over crucial regions of the island.

Beijing regards Taiwan as its own territory and has criticized President Lai as a “separatist.” Lai’s inaugural address, in which he called on Beijing to halt its threats and asserted that the two sides of the strait are “not subordinate to each other,” has escalated the situation even more.

Wu Qian, a representative of China’s defense ministry, defended the exercises as essential in countering Taiwan’s independence efforts and preventing external intervention.

A high-ranking Taiwanese security officer disclosed that the exercises involved simulated explosions of foreign vessels in the vicinity of the eastern terminus of the Bashi Channel, a vital maritime passage.

The drills were conducted to showcase China’s capacity to achieve complete dominance over regions located to the west of the first island chain, encompassing territories ranging from Japan to the Philippines.

In addition, Chinese coastguard vessels carried out “harassment” exercises near the eastern coast of Taiwan, which involved simulated inspections of civilian ships.

The activities are being closely monitored by the U.S. Navy’s 7th Fleet, which is reiterating its dedication to preventing aggression in the Indo-Pacific area.

While the United States lacks a formal diplomatic relationship with Taiwan, it is obligated by law to furnish the island with the necessary resources for self-defense and continues to be Taiwan’s most important international supporter.

Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung firmly stated that Taiwan will not succumb to pressure in reaction to the drills.

“We will not compromise due to this Chinese military exercise, as it pertains to the advancement of democracy in Taiwan,” he declared.

Taiwan’s military has deployed to surveil and track Chinese forces, as reported by the defense ministry.

They have detected multiple Chinese military aircraft and naval vessels, including 28 aircraft that crossed the middle line of the strait.

Chinese social media platforms have been filled with enthusiastic support for the military exercises, with the term “Eastern Theatre” gaining significant popularity as a top search item.

Nevertheless, analysts and regional diplomats have observed that the magnitude of these exercises is comparatively smaller in relation to comparable drills conducted in 2022.

Nevertheless, the likelihood of accidents or miscalculations remains significant.

President Lai has frequently expressed his willingness to engage in discussions with Beijing, but his attempts have been consistently rejected.

He asserts that the determination of Taiwan’s future lies solely in the hands of its people and dismisses China’s assertions of sovereignty over the island.

Although Taiwan is familiar with military threats from China, the ongoing military exercises have not created much concern among its residents, who are carrying on with their regular routines despite the increased tensions.

The ongoing military exercises underscore the delicate and intricate nature of cross-strait relations as geopolitical dynamics in the region change.

The global community remains vigilant, as any intensification might have profound implications for the stability of the area.

Source : https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/china-starts-second-day-war-games-around-taiwan-2024-05-24/

(The story is published based on the data from a syndicated feed. However there can be minor changes from the original source article.)

Nvidia Slashes Prices on H20 AI Chips in China Amid Fierce Competition from Huawei and U.S. Sanctions

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From the Media of The Hard News Daily
From the Media of The Hard News Daily

Nvidia has recently implemented price reductions for its H20 AI chips in China due to fierce competition from Huawei and the repercussions of U.S. sanctions. Nvidia’s cutting-edge AI processor designed for the Chinese market is currently being offered at a reduced price due to an oversupply and low demand, as reported by reliable sources.

The H20 chip is now offered at a discount of more than 10% compared to Huawei’s Ascend 910B, which is the top AI processor produced by the Chinese technology company.

The decrease in price emphasizes the difficulties that Nvidia’s business encounters in China, a region that accounted for 17% of its revenue in fiscal year 2024.

Nvidia is facing growing difficulties in the competitive market of China, particularly due to the imposition of U.S. sanctions that restrict the company from exporting its cutting-edge semiconductors.

The H20, one of the three chips launched specifically for the Chinese market, is now facing difficulties in gaining popularity.

According to market analyst Hebe Chen from IG, Nvidia is facing a delicate situation as it tries to both retain its presence in the Chinese market and navigate the tensions between the United States and China.

Nvidia is actively planning for any adverse circumstances in the long run. Nvidia’s senior executives have cautioned that their operations in China have been substantially impacted by these penalties.

China is projected to have a share of over 30% in the global AI industry by 2035, which highlights its significance as a crucial market for AI chip producers.

Nevertheless, Nvidia’s H20 is encountering formidable competition from Huawei’s Ascend 910B, which is purportedly surpassing the H20 in some crucial benchmarks.

According to sources, Huawei intends to augment the number of shipments for the 910B chip in the current year, thereby heightening the level of competitiveness.

 

The market dynamics are additionally impacted by a regulation from Beijing that urges corporations to procure chips manufactured in China, although this directive has lately been relaxed.

Notwithstanding the difficulties, certain prominent Chinese technology companies, such as Alibaba, have made substantial purchases of Nvidia’s H20 chips.

The cost of Nvidia’s H20 processors is approximately 100,000 yuan each card, while the price range for eight-card servers is between 1.1 million and 1.3 million yuan per server.

By comparison, Huawei’s 910B chips are available for purchase at a price exceeding 120,000 yuan per card, while server equivalents are priced between 1.3 million and 1.5 million yuan.

Nvidia must employ a competitive pricing approach in order to sustain its position in the Chinese market. Dylan Patel, the creator of SemiAnalysis, stated that approximately one million H20 chips will be exported to China during the latter half of 2024.

Patel emphasized that the H20 has a greater manufacturing cost because to its larger memory capacity, however it is being marketed at a price that is half that the H100, Nvidia’s high-performance processor that is prohibited from being exported to China.

In order to succeed in China, Nvidia’s ability to effectively compete with Huawei in terms of pricing and performance will be of utmost importance as it navigates through this intricate market.

The current price competitiveness and market rivalry highlight the wider difficulties and strategic actions in the AI chip sector in the context of geopolitical tensions.

Source : https://www.reuters.com/technology/nvidia-cuts-china-prices-huawei-chip-fight-sources-say-2024-05-24/

(The story is published based on the data from a syndicated feed. However there can be minor changes from the original source article.)

Exclusive: Putin Ready for Ceasefire Along Current Frontlines in Ukraine Amid Western Resistance and Kyiv’s Rejection

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From the Media of The Hard News Daily
From the Media of The Hard News Daily

According to reports, Russian President Vladimir Putin is ready to bring an end to the conflict in Ukraine by agreeing to a ceasefire that acknowledges the existing front lines. Four Russian sources, who spoke to Reuters, have revealed that Putin is frustrated with what he sees as Western-supported efforts to obstruct negotiations and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy’s refusal to engage in talks.


A senior Russian source, well-informed about high-level discussions in the Kremlin, indicated that Putin is prepared to engage in combat for an indefinite period, but is also willing to agree to a truce in order to halt the ongoing conflict. The anonymous sources highlighted that Putin is ready to prolong the conflict if Kyiv and the West do not react favorably to his suggestion.

Dmitry Peskov, the spokesperson for President Putin, restated that Russia is willing to engage in discussion, emphasizing that the government does not desire a prolonged conflict. Nevertheless, the foreign and defense ministries of Ukraine have refrained from providing any comments regarding the possible ceasefire. Some Western experts have taken the recent choice of economist Andrei Belousov as Russia’s defense minister as a sign that Russia is preparing for a long-lasting struggle. However, sources indicate that Putin would rather use the current advantages to bring the war to a close.

According to sources, Putin believes that the geographical gains made thus far are enough to be presented as a triumph to the Russian population. The greatest combat conflict in Europe since World War Two has led to tens of thousands of casualties on both sides and imposed significant economic penalties on Russia.

Although there is a possibility of a ceasefire, the likelihood of peace negotiations occurring is remote. Zelenskiy has always rejected any peace agreement based on Putin’s conditions, emphasizing the need to regain the previously occupied territories, including as Crimea. In 2022, Zelenskiy signed a decree that officially classified negotiations with Putin as “impossible.”

Ukraine is making preparations for discussions in Switzerland next month with the goal of consolidating global consensus on putting an end to the war. However, Russia has not been extended an invitation to participate. Moscow has denounced the negotiations as lacking credibility in the absence of its involvement. Putin has expressed doubt over the Swiss talks, indicating that they may be utilized to strengthen Zelenskiy’s insistence on a full Russian retreat.

Both Russia and Ukraine are concerned that any truce could be utilized by the opposing side to replenish their military resources, so exacerbating the situation. The prolonged battle has also resulted in notable domestic difficulties for Putin, notably a decline in popularity subsequent to the initial mass mobilization in September 2022.

If a ceasefire were to be established along the existing frontlines, Russia would have major influence over four Ukrainian areas, but it would not have absolute control over any of them. This deal would not fully meet Moscow’s original objectives, but it may be interpreted as a deliberate temporary halt by Putin, who is eager to prevent another mobilization.

As the conflict continues, the reintegration of experienced and toughened soldiers into Russia, who are unhappy with the opportunities available after the war, creates further social tensions. Putin’s strategic patience relies on utilizing Russia’s demographic advantage and economic incentives to maintain military operations until a more advantageous outcome can be attained.

To summarize, although Putin has indicated willingness to agree to a ceasefire, there are still major obstacles to overcome. Both parties are firmly holding onto their positions, and the course of the conflict is being influenced by international factors.

Source : https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/putin-wants-ukraine-ceasefire-current-frontlines-sources-say-2024-05-24/

(The story is published based on the data from a syndicated feed. However there can be minor changes from the original source article.)