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Trumps inner circle eyes Russian business opportunities, but experts warn of risks

U.S.-China relations may face renewed strain in 2023, despite a recent trade truce. Lawmakers from both parties warn that the ceasefire in economic tensions may not hold. Deep-rooted issues like trade enforcement, supply chains, cybersecurity, and Taiwan remain unresolved. Tensions around Taiwan are escalating, with China increasing military activity near the island. The Trump administration may attempt to maintain stability ahead of a potential summit with Xi in April, but lawmakers remain vigilant for any return to leverage tactics like export curbs.

A veteran politics teacher in the UK was reported to counterterrorism officials for showing Trump videos in class, accused of causing emotional harm. Despite his neutral discussion, he was pushed out of his job, sparking debate on shielding older teens from real-world politics.

U.S. researchers confirm Russias deployment of nuclear-capable hypersonic Oreshnik missiles in Belarus, near Krichev, with a range of up to 3,400 miles. This move aligns with Putins plans, tested against Ukraine, and is seen as a political signal to deter NATO. The site, revealed through satellite images, suggests a bolder nuclear posture amidst the standoff with the West.

Instagrams top executive, Adam Mosseri, prioritized recruiting more teenagers, despite legal battles over harm to kids. In an internal memo, he urged staff to focus on teens in developed markets, even as they worked on Threads. The company aimed to reverse slipping teen engagement and become the top platform for teens by 2027. This push coincided with rising legal scrutiny over social medias effects on youth. Meta launched Teen Accounts in 2024, adding default protections, but critics argue business goals still push for more app time.

Yuri Sadovenko, a close ally of Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, has died under mysterious circumstances. The fifty-six-year-old Ukrainian-born Russian general was found dead, with Russian state media blaming heart disease. However, skepticism is high due to lack of records of illness and a pattern of unexplained deaths among Russian elites since the Ukraine invasion. At least thirty-eight prominent Russians have died mysteriously, many from falls out of windows or sudden collapses. Experts see these as possible messages in Putins inner circle, where loyalty is everything.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese introduces a new national bravery award to honor civilians and first responders who bravely intervened during a deadly antisemitic terror attack at a Hanukkah celebration. The attack, Australias worst since 1996, was carried out by Sajid and Naveed Akram, who were shot dead at the scene. Standout individuals like Ahmed al Ahmed, a Syrian-Australian Muslim, disarmed one gunman before being wounded. Albanese emphasized the stark contrast between extremist violence and acts of bravery and kindness from everyday heroes. New South Wales leader Chris Minns called for unity and supported tough new gun laws, capping ownership at four firearms per person and restricting high-risk weapons. These honors and reforms reflect a nation grieving but determined to fight hatred and celebrate courage.

Rapper Nicki Minaj, known for her past criticism of Trump, made a surprise appearance at Turning Point USAs AmericaFest, praising Trump and Vance. She mocked Newsom and highlighted their relatable qualities. Minajs shift towards the MAGA movement has sparked mixed reactions, with some in the entertainment world pushing back. Despite backlash, shes standing firm, sharing her gratitude for living in a country with freedom of speech.

Californias new congressional map, approved through Proposition fifty, is set to benefit Democrats by redrawing district lines, particularly in Northern California. This redistricting splits Republican-leaning rural farming areas and pairs them with Democratic strongholds, potentially flipping key seats and strengthening Democrats House edge. However, Republicans argue that this dilutes rural voices and makes it harder for farmers to elect representatives who understand their issues. The maps legality is still being challenged in federal court, keeping the redistricting fight alive as both parties prepare for upcoming elections.