A Chinese cargo ship has been modified to carry containerized missile launchers, sensors, and defense systems, suggesting China is exploring turning commercial vessels into armed surface combatants, potentially impacting naval power dynamics. The vessel features a large vertical launch system, radar, CIWS, and decoys, raising questions about its operational capabilities and purpose, whether as a proof of concept or a real deployment. This development highlights China's efforts to leverage its vast commercial fleet for military advantage amid ongoing naval competition.
A Chinese cargo ship has been spotted equipped with containerized missile launchers, sensors, and defense systems, suggesting a potential shift towards converting commercial vessels into armed surface combatants, which could impact naval power dynamics. The vessel features a significant number of vertical launch cells, radar, and CIWS, raising questions about its operational capabilities and strategic implications.
The article reports on President Trump's recent public display of influence over the Justice Department during an Oval Office event, where he publicly criticized former DOJ officials and hinted at ongoing political retribution, illustrating concerns about the weaponization of federal agencies for partisan purposes.
Attorney General Pam Bondi is set to testify before Congress amid concerns over the politicization of the Justice Department, especially following the indictment of former FBI Director James Comey and recent actions under her leadership that suggest a shift towards targeting political opponents, raising questions about the department's independence and integrity.
Republican senators are divided on defending Trump amid accusations of weaponizing the DOJ, with some supporting investigations into political opponents and others condemning the use of law enforcement for political purposes, while Democrats accuse Trump of similar tactics.
The article discusses how Donald Trump is allegedly weaponizing government agencies to target his critics and political opponents, using legal investigations and threats that can harm individuals' lives and undermine democratic norms, while highlighting the uncertainty and potential overreach involved in these actions.
A senior adviser to US President Joe Biden expressed confidence that Arab states will not weaponize oil, despite concerns over rising tensions in the Middle East. The adviser emphasized the importance of maintaining stability in global energy markets and highlighted the US commitment to working with its allies to ensure a steady and reliable supply of oil.
Former President Donald Trump suggested in an interview that he or another Republican president could use the Department of Justice to go after and indict political opponents, claiming that his opponents have done the same to him. Trump referred to the "weaponization" of federal law enforcement and stated that if he were president and someone was beating him badly in an election, he would consider indicting them to remove them from the race. He also criticized the current administration for unleashing this practice and warned that the people would not stand for it.
One of Kanye West's exes, Julia Fox, has alleged that she felt "weaponized" against Kim Kardashian during her relationship with the rapper. Fox, who dated West after his divorce from Kardashian, described feeling like a "little puppet" and ultimately ended the relationship due to the weaponization aspect. This comes after reports of West's alleged strict rules for his current wife, Bianca Censori, including controlling what she wears and eats. Other exes of West have also spoken out about their experiences dating him after his divorce.
Julia Fox reflects on her relationship with Kanye West, describing feeling "weaponized" by the rapper during his split from Kim Kardashian. Fox reveals that she initially believed their relationship could be genuine, but quickly realized she was being used as a "little puppet." She discusses their relationship in her book, sharing that it impacted her career opportunities. Fox also reveals that she saw red flags early on and decided to end the relationship, stating that being a mother influenced her decision-making.
The European Commission plans to assess the risks of four critical technologies, including semiconductors and artificial intelligence, being weaponized by countries not aligned with its values. The EU will take measures next year to mitigate these risks, which may include export controls and partnering with like-minded allies. The move is part of the EU's economic security strategy and follows similar actions taken by the US and Australia. The other two critical technologies on the EU's list are quantum technologies and biotechnologies.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis warns that the left will "weaponize" former President Donald Trump's comments against six-week abortion bans, suggesting they will use Trump's remarks to try to defeat pro-life causes. DeSantis also cautioned pro-life voters that Trump may "sell them out" on abortion after the former president criticized DeSantis' support for a six-week abortion ban. DeSantis signed the Heartbeat Protection Act in April, which restricts abortions after six weeks gestation, and a court ruling this fall will determine if the law takes effect. Trump later clarified his comment, claiming credit for the Supreme Court's overturn of Roe v. Wade and stating that the issue should be decided by individual states.
Russia has implemented a ban on diesel exports, which is expected to be temporary but has raised concerns about Moscow weaponizing energy exports. Russia is a major player in the global diesel market, and the ban could have significant implications for global supply, particularly as winter approaches. While traditional buyers in Europe have already shifted away from Russian diesel, the loss of such a large source of supply could still impact global oil markets, leading to higher prices and curtailed exports from countries like Turkey and Saudi Arabia. The ban is driven by both domestic pressures, such as surging fuel prices and increased demand, as well as the need to ensure stability in the market. However, maintaining the ban for an extended period could strain Russia's oil industry and lead to lower crude production during winter.
Microsoft's president and vice-chairman, Brad Smith, has emphasized the need for human control over artificial intelligence (AI) to prevent its weaponization. Smith stated that AI has the potential to become both a tool and a weapon, and it is crucial to ensure that humans can slow down or turn off AI systems. He called for new laws and regulations to establish safety breaks, similar to circuit breakers in electricity or emergency brakes on school buses. Smith also highlighted that AI should be seen as a tool that supplements human work rather than replacing jobs.
Whistleblowers and former FBI special agents Garret O'Boyle and Steve Friend accused the FBI of being weaponized for political gain, alleging that "a lot" of agents share their beliefs but are too afraid to speak out. O'Boyle and Friend testified before Congress about the FBI's "nefarious" politicization and weaponization, claiming they were victims of retaliation for expressing concern. The FBI denied any retaliation and stated its mission is to uphold the Constitution and protect the American people.
