US President Donald Trump's Trade Advisor Peter Navarro on Thursday (August 7) talked about why the US did not impose tariffs on Russian oil on China, as it slapped India with 50 per cent tariffs, while also threatening to impose secondary tariffs.The White House official and Trump trade advisor said that the US already has over 50 per cent tariffs on China, so they don't want to be at a point where it hurts the US only."As the boss says, let's see what happens. Keep in mind that we have over 50 per cent tariffs on China already. We have over 50 per cent tariffs on China, so we don't want to get to a point where we actually hurt ourselves. And I think I've given a really good answer to that," Navarro said.This comes as Trump earlier imposed 25 per cent tariffs on India, which he further increased last night, making it 50 per cent. The US president also threatened to impose secondary tariffs.Calling India "the maharaja of tariffs", Navarro said that it is important to understand that the rationale for the Indian tariffs is very different from the reciprocal tariffs. "This was a pure national security issue associated with India's abject refusal to stop buying Russian oil," he said.The video of Navarro's remarks went viral on social media hours after Trump imposed 25 per cent additional tariffs on India on Wednesday. Trump's trade advisor further criticised India for importing Russian oil, saying that India uses American dollars to pay Russia for energy and Russia then uses that money to finance its military to kill Ukrainians."And then American taxpayers are called upon to pay for the weapons that have to defend Ukraine against Russian armaments paid for by American dollars that came from India," he added.China and the US reached a trade deal in May, slashing reciprocal tariffs for 90 days. Notably, the period will end on August 12.&nbsp;

The White House official and Trump trade advisor said that the US already has over 50 per cent tariffs on China, so they don't want to be at a point where it hurts the US only.

US President Donald Trump's Trade Advisor Peter Navarro on Thursday (August 7) talked about why the US did not impose tariffs on Russian oil on China, as it slapped India with 50 per cent tariffs, while also threatening to impose secondary tariffs. The White House official and Trump trade advisor said that the US already has over 50 per cent tariffs on China, so they don't want to be at a point where it hurts the US only. "As the boss says, let's see what happens. Keep in mind that we have over 50 per cent tariffs on China already. We have over 50 per cent tariffs on China, so we don't want to get to a point where we actually hurt ourselves. And I think I've given a really good answer to that," Navarro said. This comes as Trump earlier imposed 25 per cent tariffs on India, which he further increased last night, making it 50 per cent. The US president also threatened to impose secondary tariffs. Calling India "the maharaja of tariffs", Navarro said that it is important to understand that the rationale for the Indian tariffs is very different from the reciprocal tariffs. "This was a pure national security issue associated with India's abject refusal to stop buying Russian oil," he said. The video of Navarro's remarks went viral on social media hours after Trump imposed 25 per cent additional tariffs on India on Wednesday. Trump's trade advisor further criticised India for importing Russian oil, saying that India uses American dollars to pay Russia for energy and Russia then uses that money to finance its military to kill Ukrainians. "And then American taxpayers are called upon to pay for the weapons that have to defend Ukraine against Russian armaments paid for by American dollars that came from India," he added. China and the US reached a trade deal in May, slashing reciprocal tariffs for 90 days. Notably, the period will end on August 12.

The White House official and Trump trade advisor said that the US already has over 50 per cent tariffs on China, so they don't want to be at a point where it hurts the US only.

'India, the Maharaja of tariffs': Trump's trade advisor reveals why China is not hit with tariffs over Russian oil

In a surprising move, Taiwan has launched a TV show, named "Zero Day Attack", showing what a potential Chinese invasion could look like. Partially funded by the Taiwanese government, the show hopes to raise awareness about the possible threat China poses. Beijing has always viewed self-ruled Taiwan as part of its territory and has vowed to reunify with it someday.&nbsp;The series "Zero Day Attack" was launched over the weekend as the first episode aired.&nbsp;The show, aimed at raising awareness, has been seen otherwise by some critics. As some are raising concerns over the show being an attempt to spread fear. The show is focused on how various parts of Taiwanese society deal with the invasion.<h2>Here's what Chinese invasion would look like?</h2>One of the key scenes in the show presents a Chinese fighter jet plane crashing in the waters off Taiwan's coast, prompting Chinese warships to blockade the island for a "search and rescue".&nbsp;While Taiwanese soldiers who were manning Dadan Island, a rocky outcrop located a few kilometres from China's coast, began vanishing mysteriously.&nbsp;One night, a fishing boat lands on Dadan, triggering a signal flare into the sky as it illuminates Chinese soldiers who have spilled out of the boat and amassed on the beach.&nbsp;Moreover, the show further presents several scenarios in which an invasion could unfold and affect the lives of Taiwanese people. It includes disruption of Taiwan's communication lines; Chinese disinformation campaigns; "fifth column" supporters of China stirring up unrest; and military officials turned collaborators who conspired against Taiwan.&nbsp;In an interview with the BBC, Showrunner Cheng Hsin-mei said that she wanted to make the series to warn the Taiwanese people that the war is really coming, citing China's rising use of "disinformation campaigns and grey zone warfare to put our society in chaos and make us confused about our identity".&nbsp;While Taiwan's culture ministry has partially funded the show, the military has supported filming and production. Moreover, Chunghwa Telecoms, Taiwan's largest telecommunications company, in which the government has a minority stake, also contributed funding.

The show, aimed at raising awareness, has been seen otherwise by some critics. As some are raising concerns over the show being an attempt to spread fear. The show is focused on how various parts of Taiwanese society deal with the invasion.

In a surprising move, Taiwan has launched a TV show, named "Zero Day Attack", showing what a potential Chinese invasion could look like. Partially funded by the Taiwanese government, the show hopes to raise awareness about the possible threat China poses. Beijing has always viewed self-ruled Taiwan as part of its territory and has vowed to reunify with it someday. The series "Zero Day Attack" was launched over the weekend as the first episode aired. The show, aimed at raising awareness, has been seen otherwise by some critics. As some are raising concerns over the show being an attempt to spread fear. The show is focused on how various parts of Taiwanese society deal with the invasion. Here's what Chinese invasion would look like? One of the key scenes in the show presents a Chinese fighter jet plane crashing in the waters off Taiwan's coast, prompting Chinese warships to blockade the island for a "search and rescue". While Taiwanese soldiers who were manning Dadan Island, a rocky outcrop located a few kilometres from China's coast, began vanishing mysteriously. One night, a fishing boat lands on Dadan, triggering a signal flare into the sky as it illuminates Chinese soldiers who have spilled out of the boat and amassed on the beach. Moreover, the show further presents several scenarios in which an invasion could unfold and affect the lives of Taiwanese people. It includes disruption of Taiwan's communication lines; Chinese disinformation campaigns; "fifth column" supporters of China stirring up unrest; and military officials turned collaborators who conspired against Taiwan. In an interview with the BBC, Showrunner Cheng Hsin-mei said that she wanted to make the series to warn the Taiwanese people that the war is really coming, citing China's rising use of "disinformation campaigns and grey zone warfare to put our society in chaos and make us confused about our identity". While Taiwan's culture ministry has partially funded the show, the military has supported filming and production. Moreover, Chunghwa Telecoms, Taiwan's largest telecommunications company, in which the government has a minority stake, also contributed funding.

The show, aimed at raising awareness, has been seen otherwise by some critics. As some are raising concerns over the show being an attempt to spread fear. The show is focused on how various parts of Taiwanese society deal with the invasion.

'Warning, the war is coming': Taiwan TV show 'Zero Day Attack' depicts what Chinese invasion could look like

Republican Leader and former US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley on Tuesday (August 5) criticised US President Donald Trump for threatening India over the purchase of Russian oil, as he said to impose 25 per cent tariffs plus penalties, while giving China a pass for the same reason.In a post on X, Nikki Haley stressed that Trump’s move to impose tariffs on India for buying Russian oil could impact US-India relations.She further said that not just India, but also China, is a number one buyer of Russian oil, but got a pass as the US gave it a 90-day tariff pause.“India should not be buying oil from Russia. But China, an adversary and the number one buyer of Russian and Iranian oil, got a 90-day tariff pause. Don’t give China a pass and burn a relationship with a strong ally like India,” Haley wrote in her post on X.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">India should not be buying oil from Russia. But China, an adversary and the number one buyer of Russian and Iranian oil, got a 90-day tariff pause. Don’t give China a pass and burn a relationship with a strong ally like India.&mdash; Nikki Haley (@NikkiHaley) <a href="https://twitter.com/NikkiHaley/status/1952737102967275590?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Trump last week also imposed 25 per cent tariffs on India, along with penalties for arms trading with Russia, as well as oil imports. Later, on Monday (Aug 4), Trump issued a fresh threat of a “substantial hike” in trade duties on India for buying Russian oil and “selling it on the open market for big profits”.Following the statements made by the US president, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said, “India has been targeted by the United States and the European Union for importing oil from Russia after the commencement of the Ukraine conflict.”India even stated that the US had earlier actively encouraged such imports by India for strengthening the stability of global energy markets.“In this background, the targeting of India is unjustified and unreasonable. Like any major economy, India will take all necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security,” the statement added.Earlier today, the Kremlin slammed Trump's threats to raise tariffs on India for buying Russian oil, calling it "illegal". Kremlin Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, while speaking to reporters, said that it was unacceptable to force countries to stop trading with Russia.Peskov further stressed that sovereign nations can choose their trading partners. “Sovereign countries have the right to choose their own trading partners,” spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

Nikki Haley said that not just India, but also China, is a number one buyer of Russian oil, but got a pass as the US gave it a 90-day tariff pause.

Republican Leader and former US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley on Tuesday (August 5) criticised US President Donald Trump for threatening India over the purchase of Russian oil, as he said to impose 25 per cent tariffs plus penalties, while giving China a pass for the same reason. In a post on X, Nikki Haley stressed that Trump’s move to impose tariffs on India for buying Russian oil could impact US-India relations. She further said that not just India, but also China, is a number one buyer of Russian oil, but got a pass as the US gave it a 90-day tariff pause. “India should not be buying oil from Russia. But China, an adversary and the number one buyer of Russian and Iranian oil, got a 90-day tariff pause. Don’t give China a pass and burn a relationship with a strong ally like India,” Haley wrote in her post on X.

Nikki Haley said that not just India, but also China, is a number one buyer of Russian oil, but got a pass as the US gave it a 90-day tariff pause.

‘Don’t burn relationship with India’: Nikki Haley defends India, accuses Trump of favouring China amid tariff threats

China’s independent oil companies are making a significant push into Iraq’s oil sector, with plans to double their output in the country to 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) by 2030. This surge in activity comes as Iraq, the second-largest oil producer in OPEC, looks to attract new investments and meet ambitious production goals. These smaller Chinese firms, led by veterans of China’s major state-owned energy giants, are capitalising on lucrative contract terms and lower operational costs.China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC), which currently dominates Iraq’s oil output, controls over half of the country’s production at major fields such as Haifaya, Rumaila, and West Qurna 1. However, the latest influx of smaller, privately run Chinese firms into Iraq is shifting the landscape. Companies such as Geo-Jade Petroleum, United Energy Group, Zhongman Petroleum, and Anton Oilfield Services have won significant exploration licenses and are now betting on Iraq’s improved investment climate and growing political stability.<h2>A changing landscape for Iraq’s oil industry</h2>The transition to profit-sharing contracts, implemented by Iraq’s oil ministry a year ago, has proven to be a key factor in attracting smaller Chinese firms. These new agreements offer greater financial flexibility compared to the previous fixed-fee contracts, which were more common during the era of major Western oil players like ExxonMobil and Shell. Smaller Chinese firms are also proving to be more nimble and cost-effective in their operations, with a reputation for rapid project execution, strict adherence to timelines, and a higher risk tolerance.Chinese companies are reducing drilling costs, with prices now half what they were a decade ago. Executives say that these firms can develop an oilfield in as little as two to three years, much faster than their Western counterparts, who typically require five to ten years. “Chinese independents have much lower management costs compared to Western firms and are also more competitive versus Chinese state-run players,” Dai Xiaoping, CEO of Geo-Jade Petroleum, told Reuters.One of the notable projects being led by Geo-Jade is the South Basra project, which involves revitalising the Tuba field in southern Iraq and expanding its production capacity to 100,000 bpd by mid-2027. This project will also include a refinery and petrochemical complex, with investments totalling billions of dollars.<h2>Challenges ahead for Chinese firms</h2>While China’s smaller oil firms are helping to drive down industry costs, there are concerns regarding transparency and the use of Chinese labour in Iraq. Former Basra Oil operations manager Muwafaq Abbas raised concerns about the technical standards and reliance on Chinese staff, which has often left local Iraqi workers in lower-paying positions. Despite these challenges, Iraq remains keen to bolster its oil output, with a goal of increasing production to over 6 million bpd by 2029.Though Chinese companies are making significant strides in Iraq, some Western firms are returning to the market. TotalEnergies, for example, announced a $27 billion project in 2023, and BP is expected to invest up to $25 billion in the redevelopment of fields in the Kurdish region.

Chinese companies are reducing drilling costs, with prices now half what they were a decade ago. Executives say that these firms can develop an oilfield in as little as two to three years, much faster than their Western counterparts, who typically require five to ten years.

China’s independent oil companies are making a significant push into Iraq’s oil sector, with plans to double their output in the country to 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) by 2030. This surge in activity comes as Iraq, the second-largest oil producer in OPEC, looks to attract new investments and meet ambitious production goals. These smaller Chinese firms, led by veterans of China’s major state-owned energy giants, are capitalising on lucrative contract terms and lower operational costs. China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC), which currently dominates Iraq’s oil output, controls over half of the country’s production at major fields such as Haifaya, Rumaila, and West Qurna 1. However, the latest influx of smaller, privately run Chinese firms into Iraq is shifting the landscape. Companies such as Geo-Jade Petroleum, United Energy Group, Zhongman Petroleum, and Anton Oilfield Services have won significant exploration licenses and are now betting on Iraq’s improved investment climate and growing political stability. A changing landscape for Iraq’s oil industry The transition to profit-sharing contracts, implemented by Iraq’s oil ministry a year ago, has proven to be a key factor in attracting smaller Chinese firms. These new agreements offer greater financial flexibility compared to the previous fixed-fee contracts, which were more common during the era of major Western oil players like ExxonMobil and Shell. Smaller Chinese firms are also proving to be more nimble and cost-effective in their operations, with a reputation for rapid project execution, strict adherence to timelines, and a higher risk tolerance. Chinese companies are reducing drilling costs, with prices now half what they were a decade ago. Executives say that these firms can develop an oilfield in as little as two to three years, much faster than their Western counterparts, who typically require five to ten years. “Chinese independents have much lower management costs compared to Western firms and are also more competitive versus Chinese state-run players,” Dai Xiaoping, CEO of Geo-Jade Petroleum, told Reuters. One of the notable projects being led by Geo-Jade is the South Basra project, which involves revitalising the Tuba field in southern Iraq and expanding its production capacity to 100,000 bpd by mid-2027. This project will also include a refinery and petrochemical complex, with investments totalling billions of dollars. Challenges ahead for Chinese firms While China’s smaller oil firms are helping to drive down industry costs, there are concerns regarding transparency and the use of Chinese labour in Iraq. Former Basra Oil operations manager Muwafaq Abbas raised concerns about the technical standards and reliance on Chinese staff, which has often left local Iraqi workers in lower-paying positions. Despite these challenges, Iraq remains keen to bolster its oil output, with a goal of increasing production to over 6 million bpd by 2029. Though Chinese companies are making significant strides in Iraq, some Western firms are returning to the market. TotalEnergies, for example, announced a $27 billion project in 2023, and BP is expected to invest up to $25 billion in the redevelopment of fields in the Kurdish region.

Chinese companies are reducing drilling costs, with prices now half what they were a decade ago. Executives say that these firms can develop an oilfield in as little as two to three years, much faster than their Western counterparts, who typically require five to ten years.

Iraq’s oil industry sees surge in Chinese investment amid western retreat

Pakistan has launched what it called South Asia's first ‘subway on wheels’. Unveiled in Lahore, this rubber-wheeled, solar-powered tram resembles a bus but touts to deliver the efficiency of a metro, that too without a track. It is Pakistan's effort to modernise its urban transport and plans to deploy it in 30 cities. The announcement is indeed a fascinating feat, but experts and transport analysts are divided on whether the transport qualifies as a metro. But what is certain is that China's influence is truly reshaping Pakistan's infrastructure.<h2>What is 'Subway on the Wheels'?</h2>The vehicle, which runs on regular roads guided by virtual tracks using sensors and GPS technology, mimics the form and function of a metro system. It is electric and solar-powered and contributes to Pakistan's renewable energy goals. The system also allows multiple carriages to be connected and resemble a train, and can carry up to 500 passengers.&nbsp;But is it really a metro? Despite the branding, unlike a true metro, it shares roads with other vehicles, raising concerns over traffic and speed reliability. The vehicle's rubber tire makes it closer to a solar-powered bus than a train. It lacks dedicated infrastructure like underground tunnels, stations, or overpasses like those of a conventional metro system.But its cost-effective nature makes it compatible for an economically troubled nation such as Pakistan; moreover, being environmentally friendly public transport, it will potentially reduce the carbon footprint of the nation. For China, this is another strategic infrastructure export and marks a boost in its soft power in South Asia. For the region, it sparks a broader debate about low-cost, scalable transport innovation in mass mobility. So, despite not being a metro in true essence, it serves the purpose and marks a shift toward pragmatic, futuristic, and politically strategic infrastructure with China's tech and funding.&nbsp;

Pakistan has launched South Asia's first solar-powered bus with China's tech. Pakistani media calls a trackless metro or ‘Subway on wheels’, but is it really a trackless metro? What are its potential, and what does it mean for the future of mass mobility in South Asia?

Pakistan has launched what it called South Asia's first ‘subway on wheels’. Unveiled in Lahore, this rubber-wheeled, solar-powered tram resembles a bus but touts to deliver the efficiency of a metro, that too without a track. It is Pakistan's effort to modernise its urban transport and plans to deploy it in 30 cities. The announcement is indeed a fascinating feat, but experts and transport analysts are divided on whether the transport qualifies as a metro. But what is certain is that China's influence is truly reshaping Pakistan's infrastructure. What is 'Subway on the Wheels'? The vehicle, which runs on regular roads guided by virtual tracks using sensors and GPS technology, mimics the form and function of a metro system. It is electric and solar-powered and contributes to Pakistan's renewable energy goals. The system also allows multiple carriages to be connected and resemble a train, and can carry up to 500 passengers. But is it really a metro? Despite the branding, unlike a true metro, it shares roads with other vehicles, raising concerns over traffic and speed reliability. The vehicle's rubber tire makes it closer to a solar-powered bus than a train. It lacks dedicated infrastructure like underground tunnels, stations, or overpasses like those of a conventional metro system. But its cost-effective nature makes it compatible for an economically troubled nation such as Pakistan; moreover, being environmentally friendly public transport, it will potentially reduce the carbon footprint of the nation. For China, this is another strategic infrastructure export and marks a boost in its soft power in South Asia. For the region, it sparks a broader debate about low-cost, scalable transport innovation in mass mobility. So, despite not being a metro in true essence, it serves the purpose and marks a shift toward pragmatic, futuristic, and politically strategic infrastructure with China's tech and funding.

Pakistan has launched South Asia's first solar-powered bus with China's tech. Pakistani media calls a trackless metro or ‘Subway on wheels’, but is it really a trackless metro? What are its potential and what does it mean for the future of mass mobility in South Asia?

Pakistan unveils 'Subway on wheels' in Lahore with help from China: Is it really a trackless metro?

As Typhoon Co-May made landfall in Shanghai on Wednesday (July 30), it brought strong winds and heavy rainfall. Moreover, tsunami alerts were spread across the Pacific following a massive earthquake off Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula. A typhoon made landfall, and around two lakh people were evacuated from risk zone areas in and around the financial hub of Shanghai.The authorities have issued alerts and cancelled hundreds of flights, urging people to stay indoors as the typhoon swept across the region, Reuters reported.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-grok-is-trash-musk-s-ai-chatbot-slammed-for-falsely-claiming-hawaii-tsunami-warning-cancelled-1753873206276">Also read: 'GROK IS TRASH': Musk's AI chatbot slammed for falsely claiming Hawaii tsunami warning cancelled</a>&nbsp;Authorities, in an effort to keep people safe, evacuated over 280,000 people to safer locations. While forecasters have warned that Co-May could make a second landfall closer to Shanghai later on Wednesday."From last night to 10:00 am today, 282,800 people have been evacuated and relocated, basically achieving the goal of evacuating all those who needed to be evacuated," state broadcaster CCTV reported.The Shanghai Central Meteorological Observatory issued an orange alert, which was an earlier rainstorm alert. Notably, orange alert is the second-highest warning level.The storm initially made landfall in Zhoushan, a port city in Zhejiang province, with sustained winds reaching up to 83 km/hr near its centre.Following this, construction projects have been halted across the city. Moreover, Yangshan Port, the largest container port in the world, suspended operation on Tuesday.Earlier today, the magnitude 8.8 quake struck at 8:24 am (2304 GMT Tuesday) off Petropavlovsk on Russia's remote Kamchatka peninsula and was one of the 10 biggest recorded, according to the USGS.As per reports, this was one of the strongest earthquakes ever recorded to strike Russia's sparsely populated Far East early. It caused tsunamis of up to four metres (12 feet) across the Pacific and sparked evacuations from Hawaii to Japan.&nbsp;

The authorities in Shanghai have issued alerts and cancelled hundreds of flights, urging people to stay indoors as the typhoon swept across the region. 

As Typhoon Co-May made landfall in Shanghai on Wednesday (July 30), it brought strong winds and heavy rainfall. Moreover, tsunami alerts were spread across the Pacific following a massive earthquake off Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula. A typhoon made landfall, and around two lakh people were evacuated from risk zone areas in and around the financial hub of Shanghai. The authorities have issued alerts and cancelled hundreds of flights, urging people to stay indoors as the typhoon swept across the region, Reuters reported. Also read: 'GROK IS TRASH': Musk's AI chatbot slammed for falsely claiming Hawaii tsunami warning cancelled Authorities, in an effort to keep people safe, evacuated over 280,000 people to safer locations. While forecasters have warned that Co-May could make a second landfall closer to Shanghai later on Wednesday. "From last night to 10:00 am today, 282,800 people have been evacuated and relocated, basically achieving the goal of evacuating all those who needed to be evacuated," state broadcaster CCTV reported. The Shanghai Central Meteorological Observatory issued an orange alert, which was an earlier rainstorm alert. Notably, orange alert is the second-highest warning level. The storm initially made landfall in Zhoushan, a port city in Zhejiang province, with sustained winds reaching up to 83 km/hr near its centre. Following this, construction projects have been halted across the city. Moreover, Yangshan Port, the largest container port in the world, suspended operation on Tuesday. Earlier today, the magnitude 8.8 quake struck at 8:24 am (2304 GMT Tuesday) off Petropavlovsk on Russia's remote Kamchatka peninsula and was one of the 10 biggest recorded, according to the USGS. As per reports, this was one of the strongest earthquakes ever recorded to strike Russia's sparsely populated Far East early. It caused tsunamis of up to four metres (12 feet) across the Pacific and sparked evacuations from Hawaii to Japan.

The authorities in Shanghai have issued alerts and cancelled hundreds of flights, urging people to stay indoors as the typhoon swept across the region.&nbsp;

Typhoon Co-May hits China, tsunami warning issued as around two lakh people evacuated - Here's what we know

A Chinese wellness practitioner with no license to practice medicine is injecting bleach into people's tumours. He claims 20 success stories for his treatment that costs $20,000. According to Wired, Chinese "inventor" Xuewu Liu prepares a mix featuring chlorine dioxide, a highly toxic bleach compound, and injects it directly into tumours, claiming it shrinks them. The treatment, which is only available at clinics in China and Germany, is touted by Liu as successful, but a woman has told the publication that it made her illness worse. The woman, who is originally from China but lives in the United Kingdom, reached out to Liu through WhatsApp and got the bleach mix. She administered the supposed treatment herself and says it led to immediate side effects. "It was fine after the injection, but I was woken up by severe pain [like] I had never experienced in my life," the woman said, adding that the pain lasted for three to four days. She stopped it but resumed injecting the tumour a few months later. She then went to China to have Liu do it, despite him not having any medical license. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/swedish-company-gives-masturbation-break-to-its-staff-1753760328714">'An apple a day...': A Swedish company gives 30-minute masturbation break to its staff. Here's why</a><h2>Chinese woman said her tumour got worse after Liu's treatment</h2>The woman is now slamming Liu's treatment, while Liu says it was her fault that it didn't work. "The tumour shrinks first, then it grows faster than before," the woman said. She told Wired that the tumour has spread to the skin after the injection. "I suspect it is because the chlorine dioxide has broken the vein, and the cancer cells go to the skin area," she said. Wired also spoke to Liu, who said the problems suffered by the woman happened because she didn't complete a full course of the injections. He claimed that he has used the bleach mix on himself over 50 times and never suffered any problems. Liu says personal tests led him to administer the mix on others. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/do-not-touch-them-if-you-see-these-pink-clusters-in-florida-crush-them-they-are-1753526371884">DO NOT TOUCH THEM: If you see these pink clusters in Florida, crush them. They are...</a><h2>Liu wants to test his treatment in the US</h2>Liu now has his eyes set on the United States. Notably, the FDA removed a warning about the practice of bleaching earlier this year. He has even written to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, about conducting more clinical research into chlorine dioxide. In the absence of a warning on bleaching, Liu is hopeful of conducting trials in the US. "Without the FDA’s heavy-handed warnings, it’s likely my therapy would have been accepted for trials years earlier with institutional partnerships and investor support," Liu told Wired. It remains to be seen what happens to Liu's efforts to have his treatment tested in the US, but experts warn that people should only stick to approved treatments.

A man from China, who is not licensed to practice medicine, has created a toxic mix using bleach, which he says shrinks tumours. But a woman has said that her tumour worsened after she used it. Liu blames her for the failure, and now wants to enter the US market

A Chinese wellness practitioner with no license to practice medicine is injecting bleach into people's tumours. He claims 20 success stories for his treatment that costs $20,000. According to Wired, Chinese "inventor" Xuewu Liu prepares a mix featuring chlorine dioxide, a highly toxic bleach compound, and injects it directly into tumours, claiming it shrinks them. The treatment, which is only available at clinics in China and Germany, is touted by Liu as successful, but a woman has told the publication that it made her illness worse. The woman, who is originally from China but lives in the United Kingdom, reached out to Liu through WhatsApp and got the bleach mix. She administered the supposed treatment herself and says it led to immediate side effects. "It was fine after the injection, but I was woken up by severe pain [like] I had never experienced in my life," the woman said, adding that the pain lasted for three to four days. She stopped it but resumed injecting the tumour a few months later. She then went to China to have Liu do it, despite him not having any medical license. Also Read: 'An apple a day...': A Swedish company gives 30-minute masturbation break to its staff. Here's why Chinese woman said her tumour got worse after Liu's treatment The woman is now slamming Liu's treatment, while Liu says it was her fault that it didn't work. "The tumour shrinks first, then it grows faster than before," the woman said. She told Wired that the tumour has spread to the skin after the injection. "I suspect it is because the chlorine dioxide has broken the vein, and the cancer cells go to the skin area," she said. Wired also spoke to Liu, who said the problems suffered by the woman happened because she didn't complete a full course of the injections. He claimed that he has used the bleach mix on himself over 50 times and never suffered any problems. Liu says personal tests led him to administer the mix on others. Also Read: DO NOT TOUCH THEM: If you see these pink clusters in Florida, crush them. They are... Liu wants to test his treatment in the US Liu now has his eyes set on the United States. Notably, the FDA removed a warning about the practice of bleaching earlier this year. He has even written to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, about conducting more clinical research into chlorine dioxide. In the absence of a warning on bleaching, Liu is hopeful of conducting trials in the US. "Without the FDA’s heavy-handed warnings, it’s likely my therapy would have been accepted for trials years earlier with institutional partnerships and investor support," Liu told Wired. It remains to be seen what happens to Liu's efforts to have his treatment tested in the US, but experts warn that people should only stick to approved treatments.

A man from China, who is not licensed to practice medicine, has created a toxic mix using bleach, which he says shrinks tumours. But a woman has said that her tumour worsened after she used it. Liu blames her for the failure, and now wants to enter the US market

Man with no medical license injects toxic bleach mix into tumours for $20,000. He is eyeing US as his next market

There is outrage in China after news spread that a pet clinic had run over a dog because it could not save it. The border collie named Lucky was sent by its owner to the You Bai clinic for sterilisation on July 10. She is accusing the clinic of killing her beloved three-year-old pet dog, who helped her through depression. Lucky was operated upon, after which the clinic took it out on the street and had a car drive over it, SCMP reported. The clinic then called the woman and told her an elaborate story about her dog's death. This made her suspicious about them, and she checked the CCTV footage. It revealed the horrible thing the clinic had done. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/man-dies-after-consuming-nothing-but-beer-for-a-month-following-divorce-1753425374104">Man dies after consuming nothing but beer for a month following divorce</a><h2>Clinic had a car run over the dog</h2>After the unnamed woman sent the dog to the clinic for sterilisation, the procedure started. However, it informed the woman that they could not find a blood vessel and couldn't continue the operation. They kept the dog with them to monitor its status. The woman left for her home. Three hours later, she received a call that her dog had been in a car accident. She rushed to the clinic, and the dog died around midnight. Detailing the reason, the clinic told her that she got sick after she left, and they had to perform surgery. The owner was not informed about the emergency procedure. It added that the operation did not work out, after which they took it for a walk. There it was hit by a car. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/lemon-tree-planted-by-brisbane-woman-for-gin-and-tonic-stolen-in-bizarre-early-morning-heist-1753265660953">Brisbane woman on the hunt for thief who stole her gin and tonic lemon tree</a><h2>Clinic told a story about the dog being in a car accident</h2>The woman didn't understand why they would take a sick dog for a walk. She talked to a friend who told her it was almost impossible for a border collie to die in a car accident since they are really smart. That's when she decided to check out the surveillance camera footage from the street. It showed a clinic staff member leaving the dog in the middle of the road, after which a car ran over it. She confronted the clinic about what it had done, to which it replied that they did it so she could get compensation from the insurance company. The clinic told her it was "better to accept his death", she said in an online post. She also informed that it was impossible to do since she suffered from depression, and the dog helped her through it. Authorities have suspended the clinic’s operations after the complaint.&nbsp; &nbsp;

A pet clinic in China has triggered anger across the country after deliberately running over a pet dog because it could not treat it. The owner says she suffers from depression and cannot accept her dog's death.

There is outrage in China after news spread that a pet clinic had run over a dog because it could not save it. The border collie named Lucky was sent by its owner to the You Bai clinic for sterilisation on July 10. She is accusing the clinic of killing her beloved three-year-old pet dog, who helped her through depression. Lucky was operated upon, after which the clinic took it out on the street and had a car drive over it, SCMP reported. The clinic then called the woman and told her an elaborate story about her dog's death. This made her suspicious about them, and she checked the CCTV footage. It revealed the horrible thing the clinic had done. Also Read: Man dies after consuming nothing but beer for a month following divorce Clinic had a car run over the dog After the unnamed woman sent the dog to the clinic for sterilisation, the procedure started. However, it informed the woman that they could not find a blood vessel and couldn't continue the operation. They kept the dog with them to monitor its status. The woman left for her home. Three hours later, she received a call that her dog had been in a car accident. She rushed to the clinic, and the dog died around midnight. Detailing the reason, the clinic told her that she got sick after she left, and they had to perform surgery. The owner was not informed about the emergency procedure. It added that the operation did not work out, after which they took it for a walk. There it was hit by a car. Also Read: Brisbane woman on the hunt for thief who stole her gin and tonic lemon tree Clinic told a story about the dog being in a car accident The woman didn't understand why they would take a sick dog for a walk. She talked to a friend who told her it was almost impossible for a border collie to die in a car accident since they are really smart. That's when she decided to check out the surveillance camera footage from the street. It showed a clinic staff member leaving the dog in the middle of the road, after which a car ran over it. She confronted the clinic about what it had done, to which it replied that they did it so she could get compensation from the insurance company. The clinic told her it was "better to accept his death", she said in an online post. She also informed that it was impossible to do since she suffered from depression, and the dog helped her through it. Authorities have suspended the clinic’s operations after the complaint.

A pet clinic in China has triggered anger across the country after deliberately running over a pet dog because it could not treat it. The owner says she suffers from depression and cannot accept her dog's death.

China horror: Pet clinic puts sick dog on road, runs it over with car

China has reportedly been helping Russia sidestep Western sanctions by sending drone engines disguised as “industrial refrigeration units,” according to European security officials and documents reviewed by Reuters. These L550E engines, made by Chinese firm Xiamen Limbach Aviation Engine Co, were allegedly sent to Russian state-owned weapons maker IEMZ Kupol. The components were later used in the mass production of Garpiya-A1 attack drones, a long-range weapon deployed frequently in Ukraine.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-missile-maintenance-spare-parts-and-more-us-approves-172-million-boost-to-ukraine-s-air-defences-with-hawk-missile-support-deal-1753309847779">'Missile maintenance, spare parts and more': US approves $172 million boost to Ukraine’s air defences with HAWK missile support deal</a><h2>Massive surge in Russian drone production</h2>A leaked Kupol document shows the company signed a deal with the Russian defence ministry to produce over 6,000 Garpiya drones in 2025, up from 2,000 the previous year. By April, more than 1,500 had already been delivered.Ukrainian military intelligence told Reuters that Russia is now using about 500 Garpiya drones per month. The drones are reportedly based on Iranian Shahed drones but incorporate Chinese engines and guidance systems.<h2>How the shipments were allegedly disguised</h2>Documents seen by Reuters show that after the U.S. and EU sanctioned Xiamen, a new supplier, Beijing Xichao International Technology and Trade, took over. The engines were then shipped to a Russian front company, SMP-138, and passed on to LIBSS, which supplied them to Kupol.A contract between LIBSS and Kupol explicitly stated the engines would be described as “cooling units” to avoid scrutiny. The engines travelled from Beijing to Moscow and then to Izhevsk, where Kupol is based.<h2>China denies knowing anything</h2>China’s foreign ministry said it was unaware of the engine shipments and insisted it regulates dual-use exports in line with international rules. “China has always opposed unilateral sanctions that lack basis in international law and are not authorised by the U.N. Security Council,” the ministry said in a statement to Reuters.<h2>EU calls on China to act</h2>European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen urged Beijing to use its influence over Putin to support peace talks. “China has an influence on Russia, like the European Union has an influence on Ukraine,” she said after meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping. “It is our expectation that China uses this influence to make sure that Russia is coming seriously to the negotiation table.”<h2>Peace talks make little progress</h2>Ukraine and Russia held a third round of talks in Istanbul this week. The meeting ended quickly and failed to secure a ceasefire. Russia offered temporary truces for humanitarian reasons but rejected a broader ceasefire. Kyiv has proposed a direct meeting between Presidents Zelensky and Putin by the end of August. So far, the Kremlin has not agreed.<h2>Trump threatens new tariffs on Russia and its partners</h2>US President Donald Trump warned on July 14 that Russia would face “severe” secondary tariffs if it doesn’t agree to end the war within 50 days.He added that any country continuing to buy Russian oil, such as China, could face 100% tariffs on exports to the U.S. This would raise prices for American consumers and increase pressure on Chinese&nbsp;businesses.

China has reportedly supplied Russia with drone engines disguised as "industrial refrigeration units" to skirt Western sanctions, according to European security officials and documents seen by Reuters. The

China has reportedly been helping Russia sidestep Western sanctions by sending drone engines disguised as “industrial refrigeration units,” according to European security officials and documents reviewed by Reuters. These L550E engines, made by Chinese firm Xiamen Limbach Aviation Engine Co, were allegedly sent to Russian state-owned weapons maker IEMZ Kupol. The components were later used in the mass production of Garpiya-A1 attack drones, a long-range weapon deployed frequently in Ukraine. Also read: 'Missile maintenance, spare parts and more': US approves $172 million boost to Ukraine’s air defences with HAWK missile support deal Massive surge in Russian drone production A leaked Kupol document shows the company signed a deal with the Russian defence ministry to produce over 6,000 Garpiya drones in 2025, up from 2,000 the previous year. By April, more than 1,500 had already been delivered. Ukrainian military intelligence told Reuters that Russia is now using about 500 Garpiya drones per month. The drones are reportedly based on Iranian Shahed drones but incorporate Chinese engines and guidance systems. How the shipments were allegedly disguised Documents seen by Reuters show that after the U.S. and EU sanctioned Xiamen, a new supplier, Beijing Xichao International Technology and Trade, took over. The engines were then shipped to a Russian front company, SMP-138, and passed on to LIBSS, which supplied them to Kupol. A contract between LIBSS and Kupol explicitly stated the engines would be described as “cooling units” to avoid scrutiny. The engines travelled from Beijing to Moscow and then to Izhevsk, where Kupol is based. China denies knowing anything China’s foreign ministry said it was unaware of the engine shipments and insisted it regulates dual-use exports in line with international rules. “China has always opposed unilateral sanctions that lack basis in international law and are not authorised by the U.N. Security Council,” the ministry said in a statement to Reuters. EU calls on China to act European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen urged Beijing to use its influence over Putin to support peace talks. “China has an influence on Russia, like the European Union has an influence on Ukraine,” she said after meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping. “It is our expectation that China uses this influence to make sure that Russia is coming seriously to the negotiation table.” Peace talks make little progress Ukraine and Russia held a third round of talks in Istanbul this week. The meeting ended quickly and failed to secure a ceasefire. Russia offered temporary truces for humanitarian reasons but rejected a broader ceasefire. Kyiv has proposed a direct meeting between Presidents Zelensky and Putin by the end of August. So far, the Kremlin has not agreed. Trump threatens new tariffs on Russia and its partners US President Donald Trump warned on July 14 that Russia would face “severe” secondary tariffs if it doesn’t agree to end the war within 50 days. He added that any country continuing to buy Russian oil, such as China, could face 100% tariffs on exports to the U.S. This would raise prices for American consumers and increase pressure on Chinese businesses.

China has reportedly supplied Russia with drone engines disguised as "industrial refrigeration units" to skirt Western sanctions, according to European security officials and documents seen by Reuters. The

‘Cooling units’ or drone engines: Is China secretly fueling Russia’s drone war in Ukraine? All you need to know

Humans have never seen dinosaurs in flesh and blood and have built on the fossils collected over the years. We have imagined them roaring and standing several feet taller than us. But a new study has suggested that not all dinosaurs were beasts. Scientists have discovered a group of herbivorous dinosaurs that looked like birds with feathers all over their bodies and tweeted like them, too. This is based on the research carried out on new fossilised dinosaur bones, which included parts of the voice box. Published in PeerJ by Chinese scientists, the study states the discovery of fossils belonging to a 2-foot-long new dinosaur species, Pulaosaurus qinglong. The species has been named after "Pulao," a mythical Chinese dragon known for a loud voice. The species belongs to Neornithischia, a subgroup of Ornithischia, a herbivorous dinosaurs whose pelvic region resembled birds. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/starfish-use-mind-control-1753186092062">No brain, no problem: Starfish use chemical ‘Mind Control’ to launch underwater raids</a><h2>Yanliao Biota, dinosaur fossil hotspot in China</h2>The dinosaur bones were discovered in Yanliao Biota, a region in northeastern China that has yielded several dinosaur fossils over the years, all approximately 165–150 million years old. The fossil belongs to an immature Pulaosaurus qinglong and was found extremely well preserved in the Upper Jurassic Tiaojishan Formation in Hebei Province. There is an almost full skeleton, comprising vertebrae, limbs, pelvis, bones of the larynx or voice box, and even some rare soft tissue structures. This is the first time neornithischian dinosaur specimens were found in this hotspot. Till now, only small theropods and early birds were studied from the region. There had been a lack of a robust fossil record of ornithischians, so researchers couldn't trace back early diversification within the group. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-who-de-extincted-dire-wolf-now-want-to-bring-back-from-dead-this-12ft-tall-bird-1752485299961">Scientists who 'de-extincted' dire wolf now want to bring back from dead THIS 12ft tall bird</a> &nbsp;<h2>Dinosaurs that tweeted like birds</h2>Scientists were surprised to see fossilised larynx bones, since it is only the second dinosaur discovered with it. This helped them piece together the sound of the dinosaur. The cartilage structures in Pulaosaurus's larynx are elongated and shaped like a leaf, resembling those in modern birds. This suggests that its voice was possibly like birds. An analysis of other parts of its body showed that the dinosaur preferred chewing on soft food. The gut cavity had small, round pebbles and tiny impressions in it, which could be plant seeds or other plant material. Researchers say that the discovery of this dinosaur fills a major gap in the study of neornithischian dinosaurs.

Dinosaurs are known for their mighty roar. But scientists think not all dinosaurs were this loud. Some of them not only looked like birds, but also had a similar voice. Scientists analysed a fossilised voice box found in Chinas dinosaur hotspot, only the second such fossil.

Humans have never seen dinosaurs in flesh and blood and have built on the fossils collected over the years. We have imagined them roaring and standing several feet taller than us. But a new study has suggested that not all dinosaurs were beasts. Scientists have discovered a group of herbivorous dinosaurs that looked like birds with feathers all over their bodies and tweeted like them, too. This is based on the research carried out on new fossilised dinosaur bones, which included parts of the voice box. Published in PeerJ by Chinese scientists, the study states the discovery of fossils belonging to a 2-foot-long new dinosaur species, Pulaosaurus qinglong. The species has been named after "Pulao," a mythical Chinese dragon known for a loud voice. The species belongs to Neornithischia, a subgroup of Ornithischia, a herbivorous dinosaurs whose pelvic region resembled birds. Also Read: No brain, no problem: Starfish use chemical ‘Mind Control’ to launch underwater raids Yanliao Biota, dinosaur fossil hotspot in China The dinosaur bones were discovered in Yanliao Biota, a region in northeastern China that has yielded several dinosaur fossils over the years, all approximately 165–150 million years old. The fossil belongs to an immature Pulaosaurus qinglong and was found extremely well preserved in the Upper Jurassic Tiaojishan Formation in Hebei Province. There is an almost full skeleton, comprising vertebrae, limbs, pelvis, bones of the larynx or voice box, and even some rare soft tissue structures. This is the first time neornithischian dinosaur specimens were found in this hotspot. Till now, only small theropods and early birds were studied from the region. There had been a lack of a robust fossil record of ornithischians, so researchers couldn't trace back early diversification within the group. Also Read: Scientists who 'de-extincted' dire wolf now want to bring back from dead THIS 12ft tall bird Dinosaurs that tweeted like birds Scientists were surprised to see fossilised larynx bones, since it is only the second dinosaur discovered with it. This helped them piece together the sound of the dinosaur. The cartilage structures in Pulaosaurus's larynx are elongated and shaped like a leaf, resembling those in modern birds. This suggests that its voice was possibly like birds. An analysis of other parts of its body showed that the dinosaur preferred chewing on soft food. The gut cavity had small, round pebbles and tiny impressions in it, which could be plant seeds or other plant material. Researchers say that the discovery of this dinosaur fills a major gap in the study of neornithischian dinosaurs.

Dinosaurs are known for their mighty roar. But scientists think not all dinosaurs were this loud. Some of them not only looked like birds, but also had a similar voice. Scientists analysed a fossilised voice box found in China's dinosaur hotspot, only the second such fossil.

China's dinosaur hotspot reveals a tweeting beast in only second such discovery

Global iron ore prices eased on Wednesday, pulling back from a five-month high, as investors responded to rising supply from Brazil’s Vale SA and weighed shifting demand signals from top importer China. In Singapore, iron ore futures dropped to $104.25 per tonne, after falling as much as 1.6 per cent earlier in the day.&nbsp;&nbsp;This comes after a sharp rally over the previous two sessions, when prices surged more than 4 per cent, driven in part by optimism around China’s infrastructure push, including a massive dam project in Tibet. However, fresh supply-side data and regulatory noise have now tempered those gains.<h2>Vale output surges</h2>Brazil’s mining giant Vale SA reported that it had produced 83.6 million tonnes of iron ore in the April–June quarter, its highest second-quarter output since 2021. The company noted that although production was up, sales lagged behind output, prompting it to offer a wider mix of ore grades to match varied market demand amid stressed steelmaker margins.&nbsp;Australia’s Fortescue Ltd., another major global supplier, is due to report its production numbers on Thursday, adding further market anticipation around global supply trends.<h2>China’s steel sector in flux</h2>Despite July’s modest gains, iron ore is still recovering from a prolonged five-month slide. Prices had tumbled earlier this year due to a combination of weak Chinese construction activity, high port inventories, and tighter financing for property developers.But Beijing has since signalled a shift in tone. Authorities are pushing for supply-side reforms in the steel sector, which could boost mills’ profitability and, by extension, raw material prices. At the same time, however, these reforms include curbs on overproduction, a policy that may end up dampening overall iron ore demand.&nbsp;“Policy signals point to renewed supply restrictions,” wrote Bloomberg Intelligence analysts including Michelle Leung. They noted that daily average crude steel output in China may “keep falling,” continuing a decline seen in early July. Iron ore’s trajectory now hinges on how these opposing forces play out: greater regulatory discipline and fiscal stimulus versus weaker actual steel production.<h2>Steel and coal under pressure</h2>In Shanghai, futures for rebar and hot-rolled coil, key finished steel products also fell in tandem with iron ore. Meanwhile, coking coal futures spiked in Dalian, after Chinese regulators vowed to crack down on overproduction, echoing their efforts in the steel sector.With both supply and policy dynamics in flux, traders are likely to remain cautious.&nbsp;(With inputs from the agencies)

Futures fell to $104.25 per tonne. Vale output surged, producing 83.6 million tonnes in Q2, but sales lagged. China steel sector faces policy changes impacting production, contributing to market uncertainty.

Global iron ore prices eased on Wednesday, pulling back from a five-month high, as investors responded to rising supply from Brazil’s Vale SA and weighed shifting demand signals from top importer China. In Singapore, iron ore futures dropped to $104.25 per tonne, after falling as much as 1.6 per cent earlier in the day. This comes after a sharp rally over the previous two sessions, when prices surged more than 4 per cent, driven in part by optimism around China’s infrastructure push, including a massive dam project in Tibet. However, fresh supply-side data and regulatory noise have now tempered those gains. Vale output surges Brazil’s mining giant Vale SA reported that it had produced 83.6 million tonnes of iron ore in the April–June quarter, its highest second-quarter output since 2021. The company noted that although production was up, sales lagged behind output, prompting it to offer a wider mix of ore grades to match varied market demand amid stressed steelmaker margins. Australia’s Fortescue Ltd., another major global supplier, is due to report its production numbers on Thursday, adding further market anticipation around global supply trends. China’s steel sector in flux Despite July’s modest gains, iron ore is still recovering from a prolonged five-month slide. Prices had tumbled earlier this year due to a combination of weak Chinese construction activity, high port inventories, and tighter financing for property developers. But Beijing has since signalled a shift in tone. Authorities are pushing for supply-side reforms in the steel sector, which could boost mills’ profitability and, by extension, raw material prices. At the same time, however, these reforms include curbs on overproduction, a policy that may end up dampening overall iron ore demand. “Policy signals point to renewed supply restrictions,” wrote Bloomberg Intelligence analysts including Michelle Leung. They noted that daily average crude steel output in China may “keep falling,” continuing a decline seen in early July. Iron ore’s trajectory now hinges on how these opposing forces play out: greater regulatory discipline and fiscal stimulus versus weaker actual steel production. Steel and coal under pressure In Shanghai, futures for rebar and hot-rolled coil, key finished steel products also fell in tandem with iron ore. Meanwhile, coking coal futures spiked in Dalian, after Chinese regulators vowed to crack down on overproduction, echoing their efforts in the steel sector. With both supply and policy dynamics in flux, traders are likely to remain cautious. (With inputs from the agencies)

Global iron ore prices declined on Wednesday, retreating from a five-month peak due to increasing supply from Brazil's Vale SA and shifting demand signals from China.

Iron ore dips from 5-month high on supply, China steel policy under lens

In a big and shocking move, Japan has launched an anti-dumping investigation into stainless steel imports from China and Taiwan. Citing concerns over artificially low prices that are damaging its domestic industry, the investigation, announced jointly by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and Ministry of Finance. They will reportedly scrutinise nickel-based cold-rolled stainless-steel sheets and strips. These products are vital in construction, automobile and appliances sectors where price wars have intensified.&nbsp;The probe stems from a formal complaint submitted on May 12 by Nippon Steel, Japan’s largest steelmaker, and other domestic producers. Nippon Steel and other domestic producers alleged that they’re being undercut by cheaper imports, forcing them to slash prices and absorb cost pressures, jeopardising profitability.<h2>How much cheaper are these imports?</h2>According to the application filed by Japanese steelmakers, Chinese imports were sold in Japan at prices 20 to 50 per cent lower than in their home market, while Taiwanese imports were 3 to 20 per cent cheaper. Upon these pricing gaps, the complaint reveals that the companies have severely affected their ability to pass on rising production costs to customers.&nbsp;Reuters reported that the Japanese companies also claim declining operating profits, growing losses, and damage to their production scale, all linked to a surge in low-cost steel flooding the Japanese market.<h2>Steel supply glut and a global concern</h2>This comes at a time when the global steel market is already under stress, with many countries accusing Chinese companies of flooding global markets using steel subsidised by the state. Japan, which is a major player in the steel industry, had so far refrained from slapping punitive trade measures, even as others, such as the US, EU, and India, have taken steps to protect their steel sectors.&nbsp;Now, it seems Tokyo has changed tack. Tadashi Imai, Chairman of the Japan Iron and Steel Federation and also President of Nippon Steel, has long voiced concerns that global protectionism could leave Japan vulnerable to cheap steel imports, hurting domestic manufacturers and eroding Japan’s industrial base. His warnings may have finally resonated with policymakers.<h2>What happens next?</h2>The investigation is expected to conclude within a year, following which the Japanese government will decide whether to impose anti-dumping duties on the imports in question. These duties are meant to neutralise the pricing advantage of the foreign products and protect domestic manufacturers from unfair competition.&nbsp;While Taiwan’s economy ministry declined immediate comment, China’s commerce ministry has yet to respond, as per Reuters. For now, the move marks a new phase in Japan’s trade stance, one that reflects growing frustration with market distortions caused by excess Chinese production and global economic imbalances. It also signals Japan’s willingness to defend its industrial sector, even if it means stepping into a more confrontational trade posture.&nbsp;(With inputs from&nbsp; the agencies)

This follows a complaint by Nippon Steel and other producers alleging significant price undercutting. Chinese imports were reportedly 20 to 50% cheaper than domestic prices, and Taiwanese imports 3 to 20% cheaper.

In a big and shocking move, Japan has launched an anti-dumping investigation into stainless steel imports from China and Taiwan. Citing concerns over artificially low prices that are damaging its domestic industry, the investigation, announced jointly by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and Ministry of Finance. They will reportedly scrutinise nickel-based cold-rolled stainless-steel sheets and strips. These products are vital in construction, automobile and appliances sectors where price wars have intensified. The probe stems from a formal complaint submitted on May 12 by Nippon Steel, Japan’s largest steelmaker, and other domestic producers. Nippon Steel and other domestic producers alleged that they’re being undercut by cheaper imports, forcing them to slash prices and absorb cost pressures, jeopardising profitability. How much cheaper are these imports? According to the application filed by Japanese steelmakers, Chinese imports were sold in Japan at prices 20 to 50 per cent lower than in their home market, while Taiwanese imports were 3 to 20 per cent cheaper. Upon these pricing gaps, the complaint reveals that the companies have severely affected their ability to pass on rising production costs to customers. Reuters reported that the Japanese companies also claim declining operating profits, growing losses, and damage to their production scale, all linked to a surge in low-cost steel flooding the Japanese market. Steel supply glut and a global concern This comes at a time when the global steel market is already under stress, with many countries accusing Chinese companies of flooding global markets using steel subsidised by the state. Japan, which is a major player in the steel industry, had so far refrained from slapping punitive trade measures, even as others, such as the US, EU, and India, have taken steps to protect their steel sectors. Now, it seems Tokyo has changed tack. Tadashi Imai, Chairman of the Japan Iron and Steel Federation and also President of Nippon Steel, has long voiced concerns that global protectionism could leave Japan vulnerable to cheap steel imports, hurting domestic manufacturers and eroding Japan’s industrial base. His warnings may have finally resonated with policymakers. What happens next? The investigation is expected to conclude within a year, following which the Japanese government will decide whether to impose anti-dumping duties on the imports in question. These duties are meant to neutralise the pricing advantage of the foreign products and protect domestic manufacturers from unfair competition. While Taiwan’s economy ministry declined immediate comment, China’s commerce ministry has yet to respond, as per Reuters. For now, the move marks a new phase in Japan’s trade stance, one that reflects growing frustration with market distortions caused by excess Chinese production and global economic imbalances. It also signals Japan’s willingness to defend its industrial sector, even if it means stepping into a more confrontational trade posture. (With inputs from the agencies)

Japan has initiated an anti-dumping investigation into stainless steel imports from China and Taiwan, citing artificially low prices threatening its domestic industry.

Japan launches anti-dumping probe into Chinese, Taiwanese steel

A China-born former engineer has pleaded guilty to stealing highly sensitive trade secrets, including technology for detecting nuclear missile launches. The US Justice Department said that Chenguang Gong, a resident of San Jose, California, has admitted guilt to the crime.The 59-year-old, who is a dual citizen of the US and China, was an engineer at a Southern California-based company, and during his time at the firm, he allegedly stole technologies, specifically designed to track ballistic and hypersonic threats.Gong pleaded guilty on Monday at the Los Angeles-based federal court. He is facing a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. Notably, the sentencing hearing is scheduled on September 29.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="">WATCH: Chinese-born US researcher arrested in California for theft of trade secret</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-born-us-researcher-arrested-in-california-for-theft-of-trade-secret-688488/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-born-us-researcher-arrested-in-california-for-theft-of-trade-secret-688488/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>Who is Chenguang Gong?</h2>Gong, a 59-year-old engineer, was working with a Southern California-based company. He transferred over 3,600 files from his former employer to personal storage devices during his brief tenure at his company.The files shared by Gong had blueprints for advanced infrared sensors used in space-based missile warning systems and sensors designed to enable US military aircraft to detect and evade heat-seeking missiles.Later, some of these files were found on storage devices at his temporary residence in Thousand Oaks.Moreover, he pleaded guilty to one count of theft of trade secrets, but got free on $1.75 million bond.The justice department's statement read that these included &nbsp;documents which have been marked as "PROPRIETARY," "EXPORT CONTROLLED," and "FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY."Later, Gong was terminated from the company in April 2023. According to the report, he used his work laptop to transfer thousands of files to his personal storage devices.Additionally, he also submitted multiple applicants to 'Talent Programs'. The US officials said that these were designed to recruit overseas experts to transfer technology.

Gong pleaded guilty on Monday at the Los Angeles-based federal court. He is facing a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. Notably, the sentencing hearing is scheduled on September 29. 

A China-born former engineer has pleaded guilty to stealing highly sensitive trade secrets, including technology for detecting nuclear missile launches. The US Justice Department said that Chenguang Gong, a resident of San Jose, California, has admitted guilt to the crime. The 59-year-old, who is a dual citizen of the US and China, was an engineer at a Southern California-based company, and during his time at the firm, he allegedly stole technologies, specifically designed to track ballistic and hypersonic threats. Gong pleaded guilty on Monday at the Los Angeles-based federal court. He is facing a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. Notably, the sentencing hearing is scheduled on September 29. WATCH: Chinese-born US researcher arrested in California for theft of trade secret https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-born-us-researcher-arrested-in-california-for-theft-of-trade-secret-688488/embed Who is Chenguang Gong? Gong, a 59-year-old engineer, was working with a Southern California-based company. He transferred over 3,600 files from his former employer to personal storage devices during his brief tenure at his company. The files shared by Gong had blueprints for advanced infrared sensors used in space-based missile warning systems and sensors designed to enable US military aircraft to detect and evade heat-seeking missiles. Later, some of these files were found on storage devices at his temporary residence in Thousand Oaks. Moreover, he pleaded guilty to one count of theft of trade secrets, but got free on $1.75 million bond. The justice department's statement read that these included documents which have been marked as "PROPRIETARY," "EXPORT CONTROLLED," and "FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY." Later, Gong was terminated from the company in April 2023. According to the report, he used his work laptop to transfer thousands of files to his personal storage devices. Additionally, he also submitted multiple applicants to 'Talent Programs'. The US officials said that these were designed to recruit overseas experts to transfer technology.

Gong pleaded guilty on Monday at the Los Angeles-based federal court. He is facing a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. Notably, the sentencing hearing is scheduled on September 29.&nbsp;

Who is Chenguang Gong? Chinese-born engineer pleads guilty for stealing US nuclear missile tech secrets

In a shocking incident in China, an investigation revealed that the provincial health officials and hospital staff attempted to cover up a case of lead poisoning, due to which hundreds of children in kindergartens became sick. The high-level scandal, which took place in western China’s Gansu Province, has drawn widespread outrage. According to a report released on Sunday (Jul 20) by a special investigative team, the officials tampered with the blood tests of students who were poisoned at Peixin Kindergarten in Tianshui city.&nbsp;The report added that the city officials accepted bribes from an investor in the kindergarten and also neglected food safety inspections across several preschools. The Peixin chefs used non-edible paint to “enhance the look” of the meals in an attempt to draw more students. It was later found that the food samples contained 2,000 times more lead than the national safety limit.&nbsp;Eight people were initially detained for their involvement in serving poisonous food to children. Six of them, including kindergarten’s principal, an investor, and cooks, were arrested, the report said.&nbsp;In addition, 10 officials will face “formal accounting procedures”, and 17 others are under disciplinary investigation.&nbsp;On July 8, authorities said that 235 children from the privately-owned kindergarten were being treated in hospital due to lead poisoning. The kids ate steamed red date cakes and sausage corn buns from the kindergarten. As of Sunday, 234 of them had been discharged.&nbsp;Earlier this month, the Gansu Provincial Centre for Disease Control and Prevention was ordered to conduct tests of 267 students and staff at Peixin after some showed symptoms of illness. However, the officials “did not take the work seriously.” The report added that the person managing the tests “seriously violated operating procedures, which distorted the results.”&nbsp;The report also accused the Tianshui No. 2 People's Hospital staff of “serious dereliction of duty” and described the handling of the case by the institution as “chaotic”. The report stated that there was “quick response” from the central government and an expert panel was convened “at the earliest opportunity” to review any lapses in procedures.&nbsp;Following the incident, China on Monday published national guidelines for provision of meals on campuses to ensure food safety. Tianshui authorities have announced free treatment for children suffering from lead poisoning at designated hospitals. It will also provide legal assistance to affected families. Meanwhile, Peixin will be managed by a state-owned kindergarten temporarily.

On July 8, authorities said that 235 children from the privately-owned kindergarten were being treated in hospital due to lead poisoning. 

In a shocking incident in China, an investigation revealed that the provincial health officials and hospital staff attempted to cover up a case of lead poisoning, due to which hundreds of children in kindergartens became sick. The high-level scandal, which took place in western China’s Gansu Province, has drawn widespread outrage. According to a report released on Sunday (Jul 20) by a special investigative team, the officials tampered with the blood tests of students who were poisoned at Peixin Kindergarten in Tianshui city. The report added that the city officials accepted bribes from an investor in the kindergarten and also neglected food safety inspections across several preschools. The Peixin chefs used non-edible paint to “enhance the look” of the meals in an attempt to draw more students. It was later found that the food samples contained 2,000 times more lead than the national safety limit. Eight people were initially detained for their involvement in serving poisonous food to children. Six of them, including kindergarten’s principal, an investor, and cooks, were arrested, the report said. In addition, 10 officials will face “formal accounting procedures”, and 17 others are under disciplinary investigation. On July 8, authorities said that 235 children from the privately-owned kindergarten were being treated in hospital due to lead poisoning. The kids ate steamed red date cakes and sausage corn buns from the kindergarten. As of Sunday, 234 of them had been discharged. Earlier this month, the Gansu Provincial Centre for Disease Control and Prevention was ordered to conduct tests of 267 students and staff at Peixin after some showed symptoms of illness. However, the officials “did not take the work seriously.” The report added that the person managing the tests “seriously violated operating procedures, which distorted the results.” The report also accused the Tianshui No. 2 People's Hospital staff of “serious dereliction of duty” and described the handling of the case by the institution as “chaotic”. The report stated that there was “quick response” from the central government and an expert panel was convened “at the earliest opportunity” to review any lapses in procedures. Following the incident, China on Monday published national guidelines for provision of meals on campuses to ensure food safety. Tianshui authorities have announced free treatment for children suffering from lead poisoning at designated hospitals. It will also provide legal assistance to affected families. Meanwhile, Peixin will be managed by a state-owned kindergarten temporarily.

On July 8, authorities said that 235 children from the privately-owned kindergarten were being treated in hospital due to lead poisoning.&nbsp;

Chinese probe reveals cover-up in lead poisoning of 200 children by provincial officials

Typhoon Wipha has wreaked havoc in southern parts of the Chinese mainland as authorities issued flash flood and landslide warnings on Monday (Jul 21). A day earlier, the storm battered Hong Kong with torrential rains and strong winds, resulting in destruction. About 670,000 residents have been forced to evacuate in China on Sunday. The tropical storm has also hit Vietnam, Philippines, and South Korea with severe weather conditions.&nbsp;Several videos of the storm have been going viral on social media, showing people struggling to stand as the strong winds push them to their knees. In one of the viral clips, people can be seen falling to the ground as fierce winds of the typhoon result in devastating conditions.&nbsp;The video released on July 19 shows people seeking shelter from strong winds near the Zhuhai Opera House building, during typhoon Wipha, in China’s Zhuhai in southern Guangdong province. The clip was widely shared on social media.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A video released on July 19 shows people seeking shelter from strong winds near the Zhuhai Opera House building, during typhoon Wipha, in China&#39;s Zhuhai in southern Guangdong province . . . . . .<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/China?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#China</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TyphoonWipha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TyphoonWipha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/typhoon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#typhoon</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Guangdong?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Guangdong</a> <a href="https://t.co/TDgiVt7cou">pic.twitter.com/TDgiVt7cou</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1947264433421726048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;At least 22 people have been killed in South Korea and the Philippines due to flooding and landslides caused by heavy downpours.&nbsp;In China, Typhoon Wipha made landfall in southern Guangdong province on Sunday evening with winds of over 118 kmph. The strong rains and winds uprooted trees, triggered landslides and left thousands of residents without electricity.&nbsp;The severe weather conditions also affected flight operations, with over 900 flights being grounded in Hong Kong, Macau, Shenzhen and Zhuhai.&nbsp;Maximum level typhoon warning was issued in Hong Kong briefly as the winds exceeded 167 kmph, causing destruction. According to authorities, 471 trees had fallen, and at least 26 injuries were reported due to the storm.&nbsp;Dark clouds were seen engulfing Victoria Harbour as Typhoon Wipha moved towards Hong Kong, and rough seas were observed. Public transport, including ferries, was also affected in the region.&nbsp;In one of the viral videos, massive dark clouds were seen rolling over the city of Zhuhai in China’s southern Guangdong province as the typhoon made landfall.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Timelapse: Massive dark clouds rolling over Southern <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/China?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#China</a>&#39;s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Zhuhai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Zhuhai</a> as <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TyphoonWipha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TyphoonWipha</a> makes landfall <a href="https://t.co/LNXgoLa6Ko">pic.twitter.com/LNXgoLa6Ko</a>&mdash; ShanghaiEye🚀official (@ShanghaiEye) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShanghaiEye/status/1947188165304787412?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Another video captured a tunnel in Fuzhou, Fujian was blocked after heavy rains resulted in a landslide.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Landslide blocks a tunnel in Fuzhou, Fujian in China after heavy rain...<a href="https://t.co/CFdMahmlZt">pic.twitter.com/CFdMahmlZt</a>&mdash; Volcaholic 🌋 (@volcaholic1) <a href="https://twitter.com/volcaholic1/status/1947255203289321747?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Footage from Vietnam’s Hai Ha City in Quang Ninh Province showed enormous clouds. &nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Wow! Incredible shelf cloud seen from Hai Ha City, Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam today...<a href="https://t.co/zAxDPu0N1h">pic.twitter.com/zAxDPu0N1h</a>&mdash; Volcaholic 🌋 (@volcaholic1) <a href="https://twitter.com/volcaholic1/status/1947272336178045140?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In China, Typhoon Wipha made landfall in southern Guangdong province on Sunday evening with winds of over 118 kmph. The strong rains and winds uprooted trees, triggered landslides and left thousands of residents without electricity.



Typhoon Wipha has wreaked havoc in southern parts of the Chinese mainland as authorities issued flash flood and landslide warnings on Monday (Jul 21). A day earlier, the storm battered Hong Kong with torrential rains and strong winds, resulting in destruction. About 670,000 residents have been forced to evacuate in China on Sunday. The tropical storm has also hit Vietnam, Philippines, and South Korea with severe weather conditions. Several videos of the storm have been going viral on social media, showing people struggling to stand as the strong winds push them to their knees. In one of the viral clips, people can be seen falling to the ground as fierce winds of the typhoon result in devastating conditions. The video released on July 19 shows people seeking shelter from strong winds near the Zhuhai Opera House building, during typhoon Wipha, in China’s Zhuhai in southern Guangdong province. The clip was widely shared on social media.

In China, Typhoon Wipha made landfall in southern Guangdong province on Sunday evening with winds of over 118 kmph. The strong rains and winds uprooted trees, triggered landslides and left thousands of residents without electricity.

Typhoon Wipha wreaks havoc in China: Viral videos capture destruction caused by tropical storm

Amid the escalating global trade tension, China has kept its benchmark lending rates unchanged. Beijing's this move signals confidence in recent economic performance even as deflationary pressure and weak domestic demand continue to cloud the outlook. China's central bank's decision comes days after Beijing posted better-than-expected second-quarter GDP figures, easing immediate pressure for fresh monetary stimulus. On Monday, the People’s Bank of China (PBOC) held both key lending rates steady, with the one-year Loan Prime Rate (LPR) at 3.0 per cent and the five-year LPR at 3.5 per cent, as per a Reuters report.&nbsp;The decision matched expectations. In a Reuters survey of 20 market watchers, all had forecast no change to either rate. The one-year rate acts as a reference for most household and corporate loans, while the five-year rate is closely tied to mortgage pricing.<h2>Growth tempers urgency for stimulus</h2>The PBOC's wait-and-watch approach follows China’s second-quarter GDP figures, which showed the economy slowed less than expected, hinting at resilience amid rising US tariffs and global trade tensions. However, the underlying message from economists is one of caution.&nbsp;According to Reuters, Tommy Xie, head of Asia macro research at OCBC, noted that China’s GDP deflator has been negative for nine straight quarters, reflecting weak nominal growth. “The weak nominal growth despite above-target real growth may weigh down corporate profitability as well as income growth". Xie further added that,“We expect PBOC to lower its benchmark interest rate by another 20 basis points this year, although the room for more aggressive rate cuts may be limited given the bottleneck faced by the economy.”<h2>Pressure builds as Deflation deepens&nbsp;</h2>As per Reuters, June data showed producer deflation worsened to its most severe level in nearly two years, signalling persistent price weakness despite stable headline growth. This deepening deflation is raising concerns among analysts, particularly as consumer demand remains subdued.&nbsp;While the central bank has refrained from cutting rates further for now, many economists believe some form of monetary easing remains likely in the second half of the year, especially if domestic conditions deteriorate or external trade risks intensify.<h2>Markets eye Politburo meeting</h2>All eyes have now turned to the Politburo meeting later this month, which is expected to lay out China’s economic strategy for the remainder of 2025. Analysts, including those at Goldman Sachs, say two structural factors, deflation and domestic demand weakness which are likely to dominate the discussion and shape investor strategy in Chinese markets.&nbsp;By holding key lending rates steady, China’s PBOC has signalled near-term confidence in economic momentum, but persistent deflation and fragile domestic consumption suggest that rate cuts or fiscal support may still be on the table in coming months. (With inputs from the agencies)

The People Bank of China (PBOC) kept the one-year and five-year Loan Prime Rates steady at 3.0% and 3.5%, respectively, aligned with market expectations. 

Amid the escalating global trade tension, China has kept its benchmark lending rates unchanged. Beijing's this move signals confidence in recent economic performance even as deflationary pressure and weak domestic demand continue to cloud the outlook. China's central bank's decision comes days after Beijing posted better-than-expected second-quarter GDP figures, easing immediate pressure for fresh monetary stimulus. On Monday, the People’s Bank of China (PBOC) held both key lending rates steady, with the one-year Loan Prime Rate (LPR) at 3.0 per cent and the five-year LPR at 3.5 per cent, as per a Reuters report. The decision matched expectations. In a Reuters survey of 20 market watchers, all had forecast no change to either rate. The one-year rate acts as a reference for most household and corporate loans, while the five-year rate is closely tied to mortgage pricing. Growth tempers urgency for stimulus The PBOC's wait-and-watch approach follows China’s second-quarter GDP figures, which showed the economy slowed less than expected, hinting at resilience amid rising US tariffs and global trade tensions. However, the underlying message from economists is one of caution. According to Reuters, Tommy Xie, head of Asia macro research at OCBC, noted that China’s GDP deflator has been negative for nine straight quarters, reflecting weak nominal growth. “The weak nominal growth despite above-target real growth may weigh down corporate profitability as well as income growth". Xie further added that,“We expect PBOC to lower its benchmark interest rate by another 20 basis points this year, although the room for more aggressive rate cuts may be limited given the bottleneck faced by the economy.” Pressure builds as Deflation deepens As per Reuters, June data showed producer deflation worsened to its most severe level in nearly two years, signalling persistent price weakness despite stable headline growth. This deepening deflation is raising concerns among analysts, particularly as consumer demand remains subdued. While the central bank has refrained from cutting rates further for now, many economists believe some form of monetary easing remains likely in the second half of the year, especially if domestic conditions deteriorate or external trade risks intensify. Markets eye Politburo meeting All eyes have now turned to the Politburo meeting later this month, which is expected to lay out China’s economic strategy for the remainder of 2025. Analysts, including those at Goldman Sachs, say two structural factors, deflation and domestic demand weakness which are likely to dominate the discussion and shape investor strategy in Chinese markets. By holding key lending rates steady, China’s PBOC has signalled near-term confidence in economic momentum, but persistent deflation and fragile domestic consumption suggest that rate cuts or fiscal support may still be on the table in coming months. (With inputs from the agencies)

China has maintained its benchmark lending rates amid rising global trade tensions, signaling confidence despite ongoing deflationary pressures and weak domestic demand.

China keeps lending rates steady as Q2 growth beats expectations

China has issued a stern warning to the European Union, promising retaliation after Brussels sanctioned two Chinese banks and five companies for allegedly helping Russia circumvent Ukraine war-related sanctions. The European Union’s new sanctions package, announced last Friday, included Heihe Rural Commercial Bank and Heilongjiang Suifenhe Rural Commercial Bank, both accused of providing cryptocurrency services that undermined EU restrictions on Moscow.&nbsp;The move marks the first time Chinese banks have been added to the EU sanctions list since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, intensifying tensions between the bloc and Beijing. According to Bloomberg, the banks were included for processing crypto-based transactions and for providing financial support to Russian entities already under EU sanctions.<h2>Beijing issues warning&nbsp;</h2>China’s Ministry of Commerce responded on Monday, condemning the EU sanctions as actions that “seriously harmed trade, economic and financial ties.” The ministry said it would take “necessary steps” to protect the “legitimate rights and interests” of Chinese firms.&nbsp;The sanctioned banks could not be immediately reached for comment, Reuters reported.In June, ahead of the sanctions, China had already protested the EU’s plan. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian had said that “normal exchanges and cooperation between Chinese and Russian companies are consistent with WTO rules” and “should not be disrupted or affected.”&nbsp;Beijing also stepped up diplomatic efforts behind the scenes. As per the South China Morning Post, China’s ambassador to the EU lobbied European officials to drop the proposal. But Brussels went ahead, escalating the fallout.<h2>China caught in crossfire of Russia sanctions</h2>From energy to banking, China’s close ties with Russia have come under increasing scrutiny from both the EU and the United States. This is not the first time Chinese banks have been impacted. In 2023, the US authorised secondary sanctions on foreign financial institutions that assist Russia, prompting several Chinese lenders to scale back ties.&nbsp;According to Bloomberg, state-owned giants like ICBC and Bank of China had already begun restricting financing for Russian commodities as early as 2022, wary of losing access to the US dollar clearing system. The EU’s latest action builds on growing concerns that crypto tools and opaque financial channels are being used to bypass Western sanctions, with Chinese entities playing a key role.<h2>What happens next?</h2>Attention will now turn to how China retaliates. Foreign Minister Wang Yi had earlier warned of consequences if Chinese banks were sanctioned. Beijing could target European firms operating in China or implement countermeasures via its cybersecurity and export control laws, experts suggest.&nbsp;The escalating row comes at a time when China–EU ties are already strained, over issues ranging from electric vehicle tariffs to tech transfer rules. As geopolitical fault lines deepen, Brussels appears ready to hold Beijing accountable for any role in supporting Moscow’s war machine, directly or indirectly. (With inputs from the agencies)

Tensions are escalating as Beijing close ties with Russia come under scrutiny, with potential retaliatory actions against European firms and reliance on cybersecurity laws suggested.

China has issued a stern warning to the European Union, promising retaliation after Brussels sanctioned two Chinese banks and five companies for allegedly helping Russia circumvent Ukraine war-related sanctions. The European Union’s new sanctions package, announced last Friday, included Heihe Rural Commercial Bank and Heilongjiang Suifenhe Rural Commercial Bank, both accused of providing cryptocurrency services that undermined EU restrictions on Moscow. The move marks the first time Chinese banks have been added to the EU sanctions list since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, intensifying tensions between the bloc and Beijing. According to Bloomberg, the banks were included for processing crypto-based transactions and for providing financial support to Russian entities already under EU sanctions. Beijing issues warning China’s Ministry of Commerce responded on Monday, condemning the EU sanctions as actions that “seriously harmed trade, economic and financial ties.” The ministry said it would take “necessary steps” to protect the “legitimate rights and interests” of Chinese firms. The sanctioned banks could not be immediately reached for comment, Reuters reported. In June, ahead of the sanctions, China had already protested the EU’s plan. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian had said that “normal exchanges and cooperation between Chinese and Russian companies are consistent with WTO rules” and “should not be disrupted or affected.” Beijing also stepped up diplomatic efforts behind the scenes. As per the South China Morning Post, China’s ambassador to the EU lobbied European officials to drop the proposal. But Brussels went ahead, escalating the fallout. China caught in crossfire of Russia sanctions From energy to banking, China’s close ties with Russia have come under increasing scrutiny from both the EU and the United States. This is not the first time Chinese banks have been impacted. In 2023, the US authorised secondary sanctions on foreign financial institutions that assist Russia, prompting several Chinese lenders to scale back ties. According to Bloomberg, state-owned giants like ICBC and Bank of China had already begun restricting financing for Russian commodities as early as 2022, wary of losing access to the US dollar clearing system. The EU’s latest action builds on growing concerns that crypto tools and opaque financial channels are being used to bypass Western sanctions, with Chinese entities playing a key role. What happens next? Attention will now turn to how China retaliates. Foreign Minister Wang Yi had earlier warned of consequences if Chinese banks were sanctioned. Beijing could target European firms operating in China or implement countermeasures via its cybersecurity and export control laws, experts suggest. The escalating row comes at a time when China–EU ties are already strained, over issues ranging from electric vehicle tariffs to tech transfer rules. As geopolitical fault lines deepen, Brussels appears ready to hold Beijing accountable for any role in supporting Moscow’s war machine, directly or indirectly. (With inputs from the agencies)

Beijing hits back at Brussels over move to target Chinese banks linked to Moscow’s war effort

China retaliates after EU sanctions its banks for aiding Russia

China started the controversial hydroelectric dam over the Yarlung Tsangpo River, also known as the downstream of the Brahmaputra in Tibet’s Nyingchi prefecture, just a few km north of the state of Arunachal Pradesh. It is being developed by a newly state-backed entity called China Yajiang Group. The $167.8 billion project is expected to generate 300 billion kWh of electricity annually. The location and timing should have rung alarms at New Delhi.<h2>Why does this dam worry India and Bangladesh?</h2>The Brahmaputra is not just any river; it's a lifeline for millions in India's northeast region. The massive new dam is not the first dam to be built over the Brahmaputra. China has already built several smaller ones, and these dams “should be considered as one of the major flashpoints between India and China,” said B Deepak, a professor at JNU, Delhi.Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sharma stated in June that the Brahmaputra is a river that expands as it flows through India, due to the country's geography and topography. China contributes only 30-35 per cent of the water in the Brahmaputra. He was responding to Pakistan's threat of a hypothetical scenario, “What if China stops the water of Brahmaputra”, calling it another baseless "scare tactic".Experts in India fear that Beijing’s unilateral control over the river’s upper reaches could give it the ability to manipulate water flow, especially during the monsoon or periods of heightened geopolitical tension. Environmentalists called it a ticking time bomb. The dam, being situated in a seismic zone, can trigger massive floods and landslides, not only in Tibet but also in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and even in Bangladesh. On January 7, a 7.1-scale earthquake killed at least 126 people. The pattern of earthquakes continues in Tibet, and this should also concern India. Following the earthquake, at least five out of the 14 existing dams showed cracks.The Indian government had previously conveyed its objections during bilateral talks in January, demanding transparency, data sharing, and environmental assessment. However, with China breaking ground on the project, New Delhi’s alarm bells are ringing louder. Throughout Beijing, the crucial turning point of the river is called the ‘Great Bend', from where they say the “river goes rogue”.&nbsp;India and China do not have a water sharing agreement; it has a hydrological data (water level, rainfall) sharing agreement, which China have previously suspended. The Memorandum of Understanding expired in June 2023, since it is not a treaty, so it is non-binding.Beijing maintains that the dam will not adversely affect downstream countries, claiming its intent is clean energy generation and regional development. However, the dam is not just a technical tool for power generation; it has significant implications. As Himalayan glaciers recede, whoever holds control over the hardwater source will have a massive advantage in the diplomatic talks. The threat from Pakistan about China's influence over the Brahmaputra is not completely unfounded. Its location also makes this dam one of the most difficult and dangerous engineering feats in the world, keeping northeastern India in a chokehold.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

China officially began construction of the world’s largest hydroelectric dam on the Brahmaputra (Yarlung Tsangpo) in Tibet on July 19, 2025. The colossal project was launched under the newly formed ‘China Yajiang Group Co’. What does it mean for India? 

China started the controversial hydroelectric dam over the Yarlung Tsangpo River, also known as the downstream of the Brahmaputra in Tibet’s Nyingchi prefecture, just a few km north of the state of Arunachal Pradesh. It is being developed by a newly state-backed entity called China Yajiang Group. The $167.8 billion project is expected to generate 300 billion kWh of electricity annually. The location and timing should have rung alarms at New Delhi. Why does this dam worry India and Bangladesh? The Brahmaputra is not just any river; it's a lifeline for millions in India's northeast region. The massive new dam is not the first dam to be built over the Brahmaputra. China has already built several smaller ones, and these dams “should be considered as one of the major flashpoints between India and China,” said B Deepak, a professor at JNU, Delhi. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sharma stated in June that the Brahmaputra is a river that expands as it flows through India, due to the country's geography and topography. China contributes only 30-35 per cent of the water in the Brahmaputra. He was responding to Pakistan's threat of a hypothetical scenario, “What if China stops the water of Brahmaputra”, calling it another baseless "scare tactic". Experts in India fear that Beijing’s unilateral control over the river’s upper reaches could give it the ability to manipulate water flow, especially during the monsoon or periods of heightened geopolitical tension. Environmentalists called it a ticking time bomb. The dam, being situated in a seismic zone, can trigger massive floods and landslides, not only in Tibet but also in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and even in Bangladesh. On January 7, a 7.1-scale earthquake killed at least 126 people. The pattern of earthquakes continues in Tibet, and this should also concern India. Following the earthquake, at least five out of the 14 existing dams showed cracks. The Indian government had previously conveyed its objections during bilateral talks in January, demanding transparency, data sharing, and environmental assessment. However, with China breaking ground on the project, New Delhi’s alarm bells are ringing louder. Throughout Beijing, the crucial turning point of the river is called the ‘Great Bend', from where they say the “river goes rogue”. India and China do not have a water sharing agreement; it has a hydrological data (water level, rainfall) sharing agreement, which China have previously suspended. The Memorandum of Understanding expired in June 2023, since it is not a treaty, so it is non-binding. Beijing maintains that the dam will not adversely affect downstream countries, claiming its intent is clean energy generation and regional development. However, the dam is not just a technical tool for power generation; it has significant implications. As Himalayan glaciers recede, whoever holds control over the hardwater source will have a massive advantage in the diplomatic talks. The threat from Pakistan about China's influence over the Brahmaputra is not completely unfounded. Its location also makes this dam one of the most difficult and dangerous engineering feats in the world, keeping northeastern India in a chokehold.

China officially began construction of the world’s largest hydroelectric dam on the Brahmaputra (Yarlung Tsangpo) in Tibet on July 19, 2025. The colossal project was launched under the newly formed ‘China Yajiang Group Co’. What does it mean for India?&nbsp;

China begins world's largest dam on Brahmaputra: A ticking water bomb for India?

Oil prices rebounded in early Thursday trade, as investor sentiment turned optimistic following stronger-than-expected economic data from the United States and China, the world’s two biggest oil consumers and signs of easing global trade tensions. The reversal comes after oil benchmarks posted slight losses in the previous session.&nbsp;As per Reuters, Brent crude futures rose 27 cents, or 0.39 per cent, to $68.79 a barrel at 0000 GMT, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude was up 31 cents, or 0.47 per cent, to $66.69. Both benchmarks had slipped more than 0.2 per cent on Wednesday.<h2>US inventory draw signals strong demand</h2>A key driver behind the rebound was the sharp decline in US crude stockpiles. According to the US Energy Information Administration (EIA), crude inventories fell by 3.9 million barrels last week to 422.2 million barrels, significantly more than the 552,000-barrel draw forecast by analysts.&nbsp;This larger-than-expected drop suggests stronger refinery activity and tighter supply, reflecting growing domestic demand. “There is some support from the favourable margin environment associated with the refining sector. Product spreads remain relatively wide in all the regions,” said John Paisie, president of energy consultancy Stratas Advisors, as quoted by Reuters. However, the rise in gasoline and diesel inventories tempered bullish sentiment, indicating that demand for refined products remains patchy.<h2>Fed report mixed, but demand outlook steady</h2>The Federal Reserve’s latest Beige Book, a snapshot of current US economic conditions, indicated moderate improvement in recent weeks. But the outlook remained “neutral to slightly pessimistic”, with businesses citing rising costs due to import tariffs.&nbsp;Still, the positive activity data helped stabilise oil sentiment, particularly amid fears that prolonged rate pressures and protectionism could curb industrial fuel use.<h2>China’s crude throughput rises despite slowing economy</h2>China’s economic growth slowed in the second quarter, but not as drastically as feared, easing concerns over a deep slowdown. As per Reuters, part of the resilience was attributed to front-loaded activity to beat US tariffs. The most encouraging signal for oil markets was China’s June crude oil throughput, which rose 8.5 per cent from a year earlier, indicating firm underlying fuel demand.&nbsp;This uptick in refining points to stronger energy consumption, even as trade headwinds persist.<h2>Trump’s trade gestures boost confidence</h2>Adding to the market’s buoyancy was a slight thaw in trade tensions. As reported by Reuters, US President Donald Trump this week lifted the ban on AI chip exports to China and announced a trade deal with Indonesia. He also signalled progress on agreements with India and possibly Europe.Trump even expressed optimism over potential cooperation with Beijing on illicit drug controls, signalling a broader effort to revive dialogue with key partners. While high tariffs continue to pose risks to global demand, the easing rhetoric has temporarily soothed market nerves, offering support to crude prices, at least in the short term.&nbsp;Despite global uncertainties, oil markets found support from stronger-than-expected economic data, falling US crude stocks, and glimmers of diplomatic progress on trade. But with gasoline builds rising and tariff risks still looming, the rebound remains on a cautious footing.&nbsp;

Brent crude increased by 0.39% to $68.79, and WTI climbed 0.47% to $66.69. A notable decrease in US crude inventories, down 3.9 million barrels, indicates robust demand. 

Oil prices rebounded in early Thursday trade, as investor sentiment turned optimistic following stronger-than-expected economic data from the United States and China, the world’s two biggest oil consumers and signs of easing global trade tensions. The reversal comes after oil benchmarks posted slight losses in the previous session. As per Reuters, Brent crude futures rose 27 cents, or 0.39 per cent, to $68.79 a barrel at 0000 GMT, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude was up 31 cents, or 0.47 per cent, to $66.69. Both benchmarks had slipped more than 0.2 per cent on Wednesday. US inventory draw signals strong demand A key driver behind the rebound was the sharp decline in US crude stockpiles. According to the US Energy Information Administration (EIA), crude inventories fell by 3.9 million barrels last week to 422.2 million barrels, significantly more than the 552,000-barrel draw forecast by analysts. This larger-than-expected drop suggests stronger refinery activity and tighter supply, reflecting growing domestic demand. “There is some support from the favourable margin environment associated with the refining sector. Product spreads remain relatively wide in all the regions,” said John Paisie, president of energy consultancy Stratas Advisors, as quoted by Reuters. However, the rise in gasoline and diesel inventories tempered bullish sentiment, indicating that demand for refined products remains patchy. Fed report mixed, but demand outlook steady The Federal Reserve’s latest Beige Book, a snapshot of current US economic conditions, indicated moderate improvement in recent weeks. But the outlook remained “neutral to slightly pessimistic”, with businesses citing rising costs due to import tariffs. Still, the positive activity data helped stabilise oil sentiment, particularly amid fears that prolonged rate pressures and protectionism could curb industrial fuel use. China’s crude throughput rises despite slowing economy China’s economic growth slowed in the second quarter, but not as drastically as feared, easing concerns over a deep slowdown. As per Reuters, part of the resilience was attributed to front-loaded activity to beat US tariffs. The most encouraging signal for oil markets was China’s June crude oil throughput, which rose 8.5 per cent from a year earlier, indicating firm underlying fuel demand. This uptick in refining points to stronger energy consumption, even as trade headwinds persist. Trump’s trade gestures boost confidence Adding to the market’s buoyancy was a slight thaw in trade tensions. As reported by Reuters, US President Donald Trump this week lifted the ban on AI chip exports to China and announced a trade deal with Indonesia. He also signalled progress on agreements with India and possibly Europe. Trump even expressed optimism over potential cooperation with Beijing on illicit drug controls, signalling a broader effort to revive dialogue with key partners. While high tariffs continue to pose risks to global demand, the easing rhetoric has temporarily soothed market nerves, offering support to crude prices, at least in the short term. Despite global uncertainties, oil markets found support from stronger-than-expected economic data, falling US crude stocks, and glimmers of diplomatic progress on trade. But with gasoline builds rising and tariff risks still looming, the rebound remains on a cautious footing.

Oil prices rose early Thursday, driven by positive economic data from the US and China, along with reduced global trade tensions.

Oil rises on US demand, China data and trade hopes

An unauthorised mid-air movement by an Air China passenger jet brought it too close to a cargo plane over Siberia recently. The second aircraft was also from China, and the two were seconds away from a collision, the South China Morning Post reported. The passenger plane changed its altitude over Russian airspace without notifying air traffic control, putting the lives of everyone on board and on the other plane in danger. Air China Flight CA967 was travelling from Shanghai to Milan on 6 July when it abruptly ascended from 34,100 to 36,000ft. At the same time, a Boeing 767 cargo jet of &nbsp;SF Airlines Flight CSS128 was going from Budapest to Ezhou in central China. The dangerous move left the two planes dangerously close to each other at 300-400 feet. Chinese social media reports suggest that the Russian air traffic controller could have given out wrong instructions to one of the planes. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/mysterious-chinese-satellite-reveals-itself-after-a-week-hanging-in-extremely-strange-orbit-1752575042964">Chinese satellite lost to the world reveals itself hanging in an extremely strange orbit</a>&nbsp;<h2>Audio clip of Russian air traffic controller</h2>International airline regulations dictate that two aircraft should have a minimum vertical separation of 1,000ft. Live tracking data from Flightradar24 shows the plane making the sudden change in altitude over Tuva, a remote mountainous region in southern Siberia bordering Mongolia. The onboard alarm system, known as Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS), went off in both planes, prompting emergency measures. Audio clips from the Russian air traffic control room are circulating on Chinese social media in which one of the pilots seems to suggest that a mistake was made by the person handling the flights at the time. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/greenland-island-village-innaarsuit-collision-with-huge-iceberg-1752298793945">Mammoth iceberg on collision course with Greenland village is suddenly standing still. Will it float away?</a><h2>Pilot says, Russian traffic controller created a ‘fuss’</h2>The clips hint that the Russian controller was handling four flights at a time. This could have led him to issue unclear instructions to the pilots of Air China. The authenticity of the audio clips could not be verified. It is also not known how the clip leaked. “Are you climbing with instruction or without instruction? Confirm, please," the controller says. The Air China pilot replies: “No. Thank you.” The entire communication was not clear because of overlapping radio transmissions. The two Chinese pilots then get on a private frequency and talk about the scary incident. The SF Airlines captain calls the ascent “very inappropriate” and asks whether it was cleared. To this, the other pilot responds that the Russian controller made a fuss and left the crew confused. They talk about filing an official complaint. Air China, SF Airlines and China’s civil aviation authority have not talked about the matter yet.&nbsp;

Two Chinese planes came too close to each other mid-air over Siberia recently, creating a collision scare. Air China flight climbed 2,000 feet suddenly, and the pilot later blamed the Russian air traffic controller for it. What caused the confusion is not clear.

An unauthorised mid-air movement by an Air China passenger jet brought it too close to a cargo plane over Siberia recently. The second aircraft was also from China, and the two were seconds away from a collision, the South China Morning Post reported. The passenger plane changed its altitude over Russian airspace without notifying air traffic control, putting the lives of everyone on board and on the other plane in danger. Air China Flight CA967 was travelling from Shanghai to Milan on 6 July when it abruptly ascended from 34,100 to 36,000ft. At the same time, a Boeing 767 cargo jet of SF Airlines Flight CSS128 was going from Budapest to Ezhou in central China. The dangerous move left the two planes dangerously close to each other at 300-400 feet. Chinese social media reports suggest that the Russian air traffic controller could have given out wrong instructions to one of the planes. Also Read: Chinese satellite lost to the world reveals itself hanging in an extremely strange orbit Audio clip of Russian air traffic controller International airline regulations dictate that two aircraft should have a minimum vertical separation of 1,000ft. Live tracking data from Flightradar24 shows the plane making the sudden change in altitude over Tuva, a remote mountainous region in southern Siberia bordering Mongolia. The onboard alarm system, known as Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS), went off in both planes, prompting emergency measures. Audio clips from the Russian air traffic control room are circulating on Chinese social media in which one of the pilots seems to suggest that a mistake was made by the person handling the flights at the time. Also Read: Mammoth iceberg on collision course with Greenland village is suddenly standing still. Will it float away? Pilot says, Russian traffic controller created a ‘fuss’ The clips hint that the Russian controller was handling four flights at a time. This could have led him to issue unclear instructions to the pilots of Air China. The authenticity of the audio clips could not be verified. It is also not known how the clip leaked. “Are you climbing with instruction or without instruction? Confirm, please," the controller says. The Air China pilot replies: “No. Thank you.” The entire communication was not clear because of overlapping radio transmissions. The two Chinese pilots then get on a private frequency and talk about the scary incident. The SF Airlines captain calls the ascent “very inappropriate” and asks whether it was cleared. To this, the other pilot responds that the Russian controller made a fuss and left the crew confused. They talk about filing an official complaint. Air China, SF Airlines and China’s civil aviation authority have not talked about the matter yet.

Two Chinese planes came too close to each other mid-air over Siberia recently, creating a collision scare. Air China flight climbed 2,000 feet suddenly, and the pilot later blamed the Russian air traffic controller for it. What caused the confusion is not clear.

'Are you climbing...': Chinese flight abruptly changes altitude causing major collision scare over Siberia

Chinese social media users are in a frenzy after learning that a woman is being expelled from college for having casual sex with a Ukrainian man. The man is a gamer who flaunted his one-night stand on his Telegram group, which brought to light the girl's sexual escapade. The gamer is being slammed for sharing intimate photos and videos of himself and the girl, surnamed Li. He reportedly called her an "easy girl" in the group. The university Li attends is now planning to expel her for an act of “misconduct”. Dalian Polytechnic University, in northeastern China’s Liaoning province, announced on July 8 that Li was part of an inappropriate act on December 16, 2024, for which she will be punished. People are horrified to learn of the 21-year-old woman's fate, who has been accused of "hurting national dignity". Her expulsion for a one-night stand is being termed outrageous and excessive. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/chinese-man-secretly-films-sex-sessions-with-over-1-000-men-posts-videos-online-and-charges-people-to-watch-1752139527241">Chinese man dressed as woman to have sex with 1,691 men and make money</a><h2>Ukrainian gamer shared photos and videos of the woman from his hotel room</h2>Li is said to have met former Counter-Strike player Danylo Teslenko in Shanghai last December. The man also goes by the name "Zeus" on social media. The two became close, and Li reportedly slept with him. The incident would have been forgotten had Teslenko not bragged about it in his gaming group. The incident has divided the internet, with some people backing the expulsion. A bunch of people said that Chinese women are too enamoured by foreigners, especially women, and blamed Li for portraying Chinese women as promiscuous. Others spoke up against it, saying it reeked of sexism. They pointed out that people accused of rape and sexual harassment on college campuses got away with lighter punishment. Zhao Hong, a professor of law at Peking University in Beijing, wrote in an opinion column, "If there is anyone who truly undermined national dignity in this case, it was not the woman whose privacy rights were violated, but the online spectators who frantically humiliated an ordinary woman under the banner of so-called justice, and the educational institution that used stale moral commandments." Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/jaipur-5-star-hotel-room-couple-sex-no-curtains-traffic-jam-1750399471057">Couple forgets to draw curtains of 5-star Jaipur hotel room while getting intimate, triggers traffic jam</a><h2>Chinese university can punish you for loud music</h2>Meanwhile, the university defended its decision, saying Li's transgression "caused a negative impact" and she was being expelled in accordance with a university regulation about "civic morality." It shared no further details. Notably, listening to music too loudly is also something that can invite serious punishment, according to university regulations. Ukrainian professional gamer Teslenko "Zeus" had shared the videos on his Telegram channel, where he has over 43,000 subscribers. The videos reportedly showed the two in a hotel room, and Li seems to be aware that she is being filmed. However, it did not show them indulging in any sexual act. Teslenko has since deleted the photos and videos from his page. However, screen grabs are still circulating online. He is getting a lot of hate for his actions, and tried to calm the situation with a response on X. He said that he thought at the time that he was sharing "just a normal moment from life." Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/length-of-a-man-s-fingers-can-reveal-his-sex-drive-shorter-finger-means-1751705942841">Length of a man's fingers can reveal his sex drive. Shorter index finger means...</a> &nbsp;<h2>Some Chinese are supporting the woman's expulsion from college</h2>People are angry about the disrespect being shown to the woman. However, a tech blogger with 14 million followers blamed the woman and wrote on Weibo that “fawning over foreigners” would never bring respect. The blogger said, “Some mistakes are unforgivable.” Some media outlets exposed the woman by sharing her full name. Others are questioning why only the woman is being punished for it. Teslenko is known for making crude jokes, especially against women, and reportedly wrote that he would share her photos if his post got enough likes.&nbsp;

Ukrainian gamer shared intimate photos and videos of the Chinese woman from his hotel room in Shanghai, suggesting they had sex later. The woman is being expelled from college now, and several people in China are supporting the punishment. 

Chinese social media users are in a frenzy after learning that a woman is being expelled from college for having casual sex with a Ukrainian man. The man is a gamer who flaunted his one-night stand on his Telegram group, which brought to light the girl's sexual escapade. The gamer is being slammed for sharing intimate photos and videos of himself and the girl, surnamed Li. He reportedly called her an "easy girl" in the group. The university Li attends is now planning to expel her for an act of “misconduct”. Dalian Polytechnic University, in northeastern China’s Liaoning province, announced on July 8 that Li was part of an inappropriate act on December 16, 2024, for which she will be punished. People are horrified to learn of the 21-year-old woman's fate, who has been accused of "hurting national dignity". Her expulsion for a one-night stand is being termed outrageous and excessive. Also Read: Chinese man dressed as woman to have sex with 1,691 men and make money Ukrainian gamer shared photos and videos of the woman from his hotel room Li is said to have met former Counter-Strike player Danylo Teslenko in Shanghai last December. The man also goes by the name "Zeus" on social media. The two became close, and Li reportedly slept with him. The incident would have been forgotten had Teslenko not bragged about it in his gaming group. The incident has divided the internet, with some people backing the expulsion. A bunch of people said that Chinese women are too enamoured by foreigners, especially women, and blamed Li for portraying Chinese women as promiscuous. Others spoke up against it, saying it reeked of sexism. They pointed out that people accused of rape and sexual harassment on college campuses got away with lighter punishment. Zhao Hong, a professor of law at Peking University in Beijing, wrote in an opinion column, "If there is anyone who truly undermined national dignity in this case, it was not the woman whose privacy rights were violated, but the online spectators who frantically humiliated an ordinary woman under the banner of so-called justice, and the educational institution that used stale moral commandments." Also Read: Couple forgets to draw curtains of 5-star Jaipur hotel room while getting intimate, triggers traffic jam Chinese university can punish you for loud music Meanwhile, the university defended its decision, saying Li's transgression "caused a negative impact" and she was being expelled in accordance with a university regulation about "civic morality." It shared no further details. Notably, listening to music too loudly is also something that can invite serious punishment, according to university regulations. Ukrainian professional gamer Teslenko "Zeus" had shared the videos on his Telegram channel, where he has over 43,000 subscribers. The videos reportedly showed the two in a hotel room, and Li seems to be aware that she is being filmed. However, it did not show them indulging in any sexual act. Teslenko has since deleted the photos and videos from his page. However, screen grabs are still circulating online. He is getting a lot of hate for his actions, and tried to calm the situation with a response on X. He said that he thought at the time that he was sharing "just a normal moment from life." Also Read: Length of a man's fingers can reveal his sex drive. Shorter index finger means... Some Chinese are supporting the woman's expulsion from college People are angry about the disrespect being shown to the woman. However, a tech blogger with 14 million followers blamed the woman and wrote on Weibo that “fawning over foreigners” would never bring respect. The blogger said, “Some mistakes are unforgivable.” Some media outlets exposed the woman by sharing her full name. Others are questioning why only the woman is being punished for it. Teslenko is known for making crude jokes, especially against women, and reportedly wrote that he would share her photos if his post got enough likes.

Ukrainian gamer shared intimate photos and videos of the Chinese woman from his hotel room in Shanghai, suggesting they had sex later. The woman is being expelled from college now, and several people in China are supporting the punishment.&nbsp;

Chinese woman kicked out of college for sex with Ukrainian gamer getting hate online. 'Some mistakes are...'

China has pledged to tighten its ties with Russia just a day after US President Donald Trump warned of “severe” tariffs on Moscow’s trade partners if Vladimir Putin does not agree to a Ukraine peace deal within 50 days. Chinese President Xi Jinping made the statement during talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Beijing on July 15. Xi said the level of mutual trust between the two countries had “deepened” and urged stronger coordination in international forums. He described the China-Russia partnership as “a model for a new type of international relations.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-volodymyr-can-you-hit-moscow-trump-asked-zelensky-about-deep-strikes-inside-russia-to-make-them-feel-pain-here-s-how-zelensky-responded-1752578230631">‘Volodymyr, can you hit Moscow?’: Trump asked Zelensky about deep strikes inside Russia to ‘make them feel pain’ — Here’s how Zelensky&nbsp;responded</a><h2>Trump issues 100% tariff threat over Ukraine</h2>Xi’s comments came shortly after Trump threatened to impose 100% tariffs on Russia unless a peace agreement is reached in the next 50 days. Speaking alongside NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on July 14, Trump expressed frustration with the continued missile attacks on Ukrainian cities. “I speak to Putin a lot about getting this done, and then missiles are launched into Kyiv or some other city,” he said.Russia has escalated drone and missile strikes across Ukraine in recent weeks, leading to fresh civilian casualties and widespread damage. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov responded to Trump’s ultimatum on July 15, calling the warning “quite serious” but said Russia would need time to assess it.<h2>China denies military aid but boosts supplies to Russia</h2>While China continues to claim neutrality in the conflict, officials in Ukraine and the West say Beijing’s support has become essential to Russia’s military industry. China is now the leading supplier of dual-use components that end up in Russian weaponry. Ukrainian investigators recently found Chinese-made parts inside Shahed-style drones used by Russia, including in the attack on Kyiv on July 4. In response, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has imposed sanctions on five Chinese companies linked to drone components, citing threats to national security.<h2>China says it “cannot afford” a Russian defeat</h2>Earlier this month, China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi reportedly told EU official Kaja Kallas that Beijing “cannot afford for Russia to lose the war,” warning that a Russian defeat could shift American attention to China. Wang denied allegations of military assistance to Moscow, instead describing China’s help as “non-lethal.”In April, Zelensky claimed Chinese nationals had been found fighting alongside Russian forces in Donetsk. He also accused China, along with Iran and North Korea, of arming the Russian military. Xi and Putin are expected to meet in September at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit.

China vowed to deepen ties with Russia just a day after US President Donald Trump warned of 100% tariffs on Moscow over the Ukraine war.

China has pledged to tighten its ties with Russia just a day after US President Donald Trump warned of “severe” tariffs on Moscow’s trade partners if Vladimir Putin does not agree to a Ukraine peace deal within 50 days. Chinese President Xi Jinping made the statement during talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Beijing on July 15. Xi said the level of mutual trust between the two countries had “deepened” and urged stronger coordination in international forums. He described the China-Russia partnership as “a model for a new type of international relations.” Also read: ‘Volodymyr, can you hit Moscow?’: Trump asked Zelensky about deep strikes inside Russia to ‘make them feel pain’ — Here’s how Zelensky responded Trump issues 100% tariff threat over Ukraine Xi’s comments came shortly after Trump threatened to impose 100% tariffs on Russia unless a peace agreement is reached in the next 50 days. Speaking alongside NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on July 14, Trump expressed frustration with the continued missile attacks on Ukrainian cities. “I speak to Putin a lot about getting this done, and then missiles are launched into Kyiv or some other city,” he said. Russia has escalated drone and missile strikes across Ukraine in recent weeks, leading to fresh civilian casualties and widespread damage. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov responded to Trump’s ultimatum on July 15, calling the warning “quite serious” but said Russia would need time to assess it. China denies military aid but boosts supplies to Russia While China continues to claim neutrality in the conflict, officials in Ukraine and the West say Beijing’s support has become essential to Russia’s military industry. China is now the leading supplier of dual-use components that end up in Russian weaponry. Ukrainian investigators recently found Chinese-made parts inside Shahed-style drones used by Russia, including in the attack on Kyiv on July 4. In response, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has imposed sanctions on five Chinese companies linked to drone components, citing threats to national security. China says it “cannot afford” a Russian defeat Earlier this month, China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi reportedly told EU official Kaja Kallas that Beijing “cannot afford for Russia to lose the war,” warning that a Russian defeat could shift American attention to China. Wang denied allegations of military assistance to Moscow, instead describing China’s help as “non-lethal.” In April, Zelensky claimed Chinese nationals had been found fighting alongside Russian forces in Donetsk. He also accused China, along with Iran and North Korea, of arming the Russian military. Xi and Putin are expected to meet in September at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit.

China vowed to deepen ties with Russia just a day after US President Donald Trump warned of 100% tariffs on Moscow over the Ukraine war.

‘Can’t let Russia lose’: China backs Russia after Trump’s 50-day ULTIMATUM over Ukraine war; Xi says trust with Moscow has 'deepened'

A Chinese satellite that has remained a mystery to scientists across the world vanished from radar after being launched almost a week ago. None of the space tracking systems could locate the mysterious satellite. Now, after six days, it has finally been spotted hovering in orbit, Gizmodo reported. Shiyan-28B has been found parked in an unusually low orbit, adding to the mystery around the satellite. While Beijing claims it is meant to test new technologies, its position in an unique inclination has led experts to debate its real purpose. Shiyan-28B 01 is part of China's experimental Shiyan series and was launched from the Xichang Satellite Launch Centre on July 3. China says the Shiyan mission has been designed to explore the space environment. Experts say that after being launched, a satellite normally shows up on space tracking systems in a day or two. But the Chinese satellite eluded detection for days. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/voyager-1-at-one-light-day-spacecraft-to-hit-astonishing-milestone-after-49-years-1752561939383">Voyager 1 at one light-day: Spacecraft to reach unthinkable milestone after 49 years</a>&nbsp;On July 9, it finally revealed itself. The U.S. Space Force’s Space Domain Awareness unit saw Shiyan-28B 01 six days after its launch. Astrophysicist Jonathan McDowell wrote on X that the Chinese satellite was located in a 794 by 796 kilometre orbit with an 11-degree inclination. At the time of the launch, the Chinese satellite was expected to be tilted at a 35-degree inclination relative to Earth’s equator. However, now it is lying in an unusually low orbit. McDowell says that this unique position suggests that the rocket changed direction midway through ascent, and its second stage performed three burns to reduce inclination. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scientists-reveal-ghost-under-oman-forcibly-changed-india-s-direction-40-million-years-ago-1752313684421">Why is India where it is? Because 'ghost' force under Oman pushed it 40 million years ago</a> &nbsp;<h2>China is racing ahead of everyone with its space mission</h2>According to SpaceNews, China has never used such a low-inclination orbit before. So what was the purpose of this sudden change during descent, and why does it seek to fulfil in this low inclination is not clear. Its current inclination suggests that the satellite will pass over parts of the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean. The usual regional monitoring or communication tests could be the primary aim of the satellite. China has been zinging ahead in space by leaps and bounds. Recently, two Chinese satellites performed a docking manoeuvre for an orbital refuelling experiment. This can keep the satellite in orbit for a longer time. The country has also announced its plans to retrieve samples from Mars, an area where &nbsp;NASA is still lagging. China has often carried out secretive manoeuvres in orbit in an effort to evade scrutiny. NASA is watching China's latest satellite and what it aims to achieve with it.&nbsp;

China launched a satellite on July 3, and it did not show up on space tracking systems until July 9. Scientists in other countries are worried about this satellite, whose purpose is not clear. It is hanging extremely low, leaving the West wondering about Shiyan-28B.

A Chinese satellite that has remained a mystery to scientists across the world vanished from radar after being launched almost a week ago. None of the space tracking systems could locate the mysterious satellite. Now, after six days, it has finally been spotted hovering in orbit, Gizmodo reported. Shiyan-28B has been found parked in an unusually low orbit, adding to the mystery around the satellite. While Beijing claims it is meant to test new technologies, its position in an unique inclination has led experts to debate its real purpose. Shiyan-28B 01 is part of China's experimental Shiyan series and was launched from the Xichang Satellite Launch Centre on July 3. China says the Shiyan mission has been designed to explore the space environment. Experts say that after being launched, a satellite normally shows up on space tracking systems in a day or two. But the Chinese satellite eluded detection for days. Also Read: Voyager 1 at one light-day: Spacecraft to reach unthinkable milestone after 49 years On July 9, it finally revealed itself. The U.S. Space Force’s Space Domain Awareness unit saw Shiyan-28B 01 six days after its launch. Astrophysicist Jonathan McDowell wrote on X that the Chinese satellite was located in a 794 by 796 kilometre orbit with an 11-degree inclination. At the time of the launch, the Chinese satellite was expected to be tilted at a 35-degree inclination relative to Earth’s equator. However, now it is lying in an unusually low orbit. McDowell says that this unique position suggests that the rocket changed direction midway through ascent, and its second stage performed three burns to reduce inclination. Also Read: Why is India where it is? Because 'ghost' force under Oman pushed it 40 million years ago China is racing ahead of everyone with its space mission According to SpaceNews, China has never used such a low-inclination orbit before. So what was the purpose of this sudden change during descent, and why does it seek to fulfil in this low inclination is not clear. Its current inclination suggests that the satellite will pass over parts of the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean. The usual regional monitoring or communication tests could be the primary aim of the satellite. China has been zinging ahead in space by leaps and bounds. Recently, two Chinese satellites performed a docking manoeuvre for an orbital refuelling experiment. This can keep the satellite in orbit for a longer time. The country has also announced its plans to retrieve samples from Mars, an area where NASA is still lagging. China has often carried out secretive manoeuvres in orbit in an effort to evade scrutiny. NASA is watching China's latest satellite and what it aims to achieve with it.

China launched a satellite on July 3, and it did not show up on space tracking systems until July 9. Scientists in other countries are worried about this satellite, whose purpose is not clear. It is hanging extremely low, leaving the West wondering about Shiyan-28B.

Chinese satellite lost to the world reveals itself hanging in an extremely strange orbit

The United States has taken a bold step to challenge China’s near-monopoly over the rare earths market, unveiling a government-backed pricing system designed to kick-start investment in its own domestic industry, even if it means higher costs for buyers.&nbsp;The new initiative, led by the US Department of Defense (DoD), will guarantee a minimum price of $110 per kilogram for two of the most sought-after rare earth metals, neodymium, and praseodymium (NdPr). These elements are critical for producing high-strength magnets used in electric vehicles (EVs), wind turbines and advanced military systems such as drones and fighter jets. As per Reuters, the pricing floor is almost double the current China-set market price of around $63/kg, signalling Washington’s intent to end reliance on low-cost Chinese supply that has long undercut Western competition.<h2>A shift in global pricing power</h2>China currently controls around 90 per cent of global rare earth supply, with its state-influenced pricing model widely blamed for discouraging mining and processing investment elsewhere. For years, Western miners have called for an alternative pricing system to make non-Chinese production viable. Analysts say the US-backed floor price represents a major new benchmark in the industry.&nbsp;“This benchmark is now a new centre of gravity in the industry that will pull prices up,” said Ryan Castilloux, managing director of consultancy Adamas Intelligence, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;The deal gives MP Materials, America’s only large-scale rare earth miner, a guaranteed market. Under the agreement revealed last Thursday, the DoD will pay MP the difference if market prices remain below $110/kg. If prices climb higher, the government will share 30 per cent of MP’s additional profits.<h2>MP Materials to expand production</h2>Las Vegas-based MP Materials already mines and processes rare earths and is preparing to start commercial magnet production at its new Texas facility by the end of this year. The company plans an initial output of 1,000 metric tonnes of magnets annually, expanding to 3,000 tonnes, and ultimately building a second US plant that would add 7,000 tonnes per year. Total production of 10,000 tonnes would roughly match US magnet consumption recorded in 2024, according to Adamas.&nbsp;The deal also gives the DoD a 15 per cent stake in MP Materials, ensuring a government-backed anchor investor to de-risk expansion plans. Reuters reports that this level of output, while significant, does not include the 30,000 tonnes of magnets already imported annually by the US in finished goods.<h2>Strategic race for supply chain control</h2>Global demand for rare earth permanent magnets is forecast to more than double over the next decade to about 607,000 tonnes, with the US expected to see the highest annual growth rate of around 17 per cent, as per Adamas. The geopolitical context is unmistakable. China has demonstrated its leverage in this sector by curbing rare earth exports during trade tensions. The US and its allies fear that continued dependence leaves critical supply chains dangerously exposed.&nbsp;“It will give Solvay and others the impetus to command a similar price level. It will give them a floor to stand on,” Castilloux added, referring to Belgian chemicals giant Solvay, which announced a rare earth expansion in April. While Solvay declined to comment to Reuters, other miners, developers and investors have broadly welcomed the US pricing plan. Aclara Resources, which is developing mines in Chile and Brazil and planning a US separation plant, said the deal opens “new strategic paths” for the company.<h2>Costs and market uncertainty</h2>While good news for miners, the pricing floor is likely to raise costs for consumers, such as automakers and wind turbine producers.&nbsp;David Merriman of consultancy Project Blue told Reuters the guaranteed price band of $75–$105/kg had been seen as the minimum needed to spur new non-Chinese production. The new US floor of $110/kg is even more generous, but it remains unclear how industrial buyers will react. “Major non-government backed consumers are less likely to follow this same investment pattern, however, as they are not so clearly aligned to a particular regional supply route,” Merriman said.&nbsp;Volkswagen, when asked by Reuters about the new pricing floor, declined to comment on specific prices but noted it “welcomes all efforts to strengthen long-term stability and diversification in global supply chains for critical materials.”<h2>Can the US scale up?</h2>Dominic Raab, former UK deputy prime minister and now head of global affairs at Appian Capital Advisory, told Reuters that piecemeal deals and tax breaks alone had proved insufficient in building competitive Western supply chains. “The next step is, can they scale it up?” Raab asked.&nbsp;Washington’s new plan signals a willingness to directly subsidise prices to drive a shift in global market dynamics. If successful, it could finally help diversify critical mineral supply chains away from China, a goal Western governments have pursued for years with limited success.

Led by the Department of Defense, the plan guarantees subsidies to US miner MP Materials, signals a new benchmark in global rare earth pricing, and gives Washington a stake in the critical mineral supply chain. The move marks a bold shift from market dependence to state backed industrial policy.

The United States has taken a bold step to challenge China’s near-monopoly over the rare earths market, unveiling a government-backed pricing system designed to kick-start investment in its own domestic industry, even if it means higher costs for buyers. The new initiative, led by the US Department of Defense (DoD), will guarantee a minimum price of $110 per kilogram for two of the most sought-after rare earth metals, neodymium, and praseodymium (NdPr). These elements are critical for producing high-strength magnets used in electric vehicles (EVs), wind turbines and advanced military systems such as drones and fighter jets. As per Reuters, the pricing floor is almost double the current China-set market price of around $63/kg, signalling Washington’s intent to end reliance on low-cost Chinese supply that has long undercut Western competition. A shift in global pricing power China currently controls around 90 per cent of global rare earth supply, with its state-influenced pricing model widely blamed for discouraging mining and processing investment elsewhere. For years, Western miners have called for an alternative pricing system to make non-Chinese production viable. Analysts say the US-backed floor price represents a major new benchmark in the industry. “This benchmark is now a new centre of gravity in the industry that will pull prices up,” said Ryan Castilloux, managing director of consultancy Adamas Intelligence, as quoted by Reuters. The deal gives MP Materials, America’s only large-scale rare earth miner, a guaranteed market. Under the agreement revealed last Thursday, the DoD will pay MP the difference if market prices remain below $110/kg. If prices climb higher, the government will share 30 per cent of MP’s additional profits. MP Materials to expand production Las Vegas-based MP Materials already mines and processes rare earths and is preparing to start commercial magnet production at its new Texas facility by the end of this year. The company plans an initial output of 1,000 metric tonnes of magnets annually, expanding to 3,000 tonnes, and ultimately building a second US plant that would add 7,000 tonnes per year. Total production of 10,000 tonnes would roughly match US magnet consumption recorded in 2024, according to Adamas. The deal also gives the DoD a 15 per cent stake in MP Materials, ensuring a government-backed anchor investor to de-risk expansion plans. Reuters reports that this level of output, while significant, does not include the 30,000 tonnes of magnets already imported annually by the US in finished goods. Strategic race for supply chain control Global demand for rare earth permanent magnets is forecast to more than double over the next decade to about 607,000 tonnes, with the US expected to see the highest annual growth rate of around 17 per cent, as per Adamas. The geopolitical context is unmistakable. China has demonstrated its leverage in this sector by curbing rare earth exports during trade tensions. The US and its allies fear that continued dependence leaves critical supply chains dangerously exposed. “It will give Solvay and others the impetus to command a similar price level. It will give them a floor to stand on,” Castilloux added, referring to Belgian chemicals giant Solvay, which announced a rare earth expansion in April. While Solvay declined to comment to Reuters, other miners, developers and investors have broadly welcomed the US pricing plan. Aclara Resources, which is developing mines in Chile and Brazil and planning a US separation plant, said the deal opens “new strategic paths” for the company. Costs and market uncertainty While good news for miners, the pricing floor is likely to raise costs for consumers, such as automakers and wind turbine producers. David Merriman of consultancy Project Blue told Reuters the guaranteed price band of $75–$105/kg had been seen as the minimum needed to spur new non-Chinese production. The new US floor of $110/kg is even more generous, but it remains unclear how industrial buyers will react. “Major non-government backed consumers are less likely to follow this same investment pattern, however, as they are not so clearly aligned to a particular regional supply route,” Merriman said. Volkswagen, when asked by Reuters about the new pricing floor, declined to comment on specific prices but noted it “welcomes all efforts to strengthen long-term stability and diversification in global supply chains for critical materials.” Can the US scale up? Dominic Raab, former UK deputy prime minister and now head of global affairs at Appian Capital Advisory, told Reuters that piecemeal deals and tax breaks alone had proved insufficient in building competitive Western supply chains. “The next step is, can they scale it up?” Raab asked. Washington’s new plan signals a willingness to directly subsidise prices to drive a shift in global market dynamics. If successful, it could finally help diversify critical mineral supply chains away from China, a goal Western governments have pursued for years with limited success.

The US sets a rare earth pricing floor to counter China’s dominance, backing MP Materials with guaranteed rates and DoD equity. The strategy aims to reboot domestic supply chains—but at a cost to global buyers.

US planned to break China’s rare earth dominance with new pricing system: Details here

India’s crude oil imports from Russia surged to an 11-month high in June, as refiners hurried to bolster inventories against the backdrop of Israel–Iran tensions that have rattled global markets, according to vessel-tracking data cited by the Press Trust of India (PTI).&nbsp;Data from global commodity analytics firm Kpler show India imported 2.08 million barrels per day (bpd) of Russian crude in June, the highest monthly level since July 2024. “While India’s global imports of crude oil dropped by 6 per cent in June, Russian volumes saw an 8 per cent month-on-month rise to their highest levels since July 2024,” said the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), as quoted by PTI. CREA added that “more than half of these imports from Russia were made by three refineries in India, which also export refined products to G7+ countries.”<h2>Russia cements its role as India’s top oil supplier</h2>India has shifted decisively toward Russian barrels over the past three years. Once a marginal supplier, Moscow became India’s biggest crude source after offering steep discounts when Western buyers shunned its oil following the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. As of June 2025, Russia accounts for around 40 per cent of India’s total crude imports, according to PTI.&nbsp;India, which relies on imports for over 85 per cent of its crude oil needs, has traditionally sourced most of its supplies from the Middle East. But with discounted Russian oil, refiners have realigned their strategy despite geopolitical criticism from the West. Industry analysts say the discounts and flexible payment terms have made Russian grades irresistible, even as New Delhi insists on a strategy of diversifying suppliers to strengthen energy security.<h2>Competition from West Asian suppliers eases</h2>While Russian imports surged in June, India’s other major suppliers saw declines or only modest growth. According to Kpler data reported by the Press Trust of India (PTI), Iraq—India’s second-largest crude supplier, shipped 893,000 barrels per day (bpd) in June, marking a 17.2 per cent drop from May. Saudi Arabia’s deliveries held steady at around 581,000 bpd, while the United Arab Emirates boosted its volumes by 6.5 per cent to 490,000 bpd.&nbsp;As a share of India’s total oil imports in June, Iraq accounted for 18.5 per cent, Saudi Arabia for 12.1 per cent, the UAE for 10.2 per cent, and the United States maintained its fifth-place position with 303,000 bpd, or 6.3 per cent of the market, the data showed.<h2>India and China dominate Russian crude buying</h2>Analysts say India and China remain central to Moscow’s crude export strategy, with their purchases dwarfing those of other regions. As per analysis from the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) cited by PTI, China bought 47 per cent of Russia’s crude exports in June, while India purchased 38 per cent.&nbsp;The European Union and Turkiye followed with about 6 per cent each. “India remained the second-largest purchaser of Russian fossil fuels in June, importing fossil fuels worth €4.5 billion, with crude oil accounting for 80 per cent (€3.6 billion) of these imports,” CREA said, according to PTI.<h2>US and Brazil flows rise as India diversifies</h2>Even as Russia retained its dominant position in India’s oil mix, imports from the United States and Brazil have been climbing sharply, highlighting New Delhi’s ongoing diversification strategy. According to S&amp;P Global Commodity Insights, US crude inflows to India during January–June 2025 jumped more than 50 per cent from the same period in 2024.&nbsp;India imported an average of 271,000 bpd from the US in the first half of 2025, compared with 180,000 bpd a year earlier. Brazilian shipments posted even steeper growth, with crude inflows rising 80 per cent year-over-year to 73,000 bpd from 41,000 bpd in the first half of 2024. According to S&amp;P data cited by PTI, Russia retained its top-supplier crown in the first half of 2025 with shipments averaging 1.67 million bpd, up slightly from 1.66 million bpd in the same period last year.<h2>Geopolitical backdrop: War worries and supply security</h2>Analysts attribute the spike in India’s Russian oil imports in June partly to precautionary stockpiling amid fears of wider conflict in West Asia following hostilities between Israel and Iran earlier this year. Indian refiners, keen to ensure robust inventories, have moved to secure supplies in case war disrupts shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global energy flows. &nbsp;As India navigates this tense geopolitical environment, its strategy appears to balance opportunistic buying of discounted Russian barrels with efforts to expand ties with non-OPEC suppliers such as the US and Brazil. Industry officials suggest that while Russia’s discounts have been attractive, India’s long-term policy is to avoid over-reliance on any single source, even one offering significant savings.

India boosts Russian oil imports to 2.08 million bpd in June amid Israel and Iran tensions, while expanding crude ties with the US and Brazil for supply security.

India’s crude oil imports from Russia surged to an 11-month high in June, as refiners hurried to bolster inventories against the backdrop of Israel–Iran tensions that have rattled global markets, according to vessel-tracking data cited by the Press Trust of India (PTI). Data from global commodity analytics firm Kpler show India imported 2.08 million barrels per day (bpd) of Russian crude in June, the highest monthly level since July 2024. “While India’s global imports of crude oil dropped by 6 per cent in June, Russian volumes saw an 8 per cent month-on-month rise to their highest levels since July 2024,” said the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), as quoted by PTI. CREA added that “more than half of these imports from Russia were made by three refineries in India, which also export refined products to G7+ countries.” Russia cements its role as India’s top oil supplier India has shifted decisively toward Russian barrels over the past three years. Once a marginal supplier, Moscow became India’s biggest crude source after offering steep discounts when Western buyers shunned its oil following the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. As of June 2025, Russia accounts for around 40 per cent of India’s total crude imports, according to PTI. India, which relies on imports for over 85 per cent of its crude oil needs, has traditionally sourced most of its supplies from the Middle East. But with discounted Russian oil, refiners have realigned their strategy despite geopolitical criticism from the West. Industry analysts say the discounts and flexible payment terms have made Russian grades irresistible, even as New Delhi insists on a strategy of diversifying suppliers to strengthen energy security. Competition from West Asian suppliers eases While Russian imports surged in June, India’s other major suppliers saw declines or only modest growth. According to Kpler data reported by the Press Trust of India (PTI), Iraq—India’s second-largest crude supplier, shipped 893,000 barrels per day (bpd) in June, marking a 17.2 per cent drop from May. Saudi Arabia’s deliveries held steady at around 581,000 bpd, while the United Arab Emirates boosted its volumes by 6.5 per cent to 490,000 bpd. As a share of India’s total oil imports in June, Iraq accounted for 18.5 per cent, Saudi Arabia for 12.1 per cent, the UAE for 10.2 per cent, and the United States maintained its fifth-place position with 303,000 bpd, or 6.3 per cent of the market, the data showed. India and China dominate Russian crude buying Analysts say India and China remain central to Moscow’s crude export strategy, with their purchases dwarfing those of other regions. As per analysis from the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) cited by PTI, China bought 47 per cent of Russia’s crude exports in June, while India purchased 38 per cent. The European Union and Turkiye followed with about 6 per cent each. “India remained the second-largest purchaser of Russian fossil fuels in June, importing fossil fuels worth €4.5 billion, with crude oil accounting for 80 per cent (€3.6 billion) of these imports,” CREA said, according to PTI. US and Brazil flows rise as India diversifies Even as Russia retained its dominant position in India’s oil mix, imports from the United States and Brazil have been climbing sharply, highlighting New Delhi’s ongoing diversification strategy. According to S&P Global Commodity Insights, US crude inflows to India during January–June 2025 jumped more than 50 per cent from the same period in 2024. India imported an average of 271,000 bpd from the US in the first half of 2025, compared with 180,000 bpd a year earlier. Brazilian shipments posted even steeper growth, with crude inflows rising 80 per cent year-over-year to 73,000 bpd from 41,000 bpd in the first half of 2024. According to S&P data cited by PTI, Russia retained its top-supplier crown in the first half of 2025 with shipments averaging 1.67 million bpd, up slightly from 1.66 million bpd in the same period last year. Geopolitical backdrop: War worries and supply security Analysts attribute the spike in India’s Russian oil imports in June partly to precautionary stockpiling amid fears of wider conflict in West Asia following hostilities between Israel and Iran earlier this year. Indian refiners, keen to ensure robust inventories, have moved to secure supplies in case war disrupts shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global energy flows. As India navigates this tense geopolitical environment, its strategy appears to balance opportunistic buying of discounted Russian barrels with efforts to expand ties with non-OPEC suppliers such as the US and Brazil. Industry officials suggest that while Russia’s discounts have been attractive, India’s long-term policy is to avoid over-reliance on any single source, even one offering significant savings.

India’s crude oil imports from Russia hit an 11-month high in June 2025 amid West Asia tensions, as refiners stockpiled discounted barrels while diversifying with US and Brazilian supplies.

India’s Russian oil imports surge to 11-month high in June on war supply fears

From American consumers facing the return of price pressures, to China cementing new Asian trade corridors, to Argentina’s hard-won fight to tame hyperinflation, 2025 is proving a pivotal year for the global economy, Fresh data from official agencies, compiled by Bloomberg, reveals an increasingly fragmented landscape. While some economies maintain their footing, others are navigating headwinds from tariffs, soft demand, and persistent inflation.<h2>US inflation edges higher as tariffs bite</h2>Steep US tariffs are feeding through to consumers after months of relatively subdued price gains. Bloomberg’s latest survey of economists' points to a clear pick-up in June’s core consumer price index (CPI), excluding volatile food and energy.

US Consumer Prices Seen Climbing on Tariffs Pass-Through<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Month</td><td>Change in Core CPI (MoM, %)</td><td>Forecast (%)</td></tr><tr><td>Jun 2022</td><td>~0.6</td><td>-</td></tr><tr><td>Sep 2022</td><td>~0.5</td><td>-</td></tr><tr><td>Dec 2022</td><td>~0.3</td><td>-</td></tr><tr><td>Mar 2023</td><td>~0.4</td><td>-</td></tr><tr><td>Jun 2023</td><td>~0.2</td><td>-</td></tr><tr><td>Sep 2023</td><td>~0.2</td><td>-</td></tr><tr><td>Dec 2023</td><td>~0.3</td><td>-</td></tr><tr><td>Mar 2024</td><td>~0.4</td><td>-</td></tr><tr><td>Jun 2024</td><td>~0.1</td><td>-</td></tr><tr><td>Sep 2024</td><td>~0.2</td><td>-</td></tr><tr><td>Dec 2024</td><td>~0.3</td><td>-</td></tr><tr><td>Mar 2025</td><td>~0.2</td><td>-</td></tr><tr><td>May 2025</td><td>~0.1</td><td>-</td></tr><tr><td>Jun 2025</td><td>-</td><td>0.3</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Census Bureau, Bloomberg surveyNote: Core CPI excludes food and energy

As per Bloomberg, June 2025’s forecast rise of 0.3 per cent would be the fastest monthly increase in five months. Annual core inflation is also seen accelerating for the first time since January to 2.9 per cent.Economists attribute the uptick to companies passing on higher costs from President Donald Trump’s tariffs on imported goods. Yet the Federal Reserve remains cautious about cutting interest rates too soon, worried that sustained pass-through will keep price pressures alive even as the labour market cools.&nbsp;Policymakers meet again on July 29-30, with many watching closely whether tariffs force more businesses to hike prices despite wary consumers showing spending restraint.<h2>China’s trade pivot deepens ties in Asia</h2>Amid US tariff tensions, China is rapidly strengthening export channels to its Asian neighbours. Data from China’s General Administration of Customs, compiled by Bloomberg, show remarkable growth in shipments to ASEAN and other key partners.

Chinese Exports to Some Asian Nations Soar<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Destination</td><td>Exports (12-month trailing average, 2025)</td></tr><tr><td>ASEAN</td><td>~$50 billion</td></tr><tr><td>Vietnam</td><td>~$15 billion</td></tr><tr><td>Malaysia</td><td>~$8 billion</td></tr><tr><td>Thailand</td><td>~$8 billion</td></tr><tr><td>Singapore</td><td>~$8 billion</td></tr><tr><td>Indonesia</td><td>~$8 billion</td></tr><tr><td>Philippines</td><td>~$6 billion</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>Source: China’s General Administration of Customs, BloombergNote: Shows 12-month trailing average

As per Bloomberg, Chinese exports to ASEAN as a bloc have now topped $50 billion on a rolling annual basis, more than doubling since 2020. Vietnam alone has seen shipments climb to about $15 billion, triple its 2020 level.&nbsp;This strategic reorientation is no accident. As the US ratchets up tariffs, threatening duties of up to 50 per cent on metals and other goods, China is solidifying regional supply chains to maintain its manufacturing dominance.&nbsp;Analysts see this as part of a longer-term shift that will reshape global trade flows. Southeast Asia is both a market and a production partner, enabling China to “near-shore” certain stages of manufacturing while blunting tariff risk, as per Bloomberg.&nbsp;<h2>UK growth remains fragile with production slump</h2>Britain’s economy has been lurching from month to month, struggling to find sustained growth in the face of stubborn inflation, elevated borrowing costs and fiscal challenges.

UK Economy Was Dragged Down by Production in May<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Month</td><td>GDP (%)</td><td>Services (%)</td><td>Production (%)</td><td>Construction (%)</td></tr><tr><td>May 2024</td><td>0.4</td><td>~0.3</td><td>~0.05</td><td>~0.05</td></tr><tr><td>Jun 2024</td><td>-0.3</td><td>~-0.2</td><td>~-0.1</td><td>~0</td></tr><tr><td>Oct 2024</td><td>~0.3</td><td>~0.25</td><td>~0.05</td><td>~0</td></tr><tr><td>Jan 2025</td><td>~0.1</td><td>~0.1</td><td>~0</td><td>~0</td></tr><tr><td>Mar 2025</td><td>-0.3</td><td>~-0.2</td><td>~-0.1</td><td>~0</td></tr><tr><td>May 2025</td><td>0.1</td><td>~0.15</td><td>~-0.1</td><td>~0</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>Source: UK Office for National Statistics, Bloomberg

According to Bloomberg, in May 2025, GDP grew a meagre 0.1 per cent, with services contributing the only meaningful boost. Production contracted yet again, continuing a pattern of weakness that has plagued British industry since the energy price shocks of 2022.&nbsp;The numbers reflect an economy caught in limbo. While inflation is gradually retreating, headline CPI remains stubbornly above 3 per cent, interest rates remain high, damping business investment and household spending, as reported by Bloomberg.&nbsp;&nbsp;Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey have signalled cautious optimism, but markets remain alert to any further evidence that growth is stagnating even as public finances strain under higher debt servicing costs.<h2>Brazil’s economic streak faces tariff headwinds</h2>Latin America’s largest economy continues to outperform peers, posting its 16th straight quarter of expansion.

Brazil Likely Sustained Current Expansion in May<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Period</td><td>IBC-BR GDP-proxy (YoY %)</td></tr><tr><td>Jul 2021</td><td>~5</td></tr><tr><td>Feb 2023</td><td>~6</td></tr><tr><td>Oct 2023</td><td>~7</td></tr><tr><td>Mar 2024</td><td>~4</td></tr><tr><td>Oct 2024</td><td>~3</td></tr><tr><td>May 2025</td><td>~2</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>Source: Central Bank of Brazil, BloombergNote: Average YoY from Jan. 2004 = 2.1%

According to Brazil’s central bank proxy, May’s estimated year-on-year growth of around 2 per cent is slightly below its long-term average of 2.1 per cent but still represents a notable streak, as per Bloomberg.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to Bloomberg, despite this resilience, the outlook is clouded by US trade tensions. President Trump’s threatened 50 per cent tariffs on imported metals could hit Brazil’s key export sectors hard. Analysts warn that a second-half slowdown or even a mild recession can’t be ruled out if such duties take effect.&nbsp;&nbsp;High domestic interest rates, among the highest in emerging markets, are also squeezing credit and consumption. Yet for now, Brazil’s diversified economy and commodity exports have kept growth on track.<h2>Argentina battles back from hyperinflation&nbsp;</h2>Once among the world’s most notorious inflation stories, Argentina has achieved 14 straight months of disinflation thanks to President Javier Milei’s drastic fiscal reforms.

Argentina Annual Inflation Likely Slowed for 14th Month<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Month</td><td>Headline CPI (YoY %)</td><td>Monthly CPI (%)</td></tr><tr><td>Peak 2024</td><td>289.4</td><td>-</td></tr><tr><td>May 2025</td><td>~41</td><td>1.5</td></tr><tr><td>June 2025</td><td>39.6 (est.)</td><td>1.8 (est.)</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>Source: Argentina National Statistics Agency, BloombergNote: Average YoY from December 2017

Annual inflation has plummeted from a crisis peak near 290 per cent in 2024 to below 40 per cent in mid-2025. June’s headline CPI is projected at 39.6 per cent, with monthly increases forecast at 1.8 per cent, up slightly from May’s 1.5 per cent, as per Bloomberg.&nbsp;&nbsp;While the pace of disinflation has slowed, the improvement is striking. Milei’s administration slashed subsidies, reduced spending and allowed the peso to weaken, helping stabilise fiscal accounts and crush demand-driven price spirals.&nbsp;Still, economists warn that long-term stability will require not only monetary discipline but also growth-boosting reforms. Argentina remains one of the world’s most volatile economies and the cost of this adjustment has been immense for ordinary citizens.<h2>A world in flux</h2>From the world’s largest economy facing tariff-driven inflation risks, to China remapping its trade routes, to Britain’s struggle for growth, to Latin America’s twin stories of resilience and recovery, the global economy in 2025 is anything but settled.&nbsp;

In 2025, the global economy enters a period of realignment, US tariffs fuel inflation, China retools Asian trade routes, the UK and Brazil face growth hurdles, while Argentina makes rare progress against hyperinflation.

From American consumers facing the return of price pressures, to China cementing new Asian trade corridors, to Argentina’s hard-won fight to tame hyperinflation, 2025 is proving a pivotal year for the global economy, Fresh data from official agencies, compiled by Bloomberg, reveals an increasingly fragmented landscape. While some economies maintain their footing, others are navigating headwinds from tariffs, soft demand, and persistent inflation. US inflation edges higher as tariffs bite Steep US tariffs are feeding through to consumers after months of relatively subdued price gains. Bloomberg’s latest survey of economists' points to a clear pick-up in June’s core consumer price index (CPI), excluding volatile food and energy.

As the global economy fragments in 2025, the US faces rising inflation from Trump-era tariffs, China deepens trade ties across Asia, the UK and Brazil navigate growth challenges, and Argentina sees progress in taming hyperinflation.

US inflation expected to pick up as Trump’s tariffs bite

In a sign of changing winds in China’s strict crypto stance, Shanghai’s top state-owned assets regulator has held high-level talks about stablecoins and digital currencies, an unusual move in a country where crypto trading is officially banned. According to Reuters, the Shanghai State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission convened around 60 to 70 local government officials this week to discuss policy responses to the rapidly evolving world of blockchain-based payments.&nbsp;“We need to have greater sensitivity to emerging technologies and enhanced research into digital currencies,” He Qing, the regulator’s director, told the gathering, as quoted in an official post on the agency’s WeChat account. While China has cracked down on crypto trading and mining since 2021 over financial stability concerns, the Shanghai meeting suggests at least parts of the government are examining ways to manage, adapt to, or even compete with global stablecoin developments.<h2>Why Shanghai’s interest matters?&nbsp;</h2>Shanghai is China’s main international financial hub and has often served as a testing ground for regulatory pilot programmes. Moves there can signal broader policy shifts. Reuters notes that calls have been growing among Chinese firms and experts to develop a yuan-pegged stablecoin to counter the rise of US dollar-linked cryptocurrencies.&nbsp;Companies like JD.com and fintech giant Ant Group have reportedly urged China’s central bank to greenlight yuan-based stablecoins. According to Reuters, these firms plan to apply for stablecoin licenses in Hong Kong, where dedicated stablecoin legislation is set to take effect on August 1. “Given China’s strong fintech ecosystem, it has the potential to be a key player in shaping the future of blockchain-based payments,” Nick Ruck, director at LVRG Research, told Reuters.<h2>Global context</h2>Stablecoins, cryptocurrencies typically pegged to fiat currencies like the dollar, have seen explosive growth worldwide, offering cheaper and faster transactions than traditional systems. According to Reuters, ARK Investment Management estimates the global transaction value of stablecoins hit $15.6 trillion last year, surpassing even Visa in volume. In the United States, where regulations are clearer, giants such as Amazon and Walmart are reportedly exploring stablecoin launches.&nbsp;Asia is also moving forward. South Korea’s government has pledged to allow won-based stablecoins while building the necessary regulatory framework, although its central bank has warned of a need for gradual adoption.<h2>Policy hurdles in China</h2>Despite the Shanghai meeting’s open tone, big barriers remain. Reuters reports that at the meeting, a policy expert from Guotai Haitong Securities gave officials a detailed overview of stablecoins, their history, and global regulatory approaches, while also laying out opportunities and policy challenges.Separately, Yang Tao, deputy director at the National Institution for Finance and Development, suggested China should test yuan-based stablecoins in both the Shanghai Pilot Free Trade Zone and Hong Kong simultaneously.&nbsp;But analysts note that China’s strict capital controls are likely to be a major hurdle for any stablecoin initiative. China’s central bank governor Pan Gongsheng last month warned that the boom in digital currencies and stablecoins poses “huge challenges” for financial regulation, according to Reuters.<h2>Crypto ban still in place</h2>Mainland China banned cryptocurrency trading and mining in 2021 to limit risks to its financial system and curb capital flight. That ban remains in force. While discussions on stablecoins have heated up recently, the official outlook for other cryptocurrencies is far less clear.&nbsp;Meanwhile, outside of China’s borders, crypto markets continue to boom. Bitcoin recently soared to a new record high above $118,000 on Friday, Reuters reported. Shanghai’s cautious but notable discussion of stablecoin policy suggests that while China’s crypto ban stands firm, authorities are now paying closer attention to the global shifts in digital finance and may be preparing for how to respond.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In a surprising move, Shanghai top state owned assets regulator has discussed stablecoins and blockchain payments with local officials, suggesting China may be reassessing its crypto policy.

In a sign of changing winds in China’s strict crypto stance, Shanghai’s top state-owned assets regulator has held high-level talks about stablecoins and digital currencies, an unusual move in a country where crypto trading is officially banned. According to Reuters, the Shanghai State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission convened around 60 to 70 local government officials this week to discuss policy responses to the rapidly evolving world of blockchain-based payments. “We need to have greater sensitivity to emerging technologies and enhanced research into digital currencies,” He Qing, the regulator’s director, told the gathering, as quoted in an official post on the agency’s WeChat account. While China has cracked down on crypto trading and mining since 2021 over financial stability concerns, the Shanghai meeting suggests at least parts of the government are examining ways to manage, adapt to, or even compete with global stablecoin developments. Why Shanghai’s interest matters? Shanghai is China’s main international financial hub and has often served as a testing ground for regulatory pilot programmes. Moves there can signal broader policy shifts. Reuters notes that calls have been growing among Chinese firms and experts to develop a yuan-pegged stablecoin to counter the rise of US dollar-linked cryptocurrencies. Companies like JD.com and fintech giant Ant Group have reportedly urged China’s central bank to greenlight yuan-based stablecoins. According to Reuters, these firms plan to apply for stablecoin licenses in Hong Kong, where dedicated stablecoin legislation is set to take effect on August 1. “Given China’s strong fintech ecosystem, it has the potential to be a key player in shaping the future of blockchain-based payments,” Nick Ruck, director at LVRG Research, told Reuters. Global context Stablecoins, cryptocurrencies typically pegged to fiat currencies like the dollar, have seen explosive growth worldwide, offering cheaper and faster transactions than traditional systems. According to Reuters, ARK Investment Management estimates the global transaction value of stablecoins hit $15.6 trillion last year, surpassing even Visa in volume. In the United States, where regulations are clearer, giants such as Amazon and Walmart are reportedly exploring stablecoin launches. Asia is also moving forward. South Korea’s government has pledged to allow won-based stablecoins while building the necessary regulatory framework, although its central bank has warned of a need for gradual adoption. Policy hurdles in China Despite the Shanghai meeting’s open tone, big barriers remain. Reuters reports that at the meeting, a policy expert from Guotai Haitong Securities gave officials a detailed overview of stablecoins, their history, and global regulatory approaches, while also laying out opportunities and policy challenges. Separately, Yang Tao, deputy director at the National Institution for Finance and Development, suggested China should test yuan-based stablecoins in both the Shanghai Pilot Free Trade Zone and Hong Kong simultaneously. But analysts note that China’s strict capital controls are likely to be a major hurdle for any stablecoin initiative. China’s central bank governor Pan Gongsheng last month warned that the boom in digital currencies and stablecoins poses “huge challenges” for financial regulation, according to Reuters. Crypto ban still in place Mainland China banned cryptocurrency trading and mining in 2021 to limit risks to its financial system and curb capital flight. That ban remains in force. While discussions on stablecoins have heated up recently, the official outlook for other cryptocurrencies is far less clear. Meanwhile, outside of China’s borders, crypto markets continue to boom. Bitcoin recently soared to a new record high above $118,000 on Friday, Reuters reported. Shanghai’s cautious but notable discussion of stablecoin policy suggests that while China’s crypto ban stands firm, authorities are now paying closer attention to the global shifts in digital finance and may be preparing for how to respond.

Shanghai's state regulator has held rare high-level talks on stablecoins, signalling a potential rethink of China’s rigid crypto stance amid global digital finance shifts.

Shanghai holds talks on stablecoin policy amid crypto ban

Two senior US senators have warned Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang not to meet Chinese companies suspected of helping Beijing evade US export controls, intensifying scrutiny over American technology firms’ ties to China’s AI sector.&nbsp;According to Reuters, the bipartisan warning comes in the form of a letter sent on Friday, just as Huang prepared for his trip to China. Republican Senator Jim Banks and Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren urged him to avoid meetings with companies linked to China’s military or intelligence bodies, as well as firms placed on the US restricted export list. “We are worried that your trip to the PRC could legitimize companies that cooperate closely with the Chinese military or involve discussing exploitable gaps in US export controls,” the senators wrote, as quoted by Reuters.<h2>Growing US concerns over AI technology transfers</h2>The letter reflects Washington’s deepening fears that advanced American AI hardware could boost China’s military modernisation. Lawmakers across party lines have backed tighter restrictions on AI chip exports, worried about efforts to circumvent existing controls.&nbsp;As per Reuters, the senators said advanced AI hardware could “accelerate the PRC’s effort to modernize its military.” They also cited Nvidia’s new research facility in Shanghai as an example of the company’s growing footprint in China, suggesting such moves risk aiding Beijing’s strategic ambitions. US lawmakers have proposed new legislation that would require AI chip makers to verify where their products ultimately end up, aiming to close loopholes that might enable transfers to Chinese military or intelligence-linked users.<h2>Nvidia’s response and tightrope strategy</h2>In response, an Nvidia spokesperson defended the company’s approach, telling Reuters, “American wins when our technology sets the global standard.” The spokesperson added that China is home to one of the world’s largest software developer communities and argued that ensuring AI software runs best on American technology would encourage other nations to adopt US systems.&nbsp;The letter comes just weeks after Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang publicly praised President Donald Trump’s decision to ease certain AI chip export controls, calling prior restrictions a failure. Speaking at the Computex trade show in Taipei in May, Huang framed the partial rollback as a win for American competitiveness. But Reuters notes that even after those relaxations, US restrictions imposed in April on AI chips Nvidia designed to comply with earlier controls will still cut an estimated $15 billion from Nvidia’s revenue.<h2>A high-stakes balancing act</h2>Nvidia, the world’s most valuable chip company, has found itself at the centre of geopolitical tensions as the US tightens technology exports to China. Washington sees advanced AI hardware as a critical frontier, with bipartisan agreement that it must prevent China’s military from gaining access to cutting-edge systems.&nbsp;Reuters reported last month that a senior US official accused Chinese AI firm DeepSeek of supporting Beijing’s military and intelligence agencies while trying to dodge export controls through shell companies. Meanwhile, Nvidia has been working on launching a cheaper, export-compliant version of its flagship Blackwell AI chips for the Chinese market, according to Reuters reporting in May.<h2>Why it matters?&nbsp;</h2>The exchange between US lawmakers and Nvidia underscores the difficult balance American tech giants face. China is a vast market, but one increasingly off-limits for sensitive technologies under US national security policy. As the Biden administration continues Trump-era restrictions while refining them, companies like Nvidia must navigate a complex web of regulations, commercial interests, and geopolitical rivalries.&nbsp;For now, Huang’s trip to China has triggered a clear political warning from Washington: avoid any engagement that might undermine the hardening wall of US export controls.

Ahead of Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang trip to China, US senators issued a stern warning to avoid firms linked to Beijing’s military or on the export control list. 

Two senior US senators have warned Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang not to meet Chinese companies suspected of helping Beijing evade US export controls, intensifying scrutiny over American technology firms’ ties to China’s AI sector. According to Reuters, the bipartisan warning comes in the form of a letter sent on Friday, just as Huang prepared for his trip to China. Republican Senator Jim Banks and Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren urged him to avoid meetings with companies linked to China’s military or intelligence bodies, as well as firms placed on the US restricted export list. “We are worried that your trip to the PRC could legitimize companies that cooperate closely with the Chinese military or involve discussing exploitable gaps in US export controls,” the senators wrote, as quoted by Reuters. Growing US concerns over AI technology transfers The letter reflects Washington’s deepening fears that advanced American AI hardware could boost China’s military modernisation. Lawmakers across party lines have backed tighter restrictions on AI chip exports, worried about efforts to circumvent existing controls. As per Reuters, the senators said advanced AI hardware could “accelerate the PRC’s effort to modernize its military.” They also cited Nvidia’s new research facility in Shanghai as an example of the company’s growing footprint in China, suggesting such moves risk aiding Beijing’s strategic ambitions. US lawmakers have proposed new legislation that would require AI chip makers to verify where their products ultimately end up, aiming to close loopholes that might enable transfers to Chinese military or intelligence-linked users. Nvidia’s response and tightrope strategy In response, an Nvidia spokesperson defended the company’s approach, telling Reuters, “American wins when our technology sets the global standard.” The spokesperson added that China is home to one of the world’s largest software developer communities and argued that ensuring AI software runs best on American technology would encourage other nations to adopt US systems. The letter comes just weeks after Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang publicly praised President Donald Trump’s decision to ease certain AI chip export controls, calling prior restrictions a failure. Speaking at the Computex trade show in Taipei in May, Huang framed the partial rollback as a win for American competitiveness. But Reuters notes that even after those relaxations, US restrictions imposed in April on AI chips Nvidia designed to comply with earlier controls will still cut an estimated $15 billion from Nvidia’s revenue. A high-stakes balancing act Nvidia, the world’s most valuable chip company, has found itself at the centre of geopolitical tensions as the US tightens technology exports to China. Washington sees advanced AI hardware as a critical frontier, with bipartisan agreement that it must prevent China’s military from gaining access to cutting-edge systems. Reuters reported last month that a senior US official accused Chinese AI firm DeepSeek of supporting Beijing’s military and intelligence agencies while trying to dodge export controls through shell companies. Meanwhile, Nvidia has been working on launching a cheaper, export-compliant version of its flagship Blackwell AI chips for the Chinese market, according to Reuters reporting in May. Why it matters? The exchange between US lawmakers and Nvidia underscores the difficult balance American tech giants face. China is a vast market, but one increasingly off-limits for sensitive technologies under US national security policy. As the Biden administration continues Trump-era restrictions while refining them, companies like Nvidia must navigate a complex web of regulations, commercial interests, and geopolitical rivalries. For now, Huang’s trip to China has triggered a clear political warning from Washington: avoid any engagement that might undermine the hardening wall of US export controls.

US senators warn Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang against meeting China-linked firms, spotlighting rising tensions over AI tech exports and military ties.

US lawmakers caution Nvidia’s Huang on China visit

A close encounter over the East China Sea unfolded on Wednesday and Thursday as a Chinese JH-7 fighter-bomber flew as close as 30 meters of a Japanese YS-11EB in a manoeuvre that sparked outrage in Tokyo. This close encounter in the international airspace reveals the tension between Japan and China as they look for regional dominance.&nbsp;Japan's Defence Minister called the move reckless, even though no damage or injury was reported. The incidents are part of the growing aggressive assertion of China. It claimed that these incidents occurred on subsequent dates on Wednesday and Thursday for 10 minutes and 15 minutes, respectively. Each time coming as close as 30 meters both horizontally and vertically. This type of movement is known as ‘buzzing’ and is used for the intimidation and disruption of surveillance missions.The Defence Minister of Japan said that this was outside the airspace of Japan. Previously, in May and June, both Japan and China had accused each other of violating the airspace around the Japanese-controlled East China Sea islands.&nbsp;The Chinese JH-7 is a twin-engine fighter aircraft developed by Xi’an Aircraft Industrial Corporation, which has a combat radius of about 900 miles. It is an old model but carries a potential maritime advantage with anti-ship missiles like the YJ-83, which has a range of 110 miles and a 360-pound warhead. With a speed of 1.75 Mach, this has the potential to carry up to 20,000 pounds of ordnance.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">According to Japan&#39;s Defense Ministry, on July 9th and 10th, 2025, Chinese JH-7 fighter-bombers made unusually close approaches towards Japanese Air Self-Defense Force (ASDF) YS-11EB electronic intelligence aircraft over the East China Sea The Chinese jets came within 30 meters… <a href="https://t.co/XSSuKHmMRP">pic.twitter.com/XSSuKHmMRP</a>&mdash; Nucleus (@NewsNucleus) <a href="https://twitter.com/NewsNucleus/status/1943384618172059819?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The Japanese YS-11EB is an electronic intelligence platform operated by the Japan Air Self-Defence Force. With a speed of 290 miles per hour, this twin turboprop aircraft is vulnerable to the close approaches of interceptors like the JH-7. Its primary role is signal intelligence; its side-looking radar and electronic countermeasures feed important data about the Chinese naval movements, such as the Liaoning and Shandong aircraft carriers, which recently carried out exercises in the volatile Pacific.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">まだお読みになっていない方はぜひ。 👉中国軍の戦闘爆撃機、2日連続で空自機に異常接近　意図的でアンプロフェッショナルな危険極まりない行動 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E3%82%A8%E3%82%AD%E3%82%B9%E3%83%91%E3%83%BC%E3%83%88%E3%83%88%E3%83%94?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#エキスパートトピ</a>(高橋浩祐)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Yahoo%E3%83%8B%E3%83%A5%E3%83%BC%E3%82%B9?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Yahooニュース</a><a href="https://t.co/TtYlVgt1Yl">https://t.co/TtYlVgt1Yl</a>&mdash; 高橋浩祐（たかはし こうすけ）Takahashi Kosuke🐺 (@KosukeGoto2013) <a href="https://twitter.com/KosukeGoto2013/status/1943498523527299214?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

China routinely sends out its coast guard vessels and aircraft into waters and airspace surrounding the islands, which it calls Diaoyu, to harass Japanese vessels in the area and scramble Japanese jets. Tokoyo has previously protested to the Chinese Embassy in Tokoyo. China previously has accused Japan of flying close to its aircraft and spying on China's ordinary military activity, and demanded that Japan stop its actions. However, this time, China did not comment on the accusations. These actions by both sides test each other's response time in a hotly contested Sino-Japanese focal point of the East China Sea.

The Japanese Defence Minister has accused the Chinese JH-7 jet of flying close to Japan’s YS-11EB spy plane, in an attempt to intimidate and disrupt surveillance missions in the East China Sea. 

A close encounter over the East China Sea unfolded on Wednesday and Thursday as a Chinese JH-7 fighter-bomber flew as close as 30 meters of a Japanese YS-11EB in a manoeuvre that sparked outrage in Tokyo. This close encounter in the international airspace reveals the tension between Japan and China as they look for regional dominance. Japan's Defence Minister called the move reckless, even though no damage or injury was reported. The incidents are part of the growing aggressive assertion of China. It claimed that these incidents occurred on subsequent dates on Wednesday and Thursday for 10 minutes and 15 minutes, respectively. Each time coming as close as 30 meters both horizontally and vertically. This type of movement is known as ‘buzzing’ and is used for the intimidation and disruption of surveillance missions. The Defence Minister of Japan said that this was outside the airspace of Japan. Previously, in May and June, both Japan and China had accused each other of violating the airspace around the Japanese-controlled East China Sea islands. The Chinese JH-7 is a twin-engine fighter aircraft developed by Xi’an Aircraft Industrial Corporation, which has a combat radius of about 900 miles. It is an old model but carries a potential maritime advantage with anti-ship missiles like the YJ-83, which has a range of 110 miles and a 360-pound warhead. With a speed of 1.75 Mach, this has the potential to carry up to 20,000 pounds of ordnance.

The Japanese Defence Minister has accused the Chinese JH-7 jet of flying close to Japan’s YS-11EB spy plane, in an attempt to intimidate and disrupt surveillance missions in the East China Sea.&nbsp;

Close encounters: Chinese JH-7 jet buzzes Japan’s YS-11EB in East China's flyby, outrages Tokyo

Based on current estimation and projection for 2025, India has surpassed China as the most populous country in the world. Here is the list of the Top 10 most populous nations in the world.

Based on current estimation and projection for 2025, India has surpassed China as the most populous country in the world. Here is the list of the Top 10 most populous nations in the world.

Top 10 most populous countries in the world (2025): See where India, China stand

Social media is abuzz with photos and videos of some unidentified vehicles on China's roads that some say could be new tanks. People were shocked to see the manner in which the mystery vehicles were being moved around, covered by a large box. The War Zone reported that it could be directly related to the military or have a military-related purpose. Speculations are rife that they could be a new type of tank or other armoured vehicle. This belief has been fuelled by rumours that the vehicles were seen near Tiananmen Square in Beijing. However, there is no confirmation of what they were or the place they were spotted. The date of the footage is also not known. Videos of the vehicles first started circulating on the Chinese social media platform Xiaohongshu and spread to other media. They have since been removed from Xiaohongshu, reports suggest. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-asks-public-servant-to-resist-seductive-beaty-of-spies-in-massive-honeytrap-warning-1752132691486">China asks public servants to resist 'seductive beauty&nbsp;of spies' in massive honeytrap warning</a>&nbsp;<h2>Mystery vehicles on China roads</h2>Some say that the vehicles were likely being taken for a military parade. The video shows at least four mystery vehicles covered with a strange blue box. They can be seen moving along a portion of a road that seems to be closed off. Each of them was accompanied by a white truck. This could be a way to conceal the mystery vehicles, illuminate the road ahead of them and instruct the driver on other things. The publication stated that it had no clarity or confirmation on what these blue box-covered vehicles were.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">China is set to unveil a mystery tank during the September 3 military parade commemorating victory over militarist Japan—spotted with a distinctive camouflage pattern.🇨🇳 <a href="https://t.co/AvoYu9dAhz">pic.twitter.com/AvoYu9dAhz</a>&mdash; Mr. Cool Boy (@Mr_CoolBoy1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mr_CoolBoy1/status/1943358636975071620?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Mystery vehicles appear to have tank traits</h2>TWZ analysed other features to understand the vehicles. Looking towards the bottom of the vehicle could tell whether it was a tank or something else. But the presence of rubber skirts prevents any kind of identification about whether they had tyres or tracks. The sound made by them indicates that they are likely some kind of heavy-armoured vehicle, most likely tanks. It also pointed out the size and dimensions of the vehicles hint that it could be a tank. The front portion of the vehicles appears completely dark. But the locations of various apertures, like a small aperture at the rear of the structure, hint that some internal area is illuminated.China has a military parade on September 3 at Tiananmen Square to commemorate the 80th anniversary of China’s victory in World War II. It is highly likely that the mystery vehicles, if they are tanks, will participate in the parade. China has previously revealed unseen weapons, stealth combat air vehicles and other items at such events.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Mystery vehicles speculated to be tanks were seen on the roads of Beijing near Tiananmen Square recently. Videos of the vehicle quickly spread on social media. They could be some sort of armoured vehicle set to be unveiled at the September 4 parade.

Social media is abuzz with photos and videos of some unidentified vehicles on China's roads that some say could be new tanks. People were shocked to see the manner in which the mystery vehicles were being moved around, covered by a large box. The War Zone reported that it could be directly related to the military or have a military-related purpose. Speculations are rife that they could be a new type of tank or other armoured vehicle. This belief has been fuelled by rumours that the vehicles were seen near Tiananmen Square in Beijing. However, there is no confirmation of what they were or the place they were spotted. The date of the footage is also not known. Videos of the vehicles first started circulating on the Chinese social media platform Xiaohongshu and spread to other media. They have since been removed from Xiaohongshu, reports suggest. Also Read: China asks public servants to resist 'seductive beauty of spies' in massive honeytrap warning Mystery vehicles on China roads Some say that the vehicles were likely being taken for a military parade. The video shows at least four mystery vehicles covered with a strange blue box. They can be seen moving along a portion of a road that seems to be closed off. Each of them was accompanied by a white truck. This could be a way to conceal the mystery vehicles, illuminate the road ahead of them and instruct the driver on other things. The publication stated that it had no clarity or confirmation on what these blue box-covered vehicles were.

Mystery vehicles speculated to be tanks were seen on the roads of Beijing near Tiananmen Square recently. Videos of the vehicle quickly spread on social media. They could be some sort of armoured vehicle set to be unveiled at the September 4 parade.

Four mystery vehicles under blue boxes seen in China. They could be secret military...

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