Harsh Ways North Korea Could Stop Soldiers Defecting While in Ukraine  

Business Insider,

North Korean troops, reportedly in Russia to support the war in Ukraine, face harsh measures to prevent desertion, according to experts. A rigid system and family hostages are used to ensure loyalty. The US defense secretary, Lloyd Austin, confirmed evidence of North Korean troops training in Russia. Some reports suggest small numbers are already in Ukraine, with early desertions noted. North Korea’s social hierarchy plays a role in selecting soldiers sent abroad, with only the most loyal being chosen. North Korean defectors often leave behind family members who face severe consequences.

BRICS’ New Declaration Shows Russia’s War Still Can’t Get International Backing  

Business Insider,

The BRICS Kazan Declaration, consisting of 134 points, only briefly mentioned the Ukraine war, calling for adherence to UN standards. Despite Russia hosting the summit, it struggled to gain support for its war. The document avoided Russia’s usual rhetoric and emphasized dialogue and diplomacy. The Institute for the Study of War noted that the declaration reflects Russia’s ongoing difficulties in securing international backing for the invasion of Ukraine.

Bitcoin Bounces Above $67,000 as Traders Navigate a ‘Liquidity Hunt’ Post-Surge

Decrypt,

Bitcoin has rebounded from a recent low, reaching $67,500, after a surge last week pushed it close to its all-time high of $73,700. The drop was attributed to a “liquidity hunt,” a process of flushing out leveraged positions. Experts believe this correction is healthy and expect Bitcoin to test the $70,000 resistance again soon. The upcoming U.S. presidential election may play a pivotal role in the market’s direction.

Tesla Gives Its Faithful Just Enough Good News  

Reuters,

Tesla’s third-quarter results offered a slight positive for investors, with operating profit rising 54% due to cost-cutting measures, despite revenue growth of only 8%. Tesla’s U.S. electric vehicle market share has dropped to 48%, but vehicle costs have fallen to an all-time low, sustaining its lead over competitors. CEO Elon Musk’s promises of a sub-$30,000 vehicle and increased deliveries next year keep optimism alive, though Tesla’s valuation remains heavily reliant on future projections.

Trump US Rallies Leave Behind Unpaid Dues Again and Again  

Al Jazeera,

Donald Trump’s campaign continues to leave behind unpaid bills for rallies across the U.S. This includes security and public safety expenses in cities like Prescott Valley and Mesa, Arizona. Trump’s financial troubles extend beyond his campaign, with declining donations and growing legal bills. Despite these challenges, he remains locked in a tight race with Vice President Kamala Harris ahead of the 2024 election.

World Powers Push Aid, Ceasefire for Lebanon Amid ‘Destructive Storm’

Reuters,

World leaders gathered in Paris to discuss aid and a ceasefire for Lebanon, as fighting between Hezbollah and Israeli forces intensifies. Lebanon’s caretaker prime minister, Najib Mikati, called for support for the army and the rebuilding of the country’s infrastructure. With the U.S. focused on its own upcoming election, the prospects for a ceasefire remain dim, and diplomats expect limited progress.