Chinese astronauts to conduct experiments in space, including lunar bricks

Reuters,

China has sent three astronauts to its permanently inhabited space station to conduct 86 scientific experiments, including testing bricks made from simulated lunar soil. These tests aim to develop materials for a potential permanent lunar research station, targeted for completion by 2035. The astronauts launched aboard the Shenzhou-19 spacecraft from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre, marking another significant step in China’s growing space ambitions amid rising tensions with the United States.

Voters in DC say outlets refusing to endorse Harris because she’s ‘shaky’

Fox News,

In the lead-up to the November election, major outlets, including the Washington Post, have refrained from endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris. Voters in D.C. expressed concern that these outlets view Harris as an uncertain candidate, fearing embarrassment in case of her defeat. The Washington Post’s owner, Jeff Bezos, defended the decision as an effort to regain public trust amid perceptions of media bias.

Election shock in key US ally Japan could embolden China, other rivals

Reuters,

Japan’s recent election results have left the ruling coalition struggling to maintain power, raising concerns about potential repercussions for security in East Asia. Analysts suggest that China may take advantage of this instability to increase territorial intrusions and pressure Taiwan. The U.S.-Japan security cooperation remains a cornerstone of regional stability, but Japan’s political changes could challenge defense initiatives.

TikTok’s founder is now China’s richest person. But the country’s total number of billionaires has shrunk

CNN Business,

Zhang Yiming, co-founder of TikTok’s parent company ByteDance, has become China’s richest person with a net worth of $49.3 billion, according to the Hurun Rich List. Despite his success, China has seen a significant decrease in the number of billionaires, attributed to economic challenges. TikTok faces legal hurdles in the U.S. concerning child protection and national security, yet its global popularity continues to rise.

North Korean troops sent to Russia may be pleased to be there, even as they face ferocious fighting

AP News,

Thousands of North Korean soldiers, reportedly elite special forces, have been sent to Russia to assist in the ongoing war against Ukraine. While observers speculate on their lack of combat experience, former soldiers suggest that these young troops may view the deployment as an honor. The move raises concerns about significant casualties and highlights Kim Jong Un’s gamble for economic and military support from Russia.

Biden may have handed Trump a big assist with his ‘garbage’ gaffe

CNN Politics,

President Biden inadvertently reignited controversy by referencing comments made at a Trump rally, describing Puerto Rico as a “floating island of garbage.” This misstep has drawn comparisons to previous electoral gaffes and shifted focus away from Vice President Harris’ campaign efforts. The fallout may complicate Harris’ position as she aims to unify voters ahead of the election, especially among those disaffected by Trump’s rhetoric.