Russia’s War Economy Is Hitting Its Limits

Source: Foreign Policy
Russia’s economy, despite its initial resilience, is showing signs of exhaustion under the weight of the ongoing war against Ukraine. While Russian exports of oil and gas continue, bypassing Western sanctions, the country’s war economy faces severe bottlenecks, particularly in weapons production. With artillery shells and tanks being lost at alarming rates, Russia’s ability to replace critical weaponry, especially large-caliber cannons, is dwindling. The military industry struggles to attract workers, and inflation is rising due to wage increases in defense sectors. As Russia nears a point where it cannot sustain its war effort beyond mid-2025, the Kremlin faces difficult decisions: continue to fund an unsustainable military or risk economic collapse. The situation highlights the economic fragility behind Russia’s aggressive posturing and underscores the need for long-term Western commitment to supporting Ukraine.

Sony in Talks to Acquire Kadokawa
Source: Reuters
Sony is negotiating to acquire Kadokawa, a major Japanese media company behind the popular game “Elden Ring.” This acquisition would expand Sony’s portfolio, especially as it focuses on anime and gaming content. Kadokawa, whose market capitalization reached approximately $2.7 billion, has been at the forefront of integrating franchises like “Re

” into gaming, anime, and merchandise. Despite setbacks, including a cyberattack and leadership scandals, Kadokawa’s strategic collaboration with Sony has bolstered its success. The acquisition talks come as Sony continues to grow its entertainment empire, emphasizing the longevity of intellectual properties. This deal could mark a significant shift in the gaming and anime markets, amplifying Sony’s influence in these sectors.

Azerbaijan Should Never Have Been COP Host
Source: Time
Azerbaijan’s role as the host of COP29, the U.N. climate summit, has sparked controversy, given its poor environmental record and oppressive governance. While Azerbaijan is a petro-state with vast oil and gas reserves, its wealth does not benefit the majority of its citizens, with poverty widespread. Critics argue that hosting COP29 is an attempt by the authoritarian government of President Ilham Aliyev to greenwash its reputation. The country’s track record includes ethnic cleansing in Nagorno-Karabakh and severe repression of political opposition. Despite this, global elites have embraced Azerbaijan, deflecting attention from its human rights abuses. This juxtaposition raises critical questions about the values underpinning global climate negotiations and the role of authoritarian regimes in shaping the future of environmental policy.

Africa’s Debt Crisis Impedes Climate Action at COP29
Source: Politico
At COP29, African nations are at a crossroads, facing both a mounting climate crisis and unsustainable debt levels. Over half of the continent’s countries are in debt distress, and many are struggling to balance climate adaptation needs with debt repayments. With African nations contributing just 3% of global emissions but bearing the brunt of climate impacts, the debate on climate finance is particularly critical. A proposal to increase climate finance goals is at odds with the continent’s debt obligations. Without substantial debt relief, the funds promised to combat climate change will not reach those who need them most. This issue highlights a structural flaw in the international financial system, where African nations are caught in a debt trap that compromises their ability to address climate vulnerability.

Three Dead in Random Stabbings in New York City
Source: Associated Press
A man carried out a series of random stabbings across Manhattan on November 18, leaving three victims dead. The suspect, a 51-year-old man, was arrested shortly after the attacks, which occurred over a span of two and a half hours. The victims, including a construction worker and a fisherman, were attacked without provocation and without any exchange of words. This shocking act of violence comes at a time when New York City has seen an increase in serious assaults. Police are still investigating the motive behind the killings, and the city’s mayor called the attack a “clear example” of failures in the criminal justice system. This incident underscores growing concerns over public safety in the city.

Driver Detained After Crash Injures Children Outside Chinese School
Source: South China Morning Post
A 39-year-old driver has been detained by police after crashing his vehicle into a crowd of parents and children outside a primary school in Changde, China. The incident occurred around 7:30 AM, and while several children were injured, none are in life-threatening condition. The crash occurred in front of the school, and the driver was apprehended by parents and school guards. Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash, but it has drawn significant concern over pedestrian safety in school zones across China.

Karnataka’s Wanted Naxal Leader Killed in Encounter
Source: The Indian Express
Vikram Gowda, a prominent Naxal leader in Karnataka, was killed in a gunfight with the Anti-Naxal Force (ANF) on November 18. Gowda, who had been on the run for 20 years, was involved in the Naxal insurgency and was considered one of the last remaining major leaders of the movement in the state. The encounter occurred in the Kabbinale forest region after a tip-off led police to the area. Gowda’s death marks the first significant Naxal-police encounter in Karnataka in over two decades, with police continuing to search for other fugitives linked to the Naxal group. Despite the Naxal movement’s decline in the state, reports suggest a recent resurgence of activity.