The Quad, comprising Australia, India, Japan, and the United States, is central to reshaping global geopolitics and promises a more democratic global order. The group's focus on security, defense partnerships, and practical cooperation is crucial in the face of China's aggressive stance and Russia's brinkmanship. The Quad's success in vaccine delivery, supply chain resilience, and defense initiatives like India's sale of the BrahMos missile to the Philippines are strategic moves in the Indo-Pacific region. The potential expansion of the Quad Plus to include other nations reflects a shift towards minilateralism over the global multilateral system.

The debate over South Korea's potential nuclearisation has intensified, transitioning from a fringe idea to a subject of national security discussion. Public opinion in South Korea is increasingly supportive of indigenous nuclearisation, with polls indicating a majority in favor. This shift is driven by perceived threats from China and North Korea, with the latter's recent missile tests and nuclear developments raising concerns. The US-South Korea alliance provides conventional security, but nuclear weapons present a unique challenge, as seen in Russia's actions in Ukraine. Options such as missile defense and preemptive strikes are considered risky or ineffective. The possibility of Japan considering nuclear weapons in response to North Korean aggression is also discussed. The article suggests that if South Korea and Japan were to develop nuclear weapons, it would be for defensive purposes and after North Korea's disregard for international norms.

Kim Kelly, author of the best-selling book 'Fight Like Hell: The Untold History of American Labor,' visited the Union Miners Cemetery in Mt. Olive, Illinois, to honor Mary Harris 'Mother Jones' during the annual Miners’ Day ceremony. The event highlighted the historical struggles of labor movements, including the 1898 Battle of Virden. Speakers, including Loretta Williams and Scott Thomas, emphasized the importance of voting for the Illinois Workers’ Rights Amendment to secure safe working conditions and fair pay for workers.

US President Joe Biden hosted South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida at Camp David, marking a significant summit. The three nations committed to annual trilateral talks, joint military exercises, and a crisis hotline, aiming to strengthen their strategic partnership.

China's entertainment industry, particularly reality TV, is becoming a powerful tool for soft power and cultural diplomacy. Shows like 'Call Me by Fire' are not only popular but also serve to integrate Taiwanese and Hong Kong entertainers into the mainland's cultural sphere, often requiring them to show support for the Chinese government. Despite controversies and increased scrutiny on celebrities, the potential for career success in China remains high. The article highlights the economic and political dynamics influencing the entertainment industry in the Mandarin-speaking world.

The article discusses the increasing legal challenges posed by sea-level rise, particularly for island nations. It highlights the World Bank's recent report on the issue and Vanuatu's call for a UN advisory opinion on climate change's legal impacts. The International Law Commission's study on sea-level rise and the Pacific Islands Forum's declaration on maritime zones are also examined. The article underscores the urgency of addressing these legal issues and the broader implications for statehood and human rights.

Russian President Vladimir Putin may meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to trade North Korean ammunition for Russian military technology, highlighting Russia's desperation due to military shortages and economic troubles from the Ukraine war. North Korea stands to gain significant technological advancements, while the West is likely to respond with increased support for Ukraine. The summit underscores the shifting dynamics and alliances in the ongoing conflict.

Wolverine and the X-Men series highlighted the complexity of villains, particularly those without superpowers, such as the Mutant Response Division (MRD). The MRD, supported by Senator Robert Kelly, posed a significant threat to mutants, detaining them and using power-dampening collars. The series depicted the MRD as a more dangerous adversary than traditional villains like Magneto and Apocalypse, leading to the creation of Sentinels, which further endangered mutants. The article suggests that the MRD could be integrated into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) as an offshoot of the Department of Damage Control, which has already shown hostility towards superpowered individuals.

Vladimir Putin's re-election as Russian President is expected to intensify his anti-Western stance and reliance on China. As the Ukraine War continues, Putin's legacy is tied to its outcome, with potential shifts in Russian military strategy. The West's response, particularly from the US and Europe, could influence the conflict's trajectory. Russia's economic challenges necessitate a partnership with China, despite China's cautious stance due to its economic ties with Western democracies. The article highlights the geopolitical complexities and potential for a new cold war if Western nations simultaneously decouple from China and Russia.

Chinese President Xi Jinping's zero-COVID policy, described as an 'all-out people’s war,' remains firmly in place despite its significant economic and social costs. The policy, deeply tied to Xi's political legitimacy, has led to rare public protests and economic contraction. China’s reliance on less effective domestically produced vaccines has necessitated continued lockdowns. Xi's extended rule and the absence of political pluralism complicate any potential policy shift. The article suggests that gradual easing, similar to Hong Kong's approach, could be a viable exit strategy post-party congress.

Industrial designer Louis Nelson, an Army veteran and the creative mind behind the Mural Wall at the Korean War Veterans Memorial, discusses his inspiration and the significance of memorials. His design features 2,500 images of real service members from the Korean War, etched in black granite, to honor their service. Nelson's new book, 'Mosaic: War Monument Mystery,' delves into his life and work on war memorials. The article also highlights the collaborative efforts with Frank Gaylord, who designed 'The Column,' and the emotional impact of the memorial on veterans.

Labor unions in Illinois are endorsing Republican Rodney Davis over Mary Miller in the upcoming GOP primary for the 15th Congressional District. Davis is favored due to his relatively high support for union-backed bills, contrasting with Miller's lack of support. Despite Davis's previous support for Trump, the former president has endorsed Miller. Unions such as the United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters and the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police are backing Davis, highlighting his support for law enforcement. The primary winner will face Democrat Paul Lange in November.

North Korea has publicly acknowledged a COVID-19 outbreak, with leader Kim Jong Un appearing on television wearing a mask. The country, which previously claimed to be COVID-free, now reports 1.72 million infections and 62 deaths. The announcement is seen as a sign of desperation due to North Korea's inadequate healthcare infrastructure. The article discusses the potential for foreign aid, particularly from South Korea and China, and the political implications of accepting such aid. It highlights the risks of an uncontrolled outbreak, including the emergence of new variants, and suggests that international assistance is in the global interest. The piece also critiques the North Korean government's historical neglect of its population's needs and the potential for the pandemic to expose the regime's inequalities.

North Korea's escalating nuclear threats and potential tests are prompting South Korea to consider its own nuclear deterrence. South Korean President-Elect Yoon Seok-yeol has suggested pre-emptive strikes, but this is deemed too risky. The article argues that South Korean nuclearization, despite its risks, might be a better option than airstrikes, which could provoke a full-scale war. The U.S. opposes South Korean nuclearization, but the growing threat from North Korea and doubts about American extended deterrence make it a plausible strategy.

The article argues against the common belief in South Korea that foreign powers, including Japan, oppose Korean unification. It suggests that only South Korea's autocratic neighbors are against unification, while its democratic partners support it, highlighting the strategic logic behind this stance.

North Korea's aggressive missile testing and potential resumption of nuclear tests violate UN sanctions, raising questions about resource acquisition amidst severe economic sanctions and chronic food insecurity. The regime prioritizes military spending over civilian needs, exacerbating poverty and malnutrition. Smuggling and illicit activities fund its military build-up, with China and Russia's lax enforcement of sanctions contributing to the issue. The international community faces challenges in disciplining North Korea, with potential solutions including maintaining sanctions, missile defense, or pre-emptive strikes, though each carries significant risks.

Robert Kelly, a former Coast Guard officer and deputy assistant secretary of defense, calls for the creation of a multinational task force to address the crises in Haiti. He reflects on the desperation of Haitian migrants risking their lives to reach the U.S. and outlines Haiti's history of natural and man-made disasters. Kelly criticizes past U.S. policies towards Haiti and argues that rebuilding the nation is a moral, practical, and strategic imperative, urging Congress to authorize a coalition to provide comprehensive support.

North Korea has conducted almost a dozen missile tests this year, indicating a significant enhancement of its missile program, which now includes short, medium, and long-range missiles capable of reaching South Korea, Japan, and the United States. The development of hypersonic missiles and improved launch capabilities, such as train- and truck-based launchers and submarine-mounted missiles, has increased the survivability of North Korea's arsenal. This advancement has strategic implications for the US, South Korea, and Japan, potentially leading to a rethinking of US military presence and base structures in the region due to the growing threat of North Korean missiles.

Australia's strategic personality should shift from the outdated Crocodile Dundee stereotype to one inspired by Ashleigh Barty, emphasizing humility, teamwork, and perseverance. Barty's approach offers valuable lessons for Australia's foreign and defence policy, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. The article critiques Australia's current policies, including its handling of Indigenous issues and multilateralism, and suggests that embracing Barty's qualities could lead to more effective and empathetic international relations.

The article argues that a Russian invasion of Ukraine would be disastrous for Russia, leading to international isolation and economic consequences. It critiques media coverage for being alarmist and emphasizes that NATO expansion was driven by demand in Eastern Europe. The author suggests that Putin's aggressive policies have cornered him, and any military action in Ukraine could result in a quagmire similar to Iraq or Vietnam. The article concludes that U.S. alliances would strengthen in response to Russian aggression, and Biden's cautious approach is wise given the circumstances.

The article discusses the growing geopolitical tensions between the United States and China, suggesting a potential drift towards a new form of cold war. The Biden administration's stance on 'great power competition' and the shift from American unipolarity to a bipolar world order are highlighted. The narrative draws parallels to historical cold war dynamics, referencing President John Kennedy's 'twilight struggle'.

In 2022, North Korea has resumed an aggressive missile test schedule, prompting the U.S. to impose new sanctions on DPRK elites. The U.S. argues that these tests violate United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions, while North Korea claims a sovereign right to test weapons. China and Russia, despite voting for the sanctions, have expressed objections to their enforcement. The new U.S. sanctions are largely symbolic due to limited interaction with North Korea. The article highlights the ongoing international tension and the limited impact of the latest sanctions.

China's relationship with North Korea is complex, driven by historical ties and strategic considerations. Despite being a treaty ally and major trade partner, China faces significant challenges due to North Korea's illicit activities and provocative actions. The traditional rationale for supporting North Korea as a buffer against the US and its allies is becoming less compelling, especially given North Korea's nuclear capabilities and China's own growing military and economic strength. Cutting ties with North Korea could enhance China's global leadership and reduce regional tensions, but the entrenched cold war mindset of Chinese leadership makes this scenario unlikely in the near term.

South Korean President Moon Jae In is advocating for an 'end of war declaration' to formally conclude the Korean War, which has only been paused by an armistice since 1953. This proposal has sparked debate, particularly among conservatives and North Korea hawks in both the US and South Korea, who fear it could undermine the United Nations Command and US Forces Korea. The declaration's exact legal and political implications remain unclear, leading to concerns about its potential to pressure the dissolution of these military commands.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, after a decade in power, has made minimal changes to the country's political and economic landscape, despite initial hopes for reform. His tenure has seen an acceleration in nuclear and missile programs, worsening North Korea's international standing and leading to tighter sanctions. Human rights abuses remain severe, with the UN likening the regime's gulags to Nazi concentration camps. Attempts at diplomatic engagement, notably with former US President Donald Trump, have failed to yield significant progress. The future of North Korea remains uncertain, with potential succession scenarios adding to global concerns.

India faces a complex geopolitical dilemma as tensions rise between Russia and Ukraine. While India has a longstanding and robust defence relationship with Russia, including recent procurements like the S-400 air defence systems and AK-203 assault rifles, its ties with Ukraine are comparatively weaker. The situation is further complicated by US sanctions under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act and India's role in the Quad alliance aimed at countering China's influence. India's diplomatic balancing act is tested as it navigates its strategic partnerships and regional security concerns.

Pastures House, a substantial property dating back to 1805, has undergone extensive renovations and is now on the market for £1,095,000 through Kirkham Property. Situated on approximately 3.5 acres of land in Saddleworth, the home offers luxurious features including a bar, cinema room, gym, and stables. The property retains original period features while incorporating modern amenities such as a Michael Phelps endless pool and hot tub. The house boasts elegant interiors with high ceilings, sash windows, and a feature stove, making it an attractive option for potential buyers.

Moon Jae-In's presidency in South Korea is nearing its end, and he is considering another summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un to achieve a breakthrough in inter-Korean relations. Despite previous summits yielding little progress, Moon remains committed to engaging North Korea, even as skepticism grows among the South Korean public and political spectrum. The article highlights Moon's domestic and foreign policy efforts, the challenges he faces, and the potential implications of another summit, especially with the U.S. administration's current stance.

North Korea is alternating between diplomacy and missile tests to extract concessions from the US and South Korea. Despite South Korea's efforts, the Biden administration's vague and cautious approach has frustrated both North and South Korea. The article suggests that Biden's lack of concrete offers and focus on other issues like Afghanistan have contributed to the current deadlock. North Korea seeks concrete measures from the US to ensure long-term engagement, especially with the upcoming South Korean presidential election. The article highlights the geopolitical complexities involving China and Russia's support for North Korea and the potential consequences of Biden's diplomatic strategy.

The article discusses why the Korean War has not formally ended, despite the cessation of hostilities in 1953 under an armistice rather than a peace treaty. It argues that a peace treaty is unlikely due to the significant political, legal, and strategic differences between North and South Korea, as well as the lack of enthusiasm from South Korea's median voter and the conservative right. The article also highlights the potential complications involving the United States and China, and concludes that a treaty will not be feasible until North Korea undergoes significant reforms.

The article discusses the potential goals of North Korea regarding the unification of the Korean Peninsula, arguing that while both North and South Korea rhetorically support unification, in practice they have settled into a status quo. The author, Robert E. Kelly, suggests that North Korea has ceased aggressive actions such as domestic subversion and terrorism in South Korea and that its nuclear missile development is more for deterrence than offense. He posits that North Korea's tough talk on unification serves domestic ideological needs and that realistically, North Korea could not absorb South Korea without facing significant internal and external challenges. Kelly concludes that the North Korean elite may prefer to receive financial support from South Korea without taking significant strategic risks, likening them to a mafia clan rather than committed nationalist ideologues.

The Korean War, which began in 1950, has not formally ended due to the lack of a peace treaty, despite the armistice signed in 1953. Key stakeholders, including North Korea, South Korea, the United States, and China, have differing political stances and interests that have prevented a formal conclusion. The United Nations has played a significant role in the conflict, and recent diplomatic efforts have been made by leaders such as Kim Jong-un, Moon Jae-in, and Joe Biden to address the ongoing tensions.

The article critiques the U.S. foreign policy approach, particularly focusing on the recent withdrawal from Afghanistan. It highlights the historical pattern of American interventions in foreign nations without understanding their cultures and socio-political contexts. The author argues that the U.S. should break the cycle of disastrous foreign interventions, emphasizing the emotional and psychological burdens placed on military personnel and the moral failure in abandoning Afghan allies. The piece criticizes both the Trump and Biden administrations for their roles in the Afghanistan debacle.

North Korea's recent missile tests highlight the limitations of international efforts to curb its military advancements. Despite violating UN Security Council resolutions, responses from South Korea, the US, and Japan remain muted due to limited options. North Korea's missile technology, including cruise and ballistic missiles, shows significant progress, with potential nuclear capabilities. The strategic environment suggests North Korea is unlikely to denuclearize without substantial concessions, maintaining a stalemate in negotiations. Missile defense is a costly but viable option, though regional dynamics, particularly with China, complicate its implementation.

September is crucial for South Korean President Moon Jae-in to attempt to revive relations with North Korea before the upcoming presidential election. Despite efforts to engage through humanitarian aid and significant anniversaries, North Korea remains indifferent, restarting its plutonium reactor and testing long-range cruise missiles. However, North Korea's actions have been restrained, avoiding violations of promises to the US and staying below the red line on nuclear and long-range ballistic missile tests. Kim Jong-un's strategy appears to be advancing missile capabilities while maintaining diplomatic options, awaiting electoral outcomes in South Korea and the US. This calculated restraint allows North Korea to progress its missile development with minimal repercussions, positioning itself for future negotiations.

Papua New Guinea's Pangu Pati has elected Erigere Singin as its first female president, marking a significant milestone in the country's political history. Prime Minister James Marape announced the decision, highlighting the party's progressive stance. However, skepticism remains about whether this move is a genuine step towards gender equality or a political strategy ahead of the 2022 elections. Despite past promises, legislative action to increase female representation in parliament has been lacking. The Special Parliamentary Committee on Gender-Based Violence has recommended reserving 22 seats for women, but no formal bill has been introduced. The article underscores the ongoing struggle for women's representation in PNG politics.

Robert Kelly shares his journey of overcoming a sexual crisis following an assault, which left him disconnected from his sexuality for years. He credits lesbian-produced queer porn, particularly from sites like CrashPadSeries and QueerPorn.tv, with helping him redefine sex beyond penetration and rediscover a sense of safety and joy in sexual experiences. Kelly's narrative highlights the therapeutic role that inclusive and feminist porn played in his healing process.

Chance the Rapper has redefined the boundaries of the music business by maintaining his independence and artistic integrity. His latest mixtape, Coloring Book, showcases his growth as an artist and activist, featuring contributions from mainstream and cult hip-hop icons. Despite the industry's shift towards streaming services, Chance has avoided traditional record deals, instead relying on touring and community engagement to fund his career. His success has paved the way for other independent artists, challenging the conventional music industry model.