Global Affairs
Michael Frick
Michael worked over a decade in intelligence as a United States Marine who was assigned to the NSA, DIA, and The Pentagon. He has worked in IT, financial services, and the healthcare industries also.
Global Affairs
European Unity in Kyiv: The New Push for a Ceasefire in Ukraine
Domestic Affairs
Texas Legislature Continues 89th Regular Session with Focus on Water Access and Immigration
Introduction The 89th Regular Session of the Texas Legislature has become a focal point for some of the state’s most pressing and politically charged issues: water security and immigration policy. As Texas faces the dual challenges of rapid population growth and intensifying drought, lawmakers are grappling with how to
Domestic Affairs
Rare-Earth Materials Expected on Agenda of U.S.-China Trade Talks
Introduction On the eve of pivotal trade negotiations with the United States, China has announced a sweeping crackdown on the smuggling of rare earths and other critical minerals, signaling its intent to tighten enforcement of export controls on strategic resources. This move, orchestrated by a coalition of powerful ministries-including commerce,
Domestic Affairs
U.S. and U.K. Finalize Limited Trade Agreement; U.S.-China Talks Loom
Introduction The United States and United Kingdom have announced a new, limited trade agreement-the first such deal since President Trump’s administration suspended initial tariffs last month. This arrangement, while offering targeted relief to select industries and providing a framework for future negotiations, stops short of a comprehensive free trade
Global Affairs
Escalation of Armed Conflict Between India and Pakistan: May 2025 Crisis Report
Introduction In early May 2025, the world’s attention turned once again to South Asia, where India and Pakistan-two nuclear-armed neighbors with a long history of hostility-have entered their most dangerous military confrontation in nearly three decades. Over the past three days, intense fighting has erupted along the western border,
Global Affairs
Brazil and China’s Transcontinental Railway: A New Era in South American Connectivity
Introduction In May 2025, Brazil and China advanced negotiations on one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in the Western Hemisphere: a transcontinental railway linking Brazil’s agricultural and industrial heartland to the Chinese-built Chancay megaport on Peru’s Pacific coast. This railway, if realized, will mark a transformative chapter
Global Affairs
Putin Hosts Xi Jinping at Moscow’s Victory Day Parade: Deepening the Russia-China Axis
Introduction On May 9, 2025, Moscow’s Red Square became the stage for a display of military might and diplomatic symbolism as Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted Chinese President Xi Jinping for Russia’s Victory Day parade. This year’s commemoration, marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s
United States of America
Pope Leo XIV: The First American Pontiff and His Global Significance
Introduction On May 8, 2025, the white smoke rose above the Sistine Chapel, signaling to the world that the College of Cardinals had chosen a new leader for the world’s 1.3 billion Catholics. The man who emerged onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, introduced with the
Global Affairs
U.S. Vice President JD Vance’s Shift in Transatlantic Policy: A Comprehensive Analysis
Introduction On May 7, 2025, U.S. Vice President JD Vance delivered a closely watched policy address in Washington, D.C., marking a significant recalibration in the Biden administration’s approach to transatlantic relations. Vance’s remarks, delivered at an event organized by the Munich Security Conference, signaled a more
Global Affairs
Houthi Ceasefire with U.S. Excludes Israel; Iran’s Energy Crisis Fuels Protests: A Comprehensive Analysis
Executive Summary The Middle East faces a dual crisis of escalating military tensions and domestic instability. Yemen’s Houthi movement, backed by Iran, has clarified that its recent ceasefire agreement with the United States does not extend to Israel, vowing to continue attacks in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. Concurrently,
Domestic Affairs
U.S. Commemorates 80th Anniversary of Victory in Europe Day
Introduction On May 8, 2025, the United States joined its allies and the world in commemorating the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, marking eight decades since the Allied triumph over Nazi Germany and the end of World War II in Europe. President Donald J. Trump issued a