Week of 8/25/24
This week saw the arrest of Telegram's CEO amidst criminal allegations, Typhoon Shanshan wreaking havoc in Japan, a rare virus outbreak in Massachusetts, and rising tensions abroad.
Telegram, one of the top messaging apps with over 950 million active users entered the spotlight when Pavel Durov, the CEO, got arrested in Paris last week. Telegram faces allegations that it is being used to illicit illegal activity like money laundering and drug trafficking. Telegram says it’s unfair to blame them for misuse. AP
Why is this important? It brings up concerns about moderation policies and how to deal with use of the app by criminals groups.
Typhoon Shanshan hit Japan with winds up to 112 mph, causing severe damage, landslides, and flooding.
Casualties: At least six people have died, and 172 others have been injured.
Evacuations: Millions were advised to evacuate their homes.
The typhoon has now weakened to a severe tropical storm but continues to cause disruptions.
(Typhoons are similar to hurricanes and cyclones, but the term “typhoon” is used specifically for storms in the Northwestern Pacific region.) BBC, LINK
Massachusetts is currently dealing with an outbreak of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), a rare but potentially life threatening mosquito-borne virus. There have been two confirmed cases recently and it’s pretty serious because it can cause brain inflammation. Some towns are closing parks in the evenings and urging residents to avoid outdoor activities at night to reduce the risk of mosquito bites. NBC
NVIDIA is one to watch. They’re the chip maker that ends up being the power behind a lot of AI in use today. They’re showing impressive financial performance and have a strong influence on the overall market performance. WSJ
In Hong Kong, two former editors for a news publication were convicted of sedition (act of encouraging a rebellion). They were accused of publishing articles that incited hatred toward Chinese central authorities and the Honk Kong government. AP
Why is this important? Hong Kong was once known for its vibrant and free press. The conviction of these journalists could set a precedent, making it harder for the media to operate independently and freely.
Key updates on…
The Middle East
The situation remains tense with multiple conflicts. Israel launched airstrikes on southern Lebanon, and Hezbollah retaliated with drones and rockets. This exchange has raised fears of a regional war. Efforts to negotiate a cease-fire in Gaza failed, increasing concerns about a major escalation. The US is sending warships and fighter jets to the region, anticipating possible Iranian retaliation after the assassination of a senior Hamas leader in Tehran. LINK, MSN
NASA Astronauts Stuck in Space
NASA has decided to bring back astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, who have been stranded on Boeing's Starliner capsule, using a SpaceX capsule in February 2025. The decision follows nearly three months of deliberation after the Starliner encountered significant thruster failures and helium leaks during its test flight. AP
Ukraine
Attacks from Russia continue and the West continues to provide military and humanitarian aid. This past week, a Ukrainian F-16 fighter jet crashed, resulting in the death of the pilot. This is the first fatality involving the F-16s since they began arriving in Ukraine late last month. NYT
2024 Election
Both Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump have been actively campaigning in swing states like Georgia, Michigan, and Wisconsin.
Sports and Culture
The 2024 US Open (Tennis) is in full swing. Coco Gauff continues to dominate on the women's side, while Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz remain favorites on the men's side. NBC
Paralympics (Paris 2024): The Games began on August 28, featuring over 4,400 athletes across 22 sports. Highlights include Para athletics and Para swimming with stars like Jessica Long (USA) aiming to extend her medal haul and South Africa’s Pieter du Preez defending his cycling title. LINK
After 15 years of tension, Oasis will reunite for a major 2025 tour across the UK and Ireland, including 10 nights at Wembley Stadium. BBC