Discover the hidden command centre with defiant soldiers in Ukraine. Learn why voters despise inflation despite its economic signals. Explore how 'The Vortex' novella pioneered eco-literature.
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Quick takeaways
Ukrainian soldiers are torn between fighting against Russia now or for Russia against Europe later, showcasing the complex geopolitical tensions in the region.
Inflation can be a sign of economic health but is perceived negatively by voters, highlighting the challenge of communicating its benefits to the public.
Deep dives
Ukraine on the Front Lines with Russian Forces
Russian forces have been making advances near Harkiv and the Donbas region. The conflict continues to evolve, with The Economist reporters visiting the region to gauge troop morale. The frontline town of Konstantinovka is within Russia's artillery range, and soldiers occupy abandoned houses to avoid detection by Russian forces. The visit revealed a blend of ordinary life and military presence, showcasing the ongoing struggle in the region.
The Complexity of Inflation and Public Perception
Inflation's high rates have sparked anger among American voters, particularly impacting their perception of the Biden administration's economic policies. While economists view inflation as a metric of economic health, the public primarily associates it with decreased purchasing power and blames the government in power. This disconnect highlights the challenge in communicating the positive aspects of inflation to the public.
The Legacy of Jose Eusebio Rivera's 'The Vortex'
Jose Eusebio Rivera's novella 'The Vortex' highlights the atrocities of the rubber industry in the Amazon a century ago. Celebrations marking the centenary of this influential work reflect on its enduring relevance in Colombia, especially in the Amazon region. Rivera's depiction of environmental destruction and exploitation resonates in today's context of balancing economic growth with ecological preservation in Latin America.
At a hidden command centre our correspondent finds deflated but defiant soldiers. Fight against Russia now, they say, or fight for Russia against Europe later. With inflation poised to play a critical role in America’s election, we ask why voters despise it even though it can signal rude economic health (11:58). And how a century-old novella called “The Vortex” pioneered eco-literature (19:23).