Pressure on OPEC: Trump’s Path to Ending the Ukraine Conflict
Jan 24, 2025
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Robin Brooks, a Senior Fellow at the Brookings Institution, shares his insights on Donald Trump's controversial strategy to leverage OPEC for lower oil prices in hopes of ending the Ukraine conflict. They discuss the intricate ties between oil pricing, Russia's economy, and global trade dynamics. Furthermore, the conversation shifts to the ongoing challenges in Lebanon during a fragile ceasefire and highlights a new insurance policy aimed at protecting public figures from cancel culture fallout, showcasing contemporary solutions to reputational risks.
Donald Trump posits that influencing OPEC to reduce oil prices could pressure Russia into negotiating for peace in Ukraine.
Lebanon's resilience in the aftermath of conflict highlights local adaptability and ongoing challenges amidst a fragile ceasefire with Israel and Hezbollah.
Deep dives
Trump's Oil Price Strategy and the Ukraine Conflict
Donald Trump proposes that if OPEC reduces oil prices, it could help end the conflict in Ukraine. He argues that high oil prices contribute to the ongoing war, suggesting that fewer revenues for Russia would limit its military capabilities. Analysts acknowledge that as Russia's economy heavily relies on oil exports, lowering oil prices could indeed weaken its position in the conflict. However, OPEC's previous production cuts since the invasion have actually aided in supporting higher oil prices, complicating the situation further.
Lebanon's Resilience Amidst Ongoing Challenges
Despite the end of a 60-day ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, many Lebanese are returning to a semblance of normal life. Local leaders highlight the resilience of the Lebanese people, who have shown remarkable strength and adaptability in the face of recent adversity. While some areas, particularly those severely damaged in the conflict, still struggle, there are signs of revitalization in markets and community activities. Nevertheless, significant challenges remain, such as the need for reconstruction and maintaining peace in the region.
Innovative Carbon Capture Using Steel Slag
Steel slag, a by-product of steel production, is emerging as a powerful tool for carbon capture in efforts to combat climate change. This material not only absorbs CO2 from the atmosphere but does so at a significantly faster rate than natural rocks, offering a cost-effective solution to carbon storage. A business named Alkali Earth is capitalizing on this opportunity by connecting steel mills with projects designed to use slag for carbon capture, aiming to significantly reduce greenhouse gases. By creating a sustainable market for steel slag, they contribute both to environmental goals and industrial innovation.
We explore Donald Trump's bold assertion that lower oil prices could end the ongoing war in Ukraine. Having entered the White House with claims he could bring the conflict to a halt in 24 hours, Trump now believes pressuring OPEC to boost oil production could force President Putin to the negotiating table.
In Lebanon, the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah has entered its second month. With Israel's forces still present in the south, We hear from Hani Bhosali, the President of Lebanon's Food Importers Syndicate, who sheds light on how businesses are coping and the mood on the ground.
And a new insurance policy is offering protection against cancel culture, providing a 24/7 hotline and crisis management plan. We explore how it works and whether it's the new must-have for celebrities facing public backlash.
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