Journalist Taylor Lorenz discusses internet culture and social media trends. Topics include Chinese protests, Trump's dinner companions, Ukraine blackouts, Venezuelan oil, and the expanded child tax credit. The episode also covers Kanye West's controversial remarks and the challenges faced by China due to low vaccination rates and limited natural immunity.
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Quick takeaways
European officials accuse the US of benefiting financially from the war in Ukraine through increased weapon sales and higher gas prices.
Russian missile attacks on Ukraine's power and water facilities have caused widespread blackouts and posed additional challenges during freezing temperatures.
The US has provided significant aid to Ukraine, including military support and financial assistance, despite claims that it is profiting economically from the conflict.
Deep dives
European diplomats accuse US of profiting from the war in Ukraine
European officials are claiming that the US is benefiting financially from the war in Ukraine due to higher gas prices and increased weapon sales. However, it should be noted that the US has provided significantly more aid to Ukraine, both in terms of military support and financial assistance, than any European country. Furthermore, the allegations seem to stem from frustration with US policies such as the Inflation Reduction Act, which promotes domestic manufacturing and creates jobs in the US. Overall, while there may be valid critiques of US actions, it is important to acknowledge the substantial support the US has provided to Ukraine.
Russia targets power and water facilities in Ukraine
Russian missile barrages in Ukraine have targeted power and water facilities, causing widespread blackouts across the country. This strategy aims to undermine the Ukrainian war effort by denying the population access to essential utilities. The attacks have left major cities, including Kiev, without power for several days. With the onset of winter, this poses additional challenges, as Ukraine faces freezing temperatures. The situation highlights the brutal tactics employed in the conflict and the impact they have on civilian populations.
US accused of profiting from Ukraine war
European diplomats are accusing the US of benefiting economically from the war in Ukraine. They claim that the US is selling more gas at higher prices and profiting from increased weapon sales. While there may be some valid concerns about US policies and profit motives, it is important to recognize the significant aid that the US has provided to Ukraine. The US has allocated $52.3 billion in government aid, with the majority going toward military support. Additionally, the US has played a leading role in supplying weapons to Ukraine. Therefore, while European concerns should be acknowledged, it is essential to recognize the US's substantial contributions to the conflict.
Russian missile attacks cause blackouts in Ukraine
Russia has launched missile attacks targeting power and water facilities in Ukraine, resulting in widespread blackouts in several major cities. The attacks have disrupted daily life, with hospitals relying on phone flashlights to perform surgeries and millions of people left without electricity during freezing temperatures. The tactic aims to undermine the Ukrainian war effort and exert control. The satellite images highlighting the power outages demonstrate the devastating impact of the conflict on civilian populations. The situation further exacerbates the challenges faced by Ukraine in its struggle against Russian aggression.
Chevron to resume pumping oil in Venezuela
Chevron has been given permission by the Treasury Department to resume pumping oil from Venezuela's oil fields. This move, while not benefitting the state-owned oil company in Venezuela, opens the door for other oil companies to potentially resume their business in the country, signaling a potential shift in oil industry activity in Venezuela.
The abandoned expanded child tax credit
The expanded child tax credit, which was initiated as part of the American Rescue Program, proved to be successful in reducing childhood poverty by 40% and alleviating food insecurity. Despite its popularity and positive impact, the program was not highlighted or defended by Democratic leaders during the midterm elections. Its future remains uncertain as progressive lawmakers push for its reinstatement, presenting a last chance for millions of families to benefit from the program.
Krystal and Saagar bring the news about Chinese protests, Xi's response, Trump and Kanye, Ukraine blackouts, War Profiteering, Venezuelan oil, Taylor Lorenz, the Child Tax Credit, and a scandal at AP News.