Karl Arnerdal

China Faces Tough Test as Iran War Costs Rise Amid US-China Diplomatic Push China's oil industry is facing a tough test after the economy was hit by the war in Iran. The Pentagon has announced that the cost of the Iranian war is estimated to be 27 billion euros, an increase of 3.7 billion euros from the initial price tag. This is largely due to the need to repair and replace equipment. US President Donald Trump says he plans to have a long talk with Chinese President Xi Jinping about the war in Iran during his upcoming trip to China. He claims that the US doesn't need any help from China and will find a way to win either way. However, China is playing a crucial role in pressuring Iran to open up the Hormuz Strait, which is an important sea route for oil. SVT Asia correspondent Stefan Åsberg says that China's influence over the region is significant. Since the countries are still far apart and have suffered economically due to the war, many believe that a peaceful solution may be the only possible way forward. See article on SVT News.

Russia Targets Artists and Journalists Over Anti-Putin Views. Russia has been critical of artists and creatives who are perceived as anti-Putin or critical of the Russian government. In recent times, some artists have faced threats and intimidation due to their outspoken views on Russia's actions abroad. The most high-profile case is that of a Russian painter who was murdered under circumstances similar to those of journalist Paul Klehn in 2019. Klehn was beaten to death by men wearing masks, similar to the manner in which the painter died. Klehn was a vocal critic of Putin's government and had been receiving threats before his murder. The case has sparked outrage and calls for greater protection of journalists and artists who speak out against the Russian government. This is just one example of how Russia is targeting those who dare to speak out against its actions. See article on SVT News.