Esmeralda County Clerk Cindy Elgan, a Republican, has for two decades been considered a reliable steward of elections in her small county with a population of less than a thousand. However, in the wake of the heavily contested 2020 presidential election, the trust Elgan’s community used to have in her has been overshadowed by allegations that she is somehow complicit in robbing former President Donald Trump of victory in the state, where President Joe Biden won by less than 34,000 votes.

Interestingly, Trump received an overwhelming 82 percent of the vote in Esmeralda County during the previous presidential election.

Mary Jane Zakas, a retired schoolteacher and vocal supporter of efforts to recall Elgan from her position as county clerk, openly expressed her distrust. “I do not trust the results from the 2020 election,” she asserted, highlighting a common concern among some conservatives about the use of voting machines instead of paper ballots.

“There are so many ways to cheat,” she added, pointing to various supposed vulnerabilities in the voting system. Her words reflect a broader trend of distrust that has taken root since 2020.

Elgan, who knows nearly all of the 600 registered voters in Esmeralda, has witnessed the shift in community sentiment firsthand. Historically, her neighbors seemed satisfied with how elections were conducted. However, the aftermath of the 2020 election has left many questioning the system.

“Some people are very passionate about this, and I can’t fault them for that,” she explained. “I may not agree with some of their beliefs, but I understand where they’re coming from.”

Polls indicate more Americans doubt integrity of elections

Polls indicate that more than a third of Americans now harbor doubts about the electoral system’s integrity. Claire Woodall from Issue One, a “cross-partisan” research institute, noted that distrust has always existed but became more pronounced after the 2020 election.

“Trump’s refusal to concede really solidified the questioning,” she remarked. (Related: Texas AG probe finds that bad actors can disguise political donations to interfere with U.S. elections.)

The implications of this skepticism can be severe, particularly in small communities like Goldfield, where election officials face harassment and threats. This environment has forced many dedicated public servants to step down, leaving a void in local election administration. For example, states with narrow election margins, such as Arizona and Nevada, have seen significant turnover among election officials.

Douglas County Clerk-Treasurer Amy Burgans, also a Republican, shared her frustration about the misinformation that often comes from within her own party. “I’ve only been in this position for four years, yet I’m one of the most senior clerks in the state,” she noted. According to Burgans, a significant portion of her time is spent reassuring the public about the safety and security of the voting process.

As cheating allegations continue to swirl and undermine trust in electoral processes, dedicated officials like Elgan and Burgans strive to maintain integrity in their communities. The challenge they face is not just about managing votes; it’s about restoring faith in a system that many now question.

Watch this episode of “The Tom Renz Show” as he discusses the ongoing efforts to keep swinging Nevada to the right.

This video is from the TomRenzToo channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

• Michigan’s bloated voter rolls list nearly 500,000 names more than the total eligible voting population.
• Beijing-linked online operatives found to be impersonating Americans to sow division and chaos ahead of 2024 elections.
• Judge blocks rule that would require Georgia to hand-count ballots.
• Judge strikes down New York law mandating moving local elections to even-numbered years as UNCONSTITUTIONAL.
• Illegal immigrant pleads guilty to stealing identity of a U.S. citizen, fraudulently obtaining a passport and voting in multiple elections.

Sources include:

• Barrons.com
• NYTimes.com
• Brighteon.com

Choe was sent to be North Korea’s representative to attend the inaugural BRICS Women’s Forum in St. Petersburg, part of the IV Eurasian Women’s Forum, themed “Women for Strengthening Trust and Global Cooperation.” Russia currently holds the BRICS presidency.

While Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that President Vladimir Putin had no plans to meet Choe unlike their previous meeting in January, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has been traveling across Russia with Secretary of the Security Council and former Defense Miniter Sergei Shoigu.

The visit has sparked concerns over growing cooperation, particularly reports suggesting that Moscow may assist North Korea in developing satellite and missile technology.

Western and neighboring Asian countries are especially worried about North Korea potentially acquiring nuclear submarine technology from Russia in future technology exchanges between Pyongyang and Moscow. (Related: North Korean troops could join Russia’s war action against Ukraine.)

North Korea previously supplied Russia with ammunition during a critical phase of the ongoing Russian special military operation in Ukraine, though it remains unclear what North Korea received in return.

Analysts speculate that Pyongyang may have provided millions of 152mm artillery shells, 122mm rockets, and KN-23 ballistic missiles to support Russian forces.

North Korea has expressed a strong interest in developing nuclear-powered submarines, which would allow for extended underwater travel with minimal detection risk.

While North Korea’s current fleet consists solely of conventional submarines, which must periodically resurface, Russia boasts one of the world’s most advanced nuclear submarine fleets, raising concerns about the possible transfer of such technology to Pyongyang.

U.S., South Korea express concerns about improved Russia-North Korea relations

The new agreement between Russia and North Korea has raised significant concerns for both the United States and South Korea, particularly due to its implications for military-technical cooperation. The details of the agreement remain unclear, but the potential for Russian support in enhancing North Korea’s missile and nuclear capabilities is worrisome. This could pose a direct threat to South Korea and the United States.

Russia’s past involvement in North Korea’s military development has been extensive, from training nuclear scientists to aiding missile programs. While this recent deal may not drastically change the existing dynamics, it could expedite military transfers, especially in light of North Korea’s aid to Russia during its invasion of Ukraine.

The mutual defense clause is perplexing as North Korea doesn’t face an immediate invasion threat, and Russia would be limited in its ability to provide defense due to its ongoing conflict with Ukraine. However, it could act as a “Putin trap,” allowing Russia to demand North Korean military support under the guise of mutual defense, especially if it faces increased pressure in Ukraine. On the other hand, Kim Jong-un might view sending troops to Ukraine as a strategic opportunity to gain combat experience and possibly economic benefits for North Korea, similar to what South Korea achieved during the Vietnam War.

Although some speculate about a potential Russia-China-North Korea alliance, the differing ambitions of these nations make such a coalition unlikely. China has already shown discomfort with Russia’s growing ties with North Korea and other countries in Asia.

South Korea’s response, including the threat of sending weapons to Ukraine, reflects the gravity of the situation. For the U.S. and South Korea, it may be time to ramp up public efforts to expose the vulnerabilities in the Russia-North Korea partnership, such as potential instability within North Korea if it continues to deplete its military reserves to aid Russia.

In summary, while the agreement could escalate regional tensions, its true impact depends on how both Russia and North Korea proceed with military cooperation and whether external pressure alters their course.

Watch this report from Borzzikman discussing the possibility of North Korean soldiers joining the conflict and entering Ukraine.

This video is from the channel The Prisoner on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

• North Korea sending troops to Ukraine as WWIII approaches.
• North Korea’s Kim Jong Un, Russia’s Vladimir Putin sign mutual defense treaty.
• North Korea, Russia vow to form NEW WORLD ORDER free of U.S. domination.

Sources include:

• RMX.news
• Rand.org
• Brighteon.com

The chain currently has “Going Out Of Business” sales that offer customers massive discounts of between 30 to 70 percent off, and the company’s website is no longer operational.

Shoppers can find reduced prices on top national brands like Nike. Additionally, select store fixtures, furniture and equipment, including TVs and registers, are available for purchase.

The 40-year-old chain, which operated in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York and Rhode Island, will permanently close after the final day of business on July 14. (Related: Casual dining restaurant chain Hooters CLOSES several locations nationwide as “restaurant apocalypse” worsens)

Dave Barton, president of Bob’s Stores, announced the news, stating, “We regret that our financial position necessitated the liquidation of Bob’s Stores. Bob’s has been a stalwart of our local communities for nearly 70 years, and we know our customers remember us as having been there for major moments in their lives. We remain grateful to our vendors, suppliers, customers, and employees for all of their support over the years.”

Gift cards and merchandise credits will be honored through the close of business on July 14. Since the website is non-functional, all clearance sales will occur in-store.

Closure announcement comes following bankruptcy filings

Less than two weeks ago, Bob’s Stores and its sister retailer, Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS), filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The two retailers share a 240,000-square-foot headquarters and depot in Meriden, Connecticut.

In May, parent company GoDigital Media Group announced plans to lay off 150 staff members and close 10 stores across both brands. Despite these cost-cutting efforts, the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on June 21. While Bob’s Stores suffered a worse fate afterward, there are no further closures or staff reduction plans for EMS.

Brick-and-mortar retailers, particularly those selling sporting goods, have struggled in recent years. Families most affected by inflation have prioritized spending on food and essential clothing over non-essential items like sports goods.

Although sports retailers experienced a boost during the pandemic as people attempted to stay fit, they have since faced declining sales.

Barton, who also serves as CEO of EMS, informed the bankruptcy court that the company owes PNC Bank $30 million. Furthermore, Bob’s Stores owes an additional $27 million in unpaid rent and other debts.

Bob’s Stores and EMS have long histories in Connecticut. Bob’s Stores was named after founder Bob Lapidus, who opened the first store in 1954 in Middletown, Connecticut.

The brand was acquired by Marshalls and TJ Maxx owner TJX in 2003 before being sold off again in the aftermath of the Great Recession in 2008.

Burt Flickinger III, managing director of retail consulting firm Strategic Resource Group, commented: “Bob’s and EMS know how to run good, profitable, and productive stores that offer great merchandise with great value, but they’re facing an accelerating retail ice age.”

In 2024, many smaller chains, already reeling from the pandemic, have faced higher business costs, particularly labor. There have been nearly 2,600 store closures so far in 2024.

Recently, Walmart closed three more underperforming locations, and Rite Aid is shutting down 27 pharmacies.

Dollar stores have also been severely affected, with 99 Cents Only announcing in April that it would shutter all 371 of its locations across California, Texas, Arizona and Nevada. Additionally, 1,000 Family Dollar and Dollar Tree stores will be permanently shut down over the next few years.

Watch this clip from Breitbart News Daily breaking down the big lies coming out of the White House regarding the state of the American economy.

This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

• Rite Aid to CLOSE 27 more stores due to ongoing bankruptcy proceedings.
• Biden’s economy is COLLAPSING as companies everywhere announce bankruptcies, closures fueled by runaway inflation.
• America is in the middle of a “restaurant apocalypse,” an ominous sign for the U.S. economy.

Sources include:

• DailyMail.co.uk
• FoxBusiness.com
• Brighteon.com

Speaking to the Polish-language publication Dziennik Gazeta Prawna, Brig. Gen. Jaroslaw Strozyk specifically mentioned scenarios including possible Russian incursions into the Estonian city of Narva, right on the border with Russia, or possibly even seizing control of strategic Swedish islands in the Baltic Sea. (Related: Putin plans to annex breakaway Moldovan region of Transnistria)

Despite these ominous possibilities, Strozyk pointed out that recent Western support for Ukraine has conveyed a robust message to Moscow. He believes that the collective efforts of the West demonstrate a unified stance against Russian aggression, potentially deterring Putin from launching an attack on NATO member states.

In a significant move, Polish President Andrzej Duda has affirmed Poland’s readiness to deploy nuclear forces along its borders if deemed necessary. Duda highlighted Russia’s increasing militarization of Kaliningrad and the relocation of nuclear weapons to Belarus as alarming developments. He stressed Poland’s willingness to host nuclear arms as part of NATO’s efforts to bolster its eastern flank, showcasing the nation’s commitment to collective defense.

Given Poland’s strategic position bordering Belarus and the heavily fortified Kaliningrad enclave, the country remains a pivotal player in the ongoing tensions with Russia. Duda underscored the operational readiness of Polish military units, emphasizing their ability to respond swiftly to any potential threat, with a remarkable readiness time of just three hours from deployment.

NATO claims Putin’s next target after Ukraine may be the Baltics

In an opinion piece published on Bloomberg, former NATO Supreme Allied Commander and retired United States Navy Adm. James Stavridis warned that, should Russia’s special military operation in Ukraine succeed, Putin may be interested in striking at the nations bordering the Baltic Sea, which has been dubbed a “NATO lake” by some analysts due to it being surrounded by NATO member nations: Sweden, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Germany and Denmark.

Russia still retains access to the Baltic through the enclave of Kaliningrad and through the approaches to the city of St. Petersburg.

While Stavridis himself is confident that, in the event of a conflict between Russia and NATO, “any of Russia’s warships” in the Baltic could be “quickly and easily bottled up or destroyed.”

Other officials, meanwhile, are not so optimistic about a possible victory. Maj. Gen. Vadym Skibitsky, deputy head of Ukraine’s main military intelligence directorate, warned that Russia could “take the Baltics in seven days.”

“The Russians will take the Baltic in seven days. NATO’s reaction time is 10 days,” warned Skibitsky during an interview with The Economist, as he warned of the threat Moscow poses on other nations in Europe.

This warning comes as Ukraine grows increasingly concerned of more Russian breakthroughs. Skibitsky specifically spoke about the situation in Chasiv Yar, a strategic stronghold for Ukraine in the Donetsk Oblast. Analysts warn that Putin’s military has been concentrating its efforts on seizing the town, and Skibitsky warned that Russia will probably soon overtake Ukrainian forces for control of Chasiv Yar.

“Not today or tomorrow, of course, but all depending on our reserves and supplies,” warned Skibitsky.

Watch this clip from TruNews about Russia vowing to use nuclear weapons in the event of a conflict with NATO.

This video is from the TruNews channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

• Putin reiterates Russia’s readiness to use NUKES if necessary.
• Russia considering “retaliatory action” after Sweden joins NATO.
• Russia ramping up production of weapons, ammunition ahead of expected offensive.

Sources include:

• The-Express.com
• Bloomberg.com
• Newsweek.com
• Brighteon.com

Speaking at a ministerial meeting, Shoigu emphasized that Russian forces currently hold the initiative on the front lines, pushing back Ukrainian troops and preventing them from maintaining defensive positions.

Addressing the United States’ planned allocation of over $60 billion in military aid to Kyiv, Shoigu expressed skepticism about its impact on the battlefield. He suggested that most of the funds would go toward U.S. military production rather than significantly altering the situation in Ukraine.

Shoigu criticized the U.S. approach, arguing that it effectively condones Ukrainian casualties in the conflict with Russia to serve American interests. “The American authorities cynically state that Ukrainians will be dying in the fight with Russia for their interests,” said Shoigu.

The long-awaited, nearly $61 billion military aid package for Ukraine has finally been passed into law by the White House following months of political back-and-forth.

Highlighting Russia’s defense production capacity and tactical flexibility, Shoigu reiterated the Defense Ministry’s commitment to conducting long-range attacks on logistics hubs and depots supplying Western weapons to Ukraine. (Related: Ukraine running out of air defense missiles, giving Russia a FREE PASS to Kyiv.)

Ukraine rarely comments on the scale of its battlefield fatalities. But in February, President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed that his country had lost 31,000 Ukrainian soldiers on the battlefield. Estimates based on U.S. intelligence indicate the losses are much higher.

Western sources claim Russian military casualties have surpassed 50,000

Meanwhile, the BBC has verified that Russia’s military casualties in Ukraine have surpassed 50,000, marking a grim milestone in the ongoing conflict. Over the past year, as Moscow implemented its aggressive “meat grinder” strategy on the front lines, the death toll surged by nearly 25 percent compared to the previous year.

Collaborating with independent media group Mediazona and volunteers, the BBC has meticulously tracked these casualties since February 2022. The investigation involved examining new graves in cemeteries and analyzing open-source data from official reports, newspapers and social media.

According to the BBC’s analysis, of the more than 50,000 alleged casualties – which is more than eight times higher than the only official public acknowledgment of fatality numbers given by the Kremlin in September 2022 – about 27,300 are confirmed deaths that occurred in the second year of combat. The BBC further claims that the actual number of Russian deaths is likely to be much higher.

Of the deaths confirmed by the BBC, 9,000 were allegedly Russian prison inmates who were recruited into the military with a promise of freedom after their service. Several thousands more were allegedly volunteers and civilians with little to no military training or experience.

The analysis also does not include the number of deaths of Russian-aligned militia units that come from the disputed territories of Donetsk and Luhansk, internationally recognized as part of eastern Ukraine.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, responding to the BBC‘s findings, asserted that it is the “exclusive prerogative of the Ministry of Defense” to provide information on casualties, because of laws covering state secrets and disseminating information during the Russian special military operation in Ukraine.

Learn more about the deadly conflict in Ukraine at UkraineWitness.com. Watch this video discussing the recent Russian conquest of the town of Novobakhmutivka.

This video is from The Prisoner channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

• Biden regime tells Zelensky regime to stop bombing Russia’s oil refineries because it might cause global energy prices to soar.
• Russia claims to have seized the initiative in Ukraine following significant territorial gains.
• Ukraine suspends visa renewals for military-aged Ukrainians living overseas as punishment for NOT DYING in battle with Russia.
• Russia warns: Fresh aid package for Ukraine will lead to more Ukrainian casualties.
• Ukraine warns its frontlines could COLLAPSE at any time as generals fear severe losses from upcoming Russian offensive.

Sources include:

• RT.com
• BBC.com
• Brighteon.com

The alarming video, shared by Fox News reporter Bill Melugin on X, reveals numerous homeless individuals gathered on filthy sidewalks at the intersection of San Pedro Street and 6th Street in LA’s Skid Row neighborhood. Some are shown near open fires on the street, mere steps away from the Midnight Mission, a $17 million facility catering to the homeless.

Billionaire Elon Musk, known for his commentary on California’s homelessness crisis, simply reacted with “wow” upon viewing the footage.

Commenters on X expressed astonishment, with one stating, “Gavin Newsom’s California may be the wealthiest state, but its cities resemble those of Third World nations,” while another remarked, “If you didn’t tell us this was LA, we would think this was a city in a third-world country!”

The homeless population in LA currently exceeds 46,000 individuals, marking a 10 percent increase from the previous year, as reported by the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority.

LA, in particular, has witnessed a surge in homelessness since the onset of the pandemic, with over 10,000 more individuals living on the streets compared to 2019. Since 2015, homelessness in the city has risen by 70 percent. (Related: HOMELESSNESS in the U.S. reaches RECORD HIGH amid worsening economic downturn post-pandemic.)

The Midnight Mission, located just meters from the distressing scene captured in the online video, is facing severe strain on its resources.

The Mission provides three daily meals, temporary accommodation, a barbershop, and a women’s crisis center. However, despite their efforts, female homelessness in LA has spiked by 55 percent in three years, with over 90 percent of these women reporting experiences of physical or sexual assault.

To address the opioid crisis gripping Skid Row, the city has deployed mobile teams equipped with oxygen cylinders to prevent overdoses.

Meanwhile, workers from the non-profit organization Homeless Health Care Los Angeles traverse the streets, attending to individuals living among makeshift dwellings and witnessing dire health conditions, including substance abuse.

Los Angeles County has allocated a budget of $609.7 million to combat homelessness in 2023-2024, a $61.8 million increase from the previous year. Despite these efforts, Governor Gavin Newsom admitted last summer that the state’s homeless crisis was a “disgrace” and pledged additional resources.

During his tenure, homelessness in California has surged by 13 percent, prompting Newsom to acknowledge the challenges related to high housing costs, regulatory hurdles, and local opposition to new housing construction.

LA mayor faces big challenge

Following her election as mayor of Los Angeles, Karen Bass made a bold declaration that would serve as a defining measure of her tenure: “We are going to solve homelessness.”

The Democratic congresswoman, who was previously considered for vice president by Joe Biden, envisioned a transformed city with over 40,000 homeless individuals provided with housing and vital services to mend their fractured lives. “We are going to build a new Los Angeles,” she proclaimed.

Now, one year into her mayoral term, Bass reported that over 21,000 unhoused individuals were transitioned into leased hotels or temporary shelters in 2023, marking a 28 percent increase from the previous year.

Numerous drug-ridden street encampments were dismantled, and housing initiatives are underway. Yet, behind these promising statistics lies a harsh reality: this is merely the beginning.

Billions of dollars had been invested to address homelessness in the region, and new programs had been implemented. However, the mayor acknowledged the possibility of continued increases in homelessness, partly due to evictions and the cessation of Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) aid for low-income households.

While Bass has made progress, tackling LA’s homelessness crisis presents a formidable challenge. The city grapples with managing a potentially expanding homeless population, equivalent to the size of Palm Springs, without an efficient computer system capable of tracking individuals within it.

Visit CaliforniaCollapse.news for more stories like this. Watch this report about homelessness in California.

This video is from the Right Edition channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

• Homeless camp pops up on a Beverly Hills sidewalk as homelessness spills into the wealthier areas of California.
• NBC News: Inflation and illegals to blame for HOMELESSNESS among LA students.
• Poll shows 86% of Americans believe homelessness is a major problem in the U.S.

Sources include:

• DailyMail.co.uk
• APNews.com
• Brighteon.com

The Houthis, based in Yemen, purportedly sought to enlist support from their Islamist counterparts to bolster their activities in the Red Sea region, targeting perceived shared adversaries. Secret meetings between Houthi clerics and Al-Qaeda leaders reportedly occurred in Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, as well as the Houthi stronghold of Hodeidah along the Red Sea.

These discussions unfolded amid accusations by Yemeni officials linking the Houthi group to recent assassinations in Aden, suggesting cooperation with al-Qaeda members.

For over two years, al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula, identified by the U.S. as the terror group’s most dangerous branch, has engaged in conflicts with government forces, leading to a resurgence of insurgency within Yemen.

The terror group, once led by Osama Bin Laden and notorious for the 9/11 attacks, appears to be leveraging the escalating crisis in Yemen and the broader Red Sea region to launch additional attacks.

The Houthis, controlling a significant portion of Yemen, have been implicated in indiscriminate maritime assaults on commercial vessels, including U.S. and U.K. Navy warships in the Red Sea. (Related: Houthis step up offensive operations with new drone attacks on U.S.-owned commercial ships.)

The rebels claim their actions are in retaliation for Israel’s offensive in Gaza against Hamas.

This has turned one of the world’s major shipping lanes, the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, into an active warzone, posing a threat to approximately 12 percent of global trade that typically transits through this critical waterway.

As geopolitical tensions escalate in the region, the reported collaboration between Houthi rebels and Al-Qaeda raises concerns about the potential for an intensification of hostilities and its broader implications for international security.

The strategic Bab al-Mandeb Strait, also known as the “Gate of Tears,” has become a focal point in the ongoing conflict, impacting global trade and maritime activities.

Al-Qaeda in Yemen gaining strength

The al-Qaeda affiliate in Yemen, al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP), has experienced a significant resurgence amid Yemen’s prolonged civil war.

The conflict, marked by regionalization and state collapse, has created favorable conditions for AQAP’s growth, allowing it to evolve from a small, primarily externally focused group to a potent insurgent force controlling territory.

AQAP has demonstrated pragmatism by adapting to local norms, forming alliances with Sunni groups and integrating into various militias. It has become embedded in the political economy of smuggling and trade, collaborating with factions across the conflict spectrum, including the Huthi/Saleh alliance.

The war’s complex dynamics have enabled AQAP to exploit security vacuums, benefit from shifting alliances, and engage in a war economy.

Addressing AQAP’s resurgence necessitates a multifaceted approach, according to the International Crisis Group.

Firstly, efforts should focus on securing an overarching political settlement to end the civil war, garnering support from diverse constituencies, including Sunni Islamists.

Simultaneously, immediate steps are required to contain AQAP’s growth. This involves enhancing governance in vulnerable areas, differentiating between Sunni Islamist groups, and using military measures judiciously in coordination with local authorities.

It is crucial to avoid military actions that disregard the local context and result in high civilian casualties, as seen in past incidents.

The international community, particularly states interested in countering AQAP, should adopt measures that consider Yemen’s intricate dynamics and refrain from actions that unintentionally aid the group.

In summary, the International Crisis Group said AQAP’s resurgence underscores the need for a comprehensive and nuanced approach, combining immediate containment measures with a long-term strategy focused on achieving a negotiated end to the civil war in Yemen.

Watch this report about the Houthis joining Iran in plotting revenge against Israel.

This video is from the channel The Prisoner on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

• ESCALATION: U.S. strikes Iran-backed Houthi rebels after Iran hijacks oil tanker in Gulf of Oman.
• Houthi missile hits U.S.-owned cargo ship, says U.S. government.
• U.S., U.K. continue airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen.

Sources include:

• The-Sun.com
• Brighteon.com

The AI-generated profiles allowed Chinese spies to select targets and identify vulnerabilities. The revelation underscores the Ministry of State Security‘s (MSS) expansive ambitions, positioning itself as a formidable global intelligence agency.

MSS using advanced technologies to catch up with CIA

The MSS has significantly improved its capabilities through recruitment, training and the application of advanced technologies, aligning with President Xi Jinping’s vision for China to rival the United States economically and militarily.

AI Tracking System: The MSS successfully acquired their desired AI system, enabling it to monitor American spies and other individuals. The technology provides Chinese intelligence with enhanced capabilities for data analysis and surveillance.

Competing with the CIA: The MSS has transformed from an agency relying on embassy gossip to one that competes directly with the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) globally. The rivalry between the American and Chinese spy agencies resembles the Cold War-era KGB-versus-CIA dynamic, but with China leveraging emerging technologies like AI to challenge the United States.

Economic and Military Espionage: Both the MSS and the CIA are intensifying their efforts to collect intelligence on technological advancements, especially in areas like artificial intelligence, quantum computing and biotech. China’s economic boom and industrial policies provided the MSS with the capability to challenge the U.S. in areas where the Soviet Union couldn’t during the Cold War.

Growing Role of MSS: Under President Xi, the MSS has gained prominence, with its head, Chen Wenqing, promoted to the party’s top security official and a member of the Politburo. The MSS now combines foreign intelligence responsibilities similar to the CIA and domestic security functions akin to the FBI.

Technological Self-Reliance: China’s emphasis on “technological self-reliance” is a response to concerns that the U.S. and its allies could restrict China’s access to crucial technological knowledge. The MSS focuses on recruiting technology experts and acquiring commercial technological advancements.

Challenges for the CIA: The CIA, under President Joe Biden, has established the China Mission Center and a Technology Intelligence Center to address the growing challenge posed by China. However, concerns persist that the U.S. is falling behind in understanding and countering China’s technological advances.

Enhanced Recruitment and Training: The MSS has become more proactive in recruiting from universities, particularly seeking technology experts and hackers. The agency’s growing capabilities highlight the need for the U.S. intelligence community to adapt to the evolving landscape of technological espionage.

Struggling with Technological Awareness: U.S. intelligence agencies face challenges in understanding and responding to China’s commercial and technological advancements. The CIA has sought insights from American executives and scholars to gain a better understanding of Chinese companies’ development goals.

Evolving Threat Landscape: The competition between the MSS and the CIA signifies a shift in the global intelligence landscape, with technological espionage becoming a critical aspect of national security. The U.S. and China vie for dominance not only in traditional military capabilities but also in cutting-edge technologies.

What is MSS?

The MSS operates as a secretive entity akin to the Soviet KGB, holding responsibilities for both internal security and foreign espionage. Its overseas operations are notably directed, with a particular emphasis on the United States, targeting industries and sectors such as high technology and military advancements.

Unlike Western espionage, the MSS doesn’t heavily rely on a limited number of agents; instead, it meticulously cultivates potential intelligence assets and methodically gathers information on new weapons systems through prolonged personal contacts.

According to Peter Earnest, the executive director of the International Espionage Museum in Washington, the approach of Chinese espionage differs from that of the West, as it focuses on accumulating numerical data rather than merely acquiring discrete secrets.

The covert nature of their operations often leaves sources unaware that they have unwittingly collaborated with a foreign spy mission.

Visit CommunistChina.news for more stories about China. Watch the report about corruption inside America’s intelligence agencies.

This video is from the GalacticStorm channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

• Chinese spy balloon program linked to PLA’s hypersonic missiles.
• Ford’s deal with Chinese EV battery maker sparks security concerns.
• Biden Center at UPenn Received $54.6M from anonymous Chinese donations.

Sources include:

• DNYUZ.com
• VoxNews.al
• Brighteon.com

The pandemic ushered in a series of disastrous experiments, from distance learning and monetary supply expansion to lockdowns. After witnessing the extent of Biden’s actions, seemingly anything appears permissible. Whether these alternatives lead to a better or worse future remains a topic for another day.

However, with real income diminishing due to reckless monetary policy, it’s no surprise that Biden faces criticism.

The New York Times warned against going down the “rabbit hole,” fearing a loss of narrative traction. Social media, despite previous claims, isn’t the sole battleground; the Left seeks narrative control in various arenas.

Biden’s regulation of artificial intelligence (AI) usage, showcased in an executive order, raises concerns about narrative control. The order delegates regulatory and enforcement powers, emphasizing AI’s application to “critical infrastructure sectors.”

Vague language regarding the internet and online communications leaves room for speculation. The Biden administration’s white paper, titled “A Blueprint for an AI Bill of Rights,” further outlines principles that can be applied beyond specific sectors.

Two key principles include protection from “unsafe or ineffective systems” and preventing algorithmic discrimination through “proactive equity assessments.”

These principles, when applied broadly, suggest potential control over AI usage in various sectors, including social media. (Related: AI-powered tools for detecting “hate speech” in gaming chats raise concerns about over-policing, censorship.)

Biden’s focus on fighting “inequity” raises questions about defining “high-quality” data and manipulating algorithms to enforce progressive narratives. The implications extend beyond chatbots, potentially influencing algorithms on social media platforms and search engines.

Non-leftists must not ignore the deliberately vague executive order and regulatory regime, recognizing the potential impact on counternarratives. As attention spans decline, especially among the youth, controlled algorithms and chatbots become gateways to shape perceptions. Addressing these issues is crucial to preserving diverse perspectives in the digital landscape.

ACLU raises several concerns

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), in a press statement, said that while the order takes significant steps by mandating agencies to safeguard civil rights and liberties in the use of AI within governmental programs, it falls short of adequately addressing AI applications in national security and lacks robust safeguards against law enforcement’s AI utilization – crucial federal domains fraught with considerable risks.

The order specifically excludes AI systems involved in national security, encompassing areas such as surveillance, immigration and border activities that routinely impact Americans. Instead, these systems are deferred to a future policy memorandum. The use of AI in law enforcement undergoes an interagency process and necessitates a report on the current applications of AI within this domain.

ReNika Moore, director of the ACLU’s Racial Justice Program, expressed encouragement for the administration’s acknowledgment of the need for a comprehensive approach to combat discrimination and real-world harms arising from AI and automated systems. However, she noted the administration’s deferral of addressing tools in national security and law enforcement, areas witnessing widespread AI deployment with profound impacts on liberty, equity and due process.

Cody Venzke, senior policy counsel in the National Political Advocacy Department at the ACLU, emphasized the pervasive integration of AI into daily life and its exacerbation of discriminatory harms in various sectors.

While recognizing the executive order’s invocation of existing civil rights authority to combat discriminatory AI across the government, Venzke raised concerns about the order’s failure to provide protections against AI in law enforcement, particularly the role of facial recognition technology in contributing to false arrests, and in national security, encompassing surveillance and immigration.

Additionally, the foundational question of whether AI should be utilized in specific contexts or use cases remains unaddressed. Watch this video showing deceptive and dangerous AI capabilities.

This video is from the Vigilent Citizen channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

• AI firm nabs 30 billion online photos and sends them to law enforcement to prosecute Americans.
• AI takeover is INEVITABLE: Experts warn artificial intelligence will become powerful enough to control human minds, behaviors.
• AI is about to change the world for the WORSE: Here are 3 reasons why.

Sources include:

• SHTFPlan.com
• ACLU.org
• Brighteon.com

The Telegraph reported that DTEK, owned by Ukrainian billionaire Rinat Akhmetov, is considering the installation of small modular reactors (SMRs) at sites currently powered by coal stations. (Related: After shutting down its last three nuclear power plants, Germany now has to buy nuclear-generated electricity from France.)

DTEK CEO Maxim Timchenko envisions nuclear power playing a crucial role in the company’s future portfolio as Ukraine participates in the global shift away from primarily relying on fossil fuels, especially when the country begins rebuilding whenever the Russian special military operation in Ukraine concludes.

This strategic move aligns with Ukraine’s urgent need to diversify its energy sources and embrace decentralized and renewable options, such as wind and solar farms. The initiative is also a response to Russia’s targeted bombing campaign, specifically aimed at disrupting Ukraine’s grid infrastructure during the harsh winter months.

Despite increasing reliance on renewable energy, Timchenko underscores the significance of nuclear power for ensuring energy security in Ukraine. He highlights ongoing discussions with Rolls-Royce SMR to potentially convert the substantial capacity of coal-fired power stations within DTEK’s portfolio. According to the current state of the negotiations, DTEK and Rolls Royce would convert up to eight existing coal power plants, including two which are currently in Ukrainian territories occupied by Ukraine.

Ukraine is already heavily reliant on nuclear energy. Before the beginning of Russia’s special military operation, Ukraine’s four state-owned plants generated over half of the country’s power.

Notably, one of these sites, the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, is currently situated in occupied territory. As part of the ongoing discussions with Rolls Royce, DTEK is also exploring the possibility of establishing part of the SMR supply chain in Ukraine, leveraging the country’s existing expertise in nuclear engineering. The details of these discussions remain confidential, according to Rolls-Royce SMR.

In response to Russian attacks on Ukraine’s infrastructure since the conflict erupted in February 2022, DTEK is actively seeking alternative energy sources.

SMRs envisioned as a clean energy solution

Rolls Royce describes its SMR as an “affordable and eco-friendly energy solution” that utilizes proven and readily available technology to create a fully integrated nuclear power plant in a factory setting. It emphasizes modularization and maximizes factory-based work.

The global demand for clean energy has propelled the significance of the SMR, offering reliable pathways to achieve net-zero goals. It has been meticulously designed to meet this monumental global challenge and aspires to establish a world-class product to meet the demands of the global market.

The scalable factory-built model allows Rolls Royce to adapt to increasing demand by investing in additional factories using the same design and management systems applied to all SMRs.

A Rolls Royce SMR power station boasts a 470-megawatt capacity of low-carbon energy, equivalent to over 150 onshore wind turbines. With a lifespan of at least 60 years, it ensures consistent baseload generation, supporting the expansion of renewable generation.

Occupying just one-tenth of the size of a conventional nuclear generation site, the Rolls Royce SMR is factory-built, allowing completed modules to be transported by various means, reducing vehicle movements and completion risks while enhancing build time certainty.

A Rolls Royce SMR power station, equivalent to the size of two football pitches, can power around one million homes, supporting on-grid electricity and off-grid clean energy solutions for industrial processes and the production of clean fuels.

Read more stories like this at Nuclear.news. Watch this episode of “Decentralize.TV” as Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, discusses the power production that can be provided by Low Energy Nuclear Reactions.

This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

• France edges closer to energy rationing as nuclear power plants suffer “issues”
• U.A.E. teams up with Bill Gates’ nuclear company to build ADVANCED NUCLEAR REACTORS
• Zelensky accuses Russia of planning nuclear “terrorist act” that involves leaking radiation from Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant

Sources include:

• ZeroHedge.com
• Telegraph.co.uk
• Rolls-Royce.com
• Brighteon.com