ensured – newsinsightplus

newsinsightplus.com
2023Top
abruptly
April 13, 2024
0 Comments

BBC HomepageSkip to contentAccessibility HelpYour accountNotificationsHomeNewsSportWeatheriPlayerSoundsBitesizeMore menuMore menuSearch BBCHomeNewsSportWeatheriPlayerSoundsBitesizeCBBCCBeebiesFoodClose menuBBC NewsMenuHomeIsrael-Gaza warCost of LivingWar in UkraineClimateUKWorldBusinessPoliticsCultureMoreTechScienceHealthFamily & EducationIn PicturesNewsbeatBBC VerifyDisabilityWorldAfricaAsiaAustraliaEuropeLatin AmericaMiddle EastUS & CanadaUS diplomat turned Cuban spy jailed for 15 yearsPublished3 hours agoShareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Victor Rocha abruptly reversed his plea in February after initially pleading not guilty to the charges.By Bernd Debusmann JrBBC News, WashingtonAn ex-career diplomat who once served as US ambassador to Bolivia has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for working as an agent for Cuba. Victor Manuel Rocha, 73, secretly passed information to the Cuban government for more than 40 years, according to prosecutors. In February, Rocha changed his initial not guilty plea in a Miami court and ensured he would avoid a trial. The espionage case is among the highest profile ever between the US and Cuba.Dressed in a beige jail uniform on Friday, Rocha told a federal courtroom in Miami: “I plead guilty.” In addition to prison, Rocha must also pay a $500,000 fine and cooperate with authorities.US Attorney General Merrick Garland referred to Rocha’s crimes as “one of the highest-reaching and longest-lasting infiltrations of the US government by a foreign agent”.The Colombian-born, Yale and Harvard-educated Rocha served as US ambassador to Bolivia between 1999 and 2022, as well as in a variety of other diplomatic postings in Argentina, Honduras, Mexico and the Dominican Republic. He also served in other government roles, including one with the National Security Council. After his diplomatic service ended, Rocha served as a consultant for the US military’s Southern Command, which oversees all of Latin America and the Caribbean – including communist Cuba. In November 2022, an undercover FBI agent contacted Rocha on WhatsApp and claimed to be working on behalf of Cuba’s intelligence service. The agent said he was delivering a message from “your friends in Havana”, according to court documents. Over the course of three subsequent meetings, Rocha revealed details of his previous espionage on Cuba’s behalf. At one point, Rocha used the term “we” to describe Cuba and himself, vowing to “protect” what “we” have done together. The Cuban spying case that has shocked the US governmentHow Cuban spy used incredible memory to betray USWhen asked whether he was “still with us”, Rocha told the undercover agent that he was “angry” that his loyalty to the Cuban regime was being questioned. “It’s like questioning my manhood,” he said.The US has had a tense relationship with Cuba ever since Fidel Castro overthrew the island’s US-backed government in 1959, a revolution that was swiftly followed by a US trade embargo. While then-president Barack Obama and former Cuban President Raul Castro took steps to normalise relations in 2015, many of those actions were reversed by the Trump administration. In an interview with the BBC, former CIA counter-intelligence chief James Olson said the case was emblematic of how Cuba’s intelligence service “beat” their US adversaries over the decades. “They owned us,” Mr Olson said. “That’s one of the reasons I have this personal grudge against the Cuban intelligence service because they have been so successful in operating against us.”Mr Olson referred to Rocha as a “traitor”. “He betrayed our country,” he said. “I think that’s contemptible, and I don’t think he’s going to see the light of day again.”Related TopicsCubaCIASpyingUnited StatesMore on this storyFormer US diplomat pleads guilty to spying for CubaPublished29 FebruaryThe Cuban spying case that has shocked the US governmentPublished9 JanuaryHow Cuban spy used incredible memory to betray USPublished10 January 2023Top StoriesAngela Rayner: I will step down if I committed criminal offencePublished8 hours ago’Don’t’ – Biden warns Iran against attacking IsraelPublished4 hours agoUkraine could face defeat in 2024. Here’s how that might lookPublished3 hours agoFeaturesThe Papers: Rayner says ‘bring it on’ and ‘honeytrap sex plot’The children living between starvation and deathHow a North Korean missile researcher became a South Korean MPFacing disaster – the Forest fans at HillsboroughAttributionSportSun, smoke and sport: Photos of the weekHow Zendaya perfected ‘method dressing’The migrant story shining a light on Gulf states’ exploitationSuicide is on the rise for young Americans. Why?’I survived the ferry disaster – but lost 17 of my family’Elsewhere on the BBC’She was the right side of cheeky’Dua Lipa makes a surprise visit to her old schoolAttributioniPlayerFrom the largest ship to disasters on deck…A closer look at times when cruise ships have caused commotionAttributioniPlayerThese adorable mice love Sir David AttenboroughThey bond over Planet Earth III and mountains of poo!AttributioniPlayerRobin Williams: from iconic shots to private snapsTen defining pictures throw a unique lens onto an extraordinary lifeAttributioniPlayerMost Read1Why did all the Little Chefs disappear?2Ukraine could face defeat in 2024. Here’s how that might look3Joe Lycett reveals H from Steps statue hoax4BBC Russian journalist branded ‘foreign agent’5Truss thought ‘why me, why now?’ after Queen’s death6Rayner says ‘bring it on’ and ‘honeytrap sex plot’7Rayner: I’ll stand down if I’ve broken the law8’Don’t’ – Biden warns Iran against attacking Israel9Doctor Who: Varada Sethu confirmed as new companion10Jon Richardson and Lucy Beaumont to divorce

[ad_1] Victor Manuel Rocha is believed to have spied for communist nation for more than four decades.

newsinsightplus.com
175m
44yearold
April 2, 2024
0 Comments

BBC HomepageSkip to contentAccessibility HelpYour accountNotificationsHomeNewsSportWeatheriPlayerSoundsBitesizeMore menuMore menuSearch BBCHomeNewsSportWeatheriPlayerSoundsBitesizeCBBCCBeebiesFoodClose menuBBC NewsMenuHomeIsrael-Gaza warCost of LivingWar in UkraineClimateUKWorldBusinessPoliticsCultureMoreTechScienceHealthFamily & EducationIn PicturesNewsbeatBBC VerifyDisabilityWorldAfricaAsiaAustraliaEuropeLatin AmericaMiddle EastUS & CanadaBassirou Diomaye Faye: Senegal election offers hope to frustrated young AfricansPublished26 minutes agoShareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingImage source, ReutersImage caption, There were celebrations in the capital, Dakar, as early results indicated that Bassirou Diomaye Faye was leadingBy Leonard Mbulle-Nziege & Nic Cheeseman Africa analystsFew political turnarounds can match the last month in Senegal. Just over two weeks ago, Bassirou Diomaye Faye was a little-known opposition leader languishing in jail, detained without trial on charges including inciting insurrection, who had never held elected office. One week ago, he defeated the governing party’s candidate, Amadou Ba, in the country’s presidential election, winning 54% in the first round. On Tuesday, the 44-year-old is set to be sworn in as the fifth president of Senegal and become Africa’s youngest elected head of state. In a region where a large majority of the population are under 30, his victory offers hope to those young people frustrated by a lack of economic opportunities, with old elites seemingly clinging to power.Mr Faye’s spectacular rise is a powerful reminder that elections still represent the best way to remove a failing government for many citizens in Africa. Not only has his win removed an unpopular government from office, it has strengthened the country’s democratic institutions and reinvigorated popular confidence in democracy at a time when coups in other West African states have done the opposite.The story of Mr Faye’s victory will also inspire other leaders across the continent, who have experienced years of rising repression, intimidation and censorship.According to long-time Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye, who has recently worked with his younger counterpart Bobi Wine to campaign for democracy in his country, “Senegal’s extraordinary electoral process has demonstrated, again, that with a well-mobilised, resilient and well-led population, it’s possible to non-violently achieve the desired democratic transition in Africa”.The inspirational impact of Mr Faye’s success will be magnified by the fact that it did not come easily. Ahead of the election the government of President Macky Sall took a number of undemocratic steps in what was seen as an attempt to try and hold on to power against a backdrop of growing popular discontent. This included the sustained persecution of opposition leaders and critical voices and a last-ditch attempt to delay the elections in a desperate bid to avoid defeat, which led some commentators to ask whether we were seeing the death of Senegalese democracy. Many of these measures were aimed at undermining the momentum behind the popular opposition party, the African Patriots of Senegal for Work, Ethics and Fraternity (Pastef).Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Mr Faye (L) and Ousmane Sonko (R) will now have to work together to fulfil the promise of the electionThis included detaining the party’s popular leader Ousmane Sonko and Mr Faye, who was Pastef’s secretary-general. There was also widespread intimidation of Pastef supporters.The jailing of Mr Sonko – for allegedly acting immorally towards an individual younger than 21 after allegations by a massage therapist – along with a number of inflammatory moves, sparked some of the biggest protests Senegal has seen in recent years. In turn, a heavy-handed response from the security forces led to numerous deaths.Mr Sonko described the charges as trumped-up and aimed at barring him from running for president. Pastef itself was dissolved by the authorities last year after it was accused of stoking violence in the country – but its leadership continued operating.It took incredible bravery and hard work from opposition leaders, civil society groups, journalists and those working in some of the country’s democratic institutions to ensure that this bleak situation ended in an election that Mr Faye was in a position to win. It was the members of the Constitutional Council, Senegal’s top court, that ensured the election would go ahead as scheduled when they stood up to the president and ruled that his attempt to change the date was unlawful.The Pastef leadership also played an important role, standing firm in the face of great intimidation. Image source, AFPImage caption, Supporters of Ousmane Sonko came to greet him when he went to vote on polling dayDespite his firebrand reputation, Mr Sonko also proved to be willing to be flexible and put his personal presidential ambitions to one side to give his colleague the greatest chance of success. Indeed, without this Mr Faye would not have even been on the ballot.Mr Sonko expected to be barred from the polls due to his convictions, and his application to be a candidate was subsequently rejected by the Constitutional Council on the grounds that it “was incomplete”. Despite efforts to get him back on the ballot, Pastef’s leaders came to the conclusion that it was unlikely that he would be allowed to run.This realisation made it clear that choosing Mr Faye, who was never actually put on trial, was a safer option – even though it meant Mr Sonko, the party’s figurehead, taking a backseat.Civil society groups and journalists also played an important role, continuing to report on government repression and human rights abuses, despite being attacked, detained and tear gassed. Through their work, they ensured that Senegalese citizens and the rest of the world knew what was happening in their country, increasing the pressure on President Sall to back down. In the end, these efforts, and the weight of Senegal’s democratic traditions, ultimately led Mr Sall to release both Mr Faye and Mr Sonko from jail – albeit as part of a wider amnesty deal that critics argue is really designed to confer immunity on government leaders for the abuses they committed during the period of political turmoil.Image source, AFPImage caption, There were celebrations when Mr Faye won but there are also high expectations of the changes he could bringMr Faye’s victory could not have come at a better time for opposition politicians across the continent. On the same weekend as the election, prominent opposition figures from countries such as Angola, Uganda and Zimbabwe met in Cape Town to discuss “the rising tide of authoritarianism, military dictatorships and hollowed democracies where elections are abused to preserve power”. Amid growing frustration at the increasingly violent strategies being used to repress critical voices, news of a democratic transfer in Senegal was roundly celebrated, lifting spirits and reaffirming the importance of non-violent strategies of resistance. As Dr Besigye put it, events in Senegal were an important reminder that democratic transitions benefit a whole country, while coups “only recreate a new form of autocratic leadership”.This does not mean that the Senegalese experience will be easy to replicate in other countries, however. With a history of more liberal and competitive politics, including democratic transfers of power and a military that has avoided interfering in politics, it is still feasible to secure power via the ballot box in Senegal. In states such as Uganda and Zimbabwe, this is much harder because electoral commissions are less independent, the judiciary is more compromised, and the security forces are even more repressive.Challenges lie aheadThe legacy of Mr Faye’s unlikely rise to power will also depend on what Pastef leaders do from now on. It is easy to forget that when President Sall came to power in 2012 his victory was also heralded as a democratic breakthrough. But by deviating from the principles and promises that led people to support him, the outgoing president ensured that he will now be remembered as another leader who was corrupted by power. To avoid this fate, Mr Faye and Mr Sonko need to focus on rebuilding and reuniting their country. This will only happen if they avoid becoming distracted by the personal benefits of being in power, and destabilising the government by competing between themselves for overall control. The most effective thing that opposition parties can do to boost democracy is to govern inclusively and to demonstrate that respecting political rights and civil liberties is the best way to ensure economic development and political stability. Leonard Mbulle-Nziege is a doctoral researcher at the University of Cape Town and Senior Consultant at Concerto; Nic Cheeseman is the director of the Centre for Elections, Democracy, Accountability and Representation at the University of Birmingham.More on Senegal’s election:From jail to Africa’s youngest elected presidentOusmane Sonko: Senegalese youth hero or rabble-rouser?’If I were president’: Senegalese children organise own pollRelated TopicsSenegalAround the BBCFocus on Africa podcastsAfrica Daily podcastsTop StoriesFood charity says aid workers killed in Gaza strikePublished1 hour agoIsraeli strike destroys Iranian consulate in Syria, says Iran state mediaPublished8 hours ago’I was deepfaked by my best friend’Published1 hour agoFeaturesWhy there’s a revolution on the way in glass makingThe Papers: ‘Iran general killed’ and ‘record’ boat arrivalsLulu: I don’t speak before 12 noon. I’m not lyingHow to solve the plastic problem. VideoHow to solve the plastic problemSmoke rises from destroyed Iranian consulate. VideoSmoke rises from destroyed Iranian consulateWill legalising cannabis unleash chaos in Germany?Is my family still alive? The daily question for HaitiansThe pothole signs that put a town in the spotlight’We bought a zoo and our lives turned upside down’Elsewhere on the BBCHow did Mark Zuckerberg become a billionaire?Simon Jack and Zing Tsjeng trace his spectacular rise to the rich listAttributionSoundsDo animals have anxious habits like us?CrowdScience talks to experts to find outAttributionSounds’If something looks too good to be true, it probably is’A PhD student discovers an anomaly which undermines a global movementAttributionSounds’The brutality was unbelievable’Jonny Owen looks at the miners’ strike of 1984–85 to understand what happened and whyAttributionSoundsMost Read1Trump posts $175m bond in New York fraud case2Germany kit option blocked over Nazi symbolism3Instagram fans ruining special places, says caver4’Iran general killed’ and ‘record boat arrivals’5Lulu: I don’t speak before 12 noon. I’m not lying6Bricks of cocaine wash up on Australian beaches7Diabetes patients offered artificial-pancreas tech8Food charity says aid workers killed in Gaza strike9Twenty councillors quit Labour Party in protest10Israel accused of killing Iranian generals in Syria

[ad_1] According to long-time Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye, who has recently worked with his younger counterpart Bobi Wine to campaign for democracy in his country, “Senegal’s extraordinary electoral process…

newsinsightplus.com
27Published11
87yearold
March 31, 2024
0 Comments

BBC HomepageSkip to contentAccessibility HelpYour accountNotificationsHomeNewsSportWeatheriPlayerSoundsBitesizeMore menuMore menuSearch BBCHomeNewsSportWeatheriPlayerSoundsBitesizeCBBCCBeebiesFoodClose menuBBC NewsMenuHomeIsrael-Gaza warCost of LivingWar in UkraineClimateUKWorldBusinessPoliticsCultureMoreTechScienceHealthFamily & EducationIn PicturesNewsbeatBBC VerifyDisabilityWorldAfricaAsiaAustraliaEuropeLatin AmericaMiddle EastUS & CanadaPope Francis calls for ceasefire in Gaza and Ukraine in Easter messagePublished2 hours agoShareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingImage source, ReutersImage caption, Pope Francis waved to crowds at the Vatican on the day of the Easter Mass, at St. Peter’s SquareBy Thomas MackintoshBBC NewsPope Francis has used his traditional Easter message to call for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and for the return of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.The 87-year-old pontiff led Easter Mass at the Vatican in front of thousands, despite concerns over his health.Referring to conflicts around the world, the Pope pleaded not to “yield to the logic of weapons and rearming”.”Peace is never made with arms, but with outstretched hands and open hearts,” he said.Tens of thousands of worshippers gathered in St Peter’s Square to hear the Pope.As fresh truce negotiations between Israel and Hamas were due to begin, Pope Francis said: “I appeal once again that access to humanitarian aid be ensured to Gaza, and call once more for the prompt release of the hostages seized on 7 October and for an immediate ceasefire in the Strip.Referring to the impact of the war on civilians, beginning with children, he said: “How much suffering we see in their eyes! With those eyes, they ask us: Why? Why all this death? Why all this destruction? War is always an absurdity and a defeat.”Pope Francis also warned countries against re-arming themselves and spoke about the ongoing conflict in Ukraine just over two years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of its neighbour.Image source, ReutersImage caption, Children in Gaza have lost their smiles, the Pope said”In calling for respect for the principles of international law, I express my hope for a general exchange of all prisoners between Russia and Ukraine,” the Pope said.The war in Gaza began after Hamas’s unprecedented attack in southern Israel during which about 1,200 people were killed and some 253 taken hostage.Israel launched a retaliatory operation, saying it was aimed at destroying Hamas. Since then, 32,782 Palestinians have been killed and 75,298 injured, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.Easter Sunday marks a major part of the Catholic calendar and is followed by 1.3 billion people around the globe.On Sunday, Pope Francis was helped into a wheelchair as he greeted cardinals celebrating Easter Mass.In pictures: Easter celebrations around the worldGazans watch the skies to spot planes dropping aidWhy are Israel and Hamas fighting in Gaza?He then travelled around St Peter’s Square in the popemobile waving to large crowds.Two days ago, Pope Francis presided over the Good Friday service in Saint Peter’s Basilica – but he skipped the traditional Way of the Cross ceremony and procession at Rome’s Colosseum to protect his health, the Vatican said.A statement from the Vatican said the Pope had decided to rest as a precautionary measure.Image source, ReutersImage caption, The Easter Sunday event from the Vatican was broadcast around the worldBut, on Saturday, he took part in a two-hour Easter vigil during which he read a lengthy homily.In the last year Pope Francis has had a number of health issues. In March 2023 he was admitted to hospital with bronchitis – months later he underwent abdominal surgery on a hernia.The Vatican said in November the Pope cancelled a planned trip to the COP28 climate summit in Dubai due to influenza and lung inflammation.Related TopicsPope FrancisRomeTop StoriesKing greets well-wishers after Easter servicePublished23 minutes agoWhere workers are exploited to harvest an everyday ingredientPublished8 hours agoActor Chance Perdomo dies in motorcycle accident, aged 27Published11 hours agoFeatures’Finding out I was autistic saved my life’Where workers are exploited to harvest an everyday ingredientHow has cancer changed King Charles’s duties?’I was mutilated at 16 but I won’t let it define me’In pictures: Easter celebrations around the worldThe FSB bicycle assassin Putin wants back in RussiaAphantasia: Why I cannot see my children in my mindSeven bills going up and one going down in AprilJeffrey Donaldson: From the White House to Antrim police stationElsewhere on the BBCOne of the most talented bands to never make it…Why did trailblazers Microdisney fail to achieve the commercial success they deserved?AttributioniPlayerWill this elite boarding school fit around them?Five black inner-city teens must leave their old worlds behind…AttributioniPlayer’A few people laughed, a few cried, most were silent’The extraordinary rise and fall of the inventor of the atomic bombAttributioniPlayerFancy a film tonight?There’s something for everyone on BBC iPlayerAttributioniPlayerMost Read1King greets well-wishers after Easter service2Actor Chance Perdomo dies in motorcycle accident3Lollipop man, 93, made redundant from crossing job4Beyoncé album is missing tracks on vinyl, fans say5The FSB bicycle assassin Putin wants back in Russia6I want to return as a Gladiator, says Scottish winner7Where workers are exploited to harvest an everyday ingredient8Aphantasia: Why I cannot see my children in my mind9Thousands object to Liverpool Street revamp plans10’E coli Boat Race’ and ‘Euros on terror alert’

[ad_1] The 87-year-old pontiff presided over Easter mass despite concerns over his health.

newsinsightplus.com
1.7bn
117bn.With
March 19, 2024
0 Comments

BBC HomepageSkip to contentAccessibility HelpYour accountLiveNotificationsHomeNewsSportWeatheriPlayerSoundsBitesizeMore menuMore menuSearch BBCHomeNewsSportWeatheriPlayerSoundsBitesizeCBBCCBeebiesFoodClose menuBBC NewsMenuHomeIsrael-Gaza warCost of LivingWar in UkraineClimateUKWorldBusinessPoliticsCultureMoreTechScienceHealthFamily & EducationIn PicturesNewsbeatBBC VerifyDisabilityBusinessMarket DataEconomyYour MoneyCompaniesTechnology of BusinessCEO SecretsArtificial IntelligenceHow Temu is shaking up the world of online shoppingPublished52 minutes agoShareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, It’s estimated that 152 million Americans use Temu every monthBy Sam GruetBusiness and technology reporterA record 123 million Americans tuned into this year’s Super Bowl. But as well as getting the nation’s biggest sporting event, a blockbuster halftime performance and several camera cutaways of Taylor Swift in the crowd, they also got six 30-second commercials for Temu – a Chinese-owned e-commerce company.The shopping giant has been criticised by politicians in the UK and US – a US government investigation finding an “extremely high risk” that products sold on Temu could have been made with forced labour.Temu says it “strictly prohibits” the use of forced, penal, or child labour by all its merchants.The company, which sells everything from clothes to electronics and furniture, first launched in the US in 2022 and later in the UK and the rest of the world.Since then, it has consistently topped global app download charts, with just under 152 million Americans using it every month, according to data gathered by analyst SimilarWeb.It’s “Amazon on steroids,” says retail analyst Neil Saunders, and with the tagline “shop like a billionaire” it has exploded in popularity, shipping to 49 countries worldwide.Image source, TemuImage caption, Temu spent close to $1.7bn on ads in 2023, according to SimilarWebA typical 30-second Super Bowl commercial costs around $7m (£5.5m), during this year’s event Temu had six of them. “It’s a lot of money for a very, short commercial,” Mr Saunders says. “But it is seen by an enormous number of people and we know that after that commercial Temu’s downloads spiked,” he adds. SimilarWeb data suggests individual visitors to the platform worldwide were up by nearly a quarter on the day of the Super Bowl compared with the previous Sunday, with 8.2 million people browsing the website and app. In the same period, Amazon and Ebay’s visitors were down by 5% and 2% respectively. “They’ve also spent a lot of money on micro-marketing, persuading influencers to push products and to suggest buying things on the platform via social channels like TikTok and YouTube,” says Mr Saunders. These influencers typically have fewer than 10,000 followers according to Ines Durand, an e-commerce expert at SimilarWeb.”Micro-influencers have strong communities, so their endorsement means a strong trust towards these products,” she explains.Temu is owned by Chinese giant Pinduoduo – “a monster in Chinese e-commerce,” according to Shaun Rein, founder of the China Market Research Group. “Throughout China, everyone buys products on Pinduo, from speakers to t-shirts or socks,” he says. More technology of businessCan Stockholm keep its edge in the music industry?Could product passports revolutionise the way we shop?Why firms are racing to produce green ammoniaWhy some cyber-attacks hit harder than othersThe brewing secrets behind tastier no-alcohol beerThe company consistently trades places with rival Alibaba for the top spot of most valuable Chinese firm listed on a US stock exchange. Its current worth sits at just under $150bn (£117bn).With the Chinese consumer market under its spell, Pinduoduo expanded overseas with Temu, using the same model that had ensured its previous success. According to Mr Rein, who is based in Shanghai, the firm has become a great source of pride and patriotism.”They’re proud that Chinese companies can slay the e-commerce dragons from the United States like Amazon,” he adds. A quick scroll through the Temu app or website will bring up anything from steel-toecap trainers to a device designed to help the elderly and pregnant women put on socks. A menagerie of manufactured goods, almost entirely produced in factories in China, Mr Rein explains.”Temu use an amazing, system that relies on, heavy data collection at scale,” says Ines Durand.”They collect data on consumer trends, the most searched and clicked products, which they give to individual manufacturers.”Ms Durand says that while Amazon sells this data to manufacturers at a premium, Temu gives it to producers free of charge – information they use to “test the market” with a relatively small number of products. The platform often uses AI-generated images to keep up to date with the very latest trends, so the product on sale may not even exist yet, according to Ms Durand. Then they are shipped by air.”It means products don’t need to be stored. They don’t need to go to warehouses once it’s shipped by aeroplane, you go straight to the customer,” says Ines Durand. Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Temu ships straight from factories in China to the customerA third of parcels that came into the US last year under a shipping loophole known as the de minimis threshold were from Temu and competitor Shein, according to a report from US Congress.Many countries – including the UK and USA have a de minimis threshold, designed to help citizens to import goods.So as Temu’s goods are shipped directly from the factory floors, cutting out the middlemen, they become essentially duty-free.More regulation may be on the horizon to close up shipping loopholes, however, according to Mickey Diaz, chief operating officer at global freight company Unique Logistics. “The UK has already started to look at Temu with some scrutiny, including the sale of weapons that are otherwise not allowed into the UK, which were being imported because of these loopholes,” she explains.Temu has been criticised for its supply chains too, with UK and US politicians accusing the e-commerce giant of allowing goods produced with forced labour to be sold on its site. Last year, Alicia Kearns MP, head of the foreign affairs select committee, told the BBC she wanted greater scrutiny of the online marketplace to make sure “consumers are not inadvertently contributing to the Uyghur genocide”.Temu says it “strictly prohibits” the use of forced, penal, or child labour by all its merchants. It told the BBC anyone doing business with it must “comply with all regulatory standards and compliance requirements”.”Temu’s merchants, suppliers, and other third parties must pay their employees and contractors on time and comply with all applicable local wage and hours laws.”Our current standards and practices are no different from other major e-commerce platforms trusted by consumers, and allegations in this regard are completely ungrounded,” a spokesperson added. Despite the controversy, analysts expect further expansion for Temu.”We’ll probably see teams start to round out its offer more, perhaps pushing into some slightly higher priced products” predicts retail analyst Neil Saunders.According to Shaun Reid, the focus will be on grabbing an even bigger slice of the market.”For the next two to three years, their strategy is just to grow brand awareness and market share. They don’t care about profits. “That’s exactly what happened with Pinduoduo when it launched in China. They were giving incredibly cheap deals just to grab market share.”Related TopicsInternational BusinessAmazonChinaTechnology of BusinessTemuTop Stories’Only God can change this place’: Haitians see no end to spiralling violencePublished2 hours agoPutin hails Crimea annexation after claiming election winPublished2 hours agoRwanda bill amendments overturned in Commons votePublished2 hours agoFeaturesThe Papers: Kate ‘pictured in public’ and ‘key’ Rwanda voteGaza faces famine during Ramadan, the holy month of fastingPredicting Putin’s landslide was easy, but what comes next?No choice for Ukrainians: More Putin means more warThe US Navy’s relentless battle against Houthi attacksThe councils fighting to stop themselves going bustChris Mason analysis: Rwanda saga won’t be over even when law is passedWhat is a heat pump and how much do they cost?High-seas drama over an ocean treasure troveElsewhere on the BBCThe true story of the Army’s ‘golden egg’ agentThe Big Cases investigates the true story of a spy in suburbiaAttributioniPlayerA satirical look at the scheming world of PRCharles Prentiss and Martin McCabe embark on a new career as spin doctorsAttributionSoundsThe ultimate bromanceWatch the masters of satire Peter Cook and Dudley Moore with a look back through the archivesAttributioniPlayer’I will lie on my deathbed wishing I’d done more’Former spin doctor Alastair Campbell on what he’s learned from his life so farAttributionSoundsMost Read1Katie Price declared bankrupt for second time2Kate ‘pictured in public’ and ‘key’ Rwanda vote3Oldest surviving England player dies at 944Rwanda bill amendments overturned in Commons vote5Trump unable to get $464m bond in New York fraud case6’Only God can change this place’: Haitians see no end to spiralling violence7Putin hails Crimea annexation after claiming election win8Zac Goldsmith banned after speeding seven times9Customers withdraw millions after cash machine glitch10Energy grid needs £60bn upgrade to hit green target

[ad_1] With the Chinese consumer market under its spell, Pinduoduo expanded overseas with Temu, using the same model that had ensured its previous success. According to Mr Rein, who is…

newsinsightplus.com
2023Top
21k
January 31, 2024
0 Comments

BBC HomepageSkip to contentAccessibility HelpYour accountLiveNotificationsHomeNewsSportWeatheriPlayerSoundsBitesizeMore menuMore menuSearch BBCHomeNewsSportWeatheriPlayerSoundsBitesizeCBBCCBeebiesFoodClose menuBBC NewsMenuHomeIsrael-Gaza warCost of LivingWar in UkraineClimateUKWorldBusinessPoliticsCultureMoreTechScienceHealthFamily & EducationIn PicturesNewsbeatBBC VerifyDisabilityWorldAfricaAsiaAustraliaEuropeLatin AmericaMiddle EastUS & CanadaVladimir Putin: Many Russians see no alternative candidate as election loomsPublished2 hours agoShareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingRelated TopicsWar in UkraineImage source, EPAImage caption, Celebrities were in attendance as Vladimir Putin spoke at a major campaign event on WednesdayBy Steve RosenbergRussia EditorIn an exhibition hall opposite the Kremlin, Vladimir Putin walks onto a stage.There’s rapturous applause, a standing ovation.No surprise there. The invited guests – many of them Russian celebrities – are officially supporting Mr Putin’s candidacy in the presidential election in March.The Kremlin leader is running for a fifth term in office. The audience here is only too pleased. “[Putin’s] an extraordinary leader, the most courageous and wise person,” gushes filmmaker Andrei Konchalovsky.”The Russian people have never been so united in their support for their president,” claims singer Nadezhda Babkina. “And anyone who tries to prevent that will fail.”The idea behind the event (and this high-profile celebrity support) seems to be to show that candidate Putin is in a league of his own: Premier League Putin.Keep in mind, though: this is a league he created and of which he’s in charge. Russia’s political system is Mr Putin’s political system; his rules of the game; his election. Mr Putin’s most vocal critics have long been relegated. They’re either in exile or in prison. Which makes elections here rather predictable. Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Margarita Simonyan, editor-in-chief of Russia Today, was among the famous faces to appear in support of President PutinThat wasn’t always the case. Thirty years ago in Moscow I remember watching one of Russian TV’s first ever election night results programmes – it was for a parliamentary election. No-one had a clue who was going to win. I’ll never forget the astrologer they had on to make a political forecast. Quite appropriate really, because three decades ago, Russians had stars in their eyes about democracy, freedom, and their country’s future. For a Russian election today you don’t need astrologers or crystal balls. I can tell you now how the 2024 presidential election will end: with a Vladimir Putin landslide. The reasons for such confidence? First, although his will not be the only name on the ballot, Mr Putin’s challengers will not include arch-rivals like jailed opposition leader Alexei Navalny. Putin v Navalny? Matches like that just aren’t allowed to happen in the Putin Premier League. True, another Kremlin critic, Boris Nadezhdin, is pushing to be on the ballot. But Mr Nadezhdin is not Mr Navalny. He carefully calibrates his criticisms of Mr Putin. He’s also believed to have connections within the presidential administration. If he does end up running, it will be because the Kremlin has decided it’s in Mr Putin’s interests to face a more critical challenger. Image source, EPAImage caption, Boris Nadezhdin, a critic of the Ukraine war, says he has enough signatures to stand in the electionsSecond, in Russia the Kremlin controls television. Mr Putin receives vast amounts of airtime during which he’s much praised and rarely criticised: handy when you’re seeking re-election. And there’s another reason Mr Putin will do well. “We all support your decision to run in the election. Because you’ve been in power as long as I can remember,” said Alexander, a young Russian TV reporter at Mr Putin’s end of year press conference.I’ve met many Russians like Alexander who cannot imagine anyone else in the Kremlin. Not because they idolise Mr Putin. They just see no alternative. I’ve often heard people say: “Well, if not Putin, who then?” The Kremlin has engineered that. It has cleared the political landscape removing any potential challengers to the man who has ruled Russia, as president or prime minister, for nearly a quarter of a century. By doing so, it has ensured that little question – “who then?” – is left unanswered. When I talk to people in the town of Rzhev, 140 miles (225km) from Moscow, about their hopes for the election, many seem to want change – without changing the leader.”I hope things change for the better because there’s stagnation now,” says a young man called Ilya. “But if you elect someone new, that person might not cope with the burden of government. Someone experienced like Putin can develop the country even in the difficult situation we’re in now.””I have big hopes for the election,” says pensioner Lidiya. “I hope that the war will end and the economy will improve. But I do respect Putin.””Is there no-one else who could do his job?” I ask.”Not right now,” Lidiya replies. “Maybe Putin will find someone later. But I think he’ll be in power for a long time to come.”Even the war in Ukraine and significant Russian military losses don’t appear to have sparked widespread disillusionment in Russia’s president and Commander-in-Chief. It was Mr Putin’s decision to launch the full-scale invasion. But some Russians believe that at a time of war it is their duty to back their leader, without questioning his motives or the consequences. Others accept the official narrative/alternative reality that it’s the West, not Russia, that started the war.I meet one woman in Rzhev who does want to see change in the Kremlin. Former TV journalist and regional legislator Yekaterina Duntsova recently tried to run for president herself. She called for peace in Ukraine, the release of political prisoners and a “humane” Russia. Image source, ReutersImage caption, Former TV journalist Yekaterina Duntsova is setting up a new party after being disqualified from running for presidentRussia’s Central Election Commission refused to accept her nomination, citing errors in her paperwork. “I think the political system here sees me as some kind of alien object, and doesn’t know what to do with me,” Ms Duntsova said. “Because I appeared out of the blue the system doesn’t understand who I am. So it’s decided to keep me well out of harm’s way.”Now she’s setting up a new party. Isn’t she scared that the system will turn on her?”We’re not doing anything illegal. We act according to the law. As for being scared, fear mustn’t prevail. I believe in what I’m doing. And this conviction relegates fear to second place.” Back at the Putin campaign event, I talk to Margarita Simonyan, editor in chief of RT.”A leader in power for a quarter of a century and more… with no checks and balances. Isn’t that dangerous?” I ask.”That’s a mantra you guys have been propagating for years,” she replies. “If a person has been in power for a long time, it doesn’t necessarily mean it will be worse than if you change a leader every four years. Pol Pot in Cambodia annihilated a third of his population in three years.”A comforting thought. Related TopicsWar in UkraineRussiaVladimir PutinMore on this storyPutin challenger submits bid to run for presidentPublished58 minutes agoFears for Russia activist over secretive jail movePublished1 day agoNavalny: Russia’s jailed but vociferous Putin criticPublished4 August 2023Top StoriesLive. New deal means no routine checks on GB to NI goodsLive. Sturgeon: I did not take Covid decisions for political reasonsCrossbow man shot dead by police was stalkerPublished1 hour agoFeatures’I saved £200 by doing Dry January’Sturgeon fights back tears: Key moments from Covid inquiry evidence. VideoSturgeon fights back tears: Key moments from Covid inquiry evidenceWhat is the new Northern Ireland trade deal?’If not Putin, then who?’ – How Russians view looming electionsN Ireland’s new dawn, led by republican first minister’I regret posting online that I was Madeleine McCann’Police officers mock bodycam video of semi-naked womanTwo-child benefit cap: ‘Every month is a struggle’Energy bill error saw man pay £244,000 direct debitElsewhere on the BBCWar, negotiations and geopoliticsLearn about Putin’s war in Ukraine in gripping detailAttributioniPlayerIs nature better off without us?Discover the wonder of nature and meet the people determined to keep it wonderfulAttributionSoundsFrom blueprint to the Manhattan skylineJourney to the past and see the remarkable story behind the iconic Empire State BuildingAttributioniPlayerFrom the Fall to Fifty ShadesActor Jamie Dornan shares the soundtrack of his life with Lauren LaverneAttributionSoundsMost Read1Leaders clash over Iceland worker’s mortgage rise2Crossbow man shot dead by police was stalker3Elmo responds to ‘world is on fire’ angst4Constance Marten taxi driver had ‘uneasy feeling’5Phoenix Nights memorabilia fetches £21k at auction6’I regret posting online that I was Madeleine McCann’7Pharmacists to prescribe drugs for minor illnesses8Two-child benefit cap: ‘Every month is a struggle’9Swedish police destroy object outside Israeli embassy10Harris stripped of licence after ‘campaign of abuse’AttributionSport

[ad_1] Many Russians say they can’t imagine anyone in charge of Russia but incumbent Vladimir Putin.

newsinsightplus.com
10time
1Gaelic
January 28, 2024
0 Comments

BBC HomepageSkip to contentAccessibility HelpYour accountLiveNotificationsHomeNewsSportWeatheriPlayerSoundsBitesizeMore menuMore menuSearch BBCHomeNewsSportWeatheriPlayerSoundsBitesizeCBBCCBeebiesFoodClose menuBBC SportMenuHomeFootballCricketFormula 1Rugby URugby LTennisGolfBoxingAthleticsMoreA-Z SportsAmerican FootballAthleticsBasketballBoxingCricketCyclingDartsDisability SportFootballFormula 1Gaelic GamesGet InspiredGolfGymnasticsHorse RacingMixed Martial ArtsMotorsportNetballOlympic SportsRugby LeagueRugby UnionSnookerSwimmingTennisWinter SportsFull Sports A-ZMore from SportEnglandScotlandWalesNorthern IrelandMy SportMatch of the DaySports Personality5 Live SportSport on the BBCNews FeedsHelp & FAQsTennisLive ScoresResultsCalendarVideoTomorrow’s Order of PlayAustralian Open men’s final 2024: Jannik Sinner beats Daniil Medvedev in Melbourne finalPublished13 minutes agocommentsCommentsShareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Jannik Sinner is the youngest player to win the Australian Open men’s title since Novak Djokovic in 2008By Jonathan JurejkoBBC Sport at Melbourne ParkJannik Sinner landed the Grand Slam title he has long promised with an extraordinary fightback to beat Daniil Medvedev in the Australian Open final.Italy’s Sinner, 22, trailed by two sets before recovering to win 3-6 3-6 6-4 6-4 6-3 in his first major final.Fourth seed Sinner initially could not cope with the Russian’s pace but imposed himself as the contest wore on.It was another bitter experience for Medvedev, who also blew a two-set lead against Rafael Nadal in the 2022 final.A first-time champion in Melbourne was guaranteed after Sinner knocked out 10-time winner Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals.Sinner ensured his name goes on the trophy – fulfilling the talent that many had predicted would lead to a Grand Slam triumph – after an epic match lasting almost four hours.”It feels great. I just have to process it, I guess, how it feels the first time,” Sinner told Australia’s Channel Nine.”It has been a hell of a journey even if I’m still only 22.”Third seed Medvedev, 27, has lost five of his six major finals, including ones against Djokovic in 2021 and Nadal in 2022 at Melbourne Park.Sinner clinched victory with a forehand winner down the line, falling to his back on the baseline in celebration.Medvedev trudged around the net to offer his congratulations before Sinner thumped his heart on his way to celebrate with his team.Looking disconsolate as he tried to process the loss while sitting on his chair, Medvedev managed to give a thumbs-up to the crowd when they applauded his efforts.”It hurts to lose in the final but probably being in the final is better than losing before,” said Medvedev, who set a record for the most time spent on court at a Grand Slam tournament with 24 hours and 17 minutes.”I always want to win and I guess I have to try harder next time.”Sinner starts 2024 in inspired formImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Sinner won the first Australian Open men’s final since 2005 which did not feature Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal or Novak DjokovicSinner was brought to the forefront of conversation when discussing Grand Slam champions in 2024 following a stunning end to last season.A ceiling-breaking ATP 1000 title in Toronto, significant wins over the very best players and inspiring Italy to Davis Cup victory all increased the belief he would go on to greater things this season.Sinner has managed to do exactly that in the first major tournament of the year.Throughout this fortnight Sinner has shown an added confidence that this could be his time and did not drop a set until facing Djokovic.By taking out Djokovic, the Italian answered the question which had long been posed: why could the younger generation not topple the Serb in Melbourne?Once he managed that, Sinner’s next challenge was backing up a memorable victory with another against Medvedev.Sinner had insisted he knew the job was not finished by beating Djokovic. He demonstrated his mental fortitude by refusing to accept he was beaten – even in such a perilous position – and continued to trust in his powerful groundstrokes.With Medvedev’s stamina fading, Sinner picked up the pace and accuracy of his returns, cracking 28 winners in the final two sets.”The match was going so fast in the first two sets,” said Sinner, who was backed by a large Italian contingent on Rod Laver Arena.”I had zero chance to play at this level but I was looking for just the small chances. I managed to break him and then win one set at a time, one game at a time.”Marathon man Medvedev runs out of steamImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Medvedev is the first player to lose two Grand Slam finals after winning the opening two setsSo many players with the experience of a Grand Slam final have talked about how different the occasion can be, particularly if it is the first time, and potentially overwhelming.Medvedev, whose sole major triumph came at the 2021 US Open, hoped his greater experience in these situations would tell against Sinner.While Sinner did not appear to be hampered by nerves, Medvedev simply suffocated him with an attacking approach in the opening two sets which proved to be a smart strategy.Ultimately, the change in his fortunes boiled down to endurance – and perhaps some mental scars from the defeat by Nadal on the same stage.Medvedev had spent almost six hours more on court over the Melbourne fortnight than his younger opponent.Three times he had to outlast his opponents in five-set matches and twice fought back from two sets down, including a remarkable semi-final against German sixth seed Alexander Zverev.Another five-setter on Sunday meant Medvedev surpassed the previous record for time spent on court at a single Grand Slam tournament, which had been the 23 hours and 39 minutes Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz spent on his way to his 2022 US Open title.Before the final, Medvedev spoke about Sinner having the physical advantage and knew he would have to make a fast start to maximise his chances.However, he was unable to maintain the ferocity and depth of his groundstrokes, looking increasingly weary as Sinner fought back.Live scores, results and order of playAlerts: Get tennis news sent to your phoneRelated TopicsTennisTop StoriesEngland seal all-time great win over IndiaPublished2 hours agoLive. FA Cup: Liverpool host Norwich after Wolves beat West BromSinner wins first major with epic fightbackPublished13 minutes agoElsewhere on the BBCWhat was it like to travel on the fastest plane?Take a behind-the-scenes look at the supersonic story of the ConcordeAttributioniPlayerToxic love, ruthless ambition and shocking betrayalTell Me Lies follows a passionate college relationship with unimaginable consequences…AttributioniPlayerA star-studded episode from the archives…Gillian Anderson, Paul O’Grady and Paul Whitehouse, with music from MadnessAttributioniPlayerWatch award-winning films on BBC iPlayerCheck out the star-studded selection of films to watch on BBC iPlayer nowAttributioniPlayerElsewhere in SportPope’s 196 ‘one of the great Test innings’ – AgnewMaidstone stun Ipswich to reach FA Cup fifth round. VideoMaidstone stun Ipswich to reach FA Cup fifth roundNewcastle book fifth-round spot after Fulham victory. VideoNewcastle book fifth-round spot after Fulham victoryJames scores twice as Chelsea beat Brighton 3-0. VideoJames scores twice as Chelsea beat Brighton 3-0NFL heavyweights meet to fight for Super Bowl spot’A brilliant heart-on-sleeve boss who has taken Reds on thrill ride”He’s passionate through and through’ – the making of Klopp. Video’He’s passionate through and through’ – the making of KloppAke scores late winner as Man City knock out Spurs. VideoAke scores late winner as Man City knock out Spurs’Dream is on for Germany fans – but they must wait for Klopp’Are Premier League clubs set for quiet January window?Heavy metal snowboarding with GB star Brookes. VideoHeavy metal snowboarding with GB star BrookesGuardiola documentary a study in football idealism’Frozen eyes, frozen toes’ – the brutal race that may never returnPick your England XV for the Six Nations

[ad_1] Jannik Sinner landed the Grand Slam title he has long promised with an extraordinary fightback to beat Daniil Medvedev in the Australian Open final. Italy’s Sinner, 22, trailed by…