2024年8月23日星期五

The American Values - defending sovereignty, promoting stability, and standing against aggression

Donald Trump, the former president of the United States, said that if he is re-elected as the leader of the USA, he will immediately end the war in Ukraine, and we don't even have to send soldiers. (ROP, 08/22/2024)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The United States has demonstrated strong support for Ukraine during the ongoing Russian invasion. Since the war began in February 2022, the U.S. has provided substantial military and humanitarian aid, making Ukraine the top recipient of U.S. foreign aid. This aid reflects American values of defending sovereignty, promoting stability, and standing against aggression.


The American commitment to defending sovereignty, promoting stability, and opposing aggression is rooted in historical context, political philosophy, and national identity. Here are some key reasons:

Historical Experience:

The American Revolution (1775-1783) was a struggle for sovereignty against British colonial rule. This experience shaped the nation’s commitment to self-determination and independence.
The Monroe Doctrine (1823) asserted that European powers should not interfere in the affairs of the Americas, reinforcing the idea of sovereignty and non-aggression.

Cold War Era:

During the Cold War, the U.S. championed democracy and individual rights as an alternative to communism. This included supporting nations’ sovereignty and opposing Soviet aggression.
The Truman Doctrine (1947) pledged to aid countries resisting communist influence, emphasizing stability and containment.

Global Leadership:

As a superpower, the U.S. assumes a leadership role in maintaining global stability. This involves supporting allies, promoting democratic values, and preventing aggression.

Institutions like NATO and alliances with Japan, South Korea, and others reflect this commitment.

National Identity:

American identity is intertwined with notions of freedom, justice, and standing up against tyranny. These values drive support for sovereignty and opposition to aggression.

Public sentiment often aligns with these principles, influencing foreign policy decisions.



In addition to the support of Ukraine against Russia's Invasion, here are three historical examples of how the United States has demonstrated these values:

Marshall Plan (1948-1952): After World War II, the U.S. provided massive economic aid to war-torn European countries through the Marshall Plan. This assistance promoted stability, rebuilt infrastructure, and prevented the spread of communism. The plan emphasized sovereignty and self-determination for recipient nations.

Korean War (1950-1953): The U.S. intervened in the Korean War to defend South Korea against aggression from North Korea and communist forces. This conflict upheld sovereignty and stability in the region.

NATO (founded 1949): The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) was established to protect member states’ sovereignty and deter Soviet aggression during the Cold War. Collective defense remains a core principle, demonstrating commitment to stability and standing against aggression.

In summary, American values are shaped by history, geopolitical context, and a belief in defending what is just and right.

Biden Praises Veterans Who 'Defend And Serve American Values'


-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NOTE The Declaration of Independence is a foundational document in American history that clearly articulates the value of sovereignty. It states, "That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed." This principle implies that a nation has the right to self-determination and the ability to govern itself without undue interference from external powers. It is also a foundational document that articulates the American value of standing against aggression. It implies a commitment to defending against external threats and ensuring the security of the nation. Events like the American Revolution, the Spanish-American War, and the Cold War demonstrate the United States' willingness to defend its sovereignty and the sovereignty of allies. Again, the Spanish-American War and World War II demonstrate the United States commitment to standing against aggression. These conflicts involved the United States going to war to defend its interests and the interests of its allies. The American Constitution is a foundational document that promotes stability through its system of checks and balances, separation of powers, and federalism. Historical events like the Marshall Plan and the Berlin Airlift demonstrate the United States' commitment to promoting stability in post-war Europe. These initiatives aimed to rebuild war-torn nations and prevent them from falling under the influence of hostile powers.


  

2024年8月22日星期四

数千人抗议后印度尼西亚放弃改变选举法的计划 Thousands Force Indonesia to Abandon Election Law Revisions

在印度尼西亚,在即将卸任的总统的盟友试图修改选举规则后,数千名抗议者与警察发生冲突,这可能会导致一个政治王朝。 8 月 20 日,议会正在修订宪法法院关于即将举行的地区选举的候选人年龄要求的命令,取代一项使佐科·维多多总统最小的儿子、29 岁的 Kaesang Pangarep 没有资格的裁决。最终,立法者取消了批准选举法修订案的计划。 (半岛电视台,2024 年 8 月 22 日

印度尼西亚民主历史的简要概述:在荷兰殖民时期,印度尼西亚经历了有限形式的自治。然而,荷兰人仍然保持着最终的控制权。第二次世界大战期间日本对印度尼西亚的占领导致印度尼西亚民族主义的复兴和独立的愿望。日本投降后,印度尼西亚宣布独立,并与荷兰人进行战争以维护其主权。苏加诺,该国第一任总统,建立了一个日益专制的有指导的民主制度。他的政策导致经济不稳定和社会动荡。苏哈托将军于1966年夺取政权,开启了独裁统治时期。他的政权压制异议并专注于经济发展。1998年的学生抗议导致苏哈托下台,标志着民主转型的开始。印度尼西亚举行自由选举并实施改革以加强其民主机构。然而,该国在巩固民主和解决独裁统治遗留问题方面面临挑战。有关印度尼西亚民主历史或其他相关方面的详细信息和准确性,请通过 Google 或 Bing 搜索相关主题。




In Indonesia, thousands of protesters clash with police after the outgoing president’s allies try to revise election rules, which could have led to a political dynasty. On August 20, the parliament was working on the revision of a Constitutional Court order over candidate age requirements for upcoming regional polls, superseding a ruling that had made President Joko Widodo’s youngest son, 29-year-old Kaesang Pangarep, ineligible. Eventually, legislators have cancelled plans to ratify revisions to election laws. (Aljazeera, August 22, 2024)

Here is a brief overview of Indonesia's democratic history - a timeline

Colonial Era (1602-1945): During the Dutch colonial period, Indonesia experienced limited forms of self-governance. However, the Dutch maintained ultimate control.
Japanese Occupation (1942-1945): The Japanese occupation of Indonesia during World War II led to a resurgence of Indonesian nationalism and a desire for independence.
Independence (1945): After the Japanese surrender, Indonesia declared its independence and fought a war against the Dutch to maintain its sovereignty.
Sukarno Era (1945-1966): Sukarno, the country's first president, established a guided democracy that was increasingly authoritarian. His policies led to economic instability and social unrest.
Suharto Era (1966-1998): General Suharto seized power in 1966, ushering in a period of authoritarian rule. His regime suppressed dissent and focused on economic development.
Reform Era (1998-Present): The fall of Suharto in 1998 marked the beginning of a democratic transition. Indonesia held free elections and implemented reforms to strengthen its democratic institutions. However, the country has faced challenges in consolidating its democracy and addressing the legacy of authoritarian rule.

Key events and turning points in Indonesia's democratic history include:

  •     The 1998 student protests that led to Suharto's resignation.
  •     The 1999 elections that brought about a peaceful transfer of power.
  •     The establishment of a Constitutional Court in 2003 to safeguard democratic principles.
  •     The ongoing efforts to combat corruption and promote good governance.

Indonesia's democratic history is a testament to the resilience of its people and their commitment to building a just and equitable society. While challenges remain, the country has made significant strides in its journey towards a fully functioning democracy. For details and accuracy about Indonesia's democratic history or other related aspects, please Google or Bing search the related topics. 

 
Indonesia legislature scraps election law changes after protests. Al Jazeera English


Protests erupt in Java, Indonesia over election law changes | The World ABC News 08/22/2024



2024年8月21日星期三

俄罗斯对库尔斯克的报道感到愤怒后,意大利记者将返回意大利 Russian anger over Kursk coverage ....

两名意大利记者斯特凡尼亚·巴蒂斯蒂尼和摄影师西蒙尼·特雷尼将返回意大利,他们因在乌克兰控制的俄罗斯库尔斯克地区进行的电视报道激怒了莫斯科。(美国之音,2024 年 8 月 17 日)

他们的报道是第一份来自饱受战争破坏的俄罗斯小镇苏贾的外国媒体报道,该小镇是在乌克兰入侵库尔斯克期间拍摄的。

俄罗斯外交部召见意大利大使,称 RAI 工作人员非法越境。RAI 公司决定暂时将记者带回,以确保他们的安全。俄罗斯塔斯社报道称,俄罗斯联邦安全局已对这两名记者提起刑事诉讼。(美国之音,2024 年 8 月 17 日)

在乌克兰军方护送下工作的 RAI 工作人员制作了第一份来自饱受战争破坏的俄罗斯小镇苏贾的外国媒体报道。巴蒂斯蒂尼和特拉尼定于周日飞回米兰。(美国之音,2024 年 8 月 17 日)

意大利外交部强调,RAI 及其新闻团队独立行事,并声称“新闻业不是犯罪”。RAI 记者工会和意大利全国新闻工会 FNSI 在一份联合声明中表达了这种观点。(美国之音,2024 年 8 月 17 日)

这两位记者赢得了我的尊重。


Two Italian journalists, Stefania Battistini and cameraman Simone Traini, who angered Moscow with a TV report from Ukrainian-held parts of Russia’s Kursk region, will return to Italy. (VOA, 08/17/2024)

Their report was the first foreign media coverage from the war-damaged Russian town of Sudzha, which was taken during Ukraine’s incursion into Kursk.

Russia’s Foreign Ministry summoned Italy’s ambassador over what it called illegal border crossing by a RAI crew. The RAI company decided to bring the journalists back temporarily to ensure their safety. Russia’s TASS news agency reported that the FSB state security service has opened criminal cases against the two journalists. (VOA, 08/17/2024)

The RAI crew, working under Ukrainian military escort, produced the first foreign media report from the war-damaged Russian town of Sudzha. Battistini and Traini are scheduled to fly back to Milan on Sunday. (VOA, 08/17/2024)

Italy’s foreign ministry emphasized that RAI and its news teams acted independently, asserting that “journalism is not a crime.” The RAI union of journalists and Italy’s national press union FNSI echoed this sentiment in a joint statement. (VOA, 08/17/2024)

These two journalists gain my respect.

以下视频显示:

- 记者的勇气:了解巴蒂斯蒂尼和特拉尼如何冒着生命危险揭露重要新闻。

- 从尼古拉·利林到瓦罗,俄罗斯宣传人员的疯狂反应

- 新闻自由的价值:为什么即使在冲突地区也必须捍卫知情权?

不要错过对新闻业和民主至关重要的话题的深入探讨。如果您不懂意大利语,请使用Youtube的字幕,它可翻译成英语或中文。就是这样看这片段的。


The following video shows:

- The courage of journalists: Discover how Battistini and Traini risked their lives to bring an important story to light.

- The unhinged reaction of Russian propagandists, from Nicolai Lilin to Vauro

- The value of freedom of the press: Why is it essential to defend the right to inform even in conflict zones?

Don't miss this in-depth look at a crucial topic for journalism and democracy. If you do not understand Italian, you may use the YouTube function-caption, it can be translated into English or Chinese. This is what I did.