The Globalist Podcast, Thursday, August 3 2023: ECOWAS demands that the leaders of Niger’s coup cede power by this Sunday – but does it have enough leverage? Also in the programme: We discuss Poland’s ever-increasing role in the Russia-Ukraine War, find out about Eurostar’s newest rival and flick through the day’s papers.
The New York Times — Thursday, August 3, 2023
Trump Election Charges Set Up Clash of Lies Versus Free Speech

The indictment of former President Donald J. Trump over his efforts to retain power accuses him of conspiracies built on knowing falsehoods. His supporters say he is protected by the First Amendment.
From Right-Hand Man to Critical Witness: Pence at Heart of Trump Prosecution

Mike Pence is playing an extraordinary role in a historic criminal case against his onetime benefactor and current rival, whose angry supporters once threatened Mr. Pence’s life.
Trump Indictment Leaves Alleged Co-Conspirators Facing Tough Choices
The special counsel’s decision not to charge six people said to have played critical roles in the effort to keep Donald Trump in office seemed to give them a chance to cooperate with prosecutors. Some appear to be unwilling.
Jury in Pittsburgh Synagogue Trial Condemns Gunman to Death
The verdict, after nearly 10 hours of deliberations, was met with a mix of solemnity, gratitude and relief among the survivors and families of those killed in the 2018 attack.
Research Preview: Nature Magazine – August 3, 2023
nature Magazine – August 3, 2023 issue: Lithium-metal batteries promise to charge rapidly and to hold more energy than batteries based on lithium ions. Recharging these batteries requires lithium metal to be reformed at the anode, but this process is affected by the battery’s electrolyte and current collector, which causes the shape of the lithium deposits to vary unpredictably, impairing the battery’s performance.
Water crisis: how local technologies can help solve a global problem
Climate change is making water stress worse for billions worldwide. Scaling up both new and traditional solutions must be a priority.
Why heart trouble can lead to sleep trouble
An immune response triggered by cardiac disease affects the function of a gland with a key role in the sleep–wake cycle.
Futuristic Architecture: ‘Vista Villa’ – Rabani Design

Amazing Architecture (August 1, 2023) – As you step inside the villa, you are greeted with a breathtaking view of the river through the expansive glass windows. The interior design of the villa boasts tall ceilings, creating an airy and spacious atmosphere. The use of vegetation and stone in some parts of the interior, such as the master bedroom, kitchen, and living room, adds a touch of nature and tranquility to the space.

The villa’s interior design is a beautiful blend of modern and natural elements. The warm wood materials used throughout the space create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, while the tall ceilings give it a sense of grandeur. The use of vegetation and stone in some parts of the interior adds a touch of nature and serenity to the space.

In conclusion, this futuristic modern villa is a true architectural masterpiece. With its unique doublex design, round ceilings, and stunning use of materials, it stands out as a true work of art. The interior design is equally impressive, with its tall height and beautiful blend of modern and natural elements. This villa truly offers a one-of-a-kind living experience that is both luxurious and serene.

By Liliana Alvarez
Politics: The Guardian Weekly – August 4, 2023

The Guardian Weekly (August 4, 2023) – Israel in turmoil: Netanyahu’s judicial coup; Stormzy’s scholarship graduates; International fiction found in translation, and more…
‘We’re angry’: Israel tensions mount as army reservists threaten to refuse duty
Conflict over Netanyahu’s plans to overhaul judiciary is leading to new levels of civil disobedience – and potential security risks
Removing statues and renaming streets: Odesa cuts out Russia
Recent strikes targeting the southern Ukrainian city, including its orthodox cathedral, have left residents questioning its historical links to Russia
ESSAYS: CHINA’S ‘ECONOMIC MIRACLE’ HAS NOW ENDED
Foreign Affairs (August 2, 2023) – As 2022 came to an end, hopes were rising that China’s economy—and, consequently, the global economy—was poised for a surge. After three years of stringent restrictions on movement, mandatory mass testing, and interminable lockdowns, the Chinese government had suddenly decided to abandon its “zero COVID” policy, which had suppressed demand, hampered manufacturing, roiled supply lines, and produced the most significant slowdown that the country’s economy had seen since pro-market reforms began in the late 1970s.
Economic long COVID will likely plague the Chinese economy for years.
In the weeks following the policy change, global prices of oil, copper, and other commodities rose on expectations that Chinese demand would surge. In March, then Chinese Premier Li Keqiang announced a target for real GDP growth of around five percent, and many external analysts predicted it would go far higher.
Arts/Books: Times Literary Supplement – Aug 4, 2023

Times Literary Supplement (August 4, 2023): The twilight zone – Joyce Carol Oates on the novellas of Rachel Ingalls; J.L Austin, philosopher-spy; Adam Thirlwell’s historical fantasy; Hollywood blockbusters; Poverty in the U.S. and more…
Books: Literary Review Magazine – August 2023
Literary Review – August 2023 Issue: How Sugar Became King; Oil, Resin, Vinegar & Paint – “Albrecht Dürer: Art and Autobiography” By David Ekserdjian; Shopping & Plucking – “How to Be a Renaissance Woman: The Untold History of Beauty and Female Creativity” By Jill Burke and more…
Oil, Resin, Vinegar & Paint

Albrecht Dürer: Art and Autobiography By David Ekserdjian
Dürer’s Lost Masterpiece: Art and Society at the Dawn of a Global World By Ulinka Rublack
The German Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer (1471–1528) was fortunate in his initials. The stylised ‘AD’ that he routinely inserted into his paintings and engravings, and even the preparatory drawings, seemed to imbue his productions with an almost divine stamp of approval. Most German painters of the era did not sign their work, but Dürer was eager to assert creative ownership of his productions, obtaining legal protection of his sole right to the trademark monogram.
Curse of Cane

The World of Sugar: How the Sweet Stuff Transformed Our Politics, Health, and Environment over 2,000 Years By Ulbe Bosma
There was a time when commodity histories were everywhere. They tended to focus on consumption and trade over very long distances. Ulbe Bosma’s The World of Sugar is much more than this sort of book. It is one of the most accomplished longue durée case studies in the history of capitalism that we have, concerned not just with trade and consumption but with production also. At every turn it subverts both critiques and celebrations of capitalism, and our understanding of much else besides. It is an extraordinary achievement.
News: Trump Is Charged Over Bid To Overturn 2020 Election; Senegal Attack
The Globalist Podcast, Wednesday, August 2 2023: Former President Trump was criminally indicted with three conspiracy charges and a count of attempting to obstruct an official proceeding in his campaign to use the levers of government power to remain in office after 2020 Election. Also, violent protests erupt in Senegal.
The New York Times — Wednesday, August 2, 2023
Trump Is Indicted in His Push to Overturn Election

The former president faces three conspiracy charges and a count of attempting to obstruct an official proceeding in his campaign to use the levers of government power to remain in office.
Trump’s Case Has Broad Implications for American Democracy

The third indictment of the former president is the first to get to the heart of the matter: Can a sitting leader of the country spread lies to hold onto power even after voters reject him?
A Craigslist for Guns, With No Background Checks
A federal gun law passed last year gave the Biden administration a powerful new tool to increase background checks on “private” firearms sales. Will the administration use it?
Putin’s Crackdown Leaves Transgender Russians Bracing for Worse
A new law underscores how Vladimir V. Putin is increasingly using the war in Ukraine as justification for greater restrictions on L.G.B.T.Q. life, portraying it as a consequence of deviant Western values.
