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Jimmy Lai National Security Law Trial Sparks Free Speech Controversy

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The Guardian reported on Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai’s National Security Law trial on August 20, 2025. Defense lawyer Robert Pang emphasized that supporting freedom of speech and human rights is not wrong and argued that attempting to persuade the government to change policies is also legal. However, Judge Esther Toh noted that criticizing the government through improper means could constitute a violation. The prosecution accused Lai of repeatedly using his founded newspaper Apple Daily and international contacts to actively seek foreign sanctions against China and Hong Kong, claiming his reporting aimed to incite foreign interference.

Lai denied any intention to incite foreign sanctions, stressing that his reporting was meant to criticize government policies, not directly call for foreign action. He stated he never asked foreign governments to take specific measures against China or Hong Kong. The prosecution, however, noted that Lai’s contacts with international political figures and his media coverage could be seen as indirectly calling for foreign interference. The trial has lasted over 140 days, with a verdict expected later this year after closing arguments.

It is noteworthy that South China Morning Post (SCMP) presents a markedly different perspective. SCMP emphasizes that Lai “used a false portrayal of Beijing to urge the West to act,” highlighting the potential threat to national security and reflecting a perspective more aligned with official views. In contrast, The Guardian focuses on the defense’s arguments, highlighting freedom of speech and human rights, reflecting international concern.

The case, particularly regarding its impact on Hong Kong’s freedom of speech and press, has drawn international attention. Supporters view it as a significant challenge to Hong Kong’s democratic values, emphasizing the need to respect basic rights to free expression and press freedom. The Hong Kong government insists that Lai’s actions constitute a threat to national security and emphasizes that they are handling the case in accordance with the law.

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Russia Successfully Tests Nuclear-Powered Cruise Missile

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On October 21, 2025, Russia successfully tested its nuclear-powered cruise missile, the Burevestnik (SSC-X-9 Skyfall, as NATO calls it). The missile is reportedly “invincible,” capable of penetrating current and future missile defense systems, with near-unlimited range and unpredictable flight paths.

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated in a meeting with military leaders that the test marked the completion of a “critical trial” and instructed the military to begin preparing infrastructure for deployment. Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov reported that the missile flew 14,000 km during testing and remained airborne for approximately 15 hours.

Putin said the Burevestnik is a response to the U.S. withdrawal from the 1972 Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty and the establishment of missile defense systems, emphasizing the weapon’s uniqueness and claiming, “No one in the world possesses such a weapon.”

The test occurred amid tense relations between Russia and Western countries, especially ahead of a meeting with U.S. President Trump. The move is seen as a strong military signal from Russia to the West, highlighting its position in global military competition. The U.S. White House has not yet commented on the test.

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U.S. And China Reach Preliminary Trade Framework

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On the eve of a planned meeting between former President Trump and Xi Jinping, the U.S. and China reached a preliminary trade framework, providing a temporary buffer to their long-standing economic tensions.

According to reports, the framework was finalized during the ASEAN summit. Both sides agreed to delay possible high tariffs on certain Chinese goods and reached preliminary consensus on U.S. soybean exports and Chinese restrictions on key resources like rare earths.

The agreement states that the U.S. will temporarily ease some tariffs in exchange for China’s commitment to increase purchases of U.S. agricultural products. China said that although a “preliminary consensus” has been reached, it still requires domestic approval to take effect. Both sides emphasized that the framework is not a final agreement but aims to create a positive negotiating atmosphere ahead of the upcoming Trump-Xi meeting.

Analysts view the framework as a preventive measure to avoid a full-scale trade war. If successfully implemented, U.S. exporters could temporarily ease tariff pressures, while Chinese companies would benefit from stable supply of rare earths and other resources. However, key issues such as intellectual property protection, technology transfer, and tariff schedules remain unresolved, leaving markets cautious about the agreement’s durability.

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Anthony Albanese Meets Trump to Discuss Minerals, Defense, and Trade

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On October 20, 2025, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese arrived in Washington to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss the AUKUS defense agreement, key mineral cooperation, and trade matters.

Albanese emphasized that AUKUS represents an important strategic investment for Australia, aiming to strengthen defense cooperation with the U.S. and U.K., and promote the extraction and refinement of critical minerals to support defense and technology industries.

Former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd highlighted at a defense reception that AUKUS benefits Australian industry and enhances Australia’s position in the global strategic landscape.

The meeting also raised concerns about the responsibilities and costs Australia bears under AUKUS. While the U.S. has urged Australia to raise defense spending to 3.5% of GDP, Albanese stated that Australia will allocate defense resources according to its own needs.

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