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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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Pro-Trump Brazilian Influencer Arrested by U.S. ICE

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The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested Brazilian right-wing influencer Júnior Pena in New Jersey. Pena had long publicly supported U.S. President Donald Trump’s hardline policies on illegal immigration.

Pena has lived in the U.S. since 2009. Over the years, he not only endorsed Trump’s policies but also criticized Brazilian leftist President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and commented on political developments in Brazil and Latin America. On social media, Pena presented his content from an immigrant perspective and promoted Trump’s immigration crackdown, repeatedly telling Brazilian immigrants not to panic, claiming that only criminals are targeted and law-abiding immigrants had nothing to fear. Critics now view his own detention as an ironic “case of poetic justice.”

The detention occurred on January 31, when Pena was taken to the Delaney Hall Immigration Detention Center in Newark, New Jersey. According to friends and his lawyer, the arrest stemmed from Pena failing to appear at a court hearing related to his immigration process. Although his lawyer submitted the necessary documents to prevent his transfer to another state facility, procedural errors still resulted in the execution of the detention order. Friends emphasize that Pena had no formal deportation order, and his immigration status was previously legal.

The case has sparked heated reactions in Brazilian online communities. Some mocked him for supporting Trump’s immigration policies only to become a target himself, while others prayed for him and shared updates on social media. As of now, Pena’s lawyer is working through legal channels to resolve the detention and court hearing issues.

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German Chancellor Merz Discusses “Shared Nuclear Umbrella” with European Allies

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On January 29, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced that Germany is conducting preliminary discussions with European allies to explore the possibility of establishing a “shared European nuclear umbrella” in response to the changing global security landscape and nuclear threats.

In his policy report, Merz used unusually strong language to describe Europe facing a “harsh cold wind” in a new world order of intensified great power competition. He stressed that Europe can no longer rely solely on the U.S. nuclear deterrent and must take active control of its own security. He reaffirmed that Germany will continue to comply with the Two Plus Four Treaty and the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and will not possess nuclear weapons. The proposal is not intended to replace NATO but to complement the U.S. nuclear-sharing arrangements, focusing initial discussions on integrating French and British resources.

The proposal has sparked intense debate in Germany. Supporters argue it is a necessary step toward “European strategic autonomy,” while opponents worry it could trigger an arms race and question whether France would be willing to share nuclear command authority. Thomas Roewekamp, chair of the Bundestag Defense Committee, added that while Germany lacks warheads, its technological capabilities in delivery systems and military cooperation make it a key player in a European nuclear program.

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Starmer suggests Prince Andrew testify to US Congress

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The BBC reports that UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer suggested that former royal, stripped of his titles, Prince Andrew, Duke of York, should testify before the US Congress regarding documents, photos, and communications related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Recently released documents and photos show interactions and meetings between Andrew and Epstein, including some concerning images. BBC Verify has confirmed that parts of the interior and other images match Epstein’s New York mansion, implying a connection to past cases.

Starmer stated that anyone holding key information should consider testifying in Congress, especially from the victims’ perspective, to ensure full transparency of evidence. These recommendations follow the release of a batch of documents including historical communications and photos, though Andrew himself denies any wrongdoing.

Other newly revealed documents include communications and financial transactions involving other individuals, some of whom deny wrongdoing or claim the situation has been exaggerated.

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