Mornin’ Politocadoes!
On Wednesday, the leaders of North Korea and Russia announced a major upgrade in their relationship. The pact, emphasizing mutual security and defense, also called for collaboration on security, trade, investment, and cultural and humanitarian ties. Described by Kim Jong Un as a “fiery friendship” and the “strongest ever treaty”, it is the most significant connection between the two countries since the end of the Cold War.
Article 4 of the agreement states that each country must deploy “all means at its disposal without delay” to provide “military and other assistance.” if the other is pushed into a state of war. Though it also makes it clear that it must be in accordance with the laws of both countries and Article 51 of the United Nations Charter. Observers have noted that the wording of the agreement does not suggest an automatic response in the event of war, it’s still a pretty significant step towards showing cooperation between the two countries.
South Korea is furious, of course. Kim’s declaration of support for Putin’s war in Ukraine has led to an equally fiery statement from South Korea’s President pledging that the South may start providing arms to Ukraine in response. South Korea has grown as an arms exporter and had up until now only provided non-lethal assistance to Ukraine. The United State is also not pleased with the development, having already indicated that there would be consequences if North Korea supplied Russia with arms for its conflict.
Welcome to Thursday! Please be excellent to each other in the comments. The Mayor McSquirrel Rule remains in effect. Something to keep in mind! Police are using digital data to prosecute abortion seekers, and Facebook and Google are helping them! Even if they are not legally required to do so, the tech giants will aid them in this since it’s technically *against the law*. Please be careful when looking for abortion providers or helping someone who is looking for that assistance.
https://tinyurl.com/2azchvd2The Covid-19 pandemic continues even if the emergencies end, continue to vaccinate using the latest version of the FDA approved vaccines by Phizer and Moderna. Even if you are vaccinated, please continue to maintain social distancing measures, wear masks in public areas in accordance with CDC guidelines in regard to your own vaccination status.Also, according to recent polls approximately 50% of adults are not planning on getting their Covid-19 boosters. So please get them and older adults should also look to be vaccinated for RSV! It’s been difficult to get adults onboard with getting the RSV shots as it is. Remember that getting these shots could potentially keep thousands of Americans who do not have to be there out of the ICU this winter.https://tinyurl.com/ycxvehya