This statement makes what President Zelensky said earlier that NATO supports the path of membership of Kiev, still quite far. “NATO leaders have confirmed that Ukraine will become a member of the alliance and that the Member Action Plan (MAP) is an integral part. Ukraine deserves to be appreciated for its role in ensuring Euro-Atlantic security,” Zelensky wrote on Twitter. US President stressed that it is not possible to confirm Ukraine’s accession to NATO At the summit on June 14, NATO also focused all of its attention on China and climate change. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg only mentioned Ukraine twice in his speech, but both times were unrelated to the issue of the country joining the alliance. In addition to objections on security reasons from Moscow, the fact that Ukraine still has a dispute over the Crimea peninsula with Russia is also what makes it difficult for this country to join NATO. Under Article 5 of the NATO charter, member states will have the right to collective self-defence, so a territorial dispute could drag the military bloc into a potential conflict with Russia.

“Some young people today have a high IQ but their EQ is low, their intelligence is immature and they are very susceptible to diseases,” said Mr. Nham Chinh Phi. Mr. Nham’s statement is only a part of the information that Reuters just posted, excerpted from an internal Huawei note. The document also shows that Huawei will focus on software instead of hardware as before. Nham Chinh Phi believes that today’s young people are emotionally weak and psychologically immature. Photo: Reuters. Specifically, Huawei will announce the new Harmony operating system for smartphones on June 2. This is considered an important step for Huawei to reduce damage to its smartphone industry. Huawei’s switch to Harmony operating system means that it will no longer depend on Android and the Google Mobile Services service pack. Since 2019, Google has stopped cooperating with the Chinese phone company, making Huawei from the position of the world’s second largest smartphone company, in the latest quarter, it only reached 4% of the market share, ranked 6th in the ranking of smartphone manufacturers. biggest. Internal documents also show that Nham Chinh Phi has called on employees to focus on developing the software segment, with the orientation that the company will be more autonomous and independent in the future to fight US sanctions. Sanctions by the US government have forced companies like Huawei to change their business strategies. Nham Chinh Phi’s statement is the clearest evidence that Huawei has been shifting its focus away from the mobile segment, which was once its mainstay. Huawei will focus on software because this area is outside the US domination. Not only software, Huawei will focus more on the smart car segment, which is being led by US brands like Tesla. Photo: China Daily. “Once we dominate Europe, Asia Pacific and Africa, if America’s standards don’t match ours and we can’t enter the US, the US can’t enter the territory either. ours,” Nham said. According to Mr. Nham, the software department needs to find a suitable business direction to be able to compete in the market. He advises employees to get “nutrients” from open technology communities and apply it right to the company’s conditions. In addition to software, Huawei’s rotating CEO, Eric Xu, also announced in April that the company will invest more than 1 billion USD in the smart car segment, and is expanding cooperation with Changan, a car manufacturer belonging to Huawei. state-owned, to develop automated semiconductors and designs.

At 9 a.m. on April 23, Times Finance called the Office of the Secretary of the Board of Hope Co., Ltd. The other party stated that the reply has been submitted to the Shenzhen Stock Exchange, and the specific content is not convenient for disclosure at present. However, as of press time, the content of Houpu’s response has not yet appeared on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange website.

On April 21, the Shenzhen Stock Exchange issued a letter of concern and an annual report inquiry letter to Hopu within one day. The serial follow-up questioning by the Shenzhen Stock Exchange revealed its eagerness, requiring Houpu shares to respond to the letter of concern before April 22.

The Shenzhen Stock Exchange’s attention to Houpu shares stems from the 15 billion yuan project agreement disclosed by Houpu shares on April 20.

On the evening of April 20, Houpu shares announced that the company and Chengdu Xindu District Government signed the “Hopu International Hydrogen Energy Industry Cluster Project Investment Agreement” (hereinafter referred to as the “Agreement”), and plans to invest 15 billion yuan in construction Hopu International Hydrogen Energy Industry Cluster Project.

Hydrogen refueling station. Image source: L.Willms

It seems to be a major positive news for the company, but when it is placed on Houpu shares, it makes people suspicious. Its annual report shows that in 2020, its operating income will be only 478 million yuan and a loss of 168 million yuan.

Where did the poor performance of Houpu shares to complete the 15 billion yuan project?

In the letter of concern sent by the Shenzhen Stock Exchange to Houpu, it not only questioned the feasibility of the 15 billion project, but also asked whether it involved real estate development and operation. In the annual report inquiry letter issued on the same day, the Shenzhen Stock Exchange further inquired about Hopu’s operating conditions and asked for an answer within a week.

Affected by this, Houpe shares closed down 5.59% on April 22; it fell below 3% at the opening on April 23, but then quickly rose. As of the morning’s close, Houpe shares rose 5.74%.

Image source: Houpu shares it

Where does 15 billion come from?

The financial situation of Houpu shares in recent years is not optimistic. The two letters issued by the Shenzhen Stock Exchange on April 20 focused on one question: Where does the 15 billion come from?

According to the financial report, Houpu’s revenue in 2019 is 543 million yuan, which is nearly cut in 2015 compared with the revenue at the beginning of listing, and the net profit in 2019 is only 20,827,600. In 2020, the performance of Houpu shares further declined. The total annual operating income was 478 million yuan, a year-on-year decrease of 11.87%, and the net profit attributable to the parent was 168 million yuan, a year-on-year decrease of 905.35%.

According to the “Agreement”, the first phase of the Hydrogen Energy Equipment Industrial Park project uses about 300 acres of land. The Xindu District Government will only use about 300 acres of land for the first phase of the project’s fixed assets (excluding land) investment amount to 4 million yuan per acre or more. Land supply for the second phase of the project will be initiated; similarly, the first phase of the Hopu International Hydrogen Energy CBD project covers an area of ​​about 118 mu, and the investment in fixed assets (excluding land) reaches 7.5 million yuan/mu or more before the second phase of land supply will be initiated.

Based on this data, Times Finance estimates that the first phase of the hydrogen energy equipment industrial park project needs to invest at least 2.085 billion yuan.

However, as of the end of 2020, Houpu’s total assets were 1.912 billion yuan, and the balance of monetary funds was only 136 million yuan; during the same period, its current liabilities were 750 million yuan, including 116 million short-term loans.

Image source: Houpu shares 2020 annual report

The Xindu District Government stated in the “Agreement” that it supports and encourages district-owned platform companies to participate in the clean energy industry fund initiated by Houpu. The first phase of the industrial fund scale is 500 million yuan, of which the district-owned platform company invests 200 million yuan. Two batches of investment; in addition, the district government also encourages and supports district state-owned enterprises to participate in equity investment in the project under this agreement, and the total investment amount does not exceed 200 million yuan.

In addition, the “Agreement” requires Hopu Co., Ltd. to register relevant project companies with independent legal personality in Xindu District, and at least one project company has a registered capital of 500 million yuan. On April 16, Yanxin Holding Group Co., Ltd. (referred to as “Yanxin Holdings” in the text) and Houpu’s subsidiary-Beijing Houpu Hydrogen Technology Co., Ltd. registered in Xindu District to establish Chengdu Houpu Hydrogen Technology Co., Ltd. , Registered capital of 500 million yuan, of which Beijing Hopu Hydrogen Energy subscribed 400 million yuan, and Yanxin Holdings subscribed 100 million yuan.

Even without considering the liabilities, according to Times Finance’s estimates, plus the 170 million yuan that Houpu shares planned to raise from Wang Jiwen in February 2021, and the 100 million yuan that Yanxin Group invested in the establishment of Chengdu Houpu Hydrogen Energy, Houpu has made every effort to spend about 1.106 billion yuan in international hydrogen energy industry cluster projects, and there is still a big gap between the 2.085 billion yuan required for the first phase.

Picture source: Times Finance

Hope shares may choose to seek external financing. Times Finance found that in the signing of the 15 billion project issued on the official website of Hopu Co., Ltd. on April 21, the world industrial gas giant-French Air Liquide (Air Liquide) Chairman of the Board of Directors in Greater China, Lu Yuebing, also attended the signing ceremony. . In 2019, Air Liquide Group and Houpu Co., Ltd. jointly established Air Liquide Houpe Hydrogen Energy Equipment Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as “Air Liquide Houpe”).

On April 22, Times Finance called Jin Jing, the media liaison of Air Liquide Group, who stated that the cooperation between Air Liquide Group and Houpe is limited to the previously established joint venture company-Liquid Air Houpe. Recently, Houpe shares and Xindu District Government The project has nothing to do with Air Liquide.

Times Finance also contacted Chengdu Xindu District Investment Promotion Bureau and Xindu District Modern Transportation Industry Functional Zone Management Committee on the same day, trying to inquire about the details of Hopu International’s hydrogen energy industry cluster project. The staff of the other party said that they would record the problem and give feedback to the relevant person in charge, but as of the time of publication, no response has been received.

At the 2020 online performance briefing meeting of Houpe shares held on the same day, Times Finance asked Huang Yaohui, general manager of Houpu shares, on issues such as “whether it will introduce other investors to join the projects in Xindu District”. The other party said that the specific situation will await the company’s response to the “Letter of Concern”.

Cement boss enters hydrogen energy

At the end of 2020, Houpu shares only changed the actual controller. Another identity of Wang Jiwen, the current actual controller of Houpu shares, is the chairman of Yanxin Holdings.

According to its official website, Yanxin Holdings is a diversified group company integrating building materials, environmental protection, metallurgy, finance, investment, logistics, real estate, and equipment manufacturing, with total assets of more than 4 billion yuan. Its building materials sector can produce 4 million tons of cement and 2.25 million tons of clinker each year. Its leading products include “Diamond” and “Jun” cement.

Cement boss Wang Jiwen entered Houpu shares back three years ago.

In November 2018, in order to alleviate the pledge of shares held, Jiang Tao, then chairman, general manager and actual controller of Houpu Co., Ltd., planned to raise funds from Beijing Xingkai Investment Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as “Beijing Xingkai”). According to Tianyan Check, Wang Jiwen and Yanxin Holdings own 99.02% of Beijing Xingkai.

At the beginning of 2019, the senior management of Hopu Co., Ltd. carried out intensive mobilization. First, in January 2019, Jiang Tao resigned as general manager and was replaced by Huang Yaohui, the former vice president of Yanxin Holdings; then in March 2019, Wang Jiwen succeeded Jiang Tao and was elected chairman of Houpu Co., Ltd.; on April 1, 2019, Houpu The shares completed the change of legal representative and changed from Jiang Tao to Wang Jiwen.

However, it was not until the end of 2020 that Wang Jiwen truly became the “master” of Houpu. On November 17, 2020, Houpu shares announced that Jiang Tao would transfer 20% of his shares to Wang Jiwen and Beijing Xingkai. After the completion of the transaction, Wang Jiwen and Beijing Xingkai controlled by Wang hold 25.51% of Hopu’s shares and are the actual controllers of the company.

Soon after Wang Jiwen took office as chairman, he changed the company name from “Chengdu Huaqi Houpu Electromechanical Equipment Co., Ltd.” to “Houpu Clean Energy Co., Ltd.”.

A relevant person of Houpu said in public that the new boss Wang Jiwen is optimistic about the development of hydrogen energy.

The name change may have demonstrated Wang Jiwen’s confidence in hydrogen energy and other clean energy businesses, but it failed to help Houpu shares to reverse the decline in performance.

Transition to hydrogen energy for 7 years, revenue accounted for less than 1%

In recent years, the hydrogen energy industry has become hotter and hotter.

Kaiyuan Securities believes that in the context of “carbon peak” and “carbon neutrality”, hydrogen is expected to play an important role in promoting energy transition and improving the flexibility of the energy system. The governments of Sichuan, Beijing, Jiaxing, Zhejiang and many other places have also launched their own “14th Five-Year Plan” for the hydrogen energy industry.

On April 21, the China Hydrogen Energy Alliance revealed at the “14th Five-Year” Hydrogen Energy Industry Development Forum that as of the end of 2020, China has built 128 hydrogen refueling stations and the cumulative number of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles has reached more than 7,000.

The “China Hydrogen Energy and Fuel Cell Industry White Paper 2020” released on the same day shows that China’s current hydrogen production capacity is about 41 million tons per year, and the output is about 33.42 million tons, making it the world’s number one hydrogen producer; by 2060, under the carbon neutral scenario, it can be The scale of hydrogen production from renewable energy is expected to reach 100 million tons.

Wanlian Securities analyst Jiang Wei told Times Finance on April 22 that in the future, with the reduction of fuel cell costs, the layout of hydrogen refueling stations, and the promotion of photovoltaic hydrogen production, hydrogen energy is expected to become the preferred alternative energy source in the non-electric field. Can be used on a large scale.

In order to catch up with this round of hydrogen energy boom, Houpu has been preparing for 7 years.

The prospectus submitted by Houpu in 2014 did not mention that the company has any hydrogen energy projects. However, in its 2015 annual report, there was a message that “the hydrogen charging device has achieved phased results, and the research and development prototype has been tested on site”. Every year since then, Houpe has announced its progress in the field of hydrogen production and hydrogenation.

But so far, hydrogen energy has not yet become Hopu’s main business. In its announcement on April 8th, Houpu shares mentioned that in 2020, the company’s main operating income will still be the natural gas refueling equipment and parts business, and the company’s hydrogen energy business recognized operating income in 2020 is less than total revenue. 1%.

Perhaps in order to break through this 1%, Houpu shares will spend a lot of money to invest in the hydrogen energy industrial park. But with 1.106 billion funds to leverage 15 billion projects? difficult.

Latvian Foreign Minister Edgar Rinkevich announced that he would expel a Russian diplomat and said he would “not allow hostile operations in his or her own territory”. Consecutively, many EU countries expelled Russian diplomats Meanwhile, the Estonian Foreign Ministry has also issued a decision to expel a Russian diplomat involved in the explosion of the Czech army’s ammunition in 2014. The Estonian side confirmed, this incident is clear “vi violating international law, undermining the security and stability of Europe and is unacceptable “. New diplomatic tensions with Russia began after the Czech ordered 18 Russian diplomats to leave the country on suspicions they were involved in a 2014 ammunition explosion. Russia responded by expelling 20 Czech diplomats after denying Prague’s accusations. Confrontation between the two countries continued to escalate, with the Czech demanding that 63 Russian diplomats leave the country. Before three countries Baltics, Slovakia, Bulgaria and Poland also announced the deportation of Russian diplomats respectively.

According to the Kremlin’s announcement, Putin signed the decree relating to “diplomatic missions and consulates, representative offices of foreign agencies or organizations” that act against the state, Russian people or organizations, collectively referred to as “hostile foreign countries”. Accordingly, “unfriendly countries” will be restricted – or in certain cases banned – from hiring or employing Russian nationals. Russian President Vladimir Putin. Photo: TASS The Russian government is tasked with determining the number of Russian staff that can be hired by foreign agencies and representative offices in Russia. The Ordinance states that the number of employees in foreign agencies and representative offices in excess of the prescribed number of Moscow government, even though there is a contract before the decree is signed, will have to be terminated. . This decree does not affect diplomats, consulates or citizens of the country where the representative office is located in Russia. The Russian government also has the task of making a list of “hostile foreign countries” and overseeing the implementation of restrictions or bans, as well as ensuring the rights of Russian citizens who are represented by agencies or offices. Foreign labor contract termination due to this ordinance. The Ordinance will take effect from the date it was officially announced, that is, April 23, and will be enforced until these responses are canceled. The Kremlin noted that the decree was consistent with current provisions of Russian law, including a federal law on “responses to unfriendly acts of the US and other countries”. Russia’s decree was issued in the midst of Moscow facing waves of expulsion of Russian diplomats. Germany, Poland and Sweden expelled three Russian diplomats in response to Moscow’s expulsion of three European diplomats for involvement in protests demanding the release of Russian opposition figure Alexei Navalny. The US expelled 10 Russian diplomats for alleged election interference and cyber attacks. Ukraine expelled “a senior diplomat” from Russia after Russia detained and expelled a Ukrainian consulate-general on allegations of espionage. Most recently, the Czech Republic expelled 18 Russian diplomats over allegations that the Russian secret was involved in two explosions of ammunition depots in the Central European country. Because of “solidarity with the Czech Republic”, Slovakia, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia expelled many Russian diplomats. These moves led to a series of “reciprocal” retaliation measures between Russia and these countries, making relations between Moscow and the West even more tense.

Russian President Vladimir Putin. Accordingly, the Kremlin on April 23 said that Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree on the application of measures to influence the bad actions of foreign countries. The statement from the Kremlin stated: “Mr. Vladimir Putin signed the decree on the application of response measures to foreign acts of bad will”. Specifically, Russia will limit the number of employees that can be recruited at diplomatic missions of countries that act inadvertent to Russia, the number of which exceeds the Russian government determined will be suspended . For this decree, diplomatic missions, consulates and offices of foreign government organizations acting unfriendly to Russia, Russian citizens or legal entities, will be faced with restricts, or even outright ban on, the use of Russian citizens. The Russian government is expected to identify a list of unfavorable foreign states and then adopt the countermeasures set up under the decree. Reportedly, the move above comes in the context of Russia and Western countries recently repeatedly expelled diplomats in the mutual diplomatic retaliation measures.

Former Czech President Vaclav Klaus. Photo: TASS “We are punishing one of the great powers in the world … I see this as proof that our country does not have a proper foreign policy,” former Czech President Vaclav Klaus on April 23 told Blesk newspaper. is based in Prague, mentioning Czech-Russian diplomatic tensions, TASS reported. Mr. Vaclav Klaus also said that the fact that Czech diplomats tried to blame Russian intelligence for the Vrbetice explosion in 2014 and used it as an excuse to expel Russian diplomats, is an act of trying to score points with The United States and the NATO military in the hope of receiving support. According to Mr. Klaus, the Czechs were hasty in this case. He argued that Prague “should have waited for true and serious evidence” before making any conclusions regarding the Vrbetice explosion. “It was a mistake to issue an ultimatum to Russia before having the facts,” Klaus warned. The former Czech president also revealed that he had discussions with his successor, current Czech President Milos Zeman, about tensions with Russia and the explosion seven years ago in Vrbetice. Russia-Czech relations became strained after Prague last week expelled 18 Russian diplomats accused of being officers of intelligence services. Prague also questioned Russia’s GRU military intelligence agency was involved in the ammunition explosion in Vrbetice in October 2014 that caused two deaths. Russia denied all related allegations and asked 20 staff of the Czech Embassy in Moscow to leave Russian territory in response. Moscow’s strong retaliation surprised Czechs. On April 22, the Czech Republic again expelled 63 more Russian diplomats and staff, followed by corresponding action from Russia.

Horoscope today April 25, 2021 about love: Aries Palace Love story does not have to worry. All sorrows are gradually resolved when misunderstandings have been resolved together. Single people have a chance to find half of love after years of loneliness. Affection: Health: Lucky numbers: 3, 30 Lucky color: Brown Gentlemen: Scorpio Primary: Cancer, Capricorn Horoscope today April 25, 2021 about love: Cung Kim Nguu Love story can not say anything. You are a bit disappointed because all efforts to express your feelings have not been appreciated and reciprocated by the other party. But love is inherently a matter of feelings, when the heart does not vibrate, it is difficult to force it. Affection: Health: Lucky numbers: 1, 25 Lucky color: Red Gentlemen: Capricorn Lady: Bao Binh Horoscope today April 25, 2021 about love: Gemini The emotional process is full of laughter. A few unexpected spiritual gifts, or just a kind inquiry from your partner, will keep you happy throughout the day. But don’t just accept it, let’s learn how to give. Affection: Health: Lucky numbers: 10, 18 Lucky color: Purple Gentleman: Cancer Little lady: Lion Horoscope today April 25, 2021 about love: Cancer Love story is still a bit worried here. Cancer tends to be emotionally misleading and overly concerned with the person, while they have drawn clear boundaries with you. The advice for you is to dedicate your sincerity to those who deserve more. Affection: Health: Lucky numbers: 5, 12 Lucky color: Lavender purple Gentleman: Taurus Young Man: Pisces Horoscope today April 25, 2021 about love: the Lion Relationships are improved in a positive direction. The relationship of husband and wife becomes more and more close, more close thanks to the sharing, listening and understanding of both of you. Don’t forget to spend more time with your partner to nurture more and more passionate love. Affection: Health: Lucky number: 1, 2 Lucky color: Dark orange Gentleman: Virgo Primary: Cancer Horoscope today April 25, 2021 about love: Cung Virgo Relationships require more attention and sharing. Know that everyone has different concerns about their career paths, but don’t be too engrossed in neglecting your family. Love will bring you outstanding energy to work more efficiently. Affection: Health: Lucky numbers: 8, 21 Lucky color: Coffee brown Gentlemen: Bao Binh Little person: Gemini Horoscope today April 25, 2021 about love: Thien Binh Palace The emotional process has not changed much. Single people are satisfied with their existing life and do not want to think about marriage. Family life reconciles different egos, happiness also grows. Affection: Health: Lucky numbers: 9, 14 Lucky color: Dark red Gentlemen: Aries Primary: Aries Horoscope today April 25, 2021 about love: Scorpio The emotional process seems to be confused. Scorpio clearly felt the feeling of loneliness covering. The voice in the heart is urging this constellation to find a silhouette, but the reason will not allow it for fear of suffering like in the past. Affection: Health: Lucky numbers: 8, 20 Lucky color: Brown red Gentlemen: Gemini Young Lady: Taurus Horoscope today April 25, 2021 about love: Palace of the Sagittarius Love story met countless waves. According to trithuctot.com Sagittarius, it is difficult to avoid confusion and complexity in the relationship with the other partner if he cannot keep himself calm. In this case, only you can save your feelings. Affection: Health: Lucky numbers: 4, 7 Lucky color: Red rose Gentlemen: Aries Little lady: Lion Horoscope today April 25, 2021 about love: Capricorn The love story is falling into a difficult period. The incident easily caused the relationship between Capricorn and the other half to no longer hold because the feelings were not big enough. But if there is a consensus and sympathy between the two of you, any difficulty will be overcome. Affection: Health: Lucky numbers: 4, 20 Lucky color: White Gentlemen: Thien Binh Young people: Bao Binh, Su Tu Horoscope today April 25, 2021 about love: Bao Binh Palace Love story is not as expected. Single Bao Binh sets many standards in choosing a mate. The opponent just needs a little imperfections and quickly catches the eye. Affection: Health: Lucky numbers: 3, 8 Lucky color: Dark blue Gentlemen: Gemini, Thien Binh Primary: Cancer, Capricorn Horoscope today April 25, 2021 about love: Cung Pisces The emotional process goes down. The family atmosphere is enveloping a heavy feeling when both have had a cold war from before. Rift will be engaged if and only if there is agreement between the two of you. Affection: Health: Lucky numbers: 6, 24 Lucky color: lilac purple, violet color Gentleman: Sagittarius Young people: Gemini, Virgo * Horoscope and astrological information in the article is for reference and contemplative purposes only!

Three Baltic states, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, have expelled a total of four Russian diplomats to show solidarity with the Czech Republic (Czech) in diplomatic retaliation for alleged Russian secret involvement. ammunition warehouse explosions in Czech, news agency AFP said. On April 17, the Czech Republic accused the Russian Secret Service of being behind a fatal explosion at an arsenal in eastern Czechs in 2014 and thus expelled 18 Russian diplomats. This decision led to a series of “reciprocal” responses between Prague and Moscow. The Czech Republic has called on allies in the European Union (EU) and the North Atlantic Treaty Bloc (NATO) to unite and support the decision of the Prague government. On April 23, Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis announced his decision to expel two staff of the Russian Embassy in Vilnius for “behavior inconsistent with diplomatic status” and ordered them to leave Lithuania within seven days. Russian Embassy in Riga (Latvia). Photo: TASS The Lithuanian Foreign Ministry stressed that “this decision shows our solidarity (ie the Vilnius government) with our ally after an unprecedented and dangerous incident in the Czech Republic”. Lithuania also offered to support the Czech Embassy in Moscow in carrying out its functions after Czech diplomats were expelled by Russia. The Russian Foreign Ministry announced that by May 31st, the Russian Embassy in Prague and the Czech Embassy in Moscow will only maintain 7 diplomatic staff, 25 technical and administrative staff, as well as right to hire up to 19 employees who are nationals of the host country. Thus, the number of Czech diplomats in Moscow must be reduced by 16, while the number of Russian diplomats in Prague is only one-sixth of the current number. On the same day 23-4, Latvian Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics announced the expulsion of a staff member of the Russian Embassy in Riga. The Latvian Foreign Ministry explained that this was a move to show “solidarity with the Czech”, based on “information provided by Latvian authorities” and was made after consulting with allies. EU and NATO. And the Estonian Foreign Ministry announced the expulsion of a Russian diplomat who the Tallinn government said was behaving inconsistent with diplomatic principles. Estonia emphasized that it was “an expression of solidarity with the Czechs” and criticized the actions of the Russian secret service as the Czech accused it of being “unacceptable”. In response to the decision of the Latvian Foreign Ministry, the Russian Embassy in Riga said that this “unfriendly action” would “have the most negative impact on the development of Russian-Latvian relations”. The Russian diplomatic delegation also announced that Moscow would soon take measures to respond, according to the news agency TASS . The Russian embassy in Tallinn was also dissatisfied by Estonia’s decision, saying that the decision to expel Russian diplomats could undermine efforts to improve Russia-Estonian relations. The Russian diplomatic delegation to Lithuania does not appear to have commented on the decision of the Vilnius government yet. Before the three Baltic countries, Slovakia expelled three members of the Russian Embassy in Bratislava to show solidarity with its neighbor Czech.

Last week, the administration of US President Joe Biden imposed sanctions on Russia. (Source: Getty) On April 23, White House top international economic aide Daleep Singh said that the US sanctions imposed on Russia last week had achieved “pretty close” results. Washington, amid tensions between the two countries over Ukraine, seems to have eased. “Our intention is to act adequately, to focus on our approach, as well as to signal that we are likely to cause greater losses if Russia continues,” Mr. Daleep Singh stated. To date, the results of the sanctions are quite close to our expectations. ” Earlier, the Russian Defense Ministry said it had begun withdrawing military units from the Crimean Peninsula to its permanent bases after deploying tens of thousands of soldiers near the Ukrainian border area, causing concern. afraid of war. Last week, the administration of US President Joe Biden imposed sanctions against Russia for “intimidating” Ukraine, meddling in the US election in 2020, cyber attacks and other actions. . Mr. Biden passed provisions to make it easier for officials to extend sanctions in any sector of the Russian economy in response to future aggression. However, Mr. Biden also stressed that he did not want to escalate tensions with Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks during a meeting in Moscow. Photo: AFP / VNA Speaking at a joint press conference with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko in Moscow on April 22, Putin said that the Kiev government has taken steps to destroy bilateral relations with Moscow over the past time. Prominent among them was the intention of Ukraine to restrict the Russian language, destroying Russian Orthodox Church in Ukraine. “There are many steps to breaking the relationship, which we regret. But if President Zelensky wants to restore relations, we will respond, “Putin said about the prospect of a meeting between the two leaders in Donbass. But according to the Russian President, if it is to discuss the situation in Donbass, the Kyiv government first needs to open meetings with the leaders of the Donetsk Republic and self-proclaimed Lugansk, and then consider direct contact with the party. Tuesday. If it wants to talk about Russia-Ukraine relations, the Russian side is ready to welcome Zelensky in Moscow at any convenient time for the President of Ukraine. Earlier, speaking on April 20, Mr. Zelensky proposed his readiness to meet President Putin in Donbass, amid the outbreak of fighting between Ukrainian soldiers and independence forces in the East.

The head of the White House said in a phone call earlier this week with Russian President Vladimir Putin he made a clear stance that the US and Russia may have “gone further,” emphasizing that Washington “did not want to arrest. the beginning of a cycle of escalation and conflict “with Moscow.

Mr. Biden asserted that after direct communication between him and Putin, the US and Russia could establish “a more effective relationship” and the Kremlin boss “agreed” with this view.

According to Biden, his proposal to hold a summit with his Russian counterpart this summer in Europe will be an opportunity to launch a stable strategic dialogue.

Putin has yet to react to the White House boss’s invitation, but Biden said his cabinet is discussing the possibility now.

Before that, despite President Biden proposing a bilateral meeting with his Russian counterpart, on April 15, the US still announced economic sanctions against Russia and expelled 10 foreign diplomats. This was in response to actions that Washington alleged was “interference” by the Kremlin in US elections and large-scale cyber attacks.

In addition, the US Treasury Department also announced sanctions against 8 individuals and entities involved in Russia’s annexation of Crimea.

For its part, the Kremlin vowed to respond adequately to any new illegal US sanctions against Russia and noted that any new sanctions would reduce the chances of a meeting. two sides summit.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova.

“Such an act of aggression will be strongly opposed. The response to the sanctions will be inevitable … The responsibility for what is happening completely belongs to the US “- Ms. Zakharova said in a press conference.

According to Ms. Zakharova, US Ambassador to Russia John Sullivan was summoned to the Russian Foreign Ministry to have a “difficult” conversation with the US side.

“We have repeatedly warned the United States about the consequences of their hostile actions, which represents the degree of confrontation between the two countries” – said Ms. Zakharova – “Such a (political) process. do not serve the people’s interests of the two leading nuclear powers, which are historically responsible for the fate of the world.

“In a phone call with the Russian President, Mr. Joe Biden expressed interest in the normalization of Russia-US relations. However, the actions of his administration showed the opposite “- the spokesman of the Russian Foreign Ministry emphasized.

Earlier, the United States imposed anti-Russia sanctions and expelled 10 diplomats in response to accusations of Moscow’s election meddling and cyber activities.

US President Joe Biden said he is ready to take further action if Moscow continues to “interfere in our democracy” but at the same time still hopes to improve relations with Russia.

Specifically, over the past several months, representatives of the US administration led by President Joe Biden have repeatedly threatened Russia that it will pay a “very high price” for the situation in the Donbass.

Moscow responded to Washington on warning of ‘it will cost money for the Donbass’. Illustrative image / Reporter

Before the above developments, Moscow gave an official response. Specifically, according to Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov, Washington’s aforementioned statements are unacceptable. Russia will continue to defend the self-proclaimed republics of the Donbass, as well as the interests of its Russian-speaking residents, and threats from the other hemisphere of the planet will only convince Moscow of the correctness of the planet. my movement.

“They talked about a high price, but they never specified. What they have done so far, first we have done enough research, second we have adapted to this” …

Ryabkov noted with regret that the current Ukrainian authorities and their Western patrons have concluded that the field situation is not helping to become more positive.

In addition, Deputy Minister Ryabkov mentioned the fact that the military alliance of NATO, the United States and a number of other countries are deliberately promoting Kiev to confront the Russian Federation, assisting Ukraine in increasing military pressure. declaration in the East.

In related developments, the NATO Air Force has deployed more fighter jets to countries close to Ukraine as a readiness move for the worst case scenario.

Dulux joked about Spurs’ empty title showroom.

On the official Twitter page, Tottenham cheerfully announced: “We are pleased to announce that Dulux, the number one paint brand in the country, has become the club’s first official paint supplier.”

However, Spurs could not expect that it was this tweet that sparked a series of conversations “half-hearted and funny” created by Dulux himself. It is worth mentioning, the new partner does not hesitate to swirl into Tottenham’s empty-handed pain through responding to comments from fans.

Specifically, when an account named David Edwards commented: “From now on we can put paint cans in the cuproom because nothing else can seem to be there,” Dulux responded with pictures image of Tottenham’s empty cupboard, on which the words “For sale of unused cupboards. Contact: 0344.499.5000”.

Tottenham was ridiculed by Dulux.

The story doesn’t stop. When another fan commented, “Paint over this dusty, traditional room,” Dulux replied: “Don’t be silly. You have to clean the dust before you can paint.” Another looked at the company’s iconic Old English Sheepdog mascot and asked: “Can this dog kick the center-back?”. “Couldn’t be better,” Dulux replied, with an emoji of delighted smiles.

Dulux’s somewhat overly “new client” “care for” fans quickly became the focus of British media. The company subsequently had to erase its ridiculous responses to Tottenham, despite all the jokes for fun.

Dulux’s “tease” words added to the pain of Tottenham’s titleless title. The last time Spurs had lifted a trophy was in 2008, 13 years ago, when they won the League Cup.

This season, Tottenham is facing the opportunity to quench the thirst of the title when it reached the final of the League Cup, meeting Man City on April 25.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Joe Biden.

The sanctions are part of the US government’s response to Russia’s election meddling in the US and the launch of the SolarWinds cyber attack last December, according to the New York Times.

Sources say that among the Russian citizens that the US is preparing to impose sanctions are both government officials and intelligence services.

The Wall Street Journal also cited sources as saying that US President Joe Biden would issue a decree extending a ban on US banks from conducting transactions related to Russia’s national debt.

Earlier in January, the US Agency for Cyber ​​Security and Infrastructure (CISA) issued a joint statement by the FBI and several other agencies, under which Russia is likely to be behind the attack. Large-scale networks targeted at customers of the computer security firm SolarWinds.

According to Washington, the goal of the attack was to gather intelligence. However, it was later reported that the attackers did not gain access to sensitive information.

In mid-March, US intelligence released a new report, accusing Russian President Vladimir Putin of directing the Russian government’s influence campaigns to reduce the likelihood of Democratic candidate Joe Biden’s victory in elections in 2020 and deepening political divisions in America.

Advisor to US President Joe Biden on national security Jake Sullivan recently stated that in response to this attack the White House is ready to use a variety of methods, not only sanctions but also “tangible and intangible” tools.

The New York Times also wrote that the US is planning to carry out “secret counterattacks” on Russian systems.

The Kremlin rated the allegations as “completely unfounded” and said that this was just an excuse for the new sanctions. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia did not interfere in the US election and was not involved in cyber attacks.

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According to the Russia Today report, after the sudden inspection of Russian forces stationed at the border with Ukraine on April 13, Russian Defense Minister Shoigu stated that the Russian army is ready for the worst scenario, that is is if tensions between Russia and the West escalate to the point of full-scale engagement.

Russian Defense Minister Shoigu. Source: Sina.

According to the report, after that inspection, Minister Shoigu told reporters that the soldiers had met the standards needed to respond to the situation. “The soldiers have shown that they are well prepared and fully competent to complete the task of ensuring the military security of the country,” said Mr. Shoigu.

He also added that this force is conducting an exercise in the border area.

Shoigu said the military deployment was “in response to the joint military operations that threaten Russia”. He also added, “Washington’s troops are moving from the North American continent to Europe across the Atlantic and they are crossing Europe into the Russian border. The main force is concentrated in the Black Sea area. and the Baltic Sea “.

According to the report, Mr. Shoigu also stated that the conflict between Russia and the West is forming a new front line in the Arctic: “To strengthen the defenses of the Russian Federation and protect its national interests in the North Pole. The North Pole, the Department of Defense is working systematically to improve the Northern Fleet’s Combat capabilities. “

Shoigu’s tough statement was made in the context of President Joe Biden and President Vladimir Putin held a telephone call on April 13, the two leaders discussed many regional and global issues, including the situation Ukraine, however, the two sides did not achieve any results on this issue.

The US side continued to emphasize America’s firm commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, expressed concern about Russia’s sudden military increase in Crimea and Ukraine’s borders, and urged Russia to de-escalate. straight.

With that in mind, NATO is planning to dispatch some 40,000 troops and 15,000 different weapons, including strategic aircraft, to gather near the Russian border. NATO also recently launched its biggest 30-year drills exercise called Defender Europe 2021 near Russia. According to Mr. Shoigu, NATO’s actions clearly carry “anti-Russian tendencies”.

In particular, NATO Secretary-General Stoltenberg said on April 13 that Russia does not have the right to interfere in Ukraine’s accession to NATO, whether or not Kiev can join is due to the decision of 30 NATO member countries.

Shortly thereafter, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken continued on April 14 to emphasize that Washington would stand side by side with Kiev in tensions with Russia. Blinken also announced that he would discuss Ukraine’s desire to join NATO, despite Moscow’s objections.

On the Ukraine side, Mr. Andriy Yermak, chief of the Ukraine Presidential Office, said in an interview with Time magazine: “Ukraine is against Russia not only for itself but also for Western countries”. Therefore, it is necessary to deploy the US Patriot air defense missile system on the territory of Ukraine.

“Where does the US deploy Patriot missiles? Most recently in Poland. They should be deployed here,” said Andriy Yermak.

According to the report, in December 2014, Ukraine amended its law to give up its non-alignment. In June 2016, Ukraine saw its accession to NATO as a foreign policy goal. In February 2019, the National Assembly of Ukraine approved a constitutional amendment, which clearly defines Ukraine’s policy on joining the European Union and NATO.

These moves show that the tense situation in eastern Ukraine is on the verge of turning into a large-scale conflict between Russia and the US and NATO. Experts say that the US and Russia are playing the “craters of war” game, the party who “goes into the water” first will be the loser.

US and Philippine soldiers in a “Balikatan” exercise

Attempting to repeat the “gray area” strategy.

The question of where the Chinese marine militia ships have been unusually concentrated since the beginning of March 2021 in the Ba Dau rocky area located in the Sinh Ton Dong island cluster in the Spratly archipelago of Vietnam. when the number of more than 200 ships dropped to a few dozen, there was an answer. The latest aerial photographs of the Philippines show that hundreds of Chinese marine militia ships are gathered in Ga Ven rock and Ken Nan rock in the Spratly archipelago of Vietnam.

Images taken by satellite Europe and the US, published by the AFP news agency on April 13, also show that China’s marine militia fleet is present in a large number of hundreds of ships in Ga Ven rock. The pictures taken by the Philippine authorities. According to experts, the Chinese maritime militia fleet is no longer crowded and large rafts like Ba Dau rock but radiates, thickens around Ga Ven rocks and Ken Nan rocks of the Spratly Islands of Vietnam. Male.

Previously, from the beginning of March 2021, Philippine officials and photos taken from satellites said that hundreds of Chinese iron-hulled ships were abnormally concentrated in the waters close to Ba Dau rock in Vietnamese territorial waters. The South is in Sinh Ton Dong island cluster, located in Truong Sa archipelago. Subsequent tallys showed that the number of Chinese iron-hull ships was more than 220, many of which were made into large rafts.

The Chinese side justifies that these are fishing boats, concentrated in Ba Dau rock “due to bad weather”. However, Philippine officials immediately rejected when claiming that the weather in this area is very good, moreover, these ships only turn on the lights all night, but absolutely do not have any fishing activities.

Filipino officials confirmed that hundreds of Chinese iron-hull ships gathered in Ba Dau rock since early March were Chinese marine militia ships disguised as fishing ships. Therefore, the fact that hundreds of marine militia ships have aggressive and aggressive acts on Ba Dau Rock has caused regional nations, the international community and analysts alike to think that Beijing is trying. calculated once again the “gray area” tactic for Ba Dau rock, a shallow beach with an area of ​​about 10km belonging to Sinh Ton Dong island cluster in the Spratly archipelago of Vietnam.

In a strategy throughout the realization of its sovereignty ambitions in the South China Sea, China has adopted the “gray zone” tactic, using the overwhelming power of a disguised fleet of iron-shell fishing vessels that are essentially marine militia ships with the backing of armed ships to illegally occupy control of entities such as the Philippines-controlled Scaborough Shoal in 2012, the Vanh Khan (about 50 nautical miles from Ba Dau) in the Spratly Islands Vietnam in 1995. Thus, the unusual concentration of hundreds of marine militia ships managed by the Chinese army in the Ba Dau Rock under Vietnam’s legal and undisputed sovereignty has caused experts to accept. China may be contemplating a repeat of a dangerous tactic nine years ago to forcefully capture and control a Scaborough.

This concern is more and more basic when hundreds of ships gathered in Ba Dau rock at the same time and radiated Ga Ven rock and Ken Nan rock of the Spratly archipelago of Vietnam, many armed ships, ships. Chinese heavy warfare is also present in the region for its taciturn backing. Most recently, the combat squadron of the Liaodong carrier of China, after conducting exercises in waters near the island of Taiwan, moved southward into the South China Sea. It is reported that the Shandong aircraft carrier combat squadron, the aircraft carrier built by China, is also present in the South China Sea.

Do not accept ostentation, encroachment in the East Sea

A series of moves that show off China’s military power in the South China Sea are concerned by regional countries, the international community, especially countries with interests attached to this sea area with deep concern. . On April 13, the Philippine Foreign Ministry summoned the Chinese Ambassador to the country to protest the actions of the Chinese ships at Ba Dau Rock. The Philippine Foreign Ministry earlier also sent a protest note to Beijing, and rejected the Chinese interpretation that disguised iron hulls in Ba Dau rock were just “ordinary fishing boats anchored due to bad weather. “.

At the same time with the strong response through diplomatic channels, the Philippines also took action on the ground to deal with China’s aggressive, aggressive behavior. Most recently, on April 13, the Philippines has deployed 1 more coast guard ship, 4 naval ships and 2 ships of the fisheries protection agency to many Chinese ships that are abnormally concentrated in the South China Sea.

Filipino Defense Minister Delfin Lorenzana on April 10 had a phone call with his US counterpart, Lloyd Austin, to discuss the South China Sea situation and the appearance of hundreds of Chinese marine militia ships in the Ba Rock. Head. During the phone call, Mr. Austin proposed a series of measures to strengthen defense cooperation between the US and the Philippines, including “raising awareness of the situation of threats in the South China Sea”, and the Minister of State. rooms of the two countries share a commitment to maintaining close communication.

Just a day after the phone call, the Chief of Staff of the Philippine Armed Forces (AFP) said on April 11 that the joint exercise with the US named Balikatan was resumed and started from April 12. during 2 weeks with the participation of thousands of soldiers from the two countries. The exercise is said to be the cooperation and action of the Philippines and the US in response to a series of provocations by China in the South China Sea.

Previously, when answering questions from reporters about Vietnam’s reaction to many Chinese ships operating at Ba Dau beach in the Spratly archipelago of Vietnam, Foreign Ministry Spokesman Le Thi Thu Hang affirmed. , the activities of Chinese ships within the territorial sea of ​​Sinh Ton Dong belonging to the Spratlys of Vietnam have violated the sovereignty of Vietnam, violating the provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) on the activities of foreign ships in the territorial sea of ​​a coastal country, contrary to the spirit and content of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC), complicates the situation, is not beneficial for the negotiation process of a Code of Conduct between ASEAN and China in the South China Sea (COC).

The spokesperson stressed that Vietnam asked China to stop its infringement; respect for the sovereignty of Vietnam; goodwill to implement UNCLOS; strictly comply with the DOC, especially the obligation to restrain, not complicate the situation; create a favorable environment for the COC negotiation process; contribute to maintaining peace, security, stability and legal order at sea in the region.

Russia in response?

Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu was quoted by Russian media on April 13 as saying that Moscow was taking measures in response to a threatening military action by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), in which has combat readiness testing and training.

The Russian Defense Minister stated clearly, NATO is planning to deploy 40,000 troops and 15,000 weapons and military equipment near the Russian border, including the strategic air force. Mr. Shoigu further announced that the US is moving part of its North American garrison to Europe, which is mainly concentrated in the area near the Black Sea and Baltic Sea.

Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu

Shoigu, the TASS news agency, accused the US of increasing forces in Poland and the Baltic countries, and increasing the frequency of air and sea reconnaissance activities. He asserted that on European territory, NATO annually conducts about 40 large-scale combat training operations against Russia. This spring, NATO launched its largest-scale military exercise in the past 30 years, titled Defender Europe 2021 (Defender Europe 2021).

Mr. Shoigu stressed that Russia is taking measures to respond to NATO’s threatening military activities. The combined Russian large-scale airborne and joint military exercises have demonstrated the ability to be ready to fight to protect the country’s security.

Also on April 13, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg urged Russia to withdraw troops that the alliance thinks Moscow is deploying on a large scale on the border with Ukraine. Speaking at a press conference to Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, Mr. Stoltenberg said: “In recent weeks Russia has dispatched thousands of troops ready to operate in Ukraine’s border areas. This is the largest troop surge since Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014 … Russia must end this military build-up in and around Ukraine, immediately stop provocations and go downstairs. “.

US troops in NATO are deployed to Poland

A day earlier, Mr. Stoltenberg had a meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to discuss “Russia’s move to strengthen the army near the Ukrainian border”. According to a statement by the US State Department, Secretary of State Blinken and Secretary General Stoltenberg discussed an urgent request for Russia to stop its military build-up along the border areas of Ukraine and the Crimean peninsula.

President Vladimir Putin has also voiced denunciation of NATO conducting exercises on the Russian border and America’s intention to expand its influence over former Soviet members. In April, up to 5 out of 10 NATO exercises will be held in member states in the East.

NATO says it’s good …

According to Ukraine, Russia has deployed 46 tactical battalions – about 105,000 troops – along the border with Ukraine and in Crimea, and is provided with 19,000 tons of fuel and 355 tons of ammunition. Kiev urges allies not to repeat the 2014 “mistake” with events in Crimea and Donbass.

During a press conference with US and Western officials in Brussels, Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said: “Strategically, Russia must understand that Ukraine belongs to the world of democracies, to the Western world, and the West will not let Russia disrupt Ukraine’s democracy and sovereignty.

Ukrainian soldiers

Western analysts say that both Russia and Ukraine may be “trying” the new US President Joe Biden to see how far he is willing to go to protect Washington’s allies and confront Russia. There are also comments that Russia wants to send a message to Ukraine after Kive imposed sanctions on congressman and businessman Viktor Medvedchuk, and banned three TV channels related to Mr. Medvedchuk.

Up to this point, the West still believes that a full-blown Russian strike or a NATO-backed attack against the separatists will not happen at this time. “NATO members will not send any forces to Ukraine,” said expert Bruno Lete, a senior researcher at the German Marshall Fund – a US research agency. the term is in political messaging, military advice and technical assistance. “

Many analysts believe that NATO allies would not be willing to engage their forces in a conflict against Moscow because of the Ukraine issue, but they could strengthen other forms of assistance. On April 14, German Defense Minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer said: “My impression is that the Russian side is trying to do whatever it takes to provoke a response … With Ukraine, we will not be caught up in the process. play this “.

From Crimea to Syria and most recently Nagorny-Karabakh, Russia has demonstrated its determination and unpredictable combat capabilities.

Most observers believe that the current situation will not necessarily lead to an immediate attack, but Russia’s intentions are still unclear, according to politico.eu. very worrying. The West believes that Russian President Putin wants to remain unpredictable, so there is little risk of a completely unexpected war, but there is always a risk of miscalculation or overreaction.

On the Russian side, some analysts in this country said that the outbreak was “a direct result of the internal political situation in Ukraine”. The Russian Expert newspaper assessed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky took drastic measures such as fighting the opposition media allegedly pro-Russia, punishing billionaire Medvedchuk who allegedly has close ties to the Kremlin, or ban Russian language in schools aimed at regaining its image in the country.

Meanwhile, the World Socialist Web Site contains information proving that Ukraine, the US and the West are acting “aggressive, provocative” against Russia. Accordingly, Kiev in early March adopted a strategy to “withdraw the Crimean peninsula”. On March 25, President Zelensky also adopted a new military strategy emphasizing the urgency of mobilizing the entire population in a war against Russia in Ukraine. This strategy recognizes that Ukraine can only win with NATO support and no less than 19 mentions of its intention to join the military alliance.