The European Union wants to freeze the assets of oligarchs close to the Kremlin. The list of sanctioned businessmen is growing. But this will not be easy, as the example of Luxembourg shows: many of the billionaires have financial constructions there that often serve as a link to companies in Cyprus.
By Redaktion Table
It is Beijing's biggest annual political event: More than 2,000 delegates form the plenum of the National People's Congress (NPC), which convenes starting Saturday. It is the stage for major policy decisions and key draft laws. The prime minister's speech provides clues about the focus of China's future policies. Xuewu Gu, Chair of Political Science at the University of Bonn, explains to Christiane Kuehl why economic policy will be again at the heart of the People's Congress – despite the tense situation.
By Christiane Kuehl
A report suggests that there was collusion between Moscow and Beijing in advance of the war on Ukraine. Chinese officials allegedly asked Russian counterparts to delay their attack until the Winter Olympics were over. China rejects this as a false accusation. The delayed evacuation of Chinese nationals in Ukraine also raises questions. Some points speak for, some against Beijing's complicity.
By Amelie Richter
It could have been Beijing's second chance after the Winter Olympics failed to deliver the desired image boost. But the Paralympics are completely overshadowed by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, says Mark Dreyer, sports journalist and book author. The day before the opening of the Beijing Olympics, the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) excluded Russia and Belarus from participating. Ning Wang spoke with Dreyer.
By Ning Wang
France's President Emmanuel Macron had tried in vain to avoid a war in Ukraine. But that did not hurt him. Many of his opponents in the current election campaign, on the other hand, are having trouble explaining themselves.
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Part of European industry is dependent on Russian raw materials. Supplies could be sparser or even stopped altogether in the future, and price increases would be unavoidable. Where do these problems lurk?
By Lukas Knigge
The EU has added the two Russian propaganda channels RT and Sputnik to its sanctions list. They are banned from broadcasting linear television and distributing content. This decision is well-intentioned – and does not solve an existing problem.
By Falk Steiner
Last year, Chinese smartphone brands dominated the Indian market more than ever. Almost all locally sold Chinese smartphones are produced in India. But the market share of domestic brands is falling dramatically. India is failing to counter Chinese products with its own smartphone industry. An industrial policy failure, but one that could mitigate political escalations.
By Frank Sieren
Chinese cars have become popular in Russia in recent years. Brands like Chery and Haval are now able to fill the gap left by the withdrawal of Western manufacturers. This is made possible by Russia's yuan reserves. Ultimately, however, Russia could end up becoming an extension of China's automotive sector.
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Ukraine is demanding "equal" EU membership on a fast-track basis. The European Parliament already wants to grant Kiev candidate status, but the Commission and the Council are putting on the brakes.
By Eric Bonse
