Ukraine Recaptures Strategic Black Sea Oil Platforms Seized During Crimean Annexation

According to the Ukrainian military, Ukraine has recaptured several strategic oil platforms in the Black Sea that were taken by Russia during the annexation of Crimea in 2014. The retaking of the oil towers has given Ukraine an additional strategic position and energy source. Russia now has decreased control over Black Sea waters, giving Ukraine a significant advantage as the war continues. Ukraine’s counteroffensive has also seen gains in the southern part of Ukraine and in previously occupied areas near Bakhmut, which has been devastated by the war. Ukrainian forces are also coming closer to breaking through Russian fortifications and minefields and taking the city of Tokmak, which serves as a vital transportation hub. 

Kim Jong-un Arrives in Russia for Weapons Talks

On Tuesday, North Korea’s leader Kim Jong-un arrived in Moscow in an armored train for talks with President Vladimir Putin of Russia about the possibility of providing weapons to Russia to aid their war in Ukraine. The White House said it has information that arms negotiations are advancing between the two countries. The U.S. government is strongly opposed to increased cooperation between the two countries and is warning of repercussions. The meeting and situation are being monitored closely by the U.S. national security agencies. 

Massive 6.8 Earthquake in Morocco Leaves More than 2,000 Dead

An earthquake with a magnitude of 6.8 struck Morocco Sept. 8, leaving more than 2,000 people dead. This earthquake was the strongest to strike Morocco in more than 60 years. The epicenter of the earthquake was in the Atlas Mountains, but its impact was felt throughout the country. Currently, there are both domestic and international relief efforts underway to help those impacted by the earthquake. The United States, the United Nations, and the World Bank are also working to provide assistance to Morocco in wake of the earthquake.

Devastating Floods Strike Libya

Devastating floods have struck the northeast of Libya as a result of Storm Daniel. Dams and homes have been swept away by the storm. Around 5,000 people have died, and 10,000 are believed to be missing. Mass casualties have placed strain on emergency services, hospitals, and morgues. Storm Daniel was a low-pressure tropical-like cyclone that developed over the Mediterranean and caused flooding in Greece before moving across to North Africa. This summer has brought severe storms, wildfires, and hurricanes, and consensus in the scientific community indicates that such catastrophic weather events are exacerbated by global climate change. Water temperatures in the Mediterranean have been significantly warmer than usual, which has created ideal conditions for a storm to develop.

UN Report Finds that Invasive Species Cost the World Billions Annually and are Environmentally Catastrophic 

A recent United Nations Report found that invasive species pose a “severe global threat,” are costing the world around $423 billion annually, and are environmentally catastrophic. Their spread has been reported to be increasing at an “unprecedented rate,” with 200 invasive species recorded annually, including in new regions. According to the UN, invasive species destroy important crops and thus pose a major threat to global food security. Additionally, they drive countless ecosystems and native species to extinction. Invasive species are introduced into unfamiliar ecosystems as a result of human activity, primarily travel and trade.