‘Simplistic and infantile’ to demand Russia’s withdrawal from Ukraine, says Pandor after meeting Lavrov
(Daily Maverick) – During a joint press conference with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, International Relations and Cooperation Minister Naledi Pandor said it would be “simplistic and infantile” for her to call on Russia to withdraw from its armed conflict with Ukraine. Pandor was answering questions following her meeting with Lavrov who is on a visit to South Africa. READ MORE.
US Treasury Secretary Yellen to meet President Ramaphosa on South Africa trip
(Daily Maverick via Reuters) – Just a day after Lavrov visits South Africa, US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen will visit SA and meet with President Cyril Ramaphosa. The meeting will discuss the strengthening of bilateral relations while Yellen is said to want to push Ramaphosa to rapidly commit to transforming the energy sector through renewable energy investment. READ MORE.
Finland Floats Solo NATO Entry After Erdogan Rejects Sweden
(Bloomberg) – Finland will explore the possibility of lodging a solo bid to join Nato after its partner Sweden received fresh resistance from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Finnish foreign minister Pekka Haavisto said the preference was still for Finland and Sweden to be included together but alternative considerations were underway. READ MORE.
Microsoft announces new multibillion-dollar investment in ChatGPT-maker OpenAI
(CNBC) – Microsoft has announced a new multiyear, multibillion-dollar investment into the creators of the popular ChatGPT, artificial intelligence lab OpenAI. The investment is the third phase of the partnership following previous investments in 2019 and 2021. Microsoft is due to release its latest earnings report later today. READ MORE.
German reluctance over tanks threatens arms sales, officials warn
(Financial Times) – Germany’s reluctance to supply Ukraine with tanks in the eastern European country’s war with Russia is damaging trust in the country’s defence industry. Polish, Slovak and industry officials have warned their German counterparts that future purchases and military cooperation are at risk if they persist in their hesitancy to supply Ukraine with armament. READ MORE. (usually behind a paywall)
