• The Guardian newspaper reports the Taliban and Islamic State insurgencies are fighting each other for control over talcum mines in eastern Afghanistan. Talc is an important ingredient used in western consumers goods such as baby powder, paint and car parts. (“Western Consumers Fund Extremism by Buying Talcum Powder,” The Guardian, May 23, 2018)
• With the melting of the Arctic ice cap, nations including Russia, China, Norway and the United States are seeking to exploit valuable resources like natural gas in Arctic waters. (“Polar Powerplay: Who Will Prevail at the Rooftop of the World,” Christian Science Monitor, May 18, 2018)
• Rudy Giuliani, is the latest edition to President Trump’s legal team. The former New York City Mayor is seen regularly on Fox News defending the president, often making dubious claims on the law — and facts surrounding the Mueller Russia investigation. (“Rudy Giuliani Won Deal for Oxycontin Maker to Continue Sales of Drug behind Opioid Deaths,” The Guardian, May 22, 2018)
