Friday, February 13, 2026 at 8:12 AM
Japanese authorities seized a Chinese fishing boat and arrested its captain for allegedly fleeing inspection in Japan's exclusive economic zone, an incident that may escalate tensions between Japan and China.
The Beijing leader consolidated one-man rule last month in rapid-fire actions against the military’s senior commanders.
The sanctioned ship was the eighth vessel apprehended by the U.S. in connection with the quasi blockade of Venezuela’s oil industry.
The prime minister now has a powerful mandate to draw Japan closer to the U.S. and spend more on defense and industrial policy.
“Pekingologists” are hunting for clues in seating arrangements and funeral wreaths to determine which officials are in trouble.
