The author reflects on their experiences traveling to the Soviet Union from 1983 to 2000 as part of an education exchange initiative, witnessing the significant political and social changes throughout this period. They highlight the warmth and generosity encountered, despite the oppressive state presence. The narrative shifts to contemporary America, drawing parallels between past Soviet repression and present-day immigration policies, emphasizing mass surveillance, targeted repression, and the erosion of democratic norms. The author warns of the dangers of normalizing authoritarian governance and stresses the importance of human connections and vigilance in defending democracy.
In the 1990s, the Global Thinking Project showcased a blossoming independent press in Russia, with newspapers and broadcasters revealing truths after Soviet censorship. However, this openness faded under Putin’s regime, leading to severe media repression and the emergence of state-controlled propaganda, parallel to Trump’s tactics in the U.S. Trump has adopted Putin’s strategies, undermining independent journalism, challenging press freedom, and intimidating media outlets. The concerning trend in both countries highlights the urgent need to support independent journalism and protect democratic accountability.
"It's the most hated bill passed by the Senate in the U.S. since the 1990s.\ The United States Senate passed a toxic bill in the U.S. Senate by a tie-breaking vote. The rich would benefit, and the rest of us would suffer. But perhaps more crucially is that many of the...
Critics perceive Trump’s proposed military parade as a troubling shift toward authoritarianism, aligning with significant deployments. Concerns about politicizing the military and executive overreach reflect a broader pattern of democratic erosion. Despite protests and bipartisan disapproval, vigilance is essential to maintain robust democratic institutions amid rising centralization and spectacle in politics.
On June 10, 2025, President Donald Trump ordered the federalization of the California National Guard. He deployed 600 to 800 U.S. Marines to Los Angeles in response to mass protests against his immigration and deportation policies. These protests were sparked by the expansion of immigration raids. Family detentions also fueled them. They reflect a growing public resistance to what many consider a cruel and racialized enforcement regime. The federal militarization of domestic protests raises deeper questions about constitutional rights. It prompts concerns about federal overreach. This act also highlights the creeping shadow of authoritarianism in American life.
During his recent Middle East tour from May 13 to 16, 2025, President Donald Trump visited three countries. These countries were Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The official purpose of the trip focused on economic partnerships, regional diplomacy, and personal engagements with key leaders. Unofficially, it involved a meeting with authoritarians from five countries. Two of these leaders are known criminals. The others are suspected but not convicted of crimes. There was little mention of the humanitarian collapse in Gaza. The destruction of cities and towns housing millions was barely addressed. Nonetheless, one of them is eager to fly in a brand-new airplane, a gift from Qatar.
