Friday☕️

14 Feb 2025 — 5 min read

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In January 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing federal agencies to refer to the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America.” Following this directive, major mapping providers such as Google, Apple, and Bing updated their maps to reflect the new designation. Google was among the first to implement the change, while Apple followed shortly after. The U.S. military also began classifying the region under the new name in late January. Some companies, including BP and Chevron, have adopted the term in official communications, while others, such as Shell and ExxonMobil, continue to use “Gulf of Mexico.”

The name change has sparked mixed reactions. The Mexican government has rejected the renaming, emphasizing the name’s international recognition. Some media outlets have opted to continue using “Gulf of Mexico,” leading to debate within the U.S. While some countries and businesses have resisted the change, major mapping providers and government agencies have implemented it relatively quickly compared to previous geographical name updates.

Economics & Markets:

Geopolitics & Military Activity:

On February 11, 2025, the Brazilian Air Force shot down a small aircraft suspected of drug trafficking after it entered Brazilian airspace from Venezuela without authorization. The incident happened near Manaus in the Amazon region. Fighter jets were sent to intercept the aircraft, and pilots attempted to communicate with it, instructing it to land at a designated airfield. When the aircraft failed to respond and continued its course, warning shots were fired. After the plane still did not comply, it was classified as a threat and shot down.

Authorities arrived at the crash site shortly after and recovered the bodies of two individuals, along with a cargo of illegal drugs. Officials have not yet disclosed the exact type or amount of drugs found. The operation was part of Brazil’s efforts to combat drug trafficking along its northern border, where criminal organizations have been increasing their activities. This incident highlights ongoing security challenges in the region as authorities work to prevent the smuggling of illicit substances into the country.

Environment & Weather:

Today, February 14, 2025, Cyclone Zelia is making landfall between Port Hedland and Roebourne in Western Australia’s Pilbara region. The cyclone, classified as a Category 5 storm, is bringing destructive winds ranging from 150 to 200 miles per hour. Heavy rain is already causing flash flooding, and a dangerous storm surge is pushing seawater inland, increasing the risk of coastal flooding. Authorities have warned that conditions will continue to worsen as the storm moves further inland.

Residents in the affected areas are experiencing widespread power outages, structural damage to homes and buildings, and downed trees and power lines. Emergency services have established evacuation centers, while ports, schools, and roads remain closed. The Bureau of Meteorology has stressed the severity of Cyclone Zelia, urging people to stay indoors and take shelter, as conditions are life-threatening. Rescue teams are on standby, but strong winds and heavy rainfall are making it difficult to reach affected areas. Authorities are advising residents to remain cautious even after the storm passes, as flooding and damage assessments will take time.

Science & Technology:

This month, Meta AI introduced Brain2Qwerty, an advanced mind-reading AI capable of converting brain signals into text. Using EEG and MEG technology, the system analyzes brain activity and translates thoughts into written words with up to 80% accuracy. Unlike traditional brain-computer interfaces that require surgical implants, Brain2Qwerty offers a unique solution, making it accessible to a wider range of users. This technology is particularly useful for individuals with speech or movement impairments, allowing them to communicate by simply thinking.

Beyond medical applications, Brain2Qwerty has the potential to change how humans interact with technology. It could enable hands-free control of devices, allowing users to type, browse, or operate systems using only their thoughts. In law enforcement, this AI could be used for criminal investigations or suspect analysis, though it raises privacy concerns. As brain-computer interface technology advances, its applications will continue to expand and be adopted across various industries for different uses, making human-machine interactions more seamless and efficient.

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