Monday☕️

20 Jan 2025 — 4 min read

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Today, January 20th, 2025, Donald Trump is being sworn in as the 47th President of the United States, marking his return to the White House. His administration is set to focus on major issues like immigration, foreign policy, and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Trump plans to sign executive orders tightening immigration laws, designating drug cartels as terrorist organizations, and revising trade policies with all countries. On the international stage, his administration’s response to the Russia-Ukraine conflict and global energy markets will be closely monitored, as these decisions will significantly reshape international relations.
The world is watching because the United States is the most powerful country on Earth, both economically and militarily. While countries like Russia and China attempt to project strength through propaganda, they cannot match the U.S.’s ability to project power and influence global events. For example, U.S. sanctions and restrictions on advanced semiconductor technology have crippled China’s technological ambitions, and American support for Ukraine has exposed Russia’s military weaknesses. These factors make U.S. decisions critical to global stability. Trump’s assertive approach during his last term left a lasting impact, and now all eyes are on how his leadership will shape the future of Earth.

Economics & Markets:

Geopolitics & Military Activity:

Over the past 48 hours, Hamas has started releasing Israeli hostages as part of a newly agreed ceasefire with Israel. Three hostages, including Emily Damari, Doron Steinbrecher, and Romi Gonen, were freed after 471 days in captivity. In return, Israel released 90 Palestinian prisoners.

This exchange has brought celebrations to both Palestinian and Israeli communities, as people took to the streets to mark a moment of hope amidst ongoing conflict. The ceasefire, brokered with the help of the United States, Egypt, and Qatar, aims to continue these exchanges over the coming weeks.

Environment & Weather:

As California continues to deal with wildfires fueled by drought and dry conditions, the National Weather Service (NWS) Los Angeles has issued a critical warning about a powerful and damaging Santa Ana windstorm. Beginning Monday afternoon and lasting through Tuesday morning, these winds are expected to bring gusts of 50-70 mph in coastal and valley areas, with mountain and foothill regions facing gusts as high as 100 mph.

These extreme winds significantly increase the risk of rapidly spreading wildfires, turning even small sparks into significant fires. Residents in the most vulnerable areas, highlighted in the NWS advisory, are urged to prepare by securing properties, creating evacuation plans, and staying alert for fire weather updates.

Privacy & Security:

Science & Technology:

Open Quantum Design (OQD), a non-profit organization based in Waterloo, Canada, has developed the world’s first open-source trapped-ion quantum computer platform. This platform allows anyone to access both the hardware and software needed to explore and work with quantum computing. By sharing detailed designs, fabrication methods, and tools, OQD aims to make quantum technology more accessible and encourage collaboration across the globe. Founded by researchers from the University of Waterloo, the organization partners with leading groups like Xanadu and Haiqu to help expand its reach and impact.

The quantum computer was built in Waterloo at the Institute for Quantum Computing and the Perimeter Institute’s Quantum Intelligence Lab. It uses trapped-ion technology with innovative features, such as custom designs for controlling ions with great precision. By making this cutting-edge system open-source, OQD hopes to accelerate advancements in quantum research, foster innovation, and train the next generation of quantum scientists and engineers.

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