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Why do politics always make for the best meme material? We'll just let the politicians speak for themselves. 

In case you missed last night's democratic presidential debate, then we'll give you a little run down: Cory Booker accused Joe Biden of being high, Amy Klobuchar claimed she raised a crap-load of money from her ex-boyfriends, and Biden made an, uh, brain-dead comment about domestic violence. 

Scroll down to watch some of the highlights and view some of the internet's reactions!

Last night's democratic debate in Nevada got pretty damn spicy to say the least. So much so that many are calling it the most entertaining debate of the election cycle so far. Pete spoke Spanish, Warren (and every other candidate, for that matter) came out swinging against Bloomberg, and many, many other things that warranted a monumental cringe fest. 

So please enjoy the following roast-y memes from the night and you can watch a more in-depth recap of it here!

Last night Americans tuned in to watch the audience-free live democratic debate between remaining candidates Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders. Topics of discussion included the Green New Deal, Donald Trump, and of course, the COVID-19 pandemic. You can watch the debate here to decide for yourself who won, and click here for more political memes!

As the nation marks the one-year anniversary of the Pulse Nightclub massacre in Orlando this week, a group of experts on active shooter/hostile incident response will assemble at National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) headquarters to develop NFPA 3000, Standard for Preparedness and Response to Active Shooter and/or Hostile Events. It is expected that the initial standard will be completed by early 2018; then the public will have the opportunity to offer input for immediate review.

Convenience store operator receives rival buyout offer from members of founding family

The post How Working with Theatre Actors Enhanced our Indie Horror/Mystery NightGhast appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Rock on.

A little ragtime.

Rock on. Neil was 50 then. Time is funny.

By Keegan Kelly Published: November 12th, 2024

(Shortlink to this post: https://debbieohi.link/goodnight-ganesha)

I met Nadia Salomon through the SCBWI and am also familiar with her online. I love her enthusiasm, positive outlook, and the support she has shown fellow members of the kidlit community over the years! I was excited to get a sneak peek of GOODNIGHT GANESHA, her debut as a picture book author. The bedtime story celebrates nigthtime rituals as two young children visit their grandparents in India. SUCH gorgeous illustrations by Poonam Mistry. Thanks to both Nadia and Poonam for answering some questions about the book as well as their advice for young writers and illustrators!

Nadia Salomon lives in northern California with her family. Nadia writes picture book, middle-grade, and graphic novel manuscripts with themes of South Asian and Caribbean culture, STEM, non-fiction, and humor. Nadia is the winner of the 2020 SCBWI Service Award and the 2019 SCBWI WOOP Honor Award for work of outstanding progress on her non-fiction, picture book manuscript, MYRLIE: A VOICE OF HOPE. You can find out more about Nadia on her website, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. You can sign up for her newsletter here.

Poonam Mistry is a freelance illustrator living in the UK and graduated in 2010 with a degree in Graphic Design and Illustration at the University of Hertfordshire. Poonam creates her beautifully intricate images by hand using fine liners and then digitally alters them. You can find out more about Poonam on her website, Twitter, and Instagram.

Synopsis of GOODNIGHT GANESHA (Philomel, Aug. 31, 2021):

"As nighttime falls over the city, two children visiting their grandparents in India find there’s so much fun to be had! Whether it’s listening to epic stories or observing rituals in the puja room, there are many moments that make this time together special. In this beautiful, rhyming ode to bedtime, the only thing more universal than getting ready for bed and saying goodnight is the love between children and their grandparents."

Inspiration photo from Poonam Mistry.

Q. What was your path to publication?

Nadia: I'm a #PitMad success story. I landed my amazing agent, Ammi-Joan Paquette, through twitter pitching! That's about three years after joining SCBWI. But my debut, GOODNIGHT GANESHA, is not the story she faved, but instead what I call a 'hot potato' idea inspired by my child. I wrote the draft in October of 2017. I sent it to several editors and agents I had connected with through conferences, but received lots of champagne rejections before shelving it. It was one of 21 manuscripts I shared with my agent in March of 2018. She loved the concept, but asked me to write the story in lyrical prose. After rounds of revisions, in January of 2019, she finally accepted the manuscript. She sent it out on sub. Six months later, in July of 2019, we sold the manuscript to Liza Kaplan, a senior editor at Philomel Books. I am now traditionally published. From concept to release will be 3 years, 10 months, 14 days to be exact.

Q. What interaction did you have with the illustrator, if any, during the process?

Nadia: Poonam and I interacted behind the scenes, but we NEVER discussed GOODNIGHT GANESHA or the art for the book. I trusted her whole-heartedly. All work related communications went through our editor. We became friends behind the scenes - coping through the pandemic, bonding over shared culture, family, and everything else in between, but we NEVER had convos as she worked on the book. The one time was at the end, when Poonam completed the art and asked me, "DID YOU SEE THE FINAL ART YET?" And I was like, "Uhm...NO." She was so excited. She said she put a lot of extra details and hoped I liked it. I was so antsy, but stayed calm. A few days later I received the final art. It was just incredible! We had a good cry messaging back and forth over the final art and what this project meant to each of us. We're about to contribute a piece of Telugu Culture and Kalamkari art into kidlit; we're ecstatic and proud of what we created together.

Q. What was your illustration process for GOODNIGHT GANESHA?

Poonam: For Goodnight Ganesha, I began by actually taking photographs around my parent's house. They have a lot of decorative ornaments and wall hangings all around their home so this was the perfect starting point for the book. Nadia's text is so poetic and beautiful so I sketched the imagery I felt best represented each spread and would really showcase her words- usually I have several versions for each part of the text and pick the ones I like the most. Once this was approved, I sketched out larger versions on thick cartridge paper and used black ink to draw in the designs in neat. This is where I added all the patterns and details. Mostly I took inspiration from traditional Indian art such Kalamkari textiles and Madhubani art. I layered the patterned very much like you would see on sarees and fabrics. After completing the drawing, I used Photoshop to add colour and additional patterns to finish it off. Some of the spreads have a patterned border- this was because I wanted them to look like wall hangings and Kalamkari textile pieces- big pieces of art!

Q. What advice do you have for young writers?

Nadia: Read, read, read. Write your stories. Make writing a habit. Write, write, write. Use the power of storytelling to change the world through joy. Explore your emotions, your memories, and create new classics. There's someone out there, an adult, another child, a pair of hands waiting to read your story that may impact or influence their life. No matter your age, your size, your voice - your words have value.

Q. What advice do you have for young illustrators?

Poonam: My biggest piece of advice is to do art that is true to yourself. My style is a real reflection of the things I love and what makes me who I am. It is my visual voice. Also always keep drawing and be experimental in the media you use. Although my work is mostly digital, I love painting in my style!

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For more insights from book creators, see my Inkygirl Interview Archives.

But my parents...they'll never understand. Would it help at all if I ate them?

An artist's rendering of a black hole

It is possible, even likely, that we will not have a projected winner of the presidential race on Nov. 5 – Election Day. And that doesn't mean there's something nefarious going on with the vote-counting.

The post Election Night Expectations appeared first on FactCheck.org.

Ibiza, a stunning island in the Mediterranean Sea, is globally renowned for its electric nightlife and vibrant party scene. This picturesque island has become the epitome of summer party destinations. It attracts visitors from all corners of the world with its beautiful beaches, mesmerizing sunsets, and, most notably, its unparalleled nightlife. Clubs in Ibiza are not just venues; they are the beating heart of the island’s culture as they showcase world-class DJs, groundbreaking music, and unforgettable experiences to define the essence of a perfect summer getaway. The purpose of this article is to guide you through the exhilarating nightlife of Ibiza. Whether you’re a seasoned club-goer or a first-time visitor, this comprehensive guide to the top 10 must-visit nightclubs will ensure you hit the hottest spots and make the most of your nights in Ibiza. From iconic institutions to cutting-edge clubs, we’ve curated a list that captures the diversity and vibrancy of Ibiza’s nightlife. These places promise unforgettable nights filled with music, dance, and celebration. Why Ibiza? Ibiza stands as a beacon for nightlife enthusiasts from around the globe. It’s celebrated for its unmatched party scene and vibrant atmosphere. But what exactly catapults this Balearic Island into the spotlight as a world-renowned destination for nightlife? Diverse Music Scene: Ibiza’s music landscape is as varied as it is electrifying. From techno and house to EDM and indie rock, the island offers something for every taste, hosted across an array of clubs and venues. Vibrant Atmosphere: There’s an infectious energy that permeates Ibiza’s nightlife. Whether you’re dancing under the stars at an outdoor beach club or losing yourself in the immersive environment of an underground venue, the atmosphere is always charged with excitement. Stunning Venues: Ibiza’s nightclubs are more than just places to dance; they’re architectural wonders and sensory experiences. From clubs with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean to venues that push the boundaries of interior design, Ibiza offers stunning settings that elevate the party experience to new heights. Criteria for Selection When it comes to pinpointing the top 10 nightclubs in Ibiza, our selection is driven by a carefully considered set of criteria. We aim to showcase venues that not only dominate the nightlife scene but also offer unique experiences that leave a lasting impression. The following factors play a crucial role in our selection: Music Genres: A club’s musical offerings are pivotal. We look for diversity and quality, favoring venues that host world-renowned DJs to suit a wide range of musical tastes. Atmosphere: The vibe of a nightclub is its soul. We seek out places that offer more than just a dance floor. In fact, we prioritize those who create an immersive experience through their energy, design, and crowd.  Reputation: A club’s reputation is built on years of delivering exceptional nights out. We consider the esteem in which venues are held by both locals and international visitors, as well as their recognition within the global nightlife community. Overall Experience: Finally, we factor in the overall experience, including the quality of sound and lighting systems, the presence of unique features (like outdoor terraces or poolside dance floors), and the level of service provided. A club that offers an unforgettable night out, from entry to exit, makes our list.  Club 1: Amnesia Ibiza Location San Rafael, Ibiza Music Genres Techno House EDM Atmosphere Amnesia Ibiza stands out for its high-energy ambiance which makes it a sanctuary for dance music enthusiasts. The club’s iconic terrace offers an immersive experience that draws partygoers into a world of euphoric beats and rhythms. Notable Features Famous Foam Parties: These unique and wildly entertaining parties are a signature Amnesia experience. State-of-the-Art Sound System: Delivers crystal-clear audio that enhances the musical journey. Spectacular Light Shows: Visually stunning displays complement the sonic experience, creating unforgettable moments.  Highlights Legends of the electronic music scene, such as Carl Cox and Marco Carola, are regulars here, guaranteeing an unmatched lineup of performances. Club 2: Pacha Ibiza Location Ibiza Town, Ibiza Music Genres House Techno EDM Atmosphere Pacha Ibiza exudes a glamorous and chic vibe and offers a luxurious nightclub experience. Its atmosphere attracts a stylish crowd to dance the night away in one of the island’s most iconic settings. Notable Features Iconic Cherry Logo: A symbol of the club’s heritage and prestige. VIP Sections: For those seeking a more exclusive experience, with stunning views of Ibiza Town. Elegant Decor: Pacha’s interior design combines style with comfort, creating a uniquely sophisticated environment. Highlights Hosting world-renowned DJs like David Guetta and Martin Solveig, Pacha remains at the forefront of Ibiza’s nightlife scene. Club 3: DC-10 Location Sant Josep de sa Talaia, Ibiza Music Genres Techno House Atmosphere DC-10 is celebrated for its raw and underground atmosphere. This club offers an intimate setting where the focus is squarely on the music and the communal experience of dance. Notable Features Open-Air Terrace: Provides a unique outdoor clubbing experience. Industrial Vibe: The club’s minimalist, warehouse-style setup enhances its gritty, authentic feel. Immersive Experiences: DC-10’s events are designed to create a deep connection between the DJs and the crowd. Highlights Home to the legendary Circoloco parties, DC-10 attracts top DJs such as Seth Troxler and The Martinez Brothers to ensure an unparalleled lineup and vibe. Club 4: Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Club Location Playa d’en Bossa, Ibiza Music Genres EDM House Atmosphere Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Club is the epitome of an extravagant outdoor party experience. With its poolside setting, it invites guests to dance under the sun and stars in one of the most breathtaking venues on the island. Notable Features Massive Stage: Hosts some of the biggest names in the music industry. Stunning Visuals: Offers a sensory feast with its impressive light shows and stage productions. Celebrity Appearances: A hotspot for celebrities, adding to the club’s allure. Highlights Iconic pool parties featuring world-class performances by artists like Calvin Harris and Avicii are the heart of Ushuaïa’s appeal. Club 5: Hï Ibiza Location Playa d’en Bossa, Ibiza Music Genres Techno House EDM Atmosphere Hï Ibiza offers a sophisticated and futuristic nightclub experience. Its immersive atmosphere is crafted through cutting-edge sound and stunning visuals that make every night a journey into the future of nightlife. Notable Features Cutting-Edge Sound System: Delivers unparalleled audio quality. Immersive Production: Engages all senses for a complete clubbing experience. Stunning Visuals: The club’s design and lighting create a mesmerizing environment. Highlights Glitterbox parties at Hï Ibiza shine with disco and house music vibes, featuring top DJs and a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere. Club 6: Privilege Ibiza Location San Rafael, Ibiza Music Genres House Techno EDM Atmosphere Privilege Ibiza is recognized for its massive scale and extravagant atmosphere. Holding the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest club, it offers an immersive experience with panoramic views of Ibiza. Notable Features World’s Largest Club: A title that adds to its legendary status. Panoramic Views: The club’s location and design provide breathtaking views of the island. Highlights Resistance parties at Privilege are a highlight, featuring top techno and house DJs like Adam Beyer and Charlotte de Witte to create unforgettable nights. Club 7: Eden Ibiza Location San Antonio, Ibiza Music Genres House Techno EDM Atmosphere Eden Ibiza strikes a perfect balance between lively and intimate as it creates an energetic atmosphere for music lovers to enjoy themselves up close with the performers. Notable Features Renovated Venue: A recent makeover has injected new life into Eden, enhancing its appeal. Impressive LED Screens: Add to the visual experience, complementing the beats with captivating displays. Intimate Dance Floor: Despite its size, Eden maintains an intimate feel, making every night more personal. Highlights Toolroom parties at Eden are a standout, with house music legends like Mark Knight behind the decks. Club 8: Heart Ibiza Location Ibiza Town, Ibiza Music Genres Eclectic Avant-garde Live performances Atmosphere Heart Ibiza offers an artistic and immersive experience with a blend of music, art, and gastronomy into a unique nightlife adventure to tantalize all senses. Notable Features Fusion of Music, Art, and Gastronomy: A unique concept that stands out in Ibiza’s nightlife. Stunning Interior Design: Adds to the immersive experience with its beauty and creativity. Highlights Heart Factory events are particularly notable for their live performances and DJ sets by international artists, making each night a unique journey. Club 9: Ibiza Rocks Hotel Location San Antonio, Ibiza Music Genres Indie Rock EDM Atmosphere Ibiza Rocks Hotel is known for its lively and vibrant environment, where the poolside setting adds a refreshing twist to the traditional nightclub experience. Notable Features Outdoor Stage: Offers a unique venue for live music under the Ibiza sun and stars. Pool Parties: Bring an energetic and fun atmosphere, perfect for daytime reveling. Live Music Events: Unlike many other clubs focusing solely on DJs, Ibiza Rocks hosts live bands and performances. Highlights The Ibiza Rocks Pool Party series is a summer highlight, featuring an eclectic mix of live performances by indie bands and DJs. It offers something different from the typical club scene. Club 10: Octan Ibiza Location Playa d’en Bossa, Ibiza Music Genres Techno House Atmosphere Octan Ibiza brings a raw and underground vibe to the forefront of Ibiza’s nightlife. Its intimate setting allows for an immersive clubbing experience that’s both intense and personal. Notable Features Intimate Dance Floors: Designed to create a close connection between the DJs and the crowd. Immersive Experiences: Focused on delivering cutting-edge underground parties. Legacy: Carrying the torch from the famed Sankeys Ibiza, Octan continues to push the boundaries of the electronic music scene. Highlights The club is a haven for enthusiasts of techno and house music, and it hosts cutting-edge underground parties with leading DJs in the genre. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) What is the legal drinking age in Ibiza? The legal drinking age in Ibiza is 18 years old. Is there a dress code for Ibiza nightclubs? Dress codes can vary. While some clubs are more relaxed, others might require a more upscale attire. It’s best to check the specific club’s policy before going. How much does it cost to enter Ibiza nightclubs? Entrance fees can range widely from club to club and depending on the event or DJ playing. Prices can vary from €20 to over €50. VIP services and tables will cost significantly more. Are there any age restrictions for entry into nightclubs? Yes, most nightclubs in Ibiza have an age restriction of 18 years and above. Is it necessary to book tickets in advance for Ibiza nightclubs? It’s highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially for popular events, to ensure entry and often at a lower price. What are the typical opening hours for Ibiza nightclubs? Nightclubs usually open around midnight and can go on till dawn, with peak hours from 1 AM to 4 AM. Are there any safety tips for clubbing in Ibiza? Stay hydrated, especially if dancing for long periods. Keep an eye on your belongings. Never accept drinks from strangers. Stick with your friends and plan how to get back to your accommodation safely. Conclusion We’ve explored the top 10 must-visit nightclubs in Ibiza, and each offers its unique vibe. From the extravagant and glamorous to the raw and underground, Ibiza’s nightlife is unparalleled. Its diverse music scenes and world-renowned DJs provide an unforgettable experience for every partygoer. Whether you’re drawn to the legendary foam parties of Amnesia, the sophisticated atmosphere of Hï Ibiza, or the intimate underground vibes of Octan, the island caters to all. We encourage you to dive into the vibrant energy of Ibiza’s nightlife scene and experience the magic of these iconic clubs firsthand.  

The post Top 10 Must-Visit Ibiza Nightclubs: Your Ultimate Guide to the Island’s Hottest Spots appeared first on Geeky Traveller.

Today is election day, the day that will decide who is president for the next four years, and which political party will control Congress and most state legislatures. Polls are now open in most of the country, so you can vote today if you haven’t already. But all voters have already voted in one small […]

The post Today is Election Day; Harris and Trump tie in Dixville Notch midnight vote to kick off Election Day appeared first on Liberty Unyielding.

The UFC announces it will host a Fight Night event in London on 22 March.

Dame Sally Davies told the Dawn Sturgess Inquiry she had worried about the disposal of the nerve agent.

England captain Heather Knight and seamers Lauren Bell and Issy Wong are released by their Women's Premier League franchises ahead of the 2025 season.

There are a few moments in this race that historians will wrangle over as the 'real' reason Kamala lost. There are a couple of key events that are sure to make the list.

The post The RIGHT Rally: On Election Night, MAGA Takes Moment To Honor God Beautifully appeared first on Clash Daily.

Robin Niblett awarded knighthood in Queen's Birthday Honours News release NCapeling 1 June 2022

Chatham House director Dr Robin Niblett CMG receives a knighthood for services to international relations and to British foreign policy.

Chatham House Council and staff congratulate the institute’s director Robin Niblett, who has been appointed as a Knight Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George (KCMG) by HM The Queen in her Birthday Honours list.

The citation for the KCMG, awarded at the recommendation of the UK foreign secretary, recognizes Dr Niblett’s ‘outstanding personal contribution to British soft power and influence in his role as director of Chatham House over the last 15 years’.

The citation also states: ‘With exceptional energy and talent, he has greatly enhanced the research reputation of the Institute, strengthened its international convening power, finances and staffing, and modernised its premises, image and diverse outreach’.

Dr Niblett is standing down in the summer and will be replaced by Bronwen Maddox, who joins from the Institute for Government.

Dr Niblett says: ‘I am deeply honoured by this award, which is as much a recognition of the tireless and selfless work of my colleagues at Chatham House throughout my tenure as director.

‘Together, and through challenging times, we have offered a vital source of independent debate and analysis. And, with the engagement of our supporters and a new generation of thinkers and actors, I know the institute will continue to provide creative ideas for a better future.’

Kadian Morgan was overwhelmed with grief as she leaned against a wall outside her gate on Jackson Lane, East Kingston, yesterday, tears streaming down her face. Her 19-year-old son, Kayshan 'Bem Bem' Smith, was lying in the morgue after being...

Mutations in the GUCY2D gene coding for the dimeric human retinal membrane guanylyl cyclase (RetGC) isozyme RetGC1 cause various forms of blindness, ranging from rod dysfunction to rod and cone degeneration. We tested how the mutations causing recessive congenital stationary night blindness (CSNB), recessive Leber's congenital amaurosis (LCA1), and dominant cone–rod dystrophy-6 (CORD6) affected RetGC1 activity and regulation by RetGC-activating proteins (GCAPs) and retinal degeneration-3 protein (RD3). CSNB mutations R666W, R761W, and L911F, as well as LCA1 mutations R768W and G982VfsX39, disabled RetGC1 activation by human GCAP1, -2, and -3. The R666W and R761W substitutions compromised binding of GCAP1 with RetGC1 in HEK293 cells. In contrast, G982VfsX39 and L911F RetGC1 retained the ability to bind GCAP1 in cyto but failed to effectively bind RD3. R768W RetGC1 did not bind either GCAP1 or RD3. The co-expression of GUCY2D allelic combinations linked to CSNB did not restore RetGC1 activity in vitro. The CORD6 mutation R838S in the RetGC1 dimerization domain strongly dominated the Ca2+ sensitivity of cyclase regulation by GCAP1 in RetGC1 heterodimer produced by co-expression of WT and the R838S subunits. It required higher Ca2+ concentrations to decelerate GCAP-activated RetGC1 heterodimer—6-fold higher than WT and 2-fold higher than the Ser838-harboring homodimer. The heterodimer was also more resistant than homodimers to inhibition by RD3. The observed biochemical changes can explain the dominant CORD6 blindness and recessive LCA1 blindness, both of which affect rods and cones, but they cannot explain the selective loss of rod function in recessive CSNB.

Voltage-gated Cav1 and Cav2 Ca2+ channels are comprised of a pore-forming α1 subunit (Cav1.1-1.4, Cav2.1-2.3) and auxiliary β (β1-4) and α2δ (α2δ−1−4) subunits. The properties of these channels vary with distinct combinations of Cav subunits and alternative splicing of the encoding transcripts. Therefore, the impact of disease-causing mutations affecting these channels may depend on the identities of Cav subunits and splice variants. Here, we analyzed the effects of a congenital stationary night blindness type 2 (CSNB2)-causing mutation, I745T (IT), in Cav1.4 channels typical of those in human retina: Cav1.4 splice variants with or without exon 47 (Cav1.4+ex47 and Cav1.4Δex47, respectively), and the auxiliary subunits, β2X13 and α2δ-4. We find that IT caused both Cav1.4 splice variants to activate at significantly more negative voltages and with slower deactivation kinetics than the corresponding WT channels. These effects of the IT mutation, along with unexpected alterations in ion selectivity, were generally larger in channels lacking exon 47. The weaker ion selectivity caused by IT led to hyperpolarizing shifts in the reversal potential and large outward currents that were evident in channels containing the auxiliary subunits β2X13 and α2δ-4 but not in those with β2A and α2δ-1. We conclude that the IT mutation stabilizes channel opening and alters ion selectivity of Cav1.4 in a manner that is strengthened by exclusion of exon 47 and inclusion of β2X13 and α2δ-4. Our results reveal complex actions of IT in modifying the properties of Cav1.4 channels, which may influence the pathological consequences of this mutation in retinal photoreceptors.

Putin’s Eurasian dream may soon become a nightmare Expert comment NCapeling 3 May 2022

The Ukraine invasion has detrimental consequences for the Russia-led Eurasian Economic Union, a project which has been stumbling since its inception.

The Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) – consisting of Russia with Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan – represents the culmination of Russia’s pursuit of regional integration with its post-Soviet neighbours.

Officially, the Union has an ambitious economic goal – the creation of a market based on common rules for its five member states and their 180 million citizens – and Russia likes to portray the EAEU as an Eurasian replica of the European Union (EU).

But although a common market was placed at the heart of the EAEU as a way to appeal to member states, it is of marginal importance for the Russian economy. For Moscow, the EAEU is primarily a geopolitical tool to help re-assert its regional and global role.

In a world of evermore powerful trading blocs, Moscow wants to use the EAEU to establish its own economic power base in the new polycentric world order. But Russia’s limited interest in the technocratic intricacies needed for the economic union to live up to its lofty proclamations exposes the real geopolitical ambitions.

The Kremlin has no qualms about disregarding the common rules when they clash with Russia’s own foreign policy, and it soon became evident the EAEU was a means to an end rather than an equitable institution within which Russia would accept constraints on its unilateral behaviour.

A crisis in the making

Although the EAEU has enabled some internal trade liberalization as well as the movement of people and labour to the benefit of its members reliant on labour migrant remittances, it has failed to tackle institutional barriers or promote growth and development policies.

It has been hampered by weak common institutions and a lack of institutional capacity of its member states, while Russia’s dubious commitment is also problematic. The EAEU lacks the institutional features of a genuine common market and any attempts to address these shortcomings have been essentially empty promises.

EAEU membership does benefit the political elites of its member states, because its hub-and-spoke model relies on bilateral high-level political deals between Russia and each member state individually. And by using the enticement of security guarantees and both political and financial support, Moscow has succeeded in attracting new members to join.

But a member’s political survival – or defence against political and economic reform – is dependent on military, economic, financial, and political support from Russia. This has been evidenced by the Armenian-Azerbaijan conflict, and by Russia’s backing of the Lukashenka regime in Belarus and the Tokayev government in Kazakhstan.

The design of the EAEU ties it to Russia’s own fate, and so the impact of harsh sanctions imposed on Russia for invading Ukraine are in stark evidence across its member states. Both Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan are reeling from the adverse effects on their domestic currencies and remittances, and the trade bans of key commodities.

And although the ban Russia imposed on grain export to EAEU members has softened, it shows the extent to which Russia was prepared to disregard the rules and sacrifice the EAEU to rescue its own economy. Members are incurring direct economic losses from Putin’s war against Ukraine and the fluctuation of the rouble has created a major impediment to trade with Russia.

Russia seems to increasingly view the Union as a convenient tool to bypass sanctions, with massive implications for its partner countries. And the supposed advantages of EAEU membership – enhanced trade, growth, and modernization – have simply not materialized.

Due to the rapid economic decline of Russia – a fall of 10-15 per cent is anticipated for 2022 – the EAEU is even less likely to deliver the promised economic benefits, while also putting members at risk of secondary sanctions.

The Ukraine invasion has also reignited domestic sensitivities and regional tensions. In Kazakhstan, Tokayev has failed to endorse Russia’s justification for the invasion and refuses to recognize the ‘independence’ of the separatist LNR and DNR.

Meanwhile Azerbaijan has pursued territorial gains in Nagorno-Karabakh while Russia is distracted by its invasion of Ukraine, and has requested the withdrawal of Russian peacekeeping from the disputed territory.

Russia is keen for partner countries to help mitigate the economic impact of sanctions by providing alternative transit routes for imports to Russia. But the EAEU faces challenges even at its most basic level because the sharing of custom duties among member states was denominated in dollars, which Russia now wants to move away from.

No easy escape

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine clearly reduces the benefits of Eurasian integration even further than before and imposes higher cost on the partner countries than were envisaged when they joined. They have been dragged into a geopolitical calamity over which they have no control – the inability of EAEU institutions to mediate or constrain Russia’s behaviour is stark.

Ukraine launched a massive drone attack on Moscow overnight, the largest on the Russian capital since the Russian invasion more than two years ago, forcing three airports to divert traffic and causing casualties.

About a dozen teachers running for state legislative seats gathered with their supporters in Tulsa for a watch party on election night. The results were better for some than others.

Knight receives a more traditional start, at home, with days off ahead of the game

Who’s afraid of the dark? Our Ask Smithsonian host Eric Schulze is here to explain the illuminating science behind night vision.

The Smithsonian National Zoos Snore & Roar program gives visitors a behind the scenes look (Video and Reporting by Megan Gambino and Ryan Reese). Read more at http://blogs.smithsonianmag.com/aroundthemall/2008/09/sleep-over-party-at-the-zoo/

Researchers say that the iconic painting's swirling sky lines up with Kolmogorov's theory of turbulence, suggesting that the artist was a careful observer of the world around him

Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS should be visible to the naked eye as it passes Earth on its way out of our solar system

Predicted to bring the northern lights as far south as parts of California and Alabama, a large coronal mass ejection from the sun collided with our planet Thursday morning

At a new park in Bosnia and Herzegovina, two dozen gardeners have spent years replicating the Dutch artist's masterpiece using the land as their canvas

This week's supermoon is closer to Earth than any other in 2024

Eight years into living in Longyearbyen, on the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard, I embrace the seasonal plunge into total darkness

From swirling aurora borealis to bioluminescent beaches, these award-winning photographs capture rare views of our world at night

In summer months above the North and South Poles, glowing clouds occasionally form naturally at sunset under the right conditions

A new film revisits the 90 minutes before the first episode of "Saturday Night Live" premiered on NBC on October 11, 1975

From deep bass notes echoing through the speaker system, to the countries welcome video, to moments of voices lifted up in praise, the opening session of TeenStreet 2019 made a powerful impact on the participants.

Gavin Thomson Design developed Bicygnals front and rear bicycle lights with integrated turn signals