Chinese geologists have claimed to have discovered a massive energy source that could potentially sustain the country for the next 60,000 years. According to reports from the Daily Mail, scientists in Beijing have identified a vast deposit of thorium in the Bayan Obo mineral complex, located in Inner Mongolia.

The thorium reserves found are so abundant that they could theoretically supply every household in China with unlimited energy. Thorium is a mildly radioactive element that can be used in nuclear reactors to generate electricity. Scientists believe that a molten-salt reactor, powered by thorium, could produce an almost infinite amount of energy.

Experts estimate that if the entire thorium deposit in the mine is extracted, it could amount to one million tons, marking a groundbreaking discovery in the pursuit of sustainable energy solutions.

In a meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, former President Donald Trump avoided committing to providing security for Ukraine against Russian aggression. According to Reuters, Trump suggested that a potential mineral agreement could secure Ukraine’s safety against Russia. The meeting focused on the Ukraine crisis and trade relations, as Trump’s stance on reducing the U.S.’s involvement in Europe’s security concerns remains a critical issue. Prime Minister Starmer emphasized the need for stronger security for Ukraine during their discussions.

China has issued a strong warning after Taiwan announced plans to purchase $7-10 billion worth of weapons from the United States. Chinese State Council spokesperson Zhu Fenglian stated that such deals will not protect Taiwan’s pro-independence forces. She warned that Taiwan remains a mere pawn in a geopolitical game and that China’s 1.4 billion people will never accept its separation. Meanwhile, Taiwan’s leader, Lai Ching-te, dismissed the claims, asserting that Taiwan is not a chess piece but a player in its own right.

The World Trade Organization (WTO) has described recent discussions on trade tensions as “constructive” following China’s strong condemnation of U.S. tariffs. Beijing accused Washington of imposing a blanket 10% tariff on all Chinese imports, warning that such actions could destabilize global trade. In retaliation, China imposed its own tariffs and lodged a formal complaint with the WTO. Representatives from six nations expressed concern over the escalating trade dispute, urging both sides to exercise restraint. The Chinese ambassador to the WTO warned that U.S. policies could lead to economic instability and recession, while the U.S. countered with accusations against China. Despite Trump’s history of withdrawing from international organizations, the U.S. has yet to decide on its stance regarding the WTO.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has declared at the UN Security Council that Gaza and the West Bank are the homeland of the Palestinian people and should not be used as a bargaining tool for political negotiations. He emphasized the importance of a two-state solution and underscored the necessity of ensuring Palestinian governance in Gaza post-war. As China holds the presidency of the UN Security Council this February, Wang Yi chaired the session. This statement from China also signals opposition to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s Gaza proposal.

On Wednesday, China expressed its approval of the phone call between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasizing the importance of a peaceful resolution to the ongoing Ukraine conflict. According to Anadolu Agency, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, stated in Beijing that the country is pleased to see continued communication and dialogue between Russia and the United States on various international issues. Earlier, both Presidents had agreed on halting the war, with Donald Trump also hinting that a meeting between the two leaders could take place in Saudi Arabia soon.

The ongoing trade war between the world’s two largest economies continues as China enforces retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods starting Monday. The U.S. had earlier imposed a 10% tariff on all Chinese imports, prompting China to respond with import duties on selected American products. China has recently imposed a 15% tariff on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and a 10% duty on other U.S. goods. In a related move, Chinese regulators have launched an antitrust investigation into Google and placed PVH Corp. on an “unreliable entity” list.

A devastating landslide struck Sichuan Province, China, at 11:50 AM local time on February 8, burying ten houses and leaving over 30 people missing. Approximately 200 residents have been evacuated, and authorities have warned of ongoing landslide risks in the area. Chinese President Xi Jinping has directed officials to prioritize search and rescue efforts, minimize casualties, and implement necessary post-disaster measures. Rescue teams have already recovered two survivors. Additionally, China has allocated 30 million yuan for disaster relief efforts this year.

China has pledged to take countermeasures against the 10% tariff imposed by the Trump administration on Chinese imports but has not escalated tensions immediately. Unlike the confrontational approach seen during Trump’s first term, Beijing’s response remains measured. On Sunday, China condemned the US move while signaling openness to negotiations to prevent further deterioration of trade relations. The measured stance suggests China aims to balance retaliation with diplomacy, keeping the possibility of resolution through talks or a challenge in the WTO.