Greetings NYU Shanghai community. Although we are experiencing our second day of the week already, here’s what you should know:

Latest News on Paris Attacks - In wake of Paris attacks France has launched airstrikes on the highly controlled Syrian city of Raqqa. France targeted the ISIS stronghold by dropping around 20 bombs on several of their sites. France’s President, François Hollande described this as “an act of war.” France is not alone in this airstrike, it is believed to be a combined effort of three European countries and the Middle East. These airstrikes are not a big game changer since they are a part of a year-long air campaign, however, they do send a very clear message.

Different Approach to Europe’s Refugee Crisis - The EU and African leaders met in Malta last week to discuss the ongoing refugee crisis. Instead of either opening up or closing its borders, the EU found the solution in funding African governments ($1.9 bn) to stop their people from leaving in the first place.

Nephews of Venezuelan First Lady Drug Charges - The U.S. prosecutors arrested two nephews of Venezuela’s first lady who were allegedly conspiring to smuggle cocaine into the United States. They are associated with around 800 kg of the narcotic drug. Current charges could result in a life imprisonment.

21 Years in a Jail in Uzbekistan - Murod Juraev is a former member of the Uzbek parliament who has been imprisoned in 1994. Currently at the age of 63, he is one of the world’s longest imprisoned peaceful activists. While in jail, Murod Juraev was supposedly repeatedly tortured and became extremely sick.

Australia and the EU Talk Trade Agreements at G20 Summit - Leaders of the European Council and the European Commission met with the Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull at the G20 Summit to discuss free trade agreement between the two economic powers. Negotiations are expected to start in 2017. FTA would bring about more dynamic business climate and direct investment.

Russian Olympic Team Suspended from the Games - Russian notable athletes will not be taking part in 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. Allegedly, a high percentage of track and field athletes were involved in state-sponsored doping. Russian track and field athletes will still be allowed to compete since they have not engaged in the use of banned drugs.

Malevich’s Black Square Hides Two Secret Paintings - In other news featuring Russia: researchers from the Russian State Tretyakov Gallery discovered two secret paintings. Underneath the top coat of black paint, Malevich’s Black Square reveals handwritten inscription that is still being deciphered. Some analysts say that in its reference to the French picture it reads “Negroes battling in a cave”.

This article was written by Lana Kugli. Please send an email to [email protected] to get in touch. Photo Credit: Chloe Haddaway.