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In this episode of The Restricted Handling Daily Intel Brief, Ryan and Glenn break down the biggest moves from China and its global engagements over the past 24 hours. From Beijing and Moscow backing Cuba amid ongoing U.S. sanctions to President Trump signaling a direct conversation with Taiwan's leader about a potential arms package, the global chessboard is moving fast. We dig into what these developments mean for U.S. diplomacy, international security, and the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific.

We also cover the economic and technology angle. U.S. CEOs in China are navigating blocked deals, including Tesla's solar equipment purchase and Nvidia's high-powered AI H200 chip still held back by Chinese regulators. Visa is still restricted in its ability to settle transactions in RMB. We explain why these trade and tech issues are more than business—they're strategic leverage points that Beijing is using to maintain control over global high-tech industries.

AI and technology aren't just numbers on a spreadsheet. We break down how Chinese companies are adapting to limits on advanced chips, using cloud-based workarounds while domestic AI firms gain experience. This push for self-reliance is shaping the future of global AI competition and influencing U.S.-China relations in real time.

On the diplomatic front, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is chairing a UN Security Council meeting and visiting Canada, while continuing to engage with Moldova to deepen ties despite differing views on the Ukraine war. Meanwhile, Russia remains closely aligned with Beijing economically and strategically, particularly on energy and high-tech cooperation. We explore how these moves signal long-term strategic alignment and the subtle ways China is calibrating its global influence.

We also highlight intelligence and domestic security developments, including joint U.S.-China law enforcement cooperation on transnational drug trafficking, showing that even amid tension, practical collaboration can still happen. And while the PLA continues military activities near Taiwan, we discuss them in context—strategic signaling, deterrence, and maintaining a delicate balance without direct escalation.

This episode gives listeners a comprehensive view of power, leverage, and influence in play across multiple regions. From trade and technology to diplomacy, security, and military signaling, you get the full picture in an engaging, clear, and accessible briefing. Ryan and Glenn explain why these developments matter to the U.S. and global policy, what to watch next, and how strategic decisions are shaping the international security landscape.

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