The David Hunter Perspective - 2022-12-14

Read on for today's agenda below prepared by David (thank you very much). - Retired US Diplomat to 5 different nations  David Hunter shares his knowledge, passion, interest, and experience.

1) US Basketball star Britney Griner  Just Released from Russian Prison:  Imprisoned on a nine year sentence for bringing a few hash-oil filled vape cartridges into Russia for her personal use, Griner was just exchanged for the "Merchant of Death" Victor Bout held in US prison.  Who is Ms. Griner, and Mr. Bout?  Was this a fair exchange? What are the complications of this 'hostage transaction' for US-Russia relations?  Why was ex-US Marine Paul Whelan left out of this exchange?

2) Chinese President Xi  Travels to Middle East:  Pres. Xi spent several days in the Middle East last week, meeting with heads of state including Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia.  Why did Xi make this trip now, and does this symbolize a historic realignment in China's relations with the Middle East? Will the US lose influence? 

3) UN International Human Rights Day:  The United Nations honors respect for Human Rights on December 10th of each year since 1950.  The UN Has a High Commissioner for Human Rights.  What is this all about? 

4) Political Prisoners We Need to Remember:  As we approach the end of 2022, we should take stock of various political prisoners being held around the world who support democracy and are in prison for advocating for democratic freedoms and human rights.   Who are some of these 'fighters for freedom and dignity' who follow in the path of Gandhi and Martin Luther King?