The international landscape has been marked by significant controversies in health policy, violent attacks, and unusual criminal acts in recent days. A controversial hepatitis B vaccine study in Africa has drawn criticism, while Colombia faces escalating violence from rebel attacks. Meanwhile, a mass stabbing incident in Taipei has shocked the public, and a group of robbers in Montreal has turned to unconventional methods to address food insecurity.

Hepatitis B Vaccine Study Under Fire
The Trump administration has announced plans to fund a $1.6 million study on hepatitis B vaccination for newborns in Guinea-Bissau, a country with a high prevalence of the virus. Researchers have condemned the initiative as "highly unethical," citing concerns over the fragile health system and the potential for increased global mistrust in U.S. science. Critics argue that the study, led by researchers with a controversial track record, reflects a neocolonialist attitude and risks undermining decades of progress in vaccination efforts. The funding cuts to global vaccination programs, including Gavi, have raised alarms among public health advocates.

Colombian Soldiers Killed in Drone Attack
In Colombia, a drone attack by the ELN guerrilla group has resulted in the deaths of seven soldiers and injuries to 30 others at a military base near the Venezuelan border. This incident is part of a larger trend of violence, with previous attacks targeting police forces. The ELN, which has a significant presence in Colombia and neighboring Venezuela, has vowed to continue its fight against perceived U.S. imperialism while remaining deeply involved in the drug trade. The Colombian government, facing international scrutiny, has struggled to negotiate peace with the group amid rising tensions and violence.

Mass Stabbing in Taipei
A mass stabbing in Taipei has left at least four people dead and several injured. The attack occurred at Taipei Main Station during rush hour, where the assailant used smoke grenades to create chaos before launching a violent rampage. The 27-year-old attacker, a former air force volunteer, died after falling from a building during a police chase. Authorities are investigating the motive behind the attack, which has raised concerns about public safety in Taiwan, a country where violent crime is relatively rare.

Montreal Grocery Store Heist
In a surprising turn of events, a group of individuals dressed as Santa Claus and elves executed a robbery at a Montreal grocery store, claiming their actions were intended to highlight the rising cost of living and food insecurity. Approximately 40 members of the group "Robins des Ruelles" participated in the theft, stating that the food would be distributed to those in need. While the grocery chain condemned the act as criminal, the robbers argued that it was a necessary response to corporate greed and inflation. Police are investigating the incident, but no arrests have been made.

Wrap-up
These incidents reflect a complex interplay of health, safety, and social issues on the global stage. From controversial health policies that risk undermining public trust to violent acts that challenge the fabric of society, the world faces significant challenges that require urgent attention and thoughtful responses.

Sources
theguardian.com
theguardian.com
theguardian.com
theguardian.com
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team