TRUMP’S DIPLOMATIC WRECKING BALL

America's impulsive, ill-prepared president has been causing trouble over the past two weeks. First, he declared he would give all American adults $5,000 if the Republicans won the midterms – a clear attempt to sway an election. One wonders if such a precedent would be followed by other nations, as political parties compete for voters with ever-larger cash donations.

Next, Trump meddled in the Falkland Islands dispute, questioning Britain's military commitment and even selling military helicopters to Argentina. This could only serve to encourage the country to pursue further conflict. Finally, Trump expressed a desire to see a united Ireland, an idea I fear may reignite sectarian strife in Northern Ireland.

This presidency has been plagued by ill-advised comments and actions, including a misguided belief that a war with Iran would be over in days – a conflict that has now left roughly 10,000 dead, many of them Iranians. The man who once hoped to receive a Nobel Peace Prize has left a legacy of discord and division.

Incidents of religious intolerance are also on the rise. At the Eiffel Tower in Paris, a Hindu delegation was met with discriminatory treatment, with female staff asked to vacate their workstations to make room for male employees. This has sparked protests and criticism from French politicians, highlighting the need to prevent undue influence of religion in public spaces.

Meanwhile, councils in Sussex and Wales are considering new rules for dog owners. In Sussex, pet owners would be required to carry waste bags and demonstrate their ability to clean up after their dogs in public areas. In Wales, it would become illegal for drivers to leave their engines running for extended periods, particularly in areas where unnecessary idling may contribute to pollution. These measures aim to promote cleanliness and reduce environmental harm.

Perhaps the most alarming news this week came from scientists warning that artificial intelligence is advancing at an unprecedented pace, without sufficient safeguards. If left unchecked, this rapid development could "destroy humanity within a decade", according to leading experts. While some US tech companies have successfully thwarted attempts to weaponize their AI software, the potential for misuse remains a significant concern.

Alarmingly, one US company reportedly believes the warnings about AI are a "hoax", and is pushing for the United States to invest heavily in its development to maintain an edge over China. This cavalier attitude is deeply concerning, particularly as many governments are now recognizing the urgent need for stronger controls over AI development.

The US president's dismissive stance on AI risks exacerbating these dangers and puts America at risk of falling behind its global competitors.