Typhoon Kong-rey, the largest storm to hit Taiwan since 1996, caused widespread destruction across the island, with minimal reported deaths but significant damage to infrastructure. The typhoon, classified as a strong typhoon by Taiwan's Central Weather Administration, made landfall near Taitung and affected regions including Taipei. Authorities had prepared for the storm by shutting down workplaces, schools, and transport services, and evacuating over 9,000 people. The storm prompted the cancellation of military exercises and disrupted air and sea traffic. Despite the severe impact, the storm resulted in only one reported death and over 200 injuries.

China's internet regulators have initiated a campaign to curb the use of puns and homophones online, which citizens have used to discuss sensitive topics without facing censorship. The 'clear and bright' campaign, led by the Cyberspace Administration of China and the Ministry of Education, targets 'irregular and uncivilised' language, including jokes and memes. The Communist Party's People’s Daily expressed concerns about the impact of such language on minors and urged authorities to prevent the spread of ambiguous terms. This move is part of ongoing efforts to control online discourse and prevent criticism of the government and President Xi Jinping.

The article explores the potential impact of the upcoming US election on US-China relations, focusing on the perspectives of Chinese analysts. It highlights the bipartisan consensus in the US on a hawkish stance towards China, regardless of whether Kamala Harris or Donald Trump wins. The article discusses the implications for Taiwan, with Beijing viewing both candidates as maintaining strategic competition. It also examines the role of key figures like Tim Walz and Philip Gordon in shaping future US-China policies. The sentiment in Taiwan is mixed, with concerns about Trump's unpredictability and Harris's continuation of Biden's policies.

As the US election approaches, analysts in China are assessing the potential impact of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump on US-China relations. Both candidates are perceived to maintain a hawkish stance on China, with Harris expected to continue Biden's policies and Trump likely to escalate economic tensions. The article highlights the bipartisan nature of US policy towards China, emphasizing strategic competition and containment. Taiwan remains a critical issue, with Beijing wary of US support for pro-sovereignty forces. Despite differing personalities, US national interests in Taiwan and the South China Sea are expected to remain consistent, driven by economic and security considerations.

Taiwan is set to access low earth orbit satellite internet service through a contract with Eutelsat OneWeb, aiming to safeguard communications against potential Chinese attacks. The move follows failed negotiations with Elon Musk's Starlink, partly due to concerns over Musk's business ties with China. Taiwan's government is investing heavily in its space industry, planning to launch its own satellites by 2026. Experts emphasize the need for a robust and quickly replaceable satellite network to ensure reliable communication during conflicts.

China conducted major military exercises around Taiwan, accompanied by a controversial propaganda image from the Chinese coastguard depicting a heart-shaped patrol around Taiwan. The image, intended to convey a positive message, was widely criticized in Taiwan as creepy and akin to harassment. It referenced a Taiwanese TV drama, sparking further ridicule and anger among the Taiwanese public. The drills and propaganda are part of China's ongoing efforts to assert its claim over Taiwan, but the approach has been met with resistance and mockery from the island's population.

Chinese authorities raided Pandabuy's Hangzhou office and warehouses, seizing millions of parcels and detaining over 30 people in a crackdown on counterfeit goods. The investigation, involving international cooperation, revealed Pandabuy's extensive operations across five Chinese cities. The UK police's Operation Ashiko played a significant role, and further actions are expected against Pandabuy's UK assets. Pandabuy, known for allegedly selling fake designer goods, is cooperating with authorities amid ongoing legal issues and customer concerns over pending shipments.

Taiwan's government has pledged to expedite the removal of nearly 800 statues of Chiang Kai-shek, the former Chinese military dictator whose legacy remains contentious. The transitional justice committee recommended removing the statues, but progress has been slow, particularly within the military. The debate over Chiang's legacy is split along party lines, with the ruling Democratic Progressive Party advocating for the removal, while the opposition KMT Party accuses them of erasing history. Chiang's rule in Taiwan was marked by martial law and human rights abuses, but some argue his contributions to Taiwan's economic prosperity and military foundations should also be recognized.

Chinese military official Zhang Youxia warned against the display of military strength as the Philippines and US commenced three weeks of joint drills in the South China Sea. The Balikatan exercises, involving 17,600 personnel, are the second largest in history and include the Philippines Coast Guard. While the Philippines military claims the drills are not directed at any specific country, they are widely interpreted as a response to China's actions in the region. China, claiming most of the South China Sea, has rejected international rulings against its claims and continues to militarize the area. Recent incidents have escalated tensions between China and the Philippines, which has been strengthening ties with the US and other allies. The western Pacific naval symposium, attended by representatives from various countries, will discuss guidelines for de-escalating military encounters at sea.

Apple has removed WhatsApp and Threads from its Chinese App Store following an order from the Cyberspace Administration of China, citing national security concerns. This action aligns with China's ongoing internet censorship and control measures. The removal occurs amid US legislative discussions on potentially banning TikTok unless its Chinese ownership is relinquished, reflecting broader concerns over China's influence and data security.