When the world gets closer.

We help you see farther.

Sign up to our expressly international daily newsletter.

blog

Lion Dies In Argentine 'Torture Zoo'

Lion Dies In Argentine 'Torture Zoo'

The death of an African lion in Mendoza Zoo in Argentina has revived allegations of the zoo keeping its animals in awful conditions, said Clarínearlier this week.

The lion reportedly died two weeks ago, though the zoo apparently concealed this while they investigated the cause of death. Provincial environmental authorities recently declared it had died of "natural causes," after an autopsy revealed "a tumor in its spleen."

The death followed public anger about the state of another of the zoo's residents, Arturo, described as the last polar bear in Argentina. While activists have called for it to be sent to Canada, several experts decided in February that the trip would be too onerous and Arturo should remain in the zoo.

According to local animal-rights activist Jennifer Ibarra, nobody has seen Arturo since late April and "reliable sources are telling us he is sick."

The singer Cher, also concerned for Arturo, went further, saying Arturo's conditions amounted to "torture" and the government would have Arturo's blood on its hands should he die. Why isn't Argentina crying for Arturo, she asked on her Twitter account?

A map of the zoo in question Photo: gonzalemario

You've reached your limit of free articles.

To read the full story, start your free trial today.

Get unlimited access. Cancel anytime.

Exclusive coverage from the world's top sources, in English for the first time.

Insights from the widest range of perspectives, languages and countries.

Geopolitics

D.C. Or Beijing? Two High-Stakes Trips — And Taiwan's Divided Future On The Line

Two presidents of Taiwan, the current serving president, Tsai Ing-wen, and her predecessor, Ma Ying-jeou from the opposition Kuomintang party, are traveling in opposite directions these days. Taiwan must choose whom to follow.

Photo of Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen

Tsai Ing-wen, the President of Taiwan

Pierre Haski

-Analysis-

PARIS — Tsai Ing-wen, the President of Taiwan, is traveling to the United States today. Not on an official trip because Taiwan is not a state recognized by Washington, but in transit, en route to Central America, a strategy that allows her to pass through New York and California.

Ma Ying-jeou, a former president of Taiwan, arrived yesterday in Shanghai: he is making a 12-day visit at the invitation of the Chinese authorities at a time of high tension between China and the United States, particularly over the fate of Taiwan.

It would be difficult to make these two trips more contrasting, as both have the merit of summarizing at a glance the decisive political battle that is coming. Presidential and legislative elections will be held in January 2024 in Taiwan, which could well determine Beijing's attitude towards the island that China claims by all means, including force.

Keep reading...Show less

You've reached your limit of free articles.

To read the full story, start your free trial today.

Get unlimited access. Cancel anytime.

Exclusive coverage from the world's top sources, in English for the first time.

Insights from the widest range of perspectives, languages and countries.

The latest