Latest Politics News
US-Ukraine Hold High-Stakes Peace Talks in Berlin
US negotiators including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner meet Ukrainian delegation in Berlin on December 14 to discuss ceasefire amid disagreements on territory and security guarantees. Zelenskyy visits frontline Kupyansk and confers with his team, while Russia intensifies infrastructure attacks.
European leaders like Germany's Friedrich Merz, France's Macron, and UK's Starmer join related talks on December 15.
Trump Pushes Ukraine for Major Territorial Concessions to Russia
Trump's 28-point plan, drafted by Kushner and Witkoff, demands Ukraine cede Donbas and forgo NATO membership for a free economic zone compromise. Zelenskyy resists, calling it capitulation, but floats referendum idea if security guaranteed by US and Europe.
Trump expresses frustration over delays and suggests new elections in Ukraine.
European Leaders Back Ukraine Against Territorial Yielding
Germany's Merz, France's Macron, and UK's Starmer meet Zelenskyy, insisting on Ukraine's sovereignty and security guarantees in revised peace proposal. They emphasize coordinated sanctions on Russia to pressure Moscow economically.
Europe has limited influence as US leads negotiations.
US Senate Rejects Rival Health Care Bills
Senators voted down dueling proposals to extend expiring subsidies, leaving millions facing higher insurance costs in 2026. The votes highlight health care's centrality in US politics ahead of elections.
Debate underscores partisan battles.
Senators Explain Departures Amid Trump Influence
Former Senators Jeff Flake, Joe Manchin, and Tina Smith discuss leaving amid Trump's impact on the Senate in a New York Times roundtable. They reflect on the body's current state during the Trump era.
Discussion reveals internal GOP and Democratic tensions.
US Leads Gaza Reconstruction and Security Efforts
Trump to head Gaza Board of Peace with advisers on international executive board; US establishes civil-military HQ in Israel for ceasefire monitoring and aid. No US boots on ground, but increased responsibility for rebuilding.
Mixed signals ahead of Trump-Netanyahu meeting on phase 2.
China Pledges $100 Million Aid for Gaza
President Xi Jinping announces $100 million in humanitarian aid for Palestinians to alleviate Gaza crisis and support reconstruction. Aid comes amid ongoing Israel-Palestine tensions.
Announcement made on December 4.
Thailand Defies Trump-Brokered Ceasefire with Cambodia
Thai leader vows continued fighting after jets strike border targets hours after Trump's ceasefire announcement following calls with both sides. Escalation tied to Thailand's political crisis after parliament dissolution.
Trump positions as peacemaker.
Trump Administration Seizes Venezuelan Oil Tanker
US seizes sanctioned tanker, leaving Maduro with few retaliation options and sparking outrage. Action pressures Venezuela amid opposition movements.
María Corina Machado travels to Oslo after hiding.
Iran Regime's Parliament in Chaos and Internal Strife
December 9 session exposes fractured power structure and failing governance in chaotic meltdown. Ruling elite turns on itself amid human rights condemnations.
Rallies in Brussels and Berlin protest executions.
Russia, Ukraine Exchange Attacks Ahead of Peace Talks
Russia pounds Ukrainian infrastructure as Ukraine strikes back, while US and Europe prepare Berlin talks. Intensified fighting underscores negotiation challenges.
Zelenskyy posts defiant video from frontline.
Hungary's Orban Eyes Presidential Power Expansion
Legislation makes removing president harder; Orban explores taking office ahead of April vote. Inflation drops, but Fitch revises outlook negative on fiscal concerns.
Forint strengthens on Ukraine peace hopes.