Politics

Latest Politics News

📅December 16, 2025 at 1:00 PM
Global politics sees Trump pardons, African coups, Hong Kong convictions, Middle East violence, Belarus releases, and stalled BRICS de-dollarization amid rising tensions.
1

Trump Pardons Former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernández

U.S. President Donald Trump pardoned Hernández, convicted of aiding cocaine trafficking, leading to his release from a West Virginia prison.Source 2 This decision impacts Honduras–U.S. relations and highlights Trump's immigration and foreign policy stance.Source 2 Authorities note it follows years of legal battles over large-scale drug operations.Source 2

2

Guinea-Bissau Military Junta Adopts One-Year Transitional Charter

The junta suspended the constitution, barring interim leaders from elections and taking control of reforms until new polls.Source 2 Nigeria granted asylum to opposition leader Fernando Dias da Costa at its embassy to shield him from detention.Source 2 This follows the 2025 Guinea-Bissau coup d'état, expanding African transition challenges.Source 2Source 4

3

Jimmy Lai Convicted in Hong Kong, Symbolizing Beijing's Crackdown

Hong Kong democracy activist Jimmy Lai was convicted in a case representing China's suppression of dissent.Source 1 His daughter stated, 'He has suffered enough,' amid international concern.Source 1 The verdict underscores ongoing tensions over freedoms in the region.Source 1

4

ISIL Attacker Kills U.S. Personnel in Syria's Palmyra

An ISIL member fired on a joint Syrian-American convoy, killing two U.S. service members and one civilian interpreter, injuring three others.Source 2 The attacker was killed in return fire.Source 2 U.S. Central Command identified the perpetrator amid the Syrian conflict.Source 2

5

Israel Issues Evacuation Order for Hezbollah Strikes in Lebanon

The Israeli military ordered evacuations in southern Lebanese villages ahead of airstrikes on Hezbollah targets.Source 2 This escalates the Israel–Hezbollah conflict.Source 2 Preparations signal intensified operations in the region.Source 2

6

Belarus Releases 123 Political Prisoners After U.S. Sanctions Lifted

Prisoners include Nobel laureate Ales Bialiatski and protest leader Maria Kalesnikava.Source 2 The releases follow U.S. lifting sanctions on Belarus.Source 2 This marks a shift in Belarus–U.S. relations and human rights dynamics.Source 2

7

Andrej Babiš Appointed Czech Prime Minister for Second Term

Opposition ANO party leader Babiš was named Prime Minister after the 2025 Czech parliamentary election.Source 2 This is his second non-consecutive term.Source 2 The appointment follows electoral gains amid political shifts.Source 2

8

Trump's Policies Upend U.S. Immigration Paths to Citizenship

Trump's immigration crackdown affects individuals with years-long citizenship applications.Source 1 PBS reports on disrupted lives amid policy changes.Source 1 This ties into broader political stakes and GOP pushback.Source 1

9

BRICS De-Dollarization Efforts Stalled by Trump Tariff Threats

Trump warned of 100% tariffs if BRICS pursues a new currency, prompting Putin to affirm no intent to abandon the dollar.Source 3 Practical de-dollarization continues incrementally via local currencies.Source 3 Internal rivalries and dollar advantages hinder bold moves.Source 3

10

Australia Vows Tougher Gun Laws After Hanukkah Festival Attack

Leaders promised stricter measures following a Bondi Beach shooting, with shock and grief widespread.Source 1 The incident occurred at a Hanukkah event, prompting security reviews.Source 1 It mirrors global concerns over public safety and extremism.Source 1

11

Renewed Search for Brown University Shooter Amid Campus Fear

Authorities restarted efforts to find the shooter, with students reporting lingering fear.Source 1 The incident has heightened campus tensions.Source 1 Federal news wrap also mentions foiled NYE bomb plot.Source 1