Latest Politics News
Belarus Releases 123 Political Prisoners After US Lifts Sanctions
Belarus has freed 123 political prisoners, including Nobel laureate Ales Bialiatski and protest leader Maria Kalesnikava, following the United States lifting sanctions. However, a UN expert warns that this does not end the country's policy of repression. The releases are seen as a response to improved US-Belarus relations.
Guinea-Bissau Military Junta Adopts One-Year Transitional Charter
Guinea-Bissau's military junta has suspended the constitution and adopted a one-year transitional charter, barring interim leaders from elections and granting authority over reforms. Nigeria granted asylum to opposition leader Fernando Dias da Costa at its embassy. This follows the 2025 Guinea-Bissau coup d'état.
Andrej Babiš Appointed Czech Prime Minister for Second Term
Andrej Babiš of the opposition ANO party has been appointed Prime Minister of the Czech Republic for his second non-consecutive term after the 2025 parliamentary election. This marks a significant political shift in the country. The appointment was confirmed by Reuters.
Trump Pardons Former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernández
US President Donald Trump pardoned former Honduran president Juan Orlando Hernández, leading to his release from a US prison after conviction for aiding cocaine trafficking. This impacts Honduras–United States relations. The pardon was reported by AFP via France 24.
ISIL Attacker Kills Two US Service Members in Syria's Palmyra
An ISIL member attacked a joint Syrian and American convoy in Palmyra, killing two US service members and one civilian interpreter, injuring three others before being killed. The incident was identified by US Central Command. It highlights ongoing Syrian conflict risks.
Israel Issues Evacuation Order for Southern Lebanese Villages
The Israeli military ordered evacuations in southern Lebanese villages ahead of airstrikes on Hezbollah targets, escalating the Israel–Hezbollah conflict. This prepares for planned operations reported by The Jerusalem Post. Tensions remain high in the region.
Canada Joins EU's Security Action for Europe Initiative
Canada agreed to join the European Union's Security Action for Europe, enhancing access for Canadian defense firms to EU markets and encouraging European investment. This strengthens Canada–European Union relations. The agreement was announced by Reuters.
UN Warns Belarus Prisoner Release Does Not End Repression Policy
A UN expert stated on December 17 that Belarus freeing political prisoners does not conclude its repression policy, urging further action. This follows the release of high-profile figures. The OHCHR press release emphasizes ongoing concerns.
Thailand Extradites Vietnamese Human Rights Activist
Thailand extradited Vietnamese citizen Y Quynh Bđăp, founder of a human rights group for ethnic minorities, raising concerns from rights organizations. This affects Thailand–Vietnam relations. The move was covered by AP.
Spain Dismantles Helicopter Drug-Trafficking Network from Morocco
Spanish authorities, with European partners, arrested six suspects in a network using helicopters to smuggle hashish from Morocco. This is part of the global war on drugs. The operation was reported by AFP via Arab News.
Ongoing Escalations in Ukraine, Gaza, and West Philippine Sea in 2025
2025 features heightened conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza due to US-Russia tensions, with China provocative in the West Philippine Sea; Trump's inauguration disrupts global power. Key events include Trump-Putin meeting and regional elections. The year marks significant geopolitical shifts.
Trump 2.0 Reshapes US Global Development Policy for 2026
Under Trump 2.0, the US is dismantling USAID, reviewing multilaterals, and prioritizing geoeconomic tools like MCC and DCF amid norm-breaking. Russia acts as spoiler via arms and nuclear deals. This sets stage for turbulent global development.