Latest Politics News
US–China rivalry deepens as Western cohesion fractures
Analysts say 2025 saw an acceleration of US–China strategic competition that weakened Western cohesion and pushed states to hedge between powers, reshaping defense, trade and diplomacy across Europe, Africa and East Asia.
US foreign policy shifts under Trump prompt transatlantic tensions
Commentators argue the second Trump administration pursued policies that undermined longstanding Western alliances — including tougher trade measures and novel approaches to Ukraine — provoking criticism from EU leaders and raising questions about NATO unity.
Russia–Ukraine war remains central to global politics and diplomacy
Fighting continued to dominate the agenda in 2025, with international diplomacy focused on ceasefire proposals, contested territorial arrangements and military assistance, and analysts noting peace plans that include economic 'special zones' for parts of eastern Ukraine.
Border clashes in Southeast Asia; Thailand and Cambodia sign ceasefire deals
Recent weeks saw deadly border fighting between Thailand and Cambodia that prompted ceasefire agreements and regional diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the century-old disputes along their frontier.
China imposes sanctions on US defence firms over Taiwan-related arms deals
Beijing announced sanctions against multiple US defence companies and executives in response to US arms transfers and support for Taiwan, signalling heightened retaliation measures in the Taiwan dispute.
Political instability and coups in parts of West Africa
Guinea-Bissau’s military junta implemented a one‑year transitional charter suspending the constitution and consolidating junta authority while regional responses and asylum moves for opposition figures continue.
Belarus releases political prisoners after US lifts sanctions
Following a US decision to lift certain sanctions, Belarus freed over 120 political detainees including high‑profile figures, a move covered as significant in Belarus–US relations and human‑rights reporting.
Canada joins EU Security Action for Europe initiative
Canada agreed to join the EU’s Security Action for Europe, expanding defence-industrial cooperation and giving Canadian firms greater access to EU markets as alliances adjust to new strategic realities.
Middle East tensions persist; Israeli operations and Lebanon evacuations reported
Israeli military preparations and evacuation orders in southern Lebanese villages were reported amid ongoing operations targeting Hezbollah, reflecting continued volatility along the Israel–Lebanon front.
US conducts strikes against ISIL-affiliated militants in Syria
The United States launched air strikes targeting militants linked to ISIL in northwestern Syria, part of ongoing counter‑terror operations in the region.
Global commentary: 2025 described as an inflection point in world order
Opinion pieces and year‑end reviews characterize 2025 as a turning point — a structural fragmentation of the post‑war order driven by great‑power rivalry, shifting alliances and rising regionalism.
Economic and geopolitical fallout from US tariffs and trade policy
Observers note large‑scale US tariff measures in 2025 affected not just China but also allies, contributing to trade friction and prompting strategic economic realignments among partner states.
EU enlargement and accession talks continue to influence regional politics
EU membership negotiations and reforms remained politically salient in 2025, with candidate countries' progress and related reforms shaping domestic politics across the Balkans and Eastern Europe.
Human-rights and asylum developments influence diplomatic relations
Cases such as Nigeria granting asylum to a Guinea‑Bissau opposition leader and concerns over extraditions have continued to affect bilateral relations and prompt statements from human‑rights groups.