-
British authorities have postponed a decision on China's proposed embassy near Tower of London until January 20, citing security concerns. The plan involves consolidating China's diplomatic sites into Europe's largest embassy, amid opposition over espionage fears and proximity to critical infrastructure. The delay aligns with Prime Minister Starmer’s upcoming visit to China.
-
Prime Minister Starmer emphasizes a balanced, realistic approach to China, acknowledging its global significance and security threats. He criticizes past inconsistent policies and signals a shift towards engagement in non-security areas, while maintaining a firm stance on security. The government considers a controversial Chinese embassy plan and prepares for a possible visit to China next year.
-
A recent report from the UK’s National Energy System Operator warns of a potential gas supply shortfall by 2030-31 if key infrastructure fails, highlighting vulnerabilities in undersea pipelines and the need for mitigation measures amid ongoing energy transition challenges.
-
Spain's outbreak of African swine fever in wild boar near Barcelona has led to export bans and containment efforts. Authorities suspect contaminated food as the source, with no farms affected so far. The outbreak threatens Spain's significant pork industry and international trade, prompting coordinated EU responses.
-
As of November 27, 2025, diplomatic tensions between Japan and China have intensified following Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's statement that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could threaten Japan's survival and justify a military response. China condemned the remarks, accusing Japan of militarism and colonial aggression, while Japan advances missile deployments near Taiwan. Taiwan supports Japan's security measures amid ongoing Chinese military pressure.
-
As of late November 2025, the US, UK, Canada, and Japan face an early, severe flu season driven by the H3N2 subclade K variant, which has mutated beyond current vaccine strains. Hospital admissions and flu cases, especially among children and vulnerable groups, are rising. Concurrently, norovirus infections are doubling nationwide, with health officials urging hygiene and vaccination to mitigate risks.
-
Japan's PM warns of military response to China over Taiwan, prompting Taiwan to ease food import restrictions and show solidarity. Beijing dismisses Taiwan's claims, escalating regional tensions amid economic and military pressures.
-
As COP30 climate talks conclude in Belem, Brazil, China asserts dominance in clean energy diplomacy and investment, showcasing renewable technology and partnerships worldwide. Indigenous and activist protests highlight demands for stronger climate action and land rights amid stalled negotiations. The US, absent under President Trump, cedes influence, focusing on fossil fuel exports, while Brazil emphasizes Indigenous land protection and forest conservation.
-
As of late November 2025, Myanmar's military and allied ethnic militias have intensified raids on online scam centers near Myawaddy, detaining over 12,500 foreigners and seizing thousands of devices. These operations target criminal networks linked to human trafficking and cyber fraud, amid international pressure and the recent extradition of scam kingpin She Zhijiang to China.
-
Germany's government is engaging in high-level talks with China to address trade issues, including rare earths and supply chain concerns. Chancellor Merz's coalition aims to reduce dependency on China and bolster economic resilience, amid rising tensions and a record trade deficit. The visit signals a strategic shift in Germany's China policy.
-
On November 14, 2025, Blue Origin successfully launched its New Glenn rocket from Cape Canaveral, carrying NASA's twin Escapade spacecraft bound for Mars. The mission aims to study Mars' upper atmosphere and magnetic fields, with arrival expected in 2027. The rocket's first-stage booster was recovered upright on an offshore barge, marking a key milestone in reusable rocket technology and intensifying competition with SpaceX.
-
US officials are privately considering delaying promised semiconductor tariffs, a key part of Trump's economic agenda. The decision reflects concerns over trade relations with China, consumer costs, and legal challenges. The Commerce Department's probe and Supreme Court cases are central to the timing of any tariff implementation.
-
Japan's October 2025 exports increased 3.6%, driven by semiconductors and gas turbines, but exports to the US fell 3.1% for the seventh consecutive month, mainly due to tariffs. Imports rose slightly, and Japan's trade surplus with the US narrowed. The economy shows signs of strain from US trade policies.
-
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's recent remarks linking a Chinese attack on Taiwan to Japan's military response have triggered diplomatic protests from China. Beijing responded with accusations of violations of international law, economic measures, and canceled bilateral events, deepening regional tensions amid ongoing disputes over Taiwan's sovereignty.
-
As of early December 2025, South Korea is progressing with plans to develop nuclear-powered submarines, backed by U.S. approval for fuel access. This move aims to counter North Korea's growing military threats, including drone and missile expansions. Meanwhile, South Korea's new president seeks dialogue with North Korea amid ongoing border tensions and military provocations.
-
The European Commission is moving to delay and relax key digital regulations, including AI and data privacy laws, citing the need to boost competitiveness. Critics warn this marks a retreat from Europe's leadership in digital rights, amid US and Chinese competition. The changes aim to simplify rules for businesses, especially startups, but raise concerns over privacy and innovation.
-
Recent Chinese research vessel activity near Micronesia highlights increased militarization in the northern Pacific. The U.S. conducts frequent drills, while the Philippines successfully delivers supplies to the contested Second Thomas Shoal despite Chinese presence. The situation underscores regional security concerns and shifting power dynamics.
-
A new report reveals China has funneled over $200 billion into US businesses via secret loans routed through shell companies. Much of this financing supports Chinese acquisitions in critical tech sectors, raising concerns about national security and economic influence. The network extends globally, complicating oversight.
-
Tensions between Japan and China have intensified following Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi's remarks on Taiwan's potential attack, prompting China to reimpose a seafood import ban and issue travel advisories. Diplomatic and economic retaliations threaten regional stability and trade relations.
-
The Netherlands has suspended its plan to take control of Chinese-owned Nexperia after diplomatic talks with China. The move aimed to prevent supply chain disruptions in the global chip industry, which is affected by geopolitical tensions. The decision follows recent negotiations and China's lifting of export bans.
-
Missouri has asked the U.S. State Department to notify China of its intent to pursue assets owned by the Chinese government to satisfy a court judgment. The move relates to a lawsuit over PPE hoarding during COVID-19, with legal and diplomatic challenges expected. The case highlights tensions over pandemic accountability.
-
Iraq secured a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup after winning their Asian playoff. The tournament will expand to 48 teams, with qualifiers from six continents. The draw is scheduled for December 5 in Washington, D.C., with the final tournament beginning in June 2026 across the US, Canada, and Mexico.
-
The UK is set to approve a new Chinese embassy near Tower of London, with final decision due on December 10. MI5 and MI6 have reportedly given the green light, despite ongoing security concerns linked to espionage risks and recent spying allegations. The decision coincides with UK-China diplomatic efforts and upcoming Prime Minister visits.
-
A year after Reeves' tax hikes, the UK economy shows signs of slowdown, with weak Q3 growth, rising borrowing, and consumer uncertainty. Despite initial strong start, recent data indicates limited growth prospects for 2026 amid inflation and political pressures.
-
Recent remarks by Japan's new leader have heightened diplomatic tensions, prompting Chinese cruise ships and tourists to avoid Japanese ports and favor South Korea. This shift benefits South Korea's tourism industry but raises concerns about long-term regional stability.
-
The COP30 climate summit in Belém, Brazil, concluded on 22 November 2025 with a compromised agreement after two weeks of tense negotiations. Despite support from over 80 countries for a fossil fuel phaseout plan, the final deal avoided explicit fossil fuel commitments, opting instead for voluntary initiatives and increased funding to help developing nations adapt to climate impacts. The summit exposed deep divisions between fossil fuel-dependent economies and others pushing for accelerated climate action.
-
The UK government announced a new critical minerals strategy, backed by £50m, aiming to secure domestic supplies of lithium, nickel, tungsten, and rare earths by 2035. The plan includes increasing domestic extraction, recycling, and diversifying supply sources to reduce reliance on China and strengthen national security.
-
COP30, held in Belém, Brazil, ended with weak commitments and no binding targets to reduce fossil fuel use. Indigenous protests highlighted inequality and environmental concerns. Major nations like the US did not send official delegations, while China promoted green tech. The summit's voluntary pledges fall short of limiting global warming to 1.5°C.
-
The Hayli Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia's Afar region erupted on Sunday, sending ash clouds across Yemen, Oman, India, and Pakistan. No casualties reported, but villages are covered in ash, affecting livestock and travel. The eruption is the first in 12,000 years, with ongoing regional impacts.
-
China launched the Shenzhou-22 spacecraft to the Tiangong space station after the previous vessel was damaged by space debris. The crewed station now has a backup vessel for emergency return, highlighting China's rapid response to space safety issues amid international competition.
-
U.S. and Chinese leaders held a call discussing Taiwan, Ukraine, and trade, with Xi reaffirming Taiwan as part of China. Japan's military comments on Taiwan drew Chinese condemnation. The story highlights ongoing geopolitical tensions and recent diplomatic exchanges.
-
Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi made comments suggesting military action if China attacks Taiwan, prompting a diplomatic row with China. Trump discussed the issue with both Xi Jinping and Takaichi, with US support for Taiwan now uncertain amid escalating tensions. The dispute impacts regional stability and economic relations.
-
On December 4, 2025, Presidents Felix Tshisekedi of DR Congo and Paul Kagame of Rwanda signed the US-brokered Washington Accords, aiming to end decades of conflict involving the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group. Despite the agreement, fighting continues in eastern Congo, causing civilian casualties and displacement. The deal includes a ceasefire, disarmament, refugee returns, and a regional economic integration framework to attract Western investment in critical minerals.
-
On Wednesday afternoon, a massive fire broke out at the Wang Fuk Court housing complex in Tai Po, Hong Kong, rapidly engulfing seven of eight buildings. As of Sunday morning, 146 bodies have been recovered, with around 100 people still missing. Authorities arrested three construction company officials on manslaughter suspicions amid investigations into unsafe materials and gross negligence.
-
An Indian woman, Pem Wang Thongdok, was detained in Shanghai during a layover en route to Japan, after Chinese authorities claimed her Indian passport was invalid due to her birthplace, Arunachal Pradesh, which China considers Chinese territory. She was held for 18 hours before being allowed to leave, escalating tensions amid ongoing border disputes.
-
Tajikistan faces border attacks from Afghanistan, killing five Chinese workers. Tajik authorities discuss deploying Russian forces for border patrol, amid ongoing tensions with Taliban Afghanistan. China urges citizens to evacuate the border area as Tajikistan tightens security.
-
UK manufacturing PMI rose to 50.2 in November, the first expansion since September 2024, driven by domestic demand and larger firms. Business optimism hit a nine-month high, though employment and smaller firms still face contraction. The data suggests a cautious recovery amid mixed economic signals.
-
The world's top 100 arms manufacturers earned a record $679 billion in 2024, driven by increased military spending amid conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. Revenues rose mainly in Europe and the US, with Asian companies facing declines due to Chinese procurement issues. Despite delays in US programs, demand remains high worldwide.
-
Russia has implemented a visa-free entry policy for Chinese citizens for up to 30 days, effective immediately through September 2026. The move aims to boost tourism and strengthen ties amid diplomatic tensions with Japan, with Chinese travel interest surging as a result.
-
The OECD projects modest global economic slowdown from 3.2% in 2025 to 2.9% in 2026, citing trade tensions and tariffs. US growth is revised up to 2%, while China and Europe see steady or slightly improved forecasts. Inflation is expected to ease by 2027.
-
U.S. lawmakers scrutinize NASA's lunar plans amid concerns over China’s space ambitions and internal program delays. Experts call for a restart of Artemis missions, citing budget issues and strategic competition. Nominee Jared Isaacman’s confirmation highlights urgency for leadership as NASA advances lunar and commercial space projects.
-
Japan's ambassador to the UN rebutted Chinese accusations after Japanese Defense Minister Takaichi suggested Japan could militarily respond if China attacks Taiwan. Beijing responded with diplomatic and economic measures, including travel bans and import restrictions. The dispute highlights regional security concerns amid rising Chinese military activity near Taiwan.
-
French President Emmanuel Macron visited China for a three-day trip focused on trade and diplomacy. Key topics included involving Beijing in pressuring Russia for a Ukraine ceasefire, strengthening bilateral ties, and addressing trade imbalances. Xi pledged support for peace efforts and announced economic cooperation, while trade disputes and geopolitical tensions remain unresolved.
-
The Trump administration's new National Security Strategy emphasizes deterring conflict over Taiwan by maintaining military overmatch and strengthening alliances. China’s military activity in the region has increased, with Taiwan and Japan responding to rising tensions. The strategy aims to secure sea lanes and prevent Chinese aggression near Taiwan.