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As of September 17, 2025, Australia and Papua New Guinea (PNG) have signed a defence communique but postponed the formal signing of a landmark mutual defence treaty. The treaty, elevating their security ties to the level Australia holds with the US and New Zealand, awaits cabinet approvals in both countries. The pact integrates defence forces, allows military service across borders, and offers PNG nationals a pathway to Australian citizenship, amid efforts to counter China's growing Pacific influence.
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The murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk in Utah has ignited a debate over political violence, free speech, and social media censorship in the US. Trump praised Kirk as a martyr, while critics condemn the backlash against those expressing dissent. Several individuals face job suspensions over their reactions to the killing.
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A September 4 raid at a Hyundai-LG EV battery plant in Georgia detained nearly 500 workers, mostly South Koreans, amid visa violations. The incident caused delays in plant expansion, strained US-South Korea relations, and raised concerns over immigration enforcement and foreign investment in the US EV industry.
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As the UN turns 80, it struggles with record-breaking meetings, lengthy reports, and funding cuts. Meanwhile, the US pushes for a reformed global asylum system, citing abuse and fraud, amid rising tensions over immigration policies and international cooperation.
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On October 14-15, 2025, the US State Department revoked visas of six foreigners from Argentina, Brazil, Germany, Mexico, Paraguay, and South Africa for social media posts celebrating the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The action coincided with President Donald Trump posthumously awarding Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom and vowing a crackdown on left-wing extremism.
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Fighters linked to al-Qaeda have intensified a fuel blockade in Mali, severely disrupting Bamako's economy and daily life. Schools are closed, citizens are urged to leave, and the military faces mounting pressure amid ongoing attacks and economic strangulation. The situation risks further destabilization of the region.
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Nigeria and the US held high-level talks in Washington, DC, focusing on security cooperation and addressing misconceptions about Nigeria's internal conflict. The US affirmed its readiness to support Nigeria with intelligence, defense equipment, and humanitarian aid, while Nigeria committed to civilian protection amid ongoing tensions.