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China's Victory Day parade and Russia's WWII commemorations highlight growing geopolitical tensions. President Xi Jinping emphasized China's military strength and national rejuvenation, while Russia's participation underscored its challenge to Western narratives. Regional sensitivities and historical memory are fueling a complex international landscape on the 80th anniversary of WWII.
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On September 11, 2025, Flanders Festival Ghent cancelled a Munich Philharmonic concert led by Lahav Shani, citing unclear stance on Israel's Gaza war. The decision sparked accusations of antisemitism from German and Belgian officials. Germany invited Shani to perform in Berlin as a show of support, highlighting tensions over cultural boycotts amid the ongoing Gaza conflict.
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China has unveiled its Global Governance Initiative (GGI) during the SCO summit in Tianjin, aiming to reshape international cooperation amid global instability. The initiative emphasizes sovereignty, multilateralism, and development, contrasting with US-led approaches. It seeks to address governance gaps and promote a multipolar world, especially appealing to the Global South.
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Two years after the start of the Gaza war, indirect negotiations involving Israel, Hamas, and mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey are progressing toward a potential ceasefire. Discussions focus on hostage releases, Israeli troop withdrawal, and Gaza reconstruction, amid ongoing Israeli military actions and mounting Palestinian casualties.
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Negotiations between Israel and Hamas, mediated by US, Qatar, and Turkey, have made significant progress toward a ceasefire, with discussions focusing on hostage swaps, Israeli withdrawal, and Gaza's future. The talks are ongoing, with optimism about reaching an agreement soon.
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Fighting in Sudan's el-Fasher has led to mass killings, sexual violence, and a humanitarian crisis. Leaders call for an immediate ceasefire as thousands are displaced and civilians face famine-like conditions. Reports indicate widespread atrocities committed by the Rapid Support Forces, with the situation deteriorating rapidly.
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President Trump has designated Nigeria as a violator of religious freedom, warning of possible military intervention if the government does not address violence against Christians. Nigeria's government denies allegations of persecution, emphasizing its constitutional commitment to religious freedom. The EU and China have expressed support for Nigeria's sovereignty amid the controversy.
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European tensions over Chinese-controlled Nexperia have escalated, disrupting auto supply chains and exposing Europe's dependency on Chinese technology amid US-China trade conflicts. Diplomatic efforts are underway to resolve the crisis, but risks of ongoing instability remain. (Tue, 18 Nov 2025 12:45:09 +0000)
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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.
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In late November and early December 2025, Russia intensified missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian cities including Kyiv, Dnipro, Zaporizhzhia, and Ternopil, targeting energy infrastructure and civilian areas, causing deaths and injuries. Concurrently, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy engaged in diplomatic efforts with U.S. and European leaders to revive peace negotiations, despite Russia's refusal to participate directly in talks.
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The U.S. and Russia have reportedly drafted a 28-point peace plan for Ukraine, excluding Ukrainian and European input. European leaders emphasize the need for Ukraine's involvement, amid ongoing tensions and recent battlefield setbacks. The plan's details and implications remain uncertain, raising questions about its legitimacy and potential impact on Ukraine's sovereignty.