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India had a successful year in foreign policy in 2023, with highlights including hosting the G-20 Summit and being recognized as the world's fifth-largest economy. India expanded its international partnerships through new trade and security deals and championed the cause of the Global South. However, India faces enduring challenges, such as China's Belt and Road Initiative and growing anti-India sentiments in neighboring countries. India's foreign policy also faces territorial challenges from China and concerns over democratic backsliding. Despite these challenges, India's proactive diplomatic engagements have contributed to its growing international stature. [Extracted from the article]

Recalling Wagner forces from overseas deployments risks derailing the Kremlin's broader agenda in Africa. For all the drama of the failed rebellion by Yevgeny Prigozhin and his Wagner Group forces in late June, the private military company's operations in Africa appear to be business as usual for now. Mercenaries and private military companies may not be new, but the Kremlin's efforts to use Wagner as a " Swiss-army knife" should concern lawmakers, policymakers and national security professionals alike. [Extracted from the article]

The final communique of last weekend's G-7 summit in Japan left no doubt that the West views Russia as not only a malign global player but an enemy, and considers China to be not just a competitor but a rival and potentially a threat. There, public opinion has moved closer to China and Russia, whose popularity has now surpassed that of the United States. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the erosion of the postwar liberal international order and the persistence of great power peace since 1945. It highlights the parallels between current great power behaviors and those of the late 1930s, emphasizing the role of economic sanctions in escalating conflicts. The text also explores the concept of "weaponized interdependence" and the potential consequences of escalating economic warfare between major powers. The article raises concerns about the possibility of a great power war and questions the effectiveness of traditional pillars of great power peace in the current geopolitical landscape. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the rise of Austria's far-right Freedom Party (FPO) and the potential implications of the party coming to power. Interim Chancellor Alexander Schallenberg reassured EU leaders of Austria's commitment to the EU, despite the FPO's increasing influence. The FPO's rise is attributed to a slow and methodical campaign exploiting economic frustrations and migration fears, rather than a charismatic leader. The potential coalition between the FPO and the center-right Austrian People's Party (OVP) could mark a historic victory for the FPO, with broader implications for far-right parties across Europe. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the perception of U.S. President Joe Biden's foreign policy legacy, particularly in relation to upholding the international "rules-based order." While some argue that Biden's efforts were unsuccessful, the article highlights the importance of international institutions, global civil society, and middle power states in maintaining this order. It also emphasizes the enduring strength of key rules in the international order, such as territorial non-aggression and human rights protections, despite challenges and violations by powerful states. The article concludes that while Biden's administration faced criticism for its approach, the concept of a rules-based order remains valuable and subject to ongoing enforcement and adaptation. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the fading living memory of World War II and the lessons that are being forgotten as time passes. It reflects on the founding of the United Nations in 1945 and its continued existence, questioning whether it has fulfilled its original purpose of preventing war between great powers. The text also highlights the importance of learning from history and the need to remember the devastation of past conflicts to prevent their recurrence in the future. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the downing of Azerbaijan Airlines Flight 8243 and its potential impact on Russia-Azerbaijan relations. Russian President Vladimir Putin apologized to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev after preliminary evidence suggested Russian involvement in the incident. The tragedy has escalated from a national tragedy to a diplomatic flashpoint for Azerbaijan, with Aliyev demanding accountability from Moscow. The incident highlights the vulnerability of civilian airspace in conflict zones and raises questions about accountability, sovereignty, and safety in such areas. [Extracted from the article]

In 2025, China faces challenges in its economy, structural reforms, and external relations, particularly with the U.S. President Xi Jinping must navigate these issues while restoring trust in his leadership, which has been undermined by policy decisions. The economy is struggling with low consumer demand and deflation, prompting the government to implement measures to stabilize it. Structural reforms are needed to redistribute income and increase fiscal revenue, but their implementation remains uncertain. Overall, 2025 will be a crucial year for China and President Xi as they address complex internal and external challenges. [Extracted from the article]

Germany's economic model is facing challenges, with a predicted contraction in output and fears of a recession. The country's once-lauded economic system, known for its public-private partnerships and skilled workforce, is struggling to adapt to the evolving global economy. Factors such as rising energy costs, political instability, and the COVID-19 pandemic have exacerbated these challenges. The upcoming elections will be crucial in determining the future direction of Germany's economy, with a need for immediate and long-term reforms to stabilize and revitalize it. [Extracted from the article]

After a general election in Ireland, the center-right parties Fianna Fail and Fine Gael emerged as the winners, securing 48 and 38 seats respectively. The Green Party, their junior coalition partner, lost most of its seats, while the left-wing opposition party Sinn Fein gained 39 seats, its highest ever in the Irish legislature. The election results reflect the unique political landscape of Ireland, shaped by historical events like the civil war and the Good Friday Agreement, with Fianna Fail and Fine Gael now poised to return to power in a coalition government. [Extracted from the article]

Delegates at the United Nations COP27 Climate Change Summit in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, remain locked in intensive negotiations to steer the world toward reducing carbon emissions and scaling up financing for developing countries devastated by climate change. At COP27, Europe Is Feeling the Heat on "Loss and Damage" Egypt, which holds the rotating presidency of COP27, pushed for a fund to compensate developing countries for climate disasters caused by carbon emissions that historically have mostly come from rich, industrialized countries, particularly ones in the Global North. [Extracted from the article]

National governments and international institutions are beginning to weigh in, including the European Parliament, the World Health Organization and the Pacific Island states of Vanuatu and Tuvalu. Governments can also include supply-side reduction policies for fossil fuels in their national strategies to reach their Paris Agreement targets for emissions reductions, especially net-zero by 2050. The state of California, a trend-setter in climate policy, banned the sale of new gasoline-powered vehicles in the state from 2035. [Extracted from the article]

"Netanyahu's return as prime minister increases the likelihood that Israel will stay the course of its current policy of neutrality over the war in Ukraine." As long as Israel does not perceive the deepening cooperation between Russia's military and Iran to be a threat to its own national security, it will likely stay out of the war in Ukraine. [Extracted from the article]

Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic has led the country towards economic growth and closer alignment with the EU and NATO during his eight-year tenure. Despite his success, the HDZ-backed candidate in the upcoming presidential election, Zoran Milanovic, is poised to challenge him. Milanovic's populist appeal contrasts with Plenkovic's technocratic leadership, and the election outcome remains uncertain as economic issues take center stage in Croatian politics. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses Turkey's reaction to the outcome of the U.S. presidential election, with Turkish President Erdogan and his team expressing optimism about President-elect Donald Trump's return to the White House. While there have been some positive developments in U.S.-Turkey relations under the Biden administration, tensions persist. Erdogan's optimism is partly based on his past warm relationship with Trump and their shared diplomatic approaches. However, there are concerns about potential challenges and uncertainties in the future, particularly regarding Trump's Cabinet picks and issues such as the Israel-Palestine conflict and NATO's future. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the rise of new European leaders as former U.S. President Donald Trump returns to the White House. It highlights three key figures: Kallas, Merz, and Bardella, who are expected to play significant roles in shaping European politics during Trump's second term. Kallas, a former Estonian prime minister, is poised to become the EU's top diplomat, while Merz, a conservative leader in Germany, aims to shift the country's politics to the right. Bardella, mentored by Marine Le Pen, could potentially lead France's far-right National Rally party. The article provides insights into these emerging leaders and their potential impact on European politics. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the collapse of Germany's ruling coalition government, known as the 'Traffic-Light Coalition,' due to internal divisions and challenges faced by Chancellor Olaf Scholz. The coalition, comprising the Social Democrats, Greens, and Free Democrats, struggled to reconcile their differing ideologies and respond to crises such as Russia's invasion of Ukraine and economic challenges. As the coalition faced mounting difficulties, the Free Democrats were dismissed from the government, leading to a confidence vote and new parliamentary elections. The political landscape in Germany is shifting, with the conservative CDU and far-left BSW emerging as significant players, while the future remains uncertain amidst growing anti-incumbent sentiment and external pressures. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses how countries in Southeast Asia are navigating the escalating tensions between the United States and China, with concerns about having to choose sides. Many Southeast Asian states are building ties with middle powers like Japan, Australia, South Korea, and India, as well as outside powers like Russia and the European Union, to avoid being caught up in U.S.-China tensions. These partnerships offer smaller Southeast Asian states more options to resist pressure from the U.S. and China, diversify their investments, and balance their security interests. The article highlights the importance of these relationships in providing Southeast Asian countries with diplomatic flexibility and strategic alternatives amidst growing geopolitical challenges. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the re-election of Donald Trump as U.S. President, highlighting concerns about his divisive politics and impact on American democracy. It also explores the global implications of another Trump presidency, including challenges to international norms and relations. The author emphasizes the need for global solidarity in resisting authoritarianism and maintaining focus on social justice movements worldwide. The tone is somber, reflecting the gravity of the situation, but also calls for continued vigilance and activism in the face of adversity. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the Biden administration's engagement with Africa, highlighting initial promises and subsequent shortcomings. Despite some positive steps like reversing travel bans and supporting vaccine waivers, the administration's policies often fell short of expectations. The text also critiques Washington's approach to Africa, noting a focus on geopolitical competition and stability over accountability. Overall, the article suggests that genuine interest and meaningful engagement with Africa from the U.S. may continue to decline in the future. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses Russia's increasing involvement in the war in Ukraine, with external support from countries like North Korea. North Korea has reportedly sent troops to Russia for training, potentially to be deployed in the conflict in Ukraine. This development raises concerns about the escalation of the conflict and the possibility of a broader global war, highlighting the interconnected nature of security issues when Russia is involved. The presence of North Korean troops in Ukraine could have significant implications for the ongoing conflict and international relations. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses Russia's influence in Georgia's recent election, suggesting that Russian President Vladimir Putin may be succeeding in bringing Georgia back into Moscow's sphere of influence. The ruling Georgia Dream party, led by a Moscow-friendly billionaire, is accused of collaborating with Russia to achieve this goal. Despite opposition claims of election irregularities and pressure tactics, Georgia Dream fell short of a supermajority in parliament, prompting calls for a transparent investigation. The article highlights Georgia's aspirations for a democratic, prosperous European future, contrasting with Russia's efforts to prevent the country from joining the West. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' controversial attendance at the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia, where he faced criticism for meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Guterres' visit was seen as a diplomatic miscalculation, with some European politicians calling for his resignation. Despite the backlash, Guterres' decision to attend the summit was influenced by diplomatic considerations and the need to engage with non-Western countries. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the increasing demand for critical minerals needed for green technologies like electric vehicles and wind turbines, highlighting China's dominance in smelting these minerals. Efforts are being made by Western countries to secure supply chains for critical minerals outside of China, but challenges remain due to China's competitive pricing. While some view China's control of the market as illegitimate, it is noted that most of the world's biggest mining companies are based in the West and choose to ship unprocessed ore to China due to cost-effectiveness. Countries like Indonesia and African nations are exploring local processing of minerals to increase value, but face obstacles such as energy-intensive processes and competition from Chinese smelters. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the recent BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia, where four new members - the United Arab Emirates, Iran, Egypt, and Ethiopia - joined the organization, shifting the balance of power towards autocratic regimes aligned with China and Russia. The presence of controversial leaders like Maduro complicated discussions on reducing the role of the U.S. dollar in the global economy. Despite Putin's diplomatic victory, democratic members like India and Brazil pushed back against further expansion and maintained a focus on reforming global institutions. The article highlights the tensions between democracies and autocracies within BRICS and emphasizes the need for Brazil to strategize for future summits. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses how EU member states traditionally considered peripheral, such as Italy, Poland, and Greece, are now playing central roles in shaping EU policy, particularly in areas like migration, security, and defense. These states have gained influence and leverage within the EU system, challenging the dominance of core states like Germany and France. The article highlights how EU membership has enabled smaller or historically vulnerable states to become key players in global institutions, blurring the lines between center and periphery in European power dynamics. [Extracted from the article]

Divisions among European Union (EU) member states over the Israel-Gaza conflict have left the EU largely sidelined in efforts to end the fighting. Initially, the EU expressed solidarity with Israel after Hamas carried out an attack, but as the death toll in Gaza mounted, support for Israel's military campaign waned. The EU's top leadership and member states have had differences of opinion on various aspects of the conflict, including the establishment of a Palestinian state and allegations of double standards in international law. The EU may prefer to prioritize its own security challenges and may be influenced by the outcome of the US presidential election. [Extracted from the article]

The concept of hegemony, which refers to the ability of a powerful actor to shape the international system, is a central theme in international politics. While some associate hegemony with cooperative behavior and the establishment of peace, others view it as coercive and associated with dominance. Historically, dominant powers have sought to establish regional or global order, but achieving true global hegemony has proven difficult. Currently, the United States is not globally hegemonic, as it lacks the ability to shape global affairs. China, on the other hand, exhibits behavior consistent with major powers seeking regional influence and domination, raising questions about its global ambitions. The concept of hegemony influences policy debates and academic understandings of global politics. [Extracted from the article]

Germany's Green party has experienced a series of setbacks, including major electoral defeats and the resignation of its entire leadership. The party's decline in support can be attributed to its association with the unpopular ruling coalition, as well as a disconnect between the party's priorities and the demands of the current political climate. The Greens have also faced criticism for being out of touch with the general public and advancing policies that are seen as costly and restrictive. Despite these challenges, the party has rebounded from similar disappointments in the past, but it may struggle to regain political capital in the upcoming federal election. [Extracted from the article]

Libya's fragile political landscape is at risk due to internal power struggles and a lack of cohesive governance structures. A recent crisis erupted when the interim Prime Minister sought to oust the Central Bank governor, leading to threats of violence and economic instability. However, a deal was struck to end the standoff, appoint a new governor, and restore an independent watchdog body. The sustainability of the agreement depends on the responses of rival factions and the need for unified laws and institutions. International engagement is crucial to support stabilization efforts and pressure Libyan elites to engage in the process. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the concept of the United States as the "indispensable nation" in foreign policy. It highlights that both former President Donald Trump and current President Joe Biden, as well as Vice President Kamala Harris, share the belief that the U.S. should play a leading role in addressing global challenges. While they differ in their approaches and priorities, all three leaders recognize the importance of U.S. involvement in shaping world affairs. The article also notes that despite their differences, Trump, Biden, and Harris all embrace the idea of U.S. power and influence on the global stage. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses President Joe Biden's approach to the United Nations (U.N.) and the impact it has had on U.S. relations with the organization. While Biden has worked to repair the damage done by his predecessor, Donald Trump, and restore U.S. ties to the U.N., his stance on the Israel-Hamas war has put the U.S. at odds with most U.N. members. The article highlights Biden's efforts to rally support among non-Western states, including initiatives on global food security and reforms to the Security Council. However, the administration has been selective in promoting reforms in other areas, leading to criticism from some U.N. officials and foreign diplomats. The article concludes by noting that Biden's legacy at the U.N. will likely be shaped by his approach to reducing tensions in the Middle East, particularly between Israel and its enemies. [Extracted from the article]

The U.S. Department of Justice recently released a report detailing Russia's efforts to influence the 2024 U.S. presidential election. While much attention has been given to the money funneled to right-wing influencers, there are other important revelations in the report. The Russian campaign, led by former Prime Minister Sergey Kiriyenko, aimed to help former President Donald Trump win the election. The campaign targeted Trump's base by focusing on issues such as crime from people of color and overspending on foreign policy. The operation also targeted other countries, particularly in Europe, with the goal of undermining support for Ukraine, NATO, and the United States. The campaign used disinformation tactics, including creating fake websites and leveraging the conflict between Israel and Hamas. The report provides valuable information about Russia's attacks on the West and its efforts to influence the U.S. election. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the upcoming U.S. presidential debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. While the debate is expected to focus on interpersonal dynamics and scripted campaign events, the author highlights the lack of information regarding the candidates' views on U.S. foreign policy and the state of the world. The world has undergone significant changes since the last election, including a more bifurcated global order, regionalized conflicts involving outside actors, and a decline in multilateralism. These challenges will complicate the next president's agenda, and it would be useful to hear how Harris and Trump plan to address them. [Extracted from the article]

The recent regional elections in Saxony and Thuringia have highlighted the growing support for the far-right Alternative for Germany party (AfD) and the populist Bundnis Sarah Wagenknecht party (BSW) in eastern Germany. This has caused further infighting among Chancellor Olaf Scholz's coalition government and uncertainty over the leadership of Friedrich Merz and the conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU). The success of the AfD and BSW has also made the fragile governing coalition on the national level even more dysfunctional, with the Social Democratic Party (SPD), the Greens, and the Free Democratic Party (FDP) facing significant challenges. Additionally, the Left party has suffered a major setback, losing support and prominent leaders to the BSW. The rise of the BSW and the AfD has made it difficult for parties committed to Germany's constitutional order to build stable coalitions and prevent the far-right from gaining power in eastern regions. The CDU's attempts to cut deals with the AfD and BSW could split the German center-right, while the populist tone adopted by mainstream parties on issues like migration is likely to exacerbate tensions within these parties. The unrealistic expectations and panicked responses of mainstream parties to security issues and migration concerns could play into the hands of far-right groups. Seeking coalition deals with the BSW could also lead to fractures within mainstream parties, given their commitment to Germany's Western allies and support for Ukraine. Cooperation with the BSW to exclude the far-right [Extracted from the article]

The European Union (EU) has been a major provider of development aid to impoverished nations, spending 98 billion euros in 2022. However, leaked documents revealed that the EU is increasingly linking aid decisions to its strategic interests, which has been criticized by development agencies. This shift in aid policy aligns the EU with the self-interests of the United States and China, rather than prioritizing poverty reduction. The EU's focus on strategic interests has also led to the linking of aid to migration control and renewable energy goals, diverting funds away from poverty alleviation efforts. This policy shift may undermine the EU's commitment to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals and erode its reputation as an honest broker in aid dealings. [Extracted from the article]

French President Emmanuel Macron came under heavycriticism recently for suggesting that Europe must find away to broker a settlement to the war in Ukraine thatavoids "humiliating" Russia. In contrast to thehostile rivalry between the U.S. and the Soviet Union, orWest Germany's existential fears of a pending invasion,France consistently sought a "pragmatic" approach todealing with Moscow. [Extracted from the article]

Sefcovic reiterated what EU diplomats have said allweek: If the bill proposed by Johnson becomes law, the EUwill terminate parts or even all of the free trade dealit agreed with the U.K. The EU has the right to do sounilaterally as long as it gives London 30 days' notice. The European Commission yesterday launched legal actionagainst the U.K. after British Prime Minister BorisJohnson's government tabled a bill that would undo majoragreements the U.K. committed to as part of the Brexitdivorce deal it signed with the European Union. [Extracted from the article]

When U.S. President Joe Biden decided not to inviteVenezuelan President Nicolas Maduro to last week's Summitof the Americas in Los Angeles, the Venezuelaleader--whose presidency was for years deemed illegitimateby the U.S, the United Kingdom, the European Union andmany of Venezuela's Latin American neighbors, amongothers--set out on a whirlwind international trip aimingto show he still has support in other parts of the world. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, left, andVenezuelan President Nicolas Maduro review the honorguard, in Ankara, Turkey, June 8, 2022 (AP photo byBurhan Ozbilici). [Extracted from the article]

Russia and China's anti-Western narrative casts Russia's"special military operation" in Ukraine as an effort to"end the U.S. quest to dominate the world" and replace itwith a "multipolar, just democratic world order." Outside the West's Echo Chamber Framing the war as symbolic of the eternal strugglebetween "good states" and "bad states" also opens theWest up to charges of hypocrisy and double standards. On the first day of Russia's full-scale invasion ofUkraine, amid the cacophony of war, Ukrainian PresidentVolodymyr Zelenskyy said he heard the "sound of a newIron Curtain" falling across Europe. [Extracted from the article]

Though no country in Latin America imports significantamounts of wheat from Russia or Ukraine, the war's impacton global commodities markets means that price increasesare already hitting the region's populations. Given the supply constraints created by the war,food price inflation is likely to continue for at leastthe next 12 months and perhaps for another 24, whichwould be the longest stretch of high food prices inmodern history. [Extracted from the article]

But after years of neglect under the Trump administration and decades of Chinese investment, the U.S. is quite simply less relevant to the region's political and economic needs. That is all the more the case given Biden's stealth embrace, under the guise of his "foreign policy for the middle class", of Trump's core preoccupations: controlling migration and avoiding new trade deals. This week's Summit of the Americas, hosted by U.S. President Joe Biden in Los Angeles, would have been a challenging affair under the best of circumstances, given the wide-ranging crises the hemisphere faces. [Extracted from the article]

Lacalle Pou's government warmed considerably to China following Beijing's delivery of badly needed Chinese-produced coronavirus vaccines in February 2021 to support Uruguay's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In the run-up to the troubled ninth Summit of the Americas taking place this week in Los Angeles, Uruguayan President Luis Lacalle Pou, whose center-right government has been one of the most consistently aligned with U.S. policies in the region, strongly criticized the Biden administration, asserting that it lacks a vision for Latin America and mistakenly sees the hemisphere's diverse countries as all having the same problems and needs. [Extracted from the article]

Last week, Germany's lower legislative chamber, the Bundestag, held a historic vote to amend the country's constitution to allow for a massive expansion of its military forces. The idea was initially proposed by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who on Feb. 27 -- three days after Russian tanks rolled into Ukraine -- stood before the Bundestag and lambasted Putin in a speech that brought an end to Germany's hyper-restrained stance on armed conflict. [Extracted from the article]

But the Tripoli-based Government of National Unity, or GNU, that wasestablished in 2021 as part of the United Nations-led political process has beenchallenged since March by a rival government appointed through a disputedparliamentary vote. Bashaga has also tried to win international support for his rival government by claimingto Western diplomats that he can reduce Russia's footprint in Libya, though many areskeptical. [Extracted from the article]

One year ago this week, the world's attention suddenly turned to the small Indian Ocean island nation of Sri Lanka, which looked as if it was on the verge of unraveling. As president, Mahinda had ended Sri Lanka's civil war by crushing the separatist Tamil Tigers. [Extracted from the article]

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz made his inaugural visit to Africa with a three-nation tour that began in Senegal and concluded in South Africa. Days after Scholz's visit, Sall visited Angola for the first time as president (https://twitter.com/Macky%5FSall/status/1529587987796869122?s=20&t=uhrU4YMTAqdgyzhEVep6yg), and he will attend a summit of AU leaders scheduled for this weekend (https://www.africanews.com/2022/05/26/african-union-extraordinary-summits-will-tackle-humanitarian-political-crises/). [Extracted from the article]

Blocking expansion of the alliance could be Turkey's wayof, if not taking revenge, then at least reminding theother NATO allies of its relevance. As of last week, NATO seemed well on its way toexpanding, when Finland and Sweden formally submittedtheir applications for membership. Sweden and Finland's NATO Bids Hit a Roadblock Named Erdogan. [Extracted from the article]