World Affairs

Core viewpoint: Global political landscapes are shifting due to regional conflicts, potential shifts in sovereignty, and international relations.

Greenland's Pivotal Election

Greenland is holding a general election on Tuesday, viewed by some as a crucial opportunity to seek independence from Danish rule. This occurs amid growing pro-independence sentiment and renewed U.S. interest, with President Donald Trump having proposed significant investments in exchange for Greenland joining the United States.

Moscow Drone Attack

A massive drone attack on Moscow involved at least 91 drones, resulting in at least one fatality, according to a regional governor. Airports in Moscow suspended flights following the attack. At least one person is confirmed dead in the overnight attack, involving at least 73 drones, according to local officials.

Syrian Government and SDF Deal

A deal has been reached aiming to integrate Kurdish-led SDF-controlled entities into Syrian state institutions.

Gaza Blockade and Aid Concerns

As Israel's complete blockade on Gaza nears ten days, UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini warns that aid is being 'weaponised', highlighting concerns about deepening hunger in the region.

Trump's Actions Against Columbia University

President Trump has cut $400 million in funding from Columbia University, allegedly to stifle criticism of Israel, but critics argue the real target is dissent.

Finance

Core viewpoint: Financial leadership requires navigating complex economic landscapes and international pressures.

Central Banker's Experience

A central banker has weathered two era-defining implosions during his career.

Politics

Core viewpoint: Shifting political landscapes and international relations are creating complex challenges for leaders worldwide.

Irish Leader's Washington Trip

Micheál Martin is heading to Washington to discuss defence, the Palestinian issue, and Irish-American trade.

Portuguese Government on the Brink

MPs are preparing to debate a motion of confidence that is likely to topple the center-right government in Portugal, potentially leading to a snap general election.

Donald Trump Jr.'s Business Venture

Donald Trump Jr.’s role at 1789 will focus on sourcing deals and investors, acting as a Maga magnet for the firm.

World Affairs

Core viewpoint: Geopolitical tensions and shifts in international relations are shaping global events, impacting trade, security, and diplomacy.

US and Ukraine to Discuss Peace in Saudi Arabia

U.S. and Ukrainian officials are scheduled to meet in Saudi Arabia to discuss potential paths to peace with Russia, amidst differing visions from the U.S., Ukraine, and Russia. The talks aim to mend ties and assess Ukraine's willingness to make concessions under President Donald Trump's push for a swift resolution to the conflict.

Drone Attacks Target Moscow

Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin reported that at least 60 drones were destroyed on approach to the city, with reports indicating multiple residential fires. This highlights the ongoing conflict's impact on Russian territory.

Rising Anti-Muslim Incidents in the US

A Muslim advocacy group reported a 7.4% increase in discrimination and attacks against American Muslims and Arabs in 2024. This rise is attributed to heightened Islamophobia resulting from the Israel-Gaza war and subsequent college campus protests.

International Arrest Warrant Issued for Duterte

Former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte has been arrested on an international warrant by the ICC, stemming from his controversial "war on drugs." Rights groups estimate that this campaign resulted in 30,000 deaths.

Dalai Lama's Successor and Tibet

A new book by the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism is expected to escalate tensions with Beijing regarding control over Tibet. The book may address the selection of a successor born outside of China.

Rwanda's Role in Regional Conflicts

Rwanda is leveraging its image as a security partner and sports destination to mitigate potential repercussions from its involvement in regional conflicts, particularly in the war in Congo.

Business and Economy

Core viewpoint: Global trade and economic stability are being challenged by political factors, technological advancements, and evolving international agreements.

Trump's Trade Policies Impact Global Markets

Donald Trump's talk of tariffs and unpredictable trade war rhetoric is creating uncertainty for investors, leading to fluctuations in markets like the ASX 200, and is raising concerns about a potential recession. The UK is hoping a tech pact with the US might help avoid tariffs.

EU Seals Digital Trade Deal with Korea

The European Union and South Korea have finalized a digital trade agreement, coinciding with the Trump administration's scrutiny of the EU's tech regulations, which it views as trade barriers.

Pressures on Aviation are Growing

Pressures on aviation are increasing, from heightened security threats to CO2 emissions targets, A new roadmap charts a course for modernizing critical air traffic management.

St. Patrick's Day at the White House

White House events for St. Patrick's Day are normally a diplomatic dream for Dublin, but this year is completely different and dangerous for Ireland’s America-fueled economy.

Macron's Military Spending

Macron's calls for more military spending without tax increases have sparked fears over future cuts to social programs.

Technology

Core viewpoint: The technology sector is witnessing rapid innovation and strategic competition, with significant implications for global leadership and economic growth.

China Aims to Be a Tech Superpower

Xi Jinping is pushing China to become a tech superpower, despite economic challenges and trade disputes. Critics question whether this focus is neglecting the needs of ordinary citizens.

Breakthrough in Transistor Technology

Scientists at Peking University have developed a faster and more efficient transistor, potentially revolutionizing chip technology.

World Affairs

Core viewpoint: Global political tensions and shifts in international relations are shaping current events.

U.S. Envoy Plans Meeting with Putin

U.S. President Donald Trump's special envoy, Steve Witkoff, is planning a visit to Moscow to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Ukrainian Drone Attacks Target Moscow

Russian air defence units reportedly destroyed at least 11 Ukrainian drones flying towards Moscow. Aviation authorities suspended flights at two airports serving the city.

Cuba Completes Prisoner Release

Cuba's top tribunal announced the release of 553 prisoners following a Vatican-brokered deal, which was briefly jeopardized after U.S. President Donald Trump reversed a Biden administration pledge to ease sanctions.

EU's Path to Global Influence

To become a great power, the EU needs a political structure enabling it to exercise the leadership previously provided by the U.S.

Politics

Core viewpoint: Domestic political landscapes are witnessing internal conflicts and leadership transitions.

Fallout from Spain’s Deadly Floods

Ongoing fallout from Spain’s deadly floods could potentially tarnish a gathering of center-right luminaries.

Manitoba Progressive Conservatives Leadership Race

Just under 11,000 people have taken out memberships in the Progressive Conservative Party of Manitoba in time to vote for next month's leadership race.

USAID Foreign Aid Freeze

An order prohibited agencies from “unlawfully impounding congressionally appropriated foreign aid funds” owed to contractors and grant recipients for work completed before Feb. 13.

Germany's Green Party Vows to Oppose Spending Plan

The Greens vow to foil the chancellor-in-waiting's historic plan to invest big in defense and infrastructure, though this may be a negotiating tactic.

International Relations

Core viewpoint: Global trade and diplomatic relations are facing challenges and shifts.

China Condemns US Tariffs

Wang Yi criticizes the 20% levy on Chinese goods, warning that a ‘law of the jungle’ could emerge from Donald Trump’s policy.

US Aid to Kyiv

U.S. secretary of State hinted that aid to Kyiv could start flowing again depending on the outcome of the upcoming talks.

Legal

Core viewpoint: Legal actions and immigration issues are impacting individuals and international figures.

Duterte Investigated by International Criminal Court

The International Criminal Court has been investigating the deadly crackdown that Mr. Duterte, who was detained in Manila on Tuesday, oversaw while in power.

Arrest of Pro-Gaza Protest Leader

Mr. Khalil, who helped lead protests at Columbia University against high civilian casualties in Gaza, was arrested by immigration officers and sent to a detention center in Louisiana.

Financial Markets

Core viewpoint: Market volatility reflects economic concerns.

Tech-Heavy Nasdaq 100 Plunges

The tech-heavy Nasdaq 100 plunges 3.81 percent, its steepest single-day loss since September 2022.

Other

Core viewpoint: Unique geopolitical factors are influencing previously overlooked regions.

Greenland's Future

Greenland, previously untouched, is being forced to confront its future due to President Trump's actions.

World Affairs

Core viewpoint: Geopolitical tensions and economic strategies are shaping global events, impacting international relations and domestic policies.

Political Unrest and Presidential Actions

Police and supporters of the impeached president gathered at the presidential residence in Seoul before his possible release, indicating ongoing political tensions in South Korea. Meanwhile, in the US, anxieties rise with discussions around entitlements and potential policy shifts, highlighted by promises made versus actions considered regarding Social Security and Medicare.

China's Economic and Energy Strategies

China is actively ensuring energy security by diversifying its import sources to avoid dependence on any single nation or route. This strategic move aligns with broader efforts to boost economic confidence by managing public expectations and encouraging consumer spending to meet ambitious growth targets.

Middle East Tensions and Regional Developments

Syrian and Israeli media reported air attacks on a southern province, targeting military sites linked to the former al-Assad regime, reflecting continued volatility in the region. Separately, a militia alliance in north-eastern Syria will merge with new state institutions, signaling a shift in governance dynamics in the area.

US Politics and International Engagements

Key US political stories include debates over a Palestinian activist’s detention and concerns about potential economic policies. Tulsi Gabbard is scheduled to address a security conference in New Delhi and make a stop in France, indicating ongoing international engagements by prominent figures.

Trade Tensions and Australian Concerns

Australia faces the potential impact of US president’s global steel and aluminium tariffs, despite intense lobbying efforts for exemption, reflecting concerns over trade relations and economic implications.

World Affairs

Core viewpoint: Geopolitical tensions and conflicts continue to shape international relations, requiring careful navigation and strategic decision-making.

Ukraine's Territorial Concessions

According to Rubio, Ukraine would have to make concessions over land that Russia had taken since 2014 in any peace deal.

US Reliance on China for Military Minerals

Fighter jets, submarines, and bullets used by the US military are built with minerals processed by Beijing.

Politics

Core viewpoint: Political landscapes are shifting, with debates over trade, education, and food safety dominating headlines.

Trump Seeks Minerals Refining on Pentagon Bases

Trump is seeking minerals refining on Pentagon bases to boost US output.

China's Resilience to US Tariffs

Analysts suggest Beijing is much better positioned to withstand US tariffs than during Trump's first administration.

Controversy Over Peter Dutton's Travel Expenses

Peter Dutton charged taxpayers for flights coinciding with Liberal fundraisers, including events at a men-only club in Melbourne and a private home in Sydney’s north shore.

Trump Administration Targets Colleges Over Antisemitism

The Trump administration warned colleges about antisemitism just after it pulled hundreds of millions of dollars from Columbia University.

Concerns Over Food Company Practices

The Health Secretary accuses food companies of exploiting loopholes over food safety and urges greater transparency.

Politics

Core viewpoint: Navigating political landscapes involves complex negotiations, policy implementations, and internal conflicts.

Government Shutdown Averted?

Congressional Republicans are attempting to unite around a bill to avert a government shutdown. The bill would then move to the Senate, where Republicans hold a 53-47 majority.

Rubio's Diplomatic Efforts

Secretary of State Marco Rubio is seeking to bolster his position after a disagreement with Elon Musk. He is meeting with Saudi and Ukrainian officials in Saudi Arabia and allied diplomats in Canada.

Zelensky Skips Talks

President Zelensky will not attend the March 11 talks with US officials.

Trump's Policies Meet Reality

President Trump’s sweeping promises are encountering the reality of governing.

New DHS App Raises Concerns

DHS secretary Kristi Noem announced a new version of the CBP One app, raising privacy concerns for users.

Potential Labor Secretary

Ms. Chavez-DeRemer was a co-sponsor of the Protecting the Right to Organize Act (PRO Act), a labor bill aimed at strengthening collective bargaining rights.

Dismissal in the Justice Department

Former pardon attorney Elizabeth G. Oyer said she was not told why she was dismissed, fearing it was due to unfolding events.

Business

Core viewpoint: Consumer behavior and retail performance reflect economic trends and seasonal influences.

Valentine's Day Boosts Retail

Jewellery purchases related to Valentine's Day provided a lift to an otherwise lacklustre month for UK retailers, according to the British Retail Consortium.

Middle East

Core viewpoint: Ongoing instability and international involvement continue to shape the region's trajectory.

Escalating Violence and International Concerns in Syria

Since March 6, forces in the coastal region of Syria have been under attack by fighters loyal to the Assad regime. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that 973 civilians were killed in reprisal attacks as of March 9. The interim government has signed a deal with the Kurdish-led authority that controls the country's oil-rich northeast. Mr. Sharaa has vowed to catch those responsible for the killings, and Turkey backs Sharaa's stability efforts.

UN Security Council to Discuss Iran's Uranium Stockpile

The United Nations Security Council will meet behind closed doors on Wednesday to discuss Iran's expansion of its stock of uranium close to weapons grade.

North America

Core viewpoint: Political tensions and trade disputes are creating uncertainty and impacting key sectors.

Deportation of Palestinian Student and Trump's Involvement

President Trump stated that a Palestinian student's presence in the US was "'contrary to national and foreign policy interests" and described the student as "anti-American".

Trump Envoy Plans Moscow Visit and US Senator Accuses Trump of Weakening Ukraine

Steve Witkoff, President Trump's special envoy, plans to visit Moscow to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin. A Democratic U.S. senator who recently visited Ukraine accused the Trump administration of lessening Kyiv's defenses against Russia by suspending intelligence-sharing.

Alcohol Trade Dispute

American alcohol is being removed from shelves as premiers seek to improve interprovincial trade. Some Saskatchewan producers see this as an opportunity to improve small businesses.

Political Dynamics in Canada

Mark Carney will likely be in power shortly before a federal election and will need to negotiate with Trump to win. A United Conservative backbencher, Scott Sinclair, kicked out of the caucus for opposing the government's budget, isn't ruling out a return to the party caucus.

Budget Cut

Republicans omitted a standard provision approving the District’s budget in a stopgap funding measure needed to avert a shutdown, potentially resulting in a 16 percent cut.

Business & Technology

Core viewpoint: The intersection of technology, politics, and business continues to raise complex questions.

Social Media Company and Beijing Control

A social media company considered letting Beijing control content for access to its lucrative market, the BBC reported.

Wall Street's Slide and Political Pressure

Wall Street’s slide puts pressure on Musk and Trump, for different reasons.

Other

Core viewpoint: Ongoing global issues require collaborative solutions but face significant limitations.

Limits of Global Climate Summits

The president of the next United Nations climate summit, Brazilian diplomat Andre Correa do Lago, stated that the model of gathering world leaders to negotiate agreements under complex rules is starting to show its limits.

Spa Shooter's Admissions

Robert Aaron Long is serving a life sentence for killing 4 at an Asian spa in Cherokee County, Georgia, just hours before the Atlanta shootings in 2021.

World Affairs

Core viewpoint: Shifting geopolitical landscapes are marked by international agreements, internal conflicts, and trade tensions.

Syrian Forces Merge with Government

The Kurdish-led and U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), controlling much of Syria's oil-rich northeast, signed a deal with the Damascus government to integrate into Syria's new state institutions.

OAS Elects New Secretary General

Albert Ramdin, the Foreign Minister of Suriname, was elected as the new Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS) through 2030, succeeding Luis Almagro. He is the body's first Caribbean leader.

Congo's Political Tensions Rise

Officials from the party of Democratic Republic of Congo's former President Joseph Kabila were questioned by a military prosecutor amid rising political tensions over advances by Rwanda-backed rebels in the east.

Russia Attacks Kyiv

Russia launched overnight air strikes on Kyiv. Ukrainian air defense systems were engaged in repelling the attack.

US Senator Visits Ukraine

Senator Mark Kelly, an Arizona Democrat and former astronaut, visited Ukraine and affirmed the United States' support. Elon Musk responded critically on X.

Guatemala Journalist Rearrested

A Guatemalan judge ordered journalist Jose Zamora back to jail in a case related to money laundering charges, which he dismisses as political persecution.

Syrians Flee to Lebanon

Thousands of Syrians have crossed into Lebanon from the provinces of Latakia and Tartus.

Politics

Core viewpoint: Political landscapes are being reshaped by policy changes, leadership transitions, and legal challenges.

Tories Announce Deportation Policy

The Conservative party announced a policy to deport all foreign nationals with criminal convictions, applying to asylum seekers and those charged with immigration offenses.

Mark Carney to Lead Liberal Party

Mark Carney will be sworn in as the new Liberal leader and soon become the Prime Minister of Canada, with some in Saskatchewan being unaware of his impending leadership.

January 6th Defendant Denied Dismissal

A judge denied Edward Kelley's motion to dismiss charges of plotting to kill federal agents investigating him related to the January 6th incident.

Business and Trade

Core viewpoint: Global trade relations are strained by tariffs and disputes, impacting various sectors.

China Imposes Tariffs on Canada

China announced retaliatory tariffs on Canadian seafood in response to Canada's surtax on Chinese-made electric vehicles and steel/aluminum.

Saskatchewan Farmers Demand Action

Saskatchewan farmers are urging provincial and federal governments to address the looming trade war with the United States and China.

Health

Core viewpoint: Scrutiny of healthcare decisions and exploration of alternative approaches to global issues.

Gove Denies Ventilator Pressure

Former minister denies pressuring MHRA to approve ventilators for NHS, calling the suggestion "ludicrous."

Colombia Considers Coca Legalization

Colombia's foreign minister suggests legalizing the main ingredient of cocaine as the only way to stop drug trafficking and violence.

Military and Law

Core viewpoint: Developments in military justice and national security concerns.

USS Cole Case Settlement

A Saudi prisoner agreed to a settlement in the USS Cole case to avoid a death-penalty trial, though it awaits the defense secretary's approval.

Pentagon Leaker Faces Court Martial

Jack Teixeira, jailed on federal charges under the Espionage Act, now faces military charges of disobeying orders and obstructing justice.

Technology and Science

Core viewpoint: Shifting focuses in scientific research and adjustments in international relations.

China's Scientific Research

As state media touts China as the new leader in scientific research, others caution about existing gaps and weaknesses.

US-China Relations

Past policies and business leader influence are shifting the US president’s tone towards China.

World Affairs

Core viewpoint: Global political tensions and shifts are evident across multiple continents, impacting international relations and domestic policies.

US-Ukraine Relations & G7 Meeting

US Secretary of State traveled to Saudi Arabia for talks with Ukrainian officials. The meeting, the first official meeting between the two governments since a previous tense encounter, aims to repair ties amidst intensified Russian attacks. The Secretary of State indicated future talks with Moscow would be needed to determine conditions for ending the war. Ahead of the G7 meeting in Canada, Senator Rubio vowed to block antagonistic language towards Russia. The UK Prime Minister hopes for a "positive outcome" from US-Ukraine talks and is preparing a meeting of allies willing to police a ceasefire deal. Meanwhile, Kyiv plans to propose a partial ceasefire in hopes that the US will resume military aid and intelligence-sharing.

Trump's Tariffs and Canadian Retaliation

Tensions between the US and Canada escalate as Premier Doug Ford of Ontario applies a 25% surcharge on electricity exports to three U.S. states in retaliation for President Trump's tariffs. Ford warned he would "not hesitate to shut the electricity off completely" if the tariff threats persist. The risk of a "Trumpcession" is rising as his brinkmanship and stop-start approach to tariffs rattle investors.

Political Developments in Canada

Former central banker Mark Carney secured a landslide victory in the Liberal party race, potentially hastening a transfer of power amidst the trade war with the US. Following his win, Carney announced plans to immediately eliminate the federal government’s carbon price on consumers and halt the capital gains tax increase. This sets the stage for a significant political showdown between Carney and Pierre Poilievre over the country's direction.

Tensions and Conflicts in Other Regions

NATO's Rutte criticized "unacceptable threats" to Bosnia's security following a visit to Sarajevo, after Bosnian Serb leaders barred federal judicial authorities and police from Republika Srpska. A monitoring group reported that 973 civilians have been killed in revenge attacks against the Alawite sect since Thursday in Syria. A breaking news story indicates that Syria's Al-Sharaa vowed to punish forces responsible for mass killings. After blocking all aid entering the battered enclave, Israel has now announced it will stop electricity to Gaza.

Romania Election Controversy

Romania's electoral commission barred Calin Georgescu, a critic of Ukraine and NATO, from competing in the upcoming election. Horaţiu Potra, called the election bureau's decision to block Călin Georgescu's presidential bid a "globalist coup."

United States

Core viewpoint: The US faces domestic policy shifts and social controversies, with significant impacts from the Trump administration's policies.

Trump Administration Policies and Actions

The Trump administration launched a new app, CBP Home, that allows undocumented immigrants to "self-deport" to avoid arrest and detention. President Trump stated that a base would house as many as 30,000 migrants awaiting deportation, though construction of a tent city was halted weeks ago. In his second term, Trump is allegedly cultivating close ties with G.O.P. lawmakers and using the threat of political ruin to ensure their alignment with his agenda. The administration's first 100 days include cuts to intelligence-sharing and reported infighting between Musk and Rubio. Chris Wright signaled the abandonment of Biden’s ‘irrational, quasi-religious’ climate policies.

Social and Political Controversies

Civil rights groups are criticizing the arrest of pro-Palestinian protest leader Mahmoud Khalil at Columbia University as a "targeted, retaliatory" attack on his First Amendment rights. Trump stated that Khalil's arrest is the first of many to come, as Khalil also faces deportation. A Trump supporter, Jensy Machado, a naturalized US citizen from Virginia, believes the US immigration agency profiles Hispanic people. The Washington Post saw the resignation of Ruth Marcus due to disagreement with the paper's new opinion policy.

Supreme Court and Social Issues

The Supreme Court is reviewing a case related to conversion therapy, as Colorado, like many other states, prohibits licensed therapists from attempting to change the sexual orientation or gender identity of minors.

Business and Finance

Core viewpoint: Economic instability and market fluctuations are influenced by geopolitical tensions and policy changes.

Market Downturn and Financial Concerns

The Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq experienced significant declines, with the Nasdaq heading for its worst day since October 2022, driven by concerns over Trump's tariffs. The insurance market, Lloyds of London, expects losses from California wildfires but noted limited fine art losses as wealthy residents evacuated with their possessions.

Other News

NASA Cuts

NASA eliminated the Office of Technology, Policy and Strategy and a DEI-focused office as part of "efficiency" cuts.

Pope's Health

Pope Francis's condition has improved, but he will remain in the hospital for further treatment.

Menendez Brothers Case

The LA District Attorney will not support resentencing the Menendez brothers, stating they repeatedly lied about why they killed their parents in 1989.

Singapore's Position in a Changing World

Singapore is small but far from powerless in an unpredictable world, able to adapt and navigate uncertainties with clarity and courage. The nation has had 12 budgets over the past 5 years, from tackling the Covid-19 pandemic to charting the future.

Greenland Elections

Greenlanders will vote in an election on Tuesday after hearing threats from US President Donald Trump, who has vowed to take over Greenland.

Harvard Hiring Freeze

Harvard, along with other wealthy schools, announced a hiring freeze to save money.