International Affairs

Core viewpoint: Global events highlight shifts in political accountability, economic policy impacts, and international relations.

Duterte Takes Responsibility for Drug War

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has taken responsibility for his "war on drugs" after an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant. He faces allegations of crimes against humanity for a crackdown that resulted in over 6,000 deaths during his presidency, with the ICC alleging he created and funded death squads targeting drug users and dealers. This arrest sends a signal of potential accountability for powerful individuals.

Protests Erupt in Argentina Over Economic Policies

In Argentina, at least 15 people were injured and over 100 arrested during protests in Buenos Aires against President Javier Milei's economic policies, including pension cuts. Football fans and retirees clashed with police, who used tear gas, rubber bullets, and water cannon to disperse the demonstrators.

Canada Eases Sanctions on Syria

The Canadian government announced plans to ease sanctions on Syria, providing $59m in humanitarian aid and allowing funds to be sent through certain banks, including the Central Bank of Syria. Stefanie McCollum has been nominated as the non-resident ambassador to Syria.

Russia Recaptures Territory in Kursk

Russian forces pushed Ukrainian forces out of territory in the Kursk region, attacking 32 times in the past week. Russia's defence ministry announced the recapture of over 100 sq km, including dozens of settlements. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that Sudzha had been liberated.

Finance

Core viewpoint: Financial markets and government fiscal policies are under scrutiny.

China's Bond Market Faces Test

The bond market mood in China will be tested as the Ministry of Finance is scheduled to auction 167 billion yuan of two-year government bonds on Friday.

Germany Debates Borrowing Rules

Germany's outgoing lower house of parliament will hold a special session to debate a 500 billion euro fund for infrastructure and changes to borrowing rules to bolster defence.

Australia

Core viewpoint: Scrutiny over legislative processes and potential misleading of parliament.

Calls for Inquiry into NSW Premier and Police Minister

There are increasing calls for an investigation into whether New South Wales Premier Chris Minns and his police minister misled parliament and the public before controversial hate speech and religious worship bills were rapidly passed. The NSW Council for Civil Liberties and the NSW Greens are calling for a legislative investigation.