30 AUGUST, SATURDAY
The World Today #91

US: Trump’s tariffs unlawful, rules an Appeals court on using the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA)
On 29 August, the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in Washington DC ruled that most of President Trump’s tariffs are not legal. The court allowed the tariffs to remain until 14 October to give the administration time to appeal to the Supreme Court. The ruling challenges President Trump’s reliance on the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), a 1977 law traditionally used for sanctions and asset freezes. "The statute bestows significant authority on the President to undertake a number of actions in response to a declared national emergency, but none of these actions explicitly include the power to impose tariffs, duties, or the like, or the power to tax," stated the court. Trump, the first president to invoke IEEPA for tariffs, defended the measures as vital against trade imbalances, declining US manufacturing, and cross-border drug flows. The Department of Justice states that tariffs fall under the president’s emergency powers to regulate imports.

PM Modi's in Japan: India signs 13 key agreements and declarations
On 30 August, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi said "This visit to Japan will be remembered for the productive outcomes which will benefit the people of our nations. I thank the PM Ishiba, the Japanese people and the Government for their warmth." Both countries agreed to 13 agreements, declarations, and initiatives. It includes defence ties, a 10-year roadmap for economic partnership, and arrangements for the Chandrayaan-5 mission and polar explorations. Later, Modi flew in to Tianjin for two day visit, which includes the SCO summit.

The War in Gaza: US denies visas for Palestinian delegation to attend UN General Assembly session 
On 30 August, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and 80 other Palestinian officials from the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) and the Palestinian Authority (PA) were blocked from attending the UN General Assembly session in New York in September. The US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the visas of the delegates were revoked for seeking "the unilateral recognition of a conjectural Palestinian state.” President Abbas responded that the decision "stands in clear contradiction to international law and the UN Headquarters Agreement, particularly since the State of Palestine is an observer member of the United Nations.” UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said that “it is important that all member states, permanent observers, be able to be represented,” especially in the light of the ‘two-state solution’ meeting that France and Saudi Arabia are set to host at the beginning of the General Assembly.

Haiti’s Gang Violence: UN deliberates new resolution on establishing new ‘Gang Suppression Force’
On 30 August, Reuters reported that the UN Security Council began talks on drafting a resolution to expand the international forces fighting the armed groups in Haiti. The resolution was prompted by the US and Panama, and aims to transition the current Multinational Security Support mission into a new force called the Gang Suppression Force. The current mission is led by the Kenyan police and suffers from underfunding and is understaffed. The new mission would be led by a Standing Group of representatives from countries that contributed personnel to the previous mission, in addition to the US and Canada. The mission will be funded through voluntary international contributions and supported by a new UN field office to be set up in Port-au-Prince. Jack Ombaka, spokesman for the Multinational Security Support mission, stated that the mission was still assessing the planned new model, reports Reuters.

The War in Ukraine: Former speaker Andriy Parubiy assassinated in Lviv; Russia launches massive overnight strikes 
On 30 August, Ukrainian authorities confirmed the assassination of former parliamentary speaker Andriy Parubiy. He was shot dead in Lviv by an unidentified gunman reportedly disguised as a courier on an e-bike. Politician Parubiy was a central figure in the Euromaidan movement of 2013-14, later serving as secretary of Ukraine’s National Security and Defence Council and speaker of parliament. President Volodymyr Zelensky called the killing a “terrible murder” and vowed to find those responsible. Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha hailed Parubiy as “a patriot and statesman.” Hours later, Russia launched a “massive” overnight strike with over 500 drones and 45 missiles across 14 regions, killing at least one and wounding 28, including three children. Railway infrastructure and civilian areas were hit, while Ukraine retaliated with drone strikes on Russian oil refineries in Krasnodar and Syzran. EU foreign ministers, meeting in Denmark, vowed to push new sanctions, stressing Moscow’s “lack of interest in peace.”

Indonesia: Protestors set fire to regional parliament buildings
On 30 August, Indonesian protesters set ablaze regional parliament buildings in three provinces during demonstrations across the country. It is reported that parliamentary buildings in West Nusa Tenggara, Pekalongan city in Central Java, and Cirebon city in West Java were burnt in arson attacks by protesters. Further, three people died and five were injured after protestors set fire to a parliament building in Makassar, the capital of South Sulawesi province. Additionally, several transportation facilities were damaged in Jakarta on 29 August. These protests are a part of continued demonstrations which began in Jakarta this week over parliamentarians’ salaries. Chief of the Indonesian National Police, Listyo Sigit Prabowo, said that the president has ordered authorities to take strong action against protesters who have violated laws.

30 August 
Today in History 
30 August 2021-US ends its longest war by withdrawing troops from Afghanistan 
On 30 August, the United States completed its military withdrawal from Afghanistan, bringing an end to a two-decade-long war that began in the aftermath of the 11 September attacks. The war saw enormous human and financial costs, with over 2,400 US military deaths, tens of thousands of Afghan casualties, and trillions of dollars spent. The final departure of US troops marked a historic turning point. It aimed to dismantle al-Qaeda and oust the Taliban but evolved into a prolonged struggle of nation-building and counterinsurgency. The withdrawal, executed under President Joe Biden’s administration, was chaotic, with disturbing scenes at Kabul airport as thousands of Afghans sought to flee Taliban rule. The end of the war sparked debates about America’s global role and the future stability of Afghanistan under renewed Taliban control.

Who says what: 
Editorials/Opinions from around the world
Editorial, "Rational response: On U.S.’s tariffs and statements, India’s response," The HIndu, 30 August 2025
https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/rational-response-on-uss-tariffs-and-statements-indias-response/article69988451.ece

Amitabh Mattoo, "A new American ambassador, and a message from Trump: India matters," The Indian Express, 30 August 2025
https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/a-new-american-ambassador-and-a-message-from-trump-india-matters-10219407/

Kirill Babaev, "Putin and Xi to lay foundations for a new world order in Beijing
Russia and China offer the world an alternative to Western hegemony," Russian Times, 29 August 2025
https://www.rt.com/news/623691-putin-and-xi-new-world-order/

Manish Vaid, "Three giants at one table: Can Russia, India, and China rewrite the global rules?," Russian Times, 30 August 2025
https://www.rt.com/india/623642-russia-india-china-partnership/

"Trump’s tariffs suffer a legal setback," Economist, 30 August 2025
https://www.economist.com/united-states/2025/08/30/trumps-tariffs-suffer-a-legal-setback

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28 AUGUST, THURSDAY
The World Today #90
India and Japan: India-Japan Joint Economic Forum holds in Tokyo; Drafts "2035 Vision Statement"
On 29 August, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Japan's Shigeru Ishiba  chaired the India-Japan Joint Economic Forum in Tokyo. The summit renewed the 2025 Vision Statement, which was drafted a decade ago with the 2035 Vision Statement. Modi said, "From Metro to manufacturing, from semiconductors to start-ups, India-Japan partnership in every sector became symbol of mutual trust." He stated Japan is a tech powerhouse, and India is a talent powerhouse. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the summit.

Thailand: Constitutional Court dismisses PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra from office over ethics breach
On 29 August, Thailand's Constitutional Court dismissed Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra from office for an ethics breach. This verdict, triggered by a leaked phone call in June where Paetongtarn seemed to favour ties with Cambodia’s former leader Hun Sen during a border dispute, marks her as the sixth Shinawatra-linked premier removed by judicial or military intervention in 20 years. The court rendered a judgment that her actions violated ethical norms, undermining national interests and public trust. "All I wanted was to safeguard the lives of people, whether soldiers or civilians. I was determined to do all I could to protect their lives before the violent clashes," stated PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra.

Israel-Yemen: Israel strikes Sanaa for the second time in a week; Houthi chief of staff and defense minister targeted, says Israel army radio
On 28 August, Israel struck Houthis in Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, marking the second such attack in under a week. Residents reported strikes near the presidential complex and a building in southern Sanaa. Yemeni sources said the complex housed a Houthi operations room and missile storage facility. Israeli security sources said the strikes targeted sites where senior Houthi officials had gathered, but the Houthi Ministry of Defense denied such reports. The strike followed Israel’s 24 August attack in response to Houthi missiles fired toward its territory. Since the Gaza war began, the Iran-aligned Houthis have launched missiles at Israel and targeted Red Sea vessels, stating their actions as solidarity with Palestinians. Israel has responded with repeated strikes on Houthi-held areas, including Hodeidah port. On 29 August, Israel’s army radio said it had targeted the Houthi chief of staff and defense minister, awaiting confirmation of the outcome.

Iran and Europe: Britain, France, and Germany to reimpose sanctions on Tehran
On 28 August, in a letter to the UN Security Council, the E3 countries comprising Britain, France, and Germany stated that they have launched a 30-day process to reimpose sanctions on Iran, citing Tehran’s violation of the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which mandated lifting of international sanctions in return for Iran’s nuclear disarmament commitments. In the letter, the E3 asserted that they are “committed to using every diplomatic tool available to ensure Iran never develops a nuclear weapon,” including the “decision to trigger the snapback mechanism” from the date of the issuance of the letter. Additionally, they clarified that their “commitment to a diplomatic solution nonetheless remains steadfast” and that they will “fully make use” of the 30-day period. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio welcomed this decision, stating that the Europeans had presented a clear case of Iran’s “significant non-performance" on its nuclear commitments. Further, Secretary Rubio assured that the US can pursue dialogue with Iran in order to achieve “a peaceful, enduring resolution to the Iran nuclear issue.” In response, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova condemned the potential reinstatement of sanctions on Tehran as a "serious destabilising factor,” warning that any escalation could lead to “grave consequences.” This development comes after E3 countries conducted negotiations with Iran in Geneva on 26 August.

Rwanda: Migrants deported by the US reach Kigali
On 29 August, Reuters reported that Rwanda's government spokesperson Yolande Makolo said, "The first group of seven vetted migrants arrived in Rwanda in mid-August. Three of the individuals have expressed a desire to return to their home countries, while four wish to stay and build lives in Rwanda. Regardless of their specific needs, all of these individuals will receive appropriate support and protection from the Rwandan government." Earlier this month, the US and Rwanda reached an agreement to receive 250 deported migrants from the US. This agreement grants Rwanda the power to approve an individual proposed for resettlement. In response to questions regarding this, a US State Department spokesperson said, "Implementing the Trump Administration’s immigration policies is a top priority for the Department of State. As Secretary Rubio has said, we remain unwavering in our commitment to end illegal and mass migration and bolster America’s border security."

The War in Ukraine: President Zelensky urges clear, legally binding security guarantees for Ukraine 
On 29 August, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky told European leaders that security guarantees for Ukraine needed to be clearly defined following a Russian strike on Kyiv that killed 22 people. He urged that concrete assurances on land, air, and sea were necessary in case of renewed aggression and asked who would help defend Ukraine and how. Zelensky stressed the importance of Europe showing unity and said talks on guarantees should have been elevated to the leaders’ level with US President Donald Trump involved. He had noted Ukraine sought legally binding commitments, ratified by allied parliaments, and emphasised that Kyiv did not want another arrangement similar to the Budapest Memorandum.

The War in Gaza:  Britain barrs Israel delegation from its largest defence trade show; Local humanitarian pause not applicable to Gaza city, says IDF
On 29 August, a British government spokesperson announced that the Israeli government delegation is barred from London’s Defence & Security Equipment International (DSEI) event, scheduled for 9 September. The DSEI is Britain’s largest trade show, due to its intensified military offensive on Gaza. He also added that “there must be a diplomatic solution to end this war now,” calling for an immediate ceasefire, return of hostages, and lifting the blockade on humanitarian aid to Gaza. Israel responded that Britain’s decision was a “regrettable act of discrimination” and "introduces political considerations wholly inappropriate for a professional defence industry exhibition".On the same day, the Israeli Defence Forces stated that the local humanitarian pause in military operations will not be implemented in Gaza as it “constitutes a dangerous combat zone.” 

29 August
Today in History
29 August 1949: The Soviet Union tests its first atomic bomb, breaking the US monopoly
On 29 August, the Soviet Union tested its first atomic bomb, ‘First Lightning,’ at the Semipalatinsk test site in Kazakhstan.. The USSR commenced in 1943 under the supervision of   Igor V. Kurchatov, but became steadfast in 1945, after the US dropped two atomic bombs in Japan, revealing the full magnitude of the weapon. The first Soviet chain reaction was conducted in Moscow on 25 December 1946, using an experimental graphite-moderated natural uranium pile known as F-1. Its first plutonium production reactor became operational at the Chelyabinsk-40 in 1948. The explosion of the First Lightning was roughly equal to the first US atomic explosion, Trinity. It was later revealed that Klaus Fuchs, a German-born physicist who had been a part of the United States’ atomic research, had given the Soviets precise information about the US atomic program, including a blueprint of the “Fat Man” atomic bomb that was later dropped on Japan. Fuchs had also passed on information on the hypothesized hydrogen bomb. Fuchs’s espionage and the Soviet threat to US atomic supremacy led President Truman to order the  development of the hydrogen bomb, which had been theorized to be hundreds of times more powerful than the atomic bomb. 

29 August 1958:  The United States established the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) 
On 29 August, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) was officially established in the United States, marking a pivotal moment in the history of space exploration. NASA was created in response to the Soviet Union’s launch of Sputnik 1 in 1957, which had intensified the Cold War-era space race. The US Congress passed the National Aeronautics and Space Act, signed into law by President Dwight D Eisenhower, transferring space activities from the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA) to the new civilian space agency. NASA’s mission focused on aeronautics research, human spaceflight, and the peaceful exploration of outer space. The agency went on to achieve landmark milestones, including Project Mercury, the Apollo missions, and the 1969 Apollo 11 Moon landing. Since its founding, NASA has advanced science, technology, and international cooperation in space, symbolising American innovation and commitment to exploration.

Who says what:
Editorials/Opinions from around the world

Editorial, "China, India strengthening interaction a rational choice in a multipolar world," Global Times, 29 August 2025
https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202508/1342003.shtml

Stephen R. Nagy, "Japan must prepare for a post-American Indo-Pacific," Japan Times, 29 August 2025
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/commentary/2025/08/28/japan/a-post-american-indo-pacific/

Shuli Ren, "China gets closer to finding its own Nvidia," 29 August 2025
https://www.straitstimes.com/opinion/china-gets-closer-to-finding-its-own-nvidia

"Time for some Merz-Macron magic," Economist, 29 August 2025
https://www.economist.com/europe/2025/08/28/time-for-some-merz-macron-magic

Robert Einhorn, "The Path to a Good-Enough Iran Deal: How Washington and Tehran Can Bridge the Gap on Enrichment," Foreign Affairs, 29 August 2025
https://www.foreignaffairs.com/united-states/path-good-enough-iran-deal

Editorial, "Time to talk to the Taliban: Four years after evacuating Afghanistan, U.S. engagement could help combat terrorism and hunger," Washington Post, 29 August 2025
https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2025/08/29/afghanistan-taliban-anniversary-vietnam-terrorism/

 

28 AUGUST, THURSDAY
The World Today #89
India and Japan: India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarks on two-day visit to Japan
On 28 August, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on a two-day visit to Japan from 29 to 30 August to participate in the 15th India-Japan Annual Summit. Prime Minister Modi and his Japanese counterpart, Shigeru Ishiba, will review the entire range of the Special and Strategic Global Partnership, covering areas such trade and investment, defense and security, science and technology, infrastructure and mobility, and people-to-people contact. India’s Foreign Secretary, Vikram Misri, said that the visit “will be fully dedicated to the bilateral agenda between India and Japan.” Further, Secretary Misri stated that the visit will include a visit to Tokyo and that Prime Minister Modi will participate in a business leaders' forum with representatives from Japanese and Indian industry. Additionally, in reference to Quad and bilateral relations, Secretary Misri highlighted that both countries “attach high value to this forum and to this partnership.” Previously, on 05 May this year, India’s Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, held a bilateral meeting with Minister of Defense of Japan, Mr Gen Nakatani.

China: North Korea's President Kim Jong Un and Russia's President Vladimir Putin to attend the Victory Day parade in Beijing 
On 28 August, the BBC reported that North Korea's President Kim Jong Un and Russia's President Vladimir Putin will attend China's military parade, termed as 'Victory Day,' which commemorates the 80th anniversary of Japan's surrender in 1945 and the end of the Second World War. This marks Kim's first multilateral international meeting. This parade will be witnessed by 26 foreign heads of state and government. On North Korea, China's foreign ministry noted their decades-long "traditional friendship" and said the two countries will continue to collaborate on "regional peace and stability". University of North Korean Studies President Yang Moo-jin said "Kim will seek to broaden his global status as a leader, and North Korea, China and Russia may seek to jointly respond to cooperation between South Korea, Japan and the US."

The War in Gaza: Former British PM Tony Blair joins Trump for discussions on post-war Gaza; Israel intensifies bombardment of Gaza city, stating that take-over is “inevitable” 
On 28 August, former British Prime Minister Tony Blair met with US President Donald Trump at the White House to discuss plans for post-war Gaza. Blair had also served as the Middle East envoy until 2007. Washington’s Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff had stated that the war in Gaza would be settled “certainly before the end of the year.” The meeting follows Israel’s warning that the takeover of Gaza was “inevitable,” and Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Saar denied possible plans for a Palestinian state. On the same day, Israeli forces intensified the bombardment of Gaza City in preparation for a takeover, reporting 16 civilian deaths. Israel military’s Arabic spokesman Avichay Adraee had said that "evacuating Gaza City is inevitable" and that the residents would be relocated to southern Gaza and would “receive the most generous humanitarian aid.”
 
The War in Ukraine: Major missile and drone attack strikes Kyiv; EU leaders outraged over civilian toll and strikes on diplomatic sites 
On 28 August, Russia launched one of its most devastating overnight assaults on Kyiv. The attack deployed nearly 600 drones and 31 missiles across the capital and surrounding regions. The strike killed at least 17-18 civilians, including four children and wounded dozens more. More than 100 buildings were damaged and destroyed, among them residential blocks, a shopping mall, and the offices of the European Union mission and the British Council. The attack of diplomatic institutions prompted condemnation. Russia later confirmed that the assault included the use of hypersonic missiles. EU leaders expressed outrage not only at the high civilian toll but also at what they viewed as deliberate strikes on international institutions and symbolic sites. In response, both the EU and the UK summoned Russian envoys. President Zelenskyy denounced Moscow’s actions as a rejection of peace efforts and demanded stronger sanctions and military support. Ukrainian forces retaliated with drone strikes on Russian oil refineries.

28 August 
Today in History 
28 August 1833: British Parliament ends slavery across its empire 
On 28 August, the British Parliament passed the Slavery Abolition Act, which came into effect the following year. The Act abolished slavery throughout most of the British Empire. This landmark legislation freed over 800,000 enslaved Africans in the Caribbean, South Africa, and Canada. However, enslaved people in territories controlled by the East India Company, Ceylon (Sri Lanka), and St. Helena were not immediately freed. The Act also introduced a system of “apprenticeship”, requiring freed individuals to continue working for their former owners for up to six years, though it was ended by 1838 due to widespread resistance. The British government compensated slave owners with EUR 20 million, but freed people received nothing. The Act marked a turning point in the global abolitionist movement. It also set the stage for further struggles against racial inequality across the empire.

28 August 1963 : Martin Luther King Jr. delivers his historic “I Have a Dream” speech
On 28 August 1963, Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his historic “I Have a Dream” speech at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington DC during the March on Washington. Addressing a crowd of nearly 250,000 people, the largest peaceful demonstration ever seen in the US capital, King called for voting rights, equal opportunities, and an end to segregation and racial discrimination. The march was both a protest against racial injustice and a demand for the passage of civil rights legislation, then under debate in Congress. 

King, the final speaker of the day, stood before the statue of Abraham Lincoln and declared that the “Negro is still not free.” Stressing the importance of continued action and nonviolent protest, he set aside his prepared text and began to speak of his dream. This became one of the most powerful moments in American history, second only to Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address: “It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream.…I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character. I have a dream that…one day right there in Alabama, little Black boys and Black girls will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers.”

By linking the civil rights struggle to the ideals of American democracy, King emphasised the urgency of racial equality to national and global audience. In the year that followed, the civil rights movement achieved two major victories: the ratification of the 24th Amendment, abolishing the poll tax, and the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which outlawed segregation and racial discrimination in employment and education. The speech is regarded as the greatest of the 20th century. Its universal message gave “I have a dream” enduring power, resonating far beyond its time and place.

Who says what: 
Editorials/Opinions from around the world 
Editorial, "The US ‘welcoming Chinese students’ should not be mere lip service," Global Times, 28 August 2025
https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202508/1341887.shtml

Varuna Shankar, "Trump’s tariffs should spur Indo-Japan convergence," Japan Times, 28 August 2025
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/commentary/2025/08/27/world/trump-tarrifs-and-indo-japan-convergence/

Jonathan Berkshire Miller, "Joint Sino-Russian patrols push Japan to rethink defense posture," Japan Times, 27 August 2025
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/commentary/2025/08/27/japan/taking-sino-russian-patrols-seriously/

Wang Son-taek, "The golden age of the Korea-US alliance," Korea Herald, 28 August 2025
https://www.koreaherald.com/article/10563221

Ling Xin, "What does SpaceX’s Starship test success mean for the US-China moon race?," SCMP, 28 August 2025
https://www.scmp.com/news/china/science/article/3323437/what-does-spacexs-starship-test-success-mean-us-china-moon-race?module=top_story&pgtype=homepage

Alejandro Reyes, "Why world should focus on what China needs, not what it wants," 28 August 2025
https://www.scmp.com/opinion/china-opinion/article/3323357/why-world-should-focus-what-china-needs-not-what-it-wants?module=top_story&pgtype=section

"Humiliation, vindication—and a giant test for India: Trump has triggered a trade and defence crisis: how should Modi respond?," Economist, 28 August 2025
https://www.economist.com/leaders/2025/08/27/humiliation-vindication-and-a-giant-test-for-india

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27 AUGUST, WEDNESDAY
The World Today #88
US and India: Trump's tariffs take effect, marking one of the toughest blows to Indo-US ties 
On 27 August, US President Donald Trump’s decision to impose new tariffs on Indian exports took effect, marking one of the toughest trade blows to New Delhi in recent years. The tariffs followed the paused trade talks between the two countries, with Washington citing market access concerns and India’s protective measures. The duties covered sectors including textiles, engineering goods, and certain agricultural products, raising costs for Indian exporters. Reports highlighted that the move could impact India’s USD 50 billion trade with the US, its largest export market. In New Delhi, officials reviewed policy options as businesses are expected to get ready for disruption. The tariff action came as India faced domestic economic challenges and sought to expand partnerships with other global markets.

The War in Gaza: UN condemns Israel's double strike on Gaza, demanding justice and accountability measures; Pope Leo urges the release of hostages, permanent ceasefire and safe entry of humanitarian aid; Israel launches unexplained military raid in the West Bank 
On 27 August, the UN human rights office spokesperson Thameen al-Kheetan condemned Israel's double strike on Gaza's Nasser hospital in Khan Younis, stating that the attack "raises many, many questions about the targeting of journalists." The IDF claims that the strike was aimed at a camera positioned by Hamas in the area of the hospital "used to observe the activity of IDF troops." The attack had killed 20 civilians, including five journalists. Israel's military spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Nadav Shoshani, stated, "We can confirm that the Reuters and AP journalists were not a target of the strike." In his weekly audience at the Vatican, Pope Leo appealed to the global community to end the prolonged war. He implored that "all hostages be freed, that a permanent ceasefire be reached, that the safe entry of humanitarian aid be facilitated, and that international humanitarian law be fully respected," he said.

The War in Ukraine: Kyiv confirms Russian forces entering the Dnipropetrovsk region 
On 26 August, Ukraine acknowledged Russian troops entering the eastern industrial region of Dnipropetrovsk. Fighting was reported in the villages of Zaporizke and Novohryhorivka. Though Ukrainian officials insisted their forces continued to hold Zaporizke, active clashes persisted near Novohryhorivka. The DeepState mapping project assessed Russian control of both villages, but Ukraine's general staff denied this. Russia's defence ministry released an image claiming its presence in Zaporizke. Moscow has not formally claimed Dnipropetrovsk, but it has previously attacked the regional capital, Dnipro. Overnight strikes also targeted energy facilities in neighbouring Poltava. Before the war, Dnipropetrovsk, with a population exceeding three million, was Ukraine's second-largest industrial hub, after the Donbas.

IAEA and Iran: IAEA inspectors return to Tehran for the first time since cooperation was suspended; Agreement on cooperation yet to be finalised
On 27 August, IAEA chief Rafael Grossi stated that the first team of IAEA inspectors had returned to Iran. IAEA-Iran cooperation was suspended following the Israel-Iran 12-day war in June. The announcement follows Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi’s meeting with France, Germany, and Britain to revive the negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme. He stated that "no draft for a new cooperation modality with the IAEA has been finalised or approved," but the officers would oversee the fuel-change at Iran’s Bushehr nuclear power plant.

United States: Washington expands investments in rare-earth and critical minerals 
On 27 August, President Trump's administration intensified its efforts to strengthen domestic rare-earth and critical minerals production. The federal government injected hundreds of millions of dollars into American firms, including USD 400 million to MP Materials, as well as support for NioCorp and USA Rare Earth. It also implemented price floors and guaranteed purchases to stabilise the US supply chain. Moreover, Critical Metals has secured a 10-year agreement to supply up to 10,000 metric tons of heavy rare-earth concentrate annually from Greenland's Tanbreez Project to a US government-funded processing facility in Louisiana. In parallel, Canada began coordinating with its allies to fund critical mineral projects, aiming to diversify supply chains outside China.

Germany: Cabinet passes a draft bill introducing voluntary military service; Defence minister claims it will make deterrence "truly credible vis-à-vis Russia."
On 27 August, amid rising security concerns, Germany passed a draft bill on voluntary military service and reintroduction of compulsory enlistment. The bill outlines an annual recruitment target of 20,000 in 2026 and 38,000 in 2030. Additionally, the bill empowers the government to opt for conscription if the target recruitments are not achieved. Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said "The international security situation, above all Russia’s aggressive posture, makes this necessary," and "we (Germany) also need a Bundeswehr that is strong in terms of personnel. Only then will deterrence as a whole be truly credible vis-à-vis Russia."

27 August 
Today in History 
27 August 1979: IRA assassinates Lord Mountbatten 
On 27 August 1979, Admiral of the Fleet Louis Mountbatten, first Earl Mountbatten of Burma and the last Viceroy of India, was assassinated by the Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA). He was holidaying with his family in Ireland when the bomb planted by the IRA exploded. This attack was a part of their campaign against British rule in Northern Ireland. The IRA described the "execution" as a "discriminate act to bring to the attention of the English people the continuing occupation of our country. …The death of Lord Mountbatten and tributes paid to him will be seen in contrast to the apathy of the British Government and English people to the deaths of over 300 British soldiers and the deaths of Irish men, women and children at the hands of their forces."

Who says what: 
Editorials/Opinions from around the world
Editorial, "To adjust ‘security with US, economy with China,’ S.Korea must first address this key question," Global Times, 27 August 2025
https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202508/1341793.shtml

Bahk Eun-ji, "After summit, questions remain on defense costs, alliance and N. Korea," Korean TImes, 27 August 2025
https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/foreignaffairs/20250827/after-summit-questions-remain-on-defense-costs-alliance-and-n-korea

Editorial, "Korea-US nuclear cooperation," Korea Times, 27 August 2025
https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/opinion/editorial/20250827/ed-korea-us-nuclear-cooperation

David Tingxuan Zhang, "Why Beijing is letting parts of China’s property sector fail," SCMP,27 August 2025
https://www.scmp.com/opinion/china-opinion/article/3323176/why-beijing-letting-parts-chinas-property-sector-fail?module=top_story&pgtype=section

Imran Khalid, "China offers South Asia a choice between swords and ploughshares," SCMP,27 August 2025
https://www.scmp.com/opinion/asia-opinion/article/3323179/china-offers-south-asia-choice-between-swords-and-ploughshares?module=top_story&pgtype=section

Vali Nasr, "Iran’s Roads Not Taken: Tehran, Washington, and the Failures That Led to War," Foreign Affairs
https://www.foreignaffairs.com/iran/irans-roads-not-taken-nasr

Michael McFaul, "How to Arm Ukraine for Negotiations: For a Durable Peace, Trump Must Get the Order of Talks Right," Foreign Affairs, 27 August 2025
https://www.foreignaffairs.com/russia/how-arm-ukraine-negotiations

Holman W. Jenkins, Jr, "If Trump Fails at Peace in Ukraine," Wall Street Journal, 27 August 2025
https://www.wsj.com/opinion/if-trump-fails-at-peace-in-ukraine-f8a09914?mod=hp_opin_pos_5

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26 AUGUST, TUESDAY
The World Today #85-87
Australia: Iran's ambassador expelled over antisemitic attacks; PM Albanese cites Tehran’s involvement
On 26 August, the Australian government expelled Iran’s ambassador to Australia citing Tehran's involvement in antisemitic attacks on Australian soil. Iran’s ambassador to Australia, Ahmad Sadeghi, has been given seven days to leave the country, in Australia's first such expulsion of an ambassador since World War II. Australia will also designate Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organisation. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) had gathered credible intelligence that Iran had orchestrated at least two attacks on Australian soil, constituting “extraordinary and dangerous acts of aggression.” PM Albanese asserted that Iran had sought to "disguise its involvement” in these attacks. Further, PM Albanese stated that Australia has suspended operations at its embassy in Tehran and all its diplomats were safe in a third country. Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong described Iran's actions as “completely unacceptable.” In relation to these attacks, Director General of ASIO, Mike Burgess, said that the IRGC was instructing “criminals and members of organised crime gangs to do their bidding or direct their bidding” in Australia. In response, Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, Esmaeil Baghaei, “absolutely rejected” Australia’s accusations. Baghaei stated that “any inappropriate and unjustified action on a diplomatic level will have a reciprocal reaction”.

The War in Ukraine: President Zelenskyy urges faster security guarantees as EU, Poland, Belgium, and Qatar act on Ukraine crisis 
On 26 August, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for the acceleration of work with international partners on security guarantees through the “Coalition of the Willing.” Ukrainian officials held defence talks in Doha with Qatari counterparts. In Brussels, the European Union reaffirmed pressure on Russia and awaited updates from national security advisers on support for Ukraine. Poland’s President vetoed legislation extending welfare benefits to Ukrainian refugees, with the government preparing new employment-linked measures. Belgium’s leadership stated frozen Russian assets would not be seized before peace talks.

The War in Gaza: Protesters stage ‘day of disruption’ in Tel Aviv demanding the return of hostages; Israel’s twin strikes on hospital kills five journalists urging global condemnation
On 26 August, protesters in Israel observed ‘a day of disruption,’ blockading the highways of Tel Aviv  and other cities ahead of a mass rally in Tel Aviv demanding the release of the hostages held by Hamas. The protest comes after Israel's strikes in Gaza. Earlier, on 25 August, Israel had launched double strikes on Gaza's Nasser hospital in Khan Younis, killing 20 people, including five journalists. Prime Minister Netanyahu stated that the incident was a “tragic mishap,” and that the military was “conducting a thorough investigation.” UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's official spokesperson condemned the Israeli strikes on the hospital, terming it “horrific” and “completely indefensible.” The International Federation of Journalists organised a protest in Brussels, Belgium, to honour the journalists killed in the attack, as the death toll of journalists killed in the war rises to nearly 200.

China and the SCO summit: India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russia’s President Vladimir Putin are expected to attend the SCO summit on 31 August in Tianjin, says Reuters 
On 26 August, Reuters reported that the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit will be held in Tianjin from 31 August to 1 September this year. Last week, China’s Assistant Foreign Minister, Liu Bin, stated that this will be the fifth time for China to host an SCO summit, and it will also be the largest-scale summit since the SCO was founded in 2001. Bin stated that China firmly believes member countries will “draw on the stability and resilience of the SCO to address uncertainties and unpredictable factors in the international environment” to create a world marked by “lasting peace.” Multiple countries from Central Asia, the Middle East, South Asia and Southeast Asia have been invited to attend the summit. It is reported that Chinese President Xi Jinping will host more than 20 world leaders at the forum, including India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russia’s President Vladimir Putin. This summit will mark Prime Minister Narendra Modi's first visit to China after border clashes between Indian and Chinese troops in the Galwan Valley in 2020.

EU and the War in Gaza: Over 200 former EU diplomats issue a public letter urging immediate EU intervention in Gaza
On 26 August, 209 former EU ambassadors, senior diplomatic staff and ambassadors from EU nation states published a joint letter demanding immediate EU intervention against Israel's war on Gaza and unlawful conduct in Gaza. The letter urges states to act individually if collective action from the EU fails, stating that "we can’t stay paralysed if the 27 (member states) can’t take action, that betrays our values." The letter recommends nine policy actions including the suspension of Israeli arms export licenses, barring trade in goods and services with illegal settlements.

26 August 
Today in History
26 August 1920: US certifies the 19th Amendment, marked as Women’s Equality Day since 1971
On 26 August 1920, the 19th Amendment was certified by the US government, becoming a law granting women the right to vote. The certification marked the culmination of decades of struggle by suffragists. The movement began at the 1848 Seneca Falls Convention, led by Elizabeth Cady Stanton, which linked women’s rights to abolitionism. After the Civil War, figures such as Susan B. Anthony formed the National Woman Suffrage Association to press for federal change. While some western states, starting with Wyoming in 1869, extended voting rights at the state level, a federal constitutional guarantee proved difficult to achieve. Introduced in Congress in 1878, the amendment gained momentum by 1918, when President Woodrow Wilson endorsed it. Ratification came by the narrowest of margins when Tennessee became the decisive 36th state to approve it on 18 August 1920, paving the way for its certification on 26 August. “The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex,” stated the amendment. Women’s Equality Day, established by Congress in 1971, drew inspiration from the 1970 “strike for equality,” held on the amendment’s 50th anniversary, when over 100,000 women rallied nationwide. The 19th Amendment was a historic moment in US democracy, enfranchising millions and reshaping the political landscape. It laid the foundation for later advances in civil rights and women’s empowerment, reflecting both the progress achieved and the work still required to realise full equality.

26 August 1914: Battle of Tannenberg ends with Germany's victory over Russia 
On 26 August 1914, the Battle of Tannenberg began and lasted until 30 August during the opening phase of World War I on the Eastern Front. The German 8th Army, led by General Paul von Hindenburg and General Erich Ludendorff, engaged the Russian Second Army under General Alexander Samsonov in East Prussia. The Russians advanced into German territory. But suffered from a lack of coordination with the Russian First Army and relied on unsecured radio messages. German forces stopped these communications, enabling them to concentrate their troops against Samsonov. Over four days, the Germans executed a successful encirclement near Tannenberg, cutting off the Russian retreat. The Russian Second Army was destroyed, with about 170,000 killed, wounded, or captured, while German losses were approximately 12,000. General Samsonov committed suicide after the defeat. The battle concluded on 30 August 1914 with the destruction of Russia’s Second Army and a clear German victory.

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23 AUGUST, SATURDAY
The World Today #84

Trump warns Russia: Threatens with tariffs and sanctions amid paused Ukraine peace talks 
On 23 August, US President Donald Trump warned Russia with tariffs and sanctions for not negotiating the peace deal with Ukraine. He was furious for not conducting a meeting and disappointed for attacking an American factory in Ukraine harming workers. Russia's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sergei Lavrov, said no meeting was planned between Russia's President Vladimir Putin and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky. It would not be planned unless an agenda was prepared for the meeting to schedule. Ukraine's President said Russia was avoiding to conduct the meeting. On 22 August, Russia's President visited a nuclear research centre and said there was “light at the end of the tunnel” to restore the US-Russia relations. “We had a very good, meaningful and frank meeting in Alaska,” he was “confident in the leadership qualities of the current president.” US President even showed a photograph of his meeting in Alaska where he said Russia's President wished to attend the upcoming World Cup 2026 football tournament in the US and mentioned, “He may be coming, and he may not, depending on what happens.”

The War in Ukraine: "Since they (Russia) don't want to end it (war), they(Russia) will look for space to (avoid it)," says Zelensky
On 23 August, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky stated Russia is "doing everything it can" to prevent a meeting with Vladimir Putin to try to end the war. In response, Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said "Putin is ready to meet with Zelensky when the agenda would be ready for a summit. And this agenda is not ready at all." He reiterated that Moscow's demands for peace deal remains unchangeable while it is flexible to adhere on US President Trump's points.

The War in Gaza: Famine declared by the UN in Gaza; Israel disputes the assessment 
On 22 August, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and UN-backed monitors confirmed famine in Gaza City and surrounding areas, affecting over half a million people, with numbers expected to rise to 641,000 by the end of September. Officials called the crisis a “man-made disaster” and a “failure of humanity,” citing systematic obstruction of aid by Israel. Israel denied the claim, asserting it is providing sufficient aid. UN agencies warned that without immediate large-scale intervention, widespread starvation and malnutrition, particularly among children, will escalate.

Canada: PM Carney announces removal of counter tariffs on US goods
On 22 August, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that "Canada and the US have now re-established free trade for the vast majority” of their goods. Carney said that all of Canada’s retaliatory import tariffs on US goods covered under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) will be removed. US President Donald Trump welcomed this move, calling PM Carney’s decision a “nice thing.” However, tariffs on US automobiles, steel, and aluminium will remain. Carney asserted that Canada has “the best deal of anyone in the world right now,” highlighting that “nobody has a deal with the United States that they used to have." This development comes after PM Carney spoke to President Trump on 21 August. Carney said that President Trump confirmed that removing counter-tariffs could help start negotiations with the US to establish a new economic and security partnership.

23 August 
Today in History 
23 August 1939: Germany and USSR sign the nonaggression pact ahead of World War II 
On 23 August 1939, Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union signed the Molotov–Ribbentrop Pact, a nonaggression treaty that shocked the world on the eve of World War II. Named after German Foreign Minister Joachim von Ribbentrop and his Soviet counterpart Vyacheslav Molotov, the pact ensured that neither side would attack the other. More over,  secret protocol divided Eastern Europe into spheres of influence, assigning Poland, the Baltic states, and parts of Romania for partition. Just a week later, Germany invaded Poland from the west, while the Soviet Union entered from the east, triggering the start of World War II. The agreement gave Hitler the confidence to launch his campaign without fear of a two-front war, while Stalin bought time to strengthen Soviet defenses. Though the pact collapsed in 1941 when Germany invaded the USSR, its impact was decisive in reshaping Europe’s geopolitical order.

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22 AUGUST, FRIDAY
The World Today #83

The War in Ukraine: Putin-Zelensky meeting remains unlikely; Moscow demands that Kyiv cede Donbas and abandon NATO aspirations, reports Reuters
On 22 August, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that a potential Putin-Zelensky summit is unlikely, referring to President Zelensky as “a person pretending to be a leader”. Lavrov stated that Putin is willing to meet with Zelensky and that Russia was willing to show flexibility on several of the issues raised at the Trump-Putin summit, accusing President Zelensky of saying “no to everything.” On 21 August, Reuters had reported that Russia demands that Ukraine cede the eastern Donbas region, give up Kyiv’s NATO aspirations, and “remain neutral and keep Western troops out of the country,” to end the war. The previous deals from Russia had demanded the Donetsk and Luhansk in eastern Ukraine, which make up the Donbas, and Kherson and Zaporizhzhia in the south. In the new proposal, Russia would halt frontline operations in Kherson and Zaporizhzhia and other minor regions in return for Donbas, reports Reuters.

Pakistan: Asian Development Bank to fund railway project amidst disruptions in Chinese funding, says Reuters
On 22 August, Reuters reported that the Asian Development Bank (ADB) will finance upgrades for a segment of Pakistan’s railway system. In 2015, infrastructure renewal of over 1,800 kilometres of railways in Pakistan was announced under a USD 60 billion Chinese investment programme as part of Beijing's Belt and Road Initiative. It is speculated that ADB is conducting negotiations to finance a USD 2 billion upgrade of a 500-kilometre stretch of the railway line from Karachi to Rohri, which is integral for pursuing a strategic mining project. In a statement to Reuters, ADB confirmed that it has “regular discussions” with Pakistan’s government on railway sector development. This development comes after Islamabad failed to secure financing from Beijing for over ten years to revamp its railway system. Previously, on 21 August, Reuters reported that ADB will provide a USD 410 million financing package to help explore and develop Pakistan's Reko Diq mine, which is one of the world’s largest copper and gold reserves.

Philippines and Australia: Plans to seal a new defence agreement in 2026
On 22 August, the Philippines and Australia signed a statement of intent for a Defence Cooperation Agreement to boost security ties. After the 2nd Philippine-Australia Defence Ministers Meeting, Australia's Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles said "It will encapsulate the totality of our engagement in defence, but it will include, for example, a commitment to see us having annual defence ministers' meetings. It will look at how we can do more in terms of coordinating our exercise and operational tempo between our two countries." Build on the 1995 Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries, the upcoming agreement will look into how Australia can aid infrastructure development and benefit the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Philippine Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro stated that this enhanced defence cooperation will further enhance operational capability and regional deterrence. In a joint press conference with Marles, Teodoro said "China's actions in the South China Sea "are a matter not only of concern but of condemnation, and it widens the "trust deficit".

South Korea and China: Seoul to send delegation to Beijing as the two align over US tariffs
On 22 August, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung’s spokesperson stated that a delegation will be sent to China from 24–27 August, reflecting closer Seoul–Beijing alignment over President Trump’s tariff measures. The delegation will convey Lee’s message emphasizing the improving bilateral strategic ties. China, South Korea’s largest trading partner, has seen relations improve since the 2017 dispute over Seoul’s deployment of US missile defense, which was opposed by Beijing. Lee, who won the June snap election, has taken a conciliatory approach toward Beijing, highlighting its economic importance while avoiding firm positions on Taiwan Strait tensions. The delegation is scheduled to meet Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. "A healthy, stable and continuously deepening China-Republic of Korea relationship is in the fundamental interests of the two peoples and is also conducive to peace, stability, development and prosperity in the region and the world," stated a spokesperson of China’s foreign ministry. Although Seoul brought down US tariffs on Korean goods from 25 per cent to 15 per cent in a July trade deal, it continues assisting firms in coping with trade barriers and expanding market access, while Beijing seeks export diversification beyond the US.

The War in Gaza: Global hunger monitor declares famine in Gaza city amid ongoing war; Israel rejects the assessment 
On 22 August, the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), a UN-backed global hunger monitor declared famine in Gaza City and surrounding areas. The report stated that 514,000 people, nearly a quarter of Gaza’s population, are now experiencing famine, with the number projected to rise to 641,000 by the end of September. This marks the first famine confirmed outside Africa by the IPC. Analysts predict that famine conditions will spread to central and southern Gaza, including Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis, by month’s end. Israel rejected the assessment, calling it biased and asserting that aid delivery data was not accurately represented. According to IPC criteria, a region is classified as in famine when at least 20 per cent of the population suffers extreme food shortages, 30 per cent of children are acutely malnourished, and fatalities rise above critical thresholds.

22 August 
Today in History 
22 August 1791-Haitian Revolution begins; Enslaved Africans rise against French colonial rule 
On 22 August 1791, the Haitian Revolution erupted in the French colony of Saint-Domingue, when enslaved Africans rose against colonial rule. Sparked by decades of exploitation and inspired by the ideals of the French Revolution, the uprising quickly spread across plantations, challenging one of the wealthiest slave economies in the world. Leaders such as Toussaint Louverture, Jean-Jacques Dessalines, and Henri Christophe transformed a movement for freedom into a powerful revolution. Over more than a decade of conflict against French, Spanish, and British forces, the enslaved population secured victories that culminated in the abolition of slavery and the declaration of Haiti’s independence in 1804. The Haitian Revolution was the first successful slave revolt in modern history and established the first Black republic.

22 August 1864: The First Geneva Conference establishes the Red Cross
On 22 August 1864, the First Geneva Conference established the Red Cross. The First Geneva Convention established new standards of care that are critical for wounded soldiers and for medical personnel, even if they weren't on the battlefield. The convention was a result of Henry Dunant's experience witnessing the Battle of Solferino in 1859. He observed 40,000 wounded soldiers who weren't treated because of the inability to get medicines and clean medical facilities to treat them. His book, "Un Souvenir de Solferino", prompted international action leading to the formation of the International Committee of the Red Cross in 1863. The convention established the following important provisions, such as immunity for medical facilities providing care to wounded soldiers, impartial treatment of all combatants, protection of civilians providing medical assistance and recognition of the Red Cross symbol. The First Geneva Conference was amended multiple times in 1906, 1929, and 1949. Currently, 196 countries work to protect not only wounded soldiers, but also civilians and prisoners of war. The Geneva Conventions' principles of humane treatment for everyone, including those in armed conflict, provide a basic sense of the most fundamental dignity within an international humanitarian law context, and continue to be a role model. The very existence of the Geneva Conventions was to assert that there are even the most basic human rights and dignities that, however, human beings and their cultures and civilizations clash in the most violent ways, as armed conflict has to respect certain limits through humanitarian law, which is founded on the very principles laid out in the First Geneva Convention.

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21 AUGUST, THURSDAY
The World Today #83

India and Russia: New Delhi and Moscow agree to expand trade ties amidst tariffs imposed by the US
On 21 August, India’s External Affairs Minister Subramanyam Jaishankar met Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and the First Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Denis Manturov. Both sides resolved to undertake numerous measures to boost trade relations between both countries on bilateral and multilateral forums, including finalising the Terms of Reference of the India-Eurasian Economic Union Free Trade Agreement. Minister Jaishankar highlighted that the trade imbalance between the two countries needs to be addressed “urgently” by increasing India’s exports to Russia in sectors such as pharmaceuticals and agriculture as a corrective measure. Jaishankar stated that tariff and non-tariff trade barriers, such as regulatory hurdles, pose a significant challenge to India-Russia trade, calling for an “early conclusion” of a Free Trade Agreement among India and multiple Eurasian countries. Further, Minister Lavrov upheld bilateral cooperation in the hydrocarbon sector, citing “good results.” Additionally, Lavrov advocated for implementing joint projects for the extraction of energy resources "in the Russian Federation - in the Far East and on the Arctic shelf.” This development comes after US President Donald Trump announced additional tariffs on Indian goods of up to 50 per cent, citing India’s increased purchases of Russian oil, especially after the War in Ukraine. Previously, on 20 August, the charge d'affaires at the Russian embassy in India, Roman Babushkin, predicted “the same level of oil import” while expressing hope for trade expansion between both countries and a revival of the Russia-India-China trilateral format.

The War in Gaza: “Food has been used as an instrument of war,” says UNRWA head amidst reports of six-fold increase in child malnourishment; Israel begins preliminary operations to seize Gaza
On 21 August, the head of the UN Palestinian refugee agency referred to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as “a manufactured and fabricated famine.” He stated that “food has been used as an instrument of war," warning that children suffering from malnutrition in Gaza might die if emergency supplies are not immediately supplied during the Israeli operation. He also revealed that there has been a six-fold increase in the number of malnourished children in the region since March. On 20 August, Israeli military spokesman Brigadier General Effie Defrin stated that the IDF has “ begun the preliminary operations and the first stages of the attack on Gaza City.” The confirmation follows a clash between the IDF and Hamas militants near Khan Younis, a city south of Gaza. The troops have begun to lay the groundwork for the operations in the Zeitoun and Jabalia areas, reports BBC. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu states that Israel is "shortening the timelines" for seizing "the last terror strongholds" in Gaza.

The War in Ukraine: Kyiv witnesses one of the biggest airstrikes in weeks; Moscow plans to improve nuclear shield
On 21 August, Ukraine officials stated that Russia launched 574 drones and 40 missiles on Ukraine in one of the heaviest bombardments in weeks. Meanwhile, Russia's state nuclear corporation head said "Now, in the current geopolitical situation, is a time of colossal threats to the existence of our country. Therefore, the nuclear shield, which is also a sword, is a guarantee of our sovereignty," and "the nuclear shield must only be improved in the coming years." According to the data from the federation of American Scientists, Russia possesses 4,300 stockpiled and deployed nuclear warheads. This happens amidst diplomatic efforts to bring an end to war.

Democratic Republic of Congo: Rwanda backs rebels accused of mass killings in eastern Congo 
On 20 August, Human Rights Watch reported that the M23 rebel group, backed by Rwanda, massacred more than 140 civilians in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo in July, with total deaths possibly exceeding 300. The attacks spread across 14 villages near Virunga National Park, targeting mainly Hutu and some Nande civilians. Witnesses described brutal killings with machetes and gunfire, including women and children shot by a riverbank. These killings followed weeks after a US brokered peace deal between Congo and Rwanda on 27 June, which failed to halt the violence. Human Rights Watch urged the UN Security Council, EU, and governments to impose sanctions, pursue prosecutions, and allow forensic investigations in M23-controlled areas.

Uganda: Reaches an agreement with the US to receive third country nationals denied asylum in Washington
On 21 August, Uganda’s foreign affairs ministry stated that it reached an agreement with the United States to receive nationals from third countries who may be denied asylum in the US but are unwilling to return to their home countries. The Trump administration, aiming to deport millions of undocumented immigrants, has sought to expand transfers to third countries, including relocation of convicted offenders to South Sudan and Eswatini. "This is a temporary arrangement with conditions including that individuals with criminal records and unaccompanied minors will not be accepted," stated the ministry's permanent secretary. He noted that Uganda would prioritize receiving individuals of African nationality under the agreement. "The two parties are working out the detailed modalities on how the agreement shall be implemented," he added. Uganda, an ally of the US in East Africa, is home to nearly two million refugees and asylum seekers, primarily from countries in the region including the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan and Sudan.

20 August
Today in History
20 August 1991: Estonia declares independence from the Soviet Union 
On 20 August 1991, Estonia declared its independence from the Soviet Union, becoming one of the first Baltic states to break away during the collapse of the USSR. The decision came as hardline communists attempted a coup in Moscow against Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev, creating uncertainty and accelerating calls for sovereignty across the Baltic region. In Tallinn, the Estonian Supreme Council voted to restore full independence, ending decades of Soviet rule imposed since World War II. Crowds gathered outside parliament to celebrate the decision, raising the blue, black, and white national flag as a symbol of freedom. The declaration was soon followed by Latvia and Lithuania, reinforcing the Baltic push for self-determination. On 06 September 1991, the Soviet Union officially recognised Estonia’s independence, marking a decisive step in the dissolution of the USSR. Estonia later gained widespread international recognition and became a member of the United Nations.

21 August 1959: Hawaii becomes the 50th state of US through a proclamation
On 21 August 1959, Hawaii became the 50th US state through the Hawaii Admission Act. From 1898, Hawaii had been a US territory after being annexed to serve the financial interests of American plantation owners, who sought exemption from US sugar import taxes and protection of their holdings from being confiscated by the Hawaiian monarchy. Later in the first half of the 20th century, the demands and petition for statehood took place but they were ignored. Hawaii immensely contributed to America in the Second World War. This made the path more clear for Hawaii statehood as it assured both Hawaii and the USA for its loyalty. Despite the racial differences in Hawaii, the Civil Rights Movement from 1954 to 1968 encouraged the members of the Congress to grant Hawaii statehood. In March 1959, the Hawaii Admission bill was enacted. It was followed by a referendum in June 1959 where 93 per cent citizens voted for statehood. Hence, the US President Dwight D. Eisenhower approved Hawaii state through an official proclamation.

 

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20 AUGUST, WEDNESDAY
The World Today #81

The War in Gaza: Israel approves the construction of the E1 area settlement project; 60,000 reserve soldiers called back into force 
On 20 August, Israel confirmed that the E1 area settlement project in the West Bank has received final approval. The settlement comprises 3,401 houses that would connect Jerusalem and the Israeli settlement of Maale Adumim.  The location of the project is central to the West Bank as it  severs the link between the West Bank and major cities like Ramallah and Bethlehem. The plan was initially introduced in 2022 and was postponed due to US pressure. Smotich stated that “the Palestinian state is being erased from the table not with slogans but with actions,” and that “every settlement, every neighbourhood, every housing unit is another nail in the coffin of this dangerous idea.” The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) ordered 60,000 reservists to return to duty for an upcoming ground offensive to capture and occupy all of Gaza city. An additional 20,000 reservists already serving will have their orders extended. The operation, part of Operation Gideon’s Chariots, is expected to involve five divisions, with active-duty troops forming the bulk of the force 

The War in Ukraine: US President Trump signals potential air support to Ukraine
On 20 August, US President Trump said, "When it comes to security, (Europeans) are willing to put people on the ground. We're willing to help them with things, especially, probably ... by air," signalling potential US air support to Ukraine. In a news briefing, White House press secretary said "The president has definitively stated US boots will not be on the ground in Ukraine, but we can certainly help in the coordination and perhaps provide other means of security guarantees to our European allies."

China: Beijing considers allowing the usage of Yuan-backed stablecoins amidst currency competition with the US, says Reuters
On 20 August, Reuters reported that China is considering allowing the usage of yuan-backed stablecoins to ensure wider adoption of its currency globally. Stablecoins are a type of cryptocurrency designed to maintain a constant value and are usually tied to a fixed exchange rate with a fiat currency such as the U.S. dollar and are used by cryptocurrency traders to transfer funds between tokens. China’s cabinet, the State Council, is expected to review and approve a blueprint this month to make its currency, the Yuan, more competitive in relation to the US government’s push for stablecoins and digital tokens. Recently, the US Treasury Department said that the passage of the Genius Act “will promote innovation in stablecoins and grow demand for short-term Treasury securities.” China’s blueprint is speculated to include targets for the Yuan’s internationalisation along with a mandate for domestic capital market regulators.

Uganda: Kampala says it has not reached any agreement with Washington to facilitate the return of illegal immigrants
On 20 August, Uganda’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Henry Oryem Okello, stated that Uganda and the US have not reached an agreement regarding the return of US deportees. Okello said that Uganda “cannot take in such illegal immigrants” because of a lack of facilities and infrastructure required to accommodate them. However, it is speculated that the White House has finalised deportation deals with Uganda and Honduras. On 19 August, CBS News reported that Uganda has “agreed to accept deportees from the US who hail from other countries on the continent, as long as they don’t have criminal histories.” This development comes after the US has deported immigrants, convicted of various crimes, to non-native countries, such as South Sudan and Eswatini. Previously, the US Department of Homeland Security released a statement on ‘Deporting Criminal Illegal Aliens to Third Countries’ arguing that third-country deportations were essential to expel people “so uniquely barbaric that their own countries won’t take them back”.

20 August
Today in History

20 August 1968: The Soviet Invasion of Czechoslovakia
On 20-21 August 1968, troops from the Soviet Union and four Warsaw Pact allies Poland, Hungary, East Germany, and Bulgaria invaded Czechoslovakia. The operation, codenamed Danube, deployed around 200,000 soldiers and 2000 tanks. The invasion was launched to halt political reforms introduced by Czechoslovak leader Alexander Dubcek under the “Prague Spring,” which sought greater political freedom, decentralisation of the economy, and reduced censorship. Soviet forces quickly occupied Prague and other major cities, facing limited resistance. Approximately 137 Czechoslovak citizens were killed and thousands wounded during the intervention. Dubcek and other leaders were arrested and taken to Moscow. Later reinstated under strict conditions, effectively ending the reform movement. The invasion reinforced Soviet control over Eastern Europe and demonstrated the Brezhnev Doctrine, which declared the USSR’s right to intervene in socialist states where communism was threatened.

20 August 1968: The US Civil War ends
On 20 August 1865, the then US President Andrew Johnson said, "Insurrection is at an end and that peace, order, tranquillity, and civil authority now exist in and throughout the whole of the United States of America," formally declaring the end of the US Civil War. The proclamation concluded four years of conflict between the Union and Confederacy. The surrender of Confederate General Robert E. Lee at Appomattox Court House, Virginia, acted as a trigger to the conclusion of the war. Its end preserved the US as a unified nation and led to the abolition of slavery.

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19 AUGUST, TUESDAY
The World Today #80

The War in Ukraine: US security guarantees to be formalised in ten days, says Zelensky; Putin might not “want to make a deal,” Trump warns as Moscow launches overnight strikes on Kyiv
On 19 August, President Zelensky and European leaders met with President Trump in Washington to discuss the terms of ending the conflict. Zelensky stated that security guarantees towards Ukraine will be formalised within ten days. "Security guarantees will probably be 'unpacked' by our partners, and more and more details will emerge,” said Zelensky. The security guarantee includes aircraft and air defence systems, and a package with proposals worth USD 90 billion. Zelensky also highlighted that the US will be purchasing Ukrainian drones once their exports open, and that it is “very important for us.” He also clarified that matters on territories will be dealt with bilaterally between Kyiv and Moscow, stating that “the question of territories is something we will leave between me and Putin." Trump has not made any comments on the proposed security guarantees, but stated that Putin may not agree to the deal at all. Russia also launched overnight strikes on the central Ukrainian city of Kremenchuk, hitting an oil refinery supplying Ukraine's military. The bombardment is recorded to be the biggest in August.

The War in Gaza: Hamas agrees to a ceasefire proposal, Israel says it is reviewing 
On 19 August, Hamas informed mediators that it had accepted a ceasefire proposal for Gaza. According to officials from Egypt and Qatar, the document is nearly identical to a plan earlier outlined by US envoy Steve Witkoff. The proposal sets a 60-day truce during which Hamas would release about half of Israel's hostages it continues to hold. In return, Israel would free a number of Palestine's prisoners. The deal also includes provisions for a partial withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and an increase in humanitarian aid deliveries. Qatar's officials confirmed Hamas’s acceptance on Monday. Today, Israeli officials stated that they are studying Hamas’s reply. The discussions are being facilitated by mediators from Qatar and Egypt, with the US support.

North Korea: Kim Jong Un calls for rapid expansion of  nuclear armament as US-South Korea joint military drills commence
On 19 August, state media reported that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un called for a rapid expansion of his country’s nuclear arsenal, calling the US-South Korea military drills as “an obvious expression of their will to provoke war.” The two began their 11-day annual Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises this week. South Korea said 20 of the 40 field events were rescheduled to September, as President Lee Jae Myung seeks to ease tensions, though analysts doubt North Korea’s cooperation. On 18 August, Kim stated that the security environment necessitated North Korea to "rapidly expand" its nuclear arsenal, pointing that recent US-South Korea exercises involved a "nuclear element." President Trump and Lee are expected to address North Korea’s nuclear program in Washington in their upcoming summit on 25 August. The Federation of American Scientists estimated last year that North Korea could produce enough fissile material for as many as 90 nuclear warheads, and it had likely built closer to 50. Pyongyang is also expanding its navy, aiming to launch a third 5,000-tonne Choe Hyon-class destroyer by October next year and testing cruise and anti-air missiles for the ships.

US and Venezuela: Reuters says the US has deployed warships near Venezuela to combat drug cartels
On 19 August, Reuters reported that three US Aegis guided-missile destroyers will arrive off the coast of Venezuela in the next two days. It is speculated that the ships are the USS Gravely, USS Jason Dunham and the USS Sampson. Additionally, over 4,000 American sailors and US Marines are expected to be deployed in the southern Caribbean region. This development is part of the Trump administration’s ongoing efforts to counter security threats from Latin American drug cartels in order to achieve the wider objective of limiting illegal migration from the southern border of the US. Previously, multiple efforts have been made by the administration in the domain of border security and drug trafficking, including deployment of over two warships, designation of prominent drug cartels as global terror organisations, immigration enforcement against alleged cartel members, enhanced airborne surveillance of Mexican drug cartels, and usage of naval assets to carry out intelligence and surveillance operations. In response, on 18 August, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro asserted that Venezuela will defend its seas, skies and lands against what he described as an “outlandish, bizarre threat of a declining empire."

Global Perspectives
Editorials/Opinions East Asia to the Americas
Editorial, "The Ukraine crisis has taught Europe a lesson in realpolitik," Global Times, 19 August 2025
https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202508/1341167.shtml

Editorial, "No reason for Germany to let political expediency hurt relations with China," China Daily, 18 August 2025
https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202508/18/WS68a31f46a310b236346f23c1.html

Yuichi Hosoya, "All is not quiet on the Western front," Japan Times, 19 August 2025
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/commentary/2025/08/19/japan/global-security/

Zhang Jun, "Demystifying the manufacturing success of China," Japan Times, 19 August
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/commentary/2025/08/19/world/demystifying-chinas-manufacturing/

Troy Stangarone, "New Korea-US trade agreement is only the beginning," Korea Times, 19 August 2024
https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/opinion/20250819/new-korea-us-trade-agreement-is-only-the-beginning

Zhihua Zheng, "How Beijing and other South China Sea claimants can see eye to eye," South China Morning Post, 19 August 2025
https://www.scmp.com/opinion/china-opinion/article/3322260/how-beijing-and-other-south-china-sea-claimants-can-see-eye-eye?module=top_story&pgtype=section

Jamie Dettmer, "The transatlantic alliance holds as Trump warms to security guarantees for Kyiv," Politico, 19 August 2025
https://www.politico.eu/article/the-transatlantic-alliance-holds-as-trump-warms-to-security-guarantees-for-kyiv/

Henry Farrell and Abraham Newman, "The Weaponized World Economy: Surviving the New Age of Economic Coercion," Foreign Affairs, 19 August 2025
https://www.foreignaffairs.com/united-states/weaponized-world-economy-farrell-newman

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17-18 August 2025, SUNDAY-MONDAY
The World Today #78-79

US and Europe: Zelensky to meet Trump, along with European leaders, to discuss Ukraine 
On 18 August, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky travelled to Washington to meet with US President Donald Trump, accompanied by European leaders including France's President Emmanuel Macron, Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. President Trump urged Zelensky to abandon Ukraine's bid to reclaim Crimea and its ambitions to join NATO. President Zelensky condemned recent Russian drone and missile strikes on Kharkiv and Zaporizhzhia as “cynical,” noting they seemed timed to disrupt the talks. Meanwhile, Germany's Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul called for increased pressure on Russia and stronger security guarantees for Ukraine ahead of the White House meeting.

The War in Gaza: Nationwide protests in Israel demand an immediate agreement with Hamas 
On 17 August, Reuters reported that demonstrators in Israel conducted nationwide protests demanding an agreement and an end to the war. Their main objective is to support hostage families in the rallies and to protect hostages from Hamas militants by ending the war. Around 50 Israelis were held hostage, and among them, only 20 were said to be alive. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said ending the war with an agreement without defeating Hamas wouldn't be safe for the country. About 61,000 Palestinians were killed in Israel's military campaign in Gaza. On 17 August, at least 29 people had been killed in the past day. Around 1,200 people were killed and 251 were taken into Gaza during Hamas' attack on Israel. Since then, 400 Israeli soldiers have been killed in Gaza.

India, China and the Border Talks: Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi arrives in Delhi for a two-day visit; Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar outlines mutual respect, mutual sensitivity and mutual interest as relations guiding light 
On 18 August, China's Foreign Minister and Special Representative on Boundary Questions, Wang Yi, arrived in Delhi for a two-day visit.  He held bilateral talks with India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. In his remarks, S Jaishankar said, "This occasion provides us an opportunity to meet and review our bilateral ties. It is also an appropriate time to exchange views on the global situation and some issues of mutual interest," and the relationship "must be guided by the three mutuals - mutual respect, mutual sensitivity and mutual interest. Differences must not become disputes, nor competition conflict." Wang Yi remarked that the basis for any positive momentum in our ties is to maintain peace and tranquillity on our border. According to the agenda, the 24th Special Representative Dialogue on the Border Question is scheduled on 19 August between Wang Yi and India's National Security Advisor Ajith Doval. Following that, the former will visit India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his Lok Kalyan Marg residence.

The War in Ukraine: Trump demands that Ukraine give up annexed Crimea and hopes of NATO membership to bring an end to the war; “Russia must end this war, which itself started,” says Zelensky 
On 17 August, President Trump stated that President Zelensky can end the war “almost immediately” if Ukraine relinquishes claims over Crimea and its plans of joining NATO. “ No getting back Obama given Crimea (12 years ago, without a shot being fired!), and NO GOING INTO NATO BY UKRAINE,” Trump wrote on his platform, Truth Social. The statement follows Russia’s speculated peace plans involving the exchange of territories discussed at the Alaska Summit, reports Reuters. Following the summit, Trump had stated that land transfer and security guarantees for Ukraine were “largely agreed and that “we’re pretty close to a deal.” Trump’s statements come ahead of Trump’s meeting with Zelensky and the European leaders at the White House. Zelensky wrote on X that “Russia must end this war, which itself started,” and that Ukraine seeks to “end this war quickly and reliably. And peace must be lasting.”
 

18 August
Today in History
18 August 1920: The US Senate ratifies the 19th Amendment as women secure the constitutional right to vote
On 18 August 1920, the 19th Amendment to the US Constitution was ratified, granting women the right to vote. The foundation to the US suffrage movement was laid down by the 1848 resolution drafted by Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott which declared that “it is the duty of the women of this country to secure to themselves their sacred right to the elective franchise.” The amendment was first introduced in the Congress in 1878. The victory took decades of struggle and sustained activism, with suffragettes employing diverse strategies including lobbying, petitioning, picketing, and civil disobedience. On 21 May 1919, the House of Representatives passed the amendment, and two weeks later, the Senate followed, and it was ratified on 18 August, 1920. This landmark achievement was the result of decades of activism by suffragists like Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton, who fought against systemic gender discrimination. It expanded democratic participation, empowering women to influence legislation and public policy. The 19th Amendment symbolized a major step toward gender equality, inspiring future movements for civil rights and social justice.

Who says what:
Editorials/Opinions from around the world

Editorial, "Dialogue and negotiation are the inevitable path to resolving Russia-Ukraine conflict," Global Times, 18 August 2025
https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202508/1341090.shtml

James Stavridis, "Ten ways to force Putin back to the bargaining table," Japan Times, 18 August 2025
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/commentary/2025/08/18/world/trump-putin-negotiating-summit/

Wendy Cutler, "US negotiators face tough task to secure trade deal with China," SCMP, 18 August 2025
https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3322129/us-negotiators-face-tough-task-secure-trade-deal-china?module=top_story&pgtype=section

Nadezhda Romanenko, "Why Zelensky’s main argument against peace is a lie," RT, 18 August 2025
https://www.rt.com/russia/623171-zelenskys-main-argument-lie/

"Five dangerous fault lines divide Trump and Zelensky," Economist, 18 August 2025
https://www.economist.com/the-economist-explains/2025/08/18/five-dangerous-fault-lines-divide-trump-and-zelensky

Jonathan A. Czin and John Culver, "Why Xi Still Doesn’t Have the Military He Wants," FOreign Affairs, 18 August 2025
https://www.foreignaffairs.com/china/why-xi-still-doesnt-have-military-he-wants

Editorial, "What Kind of Peace in Ukraine?," Wall Street Journal, 18 August 2025
https://www.wsj.com/opinion/what-kind-of-peace-in-ukraine-russia-summit-trump-putin-f5daf72f?mod=hp_opin_pos_1

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16 August 2025, SATURDAY
The World Today #77

The War in Ukraine: Alaska summit concludes without ceasefire deal as Trump demands that Kyiv arrive at a peace settlement with Moscow;Zelensky to meet Trump as European allies reiterate solidarity
On 16 August, the Trump-Putin summit in Alaska concluded without a cease-fire agreement. It was decided that peace settlement should be arrived at directly and not through a ceasefire agreement, “which often times do not hold up.” Trump stated that Ukraine should conclude a deal with Russia to bring an end to the war, because “Russia is a very big power, and they're not.” Trump had previously warned that  Russia will have to face "severe consequences" if Moscow does not agree to a peace settlement in Ukraine at the summit. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that following the summit he joined Trump on a call, which was joined by European and Nato officials and discussed “positive signals from the American side regarding participation in guaranteeing Ukraine’s security." Zelensky is set to meet with Trump in Washington on 18 August to discuss the details of ending the war. Ukraine's European allies, the Coalition of the Willing, issued a joint-statement in response to the summit, reiterating their solidarity with Ukraine and stating that they are “ready to work with President Trump and President Zelensky towards a trilateral summit with European support.” They also confirmed that economic sanctions on Russia will be strengthened “to put pressure on Russia's war economy until there is a just and lasting peace.”

The War in Gaza: Reuters reports that Israel is in talks with South Sudan to resettle Palestinians from Gaza, sources say
On 15 August, Reuters reported that Israel and South Sudan are in talks over a possible plan to resettle Palestinians from Gaza in the African nation, though no agreement has been reached. The proposal, dismissed by Palestinian leaders as unacceptable, would see people displaced from war-torn Gaza to South Sudan, itself plagued by years of political and ethnically-driven violence. This week, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu repeated his suggestions that Palestinians should leave Gaza voluntarily. Arab and global leaders reject mass relocation to any country. Palestinians say that such a move would resemble another “Nakba,” the 1948 catastrophe when hundreds of thousands were displaced during the Arab-Israeli war. Three sources who spoke to Reuters said the idea was raised during South Sudanese Foreign Minister’s visit to Israel last month, though South Sudan later called such reports “baseless.” Israeli Deputy Foreign Minister who visited the South Sudanese capital Juba this week, stated the talks were not about relocation. Netanyahu has stated that Israel is in contact with a few countries about potential destinations for Palestinians seeking to leave Gaza, though he has refrained from disclosing details.

United Nations: Global talks fail to seal landmark plastics treaty
On 16 August, delegates from over 1,000 nations met in Geneva to negotiate a legally binding global treaty to curb plastic pollution, but talks collapsed without an agreement. Discussions stalled primarily over caps on virgin plastic production, a key provision opposed by the US and other petrochemical-producing states. Despite working overtime and presenting two draft texts, delegates failed to reach consensus on regulating production levels, chemical use, and funding for developing nations . Countries such as France, Denmark, and Colombia voiced disappointment, holding back progress. China acknowledged the setback but emphasised a need to continue addressing plastic pollution across its full lifecycle. Observers worry that without bold commitments, efforts to limit plastic pollution will continue to fail.

Lebanon: Hezbollah says Beirut “will have no life” if it attempts to confront or eliminate the group; PM Nawaf Salam calls the remark an implicit civil war threat
On 15 August, Hezbollah stated there will be “no life” in Lebanon if the government attempted to confront or disarm the Iran-backed group. Last week, the Lebanese government tasked the army with restricting weapons to state forces in accordance with a US-backed plan, following Israel’s campaign against Hezbollah. But the group insists disarmament cannot occur until Israel halts strikes and withdraws from southern Lebanon which had been a Hezbollah stronghold. In a televised speech, deputy leader Naim Qassem declared Lebanon’s sovereignty must be built “together,” otherwise “Lebanon will have no life if you stand on the other side and try to confront us and eliminate us.” Prime Minister Nawaf Salam called the remarks unacceptable, stating it as an implicit threat of civil war. Israel’s strikes over the last two years have killed senior Hezbollah figures, including former leader Hassan Nasrallah, and nearly 5000 of its fighters. Qassem stated the government is trying to implement an "American-Israeli order to eliminate the resistance, even if that leads to civil war and internal strife.” While Hezbollah holds strong support among Lebanon’s Shi'ite community, there has been increasing calls for its disarmament across the rest of society, says Reuters.

India and China: Beijing's Foreign Minister Wang Yi will visit New Delhi to attend the 24th round of talks on the border question
On 16 August, China's foreign ministry spokesperson stated that China's Foreign Affairs Minister Wang Yi will visit India from 18th to 20th August. According to the ministry statement, as "China's special representative on the China-India boundary question", he will "attend the 24th Round of Talks Between the Special Representatives of China and India on the Boundary Question at the invitation of the Indian side." He is expected to meet top Indian officials, including External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. This is the second such meeting after the 2020 border skirmishes.

16 August
Today in History
16 August 1960: Cyprus gains independence from Britain
On 16 August, the island of Cyprus officially achieved independence from Britain, ending nearly 80 years of colonial rule. The independence was secured under the Zurich and London Agreements signed by Britain, Greece, and Turkey, which also guaranteed the sovereignty of the new state. Cyprus adopted a unique power-sharing constitution designed to balance the interests of its two main communities: the Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots. Under this arrangement, Archbishop Makarios III became the first President, while Dr Fazıl Küçük was appointed as Vice President with significant veto powers. Although independence was celebrated as a milestone, underlying tensions between the communities persisted. The constitution, while aiming to ensure coexistence, faced challenges that later fueled political instability. Cyprus’s independence marked both the end of British colonialism and the beginning of a complex chapter in the island’s modern history.

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15 August 2025, FRIDAY
The World Today #76

War in Ukraine: Trump heads to Alaska summit with goals of ceasefire deal; Ukraine expresses concerns over being excluded and potential land swap demands
On 15 August the US President Donald Trump headed to the Alaska summit with President Vladimir Putin to discuss the ceasefire deal to end the Russia-Ukraine war. Ukraine expressed its concern over Kyiv and European allies not being invited to the summit, and fears that Trump might cede a fifth of Ukrainian territory to Russia. Trump responded to the concerns saying that he only aims to facilitate formal meetings between Russia and Ukraine to reach an agreement and the territory exchange would only be decided by Ukraine and the US will not interfere in that matter. The summit aims not only for peace talks but also to address economic problems in the summit where Russia might consider some possible terms for its economic situation. For Ukraine, its ultimate goal is a ceasefire and the government requested security from the US but there is no guarantee on its role in the talks. Ukrainians told Reuters that they didn't expect any good outcomes from the summit and were determined that no territory swap would take place.

The War in Gaza: UN states Israel’s settlement plans in West Bank violates international law; Germany condemns move to establish new settlements
On 15 August, The UN Human Rights Office declared that Israel’s proposal to construct thousands of new homes between an Israeli settlement in the West Bank and an area near East Jerusalem violates international law. On 14 August, Israel’s  far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich had stated that the new settlement program of 3,401 houses would ‘bury’ the idea of a Palestinian state. The UN spokesperson highlighted that the settlements would break the West Bank into isolated enclaves and that it is a "a war crime for an occupying power to transfer its own civilian population into the territory it occupies.” Germany has also condemned Israel’s settlement plans. Germany’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated that it "firmly rejects the Israeli government's announcements regarding the approval of thousands of new housing units in Israeli settlements in the West Bank.” 

South Korea: President Lee to end certain military activities along the border with North Korea; "I hope that North Korea will reciprocate our efforts to restore trust and revive dialogue," says the President
On 15 August, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung announced plans to end certain military activities along the border with North Korea as part of efforts to improve ties. Speaking on the 80th anniversary of Korea’s liberation from Japanese rule, Lee said his government would gradually restore the September 19 Comprehensive Military Agreement, a 2018 pact aimed at reducing border tensions through measures such as halting drills, banning live-fire exercises, removing guard posts, and maintaining hotlines. The deal collapsed after Pyongyang abandoned it in 2023, followed by Seoul’s suspension in June 2024 under former President Yoon. President Lee urged North Korea to reciprocate and revive dialogue, stressing that prolonged hostility benefits neither side. The Korean War ended in 1953 with an armistice, leaving the peninsula divided. Earlier this month, South Korea and the US postponed parts of their annual joint military drills, a frequent source of tension with North Korea. According to a former official at South Korea’s National Intelligence, President Lee would need bolder initiatives such as convincing Trump to ease sanctions in order to draw Kim Jong Un into dialogue. He added that Pyongyang would be monitoring Lee’s planned summit with Trump this month.

US: Trump administration weighs a refugee cap of 40,000 with nearly 30,000 spots reserved for Afrikaners, officials say
On 15 August, Reuters reported that the Trump administration is considering a refugee admissions cap of 40,000 for fiscal year 2026, with over 30,000 spots reserved for Afrikaners, a largely Dutch-descended minority in South Africa, according to officials. The cap is well below the 100,000 refugees admitted under President Biden in 2024, but above Trump’s 2021 record-low ceiling of 15,000.  “Trump's focus on resettling Afrikaners could upend the precedent around the refugee program, which for decades had bipartisan support,” says Reuters. He claims Afrikaners face racial discrimination and violence in majority-Black South Africa, allegations denied by the South African government. Since taking office, President Trump has largely blocked refugee admissions, while advancing a program for Afrikaners. In May, the administration granted refugee status to 59 white South Africans. The administration is also weighing resettlement for some Afghans who aided US forces and possibly Ukrainians, leaving some slots unallocated potentially for other nationalities. The White House deputy press secretary stated that the refugee cap would not be finalized until the President formally sets his determination for fiscal year 2026, starting 01 October.

15 August
Today in History

15 August 2021: Taliban captures Afghanistan after US withdrawal 
On 15 August, the Taliban seized control of Kabul, completing a rapid nationwide offensive that toppled Afghanistan’s US-backed government. This  came after the withdrawal of US and NATO forces, ending nearly two decades of military involvement that began in 2001 following the September 11 attacks. Over the years, the US presence had sought to dismantle al-Qaeda, remove the Taliban from power, and support the establishment of a democratic government. President Ashraf Ghani fled the country as Afghan security forces collapsed in the face of the Taliban’s advance. The group’s return to power raised concerns over human rights, especially for women and minorities, and led many nations to suspend foreign aid. The takeover marked the end of 20 years of international efforts to stabilise Afghanistan and the restoration of Taliban rule after their ouster in late 2001.

15 August 1914: The Panama Canal officially begins its operation
The Panama Canal was officially opened on August 15, 1914. It transited the SS Ancon, an American cargo and passenger ship, as its first ship into the canal. The construction officially began on 01 January 1881. The extent of Canal de Panamá begins from the Caribbean Sea (part of the Atlantic Ocean) and ends at the Pacific Ocean, connecting both oceans. The construction was initiated by France from 1881 to 1889. It was later, Panama was ceded from Colombia in 1903 with the help of the US. Hence, from 1904 to 1914, the US took care of building it into a fully functional canal. It simplified the trade route, avoiding the risk of traveling from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean via the southernmost tip of South America. The Panama Canal remains a strategic value to the US for its military trade routes by transporting naval ships efficiently through the canal. It annually handles 40 per cent of the US per cent of the shipments and more than cargo that goes to the US  through the canal originates in or is destined for the US, making the Panama Canal important to US supply chains.
 

Who says what:
Editorials/Opinions from around the world
Shi Jiangto, "Why EU stance on Taiwan is a growing cause of concern for mainland China," SCMP, 15 August 2025
https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3322001/why-eu-stance-taiwan-growing-cause-concern-mainland-china?module=top_story&pgtype=homepage

Alex Lo, "Trump trade war with China is starting to look like a partnership, SCMP, 15 August 2025
https://www.scmp.com/opinion/article/3322053/trump-trade-war-china-starting-look-partnership?module=top_story&pgtype=section

Rachel Marsden, "The EU throws an epic tantrum as Trump meets with Putin," RT, 15 August 2025
Brussels has been relegated to running behind Trump, pleading to let Zelensky have any say in a Russia-Ukraine war resolution
https://www.rt.com/news/622931-eu-trump-putin-alaska/

Yun Sun, "China Is Enjoying Trump 2.0," Foreign Affairs, 15 August 2025
How the Trade War Is Helping Beijing Prepare for Long-Term Competition
https://www.foreignaffairs.com/china/china-enjoying-trump-20

Tanya Lokshina, "The First Step in Negotiations With Russia," Foreign Affairs, 15 August 2025
Freeing Detained Ukrainians Can Smooth the Way for More Difficult Talks
https://www.foreignaffairs.com/russia/first-step-negotiations-russia?s=EDZZZ005ZX&utm_medium=newsletters&utm_source=fatoday&utm_campaign=China%20Is%20Enjoying%20Trump%202.0&utm_content=20250815&utm_term=EDZZZ005ZX
 

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14 August 2025, THURSDAY
The World Today #75

The War in Gaza: Israel's finance minister approves construction of 3,401 houses for Israeli settlers in the E1 area settlement project; The move would "bury" the idea of a Palestinian state, says his office
On 14 August, Israel’s finance minister Bezalel Smotrich approved construction of 3,401 houses for Israeli settlers in the E1 area settlement project that would connect Jerusalem and the existing Israeli settlement of Maale Adumim. He stated that PM Netanyahu and President Trump had agreed to the revival of the E1, though neither confirmed it. This would "bury" the idea of a Palestinian state, Smotrich’s office stated. The project would divide the occupied West Bank into northern and southern regions, preventing the creation of a contiguous Palestinian territory linking occupied East Jerusalem to key cities including Bethlehem and Ramallah. Israel postponed the plan in 2022 under US pressure, but Netanyahu’s far-right government has advanced road projects and restricted Palestinian access in recent months. Palestinians fear the surge in West Bank settlement building, which has accelerated since the 2023 Hamas attack, will rob them of any prospects for statehood. The Palestinian government, allies and rights groups condemned the plan as illegal. The European Commission spokesperson stated the “annexation of territory is illegal under international law.”

The War in Ukraine: Putin praises Washington's “sincere efforts” in ending the Russia-Ukraine war; Trump demands that NATO be excluded from Kyiv’s post-war security arrangements
On August 14, Russian President Putin praised the “ energetic and sincere efforts to stop the hostilities” by the US prior to his meeting with President Trump in Alaska. Putin also hints at a potential discussion on nuclear arms control to create “ long-term conditions for peace between our countries, and in Europe, and in the world as a whole.” The comments follow Trump's warning that Russia will have to face "severe consequences" if Moscow does not agree to a peace settlement in Ukraine. On 13 August, Ukraine-allied European leaders had engaged in a virtual-meeting with Trump prior to his meeting with Trump. French President Emmanuel Macron revealed that Trump insists that NATO should not partake in security guarantees intended for Ukraine’s protection from future attacks in a post-war settlement, but also that “the United States and all willing allies should be part of them.” Trump has agreed to provide certain security guarantees for Europe, although the provisions of the guarantees are yet to be revealed, a European official conveyed to Reuters. 

Haiti: Blackwater founder Erik Prince enters into 10 year arrangement with government; Arrangement establishes new tax-collection system with Prince’s firm in key role 
On 14 August, Erik Prince, the founder of the private military company Blackwater, said that his firm Vectus Global has entered into a 10-year agreement with the Haitian government to fight the rampant gang violence in the country. He would do so by working in coordination with the Haitian police and deploying armed forces including snipers and specialists in intelligence and communications, as well as helicopters and boats from the US, Europe and El Salvador. The firm began operating in Haiti in March under a task force led by the prime minister. After the national security is stabilised he aims to devise a taxation system controlling the taxes collected from the imported goods across the Dominican Republic. The new president of Haiti’s transitional council, nor the council’s previous president or prime minister have commented on the matter.

US: President Trump signals extension of federal control over Washington DC’s police
On 14 August, Reuters reported that US President Donald Trump on 13 August announced that he would ask Republican congressional leaders to extend federal control of Washington city’s police force beyond 30 days. In a social media statement on TruthSocial, Trump asserted that the “The Violent Crime Rate in D.C. has worsened,” accusing the Democrat-led state government of negligence in terms of prosecuting criminals and addressing the deteriorating law and order. Further, he said “D.C. is back under Federal Control where it belongs,” emphasising that the “The White House is in charge” and that the “Military and our Great Police” will liberate the city. Additionally, President Trump argued that any congressional action could be replicated in other U.S. cities. This development is part of an ongoing effort of the Trump administration to federalise the city’s police to fight crime. On 11 August, the federal government seized control of Washington's Metropolitan Police Department based on the District of Columbia Home Rule Act which permits the president to do so under emergency circumstances for up to a time period of 30 days. Previously, President Trump announced the deployment of 800 National Guard troops to the city.

China on the Thailand-Cambodia Conflict: Beijing urges Bangkok and Phnom Penh to reconcile in three-way talks 
On 14 August, China stepped into the border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia. China urged reconciliation and offered support to both parties' needs. China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi spoke separately with his counterparts from Thailand and Cambodia. He convened a trilateral meeting on the sidelines of the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Yunnan province. Wang encouraged renewed dialogue and trust between the two states. He also expressed hopes that border crossings would be reopened soon. Additionally, China offered assistance with landmine clearance in the disputed areas and proposed continuing flexible communication. In discussions with Thailand, Wang promoted accelerating a China-Thailand railway project and increased Chinese investments to bolster regional production stability. He also stated political stability efforts in Cambodia, particularly praising its crackdown on online gambling and wire fraud.

14 August
Today in History

14 August 1947: The Partition of India takes place; Pakistan declares Independence
On 14 August, Pakistan declared Independence following the termination of the British Raj in India between 14th and 15th August 1947. The movement for creation of Pakistan was led by Muhammed Ali Jinnah. It originated in 1940 with the Lahore Resolution, which called for the establishment of an independent state for Muslims in the northwestern and eastern areas of India through partition. The Muslim League’s demands intensified, resulting in ‘Direct Action Day’ on 16 August 1946 to demand a separate Muslim homeland after dissolution of British rule in India. India’s then-Viceroy and Governor-General, Lord Mountbatten agreed to Jinnah’s demands. The partition, which witnessed mass migration and communal riots, manifested itself in the Indian Independence Act 1947 under which British India was divided into two independent dominion states: the Union of India and the Dominion of Pakistan comprising East and West Pakistan. East Pakistan declared independence in 1971, which is now the Islamic Republic of Bangladesh. Since then, the country has undergone decades of military rule and instability while being embroiled in a longstanding conflict with India.

14 August 1945: Japan announces unconditional surrender to the Allied powers in World War II drawing the end of the war
On 14 August 1945, Japan’s unconditional surrender to the Allied forces in World War II was officially announced, the day came to be known as ‘Victory Day,’ and Japan formally surrendered in writing two weeks later, on 02 September, 1945. Although Japan’s War Council had submitted the declaration of surrender to the Allies on 10 August, fighting continued between the Japanese and the Soviets in Manchuria and between the Japanese and the United States in the South Pacific. The declaration was officially made through a pre-recorded Imperial Proclamation of Emperor Hirohito over the radio. Over 1,000 soldiers stormed the Imperial Palace in an attempt to seize the declaration to prevent it from reaching the Allies, and General Anami, a key member of the War Council died by suicide. Japan’s unconditional surrender marked the end of the six year long war, one of the deadliest in history, and the start of a new age of global politics.

 

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12 August 2025, TUESDAY
The World Today #73

US-China Trade War: Trump signs an executive order further extending the tariff truce till 10 November
On 11 August, the US President Donald Trump signed an executive order extending 90 days to make a deal on the tariff truce. The extension until 10 November would lead to a summit between US President Donald Trump and China’s President Xi Jinping. Until then, the US President expects an agreement to take place if the meeting doesn't happen. The economists were working on a provincial agreement and the deadline for it was extended through the order. In 2025, the talks between the US and China were held three times where US tariffs on Chinese goods reached 145 per cent, and China’s tariffs on US goods reached 125 per cent,  restricting the exports of rare earth magnets critical to American manufacturers. A 90-day truce was reached in May to ease the tension in which the United States reduced its tariffs upto 30 per cent, while China lowered its tariffs upto 10 per cent and agreed to export the magnets.

The War in Ukraine: EU joint statement reiterates Kyiv's participation in peace talks; Trump states that Russia and Ukraine will have to cede territories to end the conflict
On 11 August, EU member states, except Hungary, issued a joint statement ahead of the Trump-Putin meeting. The statement reiterated that “the path to peace in Ukraine cannot be decided without Ukraine," and that any peace deal must be in accordance with international law and inclusive of Ukraine's independence and territorial integrity. The EU leaders plan to speak with Trump on 13 August, reports Reuters. Ukraine's authoritative DeepState war map revealed that Russian forces had advanced by at least 10 km (six miles) north in their campaign to take control of Ukraine's Donetsk region. On 10 August Trump stated that Russia and Ukraine will have to cede territories to end the war and that his meeting with Putin on 15 August in Alaska would be a “feel-out meeting” to assess Moscow’s willingness. He stated that a future meeting could include President Zelensky making a three-way session with the US, Russia and Ukraine possible.

The Philippines: Raises serious concerns over Chinese actions following the Scarborough Shoal collision
On 12 August, the Philippines raised serious concerns over "dangerous maneuvers and unlawful interference" by Chinese vessels during a coast guard supply mission for Filipino fishermen in the Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea. "Their actions not only posed a grave danger to the Philippine personnel and vessels, but also resulted in the unfortunate collision between the two Chinese vessels," the Philippine foreign ministry said in a statement. The Philippine Coast Guard deployed three vessels to deliver fuel and ice but faced "hazardous" blocking actions, culminating in a collision between two Chinese ships, one from the Coast Guard and one from the People's Liberation Army Navy. A Chinese navy ship abruptly cut across the path of a Philippine vessel, damaging its forecastle. Armed Forces Chief General Romeo Brawner said, "We assess that the real objective of the PLA Navy ship is to ram our Philippine Coast Guard vessel." The incident, the first known collision between Chinese vessels in the area, drew US condemnation, with Ambassador MaryKay Carlson praising the PCG's professionalism and offer of assistance. China's coast guard claimed it expelled Philippine vessels from the waters, amid ongoing tensions. The Philippine foreign ministry stated, "Yesterday's incident demonstrates the importance of adhering to international maritime rules," reaffirming commitment to diplomacy despite a 2016 arbitral ruling invalidating Beijing's claims. Rear Admiral Roy Trinidad warned of potential future incidents if China persists in "illegal, coercive, aggressive and deceptive" activities.

Myanmar: UNHRC report uncovers severe systematic torture and human rights violations perpetrated by military forces
On 12 August, the UN Human Rights Council released the annual report of the  Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM). The IIM has been investigating violations in Myanmar since 2011 and had previously highlighted the crimes against the Muslim Rohingya minority in the country in 2017. Myanmar had been struggling under a state-of emergency since a military coup in 2021, which ended 31 July 2025 when the military nominally transferred power to a civilian-led interim government ahead of a planned election, with army chief Min Aung Hlaing as the acting president. The 16-page report reveals severe human rights violations by the military forces, covering a one-year period through 30 June from over 1,300 sources. The perpetrators identified by the report include high-level military commanders, and the investigations “uncovered significant evidence, including eyewitness testimony, showing systematic torture in Myanmar detention facilities," stated Nicholas Koumjian, head of the IIMM. According to the report, victims including unlawfully detained children were subject to beatings, electric shocks, gang rape, strangulation and other forms of torture that led to several deaths, reported Reuters. The military-backed government has made no comments on the report despite repeated requests from the UN on access to the country and information on the alleged crimes. The military has shifted the blame onto “terrorists” for causing unrest and stated that it has a duty to ensure peace and security.

The War in Gaza: Israel bombards Gaza City overnight; Hunger-related deaths rise to 227; Hamas leader set to visit Cairo to revive the US-backed ceasefire plan
On 12 August, Reuters reported that Israeli planes and tanks bombarded eastern Gaza City overnight, killing at least 11 people according to witnesses and medics. Hamas leader Khalil Al-Hayya is set to visit Cairo for talks to revive the US-backed ceasefire plan after July negotiations in Qatar collapsed. Israel has since announced plans for a new offensive to seize Gaza City. An Arab diplomat stated that Egypt and Qatar remain committed to reviving negotiations, and Israel’s announcement of a new Gaza City offensive might not be a bluff but aimed at bringing Hamas back to the negotiating table. Prime Minister Netanyahu’s plan to expand control, expected in October, has drawn global condemnation over widespread devastation and a worsening hunger crisis in Gaza affecting nearly two million people. Gaza’s health ministry reported five more starvation-related deaths in the past 24 hours, bringing the total of such deaths to 227 since the war began. Israel disputes these figures. Israel’s military chief warned the operation risks hostages’ lives and could be deadly for Israeli soldiers. The duration and nature of the new Israeli military incursion into the northern Gaza city remain uncertain, reported Reuters.

 

Who says what:
Editorials/Opinions from around the world

Editorial, "Australia should effectively safeguard legitimate rights, interests of Chinese citizens in its country," Global Times, 12 August 2025
https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202508/1340641.shtml

On North Korea dismantling loudpeakers against South Korea
Editorial, "Avoid overoptimism," Korea Herald, 12 August 2025
https://www.koreaherald.com/article/10551704

Lee Kyong-hee, "Alliance for NE Asia nuclear-weapon-free zone," Korea Herald, 12 August 2025
https://www.koreaherald.com/article/10550808

Winston Mok, "Why Japan, South Korea and EU couldn’t join forces against Trump," SCMP, 12 August 2025
It may be easier for selected countries in the Brics grouping to collaborate to counter the US than for Tokyo, Seoul and Brussels to do so
https://www.scmp.com/opinion/china-opinion/article/3321475/why-japan-south-korea-and-eu-couldnt-join-forces-against-trump?module=top_story&pgtype=section

Bhavan Jaipragas, ‘Mutually assured disruption’: China’s rare earths give US a reality check, Strait Times, 12 August 2025
Beijing’s grip over these minerals reveals true balance of leverage in superpower rivalry.
https://www.straitstimes.com/opinion/mutually-assured-disruption-chinas-rare-earths-give-us-reality-check

Eric Schmidt and Greg Grant, "The Dawn of Automated Warfare," Foreign Affairs, 12 August 2025
Artificial Intelligence Will Be the Key to Victory in Ukraine—and Elsewhere
https://www.foreignaffairs.com/russia/dawn-automated-warfare

Editorial Board, "Fighting crime in D.C. cannot end with Trump’s show of force," Washington Post, 12 August 2025
The president’s takeover of the D.C. police will be temporary. Longer-term solutions will be needed
https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2025/08/11/trump-dc-police-takeover-crime/

Christina Lu, "America’s Military Runs on Chinese Rare Earths," Foreign Policy, 12 August 2025
But the Pentagon is hoping it can change that.
https://foreignpolicy.com/2025/08/11/china-rare-earths-us-defense-military-pentagon-supply-chain/

 

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11 August 2025, Monday
The World Today # 71-72

The War in Ukraine: Trump likely to join European leaders and Zelenskyy for an emergency virtual summit ahead of the Alaska talks; Zelenskyy secures EU, NATO backing; “it is a matter of Ukraine’s and the whole of Europe’s security,” says EU foreign policy chief
On 11 August, according to the latest reports, President Trump is likely to join European leaders and Zelenskyy on 13 August for an emergency virtual summit organised by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. A German government spokesperson told POLITICO the summit will address pressure options against Russia, the status of Ukrainian territories seized by Moscow, security guarantees for Kyiv, and the sequencing of possible peace talks. On 10 August, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy secured diplomatic backing from Europe and NATO ahead of the 15 August Russia–US summit in Alaska, where Kyiv fears Presidents Putin and Trump may set the terms to end the war without Kyiv’s inputs. A White House official stated Trump is open to having Zelenskyy, but preparation is taking place only for a bilateral meeting. President Putin ruled out meeting Zelenskyy last week, citing conditions are "unfortunately still far" from being met. Trump stated that "some swapping of territories to the betterment of both (sides),” would be involved in the potential deal. EU foreign policy chief stated that "any deal between the US and Russia must have Ukraine and the EU included, for it is a matter of Ukraine’s and the whole of Europe’s security.” Moscow officials accused Europe of obstructing Trump’s efforts to end the war, reported Reuters.

The War in Gaza: Israel’s new expanded offensive kills six journalists; Australia joins the Western countries planning to recognise Palestine
On 11 August, areas in eastern Gaza faced heavy bombardment hours after Prime Minister Netanyahu stated that he “want to end the war as quickly as possible,” and that the IDF has been instructed to “shorten the schedule for seizing control of Gaza City.” He also stated that the new offensive would focus on Gaza city, and indicated that the coastal areas of central Gaza will be next. The offensive killed six journalists, including Al Jazeera correspondent Anas Al Sharif, who Israel had been accused of being affiliated with Hamas. The strikes have been recorded as the deadliest attack against journalists since the war began. French President Immanuel Macron has condemned Israel’s operations as a “rush into permanent war,” and has called for a permanent ceasefire. Australia has also announced plans to recognise the state of Palestine in September at the UN General Assembly and reiterated the ‘two-state solution.’ Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that the two-state model is “humanity's best hope to break the cycle of violence in the Middle East and to bring an end to the conflict, suffering and starvation in Gaza.”

US: President Trump announces “Liberation Day” to rescue Washington DC from crime, by placing police department under direct federal control; Trial begins over Trump administration's deployment of National Guard during LA protests
On 10 August, President Trump declared the eviction of homeless people from Washington DC, comparing the city’s homicide rates to Baghdad and Bogota. The administration is set to deploy hundreds of National Guard Troops in the capital. In a social media statement on TruthSocial he asserted that “Washington, D.C. will be LIBERATED” stating that crime in the capital will “DISAPPEAR.” He also advocated that the “Homeless have to move out, IMMEDIATELY.” On 11 August, a three-day non-jury trial commenced before the US District Judge Charles Breyer in San Francisco. The lawsuit concerns the state of California, which has sued the Trump administration over its deployment of the state’s National Guard, which it claims violates federal law and state sovereignty. The trial will decide if the US government violated a 19th-century statute that prevents the US military from carrying out civil law enforcement when the Trump administration deployed troops to Los Angeles in June this year to support deportation efforts and control violent protests. Currently, President Trump has retained control of California's National Guard in accordance with a US appeals court judgment. It is speculated that the government will argue that the National Guard was protecting federal property and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. The state of California maintains that approximately 2,000 National Guard members continue to accompany ICE agents on raids, assist in arrests, and restrict civilian movements in the state.

Africa: Mali arrests soldiers and military officials who accused of posing threat to the government
On 11 August, Mali arrested over 30 soldiers and military officials, including General Abass Dembele, former governor of the central Mopti region, accused of attempting to destabilise the government. Security sources said that the arrests totalled to 36 and as per the government sources 40 people have been arrested over several days amid heightened internal tensions. Since 2021 General Assimi Goita, the interim leader and the military leadership, had been facing criticism for suppressing dissent, dissolving all political parties and the move led to protests, the junta responded by suspending political activities across the country. Neither the government nor the military has commented on the arrests.

11 August:
Today in History
11 August 1919: The signing of the Weimar Constitution establishes the first parliamentary democracy in Germany
On 11 August 1919, provisional president Friedrich Ebert signed the 31 Weimar Constitution into law, officially establishing the first parliamentary democracy in Germany. From 1916, Germany had been under a military dictatorship led by the Supreme Army Command. However, with the imminent loss in the first World War, the military command urged Kaiser Wilhelm II and the Reichstag, the German Parliament, to form a civil government to negotiate an armistice with the Allied forces. This led to the amendment of the 1871 constitution, prompting the creation of a parliamentary democracy where the Chancellor of Germany was responsible to the Reichstag instead of the monarch. However, domestic unrest persisted as the public rioted against the economic unrest, mutinies broke out within the army and the leftist forces in Germany demanded the establishment of a socialist republic guided by Bolshevik principles. To pacify the public, the Chancellor transferred his powers to Friedrich Ebert, the leader of  Germany’s Social Democratic Party (SPD). The SDP authored the Weimar Constitution, creating a semi-presidential republic with a bicameral parliament, elected every four years by proportional representation with universal suffrage for those over 20. Despite the progressive outlook of the Constitution, it was riddled with several faultlines that were later exploited by Adolf Hitler and the Nazi party to rise to power. 

Who says what:
Editorials/Opinions from around the world
Monica Taft, "Trump is losing the trade war with China," The Strait Times, 11 August 2025
https://www.straitstimes.com/opinion/trump-is-losing-the-trade-war-with-china

Michael B. G. Froman, After the Trade War: Remaking Rules From the Ruins of the Rules-Based System," Foreign Affairs, 11 August 2025
https://www.foreignaffairs.com/united-states/after-trade-war-michael-froman

Emma Ashford, "What Was the Tipping Point on Gaza?," Foreign Policy, 11 August 2025
https://foreignpolicy.com/2025/08/11/gaza-tipping-point-israel-trump/

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09 August 2025, Saturday
The World Today # 70

Japan: Nagasaki marks 80 years since atomic bombing 
On 09 August, Japan commemorated the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Nagasaki with a solemn ceremony. Nagasaki Mayor Shiro Suzuki warned of the growing risk of nuclear war. He urged world leaders to uphold the UN Charter, pursue disarmament, and stand in solidarity to prevent a repeat of such devastation. Bomb survivor Hiroshi Nishioka, who had been just 3 km from the explosion, recalled how even those without serious injuries began bleeding from their gums, losing their hair, and dying “one after another,” describing the “invisible terror” that followed. Resident Atsuko Higuchi expressed relief that the victims were being remembered, stressing: “These are real events that took place.”

The War in Ukraine: Zelenskyy says Ukraine will not cede land ahead of Trump-Putin meeting on 15 August
On 08 August, US President Donald Trump announced that he will meet Russian President Vladimir Putin on 15 August in Alaska to negotiate an end to the war between Ukraine and Russia. President Trump indicated that the agreement would involve “some swapping of territories to the betterment of both.” President Putin’s aide Yuri Ushakov confirmed the meeting, highlighting that the two leaders will "focus on discussing options for achieving a long-term peaceful resolution to the Ukrainian crisis.” Ushakov said that the process can be “challenging” but involved stakeholders will “engage in it actively and energetically.” In response, on 09 August, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine could not violate its constitution on territorial matters, arguing that "Ukrainians will not gift their land to the occupiers." Further, Zelenskyy asserted that any decisions without Ukraine’s involvement would be decisions against peace which will “not achieve anything”advocating for “real and genuine peace.” These developments come after President Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff held talks with President Putin and Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk said that a pause in the conflict could be close, after speaking with Zelenskyy.

The War in Gaza: Turkey calls on Islamic countries to unite against Israel’s move to take over Gaza
On 09 August, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan called on Islamic countries to unite and rally support against Israel’s plan to take over Gaza city, announcing that the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) had been summoned to an emergency meeting. He was speaking at a joint press conference with his Egyptian counterpart Badr Abdelatty following a meeting with the Egyptian presidency. On 08 August, Turkey had staunchly condemned Israel’s plan, stating that it marked a new phase in Tel Aviv’s “expansionist and genocidal policy.” He further accused Israel of forcing Palestinians out of the region through starvation and assured Ankara’s coordination with the OIC in addressing the crisis in Gaza. The OIC had also condemned Israel’s plans as "a dangerous and unacceptable escalation, a flagrant violation of international law,” that would "obliterate any opportunity for peace.”

Brazil: President Lula signs a bill to ease environmental licenses; vetoes key provisions to safeguard licensing process integrity and indigenous rights, says the president's office
On 08 August, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva signed a bill easing environmental licensing rules but vetoed 63 of its nearly 400 articles. Environmentalists called it the “Devastation Bill,” while Brazil’s agribusiness community supports it for easing expansion in environmentally sensitive areas. The law grants states and municipalities greater authority to issue licenses for new businesses. The executive secretary of the President's office stated that Lula’s vetoes aimed to protect the integrity of the licensing process, uphold legal certainty, and safeguard Indigenous and Quilombola rights. "We maintained what we consider to be significant advances in streamlining the environmental licensing process," she said, adding that a “Special Environmental License” will be created under the new proposal to fast-track strategic projects and address legal gaps left by the vetoes.

US: The Trump administration threatens Harvard to take over the patents
On 09 August, the Trump administration ordered a review of Harvard University’s federally funded research programs. The Commerce Department initiated a Bayh-Dole Act “march-in” process that could allow the government to seize or license the university’s patents, stated Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnik. In a letter sent to the University President, Lutnik accused Harvard of breaching its legal and contractual obligations, which are tied to the research programs and patents. Harvard, holding over 5,800 patents, must provide a detailed patent list by 05 September. Lutnick said, "the Department places immense value on the groundbreaking scientific and technological advancements that emerge from the Government's partnerships with institutions like Harvard.” Harvard did not respond to comment requests.

09 August: Today in History

09 August 1945: The bombing of Nagasaki 
On 09 August, three days after the bombing of Hiroshima, the United States dropped an atomic bomb on Nagasaki. Originally, Nagasaki had not been the primary target, Kokura was. But poor visibility forced the B-29 bomber Bockscar to divert. At 1102 hrs, the plutonium bomb nicknamed Fat Man exploded. It killed  27,000 people immediately and. By the end of 1945, the total death toll was around 70,000, including those who later died from radiation and injuries. In comparison, the uranium bomb Little Boy dropped on Hiroshima on 06 August killed about 78,000 people instantly, with total fatalities reaching around 140,000 by year’s end. The devastation of both cities hurried Japan’s surrender on 15 August 1945, bringing World War II to an end.

09 August 1965: Singapore becomes independent following its secession from Malaysia
On 09 August 1965, Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew announced Singapore’s secession from Malaysia and its independence in a historic press conference. Singapore had been a British colony until 1959, and operated with internal autonomy until its union with Malaysia in 1965. Driven by economic and security considerations and concerns over Singapore’s scarcity of natural resources as a small island state, Singaporean leaders decided to merge with Malaya. On 16 September 1963, Singapore, along with the four constituent territories unified under the Federation of Malaysia. Singapore became a state within the federation with internal self-governance but subject to the federal authority of Kuala Lumpur for defense, foreign affairs, and certain economic matters. However, political, economic, and racial tensions between Singapore’s predominantly Chinese population and the Malay-majority leadership in Kuala Lumpur strained the union. The People’s Action Party, led by Lee Kuan Yew, pushed for the policy of  "Malaysian Malaysia," advocating equal rights for all ethnic groups, which clashed with the federal government’s policies favoring Malay privileges leading to severe communal riots in 1964, and Singapore's secession from the union. After 60 years of independence, Singapore is renowned for its economic prowess, clean governance, and high quality of life. The success is often attributed to its visionary leadership, disciplined governance, and the collective effort of its people.

Who says what:
Editorials/Opinions from around the world
Manjeet Kripalani, "Best of Both Sides: On tariffs, Russia is a red line for India," The Indian Express, 9 August 2025
https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/best-of-both-sides-on-tariffs-russia-is-a-red-line-for-india-10176334/

Iraj Elahi, "US-Israel attack tried to cripple Iran but ended up strengthening it," The Indian Express, 9 August 2025
https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/us-israel-attack-tried-to-cripple-iran-but-ended-up-strengthening-it-10178636/

Sergey Poletaev, "Alaska showdown: Who really needs this summit more?," RT, 9 August 2025
https://www.rt.com/russia/622701-alaska-showdown-who-really-needs/

Alexander Bobrov, "Here’s what Putin and Trump want from the Ukraine peace deal," RT, 9 August 2025
https://www.rt.com/russia/622678-can-art-of-deal-stop-war/

Editorial, "Hamas Pulls Israel Deeper Into Gaza," Wall Street Journal, 9 August 2025
https://www.wsj.com/opinion/israel-gaza-city-benjamin-netanyahu-hamas-59a2f40d?mod=hp_opin_pos_2

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08 August 2025, Friday
The World Today # 69

The War in Gaza: Cabinet approves Netanyahu’s proposal to takeover Gaza city
On 08 August, the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that the country’s Security Cabinet has approved Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s proposal for the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) to take control of Gaza city. Further, the Prime Minister’s Office announced that the IDF will conduct the takeover “while distributing humanitarian assistance to the civilian population outside the combat zones.” Additionally, the Security Cabinet approved the following five principles for concluding Israel’s war with Hamas: disarmament of Hamas, return of all Israeli hostages, demilitarization of the Gaza Strip, Israeli security control in the Gaza Strip, and the formation of an alternative civil administration “that is neither Hamas nor the Palestinian Authority.” A majority of the Security Cabinet dismissed an “alternative plan” on grounds that it would “neither achieve the defeat of Hamas nor the return of the hostages.” This development comes after Israel and Hamas engaged in negotiations in Qatar during July this year.

India and US: Defence Ministry rejects a Reuters report on India halting the US arms talks amid trade tensions 
On 08 August, India’s Ministry of Defence denied a report in Reuters claiming that New Delhi had paused talks on defence purchases from the United States. The Ministry called the report “false and fabricated” and stated that procurement cases were progressing under existing procedures. The denial followed the Reuters report quoting unnamed Indian officials who alleged that India had put on hold plans to buy new US weapons and aircraft, described as the first concrete sign of discontent after recent US tariffs. The Ministry’s statement reaffirmed that India’s defence acquisition process with the US remained active despite the tariff dispute.

Azerbaijan and Armenia peace agreement at the US: Towards establishing a “Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity”
On 08 August, the White House announced that Azerbaijan and Armenia are set to sign an initial peace agreement for better economic ties as the relationship has been scarred due to conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh since the 1980s. The conflict stemmed from the breakaway of the Azerbaijani region containing Armenian population from Azerbaijan, with support from Armenia. US President Trump will host Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev and Armenia’s Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan to sign agreements with the US on energy, technology, economic cooperation, border security, infrastructure and trade. This agreement grants the exclusive US development rights to a strategic transit corridor known as the “Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity.” A senior official added, "What's going to happen here with the Trump route is, this isn't charity. This is a highly investable entity." This agreement aims to promote the prosperity and safety of the region which is rich in energy but is divided by territorial and ethnic conflicts with the increasing involvement of President Trump. The details of the agreement are yet to be released.

Rwanda-Congo: M23 rebel group says it has not been invited to the Doha peace talks with Kinshasa
On 07 August, M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa said the Rwanda-backed rebel group had not been invited to peace talks with the Democratic Republic of Congo set to begin in Doha on 08 August. The delay risks “scuppering an ambitious pledge by the two sides to end the fighting in eastern Congo,” Reuters reported. The US has mediated Congo–Rwanda talks aimed at achieving sustainable peace and attracting Western investment to the region rich in tantalum, gold, cobalt, copper, and lithium. Under Qatar-hosted mediation, Congo and M23 signed a 19 July declaration to start peace talks by 08 August and conclude by 18 August. A rebel leader told Reuters that M23 would not attend “until Kinshasa begins to respect the declaration of principles, which provides for the release of our detained members.” Officials cited delays in prisoner releases and ongoing negotiations, possibly involving the Red Cross, for exchanges. A Congolese official involved in the talks stated that prisoners would be released only after a formal agreement is signed, not solely on the basis of the declaration of principles. President Felix Tshisekedi’s spokesperson said Congo remains engaged in the Doha process.

Today in History
08 August 1974: Richard Nixon becomes the first US president to resign from the post following the Watergate scandal
On 08 August 1974, Richard Nixon became the first US President to resign from office,  announcing his decision through a televised address. Nixon had been under severe scrutiny for his involvement in the Watergate scandals and the impeachment proceedings were underway as he left the office on 09 August. On 17 June 1972, five burglars, including a security coordinator of Nixon’s Committee to Re-elect the President (CRP), were arrested during an attempt to wiretap the Democratic National Committee headquarters at the Watergate complex in Washington DC. Although the White House claimed innocence in the incident, the investigations of The Washington Post confirmed Nixon's involvement. Investigations revealed that the break-in was part of a larger plan to gather intelligence on citizens and political rivals from the Democratic party and was organized with the knowledge of the President’s office. On 20 October 1973, in the ‘Saturday Night Massacre’, Nixon ordered the expulsion of Archibald Cox, the special Watergate prosecutor. He also dispatched FBI agents to close the offices of the officials who had refused to comply with his demands. The event was an instance of blatant political coercion. Public confidence in the administration plummeted and in July 1974 the House Judiciary Committee had adopted three articles of impeachment against President Nixon: obstruction of justice, abuse of presidential powers, and hindrance of the impeachment process. On 09 August 1974, Vice President Gerard Ford assumed office as the President hours after Nixon’s resignation. On 08 September 1974, Ford, in a controversial move, granted full and unconditional pardon to Richard Nixon on all charges of the Watergate scandals. The Watergate scandal was a pivotal moment in US history that eroded the public trust in the administration and ushered in several measures to prevent abuse of power, including reforms to the Federal Election Campaign Act for better transparency and accountability.

08 August 1945: Former US President Truman ratifies the United Nations Charter
On 08 August 1945, the then-President Harry S Truman signed the United Nations Charter, making the US the first nation to join the new international organisation.  In March 1947, his famous 'Truman Doctrine Speech' voiced his aspirations for international cooperation. In April 1945, at the UN founding conference, he said "The United Nations is our best hope for a peaceful world." He articulated that diplomacy should be preferred over warfare, and the UN would create a new international order based on mutual respect, sovereignty, and cooperation. To the world which witnessed the horrors of World War II, he outlined the moral imperatives of the United Nations. He said "We must work together to build a world that is safe for our children and for the children of our children." Moreover, he was instrumental in laying the foundation for the US and its guiding principles, such as international cooperation, human rights advocacy, and collective security. Under the Trump presidency, the US outlook on the UN has drastically changed. Trump, being a transactional leader, has a 'contentious relationship' characterised by policies of large-scale funding reduction and threats of US withdrawal.

Who says what:
Editorials/Opinions from around the world

"Xi steals a page from Mao’s foreign-policy playbook," Japan Times, 8 August 2025
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/commentary/2025/08/08/world/xi-turns-to-maos-foreign-policy-playbook/

Robert J Fouser," Trump’s search for a Nobel Peace Prize," The Korea Herald, 8 August 2025
https://www.koreaherald.com/article/10549480

David Dodwell, "5 reasons Trump’s attack on global trade will backfire on the US," SCMP, 8 August 2025
https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3321175/5-reasons-trumps-attack-global-trade-will-backfire-us?module=top_story&pgtype=section

Alex Lo, "The behaviour of Donald Trump is making Brics great again," SCMP, 8 August 2025
https://www.scmp.com/opinion/article/3321218/behaviour-donald-trump-making-brics-great-again?module=top_story&pgtype=section

"Listen to Lavrov: Here’s why Russia won’t take crap from the EU anymore," RT, 8 August 2025
https://www.rt.com/news/622534-lavrov-russia-eu-helsinki/

"My ancestors fought in WWII. Hiroshima is plagued by shallow reading" Washington Post, 8 August 2025
https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2025/08/08/world-war-ii-hiroshima-history-memories/

 

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07 August 2025, Thursday
The World Today # 68

Russia and US: President Trump and President Putin to meet in the coming days, says Kremlin
On 07 August, Kremlin foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov stated that Russia and the US will hold a Putin-Trump summit in the coming days. In a meeting with the UAE President, Russia's President Putin commented that the UAE would be an "entirely suitable" venue for the meeting. Concurrently, Ukraine's President Zelenskiy has called for EU involvement in the peace talks. On the announcement of this news, an Alfa bank analyst said "Russian stocks are soaring. Investors hope that the (Trump-Putin) meeting will be a step towards normalising the geopolitical situation."

India and Russia: President Putin is going to visit India to strengthen their “ties of friendship”, says NSA Ajit Doval
On 07 August, Reuters reported that Russian President Vladimir Putin would visit India by the end of 2025. The event comes amid the US imposing 50 per cent tariffs on India. During the visit, summit-held meetings would take place focusing on strengthening the bilateral relations based on “mutual respect, trust, equal consideration of each other’s interests, and the desire to promote a unifying agenda.” The Russian Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoigu said the relations were linked by “strong, time-tested ties of friendship.” He said it is important to strengthen the special privileged strategic partnership with India and to form an active cooperation to lead the world order and face modern threats and challenges by ensuring the rule of international law. NSA Ajit Doval said “We have a very special, long-term relationship, and we greatly value our strategic partnership. High-level meetings have taken place between us, and these high-level meetings have made a very significant contribution.”

Thailand-Cambodia Conflict: ASEAN observers to supervise the ceasefire
On 07 August, Cambodia and Thailand agreed to allow ASEAN observers to monitor their disputed border areas in an effort to control the conflict. The decision comes after the exchange of artillery fire and jet fighter bombing that resulted in the death of 43 and displacement of more than 300,000 between the two countries in over a decade. The conflict continued despite diplomatic efforts by China and Malaysia. The two sides entered talks after US President Trump warned that tariff negotiations would not proceed without peace. After negotiations in Kuala Lumpur, both Cambodia’s Defence Minister Tea Seiha and Thailand’s acting Defence Minister Nattaphon Narkphanit confirmed the presence of an ASEAN military attaché team to supervise the ceasefire. “There will be an observation team of ASEAN military attachés based in Thailand and Cambodia, led by Malaysia,” said Nattaphon. The joint statement stated that further meetings will be held in two weeks and then again in a month to stabilise their long-contested frontier and restore normalcy for affected civilians.

Solomon Islands: Honiara excludes US, China, Taiwan from the Pacific political summit 
On 07 August, Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele announced that 21 donor countries, including the United States, China, and Taiwan, would not be invited to the upcoming Pacific Islands Forum summit set for September. He cited an ongoing review of diplomatic relationships as the reason for the exclusion. The decision came amid pressure from Beijing to block Taiwan, which three of the forum’s member states recognised, although Solomon Islands itself severed ties with Taiwan in 2019. Despite the exclusion of major powers, multilateral institutions like the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank, along with civil society groups, were allowed to attend. Opposition figure Peter Kenilorea Jr, labeled the move a “missed opportunity” for engagement with key global donors. The Marshall Islands President Hilda Heine accused China of influencing regional dynamics after prior interference at past forum meetings.

Editorial, "Why news of Modi's visit to China draws global attention," Global Times, 7 July 2025

Editorial, "Trump Targets Russia via India," Wall Street Journal, 7 July 2025
https://www.wsj.com/opinion/donald-trump-russia-india-tariffs-trade-vladimir-putin-572b5ef3?mod=hp_opin_pos_5

"The Japan-Australia frigate sale is a big deal. Here’s why," Japan Times, 7 July 2025
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/commentary/2025/08/06/japan/japans-frigate-sale-to-australia/

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06 August 2025, Wednesday
The World Today # 67

Japan: Hiroshima marks 80 years since atomic bombing 
On 06 August, Hiroshima commemorated the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombing that occurred in 1945. Thousands gathered at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and observed a moment of silence at 8:15 a.m., the time when “Little Boy” exploded. The bomb instantly killed approximately 78,000 people, with the death toll rising to around 140,000 by the year’s end due to injuries and radiation exposure. Mayor Kazumi Matsui addressed world leaders, warning of rising nuclear armament and noting that the US and Russia hold 90 per cent of the world’s nuclear warheads. Representatives from 120 countries, including nuclear powers and Israel, attended the ceremony. The names of nearly 5,000 new victims were added to the official registry during the event, bringing total recognised deaths to nearly 350,000 in Hiroshima as of 2024.

India and the US: Trump imposes 50 per cent double tariffs on India through new executive order
On 06 August, Trump announced a 50 per cent double tariffs on Indian imports, citing New Delhi’s procurement of Russian oil.  A 25 per cent tariff was set to be imposed on New Delhi from 07 August, and the new executive order charges an additional 25 per cent after a grace period of 21 days in case of continued procurements from Russia. The order seeks to “determine whether any other country is directly or indirectly importing Russian Federation oil,” and charge  25 per cent tariffs on countries purchasing Russian energy. Earlier on 05 August Trump had threatened to raise tariffs “very substantially” on Indian imports, which New Delhi had termed “unjustified and unreasonable.” 

US, Russia and the War in Ukraine: Kremlin says President Putin and Witkoff had "useful and constructive" talks ahead of deadline for sanctions
On 06 August, US envoy Steve Witkoff met Russian President Vladimir Putin in a last-minute attempt to reach a breakthrough in the Ukraine war before a US deadline for peace or new sanctions. Kremlin foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov described the talks as "useful and constructive," noting signals were exchanged on Ukraine but withheld further details until Witkoff reported to President Trump. The US has not commented on the meeting. Trump, frustrated with the lack of progress, has threatened heavy tariffs on countries buying Russian exports, especially targeting India. Russia called such threats illegal. It remains unclear what Moscow may offer to avoid sanctions. Reports, including Bloomberg and an independent Russian news outlet, suggest a possible Russia-Ukraine moratorium on air strikes, proposed by Belarus, might be floated, though it falls short of a full ceasefire. Sources close to the Kremlin told Reuters that Putin is unlikely to yield to US sanctions pressure as he believes to be winning the war. Putin’s military objectives take precedence over his desire to reconcile with the US, they added.

The War in Gaza: IDF chief expresses reluctance over Netanyahu’s plan to occupy Gaza amidst domestic opposition, says reports; Israel’s expansion plans “deeply alarming,” states UN
On 05 August, chief of staff of the Israel Defence Forces, Eyal Zamir, expressed opposition to the IDF taking over the rest of Gaza, warning that it could potentially trap the military in the territory and could harm the hostages, reports Reuters. In response, PM Netanyahu highlighted the hostage releases so far were the result of diplomatic negotiations and not military action. Defence Minister Israel Katz also  stated that while the military chief has the right to express his opinions, the military would operate under the orders of the government until all objectives are achieved. Opposition leader Yair Lapid also stated that the public is not interested in continuing the war and that it has been conveyed to the Prime Minister.  On 05 August the UN referred to the speculated Israeli  plan to expand military operations in Gaza “deeply alarming.” At the Security Council meeting, the UN Assistant Secretary-General also reiterated that on the basis of international law, “Gaza is and must remain an integral part of the future Palestinian state.”

Russia-China naval drill in the Sea of Japan: Mock destroy 'enemy submarine', says Russia's defence ministry 
On 06 August, Russia's defence ministry stated that following the US deployment of two nuclear submarines near Moscow, an anti-submarine exercise was conducted in the Sea of Japan by Russia's navy along with China's navy. The ministry said "As a result of effective joint actions, the 'enemy' submarine was promptly detected and mock-destroyed," and added that "After practicing anti-submarine tasks, the crews of the Russian and Chinese ships thanked each other for their fruitful work." In 2022, both countries signed a "no-limits" strategic partnership, and this exercise is a part of the Russia-China naval drill held in the past week.

Nigeria: 45 abducted in the second raid of the month, says Reuters
On 05 August, Shehu Musa, the traditional head of Damri, told Reuters that 45 women and children were abducted in an overnight raid in five villages in northwest Nigeria. The gunmen returned to Sabongarin Damri and raided the villages of Sade, Tungar Tsalle, Tungar Sodangi and Tungar Musa Dogo overnight. The security forces killed three of the gunmen but could not stop them from abducting people and cattle. Reuters says that civilian casualties have also been reported but the number is not confirmed. This spreads fear over life among the community. This is reported as the second mass kidnapping in Nigeria following the mass kidnapping of 70 in Sabongarin Damri, Zamfara state on 02 August. The issue has been a recurring incident in northwest Nigeria for several years now. These gunmen are referred to as “bandits” locally who kill, abduct or hold people captive for ransom. In addition to this, Reuters also reported that the Boko Haram group attacked the Kennari village in northwestern Borno state and abducted 15 and killed one on 04 August. A resident stated that the village head was also killed and a ransom of 30 million naira is demanded to release the abducted ones.

Pakistan: UNHCR says Islamabad has begun deportation of documented Afghan refugees ahead of deadline
On 06 August, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) stated that it received reports of arrests and deportations of legally registered Afghans in Pakistan before the country’s 01 September deadline for them to leave. This deportation drive by Pakistan is part of an initiative called the Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan. UNHCR called upon the Pakistani government “to stop the forcible return” and ensure “voluntary, gradual, and dignified return of Afghans.” Further, UNHCR warned that “such massive and hasty return” risks instability not only in Afghanistan “but across the region.” This development comes after Afghan citizens have faced mass repatriation from Iran.

06 August:
Today in History

06 August 1945: The United States drops the first atomic bomb on Hiroshima 
On 06 August 1945, during the final days of World War II, the United States dropped an atomic bomb on the Japanese city of Hiroshima. The bomb called “Little Boy” was dropped from a plane named Enola Gay in the morning. The explosion was huge and destroyed most of the city. Around 70,000 to 80,000 people died, and many more passed away later due to injuries and radiation. Buildings, homes, and schools were all wiped out in seconds. The bombing was meant to make Japan surrender and end the war quickly. US President Harry S Truman believed that using the bomb would force Japan to give up quickly and prevent further American casualties. However, Japan did not surrender immediately, and another bomb was dropped on Nagasaki three days later.

Who says what:
Editorials/Opinions from around the world
Edo Naito, “Were the Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bombings necessary?,” The Japan Times, 6 August 2025
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/commentary/2025/08/06/japan/were-hiroshima-and-nagasaki-bombings-necessary/

Veronica Lukito, “China’s rise is good for Asia. Here’s why,” South China Morning Post, 6 August 2025
https://www.scmp.com/opinion/china-opinion/article/3320705/chinas-rise-good-asia-heres-why?module=top_story&pgtype=section

Anjli Raval, “The AI job cuts are accelerating,” The Straits Times, 5 August 2025
https://www.straitstimes.com/opinion/the-ai-job-cuts-are-accelerating

Tony Romm, “Trump said he would double tariffs on India as punishment for buying Russian oil,” The New York Times, 6 August 2025
https://www.nytimes.com/live/2025/08/06/us/trump-news#trump-india-tariffs-russia-oil

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05 August 2025, Tuesday
The World Today # 66

India and the US: Trump threatens to “very substantially” increase tariffs on India
On 05 August, President Trump stated that India is not a "good trading