Conflict Weekly

CWA # 1709
Conflict Weekly
Conflict Weekly #284-285
Cambodia-Thailand Border Tensions, Protests in the US, and the Indigenous Māori question in New Zealand

12 June 2025, Vol.6, No. 23 & 24

IPRI Team
12 June 2025
Photo Source: EPA, AFP, AP Photo

Conflict Weekly #284&285, 12 June 2025, Vol.6, Nos. 23 & 24
An initiative by NIAS-IPRI

Santhiya M, Gauri Gupta, and R Preetha

Cambodia and Thailand: Preah Vihear border dispute and the ICJ interventions
Santhiya M
 
In the news
On 28 May, a Cambodian soldier was killed in a border clash between the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces and the Royal Thai Army. Cambodia's army claimed that they were attacked during a routine patrol along the disputed border in Preah Vihear province. Thailand's army claimed that Cambodia's army fired the first shot. 

On 29 May, Cambodia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs sent a letter to Thailand's embassy in Phnom Penh, calling for an "immediate and thorough investigation into the violent incident." On the same day, the army commanders of both countries discussed preventing further clashes.

On 1 June, Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Manet announced that the dispute over the areas would be taken to the International Court of Justice (ICJ). 

On 2 June, the joint session of Cambodia’s parliament supported the decision to take the dispute to the ICJ. Cambodia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Prak Sokhonn, stated: “Given the complexity, historical nature and sensitivity of these disputes, it is increasingly evident that bilateral dialogue alone may no longer suffice to bring about a comprehensive and lasting solution.” 

On the same day, Thailand's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Maris Sangiampongsa, stated that Cambodia has the right to file the case in the ICJ but insisted on bilateral talks under existing mechanisms. The Thai government stated that the country does not recognise the ICJ’s jurisdiction. 

On 4 June, Thailand announced that Cambodia had agreed to a Joint Boundary Committee (JBC) on 14 June to resolve the border issue.

Issues at large
First, the recurring clashes along the border. The heart of the dispute has been the claims over the Preah Vihear Hindu temple, along the Thai-Cambodian border. In 2008, tensions escalated when Cambodia attempted to list Preah Vihear as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Between 2008 and 2011, Cambodia and Thailand clashed six times in Preah Vihear. The 2011 border clashes killed several soldiers and civilians, and displaced thousands of residents. 

Second, a background to the disputed claims over the Preah Vihear temple. The temple, dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva, dates back to the ninth century, built during the Khmer Empire by King Suryavarman I. It has old Khmer and Sanskrit inscriptions. Bangkok and Phnom Penh claim historical ownership over the temple. Under French Indochina, the Franco-Siamese Treaty of 1904 with the Siamese Kingdom demarcated this region along the watershed line. In 1907, the Mixed Delimitation Commission’s map indicated that the temple was on the Cambodian side. ICJ’s verdict in 1962 reaffirmed the same. In 2008, Preah Vihear became a UNESCO World Heritage site, which displeased Thailand. 

Third, the ICJ intervention. In 1962, the ICJ ruled that the disputed area of the Preah Vihear temple belongs to Cambodia, under the Franco-Siamese Treaty of 1904 and the 1907 map. Thailand contested this verdict by claiming not to have recognised the 1907 map. However, the Court found that Thailand had recognised the map and delivered the verdict in favour of Cambodia. Subsequently, the Court called on Thailand to withdraw the military forces stationed there since 1954. Cambodia sought clarification on the ruling following the 2011 hostilities. In 2013, the ICJ reaffirmed that the territory of Preah Vihear is under Cambodia’s sovereignty.
 
In perspective
First, a recurring issue is over lack of clear demarcation. The 1962 ICJ ruling did not result in a revamped map with clear demarcation of the borders. The issue was prolonged because Thailand suggests bilateral mechanisms like the JBC, while Cambodia seeks international involvement. Cambodia has garnered internal support in taking the case once again to the ICJ. The past judgments favoured Cambodia. 

Second, the ASEAN question. In 2011, the UNSC referred the issue to ASEAN under Indonesia's Chairmanship. Both countries agreed to receive a group of Indonesian observers to oversee a ceasefire and demilitarisation of the area. However, Thailand subsequently withdrew, claiming that the move would undermine its sovereignty. ASEAN’s efforts failed, and the ceasefire was left verbal and unsigned. ASEAN has not issued any substantial statement on the current tensions.

The US: Protests against Trump’s immigration raid in Los Angeles  
Gauri Gupta                                           
 
In the news
On 10 June, California’s Attorney General, Rob Bonta, filed a lawsuit against the federal government for misusing Title 10 for political reasons and violating states’ rights and civil freedoms. Subsequently, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass issued a curfew in the city.

On 9 June, Trump, under Title 10 of the US Code, ordered the deployment of 2,000 National Guard and 700 active-duty Marines.  On 10 June, California's Governor, Gavin Newsom, fired back at Trump, saying: “Democracy is under assault.” 

On 11 June, protests in Los Angeles spread to New York, Atlanta, and Chicago. Trump responded to the protests: "We will not allow an American city to be invaded and conquered by a foreign enemy." He referred to the protestors as "animals.”

On 8 June, protesters blocked parts of the 101 Freeway. Police used rubber bullets, smoke grenades, and tear gas to control the crowd. 

On 7 June, protests spread violently to Compton and Paramount. Protestors set fires to vehicles, and many were arrested for damaging property and resisting law enforcement.

On 6 June, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in the US executed a large-scale raid in Los Angeles, targeting undocumented immigrants. This triggered immediate protests by immigrants and residents, condemning the federal crackdown.

Issues at large
First, Trump's deployment of federal agents. Trump deployed around 4000 National Guard and 700 Marines to quell the widespread protests against the federal immigration crackdown. The protest began when federal agents carried out an immigration raid across LA, arresting over 100 undocumented immigrants. Trump says the move was also to protect the federal agents performing their duty. Trump used Title 10 of the United States Code to deploy the National Guard. Title 10 permits the President to deploy military forces without the state's consent during a national emergency. 

Second, the demography of immigrants in California. In California, immigrants contribute about 27 per cent of the total population. In Los Angeles, immigrants contribute about one-third of the population, and among them, 951,000 are undocumented. They are mostly from Mexico and other Latin American countries. Currently, they are employed at farms, factories, and care jobs, and they contribute extensively to the economy. 

Third, federal versus state government. Trump surpassed state authority by deploying federal troops without the consent of California's Governor Gavin Newsom; the move was the first since 1965. It angered California’s leaders, especially democrats, who said it undermined state authority and control over law enforcement. Newsom responded by challenging Trump's decision in court. For Trump, the move implied a tough action from the federal government against what he called "lawless behaviour" during the protest. For California state authorities, the deployment represented a breach of constitutional federalism, as law enforcement within state borders falls under state jurisdiction. 
 
In perspective
First, Trump’s agenda. Trump supporters view the action as protective. However, the strong response from California state authorities implies Trump’s overreach of his presidential powers. It has sparked concern about fairness, respect for community voices and freedom of expression in American society. 

Second, the expansion of protest. The protests were an expression of anger over civil rights violations, police conduct, and discrimination. It spread violently in the neighbouring cities, reflecting growing frustration over Trump’s harsh law enforcement methods. These events also united people across regions and turned isolated anger into collective protests. Law and order became a tool to silence dissent, not protect citizens. This highlights that peaceful voices were met with weapons, not dialogue.

New Zealand: Māori indigenous resistance meets harsh parliament response
R Preetha
 
In the news
On 5 June, New Zealand’s parliament voted to suspend three Members of Parliament from the Te Pāti Māori party for performing a haka during a debate on the Treaty Principles Bill in November 2024. Co-leaders Debbie Ngarewa-Packer and Rawiri Waititi face 21-day suspensions, while Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke received a seven-day ban.

On the same day, Ngarewa-Packer said they were “punished for being Māori. During a speech in the parliament, Maipi-Clarke stated: “We will never be silenced, and we will never be lost.”

Issues at large
First, a brief profile of the Māori community. The Māori are New Zealand’s indigenous people, with a population of about 978,246. According to the 2023 census, 19 per cent of the country’s population is Māori. They descended from East Polynesian voyagers who settled in Aotearoa around the 13th century. Since 1840, over 90 per cent of Māori land has been lost to the British colonialists. Currently, the community face stark socioeconomic disparities, including higher levels of incarceration. 

Second, from the Treaty of Waitangi (1840) to the Treaty Principles Bill (2024). The Treaty of Waitangi, also called Te Tiriti o Waitangi, was signed between the British Crown and nearly 500 Māori chiefs in 1840 to protect Māori cultural and land rights, while allowing British governance. The treaty had two versions, Māori and English, leading to disputes over interpretation. The Māori version states “rangatiratanga” or “self-determination” to the Māori chiefs, guaranteeing their people the right to self-govern. Whereas, the English version states that the Māori chiefs “cede to Her Majesty the Queen of England absolutely and without reservation all the rights and powers of Sovereignty.” 

The Treaty Principles Bill was introduced by David Seymour of the ACT Party in 2024. The bill states that the Waitangi Treaty has been misinterpreted over the decades, with Maori and white New Zealanders enjoying different political and legal rights. Seymour claimed that “ethnic quotas in public institutions” are in contrast to the principle of equality. The bill seeks to bring all New Zealanders equal under the law. The Māori fear that this will effectively disadvantage their rights, sparking widespread Māori protests since 2024.  

Third, the haka. Haka is a traditional Māori chant and dance. It is an expression of identity, emotion, and unity, performed to mark important life moments like birth, death, and major public ceremonies. While it originated as a war dance, today it is seen in both resistance and solemn settings. The three suspended MPs performed the haka at the parliament in November ahead of a vote on the Treaty Principles Bill. The haka, led by Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, tore up a copy of the bill, received global attention. In May, the parliamentary privileges committee stated that the MPs (for performing the haka) acted in "a manner that could have the effect of intimidating a member of the house."
 
In perspective
First, implications for Māori rights. The haka protest and subsequent suspensions highlight ongoing tensions over Māori rights. The bill, though defeated, exposed the issues in New Zealand’s political landscape, with thousands rallying against perceived threats to their rights. The global resonance of the haka, sparked by Maipi-Clarke’s haka protest, showcases the impact of cultural resistance. However, the suspensions risk alienating indigenous communities. This reflects broader questions about how New Zealand reconciles its bicultural foundation with modern governance, with implications for Indigenous rights advocacy.  

Second, the rarity of suspensions. Suspensions are rare in New Zealand, with only three MPs suspended in the past decade, the longest previously being three days. The 21-day bans for Ngarewa-Packer and Waititi and a seven-day ban for Maipi-Clarke imply a stark escalation, raising questions on fairness and proportionality for the Māori in the parliament. 

Issues in Peace and Conflict This Week:
Regional Roundups
Anu Maria Joseph, Femy Francis, Fleur Elizabeth Philip, R Preetha, Abhiruchi Chowdhury, Kejia Reddy, Farhaz Rashid Ahmed, Rizwana Banu S, Santhiya M and Merin Treesa Alex 

China, East, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific
China: 36th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square massacre
On 4 June, the US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te commemorated 36 years since the Tiananmen Square massacre. Rubio stated: “Today we commemorate the bravery of the Chinese people who were killed as they tried to exercise their fundamental freedoms, as well as those who continue to suffer persecution as they seek accountability and justice for the events of 04 June 1989.” In response, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Lin Jian said: “Erroneous statements by the US side maliciously distort historical facts, deliberately attack China’s political system and developmental path, and seriously interfere in China’s internal affairs.” Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te praised the bravery of the protestors and said: “Authoritarian governments often choose to silence and forget history, while democratic societies choose to preserve the truth and refuse to forget those who gave their lives – and their dreams – to the idea of human rights.” In 1989, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) opened fire on the unarmed pro-democracy protesters in Tiananmen Square, resulting in a massacre. 

China: Hong Kong hosts the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organisation for Mediation (IOMed) 
On 30 May, China and 32 other countries signed the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organisation for Mediation (IOMed) in Hong Kong. The new international body is expected to act as a body for dispute resolution. The event was attended by representatives from 85 countries and 20 international organisations. It hopes that the organisation might be on par with the International Court of Justice and the Permanent Court of Arbitration of the United Nations in the Hague. The mediation body aims to “cement Hong Kong's presence as a top centre to resolve disputes between countries,” said Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu. China’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wang Yi, stated that the cases handled would include disputes between countries, a country and nationals of another country and private international entities. He added: “The establishment of the IOMed is an epitome of inclusiveness in the culture of the rule of law. It incorporates the very best of major legal systems, respects the wishes of parties concerned, and draws upon the strengths of being more flexible, cost-effective, convenient and efficient.”

China: Commerce Ministry rejects Trump’s claims of Geneva trade deal breach
On 2 June, China rejected US President Donald Trump's allegations of breaching a bilateral trade agreement reached in Geneva in mid-May. China’s Ministry of Commerce noted the accusations as "groundless.” It criticised the US for introducing "discriminatory and restrictive" measures, including new export controls on AI chips, halting sales of chip design software, and revoking Chinese student visas. The ministry emphasised China's commitment to safeguarding its national interests and hinted at taking unspecified forceful measures in response. The Geneva agreement stipulated a 90-day suspension of triple-digit tariffs, with China agreeing to lift trade countermeasures affecting critical exports, including metals essential for the US semiconductor, electronics, and defence industries. However, tensions escalated when Trump announced a doubling of import tariffs on steel and aluminium to 50 per cent. 

South Korea: China installs three large-scale buoys near the overlapping waters
On 31 May, The Korea Times reported that China installed three large-scale buoys near the waters overlapping with South Korea. The installation started in 2023, and currently, the total number of buoys in this area is 13. The report mentioned that one is located “inside the provisional maritime zone,” and the majority are in China’s Exclusive Economic Zone. Since 2018, China has installed large towers in the Yellow Sea or the West Sea, which are about three meters wide and six meters tall. The Korean Ministry of Defence stated that it is closely monitoring the unauthorised activities of China.

North Korea: Pyongyang’s "myriad of unlawful activities" with Moscow, MSMT report
On 30 May, The Korea Times quoted a report by the Multilateral Sanctions Monitoring Team (MSMT) that North Korea and Russia have engaged in various unlawful activities, including arms transfers and the supply of air defence systems, military training for North Korean troops, and petroleum products, exceeding the UN limits. The report claimed that the cooperation has helped Russia intensify its attacks on Ukraine and enabled North Korea to fund its banned missile programs.

Thailand: Troops reinforced at the border following the dispute with Cambodia
On 7 June, Thailand announced reinforcement of its troops at the border following an increase in the number of Cambodian forces in the region. Following the bilateral talks held on 5 June, Thailand’s Minister of Defence, Phumtham Wechayachai, said that Cambodia rejected the proposal towards a de-escalation. The tensions began after the Thai forces reported that the Cambodian troops repeatedly made invasion attempts into their territory. 

Myanmar: International Labour Organisation votes to take action against the military
On 6 June, The Irrawaddy reported that the International Labour Organisation (ILO) voted to take action against Myanmar’s military for violating labour and human rights, and carrying out forced enrolment. The civilian National Unity Government (NUG) claimed that the military breached the ILO convention on freedom of association, the right to organise, and the prohibitions on forced labour. Russia, Belarus, Laos and China opposed the action. 

Myanmar: Military extends the ceasefire until 30 June
On 2 June, The Irrawaddy reported that Myanmar’s military extended the ceasefire, announced following the earthquake in March, until 30 June. The earthquake of 7.7 magnitude on March 28 killed nearly 3,800 people and left thousands of people homeless. The extension of the ceasefire aims to facilitate rehabilitation and reconstruction activities in the affected areas, including the reconstruction of government buildings and other facilities like transport, and residences. The military said that the extended ceasefire would allow for holding “a free and fair multi-party democracy general election.” Despite the ceasefire declarations, conflict monitors report that fighting has continued, including regular air strikes. 

South Asia
Pakistan: Bilawal Bhutto voices concerns on the possibility of the first nuclear warfare amidst the abeyance of the Indus Water Treaty
On 6 June, The Express Tribune reported on the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari’s statement regarding the alleged Indian threats to end the Indus Water Treaty. He commented that the move might lead to the world’s first nuclear water warfare. He asserted that India’s possible violations of the 1960 Indus Treaty pose a serious threat to the lives of about 240 million Pakistanis. Further, Bilawal alleged that India has refused to talk, joint investigations on terrorism and mediation, leading to tensions in the region. He emphasised that Pakistan wants peace and collaboration, but India’s alleged unilateral actions on Jammu and Kashmir, terrorism, and the water treaty prevent any advance.

The Middle East and Africa
Syria: Israeli airstrikes on Deraa province
On 3 June, Syria denounced an Israeli airstrike on Deraa province, resulting in destruction and casualties. The attack followed after two projectiles, allegedly launched from Syria, hit the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. Syria denied any involvement and blamed unknown groups for trying to stir up instability in the area. The Muhammad Deif Brigades, an armed group in the region, had reportedly claimed responsibility. Israel’s Minister of Defence, Israel Kutz, held Syrian President, Ahmed al-Sharaa, responsible and warned of retaliation. 

Syria: The US to reduce military presence to Hasakah
On 3 June, the US plans to shut down most of its military bases in Syria to consolidate its presence at a single site in Hasakah. About 2,000 US troops remain in Syria, working with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The withdrawal comes as Syria enters a new political phase under President Ahmed al-Sharaa, following Bashar al-Assad’s ouster. The US recently reopened its diplomatic presence in Damascus for the first time since 2012. 

Iran: Tehran demands a US guarantee on lifting sanctions as part of the nuclear deal
On 2 June, Iran demanded clear guarantees from the US on how and when sanctions would be lifted as part of a potential nuclear deal. Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Esmail Baghaei, said that the current US proposal lacks the necessary detail, calling for transparency on the mechanism of sanctions relief. Although the US described its offer as “acceptable,” Iranian officials are reportedly preparing to reject it, viewing it as a “non-starter” due to the US’s firm stance on no uranium enrichment. On 31 May, Iran rejected an International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) report, accusing it of increasing its stockpile of near weapons-grade uranium by 50 per cent and conducting secret nuclear activities. Iran called the claims politically motivated and based on forged Israeli documents. The IAEA says that Iran holds 133.8 kilograms of uranium enriched at 60 per cent, which Western countries argue goes beyond civilian use. Iran insists its program is peaceful. 

War in Gaza: Israeli attacks on aid sites
On 3 June, at least 27 Palestinians were killed and 90 injured after Israeli forces opened fire near an aid distribution site in Rafah, Gaza, according to Gaza's Ministry of Health. It marked the third deadly incident near the US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF). Israel claimed that it fired at "suspects" who deviated from designated aid routes. The UN has called for an independent investigation, condemning the conditions forcing Palestinians to risk death for food. 

On 2 June, Israeli forces shot at Palestinians waiting for food aid in southern Gaza, killing at least three and injuring more than 30. It was the second such incident at the same site in two days. The UN demanded an independent investigation, calling the shootings part of a disturbing pattern. 

On 1 June, at least 32 Palestinians were killed and over 200 were injured after Israeli forces fired on crowds at two food aid sites in Gaza, mainly in Rafah. The witnesses say that tanks opened fire on civilians desperate for aid, while the Israeli military denies targeting them. The controversial Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), backed by Israel and the US, runs the sites. Critics and aid agencies call them unsafe and politically motivated. The UN called the aid sites “death traps” by accusing Israel of turning food into a weapon of war. 

War in Gaza: Hamas’s lack of trust in the US ceasefire 
On 31 May, Hamas responded to a US-supported Gaza ceasefire proposal that it lacked concrete assurances to end the conflict, casting doubt on the prospects for peace. In exchange for a ceasefire and aid access, Hamas offered to release ten Israeli hostages and the remains of 18 others. However, US envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff and Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, dismissed Hamas’ response as unacceptable. 

Israel: Arab ministers condemn Netanyahu government for stopping them from visiting the West Bank
On 31 May, Israel blocked a visit by foreign ministers from Egypt, Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE to meet the Palestinian President, Mahmoud Abbas, in Ramallah, West Bank. Israel called the meeting “provocative.” The move witnessed strong outrage from Palestinians and Arab leaders. 

Sudan: Conflict drives refugee crisis in Chad, says UN Special Representative for Central Africa
On 10 June, the UN Special Representative for Central Africa, Abdou Abarry, cautioned about deepening conflict in Sudan and the refugee crisis in neighbouring countries. He warned: “The international community’s inaction risks exacerbating the humanitarian situation, especially as the ongoing conflict in Sudan continues to result in an increasing number of refugees heading to Chad.” Chad is hosting more than 1.2 million refugees from Sudan. 

Sudan: Five UN aid convoy members killed in an attack in North Darfur
On 3 June, the BBC reported that five members of a UN convoy carrying aid to North Darfur were killed in an attack. Multiple trucks were burned, and the supplies were damaged, said the UN children’s agency and the World Food Program. They didn’t mention who was responsible for this attack. Both the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) blamed each other for the attack. 

Mauritius: The UN panel urges the UK to negotiate the Chagos Island deal
On 11 June, the BBC reported that a UN panel suggested that the UK renegotiate the Chagos Islands deal with Mauritius. The UN panel consisted of four experts from the UN Human Rights Council. They stated that the deal does not guarantee the rights of the Chagossians. According to the deal, the UK is to lease the military base in Diego Garcia for the next 99 years with the US. The panel claimed that the lease of Diego Garcia restricts Chagossian people from accessing and exercising cultural rights in ancestral lands where they were forced to move. The panel called for the suspension of the deal.

Nigeria: 40 people killed in attacks in Zamfara and Benue
On 2 June, Al Jazeera reported that a military airstrike killed at least 20 people in Zamfara state. Nigerian Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame stated that the airstrike targeted terrorists who were planning to strike settlements. He continued that the bandits had previously killed farmers and abducted civilians, including women and children. Separately, on 3 June, 20 people were killed by unidentified gunmen in several communities in Benue state. 

Nigeria: Flash floods cause 200 deaths
On 1 June, the BBC reported that the death toll from the flash floods in Mokwa, Nigeria, has reached more than 200. The search mission continues as 500 people are still missing from north-central Niger State. The floods are considered the worst in 60 years. The residents said that their families, savings, and property have been washed away and damaged due to the floods. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has initiated the process of providing relief packages to affected individuals.

Mali: JNIM launches attacks on military
On 3 June, Jama'a Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin (JNIM), an al-Qaeda-linked group, carried out a major attack on Boulikessi, Mali and seized the army base. This attack killed more than 30 soldiers, according to Reuters. The same group targeted the military deployed in Timbuktu. The army said that it stopped an infiltration attempt by neutralising 14 militants and arresting 31 suspects in Timbuktu. 

Mali: Wagner Group announces withdrawal
On 6 June, Russia's Wagner Group announced the plan to withdraw from Mali after three and a half years of its presence. It stated that the group has completed the mission against armed groups and returned the regions which were under the control of rebels and insurgents to the Malian military government. Al Jazeera reported that the withdrawal of the Wagner Group does not mark the end of Russia's presence in Mali. Other Russian mercenaries will remain under the name of the Africa Corps. Africa Corps stated: “Russia does not lose ground, but on the contrary, continues to support Bamako now at a more fundamental level.”

Europe and the Americas
Germany: Warns of potential Russian attack on NATO by 2029
On 31 May, Germany's Chief of Defence, General Carsten Breuer, warned that Russia could potentially attack NATO member states within four years. Speaking at the Shangri-La-Dialogue in Singapore, Breuer highlighted Russia's annual production of 1500 main battle tanks and millions of artillery shells. Additionally, Breuer emphasised the vulnerability of NATO's eastern flank, particularly the Suwalki Gap connecting Lithuania and Poland. Breuer urged the alliance to be prepared for immediate defence. 

Germany: Court rules turning away asylum seekers unlawful
On 3 June, the Berlin administrative court ruled the country’s practice of turning away asylum seekers at the border unlawful. The ruling came after the three Somali nationals were denied entry and returned to Poland. The court found that Germany failed to adhere to the EU's Dublin Regulation. The ruling emphasised that asylum seekers must be given due process. Despite the court's decision, Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that strict border controls are necessary to prevent illegal immigration and protect public order. He argued that rejecting migrants was viable within European legal frameworks. 

The EU: Chinese manufacturers banned from accessing public procurement tenders
On 2 June, the EU restricted Chinese medical device manufacturers from accessing its public procurement tenders worth over EUR five million (USD 5.2 million) for the next five years. This marks the first use of the EU’s International Procurement Instrument (IPI). The move came after prolonged negotiations with Beijing, following a European Commission investigation revealing that 87 per cent of Chinese public tenders for medical devices contain explicit or implicit restrictions against imported products, effectively favouring Chinese domestic suppliers. The EU highlighted that Beijing’s “Buy China” policies, especially in high-end medical devices, are targeted in China’s “Made in China 2025” plan. This policy sets ambitious goals for domestically produced devices to make up 50 per cent of county hospital usage by 2020, rising to 70 per cent by 2025, and 90 per cent by 2030. Such measures create significant barriers for the EU firms trying to enter the Chinese market.  

The UK: Royal Navy monitors Russian Yuri Ivanov in UK waters
On 29 May, the Royal Navy monitored the Russian intelligence-gathering ship, Yuri Ivanov, as it loitered near the Outer Hebrides. The development came after NATO's Formidable Shield exercise, which was concluded on 25 May. This was NATO's largest live-fire naval exercise in Europe, involving nine countries, including the UK, Norway, and the US. The Yuri Ivanov is equipped with advanced antennae and electronics for intelligence-gathering, surveillance, electronic warfare, and signals intelligence. The Royal Navy deployed the Type 45 destroyer HMS Dragon to monitor the Yuri Ivanov. The Royal Navy also utilised its Merlin helicopter to collect intelligence until the Russian vessel departed northward toward the Arctic. 

Europe: Climate refugees in a legal void 
On 3 June, swissinfo.ch reported that the climate refugees are left without formal international protection. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), half of the world's population resides in areas that are highly vulnerable to climate change impacts. More than 220 million people have been displaced due to climate-induced natural disasters like sea level rise, droughts, floods, landslides, and wildfires over the past decade. Individuals displaced by climate-related disasters are not recognised as refugees under the 1951 UN Refugee Convention. Former UN Special Rapporteurs have expressed their concern over the absence of legal frameworks to protect individuals displaced across international borders due to climate change. They fall through the cracks of existing refugee protections. 

Ukraine: Exchange of prisoners for the second time following the Istanbul peace talks
On 9 June, Euronews reported that following the peace talks in Istanbul, Ukraine and Russia began the exchange of injured prisoners and young soldiers under the age of 25. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the exchange of the captives, which will continue in several stages. According to the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War, they have received the first batch of prisoners that include the navy, ground forces, air force, national guard, border guards, territorial defence, and the special transport service. Euronews also reported on the confirmation made by the Russian Ministry of Defence of receiving the injured and severely wounded prisoners.

Russia: 639 air strikes on several regions in Ukraine
On 5 June, Ukrinform reported that Russia launched a total of 639 airstrikes on 12 regions. 438 drones of various types, mainly the FPV, targeted Stepnohirsk, Kamianske, Huliaipole, Shcherbaky, Novodanylivka, Mala Tokmachka, Charivne, and Novodarivka. Five MLRS attacks hit Kamianske and Huliaipole, 230 artillery strikes in Kamianske, Huliaipole, Shcherbaky, Novodanylivka, Mala Tokmachka, Charivne, and Novodarivka. Authorities have not reported any casualties, but severe damage to infrastructure.

Ukraine: Attacks Kursk and Voronezh
On 2 June, The Moscow Times reported that Ukrainian drones attacked the Kursk and Voronezh regions, resulting in fires in buildings. The Russian Ministry of Defence said that the Air Force intercepted a total of 162 Ukrainian drones and 57 aircraft. Falling debris from the building triggered fires in several houses and damaged a lot of infrastructure in Kursk. Meanwhile, in Voronezh, 16 drones were destroyed, and drone debris cut off the power lines and fell on the M-4 expressway.

On 1 June, The Moscow Times reported that Ukrainian Security Services (SBU) destroyed Russian bombers and caused damage worth USD seven billion to the Russian aircraft. The aircraft were located at four air bases in the city of Belaya, and Olenya in eastern Siberia, one in the Arctic, near Finland, and in Ivanovo and Dyagilevo, east of Moscow. Video footages show that the aircraft was engulfed in flames. A source in the SBU said that 41 planes, used to “bomb Ukrainian villages,” were destroyed. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy responded to the operation and called it brilliant, and the country’s “long-range operation.” Reuters reported that the SBU hid explosives on the surface of the wooden containers, which were loaded onto the trucks and driven to the air base, where they were released.

Cuba: Foreign Ministry protests US diplomat’s "interventionist" behaviour
On 30 May, Cuba's Ministry of Foreign Affairs protested alleged “unfriendly and meddling behaviour" by the US mission head, Michael Hammer. Hammer has been accused of "interventionist" engagements that encourage citizens to "act against the authorities or demonstrate in support of the interests and objectives of a hostile foreign power." The ministry iterated that Hammer's diplomatic immunity cannot be a cover for actions that breach the "sovereignty and internal order" of Cuba. 

The US: Plans to “aggressively” revoke visas of Chinese students
On 29 May, the BBC reported that the US President Donald Trump administration plans to “aggressively” revoke the visas of Chinese students. On 28 May, US State Secretary Marco Rubio said: “Under President Trump's leadership, the US State Department will work with the Department of Homeland Security to aggressively revoke visas for Chinese students, including those with connections to the Chinese Communist Party or studying in critical fields. He added: "We will also revise visa criteria to enhance scrutiny of all future visa applications from the People's Republic of China and Hong Kong." China has not responded to this move. 

The US: Canadian wildfires impact air quality in northern states
On 30 May, Economic Times reported that ongoing wildfires in Canada have significantly deteriorated air quality across parts of the northern US. Minnesota issued its first-ever “Maroon” air quality alert, the highest possible level, warning residents to avoid outdoor activities. The smoke has blanketed cities across the Midwest, raising health concerns among public officials. Experts say the situation may persist if dry conditions continue in Canada’s forest regions.

The US: Boulder firebomb attack injures 13; reignites national debate on security and immigration
On 2 June, The Guardian reported that a firebomb was thrown at a pro-Israel demonstration in Boulder, Colorado, injuring 13 people. The attacker, identified as Mohamed Sabry Soliman, faces multiple federal hate crime charges. Officials described the attack as "an act of political violence with significant national implications."

The US: Trump administration imposes 50 per cent tariffs on steel and aluminium imports
On 3 June, Reuters reported that US President Donald Trump enacted sweeping tariffs of 50 per cent on steel and aluminium imports. The UK is temporarily exempted, while Canada and other trading partners are considering retaliatory measures. Trump stated the tariffs were necessary to “defend American manufacturing” and promised further action if trade imbalances continue.

The US: Trump administration faces legal pushback over proposed health department cuts
On 31 May, several US media outlets reported that 19 states and the District of Columbia have filed lawsuits against the Trump administration over proposed 26 per cent budget cuts to the Department of Health and Human Services. Critics argue that the restructuring would severely harm public health infrastructure and disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. The legal action seeks to block the cuts and mandate congressional oversight over federal health spending.

About the authors
Anu Maria Joseph and Femy Francis are Project Associates at NIAS. Fleur Elizebeth Philip is a Research Assistant at NIAS.  Merin Treesa Alex, R Preetha and Brighty Ann Sarah are postgraduate students from Stella Maris College, Chennai. Santhiya M, Rizwana Banu S and Lekshmi M K are postgraduate students at Madras Christian College, Chennai. Farhaz Rashid Ahmed is an undergraduate student at St Joseph's University, Bangalore. Gauri Gupta is a postgraduate student at Stella Maris College, Chennai. 


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