President Donald Trump's second term in office has been marked by a series of abrupt and confusing U-turns in defence and foreign policy. From sudden decisions to bomb Iran, repeated halts and resumptions of weapons supply to Ukraine, and challenges in the Indo-Pacific strategy, the United States faces growing uncertainty about who is truly managing its national security. Reports indicate that bureaucrats, rather than elected officials, are increasingly driving critical policy decisions, undermining U.S. credibility with allies and global partners.
Since President Donald Trump embarked on his second term, a series of sudden policy reversals—most notably the decision to send B-2 bombers to Ukraine—have underscored a troubling lack of clear direction in U.S. defence and foreign policy. This erratic course has left both international partners and senior officials perplexed, raising critical questions about who truly steers America's defence strategy.
Israeli troops opened fire near a food distribution centre in Gaza that lost control amid a surge of starving Palestinians crossing military lines under an 11-week blockade. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation managing aid was overwhelmed, briefly withdrawing staff. Several Palestinians were injured, while Israeli officials described firing warning shots to restore order. The incident highlights Gaza's escalating humanitarian crisis.
During their arrival in Hanoi, a viral video captured French First Lady Brigitte Macron pushing President Emmanuel Macron and reportedly telling him to "stay away, you loser." Despite initial Palace denials, the video was confirmed authentic. Macron later dismissed the incident as a playful exchange, criticizing the exaggerated media reaction. The couple, married since 2007, share a unique relationship.
President Trump revealed he asked Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to hold off on military action against Iran during ongoing nuclear negotiations. Trump expressed optimism about a potential breakthrough and highlighted serious progress in diplomacy. The recent talks mark the highest-level direct US-Iran contact since America's 2018 exit from the 2015 nuclear deal. However, both sides acknowledge complexity ahead.
Russia and Ukraine will resume direct peace talks in Istanbul on June 2 amid increasing international pressure. Kyiv insists on receiving Russia’s peace proposals in advance, demanding substantive negotiations. Moscow demands Ukraine abandon NATO ambitions and cede territory, which Kyiv rejects. Despite diplomatic efforts, fighting continues, with the US expressing frustration over Russia’s ongoing attacks. The conflict has devastated Ukraine and shows no immediate resolution.
Ukraine has agreed to participate in a second round of peace talks in Istanbul, scheduled for June 2, only if Russia provides its peace memorandum in advance. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov proposed the talks, but Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov insists on receiving Russia's terms prior to negotiations. Meanwhile, President Zelenskyy reported U.S. support for sanctions against Russia if a ceasefire is not agreed upon. The talks mark a critical stage amid ongoing tensions and differing positions on peace conditions.
A U.S. trade court ruled that President Trump overstepped his authority by imposing extensive tariffs under an emergency law, ordering a permanent halt. Despite this setback, the administration has alternative legal options, including Sections 122 and 301 of the Trade Act, to impose tariffs. Legal experts anticipate a possible Supreme Court review as the administration quickly appeals the decision.
The 'TACO' trade refers to President Trump's pattern of imposing tariffs only to later reduce or delay them, sparking market swings. Investors find it challenging to form confident positions amid shifting policies. Recent tariff announcements caused sharp equity sell-offs followed by rallies when tariffs were rolled back. Experts warn that relying on a guaranteed 'Trump put' is risky, as market skepticism grows and companies adjust by reshaping supply chains.
Russia announced it is pending Ukraine's decision on attending Istanbul peace talks scheduled for June 2, following Kyiv's demand for Moscow to share its peace terms beforehand. The conflict, ongoing since 2022, continues despite diplomatic efforts, with recent talks yielding limited progress. Both sides remain entrenched while violence persists across multiple Ukrainian regions.
In response to the Pentagon's recent suspension of certain missile and munitions shipments to Ukraine amid escalating Russian drone strikes, Republican lawmakers have expressed strong opposition, calling the move a "national disgrace." Leaders including Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick and former CIA Director Mike Pompeo urge urgent briefings and reaffirm ongoing U.S. support as Ukraine confronts intensified aggression. The administration insists military aid continues with strategic reviews, while Ukraine seeks clarity on future assistance.
British PM Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy have aligned with US President Donald Trump's call for Russia to end hostilities and reach a peace deal by August 8, 2025. Amid ongoing sanctions and stalled negotiations, this unified stance aims to break Moscow’s delay tactics. As the deadline nears, global diplomatic efforts face a critical test.
Following Ukraine's Operation Spider's Web, which severely impacted Russian airfields and military aircraft, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged in a critical phone call discussing the Ukraine crisis. The conversation emphasized the need for direct peace negotiations, with plans to resume talks in Istanbul on June 2. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy praised the well-executed operation, highlighting its strategic significance in the ongoing conflict.
Elon Musk’s announcement of the 'America Party' sparks fierce criticism from Donald Trump, who calls it a 'train wreck' and warns of GOP division. The move challenges the traditional two-party system amid debates over federal spending and political allegiances, raising questions about the growing role of tech moguls in American politics.
President Donald Trump’s announcement of steep tariff hikes on a wide range of countries, from key U.S. allies like Japan and South Korea to smaller economies, has stirred fresh anxiety in global markets. With an August 1 deadline looming for enforcement, negotiations remain fragile, and the stakes are high as governments and industries weigh the impact on trade, diplomacy, and economic growth.
Dutch PM Mark Rutte warns that Russia’s rapid ammunition production far outstrips NATO's combined output, highlighting urgent security challenges. Amid escalating conflict in Ukraine and increased Russian aerial assaults, NATO members agreed to boost defense spending to 5% of GDP to counterbalance. This militarization surge comes alongside stronger ties among Russia, China, and Iran, intensifying global geopolitical complexity. The unfolding scenario demands renewed strategic focus and alliance unity.
Former US President Donald Trump has declared there will be no further extension of the August 1 deadline to reinstate tariffs paused earlier this year. He warned of new 10% tariffs targeting BRICS countries and proposed a steep 50% tariff on copper imports to strengthen American industry. These moves signal heightened trade tensions with major allies and emerging markets, raising critical questions about global economic stability and US trade policy direction.
On July 9, 2025, former U.S. President Donald Trump revealed new tariff rates on six countries, effective August 1. The tariffs—ranging from 25% to 30%—target nations including the Philippines, Iraq, and Libya. This move reinforces Trump's protectionist policies while raising important questions about economic impacts and diplomatic relations. Experts warn of potential supply chain disruptions and global trade tensions, emphasizing the need for careful policy balancing.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese embarks on his second visit to China this July, signaling a renewed effort to strengthen Australia-China relations. Central to the trip is the proposed review of the 2015 free trade agreement to incorporate emerging sectors like AI and green technology. This diplomatic engagement highlights the complexities of balancing economic collaboration with strategic concerns amid evolving global dynamics.
French President Emmanuel Macron’s three-day state visit to the UK blends regal ceremonies with pressing geopolitical challenges. Amid royal pageantry and meetings with UK leaders, Macron faces the unexpected challenge of US tariffs under President Trump, which threaten to disrupt global trade. The visit also marks the first EU leader visit since Brexit, highlighting shifting alliances and economic negotiations. Expert insights explore the broader implications for transatlantic relations and economic sovereignty.