What's Happening

26/09/2025

🇷🇺 Russia's economy has become heavily militarized, with defense spending accounting for around 8% of its GDP and up to 40% of its budget. This significant allocation towards military expenditure has become a key driver of Russia's economic growth, particularly since the conflict with Ukraine began. The military-industrial complex has seen substantial growth, with production increases of up to 60% in war-related industries compared to pre-war levels.
However, this shift towards militarization poses significant challenges for Russia's economy in the long run. Some potential risks include;
- Distorted Economic Structure: Excessive reliance on the military industry could lead to structural imbalances and limit investment in other sectors.
- Inflation and Labor Shortages: Increased government spending and mobilization of resources for the war effort have fueled inflation and created labor shortages.
- Dependence on Energy Exports: Russia's ability to finance the war critically depends on energy exports, making it vulnerable to fluctuations in global oil prices.
A rapid shift back to civilian output would indeed shock the system, given the significant resources allocated to the military-industrial complex. Experts warn that any attempt to cut military spending abruptly could lead to;
- Economic Collapse: A sudden decrease in demand for military products could lead to significant economic disruption.
- Unemployment: Demobilization of soldiers and workers in the defense sector could cause unemployment to rise.
The Kremlin plans to maintain its military spending for at least the next three years, with a focus on rearmament and modernization of its defense industry. However, sustaining this level of spending may become increasingly challenging due to;
- Economic Stagnation: Russia's economy is facing stagnation, and declining oil prices could reduce government revenue.
- Increasing Debt: Russia's debt-servicing costs are expected to rise by 23% in 2026, putting pressure on the budget.
- Tax Increases: The government may consider further tax hikes to finance military spending, which could impact economic growth. 🇷🇺

25/09/2025

🇷🇺🇺🇸🇺🇦 'If Russia won't end the war, officials working in the Kremlin should make sure they know where the nearest bomb shelter is' - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Volodymyr Zelensky's statement about Kremlin officials knowing where the nearest bomb shelter is reflects his country's determination to defend itself against Russia's aggression. Zelensky made this statement as a warning to Moscow, implying that Ukraine could respond directly to Russian aggression with long-range strikes if armed with US weapons. Zelensky specified that Ukraine might target energy infrastructure and weapons production sites, which contribute directly to Russia's war machine. US President Donald Trump reportedly voiced support for Ukraine's potential use of advanced weapons, stating "We will work on it." Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev retaliated with a veiled threat, claiming Russia could use weapons that no bomb shelter can protect against. The conflict has seen Ukraine ramping up its use of long-range drones to target Russian military assets deep inside enemy territory, disrupting supply chains and damaging ammunition depots. Zelensky's statement underscores the escalating tensions between Ukraine and Russia, with both sides engaging in a war of words and military posturing. The situation remains volatile, with diplomatic efforts stalled and military support for Ukraine expanding. 🇺🇸🇺🇦🇷🇺

25/09/2025

🇺🇸 US President Donald Trump recently accused the United Nations of funding an "assault" on Western nations, specifically highlighting the organization's support for migrants entering the US. According to Trump, the UN budgeted $372 million in 2024 to aid migrants journeying into the United States, providing cash, food, shelter, transportation, and debit cards to those heading to the southern border. He deemed this support "totally unacceptable" and argued that the UN should be stopping invasions, not financing them. Trump's criticism of the UN isn't new, and he has previously expressed his discontent with the organization's handling of global issues. During his speech at the 80th General Assembly, he:
- Criticized UN's Role in Global Peacekeeping: Trump claimed the UN failed to support his efforts to broker peace in various conflicts, such as between Pakistan and India, Cambodia and Thailand, and Israel and Iran.
- Questioned UN's Effectiveness: He expressed skepticism about the UN's ability to live up to its potential, citing its inaction on key issues.
- Called for Reduced US Funding: Trump mentioned plans to slash US funding for the UN, criticizing its effectiveness and accountability.

Despite his criticism, Trump also expressed support for the UN, stating that the US is "100% behind" the organization, but wants to see more effective action from it. He emphasized the need for countries to secure their borders and reject open-border policies, warning that uncontrolled migration could ruin Western nations. 🇺🇸

25/09/2025

🇺🇸 A malfunctioning escalator that forced President Trump to walk up one flight of steps at the United Nations sparked false claims on social media that it was a deliberate act of sabotage by U.N. staf. The United Nations recently experienced an incident involving President Trump and an escalator malfunction. President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump stepped onto an escalator at the UN building, which suddenly stopped working, forcing them to walk up the stairs instead. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt accused UN staff of "deliberate" sabotage, demanding an investigation and potential firings. She referenced a Times of London report claiming UN workers joked about shutting down the escalator to force Trump to walk. However, the UN attributed the malfunction to a safety mechanism triggered by Trump's videographer, who was moving backward up the escalator to capture footage. The UN spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, explained that the videographer likely accidentally triggered the stop mechanism. Trump jokingly mentioned the incident during his speech, saying, "These are the two things I got from the United Nations - a bad escalator and a bad teleprompter." He also poked fun at the teleprompter issue, which the UN later clarified was operated by the White House. Despite the UN's explanation, the sabotage conspiracy theory spread widely on social media, with many calling for investigations and punishments. The incident remains a topic of discussion, with some attributing it to a prank or technical glitch rather than intentional sabotage. 🇺🇸

25/09/2025

🇮🇱🇮🇷 Khamenei advises Israel to avoid another mistake, emphasizing that failure to do so will lead to the disappearance of Tel Aviv and Haifa from the Middle East map.
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's recent statement threatening Israel's existence isn't new rhetoric. He's been vocal about his stance on Israel for years, often using strong language to rally support among his followers. In 2015, Khamenei said Israel wouldn't exist in 25 years, which translates to around 2040. This statement was made after the Iran nuclear deal framework was agreed upon, and it's been a recurring theme in his speeches and statements since then.

Khamenei's threats are often seen as a way to:
- Rally Domestic Support: By focusing on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Khamenei diverts attention from internal issues like economic struggles and protests.
- Project Strength: Khamenei aims to show his strength and resilience to allies and adversaries alike, particularly in the face of internal dissent and economic challenges.
- Signal to Adversaries: His statements serve as a warning to Israel and its allies, like the United States, about Iran's military capabilities and readiness to respond to any perceived threats.
However, it's worth noting that these statements might not necessarily mean outright destruction but rather a political dissolution or significant shift in the region's dynamics. The exchange between Khamenei and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is part of a larger ritual of deterrence, with each side using rhetoric to mask vulnerabilities. The tensions between Iran and Israel are rooted in decades of hostility, with Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution marking a significant turning point. Since then, Iran has built an "Axis of Resistance" to encircle Israel, comprising militias like Hezbollah, Hamas, and Yemen's Houthis. The situation remains volatile, with both sides probing for weaknesses and responding to perceived threats. 🇮🇷🇮🇱

25/09/2025

🇺🇦 Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has issued a stark warning about a global arms race and AI war, urging world leaders to take action to prevent a catastrophic outcome. Zelenskyy cautioned that the world is on the brink of an unprecedented arms race, driven by rapid advancements in artificial intelligence and autonomous drone technology. He warned that this new era of warfare could lead to unprecedented destruction and loss of life. Zelenskyy emphasized that the conflict in Ukraine is not just a regional issue, but a frontline in a broader battle for international security and the rules that will govern the use of emerging technologies in war. He noted that Russian drones have already breached NATO airspace, highlighting the potential for escalation. Zelenskyy urged global leaders to establish rules governing the use of AI in weapons, warning that without such regulations, the world risks being overtaken by forces beyond anyone's control. He emphasized the need for international cooperation to prevent the deployment of fully autonomous drones that can make life-and-death decisions without human oversight. Zelenskyy highlighted Ukraine's experience in developing and deploying drone technology, and offered to share Ukraine's expertise with allies. He also called for increased support for Ukraine's struggle against Russian aggression, warning that stopping Russia now is "cheaper than wondering who will be the first to create a simple drone carrying a nuclear warhead". The international community is grappling with the implications of AI-driven warfare, with some leaders calling for increased military aid to Ukraine and stronger air defenses for NATO's eastern flank. Others are urging caution, wary of escalating the conflict into a direct confrontation with Russia. Overall, Zelenskyy's warning highlights the urgent need for global leaders to address the risks and consequences of AI-driven warfare and work towards establishing rules and regulations to prevent a catastrophic outcome. 🇺🇦

25/09/2025

25/09/2025

🇸🇾🇺🇸 Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa recently delivered his first speech at the UN General Assembly in nearly six decades, calling for the complete lifting of US sanctions imposed on Syria under the 2019 Caesar Act. Al-Sharaa emphasized that these sanctions are no longer justified and are perceived by Syrians as directly targeting them, hindering the country's economic rebuilding efforts. He expressed confidence in Syria's diverse workforce, stating, "Don't be worried, just lift the sanctions and you will see the results".
The sanctions have been a major point of contention between the US and Syria, with some US lawmakers debating whether to repeal the Caesar Act. Senator Lindsey Graham suggested he would support canceling sanctions if Syria's government moves toward a new security deal with Israel and joins a coalition against the Islamic State extremist group.
Al-Sharaa's speech highlights the ongoing efforts to normalize relations between Syria and Israel, with discussions centered around a potential security pact. This development comes as the US seeks to mediate between the two countries, aiming to achieve greater regional security. Al-Sharaa emphasized that Israel must withdraw from Syrian land, and security concerns can be addressed through talks. Al-Sharaa indicated that Syria's position toward Israel will be influenced by anger over Israel's occupation of Syrian territory, potentially impacting their participation in normalization agreements. Al-Sharaa also discussed the delayed deal with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, highlighting concerns about decentralization and potential separation risks. Overall, al-Sharaa's UN speech marks a significant moment in Syria's diplomatic efforts, focusing on economic rebuilding, regional security, and the normalization of international relations. 🇺🇸🇸🇾

25/09/2025

🇬🇧🇩🇪🇫🇷🇮🇱 The UK, along with other countries like France and Germany, has condemned the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The UK government has recognized Palestine as a state, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer stating it's a step towards reviving hope for a two-state solution. However, the UK's position on whether Israel's actions constitute genocide is nuanced. While some UK leaders, like Northern Irish First Minister Michelle O'Neill and Scottish First Minister John Swinney, believe Israel is committing genocide, the UK government officially maintains that Israel is not acting with genocidal intent.
The foreign ministers of the UK, France, and Germany (E3) released a joint statement expressing deep concern over the humanitarian situation in Gaza. They called for sustained ceasefire, release of hostages, and ensured flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza, emphasizing that humanitarian aid should never be used as a political tool. The situation in Gaza is dire, with tens of thousands of civilians killed, and aid workers, including an Australian national, Zomi Frankcom, losing their lives. The UK, along with other countries, is urging Israel to accept responsibility for the humanitarian crisis and ensure aid reaches those in need.
Several countries, such as Ireland, South Africa, Bangladesh, Iraq, and Chile, have explicitly stated that Israel's actions in Gaza amount to genocide. Countries like Germany, Hungary, and the United States have rejected the accusation of genocide against Israel. Other countries like France and Belgium have taken more nuanced stances, with France's position evolving over time and Belgium's foreign minister suggesting Israel's actions could be close to genocide. 🇫🇷🇩🇪🇬🇧🇮🇱

25/09/2025

🇸🇾🇺🇦 Ukraine and Syria have formally restored diplomatic relations after meeting on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. According to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, this move is an important step, and Ukraine is ready to support the Syrian people in their path to stability. The restoration of ties comes after Ukraine's foreign minister visited Damascus in December to hold talks with the new Syrian leadership, following the toppling of Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. Ukraine broke off relations with Syria in June 2022 after Assad's government recognized the independence of occupied Ukraine following Russia's full-scale invasion.
Zelenskyy and Ahmad Hussein al-Sharaa met on the UN General Assembly sidelines, marking a significant diplomatic shift. Zelenskyy expressed support for the Syrian people and urged for stronger international support, citing crippling economic sanctions. The UN has also pledged support to Syria's recovery and humanitarian needs, emphasizing the need for an inclusive transition. This development highlights a potential shift in diplomatic relations between Ukraine and Syria, with both countries looking to rebuild ties and address pressing issues. 🇺🇦🇸🇾

24/09/2025

🇺🇸🇨🇳🇦🇫 US President Donald Trump's recent statement threatening "bad things" if Afghanistan doesn't return Bagram Airbase to the US has been met with rejection from the Taliban. The Taliban's foreign ministry official, Zakir Jalal, stated that "not even one meter of Afghan land will be given to the Americans". This stance is consistent with the Taliban's previous assertions that they will not permit a US or foreign presence on their soil.

~Key Developments~

- Taliban's Stance: The Taliban has repeatedly stated that they will not allow the US to regain control of Bagram Airbase, emphasizing Afghanistan's independence and territorial integrity.
- US Talks with Taliban: Despite the Taliban's rejection, the US is reportedly in discussions with them about re-establishing a small US military presence at Bagram Airbase for counterterrorism operations. Special Envoy Adam Boehler is leading these talks, which also include potential prisoner exchanges and economic deals.
- Expert Opinions: Some experts caution that re-occupying Bagram Airbase could require significant manpower and advanced air defenses, potentially leading to a situation similar to a re-invasion. Others highlight the challenges of securing the base from threats like Islamic State and al-Qaeda militants.

~Potential Implications~

- Escalating Tensions: Trump's threats could escalate tensions between the US and Afghanistan, potentially affecting regional dynamics.
- Diplomatic Efforts: The ongoing talks between the US and Taliban may aim to find a resolution that balances both parties' interests, but the Taliban's stance suggests a significant hurdle.
- Regional Players: China's backing of Kabul could play a role in shaping the outcome, given the complex geopolitical landscape. 🇦🇫🇺🇸🇨🇳

24/09/2025

🇺🇸🇷🇺🇮🇳 "India and China are funding the Ukraine war by buying Russian oil" - US President Donald J. Trump
Donald Trump's recent speech at the United Nations General Assembly sparked controversy when he accused India and China of funding Russia's war in Ukraine by purchasing Russian oil. He claimed that these energy imports are a major reason why Moscow has been able to sustain its military campaign. Trump demanded that countries, including NATO member states, immediately halt all purchases of Russian oil and gas, expressing frustration that some Western partners haven't cut their dependence on Russian energy supplies.

~Some key points from Trump's Speech~

- Accusations against India and China: Trump alleged that both countries are the "primary funders" of the Russian war in Ukraine through their continued purchase of Russian oil.
- Tariffs on Indian Goods: Trump announced an additional 25% tariff on Indian goods as a penalty for buying Russian oil, bringing the total levies to 50%.
- Criticism of NATO Allies: Trump urged European allies to stop buying Russian oil and gas, describing the situation as "embarrassing" for those countries.
- Mocking the UN: Trump criticized the United Nations, saying it has immense potential but delivers little beyond symbolic statements. The accusations have sparked sharp responses from India and China, which defend their purchases of Russian oil as essential for energy security and economic stability. Meanwhile, Democratic senators have accused the Trump administration of giving China a "free pass" on buying Russian liquefied natural gas, potentially allowing Russia tens of billions of dollars in revenue that could fund the war. 🇨🇳🇺🇸🇮🇳