Explore

COP30 Fails to Address Critical Minerals Despite Their Importance in Energy Transition

COP30 Fails to Address Critical Minerals Despite Their Importance in Energy Transition

The recent COP30 conference, held to address global climate issues, notably failed to include critical minerals in its final discussions, despite their essential role in the energy transition. These minerals, such as lithium, copper, and cobalt, are crucial for technologies like batteries and solar panels. The exclusion was largely due to opposition from countries like Russia and China, which have significant stakes in mineral production. The conference did, however, see the creation of the Belém Action Mechanism, aimed at ensuring a just transition in energy policies.

South Korea Protests Chinese and Russian Warplanes Entering Air Defense Zone

South Korea Protests Chinese and Russian Warplanes Entering Air Defense Zone

South Korea has lodged a formal complaint with China and Russia after their military aircraft entered South Korea's Air Defense Identification Zone (KADIZ) without prior notification. On Tuesday, seven Russian and two Chinese military planes briefly entered the KADIZ, prompting South Korea to deploy fighter jets as a precautionary measure. Although the aircraft did not violate South Korean airspace, the incident has raised tensions in the region. The South Korean defense ministry emphasized its commitment to responding to such activities in compliance with international law. This is not the first time Chinese and Russian aircraft have entered the KADIZ, with similar incidents occurring since 2019.

Mature markets push global debt to record near $346 trillion, says IIF

Mature markets push global debt to record near $346 trillion, says IIF

By Rodrigo Campos NEW YORK, Dec 9 (Reuters) - Developed markets led a borrowing push that lifted global debt to near $346 trillion at the end of the third quarter, while a pending ruling on the legality of U.S. tariffs could force even more U.S. issuance, a banking trade group said.

South Korea Scrambles Jets in Response to Russian and Chinese Aircraft Entering Air Defense Zone

South Korea Scrambles Jets in Response to Russian and Chinese Aircraft Entering Air Defense Zone

South Korea's military deployed fighter jets after seven Russian and two Chinese military aircraft entered the Korea Air Defense Identification Zone (KADIZ) on December 9, 2025. The aircraft did not violate South Korean airspace but were closely monitored. The Joint Chiefs of Staff in Seoul reported that the aircraft entered the KADIZ at around 10 a.m. local time. In response, South Korea took tactical measures to prepare for any potential contingencies. The aircraft flew in and out of the zone over the course of an hour before leaving the area. This incident is part of a series of similar occurrences, as Chinese and Russian aircraft have regularly entered the KADIZ since 2019, often citing joint exercises.

Russia Introduces Visa-Free Travel for Chinese Tourists, Boosting Winter Tourism

Russia Introduces Visa-Free Travel for Chinese Tourists, Boosting Winter Tourism

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree allowing Chinese tourists to enter Russia without a visa for up to 30 days, effective immediately until September 14, 2026. This policy aims to enhance tourism and business exchanges between the two countries. The announcement has led to a surge in travel bookings from China, particularly for winter holidays. The move is expected to significantly boost Russia's tourism sector by attracting Chinese tourists to its winter attractions and natural scenery. The policy mirrors China's visa-free trial for Russian tourists, reflecting deepening bilateral relations.

U.S. and Allies Eye Arctic for Critical Mineral Resources Amid Environmental Concerns

U.S. and Allies Eye Arctic for Critical Mineral Resources Amid Environmental Concerns

Several countries, including the United States, are increasingly looking to the Arctic as a potential source for critical minerals. This interest is driven by the need to counter China's dominance in the mineral market. The Arctic is believed to hold vast reserves of strategic materials such as rare earths, uranium, and other precious metals. However, the region's fragile environment poses significant challenges to mining activities. Climate change has made the Arctic more accessible, prompting countries like the U.S., Canada, Russia, Denmark, and Norway to assert their interests in the area. The U.S. has shown particular interest, with discussions about purchasing stakes in Greenland's mineral projects. Environmentalists express concern over the potential ecological impact of mining in this sensitive region.

US Congress considers 'must-pass' defense policy bill that would top Trump’s spending request

US Congress considers 'must-pass' defense policy bill that would top Trump’s spending request

By Patricia Zengerle and Julia Harte WASHINGTON, Dec 6 (Reuters) - U.S. lawmakers on Sunday unveiled an annual defense policy bill authorizing a record $901 billion in national security spending next year, billions more than President Donald Trump's request, and provides $400 million in military

Russia Grants Visa-Free Entry to Chinese Tourists, Boosting Tourism Prospects

Russia Grants Visa-Free Entry to Chinese Tourists, Boosting Tourism Prospects

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree allowing Chinese tourists to enter Russia without a visa for up to 30 days, effective December 1, 2025. This policy is part of a broader effort to strengthen ties between the two countries and is expected to significantly boost tourism. The visa-free entry applies to various types of visits, including tourism, business, and family trips. The announcement has already led to a surge in travel bookings from China, with air ticket sales to Russia increasing by 1.5 times. The policy is anticipated to bring substantial economic benefits to Russia's tourism sector, particularly during the winter season.

China Responds to U.S. National Security Strategy Amid Global Tensions

China Responds to U.S. National Security Strategy Amid Global Tensions

China has issued a response to the latest U.S. national security strategy, emphasizing the importance of win-win cooperation between the two nations. A spokesperson for China's Foreign Ministry stated that China is prepared to work with the U.S. to maintain steady bilateral relations while defending its sovereignty and security interests. The U.S. strategy, released under President Trump's administration, outlines economic and security priorities, with China being a primary focus. The strategy has been noted for its critical stance on Europe's handling of security and economic issues, aligning with some of Moscow's views.

Global Powers Eye Arctic for Critical Mineral Extraction Amid Environmental Concerns

Global Powers Eye Arctic for Critical Mineral Extraction Amid Environmental Concerns

The Arctic region is becoming a focal point for global powers seeking to extract critical minerals necessary for various industries. Countries such as Russia, Canada, the United States, Denmark, and Norway are asserting their interests in the Arctic, driven by the need to counter China's dominance in the critical minerals market. Russia is advancing its Arctic 2035 plan, which includes infrastructure development and strategic importance for national security. Canada is also increasing its investment in the Arctic to enhance its mineral mining capacity, partly in response to strained relations with the United States. The United States, under President Trump, has shown interest in Greenland's resources, with discussions about purchasing a stake in a major rare earths project. However, environmentalists express concerns about the potential impact of mining activities on the Arctic's fragile ecosystem.

'Big hopes for Africa': Defence firms scramble for drone market at Egypt arms expo

'Big hopes for Africa': Defence firms scramble for drone market at Egypt arms expo

By Alexander Dziadosz CAIRO, Dec 8 (Reuters) - Quadcopters, electromagnetic rifles and an AI-powered navigation system were among the wares displayed at one of Africa and the Middle East’s biggest arms expos, as defence companies jostle to break into regional markets increasingly defined by drone

Oil holds at two-week highs on expected US rate cut, geopolitical risks

Oil holds at two-week highs on expected US rate cut, geopolitical risks

By Florence Tan SINGAPORE, Dec 8 (Reuters) - Oil prices hovered at two-week highs on Monday as investors expect a Federal Reserve interest rate cut this week that will lift economic growth and energy demand while eyeing geopolitical risks that threaten oil supplies from Russia and Venezuela.