Explore

Reuters Reuters
Analysis-With tariffs stalled, Trump's China policy drifts

Analysis-With tariffs stalled, Trump's China policy drifts

By Michael Martina WASHINGTON, April 21 (Reuters) - When President Donald Trump returned to office in 2025, he vowed to use tariffs to reset relations with China, which he said was "killing" the United States with its trade policies.
Reuters Reuters
US commander warns Taiwan not to 'starve the chicken' on defense

US commander warns Taiwan not to 'starve the chicken' on defense

By David Brunnstrom and Michael Martina WASHINGTON, April 21 (Reuters) - The head of the U.S. command for the Indo-Pacific region on Tuesday stressed the importance of Taiwan passing its stalled defense budget, saying the United States "can't want Taiwan's defense more than they want it itself."
Reuters Reuters
China flexes energy leverage as the Philippines, US start annual war games

China flexes energy leverage as the Philippines, US start annual war games

By Joe Cash BEIJING, April 21 (Reuters) - China on Tuesday implied energy assistance for the Philippines could be tied to Manila holding military drills with the U.S. and other allies, as its top newspaper showed Beijing's readiness to leverage its reserves in diplomatic disputes.
Rapid Read Rapid Read
China Accuses New Zealand Military Aircraft of Harassment in Asian Waters

China Accuses New Zealand Military Aircraft of Harassment in Asian Waters

Tensions have escalated between China and New Zealand following accusations from China that a Royal New Zealand Air Force P-8A Poseidon aircraft engaged in 'close-in reconnaissance' and 'harassment' in the Yellow Sea and East China Sea. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs claims these actions have compromised China's security interests and disrupted civil aviation operations. In response, the New Zealand Defence Force clarified that the aircraft was conducting maritime surveillance to monitor North Korean sanctions evasions, as mandated by UN Security Council Resolutions. The NZDF has reviewed the flight path and found no evidence of disruption to civil aviation. Despite China's claims, the NZDF maintains that their operations are not directed at China.
Rapid Read Rapid Read
Iran-U.S. Talks in Doubt After Ship Seizure in Strait of Hormuz

Iran-U.S. Talks in Doubt After Ship Seizure in Strait of Hormuz

The planned peace talks between Iran and the United States in Pakistan are in jeopardy following the U.S. military's seizure of an Iranian cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz. The U.S. action, part of a blockade on Iranian vessels, has led Iran to reconsider its participation in the negotiations. The U.S. delegation, including Vice President JD Vance, is set to travel to Islamabad, but Iran has expressed doubts about attending, citing the U.S. actions as violations of the ceasefire. The situation remains volatile as the ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran is set to expire soon.
Rapid Read Rapid Read
Japan Lifts Ban on Lethal Weapons Exports, Shifting Postwar Pacifist Policy

Japan Lifts Ban on Lethal Weapons Exports, Shifting Postwar Pacifist Policy

Japan has officially lifted its ban on the export of lethal weapons, marking a significant departure from its post-World War II pacifist policies. This decision, approved by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's Cabinet, allows Japan to export military equipment such as fighter jets, missiles, and warships. The move is part of a broader strategy to bolster Japan's defense industry amid growing regional security concerns, particularly regarding China and North Korea. The policy change has been welcomed by defense partners like Australia, which has already signed a $7 billion deal for Japanese-built warships. However, the policy still restricts exports to countries currently engaged in conflict, unless under special circumstances that align with Japan's national security interests.
Reuters Reuters
Japan opens door to global arms market with overhaul of defence export rules

Japan opens door to global arms market with overhaul of defence export rules

By Tim Kelly TOKYO, April 21 (Reuters) - Japan on Tuesday unveiled its biggest overhaul of defence export rules in decades, scrapping restrictions on overseas arms sales and opening the way for exports of warships, missiles and other weapons.
Rapid Read Rapid Read
Australia Increases Defense Spending Amid Strategic Concerns

Australia Increases Defense Spending Amid Strategic Concerns

Australia has announced a significant increase in its defense budget as part of its revised National Defence Strategy. The strategy, which was released recently, outlines a commitment to greater self-reliance and increased defense spending, with a focus on maritime capabilities and nuclear-powered attack submarines. The Integrated Investment Program (IIP) allocates A$425 billion over the next decade to enhance military capabilities, with a substantial portion directed towards the Royal Australian Navy. The strategy aims to address the changing security landscape, particularly the perceived threat from China. Despite the increased budget, analysts have raised concerns about the urgency and speed of capability delivery.
Reuters Reuters
US positive on Iran deal but talks still uncertain as ceasefire end nears

US positive on Iran deal but talks still uncertain as ceasefire end nears

By Steve Holland, Enas Alashray and Mubasher Bukhari WASHINGTON/CAIRO/ISLAMABAD, April 21 (Reuters) - The United States expressed confidence that peace talks with Iran would go ahead in Pakistan and a senior Iranian official said Tehran was considering joining, but significant hurdles and
Reuters Reuters
Column-Amid Middle East chaos, China changes tactics on Taiwan and Japan

Column-Amid Middle East chaos, China changes tactics on Taiwan and Japan

By Peter Apps April 17 (Reuters) - As U.S.
Reuters Reuters
China warns against joint US, Philippines and Japan drills eroding regional trust

China warns against joint US, Philippines and Japan drills eroding regional trust

BEIJING, April 20 (Reuters) - China on Monday warned against military cooperation that could undermine trust and deepen division in the region, as the United States and the Philippines begin annual military exercises with expanded participation from Japan.
Rapid Read Rapid Read
CSIS Expert Highlights China's Concerns Over Prolonged Iran Conflict and Strait of Hormuz Closure

CSIS Expert Highlights China's Concerns Over Prolonged Iran Conflict and Strait of Hormuz Closure

Clayton Seigle, a Senior Fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) and James R. Schlesinger Chair in Energy and Geopolitics, has expressed concerns regarding the ongoing conflict in Iran and its implications for China. Seigle emphasized that China has significant stakes in the region, particularly if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed. This strategic waterway is crucial for global oil transportation, and its closure could severely impact China's energy security and economic interests. Seigle anticipates that China will likely increase its presence and influence in defense and trade agreements with Gulf nations to safeguard its interests.