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Early Arctic Ice Halts Russian LNG Shipments to China

Early Arctic Ice Halts Russian LNG Shipments to China

Russia's efforts to ship liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the Arctic LNG 2 site to China have been disrupted by early thick winter ice. The Russian-flagged LNG carrier Buran, one of four vessels involved in the export operation, has been forced to retreat after multiple failed attempts to navigate through the ice. The Buran, along with other Arc4 class vessels, was designed for lighter ice conditions and requires icebreaker escorts. The early onset of thick ice has posed significant challenges to maintaining the LNG export flow from the Arctic terminal.
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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.
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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.
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Russia says it awaits an answer from the US on New START as nuclear treaty ticks down

Russia says it awaits an answer from the US on New START as nuclear treaty ticks down

By Guy Faulconbridge and Lucy Papachristou MOSCOW, Dec 10 (Reuters) - Russia on Wednesday said it was still awaiting a formal answer from Washington on President Vladimir Putin's proposal to jointly stick to the last remaining Russian-U.S. arms control treaty, which expires in less than two months.
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President Trump Freezes USAID Operations, Impacting Global Humanitarian Aid

President Trump Freezes USAID Operations, Impacting Global Humanitarian Aid

President Trump has implemented a freeze on the operations of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) as of January 2025. This decision is part of a broader strategy to reduce government size and cut what the administration views as excessive spending on foreign aid. USAID, which has been a significant arm of U.S. international assistance, typically spends between $40-70 billion annually across more than 100 countries. The freeze has sparked a range of reactions, with some lamenting the halt of life-saving aid and others supporting the reduction of funds perceived as not directly benefiting Americans. Concerns have also been raised about the potential for countries like Russia and China to fill the void left by the U.S. in international development and humanitarian efforts.
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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.
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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.
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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
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Iranian Navy Increases Activity Amid Regional Tensions

Iranian Navy Increases Activity Amid Regional Tensions

The Iranian Navy has intensified its operations following a period of inactivity, with the Moudge Class frigate IRINS Jamaran now patrolling the Indian Ocean. The frigate has been upgraded with advanced sensors and missile systems. Iran is also preparing for joint naval exercises with Russia and China in South Africa. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy (IRGCN) conducted missile tests in the Gulf of Oman, showcasing new anti-ship capabilities.
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Critical Minerals Excluded from COP30 Discussions Despite Importance

Critical Minerals Excluded from COP30 Discussions Despite Importance

At COP30, critical minerals were initially included in discussions but ultimately excluded from the final text due to opposition from Russia and China. These minerals, essential for the energy transition, are crucial for producing batteries, solar panels, and energy systems. Despite their exclusion, the discussions highlighted the importance of developing sustainable and responsible supply chains for these minerals. The conference also saw protests over the environmental and social impacts of mining, particularly in Brazil, the host country, which has significant reserves of rare earths.
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Russia Grants Visa-Free Entry to Chinese Tourists, Boosting Winter Travel

Russia Grants Visa-Free Entry to Chinese Tourists, Boosting Winter Travel

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree allowing Chinese tourists visa-free entry into Russia for stays of up to 30 days, effective from December 1, 2025, until September 14, 2026. This policy applies to various travel purposes, including tourism, business, and family visits, eliminating the need for visa applications. The move is part of a reciprocal arrangement, as China has also initiated a visa-free trial for Russian visitors. The announcement has generated significant interest in China's travel market, with a notable increase in bookings for winter holidays. According to Qunar, a leading Chinese online travel platform, air ticket bookings to Russia have surged by 1.5 times since the policy's announcement. This development is expected to significantly boost Russia's tourism sector, particularly during the winter season, by attracting Chinese tourists to its affordable winter attractions and natural scenery.
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'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