Around the World (as of 13, 12, 11 December 2024)

December 13, 2024

In Western Countries

USA

Domestic Policy

Time magazine named Donald Trump “Person of the Year.” It was stated that Trump received this title because “for better or worse, he had the greatest impact on the news in 2024.”

The House of Representatives passed a defense policy bill regulating record military spending of $895 billion, with 281 votes in favor and 140 against.

Foreign Policy

After the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government, the administration of Joe Biden announced its support for a transparent transition to a non-confessional government accountable to the Syrian people.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken:

• Met with King Abdullah of Jordan for talks on the situation in Syria.
• Neighboring countries of Syria should prevent the outbreak of new conflicts in the Arab republic.
• Expressed concern about the increasing repression against civil society and media in Azerbaijan.
• Washington is providing Ukraine with another military aid package worth $500 million, including ammunition, armored vehicles, and radiological, chemical, and biological defense equipment.

“Sabrina Singh, Deputy Press Secretary of the Pentagon, confirmed reports that Russia might attack Ukraine using another experimental missile.”

Donald Trump, in an interview with Time magazine:

1. Announced his intention to come to a peace agreement regarding the conflict in Ukraine.
2. Called Ukrainian President Zelensky’s decision to strike Russian territory with long-range American weapons “stupid” and creating the most dangerous situation in the world.

Donald Trump’s nominated candidate for FBI director, Kash Patel, sought to initiate an investigation against Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

The United States plans to release new export regulations by the end of the year, limiting China’s access to chips for AI training models via third countries, according to the South China Morning Post.

The rise in the dollar exchange rate and negative news from various regions of the world have caused the largest drop in currencies of developing countries in the past two years, reports the Financial Times.

United Kingdom

Foreign Policy

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer will hold negotiations with the EU on defense matters in 2025. This will be the first meeting involving a British prime minister since the UK’s departure from the EU in 2020, reports the Financial Times.

European Union

Foreign Policy

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Josep Borrell:

• The EU does not intend to provide Syria with any aid after a regime change without setting any conditions, including humanitarian aid.
• The European Union will need to increase aid to Ukraine if the US reduces its funding.
• Frozen Russian assets could help cover “all the damage Russia has caused to Ukraine.”
• G7 ministers confirmed the provision of a $50 billion loan to Ukraine.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is willing to hold another phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin. He announced this in an interview on the RTL channel.

Hungary proposed that Ukraine cease fire and conduct a prisoner exchange with Russia during Christmas, following a phone call between Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Russian President Vladimir Putin, but Kyiv rejected the proposal.

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico:

1. Ukraine will lose a third of its territory due to the conflict with Russia but will not receive an invitation to NATO from the US and its allies.
2. He does not intend to support Ukraine’s accession to NATO.

Poland is purchasing MQ-9B SkyGuardian drones from General Atomics in the US, with delivery expected by the first quarter of 2027, according to the Polish Ministry of National Defense.

Polish General and instructor at the Warsaw Military Academy Boguslaw Samol stated that Ukraine has been losing the confrontation with Russia since the very beginning.

European Parliament member H. Vilimsky, leader of the Austrian Freedom Party delegation in the European Parliament, stated that the new sanctions package against Russia is useless and harms the EU.

European Commissioner for Climate Vopke Hukkstra said that the world is entering an era of “geopolitical winter” amid the strengthening of right-wing forces in Europe and the impending rise to power of Republican Donald Trump in the US.

European companies are increasing their stocks in US warehouses in anticipation of the incoming presidency of Donald Trump, who had threatened to impose import duties on trading partners. This was reported by the Handelsblatt newspaper.

The Group of Seven (G7) is prepared to support a transitional process in Syria leading to the establishment of an inclusive, secular government, according to a statement issued.

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius announced plans to begin talks with the “Hayat Tahrir al-Sham” group, which has seized power in Syria.

Funding for Serbian opposition forces from abroad to overthrow the current government has reached €426 million over the past four years. This was stated by Serbian leader Aleksandar Vučić.

In China and Asia-Pacific Countries

China

Foreign Policy Block

China will continue working with the international community to create conditions for the political resolution of the Ukrainian crisis. This was stated by the President of the People’s Republic of China, Xi Jinping, during a meeting with Deputy Chairman of the Security Council of Russia and leader of the United Russia Party, Dmitry Medvedev. He also noted that Beijing and Moscow would continue to deepen political mutual trust and strategic cooperation, as well as gradually expand practical cooperation in all areas.

The Chinese authorities are extremely surprised and displeased by the recent statement from the President of the Republic of Korea, Yoon Suk Yeol, about Chinese espionage on the American aircraft carrier in the South Korean port of Busan. This was reported by the official representative of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mao Ning.

According to the South China Morning Post, the United States intends to release new export rules by the end of the year aimed at limiting China’s access through third countries to chips for training AI models. This move is part of an effort to control the spread of American products and maintain the country’s global leadership in AI.

Elected U.S. President Donald Trump invited Chinese President Xi Jinping to his inauguration, which will take place on January 20, 2025, in Washington, D.C.

The Russian Strategic Initiatives Agency and the Chinese technology company Tianjin Wancheng Qianyuan High-Tech have signed an agreement on technological cooperation, including in the design of UAVs and carbon footprint neutralization.

Asia-Pacific Countries

Foreign Policy Block

Tokyo and Ulaanbaatar have signed an agreement on the transfer of defense equipment and technologies, including to third parties, to ensure control in this area. The Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that the document was signed by Japan’s ambassador to Mongolia, Masaru Igawahara, and the Mongolian Minister of Defense, S. Byambatsogt.

The foreign ministers of Japan and the Republic of Korea emphasized the importance of close cooperation between the two countries “in light of the current strategic situation,” despite “complicating circumstances,” according to the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Domestic Policy Block

Six opposition parties of the Republic of Korea have re-launched the impeachment procedure for the country’s president, Yoon Suk Yeol, by submitting the relevant proposal to the parliamentary committee. At the same time, the legislative body has announced the impeachment of Justice Minister Park Sung Jae and National Police Commissioner Cho Ji Ho.

The Republic of Korea’s army must remain politically neutral amid the confrontation between the president and the parliament, stated the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Kim Myung Soo. He emphasized that priority should be given to “the protection of the country and the lives of citizens.”

President Yoon Suk Yeol of the Republic of Korea announced that he would fight until the end amidst an investigation into suspected treason and impeachment attempts, effectively rejecting voluntary resignation. He made this statement in an address to the nation.

In Russia and Central Asia

Russia

Domestic Policy Block

Recently, the State Duma of the Russian Federation passed a bill expanding the grounds for adding citizens to the list of those involved in extremist activities or terrorism. Under the new grounds, individuals will be included on the list not only if they have been convicted of propagating or displaying Nazi symbols or symbols of extremist organizations but also for spreading “fakes” about the Russian army or discrediting the Armed Forces.

Kyrgyzstan

Foreign Policy Block

Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan Akylbek Japarov called for the activation of cooperation in the field of labor migration and the updating of the regulatory framework in this area. He made this statement at a meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the CIS, held in Moscow. According to Japarov, the free movement of labor is becoming a priority issue, and he emphasized the need to create mechanisms that ensure the safety and legality of labor migration.

Uzbekistan

Economic Block

The Central Bank of Uzbekistan decided to keep the main interest rate at 13.5% per annum, as inflation is decreasing more slowly than expected and high inflation expectations are forming. The regulator acknowledged that it may raise the rate if demand and price pressure in the economy intensify.

Tajikistan

Foreign Policy Block

During its chairmanship in the CIS in 2025, Tajikistan plans to accelerate the process of harmonizing documents related to labor migration within the Commonwealth. This was stated by Prime Minister of Tajikistan Kohir Rasulzoda at the CIS Heads of Government meeting in Moscow.

Turkmenistan

Foreign Policy Block

President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdymukhamedov met with Teri Hakala, who is completing her mission as the European Union Special Representative for Central Asia. The interlocutors noted that bilateral relations between Turkmenistan and the EU have become multifaceted, and they also highlighted the productive cooperation with the European Union within the framework of ongoing programs and projects aimed at Turkmenistan’s socio-economic development.

In Belarus, Ukraine, Moldova, and the South Caucasus

Belarus

President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko has approved a defense plan for 2026-2030, based on an analysis of the events of 2020 and the military conflict in Ukraine. The plan includes defense against aggression and preparation for possible military conflicts.

Lukashenko has instructed the Ministry of Defense of Belarus to ensure the placement of the Russian “Oreshnik” missile system in Belarus and to plan for its potential use. The delivery is expected in the second half of 2025. The republic has about 30 sites available for the deployment of the system.

Ukraine

In Kyiv, a nighttime air raid alarm was declared due to the threat of Shahed-type strike drones. As a result of the attack by Russian drones, fragments were found in the Pechersk district of the capital. The alarm was also declared in several Ukrainian regions.

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico believes that Ukraine will lose a third of its territory due to the conflict with Russia but will not be invited to NATO. He stated that the conflict could only be resolved through a ceasefire and negotiations.

The U.S. will provide Ukraine with a new $500 million military aid package. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that Washington plans to spend all the funds allocated by Congress for assistance to Kyiv before the end of Joe Biden’s term.

Ukraine’s Ambassador to the U.S., Oksana Markarova, stated that the U.S. House of Representatives has approved the defense budget for 2025 but without an extension of the Lend-Lease for Kyiv.

Moldova

Leader of the “Victory” bloc, Ilan Shor, expressed concern about the plans of USAID to collect data on Moldovan politicians and their families. He accused the Agency of interfering in the internal affairs of the republic.

Armenia

Armenian Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigoryan positively assessed Russia’s efforts to strengthen cooperation within the Commonwealth and supported the humanitarian action plan for 2025 during the meeting of the CIS Heads of Government.

Azerbaijan

Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov announced that Baku and Yerevan have not reached a final agreement on a peace treaty. The preamble and 15 articles have been agreed upon, but negotiations on the remaining two are ongoing.

Georgia

The opposition in Georgia is boycotting the election of a new president, considering the elected parliament illegitimate. Opposition parties are demanding new parliamentary elections and the release of those detained during pro-European protests.

In Tbilisi, an IT workers’ protest was held in response to the government’s decision to delay the country’s accession to the EU until 2028. The demonstrators gathered at Republic Square and marched to the parliament. During the large-scale protests, more than 400 people were detained, and criminal cases were opened against 30 of them.

In the Middle East and North Africa

Iran

Domestic Policy Block

The Prime Minister’s office sent a message to foreign media regarding Israeli presence in the buffer zone in Syria. It stated that Israeli troops are temporarily stationed at strategic positions until a mechanism is created to restore the 1974 agreement and ensure border security.

Foreign Policy Block

Mossad Director David Barnea visited the capital of Qatar, where he held talks with Prime Minister M. Al-Thani. The subject of the talks was a deal for the release of hostages and the conditions for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.

Security Block

High-ranking military officials of Syrian Kurds have appealed to Israel for assistance in combating fighters supported by Turkey. Israeli security services are currently discussing the matter with members of the military cabinet.

Jordan

Foreign Policy Block

In accordance with the instructions of King Abdullah II, the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organization sent its first humanitarian aid convoy to Syria. The convoy included 10 trucks carrying 200 tons of essentials and food for the Syrian people.

Iraq

Domestic Policy Block

During the Iraq-Greece forum in Baghdad, Iraqi Deputy Foreign Minister M. al-Uloom stated that the Iraqi government had allocated $100 billion for supporting major strategic projects, which are planned to be implemented over the next three years.

Palestine

Security Block

A representative of the Gaza Civil Defense Agency, M. al-Basal, stated that as a result of two IDF strikes on targets in the Rafah and Khan Younis areas, 12 Palestinian guards, who were escorting humanitarian aid trucks for the enclave’s population, were killed.

Egypt

Security Block

Amid the Syrian crisis, the Egyptian armed forces are conducting counterterrorism tactical exercises, Qaher-3, with the participation of ground troops, border guards, and special forces of the Egyptian army. Egypt’s Defense Minister, General Lieutenant A. Sakr, and other senior military commanders inspected the participating forces to assess their technical and combat capabilities and readiness to perform assigned tasks.

Lebanon

Domestic Policy Block

The leader of the Christian party “Lebanese Forces,” Samir Geagea, asked the Minister of the Interior, Bassam Mawlawi, to officially confirm that the country’s competent authorities, including his ministry, are controlling the Lebanon-Syria border. This comes amidst rumors that citizens of Syria close to the ousted regime of Bashar al-Assad are entering Lebanon without hindrance.

December 12, 2024

In Western Countries

USA 

Domestic Policy Block

American congressmen approved the draft US defense budget for the 2025 fiscal year, amounting to $884 billion.

The Director of the FBI, Christopher Wray, intends to resign before the inauguration of the elected president, Donald Trump, on January 20, 2025.

Foreign Policy Block

The outgoing US President Joe Biden’s administration intends to increase tariffs on imports of critical materials from China to protect American companies in the solar energy market.

The newly elected President Donald Trump stated that Syrians will have to cope on their own without Western aid, particularly from the USA and France.

Donald Trump invited Chinese President Xi Jinping to his inauguration, which will take place on January 20, 2025.

The New York Times reported that Donald Trump, as part of a review of the loan terms granted to Ukraine by the Biden administration, is considering lifting anti-Russian sanctions and unfreezing Russian Central Bank assets.

Military Block

On December 10, the US Missile Defense Agency successfully tested the interception of a medium-range ballistic missile from an air-launched platform off the coast of Andersen Air Force Base.

The head of the US Central Command, General M. Kurilla, visited Lebanon on December 11 for talks on implementing a ceasefire agreement.

United Kingdom

Domestic Policy Block

British farmers organized a protest in front of the Parliament building in London demanding the preservation of existing tax exemptions on the inheritance of agricultural and commercial property.

Military Block

Royal Navy officer K. Thompson has been appointed commander of the British aircraft carrier Queen Elizabeth. This marks the first time in the country’s fleet history that such a command has been entrusted to a woman.

EU

Domestic Policy Block

Swiss politician K. Keller-Sutter, who previously held the positions of Minister of Finance and Vice-President of the country, was elected Head of State for 2025.

French President E. Macron will appoint a new Prime Minister on December 12, 2024.

German Chancellor O. Scholz sent a letter to Bundestag President B. Bas on December 11 requesting a vote of confidence for his government, with the Bundestag expected to vote on the issue on December 16.

Foreign Policy Block

On December 11, EU permanent representatives in Brussels approved the 15th package of sanctions against Russia, aimed at combating the shadow fleet of tankers used by Russia to bypass the G7 countries’ price cap on oil.

French President E. Macron discussed the situation in Georgia in a phone call with Bidzina Ivanishvili, the founder and honorary chairman of the ruling Georgian Dream Party, and offered assistance in resolving the domestic political crisis.

A French Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson stated that any military deployment in the Golan buffer zone is a violation, urging Israel to withdraw its forces and respect Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

European diplomacy chief K. Kalas expressed doubt about the return of frozen Russian assets, as the EU could spend them on Ukraine’s reconstruction.

German Foreign Minister A. Baerbock announced the appointment of a special representative for Syria, whose role will be to strengthen relations with Syria and preserve its territorial integrity.

EU foreign ministers will meet in Berlin on December 12 to discuss the situation in Syria and Ukraine.

Greece’s Ministry of Migration and Asylum will halt processing asylum applications from Syrians as of December 13 due to regime changes in Syria.

The European Commission has allowed Poland, Finland, and other European countries bordering Russia and Belarus to restrict asylum rights if Russia and Belarus continue using migrants as “hybrid weapons.”

Eastern Europe

Domestic Policy Block

The independent trade union of Polish Border Guard employees announced its readiness to organize a nationwide protest, planning to cooperate with protesting police officers and firefighters.

China and the Asia-Pacific Region

China

Foreign Policy Block

China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated that the United States must stop interfering in the internal affairs of sovereign countries under the guise of caring about human rights. She pointed out that Washington is attempting to suppress high-tech Chinese companies and deny the Chinese people their right to development.

Moscow and Beijing are actively expanding inter-party cooperation between the United Russia Party and the Communist Party of China. This was stated by Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of Russia’s Security Council, during a two-day visit to China.

According to Reuters, the Chinese government may devalue the yuan to combat the threat of a trade war with the United States. Such measures would target deflation and potential tariff hikes from Washington.

Domestic Policy Block

The southern Chinese province of Hainan is actively implementing a strategy to stimulate the comprehensive development of key industries, including aerospace, marine deep-water, ecological projects, and advanced digital technologies.

Asia-Pacific Countries

Foreign Policy Block

The situation with martial law and the “impeachment uproar” in South Korea has highlighted the “vulnerability of South Korean society,” according to a report by North Korea’s Central Telegraph Agency.

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba stated in parliament that Japan has never claimed readiness to negotiate with Russia on a peace treaty and the transfer of two southern Kuril Islands instead of four.

According to The Economic Times, India is nearing an agreement with Russia for the acquisition of an advanced long-range early warning radar system, “Voronezh,” worth over $4 billion. The system could be deployed in Chitradurga District in Karnataka, which already hosts several defense and aerospace facilities.

Domestic Policy Block

According to Yonhap, the police of the Republic of Korea began a search of President Yoon Suk Yeol’s administration related to a special investigation into the events of martial law. Law enforcement also conducted searches at the National Police Agency, the Special Forces Command headquarters, and the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

The police of South Korea arrested National Police Agency Commissioner General Cho Ji-ho and the head of the Seoul Police, Kim Bong-sik.

India will send an unmanned mission to space in December as part of its preparation for the “Gaganyaan” manned spaceflight program, according to Minister of State for Science and Technology, J. Singh.

In Russia and Central Asia

Russia

Foreign Policy Block

Russian President V. Putin discussed the prospects for peace in Ukraine over the phone with Hungarian Prime Minister V. Orban. Orban expressed interest in assisting with the joint search for ways to politically and diplomatically resolve the crisis, including through his contacts with several Western leaders, according to the press release.

Domestic Policy Block

The State Duma of the Russian Federation passed in the second and third, final readings, a bill that prohibits the acceptance of migrant children who do not speak Russian into schools. It is proposed that a free language proficiency test, sufficient for mastering the curriculum, will be required for enrollment. Those who fail the test will not be allowed to study.

Kyrgyzstan

Foreign Policy Block

The Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Croatia, G. Grlić-Radman, arrived in Kyrgyzstan for an official visit. According to the Kyrgyz Ministry of Foreign Affairs press service, negotiations are planned with Kyrgyzstan’s Foreign Minister J. Kulubaev, as well as a business forum with the participation of entrepreneurs from both countries.

Uzbekistan

Domestic Policy Block

Uzbekistan plans to introduce accountability for completing training with the aim of organizing mass riots and financing them. Deputies approved the bill at first reading without questions. The bill was developed with consideration of the experiences of Russia and Belarus.

Tajikistan

Economic Block

The Eurasian Development Bank (EDB) plans to increase financing in priority sectors of Tajikistan’s economy. These intentions were voiced during a meeting between EDB Director in Tajikistan V. Yakunin and the Minister of Economic Development and Trade of the Republic of Tajikistan Z. Zavkizoda.

Turkmenistan

Foreign Policy Block

Turkmen President S. Berdymukhamedov held a meeting with Natalia Herman, Executive Director of the UN Security Council Counter-Terrorism Committee. During the conversation, the parties discussed issues related to strengthening international law and developing a multipolar system of global governance.

In Belarus, Ukraine, Moldova, and the South Caucasus

Belarus

A delegation of Belarusian deputies, headed by the Chairman of the House of Representatives of the National Assembly of Belarus I. Seregeiko, arrived in Moscow to participate in the 67th session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Union of Belarus and Russia, where the budget of the Union State for 2025 will be discussed, along with issues of harmonizing border cooperation legislation.

Ukraine

Pentagon Deputy Press Secretary S. Singh believes that the Russian Armed Forces may strike Ukrainian territory in the coming days with a hypersonic “Oreshnik” missile.

US Treasury Secretary J. Yellen believes that the Biden administration’s decision to allocate $20 billion in credit to Ukraine will remain in force when President-elect D. Trump takes office.

Advisor to the President of Ukraine M. Podolyak called the initiative of Hungarian Prime Minister V. Orban regarding a ceasefire and prisoner exchange between Kyiv and Moscow senseless. In his opinion, this proposal is an attempt by the politician to promote himself.

Speaker of the lower house of the Polish parliament S. Holownia stated that Warsaw deems it appropriate to participate in military operations on Ukrainian territory solely within NATO structures and under its auspices.

Moldova

The government of Moldova has requested that the country’s parliament impose a state of emergency for 60 days starting December 16 due to the threat of a humanitarian crisis, as Russian gas transit through Ukraine has been halted.

Armenia

Chief of the General Staff of the Armenian Armed Forces E. Asryan and NATO Defense College head M. Nielsen discussed cooperation prospects in the field of military education at the National Research University of the Ministry of Defense of Armenia.

Azerbaijan

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan called the last four years “lost” for Azerbaijani-American relations due to the US Department of State’s interference in Azerbaijan’s internal affairs.

Georgia

The Georgian Parliament, during a plenary session, approved in the first reading a draft law that will strip the president of state protection after the end of their term if the Constitutional Court determines that the president violated the constitution during their term.

In the Middle East

Iran

Top Leaders

In his address to the Iranian people, Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran A. Khamenei stated that the events in Syria were the result of a joint plan by the United States and Israel. He emphasized that these actions were carried out with the support of a “neighboring country.” He expressed the belief that the occupied regions of Syria will be liberated by Syrian youth in the near future, and that the influence of the “Axis of Resistance” will expand throughout the region. He added that months before the militant offensive, Iran warned the Syrian military about the impending attacks, but Tehran is unsure how the information was received by Damascus.

Jordan

Foreign Policy Block

Jordanian Foreign Minister A. as-Safadi discussed Middle Eastern developments with US Secretary of State A. Blinken. The main focus of the discussion was on efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and ensure sufficient humanitarian aid for the enclave’s population.

Iraq

Foreign Policy Block

Chinese contractor “Jereh” in partnership with “Petro Iraq” signed a production-sharing agreement with “Midland Oil Company of Iraq” to develop the Mansuriyah gas field, marking the first venture of a Chinese company in Iraq as an oil and gas producer.

Egypt

Foreign Policy Block

At Egypt’s initiative, a phone call took place between Egyptian Foreign Minister B. Abdel Ati and US Secretary of State A. Blinken. The two diplomats discussed the current situation in the Middle East, including Syria, Egypt’s and the mediation group’s efforts to resolve the situation in Gaza, and Israel’s violation of Syria’s territorial integrity by seizing a buffer zone.

Lebanon

Domestic Policy Block

Lebanese Parliament Speaker N. Berri stated that the fall of B. Assad’s regime in Syria would not have “negative consequences” for Beirut and confirmed that a new president will be elected in Lebanon on January 9, 2025.

Pakistan

Domestic Policy Block

The General Military Court of Pakistan officially charged former Director of the Inter-Services Intelligence agency, General-Lieutenant F. Hamid, for violating the State Secrets Act, which harmed the security and interests of the state, and for abuse of power.

UAE

Foreign Policy Block

UAE Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan discussed regional events, including the situations in Syria and Lebanon, in a phone call with US Secretary of State A. Blinken. The two diplomats reviewed the importance of strengthening regional and international efforts to maintain peace and establish stability in the region for the benefit of all its people and countries.

December 11, 2024

WESTERN COUNTRIES 

USA

Domestic Political Block 

Republicans are questioning the economic success of the administration of Joe Biden, which the American president announced. The relevant comment was posted by the National Republican Committee on X.

Foreign Policy Block

US President Joe Biden discussed the situation in the region following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria with King Abdullah II of Jordan over the phone, the White House reported.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken:

1. The new Syrian authorities must not allow the country to become a breeding ground for terrorism and a threat to neighboring countries.
2. The US reaffirmed its support for the political transition process in Syria, involving the people of the country.
3. He reminded that the US statehood is based on the thesis of equality among people and their inalienable rights.

White House Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby: The current US administration is informing Donald Trump’s transition team about the situations in Ukraine, Syria, and the Middle East; the White House currently does not plan to revise its policy toward the “Hayat Tahrir al-Sham” group.

The Pentagon believes that chemical weapons could be present in Syria, and the US, through its partners, is taking measures to prevent their use against US forces or citizens. This was stated by Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh.

US intelligence and the Pentagon are searching for “potential partners” in Syria who would align with US security interests, according to The Washington Post.

Pentagon head L. Austin stated that China’s “coercion tactics” threaten regional stability. He made this statement after Taiwan reported a Chinese naval operation around the island.

The Biden administration believes that the “Oreshnik” missile will not have a strategic impact on the conflict in Ukraine. This was stated by Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks.

The US announced a $20 billion loan to Ukraine, secured by interest from frozen Russian assets, as part of a $50 billion aid package from the G7 countries.

Donald Trump Jr. and entrepreneur Elon Musk laughed on X at the comparison of the meeting between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky in Paris with a scene from the movie “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York.”

United Kingdom

Foreign Policy Block

The UK has suspended consideration of asylum applications from Syrian citizens. This was reported by Bloomberg and Sky News, citing a representative from the UK Ministry of Interior.

EU

Foreign Policy Block

German Chancellor O. Scholz discussed cooperation with the new Syrian authorities with French President E. Macron, focusing on human rights and minority protection.

Paris and Kyiv may accelerate the process of sending French military forces to Ukraine ahead of Trump’s new term, according to Patriotic Party leader F. Filippo.

Austrian Defense Minister Claudia Tanner could not answer whether the European missile defense system “Sky Shield” can intercept the “Oreshnik” missile.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk intends to discuss with Volodymyr Zelensky the issue of peace talks regarding Ukraine, which, according to his assumption, may begin this winter.

The return of Donald Trump to the US presidency will create problems for European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, as she will need to fight for support for Ukraine and economic growth in the EU amid a potential trade war, reports Politico.

Human Rights Watch accused Polish border guards of mistreating migrants in the buffer zone on the border with Belarus.

The situation in Ukraine has worsened significantly in recent weeks. Ukrainian soldiers are deserting more than in previous months, said the head of Poland’s Ministry of Defense W. Kosiniak-Kamysz.

Poland’s Deputy Minister of Defense C. Tomczyk stated that Germany needs to increase defense spending to set an example for the EU amid doubts about US support for Ukraine.

German Chancellor O. Scholz discussed the situation in Syria with Turkish President R. Erdogan, emphasizing the importance of preserving its territorial integrity and sovereignty.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s negotiations with Donald Trump at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida lasted three hours. Elon Musk also attended the meeting. The politicians did not specify the issues discussed.

Hungarian Foreign Minister P. Szijjártó stated that Hungary will veto EU sanctions against Georgian government officials and civil servants if necessary.

Slovakia will support a peace settlement plan for Ukraine developed by Brazil and China, said Prime Minister Robert Fico.

The EU and the US condemned the unjustified use of force by the Georgian authorities against protesters. As a result of the crackdown on protests, 70 media workers were injured.

China and Asia-Pacific Countries

China

Foreign Policy Block

Chinese President Xi Jinping called on the United States to normalize bilateral relations and avoid a trade war. He expressed hope for cooperation with the US to direct bilateral relations towards “stable, healthy, and sustainable development.”

China hopes the European Union will respect the legitimate demands and interests of Chinese companies and refrain from politicizing trade and economic issues. This was stated by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning.

Chinese manufacturers have started reducing their supply of components to the US and European countries used in the production of unmanned aerial vehicles.

Asia-Pacific Countries

Foreign Policy Block

Indian Defense Minister R. Singh stated that despite geopolitical challenges and immense public and private pressure, India has decided to deepen and expand cooperation with Russia.

Domestic Political Block

According to the newspaper Hankook Ilbo, the police of the Republic of Korea summoned 10 cabinet members, including Prime Minister Han Dok Su, for questioning. These individuals participated in meetings before and after the declaration of martial law.

The ruling party of the Republic of Korea, “Civil Force,” has prepared several action plans in case of President Yoon Suk-yeol’s early departure in the first half of 2025. One of them includes his resignation in February and early elections in April.

According to Yonhap news agency, the police and prosecutor’s office of the Republic of Korea may classify President Yoon Suk-yeol’s actions as those of a “conspirator” in a case involving a coup aimed at usurping power and overthrowing the constitutional order. The country’s criminal code provides for the death penalty or life imprisonment for this crime.

The Parliament of the Republic of Korea passed a bill on the special investigation of the military situation related to suspicions of President Yoon Suk-yeol’s involvement in a coup.

In Russia and Central Asia

Russia

Foreign Policy Block

The State Duma of the Russian Federation has passed a bill in the first reading to exclude the Taliban movement from the list of organizations banned in Russia. The document states that the ban on such an organization’s activities may be temporarily suspended by a court decision in Russia upon the request of the country’s Attorney General or his deputy. Currently, Russia has no mechanism that would allow for the suspension of such organizations’ activities. The bill was introduced by a group of parliamentarians.

Nuclear warheads are necessary for Belarus as a means of deterring a potential adversary, stated Russian State Duma deputy Yu. Shvytkin. He emphasized that the Union State is doing everything possible to avoid a nuclear catastrophe. According to the politician, the nuclear reserves obtained by Belarus are necessary for ensuring its security in the event of hostile actions.

Kyrgyzstan

Foreign Policy Block

Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan will cooperate in the field of biological security. A memorandum of understanding and cooperation was signed to strengthen biological security in Central Asia. The Kyrgyz Republic signed the document through the Republican Center for the Prevention of Especially Dangerous Infections. It was noted that this partnership will create new opportunities for joint scientific research. The memorandum includes monitoring, exchange of up-to-date information and experience on combating especially dangerous infections, conducting scientific research in the fields of biosecurity and biosafety, training specialists, as well as holding various events.

Domestic Policy Block

The President of Kyrgyzstan, S. Zhaparov, visited the updated military unit No. 2028 named after Kydyr Ake Baisary Uulu of the Border Service of the State Committee for National Security (GKNB), located in the city of Karakol. He reminded that strengthening border security is one of the key priorities of the state, and significant support is being provided in this area. During the visit, the president handed over 30 new JAC off-road vehicles to the military unit. S. Zhaparov emphasized that the state would continue to comprehensively support the Border Service.

Uzbekistan

Domestic Policy Block

Z. Azimov has been appointed first deputy minister, and A. Muratov has been appointed deputy minister of employment and poverty reduction of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Z. Azimov previously worked as the first deputy head of the People’s Bank of Uzbekistan, while A. Muratov was the first deputy head of the Business Development Bank.

Foreign Economic Block

Uzbekistan has completed bilateral negotiations with Pakistan and Thailand on joining the World Trade Organization (WTO). “We are looking forward to Uzbekistan’s prompt accession to the WTO and are confident that this membership will bring more trade and investment,” said a representative of Thailand.

Tajikistan

Foreign Economic Block

Tajikistan and South Korea have signed a protocol for the construction of solar power plants and energy storage systems. The document pertains to a project for the construction of solar power plants and energy storage systems in two regions of the country: the Sogd region of Tajikistan and the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region (GBAO). The project includes the construction of solar power plants with a total capacity of 6 MW and the installation of energy storage systems with a capacity of 1 MWh.

Turkmenistan

Foreign Policy Block

The Chairperson of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, D. Gulmanova, accepted the credentials from the Ambassador of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia to Turkmenistan, Jemal Bekir Abdullah. During the meeting, the diplomat was informed about the main directions of Turkmenistan’s domestic and foreign policies, which are focused on developing mutually beneficial partnerships with all interested states, including those from the African continent.

The UN Assistant Secretary-General for Rule of Law and Security Institutions, A. Zuev, arrived in Ashgabat to participate in the International Conference “Joint Efforts in Strengthening International Peace and Sustainable Development” and other events in honor of International Neutrality Day. The sides highlighted the special attention Turkmenistan pays to supporting peacekeeping as one of the main tools of the UN in maintaining peace and security. Turkmenistan expressed its readiness to consider forms of participation in international efforts to strengthen peace, based on the country’s neutral status.

In Belarus, Ukraine, Moldova, and the South Caucasus

Belarus

The President of Belarus, A. Lukashenko, confirmed the presence of nuclear weapons in the republic, stating that he expects a deterrent effect from their deployment.

The head of the Investigative Department of the KGB of Belarus, K. Bychek, reported an attempt by Polish intelligence services to recruit a Belarusian diplomat in Moldova, emphasizing that the Belarusian side would respond accordingly.

Ukraine

President V. Zelensky held talks with Polish Prime Minister D. Tusk. The sides discussed joint efforts and plans for Poland’s presidency in the EU.

French President E. Macron will discuss a European peacekeeping mission plan to preserve Ukraine’s sovereignty on December 12 in Poland.

The U.S. State Department approved the potential sale of various systems for F-16 fighters to Ukraine, including technical maintenance, for a total value of $266.4 million.

Turkish Foreign Minister H. Fidan stated that Ankara sees risks in the geographical expansion of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict and the potential use of nuclear weapons.

Moldova

European Commission President U. von der Leyen announced the allocation of an additional 50 million euros to Moldova for conducting reforms in the country.

Armenia

Armenia and France signed a defense cooperation program for 2025. According to the Armenian Ministry of Defense, this confirms the strategic importance of active cooperation and sets a higher level of its development.

Azerbaijan

Azerbaijani President I. Aliyev met with the Governor of Russia’s Astrakhan Region, I. Babushkin. They discussed prospects for cooperation in transportation and transit, as well as in agriculture, trade, tourism, and humanitarian fields.

According to Azerbaijani Deputy Foreign Minister E. Mamedov, the inconsistency in the position of Armenian negotiators is one of the obstacles to signing a peace agreement between the two countries.

Georgia

The Foreign Ministers of the 27 EU countries will discuss new measures against Georgia in connection with the situation in the country.

According to the State Security Service of Georgia, anti-government protests in Tbilisi are being coordinated by local activists in cooperation with foreign intelligence services.

In the Middle East and Near East

Israel

Domestic Policy Block

Finance Minister B. Smotrich has advocated for the complete occupation of the Gaza Strip. In his opinion, Israel should establish a civilian administration and remove Hamas from power in the enclave.

Security Block

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the completion of the main phase of the operation to destroy Syria’s strategic military capabilities. It was reported that 70-80% of the military capabilities of Bashar al-Assad’s regime had been destroyed. The operation is ongoing. IDF ground forces are operating in the demilitarized zone, strengthening control over the area, destroying weapons, and preventing them from falling into undesirable hands.

Jordan

Foreign Policy Block

On the instructions of King Abdullah II of Jordan, a ship carrying 62 armored personnel carriers, donated by the Hashemite Kingdom to the Lebanese army, arrived at the port of Beirut, Lebanon. The cargo was received by Lebanese Armed Forces Commander General D. Aoun.

Turkey

Foreign Policy Block

Turkish President R. Erdogan issued a statement highlighting Turkey’s important role in supporting Syrian refugees. He noted that over the past 13 years, Turkey has accepted millions of Syrians fleeing the Assad regime. He emphasized that Turkey always supports Syria’s territorial integrity and advocates for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Lebanon

Security Block

The Lebanese General Security Service stated that it controls the situation at the “Jadeh-Yaabus” checkpoint between Lebanon and Syria, in coordination with the Lebanese Army and Internal Security Forces. These measures were taken after a large number of Syrian citizens attempted to illegally enter Lebanon.

Iran

Foreign Policy Block

The United Kingdom, France, and Germany, known as the “E3,” accused the Islamic Republic of Iran regarding uranium enrichment. The countries noted that Tehran is taking steps to increase uranium enrichment to 60% at the underground nuclear facility in Fordow, which raises serious concerns. Iran, in turn, insists that its nuclear program is exclusively peaceful, under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and accuses the Western countries of violating the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPoA).

During a meeting in Moscow at the Parliamentary Assembly of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), Iranian parliamentarian A. Goudarzi stated that Iran is close to completing an initiative to create an international alliance with Russia to counter U.S. sanctions. He emphasized that the main goal of the meeting is to create an alternative economic system not dependent on the dollar and to weaken the impact of American sanctions on the international stage.

Security Block

The former Commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), M. Rezaei, speaking at the 12th International Aerospace Exhibition, stated that 11,000 militants from the terrorist group ISIS (Daesh) are being trained in U.S. camps in the region, with the aim of being deployed in Iraq.