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President-elect Trump threatened to reclaim U.S. control of the Panama Canal, citing allegedly unfair fees charged by Panama and expressing concerns about potential Chinese influence, despite China’s lack of control over the canal’s administration. This assertion drew immediate condemnation from Panamanian President Mulino, who declared Panama’s sovereignty non-negotiable and defended the canal’s fee structure. Trump’s threat, unprecedented in its directness, marks a potential shift in U.S. foreign policy and lacks legal basis under international law. The Panama Canal, a crucial waterway for global trade, was transferred to Panamanian control in 1999 following agreements signed in 1977.
Trump’s suggestion to retake the Panama Canal if transit fees aren’t lowered is a dramatic escalation, raising eyebrows internationally. The statement itself is startling, given the implications of unilaterally seizing another nation’s sovereign territory. It suggests an approach to international relations that prioritizes aggressive unilateral action over diplomacy and negotiation.
This action, if implemented, would be a clear violation of international law and norms, potentially triggering significant diplomatic backlash and jeopardizing US relations with numerous countries. Beyond the legal ramifications, such a move could severely damage America’s standing in the global community, undermining its credibility and leadership.
The claim seemingly stems from a dispute over transit fees, implying a belief that the US has some inherent right to influence or control these prices.… Continue reading
Following a viral TikTok campaign, a British Columbia father is hopeful his photograph of a unique cloud formation will be featured on television. The campaign garnered significant online attention, bringing the image to a wide audience and prompting media interest. The photograph depicts a striking and unusual cloud pattern. The father’s goal is to share this memorable and visually impressive natural phenomenon with a larger audience.
In a stark escalation of rhetoric, Putin proposed a test of Russia’s Oreshnik weapons system against concentrated Ukrainian air defenses in Kyiv. Zelenskyy, addressing the European Council, responded by calling Putin “crazy” and a dangerous individual who is unconcerned with human life. The Ukrainian president described Putin’s actions as stemming from a love of killing. This exchange highlights the intense animosity and escalating conflict between the two leaders.
The EU’s support for Ukraine and its global role dominated the leaders’ meeting, with a unified approach deemed crucial for maintaining international influence. Kallas highlighted the contrast between a “might makes right” world order and the EU’s commitment to rules-based international relations. The collapse of the Syrian regime was viewed positively, exposing the weakness of Russia and Iran. Consequently, the EU plans to explore collaboration with Syria’s new leadership to shut down Russian military bases.
The EU initiated contact with Syria’s new authorities, signaling a potential lifting of decade-long sanctions contingent upon the removal of Russian and Iranian influence. Preconditions for sanctions relief include a political transition ensuring minority representation, human rights respect, and rejection of terrorism. Specifically, the EU demands the closure of Russian military bases in Syria, citing concerns about their role in regional instability and European security. These demands were supported by multiple EU foreign ministers, reflecting a unified stance on the matter.
Following Chrystia Freeland’s resignation from the Canadian cabinet, Donald Trump publicly criticized her, referencing their past contentious trade negotiations during his presidency. Freeland’s tenure as a key negotiator with the U.S. involved both praise from American liberals and considerable friction with Trump’s administration, culminating in a finalized USMCA deal despite significant challenges. Her resignation, however, appears partly motivated by disagreements over fiscal policy and a perceived demotion from her role managing Canada-U.S. relations. Trump’s social media post highlights the enduring impact of their past interactions on current Canadian politics.
Israel closed its Dublin embassy due to what Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar termed Ireland’s “extreme anti-Israel policy,” citing Ireland’s recognition of a Palestinian state and its intention to broaden the ICJ’s definition of genocide to include Israel’s actions in Gaza. This decision follows Ireland’s criticism of Israel’s response to the Hamas attacks and its assertion that Israel’s actions constitute collective punishment. Ireland’s government, however, rejected the accusation of anti-Israel bias and reaffirmed its commitment to a two-state solution and international law. Simultaneously, Israel announced plans to open an embassy in Moldova.
This list encompasses a comprehensive array of countries and territories worldwide. The included entities range from sovereign nations like the United States and China to smaller territories and dependencies. The geographic scope is global, spanning all continents. The list’s purpose is to provide a complete enumeration of recognized political entities.
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood