Prior to his inauguration, President Trump threatened South Africa with 100% tariffs if it pursued a new currency to challenge the dollar, a plan South Africa denied. Subsequently, the Trump administration cut aid to South Africa, expelled its ambassador, and then, during a White House meeting, falsely accused South Africa of committing genocide against white farmers, showing fabricated evidence. South African President Ramaphosa refuted these claims, highlighting the country’s high crime rate and seeking assistance from the US, a request Trump ignored. This incident exposed Trump’s deep-seated racism and disregard for truth, fueled by his advisor Elon Musk and aligning with Trump’s broader anti-immigrant and anti-diversity stances.
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Following a G7 summit, the US issued a strong condemnation of Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, marking a shift from previous administrations’ stances. The G7 finance ministers pledged to increase sanctions on Russia if a ceasefire isn’t achieved, a commitment to unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. This statement contrasts with earlier US attempts at mediation which involved potential Ukrainian territorial concessions. The G7’s firm stance was met with relief in Europe.
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Radosław Sikorski’s recent Le Monde column argues that a Trumpist shift in US foreign policy necessitates a self-reliant European defense strategy. This is due to a perceived waning US interest in European affairs, as evidenced by statements from American leaders prioritizing domestic concerns. The column asserts the EU’s capacity to handle its own defense independently. Sikorski’s perspective highlights a growing concern that the US may withdraw support from European security issues, including those in Ukraine.
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During a meeting in the Oval Office, President Trump falsely accused South Africa of “white genocide,” showing videos and articles he claimed as evidence. President Ramaphosa attempted to refute these claims, explaining that the videos depicted a minority party’s actions, not government policy, and that crime statistics didn’t support the genocide narrative. Despite interventions from Ramaphosa’s delegation, including his agriculture minister and a prominent businessman, Trump remained unconvinced. This incident occurred amidst strained US-South Africa relations, marked by reduced aid and diplomatic tensions.
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In a tense exchange with Congressman Keating, Secretary Rubio confirmed Russia’s aggression in invading Ukraine and acknowledged the occurrence of war crimes. However, he refused to directly label Vladimir Putin a war criminal, prioritizing the goal of ending the war as the immediate focus. Rubio’s avoidance of a direct answer contrasted with Treasury Secretary Bessent’s earlier affirmation of Putin’s war criminal status. This reluctance highlights a potential divergence in US government messaging regarding accountability for Russian atrocities.
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China’s $500 million pledge to the World Health Organization (WHO) over five years positions it as the top donor, replacing the U.S. following its withdrawal. This contribution, announced at the World Health Assembly, is framed by Beijing as opposition to “unilateralism,” a criticism leveled at the U.S. The move reflects China’s broader strategy to expand global influence and fill the leadership void left by the Trump administration’s “America First” policy. This increased engagement extends beyond the WHO to areas such as climate change and green energy, where China aims to shape international norms and solidify its role in global supply chains.
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President Trump’s recent actions regarding the Russo-Ukrainian conflict represent a significant shift in US foreign policy. He has abandoned previous threats of joining European sanctions against Russia, opting instead for a focus on economic cooperation with Moscow. This decision, following a conversation with Vladimir Putin, has effectively sidelined the US from the existing peace process and created a deep rift within NATO, a long-sought goal for Putin. Trump’s prioritization of economic opportunities with Russia, potentially including access to the energy and rare-earth metals sectors, suggests a fundamental realignment of US priorities away from supporting Ukraine and towards improving relations with Russia. This divergence leaves European allies to pursue sanctions independently.
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The EU and Britain are forging ahead with new sanctions against Russia, a move that conspicuously sidesteps the anticipated involvement—or rather, the lack thereof—from the United States under its current leadership. This decisive action demonstrates a clear divergence in approach regarding Russia’s aggression, with Europe taking the lead in imposing consequences while the US remains seemingly hesitant.
This proactive stance by the EU and Britain underscores a shift in the geopolitical landscape. The comments about the US no longer holding its traditional position as the global leader are striking. The suggestion that the current US administration requires permission from Putin before taking action highlights a perceived lack of independence in foreign policy.… Continue reading
President Trump has reportedly increased pressure on Israel to end its conflict with Hamas, threatening to withdraw support if the fighting continues. This pressure followed Israel’s mobilization of reservists and intensified Gaza bombings. While Israel initially halted humanitarian aid, it has since resumed limited deliveries, with the UN expressing concern over insufficient aid levels. Simultaneously, Israel announced a new, US-backed humanitarian aid mechanism to prevent famine in Gaza while maintaining its military operation.
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The U.S. State Department has closed its Office of Palestinian Affairs in Jerusalem, effectively eliminating a dedicated diplomatic channel between the Palestinians and Washington. This action, implemented on May 16, 2025, merges the office’s functions into the U.S. embassy in Jerusalem, a move reflecting a return to the Trump administration’s approach. The closure comes amidst escalating violence in Gaza and despite ongoing talks between U.S. officials and Hamas regarding a ceasefire and humanitarian aid. The office’s dissolution leaves Palestinian affairs under the purview of the U.S. ambassador to Israel, who has previously expressed skepticism about Palestinian identity.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood