Former Israeli Defence Minister Moshe Ya’alon accused Israel of Conquering, annexing, and ethnic cleansing in northern Gaza, sparking fierce debates. He criticized ongoing military actions as undermining Israel’s democratic identity, alleging “corrupt and leprous fascist” tendencies. Israel denies the claims, maintaining operations follow international law. Thousands of Palestinians remain displaced amid deadly strikes, with limited aid reaching affected areas. Ya’alon’s remarks echo growing global concerns, with Human Rights Watch and the ICC implicating Israeli leaders in alleged war crimes. The debate intensifies amidst calls for post-war governance plans for Gaza.
PUTIN APPROVES A THIRD OF NATION’S BUDGET FOR DEFENCE
Russian President Vladimir Putin has approved a historic $126 billion defence budget, allocating a third of government spending to military needs in 2025. The move underscores the prolonged strain of the war in Ukraine, where both sides face mounting resource challenges. While Ukraine relies on substantial Western aid, Russia faces economic overheating, inflation, and recruitment issues. Despite Moscow’s military dominance, losses and reliance on North Korean support add to long-term pressures. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz pledged additional military aid to Ukraine, reaffirming European support amid the ongoing conflict.
ROMANIA VOTES AMID ALLEGATIONS OF RUSSIAN INTERFERENCE
Romania held parliamentary elections on Sunday, amidst heightened tensions following the first round of its presidential race, which saw far-right candidate Calin Georgescu leading unexpectedly. Claims of Russian meddling and TikTok-driven manipulation have fuelled public protests. Georgescu, who faces reformist Elena Lasconi in a December 8 runoff, is seen as a populist threat to democracy. The Constitutional Court has ordered a recount of all 9.4 million presidential ballots due to allegations of election law violations. Meanwhile, traditional parties face challenges from nationalist and progressive factions in parliament. Experts predict a fragmented government, complicating Romania’s political future.
LITHUANIA EXPELS THREE CHINESE EMBASSY STAFF
Lithuania’s expels three Chinese embassy staff, declaring them “undesirable in the country”, citing violation of the Vienna Convention and the legislation of the Republic of Lithuania. China condemned it, calling it a “provocative action” and warning of potential countermeasures. This follows heightened tensions over Vilnius’ support for Taiwan and suspicions of a Chinese ship’s involvement in severing Baltic Sea communication cables. Investigations into the cable damage, involving Sweden and Finland, are ongoing. Beijing accused Lithuania of undermining the “one-China principle,” worsening bilateral ties.
RUSSIAN PRESIDENT TO VISIT INDIA IN 2025
Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit India next year for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit, following an invitation from PM Modi during the 16th BRICS Summit. The Kremlin confirmed that dates will be finalized in early 2025. Both leaders share a tradition of annual meetings to strengthen ties. This year, they reviewed collaborations in areas like defence, energy, and multilateral forums. PM Modi, honoured with “The Order of St. Andrew the Apostle;” Russia’s top civilian award, emphasized close India-Russia ties during his two visits to Russia in 2024.
