Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum mocked US President-elect Donald Trump’s suggestion to rename the Gulf of Mexico the “Gulf of America.” In a sarcastic response, she proposed renaming North America “Mexican America,” citing a historical reference from 1814. Trump’s recent statements include threats of tariffs on Mexico, accusations of cartel governance, and ambitions to control Greenland and the Panama Canal. Despite tensions, Sheinbaum expressed hope for positive US-Mexico relations, asserting that any future tariffs would prompt reciprocal measures. Sheinbaum’s defiant stance contrasts with her predecessor’s approach to US pressure.
US WEAPONS FAIL IN UKRAINE
The US administration acknowledged that advanced weapons, including ATACMS missiles, F-16 jets, and Abrams tanks, have not yielded significant battlefield success for Ukraine. An official told Reuters that despite substantial arms deliveries, the situation remains largely unchanged. Washington is preparing a new $500 million arms package, focusing on air defense missiles, air-to-surface munitions, and F-16 equipment. Most of the promised weapons have already reached Ukraine, with the remainder en route. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin challenged the West to a “technological duel” over military aid to Kyiv.
MELONI CELEBRATES SALA’S RELEASE PROGRESS
At her annual press conference, Italian PM Giorgia Meloni expressed relief over journalist Cecilia Sala’s release after 21 days in an Iranian prison, achieved through diplomatic efforts involving Iran and the US. Meloni denied discussing Starlink communications with Elon Musk during a US visit and defended her government’s handling of sensitive topics like international relations and migration. Addressing press freedom concerns, she dismissed accusations of restricting journalists’ rights. Meloni also reiterated Italy’s commitment to supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression and emphasized strategic cooperation with Greece and Albania.
SWEDEN INVESTS IN LEOPARD TANKS
Sweden, NATO’s newest member, is set to purchase 44 German Leopard 2 A8 battle tanks as part of a €1.91 billion defense upgrade, also refurbishing 66 existing tanks. Deliveries will commence in 2028 and conclude by 2031, with 10 tanks replacing units sent to Ukraine. Defense Minister Pål Jonson cited escalating EU security concerns following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as the impetus for Sweden’s largest military rearmament since the 1950s. By 2031, Sweden will possess 154 modern tanks, solidifying its commitment to NATO and regional security.
CHINA SLAMS EU TRADE PRACTICES
China’s Commerce Ministry criticized the EU’s Foreign Subsidies Regulation (FSR) as discriminatory, claiming it imposes unfair trade barriers against Chinese firms. The FSR, aimed at probing foreign subsidies, was accused of “vague” criteria, subjective enforcement, and causing losses for Chinese companies exceeding €1.94 billion. The tensions stem from disputes over Beijing’s renewable energy and electric vehicle sectors. China argued the measures disproportionately target its products, alleging EU inspections are excessive and arbitrary. While Beijing highlighted major losses, it has yet to announce countermeasures. The EU has not commented on the accusations.
