Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has left the country after issuing orders for a peaceful transfer of power, according to Russia’s foreign ministry. However, it’s not clear to whom he handed over power. The ministry clarified that Russia was not involved in the negotiations that led to Assad’s departure, but expressed deep concern over the situation in Syria, urging all sides to avoid violence and resolve issues through political means. The move comes after rebel forces claimed to have overthrown Assad. Meanwhile, Israel conducted airstrikes on strategic sites in Syria, targeting weapon depots in the conflict’s wake.
TRUMP URGES IMMEDIATE CEASEFIRE
Donald Trump, US President-elect, called for an “immediate ceasefire” in the Russia-Ukraine war, stressing the need for negotiations to prevent further destruction. His comments came after a meeting with Ukrainian President Zelensky and French President Macron in Paris. Trump emphasized the staggering loss of life, with Ukraine losing nearly 400,000 soldiers. Additionally, Trump stated that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad fled Syria after Russia, his key ally, withdrew support. He urged for peace in both Ukraine and Syria, highlighting the need for global cooperation to prevent further conflicts.
INDIA OFFERS $300 MILLION LOAN TO VIETNAM
During the state visit of Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh to New Delhi, India announced a $300 million loan to enhance Vietnam’s maritime security, aiming to ensure peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. PM Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to its Act East Policy, highlighting the strategic partnership with Vietnam. Both countries agreed on a roadmap for the 2024-2028 period, focusing on agriculture and defence cooperation. The loan will help strengthen Vietnam’s defences amid growing tensions in the Indo-Pacific, especially concerning China’s actions in the region.
SOUTH KOREAN EX-DEFENCE MINISTER DETAINED
South Korean prosecutors detained former Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun over his alleged role in recommending a brief martial law imposition last week. The martial law led to military encirclement of the National Assembly and was reversed hours later. Kim’s detention follows intense political turmoil, including failed impeachment efforts against President Yoon Suk Yeol, who also faced backlash for the decree. The opposition accuses Kim and Yoon of illegal actions, with protests escalating across South Korea. The situation has raised alarm among key international allies, including the U.S. and Japan.
ROMANIA’S COURT ANNULLED ELECTION RESULT
Romania’s top court has annulled the first round of the 2024 presidential election, which saw far-right candidate Calin Georgescu narrowly defeating his centrist rival, Elena Lasconi. The court’s decision stems from concerns about electoral integrity, including allegations of foreign interference, particularly from Russia. This annulment halts a planned runoff election and follows revelations of Russian cyberattacks on Romanian election systems. Georgescu’s campaign, largely run on TikTok, raised alarms about his pro-Russian sympathies, while Lasconi’s platform emphasized Romania’s pro-Western alignment. This development has sparked protests, with many fearing the rise of far-right politics in Romania.
