On his first day as U.S. President, Donald Trump announced plans to impose a 100% tariff on all business transactions between BRICS nations and the U.S. Citing this as a firm stance rather than a mere threat, Trump emphasized his administration’s intent to protect American economic interests. The proposed tariffs are expected to strain trade relations with BRICS countries—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. This announcement follows Trump’s earlier warning to the European Union to increase energy imports from the U.S. or face similar tariffs. Analysts warn such aggressive trade policies could further destabilize global economic dynamics.
RUSSIA WARNS AGAINST U.S. PANAMA CANAL TAKEOVER PLAN
Newly inaugurated U.S. President Donald Trump declared plans to “take back” the Panama Canal, calling it vital to American interests. In his speech, Trump criticised high tolls and alleged Chinese control over canal operations, suggesting potential military action to reclaim the waterway. Russia condemned these threats, asserting Panama’s sovereignty and urging adherence to international treaties ensuring the canal’s neutrality. Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino firmly rejected U.S. interference, stating that control over the canal is “non-negotiable.” The canal, a strategic maritime route linking the Atlantic and Pacific, handles 40% of U.S. container trade, heightening tensions over Trump’s stance.
FRENCH PRESIDENT URGES TO BOOST DEFENCE
French President Emmanuel Macron has urged Europe to enhance its defence spending, emphasizing reduced reliance on the U.S. as Donald Trump begins his second term. Speaking at France’s Army Digital and Cyber Support Command, Macron highlighted the need for Europe to adapt to shifting U.S. priorities, including reduced military aid to Ukraine. He called for stronger European security measures, referencing ongoing discussions about deploying European troops as peacekeepers in Ukraine. While Macron stressed the importance of supporting Kyiv in future peace talks, he warned against over-dependence on the U.S. amid Trump’s plans to transfer more military responsibilities to Europe.
U.S. PULLS OUT FROM WHO
On his first day as U.S. president, Donald Trump signed an executive order to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO). The U.S., the largest financial contributor to the WHO, provides nearly a quarter of its funding. Experts warn the decision could weaken global health efforts and hinder pandemic preparedness, as the U.S. will lose access to vital international health data. Trump criticized the WHO as “China-influenced” and paused U.S. contributions while seeking alternative global health partnerships. The withdrawal, delayed by congressional rules, will take effect in January 2026 unless reversed.
COLOMBIA DECLARES EMERGENCY AFTER VIOLENCE
Colombia has declared a state of emergency following intensified guerrilla violence in the Catatumbo and Guaviare regions, leaving over 100 dead and displacing nearly 20,000. The clashes involve the left-wing rebel National Liberation Army (ELN) and rival factions of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), vying for control of strategic drug trafficking routes. President Gustavo Petro, elected on a “total peace” platform, announced military deployments and a shift in policy, signalling a tougher stance against the ELN. Colombia’s six-decade conflict, fuelled by drug trafficking, has already claimed over 450,000 lives and displaced millions.
