The US and Japan have reaffirmed their stance against China’s territorial claims in the South China Sea, calling them unlawful and provocative. Following a Washington meeting, President Donald Trump and Japanese PM Shigeru Ishiba criticized China’s militarization in the region. Beijing responded by accusing the US and Japan of interfering in its internal affairs and escalating tensions. The dispute remains a global concern, with the US strengthening military ties with allies like the Philippines and Australia, while China continues naval drills with Russia.
KREMLIN WELCOMES TRUMP’S UKRAINE STANCE
The Kremlin has expressed approval of US President Donald Trump’s position on resolving the Ukraine war, highlighting a shared political will for peace between Washington and Moscow. Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke for over an hour, with Trump stating that Ukraine’s NATO membership is impractical. Discussions are ongoing for a bilateral meeting, possibly in Saudi Arabia. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov contrasted Trump’s stance with the previous US administration, which he claimed aimed to prolong the conflict. However, details regarding European involvement in potential peace talks remain unclear.
AUSTRALIA CONDEMNS CHINA’S JET MANEUVER
Australia has accused a Chinese J-16 fighter jet of performing an “unsafe and unprofessional” maneuver near an Australian P-8 surveillance plane over the South China Sea. According to Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles, flares released by the Chinese jet came within 30 meters of the aircraft, posing a serious risk. Canberra has formally raised concerns with Beijing, emphasizing the importance of safe military operations. This marks the first known military confrontation between the two nations in nine months. Australia’s tensions with China have been ongoing, with past incidents involving sonar pulses and aerial confrontations.
FRANCE TO WITHDRAW TROOPS
France and Senegal have agreed to establish a commission to oversee the withdrawal of French troops and transfer military bases by the end of 2025. This follows Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s decision to remove the 350 stationed French soldiers, citing sovereignty concerns. France has already begun withdrawing troops, handing over three military bases. This move aligns with other African nations, including Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, that have severed defense ties with France. The withdrawal signifies a broader shift in West Africa’s approach to foreign military presence.
MODI MEETS TRUMP IN WASHINGTON
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Washington, DC, for a two-day visit at President Donald Trump’s invitation. The visit focuses on strengthening trade, defense, and counterterrorism ties. Modi was warmly welcomed by the Indian diaspora despite cold weather. His first high-profile meeting was with newly confirmed US Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard. Besides his meeting with Trump, Modi’s schedule includes discussions on technology, energy, and supply chain resilience. He is also expected to meet Elon Musk to discuss Starlink’s entry into India.
