GOP Dominance, Shifting Global Diplomacy, and Environmental Crisis: Key Global Developments
GOP gains control of U.S. Congress to align with Trump’s "America First" agenda; environmental crises hit South Asia with severe air pollution.
In a sweeping triumph for the GOP, Republicans have now secured control of both the U.S. House and Senate, positioning them alongside President-elect Donald Trump to push forward his "America First" agenda with minimal Democratic opposition.
Moving over to Asia, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto is navigating a delicate balance of defending Indonesia’s sovereignty while engaging in a new maritime development agreement with China in the South China Sea, reaffirming partnerships over conflict.
Continuing with diplomatic maneuvers, Turkiye has been offered a partner status by the BRICS group as it seeks to balance relations between the East and West, although full membership remains elusive for Ankara as President Erdogan eyes deeper integration.
Shifting to immigration issues, nearly one million immigrants in the United States relying on Temporary Protected Status are facing uncertainty as President-elect Trump plans to reduce these beneficiaries, potentially affecting people from 17 different countries and likely spurring legal challenges.
Turning to environmental concerns, Northern India and parts of Pakistan are grappling with toxic smog, with Lahore becoming the world's most polluted city and New Delhi struggling with 'severe' air quality levels, causing some flight disruptions despite operations at major airports largely continuing.
Lastly, in the Philippines, President Marcos has stated his administration won't obstruct the ICC if former President Duterte consents to an investigation into alleged crimes against humanity, although the country will refrain from active cooperation, marking a cautious approach in a complex legal and human rights issue.
Moving over to Asia, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto is navigating a delicate balance of defending Indonesia’s sovereignty while engaging in a new maritime development agreement with China in the South China Sea, reaffirming partnerships over conflict.
Continuing with diplomatic maneuvers, Turkiye has been offered a partner status by the BRICS group as it seeks to balance relations between the East and West, although full membership remains elusive for Ankara as President Erdogan eyes deeper integration.
Shifting to immigration issues, nearly one million immigrants in the United States relying on Temporary Protected Status are facing uncertainty as President-elect Trump plans to reduce these beneficiaries, potentially affecting people from 17 different countries and likely spurring legal challenges.
Turning to environmental concerns, Northern India and parts of Pakistan are grappling with toxic smog, with Lahore becoming the world's most polluted city and New Delhi struggling with 'severe' air quality levels, causing some flight disruptions despite operations at major airports largely continuing.
Lastly, in the Philippines, President Marcos has stated his administration won't obstruct the ICC if former President Duterte consents to an investigation into alleged crimes against humanity, although the country will refrain from active cooperation, marking a cautious approach in a complex legal and human rights issue.
