Foreign
In 2025, Ukraine will take every possible measure to halt Russia, according to Zelensky’s pledge.
As the dawn of 2025 approaches, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made a resolute commitment to intensify efforts against the ongoing Russian invasion. In a poignant address delivered just before midnight in Kyiv, Zelensky emphasized that the upcoming year would be pivotal for Ukraine, underscoring the necessity of fighting for peace through all available means.
The past year has been particularly challenging for Ukraine, with the nation enduring significant territorial losses—seven times more than in 2023. This escalation in conflict comes at a time when uncertainties loom regarding the future of military and political support from the United States, especially with the impending transition to a new administration under President-elect Donald Trump. Trump has indicated a desire to resolve the conflict swiftly, raising concerns that Ukraine may be pressured to concede territory to Russia in exchange for peace.
In light of these challenges, Zelensky’s New Year address serves as both a rallying cry and a strategic imperative. He articulated a clear vision: “We know that peace will not be given to us as a gift but we will do everything to stop Russia and end the war.” This declaration reflects a steadfast determination to not only resist aggression but also to reclaim sovereignty over the territories lost.
The Ukrainian leader’s message resonates with the need for resilience and unity among Ukrainians as they face a better-resourced adversary. He called upon his fellow citizens to engage in a collective effort to strengthen Ukraine, emphasizing that every day in 2025 must be dedicated to this cause.
As the world watches, Ukraine stands at a crossroads, poised to fight for its future. The resolve expressed by President Zelensky is a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Ukrainian people, who continue to strive for a peaceful and prosperous nation amidst adversity.
As of 12:01 a.m. ET on Saturday, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) began enforcing the 10% tariff imposed by President Trump on imports from numerous countries. Higher tariffs targeting 57 major trading partners are scheduled to follow next week.
This action represents a significant departure from the post-World War II framework of reciprocal tariff agreements. Kelly Ann Shaw, a trade lawyer at Hogan Lovells and former White House trade advisor, described the move as “the single biggest trade action of our lifetime.”
The announcement has already reverberated through global markets. By the close of trading on Friday, it had triggered a $5 trillion decline in the stock market valuation of 500 leading companies over two days. Oil and commodity prices also experienced sharp declines, with investors shifting capital into government bonds.
While a CBP bulletin indicated that no grace period would be granted for cargoes already en route at the time of implementation, a subsequent bulletin provides a 51-day grace period for goods loaded onto vessels or planes and in transit before 12:01 a.m. ET Saturday. The long-term economic implications of these tariffs remain to be seen.
Following a significant downturn in US markets, attributed to China’s recent imposition of reciprocal tariffs, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun has issued a statement urging the United States to reconsider its trade policies. In a Facebook post, Jiakun asserted that “the market has spoken,” suggesting a direct correlation between US protectionist measures and economic instability.
Jiakun further emphasized the need for “equal-footed consultation” to resolve trade differences, calling upon the US to “cease its wrongful actions.” This sentiment is echoed by several Chinese commerce associations representing key industries, who have issued statements encouraging diversification and warning of inflationary pressures within the United States as a result of the escalating tariffs.
The current escalation stems from a recent announcement by former President Donald Trump of an additional 34 per cent tariff on Chinese goods, prompting a swift retaliatory response from China, including further levies on American goods and restrictions on rare earth element exports. The situation remains tense, with both sides demonstrating a firm commitment to their respective positions.
On Wednesday, District Court Judge Dale Ho dismissed, with prejudice, the federal criminal case against New York City Mayor Eric Adams. This action effectively terminates the possibility of the Department of Justice (DOJ) resurrecting the five-count indictment against the Democrat in the US District Court in Manhattan.
The dismissal follows a controversial request by the Trump administration, nearly two months prior, to drop the corruption charges. The DOJ argued that prosecution would impede Mayor Adams’ ability to govern New York City and collaborate with the administration’s immigration enforcement policies.
The request prompted significant internal dissent, culminating in the resignation of seven federal prosecutors, including the acting Manhattan US attorney. Their departure underscores the contentious nature of the decision to seek dismissal and the ethical questions it raised within the Department. The “with prejudice” ruling solidifies the finality of this complex and closely watched legal battle.
The United States has started imposing a new 10% tariff.
China Urges Trump to “Stop Doing the Wrong Thing” Amidst Trade Tensions
UNICROSS Students Protest “No Fees, No Examinations” Policy.
Queen Phinadon Honored at the Cultural Exhibition and Award Ceremony 202
Ambassador Phinadon Invited to Cultural Exhibition and Award Ceremony 2024 in Stockholm Sweden
