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Global military spending reached a record $2.88 trillion in 2025, a 41% increase from 2016 according to SIPRI. The US alone accounts for $954 billion, more than the next six countries combined, while only nine countries prioritize military spending over health or education. The analysis also highlights the fastest-arming nations, top arms exporters, and the shift toward AI and autonomous systems in modern warfare.
The UAE's withdrawal from OPEC, effective May 2026, is driven by a deep strategic rift with Saudi Arabia, not by technical oil policy disputes. The move marks a significant geopolitical shift, as Abu Dhabi seeks to distance itself from Riyadh's control and align more closely with Washington amid escalating regional tensions.
Iran is increasingly using cryptocurrency to bypass US sanctions, with the IRGC dominating crypto activity. The US is responding by freezing digital assets and sanctioning crypto exchanges, escalating a financial cat-and-mouse game.
Ukraine's targeting of the Druzhba pipeline aims to cut Russian oil supplies to Hungary and Slovakia, which depend on it. This move is part of a geopolitical struggle where Kyiv seeks to block energy trade it sees as funding Russia's war, while EU members Hungary and Slovakia use their veto power over EU aid to Ukraine as leverage.
The US-Israel war with Iran enters its 60th day in deadlock, with oil prices soaring and inflation rising. Experts warn of long-term global economic disruption, even after a potential ceasefire, as negotiations remain stalled.
Six nations including the United States issued a joint statement supporting Panama and condemning China's economic retaliation after a court ended a Hong Kong firm's port contract on the Panama Canal. China detained nearly 70 Panamanian-flagged ships in March, far exceeding normal levels, prompting concerns over political interference in maritime trade.
The Republican-led US Senate blocked a resolution that would have prevented President Trump from ordering military action against Cuba without congressional approval. Senator Tim Kaine argued the US economic blockade constitutes an act of war. The vote was largely along party lines, with Republicans saying no hostile action is underway.
US President Donald Trump declares Iran is in a 'state of collapse' as Gulf leaders meet in Saudi Arabia to discuss regional security. The UAE announces its departure from OPEC after nearly 60 years, while Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon kill paramedics, escalating tensions. Diplomatic efforts remain deadlocked amid oil price surges and waning US approval ratings.
A coordinated attack by JNIM and Tuareg rebels inflicted heavy losses on Mali's government army and Russian mercenaries, killing the defense minister and seizing the town of Kidal. Analysts say the Islamist fighters seek to negotiate concessions rather than fully control the country, as state power continues to erode.
