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Aramco Makes Philippine Comeback Through Unioil Partnership
Saudi oil giant Aramco is reentering the Philippine market with a 25% stake in Unioil Petroleum Philippines, heating up competition in the industry. Aramco's investment aims to capitalize on the growth of the high-value fuels market and expand its global retail network, introducing its brands to Filipino consumers through Unioil's 165 retail stations and four storage terminals. Read the full story here
Standing Firm Against Putin: Macron’s Stark Warning to Trump
French President Emmanuel Macron intends to tell US President Donald Trump that it's in the joint interest of Americans and Europeans not to be weak in the face of Russian leader Vladimir Putin amid US-led negotiations to end the war in Ukraine. Macron will travel to Washington to meet with Trump, and plans to persuade him that US interests and Europeans' interests are the same, emphasizing the need for a peace deal that includes Ukrainians…
Beijing Bolsters Maritime Might: China Conducts Consecutive Live-Fire Exercises in Tasman Sea
The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) has witnessed live rounds being fired from a Chinese warship in the Tasman Sea, approximately 340 nautical miles south-east of Sydney. The NZDF is working with the NZ Civil Aviation Authority to ensure all aircraft are notified of the live firing activity, with the safety of people, aircraft, and vessels in the area being the paramount concern. Read the full story here
Europe Rallies Behind Ukraine with Massive €20 Billion Defense Boost
The European Union is in discussions for a military aid package worth €20 billion for Ukraine. This package aims to provide significant financial support to the Ukrainian military. The proposed package is part of the EU's efforts to bolster Ukraine's defensive capabilities amidst ongoing conflict. The details of the package are still being negotiated among EU member states. Read the full story here
Seoul Seeks Reprieve from Washington’s Trade Taxes
South Korea has requested an exemption from new US tariffs and asked for continued support for companies investing in the US. Deputy trade minister Park Jong-won made the request during a meeting with US officials in Washington. Park emphasized the close economic ties between the two nations and proposed holding high-level talks to discuss pending issues and expand bilateral cooperation, highlighting the importance of free trade agreements. Read the full story here
Hong Kong’s Democratic Party Teeters on Brink of Collapse Amid Disbandment Plans
The Democratic Party of Hong Kong is considering dissolving due to the challenging situation its core members and imprisoned members face. A motion to disband the party was put forward by the central committee, and will be reviewed by all 400 members before a final decision is made, amid concerns about the party's ability to participate in the upcoming Legislative Council election. Read the full story here
Kyiv Seeks to Unlock Mineral Riches Amid Exclusion from US-Brokered Peace Negotiations
The United States and Ukraine are nearing a deal that could grant the US valuable mineral rights in Ukraine, with President Trump stating that an agreement could bring up to $500 billion to the US. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that his country is working on a draft agreement, aiming to strengthen relations with the US, while ensuring the deal's details are properly worked out to be effective. Read the full story here
Ukraine Set to Ink Landmark Minerals Agreement with US, Says Top Trump Official
The White House national security adviser, Mike Waltz, announced that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected to sign a minerals agreement with the United States soon. This agreement would give the US access to Ukraine's deposits of critical minerals, including aluminum, gallium, and titanium, and is seen as a way for American taxpayers to recoup some of their investment in Ukraine's defense, with US aid exceeding $175bn. Read the full story here
Kyiv Set to Receive Massive EU Military Boost in $20.9 Billion Aid Package
The European Union is preparing a military aid package for Ukraine worth approximately 20 billion euros ($20.9 billion), according to a source familiar with the matter. The package aims to supply Kyiv with air defense systems, artillery ammunition, long-range missiles, and drones, and could be discussed at an upcoming foreign ministers meeting, although it may be delayed due to opposition from Hungary and the upcoming German elections. Read the full story here
Vast Majority of Ukrainians Reject Peace Negotiations Without a Seat at the Table
A recent poll found that 91% of Ukrainians oppose peace negotiations between the U.S. and Russia without Ukraine's participation. The survey, which polled 1,200 adults, also showed that 64% of Ukrainians support direct negotiations with Russia to end the war, with 81% believing that negotiations involving other countries are necessary for a realistic solution, and security guarantees must be provided for a ceasefire. Read the full story here