Danish intelligence accuses US of using economic power to ‘assert its will’ over allies

Fighting and insecurity persist in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as M23 rebels, allegedly backed by Rwanda, escalate their offensive, resulting in over 400 civilian deaths in South Kivu Province and significant displacement of approximately 200,000 people from Uvira. Despite a recent peace deal brokered by the US, the situation on the ground remains dire.

A senior US official indicated that Ukraine's potential integration into the European Union by 2027 is unlikely, despite the US plan to end the war in Ukraine. European diplomats highlighted that even if pro-Moscow governments like Hungary were to agree, numerous complex issues would need to be resolved swiftly.

Kilmar Abrego Garcia exited a US courthouse without being arrested by immigration authorities following a recent court hearing. This outcome comes after a federal judge ruled that the government did not have the legal authority to detain him, marking a significant moment in his ongoing legal battle against immigration enforcement.

UN peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix has raised alarms about the potential for a 'regional conflagration' in the Great Lakes region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as M23 rebels continue to make territorial gains. The situation has escalated with accusations against Rwanda for its support of the M23, which has led to increased tensions in the area.

A cargo of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Russia's Portovaya plant was delivered to the Beihai terminal in China on December 8, marking the first delivery since the facility was placed under US sanctions in January 2025. This event underscores the strengthening energy ties between China and Russia as Moscow aims to boost its LNG exports amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

The European Parliament is poised to adopt its negotiating mandate on Mercosur, paving the way for discussions on a trade deal with Latin American countries that would establish a free trade area encompassing over 700 million people. This development comes amid ongoing trade tensions between the EU, China, and the US.

María Corina Machado, a Venezuelan opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, faced significant danger during her escape from Venezuela, fearing a potential U.S. airstrike on her vessel while navigating treacherous waters. Special forces veteran Bryan Stern communicated with U.S. defense officials about the planned route to mitigate this risk. The escape involved a small fishing skiff lost at sea amidst strong winds and high waves.

María Corina Machado, the Venezuelan opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, stated that Nicolás Maduro's political downfall is inevitable, emphasizing that the transition to a new political era in Venezuela is irreversible. This declaration followed her perilous escape from Venezuela, aided by U.S. support, and her recent public appearance in Oslo, Norway, where she received the Nobel Prize.