Japan denies report Trump told PM Takaichi not to provoke China on Taiwan

The United States has announced it will not invite South Africa to the G20 summit next year, following former President Donald Trump's claims of human rights abuses against the Afrikaner community and allegations of a supposed genocide. This decision comes after the U.S. boycotted the recent G20 summit held in Johannesburg, which was marked by significant diplomatic tensions.

The United States and Venezuela are on the brink of conflict, with escalating tensions attributed to the Trump administration's intensified campaign against President Nicolás Maduro, framed as a war on drugs but potentially serving broader geopolitical interests against China.

President Trump announced that U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff will return to Moscow to engage in new peace talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This development comes amid leaked transcripts that raise questions about Witkoff's impartiality as a mediator, as he reportedly coached a Russian aide on how to present a peace plan to Trump.

Finland's Foreign Minister discussed the potential for peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, highlighting the influence of former U.S. President Donald Trump in these negotiations. The conversation comes amid ongoing tensions and the need for a resolution to the conflict that has persisted since 2014.

The Republican Party is experiencing internal conflict as former President Donald Trump distances himself from Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene, highlighting a deeper ideological struggle over the meaning of 'America First' in relation to Israel. This rift underscores differing views within the party regarding support for Israel and its implications for American foreign policy.

The United States is escalating its pressure on Venezuela, with President Trump warning of potential military action against President Nicolás Maduro, framing the situation as a high-stakes game that could lead to conflict. This comes amid reports of a new phase of U.S. operations aimed at regime change, raising concerns about the implications for regional stability.

Former President Donald Trump’s approach to foreign policy, particularly regarding Russia and China, has raised concerns among American security partners as these nations exploit his dealmaking tendencies to disrupt U.S. alliances. This dynamic is evident in the context of ongoing geopolitical tensions, especially surrounding the Ukraine conflict and Taiwan.

A shooting incident occurred in Washington DC, where a lone gunman ambushed two National Guard members near the White House, resulting in both guardsmen being treated for gunshot wounds, according to the Metropolitan Police Department.