200 articles
The US and Iran signed a 14-point Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding to end military hostilities and lift maritime blockades. The deal includes releasing $24B in assets and $300B for reconstruction, setting a 60-day window for a final treaty.
In response to the recent conflict between Israel and Iran, Osman Çubuk, a Turkish Islamic cultural research scholar based in Taiwan, pointed out that conflicts in the Middle East are not caused by religion but are keyed by political interests, geostrategic strategies, and historical factors. He emphasizes that Islam is essentially a religion that advocates for peace, and the formation of extremist groups is rooted in war trauma and social problems, with their violent actions contradicting religious teachings. He proposes that the contemporary Muslim world faces the challenge of finding a mechanism for cooperation amidst diverse national interests and should aim for an EU-like model of economic and cultural integration rather than pursuing a single political leader.
After meeting with President Lai Ching-te in Taipei, Canadian Conservative MP Michael Chong stressed to Canadian media that his visit to Taiwan was to defend Canadian sovereignty and not allow China to keep changing the rules. Although Beijing criticized the visit as a violation of its 'one-China' commitment, Chong countered that authoritarian regimes cannot dictate how democracies engage with the world. Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand and fellow MPs also supported Chong's visit, defending parliamentary independence.
In a hypothetical Iran war scenario, soaring fuel prices have triggered a surge in European demand for electric vehicles (EVs), marking a turning point for the market. In response, the UK has controversially eased sanctions on Russian fuel imports, while Germany has restarted EV purchase subsidies. Meanwhile, the U.S. Federal Reserve has adopted a more hawkish stance due to inflation concerns, hinting at potential rate hikes. The Middle East turmoil has also impacted Japan's tourism, with a 5.5% year-on-year drop in foreign visitors in April.
On June 8, after a speech by Taiwan's Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim to the Palauan congress, Palau's President Surangel S. Whipps, Jr. expressed support for Taiwan's participation in international organizations like the United Nations. He also welcomed Taiwan's Ministry of Justice Investigation Bureau to dispatch personnel to Palau to help combat the growing problems of drugs and transnational organized crime. President Whipps emphasized the deep friendship between the two nations since the 1980s, thanked Taiwan for its long-term support in medicine, tourism, and fisheries, and reaffirmed that as "Resilient Islands," they will share democratic values, deepen their strategic partnership, and jointly uphold a free and open Indo-Pacific.
China confirmed on June 12th the detention of Min Zin, a US-national political researcher on Myanmar, on espionage allegations. This occurs just before Myanmar's president, Min Aung Hlaing, is scheduled for a state visit to China next week. Min Zin, the founder of a think tank that studies Myanmar politics and Chinese influence, was reportedly arrested at Kunming airport on June 3rd.
On June 11, China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced sanctions against Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro and his family for repeatedly making 'fallacious remarks' about China. The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs responded that the move is an 'unfriendly act' detrimental to building mutual trust. Teodoro is known as a hawk on China, criticizing its actions in the South China Sea and promoting stronger military ties with the U.S. and Taiwan.
Chinese President Xi Jinping concluded his visit to North Korea, with media from both countries emphasizing greater cooperation but not mentioning North Korea's nuclear program. Experts analyze that China is shifting its priorities to 'stability first, denuclearization second.' This is because Beijing reportedly believes that forcibly pushing for denuclearization is impractical and could increase regional risks, given that nuclear capability has become part of the Pyongyang regime's legitimacy and security.
Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Kim Jong Un during his first visit to Pyongyang in seven years, with state media from both nations highlighting different priorities. Analysts note that Beijing emphasized pragmatic cooperation, while Pyongyang focused on regime dignity and their "special relationship," deliberately omitting topics like its nuclear program to reframe the relationship as one of equals and erase any sense of subordination.
On May 20, London time, Liberal International (LI) unanimously passed a statement congratulating Taiwan on the 30th anniversary of its direct presidential elections and the second anniversary of President Lai Ching-te's administration, emphasizing that the alliance will stand firm with democratic Taiwan. The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) expressed gratitude, noting the move demonstrates the solidarity of the international democratic camp. The statement praised Taiwan's democratic resilience and excellent governance while condemning China's military incursions, economic coercion, and regretting Taiwan's continued exclusion from the World Health Assembly (WHA).
The European Union is considering appointing a special envoy to open a dialogue with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Former Finnish President Sauli Niinistö, who just left office, is a leading candidate due to his success in maintaining interactions with key figures like Putin and former U.S. President Donald Trump during his 12-year tenure. Niinistö argues that in the face of Russia's long-term hostility, Europe should proactively establish control mechanisms similar to those of the Cold War era, rather than passively waiting for the United States to act. However, his background could be a liability, as Finland joined NATO last year, drawing Moscow's ire. EU foreign ministers are scheduled to discuss the matter in Cyprus next week, with the results to be submitted to the June EU summit. Other potential candidates include Angela Merkel and Mario Draghi.
U.S. President Trump stated on the 11th that a 'great deal' aimed at resolving the conflict with Iran is in its final stages and could be signed as early as this weekend in Europe. The agreement, which will permanently prevent Iran from possessing nuclear weapons, is expected to lead to the immediate opening of the Strait of Hormuz upon signing. Trump revealed he has discussed the matter with leaders from Israel and several Gulf states.
The United States confirmed it has issued visas to Iran's national soccer team to participate in the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Despite political tensions, the team will begin their campaign in Los Angeles on June 16. The team's training camp was moved from the U.S. to Mexico due to the situation.
In response to a joint statement signed by Russia and China reaffirming the 'One China Principle,' Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) on the 21st strongly refuted the erroneous remarks that severely denigrate Taiwan's sovereignty. MOFA reiterated that the two sides of the Taiwan Strait are not subordinate to each other and that any attempt to distort Taiwan's sovereign status is a bullying act that undermines international peace and stability.
The World Health Organization (WHO) is holding its World Health Assembly (WHA) in Geneva, where recent outbreaks of Hantavirus on a cruise ship and Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda are expected to be key topics. The Ebola outbreak has been declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). The assembly is taking place amid uncertainty for the WHO, following announced withdrawals by the United States and Argentina, which has led to funding shortfalls. Despite these challenges, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated the situation is stable, while experts emphasize the urgent global need for a strong WHO.
During the G7 summit, U.S. President Trump defended signing a memorandum to end the war with Iran, stating he wants to avoid a potential "economic disaster" from continued conflict. The memo includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz and 60 days of negotiations. Trump defended unfreezing Iranian assets and deviated from long-standing U.S. policy by suggesting Iran should have missiles if Saudi Arabia does.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated on the 9th that there are currently no plans for a phone call between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump. This follows a 'positive' dialogue between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Although the official mediation process between Russia and Ukraine has stalled, US negotiators are maintaining contact with both sides through existing channels. However, Russia has declared any intervention from Europe 'unacceptable'.
According to Bloomberg, the US and Iran may sign a temporary agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz on the sidelines of the G7 summit next week. The draft is currently awaiting approval from Iran's Supreme Leader. Following this diplomatic progress and President Trump's cancellation of airstrikes, Brent crude prices have fallen. The agreement could involve unfreezing $24 billion in Iranian assets.
A Western source told Reuters that the US and Iran could sign a memorandum ending the Gulf War as early as the 14th in Geneva, Switzerland. Iran's core demands include lifting sanctions and a comprehensive ceasefire including in Lebanon.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will arrive in India on the 23rd for a four-day visit, during which he will attend the Quad Foreign Ministers' meeting in New Delhi. With India facing energy shortages due to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz amid Middle East conflicts, a key focus of the visit will be discussions on increasing U.S. energy exports to India, alongside cooperation on security, trade, and defense.
On May 21 in Prague, Czech President Petr Pavel stated at the GLOBSEC forum that the Czech Republic's cooperation with Taiwan in business, research, culture, and science is more extensive than with China. He emphasized that as a sovereign nation, the Czech Republic has the right to decide its partners and should not let any country, including China, dictate its foreign relations, while reaffirming respect for the 'One China Policy'.
Chen Yung-shao, Director-General of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Auckland, delivered a speech at the University of Auckland explaining Taiwan's importance to the international community in terms of strategic security, global supply chains, and democratic development. She emphasized that Taiwan is not only at the core of the First Island Chain and produces 92% of advanced chips, but is also the only mature democracy in the Mandarin-speaking world. She refuted China's misinterpretation of UN Resolution 2758 and reiterated that peace in the Taiwan Strait is an international consensus, while China's intimidation is the root of regional instability.
Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim received a French National Assembly delegation, expressing gratitude for France's support for peace in the Taiwan Strait, and looked forward to deepening bilateral cooperation in AI, space technology, and building reliable supply chains.
Lithuanian MP and former Defense Minister Dovilė Šakalienė, speaking at a Washington think tank, urged prioritizing security cooperation with Taiwan, including civil defense and drones. She hopes for future trilateral drone production with Ukraine and warned that a Chinese attack on Taiwan would devastate the global economy.
在美國路易斯安那州共和黨初選中，獲前總統川普支持的候選人擊敗現任參議員，再次凸顯川普在黨內的強大影響力。
Iranian media has revealed a draft agreement between Tehran and Washington. If accepted, $24 billion in frozen Iranian assets could be unfrozen within a 60-day negotiation period. Iran maintains its stance on retaining control over the Strait of Hormuz and its right to uranium enrichment.
In response to former U.S. President Donald Trump's statement that he would talk to Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te, President Lai welcomed the prospect and emphasized the necessity of continued military procurement. On the 21st, China's Foreign Ministry stated its firm opposition to official US-Taiwan exchanges and arms sales, urging the U.S. to honor its commitments.
According to two senior Iranian sources cited by Reuters, Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has ordered a ban on shipping the country's near weapons-grade enriched uranium abroad. This move defies a key U.S. demand in peace talks and signals a hardening of Tehran's stance. The decision could further complicate negotiations aimed at ending hostilities with the U.S. and Israel, although Iranian sources have suggested alternative solutions like diluting the stockpile under IAEA supervision.
On May 21, Bolivia and Colombia mutually expelled each other's ambassadors after Colombian President Gustavo Petro referred to anti-government protests in Bolivia as a "popular uprising." Bolivia strongly condemned the statement as interference in its internal affairs. Colombia retaliated, escalating diplomatic tensions. The incident unfolds against a backdrop of severe economic crisis and related domestic protests in Bolivia.
In the parliamentary elections held in the West Asian country of Armenia, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's ruling "Civil Contract" party won with nearly half the votes. However, its vote share decreased compared to the last election, and three major pro-Russian opposition parties performed better than expected.
Chinese Vice President Han Zheng attended the 29th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, stating that China and Russia will strengthen cooperation to implement global governance initiatives, uphold true multilateralism, and defend the status and authority of the United Nations.
Former U.S. President Trump on the 8th called for an immediate halt to mutual military attacks between Israel and Iran. He posted on his social media platform that both countries are interested in a ceasefire and that final peace negotiations are underway. Trump also revealed he had asked Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to hold off on retaliatory attacks.
Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) lodged a strong protest on May 21 after the Republic of Nauru issued an executive order requiring its officials to adhere to the 'One China Principle'. MOFA declared that the Republic of China (Taiwan) is a sovereign nation and that the Nauruan government's statement, which diminishes Taiwan's sovereign status, is fundamentally flawed. MOFA reiterated that UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 does not pertain to Taiwan.
U.S. President Trump stated in Washington on the 20th that he would speak with Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te, without specifying a timeline. The statement came after his visit to China to meet Xi Jinping and his mention of deciding on a new round of arms sales to Taiwan. Taiwan's representative office in the U.S. responded that Taiwan-U.S. communication is close and that any further news would be announced by the U.S. side. The Presidential Office also stated it has not received notice of a call but that communication channels are unimpeded. President Lai previously said that if a dialogue occurs, he would stress the necessity of arms purchases for peace in the Taiwan Strait.
Regarding former U.S. President Donald Trump's statement that he would speak with President Lai Ching-te, Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) legislative caucus on the 21st welcomed it as a "historic new breakthrough." In response to the opposition's concerns that Trump might demand more from Taiwan, the DPP caucus countered that the real worry should be about domestic unity in supporting defense enhancements and whether the opposition would obstruct arms procurement. President Lai reportedly has four key points he would convey if the call were to happen.
Kosovo held its third parliamentary election in 18 months on June 7, with Prime Minister Albin Kurti's Vetevendosje party expected to win. With 73% of votes counted, the party secured 43% support, failing to gain a majority. To end a prolonged political crisis and elect a new president, Kurti's party must form a coalition to secure the necessary two-thirds majority in parliament.
U.S. President Trump announced on the 11th that he canceled the planned military strike on Iran for that evening because the "final points" of an agreement with Iran had been approved by the highest leadership. He hinted that a deal is close to being signed but stated that the maritime blockade will continue until the transaction is complete. Several countries, including Israel and Saudi Arabia, were involved in this decision.
The USS Nimitz carrier strike group arrived in the Caribbean this week amid heightened US-Cuba tensions, following the US DOJ's indictment of former Cuban President Raúl Castro over a 1996 plane shoot-down and threats of invasion by President Trump. Secretary of State Rubio supported a fuel blockade, while the CIA Director warned of a limited window for negotiation. The US Southern Command stated the deployment is to maintain stability and democracy.
On the 82nd day of a joint US-Israeli offensive against Iran, US President Trump revealed that peace talks with Iran have entered their 'final phase.' He expressed hope for a peace deal to reduce casualties but did not rule out renewed military action if talks fail. The announcement caused market volatility, with oil prices falling and stocks rising. Meanwhile, the Israeli military is on its highest alert, and Iran accuses the US of trying to start a new war. Regional tensions remain high, with the UN warning that a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz could trigger a global food crisis.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will pay an official visit to China from May 23 to 26 to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. The visit coincides with the 75th anniversary of China-Pakistan diplomatic relations, making it a significant high-level exchange. Observers are keenly watching whether the two sides will discuss the Iran issue, given Pakistan's role in mediating the US-Iran war. China's Foreign Ministry stated they will discuss "issues of common concern" and reiterated support for Pakistan's balanced mediation role.
The European Parliament passed a resolution on May 20 supporting Taiwan's meaningful participation in international organizations, expressing concern over the situation in the Taiwan and South China Seas, and opposing any unilateral change to the status quo by force or coercion. On May 21, Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Minister Lin Chia-lung welcomed and affirmed the resolution.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has twice in one week publicly mentioned he would speak with Taiwan's president regarding arms sales, once again drawing high international attention to U.S.-Taiwan relations. Trump had previously caused a media frenzy before his inauguration when he accepted a congratulatory call from then-President Tsai Ing-wen. If a call with President Lai Ching-te were to happen, it would be the first conversation between the leaders of the two sides since the U.S. severed diplomatic ties with Taiwan in 1979, but Trump's true intentions remain unclear.
On the 20th in Taipei, Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te met with Canadian Member of Parliament and Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs, Michael Chong. President Lai thanked the Canadian Parliament for its long-term support for Taiwan's international participation and paid respect to Chong for his insistence on defending democracy despite being sanctioned by China for condemning the genocide against Uyghurs. Both sides hope to deepen cooperation, combining Taiwan's semiconductors with Canada's AI technology to jointly resist authoritarian expansion. Chong reiterated Canada's cross-party support for Taiwan, stated that the travel of Canadian MPs should not be dictated by foreign governments, and stressed that cross-strait issues should be resolved through non-coercive dialogue.
South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun stated on the 20th that, following negotiations with Iran, a South Korean oil tanker is currently passing through the Strait of Hormuz. This is the first South Korean vessel to traverse the strategic waterway since the outbreak of the 'Iran War'. The tanker is carrying 2 million barrels of crude oil and is headed for Ulsan, South Korea, from Kuwait.
South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun stated on the 20th that, following negotiations with Iran, a South Korean oil tanker is currently passing through the Strait of Hormuz. This is the first South Korean vessel to traverse the strategic waterway since the outbreak of the 'Iran War'. The tanker is carrying 2 million barrels of crude oil and is headed for Ulsan, South Korea, from Kuwait.
David Sacks, a scholar at a US think tank, stated in an online forum that Chinese President Xi Jinping's briefing to President Trump appears to have led Trump to believe that Taiwan is the source of cross-strait tensions. Sacks argues that the tension stems from Chinese coercion against Taiwan, and the focus should be on China, not on Taiwan or its President, Lai Ching-te.
South Korean President Lee Jae-myung and Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae held their fourth meeting in under seven months on the 19th, emphasizing the need for enhanced cooperation amidst challenges like supply chain and energy market instability due to the war in the Middle East. Experts believe the bilateral relationship will maintain its positive trend for the time being. The leaders discussed stabilizing energy and critical mineral supplies, as well as the importance of trilateral cooperation with the United States. Despite unprecedented exchanges, such as visiting each other's hometowns, experts warn that the relationship remains fragile due to unresolved historical issues like 'conscripted labor' and 'comfort women'.
In response to energy shortages caused by the Middle East conflict, the Australian government announced it has purchased 600,000 barrels of aviation fuel from China, which is expected to double the country's overall stockpile. It is also procuring 38,500 tonnes of agricultural-grade urea from Brunei. Both purchases are financed by a newly established A$7.5 billion fuel and fertilizer security fund.
As the World Health Assembly (WHA) convenes in Geneva, Switzerland, Taiwan remains uninvited. Representative offices of the UK, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, Lithuania, New Zealand, and Poland in Taiwan issued a joint press release today, stating their support for Taiwan's meaningful participation in the WHO and stressing there is no justification for excluding Taiwan from the WHA.
Russian President Vladimir Putin visited China from May 19-20 and met with Chinese President Xi Jinping. On May 20, the two countries issued a joint statement criticizing the U.S. 'Golden Dome' missile defense system, claiming it significantly increases the risk of conflict in space. The statement also touched on the Ukraine crisis and Japan's 're-militarization'.
Leaders from the US and Russia recently visited China, drawing attention to the Russia-Ukraine war. However, a Ukrainian scholar believes these meetings will have a limited impact on the war, asserting that China's support for Russia remains unchanged and may deepen. Yurii Poita from the Kyiv-based Center for Army, Conversion and Disarmament Studies stated that China is content with using its support for Russia to pressure the West. He cited examples such as Chinese intelligence activities, Huawei's assistance in building communication networks, and Sino-Russian talks on joint weapons production. He also warned that the war in Ukraine is linked to the Taiwan Strait situation, and if China uses force against Taiwan in the next 2-4 years, Europe's ability to provide aid would be diminished.
In response to the US-Iran war, the UN has downgraded its 2026 global economic growth forecast to 2.5%, citing renewed inflationary pressures and heightened uncertainty from the Middle East crisis. Meanwhile, South Korea's Foreign Minister confirmed that a South Korean oil tanker is passing through the Strait of Hormuz, the first since the war began. Reports also indicate that a US blockade has led to a backlog of Iranian oil tankers in the Persian Gulf.
Taiwan's National Science and Technology Center for Disaster Reduction (NCDR), under the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC), has renewed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the U.S. Pacific Disaster Center (PDC). The NSTC stated that PDC's DisasterAWARE platform provides near real-time, AI-enhanced, multi-hazard disaster information and smart alert services, and this partnership will continue to deepen substantive cooperation between Taiwan and the U.S. in disaster prevention technology, early warnings, and risk governance.
Shipping data showed two Chinese oil tankers sailed out of the Strait of Hormuz on the 20th, a move seen as a glimmer of hope for resolving the US-Iran conflict after positive comments from President Trump and VP Vance. Trump stated the war could end "very quickly" a day after pausing planned hostilities following a new peace proposal from Tehran. However, he faces domestic pressure to reopen the strait amid high gas prices and has threatened new attacks if a deal is not reached.
Some NATO member states have suggested the alliance could play a role in the Strait of Hormuz, but NATO's Supreme Allied Commander Europe, General Alexus Grynkewich, stated in Brussels on the 19th that there is currently no planning for any potential mission. He emphasized that any action is a political decision requiring unanimous consent from all 32 member states. With several countries already opposed to avoid being drawn into the US-Iran conflict, no formal proposal has yet been made.
On May 19, the Iranian military warned it would open a new front with new equipment if the US resumes its offensive. Meanwhile, Qatar's foreign ministry spokesman stated that negotiations mediated by Pakistan, aimed at ending the US-Iran war that began on Feb. 28, require more time. Since a ceasefire on April 8, only one round of talks has been held. Although US President Trump has delayed an attack at the request of Middle Eastern nations, he has also ordered the US military to prepare for a full-scale assault, keeping tensions high.
During his visit to Switzerland for the World Health Assembly (WHA), Taiwan's Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung visited the University of Bern on the 19th and donated 80,000 Swiss francs to the "Formosa Scholarship" on behalf of the government. In his speech, Lin emphasized Taiwan's key role in the global supply chain and expressed hopes for cooperation in emerging technologies, semiconductors, and AI.
Following several recent incidents of Ukrainian drones crashing in Baltic states after entering their airspace, a high-ranking Lithuanian presidential official warned today that the country could face a very serious risk of provocation. The warning comes after Russia accused Lithuania of allowing Ukraine to use its airspace for attacks. Lithuanian and NATO officials suggest the drones likely deviated from their course due to Russian electronic warfare interference.
On May 20th, the Slovak-Taiwanese Association held a screening of the documentary "Invisible Nation" to celebrate the inauguration of President Lai Ching-te and Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim. The event, attended by Slovak MPs, diplomats, officials, and academics, aimed to showcase Taiwan's democratic resilience and deepen bilateral ties. Taiwan's Representative to Slovakia, Lee Nan-yang, emphasized that the event sends a message that "Taiwan is not alone" and that its democracy is valued by friends globally.
Citing sources on May 20, South Korea's Yonhap News Agency reported that Chinese President Xi Jinping could visit North Korea as soon as next week. In response, South Korea's presidential Blue House stated on the 21st that it is closely monitoring the developments and hopes China will play a constructive role in resolving issues on the Korean Peninsula. The report noted that recent visits to Pyongyang by Xi's security and protocol staff, as well as a trip by Foreign Minister Wang Yi last month, are seen as potential indicators of the visit.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated in Brussels that the US decision to withdraw 5,000 troops from Europe will not harm the alliance's defense plans. The announcement, made after a dispute between US President Trump and German Chancellor Merz over Iran, has unsettled Europe. Rutte explained the troops are rotational and the US strategic shift to Asia is an expected adjustment. European allies are seeking clarification from the US, and it is also anticipated that Washington will reduce the total number of forces available to NATO.
On May 20, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that Russian President Putin and U.S. President Trump might meet at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Shenzhen, China, from November 18-19 this year. Putin has already confirmed his attendance with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Peskov commented that such a meeting is "theoretically possible."
Members of the European Parliament and EU member states reached a consensus early on the 20th to implement a trade agreement made with the United States nearly a year ago. The move comes after U.S. President Donald Trump warned of new tariffs if the EU failed to complete the process by July 4. The agreement aims to end a transatlantic trade war that has lasted for over a year, but if the deadline is missed, Trump has threatened to raise tariffs on European cars and trucks from 15% to 25%.
Japan's Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Ryosei Akazawa, is visiting China from May 21 to 23, 2026, to attend the APEC Trade Ministers' Meeting in Suzhou, Jiangsu. Hosted by China, the meeting will address the strengthening of investment and supply chains, WTO reform, and AI. The visit is under close watch amid strained Sino-Japanese relations following remarks on a "Taiwan contingency" by "Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi" in November of the previous year.
The Financial Times reports that China is halting a planned visit by top Pentagon policy official Elbridge Colby to pressure US President Donald Trump to delay a $14 billion arms sale to Taiwan. Experts analyze that Beijing is using the high-level visit as a bargaining chip to delay, split, or reduce the arms package, or at least to postpone the announcement until after Chinese President Xi Jinping's US visit to avoid political embarrassment.
U.S. President Donald Trump stated on the 20th that negotiations with Iran are in their "final phase." He warned that the U.S. might resort to military force again if Iranian authorities do not agree to a peace deal. The statement comes six weeks after Trump paused "Operation Epic Fury" against Iran to facilitate a ceasefire, but talks to end the war have reportedly seen limited progress.
In an interview with the Danish Broadcasting Corporation on the 18th, Taiwan's Representative to Denmark, Cheng Jung-chun, discussed the impact of the US-China summit on Taiwan. He stated that Taiwan is closely watching the summit and reaffirmed its determination to maintain stability in the Taiwan Strait and the region, pointing out that China's militarism is the source of regional instability. Cheng also welcomed the US affirmation that its Taiwan policy remains unchanged and explained that Taiwan will continue to strengthen its asymmetric warfare capabilities. Danish experts also provided geopolitical analysis on US-China-Taiwan relations during the program.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated in Tokyo today that last week's meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump may have eased tensions but yielded no major breakthroughs. Guterres noted that because they did not agree to extend a trade truce expiring at year-end, Trump's invitation for Xi to visit Washington on September 24 is now particularly important.
In the 2026 Balikatan exercise, seven nations, including the U.S. and the Philippines, participated, with Japan sending combat personnel for the first time. The drill focused on integrating various land-based systems like the U.S. HIMARS and Typhon, Philippine BrahMos, and Japan's Type 88 anti-ship missiles to bolster defenses in what was considered a weak link in the First Island Chain. This effort aims to establish monitoring and denial capabilities over the Bashi Channel, a key route for China's navy, transforming the Philippines from a defensive gap to a crucial pivot in the Indo-Pacific strategy.
The 3rd Nordic-Indian Summit was held in Norway on May 19th, where the prime ministers of the five Nordic countries and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed issues including trade, energy, and geopolitics. Facing global instability, the parties agreed to deepen cooperation and elevate their relationship to encompass green technology, innovation, and strategic collaboration through trade agreements with the EU and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). PM Modi hailed this as the beginning of a "golden era" in bilateral relations.
A White House official told AFP that despite tensions between Washington and its allies over issues like Iran and tariffs, U.S. President Trump will travel to France for next month's G7 summit. According to reports, Trump wants to discuss topics including AI and trade, while allies are concerned about the economic impact of U.S. policies.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will attend the NATO Foreign Ministers' Meeting on the 22nd to prepare for the annual summit in July in Turkey, which President Trump is expected to attend. This comes as Trump has expressed dissatisfaction with NATO allies' support and threatened to reduce military forces. Rubio will discuss the need for allies to increase defense investment and enhance burden-sharing. He will visit India afterward.
Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin are scheduled to hold a summit in Beijing today. The meeting comes on the heels of US President Trump's recent visit to China, drawing close scrutiny and comparisons of the pageantry and outcomes. The two leaders will discuss bilateral and international issues, are expected to sign around 40 documents, and issue a joint declaration on establishing a multipolar world order. Negotiations for the 'Power of Siberia 2' natural gas pipeline, connecting Russia to northern China, may also be on the agenda, highlighting the deepening 'no limits' partnership between the two nations amid Western sanctions on Russia over the war in Ukraine.
On the 19th, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi visited Andong, the hometown of South Korean President Lee Jae-myung, for a summit as part of their shuttle diplomacy. Takaichi stressed the significance of Japan-ROK-U.S. security cooperation amid global instability. The leaders exchanged views on the Middle East and the Indo-Pacific, reaching a consensus on energy security under the 'Power Asia' initiative. They also discussed cooperation in AI and transnational fraud, aiming to deepen bilateral ties and maintain regional peace.
A recent photography exhibition in Berlin, "Taiwan Echoes of Democracy," reflects on Taiwan's democratization process through news images of its street movements. Markus Meckel, the last Foreign Minister of East Germany, visited and spoke at the event, praising Taiwan's efforts in transitional justice. Citing Germany's "culture of remembrance" (Erinnerungskultur), he stressed the indispensability of knowing one's past to understand the value of freedom. The exhibition aims to show that Taiwan's democracy was achieved through long-term struggle.
According to a CNA report on May 19, a joint US-Israeli war against Iran has triggered global economic shocks. A Reuters analysis indicates the conflict has already cost global corporations at least $25 billion, forcing nearly 280 companies to raise prices or cut production. The situation has led to energy supply shortages, causing fuel prices in India to rise twice in one week and sparking concerns among Uber drivers about rising costs. In Kenya, soaring fuel prices have led to protests and strikes. To ease market pressure, the U.S. Department of the Treasury has again extended sanctions waivers on Russian oil. Meanwhile, companies like Ryanair have expressed concern over their operational outlook due to uncertainty in future fuel prices and supply.
According to Kyodo News, about 10 senior members of Japan's non-partisan "Japan-China Friendship Parliamentarians' Union" met with Ambassador Wu Jianghao at the Chinese Embassy in Tokyo on May 18. The meeting was reportedly proposed by the Chinese side. Participants, including the union's head Hiroshi Moriyama, exchanged views on improving Japan-China relations. Attendees suggested that promoting civilian exchanges is important for easing tensions.
Three months into the Middle East conflict, US blockade measures and Iran's control over the Strait of Hormuz have created a stalemate. With both sides unwilling to concede, economic pressure is mounting and the risk of a new conflict is rising. Experts warn that a miscalculation could trigger a confrontation. The standoff is impacting the Strait of Hormuz, which handles 25% of global crude oil transport, straining the world economy. Iran, facing a deteriorating domestic economy, desires a preliminary deal but the US remains cautious.
The Chinese government has announced that Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic will make a five-day state visit to China starting on the 24th, at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping. During the visit, Vucic will meet with Xi and Premier Li Qiang to discuss bilateral relations and international issues of common concern, aiming to deepen the 'ironclad friendship' and cooperation between the two countries.
The UN General Assembly on the 20th adopted a resolution with 141 votes in favor and 8 against, supporting an International Court of Justice (ICJ) opinion on the legal obligations of nations to combat climate change. The United States, the world's largest historical carbon emitter, was among those who voted against it. Proposed by the Pacific island nation of Vanuatu, the resolution is non-binding but is expected to be cited in climate-related litigation worldwide.
Following a summit in Beijing, China and Russia issued a joint statement condemning the US's missile defense program and 'irresponsible' nuclear policy, showcasing their unified stance on security. However, a much-anticipated new natural gas pipeline contract, which Russia hoped would double its gas exports to China, was not signed, highlighting the complexities of their partnership.
On the 20th, US President Donald Trump stated that the US is prepared to launch further attacks on Tehran if Iran does not agree to sign a peace deal, but also hinted that Washington could wait a few more days. He described the current situation as being at a "tipping point" that could escalate quickly. Although "Operation Epic Fury" was suspended based on an April 8 ceasefire, verbal sparring has intensified while Pakistan-mediated talks have made limited progress. Iran's Revolutionary Guards responded forcefully, threatening that any renewed aggression would expand the conflict. The key issue in negotiations is the Strait of Hormuz, as continued disruption threatens the global economy.
Members of a multinational Gaza aid flotilla, including 29 Italians, were detained by Israel. Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir released a video today showing activists being dragged by their hair and forced to kneel while bound, causing a public uproar in Italy. The Italian President and Prime Minister jointly condemned the act as 'uncivilized and unacceptable,' and the Foreign Minister summoned the Israeli ambassador in protest.
In response to Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te's inaugural address on May 20, where he expressed the goal of maintaining peace in the Taiwan Strait and willingness for dialogue with China on an equal basis, the U.S. State Department in Washington stated it looks forward to continued cooperation with Taiwan to advance shared interests and urged Beijing to cease military, diplomatic, and economic pressure and instead engage in meaningful dialogue.
Taiwan was not invited to the World Health Assembly (WHA) for the 10th consecutive year, but representatives from many allies and like-minded countries continued to speak up for Taiwan during the conference. Belize pointed out that excluding Taiwan from global health discussions weakens the collective ability to respond to shared health challenges. At this year's WHA, 11 allies, 15 like-minded countries, and the European Union have voiced their support for Taiwan.
According to The New York Times, the U.S. and Israel intended to promote regime change in Iran during the early stages of a war, planning to install hardline former president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. The plan, reportedly devised by Israel, went awry when an airstrike intended to free Ahmadinejad from house arrest accidentally injured him, causing him to become disillusioned with the plot and disappear from public view.
On May 19, former U.S. Ambassador to the UN, Nikki Haley, posted on the social media platform X to criticize the United Nations and Beijing regarding Taiwan's exclusion from the World Health Assembly (WHA) for the 10th consecutive year. She pointed out that Taiwan's non-invitation was due to China's demands and contrasted Taiwan's early warnings about the COVID pandemic with China's actions of lying and covering up the facts, concluding that the UN ultimately "rewards China." The 79th WHA convened in Geneva on May 18.
In response to a Bloomberg report that former U.S. President Donald Trump said he would speak with Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te, Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) spokesperson Hsiao Kuang-wei stated on the evening of the 20th that President Lai would reflect the voice of Taiwanese society if the opportunity arises. Hsiao emphasized that Taiwan is the guardian of peace in the Taiwan Strait while China is the saboteur, and expressed hope for the continuation of U.S. arms sales. This comes as the U.S. government considers a US$14 billion arms sale to Taiwan.
Jeff Landry, the US Special Envoy for Greenland, encouraged Greenland's independence from Denmark in an interview during his visit to the capital, Nuuk. Landry stated that independence would create economic opportunities and align with the wishes of former President Trump, who has coveted the autonomous Danish territory. The unofficial visit has sparked controversy, with Greenland's Prime Minister calling the meeting a 'courtesy visit'. The event highlights ongoing US strategic interest in the Arctic region.
U.S. President Donald Trump stated on the 20th that he would speak with Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te, without specifying a timeline. The comment came after his visit to China last week to meet President Xi Jinping and his subsequent announcement that a decision on a new arms sale package to Taiwan would be made soon. In response, President Lai said that if given the opportunity, he would emphasize that U.S. military procurement is essential for safeguarding Taiwan's security and maintaining peace in the Taiwan Strait, and that he hopes these sales will continue.
On Cuba's Independence Day (May 20), U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio addressed the Cuban people via video, proposing $100 million in humanitarian aid on the condition it be distributed by trusted groups like the Catholic Church. He blamed Cuba's current power, food, and fuel shortages on the leadership's corruption. This move is part of the Trump administration's pressure campaign, which has already hurt Cuba's economy through sanctions. The Cuban Embassy in the U.S. refuted Rubio's claims on X as lies and accused the U.S. of aggression.
According to Bloomberg, U.S. President Donald Trump stated on the 20th that he would talk with Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te. The comment was made as the U.S. government is considering a $14 billion arms sale to Taiwan. Trump did not specify a timeline for the potential conversation.
The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) announced that the number of Chinese visitors to Japan in April fell by 56.8% year-on-year to 331,000, marking the fifth consecutive month of decline. Despite this, thanks to the cherry blossom season and the Easter holiday, the total number of foreign tourists in April reached 3.69 million, a new high for this year, with visitors from 9 countries including South Korea, Taiwan, and France setting a record for the month. The report suggests the drop in Chinese tourists is related to boycott measures taken by China since last November following a "Taiwan contingency" remark by a Japanese politician.
The Japan-Taiwan Friendship Association held a reception in Tokyo on the evening of the 20th, attended by numerous Japanese Diet members. Amid ongoing attention on U.S.-China relations and the Taiwan Strait situation, attendees unanimously emphasized Taiwan's importance and reaffirmed that Japan and Taiwan should continue to deepen exchanges and cooperation to jointly maintain peace in the Taiwan Strait and regional stability. Japanese dignitaries stated clearly that Taiwan would not be used as a bargaining chip with China and praised President Lai Ching-te's leadership. The tourism imbalance between Japan and Taiwan was also noted, with hopes to promote more Japanese travel to Taiwan.
Legislative Yuan Deputy Speaker Johnny Chiang hosted a banquet on the 20th for a delegation led by Rafał Komarewicz, Chairman of the Polish Sejm's Economic Committee. Chiang stated that Taiwan and Poland can serve as crucial gateways to Asia and Europe for each other and hoped to deepen parliamentary exchanges. Komarewicz responded that both countries share core values and announced that the 'Taiwan Expo in Europe' will be held in Poland in June. They also exchanged views on energy transition and sports exchanges, aiming to inject more momentum into bilateral cooperation.
DPP Secretary-General Hsu Kuo-yung met with a delegation from a Washington think tank led by former U.S. defense official Ely Ratner on the 19th. Hsu stated that although Taiwan never provokes, China's ambition to annex Taiwan remains unchanged, making the primary task of the DPP government to ensure the safety of the people. He emphasized that Taiwan will continue to strengthen its self-defense, deepen cooperation with like-minded countries, and expressed concern over the opposition-led legislature's cuts to the defense budget, adding that the government is considering supplementary budgets to enhance defense resilience.
Taiwan's National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Vice Chairperson Chi Hui-jung stated on the 20th that China's authoritarian suppression of Tibetan cultural identity is a stark warning for Taiwan. After a meeting on the 18th with activists including Dr. Gyal Lo of the Tibet Action Institute, who detailed China's forced boarding school system and cultural assimilation policies, the NHRC pledged to continue advocating for Tibet in the international community.
As the World Health Assembly (WHA) convenes in Geneva, Taiwan has been excluded for the 10th consecutive year. Minister of Health and Welfare Shih Chung-liang, leading a delegation to sideline events, was accused of "freeloading" by China's Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO). In response on May 20, Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) retorted that the people of Taiwan have the right to engage with the world and that the Chinese Communist Party has no right to comment. Minister Shih also noted suspected surveillance of the Taiwanese delegation by Chinese personnel and a decrease in attendance from allied nations at events, likely due to Chinese pressure.
To celebrate the upcoming 250th anniversary of American independence, about 100 auto-rickshaws in New Delhi, India, are featuring portraits of U.S. President Donald Trump and slogans reading "Happy Birthday, America!". This campaign, part of a multi-country celebration organized by the U.S. Embassy in India, comes as Washington seeks to stabilize relations with India following a downturn caused by tariffs. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is also expected to visit this weekend. However, some drivers participated for minor rewards, like a pack of tea, and are largely unaware of the ad's political significance.
Ahead of his visit to Taiwan in early June, Czech Senate President Miloš Vystrčil visited the Czech factory of Taiwanese company CTi, welcoming the investment and positioning the Czech Republic as a gateway to the European market. CTi also shared Taiwan's unique 'Kuai Kuai culture'—placing snacks on machinery to ensure stable operations—which has become an interesting cultural feature of the Taiwanese business.
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned on the 20th that if the United States launches another attack, the war will expand beyond the Middle East. The statement followed President Trump's revelation that he had called off a military strike just an hour before it was scheduled, to allow more time for diplomacy. War-ending negotiations have made little progress for over six weeks, while Pakistan's interior minister's second visit to Tehran in a week suggests a mediating role.
With the Russia-Ukraine war lasting over four years, Russian President Putin's original goals, including full control of Ukraine, are becoming increasingly unattainable as Ukraine's combat capabilities have been multiplied by drones. A CNN report suggests the US should take this opportunity to make Chinese President Xi Jinping understand that any action against Taiwan will be met with a coordinated response. The Financial Times also reported that Xi suggested Putin might regret invading Ukraine, indicating that China is closely watching the conflict to evaluate its strategy towards Taiwan.
Following the "Trump-Xi meeting," four US liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers are en route to China, marking the first such shipment of Trump's second term. This is seen as a sign of thawing US-China relations, although China still imposes a 25% tariff on US LNG. Concurrently, two Chinese supertankers carrying a total of 4 million barrels of crude oil, which were stranded for over two months in the Strait of Hormuz due to the "US-Iran War," were freed on the 20th and will return to Guangdong and Fujian in early June.
Following the "Trump-Xi meeting," four US liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers are en route to China, marking the first such shipment of Trump's second term. This is seen as a sign of thawing US-China relations, although China still imposes a 25% tariff on US LNG. Concurrently, two Chinese supertankers carrying a total of 4 million barrels of crude oil, which were stranded for over two months in the Strait of Hormuz due to the "US-Iran War," were freed on the 20th and will return to Guangdong and Fujian in early June.
Taiwan's Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung met with Fabian Molina, co-chair of the Swiss Parliament's "Friends of Taiwan" group, at the Federal Palace in Bern on the 18th. Molina pledged to work on deepening Taiwan-Switzerland relations and stressed that "the future of Taiwan cannot be decided without the Taiwanese people." A cross-party delegation of Taiwanese legislators also attended the meeting.
Amid growing calls to reopen formal communication channels between the European Union and Russia, EU nations are discussing whether former ECB President Mario Draghi or former German Chancellor Angela Merkel could represent the bloc in negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin. According to the Financial Times, the move has the support of both the United States and Ukraine, and EU foreign ministers are set to discuss the merits of potential candidates at a meeting in Cyprus next week. The push comes as the EU fears being marginalized amid limited progress in US-led peace talks.
Coinciding with the World Health Assembly (WHA), Taiwan's Representative to Japan, Lee Yi-yang, published an op-ed in Japan's "Sankei Shimbun" newspaper, calling for the deepening of medical digital transformation (DX) cooperation between Taiwan and Japan. He also highlighted Taiwan's achievements in smart healthcare and renewed calls for international support for Taiwan's participation in the World Health Organization (WHO) and its related mechanisms.
On the morning of May 20, Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, where they unanimously agreed to extend the Sino-Russian Treaty of Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation. Xi emphasized that in the current international landscape, this move aims to deepen their 'back-to-back' strategic coordination, jointly counter unilateral hegemony, and promote a more just global governance system. The situation in the Middle East was also discussed, with a call to end hostilities and promote peace.
US officials stated that the U.S. and Cuba held talks this week on a proposal for $100 million (about NT$3.2 billion) in aid, which Washington sees as an incentive for reform in Cuba. The aid would be distributed through charitable organizations like Catholic Relief Services, not directly to the Cuban government. This comes as Cuba faces a severe economic crisis after Venezuelan aid was cut off. Cuba's Foreign Minister expressed openness to reviewing the proposal.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin expressed alarm over active US and EU involvement in Central Asia's rare earth and critical minerals, viewing it as a geopolitical move to sideline Russia, not just economic competition. The G7 is seeking alternative markets to reduce reliance on China's supply chain, while Russia considers resource-rich Central Asia its traditional sphere of influence and is wary of Western infrastructure near its borders.
The United Nations, in a report from its New York headquarters, has downgraded the global GDP growth forecast for 2026 to 2.5%, 0.2 percentage points lower than the January forecast. This revision is attributed to the Middle East crisis reigniting inflationary pressures and increasing global economic uncertainty. The report identifies soaring energy prices and disruptions in fertilizer supply as primary causes, with West Asia being the hardest-hit region, where growth is projected to plummet from 3.6% to 1.4%. Despite support from robust labor markets, inflation is expected to rise in both developed and developing economies, further worsening the weak economic outlook.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance stated on the 19th that significant progress has been made in negotiations with Iran, but warned that Washington has a "Plan B" to resume military action if a deal is not reached. This comes hours after President Trump called off a military strike against Iran, giving Tehran "two or three days" to agree to a deal. The negotiations aim to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, ensure it cannot rebuild its nuclear capabilities, and stabilize international energy markets roiled by disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
The Israeli military forcibly blockaded the "Global Sumud Flotilla" aid convoy to Gaza on the 19th. Twenty-nine Italians aboard one of the ships were taken to the southern Israeli city of Ashdod. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani called on Israel to ensure the safety of its citizens. According to reports, the Israeli navy fired upon the flotilla, which was intended to deliver humanitarian aid. Israel denied using live ammunition, admitting only to using non-lethal weapons for warning purposes and stating there were no injuries. The flotilla's mission was forced to halt.
Due to the Middle East conflict pushing up energy prices, market concerns about prolonged high inflation triggered a sell-off in U.S. Treasury bonds on the 19th, with the 30-year bond yield briefly rising to 5.19%. Against this backdrop, most major U.S. stock indices closed in the red; the Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all fell, while only the Philadelphia Semiconductor Index posted a slight gain.
U.S. President Donald Trump stated on the 19th that he was one hour away from ordering an attack on Iran but called it off due to a new peace proposal from Tehran. Trump warned that the U.S. might attack again within days if a deal to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons is not reached. In response, an Iranian parliamentary official claimed Trump backed down for fear of a 'decisive military response.' Iran's proposed peace plan includes ceasing hostilities, U.S. troop withdrawal, reparations, and lifting sanctions, which appears similar to a previous offer rejected by Trump.
U.S. Republican Senator Ted Cruz recently stated that the Chinese Communist Party is America's primary geopolitical threat for the next century and that military support for Taiwan should not be frozen to please Beijing. He argued against using arms sales to Taiwan as a bargaining chip in negotiations with China, a stance that contrasts with President Trump's recent description of a Taiwan arms deal as a "bargaining chip."
According to Reuters and European intelligence agencies, China's armed forces secretly trained about 200 Russian military personnel in China late last year, focusing on drone operations. The training, based on a Sino-Russian agreement signed in 2025, took place in locations like Beijing and Nanjing. Some of the trained personnel have now returned to fight in Ukraine. An intelligence official views this as evidence of China's more direct involvement in the Ukraine war than previously known. China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated its objective and neutral stance, committed to promoting peace talks.
According to the latest data from the U.S. Treasury Department, China continued to sell off its U.S. Treasury holdings in March, unloading about $41 billion. This brought its total holdings down to $652.3 billion, an 18-year low since 2008. Ding Zhijie, Director of the Financial Research Institute of the People's Bank of China, stated that the sell-off was directly triggered by global financial market volatility caused by the 'U.S.-Iran war,' prompting investors to reduce risk under a 'cash is king' approach. As of the end of March, the top three foreign holders of U.S. debt were Japan, the United Kingdom, and China, respectively.
Over 60 parliamentarians from 30 countries, part of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC), issued a joint statement on the 19th, emphasizing that any international discussion concerning Taiwan's future must include Taiwan. This action comes amid heightened attention on the Taiwan issue following the conclusion of the 'Trump-Xi meeting'. The statement affirms Taiwan as a 'self-governing democracy' whose 'right to self-determination' must be respected. Taiwanese legislators Fan Yun (DPP) and Chen Chao-tzu (TPP) were among the signatories, demonstrating strong support from international parliamentary forces for Taiwan's democracy and right to international participation.
Days after US President Trump concluded his visit, Russian President Vladimir Putin is heading to Beijing for talks with his 'old friend,' Chinese President Xi Jinping, in a move intended to demonstrate the close and unshakeable relationship between the two nations. Since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Putin's annual visit has become a regular occurrence as Moscow becomes increasingly isolated internationally. A potential key topic is the 'Power of Siberia 2' gas pipeline, and a joint statement is expected after the talks.
According to the Financial Times, a US blockade has restricted Iran's oil exports to Far East markets, forcing Iran to store its oil in aging tankers moored in the Persian Gulf. Data from the advocacy group United Against Nuclear Iran (UANI) shows about 39 tankers with Iranian oil are now stranded, up from 29 before the blockade took effect on April 13. The U.S. military stated it has diverted 72 vessels back to Iranian ports, indicating the blockade's success. This has pushed Iran's crude oil stored at sea to its highest level since the conflict began.
On May 19th, Taiwan's Health and Welfare Minister Shih Chung-liang stated that although Taiwan was excluded from the World Health Assembly (WHA) for the 10th consecutive year, its delegation remains active in sideline events in Geneva. He noted suspected surveillance by Chinese individuals during a walkathon and a significant drop in attendance from allied nations at a civil society event, attributing these to pressure from Beijing. Despite these challenges, Taiwan hosted four professional forums to share its achievements in areas like smart healthcare and cancer prevention, engaging with international representatives through various formats.
The Russian ruble, which has been strengthening recently, rose today against the Chinese yuan to its highest level since February 2023. The yuan is the most traded foreign currency in Russia, and Russian President Vladimir Putin is scheduled to arrive in China tonight to negotiate new business deals. In addition to anticipation of the visit, the ruble is supported by high oil prices from the Middle East conflict and a surprise 30-day extension of a US sanctions waiver on Russian oil. Russia and China now conduct nearly all trade in their local currencies to bypass Western sanctions.
According to Iranian state media, Tehran has presented a new peace plan to the U.S. demanding a ceasefire, withdrawal of U.S. troops from near Iran, war reparations, the lifting of sanctions, release of frozen funds, and an end to the naval blockade. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi confirmed this. Although U.S. President Trump had rejected a similar proposal last week as "garbage," he has now postponed an attack on Iran after receiving the new offer and being urged by leaders from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and others, stating there is a "very good chance" for a deal.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi visited Andong, the hometown of South Korean President Lee Jae-myung, on the 19th for a two-day trip. This marks the fourth meeting between the two leaders in seven months. They agreed to expand cooperation in areas such as energy (LNG, crude oil) and advanced technology (AI, space), and stressed the importance of Korea-US-Japan and Korea-China-Japan cooperation for regional peace. This diplomatic exchange of hometown visits symbolizes a deepening of friendship between the two nations.
Robyn Cahill, the Northern Territory's Minister for Trade, Business and Asian Relations, announced on the 19th that a government delegation she is leading has begun a visit to Taiwan to deepen bilateral cooperation. She emphasized that Taiwan is the NT's most important and trusted trading partner and its third-largest export market. The visit will involve meetings with Taiwanese companies and investors to promote investment opportunities in data centers, advanced manufacturing, LNG, energy, and critical minerals, alongside government-to-government exchanges.
A German think tank scholar, Claus Soong, stated that the successive visits of US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin to China highlight a geopolitical landscape that is relatively advantageous for Beijing, as both the US and Russia need China to varying degrees. He also noted that Putin's visit aims to confirm that any improvement in US-China relations will not come at the expense of Russia's interests.
The European Union is hoping to finalize the text of a trade deal reached with the United States nearly a year ago, aiming for formal implementation. An increasingly impatient U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that if the EU fails to complete the process by July 4, it will face higher tariffs on its goods.
Indonesian Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin stated in a parliamentary hearing on the 19th that he signed a letter of intent with the U.S. last month regarding opening airspace for American military aircraft, but emphasized that no commitment has been made. The proposal has sparked controversy, with the foreign ministry warning it could risk entangling Jakarta in South China Sea disputes. The request was reportedly first made by U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, citing an "emergency situation."
The Financial Times reported that Chinese President Xi Jinping told U.S. President Donald Trump during their meeting in Beijing last week that Russian President Vladimir Putin might ultimately regret invading Ukraine. According to sources familiar with the U.S. assessment of the meeting, Trump also suggested that the leaders of the U.S., China, and Russia should cooperate against the International Criminal Court (ICC), stating their interests were aligned. The White House and the Chinese Embassy in the U.S. have declined to comment.
At Somaliland's National Day reception on May 18, Taiwan's Deputy Foreign Minister Wu Chih-chung stated that both Taiwan and Somaliland are models of democratic development in their regions and will continue to deepen cooperation. Somaliland Representative Mahmoud Adam Jama Galaal said that he joins Taiwan in celebrating the shared identity and resilient spirit of both nations.
On the 81st day of a fictional US-Iran war, tensions remain high. US Vice President Vance stated on the 19th that negotiations have made "good progress," but President Trump threatened a possible resumption of airstrikes, giving Iran "2 to 3 days" to reach a deal. The Iranian military warned it would open a "new front" if the US attacks again. The situation has triggered a regional chain reaction, including an Israeli airstrike in southern Lebanon that killed 19 and a drone attack on the UAE's nuclear power plant originating from Iraq. Economically, international oil prices and most US stocks closed lower, while the G7 and EU pledged to tackle economic challenges and aid affected farmers, respectively.
Following U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement that he had called off an attack on Iran at the request of Middle Eastern countries, a wait-and-see sentiment prevailed in the market, leading to a mixed close for Europe's three major stock indices on the 19th. London's FTSE 100 and Frankfurt's DAX rose by 0.07% and 0.38% respectively, while Paris's CAC 40 edged down by 0.07%.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will lead a Trump administration delegation to watch the US men's national team's first World Cup group stage match against Paraguay on June 12. Rubio is scheduled to meet with Paraguayan President Santiago Peña on the sidelines to discuss strategic partnership issues including regional security, trade, investment, and emerging technologies. President Trump also indicated he plans to attend World Cup matches.
The foreign and defense ministers of Germany and Australia held a '2+2' meeting in Berlin on June 8, issuing a joint statement that emphasizes the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, opposes any unilateral changes to the status quo by force or coercion, and supports Taiwan's meaningful participation in international organizations. Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) welcomed the statement, noting it is the third such statement this year and reaffirming its commitment to cooperate with like-minded partners to safeguard regional stability.
The foreign and defense chiefs of the UK and Australia held their annual ministerial 2+2 talks (AUKMIN) in London on June 10, 2025, issuing a joint statement. The statement reaffirmed the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, expressed concern over China's destabilizing military exercises near Taiwan, opposed any unilateral changes to the status quo, and supported Taiwan's meaningful participation in international organizations. The statement also addressed situations in the South China Sea, East China Sea, and Yellow Sea, expressed concern over human rights in China, transnational repression, Hong Kong's autonomy, and China's economic support for Russia.
Danylo Tsvok, head of Ukraine's Ministry of Defense AI Center, said in an exclusive interview with Kyodo News that Ukraine aims to automate and make autonomous a large number of military tasks within 3 to 5 years using AI in its war against Russia. He stated that AI is the best asymmetric measure to overcome manpower shortages and expressed openness to cooperation with US tech companies and Japan.
North Korean state media reported that Pyongyang plans to build a 10,000-ton destroyer and develop secret underwater weapons systems, just before Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Pyongyang. Leader Kim Jong Un ordered the rapid deployment of the 'Kang Kon' destroyer and the 'Choe Hyon' warship after inspecting naval tests. Analysts say the move aims to showcase military capabilities ahead of Xi's visit.
Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim launched the 'Bo Rong Project' on June 6, visiting Palau on her first official trip abroad. She aims to deepen ties, promote sustainable tourism, and witness the results of bilateral cooperation projects.
Chinese Vice President Han Zheng met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in St. Petersburg on June 5. Han conveyed greetings from President Xi Jinping and emphasized implementing consensus to bolster political trust and practical cooperation. Putin stated bilateral ties are at an 'unprecedentedly high level,' noting steady trade growth and upcoming anniversaries.
US President Donald Trump stated that Iran has only about 21-22% of its missiles remaining and predicted that Iran will eventually have no choice but to reach a deal with the US. Iran's military claimed to have fired 'warning missiles' at two US destroyers in the Gulf of Oman, but the US denied this. Kuwait reported intercepting 30 ballistic missiles during what it called 'Iran's vicious aggression.'
US President Trump stated that Iran has about 21-22% of its missiles remaining and predicted that Tehran will eventually have no choice but to reach a deal with the US. Iran's military claimed to have fired warning missiles at US destroyers in the Gulf of Oman, but the US denied this. Kuwait reported intercepting 30 ballistic missiles from Iran.
Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday ruled out a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the near future, calling it 'pointless' without agreed peace terms. Putin emphasized that Russian forces will continue their military operations until all war goals are achieved.
Official data shows the Eurozone economy contracted in the first quarter due to a sharp drop in Irish output caused by multinational accounting practices. European stock markets were mixed on the day, with London's FTSE 100 edging up while Frankfurt's DAX and Paris's CAC 40 fell.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, in a CNN interview, criticized Iran for using Lebanon as a bargaining chip in its conflicts with the US and Israel, and demanded Tehran stop interfering in Lebanon's internal affairs. He stated that the Lebanese people are 'tired' of the war between Israel and Hezbollah, an Iran-backed group.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported on Thursday that nonfarm payrolls increased by 172,000 in May, significantly surpassing the market estimate of 80,000. The unemployment rate remained unchanged at 4.3%. The data indicates a steadily expanding labor market, but the Federal Reserve remains on hold due to inflation concerns, reducing the likelihood of further rate cuts.
Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim will embark on the "Palau Honor Project" on June 5, leading a delegation to visit ally Palau for five days. On the eve of her departure, she shared a full set of MIT-made snorkeling gear on social media. She is scheduled to visit the Rock Islands with Palau President Surangel S. Whipps, Jr. for snorkeling and kayaking. The trip aims to deepen bilateral ties, promote sustainable tourism in Palau, and review the results of the "Honor Project."
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy sent an open letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin proposing direct talks to end the war. Russian nationalists and war bloggers criticized the move as a malicious performance aimed at stirring internal discontent. The EU and French President Emmanuel Macron expressed support for Zelenskyy's call for dialogue. Putin has not yet formally responded.
US Ambassador to the EU, Andrew Puzder, stated on Wednesday at the Brussels Economic Security Forum that the US and China are engaged in an AI war and Europe should side with Washington. He expressed concern over the EU's plan to reduce technological dependence on the US and Asia, which includes prioritizing European companies in sensitive public procurement for cloud computing and AI. Puzder warned that Europe is far from catching up in the AI race on its own and should cooperate with the US.
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said on Thursday that New Zealand will directly raise with Beijing the issue of four MPs being banned from entering China after visiting Taiwan last month.
Disappointing earnings guidance from US chipmaker Broadcom reignited concerns about overheating in AI investments, while a lack of progress in Middle East peace efforts weighed on sentiment. Most Asian stock markets ended lower on June 5, with Tokyo falling 1.3% and Seoul plunging 5.5%.
National Security Council (NSC) Deputy Secretary-General Lin Fei-fan and Representative to the UK Chiang Ya-chi attended the security forum hosted by the NATO Strategic Communications Centre of Excellence (NATO StratCOMCOE) in Riga, Latvia, from June 3 to 4. This marks the first time an official Taiwanese representative has participated. Lin stated that China is disrupting the status quo and aiming for hegemony in the Indo-Pacific. He emphasized that Taiwan seeks fair opportunities to participate in international events and showcased the "Taiwan Civil Security Guidelines" (Little Orange Book), which received a positive response.
Iran-backed Lebanese armed group Hezbollah rejected a new US-brokered ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon. Israel also stated it would not withdraw from Lebanon. This setback undermines US President Trump's efforts to halt fighting and reach peace with Iran.
Kuomintang (KMT) Chair Cheng Li-wen met with Massachusetts Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll on June 4. Cheng emphasized replacing confrontation with cooperation, stating that Taiwan and the US should play a key role in creating 'freedom and peace' globally and across the Taiwan Strait. Driscoll highlighted Massachusetts' investment in MIT's Quantum Center and expressed a desire to deepen ties with Taiwan in technology and academia.
Chinese President Xi Jinping will pay a state visit to North Korea from June 8 to 9, his first in seven years. Analysts say the visit aims to reaffirm bilateral ties and demonstrate Beijing's influence in resolving Korean Peninsula issues.
Following the May 28 announcement by Japan and the Philippines to start negotiations on Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and continental shelf delimitation, a Taiwanese national security official stated that China has been using altered maps and disinformation to push a narrative of "Japan and the Philippines carving up Taiwan's waters." Fact-checking organization MyGoPen confirmed the circulating map is fake and not an official document.
Nathan Attrill, a cross-strait relations expert at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI), told CNA that China's misinterpretation of UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 has unjustly excluded Taiwan from international cooperation, causing the global community to miss opportunities to share Taiwan's unique security knowledge and practical experience in protecting critical undersea infrastructure, cybersecurity, and resilience. He called on democratic nations to explicitly oppose China's erroneous interpretation of the resolution and to engage in practical cooperation with Taiwan where appropriate.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro criticized U.S. President Donald Trump for publicly supporting a far-right candidate in Colombia's presidential election, calling it an alliance with drug traffickers. Trump endorsed Abelardo de la Espriella, a lawyer who has defended drug cartels.
Four New Zealand MPs were banned by China from entering mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau for one year after visiting Taiwan in May. The DPP caucus criticized this as interference in another country's diplomacy and called China an authoritarian dictatorship.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet, a candidate for the next UN Secretary-General, in Beijing on the 4th. Wang stated that China will participate in the next UN Secretary-General election with a responsible and constructive attitude to revitalize the UN's authority and vitality. Bachelet praised China's commitment to multilateralism and expressed willingness to work together to strengthen the UN's role. Current Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' term ends this year.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, speaking at the St. Petersburg Economic Forum, stated that Russian forces are continuing to advance in Ukraine and called on Ukraine to accept a peace plan proposed by US President Donald Trump to end the war. Putin claimed Russian forces control most of Luhansk, Donetsk, and Zaporizhzhia regions, implicitly demanding Kyiv cede control of the Donbas. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy sent a letter to Putin proposing direct talks and warned of continued fighting if negotiations fail.
On the 37th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square incident, the U.S. Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC) released a report on China's transnational repression and malign influence. The report states that Beijing has integrated legal warfare into its broader strategy toward Taiwan, citing the case of Democratic Progressive Party legislator Shen Po-yang, who was placed under formal criminal investigation by the Chongqing Public Security Bureau in October 2025 on charges of being a 'staunch Taiwan independence separatist.' The report also details China's interference in the operations of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC), which led to the absence of African representatives at a summit.
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee, visiting Uzbekistan, promoted Hong Kong's gold trading platform to the country's president, citing Uzbekistan's abundant gold reserves. Multiple official and non-official agreements were signed, covering trade, education, and technology, aiming to deepen cooperation and seize Belt and Road opportunities.
In response to proposed US tariffs on Singaporean exports, Singapore's Ministry of Trade and Industry stated there is no evidence of forced labor in its export supply chains and will continue engaging with the US. Analysts note the proposal is preliminary, affecting only about one-third of Singapore's exports to the US, with semiconductors and pharmaceuticals exempt, making the direct economic impact manageable but increasing trade policy uncertainty.
The International Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee announced on June 5 that, at the invitation of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, Chinese President Xi Jinping will pay a state visit to North Korea from June 8 to 9. Yonhap News Agency had reported in mid-May that Xi might visit North Korea soon.
The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Ukraine Support Act on June 4, providing aid to Ukraine and imposing new sanctions on Russia. This marks the latest sign of Republican lawmakers defying party leaders and President Trump. The bill's future is uncertain as it must pass the Senate and faces a potential presidential veto.
US President Trump stated that only the United States and China currently have the capability to extract enriched uranium from Iran's buried nuclear facilities. He said the facilities were severely damaged in airstrikes, making extraction extremely difficult.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy published an open letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin, proposing direct talks to end the over four-year war. He called for a comprehensive ceasefire during negotiations and warned that Ukraine is prepared to continue fighting if no agreement is reached. The Kremlin acknowledged receiving the letter and said it would be reported to Putin.
US President Trump stated that the US can obtain enriched uranium without an agreement with Iran, and expressed his view that the situation between Israel and Lebanon is making progress. He made the remarks to reporters at the White House.
The U.S. Treasury Department announced sanctions on Thursday against Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel, four other individuals, and five entities, including the Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces. This is the latest move by Washington to increase pressure on Cuba's communist leadership. President Donald Trump stated the U.S. wants Cuba to be a "well-governed country." The Cuban government has not yet responded.
International oil prices fell about 3% on Tuesday after Israel and Lebanon agreed to a ceasefire, raising investor hopes for an end to the war between the US and Iran and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude futures settled at $95.03 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate crude futures settled at $93.04 per barrel.
In response to the launch of Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) delimitation talks between Japan and the Philippines, Taiwanese foreign affairs officials stated that the government is fully aware of the progress and has maintained close communication with both countries through existing channels, confirming that Taiwan's rights and interests will not be affected. Officials emphasized that the talks are aimed at resolving overlapping maritime claims between the two countries, not expanding their claims. The broader context, they noted, is China's military expansion threatening the first island chain. Officials warned that ignoring this strategic backdrop and shifting focus to criticize the government would effectively play into China's information warfare aimed at dividing Taiwanese society.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said on Wednesday that implementing the ceasefire agreement announced in Washington between Lebanon and Israel is the 'last chance' to achieve a comprehensive truce. The agreement is conditional on Hezbollah ceasing attacks, and US President Donald Trump will serve as the direct guarantor.
Director Ting Chih-hua of the Taipei Representative Office in Edinburgh published an op-ed in Scotland's The National, calling for Taiwan and Scotland to form an economic and technology alliance based on shared democratic values. The op-ed highlighted Taiwan's democratic achievements (ranked 15th globally by EIU), its semiconductor strength (TSMC produces over 70% of global chips), and the election of the first Taiwanese-born Scottish Parliament member.
Legislative Yuan President Han Kuo-yu met with Czech Senate President Miloš Vystrčil at his official residence in Taipei on June 4. They reaffirmed their partnership based on democratic values and agreed to strengthen cooperation in semiconductors and AI.
Typhoon Chan-hom has transitioned into an extratropical cyclone after lashing Japan, but a new tropical depression has formed in the South China Sea and may approach the Japanese archipelago next week. The typhoon brought record-breaking heavy rain to various parts of Japan, with some areas receiving a month's worth of rainfall in half a day. The soil is saturated, raising the risk of landslides. The Japan Meteorological Agency has declared the start of the rainy season in northern Kyushu, the Chugoku region, and the Kinki region.
Reuters reports that based on arms sales data, U.S. export license documents, expert estimates, and interviews with Taiwanese officials, Taiwan's anti-ship missile inventory could significantly increase to approximately 1,850 by early 2029. This is part of Taiwan's 'asymmetric warfare' strategy to create a 'kill zone' in the Taiwan Strait to deter Chinese aggression or blockade.
Eleven European countries, including the Czech Republic, have sent a letter to the European Commission calling for stricter Schengen visa regulations for Russian citizens. The letter notes inconsistent enforcement of visa guidelines among member states, undermining the effectiveness of sanctions, and highlights the contrast of Russian tourists enjoying European beaches while Ukraine is under attack.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning on June 4 called on the EU to view China-EU economic and trade relations objectively and rationally, to compress the list of problems and expand the pie of cooperation. This comes after reports that the EU is preparing to warn its citizens and businesses about a potential trade war with China and is considering new restrictive measures. The EU has introduced several trade restrictions targeting China this year.
The 'Riga StratCom Dialogue' forum, organized by Latvia-based think tank 'NATO Strategic Communications Centre of Excellence', featured a panel discussion on Taiwan for the first time this year. Deputy Representative of the Taipei Representative Office in the UK, Chiang Ya-chi, was invited as a speaker to share Taiwan's strategic communication thinking under the current international situation.
Asian stocks closed broadly lower on June 4, 2025, as Broadcom's weak outlook fueled concerns about AI stocks, while stronger-than-expected US economic data raised expectations of Fed rate hikes. Bridgewater's Ray Dalio warned the AI rally could be a bubble.
Japan and the Philippines will initiate negotiations on their Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ) and continental shelf boundaries. Taiwan's Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung stated on the 4th that this move contributes to regional peace and stability, is directed at China, has no binding force on Taiwan under international law, and will not harm Taiwan's interests. He emphasized that China's military expansion is disrupting the status quo, and neighboring countries should strengthen cooperation.
As Japan and the Philippines prepare to begin negotiations on their Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and continental shelf boundaries, Legislative Yuan Vice President Chiang Chi-chen on Wednesday called on the government to demonstrate its attitude and determination to defend sovereignty and take action to protect fishing rights.
The US Pentagon announced a reduction in the number of brigade combat teams stationed in Europe, returning deployment levels to those of 2021. This has drawn heightened attention from the Baltic states (Estonia, Lithuania), who are concerned about potential gaps in US troop rotations. Officials from both countries stated they have yet to receive details on the timing and size of the next US deployment, with decisions expected at a NATO defense ministers' meeting in two weeks.
Lebanese state media reported that just hours after a 'conditional ceasefire' was agreed upon in Washington, Israel launched airstrikes on southern Lebanon. The Israeli military said air raid sirens sounded in northern Israel. The ceasefire deal, brokered by the US, requires Hezbollah to fully halt fire and the establishment of 'pilot zones' under Lebanese army control. An Israeli far-right minister criticized the agreement as a 'grave mistake.'
An OECD report indicates that between 2005 and 2024, Chinese companies received significantly more government subsidies in 15 key industries than their foreign competitors, creating an unfair advantage. China's Ministry of Commerce responded on the 4th, criticizing the report for imprecise concept definitions, biased sample selection, and one-sided, arbitrary conclusions, while emphasizing that China's subsidy policies comply with WTO rules.
As Japan and the Philippines prepare to launch negotiations on their Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and continental shelf boundaries, Taiwan's Representative to the Philippines, Chou Min-gan, has sent a letter to the Philippine side reiterating the Republic of China (Taiwan)'s sovereignty over its territory and related maritime areas. He stated that the negotiations should not harm Taiwan's maritime rights or affect existing mechanisms like the Taiwan-Philippines Fisheries Law Enforcement Cooperation Agreement. Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has instructed its overseas missions to clarify its stance to both countries. The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs responded that the talks have not yet begun and it is premature to discuss impacts on fishing rights.
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba is planning to visit India in July for a summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Discussions will cover stable energy supply amid rising tensions in Iran, resilience of critical mineral supply chains, and the timing of the QUAD leaders' summit. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that coordination is underway to hold the QUAD summit within the year.
In response to Japan and the Philippines launching negotiations on Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and continental shelf boundaries, Taiwan's Executive Yuan stated that the talks must not affect Taiwan's rights and interests. Taiwan will continue to communicate with both parties. The spokesperson also emphasized that China should not use this opportunity to militarize Taiwan's eastern waters as internal seas. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs affirmed the peaceful dialogue between the Philippines and Japan and looks forward to joint contributions to regional peace and stability.
Twenty students from the National Experimental High School at Central Taiwan Science Park (NNEHS) visited their German sister school on June 3, marking the first in-person exchange since the pandemic. They brought calligraphy tools and bubble tea ingredients to host cultural workshops. The delegation first visited the Taipei Representative Office in Germany, where Ambassador Ku Jui-sheng encouraged them.
South Korea's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport announced that South Korea and China have agreed to expand flight rights for regular weekly flights between the two countries, marking the first increase in flight quotas in seven years. The agreement was reached during bilateral aviation talks held in Seoul from May 27 to 28. Passenger flight rights will increase from 608 to 664 per week, and cargo flight rights from 54 to 68 per week. The deal will increase flights on high-demand routes like Incheon-Shanghai and Incheon-Guangzhou, and expand routes from Korean regional airports to China. Passenger traffic between the two countries in the first quarter of this year reached approximately 4.39 million, surpassing the pre-pandemic level of 4.14 million.
In response to Japan and the Philippines launching negotiations to delimit their Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ) and continental shelves, Taiwan's Coast Guard Administration (CGA) today refuted media reports of a 'weak' fishery protection stance. CGA Director-General Zhang Zhonglong emphasized that the Japan-Philippines talks cannot affect Taiwan's sovereignty, and the CGA will expel any country that asserts jurisdiction.
New Zealand said on June 4, 2025, that China has banned four of its Members of Parliament from entering the country for one year after they visited Taiwan last month. Foreign Minister Winston Peters expressed surprise and instructed diplomats to raise the matter with Beijing. China's embassy indicated the ban could be shortened or revoked if the MPs apologize.
The UK, France, and Germany are working with Ukraine on a plan to bring Russia to the negotiating table to end the Russia-Ukraine war. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy is urging allies to accelerate the delivery of air defense systems, as NATO's promised funding and military aid are behind schedule, and weapon deliveries have rapidly declined due to the war between the US and Iran.
U.S. President Donald Trump and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi gave contradictory statements on the progress of U.S.-Iran negotiations. Trump said talks were going well and a deal could be reached by the weekend, while Araghchi stated that no substantive progress had been made. Meanwhile, an Iranian drone attack on Kuwait airport caused casualties, and the U.S. House passed a symbolic resolution calling for the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Iran.
Diana Choyleva, a senior fellow at the US think tank Asia Society Policy Institute (ASPI), stated that while US-China relations have recently shown signs of easing, the Taiwan issue remains a core challenge, making the détente tactical and unlikely to last. She argued that the trade consensus reached at the Trump-Xi summit is limited and does not resolve structural differences like tech decoupling. Meanwhile, Japan and the Philippines are accelerating military cooperation to counter the perceived lack of US deterrence in East Asia.
Kuomintang Chair Cheng Li-wen visited the first Chinese-American chair of Santa Clara County, Otto Lee, and Santa Clara Mayor Lisa Gillmor during her US trip. Cheng expressed hope for more strategic cooperation based on Taiwan's 'Silicon Shield' strength and aims to ease cross-strait tensions.
Germany lost its bid for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council, receiving only 104 votes and losing to Austria, Portugal, and others. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul cited Germany's strong support for Ukraine and its close ties with Israel as reasons for the defeat, and accused Russia of stirring up opposition.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio insisted that the war with Iran is over, stating that 'Operation Epic Fury' has ended and the U.S. has achieved its goals of destroying Iran's defense industry. However, Democratic lawmakers countered, pointing to Iran's attack on Kuwait Airport and other actions as evidence that the conflict continues. Rubio also revealed that nuclear talks with Iran have not yet received final approval, and Iran is demanding the release of $12 billion in frozen assets.