Atul Singh

Tensions in the Horn of Africa are escalating, driven by disputes over Ethiopia’s Grand Renaissance Dam, which threatens Egypt's vital water supply from the Nile. Ethiopia harbors ambitions to expand its influence, including developing a port in Somaliland straining relations with Somalia and Eritrea. The balance of regional power, international trade and broader geopolitical stability depend on managing these complex conflicts.

Switzerland plays a pivotal role in global diplomacy and trade, engaging in peace talks and economic partnerships across various regions. From a Swiss perspective, the Russia–Ukraine War has significantly impacted Europe, raising energy prices and increasing defense budgets amid rising right-wing populism. In Africa, Switzerland continues its mediation efforts despite setbacks like General al-Burhan’s absence from peace talks and challenges in cocoa supply chains. Switzerland also remains concerned about American democracy and polarization, actively seeking ways to navigate these complexities on the global stage.

On October 26, Israel launched a significant strike on Iranian air-defense systems and missile facilities in response to Iran’s October 1 missile attack.

Russia hosted leaders from BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) in Kazan on October 22.

British Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves has introduced a £40 billion tax increase and spending plan to address the UK's economic struggles post-Brexit.

French Prime Minister Michel Barnier’s minority government collapsed yesterday. President Emmanuel Macron’s maneuvering has brought General Charles de Gaulle’s 1958-vintage Fifth Republic to the edge of collapse. The traditional left and the right have imploded and new actors have taken their place. The constitution itself is under threat and the future seems bleak.

By Peter Isackson and Atul Singh The political temperature in France has been rising for more than a decade. It has now reached boiling point.

Donald Trump won the 2024 US presidential election because Americans are tired of political elites and feel economically insecure. His campaign tapped into dissatisfaction with cultural issues like "woke" language and concerns over jobs, inflation and immigration. These frustrations, amplified by media fragmentation and global challenges, made his message resonate even more strongly than in 2016.

Trumponomics 2.0 combines deregulation, tax cuts and tariff threats to boost US manufacturing. How exactly this will be implemented remains to be seen, but some of Trump’s cabinet nominees give us an insight into what might happen.

Donald Trump secured a commanding victory in the presidential election, winning both the popular vote and the Electoral College, while Republicans regained control of Congress. His success stemmed from connecting with disenfranchised voters and leveraging social media, while Democrats struggled to resonate with their traditional base amid economic discontent and a growing distrust of democratic institutions.