Foreign Policy News
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Featured Foreign Policy Stories

Marco Rubio's Appointment as Secretary of State Signals Shift in US-Latin America Policy
President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Florida Senator Marco Rubio to lead the State Department, signaling a potential revival of the Monroe Doctrine in U.S. foreign policy. Rubio, known for his strong stance against China and Iran, is expected to focus on Latin America, where China's growing influence poses a challenge. With extensive experience in the region, Rubio aims to curb Chinese influence and strengthen U.S. ties by promoting American business interests and supporting pro-American leaders. This approach could enhance U.S. strategic advantages in its "benign neighborhood."

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Global Poll Reveals Overwhelming Backing for Arming Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan
Defense News•2 years ago
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"Panda Diplomacy: China's Offer to Bring Pandas Back to the US Gains Momentum"
Originally Published 2 years ago — by Slate

China's President Xi Jinping has expressed willingness to send more pandas to the United States, signaling a potential thaw in U.S.-China relations. The statement came during a conference in San Francisco where Xi and President Joe Biden met. Pandas have historically been used as a diplomatic tool by China, and their absence in the U.S. in recent years has raised concerns. While specific details about the timing and location of future panda arrivals were not provided, Xi hinted that California may be the next state to receive them. However, it should be noted that any new pandas sent would not be the same ones previously in the U.S. as panda leases have expired.
"Canada reaffirms support for humanitarian truce, calls for international cooperation"
Originally Published 2 years ago — by POLITICO

Canada has clarified its stance on a "humanitarian truce" in the Israel-Hamas war, three days after abstaining from a UN resolution calling for one. Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly emphasized the need for an agreement from all parties to ensure the safe evacuation of foreign nationals, the release of hostages, and the provision of essential supplies to Gaza. The shift in Canada's position comes amid criticism of its support for Israel and reluctance to call for an immediate ceasefire. Joly's speech also outlined Canada's foreign policy principles of defending sovereignty and engaging in pragmatic diplomacy to mediate international conflicts.
Biden's Speech: A Historic Moment for America's Global Role
Originally Published 2 years ago — by Informed Comment

In a recent address, President Biden linked Ukraine's struggle against Russia and Israel's struggle against Hamas, depicting the conflicts as battles between authoritarianism and democracy. However, the article argues that Biden's equivalencies and analogies are flawed. It highlights the corruption charges against Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and his government's illiberal tendencies. The article also criticizes Biden for neglecting the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories and the suffering of Palestinians under Israeli control. The author accuses Biden of hypocrisy for claiming to care about Palestinian civilians while vetoing a UN resolution for an immediate ceasefire. The article calls for an end to Israeli apartheid and the establishment of a Palestinian state to achieve peace and mutual understanding. It criticizes Biden for being stuck in an outdated paradigm and failing to take decisive action.
"Trump's Self-Centered Critique of Israel Overshadows the War"
Originally Published 2 years ago — by Slate
During a rally in Florida, former President Donald Trump criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israel's defense minister, while praising Hezbollah, in relation to the Israel-Hamas conflict. Trump's remarks demonstrated his lack of understanding and disregard for the delicate situation, as well as his belief that Israel is helpless without him as president. His comments have raised concerns among world leaders and Israelis about his potential future actions and reliability as an ally.
Slovakia's Shift: EU-NATO Relations Tested Amid Ukraine Crisis
Originally Published 2 years ago — by Consortium News
The Slovak Social Democracy Party, which recently won the parliamentary elections in Slovakia, has taken a critical stance towards the EU and NATO's support for Ukraine and sanctions on Russia. The party calls for stopping arms shipments to Ukraine and blames the West and Kiev for the war. This reflects the popular sentiment in Slovakia, where a majority of Slovaks believe either the West or Ukraine to be primarily responsible for the conflict. However, the party's win was not a majority, so they will need to form a coalition government to implement their foreign policy. This shift in Slovakia's stance is part of a larger trend in Central Europe, with countries like Hungary, Poland, and Serbia also challenging the EU consensus on Ukraine and Russia.
"Canada's Foreign Policy Reset: Trudeau's Popularity Declines Amid India-Canada Row"
Originally Published 2 years ago — by The Japan Times

Canada's foreign policy is in need of a reset as relations with India and China continue to deteriorate. Accusations of Indian involvement in the assassination of a Canadian Sikh activist and the arrest of two Canadians in China have strained relations. Additionally, allegations of Chinese electoral interference and threats against a Canadian lawmaker have further soured public opinion towards China.
Vivek Ramaswamy's Controversial Statements Steal the Spotlight at GOP Debate
Originally Published 2 years ago — by Democrats.org

Vivek Ramaswamy, a potential 2024 presidential candidate, is advocating for ending America's support for Ukraine and making concessions to Russia, including freezing the current lines of control in a Korean-war style armistice agreement. This stance aligns him with Vladimir Putin and poses a threat to US allies and democracy.
US Provides $345 Million Military Aid Package to Taiwan
Originally Published 2 years ago — by The Associated Press
The Biden administration has announced a $345 million military aid package for Taiwan, utilizing America's own stockpiles to help Taiwan counter China. The package includes defense, education, and training for Taiwan, with the U.S. providing man-portable air defense systems, intelligence and surveillance capabilities, firearms, and missiles. This aid is part of a presidential authority approved by Congress to draw weapons from existing U.S. military stockpiles, allowing for faster delivery compared to funding new weapons. The move aims to deter China from considering an attack on Taiwan and is in addition to nearly $19 billion in previously approved military sales.
"Ukraine Takes Center Stage at Aspen Security Forum"
Originally Published 2 years ago — by POLITICO

The annual Aspen Security Forum, attended by top foreign policy officials, highlighted the shifting priorities of the United States under the Biden administration, with little emphasis on the Middle East and a focus on China and space policy. The Biden officials present did not make major headlines, maintaining the administration's message discipline. The war in Ukraine was a major topic, with reassurances from U.S. and Ukrainian officials, but no immediate breakthroughs anticipated. The potential of artificial intelligence and the need for regulation were also discussed. Surprisingly, there was little mention of former President Donald Trump, indicating a desire for normalcy and a reluctance to discuss a potential second Trump presidency.
Turkey's Shifting Foreign Policy: Balancing Economy and Western Alliances
Originally Published 2 years ago — by EURACTIV

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has shifted his foreign policy towards Western allies, pleasing the US but upsetting Russia, in an effort to reverse Turkey's economic downturn and attract foreign investment. This change in stance includes allowing Sweden to join NATO and expressing support for Ukraine's NATO membership. The move is seen as a rebalancing act to improve the economy and investment flows, as strained ties with the West have dampened Turkey's economic prospects. However, this shift may strain Turkey's relationship with Russia, which has been important for trade and tourism. Erdoğan's ties with Putin have also played a role in diplomacy surrounding the war in Ukraine, but the future of their relationship remains uncertain.