InternationalRelations

The year 2025 marks a watershed moment in international affairs, as the long-standing ascendancy of globalism yields ground to a burgeoning wave of regionalism. Confronted with the waning influence of traditional multilateral institutions—the United Nations, World Trade Organization and others—states are increasingly turning inward, forging tighter bonds with neighbours to safeguard economic, security and political interests. This resurgence of regional blocs reflects a broader retreat from universal frameworks toward more localized solutions that promise agility and relevance in an era of intensifying geopolitical competition.

The threat of military confrontation between nuclear-armed India and Pakistan is once again dominating headlines, following a terrorist attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that killed 26 Hindu tourists in Pahalgam on April 22.

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a three-day ceasefire in the Ukraine conflict, set to coincide with the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory in the Second World War. The ceasefire will run from 8 May to 10 May, covering the period around Russia’s traditional Victory Day celebrations.