Politics
In China, the US war against Iran is seen as a mistake, and they are not getting involved
Beijing believes that the war against Iran has not shifted the balance of power in the US’s favour and regards it as a strategic mistake. The Chinese authorities are deliberately refraining from intervening in the conflict.
Trump’s contradictory statements on Iran are causing uncertainty even within his own team
US President Donald Trump’s mixed signals regarding war with Iran are creating uncertainty not only for allies and the markets, but also for his closest advisers. Those around him admit that they do not have a clear understanding of the way forward.
Britain is bringing together 35 countries to discuss the opening of the Strait of Hormuz without US involvement
The UK plans to host an international meeting involving 35 countries to discuss ways of restoring shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, which is partially blocked by Iran. The United States has not been directly invited to the talks.
Trump threatened to halt arms supplies to Ukraine over Europe’s stance on the Strait of Hormuz
US President Donald Trump has threatened to halt arms supplies to Ukraine in an attempt to force European countries to join a coalition to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. This is one of the key routes for global oil supplies, which has effectively been blocked following US and Israeli strikes against Iran.
Trump leaves key questions unanswered in an attempt to reassure the public about the war with Iran
In an evening address, US President Donald Trump stated that the war against Iran could last another two or three weeks, but that its conclusion was already in sight. However, the speech did not provide clear answers to key questions regarding Washington’s next steps.
China is secretly expanding its nuclear arsenal — CNN
A new investigation has revealed a large-scale expansion of China’s nuclear infrastructure in Sichuan province, where villages were previously demolished to make way for the construction of strategic facilities.
Switzerland is considering cancelling its purchase of the Patriot system from the US
The Swiss government has suspended payments for the Patriot air defence system and has not ruled out terminating the contract. This is due to uncertainty regarding the delivery schedule.
Rubio outlined the US position on the war with Iran and negotiations with Tehran
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Washington is negotiating with Iran through intermediaries and will continue its military campaign until its objectives are met. He also outlined the US’s demands and its position on the Strait of Hormuz.
Russian singer Nikolai Baskov has been charged in Ukraine
Russian singer Nikolai Baskov has been charged in absentia in Ukraine. He publicly supported the Kremlin, wrote on social media that “Russia is at war with the Western world”, and described the aggression as a “holy war”.
The opposition Tisza party has widened its lead over Fidesz ahead of the parliamentary elections in Hungary
Two new opinion polls have shown growing support for the opposition party Tisza ahead of the parliamentary elections in Hungary on 12 April. At the same time, a significant proportion of voters remain undecided.
Rubio has suggested that NATO’s role may need to be reviewed in light of the allies’ stance on Iran
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stated that Washington may reconsider its approach to NATO once the conflict with Iran has ended. He cited restrictions imposed by some European allies as the reason.
The EU has explained why the Ukrainian Armed Forces should not withdraw from Donbas
The EU’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, has urged US partners not to pressure Ukraine into making concessions on Donbas – citing the tragedy in Bucha as her reason.
