In this week’s Progressive Pulse…

The world is seeing a realignment of power as the US faces challenges on multiple fronts. Trump’s trade policies are backfiring, pushing nations like India closer to China and strengthening BRICS as an alternative to US dominance. The situation in the Middle East remains dire, with ongoing violence and accusations against Israel. Meanwhile, in North America, concerns are rising about potential overreach of executive power. These events underscore a growing tension between unilateral actions and the push for a more multipolar world, where international cooperation and economic diversification are becoming increasingly important. The push and pull between these forces will likely shape the global landscape in the coming years.

Global

Trump bragged about ending the Nord Stream pipeline, increasing EU dependence on the US for energy. His tariffs on India are pushing it closer to China, strengthening the BRICS alliance. Talks between Trump and Putin in Alaska occurred amidst a backdrop of the Ukraine war and discussions about a new world order. BRICS is seen as a counter to US dominance, with its bank marking 10 years of building a new financial world order.

China

China is making strides in AI, with new tools outperforming humans in cancer detection. Despite trade tensions, China hasn’t moved to zero tariffs on US imports. The nation is also focused on green development and expanding cross-border cooperation through initiatives like the Lianyungang Port. Trump has confirmed a deal allowing Nvidia to sell lower-end chips to China and has extended the tariff truce for 90 days.

East Asia

The US is conducting war drills near North Korea, raising concerns about potential conflict with China. Chinese and Russian diplomats celebrated an anti-fascist victory in North Korea. South Korea’s former first lady was arrested.

Singapore

Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong delivered his National Day Rally speech. Strong ties between India and Singapore are seen as crucial for economic growth in a volatile global environment. Housing priorities for Singapore were also outlined.

Southeast Asia

A documentary examines how the Dutch manipulated the narrative of colonizing Indonesia.

South Asia

A mass grave was uncovered in Chemmani, Sri Lanka. The US is imposing sanctions on India. Pakistan faces the challenge of balancing IMF demands with its relationship with China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

Russia

The US may be seeking to improve relations with Russia, potentially at the expense of Ukraine and the EU.

Middle East (West Asia)

Journalists are being killed in Israel while covering the conflict, sparking global outrage. A US labor activist, Chris Smalls, alleges torture by Israel. The UN Security Council has condemned Israel’s planned takeover of Gaza. There are reports of sewage flooding Gaza and rotten aid being given to Palestinians.

Africa

Thomas Sankara’s legacy of sovereignty is alive in the Sahel region. The Chinese Ambassador reaffirmed the special relationship between China and Tanzania. Sudan is experiencing a severe cholera outbreak.

Europe

Violence has flared up in Serbia. Jeffrey Sachs suggests the US must accept that Crimea will not return to Ukraine. Wales is mobilizing against AUKUS. China’s planning is seen as having lessons for Britain.

Latin America & Caribbean

Blackwater’s presence in Haiti is contributing to a deadly crisis. Lula is resisting Trump’s tariff “blackmail”. Venezuela has secured UN recognition of the “International Day Against Unilateral Coercive Measures”. Trump’s tariffs against Latin America are part of a broader global trade battle.

North America

Protests are taking place in New York City regarding the situation in Gaza. A pro-Israel mob allegedly attacked protestors while the NYPD watched. Trump’s policies are seen as a potential blueprint for martial law in Washington D. C..

In-Depth Analysis

Historical materialism and its role in understanding how the world changes is discussed. The World Association for Political Economy (WAPE) conference in 2025 focused on geopolitics, economic models, and multi-polarity.

Special Features

A “Best Of” series revisits interviews that remain relevant today.