Europe seeks €800B defense surge as U.S. cuts Kyiv aid, aligns with Russia
The five-point plan, unveiled as "ReArm Europe," is Europe's largest military and economic mobilization effort this century.
Japan
As a major global power and a leading member of the G-7, G-20, and OECD, Japan is a key player in international economic and political affairs. Its economy is a high-tech powerhouse known for its innovation in industries like automotive, robotics, and consumer electronics. The culture, a unique blend of ancient tradition and modern pop culture, is globally influential and celebrated for its art, cuisine, and emphasis on harmony.
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Scattered climate follow-through as more scientists offer grim updates
Record heat and rightward political shifts toward nationalist self-interest undermine efforts to cut fossil fuel dependence.
S. Africa to focus G-20 on 'solidarity, equality, sustainable development'
The South African president invoked Nelson Mandela's emphasis on global 'interdependence' and cooperation.
2024 is warmest year on record, surpassing 1.5° Paris treaty target
The U.N. weather agency says the Paris Agreement's long-term temperature goal is "not yet dead but in grave danger."
New system for sharing Earth monitoring data is operational
A new World Meteorological Organization system for data sharing aims to spread technology among developing nations.
Trump picks fierce U.N. critic as U.S. ambassador to the world body
U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik will succeed career diplomat Linda Thomas-Greenfield as U.S. envoy to the U.N.
U.N. biodiversity summit ends without financing deal in overtime
World leaders failed to reach agreement over who should pay what into which fund toward the global biodiversity goals.
Inflation is down, but politics and conflicts dim economic outlook
International Monetary Fund blames a lackluster economy on slowing growth, potential trade wars and regional conflicts.
Global demand for electricity is growing at a record pace, IEA says
A new report shows governments and consumers face tough choices over cheap supplies and surging electricity demand.
As the digital economy advances, its progress on climate goals suffers
Some 1.9% of electricity globally was consumed by 148 digital companies, including 10 big users in Asia and the U.S.
Mongolia sets aside ICC warrant to give Putin a red-carpet welcome
Landlocked between Russia and China, Mongolia depends on Russia to meet its energy needs and China to buy its exports.
On Geneva visit, diplomats tout international humanitarian law
As the U.N. honored the Geneva Conventions, the Red Cross chief said non-compliance is a 'serious problem.'
G-20 finance ministers agree higher taxes on super-rich are a priority
A proposed 2% minimum tax on billionaires will be taken up at Brazil's G-20 Leaders' Summit in November.
Trump shooting is latest sign of rise in America's political violence
The head of Freedom House called the shooting 'a grim and shocking blow to the American democratic process.'
NATO's most powerful member tries to reassure rest of alliance and world
As summit host, Biden's administration projected unity for Ukraine and deflected concern about Trump.
NATO at 75 grapples with a 'constant threat of new types of attacks'
The Biden administration hosts a celebration for an expanding NATO's 75th anniversary amid political turmoil.