Tag: EU

• March 2025: A Month of Political Turbulence and Global Challenges

  

  March 2025 has emerged as a month marked by significant political events that have reverberated not only throughout the United States but also around the world. The preeminent topic of discussion has been American politics, led by the increasingly controversial Trump administration.

  President Donald Trump intensified his administration’s activities by signing multiple executive orders, including a provocative move to designate English as the official language of the United States. Other contentious decisions included shutting down several state-funded broadcasters and commencing the dismantling of the Department of Education. These measures sparked debates on the implications for education equity and media diversity.

  The ongoing war in Ukraine entered its fourth year, with increasing pressure to find a resolution.  President Trump actively pursued peace negotiations, even hosting discussions in Saudi Arabia aimed at establishing ceasefires in key areas, such as the Black Sea. The U.S. also proposed stricter sanctions on Russian oil and secondary sanctions on its buyers to push Russia towards a general ceasefire. However, talks have been marred by tensions, including a disconcerting public exchange with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The European Union, along with Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer, reiterated support for Ukraine, pledging substantial financial aid, advocating for stronger sanctions against Russia and a reassured military presence to deter further aggression. 

  In related international dynamics, the U.S. military undertook airstrikes in Yemen against Houthi targets, resulting in casualties that raised alarms about ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. This coincided with controversy that erupted when journalist Jeffrey Goldberg was inadvertently added to a Signal group chat involving senior U.S. officials. The chat revealed sensitive details about strikes against Houthi targets, sparking concerns over operational security.

  In the realm of trade, the Trump administration’s imposition of a 25% tariff on automotive imports has drawn fire from Canada and Japan, both of whom condemned the tariffs as attacks on their economies. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who recently achieved a landslide victory to become prime minister, responded firmly, pledging to retaliate against this protectionist tactic.

  Furthermore in the North America, Greenland held elections for its Inatsisartut, with the center-right opposition party Demokraatit winning a plurality of seats. This marked a significant shift as the ruling Inuit Ataqatigiit–Siumut coalition lost its majority. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump stirred controversy by refusing to rule out the annexation of Greenland during a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

  Escalating Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

  The fragile ceasefire in Gaza entered a precarious second phase, only to collapse under worsening conditions. Israel demanded the release of all hostages held by Hamas, blocking humanitarian aid and resuming intense bombing campaigns. The renewed airstrikes resulted in extensive loss of life and destruction across Gaza, with over 404 Palestinians killed and 560 injured on March 18 alone—a devastating toll since the January ceasefire began. UNICEF reported that one in three children in North Gaza now suffers from malnutrition, describing the humanitarian crisis as “catastrophic.”

  The international community expressed grave concern over these events. The United Nations Human Rights Council accused Israel of committing war crimes and acts of genocide, citing systematic destruction of healthcare systems and gender-based violence. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed these claims as “biased” and “antisemitic,” further deepening divisions.

  Syria

  The new Syrian government faced severe challenges as violence erupted against former supporters of ousted President Bashar al-Assad. Despite promises of judicial fairness, sectarian reprisals led to devastating massacres. Over 1,300 Syrians, including 973 Alawites, Christians, and other minorities, were killed in just 72 hours during clashes between the transitional government and pro-Assad forces. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) reported that pro-government forces executed 52 Alawite men in Latakia and killed over 750 Alawite civilians in western Syria. Thousands of civilians remain missing, with reports of mass graves and cremations to conceal the scale of atrocities.

  In response, the Syrian presidential office announced the creation of a National Security Council to address internal security issues. Meanwhile, the European Union pledged €2.5 billion in aid, and Germany committed €300 million to stabilize Syria and address its humanitarian crisis. Vice-President of the European Commission Kaja Kallas emphasized the need for stability, advocating for lifting sanctions to restore diplomatic ties.

  Asia

  Foreign ministers from Japan, China, and South Korea convened in Tokyo to address shared challenges, including aging populations and climate change. The meeting aimed to strengthen regional cooperation and prepare for a leaders’ summit. Japan raised concerns about North Korea’s security threats, while China criticized protectionism and the politicization of science. This trilateral dialogue underscored the importance of collaboration in navigating global uncertainties.

  In a landmark decision, the Tokyo District Court ordered the dissolution of the Unification Church, marking the first revocation of a religious organization’s status in modern Japanese history. The ruling followed investigations linking the church to manipulative fundraising practices and its controversial ties to the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. The decision has sparked debates about religious freedom and accountability.

  Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested at Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport upon his return from Hong Kong. The arrest warrant, issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC), charged Duterte with crimes against humanity during his controversial “war on drugs.” He was swiftly extradited to The Hague, Netherlands, where he now faces trial.

  A catastrophic 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Sagaing, Myanmar, on March 28, causing widespread destruction and claiming over 1,000 lives in Myanmar and 10 in Thailand. The quake damaged 61 ancient pagodas and religious buildings, including the Four-Storied Monastery in Inwa. Myanmar’s government declared a state of emergency as rescue efforts continued.

  Africa

  In Somalia, conflict intensified as Al-Shabaab militants launched attacks. A 24-hour siege at a hotel in Beledweyne resulted in 15 civilian deaths and the elimination of six attackers while an assassination attempt on President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud near Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport left 10 dead and 20 injured. These incidents led to calls for Mohamud’s resignation amid worsening security and governance crises.

  In Ethiopia, the National Defense Forces reported killing over 300 fighters from the Fano armed group during clashes in the Amhara region. This marked a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict.

  Angola confirmed the initiation of peace talks between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Rwanda-backed March 23 Movement (M23). The negotiations aim to address the long-standing conflict in the mineral-rich eastern DRC.

  In Khartoum, Sudan, the discovery of 11 bodies, including women and children, at the bottom of a well added to the region’s turmoil. The Sudanese government accused the Rapid Support Forces of being responsible for the deaths, highlighting ongoing instability.

  The European Union announced a €4.7 billion investment in South Africa for aid and development projects, stepping in after the United States ended most of its USAID programs. This move highlighted the EU’s commitment to strengthening ties with South Africa amidst shifting global alliances. Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared South African Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool persona non grata, citing his criticism of Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign. This decision underscored growing tensions between South Africa and the U.S.

  Bolivia

  Severe floods in Bolivia led to the declaration of a national emergency. Over 50 lives were lost, and more than 100,000 people were displaced. The government mobilized resources to address the crisis, emphasizing the urgent need for international support.

  European Preparedness Strategy 

  The European Commission unveiled a new preparedness strategy, urging citizens to stockpile 72 hours’ worth of food, water, and essentials. This initiative aimed to enhance resilience against natural disasters, cyberattacks, and geopolitical crises.

  Pope Francis’ Recovery 

  Pope Francis faced a life-threatening health crisis after being admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14, 2025, with bronchitis that escalated into double pneumonia. During his five-week hospitalization, the 88-year-old pontiff endured severe respiratory complications, including mild kidney failure and anemia, requiring mechanical ventilation and oxygen therapy. Despite these challenges, he showed remarkable resilience and was discharged on March 23, returning to the Vatican to continue his recovery. Doctors prescribed two months of rest and rehabilitation, and Pope Francis expressed heartfelt gratitude for the prayers and support he received during this critical period.

  Good news

  Amidst the backdrop of war and strife, there were moments of hope including a few historic firsts in leadership. Zimbabwe’s Kirsty Coventry was elected as the first female president of the International Olympic Committee—an achievement celebrated globally. In Namibia, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah was sworn in as the country’s first female president. Her leadership symbolizes a new chapter in Namibia’s political landscape, emphasizing progress and inclusivity.

  In a groundbreaking study published in Nature, scientists uncovered a previously unknown aspect of the immune system, offering promising avenues for personalized treatments against infections. By exploring the proteasome—a cellular system responsible for protein degradation and recycling—researchers discovered a vast reservoir of natural antimicrobial peptides. These peptides, which increase production during infections, demonstrated effectiveness in combating harmful bacteria in human cells and mice.

  Despite the tumultuous events, March 2025 showcased human resilience in various forms, from political shifts and disaster recovery efforts to innovative scientific advancement. It highlights a world at a crossroads, grappling with conflict and the pursuit of peace, as leaders and citizens alike navigate complex challenges.

  1 April 2025

  current affairs, EU, Europe, history, news, politics, trump, world affairs

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• A Shifting Tide: The Unraveling of Trans-Atlantic Ties

  

  Geopolitics have taken a significant turn this past week. The U.S. has revealed its lack of commitment to Ukraine, surprising many European leaders in the process. In response, these leaders have intensified discussions in an unprecedented attempt to unify, showcasing a unity not previously seen in European politics. With both sides risking a substantial fracture in the trans-Atlantic alliance, the phrase, “Be careful what you wish for, lest it come true!” from Aesop’s Fables, comes to mind.

  The recent German elections have introduced a new chancellor to the stage. While coalition negotiations are still pending, it is already a foregone conclusion that Friedrich Merz will become the new German chancellor. Just an hour after the world collectively sighed with relief at the AfD’s failure to secure victory, Merz delivered a strong and unexpected message during an ‘Election Day’ television interview. He stated: “An absolute priority will be to strengthen Europe as quickly as possible, so that, step by step, we can achieve real independence from the USA.” He further added that “the Americans are largely indifferent to the fate of Europe.”

  His statements were surprising for two reasons. First, Merz has always been deemed a ‘trans-Atlanticist’. His call to sever ties between the U.S. and Europe is extraordinary for someone who has consistently worked to enhance relations within this alliance. It appears that the messaging from figures such as Trump, Vance, and Rubio has resonated deeply with him, perhaps leading him to lose faith in this alliance. Second, Europe has historically relied on the U.S. for military support and defense—arguably over-relying, which has contributed to the frustrations surrounding NATO funding. This reliance stems from the lessons of World War II; Europeans are acutely aware that they could not have defeated the Nazi regime without American and Canadian military aid. NATO was not simply an alliance created to counter the Soviet Union during the Cold War; its foundations rest on the ethical and fundamental principles of defending democracy and recognizing the role each nation plays in upholding democratic values in the Western world. The concentration of defensive forces was intended not only to deter aggression but also to promote democratic ideals while keeping communism at bay. When the leading country in NATO threatens to seize Greenland (an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark), interferes with the elections of a member state (Germany), and warns that Europe cannot count on its support for protecting its borders, something has to give. And it has. Europe now feels deeply offended and betrayed; the response has been unprecedented.

  On Monday, Emmanuel Macron visited President Trump, and a remarkable moment unfolded when Macron publicly fact-checked Trump live in the Oval Office during a press conference. Macron’s mission seemed twofold: to persuade Trump to adopt a more constructive stance on NATO and the war in Ukraine (it has been suggested that Trump finds Macron agreeable) and to convey that Europe is no longer pleading for U.S. support. Europe is taking a stand: if you’re not with us, we can manage without you. This represents a significant shift over the past few weeks.

  British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is scheduled to visit Trump this coming Thursday. Reports suggest that his mission aligns with Macron’s; however, the British are more committed to salvaging their relationship with the U.S. The Sun, a British newspaper, has even proposed that Starmer invite Trump to Balmoral, King Charles’s outdoor retreat, as a means of wooing him. Others have suggested bestowing an honorary title upon Trump, knowing that he is an anglophile and that such gestures might appeal to his ego. Importantly, the U.K. stands firmly behind Ukraine and is unlikely to waver in its position. They hope the U.S. will ultimately support Europe’s efforts to protect Ukraine from Russian aggression, yet they are prepared to maintain their stance without sacrificing Ukraine to appease the U.S..

  Some argue that Trump’s bark is worse than his bite, referring to his first term when he made many bold statements but followed through on very few. His countless changes of mind have led to a belief that he will act similarly in this administration. However, I consider this a false hope. Trump unexpectedly stumbled into the White House in 2016, surrounded by seasoned political advisors who kept him within the bounds of democratic norms, guiding him to respect long-standing socio-political agreements. This time, however, Trump has thoroughly prepared for his presidency and has surrounded himself with like-minded advisors. There is no one in this administration to temper his impulsiveness; if anything, they are inclined to push boundaries even further. His words will most likely translate into actions, as demonstrated in his first month in office.

  Where does this leave the world? The U.S.’s flirtation with Russia, its stance on Ukraine, and its isolationist policies will likely result in increased isolation for the U.S.. Russia is not a friendly ally; Putin is as formidable a force as Trump—albeit more cunning and strategically savvy. He welcomes this newfound relationship with the U.S. as long as it serves his interests, potentially leaving the U.S. completely isolated at a critical juncture.

  As for Europe? If the strategy is to sever ties with the U.S.—militarily, economically, or politically—Europe will need to strive for unprecedented levels of unity. European alliances have mainly been economically driven, with military collaboration largely sustained through NATO. A politically unified Europe remains a goal yet to be realized, especially when it comes to substantial, defining issues.

  Perhaps the European leaders and Trump will ultimately find it best to part ways, recognizing that their aspirations no longer align. It’s possible they will conclude that Europe and the U.S. have grown apart, and perhaps they will entertain the notion that letting go is the healthiest choice. To that, I say: Be careful what you wish for…

  25 February 2025

  current affairs, EU, Europe, history, keir-starmer, macron, merz, NATO, news, politics, russia, trans-atlantic alliance, trump, ukraine, war

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• Beyond the Firewall: Confronting Extremism in Modern Society (a longread)

  

  First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out—because I was not a socialist.

  Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out—because I was not a trade unionist.

  Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out—because I was not a Jew.

  Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me.

  —Martin Niemöller

  Martin Niemöller’s famous quote has been echoing in my mind lately. As we navigate this new era of political uncertainty, the impact of rising protectionism and isolationist policies remains to be fully understood—not to mention the alarming ascent of right-wing extremism. 

  It is not merely the state of affairs in the United States that troubles me. For years, we have witnessed the slow but steady rise of far-right populist political parties across Europe. In some countries, a political firewall has been constructed as a safeguard against extreme views on migration and diversity. Yet, in a minority of European nations, far-right parties have managed to gain power, as seen in Hungary. The banishment of extremism from the political arena has proven to be a formidable challenge, leaving politicians from established democratic parties at a loss regarding how to address these societal shifts.

  Many have drawn comparisons between this period and the 1930s—the era of Nazism and the Third Reich. I have touched on this theme in my blog post titled “Humanity at a Crossroads: Revisiting Yeats in Troubling Times.” The parallels are stark and unmistakable. The pressing question remains: is this a reversible trend in Western democracies, or are we on the brink of a dramatic shift in the course of Western civilization?

  J.D. Vance surprised both supporters and critics with his remarks at the Munich Security Conference on February 14, 2025. He asserted that European institutions and the right to freedom of speech are being undermined. Vance further claimed that the firewall erected around the AfD (Alternative for Germany) should be dismantled, directing European countries to prioritize more pressing issues, such as migration, rather than silencing unconventional viewpoints. He characterized Europe’s main challenge as migration, accusing European nations of shirking their responsibilities in this regard. According to him, in a democracy, all opinions—including those of the AfD—merit consideration. He even met with the AfD’s chairwoman.

  In all honesty, Vance’s position isn’t entirely without merit. In a democracy, every voice deserves to be heard. It is up to society to discern which opinions align with its socio-ethical values. These values are fluid, never static, and can shift faster than one might imagine.

  Furthermore, attempts to construct a firewall, stigmatizing extreme political parties and marginalizing them from the political sphere, have not proven effective in keeping them at bay. Recent election results indicate growth for these parties, and polls suggest they may continue to gain traction. The essential question is: why haven’t such initiatives curbed the rise of far-right populist movements and political parties?

  Connecting Past and Present

  There are significant parallels between the 1930’s and today. The post-pandemic world, economic downturn, and the rise of individualism are defining characteristics of both times. The exuberance of the roaring twenties—offering a release after the pandemic and the war—was soon overshadowed by the Great Depression, echoing today’s challenges. 

  In the 1930’s escapism, society’s opium, led the masses unsuspectingly toward an impending collapse of their world—great economic despair and a desperate search for scapegoats to avoid confronting their complicity in their fate. This sense of disillusionment allowed Germans and Austrians to rally around a leader who promised them what they craved: dignity and economic renewal. They believed they could reclaim their legacy on the international stage. Little did the majority anticipate that discrimination could culminate in mass gas chambers or concentration camps; they did not foresee the catastrophic loss of neighbors, family members, and their livelihoods. They never imagined living in fear, and ultimately, in war.

  Warnings were plentiful, yet many chose to ignore them. Other nations recognized that the threat of a dictator and the devastation of Europe must be halted. They rose to the challenge: great leaders of the time—Churchill, Roosevelt, de Gaulle—foresaw the full potential of a Nazi regime. Many were inspired by their resolute words and actions, believing in a freedom anchored in democracy. The resistance fought valiantly, the armed forces engaged, and eventually, they triumphed—only to uncover the horrific realities of the regime afterward.

  Today, we perceive unsettling similarities to the Interwar period. In our post-pandemic era, people are still grappling with the consequences. Mental health has emerged as a pressing issue, with many facing loneliness and despair. The Western world is increasingly struggling to reboot its economies, while escapism flourishes on social media, where influencers dictate standards of beauty, success, and popularity. Television entertains with a plethora of talent shows and competitions, serving to numb the mind. Yet, discontent festers—people are unhappy with their lives, dissatisfied with the rising cost of living, and losing faith in their political leaders. Housing is unaffordable, healthcare costs are astronomical, and democratic values seem not to suffice in addressing basic needs.

  So what does this analogy teach us? Why do so many resist acknowledging the lessons of history?

  Most people do not envision atrocities happening to themselves.

  The role of social media

  One crucial distinction between the Interwar period and our time is the advent of social media. This fictional realm allows individuals to achieve fame, wealth, and popularity with a mere click. Displeased with someone’s presence? They can be effortlessly erased from your virtual world. Have a strong opinion about someone you’ve never met? It’s all too simple to voice your comments. We can curate our own bubbles, managing a reality that aligns with our preferences. That is not all; the influence of social media must not be underestimated.

  It provides marginalized communities—shut out by mainstream media—a platform to express their views. In this space, individuals can share their ideas anonymously, and virtual communities can mobilize rapidly. Social media has also paved the way for misinformation to spread unchecked. Historical events can be questioned, human rights violations can be denied, and the integrity of the law can be challenged. With such disinformation, discerning truth from falsehood becomes increasingly difficult. If someone you follow contests the murder of six million Jews, who determines the truth? If an influencer claims that immigrants are the reason for your financial struggles, who is to say otherwise? While social media has its virtues, it can also exacerbate fears and insecurities, feeding into the narratives of the discontented. For those who harbor malicious intentions, social media becomes a breeding ground.

  Defending democratic values

  In this era of discontent, extremist movements find fertile ground to flourish. We are witnessing a resurgence of agitation, as people seek scapegoats and quick fixes to their frustrations. The complexities of modern-day politics, economics, and foreign policy overwhelm them. They crave immediate solutions and leaders who can deliver results in an instant. Many yearn to erase their discontent as swiftly as possible.

  We have lost sight of the idea that meaningful change requires time and effort. In our digital realm, tasks can be accomplished in moments. Our attention spans have adapted to a quicker pace, making speed a qualifying factor for decision-making with detrimental effects. Media-savvy individuals who can captivate audiences are more likely to be perceived as effective leaders. It no longer matters how knowledgeable someone is; the ability to convincingly project empathy and the assurance of solving problems is what engenders trust. Social media plays a crucial role in this dynamic, where images and narratives can be manipulated to appear real.

  The danger of allowing extremists ample room to thrive is that those who are discontent often fail to realize that such rhetoric can easily be turned against them. No one is immune to persecution. Once in power, narcissists, dictators, and oligarchs can and will pivot their views in an instant. Supporters can swiftly be labeled enemies if they demand too much or become interchangeable. The harrowing reality is that one’s potential victimization by extremists is beyond personal control; it is dictated by the leader. This is precisely why many believe it won’t happen to them. They ignore the scenario where they too could face discrimination and persecution. Frustrated and in scapegoating others, they lose sight of what lay ahead for their society—a situation reminiscent of the Germans in the 1930s, who could never fathom the atrocities that would unfold, especially against their neighbors, friends, or themselves.

  Vice President Vance is correct in asserting that we should not suppress divergent voices in society. If anything, we must know they are there so we aren’t taken aback when they fully manifest. We must continue to nurture a society where free speech is one of our greatest goods. Moreso we must be vigilant in defending the vulnerable and upholding our democratic values. We cannot remain passive when our legal principles are under attack, human rights are violated, or our collective humanity is put to the test. Ideally, we should act proactively to avert such crises. As we refrain from creating firewalls, we should ensure the public understands the potential dangers that hover on the horizon, and we must actively engage in moral combat to preserve our shared humanity. Only this will save us from an echo of the 1940’s. 

  18 February 2025

  current affairs, democracy, EU, Europe, free speech, history, holocaust, news, politics, trump, US Politics

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• The Labour Government’s Predicament: Navigating Treacherous Waters

  

  The Labour government finds itself grappling with a daunting array of challenges. Beyond the urgent need to address the budget deficit, they must also carve out their stance on a multitude of pressing issues: health care, defense, the alarming rise in (hate) crimes, crumbling infrastructure, a critical housing shortage, and the pursuit of environmental goals—while striving to keep the economy afloat. To put it mildly, the economy is struggling to stay above water; but why kick a country when it’s down? And let’s not kid ourselves; this list barely scratches the surface of the obstacles they face.

  Keir Starmer, alongside his ministers, is doing his utmost in these trying times. Yet, given the current geopolitical landscape, they may need to redouble their efforts. In recent months, Starmer and his finance minister have courted potential partners and investors to help revive the British economy. They have undertaken diplomatic missions to China and engaged with the new American president, Donald Trump. Today, Starmer finds himself in Brussels, attempting to rekindle relationships with European leaders in hopes of revisiting agreements after the tumultuous Brexit fallout. The British government seems to be aiming for the best of both worlds—a veritable bowl of cherries—with economic and political allies to choose from, ensuring that their ambitions rise to the forefront.

  However, the reality is that plans often go awry, sometimes through no fault of one’s own. President Trump announced trade tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China just this past weekend. In response, Canada and Mexico have promptly introduced their own tariffs on American products, strengthening their collaboration within North America. Meanwhile, China, having anticipated these moves, is expected to unveil its response to the new measures soon.

  Adding to the complexity, Trump recently declared his intention to impose tariffs on European products, citing, “The behavior of the EU is atrocious,” during a brief BBC interview, without providing any specifics on these alleged offenses. He hinted that Great Britain might face tariffs as well but left the door open for negotiations, suggesting that Britain could avoid such penalties if it complies with certain (unknown) demands from the United States.

  Let’s not overlook the contentious issue of NATO funding, which stands at the forefront of discussions regarding the U.S.’s role within the alliance. Alarmingly, there are whispers that the U.S. is contemplating the acquisition of Greenland—part of an NATO member country, Denmark—through force. This would represent an unprecedented crisis within the NATO alliance.

  So, the British government has some serious thinking to do. So far, it hasn’t demonstrated much strategic strength, and now it must navigate treacherous waters. This complex geopolitical situation doesn’t lend itself to cherry-picking; decisive action is essential. Britain finds itself between two colossal powerhouses: the United States and the EU. Aligning too closely with China carries its risks, to put it mildly, while the recent Canadian-Mexican alliance is still in its infancy and lacks the strength needed to support Britain effectively.

  Prime Minister Starmer, your challenge is clear: where will you turn for alliances in defense and economic growth—the U.S. or the EU? Attempting to play both sides may only prove ineffective, leaving the UK isolated, particularly if Trump’s policies persist. Tough times lie ahead, and the British government needs to adapt quickly. They’ve entered the big leagues now, with little room for maneuver. It’s time for blood, toil, tears, and sweat.   

  3 February 2025

  Britain, British government, current affairs, economy, EU, keir-starmer, labour-party, news, politics, tariffs, UK

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