NewsFeed

Ukraine's Children Suffer Under Russian Aggression

Activists are demanding that international communities and governments take action to bring back deported Ukrainian children, investigate crimes against them, and hold Russia's military and leadership accountable for their treatment of children. The situation in Ukraine has resulted in at least 630 child deaths, 2,000 injuries, and the deportation of 20,000 children, with hundreds of thousands more losing homes, schools, and medical care. A Polish journalist, Krzysztof Gożełak, who was volunteering in Ukraine, died during the conflict.

https://www.ukrinform.net/rubric-society/3999537-in-warsaw-activists-highlight-issue-of-russia-targeting-ukrainian-children.html

UN Condemns Israel's Gaza Aid Blockade Tactics

The UN's human rights office (OHCHR) has condemned Israel for its actions against Palestinian aid seekers in southern Rafah and near the Netzarim corridor in central Gaza, where dozens of Palestinians were killed and 80 injured between May 27-31, 2025. The OHCHR stated that Israel's military humanitarian aid mechanisms violate international standards, endanger civilian populations, and contribute to a "catastrophic situation in Gaza". It also warned that restricting access to food and life-sustaining services can constitute war crimes, including genocide.

https://en.tempo.co/read/2013333/israel-destroys-north-gazas-only-dialysis-center-at-indonesian-hospital

US and China Lower Tariffs in Geneva Deal

The US and China agreed on May 12 to lower tariffs, reducing them from up to 145% to 30% for Chinese goods in the US and from 125% to 10% for Chinese imports into the US. The agreement was reached after discussions in Geneva, Switzerland. President Trump is set to speak with Chinese President Xi Jinping this week as part of a drive to "open" China's economy.

https://nypost.com/2025/06/02/us-news/trump-and-xi-to-talk-china-trade-war-after-us-president-rages-over-rare-earths-restriction/

US-China Trade Tensions Weigh on Hong Kong Markets

The offshore yuan weakened to 7.2060 per dollar, while the Hong Kong dollar hovered near its lower end of trading band. Chinese and Hong Kong shares declined due to US tariff concerns, with the Hang Seng Tech Index losing 0.7% and property subindex declining 1.4%. Local property firm New World Development plummeted 6.9%, while car makers Li Auto (-2.3%), Nio (-2.5%), and BYD (-1.9%) also suffered losses amid ongoing price war concerns. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent mentioned that Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping will discuss trade issues, including a dispute over critical minerals.

https://www.brecorder.com/news/40365852/hk-listed-chinese-shares-near-one-month-low-offshore-yuan-weakens-on-tariff-concerns

US-China Trade Truce Hits Unexpected Snag

The US and China have agreed to a 90-day truce on tariffs, but tensions remain high. The Commerce Ministry stated that China has violated the agreement, citing President Trump's recent comments as "serious" violations. In response, Trump said he will speak with Chinese President Xi Jinping, while also accusing China of breaking the deal. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick have defended the US position, claiming China is "slow rolling" the agreement. The truce has left tariffs higher than before, creating uncertainty for businesses and investors.

https://www.ocregister.com/2025/06/02/china-us-trade-war/

US-China Trade War Truce Temporarily Suspended Tariffs

The US and China have agreed to a 90-day truce on tariffs, following a joint statement that paused the escalation of their trade war. The deal includes a significant reduction in tariffs, with the US dropping its 145% tax rate to 30% and China lowering its tariff rate on US goods from 125% to 10%. However, this agreement has raised concerns about whether it will last, leaving businesses and investors uncertain about the future of trade between the two nations.

https://apnews.com/article/china-trade-us-student-visas-2ae671996444c9cd64d635d1b832a340

Von der Leyen and Graham Unite Against Russia's Oil Exports

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and US Senator Lindsey Graham discussed measures to limit Russia's ability to transport oil, as well as pressure over the abduction of 20,000 Ukrainian children by Russia. The EU has imposed sanctions on nearly 200 Russian vessels, while the US Senate plans to consider new sanctions ahead of a G7 summit in Canada from June 15-17.

https://www.ukrinform.net/rubric-polytics/3999777-von-der-leyen-senator-graham-discuss-sanctions-against-russia.html

Zelenskiy Meets Russian Officials in Istanbul Talks

Russia controls approximately 113,100 square km of Ukraine, roughly the size of Ohio. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has agreed to meet with Russian officials in Istanbul, led by Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, as part of a second round of talks. Kyiv is bolstered by its success under operation "Spider's web", which destroyed at least 40 Russian bombers. Zelenskiy reiterated Ukraine's positions, including an unconditional ceasefire and the return of Ukrainian children taken to Russia. However, Moscow's demands for Ukrainian forces to withdraw from claimed territory remain unpalatable. In Istanbul, Ukrainian negotiators will present a proposed roadmap for reaching a lasting peace settlement, which includes no restrictions on military strength, reparations for Ukraine, and no international recognition of Russian sovereignty over parts of Ukraine. The US is watching from the sidelines as President Donald Trump's efforts to broker a peace deal appear unsuccessful, with his recent sanction threat and Oval Office meeting with Zelenskiy yielding little progress.

https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/what-ukraines-attacks-on-russian-airbases-mean-for-peace-talks-in-istanbul-8568838

Zelensky Urges Stronger NATO at Vilnius Summit

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the importance of a strong NATO during his opening remarks at the summit in Vilnius, urging Europe to maintain its own security and seeking support from US leaders, including President Trump. He stressed that defending freedom together is a common duty among Europe, America, and those who value it, and that Russia should not have veto power over NATO decisions or influence on the Alliance.

https://www.fakti.bg/en/world/975603-zelensky-putin-has-no-place-in-deciding-nato-s-future