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Ukraine's Energy Future: A Low-Carbon Path Forward

The brief focuses on Ukraine's energy sector, highlighting the need for increased investment to support the country's transition to a low-carbon economy. The Wachenheim Program at Brookings Institution is partnering with the Council on Foreign Relations to provide recommendations for U.S. policy towards Ukraine's energy sector. Experts such as Daniel Fried and Fiona Hill are advising policymakers on strategies to promote energy security, diversify Ukraine's energy mix, and enhance its resilience to Russian influence.

https://cfr.org/article/china-russia-ukraine-june-2025

US-UK Trade Talks Focus on Steel Tariffs

The US is negotiating remaining trade commitments with the UK, focusing on tariffs for steel and aluminum products, pharmaceuticals, and addressing national security concerns. Talks are also underway with Canada, Mexico, and the European Union to conclude agreements before a tariff deadline.

https://natlawreview.com/article/deadline-new-country-specific-reciprocal-tariff-rates-delayed-august-1-some-rate

BRICS Condemns Trump's Tariff Policies Amid Global Tensions

The BRICS group, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has emerged as an alternative to the G7 and G20 for multilateral diplomacy amid divisions and trade tensions. The bloc condemned the recent bombing of Iran and warned about rising tariffs threatening global trade. In a veiled criticism, leaders also mentioned Trump's tariff policies. Trump threatened to punish countries seeking BRICS membership, while Saudi Arabia has participated as a partner country despite not formally joining. Over 30 nations have expressed interest in joining the group, with Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, and the UAE already included.

https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/world-does-not-want-emperor-brazils-lula-after-trump-threatens-brics-tariff-8840347

BRICS Leaders Condemn US-Iran Conflict Escalation

India has not issued an official response to US President Donald Trump's comments about the BRICS group. Indonesia's senior economic minister Airlangga Hartarto is set to visit the US on Monday to oversee tariff talks. Malaysia, a partner country of BRICS, maintains its independent economic policies and is not focused on ideological alignment with the US. The BRICS group has presented itself as a haven for multilateral diplomacy amid global divisions and trade wars, with leaders condemning the recent bombing in Iran and warning about the threat of rising tariffs to global trade.

https://www.asiaone.com/world/lula-tells-trump-world-does-not-want-emperor-after-us-threatens-brics-tariff

China's Belt and Road Initiative Boosts People Exchanges

The Chinese government has emphasized the importance of people-to-people exchanges in building trust and fostering cooperation between nations, particularly with countries like Russia and Pakistan. This approach is exemplified by China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which aims to promote economic and cultural exchange through infrastructure development and educational programs. By engaging in active people-to-people interactions, China seeks to create a foundation for official-level dialogue and collaboration on regional issues such as trade, security, and climate change.

https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202507/1337897.shtml

Denmark Takes EU Presidency Amid Global Challenges

Denmark assumes the EU presidency at a critical moment, with President Metsola welcoming the move, stating that Denmark is well-placed to lead Europe by example. Prime Minister Frederiksen emphasized the need for Europe to take responsibility for its own security, investing in defence and supporting Ukraine's fight against Russia. She also stressed the importance of strengthening the EU's external borders to address migration issues, while pushing for a global green transition to tackle climate change and biodiversity crises. The EU's next long-term budget should be more flexible and focused on political priorities, according to Frederiksen.

https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/press-room/20250704IPR29448/meps-debate-the-danish-presidency-s-priorities-with-prime-minister-frederiksen

Macron's Visit Strengthens UK-France Military Ties

Britain and France are strengthening their military ties to support Ukraine in case of a ceasefire with Russia. The two countries aim to repair relations damaged by Brexit negotiations, which saw France play a tough role. French President Macron's visit to Britain includes pageantry and symbolism, such as a gun salute at Windsor Castle, before discussing economic issues and foreign affairs. British Prime Minister Starmer hopes to secure an asylum seekers' returns deal with Macron, where one migrant is deported to France in exchange for another with a legitimate claim. The two leaders will also discuss bilateral issues and support for Ukraine, including nuclear investment at Sizewell C.

https://www.brecorder.com/news/40371601/king-charles-hosts-macron-in-first-european-state-visit-since-brexit

Macron Visits UK Amid Brexit Tensions

French President Emmanuel Macron is set to embark on his first state visit to the UK since Brexit, marking a historic moment in relations between the two nations. During the visit, Macron will meet with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to discuss key issues such as aid to war-torn Ukraine, bolstering defence spending, and tackling irregular migration. The talks are expected to focus on finding a solution to the Channel migrant crisis, which has been a contentious issue in Britain. Macron's visit also includes meetings with King Charles and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle, where he will engage in discussions on shared values and threats, as well as co-hosting the 37th Franco-British Summit.

https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/nation/frances-macron-kicks-off-pomp-filled-uk-state-visit/article_0fcec707-3ae3-512d-91f9-8b2b5dc74621.html

Macron Visits UK for State Meeting with Charles III

King Charles III is hosting President Emmanuel Macron for a state visit starting Tuesday, where they will discuss strengthening their bilateral relationship and addressing issues such as aid to Ukraine and illegal migration. The visit comes after Macron's September 2023 trip to France, where the king described France as "an essential part" of his life. During the visit, Macron will address the British Parliament and co-chair a meeting on Ukraine with London, aiming to strengthen ties between the two countries post-Brexit.

https://www.firstpost.com/world/macron-starmer-meeting-france-uk-to-announce-plans-to-block-migrant-boats-in-english-channel-13904066.html