Indonesia's Sugiono criticizes Israel for its actions in the occupied Palestinian territory, citing violations of international law including closure of humanitarian aid access, destruction of civilian facilities, and forced expulsion of Gazans. He argues that these actions damage the principles of the UN Charter and Geneva Conventions, and that Israel's rejection of its legal obligations as a UN member is a "blatant violation of international law". Sugiono also highlights the Israeli attack on an Indonesian Hospital in Gaza in 2023, which he says contravenes the protection of hospitals, medical personnel, and patients. He urges Israel to facilitate humanitarian assistance and calls for the ICJ to uphold justice for Palestinians, citing Indonesia's support for their right to self-determination as a fundamental principle in modern international law.
https://en.tempo.co/read/2002572/indonesia-accuses-israel-of-violating-international-law-at-icjThailand has cut its economic growth forecast to 2.1 per cent due to the impact of US tariffs and a global slowdown. The country's exports, a key driver of growth, are expected to rise 2.3 per cent this year, down from an earlier forecast of 4.4 per cent. Thailand is negotiating with the US to reduce its tariff rate, which could be as high as 36 per cent if negotiations fail. If the government accelerates budget spending, growth could reach up to 2.5 per cent this year.
https://channelnewsasia.com/business/thailand-finance-ministry-cuts-2025-growth-forecast-21-5102311Thailand's finance minister, Pichai Chunhavajira, expects the country to face temporary economic "air pockets" due to US tariffs, which could reach 36% if negotiations fail. Thailand plans to negotiate with its trade competitors to align its tariffs more closely, aiming for equal levels. The moratorium on US tariffs is set to expire in July, posing a significant challenge to Thailand's economy.
https://www.brecorder.com/news/40360480/thailand-to-seek-tariffs-similar-to-trade-competitors-minister-saysThe US and Ukraine have signed a minerals deal, marking a new commitment to Kyiv from the Trump administration. The agreement secures Ukraine's sovereignty over its rare earths, vital for new technologies, after President Donald Trump initially demanded rights to Ukraine's mineral wealth as compensation for billions of dollars in US weapons sent under former president Joe Biden. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent hailed the deal as a commitment to lasting peace and prosperity in Ukraine, while Prime Minister Denys Shmygal described it as "good, equal and beneficial." The agreement establishes a Reconstruction Investment Fund with 50% voting rights for both sides, financing mineral and oil and gas projects, and ensuring Ukraine retains control over its subsoil, infrastructure, and natural resources.
https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2025/05/01/us-ukraine-ink-minerals-deal-after-delay-with-trump-tying-aid-to-access/175114Ukraine and the United States have reached a strategic investment partnership deal, with President Donald Trump framing it as protecting American interests and Ukraine viewing it as security-enhancing. The agreement is separate from peace talks and aims to provide significant investments, exceeding $350 billion in theory. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was expected to sign the deal but had cut short his visit due to Trump's sudden departure. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that the agreement signals a commitment to a peaceful Ukraine, while US State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce praised its "perfect" nature due to its business-savvy approach led by President Trump.
https://en.mercopress.com/2025/05/01/us-ukraine-strike-strategic-minerals-deal#commentsChina's foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated that there have been no consultations or negotiations with the US on tariffs. However, US President Trump claimed in a recent interview that his administration was discussing a tariff deal with China, citing a call from Chinese President Xi Jinping. Beijing has repeatedly denied these talks, accusing the US of misleading the public. The situation remains tense, with the US imposing 145% tariffs on Chinese products and China responding with 125% duties on US imports. Trump expressed optimism about reaching a deal, but emphasized that it would be on his administration's terms and must be fair.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1307114-us-reaches-out-to-china-to-talk-tariffs-says-state-mediaUS President Donald Trump acknowledged that tariffs could lead to a decrease in consumer goods, such as dolls, but believes the long-term impact will hurt China more than the US. He suggested Americans should adjust their consumption patterns to counter Beijing's trade practices, citing the nation's reliance on inexpensive Chinese imports. Trump downplayed concerns about potential recession and price spikes, saying his approach is the right path forward. In contrast, economists and retail leaders have warned of supply chain disruptions and shortages due to tariffs. Trump blamed his predecessor Joe Biden for the current economic downturn, claiming his tariff measures are putting pressure on China's manufacturing sector.
https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/kids-will-have-2-dolls-instead-of-30-trump-downplays-trade-war-impact-8302521The Trump administration has reached out to China through multiple channels to discuss the 145% tariffs imposed on Beijing, according to Yuyuan Tantian. However, China's foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun denied any consultations or negotiations between the two countries on tariffs, contradicting US President Donald Trump's statement that he had spoken with Chinese President Xi Jinping about a tariff deal.
https://www.brecorder.com/news/40360471/us-has-reached-out-to-china-to-talk-tariffs-state-media-saysUS President Donald Trump's imposition of tariffs has led Korean businesses to intensify their lobbying efforts in Washington, with his son Donald Trump Jr. recently meeting with business leaders in Seoul amid concerns over the impact on exports. The US government has denied pushing for a conclusion to tariff talks, as the president's first 100 days have had a significant effect on South Korea's export-driven economy, highlighting the urgent need for a tariff deal.
https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2025-05-02/opinion/columns/Trumps-first-100-days-Art-of-the-deal-or-just-chaos/2298370