Region
East Asia
Spy Balloon Incident Roils China-US Relations Ahead of Blinken Trip
By Shannon Tiezzi
The U.S. military announced it was tracking a surveillance balloon from China over the continental United States.
What’s Behind Proposed Changes to US Marine Deployments in Okinawa?
By Christopher Edward Carroll
Japan and the U.S. are actively taking note of changes in China’s naval and air capabilities in the region and making changes of their own.
China and Ethiopia: The Addis Light Train Stuck in Slow Motion
By Istvan Tarrosy and Zoltan Voros
Sub-Saharan Africa’s first inner-city tram project was hailed as historic in 2015. Seven years later, it faces more problems than ever.
North Korean Defectors in China Can’t Get COVID-19 Vaccines, Treatments
By Lee Chae Un
As China’s COVID-19 case counts soar, “North Korean defectors in China can’t receive treatment even if they are infected,” one source said.
Is China a ‘Paper Tiger’?
By Karman Lucero
Xi Jinping’s focus on ideological struggle will not help overcome the long-term problems that constrain China’s potential.
North Korea Reaffirms ‘Nuke for Nuke’ Stance Against US
By Mitch Shin
Two days after the U.S. defense secretary’s visit to Seoul, the North Korean Foreign Ministry’s spokesperson published a statement to denounce Washington’s moves.
Taiwan Cabinet Reshuffle Sets the Stage for 2024 Presidential Elections
By Brian Hioe
With President Tsai's term coming to an end next year, the DPP's cabinet reshuffle sends hints about the next generation of party leadership.
NATO Chief Wants More Indo-Pacific ‘Friends’ as Russia, China Move Closer
By Mari Yamaguchi and Haruka Nuga
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg is visiting Japan and South Korea this week, part of a push to solidify NATO's ties with Indo-Pacific countries.
Opposition Leader Lee Jae-myung at the Center of Criminal Probes
By Chelsie Alexandre
In an unprecedented move, the leader of South Korea’s main opposition party has been summoned for questioning.
Lula and Latin America’s Great China Debate
By Filipe Porto
Great power competition is increasingly playing out in Latin America, even as Brazil’s new president seeks a return to regional unity.
Russian Embassy Says North Korea Lifted Lockdown in Pyongyang
By Kim Tong-hyung
Last week, the embassy said that North Korea's capital was under an “intensified anti-epidemic period.”
Will Suga Yoshihide Make a Comeback?
By Jio Kamata
As Prime Minister Kishida fights flagging approval ratings, his predecessor is testing the political waters.