地緣政治

Lai Ching-te: Meaning of 'Taiwan Independence' is that Taiwan Does Not Belong to the PRC

台灣總統賴清德闡明，「台獨」的意涵即「中華民國與中華人民共和國互不隸屬」，強調台灣主權獨立於中華人民共和國之外。

Iran Tightens Grip on Strait of Hormuz, Formally Announces New Management Authority

Amid reports of conflict with the US and Israel, Iran has officially announced the establishment of the 'Persian Gulf Strait Authority.' This new body aims to manage the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has reportedly effectively blockaded. The move suggests an intent to charge passage fees, posing a significant challenge to global energy security.

G7 Finance Ministers Meeting in Paris Focuses on Global Economic Imbalances and Trade Frictions

G7 finance ministers convened in Paris to address global economic tensions and trade frictions. Core agenda items include tackling structural global economic imbalances (cited as China's under-consumption, U.S. over-consumption, and Europe's under-investment) and coordinating to reduce dependency on China for critical minerals and rare earths. These resources are vital for strategic industries like electric vehicles, renewable energy, and defense.

From Zero to 5 Million Drones Annually: Ukraine Rewrites the Rules of Warfare

During the war with Russia, Ukraine built a drone industry from scratch, achieving an annual production capacity of 5 million units by 2025. By forming an ecosystem of private manufacturers through state initiatives like Brave1, Ukraine rapidly developed low-cost interceptor drones. This strategy provides a significant cost advantage against expensive enemy drones, establishing a new model for asymmetric warfare. This success has influenced the European defense industry, fostering partnerships with Ukrainian companies and attracting investment from the EU's defense fund.

Axios: Trump Aides Worry China May Attack Taiwan Within 5 Years

Japan's Defense White Paper to Mention Chinese Military Drills Around Taiwan: Report

Israel Airstrikes Southern Lebanon Despite Ceasefire Extension

儘管以黎停火協議延長45天，以色列仍對黎巴嫩南部超過20個村莊發動大規模空襲，真主黨亦發動反擊，衝突持續。

Xi Jinping Praises Fruitful Results of China-Russia Cooperation Ahead of Putin's Visit

俄羅斯總統普丁訪中前夕，中國國家主席習近平高度評價兩國合作成果，預示雙方將進一步深化全面戰略協作夥伴關係。

Trump: Xi Jinping Agrees Iran Must Reopen Strait of Hormuz

美國總統川普表示，中國國家主席習近平同意伊朗須重新開放荷莫茲海峽，但中方未明確表示將介入。

Shen You-chung: Taiwan Only Has the Problem of 'Being Unified'

Shen You-chung, Deputy Minister of Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council, emphasized that Taiwan does not have an 'independence' problem, but rather a problem of 'being unified' by authoritarian China. He stated that the government's stance is consistent: to diligently maintain the status quo where the Republic of China and the People's Republic of China are not subordinate to each other.

Financial Times: As Summer Peak Nears, Iran's Energy Crisis Enters a New Phase

The global energy crisis is entering a new phase, exacerbated by the impending summer energy demand peak in the Northern Hemisphere and export disruptions from the Strait of Hormuz due to the US-Iran conflict. Analysts warn that Brent crude prices could surge to $180 per barrel, triggering high inflation and economic recession. Currently, global daily oil consumption far exceeds production, causing a rapid decline in emergency reserves, with nearly 80 countries implementing emergency measures. The petrochemical and aviation industries are hit hardest, and a global recession may be unavoidable if the conflict persists.

Middle East War Day 78: USS Ford Sets Deployment Record; Latest Developments at a Glance

美伊戰爭進入第78天，美國航母「福特號」結束創紀錄的長期部署返航，與此同時，荷莫茲海峽的持續封鎖導致全球石油庫存銳減，威脅全球經濟穩定。

Miles Yu: Xi Jinping Has No Intention of Solving US-China Issues, Uses Taiwan as a Shield

Miles Yu, a key former advisor on China policy to the Trump administration, analyzed the recent Trump-Xi meeting, stating that while the U.S. sought to resolve concrete issues like trade, the CCP had no such intention, leading Xi Jinping to extensively use the Taiwan issue as a 'shield.'

Australian Media Applauds Taiwan's Push for Non-Red Supply Chain Amid Concerns Over Chinese Control of Rare Earths

As the Australian Treasurer orders Chinese-linked investors to sell their stakes in rare earths developer Northern Minerals, a delegation from Taiwan's Ministry of Economic Affairs is visiting Australia. The visit, aimed at exploring investment in Australia's critical minerals and rare earths sector, is seen as a timely move in Taiwan's effort to build a 'non-red supply chain' for essential materials used in semiconductors and defense.

Jensen Huang: China Will Eventually Import US AI Chips, Taiwan Remains Core to Semiconductor Manufacturing

In a Bloomberg TV interview, NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang expressed his expectation that the Chinese market will eventually open up to importing U.S. AI chips. While he did not personally discuss the sale of H200 chips with Chinese officials, he acknowledged the topic was raised in high-level U.S.-China talks. Huang also stressed that Taiwan will remain the core of global semiconductor manufacturing due to immense demand, even as the U.S. boosts its domestic production.

Taiwan President Affirms Defending Status Quo; US State Department Confirms No Change in Taiwan Policy

Following comments by US President Trump on arms sales to Taiwan, President Lai Ching-te emphasized defending the Republic of China's status quo, stating there is no "Taiwan independence" issue. The US State Department responded by reaffirming its policy toward Taiwan remains unchanged, aiming to stabilize the region and confirm the continuity of US security commitments under the Taiwan Relations Act.

Middle East Tensions Deepen Manufacturing Risks: 91% of SMEs Feel Impact, Facing Soaring Raw Material Costs, Procurement Difficulties, and Inability to Produce Despite Orders

A survey by NC Network reveals that 91.1% of small and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises (SMEs) are feeling the effects of the situation in the Middle East. Rising costs for electricity and raw materials like aluminum, resin, and steel are squeezing profits. Furthermore, procurement difficulties have led to a critical situation where companies have orders but are unable to produce, exposing the harsh realities on the factory floor.

Shen Yu-chung on Cross-Strait Relations After Trump-Xi Meeting: Taiwan Strives to Maintain Status Quo

MAC Deputy Minister Shen Yu-chung stated that after the Trump-Xi meeting, U.S. policy toward Taiwan remains unchanged, and Taiwan will strive to maintain the status quo, continuing to cooperate with allies like the United States to ensure peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

U.S. House Speaker Johnson Supports Taiwan Showing Strength, Concerned About Arms Sales Progress

U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson, in an interview, expressed support for Taiwan's need to "show strength" and reassert its independence. He affirmed that U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, based on the Taiwan Relations Act, are a critical deterrent for maintaining regional peace and that Congress will remain firm in its support for Taiwan against potential Chinese aggression.

Chinese Man Arrested by Norwegian Police for Espionage Activities

US Media: Cuba Acquires Over 300 Military Drones, US Assessing Threat

After Trump-Xi Meeting, Iran Appoints Parliament Speaker as Special Representative for China Affairs

Philippine Vice President's Impeachment Trial to Begin, Showdown Between Two Major Families Intensifies

Zelenskyy Warns Moscow is Assessing Attack on NATO Country from Belarus

烏克蘭總統澤倫斯基警告，俄羅斯正評估從白俄羅斯領土發動攻擊，目標可能包含烏克蘭北部或北約國家。

U.S. Suspends Participation in Joint Defense Board, Citing Canada's Failure to Meet Defense Spending Commitments

The Trump administration has announced the suspension of its participation in the Permanent Joint Board on Defence (PJBD), a US-Canada committee with over 80 years of history, due to Canada's failure to meet its defense spending commitments. This move is seen as another pressure tactic by the White House, adding new uncertainty to the already tense trade and security relationship. The decision could impact areas such as the modernization of NORAD and Canada's re-evaluation of its F-35 fighter jet procurement.

Indefinite Troop Presence, Veto Power on Foreign Investment: NYT Reveals Trump's Greenland Demands

According to The New York Times, the U.S. under the Trump administration is seeking to secure an indefinite military presence in Greenland and wants effective veto power over any major foreign investment deals, which has sparked significant sovereignty concerns in Greenland.

$14 Billion Arms Sale to Taiwan Pending; Representative to US Says Communication is Good

In response to U.S. President Trump's statement that a decision on a $14 billion arms sale to Taiwan would be made soon, Taiwan's representative to the U.S., Yu Ta-hsieh, stated in an interview with American media that communication between Taiwan and the U.S. regarding Taiwan's defense needs is good and ongoing. He emphasized that maintaining peace in the Taiwan Strait is critically important for the global economy.

US Senator: China Will Face Full US Sanctions and Tariffs if It Invades Taiwan

U.S. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham stated he will promote legislation to impose comprehensive economic sanctions and tariffs on China from day one if it forcibly invades Taiwan. He emphasized this as a powerful deterrent measure, underscoring the U.S.'s responsibility to ensure Taiwan's security.

India's Imports from BRICS Nations Soar, Widening Trade Deficit

Over the past five years, India's trade with BRICS nations has grown rapidly, but its trade deficit has nearly doubled due to a surge in imports. The main drivers are increased crude oil imports from Russia and a significant deficit with China, highlighting India's sharply increasing reliance on imports from the bloc.

Sino-Japanese Relations Sour, Beijing and Shanghai Film Festivals Cancel Japan Film Week

Deteriorating Sino-Japanese relations, reportedly triggered by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's (as cited in original text) remarks on a "Taiwan contingency," have led to the cancellation of the long-standing "Japan Film Week" at both the Beijing and Shanghai international film festivals. This is a significant example of geopolitical tensions directly impacting cultural exchange.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs: US Policy on Taiwan Unchanged, Taiwan is the Party Maintaining the Status Quo

In response to discussions about a 'Trump-Xi meeting,' Taiwan's Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Ming-chi stressed that fundamental U.S. policy toward Taiwan, based on the Taiwan Relations Act and Six Assurances, has not changed. Chen asserted that it is China, not Taiwan, that is attempting to alter the peaceful and stable status quo in the Taiwan Strait, and added that communication channels between Taiwan and the U.S. remain robust.

Russian Drone Reportedly Hits Chinese-Owned Cargo Ship Ahead of Putin-Xi Meeting

On the eve of Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to Beijing to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Ukraine has claimed that a Russian drone struck a Chinese-owned cargo ship, the 'KSL Deyang', in the Black Sea. The incident, which resulted in no injuries, adds a complex element to the Sino-Russian relationship.

Xi Jinping to Meet Putin; US Expert Says Taiwan is a Potential Issue

Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit China to meet with President Xi Jinping. A US expert analyzes that the Taiwan issue is a potential topic for this "Xi-Putin meeting." The analysis suggests that China may seek more fossil fuel agreements with Russia, particularly an expansion of oil pipeline capacity to China, with the aim of ensuring its energy supply security in the event of a future conflict in the Taiwan Strait. Since the start of the Ukraine war in 2022, Sino-Russian bilateral trade has hit record highs, with China purchasing large quantities of Russian crude oil, thereby funding Russia's war machine. This move is seen as a strategic preparation by China for a potential Taiwan Strait crisis.

Japanese Scholar Analyzes Trump-Xi Meeting: China's Upgraded Protocol Shows Urgency to Improve Relations

Japanese international politics scholar Kazuo Asano analyzed that in the recent Trump-Xi meeting, China's significant upgrade in reception protocol highlights Beijing's strong emphasis and urgency in improving US-China relations. Asano argues that the US has abandoned its past expectation that China would liberalize as it grew economically, and now approaches the relationship from a perspective of strategic utility.

Analysis: Xi Jinping's New Positioning for China-US Relations Meets with Discrepancy from the United States

An analysis by the Hong Kong Economic Times suggests that while Chinese President Xi Jinping has proposed building a "constructive strategic and stable relationship," the U.S. has not publicly endorsed it. This reflects America's unwillingness to accept a "bipolar political" structure of equals with China, highlighting a fundamental structural difference between the two nations.

Taiwan's Legislative Yuan President Meets UK House of Commons Speaker in a First for Parliamentary Diplomacy

Influential US Senator: Support for Taiwan's Self-Defense and Arms Sales Ensure Status Quo

DPP: Government's Cross-Strait Policy Has Always Been Clear and Consistent – to Maintain the Status Quo

民進黨重申其兩岸政策始終是「維持現狀」，並指中國是破壞現狀的一方，強調將透過強化自我防衛及與美日同盟合作來嚇阻威脅。

Nearly 300 Russian Firms at China-Russia Expo; Russia Advocates for Mutual Technology Transfer

At the 10th China-Russia Expo in Harbin, nearly 300 Russian companies participated. Russian Deputy Prime Minister Yuri Trutnev stated that the two nations should continue mutual technology transfers to create development opportunities, signaling deepening economic and technological cooperation.

5 Chinese Warships, 10 Aircraft Harass Taiwan; Monitored by Armed Forces

Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense reported that within the last 24 hours, it detected 5 Chinese warships and 10 Chinese military aircraft crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait, intruding into the surrounding airspace. The armed forces are closely monitoring the situation.

US-Cuba Tensions Escalate; Cuban President Warns of "Bloody Consequences" from US Military Action

Amid escalating tensions following new US sanctions on Cuba, President Díaz-Canel warned of a "river of blood" if the US were to attack. The situation intensified after reports that Cuba has acquired over 300 military drones from Russia and Iran, potentially considering them for use against US targets.

US Ambassador to China: Trump Stated to Xi That US Policy on Taiwan Remains Unchanged

US Ambassador to China, David Perdue, clarified in a CNBC interview that President Trump has explicitly stated to Chinese President Xi Jinping that US policy towards Taiwan will not change. Perdue emphasized that the Trump administration fully supports the Taiwan Relations Act, the Three Joint Communiqués, and the Six Assurances, maintaining a stance of not supporting Taiwanese independence but opposing any form of coercion. He noted that arms sales to Taiwan approved by President Trump are 50% greater than those of any president since 1979, describing this as a clear policy to maintain regional peace and stability.

Taiwan's Representative to the Netherlands Writes to Dutch Media: Excluding Taiwan from WHO is an International Loss

Tanaka Hikaru, Taiwan's representative to the Netherlands, published a letter in the Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, urging the international community to support Taiwan's participation in the World Health Organization (WHO). He argued that excluding Taiwan, with its 23.5 million people and advanced medical system, is not only unfair but also a loss for global public health. The letter refutes China's distorted interpretation of UN Resolution 2758 and highlights Taiwan's contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic and in humanitarian aid to Ukraine, positioning Taiwan as a responsible international partner whose inclusion would strengthen global health resilience.

US-Iran Talks Stall as Trump Says He's Not Considering Concessions to Tehran

U.S. President Trump told the New York Post that he is "not open" to making any concessions to Tehran following a disappointing response from Iran regarding peace deal negotiations. Trump suggested Iran knows "what's going to happen," signaling a hardening stance and indicating that further U.S. pressure is possible.

Heated Exchange at Beijing EU-China Forum; Both Sides Accuse Each Other of Protectionism and Bullying

At a sub-forum of the 2026 EU-China Forum in Beijing, diplomats, officials, and experts from both sides engaged in a heated dispute over trade issues. Jens Eskelund, President of the EU Chamber of Commerce in China, highlighted a severe trade imbalance, metaphorically describing a ship full of containers heading to Europe but returning almost empty. He refuted claims of European protectionism, pointing to China as the protectionist country. EU Ambassador to China Jorge Toledo mentioned that the EU's 'Industrial Acceleration Act' was under attack by the Chinese side. This incident reflects the rapid deterioration of EU-China relations and signals a potential for larger-scale trade conflicts, especially as the EU seeks a tougher trade stance on China.

Solomon Islands' New Cabinet Announced; Former PM Rick Hou, Who Supported Ties with Taiwan, Appointed Foreign Minister

The new cabinet of the Solomon Islands has been formed, with former Prime Minister Rick Hou, who previously supported diplomatic ties with Taiwan, appointed as Foreign Minister, and China critic Peter Kenilorea Jr. also taking a key post. This development suggests a potential shift in the political landscape of the Solomon Islands, which has the closest relationship with Beijing in the South Pacific.

5 PLA Warships, 7 Aircraft Detected Around Taiwan; Monitored by Armed Forces

Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND) announced on the 18th that within the last 24 hours, it detected 5 Chinese naval vessels and 7 military aircraft operating around Taiwan, with the aircraft crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait. The Armed Forces are closely monitoring the situation with task aircraft, vessels, and shore-based missile systems.

Appearing in Geneva on the Eve of WHA, Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung States: 'Will Not Give Up Any Opportunity to Speak for Taiwan'

US Venture Capitalist Criticized for Underestimating Situation After Claiming 'Taiwan Won't Matter in 18 Months'

President: Defending ROC Status Quo, No 'Taiwan Independence' Issue

Trump Concludes Beijing Trip; Reuters Says US-China Relations Return to a Stable Stalemate

Iran Threatens Fees on Hormuz Strait Submarine Cables; Internet Disruption Risk Emerges as New Strategic Tool

US Congressional Support for Taiwan Reaffirmed Post-Trump-Xi Meeting, Highlighting Bilateral Importance

川習會後，美國國會議員重申對台支持，強調台美在經貿與民主價值上的重要夥伴關係。

US Scholars: Trump's Remarks Could Escalate Risks; Arms Sales to Taiwan Help Avoid Conflict

美國學者批評前總統川普將對台軍售視為「談判籌碼」的言論，強調持續軍售有助於嚇阻衝突，維護台海和平。

Iranian State Media: European Nations Initiating Talks on Strait of Hormuz Passage Agreement

伊朗在與美以衝突後，正與歐洲國家就荷莫茲海峽的通行權進行談判，顯示其已開始建立新的海峽管理秩序並收取通行費。

Belarus Conducts Nuclear Weapons Drill, Simulating Wartime Munitions Deployment with Russian Forces

Belarus has announced the start of military drills in cooperation with Russian forces to simulate the deployment of nuclear weapons in a combat scenario. The exercises are designed to test preparations for the use of tactical nuclear weapons, which Russia has stationed in the country, and include procedures for their delivery. Although Minsk claims the drills are not aimed at any specific country, the move is seen as heightening regional tensions.

Asian Stocks Mostly Lower as Market Eyes Middle East Developments

Amid ongoing market concerns over developments in the Middle East, including stalled negotiations between the U.S. and Iran, most Asian stock markets closed lower on the 18th. This continues the recent downward trend, compounded by rising international oil prices. Major markets including Tokyo, Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Taipei all registered losses. Investors are now looking ahead to the G7 finance ministers' meeting and NVIDIA's quarterly earnings report.

Xinhua: 'Constructive Strategic Stability' is the Most Important Consensus Between Xi and Trump

China's state news agency, Xinhua, elaborated that the 'constructive and strategically stable relationship' agreed upon by President Xi Jinping and President Trump serves as a new positioning for Sino-US relations. It is deemed the 'most important political consensus,' while emphasizing that the Taiwan issue is the core of China's core interests, requiring the US to act cautiously and adhere to the 'one-China principle.'

Merkel Urges Europe to Wield Diplomatic Power, Says Ukraine Deal Shouldn't Be Left to Trump Alone

Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel stated that Europe should play a more active diplomatic role in ending the Russia-Ukraine war and should not leave the peace agreement solely in the hands of former U.S. President Donald Trump. While acknowledging the correctness of military support for Ukraine, she stressed the importance of diplomacy and regretted that Europe has not fully utilized its diplomatic potential. This statement reflects European concerns about future geopolitical shifts, especially in the context of potential U.S. policy changes.

Iran Allows More Ships Through, Hormuz Strait Tanker Traffic Sees Slight Rise

Following a new low since the US-Iran conflict, vessel traffic in the Strait of Hormuz recovered slightly last week, nearing its wartime average. Iran announced it permitted over 30 ships to pass but also warned that traffic "will not return to its pre-war state," indicating continued high geopolitical risk. According to Kpler data, ships bound for China and India are more common, while those heading to Western countries are relatively few.

Putin to Make State Visit to China, Hopes for Closer Bilateral Ties

Ahead of his state visit to China, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his hope to deepen the partnership between the two nations to safeguard global security and stability. He emphasized that the two countries cooperate based on mutual understanding and trust and are actively collaborating within multilateral institutions like the UN.

Canadian MP Michael Chong Visits Taiwan Despite Chinese Threats, to Meet President Lai and Demonstrate Democratic Solidarity

Canadian Conservative MP and Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs, Michael Chong, is visiting Taiwan to meet with President Lai Ching-te. Chong stated that the visit aims to show democratic solidarity in the face of Chinese threats and to assert Canadian sovereignty, following warnings from the Chinese ambassador against such trips.

Responding to Middle East Conflict, Pakistan Deploys Fighter Jets and 8,000 Troops to Saudi Arabia: Reuters

Under a mutual defense agreement, Pakistan has reportedly deployed 8,000 troops, a fighter squadron, and an air defense system to Saudi Arabia. This move strengthens military cooperation with Saudi Arabia, even as Pakistan acts as a key mediator in the U.S.-Iran conflict. The deployment, funded by Saudi Arabia, includes approximately 16 JF-17 Thunder jets co-developed with China, two drone squadrons, and a Chinese HQ-9 air defense system.

Marcos Jr.: Philippines Does Not Want to Be Involved in Taiwan Strait Conflict, Supports Peaceful Resolution

Ahead of his state visit to Japan, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stated that if a conflict breaks out in the Taiwan Strait, the Philippines will inevitably be affected due to its geographical proximity and the presence of about 200,000 Filipino citizens in Taiwan. He emphasized that the Philippines does not wish to be drawn into any potential conflict and supports a peaceful resolution. While continuing its "One-China" policy, strengthening defense cooperation with Japan will also be a key topic.

U.S. Military Participates in Training on Miyako Island for the First Time in Joint Exercise with Japan's SDF

The U.S. military has joined a joint exercise with Japan's Self-Defense Forces on Miyako Island for the first time. This Ground-SDF comprehensive exercise aims to enhance the readiness and interoperability of the U.S.-Japan alliance in the southwestern islands.

People's Daily Promotes Higher-Level China-Russia Partnership Ahead of Putin's Visit

Ahead of Russian President Vladimir Putin's state visit to China, Chinese state media outlet People's Daily published a commentary emphasizing the goal of elevating the China-Russia "comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era" to a new level. The article reviews the frequent interactions between the leaders, the establishment of various cooperation mechanisms, and the deepening of political mutual trust. Economically, Sino-Russian trade reached $227.9 billion in 2025, with China being Russia's largest trade partner for 16 consecutive years. Geopolitically, the two nations are closely coordinating within multilateral frameworks like the UN to jointly promote a multipolar world.

Taiwan Stocks Plunge Over 1,000 Points in Early Trading as TSMC Drops NT$50

Driven by unresolved US-Iran tensions and rising international oil prices, the Taiwanese stock market experienced a significant downturn in early trading on the 18th, falling below the 41,000-point mark to a low of 40,170.17. The drop of 1,002.19 points tested the 40,000-point psychological level and the monthly moving average. Market bellwether TSMC led the decline, falling NT$50 to NT$2,215. Other major electronics stocks, including Delta, MediaTek, and Foxconn, also saw significant drops, reflecting heightened market anxiety over geopolitical risks.

Washington Post Column: Trump Turns Pragmatic on China, Urges Against Full US-China Decoupling

Trump Warns Iran of Annihilation Without a Deal, Situation Room Meeting Reportedly Planned

Lee Hsien Loong to Visit Guangxi and Shanghai from 18th, First Visit to China in 1.5 Years

Trump Made No Commitments on Taiwan at Xi Meeting, U.S. Official Says, Aligning with Strategic Ambiguity Policy

May 17: Impacts of US-Iran War on International Economy, Financial Markets, and Livelihoods

一場虛構的美伊戰爭導致油價飆漲與運輸中斷，擴大印度貿易逆差並影響美國政治，同時美國對俄羅斯石油制裁豁免到期將衝擊印度等買家。

World's Largest Aircraft Carrier, USS Ford, Returns to the US After Record 326-Day Longest Mission

全球最大航空母艦「福特號」在完成長達326天的任務後返抵美國，創下越戰以來美國航母打擊群最長的部署紀錄。

Egypt and Eritrea Sign Pioneering Agreement to Solidify Status as a Eurasian Maritime Hub

埃及與厄利垂亞簽署海上運輸合作協議，旨在強化紅海航道安全，可能降低全球航運成本並鞏固埃及的歐亞海運樞紐地位。

NATO Chief to Urge European Defense Firms to Boost Production Capacity

北約秘書長將敦促歐洲軍火商提升產能，以強化國防、應對美國要求並減少對其依賴。

Good Morning World: Over 50 Countries Support Taiwan's WHA Participation; President Lai Says Taiwan Can Contribute More if Included

This news digest covers several key topics. On the diplomatic front, over 50 nations support Taiwan's participation in the WHA. In economic security, Australia has blocked Chinese-linked shareholders from the rare earths company Northern Minerals on national interest grounds, while the EU plans to reduce its supply chain reliance on China. These moves signal a significant global trend of de-risking from China, an important signal for businesses. Other news includes the reaffirmation of US policy towards Taiwan, Taiwan's drone development strategy, and the selection of the Taiwanese film 'The Dull-Ice Flower' at Cannes.

International Oil Prices Rise Amid Renewed Doubts Over US-Iran Talks

International oil prices climbed as market doubts resurfaced regarding the prospects of peace talks between the United States and Iran. New York's WTI crude settled at $108.66 per barrel, while London's Brent crude reached $112.10, reflecting geopolitical risk affecting the energy market.

Shen Yu-chung: Issue of Taiwan Independence Does Not Exist, ROC Established 115 Years Ago

Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) Deputy Minister Shen Yu-chung stated that for the Republic of China (ROC), the issue of 'Taiwan independence' is non-existent because the ROC was founded 115 years ago and is not subordinate to the People's Republic of China. He emphasized that this is the status quo to be maintained, and that preserving peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait is a common interest for Taiwan, the US, and the world.

Middle East War Day 79: Trump Warns Iran to End War Soon, Latest Developments at a Glance

As the US-Israeli military action against Iran enters its 79th day, US President Trump warned Iran will be 'obliterated' if it doesn't quickly reach a peace deal. Meanwhile, international oil prices surged over 1% after an attack on a UAE nuclear power plant. Israel continues its attacks on Lebanon, causing casualties and escalating geopolitical risk.

Trump's Envoy Visits Greenland for Economic Forum, Overshadowed by Sovereignty Dispute

US Trade Representative: Trump Considering Arms Sales to Taiwan, Interplay of US-China Factors at Hand

Chinese Scholar Elaborates on Beijing's 'Constructive and Strategically Stable Relationship' to Manage Differences

北京學者闡述「中美建設性戰略穩定關係」，旨在加強合作、適度競爭並有效管控分歧。

US Reportedly to Indict Former Cuban President Raul Castro, Increasing Pressure on Communist Regime

美國司法部計畫起訴古巴前總統勞爾．卡斯楚，以升高對古巴共產政權的壓力。

Kremlin: Putin to Hold Talks with Xi Jinping on the 20th

Russian President Vladimir Putin will be on a state visit to China from the 19th to the 20th. According to the Kremlin, Putin is scheduled to arrive in Beijing on the evening of the 19th and hold talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the 20th. The two leaders will discuss the most important and sensitive issues in their bilateral relationship. This marks Putin's 25th visit to China.

Taiwan's WHA Participation Proposal Rejected; Allies Criticize Distortion of International Law

The 79th World Health Assembly (WHA) again rejected a proposal to invite Taiwan as an observer. During the debate, allies Palau and Paraguay advocated for Taiwan, arguing that using UN Resolution 2758 to block Taiwan is a deliberate distortion of international law. They asserted that excluding Taiwan creates a detrimental gap in global public health.

Good Morning World: Taiwan Pursues WHA Inclusion Through Joint Official and Civic Efforts; Drone Industry Booms

U.S. Does Not Extend Russian Oil Waiver, Impacting Top Buyer India

美國政府決定不再延長允許印度等國購買俄羅斯海運石油的制裁豁免，此舉預計將對最大買家印度造成衝擊。

US Reportedly Considers Renaming Potential Renewed Iran Offensive to 'Operation Sledgehammer'

美國軍方考慮若與伊朗重啟戰事，將行動更名為「大錘行動」，此舉可能涉及重新計算國會授權作戰的法律時程。

French Scholars on Trump-Xi Summit: US Policy Remains 'As Usual,' Future Focus on Arms Sales to Taiwan

法國學者分析川習會，認為美國對台政策將維持現狀，但後續對台軍售與雙方對台灣議題的表述值得關注。

WHO Member States Reject Proposal for Taiwan's WHA Participation; Ally Palau Speaks Up for Taiwan

At the annual World Health Assembly (WHA), World Health Organization (WHO) member states rejected a proposal to invite Taiwan to participate as an observer. China and Pakistan led the motion against Taiwan's inclusion. In contrast, Taiwan's ally, Palau, argued in favor, stating that excluding Taiwan creates a detrimental "gap" in global disease surveillance and information sharing.

Former NBA Star Enes Kanter Freedom: Taiwan is Core to the Global Tech Race, and the US Needs Taiwan

Former NBA player and human rights activist Enes Kanter Freedom stated that Taiwan holds a central position in the global technology race, especially in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI). He emphasized that Taiwan is closely intertwined with the US's economy, military, and AI development, creating a mutually dependent strategic relationship. Kanter plans to visit Taiwan in October to host a basketball camp, aiming to showcase Taiwan's democratic values to the world.

Saudi Arabia: Successfully Intercepted 3 Drones that Entered from Iraqi Airspace

Taiwan's Representative to US, in CBS Interview, States: 'We Are Not the Troublemakers, We Hope for Peace and Stability'

Kenya Fuel Price Hike Sparks Protests, Public Transport Strike Affects Commuters

Following a significant fuel price increase by Kenya's energy authority, driven by global oil and gas supply constraints from Middle East conflicts, public transport operators have launched a nationwide strike. Protests have erupted in several towns, with demonstrators blocking roads, causing widespread traffic disruptions and severely impacting commuters. Concerns are also rising about potential supply delays at the main port city of Mombasa.

Iran: Response to Latest US War-End Proposal Submitted, Negotiations Ongoing

The Iranian government announced it has responded to the latest US proposal to end the war, adding that negotiations are continuing through Pakistani mediation, despite Iranian media describing Washington's demands as excessive.

Kim Jong Un Instructs Commanders to Strengthen Frontline Troops on South Korean Border

Premier Cho: Taiwan Aims for Win-Win Cooperation with the World, Hopes for Peaceful Co-prosperity with China

Premier Cho Jung-tai reiterated that the Republic of China (Taiwan) is a sovereign and independent nation, a fact and status quo that cannot be altered. He also expressed Taiwan's hope for win-win cooperation with the world and for peaceful co-prosperity across the Taiwan Strait.

European Stocks Close Higher on Reports of US Considering Temporary Waiver on Iran Oil Sanctions

European stock markets saw gains as investor sentiment was boosted by reports that the United States is considering a temporary waiver of sanctions on Iranian oil. This development raised hopes for an easing of tensions in the Middle East, leading to a rally in major European indices including the FTSE 100, DAX, and CAC 40.

Taiwan's Military Monitors 7 Chinese Warships and 4 Aircraft Near Island

國防部公布，自昨日至今日上午偵獲7艘共艦及4架次共機越過海峽中線，國軍已嚴密監控應處。

South Korean President's Office: Lee Jae-myung and Trump Discuss US-China Summit Results in Phone Call

US-Iran Talks Collapse; Experts: Trump's Hormuz Blockade May Backfire

Following the breakdown of US-Iran negotiations, experts caution that President Trump's threatened blockade of the Strait of Hormuz could be counterproductive and undermine US global credibility.