International developments over the past week demonstrated how the United States continues to play a dominant role across various global issues, ranging from security and diplomacy to regional geopolitics. At the same time, the international order continues to evolve dynamically, marked by emerging developments such as stronger interstate cooperation, shifting configurations in global economic relations, and growing humanitarian and security challenges across different regions of the world.
President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio once again raised the possibility of intervention in Cuba on the grounds of national security. At the same time, the visit of a US special envoy to Greenland faced resistance from both local politicians and residents amid Washington’s increasing interest in the territory. Meanwhile, on Saturday (23/5), Rubio also conducted an official visit to India ahead of the upcoming Quad meeting, as the US seeks to maintain stable bilateral relations with New Delhi.
Shifting to Europe, the United Kingdom proposed the establishment of a single market for goods with the European Union as part of efforts to reset post-Brexit relations. The proposal reflects the UK’s ambition to strengthen economic ties with the EU through smoother trade arrangements. However, the idea has not moved forward due to skepticism from the EU, while current discussions remain focused on negotiations involving food, agriculture, and energy trade.
Meanwhile, Chinese President Xi Jinping described China–Russia relations as a stabilizing force amid growing global uncertainty during his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Beijing on Wednesday (20/5). During the meeting, Putin stated that bilateral relations had reached an unprecedented level and had become a key factor in maintaining global stability. Both leaders also signed a joint statement supporting a multipolar world order, criticizing US policies regarding Iran and the Golden Dome defense system, while agreeing on further cooperation in trade, energy, and artificial intelligence.
At the same time, Russia and Belarus conducted joint nuclear exercises on Thursday (21/5). The drills involved intercontinental ballistic missiles, nuclear submarines, and military aircraft maneuvers across several strategic areas. Held over three days since Tuesday, the exercises focused on preparations and the use of nuclear capabilities in response to potential aggression.
In the humanitarian sector, the World Health Organization (WHO) raised the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo to a very high risk level after a sharp increase in cases and deaths. Nearly 750 suspected cases and 177 suspected deaths have been reported so far, while containment efforts continue to face challenges due to public distrust toward health authorities. The situation further deteriorated after an Ebola treatment center in Ituri Province was attacked and burned by local residents. WHO also stated that the outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain, for which no specific vaccine or treatment currently exists, although research on new antiviral drugs is ongoing.
In the Middle East, humanitarian concerns once again gained attention after eight French citizens involved in a flotilla mission to Gaza arrived in Paris on Friday (22/5). They alleged violence and inhumane treatment during detention by Israeli authorities. Several activists claimed they experienced physical abuse, sexual harassment, humiliation, and degrading treatment during their detention. They also reported that at least 37 individuals suffered fractures and 16 reported cases of sexual violence. However, Israeli prison authorities denied all allegations and stated that detainees had been treated in accordance with applicable laws and fundamental rights.
In South Asia, an extreme heat wave swept across large parts of India, resulting in at least 16 deaths. In the capital city of New Delhi, temperatures remained above 40 degrees Celsius throughout the week. Local authorities have urged regional officials to issue early warnings and strengthen mitigation measures to reduce the impact of the heat wave on communities.
Source:
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Santosa, Iwan., Bonifasius Josie Susilo. “Rusia-Belarus Gelar Latihan Perang Nuklir.” 22 Mei 2026. Kompas.id. https://www.kompas.id/artikel/tegang-dengan-nato-rusia-gelar-latihan-perang-nuklir.
Smith, Alexander. “Trump’s envoy went to Greenland to make ‘friends’. They were left unimpressed”. NBC News. 23 Mei 2026. https://www.nbcnews.com/world/europe/trumps-envoy-greenland-make-friends-rcna346488.