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US and China Agree to 90-Day Tariff Truce
The United States and China have reached a temporary agreement to slash reciprocal tariffs for 90 days, easing tensions in a trade war that threatened global economic stability. The deal, announced after talks in Geneva, reduces U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods from 145% to 30% and Chinese duties on U.S. goods from 125% to 10%. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent hailed the progress, but analysts warn that unresolved issues, such as non-tariff barriers and subsidies, could reignite tensions if not addressed within the truce period. Global stock markets rallied, with MSCI’s index of global shares rising 2%, though uncertainty persists about the longevity of the detente.
Source: Reuters[](https://www.reuters.com/markets/global-markets-wrapup-1-2025-05-11/)[](https://www.reuters.com/world/what-have-china-united-states-agreed-geneva-2025-05-12/)[](https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/05/12/united-states-china-trade-war-eases/) -
India-Pakistan Ceasefire Takes Effect
A U.S.-brokered ceasefire between India and Pakistan came into force, halting days of deadly clashes between the nuclear-armed neighbors. Both nations claimed victory, with India’s media touting “Pakistan Surrenders” while Pakistan emphasized de-escalation. The conflict, sparked by escalating tensions in Kashmir, raised fears of broader regional instability. India confirmed its military bases remain operational, and civilian flight operations resumed at 32 airports. The truce is seen as a critical step to prevent further escalation, though underlying disputes remain unresolved.
Source: CNN[](https://www.cnn.com/2025/05/12/asia/india-pakistan-us-ceasefire-no-winners-intl-hnk) -
Israeli-American Hostage Edan Alexander Released by Hamas
Hamas released Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander, held in Gaza since October 2023, in a significant development for hostage negotiations. The release, celebrated in Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square, was widely covered, with images of Alexander’s portrait displayed prominently. While the exact terms of the release remain unclear, it marks a rare moment of progress in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The event has renewed hope for further releases but also underscores the complexity of securing lasting peace in the region.
Source: Reuters[](https://www.reuters.com/) -
Philippine Midterm Elections Strengthen Marcos’ Senate Support
Allies of Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. secured at least half of the 12 available Senate seats in midterm elections, bolstering his policy agenda. The election, seen as a referendum on Marcos’ leadership, was marked by a bitter rivalry with Vice President Sara Duterte, whose father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, won the Davao mayoral race despite facing an ICC trial for crimes against humanity. The results signal a shift in the country’s political landscape, potentially reshaping power dynamics.
Source: Reuters[](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/philippines-votes-high-stakes-midterms-amid-marcos-duterte-showdown-2025-05-11/) -
UK’s Starmer Faces Backlash Over Immigration Rhetoric
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer drew criticism from Labour MPs, unions, and charities for describing immigration as turning Britain into an “island of strangers.” The comments, part of a push to reduce net migration, were labeled divisive and reminiscent of far-right scaremongering. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper defended the government’s aim to embed fairness in the immigration system, but the controversy highlights tensions within Labour over balancing public concerns and inclusive policies.
Source: The Guardian[](https://www.theguardian.com/politics/live/2025/may/12/immigration-keir-starmer-labour-reform-visa-foreign-workers-uk-politics-latest-live-news) -
Kurdish PKK Announces Disbandment After 40 Years
The Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), a militant group engaged in a decades-long conflict with Turkey, announced its decision to disband and disarm. The historic move, influenced by statements from jailed leader Abdullah Ocalan, was celebrated in Diyarbakir, Turkey. The decision could pave the way for peace talks, though skepticism remains about implementation and Turkey’s response. The PKK’s disbandment marks a potential turning point in one of the region’s longest-running insurgencies.
Source: NPR[](https://www.npr.org/sections/world/) -
Zelenskyy to Meet Putin for Peace Talks
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy agreed to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Istanbul on May 15 for direct peace negotiations, following Putin’s rejection of a proposed 30-day ceasefire. The talks, prompted by U.S. President Trump’s urging, aim to address the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. While Ukraine and European allies demanded a ceasefire as a precondition, Moscow’s insistence on immediate talks adds urgency to the diplomatic efforts, with global attention focused on the outcome.
Source: Reuters[](https://www.reuters.com/world/) -
Trump Accepts Qatari Boeing 747-8 as Air Force One
U.S. President Donald Trump is set to accept a $400 million Boeing 747-8 from Qatar’s royal family for use as Air Force One, raising ethical and national security concerns. The jet, originally intended for Trump’s presidential library, will be retrofitted for official use. Critics argue the lavish gift could violate laws on foreign influence, though the White House insists it complies with regulations. The move has sparked debate about transparency and potential conflicts of interest.
Source: CNBC[](https://www.cnbc.com/2025/05/12/5-things-to-know-before-the-stock-market-opens-monday-may-12.html) -
First White South African Refugees Arrive in U.S.
The first group of white Afrikaner South Africans, granted refugee status by the Trump administration, arrived in the U.S., citing discrimination in South Africa. The decision, following demonstrations in Pretoria supporting Trump, has stirred controversy, with critics questioning the validity of the claims and the administration’s motives. The move reflects Trump’s broader immigration policies, which have prioritized certain groups while facing accusations of selective enforcement.
Source: NPR[](https://www.npr.org/sections/news/) -
Pope Leo XIV Meets Media at Vatican
Pope Leo XIV, the American-born pontiff, held an audience with media representatives in the Vatican’s Paul VI Hall, emphasizing dialogue and transparency. Elected earlier in 2025, his papacy has drawn attention for its progressive outreach and efforts to bridge divides within the Catholic Church. The meeting underscored his commitment to engaging with global audiences on issues like faith, climate change, and social justice, setting the tone for his leadership.
Source: Reuters[](https://www.reuters.com/)
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