As we stepped into the year 2025, many held their breath in anticipation, hoping for a turn toward a more stable international landscape following the tumultuous year of 2024. However, the reality proved to be quite the opposite. Rather than the promised relief, 2025 ushered in an era marked by a palpable deterioration in global cooperation, a resurgence of conflict, and an evident weakening of the longstanding world order dominated by the United States.
In stark contrast to 2024, when the Paris Olympics stood as a beacon of international unity, the past year left little room for optimism. The events that transpired in 2025 have set in motion dynamics that are likely to shape global politics well into 2026, raising questions about international collaboration.
The Clash Between Cambodia and Thailand
One of the most alarming events of the year occurred in July when tensions boiled over into open conflict between Cambodia and Thailand. This clash stemmed from a long-standing border dispute centered around the ancient Prasat Ta Muen Thom temple. The confrontation quickly escalated, resulting in dozens of casualties and the displacement of thousands. U.S. President Donald Trump’s intervention led to a tenuous ceasefire, yet violations of the agreement marked an unsettling indication that the conflict could drag on indefinitely.
Cardinal Robert Prevost Elected Pope Leo XIV
In a historic twist, May saw the election of Cardinal Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV, making him the first pope from the United States. Hailing from Chicago, Prevost’s deep-rooted missionary experiences in Peru signal a potential shift in the Vatican’s focus toward critical social and economic justice issues. The election was celebrated by many as a beacon of hope amid the growing global discord.
The Clash Between India and Pakistan
May also marked a significant escalation in tensions between India and Pakistan, specifically in the troubled Kashmir region. A deadly terrorist attack triggered a series of exchanges involving air and missile strikes, leading to the most intense military confrontations in fifty years. Although a ceasefire was eventually negotiated, the foundational disputes between the two nations remained stubbornly unresolved, suggesting that lasting peace could be a distant dream.
Intensifying the Race for Artificial Intelligence
On the technological front, a fierce rivalry between the U.S. and China unfolded, each nation vying for supremacy in the realm of artificial intelligence. China showcased remarkable advancements, exhibiting capabilities that did not rely on American technology. In response, Washington oscillated between imposing restrictions and easing technology export controls, a move that not only highlighted national security concerns but also raised alarms about broader implications for the global economy.
The Devastating Civil War in Sudan
The civil war in Sudan continued to spiral into chaos, with the Sudanese armed forces clashing with the Rapid Support Forces. The humanitarian toll has been catastrophic, with hundreds of thousands of casualties and over 12 million displaced. Furthermore, the looming threat of famine introduces a dire urgency to a situation that shows little promise for peace or resolution.
US Brokers Peace Plan for Gaza
After two grueling years of conflict, a glimmer of hope emerged when Israel and Hamas agreed to a ceasefire along with a three-phase peace plan brokered by the U.S. Yet, while the ceasefire was celebrated, contentious issues surrounding Hamas’ disarmament and the reconstruction of Gaza continued to emerge as flashpoints. The path toward enduring peace still seems laden with obstacles.
The War in Ukraine Continues
As the fourth year of the conflict in Ukraine began, the situation remained dire; Russia ramped up air strikes even as territorial gains were minimal, incurring a heavy human toll. European nations continued to rally support for Ukraine, yet pressures grew for a ceasefire that might favor Moscow. The protracted conflict has entrenched divisions and left devastation in its wake.
Israel and the US Attack Iran’s Nuclear Facilities
In June, a 12-day conflict erupted between Israel and Iran, culminating in U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. Although a temporary ceasefire was reached, it did little to resolve the underlying strategic tensions between the nations, showcasing the fragile balance of power in the Middle East.
China Uses Rare Earths as a Geopolitical Weapon
Beijing made headlines by leveraging its dominance in the rare earths market as a tool for economic pressure against the United States. This tactic signals a significant shift in the global balance of power, raising concerns about the reach and implications of economic warfare in today’s interconnected world.
Donald Trump Shakes Up American Foreign Policy
Under the leadership of President Trump, U.S. foreign policy underwent radical changes, characterized by withdrawal from international agreements and the implementation of sweeping trade tariffs. This strategic reorientation raised alarms among critics, who argue that it signifies the end of what was once known as “Pax Americana.” The shifting dynamics present a challenge not just for the U.S., but for global governance as a whole.