THREAD: shifting alliances

EUROPEAN UNION in Turmoil: Defense Woes Under Trump

06 March 2025 — European Union leaders rushed to Brussels for emergency talks, worried about U.S. support under President Donald TRUMP. They focused on boosting European security and protecting Ukraine. Friedrich Merz, Germany’s likely next chancellor, and summit chairman Antonio Costa discussed quickly strengthening Europe’s defenses.

Merz pushed for easing Germany’s debt rules to boost defense spending. Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron proposed using France’s nuclear capabilities to protect Europe from Russian threats. This is a big change since Trump began disrupting U.S.-Europe security ties.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stressed the need for more defense spending across Europe, a big shift from past budget priorities where military funding was low. Macron promised that EU countries would increase military budgets and work together on advanced weapon production in Europe.

EUROPE’S Bold Move: Seizing Control in Ukraine Talks

02 March 2025 — European leaders are eager to steer Ukraine-Russia negotiations. At a London summit, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer stressed the importance of this moment for the West. Their aim is to unify Europe’s stance as Kyiv-Washington relations worsen.

Tensions rose after Ukrainian President Zelensky met with former U.S. President Donald Trump, causing concern across Europe. The meeting reportedly alarmed European leaders who fear a change in U.S. policy could disrupt ongoing efforts in the region.

Europe wants to present a united strategy that prioritizes regional stability and security over outside influences from across the Atlantic. This move shows Europe’s intent to assert its influence and leadership in resolving the conflict effectively and independently.

RUBIO SOUNDS Alarm on Russia-China Threat

26 February 2025 — Senator Marco Rubio is sounding the alarm about Russia’s growing reliance on China. He warns this could lead to two nuclear powers uniting against the United States. Rubio stresses that U.S.-China relations will shape the century and highlights the need for diplomatic ties with both nations. A permanent Russia-China alliance, he says, threatens global stability and American interests.

While in Panama, Rubio convinced its government to leave China’s Belt and Road Initiative. He stressed the Panama Canal’s strategic importance for U.S. trade and voiced concerns over Chinese control of key ports there. Criticizing past decisions that let China gain influence in this vital region, he called for pro-American partnerships in Latin America.

Rubio praised President Trump’s efforts to counter China’s global influence through projects like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). This initiative aims to create new trade routes, reducing dependence on China’s economic power. Trump’s strategy strengthens alliances worldwide, especially where Chinese debt diplomacy is a threat, ensuring America’s interests are protected globally from a strong position.

TRUMP’S Bold Return: Global Alliances Shaken

28 January 2025 — President Donald Trump has re-entered the White House, quickly overturning Biden-era policies and pulling out of major international agreements. His actions have left global partners unsure about their standing. Allies and adversaries are closely watching how Trump’s second term will unfold on the world stage.

In his first 100 hours, Trump signed executive orders, including one labeling Mexican cartels as foreign terror organizations. Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni met with Trump at Mar-a-Lago and attended his inauguration, supporting his push for increased NATO defense spending. Meloni is seen as a key EU contact amid fears of a potential trade war with Europe under Trump’s leadership.

Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban, a long-time ally of Trump, expressed excitement for Trump’s return to office but missed the inauguration due to scheduling conflicts. Orban sees this as an opportunity to challenge what he calls Brussels’ "left-liberal oligarchy.

Argentina’s President Javier Milei seeks stronger U.S.-Argentina relations under Trump’s presidency. At the Davos World Economic Forum, Milei hinted at leaving the Mercosur trade bloc if it means securing a new trade deal with the U.S., highlighting shifting alliances in response to Trump’s policies.

ASSAD’S Fall Rocks Syria: Russia’s Strategic Nightmare

09 December 2024 — The fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria marks a major shift after 14 years of civil war. Assad, backed by Russia and Iran, has been ousted, leaving these powers to handle the fallout. This change challenges Russia’s strategic interests in the Middle East.

Russia aimed to maintain its influence in the region through military bases like Khmeimim and Tartus. With Assad out, these assets are now at risk. Rebekah Koffler calls this a strategic defeat for Russia amid its ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Ksenia Svetlova from the Atlantic Council criticized Russia’s failure to keep its promises in Syria. She noted that Moscow’s abandonment of Assad makes it look like an unreliable ally, unlike U.S. support for Israel during crises. This perception weakens Russia’s position among Middle Eastern allies.

Former President Trump commented on the situation saying, “Assad is gone,” highlighting the rebels’ success against the longtime dictator. The event underscores shifting power dynamics and raises questions about future regional stability and alliances.

EUROPEAN Allies RALLY to Defend Ukraine as Trump Era Looms

12 November 2024 — London, Paris, and Warsaw are forming a core group to support Ukraine against Russia, anticipating changes in U.S. policy under a possible Trump presidency. Donald Trump hasn’t detailed his plans for ending the conflict but has mentioned options like land swaps or demilitarized zones. These strategies clash with Ukraine’s goal of total victory over Russia.

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer met French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris to discuss defense matters and support for Ukraine. They want outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden to allow Ukraine’s use of long-range missiles against Russia before any Trump policy shift. The U.S., however, worries this could escalate tensions with Moscow significantly.

A UK government source stressed the urgency of maximizing efforts before Trump’s potential presidency begins on January 20th. Starmer and Macron aim to strengthen Ukraine’s position as winter nears and after Trump’s re-election announcement days ago, despite financial challenges faced by both the UK and France amid budgetary issues.

Poland, led by Prime Minister Donald Tusks, is also increasing its role in this emerging anti-Trump alliance within Europe. Meetings between Polish leaders and European counterparts are planned to involve NATO members from Scandinavia as well.

Harris’s SHIFTING Fracking Stance ALARMS Conservatives

10 September 2024 — Co-host John Roberts aired a clip of Bernie Sanders saying Kamala Harris is being pragmatic to win the election, despite her past views. Roberts then questioned if Harris would revert to opposing fracking if elected.

Philippe Reines responded by suggesting that Sanders’ comments reflect Harris’s current stance on fracking, even though she previously opposed it. He emphasized that candidates often change their positions based on electoral needs and context.

Reines believes Harris is aligning with President Biden’s record to gain support from undecided voters. He expressed confidence in this strategy as a winning approach for the election.

NATO’S BIG Move: Ukraine’s UNSTOPPABLE Path to Membership

11 July 2024 — NATO’s 32 members declared Ukraine on an “irreversible” path to membership in the alliance. This announcement came during their summit in Washington, emphasizing a commitment to Ukraine’s defense.

The U.S., Netherlands, and Denmark announced that Ukrainian pilots would receive NATO-provided F-16s by summer. President Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the support amid ongoing deadly strikes from Russia.

NATO also committed to long-term security assistance and established a new center to ensure reliable arms and training for Ukraine. However, these commitments fall short of what Ukraine says it needs to defeat Russia.

The final statement labeled China as a “decisive enabler” of Russia’s war against Ukraine. NATO reaffirmed its support for Ukraine’s democratic, economic, and security reforms needed for full membership in the alliance.

Tice DEMANDS Right-Wing REALIGNMENT in UK Politics

03 July 2024 — Reform UK leader Richard Tice criticized the Conservative Party for its failures and called for a complete realignment of right-wing politics. Speaking on BBC Radio 4, he emphasized that the Conservatives should not be rewarded for their shortcomings.

“Labour is going to win this election,” said Tice, adding that people are tired of the culture of fear created by Tory desperation. He argued for a new, common-sense approach, predicting millions of votes for Reform UK.

Host Nick Robinson suggested Nigel Farage’s revolt against legacy parties might fail due to extreme views within Reform UK. Tice dismissed this as “absolute nonsense,” claiming strong support from voters during his campaign efforts.

UK-US SPECIAL RELATIONSHIP Faces Turbulence With Trump And Labour

18 May 2024 — Polls indicate Donald Trump may return to the White House, while the Labour Party is projected to take power in the UK. This potential shift could strain the “special relationship” between the two nations.

Labour leaders are softening their stance on Trump, recognizing the need for cooperation with Washington. However, London Mayor Sadiq Khan is pushing for open criticism of Trump, labeling him a “racist,” “sexist,” and "homophobe.

Khan insists that maintaining a special relationship means calling out such views. Despite his city’s crime issues and recent re-election, Khan remains vocal against another Trump presidency. He argues against welcoming Trump with state honors and claims many Republicans share his concerns about Trump’s return.

JAPAN Strengthens WESTERN Ties: Set to Boost Aukus Alliance

13 April 2024 — During a notable visit to Washington, Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio hinted at Japan’s upcoming role in the AUKUS alliance. Reports suggest Japan is “cleared to join,” marking a significant step in defense collaborations between Japan and Western powers.

The AUKUS alliance aims to enhance Australia’s submarine capabilities and is now eyeing Japan for its advanced technology program. This includes electronic warfare and AI development, with UK Defense Secretary Grant Shapps hinting at high-tech cooperation with Japan.

Japan’s entry into the alliance is poised to advance military technologies like hypersonic missiles and cyber defense systems. Prime Minister Kishida emphasized the importance of U.S.-Japan collaboration on emerging technologies during his Congress address, highlighting its role in global security dynamics.

This expansion signifies a major leap in uniting Western defense efforts against global threats, promoting peace and stability through technological advancement and strategic cooperation among these nations.

SOUTH KOREAN Election Shocker: Voters Lean Left in Historic Turn

11 April 2024 — South Korean voters, upset by the economic slump, are showing their disapproval towards President Yoon Suk-yeol and his ruling People Power Party (PPP). Early exit polls indicate a dramatic tilt in the National Assembly, with the opposition DP/DUP coalition on track to win between 168 and 193 of the 300 seats. This would leave Yoon’s PPP and its partners trailing with just 87-111 seats.

A record-breaking turnout of 67 percent — the highest for a midterm election since 1992 — reflects widespread voter engagement. South Korea’s unique proportional representation system aims to give smaller parties a chance but has resulted in a crowded field that confuses many voters.

PPP leader Han Dong-hoon has publicly recognized the disappointing exit poll figures. He pledged to honor the electorate’s decision and wait for the final tally. The election results could mark a pivotal change in South Korea’s political landscape, hinting at broader shifts ahead.

This electoral outcome underscores growing public discontent with current economic policies and signals a desire for change among South Korean voters, potentially reshaping the nation’s policy direction in years to come.

ANC on SHAKY Ground: South Africa’s Opposition Parties Gaining Momentum

14 March 2024 — Recent polling data indicates a potential shift in South Africa’s political scene, the likes of which haven’t been seen since 1994. The ruling party, the African National Congress (ANC), has experienced a decline in support from 44% to 39% since November 2022.

On the other hand, the opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) has seen its share rise from 23% to a notable 27%. A newcomer on the scene, the MK Party, has made an impressive debut with a surprising 13%, while support for the radical Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party has dwindled to just 10%.

This changing landscape could potentially pave the way for DA to form a majority coalition with other parties excluding ANC and EFF. This tactic proved successful in Cape Town’s municipal elections back in 2006. Despite ANC’s historical appeal due to its instrumental role in ending apartheid, ongoing issues such as electricity and water shortages, high crime rates, and rampant corruption have strained voters’ loyalty.

The shifting political climate suggests that voters are seeking change and are willing to look beyond traditional party lines. This could lead to significant changes in South Africa’s political landscape moving forward.

JOHNSON’S Shocking U-Turn: Unveils Separate Israel AID Bill Plan

04 February 2024 — In a surprising twist, Johnson has unveiled a plan to separate the aid for Israel. This unexpected move, disclosed in a Saturday letter to his colleagues, marks a dramatic shift from his earlier position.

Under Johnson’s leadership last year, the House approved a colossal $14.3 trillion bill to support Israel in its conflict with Hamas. The funding was balanced with an equivalent cut in IRS funding but is still awaiting Senate consideration.

However, it seems that the Senate is gearing up to examine a more comprehensive aid package this year. This includes substantial aid for Israel, Ukraine and Taiwan along with an undisclosed border agreement.

Despite doubts about the fate of the border and foreign aid bill in the Senate, Johnson’s recent maneuvers suggest promising possibilities for additional assistance to Israel.

TIME to STOP Iran’s Terror Funding: The Unholy Alliance Exposed

31 January 2024 — The current geopolitical landscape has raised serious concerns, according to a recent statement by Lawler. He drew attention to an emerging alliance between China, Russia, and Iran that is becoming increasingly visible. Notably, he identified China as the largest consumer of Iranian petroleum. These sales are providing financial support for dangerous terrorist groups.

Lawler stressed the need for immediate action against Iran in response to over 150 attacks on U.S. military bases and personnel since October 7. Tragically, these assaults have resulted in three servicemembers losing their lives. He called on the administration for a decisive response against Iran.

A bipartisan bill designed to curb illegal funds supporting terrorism was approved in the House after October 7 but has hit a roadblock in the Senate. Lawler urged both Senate and administration officials to advance this bill as part of a comprehensive strategy against these threats.

Lawler believes that an effective response should not only be military or diplomatic but also economic: cutting off funding at its roots. This multi-pronged approach is essential for effectively fighting terrorism.

TRUMP’S Troubled Past: Biden’s Team Shifts Focus Ahead of 2024 Showdown

02 January 2024 — President Joe Biden’s team is adjusting their strategy for the 2024 campaign. Instead of solely spotlighting the incumbent Democrat, they’re turning attention to former President Donald Trump’s contentious record. This move follows recent polls showing Trump leading Biden in seven swing states and gaining traction among younger voters.

Trump, despite grappling with multiple criminal and civil charges, continues to be a GOP favorite. The aim of Biden’s aides is to use his disputed record and legal allegations as a lens through which voters can view the potential consequences of another four-year term under Trump.

Currently, Trump faces four criminal indictments and is embroiled in a civil fraud lawsuit in New York. Regardless of these trials’ outcomes, he could still make a run for office even if convicted — unless legal contests or state ballot requirements prevent him from doing so. However, rather than dwelling on the outcome of Trump’s cases, Biden’s team plans to underscore what another term would mean for American citizens.

A senior campaign aide noted that while Trump may succeed in mobilizing his base with extreme rhetoric, their strategy will highlight how such extremism could negatively affect Americans. The focus will be on the potential adverse impact of another term under Trump rather than his personal legal battles.

NEW ZEALAND’S Bold Move: Eying Aukus Partnership for Stronger Defense Ties with Australia

20 December 2023 — New Zealand’s Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon, is contemplating a strategic move. He’s considering joining the AUKUS partnership to strengthen defense ties with Australia. The AUKUS agreement is a tripartite pact between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. It aims to counteract China’s expanding military influence.

Since his election in October, Luxon made his first overseas visit to Australia. There he and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese agreed on aligning their defense strategies. To coordinate these efforts further, their foreign ministers are set to meet in 2024.

Luxon has expressed particular interest in “AUKUS Pillar 2”. This pillar emphasizes developing and sharing advanced military capabilities like artificial intelligence and electronic warfare systems. Luxon believes that this partnership could be a catalyst for stability and peace within the region.

The U.S. and Britain have already committed to providing Australia with U.S.-powered nuclear submarines under the AUKUS agreement. If New Zealand joins this alliance, it could potentially fortify this tripartite pact against China’s growing regional power.

ITALY’S Bold Exit from China’s Belt and Road Initiative: A Triumph for Western Independence

06 December 2023 — Italy recently declared its departure from China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), signifying a major shift in Western attitudes towards Beijing’s economic clout. After four years of involvement, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani noted that nations not participating in the initiative have seen superior results.

The official withdrawal notice was issued by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s administration this week, well before the initial agreement expires next year. This decision sets the stage for an upcoming summit hosted by China with European Union leaders who have lately adopted a more wary stance towards Beijing.

In response to mounting skepticism, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi advocated for mutually beneficial relationships between Europe and China to boost global development. However, such views are increasingly met with suspicion in Europe as Western societies strive to steer clear of economic connections that might give Beijing an upper hand during political upheavals.

Stefano Stefanini, former Italian Ambassador, underscored an official G7 policy termed “de-risking”, spotlighting U.S.'s opposition against Italy’s participation in BRI. Despite U.S warnings labeling it as a “predatory” lending scheme aimed at controlling strategic infrastructure, Italy joined the initiative back in 2019.

EXPOSED: BIDEN and Elites’ Unsettling Alliance with China

22 November 2023 — President Joe Biden’s recent actions have stirred up a storm of controversy. His apparent dismissal of the idea of “decoupling” from China is causing concern among conservatives. These revelations come from a new book, Controligarchs: Exposing the Billionaire Class, Their Secret Deals, and the Globalist Plot to Dominate Your Life.

The book suggests that global elites and politicians like Biden and California Governor Gavin Newsom are actively pushing for a closer resemblance between the U.S. and its Communist adversary. It alleges that these individuals view Beijing’s elites not as threats or rivals but as business partners.

Among those named in these claims are influential figures such as BlackRock’s Larry Fink, Apple’s Tim Cook, and Blackstone’s Stephen Schwarzman. These business leaders were reportedly present at a dinner honoring Chinese Communist Party Leader Xi Jinping where they stood in applause for Chairman Xi.

This revelation comes at a time when concerns over China’s influence on global politics are growing. It highlights the urgent need for transparency in dealings between American leaders and foreign powers.

LABOUR PARTY Triumphs: Shocking Upset in Special Elections Reshapes UK Political Landscape

21 October 2023 — In a surprising turn of events, Britain’s Labour Party has managed to secure two Parliament seats previously dominated by the Conservatives. This unexpected victory took place in the special elections held in Tamworth and Mid-Bedfordshire, with a significant number of voters switching their loyalty to Labour.

This win strengthens Labour’s standing as the primary challenger for next year’s national election. It also piles pressure on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to rejuvenate his party’s reputation. Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party, proclaimed that his party is “redrawing the political map”.

The victories were marked by Sarah Edwards’ success in Tamworth and Alistair Strathern’s triumph in Mid-Bedfordshire, both overcoming substantial Conservative majorities from 2019. However, it should be noted that voter turnout was relatively low at 36% and 44% respectively. Additionally, these elections took place under unique circumstances due to resignations from former lawmakers.