2025’s Defining Moments: Wars, Tariffs, and Political Reshuffles

A year of significant global shifts, 2025 was defined by persistent conflicts, escalating geopolitical tensions, and notable economic transformations that reshaped the international order. From protracted wars to diplomatic standoffs and trade friction, the year’s events fundamentally altered global relationships and economic planning. The year commenced with Donald Trump assuming the US presidency, signaling a potential paradigm shift in foreign and domestic policy. Tensions between India and Pakistan reached a critical point after a deadly attack in Jammu and Kashmir led to military operations by India against terror sites in Pakistan and its administered region. The Russia-Ukraine war persisted as a major global concern, affecting security, energy stability, and relations between Russia and NATO, despite peace efforts. The Middle East was a zone of heightened Iran-Israel hostilities, featuring direct strikes on nuclear facilities and US intervention to de-escalate the situation. Trade competition between the US and China intensified, with the imposition of substantial tariffs by the US and retaliatory measures from China, significantly disrupting global trade flows. South Asia witnessed a surge of public demonstrations. Protests erupted in Bangladesh over a shooting, in India concerning mob justice, in Pakistan demanding news on Imran Khan, and in Nepal against corruption, resulting in the fall of a government. The closing of 2025 finds the world at a critical juncture, grappling with ongoing conflicts, evolving economic strategies, and a reconfiguration of international alliances.