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The numerals “2025” arrive in Times Square, marking the upcoming New Year’s Eve celebrations in New York City. — Reuters
In 2025, key global events shaped the year, from political shifts and international conflicts to groundbreaking technological advances.
Second Trump Term Begins
A protectionist push, mass deportations of undocumented immigrants, and the dismantling of large parts of the federal bureaucracy have defined President Trump’s second term since its start in January. Since returning to the presidency, he has focused on confrontational tactics—targeting opponents, deploying the National Guard in Democratic-leaning cities, intimidating media outlets, and opposing diversity initiatives. His diplomatic efforts have yielded mixed results, and polling indicates growing dissatisfaction among Americans over issues like inflation and the high cost of living. His party faces setbacks in local elections, complicating prospects for midterms next fall.
Gaza Ceasefire
U.S. pressure contributed to a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, halting two years of intense conflict in Gaza. This truce facilitated the release of hostages and some bodies, alongside increased humanitarian aid—though still insufficient according to UN and relief agencies. Negotiating follow-up steps, especially Hamas disarmament, remains sensitive. Recent Israeli airstrikes in Gaza, claimed as retaliation for attacks, continue amid ongoing regional tensions with Lebanon’s Hezbollah and Israel’s covert strikes against Iran’s nuclear sites.
Ukraine Peace Outlook Fades
Efforts to end the Ukraine war, initiated by Trump’s return, have faltered. Trump’s fluctuating stance between Kyiv and Moscow, combined with diplomatic clashes—including a contentious summit with Putin—have left negotiations deadlocked. Meanwhile, Russian forces persist in advancing into Ukraine, causing heavy casualties and destruction, with Kyiv and other cities enduring relentless missile and drone assaults. Washington has responded with sanctions on Moscow, but the conflict persists with no clear resolution.
Trade Disputes Escalate
Trump’s tariffs on imports—especially steel, aluminum, and copper—triggered a global trade dispute. Countries retaliated, and negotiations led to some agreements, notably with the EU and China. In North America, talks with Canada and Mexico continue, though some, like those with Canada, experienced pauses. To ease domestic inflation, Trump canceled tariffs on certain foods, including coffee and beef.
First American Pope
On May 8, Robert Francis Prevost, 69, was elected as the 267th Pope, becoming the first American pontiff. After a brief conclave, he took the name Leo XIV. The Chicago native, a former missionary in Peru who gained citizenship, continues to emphasize themes of poverty, migration, and environmental stewardship. He reassures traditionalists by delaying discussions on women deacons and same-sex marriage.
Youth-Led Protests Erupt Globally
Young activists under 30 led widespread protests across Asia, Africa, and Latin America. They protested against substandard living conditions, censorship, and corruption. Results were mixed—some governments promised reforms but later suppressed dissent, leading to political upheavals such as the removal of leaders in Nepal and Madagascar. In Africa, youth protests in Tanzania faced brutal crackdowns, while symbols like the “One Piece” pirate flag became a popular anti-oppression emblem worldwide.
AI Industry Boom
Artificial intelligence saw unprecedented investment, with spending reaching about $1.5 trillion in 2025, climbing to $2 trillion next year. Market enthusiasm saw Nvidia’s valuation soar past $5 trillion, but concerns over a tech bubble and ethical dilemmas grew. Critics accuse AI of spreading misinformation, increasing copyright conflicts, and causing mass layoffs. Legislation and lawsuits emerged, including a significant case against OpenAI related to a teenager’s suicide, prompting calls for tighter controls.
Louvre Museum Heist
On October 19, thieves disguised as workers accessed the Louvre and fled with €88 million ($102 million) worth of Crown Jewels. They escaped on scooters, abandoning a diamond-studded crown. The daring theft sparked worldwide debate on museum security, leading to arrests, though the stolen artifacts remain missing.
U.S. Strikes in Venezuela
Since August, the U.S. has intensified military operations off Latin America’s coasts, claiming to target drug traffickers. Over twenty strikes have resulted in casualties, heightening regional tensions. Washington alleges Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro runs a drug cartel, offering a $50 million reward for his arrest. The campaign is widely viewed as an effort to topple Maduro and seize Venezuela’s oil reserves.
Extreme Weather Events
The year saw record-breaking natural disasters worldwide. Heavy floods in Vietnam, powerful storms in the Caribbean and the Philippines, and devastating hurricanes battered regions from Haiti to Cuba. Climate change-driven phenomena like summer wildfires in Europe—recording vast hectares burned—and lightning-sparked fires in the American West have caused widespread destruction, including the closure of the Grand Canyon.
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