Markets Lower as China Holds War Drills Near Taiwan
Shares in Asia were mostly lower in subdued holiday trading on December 29, 2025, as China conducted military exercises near Taiwan, dampening investor sentiment.
Shares in Asia were mostly lower in subdued holiday trading on December 29, 2025, as China conducted military exercises near Taiwan, dampening investor sentiment.
China's military will conduct exercises around Taiwan, warning 'external forces' following recent tensions with Japan. Get the latest on the regional security implications.
The United Kingdom introduces a new paid 'gap year' scheme for young people to serve in the armed forces. Learn about the program's details and its potential impact.
Russia targeted Kyiv with ballistic missiles and drones, killing at least one. The attack comes a day before President Zelenskyy meets with Donald Trump to discuss ending the war.
Prime Minister announces a major $2.5 billion economic aid package for Ukraine, reinforcing Canada's support amid ongoing conflict. Details on the commitment.
The UK will launch a paid military gap year program in 2026 for 150 young people, offering training without long-term commitment to address defence recruitment struggles. Learn more about this new initiative.
A severe humanitarian crisis grips Afghanistan as international aid reductions leave millions facing hunger. The AP reports on the escalating situation and its devastating impact on vulnerable families.
China imposes sanctions on 20 U.S. defence companies and 10 executives in response to major arms sales to Taiwan, escalating tensions. Details on the targeted firms and the political fallout.
Beijing imposes sanctions on 20 U.S. defense companies and 10 executives, including Anduril and Boeing, in response to a major arms package for Taiwan. Tensions escalate as China freezes assets and bans business dealings.
Japan's cabinet has approved a historic defence budget of over $55 billion for 2025, marking a major strategic shift to counter China's military expansion. Explore the details and global implications.
For the first time in a quarter-century, Taiwan has a public holiday on December 25th. Discover the political history behind the date and its impact on workers.
A new Pentagon report details China's 'historic military buildup,' warning it makes the U.S. homeland 'increasingly vulnerable' and poses a challenge to Trump's nuclear arms plans. Read the analysis.
A military watchdog report found the investigation into Maj.-Gen. Dany Fortin was deeply flawed. The Provost Marshal's weak response to 16 recommendations raises doubts about real change.
Taiwan police reveal suspect behind deadly Taipei knife attack planned it meticulously for over a year. Details on the investigation and public safety response.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio asserts America can maintain its strong alliance with Japan while productively engaging with China, despite recent tensions over Taiwan. Read the latest on this diplomatic balancing act.
A violent attack at two Taipei subway stations left three dead and five injured. The suspect, a 27-year-old wanted for evading military service, is also deceased. Authorities confirm it was a deliberate act.
A deadly knife attack in Taipei, Taiwan, left three people dead on December 19, 2025. The suspect later fell to his death from a department store. Police have cordoned off the scene.
Taiwan has initiated a formal complaint at the World Trade Organization challenging Canada's steel tariffs. The move escalates a significant trade dispute between the two economies.
Economist Bjorn Lomborg argues that 12 targeted projects costing US$35 billion could outperform the UN's $10 trillion Sustainable Development Goals. Discover the data-driven priorities for 2026.
The U.S. has approved a major arms sale to Taiwan valued over US$10 billion, a move certain to escalate tensions with China. Get the details on the deal and its geopolitical implications.
Canada's military aims to expand its reserve forces to 400,000 personnel, but critics question the feasibility, cost, and training plans for this massive mobilization initiative.
General Jennie Carignan, Canada's Chief of the Defence Staff, asserts the military is prepared for conflict now while outlining a sweeping modernization plan. She discusses recruitment, new capabilities, and the changing global threat landscape.
The Canadian Armed Forces is experiencing a record number of new recruits in Quebec. Discover the key factors driving this significant surge in enlistment numbers.
Becky Hamber recorded videos blaming CAS and others after her foster son's death. She and her wife Brandy Cooney face first-degree murder charges in a harrowing Burlington case.
A Canadian Armed Forces military police officer has received a fine and a severe reprimand following a months-long unauthorized absence. Get the details on the disciplinary decision.
New Brunswick announces financial assistance for blueberry producers who lost access to land during the 2025 wildfires. Learn about the support program and eligibility details.
German lawmakers have passed a significant plan to attract more military recruits, a move that aims to bolster the Bundeswehr without reinstating conscription. Learn the details and implications.
Philanthropist Bill Gates warns AFP that reductions in global aid are resulting in a tragic increase in child mortality. Learn the critical details and global implications.
Bill Gates warns that child mortality rates are set to increase globally for the first time this century due to significant reductions in international aid. Learn about the dire consequences.
Ottawa's Sri Lankan diaspora unites to provide aid following Cyclone Ditwah, which caused fatal floods and landslides in Sri Lanka. Learn how the community is responding.