Key takeaways Island sovereignty acts as a defensive paradox, where maritime isolation provides a strong protective moat against invasion, but leaves nations vulnerable to economic collapse via naval blockades. A 2026 US energy blockade targeting Cuba's fuel imports has triggered a humanitarian and economic crisis, marked by 20-hour daily blackouts, toxic waste burning, and violent protests. Washington is increasing pressure on Cuba to eliminate a perceived, nearby Marxist

Key takeaways Anti-immigration tensions in South Africa have intensified, with groups calling for stricter immigration enforcement and the removal of undocumented migrants. Reports of vigilante activity, business closures, and attacks on migrant communities have raised concerns over a potential escalation in the unrest. Regional fallout is growing, with Ghana and Mozambique repatriating citizens, while several African governments issue warnings to nationals in South Africa.

Geopolitical pressures in the Indo-Pacific region have prompted the Australian government to significantly increase defence spending and accelerate its strategic posture. Australia is pursuing a dual-track strategy that combines the modernisation of its armed forces with the strengthening of international alliances, as part of a broader shift toward active deterrence. Australia is prioritising investment in sovereign defence industries, energy and operational resilien

The publicity of the Artemis II mission revealed the public’s interest in space and lunar exploration, reflecting NASA’s ambitions in a rising competitive field. ●The Artemis program sees significant collaboration with the private sector, including in manufacturing and developing spaceship components, lunar habitats, resource exploration and extraction, energy infrastructures, etc.

Key Takeaways The breakdown of diplomatic relations between Sudan and the UAE marks a significant shift from a historically strong...