Thousands of demonstrators in Belgrade, Serbia, defied cold and rainy weather on Saturday to participate in a march condemning violence against university students and challenging the autocratic governance of President Aleksandar Vucic. The protest marked the anniversary of a violent attack on drama students by pro-government supporters, which ignited widespread faculty blockades and daily rallies across the nation.
分类： politics
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Jair Bolsonaro arrested after being deemed a flight risk
Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro has been taken into custody after being deemed a “concrete flight risk” while under house arrest. Bolsonaro, who was convicted in September for orchestrating a military coup, had been serving a 27-year prison sentence under house arrest pending appeals. However, Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes ordered his detention following the emergence of “new facts,” including attempts to tamper with his ankle monitor and calls for a public vigil that could facilitate his escape. Justice Moraes cited evidence suggesting Bolsonaro’s intention to break his electronic monitoring device, potentially aided by a demonstration organized by his son, Senator Flávio Bolsonaro. The vigil, scheduled for Saturday night, was framed as a gathering to “pray for his health and the return of democracy.” Moraes also highlighted concerns that Bolsonaro might seek asylum at a nearby embassy, with the U.S. embassy in Brasília located just 13 kilometers from his residence. Bolsonaro’s legal troubles have drawn criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump, who imposed a 50% tariff on Brazilian imports in response. Bolsonaro is currently held at a Federal Police station in Brasília and will face a custody hearing on Sunday. His lawyers had previously requested that he serve his entire sentence under house arrest, citing medical needs, including treatment for pulmonary infections. Bolsonaro was convicted of conspiring to retain power after losing the 2022 election to left-wing rival Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The plot included plans to assassinate Lula and his running mate, Geraldo Alckmin, and to execute Justice Moraes. The conspiracy was foiled due to lack of military support, and Lula was inaugurated without incident on January 1, 2023. However, a week later, Bolsonaro supporters stormed government buildings in Brasília, leading to 1,500 arrests. Bolsonaro has dismissed his trial as a “witch hunt” aimed at preventing his 2026 presidential bid.
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China, US hold maritime safety talks in Hawaii as Beijing reiterates warnings on sovereignty
The Chinese and US militaries convened for the second working group meeting and annual session of the 2025 Military Maritime Consultative Agreement from Tuesday to Thursday in Hawaii. The Chinese navy announced the event on Saturday, emphasizing the importance of maritime safety and cooperation. The talks come at a time when Beijing has reiterated its firm stance on sovereignty issues, particularly in contested waters. Both nations discussed measures to enhance communication and reduce the risk of maritime incidents. The meeting underscores ongoing efforts to manage tensions and foster dialogue between the two global powers, despite persistent disagreements over territorial claims and strategic interests.
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Myanmar reaffirms one-China policy in response to Japanese PM’s Taiwan-related remarks
In a clear response to recent comments by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan, Myanmar has reiterated its unwavering support for the one-China policy. Zaw Min Tun, spokesperson for Myanmar’s National Defense and Security Council, addressed the media on Friday, emphasizing the nation’s stance on the issue. Tun highlighted that Myanmar’s Acting President, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, has consistently reaffirmed this position in discussions with Chinese leaders. Myanmar views China as a friendly neighbor and is committed to strengthening their comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, aiming to build a shared future. The country also upholds the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, respecting China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Tun assured that Myanmar will continue to support China’s efforts to maintain national unity and territorial integrity.
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US lawmaker Marjorie Taylor Greene to resign after rupture with Trump
In a surprising turn of events, US Republican lawmaker Marjorie Taylor Greene has announced her resignation from the House of Representatives, effective January 5, 2026. Greene, a staunch ally of former President Donald Trump, cited a dramatic falling out with Trump as a key reason for her decision. In a lengthy social media statement, she emphasized that “loyalty should be a two-way street” and criticized Congress for being “mostly sidelined” during the Trump administration. Her resignation will reduce the Republican majority in the House to 218 members, just five seats ahead of the Democrats’ 213. The rift between Greene and Trump has sparked concerns among Republicans about potential fractures within the “Make America Great Again” base, especially with midterm elections looming in 2026. Greene’s recent positions, including her advocacy for releasing government files on convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and her labeling of Israel’s actions in Gaza as genocide, have put her at odds with Trump and some fellow Republicans. Trump, who dismissed the Epstein issue as a “Democrat hoax,” recently signed a bill to release the documents after it gained overwhelming support in Congress. Greene expressed her decision as a matter of self-respect and dignity, stating she refuses to be a “battered wife” in the political arena. The White House has yet to comment on her resignation.
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Trump-Mamdani meet: Foes turn friends? US President all smiles, praise for New York mayor-elect
In a surprising turn of events, US President Donald Trump and New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani set aside their past animosity to engage in a cordial and collaborative meeting at the White House. The encounter, which took place on Friday, marked a stark contrast to their previous exchanges, where Trump had falsely labeled Mamdani as an antisemitic communist. The 79-year-old president warmly greeted the 34-year-old democratic socialist, patting him on the arm and expressing optimism about their shared goals for New York City. Despite their ideological differences, the two leaders found common ground on issues such as crime reduction and affordability. Trump, a Republican billionaire, and Mamdani, a rising star in the Democratic Party, pledged to work together for the betterment of the city. The meeting, which exceeded expectations, hinted at the possibility of a professional friendship that could reshape the political landscape. Both leaders laughed off their past insults, with Trump defending Mamdani against Islamophobic slurs and describing him as a ‘very rational person.’ The unexpected camaraderie left many political commentators and lawmakers puzzled, with some Republicans expressing skepticism about Mamdani’s intentions. However, the meeting signaled a potential shift in the dynamics between the two leaders, who had previously clashed on issues ranging from immigration to economic policy.
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Brazil’s Supreme Court orders Bolsonaro’s arrest ahead of prison sentence
In a dramatic turn of events, Brazil’s Supreme Court has mandated the preemptive arrest of former President Jair Bolsonaro, just days before he was scheduled to commence a 27-year prison sentence for orchestrating a coup attempt. The decision, issued by Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, underscores the gravity of the charges against Bolsonaro, who was swiftly transferred from house arrest to the federal police headquarters in Brasília early Saturday morning. Justice de Moraes emphasized that the arrest should be conducted with dignity, prohibiting the use of handcuffs and media exposure. Bolsonaro’s aide, Andriely Cirino, confirmed the arrest occurred around 6 a.m., following the unexpected ruling. The 70-year-old former president was taken from his residence in the affluent Jardim Botânico neighborhood to the federal police facility. The arrest follows a controversial video released by Bolsonaro’s son, Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, which allegedly incited supporters to protest in defense of his father. Justice de Moraes condemned the video, stating it promoted disrespect for democratic institutions and sought to incite chaos. Bolsonaro’s conviction stems from his role in a failed coup attempt after his 2022 election loss to President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Prosecutors revealed the plot included plans to assassinate Lula and instigate an insurrection. Despite his legal troubles, Bolsonaro remains a significant political figure, with polls suggesting he would be a formidable candidate in future elections if eligible. His case has drawn international attention, with U.S. President Donald Trump labeling the trial a ‘witch hunt.’ The arrest marks a pivotal moment in Brazil’s ongoing struggle to uphold democratic principles.
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Chinese, Uzbek FMs hold second strategic dialogue
In a significant diplomatic engagement, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his Uzbek counterpart Bakhtiyor Saidov convened the second strategic dialogue in Tashkent on Friday. Wang emphasized the importance of steering bilateral relations towards a new benchmark of good neighborliness, solidarity, and mutual trust. He highlighted the need to leverage the strategic dialogue platform to implement key agreements reached by the two heads of state. Wang reiterated China’s commitment to viewing Uzbekistan as a priority in its neighborhood diplomacy and a crucial partner in its global diplomatic strategy. He expressed China’s support for Uzbekistan’s development path tailored to its national conditions and its aspirations for a new Uzbekistan. Wang also noted that China has emerged as Uzbekistan’s largest trading partner and a major source of investment. The two nations are set to collaborate on the landmark China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project, diversify connectivity networks, and enhance cooperation in green minerals, new energy, and high technology. Additionally, Wang called for strengthened exchanges in education, culture, and tourism. He commended Uzbekistan’s achievements in poverty reduction and offered to share China’s experience in poverty alleviation and rural revitalization. Saidov expressed gratitude for China’s support in improving livelihoods and reducing poverty in Uzbekistan. He expressed Uzbekistan’s desire to learn from China’s governance experience, strengthen high-level exchanges, expand bilateral trade, deepen Belt and Road cooperation, and jointly combat terrorism, separatism, and extremism. The meeting concluded with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev also meeting with Wang, further solidifying the strategic partnership between the two nations.
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European leaders scramble to respond to a US peace plan for Ukraine seen as favoring Russia
European leaders are scheduled to meet in South Africa on Saturday to discuss alternatives to a U.S.-proposed peace plan aimed at ending Russia’s war in Ukraine. The 28-point blueprint, perceived as favoring Moscow, has raised concerns in Kyiv and European capitals. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed apprehension on Friday, stating that Ukraine faces a critical decision between defending its sovereignty and maintaining essential American support. European nations, viewing their own future as intertwined with Ukraine’s struggle against Russian aggression, have emphasized the importance of their involvement in any peace negotiations. The meeting, set to occur on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Johannesburg, was announced by top European Union officials, including EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and EU Council President António Costa, following a call with Zelenskyy. Von der Leyen reiterated the principle of ‘nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine,’ underscoring the need for Kyiv’s active participation in any resolution. The U.S. plan, which includes provisions for Ukraine to cede territory to Russia, reduce its military size, and abandon its NATO aspirations, aligns closely with Moscow’s demands while offering minimal security assurances to Kyiv. Meanwhile, a Ukrainian drone strike on a fuel refinery in Russia’s Samara region resulted in two fatalities and two injuries, marking another instance of Kyiv’s long-range attacks on Russian oil infrastructure. Russian air defenses reportedly intercepted 69 Ukrainian drones overnight, disrupting operations at several airports and causing power outages in Rylsk.
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Former Polish deputy PM praises China’s economic rise, growing influence
In a recent exclusive interview with China Daily, Grzegorz W. Kolodko, former Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister of Poland, commended China’s remarkable economic progress over the past three to four decades. Kolodko highlighted that China’s burgeoning economic power is significantly enhancing its political influence on the global stage. He also noted a steady increase in international goodwill towards China, coupled with a favorable shift in the geopolitical landscape. Kolodko’s insights underscore the transformative impact of China’s economic strategies and their ripple effects on international relations and global power dynamics.