February 2025: Global Tensions, Political Shifts, and Tragedies Shape a Tumultuous Month

 In February 2025, tensions between major global powers continued to shape international relations. The ongoing China–United States trade war escalated as China imposed export controls and increased tariffs on certain American imports in retaliation to previous tariffs imposed by the United States. This tit-for-tat economic conflict added strain to already fragile trade relations between the two nations.

Amidst these international tensions, a tragic accident occurred in Guatemala City where a bus plunged off a bridge over the Las Vacas River, resulting in the deaths of at least 55 people and leaving several others seriously injured. The Guatemalan Army and National Civil Police mobilized quickly to conduct search and rescue efforts in the aftermath of the crash.

Political developments in several countries marked the month as well. Greece elected a new president after multiple rounds of voting, while Romania saw the historic resignation of its president, the first since the country’s revolution. In Africa, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf was chosen as the chairperson of the African Union Commission, signaling new leadership for the continent’s primary regional organization.

Indonesia witnessed widespread protests triggered by new legislation that expanded military involvement in civilian government roles, sparking concerns over the future of democratic governance in the country. Meanwhile, Nicaragua underwent a significant constitutional change by establishing a diarchy, appointing spouses Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo as co-presidents.

Diplomatic progress was made between the United States and Russia as both nations agreed to restore diplomatic relations after a high-level summit in Saudi Arabia, aiming to ease tensions following years of strained interactions. On the cultural and historical front, Egypt announced a remarkable archaeological discovery: the tomb of Thutmose II, the first royal tomb found since the famed discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb nearly a century ago.

In Europe, the Baltic states completed the synchronization of their power grids with continental Europe, formally disconnecting from Russia’s grid, which marked a strategic shift in energy security for the region. Croatia finalized its accession to the European Economic Area, further integrating into the European Union’s economic framework.

Germany experienced political shifts as well, with the centre-right CDU/CSU gaining significant ground in the federal elections, benefiting from a surge in support compared to the far-right AfD, which came in second place. This change followed a government crisis in the previous year that led to early elections.

Tragedy struck in Sudan when a military aircraft crashed into a residential area near Wadi Seidna Air Base, killing all on board and numerous people on the ground. The incident highlighted ongoing instability and safety concerns within the country.

Lastly, a high-profile meeting at the White House between US President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy escalated diplomatic tensions. Sharp criticisms directed at Zelenskyy by Trump and Vance raised questions about the future of US support for Ukraine and the broader prospects for peace and stability in the world.