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sanctions
BRICS+ Series: What the US-Russia Trade Resurgence Means for Global Geopolitics
Despite ongoing political tensions, US-Russia trade surged to a two-year high in March 2025, revealing the limits of Western sanctions and the persistence of economic interdependence. Driven by US demand for Russian raw materials, this resurgence reflects a broader shift toward pragmatic multipolarism, where geopolitical rivalry coexists with trade necessity—reshaping global multilateralism in a fractured but interconnected world.
New Bill risks further breakdown in bilateral relations amid SA fatigue and US tariff war
US Congressman Rodney Jackson's newly introduced bill demands a review of US-South Africa relations, potentially leading to economic sanctions against key officials. This move raises questions about the future of bilateral ties amid increasing tensions
Media Review Network slams UK rights group's call for sanctions against South Africa
The Media Review Network has strongly condemned UK-based judicial rights group leader Justen Lewis for demanding sanctions against South Africa over alleged Hamas ties. South African officials have dismissed these claims as 'unproven allegations' that echo Israel's hostile stance, with no evidence provided to substantiate the serious accusations.
'Betrayal demands consequences': US Congress moves to sanction ANC officials over ties to Iran, China and Russia
Congressman Ronny Jackson has introduced legislation that could fundamentally alter US-South Africa relations by enabling sanctions against South African officials deemed to be aligning with US adversaries. The bill reflects growing tensions as South Africa strengthens ties with China, Russia, and Iran, while experts warn the move could backfire on US interests in the Global South.
SA accused of prior knowledge in Hamas attack
A UK-based judicial rights group has called for US sanctions against South Africa, claiming the government had prior knowledge of Hamas's October 2023 attack on Israel. South African officials have dismissed these allegations as 'unverified and baseless' amid ongoing international legal actions regarding the Gaza conflict.
AfriForum demands international sanctions against Julius Malema for 'Kill the Boer' chant
In a bold move, AfriForum is pushing for international sanctions against Julius Malema, igniting a fierce debate over the controversial 'Kill the Boer' song.
South Africa's tech dilemma: preparing for a possible US technology ban
As US-South Africa relations become increasingly strained, South African businesses face a critical challenge: over-dependence on American technology. This analysis explores the potential risks and alternatives available to South African companies in an uncertain political climate. "
BRICS+ Series: Russia's Resilient Manufacturing Sector, A Beacon of Economic Growth in Light of Sanctions
Explore how Russia's manufacturing sector is experiencing a remarkable revival, driven by domestic demand, government investment, and innovation in high-value industries.
Iran president says Trump aiming to bring country 'to its knees‘
As Iran commemorates its 1979 revolution amid mass celebrations, President Pezeshkian launches a fierce rebuke of Donald Trump's renewed sanctions, highlighting the deepening rift between Tehran and Washington.
70 years later: The lingering pain of Sophiatown's displacement still reverberates across South Africa
On February 9, South Africa marks 70 years since the forced removal of Sophiatown residents, a painful chapter in the nation's history that continues to resonate with descendants today
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu thanks Trump for sanctions against ICC
Netanyahu lauds Trump's executive order imposing sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC), calling it a defence against 'anti-American and antisemitic' prosecution, amid ongoing ICC investigations into alleged war crimes.
Kellogg says Trump ready to tighten Russia sanctions to end conflict in Ukraine
US President Donald Trump is preparing an aggressive new sanctions strategy against Russia, aimed at forcing an end to the Ukraine conflict.
Trump calls for work on new Iran nuclear deal to begin 'immediately'
Donald Trump has called for a new 'verified nuclear peace agreement' with Iran, marking a departure from his previous hardline stance.
Russian missile kills five in east Ukraine town
A devastating Russian missile strike on Izyum has left five dead and 38 wounded, including a teenage girl, marking one of the deadliest attacks on the eastern Ukrainian city since its liberation in 2022. President Zelensky condemned the 'impossible cruelty' as the strike damaged both residential and government buildings, calling for increased international pressure on Moscow.
Israeli prime minister in Washington for Gaza ceasefire talks
In a pivotal diplomatic move, Netanyahu heads to Washington for crucial ceasefire negotiations with Trump's administration, marking their first meeting since Trump's return to office. The talks aim to broker a second phase of the Gaza ceasefire while addressing Iran tensions and hostage releases, potentially reshaping Middle East dynamics.
Russia signals major policy shift on Taliban terror status
In a significant diplomatic shift, Russia has initiated proceedings to remove the Taliban from its terrorist organisation list, potentially marking a major change in international relations with Afghanistan's current rulers.
Hundreds of Egyptians protest at Gaza border against displacement
In a rare public protest, hundreds of Egyptians gathered at the heavily-secured Rafah border crossing to reject US President Trump's controversial proposal to relocate Palestinians to Egypt and Jordan. The demonstration comes as President al-Sisi strongly opposes the plan, calling it an 'injustice' that threatens national security.
Sanctions delay Turkey's nuclear power dreams as Siemens halts equipment supply
Western sanctions are threatening to derail Turkey's ambitious nuclear power goals, as crucial equipment supplies from German industrial giant Siemens grind to a halt. The setback at the Akkuyu nuclear plant, a cornerstone of Russian Turkish cooperation, highlights the far-reaching impact of international restrictions on major infrastructure projects.
ECOWAS faces crisis as three nations exit in historic split
Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso's withdrawal from ECOWAS marks a significant shift in West African politics and trade relations.
Putin snubs Zelensky: Russia open to Ukraine talks but rejects direct meeting
In a dramatic development, Putin opens the door to Ukraine peace talks while simultaneously dismissing President Zelensky as 'illegitimate'. This, as US President Donald Trump steps into the fray with promises of a quick resolution.
Colombia agrees to accept deportation flights from the US - White House
In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, Colombia has agreed to accept unrestricted deportation flights from the US, averting threatened sanctions from the Trump administration. The deal includes provisions for military aircraft usage and represents a major shift in bilateral migration policy.
Deadly Russian strike near Kyiv kills two as Trump threatens sanctions
A deadly Russian drone attack near Kyiv has claimed two lives and injured others, as tensions escalate amid potential peace negotiations and Trump's threats of increased sanctions against Moscow.
UN nuclear chief urges dialogue between Trump and Iran
IAEA chief Rafael Grossi warns that Iran's nuclear capabilities have grown 'dramatically' since 2021, with uranium enrichment reaching concerning levels. As Tehran accelerates its nuclear programme, Grossi calls for urgent dialogue between the Trump administration and Iran, describing it as 'absolutely indispensable' for progress.
Will US sanctions on Russia's Rosatom affect Eskom?
US sanctions on Rosatom raise questions about the future of its partnership with Eskom and the implications for nuclear energy in South Africa.
Russia says Ukraine targeted infrastructure of gas pipeline to Turkey
Russia accused Ukraine on Monday of launching a weekend drone attack on infrastructure of a major gas pipeline that carries Russian supplies to Europe via Turkey.