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China’s moderate shift may disappear along with Qin Gang

Published

2 years ago

July 27, 2023

The abrupt removal of China’s foreign minister, Qin Gang, has raised questions about the implications for China’s diplomacy.

Despite his “wolf warrior” reputation, Qin demonstrated a softer approach during his time as ambassador to the US, engaging in sports and advocating for a nuanced relationship between the superpowers.

His appointment as foreign minister was perceived as a move to present a more moderate image of China, but he had limited influence on actual foreign policy decisions.

The ultimate authority rested with Wang Yi, who held the top diplomatic position in China’s party-centric hierarchy as the head of the Communist Party’s foreign affairs commission.

With Wang Yi assuming the role of foreign minister, China aims to signal continuity and reassure the global community that it is business as usual.

International charm offensive

Wang is known for orchestrating international charm offensives and is expected to focus on repairing US-China relations, especially in light of a possible visit by President Xi to the US. However, doubts persist about Wang’s long-term tenure, with many considering him a temporary replacement while Xi searches for someone to ease his workload.

The sudden removal of Qin Gang without explanation has sent a troubling message and raised questions about Xi’s judgment. It has implications for the Chinese Communist Party’s image both abroad and internally, as it highlights leadership instability, possible policy disagreements, and a lack of transparency in high-level official promotions.

Reappointing Wang Yi to signal continuity has been seen as nonsensical, as it reminds foreign partners that Chinese officials can vanish without warning, and their contributions become nullified.

The episode also underscores the distance between the Chinese diplomats often interacted with by foreign governments and companies and the true centers of power in China.

It serves as a reminder that Xi Jinping remains the decisive actor in Beijing. While Qin Gang’s downfall may not significantly impact foreign relations, it has left China with a red face, as it struggles to manage the fallout and maintain a confident image on the global stage.

News

Greenland says “No” to U.S. takeover — Chooses Denmark in geopolitical showdown

Greenland’s PM chooses Denmark over U.S. amid Trump’s controversy over Arctic control, emphasizing sovereignty and local sentiment.

Published

21 hours ago

January 14, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Greenland’s PM chooses Denmark over U.S. amid Trump’s controversy over Arctic control, emphasizing sovereignty and local sentiment.

Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens‑Frederik Nielsen has delivered a clear message amid renewed pressure from the U.S. — if forced to choose between the United States and Denmark, Greenland will pick Denmark, NATO, and the EU.

Nielsen made the declaration in Copenhagen alongside Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen ahead of diplomatic talks with top U.S. officials.

The announcement comes as U.S. President Donald Trump has again stoked controversy by suggesting Washington could pursue ownership or control of Greenland, citing strategic interests in the Arctic. European leaders and Greenlandic officials have pushed back strongly against these ideas, emphasising sovereignty and respect for international law.

This standoff places Greenland’s future in the spotlight — as Copenhagen and Nuuk reaffirm their ties, local sentiment remains overwhelmingly opposed to U.S. annexation and supportive of Greenland’s own path forward.

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#Greenland #Trump #Denmark #ArcticPolitics #NATO #Geopolitics #InternationalRelations

News

Trump promises aid amid Iran unrest

Trump urges Americans in Iran to evacuate amidst escalating protests and vows support for protesters seeking freedom.

Published

21 hours ago

January 14, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Trump urges Americans in Iran to evacuate amidst escalating protests and vows support for protesters seeking freedom.

President Trump has called on Americans in Iran to evacuate as tensions escalate following the government’s violent crackdown on antigovernment protesters. He has ruled out negotiations and encouraged protesters to continue their efforts, hinting that aid could be on the way.

The unrest in Iran has reportedly resulted in over 2,000 deaths, including both protesters and security forces. U.S. officials are reportedly weighing various responses, from sanctions to potential military options, though no immediate action has been confirmed.

Trump delivered a direct message to the people of Iran, emphasising support for their push for freedom and safety amid the growing crisis.

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#IranProtests #Trump #USPolitics #MiddleEastCrisis #HumanRights #EvacuationAlert #GlobalNews #TickerNews

News

Trump escalates pressure on the Federal Reserve with Powell probe

Trump administration investigates Fed Chair Powell, raising concerns over political pressure on monetary policy and economic stability.

Published

2 days ago

January 13, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Trump administration investigates Fed Chair Powell, raising concerns over political pressure on monetary policy and economic stability.

The Trump administration has launched a criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, dramatically escalating tensions between the White House and the central bank.

The probe centres on Powell’s testimony over a controversial renovation of the Federal Reserve’s headquarters, raising alarm over whether political pressure is being applied to monetary policy decisions.

The move has sparked fierce debate in Washington, with critics warning it could undermine investor confidence and destabilise economic expectations.

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#FederalReserve #JeromePowell #DonaldTrump #USPolitics #MonetaryPolicy #Markets #Inflation #TickerNews