Politics

Latest Politics News

đź“…January 2, 2026 at 1:00 AM
Global politics on Jan 2, 2026, features US new laws under Trump, Taiwan's resilient New Year address, Ukraine-Russia tensions with Putin-Trump summit, and Middle East escalations.
1

US Starts 2026 with New Laws Including Social Media Restrictions and Minimum Wage Hike

Scores of new laws take effect federally and at state levels, from social media restrictions to minimum wage increases. President Donald Trump’s major 2025 legislative achievement begins impacting millions.Source 1 This marks a significant policy shift as the year begins.Source 1

2

Trump Prepares for High-Stakes Summit with Putin Amid Ukraine Tensions

President Trump gears up for an Anchorage summit with Russian leader Vladimir Putin, with both sides rallying allies. A virtual meeting with European leaders on Ukraine precedes it, testing Trump's NATO stance.Source 2 Putin praised North Korean troops' bravery on front lines.Source 2

3

Taiwan President Lai Delivers 'Island of Resilience' New Year's Address

President Lai Ching-te emphasized overcoming 2025 challenges, defending democracy against China's threats, and urged cross-party support for defense budget. He called for unity to end political deadlocks and advance national projects.Source 3 Taiwan's economy draws global optimism.Source 3

4

Russian Hackers Breach US Federal Court Filing System

A hack into the federal judiciary’s case filing system, described as 'taking candy from a baby,' was allegedly carried out partly by Russian hackers. POLITICO first reported the intrusion last week.Source 2 It raises concerns over cybersecurity vulnerabilities.Source 2

5

Zohran Mamdani Inaugurated as New York’s First Muslim Mayor

Zohran Mamdani makes history as New York’s first Muslim, South Asian, and African-born mayor with his inauguration on January 1. The event highlights diverse leadership in US cities.Source 6 Coverage includes live broadcasts and analysis.Source 6

6

Israel Proscribes Iran’s Central Bank as Terrorist Organization

Israel’s move to classify Iran’s Central Bank as a terrorist entity aims to pressure Tehran amid monetary warfare. It carries risks and potential unintended consequences for regional stability.Source 4 This escalates Middle East tensions.Source 4

7

Trump Shifts Closer to NATO on Ukraine Ahead of Putin Meeting

The president has moved toward NATO's position on Ukraine recently, with the upcoming Putin summit as a key test. European allies seek stronger US commitments.Source 2 This follows high-stakes calls with Ukraine and Europe.Source 2

8

GOP Pushes to Ban Congress Members from Stock Trading

House and Senate Republican leaders address bipartisan efforts prohibiting members of Congress from trading individual stocks. This aims to curb insider trading concerns.Source 2 It gains traction amid ethics debates.Source 2

9

Concerns Rise Over Trump’s Actions Targeting US Statistics Agencies

Statisticians fear President Trump’s moves against statistics agencies could erode permanent trust in federal data. Critics like E.J. Antoni defend the administration’s agenda.Source 2 This impacts economic policy credibility.Source 2

10

Weaponization of Migrants Undermines EU and Allies from Russia, Belarus

Irregular migration from Russia and Belarus poses hybrid warfare threats to frontline EU states. Brussels must collaborate to counter this effectively.Source 4 It challenges EU cohesion.Source 4

11

Sen. Chris Murphy Walks Away from Bipartisan Government Funding Talks

Connecticut Democrat Sen. Chris Murphy abandons negotiations despite party pressure, picking a fight with Trump over funding. This heightens shutdown risks.Source 2 Bipartisan efforts face new hurdles.Source 2

12

Russia Recognizes Taliban, Signaling Central Asia Geopolitical Shifts

Russia’s Taliban recognition may trigger a domino effect, complicating Afghanistan’s reintegration and Central Asian dynamics.Source 4 It adds layers to regional diplomacy.Source 4