Shifting alliances, defense buildup, and energy geopolitics: Key headlines from the weekend (Sept 26-28, 2025)
This past weekend saw a wave of geopolitical developments: Russia deepened its nuclear cooperation with Iran, NATO scrambled to strengthen air defenses against hybrid threats, and Europe confronted the challenge of building a more autonomous defense posture. Meanwhile, energy markets and Middle Eastern diplomacy remained in the spotlight. Here are the top stories you need to know:
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Title |
Brief Description |
Link |
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1 |
Russia and Iran deepen nuclear cooperation |
Moscow signed new energy agreements with Tehran, fueling concerns about proliferation and strategic alignment. |
(Reuters) |
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2 |
Trump set to bail out Argentina, sparking debate |
The U.S. plans a $20B bailout for Argentina, seen as both economic support and geopolitical signal. |
Washington Post |
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3 |
U.S. designates Barrio 18 gang a foreign terrorist organization |
The Trump administration added Barrio 18 to its terrorist list, expanding its Latin American criminal-syndicate focus. |
(AP News) |
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4 |
IDB launches $500B Latin American loan pool for investors |
The Inter-American Development Bank’s ReInvest+ program aims to convert local loans into global-grade securities. |
Reuters |
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5 |
Guinea to hold first post-coup presidential vote Dec 28 |
After years under military rule, Guinea plans elections under a new constitution, with questions about legitimacy. |
Reuters |
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6 |
Lesotho eyes 1-year extension of U.S. trade deal AGOA |
Lesotho pushes for a U.S. renewal of its duty-free trade eligibility to stabilize its export sector. |
Reuters |
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7 |
Congo and Rwanda to begin security measures under peace accord |
Under a U.S.-mediated deal, the two nations will activate joint security steps beginning in October. |
Reuters |
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8 |
South Africa pressures U.S. over tariff disputes |
President Ramaphosa accuses Washington of weaponizing trade and seeks lower U.S. tariffs. |
Reuters |
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9 |
Kenya eyes new U.S. trade deal by year-end |
Kenya seeks access for its agricultural and textile exports and aims for AGOA extension. |
Reuters |
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10 |
Geopolitical uncertainty and digital disruption spike |
A new report warns that global affairs and tech risks have reached their highest level this year. |
IIA press release |
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11 |
Trade routes shift under geopolitical pressure |
Tensions drive infrastructure projects that reroute global supply chains. |
Producer.com |
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12 |
Saudi Vision Invest enters Africa via ARISE IIP deal |
Saudi investment into pan-African industrial zones signals strategic moves into Africa. |
Reuters |
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13 |
Sub-Saharan economies strained by high finance costs |
Moody’s warns that interest rates are hitting growth and debt profiles in Africa. |
Reuters |
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14 |
DRC & Rwanda peace deal activation imminent |
The 2025 Washington Accord between these nations is set to take operational steps soon. |
Reuters / background context |
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15 |
Latin America: 10 key recent military developments |
A roundup of regional defense shifts including Colombia’s reaction to U.S. strikes. |
RiotiMes |
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16 |
New energy & climate panel examines Latin America’s role |
Experts debate how geopolitics will influence the region’s transition to clean energy. |
Columbia SIPA event listing |
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17 |
Nigeria leads push for unified African oil regulation |
AFRIPERF, a new forum, aims to harmonize energy rules across African states. |
Reuters |
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18 |
U.S. naval buildup near Venezuela heightens tension |
U.S. deployed warships in the Caribbean, citing counter-narcotics aims, but stoking regional alarm. |
Financial Times |
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19 |
U.S. strikes Venezuelan vessels amid narco-terror claims |
Multiple U.S. air actions against alleged drug smuggling boats triggered diplomatic backlash. |
Wikipedia summary / background |
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20 |
Renewable energy expansion forecast for South America |
A predictive analysis anticipates solar and wind capacity to triple by 2050, led by Brazil and Chile. |
arXiv preprint |
