World Digest - April 21, 2025

United States: Between Digital Monopolies, Tariff Pressure, and Pentagon Leaks

Antitrust Case Against Google: The Evidence Phase

According to AP, the U.S. Department of Justice is advancing one of the largest antitrust proceedings in decades — the case against Google. At this stage, the government has presented additional internal documents from the company concerning contracts with device manufacturers and browser developers. The main allegation is that Google is abusing its dominant position in the search engine market by signing deals that effectively eliminate competition on Android and iOS devices.

Court hearings are ongoing in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. Google’s attorneys do not rule out the possibility of a settlement, but publicly, the company maintains its intent to “defend its business model.” The case is seen as a potential precedent that could reshape the structure of the U.S. internet economy, especially given growing pressure on other tech giants.

DHL Halts Deliveries to the U.S. Over Tariffs

As Business Insider reports, DHL Express, a leading international logistics operator, has announced a temporary halt to shipments to the U.S. for goods valued over $800. The move is motivated by new tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. The restrictions especially impact deliveries from China, Hong Kong, and Southeast Asia.

The company stated it had to revise its U.S. logistics strategy due to a “new wave of tariff pressure” that sharply increased operating costs. Small and medium-sized platforms like Shopify and Etsy have already warned customers about potential delays and price hikes. The American E-Commerce Association estimates potential monthly losses to the market of $2–3 billion.

Pressure on the Fed Accelerates Dollar Decline

According to Bloomberg, amid escalating trade policies and growing political rhetoric advocating a “softer monetary stance” from the Federal Reserve, the U.S. dollar has fallen to a three-month low against the euro and yen. Analysts note that investors are pricing in the likelihood of a rate cut by mid-summer — despite the Fed’s official commitment to maintaining a tight monetary policy through the end of 2025.

Contributing factors to the dollar’s decline include:

• Senator Josh Hawley’s statement on the “destructive role of a strong dollar” in domestic manufacturing,

• pressure from the White House on the central bank to respond to tariff volatility,

• renewed gold and cryptocurrency purchases by BRICS nations.

U.S.-Philippines Joint Military Drills: 14,000 Troops Amid China Tensions

On April 21, Reuters reported that the U.S. and the Philippines launched the largest joint military exercise in 30 years, Balikatan 2025, involving more than 14,000 troops. The drills include amphibious operations, anti-ship strikes, cyber defense, and logistics.

The exercises are being held near disputed areas in the South China Sea. Pentagon officials emphasize that the goal is to enhance joint combat readiness and practice operations under “hybrid threat” scenarios. China has labeled the drills “provocative” and has stepped up patrols around the Spratly Islands.

Pentagon Scandal: Data Leaks via Signal

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is at the center of an investigation after it was revealed that he shared confidential information via the Signal messaging app — with his wife, brother, and personal attorney. The leaked content reportedly pertained to operations in Yemen and the planned rotation of U.S. troops in Eastern Europe.

According to ABC News, Congress is considering closed hearings on the matter of protocol compliance within the Department of Defense. Hegseth, in an official statement, denies any leaks, claiming that “the messages involved non-public but not classified decisions.” Nevertheless, Democrats are demanding his resignation, and the Department of Justice has opened a preliminary inquiry.

United Kingdom: A Wave of Violence in Home Office Facilities — Challenges to Migration Policy and Security

On April 21, 2025, multiple British media outlets reported confirmed incidents of systematic violence against asylum seekers held in facilities operated by the UK Home Office. These were not isolated altercations but serious events that, according to investigations, have occurred in immigration centers across England and Wales over recent weeks.

The reports were published by several prominent UK media sources, including The Guardian and BBC News, citing data from the ombudsman and rights organizations such as the Refugee Council and Medical Justice.

In one center in Kent, two asylum seekers were hospitalized with injuries following an assault by security personnel.

• At another center, located on the former RAF Wethersfield military base, human rights advocates documented direct threats and the use of excessive force by private security staff contracted by the Home Office.

• Several individuals reported being denied medical treatment after beatings, despite showing visible injuries.

This wave of violence in Home Office institutions could become a turning point in the UK’s migration agenda, reminiscent of the Windrush scandal in 2018. With elections on the horizon and the government adopting a tough stance on immigration, such incidents not only damage London’s human rights image but also undermine confidence in the outsourcing of security-related public services.

Saudi Arabia: From Diplomatic Tensions to Racing Triumphs

Iran’s Accusations: Israel Undermining Nuclear Talks

As Al Arabiya reports, amid a prolonged diplomatic deadlock over Iran’s nuclear program, Tehran has once again accused Israel of deliberately derailing efforts to revive negotiations. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani stated that Israel “uses provocations and misinformation to sabotage any steps toward de-escalation.” These remarks come ahead of a third round of indirect talks with the U.S., scheduled for May 2025 with mediation by Qatar and China.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also linked Israeli actions to cyberattacks on Iranian research facilities, warning that “any attempt to destabilize the negotiation process will have regional consequences.” Previously, Israeli officials had openly expressed skepticism about the success of diplomatic efforts and insisted on stricter oversight of Iran’s nuclear program.

Oscar Piastri’s Victory in Jeddah: A New Formula for Stability?

Amid political turbulence, Saudi Arabia captured the world’s attention through the Formula 1 Grand Prix held in Jeddah on April 20, 2025, where Australian driver Oscar Piastri secured his first major win. The race was accompanied by heightened security measures — including a strong presence of military and police forces — reflecting ongoing regional tensions. This was covered by Arab News.

Piastri’s victory symbolizes Saudi Arabia’s growing international sports profile, bolstered by significant investments in motorsports, football, tennis, and golf under its Vision 2030 strategy. According to analysts, hosting such events is part of the Kingdom’s “soft power” approach, aimed at offsetting reputational damage from regional conflicts and sanctions pressure.

China: On the Front Line — Between U.S. Tariffs, Iran, and Digital Alliances

According to AP, in response to U.S. sanctions targeting Chinese and Hong Kong officials, Beijing has announced retaliatory measures against American lawmakers, officials, and NGO leaders accused of “interfering in China’s internal affairs,” particularly regarding Hong Kong.

In another AP report, China warned other countries against entering trade agreements with the U.S. that could harm Beijing’s interests. The Chinese Ministry of Commerce stated such actions would be viewed as economic coercion and promised countermeasures. The warning followed the U.S. imposition of tariffs up to 145% on Chinese goods, to which China responded with tariffs of up to 125%.

As Reuters reports, Chinese state-owned company COSCO Shipping protested new port fees and restrictions imposed by the U.S. on China’s shipbuilding and logistics industries. The company claimed these measures undermine fair competition and disrupt the normal functioning of the global shipping market.

Meanwhile, China Daily reports that roughly 70% of surveyed CEOs expressed disapproval of U.S. tariff policy, stating that it negatively affects their businesses.

Global Times added that China voiced concerns over the U.S. deployment of anti-ship missiles in the Philippines as part of joint drills, calling it a threat to regional stability.

According to Reuters, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi plans to visit China ahead of the third round of nuclear negotiations with the U.S., underlining the importance of consultations with key allies.

Japan: Rice, Bonds, and the Nuclear Dilemma

Return to Rice Imports: A Symbol and a Symptom

For the first time since 1999, Japan has resumed importing rice from South Korea amid record-high domestic prices driven by climate anomalies and reduced harvests in the Hokuriku and Chugoku regions. The shipment volume — 2 tons — is economically negligible but signals the severity of the shortage and Tokyo’s willingness to adopt previously unpopular measures. This was reported by Bloomberg.

The symbolic weight of the deal is amplified by its historical context: South Korean rice has long been a politically sensitive product in Japan due to trade and nationalist tensions.

Investors Flee to Japanese Bonds

Reuters reports that, amid rising U.S.-China trade tensions and concerns about interference with the Federal Reserve’s independence, foreign investors have significantly increased purchases of Japanese super-long-term government bonds. The total amount reached ¥2.18 trillion (approximately $15.49 billion USD), marking the highest weekly level in history.

This demand reflects Japan’s status as one of the last bastions of economic stability despite internal debt challenges.

Lab-Based Fuels: Betting on E-Methane

Japan’s energy giants, JERA and Osaka Gas, are ramping up promotion of synthetic fuels, including e-methane — an artificially synthesized gas produced using hydrogen and CO₂. Although production costs remain above market levels, the companies are counting on export subsidies and international recognition of “carbon-neutral” technologies. Details are available in The Japan Times.

Several environmental NGOs have criticized the initiative, pointing out the high energy and water requirements involved. Nonetheless, the government views it as a compromise between climate goals and energy independence.

Ishiba Calls for “Currency Fairness”

Reuters also reports that Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, in an interview with The Nikkei, directly criticized Washington in the context of currency negotiations. He rejected U.S. accusations of currency manipulation and stated that Japan is “open to a balanced dialogue,” including discussions on energy imports.

Additionally, Tokyo expressed readiness to increase purchases of U.S. LNG and oil, which could serve as a compromise proposal amid growing White House pressure over trade and currency imbalances.

Germany: Gender Turn, Radical Challenge, and Science as a Safe Haven

A Female President? Politicians Pave the Way

For the first time since German reunification, serious discussions are taking place within the political elite about electing a woman as Federal President after Frank-Walter Steinmeier’s second term ends in 2027. According to Die Welt, leaders of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and Social Democratic Party (SPD), including their women’s branches, are backing this direction as a symbol of institutional gender renewal.

Although the presidency is largely ceremonial in Germany, such a decision would send a strong political signal both domestically and internationally. Party representatives stated that “the head of state should represent not only democracy but also social inclusion.”

AfD Ban? Legal and Democratic Risks

In parallel, debates are intensifying about the potential ban of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. The trigger: recent statements and actions by AfD representatives that critics see as threatening to the democratic order. Die Welt reports that supporters of the ban point to signs of unconstitutional activity, while opponents warn of legal pitfalls and the risk of undermining trust in democratic institutions.

Germany’s Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution continues to monitor the party, including classifying its regional branches as potentially extremist entities.

Germany Invites American Scientists

Amid growing concerns about the politicization of science in the United States, SPD co-leader Lars Klingbeil proposed inviting U.S. scientists who feel uncomfortable under Donald Trump’s administration. According to Die Welt, the initiative includes simplified visa procedures, research grants, and support for international mobility through programs like DAAD and the Max Planck Society.

This effort is seen as both a humanitarian gesture and a strategic investment in Germany’s position as a key hub for global academic freedom.

Spain: Between Electricity, Law, and Defense

Post-Easter Shock: A Surge in Electricity Prices

According to Euenergy.live, on Monday, April 21, the wholesale electricity price in Spain surged to €49.09 per megawatt-hour — nearly five times higher than during the Easter weekend. The spike is attributed to increased demand following the holidays, reduced output from renewables, and fluctuations in gas markets.

Center vs. Regions: Legal Battles Over Old Wounds

Spain’s Supreme Court is reviewing a series of lawsuits filed by autonomous governments controlled by the conservative Popular Party (PP) against central government decisions. At the heart of the disputes are three contentious issues:

1. The redistribution of underage migrants, which some regions consider excessive and inadequately funded;

2. Amnesty for participants in the Catalan independence referendum, initiated by Sánchez’s government;

3. A wealth tax perceived by regions as “an infringement on fiscal sovereignty.”

As Eldiario reports, these tensions are intensifying ahead of the 2026 municipal and European elections and may destabilize center-regional relations.

Spain Aligns with NATO’s Defense Architecture

The Ministry of Defense is finalizing a multi-year rearmament program aimed at reaching NATO’s recommended spending target of 2% of GDP. According to El País, the government plans to invest €10–15 billion in digital communications, command and control systems, and new combat platforms.

Developed as part of Spain’s 2030 defense strategy, the program is framed by the ministry as a reflection of European sovereignty and Spain’s contribution to collective security. However, left-wing parties in parliament argue that social policies should take precedence over military expenditures.

Global Events: Bitcoin, Ukraine, and Pope Francis

Crypto Response: Bitcoin Amid Geopolitical Instability

Bitcoin has reached its highest level since the beginning of tariff escalations under the Trump administration. As reported by Reuters and CNBC, investors are turning to digital assets as an alternative store of value amid a weakening U.S. dollar and growing fears of a U.S. recession.

According to both Bloomberg and Reuters, the crypto market responded positively, especially on Asian exchanges, driven by mounting political turbulence and dollar depreciation.

Death of Pope Francis: End of a Papacy Marked by Humility

On Sunday evening, the Vatican officially confirmed the death of Pope Francis — the first pontiff from Latin America. Known for his humility, rejection of papal apartments, and emphasis on social justice, Francis passed away at age 89 in his residence at Domus Sanctae Marthae.

Condolences have poured in from around the world. French President Emmanuel Macron called him “the conscience of the Global South,” while Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba described him as “the voice of the poor in the silence of the powerful.” Preparations have begun in the Vatican for funeral rites and a conclave to elect the next pope, which may take place as early as May.

Renewed Attacks on Ukraine: A New Phase After Easter Pause

Following a brief Easter truce, Russia has resumed missile and drone strikes on Ukrainian territory. According to AP and Ukraine World, the attacks targeted energy infrastructure in Kharkiv and Zaporizhzhia, as well as railway hubs in western Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Moscow of using the ceasefire as a tactical pause for regrouping. The EU and the U.S. condemned the strikes and reiterated their support for expanding military aid, including air defense systems and artillery.