Rapid Read: Geopolitical Must-Knows for Today (20 June 2025)
This is my news scan from 19 June 2025 at 0644 Eastern Time until 20 June 2025 at 0720 Eastern Time
Mozambique Ready to Lift Force Majeure on LNG Plant
Mozambique is prepared to lift the force majeure on TotalEnergies’ $20 billion LNG project once the company submits a request, as security in the region has improved. The project, halted since 2021 due to insurgent attacks, aims to liquefy gas from the Golfinho and Atum offshore fields with a capacity of 13.12 million tons annually. It represents Africa’s largest LNG project and the continent’s biggest foreign investment, led by TotalEnergies with a 26% stake alongside partners like Mitsui & Co and Mozambique’s ENH. The government’s optimism is tempered by ongoing investigations into alleged human rights abuses linked to the project.
Romanian President to Designate Bolojan as Premier
Romania’s President Nicusor Dan plans to appoint Liberal Party leader Ilie Bolojan as prime minister to address the country’s fiscal deficit, following a coalition agreement. The announcement, set for Friday at 3 p.m. in Bucharest, resolved last-minute disputes over fiscal measures among party leaders. Bolojan, a respected former mayor known for reforms, is expected to lead until 2027, before parliamentary elections. The Romanian currency rebounded after the news, signaling market confidence in the new government’s formation.
EU Seeks to End Russian Gas by 2027 With U.S. LNG, Demand Cuts
https://naturalgasintel.com/news/eu-seeks-to-end-russian-gas-by-2027-with-us-lng-demand-cuts/
The European Union aims to eliminate Russian gas imports by 2027 through increased U.S. LNG supplies and reduced energy demand. Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the EU has cut Russian gas from 40% to 8% of its energy imports by 2023, relying on LNG from coastal terminals. However, some member states remain reluctant to abandon Russian LNG due to its financial attractiveness. Challenges include potential supply constraints and the possibility of Azerbaijan rebranding Russian gas, complicating the EU’s energy diversification efforts.
Nearly 1,000 Ships’ GPS Jammed Near Iran Daily, Navy Group Says
A navy group reports that nearly 1,000 ships face daily GPS jamming near Iran, disrupting maritime navigation in the region. The interference, attributed to Iranian efforts to counter potential threats, poses significant risks to commercial and military vessels. The jamming incidents have escalated tensions, with implications for global trade routes through the Persian Gulf. The navy group calls for international action to address the growing navigational security challenge.
EU Abandons Proposal to Lower Price Cap on Russian Oil to $45
The European Union has dropped its plan to reduce the price cap on Russian oil from $60 to $45 per barrel due to lack of consensus among member states. The cap, introduced to limit Russia’s oil revenue while maintaining global supply, faced resistance from countries reliant on Russian energy. The decision reflects ongoing challenges in balancing sanctions against economic dependencies within the EU. Discussions on alternative measures to curb Russian oil profits are expected to continue.
China, Kyrgyzstan, and the Quiet Construction of a Sanctions-Resistant Trade Corridor
China and Kyrgyzstan are developing a trade corridor designed to bypass Western sanctions, enhancing regional connectivity through infrastructure like railways and roads. The project, part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, aims to secure supply chains for critical goods amid global geopolitical tensions. Kyrgyzstan’s strategic location facilitates trade between China and Central Asia, reducing reliance on sanctioned routes. The quiet progress of this corridor underscores China’s long-term strategy to counter economic restrictions.
Embattled Thai PM Faces Call to Step Down to Avert Coalition Revolt
Thailand’s Prime Minister is under pressure to resign as coalition partners threaten to withdraw support, risking government collapse. The call follows political infighting and public dissatisfaction with the administration’s handling of economic and social issues. Failure to resolve the crisis could lead to a no-confidence vote or snap elections, deepening Thailand’s political instability. Negotiations are ongoing to stabilize the coalition, but the outcome remains uncertain.
Russia Floats Asset Sales as War Costs Mount
https://oilprice.com/Latest-Energy-News/World-News/Russia-Floats-Asset-Sales-as-War-Costs-Mount.html
Russia is considering selling state-owned assets to fund escalating costs of its war in Ukraine, as budget deficits widen. The government aims to raise revenue through privatization of stakes in energy and infrastructure firms, though details remain vague. Western sanctions and a shrinking economy complicate the sales, potentially forcing discounted deals with domestic or allied buyers. The move reflects Moscow’s urgent need to sustain military spending amid financial strain.
What Happens If Iran Falls? Nothing Good.
https://thehill.com/opinion/international/5360112-regime-change-iran-chaos/
The article argues that a collapse of Iran’s regime would lead to chaos, destabilizing the Middle East and creating power vacuums exploited by extremist groups. It highlights Iran’s role in regional conflicts, warning that sudden regime change could disrupt oil markets and escalate sectarian violence. The author advocates for cautious diplomacy over aggressive policies, citing Iraq’s post-2003 turmoil as a precedent. Without a stable transition plan, Iran’s fall could trigger widespread geopolitical and economic fallout.
US Sanctions Target Those Providing Iran with Defense Machinery, Houthi Oil Trading
The U.S. has imposed sanctions on entities supplying Iran with defense machinery and those involved in Houthi oil trading, aiming to curb Tehran’s military capabilities. The measures target firms and individuals facilitating Iran’s support for Yemen’s Houthi rebels, who disrupt Red Sea shipping. The sanctions seek to disrupt illicit revenue streams funding Iran’s regional activities, including proxy militias. Enforcement faces challenges due to complex global trade networks and Iran’s evasion tactics.
Oil and Gas Lawsuits Are Threatening Trump’s Energy Agenda
https://thehill.com/opinion/5360195-trump-energy-agenda-michigan-louisiana/
Legal challenges in Michigan and Louisiana are obstructing former President Trump’s plans to expand U.S. oil and gas production. Environmental groups and local communities have filed lawsuits against proposed drilling and pipeline projects, citing ecological and health risks. These cases could delay or derail Trump’s energy dominance agenda, which prioritizes deregulation and fossil fuel output. The outcome of these lawsuits may set precedents for future energy policy battles.
Kazakhstan’s Two-Step Nuclear Plan Reveals Delicate Diplomacy
Kazakhstan is pursuing a nuclear power program through a two-step plan, balancing domestic energy needs with geopolitical sensitivities. The first phase involves a referendum to gauge public support, followed by international bidding for reactor construction. The country navigates tensions between Russia, China, and Western partners, leveraging its uranium reserves for strategic influence. The plan reflects Kazakhstan’s cautious diplomacy in a region wary of nuclear expansion post-Chernobyl.
Where US Troops in Mideast Are Most at Risk of Iran Strike
U.S. troops in Iraq, Syria, and Jordan face heightened risks of Iranian strikes due to their proximity to Iran-backed militias. Recent attacks on U.S. bases underscore vulnerabilities, with Iran seeking to pressure American forces amid nuclear deal tensions. Bases like Al-Asad in Iraq and Al-Tanf in Syria are particularly exposed to drone and missile threats. The Pentagon is bolstering defenses, but escalating retaliations could draw the U.S. deeper into regional conflict.
Starmer Faces Brewing Rebellion Over £5 Billion Benefit Cut
UK Labour leader Keir Starmer is grappling with internal party dissent over a proposed £5 billion cut to welfare benefits, aimed at addressing fiscal constraints. Left-wing MPs and unions criticize the plan, warning it could alienate voters and harm vulnerable communities. Starmer defends the cuts as necessary for economic stability, but the rebellion threatens his leadership ahead of elections. Compromise talks are underway to mitigate backlash while maintaining budget discipline.
Why Germany Is Rebooting Its Economy
https://www.cnbc.com/video/2025/06/21/why-germany-is-rebooting-its-economy.html
Germany is undertaking economic reforms to counter stagnation, driven by high energy costs, global competition, and a shrinking workforce. The government is investing in green energy, digital infrastructure, and tax incentives to boost manufacturing and innovation. Challenges include bureaucratic hurdles and resistance from traditional industries, particularly automotive. The reboot aims to restore Germany’s position as Europe’s economic powerhouse amid shifting global trade dynamics.
China’s Property Sector Has Been in an Extended Slump. Shrinking Population Is Making It Worse
https://www.cnbc.com/2025/06/21/china-population-decline-hurting-property-market.html
China’s property market continues its prolonged downturn, exacerbated by a declining population that reduces housing demand. Falling birth rates and an aging society have led to oversupply in many cities, with developers facing debt crises. Government stimulus measures, like interest rate cuts, have had limited impact, as consumer confidence remains low. The sector’s woes threaten broader economic growth, prompting calls for structural reforms.
Tunisia Sentences Ex-President Marzouki to 22 Years in Absentia
A Tunisian court sentenced former President Moncef Marzouki to 22 years in absentia for undermining state security through critical statements made abroad. Marzouki, living in exile, denounced the ruling as politically motivated, accusing President Kais Saied of consolidating power. The verdict reflects Tunisia’s crackdown on dissent since Saied’s 2021 power grab, alarming human rights groups. The case highlights growing tensions between the government and opposition figures.
How Iranian Missile Struck at the Heart of Israeli Cyber Empire in Beer al-Sabe
http://www.globalsecurity.org/wmd/library/news/iran/2025/iran-250620-presstv01.htm
An Iranian missile strike targeted a key Israeli cyber facility in Beersheba, disrupting operations at the heart of Israel’s technological infrastructure. The attack, attributed to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, aimed to retaliate against Israeli cyberattacks on Iranian systems. Israel downplayed the damage, but the strike exposed vulnerabilities in its cyber defenses. The incident escalates the shadow war between the two nations, raising fears of further cyber and kinetic reprisals.
After Zuckerberg Spent Billions on an AI ‘Dream Team,’ He Has to Deliver for Meta Shareholders
Mark Zuckerberg faces pressure to deliver AI breakthroughs for Meta after investing billions in a top-tier AI research team. The company’s pivot to AI-driven products, like advanced chatbots and ad tools, aims to compete with rivals like Google and OpenAI. Investors are skeptical, as AI initiatives have yet to yield significant revenue, while costs mount. Zuckerberg’s long-term vision hinges on AI transforming Meta’s social media and metaverse ecosystems.
Japan Scraps US Meeting After Washington Demands More Defense Spending, FT Reports
Japan canceled a high-level meeting with the U.S. after Washington pressed Tokyo to increase defense spending, according to the Financial Times. The decision reflects tensions over burden-sharing in the U.S.-Japan alliance, as Japan faces domestic constraints on military budget hikes. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s government is wary of public backlash amid economic challenges. The snub could strain bilateral ties as both nations navigate China’s regional assertiveness.
Disclaimer:
The headlines presented here are taken directly from the referenced articles and do not reflect any personal value judgment or opinion. They are generally presented chronologically based upon the publication time. I make no warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, or truthfulness of the content of these articles. It must be noted that the articles presented here are presented to develop thought and are not necessarily the thoughts of GeopoliticsUnplugged.com They are presented as interesting thought provoking discussion points. All news and information should be carefully scrutinized, considering the credibility of the source, the facts presented, and the strength of the supporting evidence. Readers are encouraged to form their own conclusions through critical analysis.