Rapid Read: Geopolitical Must-Knows for Today (14 June 2025)
This is my news scan from 13 June 2025 at 0745 Eastern Time until 14 June 2025 at 0723 Eastern Time
India, China Tackle Rare Earth Curbs in Meeting of Top Officials
Indian officials met with China’s vice foreign minister to address China’s rare earth export restrictions, which began in April 2025, impacting India’s automotive and tech sectors. The discussions aimed to stabilize supply chains amid global concerns over shortages caused by Beijing’s curbs. Both nations agreed to continue talks on critical mineral supplies and broader trade issues. The restrictions have raised tensions, particularly with the U.S., threatening a fragile tariff truce.
Iran Retaliates After Israel Strikes
https://thehill.com/policy/international/5348713-iran-retaliates-after-israel-strikes/
Iran launched missile and drone strikes on Israel on June 14, 2025, in retaliation for Israeli attacks targeting its nuclear program and military facilities. Israel’s strikes killed at least 78 people, including top Iranian generals and scientists, and damaged key sites like the Natanz nuclear facility. The escalation has raised fears of a broader regional conflict, with Israel warning of further strikes and Iran threatening U.S., UK, and French bases. The U.S. assisted Israel in intercepting Iranian missiles, complicating planned nuclear talks.
Iran Pulls Out of Nuclear Talks with the US
https://thehill.com/policy/international/5348689-iran-nuclear-deal-talks-suspended/
Iran withdrew from scheduled nuclear negotiations with the U.S. in Oman on June 15, 2025, following Israel’s attacks on its nuclear and military infrastructure. Iran’s foreign ministry called dialogue “meaningless,” accusing the U.S. of complicity in Israel’s strikes, which Washington denied. The talks, aimed at curbing Iran’s nuclear program, were disrupted as tensions escalated after Israel targeted sites like Natanz. The suspension has cast doubt on future diplomatic efforts to revive a nuclear accord.
Rare Earth, Raw Power: How China Plays the Carrot and Stick Game of the Century
China leverages its dominance in rare earth minerals, controlling 61% of mining and 92% of processing, to exert geopolitical influence through export restrictions. Since April 2025, curbs on elements like dysprosium and terbium have disrupted global supply chains, impacting industries in the U.S., EU, and India. China selectively eases restrictions, as seen in talks with the U.S. and India, to negotiate trade concessions while maintaining strategic control. This “carrot and stick” approach underscores China’s ability to weaponize critical resources in global trade disputes.
Why the Saudis Have Been Driving Down the Price of Crude Oil
https://thehill.com/opinion/energy-environment/5346938-saudi-arabia-opec-oil-market/
Saudi Arabia, through OPEC+, has increased oil production to lower crude prices, aiming to maintain market share and counter U.S. shale oil growth. This strategy, ongoing as of June 2025, seeks to pressure high-cost producers while aligning with U.S. interests to curb inflation. However, it risks fiscal strain for Saudi Arabia, which relies on higher oil revenues for its Vision 2030 diversification plan. The move also navigates geopolitical tensions, including the Israel-Iran conflict, which threatens oil supply routes.
Global Freight Ships Set Defensive Plans for Israel-Iran Conflict, Strait of Hormuz Risks
Global freight companies are preparing defensive measures due to heightened Israel-Iran tensions, fearing disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil shipping route. As of June 13, 2025, firms are rerouting ships, increasing insurance costs, and enhancing security protocols after Iran’s retaliatory strikes on Israel. The conflict raises concerns over potential blockades or attacks, which could spike oil prices and delay global trade. Shipping firms are also coordinating with naval forces to mitigate risks in the volatile region.
Russia Enhancing its Economic and Investment Ties in Africa
https://moderndiplomacy.eu/2025/06/14/russia-enhancing-its-economic-and-investment-ties-in-africa/
Russia is deepening economic ties with African nations, focusing on energy, mining, and infrastructure investments as of June 14, 2025. This strategy aims to counter Western influence and secure access to critical resources like rare earths and oil. Russia offers debt relief and trade agreements to African countries, leveraging its non-colonial historical narrative to build partnerships. However, challenges like Western sanctions and local governance issues may limit the scope of these investments.
China Weighs In on Israeli-Iran Conflict as U.S. Support Emerges
China has called for de-escalation in the Israel-Iran conflict, criticizing Israel’s June 13, 2025, strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites while urging restraint from both sides. Beijing’s stance reflects its interest in stabilizing Middle Eastern oil supplies, crucial for its economy, amid U.S. support for Israel’s defense. China’s diplomatic efforts aim to position it as a neutral mediator, contrasting with U.S. involvement in intercepting Iranian missiles. The conflict complicates China’s trade relations, particularly with Iran, a key oil supplier.
Iran Becomes First Country to Shoot Down Fifth-Gen F-35 Fighter Jets Belonging to Israel
http://www.globalsecurity.org/wmd/library/news/iran/2025/iran-250613-presstv13.htm
Iran claimed on June 13, 2025, to have shot down Israeli F-35 fighter jets during Israel’s strikes on its nuclear and military facilities, marking a significant escalation. Iranian state media reported the use of advanced air defense systems, though Israel has not confirmed the losses. The incident followed Israel’s attack on Natanz and other sites, prompting Iran’s missile retaliation. The claim, if verified, would highlight Iran’s growing military capabilities amid heightened regional tensions.
The Big Gulf AI Deal That’s Divided the White House
A proposed AI partnership between Gulf states, led by Saudi Arabia and the UAE, and U.S. tech firms has sparked debate within the White House as of June 14, 2025. Proponents argue it could counter China’s AI advancements and boost economic ties, while critics fear technology transfers could undermine U.S. security. The deal involves significant investments in AI infrastructure, raising concerns over data privacy and Gulf states’ human rights records. The administration is divided on balancing economic benefits with strategic risks in this high-stakes tech race.
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.