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Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Tianjin, China, on August 31 aboard a special flight to begin a four-day visit. In addition to attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, Putin will travel to Beijing to participate in the military parade on September 3 commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory in the War of Resistance against Japan. He is expected to appear alongside Chinese President Xi Jinping and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. This move not only symbolizes the strategic alignment of China, Russia, and North Korea but also underscores Putin’s intent to deepen pragmatic cooperation with China and expand multilateral diplomatic engagement.

Putin stated that during this visit he will hold in-depth talks with Xi Jinping covering political security, economic and trade cooperation, and cultural exchanges. He emphasized that China-Russia trade relations have reached a historic high, with bilateral trade volume increasing by about USD 100 billion since 2021. China has become Russia’s largest trading partner, and bilateral settlements have almost entirely shifted to local currencies, with the share of the U.S. dollar and euro dropping to negligible levels. In the energy sector, Russia remains one of China’s top suppliers of oil and natural gas. Since the “Power of Siberia” pipeline began operations in 2019, cumulative gas deliveries have exceeded 100 billion cubic meters, and the two sides plan to launch the “Far Eastern Route” pipeline in 2027 to further expand cooperation.

According to Li Yonghui, director of the Institute of Russian, Eastern European, and Central Asian Studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, Putin’s “unprecedented” visit aims to elevate China-Russia relations in scope, depth, and resilience, while highlighting their shared positions on multilateralism and global governance. The two countries are expected to continue strengthening coordination within the UN, BRICS, and other multilateral frameworks, jointly opposing unilateralism and bloc confrontation, and working to safeguard the international order and global strategic stability.

In addition, Putin will use the SCO summit and the September 3 parade as opportunities to engage in high-level talks with other world leaders, emphasizing that Russia is not diplomatically isolated despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He also hopes to advance multilateral cooperation in counterterrorism, information security, and drug control through these platforms.

On August 30, the U.S. Federal Court of Appeals, in a 7–4 ruling, declared several broad tariff orders issued by President Trump under the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) unlawful and invalid. The court held that the IEEPA does not explicitly grant the president authority to impose tariffs, and that such measures bypassed the legislative process and lacked clear congressional authorization. While the ruling upheld the lower court’s decision, the appellate court allowed the tariff measures to remain in effect until October 14, pending a possible appeal to the Supreme Court.

The court emphasized that although the IEEPA grants the president authority to regulate international transactions during specific emergencies, it does not extend to taxation or tariff powers, which traditionally require congressional approval. Judges noted that Trump’s “sweeping and boundless” measures clearly exceeded the scope of the law. However, tariffs imposed under other statutes—such as the steel and aluminum tariffs established under Section 232 of the 1962 Trade Expansion Act—remain valid.

Trump blasted the ruling on social media as a “national disaster,” accusing the judiciary of deep bias. He vowed to fight all the way to the Supreme Court, writing that “all tariffs remain legal, and only the Supreme Court can return these weapons to us.” He warned that losing these tariffs would deal a major blow to American workers and businesses. The White House and the Department of Justice confirmed they would immediately appeal to the Supreme Court and may consider relying on the 1974 Trade Act as a legal basis for future tariffs. Meanwhile, Congress has already introduced the 2025 Trade Review Act, a bill that would require the president to notify Congress of any new tariffs and obtain legislative approval within 60 days, or else the measures would lapse.

Since tariff revenues are an important source of federal income—totaling $28 billion in July 2025 alone—economists warn that repealing these measures could create a revenue gap, forcing the government to issue more debt and potentially altering Federal Reserve monetary policy. Others argue that the ruling restores proper constitutional balance, reduces the risk of executive overreach, and realigns trade policy with institutional norms. Businesses, however, face mounting uncertainty that could ripple across the broader economy.

Analysts note that the ruling not only strikes at the core of Trump’s tariff-driven trade war but also reignites a constitutional debate over the balance of power between Congress and the executive branch. If the Supreme Court ultimately upholds the decision, the U.S. government could face profound legal and economic challenges. At the same time, congressional action will be closely watched. With Republicans holding the majority, lawmakers may pursue legislation to reestablish greater structure and transparency in trade policymaking.

Overall, this legal and political battle will determine not only whether Trump’s economic strategy can remain in effect, but also how the future boundaries of U.S. executive power and institutional design will be defined.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a two-day visit to Japan on the 29th, marking his first meeting and bilateral talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. The two leaders exchanged views on comprehensive future cooperation and regional affairs. This visit also marks Modi’s return to Japan following the G7 summit held in Hiroshima in May 2023.

On the first day of his visit, Modi attended the Japan-India Economic Forum and later held a 1.5-hour meeting with Prime Minister Ishiba at the Prime Minister’s Office. During the meeting, the two sides agreed to revise the “Japan-India Joint Declaration on Security Cooperation” originally signed in 2008, adding more detailed content on defense collaboration to strengthen bilateral defense ties. They also reached a consensus under the “Economic Security Cooperation Initiative” to promote technological cooperation in various fields such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI), critical minerals, and the tech industry.

Japan plans to invest approximately 10 trillion yen in India’s private sector over the next decade. The two countries will also promote bilateral exchanges exceeding 500,000 people within five years, including increased recruitment of Indian talent. This initiative aims to address Japan’s projected shortage of 570,000 caregivers by 2040, helping to support the needs of its aging society and fostering a mutually beneficial partnership.

One of the highlights of the talks was the agreement to jointly build India’s first high-speed railway. The line will connect Mumbai with the industrial city of Ahmedabad, stretching around 500 kilometers. Initially agreed upon in 2015 by former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Modi, the project was originally scheduled to begin operations in 2023 but was delayed to 2029 due to land acquisition issues and the COVID-19 pandemic. The project, with an estimated cost of 1.8 trillion yen, will involve Japanese experts providing support in construction and workforce training.

On the 30th, Modi is scheduled to ride the Shinkansen for an on-site inspection of the test train and visit a semiconductor manufacturing plant to gain a deeper understanding of the relevant technologies.

After concluding his visit to Japan on the 30th, Modi will travel to China to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, where he is expected to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Modi’s East Asia tour is widely seen as a strategic effort to strengthen multilateral alliances.

On August 27, the South Korean National Assembly passed a bill banning students from using mobile phones during class. The law is expected to take effect next semester, beginning in March of next year. Two political parties cooperated to pass the bill, aiming to prevent smartphone addiction among children and adolescents and minimize its impact on academic performance. The bill passed with 163 votes in favor and 115 against.

Previously, countries like Finland and France only imposed phone restrictions in lower-grade schools, while Italy, the Netherlands, and China have implemented broader bans across all schools. Many schools in South Korea had already enacted their own rules, but this new legislation now makes South Korea one of the few countries to formally legislate a ban on student phone use.

Jo Jung-hoon, a lawmaker from the People Power Party who proposed the bill, stated that abundant evidence shows smartphone addiction is extremely harmful to students' brain development and emotional growth. According to statistics from South Korea's Ministry of Education, 37% of middle and high school students believe that social media negatively affects their daily lives, and 22% report feeling anxious when they cannot access it. While the law only prohibits phone use during class, it also gives teachers the authority to restrict phone use throughout the school grounds. Additionally, schools will be required to educate students on the proper use of smart devices.

Despite the new law, opinions among educational groups are divided. The conservative Korean Federation of Teachers' Associations supports the bill, noting that 70% of teachers report being distracted by students using phones during class. They also stated that when students are restricted from using phones, they often react uncontrollably, sometimes verbally lashing out or even becoming physically aggressive.

However, the Korean Teachers and Education Workers Union argues that some of its members believe the law infringes on students' rights to use smartphones.

Due to intense competition surrounding South Korea’s university entrance exam (Suneung), one student told the BBC that he hardly has time to use his phone anyway, as private tutoring and homework often keep him up past midnight. Another student noted that while phone use is banned during class, students still use their phones before and after school, so the restrictions have limited effect. They emphasized that addiction is still possible and criticized the law for merely confiscating phones during class rather than truly teaching students “what to do when they don’t have their phones.”

On the 25th, Israel launched another attack on the Gaza Strip, targeting Nasser Hospital in the southern city of Khan Younis. The strike resulted in at least 20 deaths, sparking international outrage. Among the victims were five journalists from Reuters, Associated Press, and Al Jazeera, as well as several medical workers. U.S. President Donald Trump, along with the United Nations, Germany, and the United Kingdom, continued to call for the protection of civilians and media personnel.

Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson Effie Defrin admitted that the military's actions caused civilian and journalist casualties. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also publicly expressed regret, stating, “Israel deeply regrets this.” However, Israel placed blame on Hamas, accusing the group of using hospitals to monitor Israeli military movements. According to a report by *The Times of Israel*, the IDF initially planned to target rooftop surveillance cameras with drones, but later fired two tank shells, which led to casualties among first responders and journalists who had arrived after the initial strike.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres called for the protection of civilians and medical personnel and demanded an impartial investigation. In a White House interview, Trump also expressed displeasure, saying, “We don’t want to see this kind of situation.”

Iran not only accused Israel of committing war crimes but also explicitly called the United States an accomplice.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stated on the 27th that while Italy supports Israel’s right to security and self-defense, the scale of Israel’s attack has exceeded the principle of proportionality. She emphasized that too many innocent lives have been lost and that attacks on journalists are completely unacceptable.

Jeju Island, one of South Korea’s most popular tourist destinations, has seen a steady rise in the number of foreign visitors. While this has brought economic benefits, it has also led to issues such as littering, traffic violations, and environmental damage. To protect the island’s ecology and preserve the quality of life for residents, the Jeju Special Self-Governing Province officially announced the **"Code of Conduct for Foreign Tourists"** on the 27th. Violators may face fines, which could reach several million Korean won depending on the offense.

The guidelines focus on three main areas:

1. **Environmental Protection**: Littering or damaging natural resources is strictly prohibited. Offenders can be fined up to **1 million won**.

2. **Traffic Regulations**: Visitors renting cars must have a valid international driver’s license and comply with Korean traffic laws. Driving under the influence or without a valid license will result in heavy penalties.

3. **Cultural Respect**: Tourists are reminded to act respectfully when visiting traditional markets, temples, or residential areas. Unauthorized photography or actions that disrupt local life are not allowed.

According to local authorities, Jeju Island has recently attracted a large number of tourists from China, Japan, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia. However, some visitors have damaged protected plant areas, littered cigarette butts, or camped illegally, posing a threat to the environment. The Jeju government emphasized that the new measures are **not meant to discourage tourism**, but rather to ensure the **sustainable development** of the island’s tourism and ecology.

A spokesperson from the Jeju Provincial Police Agency told the media that, in addition to putting up warning signs, **officers will carry multilingual notices during patrols**. Minor violations will be handled with on-the-spot warnings, while more serious offenses will be dealt with immediately. The official noted that issuing warnings for minor infractions is intended to avoid creating tension with foreign tourists and also to reduce the burden on police forces.

After years of disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Jeju’s pleasant climate has helped fuel a strong rebound in tourism — especially among foreign visitors. The restoration of direct flights, particularly from various cities in China, has made Chinese tourists the largest group of international visitors to the island. Other tourists often arrive via cruise ships or are drawn by the Korean Wave (Hallyu), especially K-pop, sparking broader interest in South Korea and helping total visitor numbers return to pre-pandemic levels.

The **Jeju Tourism Organization** stated that multilingual signs will be installed at airports, ports, and major tourist sites. They also plan to launch a **mobile app** in Chinese, English, and Japanese to help tourists easily access the regulations.

Local residents have expressed broad support for the new regulations, believing that only through strict enforcement can tourism development be balanced with quality of life. Experts also note that this initiative could enhance Jeju’s tourism image and serve as a model for other popular tourist destinations.

Amid a deadlock in the Russia-Ukraine peace process, U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance emphasized in an interview that Russia has made “the most significant concession in three and a half years” to President Donald Trump, recognizing Ukraine’s territorial integrity after the war and abandoning its push to install a puppet regime in Kyiv. Vance noted that although fighting on the front lines has yet to cease, Trump has engaged in “very active, very powerful diplomatic efforts” to push both sides toward compromise. He expressed confidence that “the dawn of peace” is gradually emerging under Trump’s mediation.

In an interview with NBC’s Meet the Press, Vance stated that Russia not only acknowledged Ukraine’s sovereignty after the war but also agreed to provide security guarantees to uphold its territorial integrity. This move is seen as a major shift in Russia’s position, especially given its previous insistence on Ukraine’s neutrality and demilitarization. Vance stressed that the U.S. will continue to play an active role, but made clear that “there will be no U.S. troops stationed directly inside Ukraine,” in order to avoid further escalation of the conflict.

Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov expressed dissatisfaction with European leaders, accusing them of obstructing the peace process, and admitted that summit agendas were not yet prepared, with no plans for a short-term meeting between the two presidents. At the same time, Ukraine marked the 34th anniversary of its independence, with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney visiting Kyiv as a “special guest.” Carney announced that Canada does not rule out sending peacekeepers and pledged over NT$22 billion (approx. US$680 million) in military aid. The contrasting approaches of the U.S. and Canada toward Ukraine’s security guarantees add further complexity to the prospects of future peace negotiations.

On August 24, Ukraine marked its Independence Day, with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney arriving in Kyiv for his first official visit since taking office. Carney expressed Canada’s support for Ukraine’s defense of its sovereignty and took part in the country’s Independence Day celebrations.

As world leaders continue efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war, Carney not only reiterated Canada’s backing of Ukraine’s sovereignty but also prepared to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss military aid, joint weapons production, and related issues.

Upon his arrival in Kyiv, Carney posted on social media that on Ukraine’s Independence Day, at such a critical moment in the nation’s history, Canada would deepen its commitment and efforts to help Ukraine achieve a just and lasting peace. He noted that Canada is working with allies in the “Coalition of the Willing” to explore additional land, air, and sea measures to further assist Ukraine in resisting Russia.

Carney and Zelenskyy delivered speeches at Kyiv’s St. Sophia Square, where they announced new details of Canada’s CA$2 billion (US$2 billion) defense assistance package. The funding will support joint production of advanced drones by Canada and Ukraine, as well as the provision of ammunition and armored vehicles, with deliveries set to begin next month. In addition, Canada will provide funding for emergency medical care and shelter facilities.

During the G7 summit in June, Canada pledged US$2 billion in military aid to Ukraine and signed a strategic defense agreement with the European Union to advance joint procurement and production of weapons with Ukraine and other allies. Canada also plans to coordinate with Ukraine on urgent security guarantees.

In his speech, Carney stated: “When peace comes, Canada will be there. Once the killing stops, we will stand with you to foster Ukraine’s peace, security, and prosperity. We must deter and strengthen, ensuring Russia can never again threaten the freedom of Ukraine and Europe.”

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and South Korean President Lee Jae-myung held their first summit on Saturday, the 23rd, at the Prime Minister’s Office in Tokyo, stressing the importance of setting aside past differences in the face of challenges from their mutual ally, the United States.

The two countries agreed to cooperate in areas such as clean energy, artificial intelligence, declining birthrates, population aging, and disaster prevention. Both sides reaffirmed that South Korea and Japan, together with the United States, would work to end North Korea’s nuclear and missile development programs. This marks the first time since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1965 that a South Korean president has chosen Japan as the first destination for an overseas trip, and the first time since then that a South Korean leader has visited Japan before visiting the United States. Japanese officials noted that this shows Lee’s strong emphasis on strengthening Seoul-Tokyo relations. Historically, disputes over wartime issues have repeatedly hindered South Korea-Japan ties and trilateral coordination with Washington.

“Cooperation between our two countries is more important than ever,” Ishiba said. “Since the president took office, we have shared the same perspective, and I find that very encouraging.” Ishiba currently faces pressure from right-wing rivals within the ruling party to resign following July’s election setback. Lee expressed to Ishiba his hope to promote dialogue and cooperation, including shuttle diplomacy, not only between the two leaders but also through exchanges among government officials of both nations.

According to the Yomiuri Shimbun, no South Korean president has visited Japan in August since President Roh Tae-woo in 1987. August 15 is Korea’s Liberation Day, commemorating Japan’s surrender in World War II and the founding of the South Korean government. Senior Japanese Foreign Ministry officials remarked that the period around Liberation Day has traditionally been a sensitive time in South Korea regarding historical issues, making visits aimed at improving bilateral ties especially difficult.

Saturday’s summit was the first in 17 years, culminating in a joint statement in which both leaders pledged to look toward the future. Tokyo reiterated its “deep remorse and heartfelt apology” for Japan’s harsh colonial rule. Last week, in a speech marking Korea’s liberation from Japanese colonial rule, Lee called on both sides to overcome past grievances while urging Japan to face unresolved issues in order to maintain trust.

Lee and Ishiba jointly affirmed that “in a rapidly changing international environment, unwavering trilateral cooperation among South Korea, the United States, and Japan is vital,” and agreed to foster a positive cycle of stronger cooperation that advances Seoul-Tokyo relations.

Lee will remain in Japan on August 23–24 before heading directly to the United States for a summit with President Donald Trump. This indicates that under Lee Jae-myung’s leadership, inaugurated in June, South Korea has not shifted its stance on cooperation with Japan or trilateral ties with the United States and Japan.

On the 21st, the United States and the European Union (EU) issued a joint statement revealing details of their discussions in July regarding a trade and investment framework agreement. The U.S. will impose a 15% tariff on most imports from the EU, including pharmaceuticals and semiconductors. Tariffs on automobiles are expected to be lower than the current 27.5% rate. Alcoholic beverages are not yet exempted. As some disagreements remain between the two sides, the EU has expressed hope that the U.S. will make further concessions.

EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič stated that the confirmed tariffs will not be applied on top of existing ones and will be retroactively effective from August 1. Additionally, the EU plans to eliminate tariffs on U.S. industrial products and ease import restrictions on American seafood and agricultural products, including nuts, dairy products, fruits and vegetables, soybean oil, pork, and bison meat.

European wine producers expressed disappointment with the outcome of the agreement. A representative from the French Federation of Wine and Spirits Exporters (FEVS) stated that the tariffs would pose a major challenge to the alcohol industry, noting that the U.S. is the largest market for Bordeaux wines, and the tariffs would significantly hinder their market competitiveness. The European Commission emphasized that this trade agreement is only the beginning and that negotiations with the U.S. will continue to further strengthen transatlantic economic ties.