World | WPN World People News

On March 13, Steve Witkoff, the U.S. Special Envoy for Middle East Affairs under President Donald Trump, visited Moscow for talks. In addition to discussing the Ukraine issue, Witkoff's visit will also cover the future development of US-Russia relations and economic recovery. Russian President Vladimir Putin, during a press conference on the same day, expressed general support for the 30-day ceasefire agreement proposed by the U.S. However, he emphasized that further discussions are needed regarding the details and ensuring long-term peace.

In a joint statement following US-Ukraine talks in Saudi Arabia on March 11, it was noted that Kyiv is prepared to accept the U.S. proposal for a 30-day ceasefire in exchange for the immediate resumption of intelligence exchanges and aid to Ukraine. Trump also pressured Putin, stating that if Russia does not accept the temporary ceasefire agreement, the U.S. would impose sanctions that would severely harm Russia. According to Reuters, Russia has submitted a list of conditions for the ceasefire agreement to end the conflict and rebuild US-Russia relations, though this has not been confirmed by the Russian side.

Russian President's Foreign Policy Assistant Yuri Ushakov, in an interview, stated that the 30-day ceasefire agreement is merely intended to give Ukrainian forces a respite, and that Russia must consider its own interests with the long-term goal of peace in mind. He added that Witkoff had met with Putin last month and that future discussions between both parties would be arranged behind closed doors, with the special envoy’s identity not being disclosed.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova also warned again on March 13 that Russia will not accept the deployment of foreign troops or foreign military bases in Ukraine. Such actions would be considered a direct hostile act against Russia, and appropriate measures would be taken in response.

On March 12, Putin appeared in military uniform in the Kursk region, instructing Russian forces to fully liberate areas previously controlled by Ukrainian forces. On March 13, Russian forces announced that they had fully taken control of the strategic town of Sudzha in the Kursk region. This town, with a population of 5,000, had been the largest target seized by Ukrainian forces after a cross-border attack last year.

On March 8th, International Women's Day, protesters around the world took to the streets to demand equal pay, political representation, and an end to gender violence, expressing concern over the rise of extreme conservative forces. Women's strike organizations estimate that around 150 marches took place across France, with approximately 250,000 participants, including 120,000 in Paris. Various tribute events were also held in Brazil, Argentina, Ecuador, Poland, Spain, Nigeria, Russia, and other countries.

For many demonstrators, the gender pay gap remains a primary issue. According to data from France's National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (Insee), women in France earn, on average, about 14% less than men for the same working hours. In conservative countries like Argentina, France, and Nigeria, many women held up photos of victims of sexual violence, calling on governments to prioritize women's rights and abortion rights. In Lagos, Nigeria's capital, thousands of women gathered at the Mobolaji Johnson Sports Complex, dancing in purple clothes as a symbol of women's liberation from patriarchal society. At an official event in St. Petersburg, Russia, soldiers handed yellow tulips to women and girls. In the southern Ukrainian city of Kharkiv, a tribute event was held to honor fallen female soldiers.

Many protesters also criticized the Turkish government's announcement of 2025 as "Family Year," viewing it as an attempt to further confine women to traditional roles of marriage and motherhood. They were also dissatisfied with the government's withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention in March 2021, which aimed to protect women from domestic violence. According to the Turkish Women's Rights Platform, at least 1,318 women have been killed by men since the country pulled out of the convention, sparking protests this year. In Italy, protests not only focused on gender violence but also sought to narrow the gender pay and treatment gap.

On March 7, the Seoul Central District Court ruled that the detention of President Yoon Suk-yeol was improper, revoking his arrest warrant and granting him bail pending trial. It has been 51 days since Yoon's arrest on January 15. The South Korean presidential office issued a statement welcoming the decision to release the president from detention and expressed hope that he would return to his work soon.

Yoon’s legal team had filed a motion to revoke his detention on February 4, arguing that the prosecution’s indictment after the detention period had expired was illegal, and that Yoon should be released immediately. A hearing was held on February 20, and the court’s ruling on March 7 decided to revoke Yoon’s detention and allow him to post bail.

Additionally, the Constitutional Court is expected to rule on President Yoon's impeachment case next week. Depending on the outcome, Yoon could face permanent removal from office, which would require a new election. To prevent possible demonstrations and gatherings, South Korean authorities are considering issuing the highest-level emergency alert (Code A) on the day of the ruling, implementing traffic control, and strengthening security measures in several areas.

French President Emmanuel Macron publicly stated on the 6th that Russia's aggression will not stop at Ukraine and has become a threat to France and Europe. He will discuss with European allies how to respond, including opening discussions on nuclear weapons strategy. In response, Russia criticized Macron, citing Napoleon's failed invasion of Russia in 1812.

The war in Ukraine has made Europe realize the danger posed by Russia. U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to stop military aid to Ukraine has strengthened Europe's firm support for Ukraine in its fight against Russia. Macron pointed out that Russia's aggressive actions "seem to have no borders," and Russia continues to expand its military budget and forces. By 2030, it plans to add 300,000 soldiers, 3,000 tanks, and 300 jet fighters. Macron emphasized that Europe's future will not be determined by the United States or Russia. France itself possesses nuclear weapons, and Europe must engage in nuclear strategy discussions. He suggested that if Ukraine and Russia sign a peace agreement, European troops could be deployed to Ukraine to ensure the peace agreement is implemented, although Macron added that these troops would not be involved in frontline combat.

In response, Russia stated that the deployment of European troops to Ukraine would be equivalent to a "NATO presence" and would constitute a direct threat to Russia. Russian President Vladimir Putin sarcastically remarked that France should remember the lesson of Napoleon's disastrous invasion of Russia in 1812.

Arab leaders have decided to adopt the Gaza reconstruction plan developed by Egypt. The plan costs $53 billion and does not require forcibly resettling Palestinians to other countries, excluding U.S. President Trump's recent idea of turning Gaza into a resort destination.

The Gaza reconstruction plan follows Egypt's five-year, $53 billion proposal, which guarantees that the 2.4 million Gaza residents can stay on their own land and excludes Hamas from participating in post-war governance.

Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit stated, "This declaration also calls for the Security Council to deploy peacekeeping forces to ensure the security of both the West Bank and Gaza, which is an important move for peace and protection." UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized, "The UN is ready to fully cooperate on Egypt's Gaza reconstruction plan."

The Palestinian Islamist organization Hamas issued a statement expressing support for Egypt's plan. Israel, on the other hand, criticized the reconstruction plan as outdated and unrealistic, arguing that it completely ignores Hamas's brutal terrorist attacks, which have resulted in the deaths of thousands of Israelis and the abduction of hundreds.

U.S. President Donald Trump announced that starting from March 4, a 25% tariff will be imposed on imports from Canada and Mexico. In response, Canada immediately took countermeasures. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that Canada would impose a 25% tariff on U.S. imports worth $107 billion.

Trudeau stated that Canada's tariff measures will remain in place until the U.S. withdrawal of its tariff actions. If the U.S. continues its tariff imposition, Canada will not only maintain the tariffs but also actively discuss with Canadian provinces to implement several "non-tariff measures."

The Prime Minister’s office indicated that Trump's tariff threats against Canada and other countries have posed a serious challenge to bilateral trade relations. The Canadian government cannot accept such unilateral and unfair trade policies and has decided to take decisive action to protect the rights of domestic businesses and workers.

The retaliatory tariff measures will cover steel and aluminum products, agricultural products, home appliances, and specific consumer goods, with the total import value amounting to billions of Canadian dollars. Canada's Minister of Trade stated at a press conference: "We do not seek trade conflict, but in the face of unfair trade policies, the Canadian government has no choice but to take firm countermeasures to ensure that the rights of Canadian businesses and workers are protected."

Canada emphasized that the U.S.-Canada trade relationship has always been close and mutually beneficial, with total trade between the two nations exceeding CAD 700 billion annually. Tariff barriers would lead to a lose-lose situation for both economies. The Canadian government urged the U.S. to reconsider its tariff policy and resolve trade disputes through dialogue and cooperation.

More than 100 Canadians gathered in Vancouver to protest U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat to make Canada the 51st state and his pressure to impose a 25% high tariff, chanting slogans to defend Canadian sovereignty. A poll shows that 27% of Canadians consider the U.S. an "enemy," highlighting tensions in Canada-U.S. relations. Protesters criticized Trump for violating democratic values and urged citizens to support Canadian products and avoid traveling to the U.S.

At the protest held on the afternoon of the 2nd at Vancouver Art Gallery Square, demonstrators dressed in red and white to express their love and support for Canada. The event began with an 11-year-old Indigenous child, Riley Leo, singing to honor Indigenous peoples and their land, followed by a group performance of Canada’s national anthem. The crowd chanted, "Protect Canada – Defend Democracy, Say No to the 51st State."

Canadian MP Bonita Zarillo stated that Trump’s suggestion of exchanging minerals for peace in Ukraine was shocking and reflected his intent to exploit Canada’s natural resources. MP Jenny Kwan emphasized that sovereignty must not be violated, urging citizens to buy Canadian products and refrain from traveling to the U.S.

The protest was organized by the Vancouver Society in Support of Democratic Movements (VSSDM) and the Global Pinoy Diaspora Canada. Former VSSDM chair Mabel Lee reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to defending democracy, human rights, and freedom. Treenee Lopez, chair of the Global Pinoy Diaspora Canada, accused Trump of disregarding justice, aligning himself with Russian President Vladimir Putin, and criticized billionaire Elon Musk for meddling in politics.

On March 3, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is set to discuss the defense of Canada’s sovereignty with King Charles III. Trudeau emphasized that nothing is more important than preserving national sovereignty and independence.According to a Leger poll, 27% of Canadians view the U.S. as an "enemy," 30% see the U.S. as an "ally," while 27% remain "neutral" toward the U.S.

A dozen European heads of state, along with senior EU and NATO officials, recently held an emergency summit in London on the 2nd. The summit focused on post-war arrangements for Ukraine, reaffirming Europe's strong support for the country.

With Trump taking office, the U.S. stance on Ukraine has shifted 180 degrees, but European leaders have pledged unwavering support for Ukraine. Growing concerns have emerged that Trump may overlook Ukraine’s interests in negotiations with Russia. In response, Ukraine’s allies have emphasized their steadfast commitment. European leaders are now working on a European-led peace plan for Ukraine before consulting with the U.S.

After Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's tense and unproductive White House meeting with U.S. President Trump, over a dozen European leaders gathered in London for crisis talks. The discussions aimed to strengthen security cooperation and reinforce support for Ukraine. Zelensky was also invited to participate in the summit.

The summit resulted in four key agreements, as outlined by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. First, European nations will continue providing military aid to Ukraine, exert economic pressure on Russia, and support Ukraine financially. Second, any lasting peace must guarantee Ukraine’s sovereignty, and negotiations must address Ukraine’s security. Third, the U.S. has sidelined Europe and Ukraine from international political arrangements affecting their interests, leading European leaders to view the U.S. as an unreliable partner.

There is growing concern over whether the U.S. will continue its support for NATO. European leaders agree that they can no longer depend on the U.S. and must strengthen their own defense capabilities to face future challenges. Therefore, the London summit also included discussions on the need for enhanced European defense cooperation.

On the 1st, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived at the White House to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump. However, their public meeting quickly turned into a heated exchange, ending on a sour note. The planned mineral agreement between the two nations was subsequently scrapped, sending shockwaves across the globe.

According to international reports, Zelensky was welcomed at the White House, where he met with Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and other officials. Initially, the atmosphere appeared cordial in front of the cameras, but tensions escalated about 40 minutes in when a journalist questioned Trump’s perceived pro-Russia stance. Vance suggested that diplomacy might be the best way to resolve the issue, which infuriated Zelensky. He countered by accusing Russia of repeatedly violating diplomatic agreements, causing the discussion to become increasingly confrontational.

Vance then fired back, criticizing Zelensky for allegedly disrespecting the U.S. president and pointing out Ukraine’s military struggles. He also expressed frustration that Zelensky had never explicitly thanked the U.S. for its aid and accused him of indirectly supporting Trump’s Democratic rivals. Trump joined in, warning that Zelensky was risking a third world war and had no more leverage left. He further stated that without U.S. support, Zelensky’s position would be untenable. The argument intensified, with both sides exchanging heated remarks until the meeting abruptly ended, and Zelensky left the conference room.

Shortly afterward, Trump took to his Truth Social platform, declaring that Zelensky had shown a lack of respect for the U.S. and was not ready for peace. The White House then announced the cancellation of the bilateral signing ceremony for the mineral resources agreement, as well as the scheduled press conference. Meanwhile, media captured telling reactions from officials, including Ukrainian Ambassador to the U.S. Oksana Markarova, who was seen frowning, shaking her head, and covering her face, as well as Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who appeared visibly stunned—highlighting the shock among high-ranking officials over the dispute.

In a later interview with Fox News, Zelensky insisted that relations with the U.S. remained salvageable. He also took to social media, stating that Ukraine was "ready to sign the mineral agreement" while continuing to call for security assurances from the U.S. However, the fallout from the meeting left relations strained in the short term. In response, several European leaders voiced strong support for Ukraine, including Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Zelensky subsequently traveled to the UK for talks with Starmer and is expected to attend a security summit on the 6th, organized by Britain, in hopes of finding a resolution to the ongoing conflict.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited the White House on February 27, where he met with US President Donald Trump. During the meeting, he delivered a handwritten letter from King Charles III, inviting Trump to the UK for a state visit. After reading the letter, Trump expressed his honor at the invitation and immediately accepted the offer to visit the UK. Following their meeting, both leaders held a joint press conference, where they stated that their discussions had focused on trade and the war in Ukraine.

During the talks, Starmer emphasized that to achieve lasting peace after a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, the UK would send troops and collaborate with allies. He also mentioned that 18 countries would soon be invited to further discussions on the matter. However, he noted that without US support, Ukraine would not achieve lasting peace. Trump did not respond directly about whether the US would continue to support a peacekeeping force led by the UK and France, but he expressed hope that a peace agreement to end the war in Ukraine could be reached soon. He also stated that if a peace agreement were made, he believed Russia would adhere to it and refrain from further invading Ukraine.

On the trade front, the total bilateral investment between the US and the UK has reached $1.5 trillion (approximately NT$49.3 trillion), which has created over 2.5 million jobs. The two countries are also leaders in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), and both will work together to develop a new economic agreement focused on advanced technology. Trump noted that with the efforts of Vice President JD Vance and Treasury Secretary Scott Kenneth Homer Bessent, the US and UK should be able to sign a trade agreement soon, with the UK potentially enjoying tariff exemptions.