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Picture courtesy of Martine Perret UN Photo/Martine Perret The United States has pledged $2 billion (approx. 72 billion Thai baht) to the United Nations for humanitarian aid, but with a stern warning: the UN must "adapt or die." Jeremy Lewin, Under Secretary for Foreign Assistance, and Tom Fletcher, the UN's emergency relief chief, made this announcement in Geneva. However, this funding comes with a clear message that the UN must adapt in the face of significant US budget cuts that are affecting global aid efforts. Historically, the US has significantly contributed to UN humanitarian programmes, with $17 billion (approx. 612 billion Thai baht) in 2022 alone. The current pledge represents a marked reduction and signals similar cuts from other countries like the UK and Germany. Lewin's announcement also states that 17 chosen countries, including Haiti, Syria, and Sudan, will benefit from the funds, while others like Afghanistan and Yemen will not, due to concerns about fund misuse by groups like the Taliban. Lewin deems projects related to climate change as not "life-saving" and therefore excludes them from the pledge. These restrictions challenge aid organisations working in excluded regions, resulting in the closure of critical services like mother-and- baby clinics in Afghanistan and reduced food rations in Sudan. The UN, meanwhile, makes the case for efficient aid initiatives, aligning with the US to avoid redundant projects. Looking forward, the UN must navigate these new constraints while ensuring their humanitarian efforts adhere to essential principles: neutrality and impartiality. Lewin emphasised the need for efficiency, noting that careless financial use is detrimental to both aid organisations and the affected population. Despite concerns about politicisation risks, the UN acknowledges the significance of receiving any support amid ongoing economic challenges. Key Takeaways US pledges $2bn to UN, warning of the need for adaptation. Funding excludes certain countries; concerns over efficiency arise. UN faces political pressures, balancing aid principles and new terms. Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-12-30

Picture courtesy of Humanitarian Rights Watch Alaa Abd El Fattah, a high-profile British-Egyptian activist, has found himself amidst controversy after old tweets surfaced, prompting Tory leaders to call for his deportation. Just days after arriving in the UK following his release from an Egyptian jail, social media posts have emerged, showing him advocating violence against Zionists and police. Both Tory and Reform UK figures are urging Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood to consider revoking his citizenship. Abd El Fattah, in response to the backlash, has apologised for the historical posts, noting their potential to shock and hurt. His return to the UK was initially welcomed by politicians, including Sir Keir Starmer, although this was before they became aware of the tweets. While condemning the tweets as abhorrent, a government spokesperson acknowledges the complex legal landscape surrounding citizenship revocation. The resurfaced tweets have sparked a political debate, with some senior Labour MPs also supporting the deportation calls. The issue is further complicated by legal precedents that set a high bar for citizenship removal, requiring proof of fraudulent acquisition or a national security threat. Downing Street is reportedly cautious about meeting these criteria in Abd El Fattah's case, reported the BBC. Key Takeaways British-Egyptian activist Alaa Abd El Fattah faces deportation calls over historical tweets. Legal precedents complicate the potential revocation of his British citizenship. Politicians and human rights groups are divided on the matter. Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-12-30

Nepalese authorities have scrapped the waste deposit program for Mount Everest due to its ineffectiveness. After 11 years, the programme, requiring climbers to deposit $4,000 (฿144,800) refundable upon returning with 8 kg of waste, has been deemed a failure. Despite the initiative, around 50 tonnes of rubbish still litter the iconic peak. The scheme was introduced to tackle the increasing waste problem caused by climbers. Many climbers received their deposit back, implying compliance, yet waste from higher camps remains a significant issue. Tshering Sherpa from the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee pointed out that climbers mostly brought back oxygen bottles, leaving tents and cans behind. Himal Gautam from the tourism department mentioned the scheme "failed to show a tangible result" and created an administrative burden. Authorities aim to implement a new model involving a non-refundable clean-up fee, expected to be $4,000 (฿144,800) per climber, which will fund better monitoring and clean-up efforts. Mingma Sherpa highlighted the long-standing community concerns about the old scheme's effectiveness. The new approach plans to use the funds for checkpoints and mountain rangers to ensure thorough waste management. The fee will contribute to a five-year clean-up initiative to tackle the persistent waste problem, reported the BBC. Key Takeaways: Nepal's $4,000 deposit for waste on Everest was scrapped due to inefficiency. A non-refundable fee will fund new checkpoints and mountain rangers. An estimated 50 tonnes of rubbish currently plague Mount Everest. Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-12-30

file photo Former world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua survived a deadly car crash in Nigeria with minor injuries, while two of his associates sadly lost their lives. The tragic incident unfolded on Monday morning along the notorious Lagos-Ibadan expressway, known for high accident rates, according to Ogun state police. Joshua, closely tied to the region through his family roots, encountered the accident in a Lexus SUV that reportedly collided with a parked truck. While Joshua only suffered minor bruises, his strength coach Sina Ghami and personal trainer Kevin Latif Ayodele, both foreign nationals, were killed. The former champion, who remains in good spirits and is receiving care, is deeply mourning the loss of his friends. Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expressed his condolences, having spoken with Joshua directly. Just days before this devastating event, the boxer celebrated his recent victory against YouTuber Jake Paul. In his message, Tinubu extended prayers for Joshua's recovery and emphasised the importance of living beyond boxing. The crash took place on Nigeria’s most perilous highway, where fatalities soar due to speed and traffic violations. Preliminary investigations by Nigeria’s Federal Road Safety Corps suggest excessive speed and wrongful overtaking as causes for the crash. This road is notorious, claiming the lives of over 600 people over 27 months. Anthony Joshua, known for his Nigerian heritage, regularly visits the country and has strong familial and cultural ties. While grieving, he continues to receive outpourings of support from fans and colleagues. This unfortunate event serves as a grave reminder of the dangers posed by unsafe driving practices, reported CNN. Key Takeaways Anthony Joshua survived a serious car crash with minor injuries in Nigeria, while two associates were killed. The accident occurred on a highly dangerous Nigerian highway due to excessive speed and wrongful overtaking. Joshua’s recovery continues, receiving widespread condolences and support. Adapted by ASEAN Now from CNN 2025-12-30

Cambodia Breaches Ceasefire with Drone Swarm Over Thailand File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Bangkok Post Cambodia has reportedly breached a ceasefire agreement by flying over 250 drones into Thai territory, as confirmed by the Thai army. Major General Winthai Suvaree, spokesperson for the Royal Thai Army, highlighted that the drones were sighted on Sunday night, crossing various border areas such as Chong Bok, Chong An Ma, and others. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1383122-cambodia-breaches-ceasefire-with-drone-swarm-over-thailand/

File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Bangkok Post Cambodia has reportedly breached a ceasefire agreement by flying over 250 drones into Thai territory, as confirmed by the Thai army. Major General Winthai Suvaree, spokesperson for the Royal Thai Army, highlighted that the drones were sighted on Sunday night, crossing various border areas such as Chong Bok, Chong An Ma, and others. This incident follows a recent ceasefire agreement made on December 27, 2025, during the General Border Committee meeting. The Thai army noted that the drones violated tension-relieving measures set out in the Joint Statement. The drones were seen intruding into four northeastern provinces: Buri Ram, Si Sa Ket, Surin, and Ubon Ratchathani, raising security concerns for military personnel and civilians in these regions. Maj Gen Winthai stated that these actions are considered provocative and have the potential to compromise border safety. In response, Thailand may reconsider the release of 18 captured Cambodian soldiers while urging Cambodia to adhere to previously agreed terms. Their capture marks a continuation of Cambodian actions believed to provoke hostility against Thailand. The situation mirrors past incidents where excessive drone use by Cambodia came after previous border clashes earlier this year, which led to further Cambodian attacks earlier this month. Thailand, so far, has continued to adhere to peaceful measures to de-escalate tensions, but further violations may force a reevaluation of their strategy, reported the Bangkok Post. Key Takeaways: Cambodia reportedly flew over 250 drones into Thai territory, breaching a ceasefire. The drones were sighted in four northeastern Thai provinces, raising security concerns. Thailand may reconsider the release of captured Cambodian soldiers in response. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-12-30

BOI Approves Tomorrowland Thailand Debut in Chonburi 2026 File photo for reference only Thailand's Board of Investment (BOI) has approved incentives for VR One World (Thailand) to organize the renowned Tomorrowland music festival in Chonburi in December 2026. The event is expected to generate an economic impact of 21 billion baht over five years. This marks the festival's first foray into Asia, with a daily capacity to host 50,000 attendees, largely international visitors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1383109-boi-approves-tomorrowland-thailand-debut-in-chonburi-2026/

Stricter New Year Controls on Fireworks, Lanterns, Gunfire File photo for reference only Thailand’s Interior Ministry has mandated enhanced safety measures for the upcoming New Year celebrations, focusing on strict controls of fireworks, floating lanterns, and gunfire. Governors across the nation will coordinate 24/7 patrols and enforce legal action against offenders to ensure public safety during this festive period. The initiative involves collaboration with multiple departments under the ministry's supervision to manage the influx of people traveling home and visiting holiday destinations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1383108-stricter-new-year-controls-on-fireworks-lanterns-gunfire/

ANNOUNCEMENT FORUM OFFLINE - EVENING OF 30th DEC - 2 HRS-ESSENTIAL UPGRADE https://aseannow.com/topic/1383089-forum-will-be-offline-software-update/

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 30 December 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1383066-thailand-live-tuesday-30-december-2025/

Alcohol Campaign Targets Bangkok Restaurants During New Year Pictures courtesy of Komchadluek Bangkok’s alcohol control organisations and restaurant operators have launched a coordinated campaign to tighten alcohol sales and promote drink-driving prevention during the annual “dangerous days” road safety period, aiming to reduce deaths and injuries over the New Year holidays. The campaign enforces strict compliance with age limits, refusal of service to intoxicated customers and encourages safer travel options for drinkers. Authorities warned that violations, particularly sales to those under 20, will face legal consequences. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1383055-alcohol-campaign-targets-bangkok-restaurants-during-new-year/

file photo China has begun military drills around Taiwan, simulating seizures and blockades in crucial areas as a direct warning to "separatist forces." The exercises, called "Justice Mission 2025", involve the army, navy, air force, and rocket force and include live-fire activities. These drills follow a recent US decision to sell a significant arms package to Taiwan for around 13 billion USD, sparking protests from Beijing and sanctions against US defence companies. Taiwan's government has condemned the drills, viewing them as a violation of international norms, and it has detected a Chinese military presence in the vicinity. In response, Taiwan's defence ministry has heightened its military readiness, deploying forces and missile systems to monitor the situation. On social media, China's Eastern Theater Command referred to their exercises as a "shield of justice" aimed at obliterating any independence movements. As China insists on using "non-peaceful means" if necessary to prevent Taiwan's formal secession, tensions continue to escalate. Taiwan's President, Lai Ching-te, has reiterated the island's status as a sovereign nation and committed to maintaining peace without provocation. Recent polls indicate that the majority of Taiwanese citizens prefer to maintain the "status quo" rather than formally declare independence or unify with China. These developments occur amid historical tensions, as seen in China's increased military activities following events like Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan in 2022. The ongoing drills come under the leadership of Yang Zhibin, the new chief of the Eastern Theater Command. Taiwan, for its part, has been conducting extensive military exercises to prepare for potential conflicts, and it has plans to enhance its defence systems against perceived threats. China's relationships with neighbouring countries, like Japan, have also deteriorated following recent statements and military incidents. The ongoing tensions underscore the fragile stability in the region, with both China and Taiwan continuing to assert their positions, reported the BBC. Key Takeaways: China conducts military drills around Taiwan as a warning, amid US arms sale tensions. Taiwan detects Chinese military activity and deploys forces to counter threats. Regional stability is fragile, with increasing military postures from both China and Taiwan. Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-12-29

People's Party Candidate Caught in 20 Billion Baht Drug Bust Picture courtesy of Thai Rath The Narcotics Suppression Police have arrested two individuals linked to a staggering 20 billion baht drug money laundering scheme involving a People's Party MP candidate in Bangkok. The suspects ran a front transport company, and their arrest came during a large-scale operation targeting drug networks. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1383076-peoples-party-candidate-caught-in-20-billion-baht-drug-bust/

Picture courtesy of Thai Rath The Narcotics Suppression Police have arrested two individuals linked to a staggering 20 billion baht drug money laundering scheme involving a People's Party MP candidate in Bangkok. The suspects ran a front transport company, and their arrest came during a large-scale operation targeting drug networks. On 29 December 2025, the Narcotics Suppression Bureau (NSB) carried out Operation Black Mirror TKP, raiding 22 locations across various provinces, including Bangkok and Nonthaburi. With more than 120 officers involved, this significant operation aimed to dismantle an extensive drug trafficking network. Among those apprehended in a luxury residence in Bangkok were a Thai man and his Laotian wife, both wanted for money laundering and drug-related charges. The operation follows a previous arrest in February, where links to multiple drug cases were identified. Investigations revealed four transport companies serving as fronts for laundering drug money. These businesses, which conducted minimal legitimate operations, handled over 20 billion baht through various bank accounts. The authorities traced a significant amount of cash in monthly transactions to drug proceeds. Authorities executed further raids based on the financial trails uncovered, implicating a People's Party MP candidate. The couple confessed to funding the politician, leading to an arrest warrant for the MP candidate. The Narcotics Suppression Police have arrested this individual, Mr. Boonrit Raorungrot, and he is currently held for questioning. Pol. Gen. Samran Nualma highlighted ongoing searches and evidence collection across the involved locations. This crackdown aligns with directives to combat drug trafficking and associated money laundering activities. The operation aims to dismantle the financial infrastructure supporting drug networks and involves collaboration with the Anti-Money Laundering Office. As investigations continue, the police will interrogate the suspects, with a press conference scheduled for later today. The People's Party has addressed the situation, issuing a statement regarding the involvement of their candidate. Key Takeaways: Two suspects arrested are linked to 20 billion baht laundering scheme. A candidate from the People's Party has been charged with money laundering. Ongoing raids are part of a major drug crackdown across multiple provinces. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Rath 2025-12-29

Thailand Issues Q&A on 72-Hour Cambodia Ceasefire Agreement Picture courtesy of The Thaiger Thailand has published a detailed Q&A to clarify the 72-hour ceasefire agreement with Cambodia. This move comes as officials work to manage border tensions and outline the priorities of security, sovereignty, and public safety amidst recent hostilities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1383071-thailand-issues-qa-on-72-hour-cambodia-ceasefire-agreement/

Picture courtesy of The Thaiger Thailand has published a detailed Q&A to clarify the 72-hour ceasefire agreement with Cambodia. This move comes as officials work to manage border tensions and outline the priorities of security, sovereignty, and public safety amidst recent hostilities. The Joint Press Centre for the Thai-Cambodian Border Situation issued the ceasefire document on December 28 to address public concern over the temporary agreement. The situation at the border had intensified, prompting this effort to enhance transparency and dispel misconceptions about the impact on national security and sovereignty. Thailand's government assures that its military remains fully ready and the ceasefire in no way affects the country's sovereignty. The 72-hour period is short enough to prevent any strategic disadvantages yet sufficient to handle critical matters, such as ground verification and civilian safety. Measures are in place to avoid exploitation by opposing forces, including surveillance and intelligence operations to monitor and report any violations. Public safety is paramount, with controlled procedures established for civilians returning to affected areas, including careful inspection of possible dangers like unexploded ordnance. Emergency plans and communication systems remain active to ensure a swift response if conditions change. Thailand stresses that the ceasefire relies on verified compliance through monitoring systems rather than trust. The decision represents collaboration between civilian and military leadership, ensuring no secret agreements have influenced national sovereignty. The international community has appreciated this stance, portraying Thailand as a nation capable of exercising restraint while safeguarding its people. After the ceasefire's end, authorities will reassess the situation based on facts to decide on future actions, whether to continue de-escalation or resume defensive efforts. The government has reaffirmed its commitment to robustly defend against any aggression that violates sovereignty or targets civilians, reported The Thaiger. Key Takeaways Thailand affirms military readiness and sovereignty during ceasefire. The 72-hour ceasefire allows safety checks and ground verifications. Future decisions depend on detailed assessments after the ceasefire. Related Stories: Trump Hails Thailand and Cambodia Ceasefire Breakthrough Thailand and Cambodia agree to ‘immediate’ ceasefire Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-12-29

file photo In a bold move, Niger has cancelled the issuance of all new visas for US citizens. This comes as a direct reprisal to US President Donald Trump's recent expansion of the travel ban affecting 39 countries, including Niger. The West African nation announced it would indefinitely prohibit US nationals' entry until further notice. The travel ban, extended on December 16, covers 20 additional countries and the Palestinian Authority, affecting nations from various regions. Citizens of Mali, South Sudan, Niger, Burkina Faso, Syria, and the Palestinian Authority now face a total ban on entering the US. Meanwhile, Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Benin, Dominica, Gabon, and others face restrictions on student and business visas. Multiple countries impacted by the ban have expressed their dismay. Antiguan Prime Minister Gaston Browne voiced disappointment, arguing the reasoning behind the ban does not reflect current legal realities. Similarly, Chad's government also reciprocated by halting visa processing for Americans earlier this year in response to their inclusion in the travel restrictions. Niger, a landlocked nation with over 25 million people, shares borders with Algeria, Libya, Chad, and other countries. The US has flagged this Muslim-majority nation for its visa overstay rates and concerns about terrorist activities. Niger's decisive response signifies a significant escalation in diplomatic tensions, despite historical political instability and travel advisories. As the situation develops, other affected nations may consider similar reciprocal measures. For now, the severe travel restrictions underscore the increasing diplomatic rift. Future negotiations between Niger and the US may determine the long-term impact on bilateral relations, reported The Street. Key Takeaways: Niger bans US citizens from obtaining visas as a reciprocal action. The US travel ban expanded to 39 countries, sparking widespread condemnation. Chad previously enacted similar ploys, deepening diplomatic divides. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Street 2025-12-29

video screenshot An avalanche in the Vardousia Mountains, central Greece, swept away four hikers, leaving them dead. The tragedy unfolded when three men and a woman, who went missing on Christmas Day, were discovered by rescue teams late Friday. Rescue teams discovered their bodies on an inaccessible slope near Korakas peak, situated at about 2,000 meters in the Fokida region. Greek state broadcaster ERT reported that fire authorities found the victims partially buried in snow, suggesting that the avalanche had overwhelmed them. The group had started their hike in favourable weather, but the conditions deteriorated rapidly due to the altitude and challenging terrain. A friend raised the alarm when the hikers failed to return, according to Vasilis Vathrakogiannis of the Hellenic Fire Service. "Weather conditions were extremely difficult, with low temperatures and poor visibility," making search efforts by drones and helicopters challenging, he said. Ultimately, a ground team discovered the bodies on the perilous slope. Experts have described the recovery efforts that commenced on Saturday as extremely challenging. One body has so far been airlifted to safety by helicopter, while plans to retrieve the remaining three include using a winch on a nearby plateau. Haris Asariotakis, leading the Hellenic Rescue Team at the scene, said the location posed significant difficulties due to its remoteness, requiring lengthy travel from the nearest village, Athanasios Diakos, reported the BBC. Key Takeaways Four hikers died in an avalanche in Greece’s Vardousia Mountains. Difficult conditions hampered recovery operations, with one body airlifted. The sudden weather change during their hike contributed to the tragedy. Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-12-29

file photo for reference only Italian police have arrested nine individuals accused of funnelling around €7 million (approximately 260 million Thai baht) to Hamas through what they describe as a "complex fundraising system." An elaborate scheme allegedly redirected these funds, initially claimed as humanitarian aid for Palestinian civilians, to the militant group. The investigation also resulted in the seizure of more than €8 million (about 300 million Thai baht) in assets. The operation was part of a collaborative initiative between Italy's counter-terror and financial police following the 7 October 2023 Hamas attack in southern Israel. The investigation concentrated on identifying suspicious financial transactions prior to this event. Police reports indicate that the fundraising operations had their headquarters in Genoa, with branches extending to Milan. Investigators discovered that over 71% of the collected donations, intended for Gaza's civilian population, were syphoned off to support Hamas's military efforts and families of those involved in terrorism-related activities. Italy's Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi highlighted the arrest of Mohammad Hannoun, the president of the Palestinian Association in Italy, as one of the case's significant figures. Piantedosi acknowledged the police's efforts on social media, emphasising the importance of "presumptions of innocence" at this stage of the investigation. Mohammad Hannoun, responding to the allegations, stated his distance from Hamas while reiterating his support for the Palestinian cause. Looking to the future, this development could have implications for future fundraising and monitoring activities related to organisations involved in similar charitable acts. Authorities may enhance scrutiny and regulations surrounding international donations to prevent the diversion of funds, reported the BBC. Key Takeaways Nine individuals in Italy were arrested for allegedly sending millions to Hamas. The operation was uncovered through analysis after a recent attack in Israel. More than €8 million worth of assets linked to the operation were seized by authorities. Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-12-29

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Trump Hails Thailand and Cambodia Ceasefire Breakthrough video screenshot In a surprising development, US President Donald Trump has praised a new ceasefire accord between Thailand and Cambodia, while levelling criticism at the United Nations. On Sunday, Trump hailed the agreement that ends recent hostilities between the two nations, calling it a "rapid and very fair conclusion." His comments were shared in a post on Truth Social, where he commended the leaders' swift resolution to the conflict. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1383054-trump-hails-thailand-and-cambodia-ceasefire-breakthrough/

video screenshot In a surprising development, US President Donald Trump has praised a new ceasefire accord between Thailand and Cambodia, while levelling criticism at the United Nations. On Sunday, Trump hailed the agreement that ends recent hostilities between the two nations, calling it a "rapid and very fair conclusion." His comments were shared in a post on Truth Social, where he commended the leaders' swift resolution to the conflict. The tensions had flared earlier this month, prompting Trump to engage with the leaders of both countries. They agreed to revert to a ceasefire after a series of border clashes. In his statements, Trump took the opportunity to highlight his role in mediating international conflicts, suggesting the US has taken on the mantle of "the REAL United Nations," given what he described as the UN's limited involvement in global peace initiatives, including the ongoing situation in Ukraine. Kicking off on Saturday, the new ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia requires several conditions. The Associated Press reports that Thailand will release 18 Cambodian soldiers and undertake the task of removing landmines along their shared border. Thai Defence Minister Nattaphon Narkphanit stated that they will monitor the ceasefire for 72 hours to guarantee its effectiveness. Once peace is secured, displaced civilians are expected to safely return to their homes. This regional peace effort coincides with Trump's broader ambitions to conclude the war between Russia and Ukraine. Heading to a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Trump expressed optimism about reaching a deal beneficial to all parties. The president emphasised the significance of achieving peace, underscoring its importance in his agenda, reported THE HILL. Key Takeaways: Trump championed a new ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia. Thailand agreed to release soldiers and clear border landmines. The ceasefire is supported by Trump's larger peace efforts globally. Adapted by ASEAN Now from THE HILL 2025-12-29

Picture courtesy of CBS News Bank of America CEO Brian Moynihan has warned of market turmoil if the Federal Reserve's autonomy is compromised, as US President Trump searches for a new Fed chair. Moynihan, in an interview for "Face the Nation," emphasised the essential role of an independent Fed, stating, "The market will punish people if we don't have an independent Fed." This statement comes amidst President Trump's dissatisfaction with current Fed Chairman Jerome Powell, whose term ends in May 2026. The Federal Reserve recently made headlines by cutting interest rates for the third consecutive time, bringing the federal funds rate to between 3.5% and 3.75%. Interest rates had been nearly zero during the COVID-19 pandemic but began climbing in 2022 to combat inflation. The latest cut means rates are now at their lowest since November 2022. President Trump has often criticised Jerome Powell, despite the Fed's status as an independent agency. The Senate confirms the president's nomination for the Fed chair, safeguarding it from dismissal without cause. Congress can limit the grounds for firing independent federal board members, including those of the Fed, thanks to a 1935 Supreme Court ruling. In a recent Supreme Court decision, Trump was authorised to remove members from federal labour boards, excluding the Federal Reserve. The court recognised the Fed as a "distinctly structured, quasiprivate entity" with historical significance. Moynihan noted the president has excellent candidates in mind for Powell's successor but warned against an overreliance on the Fed's decisions. He stressed the private sector's role in driving the economy and suggested that the focus on the Fed’s rate adjustments is disproportionate. Moynihan asserted the Fed's role is significant for economic stability, yet ideally, their presence should be almost unnoticeable, reported CBS News. Key Takeaways Brian Moynihan warns of market punishment without an independent Fed. Trump is unhappy with current Fed Chair Jerome Powell; his term ends in May 2026. Interest rates dropped to 3.5%–3.75%, the lowest since November 2022. Adapted by ASEAN Now from CBS News 2025-12-29

Picture courtesy of BBC The British Conservative Party has called for the deportation of British-Egyptian activist Alaa Abdel Fattah following inflammatory social media posts. Recently released from Egyptian prison, Fattah allegedly called for violence against Zionists, igniting a political storm and prompting calls for the revocation of his UK citizenship. Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick criticised the decision to grant Fattah citizenship, stating that his extreme views were incompatible with British values. Fattah gained UK citizenship in December 2021 through his British-born mother while the Conservatives were in power. The Foreign Office acknowledged a long-standing effort to secure Fattah's release but condemned his "abhorrent" comments. Fattah's conviction in Egypt in 2021 for "spreading fake news" involved sharing a post about torture in the country. His family has yet to comment on the current situation. Jenrick argued that it was indefensible for the activist to receive British citizenship given his extremist social media history. He urged the government to initiate proceedings to revoke his citizenship. Conservative efforts to release Fattah included campaigns supported by senior figures and celebrities like Dame Judi Dench. Jenrick expressed regret over his involvement now that Fattah's comments have surfaced. He highlighted a "major failure of the British state" in supporting someone with such beliefs. The Board of Deputies for British Jews expressed concerns over Fattah's previous statements, characterising them as threatening to British Jews and the public. Former Conservative leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith also retracted his past support after learning about Fattah's extreme rhetoric. Fattah, a significant figure in Egypt's 2011 uprising, has faced scrutiny for past remarks deemed violent and anti-Israel. Reunited with his 14-year-old son in Brighton, Fattah claims his controversial comments from 2012 were part of a "private conversation" taken out of context. The debate over his social media activity and associated views marred his recent release, which came after extensive campaigning, reported the BBC. Key Takeaways: The Conservative Party wants Alaa Abdel Fattah deported over extremist posts. Fattah obtained UK citizenship in 2021 amidst previous Conservative rulership. Political figures retract past support following fresh revelations about Fattah’s views. Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-12-29

video screenshot Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made a high-profile trip to Florida to meet US President Donald Trump, following recent Russian missile attacks on Kyiv. The unexpected meeting at Mar-a-Lago aims to bridge differences in the existing peace plan to end the prolonged conflict. With American diplomats working tirelessly, the new proposal has been revised from an original 28 to 20 points. Background efforts have intensified with Zelensky and Trump’s proxies in a deep discussion to finalise terms acceptable to Ukraine and Russia. Trump, interrupting his holiday, indicated meetings would only occur if peace was within reach, highlighting the negotiation's advanced stage. Zelensky confirms that American authorities have agreed on 90% of the peace deal. Unresolved are the thorniest issues, such as land concessions in eastern Ukraine and the future of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant. Zelensky has suggested the possibility of a Ukrainian referendum on territorial changes if a ceasefire is achieved. Ideas such as creating an economic free zone in Ukraine have been floated to break the deadlock. Russia's stance remains unclear, with no representatives at the Florida talks and President Putin emphasising military action if peaceful resolutions fail. Meanwhile, Russian drone and missile strikes continue, underscoring the conflict's intensity. Discussions in Berlin earlier this month led to breakthrough security guarantees, potentially providing Ukraine with deterrence against further aggression. Sunday's meeting excludes European leaders, a departure from previous multinational efforts. Trump expressed optimism but warned that nothing was certain without his approval. Both countries seek a strong peace framework with substantial US-backed security guarantees, described as the "platinum standard." Zelensky's push for further dialogue with Trump after their October meeting reflects Ukraine's urgent need for resolution. European officials view the current dynamic with the US as constructive, albeit acknowledging unpredictabilities in dealing with Trump. Key Takeaways: Zelensky and Trump met to finalise a peace plan after recent attacks in Ukraine. Key issues include land concessions and the fate of the Zaporizhzhia plant. New security guarantees could deter further Russian aggression. Adapted by ASEAN Now from CNN 2025-12-29