As we moved into 2026, the world is no longer merely “watching” conflicts – it is living with them. Civil war in Sudan has deepened into a regional humanitarian catastrophe, Ukraine remains locked in a war of attrition with global consequences, India-Pakistan tensions continue to cast a long shadow over South Asia and multiple theatres across Central Africa are sliding into protracted violence. This special newsletter revisits the evolving conflict landscape and examine what these wars reveal about power, governance and the fragility of the current global order and why their trajectories in 2026 matter far beyond their immediate borders.
Tag: Taiwan
Can Asia’s Greatest Rivalry Step Back from War?
In the icy waters southeast of Okinawa, a Japanese F-15 pilot’s cockpit alarm issues a serious warning. A Chinese J-15 fighter jet has locked its fire-control radar onto the aircraft, a modern equivalent of pointing a loaded gun. In Tokyo, officials urgently summon the Chinese ambassador. In Beijing, state media threatens “severe consequences.” This incident on December 7, 2025, was not an isolated near-miss. It marked the latest and most concerning trigger in a diplomatic crisis that has pushed Asia’s two biggest powers to the brink of conflict, a situation both deny wanting but seem unable to escape.
Chinese Cities Sink as Urbanisation Surges
The problem is not limited to China. Some of the major cities worldwide including Houston, Mexico City, and Delhi are facing similar challenges due to excessive water extractions and geological factors. Subsidence is one issue that affects areas with extensive mining activities, like the coal regions of Pingdingshan in northern China. Combating subsidence requires effective strategies. Tokyo successfully tackled the sinking by providing alternative water sources and banning well water use. In China, controlling groundwater extraction and implementing laws to prevent further subsidence are crucial steps.
US Reports Reveal that China is Aiding Russia’s Military Expansion
According to an assessment by US officials, it is revealed that China is playing a significant role in the military expansion of Russia, particularly in its efforts in the war against Ukraine. China has been increasing its sales of various technology and equipment to Russia, which Moscow will use to build up its military arsenal. China has been the major supplier of microelectronics, machine tools, and other crucial technology to Russia. In 2023, around 90% of Russia’s microelectronics came from China, which is essential in the production of tanks, missiles, and aircraft. Additionally, over 70% of Russia’s machine tool imports came from China last year.
Chinese Cyber Agents likely to disrupt upcoming Election in India
The report also sheds light on the Chinese cyber actors, who are actively involved in spying and other cyber operations around the world. They have been using AI-generated content to intensify tensions, particularly in the disputed Asia-Pacific region and in the US. One notable group that is known for carrying out such activities is Storm-1376. They have been identified for intensifying their use of AI-generated news reports and memes. These tactics were used during Taiwan’s presidential elections, where they targeted political candidates, including spreading misinformation about William Lai, a candidate belonging to Taiwan’s Democratic Progressive Party, a party that nurtures anti-Chinese sentiments.
India’s Foreign Policy Achievements for the Last Five Years
The world is currently witnessing several turmoils in geopolitics. While two major conflicts have been happening along with numerous minor tussles, the world is coping with the increasing fear of a ‘new cold-war era’ between the U.S. and China. This year is also crucial to have elections in some major countries like the U.S., India, Taiwan and others. Many academic debates are currently surrounding the government’s policies for the welfare and development of the country. This article will set an evaluation of India’s foreign policy to take stock of developments and achievements in the past five years is necessary.
China aims for Technological Self-reliance amidst Tensions with the US
China Watch is our flagship newsletter and research programme offering critical insights, business intelligence and in-depth reporting on China and Taiwan. This issue’s cover story is “China aims for Technological Self-reliance amidst Tensions with the US.”
Rare Occasion of Cooperation between China and Taiwan
China Watch is our flagship newsletter and research programme offering critical insights, business intelligence and news on China and Taiwan. In this issue, the writer discuss about the rare occasion of cooperation between China and Taiwan followed by new milestone in India-China ties, China warning NATO, Evergande Fraud, and US-Philippines ties against China.
Taiwan Builds an Alternative to Elon Musk’s Starlink
In this issue of China Watch newsletter, the writer discusses about the possibility of Taiwan building its own network of satellites that could serve as an alternative to Elon Musk’s Starlink. Other leads include ‘China’s Economic Crisis,’ ‘China’s Plan to Eradicate Corruption from Sports Industry,’ ‘Police Harassment Condemned at Site of Blast,’ and ‘Taiwan’s Military Tensions with China.’
US Bans Chinese-Owned TikTok Over Election Influence Concerns
In this issue of our flagship newsletter ‘China Watch,’ our team member analyses the US ban on Chinese media giant TikTok over alleged spying concerns that can influence its 2024 Presidential Election. Also a roundup of this week’s news and analysis on China and Taiwan is presented.