A study in the Journal of Human Evolution suggests a harsh ice age in Henan province, China, spurred technological innovation in an extinct human species, Homo juluensis. This challenges the notion that creativity only thrives in good times, highlighting adaptation under duress.
Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the need for partnership over rivalry with the US, citing mutual losses from confrontation, during a meeting with visiting US President Donald Trump aimed at resolving trade, economic, and global issue differences.
Former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has criticized major powers including the U.S., China, Russia, and India for deciding they can 'opt in or opt out' of the rules-based international order. Speaking amid geopolitical shifts triggered by Trump's policies, Trudeau called on middle powers to unite through 'microlateralism' to chart their own course. PM Mark Carney has declared a 'rupture' in the American-led world order and urged smaller nations to build collective resilience against coercion.
Belgian political scientist Sven Biscop analyzes the Iran war and global geopolitical landscape in 2026, warning that US and Israel started conflicts they no longer control. He argues Europe must stand firm against expanding the war, and that only broadening diplomatic negotiations to include more powers can produce a stable arrangement.
