🌍 Geopolitics and Great Power Competition

• US-Russia Diesel Deal Sparks Controversy: With the US midterm elections approaching, President Trump announced an agreement with Russian President Putin to import millions of tons of diesel from Russia, aiming to stabilize soaring domestic fuel prices. This move was strongly criticized by Ukrainian President Zelensky, while both the US and Russia confirmed that the presidents and intelligence agencies of both countries would maintain direct contact. • Trump Postpones Military Strike on Iran: Despite the US Pentagon formulating a high-intensity 3-day attack plan against Iran, Trump explicitly stated on social media, 'Absolutely no war before the November midterm elections,' indicating strong consideration for election outcomes. • Glimmer of Hope in Sino-European Trade Dispute: To alleviate economic pressure from the US and Europe against China, China's Ministry of Commerce proactively reached a partial agreement with the EU. China pledged to moderately control and reduce exports of hybrid electric vehicles to the EU by more than half, and to facilitate the issuance of export permits for rare earths and permanent magnets. This marks China's first voluntary concession without facing a full-scale trade war.