The World This Week

July 4, 2025

There’s no column this week. Like many of you, I’m taking a little time off. The Fourth of July offers a perfect moment to pause and reflect on what makes this country so special. I hope you all get some time to relax this holiday weekend with family and friends. Our full column will be back in your inbox next week. 

OTHER ANALYSIS FROM THIS WEEK

What Congress’ ‘Big’ Policy Bill Means for Global Climate Change

Varun Sivaram, Alice C. Hill, and David M. Hart

The legislation promoted by U.S. President Donald Trump and the White House will undo many of the climate and energy initiatives and tax credit programs passed during the Joe Biden administration.

The Nonproliferation Chilling Effect of U.S. Strikes on Iran Nuclear Sites

Erin D. Dumbacher

Countries without nuclear weapons could decide that the nuclear nonproliferation and transparency efforts the world has taken for granted now pose more risk than reward.

Securing Ukraine: Next Steps

Charles A. Kupchan

To deliver on his promise to end the Russia-Ukraine war, Trump will need to offer Russia sticks as well as carrots.

The Last Days of Thailand’s Shinawatra Dynasty

Joshua Kurlantzick and Pavin Chachavalpongpun

The outcome of a no-confidence vote planned in the country’s parliament this week may represent a fundamental reconfiguration of its political order.

The Unlikely Biden-Trump Throughline on Cuba

Will Freeman

Both presidents have sought to curb the Cuban military’s economic dominance. Trump’s new sanctions threat adds bite—but comes with risks.

Can You Name the World Leader?

CFR Editors

Challenge yourself and your friends to test your foreign policy knowledge with CFR’s video quiz.

Council on Foreign Relations

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1777 F Street, NW, Washington, DC 20006

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