Current Affairs - International

Russia has officially exited the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, originally signed with the United States to eliminate ground-launched ballistic and cruise missiles with ranges between 500–5,500 km. The US had already withdrawn in 2019, alleging Russian violations, which undermined the treaty’s effectiveness. Russia cited changing security conditions, particularly US missile deployments in the Philippines and joint drills in Australia, as reasons for withdrawal. This move has heightened concerns over a potential new nuclear arms race and further weakened the global arms control framework, alongside other key treaties such as the NPT, CTBT, and New START.

In 2025, India and the Philippines upgraded their bilateral ties to a Strategic Partnership during the Philippine President’s state visit to India. This move reaffirmed the 1952 Treaty of Friendship and set the stage for deeper cooperation in defence, trade, maritime security, technology, and cultural exchanges. Key agreements included a Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty, a Treaty on Transfer of Sentenced Persons, and reciprocal visa facilitation. Both nations adopted a 2025–2029 Plan of Action to enhance collaboration, while India committed to supporting the Philippines’ infrastructure and digital projects. The partnership aligns with India’s Act East Policy and strengthens Indo-Pacific strategic cooperation.

Illinois made history by becoming the first U.S. state to prohibit artificial intelligence platforms, such as ChatGPT, from delivering therapy services without human oversight. The law, known as the Wellness and Oversight for Psychological Resources Act, was signed by Governor JB Pritzker. It prevents AI from performing core therapeutic tasks like creating treatment plans, assessing mental health, or offering advice without a licensed professional involved. Violations can lead to fines of up to $10,000. This legislation aims to safeguard mental health care quality and follows concerns raised by organisations such as the American Psychological Association regarding AI misuse in therapy.

Azerbaijan and Armenia signed a landmark peace deal at the White House, formally ending decades of conflict over the Nagorno-Karabakh region. The agreement, hosted by US President Donald Trump, includes a permanent cessation of hostilities, the reopening of critical transport links such as a new corridor between Azerbaijan and Nakhchivan, and commitments to expand trade, travel, and diplomatic relations. This US-brokered deal marks a significant geopolitical shift, reducing Russia’s role as the primary mediator in the Caucasus and positioning Washington as a key player in fostering stability and cooperation between the two historically antagonistic nations.

The Republic of Moldova has joined the International Solar Alliance (ISA) as its 107th member, further expanding the coalition’s global reach in promoting sustainable solar energy. Launched in 2015 by India and France at the COP21 Climate Summit, the ISA works to mobilise investments, lower technology costs, and facilitate knowledge sharing in the solar sector. Moldova’s entry grants it access to technical expertise, financing opportunities, and international partnerships aimed at boosting its domestic solar capacity. This move underscores Moldova’s commitment to a clean energy transition while strengthening international cooperation in renewable energy development.