2025 was a year of global upheaval. Vox released a video today, December 31st, summarizing the key events. The year saw a second Trump administration. The Epstein files were finally released.
Government shakeups defined much of the year. A record-breaking federal shutdown occurred. Marjorie Taylor Greene resigned from Congress. Gaza saw a ceasefire. Gen Z led significant government protests internationally. Young politicians like Zohran Mamdani rose to prominence.
The world witnessed unexpected cultural shifts. America got its first Pope. The Labubu toy became a global phenomenon. China's DeepSeek AI model disrupted the tech landscape.
The US launched new military strikes in multiple countries. This action heightened global unrest. The video, produced by Dolly Li, is available on Vox's YouTube channel.
Expect continued analysis of these events in the new year. The implications of DeepSeek and the ongoing US military actions remain to be seen.
Multi-Source Journalism
This article synthesizes reporting from multiple credible news sources to provide comprehensive, balanced coverage.
Deep insights powered by AI
Continue exploring
Zohran Mamdani made history as New York City's first Muslim and South Asian mayor, taking his oath of office with a Quran at a private ceremony. He used both his grandfather's Quran and a historic 200-year-old copy from the New York Public Library, formerly owned by Black historian Arturo Schomburg, highlighting the intersection of faith and cultural heritage in this significant political moment.
In 2026, over 40 nations, encompassing 1.6 billion people, will hold national elections that will significantly impact domestic and international affairs. Key contests include general elections in Myanmar, Uganda, Costa Rica, and Thailand, as well as presidential elections in Portugal. Bangladesh's general election will be particularly noteworthy, as voters will decide on the July Charter, a reform plan limiting executive power.
A powerful explosion at a bar in the Swiss ski resort town of Crans Montana has resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries, according to local police. The cause of the blast at "Le Constellation," a popular tourist spot, is currently under investigation as emergency services respond to the ongoing situation.
Chinese automotive brands, particularly EV manufacturers like MG and BYD, are projected to capture 10% of the UK's new car market in 2025, doubling their 2024 sales figures. This surge, driven by China's dominance in EV technology and supply chains, is raising concerns in European nations about potential job losses within their domestic automotive industries.
In his New Year's Eve address, President Xi Jinping reiterated China's commitment to reunifying with Taiwan, framing it as an inevitable historical trend. This declaration follows extensive military exercises simulating a blockade of Taiwan, highlighting the potential for AI-driven advancements in military technology to escalate geopolitical tensions and underscoring the complex ethical considerations surrounding AI in international relations.
K-pop record label Ador is suing NewJeans member Danielle Marsh, a family member, and their former producer for millions after a year-long dispute involving allegations of mistreatment and a failed attempt to terminate their contracts, highlighting the complex legal and contractual landscape within the K-pop industry. This case underscores the power dynamics between artists and labels, raising questions about fair treatment and the potential for AI-driven solutions to mediate disputes and ensure transparency in artist management. The lawsuit seeks nearly 43.1 billion won in damages.
Amidst rising tensions, a reported US drone strike on a Venezuelan port, allegedly targeting a criminal gang, signifies an escalation in America's covert military campaign against Nicolás Maduro's regime. Despite increased US pressure, including naval deployments and airstrikes, Maduro remains in power, underscoring the complex geopolitical dynamics and potential for regional instability in Venezuela.
Escalating tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE threaten to ignite a new civil war in southern Yemen, stemming from disagreements over the region's future and the UAE's support for separatist movements. This dispute, with roots in competing interests for political influence and control of strategic shipping lanes, risks destabilizing the broader region, potentially impacting conflicts in Sudan and the Horn of Africa. The rivalry highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics within the Gulf states and their involvement in shaping the future of the Arabian Peninsula.
Mamady Doumbouya, Guinea's junta leader who initially promised not to seek office, has been elected president amid an opposition boycott spurred by the barring of key leaders from participating. Securing over 86% of the vote, Doumbouya's election follows his 2021 coup and raises concerns about the transition to civilian rule initially slated for the end of 2024.
The US stock market concluded 2025 with strong gains despite earlier volatility spurred by trade tariffs, with the S&P 500 up 17% for the year. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite surged 21%, while the Russell 2000 increased by 12%, reflecting investor confidence driven by robust corporate profits and AI investments, though concerns remain about potential overvaluation and leadership changes at the Federal Reserve.
Waitrose is recalling its No1 Royal Deeside Mineral Water (still and sparkling) due to the potential presence of glass fragments, posing a safety risk to consumers. Customers are advised to return affected bottles with specific batch codes for a full refund, and Waitrose is posting in-store notices to inform shoppers.
Multiple news sources confirm that Eurostar and Le Shuttle services through the Channel Tunnel have resumed after major disruptions caused by a power supply problem and train failure, though residual delays and cancellations are possible. Eurostar is offering compensation and running an extra London to Paris service, while Le Shuttle services are largely normal, although Calais may still experience delays.
Discussion
Join the conversation
Be the first to comment