U.S. President Joe Biden is set to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in Lima, Peru, during the APEC summit, marking their last meeting as presidents. The meeting aims to maintain open communication and cooperation, especially in law enforcement and military channels, amidst the backdrop of President-elect Donald Trump's aggressive trade stance. Trump's potential cabinet choices, including China hawks Marco Rubio and Mike Waltz, signal a more confrontational U.S.-China relationship. Meanwhile, China is preparing for a second Trump presidency, having gained insights from his first term. Xi Jinping criticized anti-globalization efforts at the APEC summit, emphasizing the importance of economic cooperation.

Donald Trump's election victory signals a return to his first-term foreign policy strategies, including a trade war with China, skepticism towards multilateralism, and a focus on strongman diplomacy. His second term will face challenges such as the wars in the Middle East and Ukraine. Trump plans to relaunch the trade war with China, potentially imposing high tariffs and seeking to decouple the U.S. and Chinese economies. In the Middle East, Trump aims to end the war in Gaza and may take a hard line on Iran. Regarding Ukraine, Trump proposes a quick negotiation to end the conflict, though details are sparse. His approach to NATO remains critical, and he may push for Europe to bear more responsibility. Trump's Africa policy may continue to focus on trade and countering Chinese influence. His immigration plans include mass deportations and reinstating controversial policies. The U.S.-India relationship is expected to remain strong, driven by mutual concerns over China. In technology, Trump may continue efforts to curb China's rise and bring manufacturing back to the U.S.

The article analyzes the 1984 film 'Red Dawn' as a critique of U.S. foreign policy and imperialism, despite its initial reception as a conservative Cold War fantasy. It explores the film's portrayal of insurgency and guerrilla warfare, drawing parallels to real-world conflicts and U.S. actions in Latin America and beyond. The film's anti-war and anti-imperialist messages are highlighted, questioning the morality of occupation and the right to resist. The article also reflects on the film's cultural impact and its ironic use in U.S. military operations, ultimately suggesting that the film invites Americans to empathize with those resisting foreign invasions.

The article discusses the International Criminal Court's decision to seek arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for crimes against humanity, alongside three Hamas leaders. It highlights the role of Theodor Meron, a Holocaust survivor and legal expert, in supporting the ICC's case. The piece critiques Israel's historical and current policies, particularly regarding settlements and the conduct of war, and suggests that Israel's failure to heed Meron's legal advice has led to its current predicament. The article calls for an independent Israeli investigation into the alleged crimes to potentially defer ICC jurisdiction.

An IMF delegation arrived in Islamabad amid economic protests in Pakistani-administered Kashmir, discussing a potential new assistance package. Pakistan's economy, though somewhat stabilized, remains in crisis with significant debt and low growth projections. Structural economic issues persist, and the government's commitment to reforms is uncertain. Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, a banker, faces political challenges, while the military's influence is significant. The stakes are high, with a brain drain, terrorism threats, and climate change impacts looming. The article also touches on U.S. counterterrorism cooperation with Pakistan and India's port management deal with Iran.

The article discusses the potential U.S.-Saudi Arabia defense pact and its implications, drawing parallels with U.S.-Egypt relations. It highlights the complexities of including Israel in the deal, the strategic importance of Saudi Arabia for the U.S. in terms of energy and regional security, and the challenges posed by congressional approval. The article also touches on the historical context of U.S.-Middle East relations and the potential risks of trilateral agreements.