Worldwide protests

The end of April was marked by the eruption of the Israel-Palestine dispute, which could enter into a more uncertain phase with renewed heavy clashes between Israel and Hamas. Iran related disputes escalated during the month. The US and China has begun new trade talks. Elections took place in Spain and in Ukraine. Situation in Venezuela is still fragile.

U.S. led forces have captured the last pocket of ISIS in Syria. In Venezuela, Russian material involvement could trigger more regional risks. In Asia, U.S. pressure on North Korea continues. In Algeria, instability continued during the month and led the president Bouteflika to step down his mandate. Social unrest should ease off from now on.

Instability erupted in several cities of Iran over the worsening economic situation. Hardliners began putting pressure on the government and the U.S. strategy to impose sanctions for regime change accelerated. Trump – Kim Jong-Un summit seemed to lift nuclear related risks in Asia. Trump-Putin meeting in Helsinki on July 16 will be crucial for several regional issues.

The Trump administration canceled North Korea meeting after receiving negative remarks from Pyongyang. The US President announced the Summit would be reinstated on June 12. The US decision to withdrawn from the Iran Nuclear Deal gave birth to new geopolitical uncertainties. Elections in Iraq and Venezuela focused attention as the results are critical for regional issues.