Recent reporting, background, and summaries from the politics desk.
The United States federal government is in its second-longest shutdown ever, now on day 31, due to a political stalemate over fiscal year 2026 appropriations. This unprecedented impasse is severely jeopardizing critical services, impacting millions of Americans through suspended SNAP benefits, unpaid federal workers, and significant economic losses.
In a dramatic move, King Charles III has formally stripped Prince Andrew of all remaining royal titles and initiated his eviction from Royal Lodge, effective October 30, 2025. This decisive action, prompted by ongoing controversy surrounding Andrew's association with Jeffrey Epstein, aims to distance the monarchy from scandal and protect its dignity.
In a dramatic policy shift, President Donald Trump has directed the Pentagon to resume nuclear weapons testing, effectively ending a 33-year moratorium on such activities as of October 30, 2025. This unprecedented move, announced in response to alleged testing by Russia and China, is poised to ignite strong global reactions and reshape international arms control efforts.
As the U.S. government shutdown enters its fourth week, essential federal employees, including air traffic controllers, are working without pay, leading to significant disruptions and safety concerns across the nation. Compounding the crisis, 42 million Americans face the potential halt of federal food stamp benefits on November 1, prompting a coalition of states to sue the USDA to release emergency funds.
President Donald Trump concluded his Japan tour, meeting with Emperor Naruhito and newly appointed, first female Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, with both leaders enthusiastically declaring a "new golden age" for the U.S.-Japan alliance. This pivotal visit solidified bilateral ties through a crucial framework agreement for critical minerals supply chains and a trade deal featuring reduced U.S. tariffs and significant Japanese investments in American industries.
The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) has initiated its first-ever shutdown-related furloughs, sending home 1,400 employees as the U.S.
President Milei's far-right party secured a decisive victory in Argentina's midterm elections, gaining 41% of the vote. This strong mandate empowers him to push radical economic reforms despite austerity.
Cameroon is gripped by post-election unrest, with at least four protesters killed in clashes over alleged rigging as President Paul Biya seeks an eighth term. Tensions are high as official results are expected today.
Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado has won the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for her unwavering fight for democracy and human rights in her country. The award recognizes her courageous advocacy despite facing threats and political exclusion.
Former President Trump pardoned Binance founder Changpeng Zhao for money laundering violations, a controversial move framed as ending a "war on crypto" despite alleged financial ties. Zhao, who served a prison sentence, expressed gratitude and pledged to advance crypto in the US.
Left-leaning independent Catherine Connolly won Ireland's presidential election with 63% of first-preference votes, becoming the 10th president. Her platform, focusing on domestic reforms and critiquing the Gaza war, resonated deeply with voters.
A Republican-backed bill to pay federal workers during the US government shutdown failed in the Senate, leaving hundreds of thousands without pay and underscoring deep partisan divides. This legislative setback prolongs financial uncertainty as the shutdown continues.