From the Vatican to climate crisis: The world’s top stories of 2025
From the Vatican to Washington, and from space exploration to family life, these were the five stories that dominated headlines worldwide.
Donald Trump
US conducts airstrikes against ISIS targets in Nigeria’s Sokoto State
In November, Trump warned that the United States could deploy troops or launch airstrikes in Nigeria over the alleged persecution of Christians.
Julius Malema calls Trump ‘modern-day Hitler’ after G20 fallout
Malema’s comments come after Trump boycotted the G20 Leaders’ Summit hosted in Johannesburg in November and allegedly attempted to persuade other nations to undermine South Africa’s role as G20 president.
Washington’s G20 snub shows disrespect toward South Africa
What makes this situation even more concerning is that it persists despite South Africa’s continued efforts to maintain constructive engagement with Washington.
President Ramaphosa reaffirms South Africa’s standing in G20 after Trump’s remarks
South Africa remains the only African nation represented in the G20, serving as a conduit for African priorities within one of the world’s most influential economic blocs.
SA defends its G20 status after Trump claims it should not attend 2026 meetings
South Africa reiterated that it will continue to serve as a “full, active and constructive member” of the G20.
Nicki Minaj backs Trump’s warnings on Christian persecution in Nigeria
Donald Trump said the US could consider deploying troops or launching airstrikes in Nigeria to stop what he described as the killing of large numbers of Christians.
Eswatini received R87m from Trump administration to take in US deportees
Eswatini’s Finance Minister, Neal Rijkenberg, confirmed in Parliament that the country had received about R87 million linked directly to the deportee arrangement.
Argentina’s Milei to skip G20 Summit in South Africa as Trump also withdraws US participation
Observers note that Javier Milei’s absence appears to mirror Donald Trump’s controversial withdrawal.
Trump confirms no U.S. government officials will attend G20 Summit in South Africa
Trump described the decision to host the gathering in South Africa as “a total disaster,” citing unfounded claims of violence against white farmers.