Introduction
This Geopolitical Report Tearline briefing summarizes key global events collected and mapped on January 28th, 2025, for the Geopolitical Report. It is intended to provide readers with a concise overview of significant geopolitical developments, emerging threats, and key actors to watch.
Major Themes
- Persistent Regional Instability: Multiple regions are experiencing heightened instability due to ongoing conflicts, insurgencies, and terrorist activities. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Syria, Ukraine, and various parts of the Middle East are witnessing intense military and political tensions.
- Terrorism and Counter-Terrorism: Terrorist groups such as ISIS, Boko Haram, Al-Shabab, and their affiliates are actively operating across multiple regions, prompting large-scale counter-terrorism efforts by security forces in Turkey, Nigeria, Iraq, and East Africa.
- Civil Unrest and Political Instability: Civil unrest and political instability are present in multiple areas, notably Serbia and Libya, indicating significant internal pressures on governments and social structures.
- Technological and Cyber Threats: Cyberattacks are increasingly targeting private and public entities, emphasizing the vulnerability of critical infrastructure and the need for robust cybersecurity measures. Companies and government institutions, including American and international players, such as the Chinese AI company DeepSeek, are all at risk of attacks.
- Great Power Competition: Today's reporting shows continuing tension and competition among great powers, particularly the US, China, and Russia, and the impact that these rivalries are having on various regions.
- Humanitarian Crises and Civilian Casualties: The various conflicts and attacks are causing significant civilian casualties and displacement, with the situations in Ukraine, DRC, Syria, and Sudan particularly concerning.
Key Areas of Interest
- Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): The DRC is experiencing a volatile situation with clashes in Goma, M23 rebel advances, and significant humanitarian impacts. M23 has reportedly captured the Goma airport and fighting has resulted in numerous casualties and mass displacement. There are also civilian protests against the M23 advance.
- Ukraine: The conflict in Ukraine remains intense, with continued casualties from Russian shelling, drone attacks, and missile strikes. Heavy fighting is reported in urban areas and various regions, along with significant losses of Russian soldiers and military equipment.
- Syria: Syria is facing ongoing clashes between Turkish and SDF forces, resulting in civilian casualties from airstrikes and landmine explosions. The use of drones by multiple actors adds a layer of complexity to the conflict.
- Middle East: The Middle East is experiencing a mix of tensions. Iran warns against strikes on its nuclear facilities, while Israel is conducting operations in the Gaza Strip and Lebanon. The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah continues, and the potential for broader conflict is still present.
- Nigeria: Nigeria is seeing an increase in terrorist activity and attacks on civilians, as well as an increase in counter-terrorism actions by Nigerian police forces. Weapons shipments are also being intercepted.
