- Centerstage Events

The U.S launching airstrikes on key Iranian nuclear facilities took centerstage on Sunday, 22 June, 2025 among all major events across the globe, and remains the highlight of this week's list of center stage events.
Picture Courtesy: Profit loss

Centerstage events of week 3

Hungary and Slovakia oppose to phase out Russian fuel...

Hungary and Slovakia oppose the EU’s roadmap to phase out Russian fuel, rejecting the Polish-led proposal. Despite their resistance, the European Commission plans to introduce the 2027 gas and LNG ban. Hungary cites national sovereignty and regional instability, especially in the Middle East, as reasons. Poland urges immediate action for energy independence through diversification and renewables. The law may still proceed without unanimous support, highlighting EU energy policy tensions.

Monday, 16 June, 2025

In 2024, banks reversed climate pledges...

In 2024, banks reversed climate pledges, channeling €750 billion into fossil fuel companies—marking the first financing increase since 2021. The Banking on Climate Chaos report shows global banks have poured €6.9 trillion into fossil fuels since the Paris Agreement. Authors blame a pattern of “distract, delay, deflect, and defect,” as lenders prioritize profits over climate goals, intensifying risks to financial stability and efforts to limit warming to 1.5°C.

Tuesday, 17 June, 2025

New Zealand suspends funds to Cook Islands...

New Zealand has suspended nearly $20 million in core funding to the Cook Islands after the latter signed strategic agreements with China without prior consultation. The move breaches a 2001 agreement requiring both nations to discuss defence and security matters. Foreign Minister Winston Peters cited this failure as the reason for the pause. Prime Minister Luxon, currently visiting China, is set to meet President Xi amid rising regional sensitivities.

Wednesday, 18 June, 2025

Finland has voted to exit the Ottawa Treaty...

Finland has voted to exit the Ottawa Treaty banning anti-personnel landmines, citing growing threats from Russia. The decision passed with a 157–18 majority in parliament. Following similar moves by Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland, Finland argues landmines are vital for defending its 1,340 km border with Russia. Russia never signed the treaty and has heavily mined Ukraine during its invasion, making it the world’s most mine-contaminated country.

Thursday, 19 June, 2025

Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill has passed in the UK...

After nearly seven months of debate, the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill has passed in the UK House of Commons by a narrow 23-vote margin (314–291). Opponents argued the bill lacks sufficient safeguards against coercion of vulnerable individuals. Supporters defended it as a compassionate move, giving terminally ill adults the right to choose a dignified death. The final vote followed intense, three-hour deliberations in a packed chamber.

Thursday, 19 June, 2025

Panama declares a five-day state of emergency...

Panama declares a five-day state of emergency in Bocas del Toro province following violent protests over a controversial pension reform law. Demonstrations led by union and Indigenous groups escalated this week, resulting in one death and around 30 injuries. Protesters reportedly looted businesses and set fire to a stadium and parts of the provincial airport. The government suspended certain constitutional rights, blaming “radical groups” for the unrest. Tensions flared further after Chiquita dismissed thousands of striking banana plantation workers.

Saturday, 21 June, 2025

U.S launches airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities...

The U.S launches airstrikes on key Iranian nuclear facilities, including Natanz and Fordow, under President Donald Trump’s directive. The IAEA reported no rise in off-site radiation levels. Axios revealed that only Republican lawmakers received advance notice, sparking political criticism. In retaliation, Iran’s Parliament voted to close the vital Strait of Hormuz. Iran also fired over 40 ballistic missiles at Israel, injuring at least 23 and damaging residential areas, escalating regional tensions.

Sunday, 22 June, 2025