Political News Feb. 22nd-28th 2025: Why it Matters
Last week was filled with major political developments, from international diplomacy to domestic protests and government shakeups. These events are not just headlines; they are shaping the future of nations.
Here’s a look at the most important political happenings from last week and why they matter.
1. U.S.–Russia Talks on Ukraine Exclude Ukraine
What Happened?
On February 18, U.S. and Russian officials met in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to discuss ways to end the Russia-Ukraine War. This was the most significant U.S.–Russia diplomatic engagement since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022.
The meeting was led by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Notably, Ukraine was not invited, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from Ukrainian leaders and European allies. The U.S. defended the decision, while European leaders held separate meetings in Paris, underscoring growing disagreements over how to handle the war.
Why It Matters
By excluding Ukraine from negotiations about its own war, the U.S. is signaling a major shift in its approach to the conflict. This could weaken Ukraine’s bargaining power and create tensions between the U.S. and its European allies. If the U.S. pushes for a peace deal without Ukraine’s direct involvement, it could dramatically alter Eastern Europe’s security landscape and NATO’s role in the region.
2. Massive Student Protests Erupt in Indonesia
What Happened?
On February 17, thousands of students across Indonesia began protesting under the banner #IndonesiaGelap (“Dark Indonesia”). Their demands focused on education budget cuts and criticism of the government’s free meal program, which they claim is poorly implemented.
Protests erupted in Jakarta, Surabaya, and Bandung, with demonstrators chanting slogans and clashing with police. The movement gained massive traction online, with millions of Indonesians using the hashtag to voice their frustration.
Why It Matters
Indonesia has a history of student-led activism that has triggered major political changes—including the fall of Suharto in 1998. The scale of these protests suggests growing public dissatisfaction with the government, which could force policy changes or even lead to broader political instability.
3. U.S. Senate Approves Funding for Mass Deportations
What Happened?
In a highly controversial move, the U.S. Senate approved a multi-billion dollar budget to fund mass deportations of undocumented immigrants. This aligns with President Trump’s strict immigration agenda, which prioritizes large-scale deportations and border security.
The bill passed with overwhelming Republican support, while Democrats strongly opposed the move, calling it inhumane and a political stunt. Advocacy groups have already vowed to challenge it in court.
Why It Matters
Mass deportations could destabilize industries that rely on immigrant labor, affect millions of families, and spark legal battles over civil rights. This move also sets the stage for further political clashes between the Trump administration and Democratic-controlled states that have vowed to resist federal immigration enforcement.
4. U.K. Faces Political Scandals and Leadership Shakeups
What Happened?
The United Kingdom was rocked by multiple political controversies, including:
- Labour Party suspending 11 councillors over a WhatsApp scandal.
- Former Reform UK leader Nathan Gill being charged with bribery.
- Wales’s longest-serving government minister, Jane Hutt, announcing her resignation.
- Sinn Féin boycotting St. Patrick’s Day events at the White House due to Trump’s stance on the Israel-Gaza conflict.
Additionally, former Prime Minister John Major warned that Trump’s isolationist foreign policy could destabilize global democracy.
Why It Matters
These scandals and leadership changes could weaken the Labour Party before the next general election. Meanwhile, Sinn Féin’s boycott signals worsening U.K.-U.S. relations under Trump’s presidency, which could affect diplomatic ties between the two countries.
5. Israel Completes Hostage Exchanges and Withdraws from Southern Lebanon
What Happened?
Last week, Hamas released the last Israeli hostages held in Gaza as part of a ceasefire agreement. In addition, Israel withdrew from most of southern Lebanon, fulfilling its part of a ceasefire deal that expired on February 18.
However, tensions remain high, as Israel maintains military control over five strategic locations in Lebanon, despite withdrawing from other positions.
Why It Matters
The hostage releases are a step toward de-escalation, but they do not signal an end to conflict. The situation remains volatile, and Israel’s decision to maintain military outposts in Lebanon could lead to renewed hostilities.
6. German Election Polls Show a Rise in Far-Right Support
What Happened?
New polling data in Germany revealed that the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has surged to second place ahead of the country’s upcoming elections.
The center-right CDU–CSU coalition is still leading, but AfD’s rise has shocked mainstream politicians. The party’s nationalist rhetoric and opposition to immigration have gained traction, especially in eastern Germany, where voters are frustrated with traditional parties.
Why It Matters
If AfD continues to gain support, it could shift Germany’s politics further to the right, influencing EU policies on migration, trade, and climate change. This could also embolden far-right movements across Europe, leading to wider political instability within the EU.
7. Trump and Zelensky Clash Over U.S. Support for Ukraine
What Happened?
Last week, President Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had a tense conversation regarding continued U.S. aid to Ukraine.
Trump reportedly told Zelensky that the U.S. would reduce military and financial support unless Ukraine was willing to negotiate with Russia. Zelensky strongly rejected this idea, warning that such a move could allow Russia to consolidate its gains and push further into Ukrainian territory.
The conversation reportedly ended on bad terms, with Zelensky frustrated by the U.S.’s shifting stance.
Why It Matters
This clash underscores the growing divide between the U.S. and Ukraine over how to handle the war. If the U.S. scales back its support, Ukraine’s ability to defend itself will be significantly weakened. This could change the course of the war, impact NATO’s unity, and signal a major shift in U.S. foreign policy under Trump.
Final Thoughts
Last week’s political events showcased a world in transition—shifting alliances, growing protests, and key policy decisions that will shape the future.
From U.S.–Russia talks on Ukraine to mass deportation funding, student protests in Indonesia, and leadership changes in the U.K., each of these events carries significant global implications.
As the year progresses, it will be crucial to watch how these developments unfold and whether they lead to stability or further political upheaval.
Stay tuned to Political Jar for ongoing updates and in-depth analysis!