The past year feels more transformational than transitional, with 2026 now shaping up to be a hinge year — with multiple inflection points on the global agenda. Venezuela: StandoffThe Trump administration has deployed the largest armada in the Caribbean and western Atlantic since the height of the Cold War. There are few examples of economic pressure and external threats alone forcing a leader like Maduro to cede power. If he stays in power, Trump risks being viewed as more bark than bite. In 2026, expect growing friction between rapid advances in AI, unsettled policy debates, and intensifying geopolitical rivalry.

Source: Egypt Independent December 24, 2025 10:17 UTC