Former President Mikheil Saakashvili of Georgia was handed a 12½-year prison sentence on Monday, with an additional four years and six months added for illegal border crossing, which he denounced as politically motivated. Saakashvili, known for his anti-corruption reforms, was ousted by the Georgian Dream party in 2012, accused of steering the country back towards Russia’s influence. Despite ongoing health concerns and being labeled a political prisoner by his lawyer, Saakashvili remains determined to fight for his innocence and continue his opposition efforts in Georgia.
Full Article
Bank of Japan keeps rates steady as Trump tariffs cast a shadow over economic outlook
Japan's central bank maintained its key policy rate at 0.5% in a unanimous vote, amidst concerns over the potential impact of President Donald Trump's trade policies. BOJ policymakers noted the economy has recovered moderately but highlighted uncertainties surrounding trade and wage-setting behavior. Analysts are divided on the timing of the next rate hike, with Governor Kazuo Ueda expressing worries about overseas economic developments. Full Article
Read more