News published on Globe Banner in August 2025

News from August 2025


U.S. State Department updates nonimmigrant visa interview waiver policy effective September 2025

Effective September 2, 2025, the U.S. Department of State will change the rules for nonimmigrant visa interview waivers.


U.S. issues global caution amid Israel-Iran conflict, warns of travel disruptions

The U.S. Department of State has issued a worldwide caution for American citizens following the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran.


FBI opens standalone attaché office in Wellington to expand law enforcement cooperation

The FBI has established a dedicated law enforcement attaché office in Wellington, New Zealand, marking a new phase in its partnership with the country.


U.S. Consulate General São Paulo issues alert ahead of planned protest

A demonstration is expected to take place outside the U.S. Consulate General in São Paulo on August 1, 2025, beginning at 10:00 AM.


J. Chris Karber named Chargé d’Affaires at U.S. Embassy Helsinki

J. Chris Karber has taken up the position of Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Helsinki, Finland, as of July 2025.


U.S. welcomes Cambodia-Thailand ceasefire, credits Malaysia’s mediation

The United States has welcomed the ceasefire declaration between Cambodia and Thailand, which was announced in Kuala Lumpur.


Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship opens for Pacific Island professionals

The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program is accepting applications from mid-career professionals from Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu, and the Solomon Islands who are currently living in Australia.


U.S. condemns Hong Kong bounties on overseas activists, cites threat to free expression

The United States has criticized the Hong Kong government’s recent decision to issue arrest warrants and bounties for 15 more overseas activists, including some based in the United States.


Secretary Rubio urges Cambodia-Thailand ceasefire in phone call

Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a phone conversation with Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn, according to a statement released by the Office of the Spokesperson.


Trump imposes new tariffs on Brazil citing threats to US security and free speech

President Donald J. Trump has signed an Executive Order imposing a new 40% tariff on Brazilian imports, raising the total tariff to 50%.


U.S. sanctions Brazilian Supreme Court justice Alexandre de Moraes for alleged human rights abuses

The United States has announced sanctions against Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, citing serious human rights abuses.


Joy M. Sakurai begins term as Chargé d’Affaires at U.S. Mission to ASEAN

Joy M. Sakurai has started her role as Chargé d’Affaires ad interim at the U.S. Mission to ASEAN as of July 2025.


Cambodia and Thailand begin high-level talks in Malaysia seeking ceasefire

Cambodia and Thailand are set to start high-level talks in Malaysia, aiming for an immediate ceasefire.


Secretary Rubio urges Thailand-Cambodia ceasefire in phone call with Thai foreign minister

Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa regarding the ongoing border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia, according to a statement from Spokesperson Tammy Bruce.


U.S., Hungary sign agreement for deployment of advanced nuclear technology

At an event marking a new phase in U.S.–Hungarian energy cooperation, Chargé d’Affaires Palladino spoke alongside Hungarian Minister Szijjártó, Polish Chargé d’Affaires Sladewski, and executives from Synthos Green Energy and Hunatom.


Ben Reames named Deputy Chief of Mission after extensive diplomatic career

Ben Reames has been appointed as Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM).


Tsunami warning issued for Palau after earthquake in Russia

A tsunami warning has been issued for the Republic of Palau after an earthquake with a magnitude of 8.7 occurred in Russia.


U.S. Coast Guard trains FSM police in search and rescue boat operations

Members of the United States Coast Guard Mobile Training Team (MTT) conducted a Small Boat Operator Search and Rescue (SAR) and Towing training session for the FSM National Police Maritime Wing from June 9-20, 2025, in Pohnpei, Micronesia.


Secretary Rubio thanks Malaysia for role in Thailand-Cambodia ceasefire

Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan to express appreciation for Malaysia's involvement in reducing tensions between Thailand and Cambodia.


U.S. supports Cambodia-Thailand peace talks in Malaysia

Cambodia and Thailand are preparing to start high-level talks in Malaysia aimed at reaching an immediate ceasefire.