Today we examine the multifaceted global landscape of Artificial Intelligence (AI) from 2024–2025, highlighting its profound impact on geopolitics, democracy, and regulatory frameworks. We detail the intense AI competition between major powers like the U.S. and China, while also recognizing the emergence of new AI players such as India and the UAE. The text further explores AI's dual nature, showcasing its potential to enhance democratic processes alongside its capacity to fuel disinformation and manipulation in elections. We then discuss the divergent global approaches to AI regulation, from the EU's comprehensive AI Act to the U.S.'s more decentralized stance, noting the significant power asymmetries between large tech corporations and governments in shaping AI's trajectory. Finally, we underscore the urgent need for international cooperation to govern AI's rapid advancements, particularly in military applications and surveillance, to ensure global stability and uphold human rights.