Three years ago, on May 15, 2022, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was elected as the President of Somalia following a lengthy indirect electoral process. This marked his return to the presidency—notably, his second non-consecutive term—as he had previously served from September 2012 to February 2017. His comeback was widely celebrated, reflecting a collective hope that his prior experience would provide invaluable lessons. Having spent nearly five years in power and another five years in opposition, many believed he was primed to…
U.S. Stripped of Final Triple-A Credit Rating
Moody's Credit Rating Agency made headlines yesterday by downgrading the United States' sovereign credit rating. This decision stemmed from apprehensions regarding the nation’s escalating $36 trillion debt. Such a move could pose challenges for President Donald Trump as he seeks to implement tax cuts, potentially sending shockwaves through global markets.
Historically, Moody's awarded the United States its esteemed Triple-A rating back in 1919. Now, it stands as the final major credit agency to execute a downgrade.
The…
European Leaders Seek Trump’s Input on Russia-Ukraine Negotiations
European Leaders Rally Against Russia: Insights from the Recent Summit
On May 16, 2025, momentous discussions unfolded during the European Political Community Summit in Tirana, Albania. Leaders from several nations, including Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer, France's President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, found themselves in communication with United States President Donald Trump. The aim was clear: to join forces…
Senior Military Leader Fatally Attacked by Subordinate in Central Somalia
Tragic Loss in Somalia: A Senior Commander's Fate
MOGADISHU, Somalia, May 17 – In what seems to be a tragic turn of fate, Colonel Abdirahman Hujaale, a dedicated leader of Somalia’s 26th Brigade, was tragically shot by one of his own soldiers on the outskirts of Moqokori town in the central Hiiraan region. The announcement, made by Somali regional officials on a solemn Saturday, sent ripples through the community and beyond.
The question that haunts many is, why? What could have driven a soldier to such an extreme act?…
Kenya Assembles Task Force to Probe Plane Crashes in South Sudan and Somalia
Energy Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir/FILE
In a significant move aimed at enhancing aviation safety, long-serving pilot Captain Peter Maranga, alongside Fredrick Kabunge from the Ministry of Transport, has been appointed to lead an investigation team. This team is tasked with reviewing all preliminary accident reports involving Kenyan-registered and operated aircraft. These reports have been submitted over the past five years by both South Sudan and Somalia. As the aviation sector continues to evolve, this initiative…
Trump Set to Discuss Ukraine Conflict in Upcoming Phone Call with Putin
US President Donald Trump has announced plans to discuss potential resolutions for the ongoing Ukraine conflict with Russian President Vladimir Putin in a phone call scheduled for Monday.
During a recent trip to the Gulf, Mr. Trump had extended an invitation to meet in Turkey, contingent upon Mr. Putin's attendance. However, the Russian leader declined the offer.
The US president has been actively urging both President Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to reach a ceasefire agreement in the protracted…
Uganda’s Deputy Defense Chief Heads to Mogadishu to Strengthen Military Ties
Strengthening Bonds: Uganda's Military Commitment to Somalia
Mogadishu (AX) – On a Saturday filled with promise and potential, Lieutenant General Samuel Okiding, the Deputy Chief of the Uganda Defence Forces, stepped onto Somali soil for an official visit. This journey is not just a routine diplomatic mission; it is a vital endeavor aimed at fortifying military cooperation between Somalia and Uganda, two nations bound by shared concerns and aspirations.
Upon his arrival at Aden Adde International Airport, Lt. Gen.…
Ugandan Defense Deputy Visits Mogadishu Amidst AUSSOM’s Fiscal Struggles
Ugandan Deputy Defence Chief in Mogadishu: Navigating AUSSOM's Financial Hurdles
MOGADISHU, May 17 – In a marked display of camaraderie and duty, Sam Okiding, the Ugandan Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, touched down in Mogadishu last Saturday. His arrival, marked by an earnest reception by senior officials from both the Somali Army and the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), holds significance that goes beyond mere diplomatic courtesies.
But why now? The timing of Okiding's visit is…
34th Arab League Summit Commences in Baghdad Amid Gaza Crisis Concerns
34th Arab League Summit Takes Center Stage in Baghdad: A Call for Unity
On a significant Saturday in Baghdad, the 34th Arab League Summit opened its doors to discussions that reverberate far beyond the confines of the conference hall. It marks not only Iraq's fourth summit but also its first since 2012, making this an occasion of great importance. The shadows of Israel's ongoing conflict with Gaza loomed large over this gathering, overshadowing numerous regional concerns. As the world watches with bated breath, the…
Somali Troops Seize Control of Al-Shabaab Villages in Middle Shabelle
Turning the Tide: The Recent Assault Against Al-Shabaab
“We received actionable intelligence about militant gatherings near Masaajid Ali Guduud,” declared a senior commander involved in the recent military assault. It is not often that we witness a well-coordinated strike against an enemy that has held such a tight grip over vast regions of Somalia. The commander went on to emphasize the speed and efficiency of their efforts, stating, “We acted swiftly, and the area is now under our control.”
This compound experience…