Promising

In an encouraging development, former President Donald Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed optimism about a potential agreement on US-EU tariffs during Meloni's recent visit to the White House. Emphasizing her role as a key figure in fostering transatlantic relations, Meloni positioned herself as the only European leader capable of alleviating the trade tensions instigated by Trump's policies. Her bold assertion, "My mission is to make the West great again," resonated throughout their discussions.…

Niger's ruling junta recently unveiled plans for a five-year transition back to constitutional governance, appointing coup leader Abdourahamane Tiani as the transitional president. This significant decision marks a stark departure from the growing regional demands for a swifter move toward democracy following the ousting of President Mohamed Bazoum earlier in 2023. Tiani's leadership is set to continue until 2030, a timeline eerily reminiscent of the enduring military regimes in neighboring Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea.…

Every war reaches a conclusion, even if the form it takes can be elusive. Historically, a formal treaty is necessary, stipulating the terms under which hostilities cease and detailing the framework for the post-war landscape. This necessity seems distant for Ukraine. Yet, the United States is actively pursuing a pathway to resolution, applying intense pressure to facilitate negotiations with the aggressor. The U.S. has framed its recent discussions with Russia as a crucial first step in establishing a peace agreement to put…