strategy

China's Expanding Military Influence in Africa In recent years, China has noticeably extended its presence in Africa, particularly in nations like Tanzania, Djibouti, and the Central African Republic. One striking facet of this expansion is the establishment of military academies capable of training an ever-growing number of African officers. This change doesn't just represent a shift in military alliances; it signifies a broader and more complicated geopolitical landscape. General Michael Langley, the commander of U.S.…

Somalia’s Political Landscape: A Deep Dive into Electoral Delays and Strategic Concerns MOGADISHU, Somalia — In the heart of Mogadishu, the political pulse is racing. Despite strong backing from the United States, there’s tension brewing with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Washington has expressed concerns, pointing fingers at his insistence on holding universal suffrage elections. But why, one might wonder, is this such a contentious issue? As reported by the Washington Post, Mohamud’s push for universal…

The Future of U.S. Military Command in Africa: A Calling for Dialogue In an era marked by continual shifts in geopolitical dynamics, the United States is taking a closer look at its military oversight in Africa. General Michael Langley, the commander of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), recently emphasized the importance of including African nations in these discussions. This statement resonates deeply, as it highlights the critical need for collaboration and understanding between the U.S. and African governments.…

Reimagining U.S.-Africa Partnerships: A Strategic Shift On May 14, 2025, a pivotal announcement emerged from Abidjan, marking a significant turning point in how the U.S. engages with the African continent. The U.S. Africa Bureau unveiled a dynamic strategy that places trade outcomes, private-sector investment, and viable partnerships at the forefront of its foreign policy agenda. This bold move reflects not just a shift in diplomatic posture but a recognition of Africa's vital role in the global economy. In his…

The European Union finds itself at a significant crossroads in its relationship with the Sahel region. An urgent call for a transformative political strategy has been articulated in an open letter to the EU Vice President by Human Rights Watch. They assert that the "Integrated Strategy in the Sahel," which was introduced in April 2021, has unfortunately grown antiquated, especially in the wake of recent military coups in the central Sahel. Why, one might ask, does this matter? The Sahel, a vast stretch of land encompassing…

Somali President Highlights Multi-Pronged Approach to Combat Al-Shabab, ISIS MOGADISHU, Somalia — In a heartfelt address, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud articulated Somalia's relentless commitment to eradicating the threats posed by Al-Shabab and ISIS militants. His words revealed a nuanced strategy that combines military might with diplomatic engagement, underscoring his relentless pursuit of stability in a nation long-fractured by violence. At the forefront of this campaign, the Somali National Army (SNA),…

Somalia: Northeastern State Stands Its Ground in NCC Boycott, Calls for Innovation BOSASO, Somalia – In a region often defined by its tumultuous political landscape, Northeastern State President Said Abdullahi Deni’s decision to boycott the forthcoming National Consultation Conference (NCC) in Mogadishu marks a decisive moment. His firm stance, set against the backdrop of growing federal tensions, raises critical questions about the path forward for Somalia’s federal landscape. Speaking at a graduation ceremony for PMPF…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant stride towards bolstering international relationships, Azerbaijan's parliament ratified a defense cooperation agreement with Somalia on Monday. This landmark decision crystallizes a budding partnership aimed at fortifying military ties while enhancing collaborative ventures across various sectors. Why such a focus on defense at this juncture? Perhaps it's a reflection of the shifting dynamics in global security and cooperation. The agreement, officially termed the “Agreement between the…

In a significant development for European defense initiatives, Poland's Finance Minister Andrzej Domański has announced that the European Commission's ReArm Europe defense plan is now a top priority for Poland's presidency of the Council of the European Union. Domański emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that the Polish presidency aims to "finalise work on the package urgently." This week, EU finance ministers convened in Warsaw for the second day of discussions, focusing on how member states can effectively…

In a bold move, US President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to foreign governments, stating they will need to pay "a lot of money" to lift extensive tariffs, which he has described as necessary "medicine." This declaration has sent shockwaves through global financial markets, resulting in a significant downturn. Asian stocks fell sharply, and US stock market futures showed a steep decline as investors expressed concern that these tariffs could drive prices up, weaken demand, and ultimately lead to a potential…