EU’s chief in Sudan is shot as evacuations are halted due to militia fighting

The European Union’s top humanitarian official in Sudan, Wim Fransen, was shot amid escalating fighting between rival military factions, disrupting international evacuation plans. Fransen, a Belgian heading the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations in Sudan, was found with serious but non-life-threatening injuries in Khartoum after being missing for two days.

Saudi Arabia and Iran end their explosive proxy-war

Saudi Arabia and Iran have agreed to set aside their rivalry, raising hopes for resolving conflicts in Yemen, Syria, Iraq, and Lebanon. This diplomatic shift, backed by China, could reshape the Middle East, though experts caution the goodwill may be temporary. Saudi Arabia is focusing on economic reforms, while Iran feels it has achieved significant regional influence. Despite the progress, unresolved issues like Iran's nuclear ambitions remain, suggesting potential for renewed tensions.

The week that Putin lost control of his mercenary chief

Yevgeny Prigozhin, leader of the Wagner mercenary group, has publicly criticized Russian military leadership, raising speculation about his political ambitions. His tirades, often targeting figures like Valery Gerasimov and Sergei Shoigu, have led analysts to believe he may challenge President Vladimir Putin in the 2024 elections. Prigozhin's influence has grown significantly, with Wagner playing a crucial role in the conflict in Ukraine, particularly in Bakhmut. The Kremlin appears increasingly concerned, with state media receiving directives to downplay Prigozhin's actions and prepare negative publicity against him.

The day I was hand-fed oranges by Sudan’s warlord-in-chief

In 2020, the author met Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, in Khartoum during Sudan's transitional period following the ousting of dictator Omar Al Bashir. Hemedti, a former militia leader turned businessman, displayed both charm and ruthlessness. The transitional government, comprising the civilian protest movement, the Sudanese military, and Hemedti's Rapid Support Forces (RSF), aimed to secure international aid and reintegration. Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok expressed cautious optimism about using the RSF to balance military power and build democracy. However, Hemedti's disinterest in democratic principles and recent RSF abuses suggest his earlier gestures were superficial.

The awkward handshake that sums up Saudi Arabia's lurch towards China

Top diplomats from Iran and Saudi Arabia met in Beijing to confirm the resumption of relations after a seven-year break, brokered by China. This marks a significant shift as Saudi Arabia moves away from its reliance on the US, seeking new security partners like China. The US has been disengaging from the Middle East, reducing its dependence on Saudi oil, and focusing on confronting China in the Asia-Pacific. Meanwhile, China is pursuing a more proactive foreign policy under President Xi Jinping, exemplified by brokering the Saudi-Iran reconciliation. Saudi Arabia's deepening ties with China reflect shifting oil markets and a strategic pivot towards securing its national interests in a multipolar world.

Nordic states combine air defences and 410 fighter jets to stand against Russian aggression

Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Denmark are planning to form an integrated Nordic air defense system comprising 410 fighter planes to counter the growing threat from Russia. The militaries of these Nordic countries announced the plan, emphasizing that their combined air defenses would create a formidable force.

The day I was hand-fed oranges by Sudan’s warlord-in-chief

In 2020, the author met Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, also known as Hemedti, a Sudanese warlord now vying for control of the country. The article recounts the author's experiences with Hemedti, highlighting his dual nature as both a charismatic warlord and a reluctant statesman. The narrative also touches on Sudan's fragile political transition following the ousting of dictator Omar Al Bashir, the role of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), and the aspirations of then-Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok for a civilian government. The piece critically examines Hemedti's superficial commitment to democracy and human rights, contrasting it with the RSF's alleged abuses.

France and US destroy passports of Sudanese visa applicants, leaving them stranded in warzone

Washington and Paris have admitted to destroying the passports of Sudanese citizens who had applied for visas, leaving them stranded in the war-torn country. The diplomats followed protocol to prevent sensitive documents from falling into the wrong hands, but this has not alleviated the outrage of those affected. The conflict between Sudan's top generals, Abdel Fattah al Buran and Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, has led to a chaotic situation, with foreign diplomats evacuating hastily. The British Government has stated that any documents left behind will be stored securely, while the US State Department defended its actions as standard procedure. The situation is further complicated by the closure of the office that issues new passports in Sudan due to ongoing fighting.

France asks US for extra protection from resurgent Islamist terror threat

France's interior minister, Gerald Darmanin, has requested increased security assistance from the US, citing Islamist terrorism as the primary threat to Europe, especially with the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris. Darmanin emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration between French and US intelligence services, despite the US's growing domestic concerns. He highlighted the risks posed by terrorist groups, referencing past attacks in France and the potential for future threats. Darmanin's visit to the US aimed to strengthen police and judicial cooperation in combating terrorism and serious crime.

Russian Wagner mercenaries offer missiles to Sudan paramilitaries

Russian mercenary group Wagner has offered to supply missiles to Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF), although there are conflicting reports on whether the missiles have been delivered. The RSF, led by Gen Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, is engaged in a conflict with the Sudanese military. Wagner's involvement includes offering shoulder-fired Manpad anti-aircraft missiles and possibly supplying surface-to-air missiles, significantly boosting RSF's capabilities. The RSF leader has denied current ties with Wagner, citing US sanctions. Wagner's owner, Yevgeny Prigozhin, has denied any financial interests in Sudan. The situation highlights the complex international dynamics and the involvement of various stakeholders, including the US and Russia.