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Category: International

  • DRC Deepens Cooperation with Uganda and Russia

    DRC Deepens Cooperation with Uganda and Russia

    KINSHASA, DRC (NPA) — The Congolese Minister of State, H.E. Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, today, received in audience the Ugandan Republic’s Deputy Minister for Regional Integration, John Mulimba. The DRC’s Minister for Regional Integration, Floribert Anzuluni Isiloketshi, also joined the discussions.

    Talks focused on preparations for the 9th session of the DRC–Uganda Joint Great Commission, scheduled to take place in Uganda from May 8 to 12, 2026. The meeting reflects the two countries’ shared commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation across sectors of mutual interest.

    In a separate engagement the same day, Minister Wagner also met with H.E. Karl Tikhaze, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to the DRC. Their discussions centered on the DRC’s participation in the upcoming 3rd Russia–Africa Summit, set for October 28–29, 2026 in Moscow.

    The Minister welcomed Russia’s continued support for the DRC, particularly on security challenges in the eastern region. Talks also explored collaboration on peace and security issues in the context of the DRC’s upcoming presidency of the United Nations Security Council in July 2026.

    Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the DRC–Russia strategic partnership, with emphasis on cooperation in health, scientific research, education, and judicial affairs.

  • White House unveils drug policy priorities to tackle illicit drug crisis

    White House unveils drug policy priorities to tackle illicit drug crisis

    WASHINGTON, D.C., United States (NPA) — The White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) has released the Trump administration’s drug policy priorities, outlining a comprehensive strategy aimed at reducing the impact of illicit drugs across the United States.

    The framework, announced on April 3, 2025, details urgent actions to be implemented within the first year to address rising drug use, trafficking, and overdose-related deaths.

    According to the White House, the policy focuses on six key areas, including reducing overdose fatalities—particularly those linked to fentanyl—securing global supply chains, strengthening border controls, preventing drug use, expanding access to long-term treatment, and advancing research and data-driven strategies.

    Speaking on the initiative, ONDCP Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Director, Jon Rice, said the administration is adopting a coordinated, whole-of-government approach to combat the crisis.

    “Terrorists, cartels, and other drug traffickers are taking hundreds of thousands of American lives by poisoning them for profit,” Rice said. “The priorities in this framework outline the first steps to kick cartels out of our country, free Americans from the deadly grip of addiction, and guide America back to health and safety.”

    The administration said it would intensify efforts to disrupt drug supply chains, targeting production and distribution networks through a combination of law enforcement actions, economic measures, and advanced technology.

    It also emphasised the need for a balanced domestic response that recognises substance use disorder as a complex public health issue, requiring expanded prevention, treatment, and recovery services.

    Officials noted that collaboration across all levels of government and with stakeholders—including law enforcement agencies, healthcare providers, first responders, and community organisations—would be critical to achieving the policy’s objectives.

    The White House added that the new priorities build on existing executive actions by President Donald Trump aimed at strengthening border security, countering drug trafficking organisations, and holding source countries accountable for the flow of illicit drugs and precursor chemicals into the U.S.

    While the current framework outlines immediate priorities, the administration said its broader drug control strategy would continue to evolve in response to emerging threats in order to safeguard communities and reduce the long-term impact of illicit drug use.

  • WHO confirms medical evacuation of suspected hantavirus patients from cruise ship, 3 dead

    WHO confirms medical evacuation of suspected hantavirus patients from cruise ship, 3 dead

    GENEVA, Switzerland (NPA) — The Director-General of the World Health Organization, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has confirmed the evacuation of three suspected hantavirus patients from a cruise ship currently moored off Cabo Verde, as global health authorities continue coordinated monitoring and response efforts.

    Tedros said the patients have been evacuated from the vessel and are en route to the Netherlands for medical care, in coordination with the World Health Organization, the ship’s operator, and national authorities from Cabo Verde, the United Kingdom, Spain, and the Netherlands.

    He noted that the WHO will continue working closely with the ship’s operators to monitor the health of passengers and crew, while supporting countries involved in providing medical follow-up and evacuation where necessary.

    Monitoring and follow-up for both passengers still on board and those already disembarked has been initiated in collaboration with national health authorities.

    “The WHO thanks all those involved. At this stage, the overall public health risk remains low,” Tedros said.

    The development follows reports of a suspected hantavirus outbreak aboard a Dutch-flagged cruise ship that departed Ushuaia, Argentina, on April 1, 2026, carrying 147 passengers and crew from 23 nationalities.

    According to earlier updates, seven cases have been identified onboard, including two confirmed and five suspected infections, with three fatalities and one patient reported to be in critical condition.

    The World Health Organization, alongside national health authorities, is coordinating medical evacuation, isolation measures, and laboratory investigations to determine the source and extent of the outbreak, while maintaining that the global risk remains low.

    Hantaviruses are rodent-borne pathogens that can cause severe disease in humans, including Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) in the Americas and Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS) in Europe and Asia.

    Transmission typically occurs through inhalation of dust contaminated with rodent urine, droppings, or saliva, with rare cases linked to bites. Human-to-human transmission is extremely rare, documented primarily with the Andes virus in South America.

    Symptoms range from fever, fatigue, and muscle aches to severe respiratory distress or kidney failure, with fatality rates varying between 1 and 50 percent. There is currently no specific cure or vaccine, and treatment remains supportive, with prevention focused on avoiding rodent exposure.

  • Trump pauses ‘Project Freedom’ amid progress in Iran talks

    Trump pauses ‘Project Freedom’ amid progress in Iran talks

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — United States President Donald Trump has announced a temporary pause to “Project Freedom,” the operation activated over the weekend to safeguard commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and protect vessels from alleged Iranian attacks in the strategic waterway.

    In a post on his Truth Social account on Wednesday, Trump said the decision followed requests from Pakistan and other countries, as well as what he described as “great progress” toward a “complete and final agreement” with representatives of Iran.

    Part of the president’s statement read:

    “Based on the request of Pakistan and other Countries, the tremendous Military Success that we have had during the Campaign against the Country of Iran and, additionally, the fact that Great Progress has been made toward a Complete and Final Agreement with Representatives of Iran, we have mutually agreed that, while the Blockade will remain in full force and effect, Project Freedom (The Movement of Ships through the Strait of Hormuz) will be paused for a short period of time to see whether or not the Agreement can be finalized and signed.”

    The standoff in the Strait of Hormuz has remained a major flashpoint in the confrontation between the United States and Iran, with both countries trading accusations over military activities in the Gulf region.

    Speaking on Tuesday, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said American naval assets and commercial vessels had continued to transit the Strait safely despite heightened tensions. Iranian authorities, however, disputed the claim and reportedly issued a fresh navigation directive for vessels operating in the area.

    Iran has also resumed the launch of projectiles toward parts of the Gulf in the last two days, although Hegseth maintained that the incidents did not signal the collapse of the ceasefire efforts, insisting that diplomatic engagements to end the conflict were ongoing.

    Trump, while speaking to reporters on Tuesday, reiterated Washington’s opposition to Iran possessing nuclear weapons, warning that the United States was prepared to take further action if necessary.

    “We’ll never let Iran have nuclear weapons. We have to make a journey down to Iran to take the nuclear weapon. These are sick people,” the president said.

  • US man of Nigerian descent Victor Kolawole, accomplice plead guilty in multi-million-dollar U.S. bank fraud scheme

    US man of Nigerian descent Victor Kolawole, accomplice plead guilty in multi-million-dollar U.S. bank fraud scheme

    BOSTON, United States (NPA) — Two Massachusetts men have pleaded guilty in federal court in Boston to their roles in a multi‑million‑dollar scheme to defraud banks across Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island.

    Victor Kolawole, 26, of Brockton, and Keith Wainaina, 24, of Lowell, admitted to conspiracy to commit bank fraud, bank fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. U.S. District Court Judge Julie E. Kobick scheduled sentencing for July 23, 2026 and September 9, 2026, respectively. The pair were arrested in July 2025 alongside four others.

    Prosecutors said that beginning no later than December 2022, Kolawole and Wainaina conspired with Phalentz Vernot and others to steal customer data from local banks, including names, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, and account details. Imposters were recruited to pose as customers using fake identification documents, withdrawing large sums in cashier’s checks.

    Wainaina and Kolawole then deposited the checks into accounts they controlled, later purchasing additional cashier’s checks payable to Vernot. Vernot used part of the proceeds to pay imposters and bank insiders who helped bypass verification protocols.

    According to court filings, Wainaina deposited or attempted to deposit more than $762,000, while Kolawole deposited approximately $373,000 in cashier’s checks drawn on victims’ accounts. Vernot pleaded guilty in December 2025 and is scheduled for sentencing on July 22, 2026.

    The charges carry severe penalties: up to 30 years in prison for bank fraud and conspiracy to commit bank fraud, up to 20 years for conspiracy to commit money laundering, and a mandatory two‑year consecutive sentence for aggravated identity theft. Sentences will be determined by the court under federal guidelines.

  • Iran warns against escalation in Strait of Hormuz, says no military solution

    Iran warns against escalation in Strait of Hormuz, says no military solution

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — Iran has reiterated that there is no military solution to the growing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz involving the United States, warning that further escalation could plunge the region into a deeper crisis.

    Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said on Monday that recent developments in the strategic waterway underscored the need for political dialogue rather than military confrontation.

    “Events in Hormuz make clear that there’s no military solution to a political crisis,” Araghchi stated, adding that diplomatic talks were making progress through mediation efforts led by Pakistan.

    He also cautioned the United States and the United Arab Emirates against being drawn into what he described as a regional “quagmire” by “ill-wishers.”

    Araghchi dismissed the “Project Freedom” initiative announced by Donald Trump, describing it instead as “Project Deadlock.”

    Earlier, Trump accused Iran of targeting vessels belonging to countries not directly involved in the dispute, including a South Korean cargo ship, and suggested that Seoul should participate in the maritime security initiative.

    The U.S. president further claimed that American forces had destroyed seven Iranian “fast boats,” stating: “It’s all they have left.”

    Trump also rejected Iranian claims that Tehran had successfully struck a U.S. military vessel, saying that apart from the South Korean cargo ship incident, “there has been, at this moment, no damage going through the Strait.”

    He added that U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Caine would address a news conference on Tuesday morning to provide additional details on the situation.

    The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes, and rising tensions in the area continue to raise fears of wider regional instability and disruptions to global energy supplies.

  • U.S. issues security alert as multiple explosions rock Khartoum International Airport

    U.S. issues security alert as multiple explosions rock Khartoum International Airport

    KHARTOUM, Sudan (NPA) — The U.S. Embassy in Khartoum has issued an emergency security alert following reports of multiple explosions at Khartoum International Airport and other locations across the Sudanese capital on Monday.

    In the alert released on May 4, 2026, the U.S. Department of State said it had been informed of explosions at the airport, warning that additional sites within Khartoum may also have been affected amid the worsening security situation in Sudan.

    The embassy advised residents and U.S. citizens in the area to immediately seek secure shelter, closely monitor local media for updates, inform relatives and friends of their safety, and prepare contingency plans to leave the country if necessary.

    “The Department of State has been alerted to multiple explosions at the international airport in Khartoum,” the statement said, adding that “other locations may have been impacted as well.”

    The U.S. Embassy in Khartoum has remained suspended since April 2023 following the outbreak of armed conflict between rival military factions in Sudan, with Washington stating that it is unable to provide routine or emergency consular services to American citizens in the country due to the deteriorating security environment.

    The alert directed affected individuals to seek assistance through the U.S. Embassy in Cairo and emergency contact lines operated by the U.S. Department of State.

    The latest explosions come amid continued instability and armed confrontations in Sudan, where fighting between military forces and rival paramilitary groups has triggered a prolonged humanitarian and security crisis across several parts of the country.

  • BREAKING: UAE intercepts Iranian missiles, drones as Gulf tensions escalates

    BREAKING: UAE intercepts Iranian missiles, drones as Gulf tensions escalates

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — Tensions in the Middle East escalated sharply on Monday as the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Defense announced that its air defence systems were actively intercepting incoming ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones launched from Iran, signalling a possible collapse of the fragile ceasefire arrangement involving the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran.

    In an official statement, the ministry confirmed that explosions and loud sounds heard across various parts of the country were linked to ongoing interception operations by the UAE’s air defence systems.

    “UAE air defence systems are actively engaging missiles and UAV threats,” the ministry stated, adding that the noises reported nationwide were the result of defensive military operations targeting incoming aerial threats.

    The latest development came shortly after Iranian authorities claimed responsibility for attacks targeting U.S. naval assets in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategic maritime oil routes.

    The reported exchange marks a significant escalation in regional hostilities and raises concerns over wider instability across the Gulf region, particularly involving U.S. military interests and allied states.

    As of the time of filing this report, neither the United States nor Israel had issued an official response to the claims or the unfolding military developments.

  • Modi thanks voters as NDA sweeps multiple Indian states in assembly elections

    Modi thanks voters as NDA sweeps multiple Indian states in assembly elections

    NEW DELHI, India (NPA) — Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed gratitude to voters across several states following strong performances by the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the latest Assembly elections, describing the results as a reaffirmation of public trust in the alliance’s governance agenda.

    The NDA, a centre-right political coalition led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), is headed nationally by Modi and has continued to expand its influence across key regions of India.

    In Tamil Nadu, Modi, in a series of statements on his X handle, thanked voters who supported the alliance and pledged continued focus on public welfare and development, saying the government would remain committed to addressing citizens’ concerns and improving living standards. He also congratulated the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) for its performance, noting the importance of constructive political competition.

    In Kerala, Modi acknowledged both NDA supporters and opposition gains, thanking those who voted for the alliance while also congratulating the United Democratic Front (UDF) on its electoral success. He reiterated that the central government would continue to prioritise Kerala’s development needs and work towards long-term progress for the state.

    In Puducherry, the Prime Minister praised NDA workers for their grassroots mobilisation and sustained engagement with voters, crediting their efforts and the governance record of Chief Minister N. Rangasamy’s administration for securing another mandate. He described the result as an endorsement of continuity in governance and development-oriented leadership.

    Turning to Assam, Modi applauded NDA campaign workers for their “round-the-clock efforts,” saying the alliance’s growth over the past decade reflected strong public confidence in its development agenda. He declared that Assam had once again “blessed BJP-NDA,” thanking voters for what he described as a decisive mandate for progress and transformation.

    He also highlighted a significant political outcome in West Bengal, praising party workers for their long-standing efforts on the ground and resilience in challenging conditions. Describing the result as historic, Modi said the election reflected strong public support for what he termed the “politics of good governance,” and pledged that the NDA would work to deliver opportunity, dignity, and inclusive development for all sections of society.

    Across the results, Modi emphasised that the NDA’s performance demonstrated continued public backing for its development-focused agenda, while assuring voters that the alliance would intensify efforts to meet their aspirations in the coming term.

  • Guðbrandsson, Abou Jamous named laureates of 31st Council of Europe North-South Prize

    Guðbrandsson, Abou Jamous named laureates of 31st Council of Europe North-South Prize

    STRASBOURG, France (NPA) — The jury of the North-South Centre of the Council of Europe has announced Bragi Guðbrandsson and Rami Abou Jamous as laureates of the 31st edition of the North-South Prize of the Council of Europe, in recognition of their exceptional contributions to human rights, democracy, and intercultural dialogue.

    The award, established in 1995, honours individuals and institutions from both the Global North and South who have demonstrated sustained commitment to strengthening human rights, the rule of law, and international solidarity. Previous recipients include former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, former Irish President Mary Robinson, musician Bob Geldof, and singer Peter Gabriel, reflecting the prize’s long-standing tradition of recognising global figures who influence peace and social justice.

    Bragi Guðbrandsson, a distinguished children’s rights advocate, was recognised for his pioneering work in child protection systems across Europe and beyond, particularly his development of the Barnahus (“Children’s House”) model, which has reshaped how justice systems respond to cases involving violence and sexual abuse against children. His leadership within international human rights frameworks, including collaborations with the Council of Europe and the United Nations, has helped establish stronger, more child-sensitive justice practices and reinforced global standards in child protection.

    Rami Abou Jamous, a renowned war correspondent, was awarded for his courageous and independent journalism from conflict zones, especially his reporting from Gaza, where he has documented the realities of life under war in extremely dangerous conditions. The jury highlighted his contribution to advancing North-South dialogue through frontline reporting and his role in amplifying the voices of civilians affected by conflict, underscoring the risks faced by journalists working in active war zones.

    The award ceremony is scheduled to take place on 19 May at noon (1pm CET) at the Portuguese Parliament in Lisbon, and will be presided over by Speaker José Pedro Aguiar-Branco, with the presentation made by Portuguese President António José Seguro in the presence of senior Council of Europe officials and distinguished guests.

    Organisers noted that this year’s edition carries added significance, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of Portugal’s accession to the Council of Europe, a milestone reflecting decades of democratic engagement within the institution.