"I bring you my letter of credence as well as my letter of recall from my predecessor. Mr. President, before I arrived here, I cannot tell you how many people told me that, in short order, I'd fall in love with the country. It's only taken two months, and I can confirm that that has happened," he said.

Bozell said the United States and South Africa shared important values and interests, and pledged to build on mutual respect and cooperation. He also praised South Africa’s Constitution, telling Ramaphosa he hoped to take bilateral relations “to places they’ve never been before.”

"We are two nations with great shared values and interests. Perhaps not enough people understand this, but you, Excellency, were the primary author of your Constitution. You do understand that," he added.

South Africa has in the past month called in the new US ambassador, Leo Brent Bozell III, less than a month after he arrived in the country, after comments he made about the struggle song “Kill the Boer” sparked a diplomatic backlash.

What happened

Why it matters

Context

Aftermath

That frustration is being driven by several flashpoints at once. They include US criticism of South Africa’s transformation policies, land reform, farm attacks, and Pretoria’s genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

For many South Africans, the problem is not just disagreement with the US. It is the sense that America is attempting to dictate domestic policy.

This perception has been sharpened by claims from Donald Trump that South Africa is enabling a “white genocide” through attacks on farmers. The South African government has rejected that claim, as have civil society groups and international observers. President Cyril Ramaphosa has said farm attacks are a serious crime problem, but not genocide.

The issue has become even more contentious because of Gaza .

South Africa’s case against Israel at the ICJ has placed Pretoria in direct conflict with Washington, one of Israel’s strongest allies. On 13 March, the US formally intervened in the case, arguing that Israel does not have the specific intent required to prove genocide under the Genocide Convention.

Washington also said civilian deaths in urban warfare do not by themselves prove genocidal intent.

That position has angered many in South Africa, who see a double standard.

Tensions have also grown because of recent remarks by US Ambassador to South Africa Leo Brent Bozell III. He reportedly expressed frustration over Pretoria’s failure to act on Washington’s so-called “five asks”, which include broad-based black economic empowerment, farm attacks, the ‘Kill the Boer’ song, land expropriation, critical minerals and digital transformation.

That language has been poorly received within the ANC, which sees it as a direct challenge to South Africa’s sovereignty and post-apartheid policy choices. ANC deputy secretary-general Nomvula Mokonyane criticised the ambassador for making “undiplomatic statements”.

For the ANC, the dispute may also bring political benefit. With the 2026 local government elections approaching, the party has an opportunity to present itself once again as a defender of national sovereignty in the face of outside pressure.

At the same time, Ramaphosa’s international investment adviser, Alistair Ruiters, has emerged as South Africa’s key channel to US officials, operating as a chief negotiator with Washington while based in Pretoria. Officials have indicated that part of Ruiters’ effectiveness comes from being located in the Presidency, allowing faster decision-making and giving US counterparts access to someone close to the highest office.

The vacancy follows a turbulent period in the relationship. Ramaphosa’s previous envoy to the second Trump administration, Ebrahim Rasool, was declared persona non grata and expelled after comments made during a public webinar. Soon after, Ramaphosa appointed former deputy finance minister Mcebisi Jonas as special envoy, but the Trump administration reportedly denied him a diplomatic visa.

Government officials have told Daily Maverick that, in a shifting diplomatic scene, an unorthodox approach may work better, especially given what they describe as the Trump administration’s preference for unconventional channels. For now, South Africa appears to be relying on a mix of an acting head of mission in Washington and a Presidency-linked negotiator at home, rather than risking another high-profile ambassadorial standoff.

Meanwhile, the South African Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) confirmed on March 11 that it had démarched Leo Brent Bozell III, less than a month after he arrived in the country, after comments he made about the struggle song “Kill the Boer” sparked a diplomatic backlash.  

The move followed remarks Bozell made at a BizNews conference in Hermanus, where he was quoted as saying, “I am sorry, I don’t care what your courts say, it’s hate speech,” referring to the chant.  

In March 2025, South Africa’s Constitutional Court refused AfriForum leave to appeal earlier rulings and effectively upheld findings that the chant does not constitute hate speech under South African law . 

Dirco Minister Ronald Lamola said South Africa welcomes public engagement by foreign diplomats, but stressed it must be consistent with diplomatic etiquette and international protocols. He said the department called in Bozell to explain what it described as “undiplomatic remarks”, including comments that appeared to undermine the judiciary.  

Dirco Director-General Zane Dangor said Bozell expressed regret and apologised for the comments, adding this was the department’s second meeting with the ambassador since his arrival in February.  

Asked for comment, a US State Department official said Washington does not discuss private diplomatic conversations.  

In a joint statement, the groups said they plan to launch an international petition urging the United States to appoint a special envoy “dedicated to engaging with the Afrikaner community and other cultural minorities in South Africa”.

They added that the petition would also ask the US “to recognise the pursuit of self-governance as a legitimate and peaceful solution”, and said it would be submitted to the US President and State Department once it reaches 100,000 signatures.

But South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) said domestic issues should be handled through local institutions, rejecting what it described as external intervention.

“South Africa is a sovereign Republic, not a foreign protectorate. The Afrikaner identity is diverse and multi-ethnic, not a narrow racial group requiring foreign referees,” Dirco spokesperson Crispin Phiri told The Citizen . “We can solve South African challenges with South African hands, without a foreign crutch.”

Lex Libertas and the NYYRC also outlined further plans in Washington, including a public vigil on the National Mall featuring 3,000 white crosses to symbolise victims of farm attacks, and a request for the US Congress to hold a public hearing on South Africa and “structural policy solutions.”

In a welcome video released by the US embassy after his appointment was made official, Bozell said it was “an honour of a lifetime” to serve in South Africa and that he wants to build a partnership that “strengthens the ties between our peoples”.

“We face challenges, yes, and some are serious,” he said. “But strong relationships are built not on the weight of those challenges but on the power of shared purpose.”

At his US Senate confirmation hearing in October, Bozell said , amongst others, that he would press South Africa to end its genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice and objected to what he called Pretoria’s “geostrategic drift” toward US rivals, including Russia, China and Iran.

However, Bozell highlighted that “more than 500 American companies” are invested in South Africa and said he wants to work with South African leaders, innovators and communities to “turn possibility into progress”.

His comments came after US President Donald Trump renewed calls in January for US control over Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark.

Dr Balakrishnan said Singapore, as a small state, places particular importance on international law because it offers protection against a global order based on raw power.

“We will continue to uphold international law and multilateralism, as these principles ultimately protect small states and contribute to global peace and stability,” he said.

The foreign minister stressed that Singapore values its longstanding and substantive partnership with the United States, which he described as a key contributor to security and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region.

At the same time, he noted that Singapore also enjoys close and friendly relations with European countries, including Denmark. Singapore’s approach, he said, is to remain principled and consistent, regardless of which country is involved.

“This is because a world order based on ‘might is right’ is more unstable and dangerous, especially for small states,” Dr Balakrishnan said.

Venezuela and military intervention

Dr Balakrishnan also addressed questions about US actions in Venezuela, including a January incident involving the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife.

He said Singapore had expressed “grave concern” over US military intervention in Venezuela, describing it as contrary to international law and the principles of the UN Charter.

Singapore has consistently opposed foreign military intervention by any country, he added, citing its past opposition to Russia ’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and the US invasion of Grenada in 1983.

A consistent foreign policy

Dr Balakrishnan said Singapore’s foreign policy is guided by long-term national interests and a consistent respect for international norms, rather than by the actions or influence of any single power.

While he noted that the US has recently withdrawn from dozens of international organisations, he said the immediate impact on Singapore is limited.

He said reckless actions by powerful actors are triggering dangerous consequences, and stressed that global challenges cannot be solved by one country imposing its will.

“Global problems will not be solved by one power calling the shots,” he said. “Nor will they be solved by two powers carving the world into rival spheres of influence.”

Guterres argued that the world is shifting toward multipolarity, but warned that this transition must be “networked, inclusive by design,” and grounded in partnerships rather than competition.

“For multipolarity to generate equilibrium, prosperity and peace, we need strong multilateral institutions where legitimacy is rooted in shared responsibility and shared values,” he said.

Concerns over private tech power

The UN chief also highlighted the growing influence of private technology companies, warning that unregulated platforms and artificial intelligence systems are increasingly shaping elections, markets and even conflicts.

“When technologies that shape behaviour, elections, markets, and even conflicts operate without guardrails,” he said, “the reaction is not innovation, it is instability.” He called for global governance frameworks to ensure AI and emerging technologies are used responsibly.

Final-year priorities

In what is expected to be his final year leading the United Nations, Guterres outlined key priorities focused on peace, development and institutional reform.

He said the UN is pushing for “just and sustainable peace rooted in international law,” including efforts that address the root causes of conflict rather than temporary ceasefires.

Guterres also highlighted the need to accelerate progress on the Sustainable Development Goals, reform the Security Council, and strengthen the global financial system to better support vulnerable countries.

On climate change, he called for greater equity in helping nations facing repeated climate catastrophes.

Guterres closed by urging governments to act with responsibility in an increasingly troubled international environment .

The trip comes as the United States tries to move past what it described as previous policy missteps and re-engage with governments in the region on shared security and economic concerns.

“The United States looks forward to discussing next steps for enhancing US-Mali cooperation,” the statement said.

Checker is also expected to consult with other Sahel governments, including Burkina Faso and Niger, as Washington reassesses its approach in a region facing political upheaval, military rule and shifting international alliances.

The Sahel has become a key focus of global security concerns due to militant violence , repeated coups and growing foreign influence, including increased Russian engagement.

US officials said the Bamako visit is part of efforts to strengthen cooperation on regional stability and development, while recognising the sovereignty of Sahel states.

The United States established diplomatic relations with Mali in 1960, following its independence from France .

Nigeria’s economy is on course to record its strongest expansion in more than 10 years, with the World Bank upgrading its growth forecast to 4.4% for both 2026 and 2027. In its latest Global Economic Prospects report, the Bank said growth rose to 4.2% in 2025, driven by services, particularly finance and information and communication technology, alongside a modest agricultural recovery and Nigeria’s emergence as a net exporter of refined petroleum products. “Growth in Nigeria is forecast to strengthen to 4.4 percent in both 2026 and 2027, the fastest pace in over a decade,” the report said, adding that tax reforms and prudent monetary policy are expected to support activity, improve investor sentiment and further reduce inflation. The Bank, however, cautioned that sustaining momentum will require tackling long-standing structural weaknesses and strengthening fiscal discipline to ensure growth is durable and inclusive.

Nigeria and UAE deepen ties

President Bola Tinubu has announced that Nigeria will co-host the Investopia investment conference with the United Arab Emirates in Lagos in February, as both countries seek to attract global capital and boost sustainable investment inflows. The announcement was made on the sidelines of the 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, following the conclusion of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between Nigeria and the UAE. Tinubu described the CEPA as a historic deal that will deepen cooperation in renewable energy, infrastructure, logistics and digital trade. “We warmly invite our partners to help build sustainable and shared prosperity for Nigeria, Africa and the world,” he said, noting that Nigeria aims to mobilise up to $30 billion annually in climate and green industrial finance while strengthening climate governance through a new national carbon market framework.

Lagos fire service reports 133 deaths in 2025

The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service said 133 bodies were recovered from emergency incidents across the state in 2025, as it responded to 2,617 emergency calls during the year. Speaking at the agency’s annual staff engagement, Controller General Margaret Adeseye said fire incidents accounted for about 85% of all calls, with 473 victims rescued alive. She disclosed that properties valued at ₦118.3 billion (approx. US$78.9 million) were saved, while losses stood at ₦19.7 billion (approx. US$13.1 million), representing a 6:1 save-to-loss ratio. Adeseye said the figures highlight the importance of preparedness and professionalism in a rapidly growing megacity, adding that the recent passage of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service Bill has strengthened the agency’s institutional framework and operational efficiency.

Police decline to comment on U.S. airstrikes

The Nigerian Police Force has confirmed it has intelligence on recent United States airstrikes against terrorist targets in Sokoto State, but said it would not disclose details publicly. Force spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin said the matter should be addressed by defence authorities, stressing that the police would not comment on the operation. The strikes , carried out on December 25, were confirmed by the U.S. Department of Defence, which said “multiple ISIS terrorists” were killed in an operation conducted at Nigeria’s request. U.S. President Donald Trump described the action as a “powerful and deadly strike” against ISIS-linked militants in northwest Nigeria.

U.S. delivers military assets to support counter-terror operations

Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and banditry received a boost with the delivery of what the United States described as “critical military supplies” to support ongoing security operations. U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) said the delivery underscores the security partnership between both countries, although details of the equipment were not disclosed. The development comes as Nigeria’s Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, seeks to fast-track the acquisition of 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters from the United States. The latest support follows recent joint U.S.-Nigerian strikes against ISIS-affiliated groups in Sokoto State.

Airlines have also limited or suspended flights to and from Iran, with several cancellations expected to last until at least January 16.

“Leave Iran now. Have a plan for departing Iran that does not rely on U.S. government help,” a portion of the warning read. 

The embassy advised Americans to depart without relying on US government assistance and, if safe, to consider leaving by land via Armenia or Türkiye, both of which currently have open border crossings. 

Those unable to leave were told to shelter in place, avoid demonstrations, stock up on essential supplies and maintain a low profile.

The warning highlighted heightened risks for U.S. nationals, particularly dual U.S.-Iranian citizens, whom Iran does not recognise as holding dual nationality. 

The alert said U.S. ties or showing a U.S. passport could be sufficient grounds for questioning, detention or arrest by Iranian authorities. Dual nationals were reminded they must exit Iran using Iranian passports.

No U.S. embassy in Iran

The U.S. said its ability to assist citizens was severely limited, noting it has no diplomatic or consular relations with Iran. 

As early as June 2025, the U.S. had already ordered the departure of selected diplomatic staff from Iran, while consular services were completely shut down by October. This explains why there is only a “virtual” embassy in Iran. 

Switzerland acts as the protecting power for U.S. interests through its embassy in Tehran, but Washington cautioned it could not guarantee safety for those attempting to leave and urged Americans to assess conditions carefully before travelling.

The alert follows days of growing unrest across Iran and comes amid tighter controls on borders and communications, underscoring what the U.S. described as an increasingly volatile and unpredictable security environment for foreigners in the country.

Under the new rule, Cape Verdean passport holders applying for B1/B2 visas used for tourism and business travel may be asked to pay a deposit. The exact amount will be decided on a case-by-case basis by a consular officer during the visa interview and will not apply uniformly to all applicants.

US officials say the money will be fully refunded if the traveller complies with visa conditions and departs the United States on time. The embassy has stressed that applicants should not make any payments unless formally instructed by a consular officer after their interview, warning against potential scams.

The embassy also clarified that B1/B2 visas issued before the policy takes effect will remain valid and will not be affected by the new requirement.

The Visa Bond Program is used by the United States to discourage visa overstays and strengthen compliance with immigration rules. While the embassy did not explain why Cape Verde was added, such measures are typically introduced when US authorities believe additional guarantees are needed to ensure temporary visitors return home.

Cape Verde ranked among the countries with the highest levels of irregular immigration to the United States in 2023, according to a report by the Centre for Immigration Studies citing data from U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The report found that 12.8% of Cape Verdeans who entered the US on tourist or business visas overstayed, while the overstay rate for student and exchange visa holders was even higher, at 25.7%.

The United Nations Security Council will hold an emergency meeting on January 5 to discuss what Venezuela has described as U.S. military aggression following the removal of President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores from the country. The meeting , requested by Venezuela and convened by Somalia, which chairs the Council in January, was called for 10:00 a.m. (GMT-5). According to Venezuela’s permanent representative to the UN, Samuel Moncada, the request followed a “large-scale attack” carried out by U.S. forces on civilian and military locations in Caracas and the states of La Guaira, Aragua and Miranda. Several countries, including China, Russia, Belarus, Cuba, Nicaragua, Brazil and Turkey, expressed solidarity with Venezuela, stating that Washington had violated the UN Charter. U.S. President Donald Trump, speaking after the operation, said the United States would oversee what he described as an “appropriate transition” in Venezuela. “We are going to get our big American oil companies, the biggest in the world, to invest billions of dollars…and start generating revenue for the country,” Trump said during a press conference.

Domestic flights resume

Several Venezuelan airlines announced the resumption of domestic flights from Sunday, January 4, after a temporary suspension. State carrier Conviasa said scheduled flights would operate “according to the established itinerary.” Laser Airlines confirmed that “only domestic flights are being reactivated,” adding that passengers booked for January 3 could reschedule “without penalty.” Aeropostal Alas de Venezuela said flights planned for Saturday would instead operate on Sunday “along with the flights scheduled according to the itinerary.” Airlines urged passengers to arrive at airports at least two hours early and ensure their contact details were up to date.  

Supreme Court appoints Delcy Rodríguez acting president

Venezuela’s Supreme Court of Justice ordered Executive Vice President Delcy Rodríguez to assume the presidency on an interim basis, citing the forced absence of President Maduro. Magistrate Tania D’Amelio, president of the Constitutional Chamber, said the court acted “in view of the foreign aggression that occurred this Saturday, January 3, 2026, against the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, as well as the kidnapping of Constitutional President Nicolás Maduro Moros and First Lady Cilia Flores.” The court described the situation as “exceptional, atypical and force majeure,” adding that the decision was necessary “to guarantee the administrative continuity of the State and the defense of the nation.”  

At least 40 killed in U.S. attack

At least 40 people, including civilians and military personnel, were killed during the U.S. attack on Venezuela, according to a senior Venezuelan official quoted by The New York Times. The report said one strike hit a residential building in Catia La Mar, La Guaira state, killing an 80-year-old woman and leaving several families homeless. Vice President Delcy Rodríguez confirmed fatalities, saying there were deaths “among soldiers and civilians,” though the government has yet to publish an official casualty toll.

Artists react to Maduro’s capture

The capture of President Maduro sparked strong reactions among Venezuelan artists. Singer Carlos Baute posted a video on social media saying, “Venezuelans haven't slept a wink, folks. Finally, Mr. Trump said he's captured that tyrant Maduro. Congratulations, Venezuela, we're with you.” He later added , “Our Christmas present has come true.” Actress Marjorie de Sousa appealed for calm and faith, writing, “God, I ask you for my good people, cover them… long live my Venezuela. God is great, free Venezuela, one day will come.” Singer-songwriter Ricardo Montaner wrote, “Lord, watch over and bless the Venezuelan people, take away the wicked and let peace reign.” Meanwhile, singer Danny Ocean marked the moment by sharing an image of the Venezuelan flag.

The comments attributed to Trump were made during a discussion about alleged large-scale fraud in Minnesota’s social assistance programmes. Referring to the issue, Trump reportedly said he did not want Somalis in the United States and warned that the country would “go the wrong way if we keep taking in garbage”. The remarks have since drawn criticism from Somali leaders and diaspora communities.

President Mohamud said broad generalisations based on isolated criminal cases were unjustified and unfair. He noted that millions of Somalis live and work outside Somalia, including in the United States, where they play important roles in business, healthcare, education and public service.

“Somalis are contributing members of the societies in which they live,” he said, adding that rhetoric targeting entire communities risks deepening prejudice and social division.

Somali-Americans make up one of the largest African diaspora communities in the US, with significant populations in states such as Minnesota, Ohio and Washington. In Minnesota, home to the largest Somali-American community, local leaders said the remarks had heightened fear and anxiety.

Despite his criticism, President Mohamud emphasised that Somalia values its relationship with the United States, particularly in areas of security cooperation and counterterrorism. The US has long supported Somalia’s fight against the Islamist group al-Shabab through military assistance and intelligence sharing.

What began as tactical responses to pressure increasingly took institutional form, as blocs such as BRICS+ and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) moved beyond political signalling to more structured cooperation.

US sanctions and rising non-Western alliances emerged as defining forces this year. 

US pressure

One of the year’s most visible sanctions flashpoints remained Venezuela. After limited relief in earlier years, the US reimposed tighter restrictions on Caracas’s oil sector as negotiations over political reforms stalled.

The measures complicated crude exports by targeting licensing, shipping and insurance channels, further constraining one of Venezuela’s few remaining sources of hard currency. Authorities in Caracas accused Washington of economic coercion, while Russia and China reiterated diplomatic support and criticised the use of unilateral sanctions.

Global South World tracked the standoff closely throughout the year, including an exclusive interview with Rollie Flynn, chief executive of the Arkin Group and a former CIA officer, who warned that the confrontation carried risks beyond counter-narcotics work.

With Western sanctions on Russia still in place and restrictions on Iran largely intact, 2025 underscored a wider reality: energy producers operating outside the US-led system increasingly faced fragmented trade rules, rerouted supply chains and parallel payment arrangements. 

For oil-importing developing economies, the impact was indirect but tangible, adding volatility to prices and procurement even when they were not direct targets.

BRICS+ rising

Against this backdrop, non-Western groupings sought to tighten coordination .

At the BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro in July, leaders of the expanded bloc reaffirmed cooperation on development finance, trade and global governance reform. 

While the group stopped short of unveiling a common currency or alternative payment system, the summit reinforced political alignment among members that now include major energy exporters in the Middle East and Africa — significantly expanding BRICS’ economic weight and diplomatic reach.

In response, US President Donald Trump warned that countries aligning with what he described as BRICS’ “anti-American policies” could face additional tariffs, a statement that underscored how sanctions and trade pressure have become increasingly intertwined.

SCO hardening

Momentum was more institutional at the SCO summit in Tianjin in late August. The organisation adopted a Development Strategy extending to 2035 and approved new permanent centres focused on security threats, transnational crime, information security and narcotics control.

Leaders also signed the Tianjin Declaration, which explicitly opposed unilateral sanctions and protectionism — language widely interpreted as a direct response to US and European coercive measures.

Taken together, the developments highlighted a paradox of US foreign policy under Trump. While sanctions and tariffs were intended to weaken rivals, analysts say they have instead nudged competitors — and even uneasy neighbours — toward closer cooperation.

“This is a strange time when unlikely bedfellows like India and China are now overtly comfortable with each other, which was not the scene until three or four months ago,” said Dr Pooja Bhatt, director of the Jindal School of International Affairs in India, in an interview with Global South World this year .

“This shows how the U.S.’s excessive use of force — through policy and diplomacy — can push even the most unlikely countries to come together,” she said.

All things considered, the Global South does not seem to move toward a complete realignment, but rather toward steady repositioning. 

US sanctions remained powerful, particularly for countries dependent on Western finance and technology. At the same time, forums such as BRICS+ and the SCO increasingly offered diplomatic backing, coordination platforms and limited institutional alternatives.

Macron reaffirmed France’s commitment to international law and sovereignty when addressing US policies in the region. “France is committed to the sovereignty of states,” he said, “and the fight against drug trafficking is a shared matter that must take place with mutual respect and within the framework of international law.” He added that France seeks to strengthen cooperation in customs and security, “always fully respecting national sovereignty.”

The French leader also commented on trade issues, reiterating his opposition to the current version of the EU–Mercosur agreement. “This agreement, in its current form, is not acceptable for France,” he said, “as it does not guarantee the protection of the agricultural sector as we require.” Macron noted that Paris has urged the European Commission to propose a new version with stronger safeguards. He also announced the relaunch of the Franco-Mexican Strategic Council to boost investment and “give greater visibility to investors on both sides.”

President Sheinbaum highlighted the economic and historical importance of the alliance, noting that next year Mexico will renew its trade agreement with the European Union while celebrating 200 years of diplomatic relations with France. “This will provide many opportunities for cooperation in technological and innovation development such as digital and renewable energy ,” she said.

Cultural diplomacy also took centre stage, with both leaders announcing a reciprocal exhibition of the Codex of Azcatitlan in Mexico and the Boturini Codex in France. “These codices are the written voice of our ancestors and the deep root of our identity,” Sheinbaum stated. The meeting concluded with a call to continue expanding collaboration between Mexico and France, reinforcing a partnership grounded in shared values of freedom, dignity and mutual respect.

The minister detailed recent security efforts, stating that over 592 terrorists have been prosecuted in the past eight months. He emphasised that Nigeria’s armed forces continue to play a crucial role in restoring peace across regions affected by insurgency and violent extremism.

The remarks follow a recent turn in the diplomatic relations between the two nations. On October 31, US President Donald Trump redesignated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) for severe violations of religious freedom. He further followed up a social media post threatening military action against Nigeria, as well as a full cutoff of US aid to the country, if its government “continues to allow the killing of Christians.”

“The corrupt Biya regime in Cameroon hunts its political opponents, enables Wagner’s illicit activities, and has created conditions for jihadist groups like Boko Haram and ISIS to thrive and fuel the Anglophone crisis,” Risch wrote on November 4.

The US senator was referring to the Wagner Group, a Russian state-funded paramilitary organisation, and the Boko Haram, a jihadist militant group that has troops in Nigeria , Chad, Niger and Mali.

While Washington has had diplomatic ties with Youanda since 1960, Risch asserted that Cameroon “is not a US partner.”

“It’s time to reassess this relationship before the blowback gets worse,” he said. 

A former French colony, Cameroon has always struggled with managing the divide between its Anglophone and Francophone regions.

This age-old conflict has caused separatist groups to mushroom, further intensifying the instability of the Central African country.

While criticisms of the 92-year-old Biya are not new, Risch’s comments are significant as the US has a formal allyship with Cameroon. Its president, Donald Trump , has also been keen on peacemaking during his second term. 

In an archived page in the US Department of State Website, Cameroon was described as a “key” player in regional stability and a “regional partner in countering terrorism in the Lake Chad Region and anti-piracy efforts in the Gulf of Guinea.”

The two countries have had a bilateral investment treaty in place since 1986, and Washington has provided nearly $1.7 billion in foreign assistance since 2001.

“This offensive of threats seeks to strip our people of their revolution, their power, and return us to the shadows of imperial domination,” Maduro said. “Whatever the threat may be, and whenever it comes, I always tell the people: nerves of steel . Calm, prudence, and maximum unity in action.”

The president also dismissed international criticism, labelling him a dictator, referencing his working-class roots in the barrios of Caracas and distancing himself from elites trained abroad. “I wasn’t trained at the School of the Americas, Harvard, or Langley,” he said. “I was trained in the high schools and neighbourhoods of Caracas - El Valle, 23 de Enero, Catia, Propatria, El Cementerio.”

Maduro concluded with a plea for de-escalation, calling on both regional leaders and the people of the United States to reject militarism and support peace. “Enough of threats, enough of militarism, enough of fascism. Respect the people’s right to peace,” he said. 

The United States has deployed warships and fighter jets in the region since August, citing efforts to combat transnational narcotics operations.

The dispute has broader consequences for U.S.–Latin American relations. The suspension of U.S. subsidies to Colombia's drug-control efforts threatens to destabilise regional cooperation and to strain long-standing partnerships in a region already under pressure from illicit economies and violence .

Analysts note that Petro is seeking to assert Colombia’s sovereignty and challenge what he calls U.S. interventionist postures. His rebuke reflects a shift in Latin America where heads of state are more willing to contest Washington’s influence in foreign and security affairs.

For an international audience, the exchange signals a potential recalibration of the U.S. role in the region. With Colombia taking a more defiant stand, the broader question is how U.S. foreign policy will adapt amid changing power dynamics across the Americas.

“The U.S. government has decided to send the CIA to Venezuela,” Maduro said in the televised address reported by Viory. “They have always done it in secret, but never before has any government publicly declared it intends to use the CIA to kill, overthrow, and destroy countries,” he added.

Maduro claimed the CIA has been active in Venezuela for decades, allegedly conspiring against both him and the late Hugo Chávez. He referenced a recent prisoner exchange in which Venezuela reportedly handed over “ten CIA terrorists, convicted and confessed,” in return for 252 Venezuelans detained in El Salvador. Maduro cited declassified U.S. documents, alleging that the CIA played a role in historical coups across Latin America .

“Presidents were overthrown, leaders assassinated, all orchestrated by the CIA,” he told supporters, insisting that Venezuela is once again the target of foreign intervention.

Despite the alleged threat, Maduro said Venezuelans were not intimidated: “They want to frighten, divide, demoralise our people . But our people are clear, united, with millions of eyes and ears. We will defeat this conspiracy again.”

“An official from the embassy came threatening to revoke visas,” Mulino said. “That is not consistent with a good relationship...the bilateral problem between the United States and China does not involve Panama,” he added.

Mulino firmly rejected attempts to pull Panama into the geopolitical rivalry between the two superpowers, stressing that Panama’s diplomatic relationship with China is established and sovereign.

“Panama has a relationship with China. It was not something I invented… I have asked repeatedly that Panama not be dragged into a bilateral problem between the United States and China,” he further remarked.

Mulino, who has sought balanced relations with both Washington and Beijing, emphasised respect as the foundation of diplomacy.

Panama and the People’s Republic of China established diplomatic relations in 2017.

At a trade expo in Santo Domingo showcasing around 40 Chinese companies, Carlos Hernández, Director of International Cooperation at Mirex, highlighted the event as a platform for “transformative, sustainable projects” to benefit both nations. During his remarks, Hernández said he was confident the outcomes would strengthen the long-term ties between the two economies.

Statistics from the Dominican export promotion agency, ProDominicana, showcase the growing footprint: between January and August 2025, the Dominican Republic exported some US$207.7 million worth of goods to China. ProDominicana views that volume as evidence both of the country’s competitive offering and China’s importance as a key trading partner in its export diversification plan for 2020–2030.

China’s diplomatic mission in the DR reaffirmed its commitment to increased cooperation, pledging to support more business linkages between the nations. Zhou Yuqi, Charge d’Affaires at the Chinese Embassy, said these efforts would expand “in breadth and depth,” yielding more tangible benefits for both peoples.

However, not all voices are convinced. The Dominican Federation of Merchants has raised concerns over potential unfair competition from small Chinese-owned firms, accusing some of tax evasion. In response, a Chinese-Dominican business leader dismissed those claims as misleading, saying most Chinese-owned ventures contribute fully to the tax system.

What’s in the Agreement?

According to news agency Reuters, the deal , negotiated with strong U.S. involvement, includes several core components:

Why now?

The war, which began in October 2023, has led to the deaths of over 67,000 Palestinians and more than 1,200 Israelis, according to international observers. Efforts at de-escalation had repeatedly failed until recent weeks, when diplomatic momentum increased due to a combination of U.S. pressure, mounting international outcry, and shifts in political dynamics inside Israel and Gaza.

What Are the Phases of the Deal?

The deal is structured in three phases :

Who brokered the deal?

The deal was brokered primarily by the United States, with former President Donald Trump playing a direct diplomatic role. According to AP , Trump is expected to visit Israel in the coming weeks to address the Knesset and push for continued progress on post-war arrangements.

What’s the reaction?

In Jerusalem, residents expressed cautious optimism. “We’re very happy to hear that. It’s about time. After two years, we want our people back,” said one resident in footage aired by local broadcasters. The hostage releases are especially significant to Israeli public opinion, which has remained fixated on their return.

Palestinian factions have issued mixed responses. While Hamas has agreed to the terms, some factions have criticised the deal for not including clearer terms on lifting the full blockade of Gaza.

International reaction has been largely positive, with France, the UK, Egypt, Qatar, and the UN issuing statements of support for the ceasefire and urging both sides to adhere to its terms.

What Comes Next?

Even if fully implemented, the agreement leaves several major questions unresolved:

Experts warn that while the deal is a diplomatic breakthrough, lasting peace will require broader negotiations, including a potential return to talks on a two-state solution.