Category: Foreign News

By Abigail Philip David

U.S. President Donald Trump is set to sign an executive order on Wednesday banning transgender athletes from participating in women’s sports, marking his latest policy move targeting transgender rights since returning to office.

The White House confirmed the decision in its daily schedule, announcing that Trump would sign the “No Men in Women’s Sports Executive Order” at 3:00 PM (2000 GMT).

“Today, President Trump will deliver on his promise to PROTECT WOMEN’S SPORTS!” Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly posted on X, adding that the order aims to “end the dangerous and unfair participation of men in women’s sports.”

Trump, who made the pledge during his re-election campaign, repeatedly criticized transgender athletes, using the issue to attack Democratic opponent Kamala Harris and her stance on trans rights.

Since his return to office on January 20, the 78-year-old president has aggressively pursued policies restricting transgender rights. He has already signed executive orders banning transgender individuals from serving in the military and prohibiting gender transition procedures for minors under 19.

This latest action follows the Republican-led House of Representatives’ passage of a bill in January that sought to limit transgender athletes’ participation in girls’ and women’s sports.

Republicans have used transgender issues—especially in youth sports—as a major political talking point, framing it as part of a broader cultural battle over gender and LGBTQ rights. As transgender visibility has grown in the U.S., many conservatives have rallied around protecting women’s sports, arguing that allowing transgender women to compete undermines fairness.

By Abigail Philip David

On Friday, Russia accused Ukrainian forces of killing 22 civilians in a Russian-occupied village, including eight women who were allegedly raped before being executed.

Ukraine has controlled several border settlements in the Kursk region of western Russia since launching a surprise offensive in August, with about 2,000 civilians reported to still live in these areas. However, Russia has since retaken several towns.

Russia’s Investigative Committee initially reported on January 19 that it was investigating the deaths of “at least seven civilians” in the village of Russkoye Porechnoye, located around 20 kilometers (12 miles) from the Ukrainian border. On Friday, it updated the investigation, stating that 22 residents had been killed between September and November.

The bodies of the victims were found in the basements of several homes, including the eight women, who the committee claims were raped before being murdered.

AFP has not been able to independently verify these claims, and Ukraine has not yet responded to the accusations.

Russian investigators have blamed five Ukrainian soldiers for the killings, one of whom, identified as Yevgeny Fabrisenko, was reportedly arrested during fighting in the Kursk region. A video of Fabrisenko’s interrogation was released, in which he allegedly confesses to the crimes.

At a Friday briefing, Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated, “First people were tortured, abused, then killed either by being shot or blown up.”

The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has seen both sides accuse each other of killing civilians. Russia has faced allegations of mass killings in Bucha, a town near Kyiv, where AFP journalists have witnessed and photographed the bodies of Ukrainian civilians, some with their hands bound.

Moscow has denied the Bucha allegations, claiming the footage was staged — a claim that has been debunked by independent fact-checkers and media outlets, including AFP.

By Abigail Philip David

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order aimed at eliminating what he referred to as “transgender ideology” from the U.S. military, marking a controversial move that could significantly impact LGBTQ rights.

The order, signed aboard Air Force One, is part of a series of military-related directives, including reinstating service members dismissed for refusing COVID-19 vaccinations and curbing diversity initiatives within the armed forces.

“To ensure that we have the most lethal fighting force in the world, we will get transgender ideology the hell out of our military,” Trump announced during a Republican retreat in Miami.

The executive order claims the armed forces have been influenced by “radical gender ideology,” which Trump argues is incompatible with military readiness. It asserts that adopting a gender identity different from one’s biological sex undermines the discipline, honor, and unity required in the military.

Trump also issued a separate directive restricting diversity programs, which he said weaken meritocracy and unit cohesion. The order bans discussions within the Department of Defense on “gender ideology” and “un-American” theories about racism or sexism in America’s founding documents.

**Transgender Policy Reversal**
Transgender individuals in the U.S. military have faced fluctuating policies. Under President Barack Obama, a ban on transgender troops was lifted in 2016, allowing them to serve openly. However, Trump sought to reinstate the ban during his first administration, leading to pushback from LGBTQ advocates.

President Joe Biden reversed Trump’s restrictions in 2021, asserting that all qualified Americans should have the opportunity to serve. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, in his recent farewell address, appeared to criticize Trump’s approach, stating, “Any military that turns away qualified patriots… makes itself smaller and weaker.”

With an estimated 15,000 transgender individuals currently serving in the military, their exclusion could further strain recruitment efforts, which are already facing challenges.

**Iron Dome Proposal**
Additionally, Trump reiterated his call for a U.S.-based version of Israel’s Iron Dome missile defense system, designed to intercept short-range threats. Critics have questioned its practicality for defending against intercontinental missiles, the primary threat to the United States. Trump emphasized that the system would be domestically manufactured.

These orders signal a renewed focus on military policy under Trump’s leadership, sparking both support and backlash across political and social circles.

By Abigail Philip David

South Korea is facing growing political turmoil following the resignation of Presidential Security Service (PSS) chief Park Chong-jun on Friday. Park stepped down as authorities intensified efforts to arrest impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol, who continues to resist legal actions against him.

Park submitted his resignation while appearing for police questioning over his role in blocking investigators from detaining Yoon. His resignation was later accepted by acting president Choi Sang-mok, officials confirmed.

Investigators, armed with a fresh arrest warrant, are preparing a renewed attempt to detain Yoon over his December 3 martial law declaration, which triggered South Korea’s most severe political crisis in decades.

Ahead of his questioning, Park urged for restraint, stating, “There must be no physical clashes or bloodshed under any circumstances.”His comments reflect mounting concerns over the potential for violent confrontations between Yoon’s security forces and law enforcement.

Political Standoff Intensifies

Public tensions are escalating, with rival protest groups braving freezing temperatures. Some demonstrators demand the annulment of Yoon’s impeachment, while others are calling for his immediate arrest. If detained, Yoon would become the first sitting South Korean president to be arrested.

Yoon’s legal team has rejected the validity of the latest arrest warrant, and the Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) has vowed to be fully prepared for a second arrest operation. Police officials also convened on Friday to strategize the next steps, according to Yonhap News Agency.

Park had twice ignored police summons related to allegations of obstructing public duty after his security team prevented Yoon’s arrest on January 3. The PSS previously defended Park’s absence, citing the “serious nature” of protecting the president. However, authorities warned they might pursue an arrest warrant against Park if he continued to evade questioning.

**Security Tightens Around Yoon**

In response to the growing threat of arrest, Yoon’s security has been significantly reinforced. His residential compound in Seoul has been fortified with barbed wire and barricaded buses, with guards reportedly on 24-hour high alert.

In a related development, prosecutors on Friday indicted a former defense intelligence commander for his role in the martial law declaration, charging him with insurrection and abuse of authority.

Beyond the insurrection investigation, Yoon also faces ongoing impeachment proceedings. Although lawmakers have suspended him from office, the Constitutional Court will determine whether to permanently remove him or reinstate him. The impeachment trial is set to begin on January 14, and the court has up to 180 days from December 14 to issue its ruling.

Yoon’s legal team indicated he remains inside his residence and may attend the trial.

Public Opinion Shifts Amid Crisis

Political analysts warn that any violent clash during an arrest attempt could damage Yoon’s position in his impeachment trial. *“Physical confrontations would likely weaken his standing in the trial,”* political commentator Park Sang-byung told AFP.

Despite the deepening crisis, public support for Yoon’s ruling People Power Party has surprisingly increased. A Gallup Korea poll released Friday showed the party’s approval rating rising to 34%, up from 24% three weeks prior, suggesting that the political standoff may be rallying some public support.

By Abigail Philip David

John Dramani Mahama was sworn in as Ghana’s president on Tuesday in a vibrant ceremony at Black Star Square in Accra, marking his return to the country’s highest office. Mahama succeeds Nana Akufo-Addo, whose tenure was marked by economic struggles, an IMF bailout, and a debt crisis.

Mahama secured victory in the December 9 presidential election with 56% of the vote, defeating Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia of the ruling party, who garnered 41%. This begins Mahama’s second term as president, having previously served from 2013 to 2017.

Swearing-In Ceremony

Thousands of Ghanaians cheered as Mahama took the oath of office administered by the Chief Justice.

“I, John Dramani Mahama, do, in the name of the Almighty God, swear that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the Republic of Ghana,” he vowed, committing to uphold the country’s sovereignty and constitution.

Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Mahama’s vice president, also took the oath of office, making history as Ghana’s first female vice president. Her role is seen as a major step forward for women’s political representation in the country.

Attendance by African Leaders

The ceremony was attended by over a dozen African leaders, including Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who served as the special guest of honour. Other dignitaries included Kenya’s President William Ruto, Rwanda’s Paul Kagame, and DR Congo’s Felix Tshisekedi.

President Tinubu praised Ghana’s democratic maturity and called for deeper collaboration among African nations to address common challenges such as poverty, unemployment, and instability.

“This moment does not merely symbolise another milestone in the evolution of Ghanaian democratic society; it demonstrates West Africa’s capacity for democratic and productive governance,” Tinubu remarked.

He lauded Mahama as a “patriotic visionary” and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening ties with Ghana.

Mahama’s Vision

In his inaugural address, Mahama promised to govern with humility and focus on revitalising Ghana’s struggling economy. He outlined his administration’s commitment to addressing unemployment, stabilising inflation, and fostering growth.

“My priority is to restore confidence in Ghana’s economy, ensure job creation, and bring prosperity to all,” Mahama said.

The president called for unity, urging Ghanaians to work together to overcome economic challenges and build a stronger nation.

Regional Cooperation

President Tinubu highlighted the legacy of Ghana’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah, describing Ghana as a “Black star rising high in the African sky.” He encouraged African nations to embrace collaboration and peaceful dialogue to drive development across the continent.

“Let us celebrate Ghana’s democracy and embrace its lessons. Together, we can lift our nations from poverty and build resilient economies,” Tinubu said.

The swearing-in of Mahama signals a new chapter in Ghana’s political journey, with leaders across the region expressing optimism for strengthened ties and shared progress in West Africa.

A New Chapter for Ghana

With Mahama’s return to power, many Ghanaians hope for economic stability and inclusive governance. His administration faces significant challenges but also an opportunity to reinforce Ghana’s reputation as a beacon of democracy in Africa.

By   Milcah  Tanimu

Guinea’s capital, Conakry, is under lockdown as protests erupt over the junta’s failure to meet its promise of a democratic transition. The military government, led by Colonel Mamadi Doumbouya, had pledged to return to democracy by December 31, 2024. However, they missed the deadline, sparking outrage.

Opposition groups and civil society organizations have criticized the junta for stalling the democratic process. They are demanding a clear roadmap for constitutional reforms, including a date for a promised referendum. Protests intensified after reports of one death and several arrests.

The opposition coalition, Forces Vives de Guinée, has called for a national stay-at-home protest. In response, the U.S. has urged the junta to establish a timeline for elections.

This ongoing crisis has raised concerns about Guinea’s future and its path to democratic governance.

By Abigail Philip David

The body of former United States President Jimmy Carter was transferred to the US Capitol on Tuesday in a grand military ceremony, where it will lie in state until his national funeral later this week.

Carter, who passed away on December 29, 2024, at the age of 100, served as the 39th president from 1977 to 1981. His legacy extended well beyond his presidency, earning him widespread admiration for his humanitarian work, which was recognized with the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.

Capitol Arrival and Public Tribute

The late president’s flag-draped casket arrived at the snow-covered US Capitol after a day of ceremonial travel that began in Georgia, his home state. Members of the public filed through the Capitol Rotunda to pay their respects, many pausing in silence to honor Carter.

“I paid my respects to President Jimmy Carter as he lies in state in the US Capitol Rotunda today. On behalf of the entire Department of Defense, we join the Carter family and all Americans in celebrating this extraordinary life, legacy, and service to our nation,” US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Procession and Ceremony

Carter’s casket was transported to Washington aboard a presidential US Air Force jet. A funeral procession followed, tracing the reverse route of his 1977 inauguration parade. The procession, which began at the US Navy Memorial in recognition of Carter’s service as a submariner, made its way down a cleared Pennsylvania Avenue, accompanied by hundreds of military personnel.

Military pallbearers carried the casket into the Capitol Rotunda, where a brief service was held. Carter’s family, members of Congress, and dignitaries including Vice President Kamala Harris and Chief Justice John Roberts attended.

Carter is the 13th former US president to lie in state at the Capitol, a tradition that began with Abraham Lincoln in 1865.

National Funeral and Commemoration

A state funeral will take place on Thursday at the National Cathedral in Washington, a venue that has hosted services for past presidents, including Dwight Eisenhower, Ronald Reagan, Gerald Ford, and George H.W. Bush. President Joe Biden is set to deliver the eulogy for his fellow Democrat, with all four living former presidents—Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump—expected to attend.

Biden has declared Thursday a national day of mourning, with federal government offices closed. Flags have been ordered to fly at half-staff for 30 days, in accordance with tradition.

Carter’s Final Resting Place

Jimmy Carter, the first US president to reach 100 years of age, spent his final months in hospice care in Plains, Georgia, his hometown. He will be buried there next to his wife, former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, who passed away earlier in 2024.

Carter’s passing marks the end of an extraordinary life devoted to public service, diplomacy, and humanitarian causes, leaving a legacy that will be celebrated for generations.

By Abigail Philip David

The United States Congress has formally certified Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 presidential election, paving the way for his return to the White House on January 20, 2025.

The certification, held during a joint session of Congress on Monday, marked the final step in confirming the Electoral College results from the November election. Vice President Kamala Harris, Trump’s Democratic opponent in the race, presided over the session.

Unlike the contentious events of January 6, 2021, when the Capitol was attacked during the certification of Trump’s 2020 defeat, Monday’s proceedings were brief and uneventful.

Following the session, Harris highlighted the importance of peaceful transitions of power in a democracy. “Today was a very important day. It was about what should be the norm and what the American people should be able to take for granted—that one of the most important pillars of our democracy is the peaceful transfer of power,” she said.

Trump secured 312 Electoral College votes to Harris’s 226 and became the first Republican presidential candidate to win the popular vote since 2004. His victory also ensured Republican control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate, strengthening the party’s influence in Washington.

Trump celebrated the certification on his social media platform, Truth Social, calling it “a big moment in history.”

The 2024 election followed a contentious campaign season, but the certification process faced no significant challenges. However, Trump’s return to power comes amid lingering controversies. Many Republicans continue to back his disputed claims about the 2020 election, which were central to legal battles and investigations during his post-presidency.

While Trump recently saw a federal case in Washington, DC, dismissed, a state case in Georgia related to his alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 election remains unresolved.

Harris, reflecting on the election’s outcome, called for vigilance in protecting democracy. “America’s democracy is only as strong as our willingness to fight for it,” she said.

Trump’s 2024 campaign has been hailed as his most successful yet, securing both the presidency and significant gains in Congress. The victory underscores his continued influence in American politics and the Republican Party.

By Abigail Philip David

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced his resignation, stating he will leave office once the Liberal Party selects a new leader.

Speaking to reporters in Ottawa on Monday evening, Trudeau, who has served as Canada’s prime minister since 2015, confirmed his decision amidst mounting political pressure and calls from key Liberal Party members for his departure.

“I have decided to step down as party leader and as prime minister,” Trudeau said, marking the end of nearly a decade in power.

By Abigail Philip David

United Nations human rights experts have called for Israel to face accountability for what they describe as deliberate actions causing widespread suffering to Palestinian civilians in Gaza. In a joint statement released on Monday, the 11 experts accused Israel of repeated violations of international law, enabled by the support of its allies.

“International humanitarian law is meant to protect civilians and limit warfare tactics. However, Israel has persistently defied these rules, inflicting maximum suffering on civilians in the occupied Palestinian territory and beyond,” the statement read.

The experts argued that Israel’s actions, including alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity, demand urgent and independent investigations. These accusations include indiscriminate attacks, forced displacement, and the use of starvation as a weapon of war.

Gaza Conflict’s Devastating Toll

The current conflict escalated following the Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which killed 1,208 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli reports. In response, Israel launched a military campaign in Gaza, which has resulted in over 45,500 deaths, predominantly civilians, as reported by Gaza’s health ministry.

The experts expressed particular concern over the ongoing military operations in northern Gaza, alleging that the tactics aim to permanently displace local populations, potentially paving the way for annexation.

“This siege and the forced evacuations appear to be intended to permanently displace Gaza’s population,” they stated.

Calls for Justice and Accountability

The experts stressed that civilians must not be targeted under international law, emphasizing that acts targeting their destruction may amount to genocide. “Israel’s continued impunity sends a dangerous message. Accountability is essential to uphold the rule of law and prevent further atrocities,” they warned.

The statement also called for impartial investigations into the alleged violations. Among the 11 experts was Francesca Albanese, the UN Special Rapporteur on the occupied Palestinian territories, who has faced criticism from Israel for alleged bias.

While the experts do not officially represent the UN, their recommendations are expected to increase pressure on global leaders to address the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza.