Today, we delve into pressing global issues, including the recent political upheaval in Senegal, Russia’s deployment of a concerning missile, the definitive legal outcome for Succès Masra in Chad, and the European Union’s continued reliance on Russian gas imports.
Senegal’s political shake-up: who gains from the executive split?
Following months of escalating friction within Senegal’s highest political circles, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has removed Ousmane Sonko from his position as Prime Minister. Given that Sonko’s Pastef party commands a significant majority in the National Assembly, the head of state will now face the challenge of navigating this altered political landscape. The critical question remains: who, between President Faye and the former Prime Minister Sonko, stands to emerge stronger from this decisive political rupture?
Ukraine war: what is known about the ‘invincible’ Orechnik missile?
Over the weekend, Russia unleashed a formidable barrage on Ukraine, deploying nearly 600 drones and 90 missiles, prominently featuring the Orechnik. This hypersonic ballistic missile is touted as the Russian military’s most advanced, reportedly posing an insurmountable challenge to current air defense systems. Its deployment has sparked considerable alarm across Europe. Is this a mere display of power, or does it signal a significant shift in the Kremlin’s offensive strategy?
Chad: could Succès Masra receive a presidential pardon?
Former Prime Minister Succès Masra has suffered another legal setback, a year after his arrest in May 2025. N’Djamena’s Supreme Court dismissed the appeal filed by the opposition leader’s legal team, thereby finalizing his conviction. He faces a 20-year prison sentence for charges including «disseminating racist and xenophobic messages», «criminal association», and «complicity in murder». The question now is whether any further legal avenues remain open. Claudia Hoinathy, Vice-President for Women’s Engagement and Leadership within Les Transformateurs party, expressed hopes for a «political solution», specifically a presidential pardon or amnesty. Are these options truly viable at this juncture?
Russian gas: why do EU imports persist despite sanctions?
Europe continues to struggle with weaning itself off Russian gas. In the first quarter, the European Union’s imports of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) surged by 16%, marking a new high since the onset of the war in Ukraine in 2022. Notably, France alone «imported more LNG than any other European nation». How can this increase be explained, given the existing sanctions and political commitments to diminish Europe’s reliance on Russian energy? The twenty-seven member states aim to completely phase out Russian gas by autumn 2027; is this ambitious deadline truly achievable?