A la Une

US sanctions target M23 intelligence officer and FDLR commander in eastern DRC

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Our journalists and experts answer your questions on Sudanese refugee status in France, a new French space mission in 2027, and the departure of foreign companies from Cuba.

Why Washington is imposing fresh sanctions on DRC-linked figures

Three months after sanctioning the Rwandan army and several senior officials, the United States has struck again. This time, Washington targets two individuals: an intelligence officer from the AFC/M23 and a commander of the FDLR. Both groups are involved in the conflict destabilizing eastern DRC. What prompted these sanctions? Are they a message to Kigali? Could more names be added in the coming months?

Patient Ligodi, a journalist covering African affairs, provides analysis.

Sudan: what refugee rights for the Four ethnic group?

In France, a landmark ruling by the National Court of Asylum (CNDA) grants full refugee status to a Sudanese national from the Four ethnic group. The court cited a February United Nations Human Rights Council report. Why has French justice recognized the risk of persecution against this community? How many people could benefit? What concrete rights does refugee status provide in France?

Amélie Beaucour, a journalist covering French affairs, explains.

Space: what missions await French astronauts Thomas Pesquet and Arnaud Prost?

Thomas Pesquet and Arnaud Prost will head to space in 2027, announced Emmanuel Macron at the Choose France summit. Through an agreement with American company Vast, the two French astronauts will take part in new space missions. What is known about these upcoming expeditions? What are their objectives? Why is France increasing its ambitions in space conquest?

Simon Rozé, head of environment and climate coverage, offers insights.

Cuba: is the island on the brink of another economic shock?

Donald Trump’s ultimatum expired on June 5. Foreign companies operating in Cuba faced a Friday deadline to sever all ties with GAESA, a military conglomerate controlling key sectors like tourism, supermarkets, and telecoms. What are the risks for Cuba’s economy? Can Havana find new partners to offset these departures?

Pascal Drouhaud, a geopolitics expert and Latin America specialist, provides perspective.