Weekly Recap: Feb 5 to Feb 11

North America:

• Former President Trump at a rally on Saturday (Feb 10), criticised NATO’s defence commitment, stating he would not protect nations behind on their payments and would encourage aggressors. The White House condemned his comments as “appalling and unhinged,” while NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg emphasised that undermining mutual defence puts soldiers at risk. Trump’s remarks reflect longstanding concerns about NATO burden-sharing, with experts noting their potential impact amid heightened tensions with Russia. While Trump’s criticism of NATO continues, recent congressional actions have complicated aid funding for Ukraine, drawing further attention to geopolitical challenges.

• President Biden’s team pushed back against a report by Special Counsel Hur, accusing him of political motivation last Friday (Feb 9), Vice President Harris criticised the report as politically biassed. The report, a result of a year-long inquiry into Biden’s handling of classified files, was deemed “inappropriate” by the White House, with some legal experts questioning the inclusion of personal details. Hur, appointed by Biden’s attorney general, found that Biden had “willfully” retained classified files after leaving the vice presidency in 2017 but cited challenges in securing a conviction due to Biden’s age and recall limitations. While some experts commended Hur for providing detailed justification for his findings, others criticised the level of detail, particularly regarding Biden’s memory, as potentially damaging to a candidate already facing scrutiny over his age. The release of the report just nine months before the presidential election underscores the political sensitivity of such investigations.

• During a call on Sunday (Feb 11), President Biden urged Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu not to proceed with his military operation in Rafah without a solid plan to safeguard the over one million people seeking refuge there. This comes after Biden criticised Israel’s military strikes in Gaza following an attack by Hamas on October 7th. Despite warnings of a potential “bloodbath” and logistical challenges in relocating civilians, Israel appears determined to proceed. Biden’s national security adviser reiterated the US stance against any assault on Rafah that doesn’t prioritise civilian safety.

• The Democratic-led Senate voted 67-27 on Sunday (Feb 11) to advance a foreign aid measure, setting the stage for a final vote. The bill,   which includes significant funding for Ukraine, Israel’s conflict with Hamas, and support for partners in the Indo-Pacific region, has faced some opposition from Republicans. However, Democratic President Joe Biden has been vocal about the importance of passing the aid package, warning against neglecting the matter. While the bill is crucial for Ukraine, particularly amid Russia’s ongoing aggression, its fate in the Republican-controlled House of Representatives remains uncertain. Some Republicans seek amendments focusing on border security and restricting aid to weapons rather than humanitarian assistance. Despite challenges, bipartisan support in the Senate may influence House Republicans to advance the bill. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for American support, emphasising the need for strength in facing Russian aggression.

• Trump was granted access to sealed documents related to threats against a potential witness in the Mar-a-Lago case. Prosecutors met the deadline last Saturday (Feb 10) without challenge, a rare move for the Justice Department, experts say. They likely refrained from appealing due to the exhibits being part of a motion to reconsider earlier rulings, potentially exposing witness identities in Trump’s case. The dispute began when Trump sought additional discovery in January, with his lawyers arguing for the release of sealed exhibits containing known individuals. The judge kept personal details and “Signals” intelligence sealed but allowed other information public. Prosecutors, surprised by their exhibits remaining sealed, now seek reconsideration, possibly leading to an appeal at the US Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit. Judge Cannon, who previously favoured Trump, is under scrutiny from the 11th Circuit. Her decision last Friday (Feb 9), favoured Trump’s access to an exhibit detailing threats against a potential trial witness, prompting a criminal investigation. Prosecutors aimed to withhold it from Trump’s lawyers.

• Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry addressed the nation, calling for unity to “save” the country amid escalating violent protests since last Monday (Feb 5) demanding his resignation. Haiti has been grappling with prolonged gang violence, and recent incidents include the police killing five armed members of an environmental patrol, alleged to have turned into a paramilitary group. Tensions rose as protests mounted, triggered by the lack of elections and the country’s political vacuum since the assassination of former President Jovenel Moïse in 2021. Henry, who took office following Moïse’s death, has repeatedly promised elections but cited worsening gang violence as a hindrance. Demonstrators expressed frustration over the political situation and escalating violence, with calls for Henry’s departure. The return of former police chief Guy Philippe, advocating for rebellion against Henry, added to the turmoil. The situation intensified as police clashed with armed members of the Security Brigade for Protected Areas, leading to five deaths. The brigade has been accused of evolving into a paramilitary group. Henry sought international assistance, urging the United Nations to deploy a force to control gangs, but only Kenya has pledged support, pending a court decision on deployment. 

• A former US government informant, Joseph Vincent, was sentenced to life for his involvement in the assassination of Haiti’s former president Jovenel Moise last Friday (Feb 9). Vincent, a Haitian-American who previously worked for the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), pleaded guilty two months ago for his role in the plot to kill Moise. President Moise was assassinated at his home in Port-au-Prince in 2021. Vincent is the fourth of 11 defendants to be sentenced to life in the Miami federal case related to the murder plot. The trial is taking place in Florida as part of the plot was developed in the state. Vincent, who will be held in a Florida prison, had advised his accomplices on Haitian politics and encouraged protests against Moise as part of the assassination plan. Another suspect, Frederick Joseph Bergmann Jr., pleaded guilty to submitting false or misleading export information related to smuggling ballistic vests for the plot. The political chaos and gang violence in Haiti have escalated since Moise’s assassination, with the country experiencing its most violent month in over two years in January 2023. 

South America: 

• Chilean ex-President Sebastián Piñera, a prominent political figure and billionaire businessman, tragically passed away last Wednesday (Feb 6), at the age of 74 in a helicopter crash near the southern town of Lago Ranco. While three other individuals on board survived, Piñera, who was piloting the aircraft, drowned. The accident occurred during his family holiday in the lakeside resort of Bahía Coique, where he often used his private helicopter to travel. A post-mortem revealed that Piñera’s cause of death was drowning. Piñera served as Chile’s president in two non-consecutive terms, from 2010 to 2014 and then from 2018 to 2022. Known for his successful business ventures, he played a crucial role in the 2010 rescue of 33 miners trapped underground in the Atacama Desert, a story that garnered international attention. Despite his achievements, his second term faced challenges, including widespread protests against inequality met with significant repression from security forces. National mourning has been declared in Chile, and a state funeral is planned to honour Piñera’s contributions and legacy. Leaders across the political spectrum have paid tribute to the former president, acknowledging his impact on Chilean politics and society. 

• A BBC News report last Thursday (Feb 8) sheds light on the worsening fentanyl crisis gripping Tijuana, Mexico. Paramedics in Tijuana describe the increasing challenges they face in responding to suspected fentanyl overdoses, with the synthetic opioid being 50 times stronger than heroin. Mexican drug cartels have been cutting fentanyl into recreational drugs, contributing to a full-blown drug epidemic in the region. Despite the severity of the issue, President Andrés Manuel Lopez Obrador downplays the problem, leading to concerns about inadequate government response. Frontline workers stress the urgent need for recognition and action, as fentanyl-related deaths continue to rise. The article also explores the impact on the neighbouring US, emphasising the difficulty of stemming the flow of fentanyl across the border. 

• Trinidad and Tobago is grappling with a severe environmental crisis since last week as the nation considers declaring a national emergency in response to a substantial oil spill caused by a ship that ran aground and overturned off the coast of Tobago. The impact of the spill has stretched across at least 15 km of the southwestern coast, affecting some of the Caribbean island’s pristine beaches. In a collaborative effort, around 1,000 volunteers have joined government personnel to engage in the challenging task of cleaning up the spill, while divers work to isolate the leak from the abandoned vessel identified as The Gulfstream. The potential declaration of a Level 3 disaster, the highest level, is under consideration, reflecting the gravity of the situation. A Level 2 status currently prevails, indicating the belief that the country can manage the spill with available resources. A national emergency would be invoked when local resources are deemed “overwhelmed,” necessitating international assistance. The shipwreck occurred just days before the country’s carnival celebrations, a crucial economic event for Trinidad and Tobago. The spill not only poses an environmental threat but also adds economic strain to an already challenging situation.

Asia Pacific: 

• North Korea has successfully developed a new rocket launcher according to state media, KCNA. The Academy of Science, which oversees the country’s weapons development, test-fired 240-mm calibre controllable multiple rocket launcher shells on Sunday (Feb 11). This comes amid a series of missile tests in recent weeks by North Korea along with growing ties between Pyongyang and Moscow, which has been criticised by the US and its allies to be escalating tensions in the Korean Peninsula.

• Taiwan’s defence ministry has reported on Sunday (Feb 11) of an increase in Chinese balloons over Taiwan Straits. Taiwan has voiced its concerns over the balloons as a threat to aviation safety and an attempt at psychological warfare as China regards Taiwan as its own territory. China’s government had denied the claims last month, saying that they are for meteorological purposes and should not be a politicised issue.

• Myanmar junta enforced a law on Saturday (Feb 11), allowing the military to summon all men aged 18 to 35 and women 18 to 27 to serve for at least two years following battlefield losses. The military coup in February 2021 marked the end of ten years of democracy, leading to mass protests and a crackdown on dissent. Since then, the country has been in turmoil, with the junta struggling to crush widespread armed opposition to its rule. Recently, it suffered a series of shocking losses to an alliance of ethnic minority armed groups. 

• India’s Minister of Interior Affairs recommended last Thursday (Feb 8)  putting an end to the free movement border with Myanmar from where thousands have fled since the military junta’s coup last year. Shah said it was necessary for the security of the country and the maintenance of the demographics of regions bordering Myanmar. This comes after clashes between the Hindu Meitei majority and the Christian Kuki community, of which the latter share ethnic ties with those who have fled to India from Myanmar. 

• As Indonesia faces the upcoming elections, students have staged protests on Monday (Feb 12) for alleged poll interference. Hundreds of students and activists have expressed their opposition towards what they view as outgoing President Joko Widodo’s abuse of power to sway voters in this week’s elections in favour of frontrunner, Prabowo Subianto. While Widodo has not explicitly endorsed any of the three candidates, he has made highly publicised appearances with Prabowo, and his son is running on the same ticket as Vice President.

Europe: 

• Since last Tuesday (Feb 6), farmers across Europe have been protesting against a range of issues, including the influx of cheap imports, high taxes, and strict environmental regulations. In Spain, tractors have blocked roads for the fourth consecutive day, while in Poland and Hungary, farmers are demanding action against cheap Ukrainian imports and expressing concerns about EU policies. Belgian farmers targeted an EU ministers’ meeting in Genk, while in Greece, farmers are demanding lower electricity prices and tax-free diesel. Italian farmers protested against taxes and green regulations, opting to cancel a rally to avoid inconveniencing the public. Despite their differing concerns, farmers are united in seeking government support and changes to address their challenges.

• Ukraine’s military intelligence, in a statement last Sunday (Feb 11), asserted that it has substantiated previous reports regarding the “systematic” utilisation of Elon Musk’s satellite communication terminals by Russian troops. Ukraine’s military intelligence has confirmed that Russian troops are using Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite communication terminals systemically. These terminals have been crucial for Ukraine’s battlefield communications since Russia’s invasion in February 2022. Concerns remain about Elon Musk’s personal control over Starlink, given his statements echoing Kremlin talking points. Despite SpaceX’s denial of any business dealings with Russia, audio clips shared by Ukraine’s Ministry of Defence suggest otherwise. The terminals are reportedly being used by units like Russia’s 83rd Air Assault Brigade in eastern Ukraine. Additionally, recent reports indicate that Russia has been obtaining Starlink equipment from locations such as Dubai. This development comes as Russian forces launched 45 drones at Ukraine overnight, targeting agricultural facilities and coastal infrastructure, leading to injuries and damage. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has shuffled military commanders to maintain momentum against the attacking Russian forces.

• Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin announced a significant policy change during his visit to Mayotte, the country’s poorest region, last weekend (Feb 10) following three weeks of protests. He declared that henceforth, it will no longer be possible to acquire French citizenship unless one is the child of a French parent, aiming to diminish the attractiveness of the archipelago for potential immigrants. This measure, termed as “extremely strong” and “radical” by Darmanin, is specifically targeted at Mayotte and would not apply to other regions of France. The proposal has sparked controversy, with some, like former far-right presidential candidate Éric Zemmour, advocating for its extension throughout France, while others, like Boris Vallaud from the Parti Socialiste, vehemently oppose any changes to the birthright citizenship rule, asserting its non-negotiability. Mayotte, comprising two islands, has faced significant immigration from the nearby Comoros Islands due to poverty, with a substantial portion of its population surviving on meagre incomes and lacking French nationality. The proposed constitutional amendment has stirred debate, with concerns raised about its potential impact and the legal framework required for its implementation.

• During Russia’s recent missile barrage last Wednesday (Feb 7), Ukraine’s air defences managed to intercept only two-thirds of the missiles and drones launched, revealing the urgent need for assistance in protecting its cities. Notably, Ukrainian forces failed to intercept all three Iskander ballistic missiles and four Kh-22 cruise missiles fired by Russia. While they successfully brought down several other types of missiles and drones, including 26 out of 29 Kh-101, Kh-555, and Kh-55 cruise missiles, as well as 15 out of 20 Shahed drones, the overall success rate was lower than previous barrages in 2023. Ukraine has been urging allies for more air defence systems and interceptor supplies as Russia continues its aerial attacks, employing various types of missiles and drones to overwhelm Ukraine’s limited defences. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky highlighted the country’s shortage of modern air defence systems and the inability to produce them independently.

• Over four million people are set to vote on Sunday (Feb 11) for Finland’s new head of state, a role that has gained importance since the country joined NATO in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The election featured conservative former prime minister Alexander Stubb, 55, and 65-year-old Pekka Haavisto, a former foreign minister from the Green League. Both candidates largely agree on Finland’s foreign policy and security priorities, including maintaining a tough stance towards Russia, strengthening ties with the US, and supporting Ukraine. Following the first round on January 28, Stubb secured 27.2 per cent of the votes, while Haavisto received 25.8 per cent. Stubb remains the favourite for the runoff. The winner will succeed President Sauli Niinisto, whose term expires in March. Unlike in many European countries, Finland’s president holds executive power in formulating foreign and security policy, especially concerning countries outside the EU like the US, Russia, and China. Additionally, the president commands the military, a crucial role given Finland’s NATO membership and its position as NATO’s northeastern flank.

Middle East: 

• An examination was conducted by CNN last Monday (Feb 5) of the internal dynamics within the Israeli military and with Hamas soldiers reveals the intricate interplay between their political beliefs and the harsh realities of the situation. Atzmon, representing a left-wing perspective, grapples with the moral nuances of the conflict, acknowledging the suffering of civilians in Gaza while maintaining a staunch commitment to self-defence. Conversely, Emmanuel, espousing a right-wing stance, supports sustained Israeli control over Gaza and proposes the construction of new settlements as a strategic move. This article sheds light on the diverse political landscape within the Israeli military, reflecting the broader societal spectrum, as soldiers navigate the complex task of reconciling personal convictions with the exigencies of warfare. Set against the backdrop of escalating international criticism and scrutiny from institutions like the International Court of Justice, these soldiers embody the intricate and multifaceted nature of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, where moral quandaries and geopolitical imperatives intersect on the battlefield.

• The Israeli military successfully conducted a special operation, last Monday (Feb 12)  in Rafah, southern Gaza, rescuing two hostages, Fernando Simon Marman, 60, and Louis Har, 70, who were captured 128 days earlier during Hamas’ October 7th attack on Israel. The operation, involving airstrikes and encountering resistance from Hamas, was praised by Israel’s President, Javier Milei, and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed the hostages back, emphasising the need for continued military pressure. The rescue comes amid ongoing conflict and failed negotiations for releasing more hostages in Gaza. While the rescue is celebrated, Israeli airstrikes on Rafah have raised concerns about civilian casualties, with over 100 reported deaths. The situation in Rafah is complicated by the closure of escape routes, and discussions between Biden and Netanyahu highlight the challenges and potential consequences of a ground assault on the city.

• The tragic death of a 5-year-old Palestinian girl, Hind Rajab, has been reported last Saturday (Feb 10), after she was found trapped in a car with her deceased relatives following an Israeli attack in Gaza. The incident occurred on January 29, as the family was fleeing conflict in northern Gaza when they came under Israeli fire. Hind’s fate remained unknown for about two weeks due to ongoing military operations in the area. The Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) confirmed her death, along with two ambulance workers who were targeted despite prior coordination for a rescue mission. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) initially claimed unfamiliarity with the incident and later stated they were still looking into it when contacted by CNN. Hind’s desperate calls for help, recorded during the attack, further highlight the human toll of the conflict. Last Friday (Feb 9), Hind’s mother, Wissam Hamada, told CNN that she was “waiting for her every second. I wish for her all the best, like any mother wishes for her daughter the best things and the nicest things in the world,” emphasising the profound and personal impact of the ongoing violence on innocent lives.

• In Khan Younis, Gaza, the remnants of life were seen scattered around a colossal crater, last Saturday (Feb 10), bearing witness to the extensive destruction inflicted by the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) contend that this devastation is the result of a targeted operation aimed at a building situated above an entrance to an intricate underground tunnel network, purportedly used by high-ranking Hamas officials, including the organisation’s leader, Yahya Sinwar. The IDF further asserts that Khan Younis, the hometown of Sinwar and deemed a major Hamas stronghold, played a pivotal role in planning the attacks of October 7. However, independent verification of these claims remains challenging, given the restricted access imposed on journalists entering Gaza. A military escort granted to CNN offered a glimpse of the widespread destruction, with virtually no building left untouched by the ravages of war. The city, initially designated as a safer zone for displaced residents from northern Gaza, became a focal point of IDF operations as the conflict progressed southward. The devastation observed by journalists during the escorted tour underscores the significant toll on civilian areas, mass displacement, and the profound transformation of Gaza into a landscape marked by ruins and rubble. 

• Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the military to evacuate over a million residents from the southern Gaza city of Rafah last Sunday (Feb 11), with plans for a ground offensive by March 10. This move has sparked international concern, with the United Nations expressing extreme worry. Displaced Palestinians in Rafah claim they have nowhere else to go, while Israel asserts it killed two senior Hamas operatives. Global figures, including British Foreign Secretary David Cameron and EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, have voiced deep apprehension, calling for an immediate ceasefire to allow aid delivery and the evacuation of hostages. The situation remains tense as the international community urges restraint and negotiations to avert a potential humanitarian crisis in Rafah.

Africa: 

• Violent demonstrations have swept Senegal following the delay of presidential elections. The country witnessed mass protests, with last Friday (Feb 9) marking intense clashes in Dakar and Saint-Louis, where a student lost his life. Demonstrators engaged in running battles with security forces, hurling stones and burning tires . President Macky Sall’s decision to postpone the February 25 elections until December 15, citing the need to resolve candidate eligibility disputes, has sparked outrage. Critics view this move as a threat to Senegal’s democratic integrity. Despite assurances from Sall that he won’t seek reelection, opposition leaders accuse him of manipulating the political landscape. The situation has drawn concern from regional bodies like Ecowas, urging adherence to constitutional norms. Senegal’s history of stability is now under scrutiny, as citizens demand the restoration of the electoral process.

• In Sake, a town 25 kilometres north-west of Goma, a recent attack by M23 rebels last Wednesday (Feb 7) has escalated violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Panic grips Goma, a major city with about two million residents, as the rebels block essential roads, cutting off vital supplies from surrounding farms. Residents fear starvation as clashes intensify, with reports of casualties flooding hospitals. This resurgence of conflict adds to the millions already displaced in the country. The M23, an ethnic Tutsi-led movement, denies offensive intentions but holds strategic territory near Goma. President Félix Tshisekedi vows to defend Goma, a crucial economic hub, but distrust and broken ceasefires exacerbate tensions. Talks between the government and the M23 remain elusive, as both sides blame each other for the ongoing violence.

• Al-Qaeda-linked armed group Al-Shabab has claimed responsibility for the attack on a training mission at a military base in the Somali capital, Mogadishu, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) authorities said on Sunday (Feb 11). The attack, which occurred on Saturday (Feb 10), targeted troops at the General Gordon military base. The UAE Ministry of Defence confirmed the deaths of three Emirati troops and one Bahraini soldier, with two others wounded. An additional injured soldier died upon arrival in Abu Dhabi. Emirati officials expressed condolences and vowed to continue combating extremism. The Bahraini army also condemned the attack, mourning the loss of its soldier. Reports suggest the attacker, a Somali soldier who recently defected from Al-Shabab, carried out the assault. Despite ongoing military efforts against it, Al-Shabab remains active in Somalia, perpetrating deadly attacks and targeting those supporting the Somali government. The group’s insurgency seeks to establish Islamic law governance. Al-Shabab has also conducted attacks in neighbouring Kenya. The UAE’s involvement in Somalia aligns with its broader security interests in the region, amid concerns about piracy and instability.

• President Ramaphosa addressed lawmakers at Cape Town City Hall last Thursday (Feb 8), emphasising South Africa’s commitment to human rights and freedom by supporting the Palestinian cause to prevent further casualties in Gaza. South Africa’s case against Israel for genocide in Gaza, filed at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, received an interim ruling affirming the court’s jurisdiction and urging Israel to prevent genocidal acts. Ramaphosa condemned civilian casualties on all sides and called for a peace process leading to a two-state solution. South Africa considers its ICJ case a success, intending to pursue diplomatic and legal avenues for a ceasefire and resolution. Amid South Africa’s upcoming elections, Ramaphosa highlighted progress since apartheid’s end, addressing challenges such as energy crises and job creation. He indirectly criticised former President Zuma’s role in corruption, stating it inflicted significant damage on the nation.

• President Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) urged, last Wednesday (Feb 7), the UN General Assembly for an accelerated withdrawal of the MONUSCO peacekeeping mission. Tshisekedi emphasised the mission’s failure to address rebel groups after more than two decades in the country, leading to deadly attacks by armed militias. Violent protests demanding MONUSCO’s departure have resulted in civilian casualties. Talks between the DRC government and the UN are ongoing to hasten MONUSCO’s exit by the end of the year. The DRC faces numerous armed conflicts amid preparations for late December general elections, with over 100 armed groups contributing to the instability, according to the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED).