Senegal’s political shake-up: president sacks prime minister amid growing tensions

The political landscape in Senegal has been rocked by a major upheaval after President Bassirou Diomaye Faye terminated the mandate of Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko via a presidential decree issued on Friday, May 22. The decision, described by local observers as a “political earthquake,” follows months of simmering internal disputes and power struggles within the executive branch. Hours before his dismissal, Sonko had publicly aired his disagreements with the Head of State during a high-stakes parliamentary session, where he boldly asserted his role as a premier who “makes decisions without seeking permission,” a statement that underscored the growing rift between the two leaders.

Ousmane Sonko, a prominent figure whose popularity among Senegal’s youth has been widely documented, was prevented from running in the 2024 presidential election. Instead, he endorsed Bassirou Diomaye Faye, who went on to win the presidency. The abrupt dismissal of Sonko, a key political ally turned rival, marks a turning point in Senegal’s post-electoral dynamics and raises questions about the future of governance in the country.

United States tightens immigration rules for green card applicants

The Trump administration has announced sweeping changes to the green card application process, requiring candidates to apply from their country of origin. Previously, individuals holding temporary residency visas could adjust their status and stay in the U.S. while their applications were processed. This adjustment will no longer be permitted under the new guidelines issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Critics argue that the policy, which will force thousands of legal immigrants—including spouses of American citizens—to leave their homes, families, and jobs for extended periods, is both illogical and unjust.

U.S. intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard resigns citing personal reasons

Tulsi Gabbard, the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) and a proponent of a more measured foreign policy, has submitted her resignation to President Trump, effective June 30. Gabbard cited her decision to step down as a way to support her husband, who is battling a rare form of bone cancer. Her departure brings an end to a turbulent tenure overseeing 18 U.S. intelligence agencies. During her time in office, she was notably sidelined from major national security matters, including military operations in Iran and Venezuela, as reported by insiders.

EU and Mexico bolster trade ties with expanded agreement

In a move that underscores their commitment to free trade amid rising protectionist pressures, the European Union and Mexico have strengthened their commercial partnership, which was first established in 2000. The revised agreement will eliminate tariffs on nearly all Mexican food exports to Europe while also enhancing cooperation in areas such as security, migration, clean energy, and digital trade. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum joined European Council President António Costa in formalizing the deal, sending a clear signal of their dedication to open markets.

Hantavirus outbreak on cruise ship reaches twelve cases

A new case of hantavirus infection has been confirmed aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship, bringing the total number of cases to twelve. The infected crew member, who had disembarked in Tenerife before being transferred to the Netherlands, is the latest victim of an outbreak that has claimed three lives since its first detection on May 2. According to World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, no additional fatalities have been reported since the initial alert was raised.