In a decisive political move, Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has terminated the mandate of Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko through a presidential decree issued on May 22. This abrupt decision follows months of escalating tensions and internal power struggles within the executive branch, culminating in a high-stakes parliamentary session where Sonko openly challenged the President’s authority.

During his address to lawmakers, Ousmane Sonko, a prominent figure among Senegal’s youth, publicly asserted his independence, declaring that as Prime Minister, he operates with full autonomy and does not seek prior approval for his decisions. His dismissal marks the end of a turbulent period in Senegalese politics, where strategic differences between the head of state and his prime minister have now reached a breaking point.

US immigration policy shift: Green card applicants must apply from their home countries

The Trump administration has rolled out a strict new rule requiring green card applicants to submit their requests exclusively from their countries of origin. Previously, individuals holding temporary visas could adjust their status while residing in the United States, allowing them to remain in the country during the application process. The policy change, enforced by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), eliminates this pathway, forcing legal immigrants—including spouses of US citizens—to leave the country for weeks or months to complete their applications. Critics argue that this measure is both impractical and inhumane, imposing severe disruptions on families and livelihoods.

Tulsi Gabbard resigns from US intelligence leadership

Tulsi Gabbard, Director of National Intelligence (DNI) and advocate for a more restrained US foreign policy, has tendered her resignation, effective June 30. In a statement, Gabbard cited personal reasons, specifically the need to support her husband, who is battling a rare bone cancer. Her departure concludes a contentious tenure marked by limited involvement in critical national security matters, including military operations in Iran and Venezuela. Analysts suggest her resignation reflects deeper divisions within the administration regarding intelligence oversight and policy direction.

EU and Mexico expand trade partnership

European Union leaders and Mexico have finalized an enhanced trade agreement aimed at deepening economic ties. The revised deal eliminates tariffs on nearly all Mexican food exports to Europe while also strengthening collaboration in areas such as security, migration, clean energy, and digital trade. This initiative sends a clear signal against rising protectionist trends, reinforcing the commitment of both regions to open and mutually beneficial commerce.

New hantavirus case detected aboard cruise ship

A fresh case of hantavirus infection has been confirmed in a crew member of the MV Hondius cruise ship. The individual, who had disembarked in Tenerife before being transferred to the Netherlands, brings the total number of cases to twelve. Despite this development, the death toll remains unchanged at three, with the last fatality recorded on May 2, when the outbreak was first reported to the World Health Organization (WHO).