China’s near-monopoly on rare earth elements has quietly positioned it as a critical player in global trade, giving it strategic leverage over the world’s transition to green and high-tech futures.
China’s near-monopoly on rare earth elements has quietly positioned it as a critical player in global trade, giving it strategic leverage over the world’s transition to green and high-tech futures.
France has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Ukraine’s defence efforts with a renewed military aid plan for 2025. This strategy includes the phased transfer of decommissioned military assets such as AMX-10 RCR light tanks, VAB armored vehicles, and missile systems, enhancing Ukraine’s capabilities while modernising France’s armed forces. As a leading European ally, France has supplied extensive weaponry, intelligence, and training since the start of the conflict, reinforcing European security and countering Russian aggression through sustained and strategic defence initiatives.
The Ethiopia-Somaliland Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) marks a crucial turning point in the Horn of Africa’s geopolitical landscape. By securing direct maritime access via Somaliland’s coastline, Ethiopia seeks to reduce its dependency on Djibouti, enhance trade competitiveness, and establish a strategic foothold in the Red Sea. However, Somalia’s opposition, backed by external actors such as Turkey, threatens to complicate the deal. As regional and global powers vie for influence, Ethiopia’s decision will shape its economic future and determine its status as a dominant force in East Africa.