Vital PEACE Cable damage in the Red Sea puts East Africa’s connectivity on hold, with repairs expected to drag into mid-April 2025.

The recent disruption of internet services across Somaliland and parts of East Africa, due to a break in the Pakistan & East Africa Connecting Europe (PEACE) Cable in the Red Sea, underscores the fragile nature of the region’s internet infrastructure. This key undersea fibre-optic cable, which connects East Africa with Europe and Asia, experienced a significant rupture, leading to slower internet speeds and compromised streaming quality throughout the affected areas.

In an immediate response to the outage, Somaliland’s telecommunications providers rerouted traffic to backup networks, which restored services to near-normal levels. The National Communications Authority (NCA) of Somaliland has announced that complete repairs to the damaged cable are not expected to be completed until mid-April 2025. During this period, the NCA has committed to working closely with internet service providers (ISPs) to monitor service quality and address any technical issues that arise.

This incident is part of a broader pattern of vulnerabilities in Africa’s internet infrastructure, highlighted by similar disruptions in the past due to undersea cable damage in both the Red Sea and Indian Ocean. These recurring issues emphasize the critical need for enhanced redundancy measures to safeguard connectivity in the region.

The NCA has called on telecom operators to maintain transparent communication with regulators and to implement swift mitigation plans to minimize further service degradation. This proactive approach is essential in preventing future disruptions and in strengthening the resilience of internet infrastructure in Africa, ensuring reliable connectivity for its rapidly growing online population.

In response to the dwindling state of the American shipbuilding industry and the growing capabilities of international competitors, President Donald Trump has announced the creation of a new White House office aimed at revitalizing U.S. military and commercial shipbuilding. This move reflects urgent concerns over national security and strategic competitiveness, particularly in light of China’s surging ship production rates.

The U.S. shipbuilding industry is experiencing significant decline, operating at reduced capacity with a substantial decrease in the number of ships in the Navy’s fleet. Despite being renowned for its firepower and tonnage, the U.S. Navy now lags behind China in terms of ship numbers. The fiscal policies and budgeting strategies of recent years have resulted in a net loss of ships, with the 2025 budget planning for the decommissioning of more ships than new ones being commissioned. This reduction poses serious implications for national security and military readiness.

The American shipbuilding industry faces several critical challenges, including fluctuating demand influenced by Navy budget cuts, a shrinking supplier network, and a lack of steady contracts which jeopardizes the entire supply chain. Companies like Fairbanks Morse Defense and BAE Systems Ship Repair have expressed concerns over operating under capacity and the risks associated with a diminishing supplier base. The inconsistency in budgeting and project funding, exacerbated by the frequent use of continuing resolutions by Congress, complicates execution and planning within the industry.

The strategic implications of a weakened U.S. shipbuilding capacity extend beyond national security. The ability to project power and maintain supply lines in international waters is crucial in times of conflict. The comparison with China is particularly stark; China not only surpasses the U.S. in the number of military ships but also dominates in commercial shipbuilding, with more than 1,000 ships built annually compared to the U.S.’s five. This disparity highlights the potential strategic vulnerabilities in the event of an international conflict.

Efforts to address these challenges include legislative measures like the Ships for America Act, proposed by Senator Mark Kelly, which aims to increase the U.S. commercial fleet and, by extension, bolster the military shipbuilding supply chain through tax incentives and cargo fees. Additionally, industry leaders are exploring ways to improve worker retention and operational efficiency to combat the workforce shortages and competitive wage issues exacerbated by the broader economic environment.

The creation of a dedicated White House office to oversee and promote shipbuilding is a critical step toward addressing the multifaceted challenges facing the U.S. maritime industry. As the geopolitical landscape evolves, particularly with the rise of China as a dominant maritime power, revitalizing the U.S. shipbuilding industry is not only a matter of economic importance but a strategic imperative essential for maintaining national security and global influence.

The recent roundtable discussion, “Information Bridge: Russia – Africa,” held on March 6, 2025, at the State Duma of the Russian Federation, signifies a major stride in the burgeoning media relations between Russia and Africa. This event, under the stewardship of Alexander M. Babakov and the Afro-Russian Energy Association, congregated a diverse group of influencers, from government officials to media experts and bloggers, all aimed at forging a robust media partnership between the two regions.

Strategic Media Collaborations

The discussions underscored a shared recognition of the digital realm’s power to transcend geographical boundaries and foster deeper mutual understanding. Alexander Babakov’s opening remarks highlighted the indispensable role of state-backed initiatives in shaping these media narratives, proposing a structured approach to ensure the Russian state’s information agenda is prominently implemented across African media platforms.

Maria Zakharova, representing the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, pointed out the critical need for enhanced presence and engagement of African media within Russia. She advocated for more systematic interactions, including educational exchanges and press tours, to bridge the informational gap and provide a more nuanced portrayal of Russia in Africa.

Educational and Developmental Initiatives

Irina Abramova from the Russian Academy of Sciences called for educational initiatives to aid journalists in accurately covering African affairs, stressing the importance of broadcasting beyond capital cities to reach more rural and underserved populations. This approach not only educates but also empowers young Africans, fostering a well-informed public capable of engaging with and understanding global issues.

Technological Integration and Infrastructure Support

Artur Kureev highlighted the necessity of consolidating Russian media resources related to Africa to form a unified front. This consolidation would facilitate a coherent media strategy that resonates with the African populace, emphasizing the need for infrastructure development that supports internet accessibility and digital media consumption in Africa.

Accreditation and Direct Engagement

Kinfu Zenebe’s suggestion to facilitate accreditation for African media representatives in Russia could serve as a cornerstone for this new media relationship, ensuring ongoing and direct communication channels between the continents. Such measures would solidify the foundation for a sustained informational exchange, enriching the media landscapes of both regions.

Countering Western Influence

The dialogue also touched upon the strategic use of media to counteract the prevailing Western influence in Africa. Participants discussed leveraging local and new media platforms to project a positive image of Russia and its geopolitical interests. This involves not only countering negative portrayals but also actively engaging in cultural diplomacy to foster a genuine understanding of Russia’s role and contributions in Africa.

Conclusion

The roundtable “Information Bridge: Russia – Africa” serves as a pivotal platform for launching forward-thinking strategies that harness media’s power to influence public opinion and international relations. The collaborative approach discussed aims to transcend traditional media boundaries, offering a blueprint for future engagements not only between Russia and Africa but as a model for global media cooperation. By integrating strategic media initiatives with direct cultural exchanges and educational programs, Russia and Africa can build a sustainable partnership that respects both regions’ sovereignty while promoting a balanced narrative on the global stage.

For Somaliland and its neighbors, the outcomes of this exercise will dictate future diplomatic choices and security strategies…

The Horn of Africa is once again at the epicenter of global attention as Iran, Russia, and China unveil their joint naval exercise, Security Belt-2025, set to take place near the Iranian port of Chabahar in the strategic waters of the Gulf of Oman. This maneuver, underscored by the participation of formidable naval powers, is not merely a demonstration of maritime prowess but a significant geopolitical statement in an increasingly multipolar world.

Chabahar, situated in Iran’s Sistan-Baluchistan province, is emblematic of more than just geographic strategy. It represents a critical juncture in the Belt and Road Initiative and serves as a vital counterbalance to Pakistan’s Gwadar Port, further bolstered by Chinese investments. The port’s choice as the locus for Security Belt-2025 highlights its growing importance as a hub of trade and military logistics, projecting Iran’s readiness to safeguard vital shipping lanes against perceived Western encroachments.

The backdrop to this exercise is a tapestry of escalating tensions and regional power plays. The United States’ pivot to Asia, coupled with relentless pressure on Iran over its nuclear ambitions and support to Russia amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, sets a precarious stage. Security Belt-2025 is thus a clear riposte to the West, signifying a deepening of military and strategic ties among the trio, aimed ostensibly at securing energy routes and establishing a counterfoil to NATO’s maritime activities.

The scope of the exercise—featuring advanced missile cruisers, destroyers, and a suite of joint operational tactics from anti-piracy to search and rescue operations—underscores a comprehensive approach to maritime security. This tripartite force aims to showcase its capability not just in defense but in a potential offensive posture that spans from the Strait of Hormuz to the broader Indian Ocean, sending ripples through global naval strategies.

While the immediate goal of Security Belt-2025 is to fortify military cooperation, the broader implications are profound. For regional neighbors and global powers alike, the exercise is a bellwether for Iran, Russia, and China’s readiness to challenge the status quo, potentially reshaping security alignments in the Horn of Africa and beyond. Countries like Saudi Arabia, India, and the UAE, closely watching, must recalibrate their policies in a region where traditional alliances are being tested by the day.

As Security Belt-2025 unfolds, it will be crucial to monitor the strategic dialogues it precipitates within international forums and between regional stakeholders. The exercise not only reaffirms Iran, Russia, and China’s commitment to a shared security vision but also poses a strategic dilemma for the United States and its allies, who may see this as a call to reinforce their naval and diplomatic engagements in the region.

In essence, Security Belt-2025 is more than a routine naval drill; it is a geopolitical maneuver crafted to assert influence and signal capability in a world where global power balances are rapidly shifting. For Somaliland and its neighbors, the outcomes of this exercise will dictate future diplomatic choices and security strategies, as they navigate the turbulent waters of the Horn of Africa’s political landscape.

President Donald Trump remains optimistic about his ability to broker peace between Russia and Ukraine, despite ongoing heavy bombardments by Russia on Ukrainian territory. In a recent statement, Trump indicated his confidence in Russian President Vladimir Putin’s intentions for peace, even as Russian forces continue their aggressive military campaign across Ukraine.

On Friday, Ukrainian authorities reported over 200 missile and drone strikes overnight, targeting energy infrastructure and causing damage to residential areas across five regions. Despite these attacks, Trump expressed a belief in Putin’s peaceful assertions, noting, “I believe him. I think we’re doing very well with Russia,” while acknowledging the harsh reality of the conflict: “They’re bombing the hell out of Ukraine.”

Trump’s approach to the situation has been marked by a blend of pragmatism and frustration, particularly towards Ukraine. He suggested that the challenges in dealing with Kyiv are greater than those with Moscow, citing Ukraine’s weaker negotiating position: “I’m finding it more difficult, frankly, to deal with Ukraine. They don’t have the cards.”

The U.S. president’s comments raised questions about further support for Ukraine, particularly in terms of air defense capabilities. Trump stated that any additional military aid would depend on Ukraine’s willingness to engage in peace talks, emphasizing his desire for a resolution: “I have to know that they want to settle. If they don’t want to settle, we’re out of there because we want them to settle.”

Amidst these developments, other U.S. officials have sought to clarify the administration’s stance. U.S. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard emphasized that while there has been a pause in sharing intelligence that could facilitate Ukrainian offensives, defensive support remains steadfast: “Any intelligence going toward defending Ukraine against attacks coming into their country would continue.”

This stance is supported by the confirmation from a U.S. defense official that Ukraine continues to have access to crucial defensive tools like Starlink, enhancing its capability to counter Russian assaults.

In response to the ongoing Russian aggression, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy highlighted the effectiveness of Ukraine’s air defenses, mentioning the deployment of French-made Mirage fighter jets and U.S-made F-16s in repelling the attacks. Zelenskyy remains committed to peace, as evident from his active engagement with Trump’s team: “Intense work with President Trump’s team has been ongoing at various levels — numerous calls,” he posted on social media. “The topic is clear — peace as soon as possible, security as reliably as possible. Ukraine is fully committed to a constructive approach.”

However, Zelenskyy also voiced frustrations with Russia, asserting that the burden of initiating peace lies with Moscow, which needs to cease its military actions and engage in genuine diplomacy.

The unfolding situation underscores the complex dynamics of international diplomacy and conflict, with the U.S. playing a pivotal role in navigating the path to peace. The upcoming meeting between Zelenskyy and U.S. officials in Saudi Arabia to discuss a ceasefire marks a critical juncture in these efforts, reflecting ongoing attempts to stabilize the region amidst one of the most challenging geopolitical conflicts of recent times.

A silent yet explosive battle brews in Eastern Somaliland, where the discovery of oil has drawn a complex web of geopolitical tensions and ambitions. This is not just about black gold—it’s about the survival and sovereignty of a nation under the watchful eyes of global powers and militant threats.

The recent discovery of significant oil reserves in Eastern Somaliland by Turkish company Genel Energy, in collaboration with Taiwan, has put Somaliland at the crossroads of promise and peril. While the prospect of oil wealth brings a glimmer of economic hope, it also casts a long shadow of geopolitical intrigue. China, a key player in the region and opposed to Taiwan’s diplomatic engagements, has found this partnership particularly irksome, escalating tensions and drawing international attention to Somaliland’s burgeoning oil sector.

Amidst this oil saga, Ethiopia’s military actions in neighboring Somalia, targeting Al-Shabaab with airstrikes, underscore the fragile security dynamics within the region. Though these efforts are crucial, they are but a piece of a larger puzzle involving Somaliland’s strategic maneuvers to navigate through alliances and adversaries. The Ankara agreement, fostering collaboration between Somalia and Ethiopia, highlights the delicate balance of regional politics which Somaliland must adeptly manage to protect its interests.

Compounding the external geopolitical challenges is the rise of Al Ictisam within Somaliland—a scenario eerily reminiscent of the Muslim Brotherhood’s rise in Egypt. This Islamist movement has gradually permeated various sectors of Somaliland’s society, positioning itself within critical infrastructural and governance frameworks. The potential for an Islamist economic takeover presents a dire risk not only to the democratic fabric of Somaliland but also to its nascent oil industry, which could become a financial lifeline manipulated for radical agendas.

Somaliland stands on a precipice, where the actions taken today will determine its tomorrow. Strengthening international alliances, bolstering national security, and rooting out internal threats are not merely strategic choices; they are existential necessities. The international community, too, cannot afford to overlook the implications of Somaliland’s stability—what happens here will have ripples across the Horn of Africa and beyond.

Somaliland’s narrative in the coming years will be defined by how it handles this convergence of oil wealth, regional tensions, and internal threats. The time to bolster its defenses, economically and politically, is now. Actions must be swift and decisive to secure a future where Somaliland not only survives but thrives.

As the situation unfolds, the global audience must keep a watchful eye on Eastern Somaliland. Sharing this story, raising awareness, and advocating for strategic, supportive actions could help tip the scales in favor of peace and progress.  Let’s ensure that the next chapter in Somaliland’s history is one of triumph, not tragedy.

France Fills Intelligence Gap for Ukraine Left by U.S. Policy Shift

France has initiated intelligence sharing with Kyiv. This development follows the United States’ decision to halt its intelligence cooperation and military aid to Ukraine, a stance introduced by President Donald Trump after a heated encounter with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

French Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu confirmed the intelligence sharing during a critical time when EU leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, are rallying to bolster European defense mechanisms and reaffirm their support for Ukraine. This summit in Brussels, which also featured President Zelenskyy, aimed at discussing ways to enhance EU defense spending and the collective commitment to Ukraine.

President Macron emphasized the importance of Europe defining its own strategic path without undue influence from external powers like the U.S. or Russia. His remarks underline a growing European resolve to support Ukraine independently, especially in light of fluctuating U.S. foreign policies under the Trump administration.

The U.S. decision to step back momentarily from supporting Ukraine has raised concerns about the continuity of Western support essential for Kyiv’s defense strategies against Russian advances. CIA Director John Ratcliffe hinted that the U.S. pause in intelligence sharing might be temporary and contingent on the progression of peace talks with Russia, which are being actively pursued through diplomatic channels.

This scenario places France in a pivotal role, potentially shaping the future dynamics of NATO and EU involvement in Eastern European security matters. As the situation evolves, France’s proactive stance could either bridge the gap left by the U.S. or prompt a broader realignment of how European nations address security threats on the continent.

Ilhan Omar Claps Back: Facing Deportation Calls Amidst Political Turmoil

Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, a figure frequently at the center of political storms, has once again captured national attention. This time, her fiery retort to Republican Congressman Brandon Gill’s call for her deportation has ignited a fierce debate within the halls of Congress and beyond, highlighting the deep divisions in American politics.

Gill, a vocal supporter of President Donald Trump’s aggressive immigration policies, argued that deporting Omar back to Somalia would improve the United States. This statement, made during a tumultuous period in American politics, reflects the larger contentious discourse surrounding immigration and the role of naturalized citizens in government.

Omar’s response was sharp and unapologetic. In a widely circulated interview, she criticized the intelligence of her detractors and lamented the state of American political dialogue, stating, “These people are idiots… It’s hard to have a rational argument with them because of the level of stupidity they’re displaying every day.” Her remarks have not only inflamed her critics but have also resonated with supporters who see her as a defiant symbol of resistance against xenophobia and intolerance.

The backlash from Republican circles was swift, with figures like Congressman Greg Steube accusing Omar of insulting the American electorate, particularly those who support Trump. This clash underscores the volatile nature of current political debates, where personal attacks often overshadow substantive policy discussions.

Expelling a member of Congress is a rare and complex process, historically reserved for those convicted of serious crimes. Legal experts emphasize that the expulsion of an elected official without criminal charges is highly unlikely, requiring a two-thirds majority vote in the House. This high threshold ensures that expulsion remains a measure of last resort, reflecting a respect for the electoral process and the will of the voters.

As this political drama unfolds, it raises critical questions about the limits of political discourse, the rights of elected officials, and the enduring tensions over immigration policy in the United States. Ilhan Omar’s case is not just about her; it’s a reflection of broader societal conflicts that are likely to influence American politics for years to come.