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As of November 2025, over 1,400 Africans from 36 countries, including Kenya and South Africa, have been recruited by Russia to fight in Ukraine under false pretenses. Many are deceived with promises of jobs, coerced into signing military contracts, and sent to deadly frontline assaults. South Africa is investigating 17 citizens trapped in Ukraine, while Ukraine urges recruits to desert and seek prisoner-of-war status.
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On December 4-5, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin visited India for the 23rd Russia-India Summit, hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit focused on deepening defense, energy, and economic ties despite US sanctions targeting India's purchases of Russian oil. The leaders agreed on a $100 billion trade target by 2030 and discussed military hardware deliveries, labor mobility, and cooperation amid ongoing Ukraine war tensions.
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The US is increasingly asserting influence over Gaza, with the UN Security Council discussing a stabilization force amid ongoing conflicts. This marks a shift in international power dynamics, with the US acting as a de facto occupier, raising questions about legality and sovereignty as regional conflicts persist.
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The US and Ethiopia signed a five-year health cooperation MoU, committing over $1.6 billion in grants and co-financing to improve health systems, disease control, and emergency preparedness. Nigeria and Mozambique also received significant US health aid, focusing on HIV, malaria, and maternal health.
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South Africa hosts the week-long 'Will for Peace 2026' naval exercises led by China, involving ships from BRICS nations including Russia and Iran. The drills, focused on maritime safety and anti-piracy, come amid US sanctions and geopolitical tensions, risking further strain with Western allies.