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Burkina Faso's military-led parliament unanimously approved a law criminalizing homosexuality, with penalties including prison and fines. The law, effective immediately, describes homosexual acts as 'bizarre behavior' and targets both locals and foreigners. This move aligns Burkina Faso with over half of African nations that criminalize same-sex relations amid ongoing security and human rights concerns.
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African teams Morocco and Tunisia have secured their spots in the 2026 World Cup, while South Africa and Nigeria face critical qualification matches. In South America, Bolivia and Colombia are vying for playoff spots, with Venezuela's coaching overhaul following a defeat. Qualification races are intense across regions.
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Mali accused Algeria of supporting terrorism after a Malian drone was shot down over the Sahara, with Mali filing a case at the ICJ. Algeria denies the claim, asserting the drone crossed into its airspace. Diplomatic tensions and regional instability continue to rise.
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Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali have announced their withdrawal from the International Criminal Court, citing concerns over sovereignty and alleging the court acts as a tool of neocolonial repression. The move follows military coups and a shift towards alliances with Russia, with withdrawal taking effect in a year.
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South Africa will participate in its first World Cup since 2010 after winning its qualifying group. Nigeria finished second and must now go through a playoff. Meanwhile, other African nations like Ghana, Algeria, Egypt, and Tunisia have already qualified, with ongoing qualification battles involving teams like Morocco, Senegal, and Ivory Coast.
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Fighters linked to al-Qaeda have intensified a fuel blockade in Mali, severely disrupting Bamako's economy and daily life. Schools are closed, citizens are urged to leave, and the military faces mounting pressure amid ongoing attacks and economic strangulation. The situation risks further destabilization of the region.
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Despite Germany's reunification, East Germans maintain a nuanced, often sympathetic view of Russia, influenced by historical ties and unmet economic expectations. This attitude complicates Germany's stance on Ukraine and Russia, with regional divides affecting political support and policy.
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A joint UN report highlights 16 countries at imminent risk of famine, including Nigeria, Haiti, and Yemen. Funding shortages hinder aid efforts, forcing cuts in food assistance and suspension of programs. Ethiopia's bid to host COP32 signals climate diplomacy progress amid ongoing crises.
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Five years after a military coup in Mali aimed to restore security, insurgent groups linked to al-Qaeda have worsened insecurity. Jihadists have imposed a fuel blockade, crippling the economy and causing a humanitarian crisis. Ivory Coast reports rising refugee flows due to violence in southern Mali, raising regional security concerns.