Capital of Angola; port, industrial and cultural hub on the Atlantic
The pope has addressed Angola’s past and current struggles, urging hope and social justice while criticizing corruption and the exploitation of natural resources. He is on the third leg of a four-nation Africa tour, meeting government officials and performing open-air a Mass in Kilamba before continuing to Muxima and Saurimo.
Pope Leo XIV has completed an 11-day African tour focusing on peace and justice, but his trip has been overshadowed by a public feud with US President Donald Trump. The pope has repeatedly condemned war and tyranny, including criticism of the US-Israeli war on Iran, prompting Trump to attack him on social media. Leo insists his messages target global issues, not Trump personally, and vows to continue advocating for peace.
Nigeria is becoming central to a new model of counterterrorism. AFRICOM says security outcomes depend on intelligence sharing and coordinated action, with Nigeria at the heart of operations against ISIS and other groups. US forces have withdrawn most personnel, but partnerships continue through intelligence and joint actions.