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Nearly 200 nations reached a consensus at COP30 in Belem, Brazil, focusing on climate finance for developing countries but avoiding explicit mention of fossil fuels. The summit faced divisions over fossil fuel phaseouts, with the U.S. absent and protests ongoing. Brazil aims to reduce Amazon deforestation by 2030 amid political challenges.
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On December 16-17, 2025, the US administration announced expanded travel restrictions effective January 1, 2026. Full entry bans now include Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, South Sudan, Syria, and Palestinian Authority passport holders. Fifteen additional countries, mostly African, face partial restrictions. The move aims to address national security concerns, citing vetting challenges and recent violent incidents involving foreign nationals.
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The Biden administration announced a significant expansion of the US travel ban, adding six new countries including Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, South Sudan, Syria, and Palestine. The move aims to tighten vetting amid concerns over security, corruption, and regional instability, affecting nearly 40 countries overall.
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Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have responded to the US travel restrictions by imposing reciprocal visa bans on US citizens. The US expanded its visa restrictions on December 16, citing security concerns, affecting 39 countries, mostly in Africa. The affected nations are led by military governments facing regional security challenges.
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The US has announced new visa restrictions affecting 38 countries, mainly in Africa, requiring applicants to post bonds of up to $15,000. The policy aims to reduce overstays but raises concerns over affordability and fairness, especially for Nigerian travelers. It takes effect on January 21, 2026.
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Since January 20, 2026, the Trump administration launched "Operation Catch of the Day," targeting roughly 1,400 immigrants in Maine, focusing on those with alleged criminal records. Governor Janet Mills and local leaders criticize the operation for secrecy and community disruption, especially in Portland and Lewiston's immigrant populations. The raids coincide with a broader visa suspension affecting 75 countries, including many African nations, amid heightened immigration enforcement nationwide.
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Guinea's military entered Sierra Leone's border town of Kalieyereh without authorization, seizing equipment and raising their flag. Sierra Leone's government confirmed the incident, which follows a history of border disputes linked to the Sierra Leonean civil war and regional tensions. Diplomatic efforts are underway to resolve the crisis.