In a dramatic political move, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal terminated the mandate of Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko through a presidential decree issued on May 22. This decision follows months of simmering tensions within the executive branch, culminating in what local observers describe as a “seismic shift” in the country’s governance. Hours before the dismissal, Sonko addressed lawmakers in a parliamentary session where he openly challenged the president’s authority, declaring himself a premier who “takes decisions without seeking prior approval.”
Sonko, a prominent figure among Senegal’s youth, had been barred from running in the 2024 presidential election. He subsequently endorsed Faye’s candidacy, leading to his appointment as prime minister. His removal marks a decisive break from the collaborative dynamic that initially defined their partnership.
United States tightens green card application process
The Biden administration has announced a sweeping change to immigration procedures, requiring all green card applicants to submit their requests from their country of origin. Under the previous system, temporary visa holders could adjust their status while residing in the U.S., avoiding prolonged separation from families and employment. The new policy, implemented by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), eliminates this pathway, forcing legal immigrants—including spouses of American citizens—to leave the country for weeks or months to complete their applications. Critics argue the measure “undermines decades of immigration precedent” and imposes unnecessary hardship on families.
Tulsi Gabbard resigns as U.S. intelligence chief
Tulsi Gabbard, Director of National Intelligence, submitted her resignation to President Trump, effective June 30, citing personal reasons tied to her husband’s battle with a rare bone cancer. Gabbard, known for advocating a “measured approach” to foreign policy, leaves behind a contentious tenure marked by limited access to high-stakes national security decisions, including operations in Iran and Venezuela. Her departure underscores the evolving dynamics within the administration’s intelligence apparatus.
EU and Mexico expand trade partnership
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President António Costa, and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum formalized an upgraded trade agreement between the EU and Mexico on Friday. The revised accord eliminates tariffs on nearly all Mexican food exports to Europe while enhancing cooperation in security, migration, clean energy, and digital commerce. In an era of rising protectionism, the deal sends a clear signal of commitment to multilateral trade openness.
Hantavirus outbreak aboard cruise ship reaches twelve cases
The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed a new hantavirus infection linked to the MV Hondius cruise ship, bringing the total cases to twelve. The affected crew member, who disembarked in Tenerife before being transferred to the Netherlands, survived the illness. According to WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, no new fatalities have occurred since May 2, when the outbreak was first reported. The agency continues to monitor the situation as the vessel’s itinerary remains under scrutiny.
