Mexico deploys troops after death of “El Mencho”

Mexico has deployed nearly 9,500 troops across more than 20 states following a surge of violence triggered by the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).
The cartel boss died while being transported to custody after being seriously wounded in a firefight during his capture in Jalisco state. Authorities said at least: 25 National Guard members, a prison guard, a state prosecutor’s office official, and 30 cartel members have been killed in unrest since Sunday.
The government says it is working to stabilise the situation as violent reprisals spread across western Mexico.

EU sanctions Russian oficials; Hungary blocks Ukraine aid

The European Union has imposed sanctions on eight Russian officials accused of serious human rights violations. The individuals, including members of the judiciary and prison administrators, face travel bans and asset freezes.
However, Hungary vetoed:
Additional sanctions against Moscow, a key loan package for Ukraine
The split comes just ahead of the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, highlighting ongoing divisions within the bloc.

UK’s former US ambassador Lord Mandelson Arrested

Lord Mandelson has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
Police confirmed a 72-year-old man was detained in north London following an investigation into allegations that he passed market-sensitive government information to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein while serving as a government minister.
He denies any criminal wrongdoing. Investigations are ongoing in consultation with the Crown Prosecution Service.

US partially evacuates Beirut Embassy

The United States has ordered all non-essential staff to leave its embassy in Beirut amid rising regional tensions involving Iran.
Approximately 50 personnel are affected. The embassy remains operational with core staff.
The move follows warnings from President Donald Trump that “bad things” would happen if Iran does not agree to a nuclear deal, increasing fears of potential retaliation targeting US facilities in the region.

Netherlands swears in youngest PM

Rob Jetten, 38, has become the Netherlands’ youngest and first openly gay prime minister.
His Democrats 66 party narrowly defeated Geert Wilders’ anti-Islam populist party in October’s election. Jetten has formed a centre-right minority government with the VVD and CDA.
As a minority coalition, major reforms — including €19bn in defence spending and healthcare cuts — will require vote-by-vote negotiations in parliament.

AFRICA

Chad closes border with Sudan

Chad has shut its eastern border with Sudan “until further notice” following intensified clashes near the border town of al-Tina.
Nearly one million Sudanese refugees have entered Chad since Sudan’s civil war began in April 2023. The government says the closure is a security precaution to prevent further cross-border violence, though humanitarian exceptions may be granted.

Mugabe’s son charged in South Africa

Bellarmine Mugabe, the youngest son of Zimbabwe’s late president Robert Mugabe, has been charged with attempted murder in South Africa.

The 28-year-old appeared in a Johannesburg court after a 23-year-old man was shot and critically injured at a private property. Authorities say a firearm has not yet been recovered. Mugabe remains in custody.

Mozambique to receive $6bn from World Bank

The World Bank plans to provide Mozambique with $6 billion in largely concessional financing over the next five years to support public investment.
An additional $4 billion may be mobilised for the private sector. The funding comes as the IMF warns of worsening debt dynamics in the Southern African country.

Trump Ambassador presents vredentials in South Africa

Leo Brent Bozell III, President Trump’s nominee for US ambassador to South Africa, has officially presented his credentials.
Relations remain strained after Trump accused South Africa of persecuting its white minority — claims Pretoria strongly denies — and criticised its ties with Russia and China.
Bozell has said he seeks a respectful and constructive partnership despite disagreements.

South Africa visa corruption probe

A government investigation has found that South Africa’s immigration system was exploited by officials who accepted payments in exchange for issuing visas and residence permits.
Four officials reportedly received more than 16 million rand in direct deposits. Authorities described the corruption as organised and damaging to public trust.