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Macron and Starmer’s Diplomatic Visit to Washington: A Call for Unity Against Moscow.
In a noteworthy development for European diplomacy, French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer are set to travel to Washington next week. Their visit comes at a time of heightened concern in Europe regarding US President Donald Trump’s increasingly hardline stance on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and his recent overtures toward Moscow.
The primary focus of this crucial meeting will be to convey to President Trump the importance of not hastily pursuing a ceasefire agreement with Russian President Vladimir Putin that would compromise Ukraine’s sovereignty. Macron has articulated his strong belief that any accord that would represent a capitulation by Ukraine would not only embolden Russia but also signal weakness to adversaries of the United States, including China and Iran.
In a recent social media session, Macron emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “I will tell him: deep down you cannot be weak in the face of President (Putin). It’s not you, it’s not what you’re made of and it’s not in your interests.” This assertion underscores the resolve of European leaders to present a united front against threats to democratic values and territorial integrity.
This diplomatic mission also emerges in light of a growing rift between the Trump administration and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, whom Trump has controversially referred to as a dictator. Such sentiments have raised alarms among Kyiv’s European allies, who are grappling with the implications of a potentially more aggressive and unilateral US approach to foreign policy.
As Macron and Starmer prepare for their pivotal discussions in Washington, their commitment to supporting Ukraine and reinforcing transatlantic solidarity is more crucial than ever. The outcome of this meeting could significantly influence the trajectory of the conflict in Ukraine and the broader geopolitical landscape.
DAURA, Katsina State – In a gesture of respect and remembrance, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the 2023 presidential candidate for the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP), and former Senate President Bukola Saraki visited the gravesite of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari on Saturday.
Both Kwankwaso and Saraki offered their condolences to the family of the former Head of State in Daura. Images circulating on social media depicted the leaders in prayer at the gravesite.
Buhari, who led Nigeria from 2015 to 2023, passed away in London following a period of illness. His remains were interred in Daura earlier this week. The visits by Kwankwaso and Saraki mark the latest in a series of tributes paid to the late president.
The Federal Government has declared Tuesday, July 15, 2025, a public holiday to honor the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 82. The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on behalf of the Federal Government, following President Bola Tinubu’s approval. This declaration is part of the ongoing seven-day national mourning period.
In a statement, the Minister described Buhari as a leader who served Nigeria with dedication and integrity, emphasizing the holiday’s purpose: to allow Nigerians to reflect on his contributions to the nation’s democratic journey and national development. Citizens are urged to use this day to promote peace, patriotism, and national cohesion, aligning with the late President’s vision for a united and prosperous Nigeria. During the mourning period, national flags will fly at half-mast. The Federal Government has expressed its deepest condolences to the family, the people of Katsina State, and all Nigerians.
The Nigeria Police Force has announced the successful dismantling of two major human trafficking syndicates operating across the country. In coordinated sting operations spanning Enugu, Anambra, and Ondo States, law enforcement rescued numerous victims, including children, pregnant women, and foreign nationals, and apprehended 11 suspects.
Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, issued a statement from the Force Headquarters in Abuja, commending the officers involved for their bravery and precision.
In one operation spearheaded by the Zone-13 Police Command, authorities targeted a child trafficking and “baby factory” ring. Eight suspects were arrested, including Uzoamaka Ani (27), Joy Madu (52), and Victoria Onodu Akasike (56), who allegedly confessed to involvement in child abduction, illegal adoption, and operating unlicensed medical facilities used as baby factories. The syndicate operated strategically across communities in Enugu and Anambra States, preying on vulnerable women and children. Rescued victims included a seven-month-old baby, a four-year-old child, and two pregnant women, all discovered in a secluded village. The expectant mothers, from Ebonyi State, were reportedly lured and detained for forced childbirth, with the intent to sell their newborns. The victims are currently receiving medical and psychological support under protective custody, while the search continues for fleeing members of the syndicate.
In a separate incident in Ondo State, an operation led by the state police resulted in the rescue of David Angerinya, a Ghanaian national trafficked into Nigeria under false pretenses. This operation stemmed from a formal petition from the Interpol Liaison Office in Abuja, highlighting a suspected case of transnational human trafficking. Investigators uncovered a broader international trafficking network and arrested three suspects: Hayford Nyamekye, Awine Alex, and Kojo Felix. These individuals were allegedly part of a syndicate deceiving individuals from neighboring West African countries with false promises of jobs and travel visas to destinations like Canada, only to hold them in exploitative conditions in Nigeria. During the raid, police discovered 39 additional Ghanaian nationals, many without valid travel documents or with expired passports, and in dire health conditions. These victims are now receiving medical treatment.
Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, praised the officers for their swift response and dedication to dismantling trafficking networks. He reaffirmed the Police Force’s commitment to combating human trafficking, child exploitation, and cross-border crimes. He urged Nigerians to report suspicious activities to the nearest police station.
The Inspector-General emphasized the Police Force’s commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and ensuring perpetrators are brought to justice, stating, “These operations send a strong and clear message: there is no hiding place for human traffickers in Nigeria.” He added that the Nigeria Police Force will continue working to disrupt criminal networks and safeguard the rights and dignity of all individuals within the nation’s borders.
Kwankwaso and Saraki Pay Respects at Buhari’s Gravesite.
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