RUSSIA SHIFTS MEDITERRANEAN FOCUS
Following the ouster of Bashar al-Assad, Russia has increased flights to Libya’s al-Khadim base near Benghazi, signalling a strategic shift. With over one flight daily since mid-December, Russia aims to secure its Mediterranean military presence as operations in Syria dwindle. The base supports Moscow’s activities across Africa, including Mali, where it rivals French influence. Analysts link this to Russia’s broader ambitions despite potential instability under Gen. Khalifa Haftar, Libya’s eastern ruler. NATO expresses concern over Russia’s growing proximity to Europe. This move repositions Moscow geopolitically, adapting to shifting alliances and uncertainties in Syria.
SYRIA’S FM VISITS SAUDI ARABIA
Syria’s newly appointed Foreign Minister, Asaad Hassan al-Shibani, arrived in Riyadh with a high-level delegation, marking his first official foreign visit since taking office. The delegation, which included the defence minister and the Head of Intelligence, was welcomed by Saudi Deputy Foreign Minister Walid al-Khuraiji. This visit signifies a significant step in Syria-Saudi relations following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad by opposition forces in December. The invitation came from Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan. The visit aligns with Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to bring stability to Syria and strengthen regional cooperation.
BANGLADESH REVISES HISTORY TEXTBOOKS
Bangladesh is revising its 2012 curriculum for 2025 textbooks, emphasizing Ziaur Rahman’s role in declaring independence in 1971. Following Sheikh Hasina’s government’s fall in 2023, a committee of experts is tasked with removing “exaggerated” content and glorification, including narratives favouring Hasina. The revised books will equally honour Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and Ziaur Rahman’s contributions. Classes four to nine will feature the updates, while earlier grades remain unchanged. Officials argue this move aims to present a balanced historical perspective, ensuring accuracy and removing partisan bias from educational material.
PEACE TALKS BETWEEN UKRAINE-RUSSIA
Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed openness to Slovakia hosting peace negotiations with Ukraine, describing Slovakia’s stance as “neutral and acceptable.” The announcement followed Slovak PM Robert Fico’s controversial Moscow visit, seen as undermining EU unity on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Fico justified the trip by citing concerns over gas supply disruptions, as Ukraine plans to terminate a Russian gas transit contract. Protests erupted in Slovakia, with critics accusing Fico of aiding Russian propaganda. Putin highlighted Slovakia’s reliance on Russian gas and potential to mediate talks, though the move drew backlash from Slovak opposition and citizens rallying for EU and NATO solidarity.
INDIA CLEARS BHOPAL’S TOXIC WASTE
Authorities have started removing 377 tons of toxic waste from the Union Carbide factory in Bhopal, four decades after the 1984 gas tragedy killed over 5,000 instantly and affected 150,000 people. Following a Madhya Pradesh High Court ultimatum, the waste is being transported to Pithampur for incineration, with measures to prevent air and soil contamination. The tragedy, caused by a gas leak from the US-owned plant, remains one of history’s worst industrial disasters. Despite health initiatives, survivors face chronic illnesses and limited healthcare access. Protests erupted in Pithampur against hosting the waste, highlighting ongoing challenges tied to the disaster’s legacy.
