International

Biden hits Russia with sanctions, shifts troops to Germany

Published

3 years ago

February 25, 2022

Biden hits Russia with sanctions, shifts troops to Germany

President Joe Biden hit back Thursday against Russia’s invation of Ukraine, unleashing robust new sanctions, ordering the deployment of thousands of additional troops to NATO ally Germany and declaring that America would stand up to Russia’s Vladimir Putin.

As for the Russian president, Biden said: “He’s going to test the resolve of the west o see if we stay together. And we will.”

Targeting Russia’s financial system, Biden said, the United States will block assets of large Russian banks, i mpose export controls aimed at the nation’s high-tech needs and sanction its business oligarchs.

The president said the U.S. also will be deploying additional forces to Germany to bolster NATO after the invation of Ukraine, which is not a member of the defense organization. Some 7,000 additional U.S. troops will be sent.

Some U.S. lawmakers — and Ukrainian officials — called on Biden to do more.

“There is more that we can and should do,” said Sen Bob Menendez, D-N.J., the chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee, pointing to the possibility of removing Russian banks from the SWIFT international banking system and sanctioning Putin personally. “Congress and the Biden administration must not shy away from any options.”

Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell expressed support Thursday for Biden’s latest moves but also urged Biden to apply maximum pressure on Putin. McConnell said the top four congressional leaders in the House and Senate received a classified briefing from the president late Thursday.

“We’re all together at this point and we need to be together about what should be done,” McConnell said. “But I have some advice: Ratchet the sanctions all the way up. Don’t hold any back.”

White House deputy national security adviser Daleep Singh stressed that the Biden administration valued closed coordination with allies and avoiding even the perception of hurting ordinary Russian citizens as they roll out sanctions. He declined to detail a circumstance in which Biden might approve cutting the Russians off from SWIFT or target Putin directly.

“When we consider which sanctions to apply, we’re not cowboys and cowgirls pressing a button to impose costs,” Singh said. “We follow a set of principles. We want the sanctions to be impactful enough to demonstrate our resolve, and to show that we have the capacity to deliver overwhelming costs to Russia.”

Biden declared that Putin, who has referred to the collapse of the Soviet Union as the “greatest geopolitical catastrophe” of the past century, is looking beyond Ukraine.

“He has much larger ambitions,” Biden said. “He wants to, in fact, reestablish the former Soviet Union. That’s what this is about.”

The penalties announced Thursday fall in line with the White House’s insistence that it would hit Russia’s financial system and Putin’s inner circle, while also imposing export controls that would aim to starve Russia’s industries and military of U.S. semiconductors and other high-tech products.

“Putin is the aggressor,” Biden said. “Putin chose this war, and now he and his country will bear the consequences.”

But Biden, for now, held off imposing some of the most severe potential sanctions, including cutting Russia out of the SWIFT payment system, which allows for the transfers of money from bank to bank around the globe.

Biden announced the sanctions at the White House while Ukraine’s government reported mounting casualties inflicted by Russian forces attacking from the east, north and south.

Oil and natural prices have already surged over concerns that Russia — an energy production behemoth — will slow the flow of oil and natural gas to Europe. Biden, however, acknowledged the sanctions are “going to take time” to have their effect on the Russian economy.

Biden added that after Russia’s “brutal assault” against Ukraine it would be a mistake to allow Putin’s actions to go unanswered. He said if they did, “the consequences for America would be much worse.”

“America stands up to bullies, we stand up for freedom,” Biden said. “This is who we are.”

Biden spoke hours after holding a virtual meeting with the leaders of Britain, Canada, France, Italy and Japan. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President Charles Michel and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg also joined the meeting.

The president also met with his national security team in the White House Situation Room as he looked to flesh out U.S. moves in the rapidly escalating crisis.

The White House said Biden would meet Friday morning with other NATO heads of state “in an extraordinary virtual summit to discuss the security situation in and around Ukraine.”Vice president Kamala Harris will meet virtually with leaders of eastern flank NATO members, including nations like Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania that gained independence when the Soviet Union broke up in 1991.

While Biden described the sanctions as severe, Ukrainian officials urged the U.S. and West to go further.

“We demand the disconnection of Russia from SWIFT, the introduction of a no-fly zone over Ukraine and other effective steps to stop the aggressor,” Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in a tweet.

The Biden administration, however, has shown some reluctance to cut Russia from SWIFT, at least immediately, because of concerns the move could also have enormous ramifications for Europe and other Western economies. Biden, answering questions from reporters, appeared to push a decision on SWIFT to European allies.

“It is always an option but right now that’s not the position that the rest of Europe wishes to take,” Biden said. He also contended that the financial sanctions he announced would be more damaging to Russia.

The Belgium-headquartered system allows for tens of millions of transactions daily among banks, financial exchanges and other institutions. The U.S. notably has previously blocked Iran from the system because of its nuclear program.

Officials in Europe have noted that the loss of SWIFT access by Russia could be a drag on the broader global economy. Russia has also equated a SWIFT ban to a declaration of war. And because the system cements the importance of the U.S. dollar in global finance, outright bans also carry the risk of pushing countries to use alternatives through the Chinese government or blockchain-based technologies.

Brian Frey, a former Justice Department prosecutor during the Trump administration, said while SWIFT is the primary messaging system for financial payments, “there are alternatives to the system” and cutting Russia off would create a “splashback and immediate problems for the international community.”

The sanctions include targeting Russia’s two largest banks, Sberbank and VTB Bank. The U.S. Treasury Department says the sanctions overall “target nearly 80% of all banking assets in Russia and will have a deep and long-lasting effect on the Russian economy and financial system.”

Individuals close to Putin were also targeted in the latest sanctions. They include former chief of staff Sergei Ivanov; Andrey Patrushev, a Putin ally who has held high-ranking positions at the state-owned Gazprom Neft; and former Deputy Prime Minister Igor Sechin, chairman of the management board of the oil company Rosneft.

Treasury also announced sanctions against Belarusian banks, the country’s defense industry and security officials over support for the Russian invation of Ukraine.

Biden said the export control measures he ordered would “impose severe cost on the Russian economy, both immediately and over time.” The measures will restrict Russia access to semiconductors, computers, telecommunications, information security equipment, lasers and sensors.

“We’re going to impair their ability to compete in a high-tech 21st century economy,” Biden said.

Meanwhile, Russia’s second-ranking diplomat in Washington, Minister Counselor Sergey Trepelkov, was expelled in retaliation for the Russian expulsion of the No. 2 U.S. diplomat in Moscow earlier this month, a senior State Department official said Thursday.

The expulsion was unrelated to the invation and is part of a long-running dispute between Washington and Moscow over embassy staffing, the official said.

International

Sudan Accuses Kenya of Running Contrary to International Law by Giving Tacit Support to RSF

Published

2 days ago

February 20, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Sudan Accuses Kenya of Running Contrary to International Law by Giving Tacit Support to RSF

By: Michael Mike

Sudanese government has expressed displeasure at the action of Kenya government for allegedly acting contrary to international law and position by given tacit support to Sudanese militias.

The Sudanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement said it “regrets the Kenyan government’s disregard for its obligations under international law, the Charter of the United Nations, the Constitutive Act of the African Union, and the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide by hosting the event of signing a so-called “political agreement” between the terrorist Janjaweed militia—responsible for
ongoing acts of genocide in Sudan—and its affiliated individuals and groups.”

The statement added that: “Given that the stated objective of this agreement is to establish a parallel government on part of Sudanese territory, this move promotes the dismembering of African states, violates their sovereignty, and interferes in their internal affairs.

“This is, therefore, a clear breach of the UN Charter, the Constitutive Act of the
African Union, and the established principles of the contemporary international
order.

“Furthermore, hosting leaders of the terrorist RSF militia and allowing them to
conduct political and propaganda activities—while they continue to perpetrate
genocide, massacre civilians on an ethnic basis, attack IDP camps, and commit
acts of rape—constitutes an endorsement of and complicity in these heinous
crimes.

“Equally, this action by the Kenyan government not only violates the principles
of good neighborliness but also contravenes the pledges Kenya has made at the
highest levels not to allow hostile activities against Sudan to be carried out on its
soil. It is, therefore, tantamount to an act of hostility against the entire Sudanese
people.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs affirms that this propaganda stunt will have no
impact on the ground, as the Sudanese Armed Forces, along with joint and
supporting forces—backed by the Sudanese people—remain resolute in their
determination to liberate every inch of Sudanese territory desecrated by the
terrorist militia and its foreign mercenaries.

“Their swift and continuous progress
toward this goal remains unabated.
While the Ministry calls on the international community to condemn this hostile
act by the Kenyan government, it affirms that it will take all necessary measures
to redress the balance.”

Further explaining the position of Sudan and its people on the action of Kenya government, the Media officer of the Embassy of Sunday in Nigeria ,Almoiz Mohamed said: “Sudan, its government, people and armed forces, have said their word: No to militias, no to a parallel government, no to any treasonous project, and what is so- called the political declaration, its fate is a disastrous failure.

“The RSF militia is working to achieve what it failed to achieve with weapons. The so called “parallel” government will not find the recognition it hopes for, and it does not have the capabilities to talk about possessing or seizing legitimacy, because it is based primarily on the militia rapid support rifle, which has been stained with blood, violations, crimes and rapes from Darfur to Khartoum.

In conclusion, am very confident, and many are confident, that it will fail.”

Sudan Accuses Kenya of Running Contrary to International Law by Giving Tacit Support to RSF

International

Bridging the Cancer prevention, diagnosis and care gaps in Lesotho

Published

1 week ago

February 14, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Bridging the Cancer prevention, diagnosis and care gaps in Lesotho

By: Michael Mike

In a country where cancer prevention, diagnosis, and care have historically been limited, the personal journeys of survivors like Maatang Chaka and Joalane Tsupaneare beacons of hope and resilience.

Tebo, a 49-year-old mother from Maseru District, and Joalane, a 19-year-old leukemia survivor, represent the strength and determination of many cancer patients in Lesotho. Their stories of survival and advocacy highlight the urgent need to bridge the gaps in cancer services in the nation.

Chaka’s battle with stage 3 breast cancer began in 2011 while she was working in the mines of Mokhotlong District. Reflecting on her journey, she recalls, “It started as a pain in my right breast. After a medical examination, I was told there was a lump. At that time, I didn’t know about cancer, so I couldn’t understand how serious my situation was.” Today, she finds joy in sharing her story to give hope and support to other cancer patients. Thanks to financial support from the Government of Lesotho, she sought treatment in South Africa. By 2018, Chakawas declared cancer-free.
For the 19-year-old childhood cancer survivor Joalane Tsupane, her cancer journey began at the tender age of one year when she was diagnosed with leukemia. As a young girl, she experienced constant body pain, hair loss, bleeding, fever, and loss of appetite. Supported by the Government of Lesotho, Tsupaneembarked on a long road to recovery and was declared cancer-free in 2019.

Tsupane points out a significant challenge: the knowledge gap about childhood cancer in the community. “There is a need to increase awareness about childhood cancer. Information should be made available for all, especially our parents,” she emphasizes.

Motsamai Kekeletso, a dedicated caregiver with Friends with Starlight Oasis of Hope Foundation, echoes this sentiment. Her organization provides palliative care to cancer patients. “I started helping people suffering from chronic diseases because I realized there was no home for the elderly in our community,” she explains. “I love taking care of cancer patients and feel fulfilled providing support in their most vulnerable state.”

In 2023, the Senkatana Oncology Clinic in Maseru District reported approximately 1,888 new cancer cases in Lesotho, with around 500 of them being cervical cancer cases. Addressing this growing concern, the Government of Lesotho, under the Ministry of Health, has commenced construction of the nation’s first Cancer Care facility. This new center will offer radiotherapy services, reducing patients’ need to seek treatment abroad.

During the 2025 World Cancer Day commemoration, Minister of Health Hon Selibe Mochoboroane announced, “The government of Lesotho is making strides in establishing a dedicated cancer treatment center to address these challenges. We are training medical professionals and support staff from within and outside Lesotho. With guidance from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the center aims to be a state-of-the-art facility.”

Hon Mochoboroane also acknowledged the vital contributions of development partners, highlighting the successful administration of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to about 93% of girls aged 9 to 14 in 2024. He added, “Development Partners are actively providing educational resources, equipment, and expert assistance to support the ministry’s efforts. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are crucial in reaching underserved communities, offering education and support services, including palliative care, to families in need.”
Dr. Innocent Nuwagira, World Health Organization (WHO) Country Representative to Lesotho, stressed the importance of integrating cancer prevention, screening, treatment, and palliative care into broader health services to close the existing healthcare gaps.

He noted, “Between 30% – 50% of cancer deaths could be prevented by modifying or avoiding key risk factors like tobacco use, alcohol, unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, chronic infections, and air pollution. While prevention is the most cost-effective long-term strategy, early detection and management are key to reducing cancer deaths.”

Manyathela Kheleli, Brand Marketing Manager, Communications and Sponsorships of Standard Lesotho Bank, announced that the bank had contributed 1.9 million maloti to support the construction of the cancer facility. He also called on other corporate entities to join in and make the project a reality.

With the new cancer facility, Lesotho’s cancer patients will no longer need to travel to South Africa or elsewhere for treatment and care, marking a significant step forward in the country’s healthcare journey.

Bridging the Cancer prevention, diagnosis and care gaps in Lesotho

International

EU Funds Programmes to Develop Competencies, Politics

Published

2 weeks ago

February 8, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

EU Funds Programmes to Develop Competencies, Politics

By: Michael Mike

The European Union (EU) is complementing the efforts of the Nigerian government to improve and strengthen democracy across the country by supporting programmes that build the capacity of young people in politics and governance.

The E.U. through the Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN) Programme has funded the Yiaga Africa’s Constituency Office Internship Programme.

According to a statement on Saturday, the 3-month programme, which started in December 2024, and is expected to end in February this year, provides an excellent opportunity for young individuals committed to democratic development and eager to deepen their understanding of legislative processes and effective constituency engagement, to gain hands-on experience in the operations of constituency offices and legislature-constituent relations.

The statement read that by placing these interns in the constituency offices of lawmakers, the programme not only offers them the chance to understand the legislative process, but provides an opportunity for them to engage with lawmakers, contribute meaningfully to policy discussions, and be part of constituency engagement.

According to the Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Zissimos Vergos, the EU’s belief is that a thriving democracy is built on responsible leadership and active citizens engagement.

He said: “Young people, therefore, play very significant roles in developing Nigeria’s democracy by actively participating in the electoral and governance processes, and contributing to guidelines, policies, and frameworks that ensure free, fair, credible, and transparent elections.

“Hence, it is important to provide platforms for these young and vibrant minds to actively engage and be a part of the country’s governance process. The time for making excuses is over. The moment people start making excuses not to act ethically, democratic institutions are undermined. Rather than criticising democracy, we must focus on ethical decisions that shape its practice.”

Highlighting the impact of the programme in strengthening the relationship between lawmakers and their constituencies, Yiaga Africa’s Programme Manager, Yetunde Bakare said, “The Constituency Office Internship Programme encourages youth participation in the democratic process, ensuring that young people are involved in shaping policies that affect them.

“We would like to say thank you to the EU for the support that we receive that enables us to do the work that we do, which allows us to deploy young people to constituency offices. This wouldn’t have been possible without the support of the EU and the young people who continue to apply and take advantage of opportunities like this.”

One of the interns, Olaiya Oluwadamilola, while expressing passionately about how the programme has shaped both her professional and personal life, said, “This internship has not only enhanced my communication skills and boosted my confidence, but it has also inspired me to give back to my community and pursue a career in politics.”

Another intern, Salihu Gode,, praised the EU’s vision for inclusive governance, and harped on the importance of mentorship, which she believes is essential for her career development and political ambition. “With the skills and knowledge I’ve acquired, I’m confident that I can drive meaningful change in my community and contribute to Nigeria’s democratic growth,” she said. Gode also expressed her commitment to empowering women and promoting female participation in politics—an area the EU actively supports.

EU Funds Programmes to Develop Competencies, Politics