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UK Historic Landslide

UK Historic Landslide

and South Africa Unveils Cabinet

Ross Crabtree
July 07, 2024

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This week sees Labour take power in the UK, and a government formed in South Africa.

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Major Story

Orbán's Peace Mission Raises Eyebrows Across Europe

Viktor Orbán, Hungary's Prime Minister and one of Europe’s most pro-Russian leaders, met with Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Friday. This rare visit drew sharp criticism from fellow European leaders. Orbán’s Moscow trip, following an unannounced visit to Kyiv, is part of his self-styled peace mission aimed at brokering dialogue between Russia and Ukraine.

Upon his arrival in Russia, Orbán posted a photo captioned: “The peace mission continues. Second stop: Moscow.” In their meeting at the Kremlin, described as a “frank conversation” by a senior Moscow aide, Putin reiterated his uncompromising demands: Kyiv must cede additional territory, withdraw troops, and abandon its NATO ambitions. These demands have been consistently rejected by Ukraine and its Western allies.

Brussels swiftly distanced itself from Orbán’s actions. Josep Borrell, the EU’s foreign policy chief, emphasized that Orbán’s visit was a bilateral matter and did not reflect EU policy. Ukraine’s government also condemned the visit, reinforcing the principle that no agreements about Ukraine should be made without its involvement.

Orbán, who assumed the rotating EU presidency this month, claims his tenure is focused on peace efforts. Despite his assertions, his attempts to mediate have been met with skepticism. With significant elections approaching in France and the US, Orbán might be betting on shifting geopolitical dynamics. However, critics argue that his actions undermine European unity and the rule of law, leaving many to question the true impact of his so-called peace mission.

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Other News

1️⃣🇦🇺 Australia: The Albanese government has agreed to a new funding deal with Papua New Guinea (PNG) to support asylum seekers, following threats from PNG to return them to Australia. The deal, which keeps funding details confidential, aims to assist PNG in managing and integrating asylum seekers previously transferred by Australia. This comes after PNG accused Australia of abandoning refugees, highlighting the urgent need for continued support.

2️⃣🇨🇳 China: China has donated a presidential building complex in Vanuatu, while Australia and New Zealand inaugurated a $36.55 million airfield in the Solomon Islands, highlighting their influence race in the Pacific. Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, after visiting Australia, plans to travel to China soon. China, the largest external creditor to Vanuatu, and Australia, its biggest aid donor, continue to compete for strategic ties in the region.

3️⃣🇲🇷 Mauritania: President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani has been re-elected with over 56% of the vote, avoiding a run-off. Anti-slavery activist Biram Dah Abeid came second with 22%, while Hamadi Sidi el-Mokhtar of the Islamist Tewassoul party secured 13%. Despite accusations of rigging from his opponents, Ghazouani is credited with maintaining stability and fostering international alliances since his first election five years ago.

What Went Under the Radar?

🇲🇿 Mozambique: The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has concluded its anti-terrorism mission in Cabo Delgado, withdrawing its forces from the region. Initiated in 2021 with a 3,000-strong force, the mission significantly supported Mozambique's defense efforts against terrorism. Mozambican Defense Minister Cristovao Chume hailed the mission as a victory for regional solidarity, although some terrorist threats persist.

Next Week’s Geopolitical Milestones

1️⃣🇷🇺 Russia/India: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Russia from 7-10 July 2024 for an annual summit aimed at deepening the strategic partnership between the two countries.

2️⃣🌍 Global: The 2024 NATO summit will be held in Washington DC from 9-11 July, marking the 75th anniversary of the alliance's establishment. A key agenda item is Ukraine’s prospective accession, though no formal invitation is expected at this time.