US sanctions target new DRC figures amid ongoing conflict

DRC: why are the United States imposing new sanctions?

Three months after sanctioning the Rwandan army and several of its senior officials, Washington strikes again. This time, the US targets two men: an intelligence officer from the AFC/M23 and a commander of the FDLR, two groups involved in the conflict shaking eastern DRC. Why are these two officials in the crosshairs? Do these sanctions send a message to Rwanda? Could other individuals be targeted in the coming months?

Sudan: what rights for Sudanese refugees of the Four ethnic group?

In France, a landmark ruling by the National Court of Asylum (CNDA) has granted full refugee status to a Sudanese national from the Four ethnic group. The court based its decision on a February report by the UN Human Rights Council. Why has French justice now recognized a risk of persecution for this community? How many people could benefit? What specific rights does refugee status grant in France?

Space: what will the two French astronauts do?

Thomas Pesquet and Arnaud Prost will travel to space in 2027, as announced by President Emmanuel Macron at the Choose France summit. Under an agreement with American company Vast, the two French astronauts will take part in new space missions. What do we know about these future expeditions? What are their objectives? Why is France increasing its ambitions in space exploration?

Cuba: is the country on the brink of a new economic shock?

The ultimatum set by Donald Trump expired on June 5. Foreign companies in Cuba were given until Friday to cut all ties with the military conglomerate GAESA, which manages key sectors of Cuba’s economy including tourism, supermarkets, and telecommunications, or face exclusion from the US financial system. What are the risks for Cuba’s economy? Can Havana find new partners to offset these departures?