Africa Command News Archive | AFRICOM Or USAFRICOM Alerts

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May 28, 2023 - The United States has carried out an airstrike in Somalia, and engaged insurgents in support of the Somalian government, according to a statement released by the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM). Read more

May 9, 2023 - Sudanese Armed Forces statement: "A summary of today's situation: The operational situation is stable in all states of the country, except for some clashes with rebel militia groups in some parts of the capital. Read more

April 22, 2023 - Although the Pentagon has deployed forces and is reported to be coming up with options to assist in an evacuation of U.S. citizens located in the African country of Sudan, the White House said on Friday that it has no plans for a country-wide pullout of Americans from the country at this time Read more

March 16, 2023 - Inspections carried out by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) have found that 2.5 tons of natural uranium are missing from an unnamed Libyan site that is not under the control of the Libyan government. Read more

February 13, 2023 - AFRICOM: A U.S. Airstrike has killed at least 12 al-Shabaab fighters in Somalia. The airstrike was carried out around 28 miles from northeast Mogadishu, according to U.S. Africa Command. Read more

January 21, 2023 - The White House has declared the Russian private paramilitary organization PMC Wagner group as "transnational criminal organization". Read more

December 19, 2022 - The United States has killed 15 al-Shabab militants in Somalia after carrying out airstrikes at the request of the Somalian government. Read more

November 14, 2022 - 11 countries have been placed on the travel advisory page in the last 30 days, including Trinidad and Tobago, Tonga, Ecuador, Moldova, Nigeria, China, Taiwan, Samoa, Ukraine, Afghanistan, Israel, the West Bank and Gaza. Read more

November 11, 2022 - US AFRICA COMMAND: "Federal Government of Somalia combats terrorists with support from U.S. forces: At the request of the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command conducted a collective self-defense strike against the al-Shabaab terrorists who were attacking the Somali forces." Read more

October 30, 2022 - The Pentagon said that although Russia is an "acute threat", China "is the only competitor out there with both the intent to reshape the international order, and increasingly the power to do so". Read more

October 26, 2022 - Due to U.S. forces conducting an airstrike against al-Shabaab terrorists in Somalia, the Africa regional alert has been set to 2. Read statement from Africa Command.. Read more

October 3, 2022 - "In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command conducted an airstrike against the al-Shabaab militant network in Somalia on October 1. The strike occurred near Jilib, about 370 kilometers southwest of Mogadishu. Read more

September 22, 2022 - AFRICOM - At the request of the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command conducted an airstrike against al-Shabaab terrorists who were attacking Somali National Army forces near Buulobarde, Somalia, on Sept. 18. Read more

August 31, 2022 - The crude oil tanker "Affinity V", which is 826 feet long, and 147 feet wide ran aground in the Suez Canal, backing up Maritime traffic, according to local media and analysis of the ship's location in vessel tracking software. It has been released and is now back on course. Read more

August 28, 2022 - The president of the BRICS International Forum, Purnima Anand told reporters on Thursday that both Russia and India no longer need the U.S. dollar, as they have turned to national currencies to conduct mutual settlements. Read more

August 20, 2022 - Security Alert for the United States embassy in Mogadishu, Somalia in Africa. The U.S. Embassy in Somalia reminds U.S. citizens that terrorists continue to plot kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks in Somalia. Read more

August 04, 2022 - The U.S. Department of State has put out a worldwide travel alert, advising against traveling abroad after Sunday's drone strike where two R9X Hellfire missiles killed al-Qaeda leader, and Osama bin Laden successor, Ayman al-Zawahri. Read more

July 23, 2022 - Sergei Lavrov, Russia's Foreign Minister is setting out on a trip to Egypt where he will meet with officials and solidify their relationship with Russia. Rosatom, a Russian state-owned energy corporation began construction on Egypt's first nuclear power plant. Read more

July 19, 2022 - The United States military has put out a statement saying that it carried out an airstrike in Somalia on Sunday, killing two Al-Shabab fighters. The airstrike was carried out in southern Jubaland, near Libikus in the Lower Juba region, according to AFRICOM on Monday. Read more

July 04, 2022 - Russian and Syrian vessels have been turning off their transponders and have been accused of deceptive shipping practices in order to sell crude oil and stolen Ukrainian grain while evading the heavy sanctions placed on Russia due to its war on Ukraine. Read more

June 30, 2022 - Russian President Vladimir Putin said on June 21st that the BRICS countries, which include Russia, China, Brazil, and South Africa (Iran and Argentina have applied but not yet accepted) are currently working on setting up a global reserve currency to cut their financial reliance on the West. Read more

June 25, 2022 - List of travel advisories from the U.S. Department of State from June 1st, 2022 to June 24th, 2022. KEY: Level 1: Normal Precautions | Level 2: Increased Caution | Level 3: Reconsider Travel | Level 4: Do Not Travel. For a clickable list visit the OSLINT Advisories post. Read more

June 20, 2022 - Over 200 people have been killed in Oromia, Ethiopia, according to witnesses. Most of those killed were ethnic Amhara, a Semitic-speaking ethnic group that is indigenous to Ethiopia. Read more

June 8, 2022 - The World Bank put out a statement saying that less developed countries in the world face a major recession as a result of the war in Ukraine, as well as the consequences of the COVID-19 lockdowns as the cost of energy and food continue to rise globally. Read more

June 6, 2022 - Over 50 Catholic worshipers were killed after gunmen attacked St. Francis Catholic Church in Nigeria during church service. Although most were killed by gunfire, some were killed by explosions as the gunmen detonated explosives on the church compound. Read more

May 16, 2022 - The United States is deploying up to 500 soldiers to Somalia, Africa in order to establish "persistent presence" there in order to combat the increasing terrorist activity in the country by a branch of Al Qaeda called Al-Shabaab. Read more

May 14, 2022 - ISIS fighters in Nigeria have murdered 20 Christians in retaliation for the deaths of several of the group's leaders that occurred in the Middle East. Read more

April 2, 2022 - Over 200 Islamist militants have been killed by a state military operation in Mali, Africa in late March involving both land and air forces. Read more

February 7, 2022 - A cyclone that occurred in Madagascar has killed at least 10 people, destroyed homes and cut power as it hit the eastern coast of the country with wind speeds of over 100 miles per hour. Read more

January 29, 2022 - At least 14 people have been killed in Mogadishu, Somalia Africa, most of which were civilians after a dispute between soldiers happened in response to stolen food sacks Read more

January 28, 2022 - The U.S. State Department has put out a security alert stating that the curfew in Burkina Faso, West Africa has been updated: From 12:00 am to 4:00 am. Read more

January 27, 2022 - The Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs has put out an alert for Kenya stating that there are 'serious threats against Westerners in Kenya' and a real risk of being targeted in public places frequented by foreign nationals. Read more

January 27, 2022 - After the coup in Burkina Faso many people celebrated the takeover and said that they want a partnership with Russia saying "Long live Russia!" and have said "No! to France". Read more

January 27, 2022 - Ethiopia has lifted its state of emergency due to a diminishing security threat according to the office of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. Read more

January 24, 2022 - There has been another coup in Burkina Faso, Africa. The army has ousted President Roch Kabore. Read more

January 23, 2022 - 130 soldiers from the Maine Army National Guard have returned home from their 10 month deployment to Africa. Read more

January 23, 2022 - A top military official says that the Ethiopian army plans to enter Mekelle, the capital of Tigray and 'eliminate' rebellious forces Read more

January 23, 2022 - Internet in Burkina Faso has been severely disrupted according to Netblocks after soldiers opened fire on military bases and the country imposed curfew. Read more

January 21, 2022 - A large blast in Bogoso, Ghana has reportedly left 17 dead and 59 wounded. Read more

January 17, 2022 - Sudanese security forces have opened fire on protesters in Sudan, Africa who were protesting the military coup, firing on them with live rounds killing at least seven people and wounding around 100. Read more

January 11, 2022 - An airstrike in Tigray, Ethiopia in the town of Mai Tsebri has killed 17 people and wounded dozens of others. Read more

December 27, 2021 - Somalian president, Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed put out a statement on Monday that he has suspended the powers of Prime Minister Mohammed Hussein Roble pending an investigation for corruption. Read more

December 25, 2021 - A suicide bomber has killed at least 6 people and injured at least 13 as they were celebrating Christmas in the Democratic Republic of Congo on Saturday in the city of Beni. Read more

November 29, 2021 - US State Department is urging all U.S. citizens to evacuate Ethiopia due to the ongoing conflict there saying that it will not be able to evacuate them if the situation worsens and nears the capital. The US estimates about 30,000 to 40,000 US citizens. Read more

November 22, 2021 - Armed CODECO rebels raided Drodro village in D.R. Congo and killed at least 12 people, including six children, four men and two women. Local reports said that more had been killed in the attack than was reported. Read more

October 25, 2021 - Coup D'etat currently happening in Sudan. Several of Hamdok's ministers have been arrested and reports say that the house of Hamdok has been surrounded by the army. Read more

September 29, 2021 - The Nigerian air force has fired upon and killed dozens of civilians at a village in Northeast Nigeria. Read more

September 2, 2021 - In eastern Congo 20 people were kidnapped by rebels on Wednesday after the rebels ambushed a civilian convoy that was stalled, killing 5 people in the process. Read more

August 25, 2021 - AFRICOM: U.S. Africa Command has conducted a joint airstrike against al-Qaeda affiliated Al-Shabaab group in the vicinity of Amara town in Galmudug region amid intensified operations to weed out the the militants in the region. Read more

August 25, 2021 - Algeria has cut ties with Morocco saying that the reason is due to 'hostile actions' and says that Morocco is waging an all out 'media war' against Algeria. Read more

August 4, 2021 - The US carried out its third strike on Somalia in two weeks on August 1st in support of Somali government forces around Qeycad according to US Military. Read more

July 23, 2021 - The US military has carried out the second airstrike in Somalia, Africa this week against al-Shabaab terrorists, which are reported to have ties to Al Qaeda. Read more

July 21, 2021 - The Pentagon announced on Tuesday that The U.S. military carried out airstrikes in Somalia, Africa against al-Shabaab terrorists, which have ties to Al Qaeda. U.S. troops were not located in Somalia at the time of the airstrike. Read more

July 13, 2021 - More than 70 people have been killed in South Africa after unrest due to the jailing of the former president Jacob Zuma. Read more

June 25, 2021: At least 64 people were killed and nearly 200 wounded on Tuesday due to an airstrike on a busy Ethiopian market in Tigray. Read more

April 26, 2021: Gunfire Erupted In The Capital Of Somalia Sunday Between Government Soldiers & Those Who Are Not Happy With The President Mohamed Abdullahi Who Was Granted Two More Years Of Power By The Lower House Of Parliament. This Has Left Citizens Angry And Declaring That They Don't Want A Dictatorship That Remains In Power Indefinitely. Read more

U.S. Declares Russian Wagner Group A Transnational Criminal Organization - WASHINGTON - The White House has declared the Russian private paramilitary organization PMC Wagner group as "transnational criminal organization". The Wagner group is known to be the private army of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The White House national security council spokesman, John Kirby announced the move on Friday that the Treasury Department will be applying the new designation in the coming days, which will place the Wagner group in the same category as international mafia and organized crime groups.

The move will allow the United States to apply a broader range of sanctions on the group worldwide, as well as affiliated companies in Africa and in other countries internationally.

During Kirby's statement he said, "Wagner “is a criminal organization that is committing widespread atrocities and human rights abuses".

“We will work relentlessly to identify, disrupt, expose and target those who are assisting Wagner,” he added.

The new designation comes as the White House released evidence, including images of Russia allegedly accepting a delivery of arms from North Korea that it stated was intended to aid Wagner forces on the battlefield in Ukraine.

Washington also released images dated November 18th that it says show Russian rail cars traveling back and forth from Russia and North Korea.

“The arms transfers from are in direct violation of United Nations security council resolution,” Kirby said.

“These actions recognize the transcontinental threat that Wagner poses, including through its ongoing pattern of serious criminal activity with these actions, and there’ll be more to come,” Kirby said.

According to Kirby's statement, around 50,000 Wagner soldiers are fighting in Ukraine along side Russian soldiers, including 40,000 convicts that were recruited from various prisons, and 10,000 contractors.

“We are seeing indications, including in intelligence, that tensions between Wagner and the Russian defense ministry are increasing,” Kirby said.

“Wagner is becoming a rival power center to the Russian military and other Russian ministries. Publicly, Prigozhin and his fighters have criticized Russian generals and defense officials for their performance in Ukraine," he added.

US Kills 15 al-Shabab Militants In Somalia Airstrikes - USAFRICOM - The United States has killed 15 al-Shabab militants in Somalia after carrying out airstrikes at the request of the Somalian government. 

The airstrikes were carried out on December 14th, and December 17th, and targeted militants who were fighting the Somalian government forces in multiple locations within the country, about 125 from Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia. 

USAFRICOM Statmeent On the Airstrikes

"At the request of the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command conducted two collective self-defense strikes, one each on Dec. 14 and 17, 2022, in support of Somali National Army engagements against al-Shabaab near Cadale, Somalia.

The Dec. 14 strike took place 176 kilometers northeast of Mogadishu, in the vicinity of Cadale. The current assessment is 7 al-Shabaab terrorists were killed.

The Dec. 17 strike took place approximately 220 kilometers northeast of Mogadishu, also in the vicinity of Cadale. The command’s initial assessment is 8 al-Shabaab terrorists were killed.

U.S. Africa Command’s initial assessment is that no civilians were injured or killed in either strike.

U.S. Africa Command takes great measures to prevent civilian casualties. Protecting civilians remains a vital part of the command’s operations to promote greater security for all Africans.

Al-Shabaab is the largest and most deadly al-Qaeda network in the world and has proven both its will and capability to attack Somali, East African, and American civilians. U.S. kinetic actions against al-Shabaab in Somalia are conducted in support of the Federal Government of Somalia's ongoing campaign to disrupt terrorist operations in their country.

Somalia remains key to the stability and security in all of East Africa. U.S. Africa Command’s forces will continue training, advising, and equipping partner forces to give them the tools that they need to defeat al-Shabaab.

U.S. Africa Command will continue to assess the results of these operations and will provide additional information as appropriate. Specific details about the units involved and assets used will not be released in order to ensure operations security."

11 Countries Placed On Travel Advisory Page In Last 30 Days - 11 countries have been placed on the travel advisory page in the last 30 days, including Trinidad and Tobago, Tonga, Ecuador, Moldova, Nigeria, China, Taiwan, Samoa, Ukraine, Afghanistan, Israel, the West Bank and Gaza.

China

Reconsider travel to the People’s Republic of China (PRC), including the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) and the Macau SAR, due to arbitrary enforcement of local laws and COVID-19-related restrictions. See specific risks and conditions in each jurisdiction below. Exercise increased caution in the PRC due to wrongful detentions.

Taiwan

Reissued with updates to health information. Exercise normal precautions in Taiwan.

Trinidad and Tobago

Reconsider travel to Trinidad and Tobago due to crime. Exercise increased caution in Trinidad and Tobago due to terrorism and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Tonga

Reissued with updates to health information and removal of natural disaster risk indicator. Exercise normal precautions in Tonga. Read the Country Information page.

Moldova

Exercise increased caution while traveling to Moldova due to unresolved conflict between the breakaway region of Transnistria and the central government. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Nigeria

Reconsider travel to Nigeria due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and maritime crime. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Samoa

Reissued with updates to health information. Exercise normal precautions in Samoa.

Ukraine

Reissued from October 4, 2022 with updates to security information. Do not travel to Ukraine due to Russia’s full-scale invasion.

The Department of State continues to advise that U.S. citizens not travel to Ukraine due to active armed conflict. Those U.S citizens in Ukraine should depart if it is safe to do so using commercial or other privately available ground transportation options. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Afghanistan

Reissued with updates to relocation, citizen services, and safety and security information. Do not travel to Afghanistan due to armed conflict, civil unrest, crime, terrorism, and kidnapping.

Travel to all areas of Afghanistan is unsafe and the risk of kidnapping or violence against U.S. citizens in Afghanistan is high. Given the serious risks, U.S. citizens should not travel to Afghanistan to accompany eligible family members for relocation.

Israel

Summary: Terrorist groups, lone-wolf terrorists and other violent extremists continue plotting possible attacks in Israel and the West Bank and Gaza. Terrorists and violent extremists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. Violence can occur in Israel and the West Bank and Gaza without warning. There has been a marked increase in demonstrations throughout Israel, some with little or no warning.

Camerroon

Last Update: Reissued with updates to health information. Exercise increased caution in Cameroon due to crime. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Level 4 Do Not Travel List

The Level 4: Do Not Travel list includes: Afghanistan, Belarus, Faso, Burma, CAR, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Mali, North Korea, Russia, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Tonga, Ukraine, and Venezuela.

The month of October saw a large number of travel advisory alerts being released. View Travel Advisories

US Forces Aid Somalian Government In Carrying Out "Self Defense Strike" - US AFRICA COMMAND: "Federal Government of Somalia combats terrorists with support from U.S. forces: At the request of the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command conducted a collective self-defense strike against the al-Shabaab terrorists who were attacking the Somali forces on Nov. 9."

"Somali National Army forces were engaged with al Shabaab fighters in a remote area approximately 285 kilometers northeast of Mogadishu on Nov. 9. At the request of the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command conducted a collective self-defense strike against the al-Shabaab terrorists who were attacking the Somali forces.

Working with the Somali National Army, U.S. Africa Command’s initial assessment is that the strike killed 17 attacking al Shabaab terrorists and that no civilians were injured or killed.

U.S. Africa Command takes great measures to prevent civilian casualties. Protecting civilians remains a vital part of the command’s operations to promote greater security for all Africans.

Al-Shabaab is the largest and most deadly al-Qaeda network in the world and has proven both its will and capability to attack Somali, East African, and American civilians.

Somalia remains key to the stability and security in all of East Africa. U.S. Africa Command’s forces will continue training, advising, and equipping partner forces to give them the tools that they need to defeat al-Shabaab.

U.S. Africa Command will continue to assess the results of this operation and will provide additional information as appropriate. Specific details about the units involved and assets used will not be released in order to ensure operations security.

U.S. Africa Command, headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, with partners, counters malign actors and transnational threats, responds to crises, and strengthens security forces in order to advance U.S. national interests and promote regional security, stability and prosperity."

2022 National Defense Strategy Of The United States Of America - WASHINGTON - The Pentagon said that although Russia is an "acute threat", China "is the only competitor out there with both the intent to reshape the international order, and increasingly the power to do so". Read Full Article

AFRICOM: Federal Government of Somalia engages terrorists with support from U.S. forces - Due to U.S. forces conducting an airstrike against al-Shabaab terrorists in Somalia, the Africa regional alert has been set to 2. Statement from Africa Command:

"AFRICOM: "In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command conducted an airstrike against al-Shabaab terrorists who were attacking Somali National Army forces near Buulobarde, Somalia, about 218 km north-northwest of Mogadishu, on Oct. 23.

The command’s initial assessment is that the strike killed two attacking al-Shabaab terrorists and that no civilians were injured or killed.

U.S. Africa Command takes great measures to prevent civilian casualties. Protecting civilians remains a vital part of the command’s operations to promote a more secure and stable Africa.

Al-Shabaab is the largest and most kinetically active al-Qaeda network in the world and has proved both its will and capability to attack U.S. forces and threaten U.S. security interests. U.S. Africa Command, alongside its partners, continues to take action to prevent this malicious terrorist group from planning and conducting attacks on civilians.

Somalia remains key to the security environment in East Africa. U.S. Africa Command’s forces will continue training, advising, and equipping partner forces to give them the tools that they need to degrade al-Shabaab.

U.S. Africa Command will continue to assess the results of the operation and will provide additional information as appropriate. Specific details about the units involved and assets used will not be released in order to ensure operations security.

U.S. Africa Command, headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, with partners, counters malign actors and transnational threats, responds to crises, and strengthens security forces in order to advance U.S. national interests and promote regional security, stability and prosperity."

U.S. forces conduct strike in Somalia targeting al-Shabaab leader - "In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command conducted an airstrike against the al-Shabaab militant network in Somalia on October 1. The strike occurred near Jilib, about 370 kilometers southwest of Mogadishu.

The command’s initial assessment is that the strike killed an al-Shabaab leader and that no civilians were injured or killed.

U.S. Africa Command takes great measures to prevent civilian casualties. Protecting innocent civilians remains a vital part of the command’s operations to promote a more secure and stable Africa.

Al-Shabaab is the largest and most kinetically active al-Qaeda network in the world and has proved both its will and capability to attack U.S. forces and threaten U.S. security interests. U.S. Africa Command, alongside its partners, continues to take action to prevent this malicious terrorist group from planning and conducting attacks on civilians.

Somalia remains key to the security environment in East Africa. U.S. Africa Command’s forces will continue training, advising, and equipping partner forces to give them the tools that they need to degrade al-Shabaab.

U.S. Africa Command will continue to assess the results of the operation and will provide additional information as appropriate. Specific details about the units involved and assets used will not be released in order to ensure operations security.

U.S. Africa Command, headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, with partners, counters malign actors and transnational threats, responds to crises, and strengthens security forces in order to advance U.S. national interests and promote regional security, stability and prosperity."

Federal Government of Somalia engages terrorists with support from U.S. forces - AFRICOM - At the request of the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command conducted an airstrike against al-Shabaab terrorists who were attacking Somali National Army forces near Buulobarde, Somalia, on Sept. 18.

The command’s initial assessment is that the strike killed 27 al-Shabaab terrorists and that no civilians were injured. U.S. forces are authorized to conduct strikes in defense of designated partner forces.

The defensive strikes allowed the Somali National Army and African Union Transition Mission in Somalia forces to regain the initiative and continue the operation to disrupt al-Shabaab in the Hiraan region of central Somalia. This operation is the largest combined Somali and ATMIS offensive operation in five years.

U.S. Africa Command take great measures to prevent civilian casualties. These efforts contrast with the indiscriminate attacks that al-Shabaab regularly conducts against the civilian population.

Violent extremist organizations like al-Shabaab present long-term threats to Somali, regional and U.S. interests. The U.S. will continue to support Somali and ATMIS partners in defeating al-Shabaab terrorists who threaten the peace and stability of Somalia.

Affinity V Has Run Aground In Suez Canal, Halting Maritime Traffic - The crude oil tanker "Affinity V", which is 826 feet long, and 147 feet wide ran aground in the Suez Canal, backing up Maritime traffic, according to local media and analysis of the ship's location in vessel tracking software. It has been released and is now back on course.

Local media reports had said that they were undergoing the process of attempting to float the tanker, in order to free it so that Maritime traffic can continue through the canal.

The Suez Canal Authority has stated that they have successfully floated the oil tanker, about five hours after it ran aground in the Suez canal. It has been moved and now back on course.

BRICS: Russia & India No Longer Need U.S. Dollar - The president of the BRICS International Forum, Purnima Anand told reporters on Thursday that both Russia and India no longer need the U.S. dollar, as they have turned to national currencies to conduct mutual settlements. Read Full Article

Security Alert U.S. Embassy Mogadishu, Somalia August 20th, 2022 - Security Alert for the United States embassy in Mogadishu, Somalia in Africa. The U.S. Embassy in Somalia reminds U.S. citizens that terrorists continue to plot kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks in Somalia.

Event: On August 19, 2022, car bomb blasts and gunfire were reported at Hotel Hayat in Mogadishu and are on-going. Al-Shabaab claims responsibility. Further attacks may occur. The U.S. Embassy in Mogadishu introduced travel restrictions for U.S. government personnel assigned to Mogadishu for the immediate future, including travel throughout the Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu.

The U.S. Embassy in Somalia reminds U.S. citizens that terrorists continue to plot kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks in Somalia. They may conduct attacks with little or no warning, targeting airports and seaports, government buildings, hotels, restaurants, shopping areas, and other areas where large crowds gather and Westerners frequent, as well as government, military, and Western convoys.

Methods of attack include car bombs, suicide bombers, individual attackers, and mortar fire.

The Department of State has issued a Level 4 Travel Advisory for Somalia and advises U.S. citizens not to travel to Somalia due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health issues, kidnapping, and piracy.

The U.S. government has extremely limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Somalia due to the lack of a permanent consular presence in Somalia.

Actions to Take:

Continue to exercise vigilance while in Somalia.
Review your personal security plans.
Notify a trusted person of your travel and movement plans.
Avoid large crowds, gatherings, and demonstrations.
Stay alert in locations frequented by tourists/Westerners.
Be aware of your surroundings and local security developments
Monitor local media and news for updates.

U.S. Department Of State: Worldwide Travel Alert - The U.S. Department of State has put out a worldwide travel alert, advising against traveling abroad after Sunday's drone strike where two R9X Hellfire missiles killed al-Qaeda leader, and Osama bin Laden successor, Ayman al-Zawahri.

R9X Hellfire are "kinetic kill" missiles, meaning rather than cause an explosion that kills the target, these missiles deploy six metal blades that do the job.

"Following al-Zawahri's death, supporters of al- Qa'ida, or its affiliated terrorist organizations, may seek to attack U.S. facilities, personnel, or citizens," the State Department said.

A second worldwide travel alert was also put out for a "Global Level 3 Health Advisory" that said that citizens should "reconsider travel" abroad due to COVID-19.

The statement put out by the State Department was as follows:

Caution: August 2nd, 2022 - Worldwide Caution: Worldwide Cautions provide U.S. citizens with general information regarding terrorist activities, political violence, and criminal activity that occur abroad, as well as specific recommendations on how to prepare for possible contingencies, receive information on breaking security events and ensure that travelers can be contacted in an emergency. This version replaces the Worldwide Caution dated January 15, 2019.

The Department of State remains concerned about the continued threat of terrorist attacks, demonstrations, and other violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests overseas. The Department of State believes there is a higher potential for anti-American violence given the death of Ayman al-Zawahiri on July 31, 2022. Current information suggests that terrorist organizations continue to plan terrorist attacks against U.S. interests in multiple regions across the globe. These attacks may employ a wide variety of tactics including suicide operations, assassinations, kidnappings, hijackings, and bombings.

As terrorist attacks, political violence (including demonstrations), criminal activities, and other security incidents often take place without any warning, U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to maintain a high level of vigilance and practice good situational awareness when traveling abroad. U.S. government facilities worldwide actively monitor potential security threats and may temporarily close or periodically suspend public services to assess their security posture. In those instances, U.S. embassies and consulates will make every effort to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens. U.S. citizens abroad are urged to monitor the local news and maintain contact with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

When planning a trip and prior to departing the United States, U.S. citizens should consult country specific Travel Advisories and information pages on travel.state.gov. Travelers are also urged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and to make it easier to locate them in an emergency. The Department uses these security messages to convey information about terrorist threats, security incidents, planned demonstrations, natural disasters, etc. In an emergency, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate or call the following numbers: 1 (888) 407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1 (202) 501-4444 from other countries.

Private U.S. citizens should not travel to any country to participate in armed conflict. U.S. citizens are reminded that fighting on behalf of, or providing other forms of support to, designated terrorist organizations can constitute the provision of material support for terrorism, which is a serious crime that can result in penalties, including prison time and large fines.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov Off To Africa Seeking Non-Western Allies - Sergei Lavrov, Russia's Foreign Minister is setting out on a trip to Egypt where he will meet with officials and solidify their relationship with Russia. Rosatom, a Russian state-owned energy corporation began construction on Egypt's first nuclear power plant. Read Full Article

US Carries Out Airstrike In Somalia Killing Two Al-Shabab Fighters - The United States military has put out a statement saying that it carried out an airstrike in Somalia on Sunday, killing two Al-Shabab fighters. The airstrike was carried out in southern Jubaland, near Libikus in the Lower Juba region, according to AFRICOM on Monday.

"The command’s initial assessment is that two Al-Shabab terrorists were killed in action,” AFRICOM said. “No civilians were injured or killed given the remote nature of where this engagement occurred."

The release put out by AFRICOM said, "In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command conducted an airstrike against al-Shabaab terrorists after they attacked partner forces in a remote location near Libikus, Somalia July 17, 2022.

The statement went on to say, "U.S. forces are authorized to conduct strikes in defense of designated partner forces.

The command’s initial assessment is that two al-Shabaab terrorists were killed in action and that no civilians were injured or killed given the remote nature of where this engagement occurred.

The Federal Government of Somalia and U.S. Africa Command take great measures to prevent civilian casualties. These efforts contrast with the indiscriminate attacks that al-Shabaab regularly conducts against the civilian population.

The Federal Government of Somalia and the U.S. remain committed to fighting al-Shabaab to prevent the deaths of innocent civilians.

Violent extremist organizations like al-Shabaab present long-term threats to Somali, regional, and U.S. interests."

Russian Vessels Turning Off Their Transponder Trackers - Russian and Syrian vessels have been turning off their transponders and have been accused of deceptive shipping practices in order to sell crude oil and stolen Ukrainian grain while evading the heavy sanctions placed on Russia due to its war on Ukraine. Read Full Article

Putin: BRICS Countries Setting Up Global Reserve Currency To Cut Financial Reliance On West - Russian President Vladimir Putin said on June 21st that the BRICS countries, which include Russia, China, Brazil, and South Africa (Iran and Argentina have applied but not yet accepted) are currently working on setting up a global reserve currency to cut their financial reliance on the West.

Putin stated at the BRICS business forum, "The issue of creating an international reserve currency based on a basket of currencies of our countries is being worked out". The Russian President also said that the BRICS member states are in the process of developing reliable alternative mechanisms for making international payments.

The BRICS group had previously stated that it was working on setting up a payment network that would cut financial reliance on the West, and have been increasing using local currencies in mutual trade with one another, according to the Economic Times.

Travel Advisories: June 1st - June 24th, 2022 - List of travel advisories from the U.S. Department of State from June 1st, 2022 to June 24th, 2022. KEY: Level 1: Normal Precautions | Level 2: Increased Caution | Level 3: Reconsider Travel | Level 4: Do Not Travel. For a clickable list visit the OSLINT Advisories post.

Cabo Verde Travel Advisory Level 1 - June 23, 2022
Hong Kong Travel Advisory Level 4 - June 22, 2022
Ecuador Travel Advisory Level 3 - June 22, 2022
Democratic Republic of the Congo Travel Advisory Level 3 - June 22, 2022
China Travel Advisory Level 3 - June 22, 2022
Republic of the Congo Travel Advisory Level 2 - June 22, 2022
Moldova Travel Advisory Level 3 - June 21, 2022
Ethiopia Travel Advisory Level 3 - June 21, 2022
El Salvador Travel Advisory Level 3 - June 21, 2022
Tanzania Travel Advisory Level 2 - June 21, 2022
Tanzania Travel Advisory Level 2 -June 21, 2022
Kenya Travel Advisory Level 2 - June 21, 2022
Guinea Travel Advisory Level 2 - June 21, 2022
Ghana Travel Advisory Level 2 - June 21, 2022
Bolivia Travel Advisory Level 2 -June 21, 2022
Sweden Travel Advisory Level 1 - June 21, 2022
Sint Eustatius Travel Advisory Level 1 - June 21, 2022
Romania Travel Advisory Level 1 - June 21, 2022
Fiji Travel Advisory Level 1 - June 21, 2022
Comoros Travel Advisory Level 1 - June 21, 2022
Botswana Travel Advisory Level 1 - June 21, 2022
Bhutan Travel Advisory Level 1 - June 21, 2022
United Arab Emirates Travel Advisory Level 3 - June 14, 2022
Mexico Travel Advisory Other -June 13, 2022
Iraq Travel Advisory Level 4 - June 13, 2022
Belarus Travel Advisory Level 4 - June 13, 2022
Honduras Travel Advisory Level 3 - June 13, 2022
Maldives Travel Advisory Level 2 - June 13, 2022
Cuba Travel Advisory Level 2 - June 13, 2022
Saba Travel Advisory Level 1 - June 13, 2022
Saba Travel Advisory Level 1 - June 13, 2022
Malawi Travel Advisory Level 2 - June 10, 2022
The Bahamas Travel Advisory Level 2 - June 8, 2022
Suriname Travel Advisory Level 1 - June 8, 2022
French Guiana Travel Advisory Level 1 - June 8, 2022
Denmark Travel Advisory Level 2 - June 7, 2022
Libya Travel Advisory Level 4 - June 6, 2022
Iran Travel Advisory Level 4 - June 6, 2022
Lebanon Travel Advisory Level 3 - June 6, 2022
Guyana Travel Advisory Level 3 - June 6, 2022
Guatemala Travel Advisory Level 3 - June 6, 2022
Zimbabwe Travel Advisory Level 2 - June 6, 2022
Saint Kitts and Nevis Travel Advisory Level 1 - June 6, 2022
Poland Travel Advisory Level 1 - June 6, 2022
Namibia Travel Advisory Level 1 - June 6, 2022
Mongolia Travel Advisory Level 1 - June 6, 2022
Russia Travel Advisory Level 4 -June 1, 2022

Over 200 People Killed During Attack In Oromia, Ethiopia - Over 200 people have been killed in Oromia, Ethiopia, according to witnesses. Most of those killed were ethnic Amhara, a Semitic-speaking ethnic group that is indigenous to Ethiopia.

Abdul-Seid Tahir, who is a resident of Gimbi county spoke to the Associated Press after having escaped the massacre on Saturday and stated, "I have counted 230 bodies. I am afraid this is the deadliest attack against civilians we have seen in our lifetime".

"We are burying them in mass graves, and we are still collecting bodies. Federal army units have now arrived, but we fear that the attacks could continue if they leave", he added.

Multiple witnesses of the attack were carried out by the Oromo Liberation Army, but an OLA spokesman named Odaa Tarbii denied the accusations stating in a message to AP News, "The attack you are referring to was committed by the regime’s military and local militia as they retreated from their camp in Gimbi following our recent offensive".

"They escaped to an area called Tole, where they attacked the local population and destroyed their property as retaliation for their perceived support for the OLA. Our fighters had not even reached that area when the attacks took place", Tarbii added.

World Bank: Less Developed Countries Facing Major Recession - The World Bank put out a statement saying that less developed countries in the world face a major recession as a result of the war in Ukraine, as well as the consequences of the COVID-19 lockdowns as the cost of energy and food continue to rise globally.

David Malpass, the President of the World Bank says that there is also a major risk of high inflation and small growth, which is also called 'stagflation'.

Malpass said that "The war in Ukraine, lockdowns in China, supply-chain disruptions, and the risk of stagflation are hammering growth. For many countries, recession will be hard to avoid".

"Subdued growth will likely persist throughout the decade because of weak investment in most of the world. With inflation now running at multi-decade highs in many countries and supply expected to grow slowly, there is a risk that inflation will remain higher for longer".

Although the countries that will be immediately affected in 2022, according to a World Bank forecast are Russia and Ukraine, it warned of long term effects [from the war and COVID lockdowns] that will likely have much wider effects.

Malpass said "Even if a global recession is averted, the pain of stagflation could persist for several years - unless major supply increases are set in motion".

More Than 50 Dead After Gunmen Attack Nigerian Church, Explosives Used - Over 50 Catholic worshipers were killed after gunmen attacked St. Francis Catholic Church in Nigeria during church service. Although most were killed by gunfire, some were killed by explosions as the gunmen detonated explosives on the church compound.

Gunmen entered the church and began firing on the members inside, killing many who were caught unaware by the sudden attack, after which the gunmen set off explosives within the Church compound, killing others.

Ondo Governor Rotimi Akeredolu tweeted on Sunday, "Our hearts are heavy. Our peace and tranquillity have been attacked by the enemies of the people".

Authorities did not release a death toll officially, but it is estimated that over 50 people have been killed. The number may rise as many were rushed to receive medical attention.

The Nigerian president Muhammadu Buhari condemned the attacks that he said were 'heinous' and said "No matter what, this country shall never give in to evil and wicked people, and darkness will never overcome light. Nigeria will eventually win".

Pope Francis, in Rome responded to the attack, with the Vatican press office stating, "The pope has learned of the attack on the church in Ondo, Nigeria and the deaths of dozens of worshipers, many children, during the celebration of Pentecost. While the details are being clarified, Pope Francis prays for the victims and the country, painfully affected at a time of celebration, and entrusts them both to the Lord so that he may send his spirit to console them".

U.S. Deploying Up To 500 Soldiers To Somalia To Establish 'Persistent Presence' - The United States is deploying up to 500 soldiers to Somalia, Africa in order to establish "persistent presence" there in order to combat the increasing terrorist activity in the country by a branch of Al Qaeda called Al-Shabaab.

A senior administration official said that "Fewer than 500" U.S. soldiers that are currently already stationed in nearby countries will be transported to Somalia over time as conditions allow for intelligent and secure implementation.

The official said that Al-Shabaab is now a notable priority for the U.S. counterterrorism mission and has become Al Qaeda's "largest and wealthiest global affiliate". They said the group has also "ability and intent to target Americans in the region".

On Monday Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby spoke to reporters and said that a permanent presence is the best option in order to counter the persistent threat from Al-Shabaab as it eliminates the training disruption and time expended on "constant coming and going".

Kirby also said that this is "not a deployment with an end date" and said that it is instead just a "change of posture" and that "It will allow us to do a better, more consistent job".

ISIS Retaliates For Deaths Of Leaders By Murdering 20 Nigerian Christians - ISIS fighters in Nigeria have murdered 20 Christians in retaliation for the deaths of several of the group's leaders that occurred in the Middle East.

The murders of the Nigerian Christians were carried out by masked Daesh militants carrying knives and guns as they stood behind the Christians who were kneeling on the ground.

200 Militants Killed By Local Military Operation In Mali, Africa - Over 200 Islamist militants have been killed by a state military operation in Mali, Africa in late March involving both land and air forces.

A statement put out by the military said, "This operation follows very precise information that made it possible to locate the holding of a meeting between various (militants) in Moura".

Cyclone Kills At Least 10 People In Madagascar - A cyclone that occurred in Madagascar has killed at least 10 people, destroyed homes and cut power as it hit the eastern coast of the country with wind speeds of over 100 miles per hour.

Cyclone Batsirai is the second cyclone to hit the Indian Ocean in the last couple of weeks. The torrential rains that the two cyclones brought has caused floods which eroded buildings until they collapsed and cut power officials stated on Sunday.

The town of Nosy Varika was hit the worst, with 95% of its buildings completely destroyed "as if we had just been bombed" reported the Jerusalem Post who quoted a Madagascar official.

The other cyclone that hit within the last few weeks was named 'Ana' which killed 55 people and displaced 130,000 others.

Rueters reported that Nirina Rahaingosoea who is a resident of Fianarantsoa which is 420 kilometers from the capital said "We saw only desolation: uprooted trees, fallen electric poles, roofs torn off by the wind, the city completely under water".

Willy Raharijaona who is a technical adviser to the vice president of Madagascar's Senate stated "It's as if we had just been bombed. The city of Nosy Varika is almost 95% destroyed. The solid houses saw their roofs torn off by the wind. The wooden huts have for the most part been destroyed".

At Least 14 People Killed In Somalia, Africa Due To Clashes Over Food Aid - At least 14 people have been killed in Mogadishu, Somalia Africa, most of which were civilians after a dispute between soldiers happened in response to stolen food sacks.

The fighting between the soldiers started after some of the soldiers attempted to steal food sacks that were meant for displaced people. Upon noticing the theft, other soldiers that were guarding the food stopped them according to Colonial Isaq Hassan.

20 or more people were injured during the fighting, some of which were placed in critical condition, Mohamed Ahmed, a nurse working at the Baido'a hospital told the Associated Press.

There is currently a severe drought in the region and according to AP news "Tens of thousands of people have been fleeing to Baidoa and other Somali cities in search of food and support".

U.S. State Department: Burkina Faso, Africa Curfew Updated - The U.S. State Department has put out a security alert stating that the curfew in Burkina Faso, West Africa has been updated: From 12:00 am to 4:00 am.

The State Department advises Americans in the region to 'follow the curfew' and monitor all methods of communication as well as contacting the embassy if you have an emergency.

French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs Puts Out Alert For Kenya - The French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs has put out an alert for Kenya, Africa stating that there are 'serious threats against Westerners in Kenya' and a real risk of being targeted in public places frequented by foreign nationals.

The Ministry stated that conflicts related to land issues and drought have increased in Kenya over the last few months 'north of a line linking kitale to Garissa.

"The conflicts have resulted in casualties among the local population, as well as the evacuation of some tourist areas" the statement said and also stated that "The counties of Samburu, Isiolo, Laikipia, Meru and Baringo are among those affected".

"Travelers planning to visit these counties are advised to check with their tour operator or accommodation beforehand".

"Particular vigilance should be exercised in the current context for any travel to the west of Laikipia County, in the areas of Rumuruti Town, Kinamba, and Ol Moran".

"Travel north of the Kitale/Archers' Post/Garissa line is not recommended unless there is a compelling reason to do so".

"There is a real risk targeting public places frequented by foreign nationals (restaurants, hotels, places of leisure, shopping malls...), especially in Nairobi" the notice stated.

The notice said that people in Kenya are advised to be 'extremely vigilant' and to avoid frequenting these places in the coming days, including on the weekend.

Burkina Faso: We Want Russia's Help - After the coup in Burkina Faso many people celebrated the takeover and said that they want a partnership with Russia saying "Long live Russia!" and have said "No! to France".

The president, who was elected democratically has been arrested and detained by mutinying soldiers who have taken power in the country. Supporters of the coup are now wanting to forge and reshape the country's alliances, particularly with Russia.

The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs twitter account however put out a statement on January 27th saying, "Zaitsev: We are following the developments in BurkinaFaso, where the head of state was overthrown in a military coup on Jan 24. We call for the immediate release of Burkina Faso President Roch Kabore, as well as for civilian rule to be restored in the country without delay".

Ethiopia Lifts State Of Emergency Due To Diminishing Security Threat - Ethiopia has lifted its state of emergency due to a diminishing security threat according to the office of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.

Ethiopian council members lifted the state of emergency on the country on Wednesday with a statement saying "The situation that led to the declaration of an emergency has changed, and the threat is now at a level that can be countered by formal law enforcement action, so it became necessary to shorten the state of emergency".

The state of emergency had been declared in November and was originally going to be in effect for six months time as fighting between the country's federal army and Tigray People's Liberation Front continued.

Army Deposes President During Coup In Burkina Faso, Africa - There has been another coup in Burkina Faso, Africa. The army has ousted President Roch Kabore.

After the military took control of Burkina Faso, they suspended the constitution, dissolved the government as well as the national assembly and closed the country's borders off.

The announcement was signed by Lieutenant Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba and read by a different officer over state television.

The announcement stated that there had been no violence during the coup and it happened without violence. It also said that those that were deteained were in a secure location.

The U.S. State Department said that they are aware of reports that Kabore has been detained by the military and has called for his release.

The State Department also said that it's 'too soon' to officially characterize developments happening in Burkina Faso.

Corinne Dufka who is the West African director at Human Rights Watch stated that Kabore's government had shown that it was unable to tackle a wide range of problems.

"The coup, and apparent support for it, lays bare the inadequacies of Kabore's government to address deep-seated problems with corruption, governance and civilian protection, which were all made exponentially worse by the armed Islamist threat" she stated.

Maine National Guard Returns Home From 10 Month Africa Deployment - 130 soldiers from the Maine Army National Guard have returned home from their 10 month deployment to Africa.

The soldiers were greeted by Senior leaders on Saturday on the flight line before marching in to music performed by the 195th Maine Army National Guard Band where their family members waited according to WABI-TV.

The soldiers included Bravo Company, 172nd Infantry Regiment and 3rd Battalion according to the Facebook page for the Maine National Guard.

In Africa the soldiers were deployed to provide security and enhance partnerships.

Ethiopian Army Plans To 'Eliminate' Forces In Tigray - A top military official says that the Ethiopian army plans to enter Mekelle, the capital of Tigray and 'eliminate' rebellious forces according to Reuters.

Diplomats from the United States flew to Addis Ababa in order to try to push for a ceasefire in the region and calm relations between Tigray and Ethiopia along with releasing political prisoners.

During an interview with state run media, Fana broadcast on Friday Ethiopian defense forces (EDF) deputy army chief General Abebaw Tadesse stated that Ethiopia would not be at peace until the Tigray People's Liberation From (TPLF) was eliminated.

"Tigray is part of Ethiopia and no force will stop us from entering. We will enter and we will eliminate the enemy. There shouldn't be any confusion about this" Tadesse stated.

"The people of Ethiopia shouldn't think that it is over, it is not over. The main thing here is we have stopped because we have to prepare ourselves. This enemy is still there, and it has to be absolutely eliminated. We will not negotiate with them" he added.

Internet Severely Disrupted As Burkina Faso Imposes Curfew After Soldiers Opened Fire On Military Bases - Internet in Burkina Faso has been severely disrupted according to Netblocks after soldiers opened fire on military bases and the country imposed curfew.

The government has imposed an overnight curfew after the day of unrest where it opened fire on military bases across the country early Sunday.

The curfew begins at 8 p.m. local time and ends at 5:30 a.m. according to a government statement put out on state broadcaster Radiodiffusion Television du Birkina.

The motive for the soldiers opening fire on the army barracks is still not clear, however earlier in the month a dozen soldiers were arrested on the suspicion that they were plotting a coup.

The Defense Minister General Bathelemy Simpore has denied rumors that President Roch Marc Kabore had been arrested, and denies rumors of a coup happening after soldiers opened fire on several army barracks.

Large Explosion In Ghana, Africa Leaves 17 Dead And Wounds 59 - A large blast in Bogoso, Ghana has reportedly left 17 dead and 59 wounded. 500 buildings were also destroyed in the blast.

A vehicle that was transporting mining explosives collided with a motorcycle near the town of Bogoso, causing the explosion and creating a large crater beside the road.

A team of police and army experts were deployed to the scene to 'avoid a second explosion' and secure the scene according to the government.

Sudanese Forces Open Fire On Protesters Killing At Least 7 People - Sudanese security forces have opened fire on protesters in Sudan, Africa who were protesting the military coup, firing on them with live rounds killing at least seven people and wounding around 100.

The killings mark one of the deadliest days since the military coup took place in October of last year when the military took over.

The death's on Monday bring the total number of people killed in the almost daily protests to at least 71 people.

The United Nations has condemned the 'use of lethal force against the demonstrators' in a statement by U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric on Monday.

Airstrike In Ethiopia Kills 17, Mostly Women - An airstrike in Tigray, Ethiopia in the town of Mai Tsebri has killed 17 people and wounded dozens of others. Most of the dead were women according to aid workers serving in the area.

The airstrike comes as fighting between federal forces and rebels in Tigray continue in the region.

President Of Somalia Suspends Prime Minister Pending Corruption Investigation - Somalian president, Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed put out a statement on Monday that he has suspended the powers of Prime Minister Mohammed Hussein Roble pending an investigation for corruption.

The Prime Minister said that the action was taken due to an investigation of accusations that the Prime Minister had fraudulently acquired land.

This is not the first time the President has suspended the Prime Minister in an ongoing dispute between the two which has caused months of tension in the government.

Just days before the announcement of the suspension the two had accused one another of holding up parliamentary elections.

Suicide Bomber Kills At Least 6 In DR Congo - A suicide bomber has killed at least 6 people and injured at least 13 as they were celebrating Christmas in the Democratic Republic of Congo on Saturday in the city of Beni.

Military officials in the province of North Kivu put out a statement saying "The suicide bomber, prevented by security from gaining access to the bar, packed with clients, activated the bomb at the entrance".

According to the statement the attack was blamed on the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), the most prominent militia currently active in the region.

A source at the City Hall told AFP news that two children were killed in the blast, as well as two local officials.

Around 30 people were at the location where the bomb went off celebrating Christmas, two witnesses told AFP news.

US State Department Urging All U.S. Citizens To Evacuate Ethiopia - US State Department is urging all U.S. citizens to evacuate Ethiopia due to the ongoing conflict there saying that it will not be able to evacuate them if the situation worsens and nears the capital. The US estimates about 30,000 to 40,000 US citizens.

CODECO Rebels Raid Drodro Village In D.R. Congo Killing 12 - Armed CODECO rebels raided Drodro village in D.R. Congo and killed at least 12 people, including six children, four men and two women. Local reports said that more had been killed in the attack than was reported.

Coup D'etat Currently Happening In Sudan - Coup D'etat currently happening in Sudan. Several of Hamdok's ministers have been arrested and reports say that the house of Hamdok has been surrounded by the army.

A fish market in the village of Daban Masara were bombed by two planes on Sunday according to Husaini, a man who spoke to Reuters as long as only his first name was mentioned. The Nigerian army has been involved in a war against Islamic insurgencies in the country for 12 years.

Nigerian Air Force Fires Upon And Kills Dozens Of Civilians - The Nigerian air force has fired upon and killed dozens of civilians at a village in Northeast Nigeria.

A fish market in the village of Daban Masara were bombed by two planes on Sunday according to Husaini, a man who spoke to Reuters as long as only his first name was mentioned. The Nigerian army has been involved in a war against Islamic insurgencies in the country for 12 years.

"At least 50 people were killed instantly... including my friend who got married just three weeks ago" stated Husaini.

Rebels Kidnap 20 People In East Congo After Ambushing A Convoy - In eastern Congo 20 people were kidnapped by rebels on Wednesday after the rebels ambushed a civilian convoy that was stalled, killing 5 people in the process.

The rebels took dozens of hostages, with 20 people found to be still missing some hours later. The attack happened when the convey stopped for repairs on one of its vehicles according to Captain Jules Ngongo who spoke to AP news.

At first 80 people were kidnapped but the army was able to rescue 60 of the people who were captured according to Ngongo. "We call on people to remain calm and to trust their army because it is difficult to fight the terrorists, but we will fight for peace to return as soon as possible".

AFRICOM: US Africa Command Conducts Joint Strike Against Al-Shabaab group in Town Of Amara - AFRICOM: U.S. Africa Command has conducted a joint airstrike against al-Qaeda affiliated Al-Shabaab group in the vicinity of Amara town in Galmudug region amid intensified operations to weed out the the militants in the region.

Algeria Cuts Ties With Morocco And Cites 'Hostile Actions' As The Reason - Algeria has cut ties with Morocco saying that the reason is due to 'hostile actions' and says that Morocco is waging an all out 'media war' against Algeria.

Algeria's Foreign Minister Ramtane Lamamra read a statement from the President at a news conference saying, "Algeria has decided to break diplomatic relations with Morocco starting today".

The Foreign Minister of Algeria also said that Morocco is a military base in which to launch attacks on Algeria. Among the reasons cited for the ties being cut is Israel's alleged use of Pegasus spyware on Algerians, as well as Morocco hosting Yair Lapid, Israel's Alternate Prime Minister, who criticized Algeria during his visit in Morocco.

DR Congo Accepts Help Of US Special Forces Against ADF, Group Linked To ISIS - The president of DR Congo, Felix Tshisekedi has accepted help from US special forces to aid the Congolese army fight against the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), which is a group that is linked to ISIS terrorists.

The United States has declared the ADF a terrorist group and is seen as the most deadly armed militia group in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). According to the country's Catholic Church , the ADF has murdered around 6,000 civilians since 2013.

The U.S. mission in DR Congo will last a couple of weeks and will aid the Congolese army in fighting the ADF in the Virunga and Garamba national parks. The presidential administration of DR Congo put out a statement saying, "President Felix Tshisekedi authorised the deployment of American anti-terrorism experts in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo".

The US State Department put out a statement in March saying that the ADF is known all over the region for its "brutal violence against Congolese citizens and regional military forces".

US Carries Out Third Strike In Somalia In Two Weeks On Sunday - The US carried out its third strike on Somalia in two weeks on August 1st in support of Somali government forces around Qeycad according to US Military.

The strike happened in the location where forces trained by the US Military were combating al-Shabab militants. It is not known where there were militants killed or injured.

The Information Ministry of Somalia stated, "This is another major blow to al-Shabab’s means to wage war against the Somali people. The airstrikes destroyed a large al-Shabab firing position engaging Danab and SNA (Somali Army) forces as they approached".

US Military Carries Out Second Airstrike In Somalia, Africa This Week - The US military has carried out the second airstrike in Somalia, Africa this week against al-Shabaab terrorists, which are reported to have ties to Al Qaeda.

The airstrike, which happened just three days after the previous strike took place in Galmudug, Somalia. The Pentagon says no U.S. forces were accompanying Somali troops during the airstrike.

The Pentagon put out a statement saying, "U.S. forces are authorized to conduct strikes in support of combatant commander designated partner forces under collective self-defense".

US Military Carries Out Airstrikes In Somalia, Africa - The Pentagon announced on Tuesday that The U.S. military carried out airstrikes in Somalia, Africa against al-Shabaab terrorists, which have ties to Al Qaeda. U.S. troops were not located in Somalia at the time of the airstrike. Read more

More Than 70 Dead In South Africa In Unrest Due To Imprisonment Of Former President - More than 70 people have been killed in South Africa after unrest due to the jailing of the former president Jacob zuma. Over 1,300 people have been arrested in total with many people taking the opportunity to loot televisions, microwaves and clothing.

Thousands of soldiers took to the streets after the local police force struggled to handle the situation alone. Police minister Bheki Cele stated, "We are confident our law enforcement agencies are able to do their job successfully. The current situation on the ground is under strong surveillance and we will ensure it will not deteriorate further".

At Least 64 Killed In Africa From Airstrike On Ethiopian Market In Tigray - At least 64 people were killed and nearly 200 wounded on Tuesday due to an airstrike on a busy Ethiopian market in Tigray.

A spokesperson for the Ethiopian army said that the military carried out the airstrike on Togoga but was intended to target rebel fighters.

Col Getnet Adane told AFP that those who were killed and injured were rebel fighters dressed as civilians to avoid being targeted. He said, "We do not accept that this operation targeted civilians. The Ethiopian air force uses the latest technology, so it conducted a precision strike that was successful".

The fact that children as young as two years old were among the casualties tells a different story however as they could not have possibly been rebel fighters.