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Trouble Looms As Russia Warns Against Military Intervention In Niger

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Russia on Friday warned against a military intervention in Niger, a day after West African leaders said they would muster a “standby” force in their efforts to return the president toppled by a coup.

We believe that a military solution to the crisis in Niger could lead to a protracted confrontation in that African country, and to a sharp destabilisation of the situation in the Sahara-Sahel region as a whole,” the Russian foreign ministry said in a report by global news agency, AFP.

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Recall West African leaders approved the deployment of a “standby force to restore constitutional order” in Niger, an intervention that will take place as soon as possible, Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara said Thursday.

The ECOWAS regional bloc did not provide details on the force to be deployed or the timetable for action against the military officers who seized control of Niger two weeks ago, deposing Mohamed Bazoum as president.

READ ALSO: Thousands Of Coup Supporters Rally Near French Base In Niger

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But on his return to Abidjan from the emergency summit in Nigeria’s capital Abuja, Ouattara said: “The Chiefs of Staff will have other conferences to finalise things but they have the agreement of the Conference of Heads of State for the operation to start as soon as possible.”

Ivory Coast would provide a battalion of 850 to 1,100 men alongside soldiers from Nigeria and Benin, and other countries would join them, Ouattara said.

“We are determined to restore president Bazoum to his functions.”

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Earlier, in Abuja, ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray had announced the deployment of the bloc’s force.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken called for a non-violent solution to reverse the coup, praising the “determination of ECOWAS to explore all options for the peaceful resolution of the crisis” in a statement on Thursday.

READ ALSO: Tinubu’s Full Speech At 2nd ECOWAS Extraordinary Summit On Niger Crisis

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The bloc was “playing a key role in making clear the imperative of a return to constitutional order, and we very much support ECOWAS’ leadership and work on this”, he told reporters earlier Thursday.

Former colonial power France gave its “full support to all the conclusions” ECOWAS reached, the foreign ministry said.

But even as the summit took place, Niger’s new military rulers moved to consolidate their position and signalled further defiance by appointing a new government.

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A 21-member cabinet will be headed by Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, a civilian, with generals from the new military governing council leading the defence and interior ministries.

The coup leaders have already defied the Sunday deadline set by ECOWAS a week earlier to reinstate Bazoum — detained since July 26 — or face military possible intervention.

READ ALSO: Tinubu’s Full Speech At 2nd ECOWAS Extraordinary Summit On Niger Crisis

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In Abuja, Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu, who chaired the crisis meeting, said: “All is not lost yet” for a “peaceful solution, as a roadmap to restore democracy and stability”.

But he added: “No option is taken off the table, including the use of force as a last resort.”

Before the closed-door talks, Tinubu had insisted that “we prioritise diplomatic negotiations and dialogue as the bedrock of our approach”.

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– ‘We must engage’ –

The 15-nation bloc is struggling to stem military takeovers that have now swept through four of its members in three years, potentially heralding fresh instability in a region struggling for years against jihadist insurgencies.

Before the meeting, Tinubu acknowledged that “the seven-day ultimatum we issued during the first summit has not yielded the desired outcome”.

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An attempt this week to send a joint team of ECOWAS, UN and African Union representatives to Niger’s capital Niamey was rejected by the coup leaders.

We must engage all parties involved, including the coup leaders, in earnest discussions to convince them to relinquish power and reinstate President Bazoum,” Tinubu said.

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Trump Says Putin ‘Playing With Fire’ In New Jab At Russian Leader

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US President Donald Trump warned Vladimir Putin Tuesday that he was “playing with fire,” launching a fresh broadside at his Russian counterpart over stalled Ukraine peace efforts.

Trump’s latest comments came after he called the Kremlin leader “CRAZY” over the weekend following a mass Russian air attack on Kyiv, and warned that Moscow risked new sanctions.

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“What Vladimir Putin doesn’t realise is that if it weren’t for me, lots of really bad things would have already happened to Russia, and I mean REALLY BAD,” Trump said on his Truth Social network Tuesday.

“He’s playing with fire!”

Trump did not specify what the “really bad” things were or make any specific threats.

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REA ALSO: Trump Revokes Harvard University’s Right To Enroll Foreign Students

But the Wall Street Journal and CNN both reported that Trump was now considering fresh sanctions against Russia as early as this week, while stressing that he could still change his mind.

Trump had told reporters on Sunday he was “absolutely” considering increasing sanctions on Moscow.

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The US president’s recent rebukes mark a major change from his previous attitude towards Putin, whom he often speaks of with admiration and has previously held off criticising.

Trump has, however, expressed increasing frustration with Moscow’s position in deadlocked truce negotiations with Kyiv.

READ ALSO: S/African President Meets Trump Over Rising Tensions

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That frustration boiled over at the weekend when Russia launched a record drone barrage at Ukraine, killing at least 13 people.

“I’ve always had a very good relationship with Vladimir Putin of Russia, but something has happened to him. He has gone absolutely CRAZY!” Trump said in a Truth Social post on Sunday night.

Russia’s attacks have continued despite a phone call between Trump and Putin eight days ago in which the US leader said the Russian president had agreed to “immediately” start ceasefire talks.

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Moscow on Tuesday accused Kyiv of trying to “disrupt” peace efforts and said its aerial assaults on Ukraine in recent days were a “response” to escalating Ukrainian drone strikes on its own civilians.

AFP

 

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Check Out World’s Richest King With 38 Private Jets, 300 Cars, 52 Golden Boats

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While there are countless billionaires around the world, few match the regal wealth and extravagant lifestyle of King Maha Vajiralongkorn of Thailand—better known as King Rama X. According to The Business Standard, he is considered the richest king in the world, with a staggering estimated net worth of Rs 3.7 lakh crore (approximately USD 43 billion).

Unlike typical billionaires, King Vajiralongkorn’s wealth is rooted in centuries-old royal lineage and further amplified by modern investments. His fortune, inherited largely after the passing of his father King Bhumibol Adulyadej in 2016, has since been expanded through stakes in Thailand’s major companies and real estate holdings.

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The monarch owns over 17,000 properties in Bangkok alone, making him one of the largest landowners in the country. His luxury collection includes over 300 high-end cars, 38 private jets, and a fleet of 52 golden boats, which are used exclusively for royal ceremonies and reflect the opulence of Thailand’s monarchy.

Born in 1952, Vajiralongkorn is the only son of King Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit. He received military education in the UK and Australia and is a trained jet and helicopter pilot. He graduated from the University of New South Wales with a degree in military studies and served in the Royal Thai Army, even taking part in anti-insurgency operations during the 1970s.

READ ALSO: King Charles III Hospitalized Amid Cancer Battle, Pulls Out Of Royal Engagements

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Despite his controversial personal life, including four marriages and frequent media scrutiny, King Vajiralongkorn remains a dominant symbol of Thailand’s royal legacy, luxury, and power.

Meanwhile, in India, Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani continue to dominate the billionaire charts. As of May 2025, Ambani, with an estimated net worth of USD 92.5 billion, holds the title of India’s richest person. Adani follows with USD 56.3 billion, with investments spanning energy, ports, and infrastructure.

In contrast to corporate billionaires, King Vajiralongkorn stands out not only for his immense wealth but also for a lifestyle that rivals any global celebrity or monarch.

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Source: Financial Express

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Top 10 Courses To Study In Germany For High Employment Opportunities

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Here are 10 of the best courses to study in Germany—and why they stand out

Germany continues to attract international students with its tuition-free or low-cost public universities, globally respected degrees, and strong career prospects.

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With world-class infrastructure and many programs taught in English, Germany has become a go-to destination for higher education.

Here are 10 of the best courses to study in Germany—and why they stand out:

1. Mechanical Engineering

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Germany is a global hub for mechanical innovation, home to industry giants like BMW, Siemens, and Bosch. Programs emphasize research, design, and real-world applications, making graduates highly sought-after in Europe and beyond.

READ ALSO:10 Countries With Multiple Capital Cities

2. Computer Science & IT

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With a growing tech ecosystem, Germany offers excellent opportunities in AI, cybersecurity, and software development. Universities partner with startups and multinationals, giving students hands-on experience and strong job placement.

3. Business Administration & Management

Germany’s powerful economy and strategic location in Europe make it ideal for studying business. Courses blend theory and practice, often including internships with global firms in finance, marketing, or consulting.

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4. Electrical Engineering

This field powers Germany’s energy transition and automation advancements. Programs focus on electronics, robotics, and renewable energy systems, preparing graduates for high-tech careers with competitive salaries.

5. Medicine & Healthcare

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Germany offers rigorous medical training with strong clinical exposure. Though most programs require German proficiency, the high demand for doctors and healthcare professionals makes this a promising path with excellent job security.

READ ALSO:5 Asian Countries Nigerians Can Visit Without A Visa

6. Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning

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Germany is investing heavily in AI across sectors like finance, logistics, and health. These courses, often housed in computer science faculties, provide research-driven education with pathways into cutting-edge tech roles.

7. Automotive Engineering

Study in the birthplace of Mercedes, Porsche, and Volkswagen. Courses emphasize vehicle design, sustainability, and automation, with direct pipelines into internships and jobs in the thriving German auto industry.

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8. Environmental Engineering

Germany’s leadership in renewable energy and sustainability makes this a timely field. Programs focus on waste management, water treatment, and climate solutions—ideal for those passionate about environmental change.

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9. Architecture

Combining history with innovation, Germany offers a dynamic environment for aspiring architects. Courses often highlight green design, urban planning, and energy-efficient construction, preparing students for the global market.

10. Psychology

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Mental health is gaining attention worldwide, and Germany is no exception. With a focus on clinical and organizational psychology, these programs open doors to healthcare, HR, education, and research roles.

 

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