UAE to quit OPEC in major shift for global oil alliance

The United Arab Emirates has announced it will leave OPEC and the wider OPEC+ alliance next month, ending nearly six decades of membership in a move that could reshape global energy dynamics.

Officials said the decision would give the country greater flexibility to expand production and meet rising global demand following significant investment in capacity. Analysts say the departure removes one of the group’s more compliant members and could weaken OPEC’s ability to coordinate supply.

The exit may also align with pressure from Donald Trump, the US President who has repeatedly criticised OPEC over oil prices.

Trump approval falls to new low amid Iran war concerns

Support for Trump, the US president has dropped to its lowest level of his current term, according to a Reuters Ipsos poll, reflecting growing concern over the cost of living and the war with Iran.

The survey found approval at 34 percent, down from earlier readings, with only 22 percent backing his handling of living costs. Rising fuel prices linked to the conflict have weighed heavily on public sentiment.

The poll suggests a steady decline since Trump returned to office in 2025, with economic pressures and foreign policy challenges shaping voter attitudes.

Starmer avoids inquiry over Mandelson appointment row

Keir Starmer, UK Prime Minister, will not face a parliamentary investigation over claims he misled MPs about the appointment of Peter Mandelson as US ambassador.

Lawmakers in the House of Commons voted down a motion seeking an inquiry, despite criticism from opposition figures and some members of Starmer’s own party.

The prime minister has denied wrongdoing, insisting proper procedures were followed. Under parliamentary rules, knowingly misleading MPs can trigger serious consequences, including resignation.

Ambani heir offers to relocate Escobar hippos to India

Anant Ambani has proposed to relocate Colombia’s controversial population of hippos descended from those once owned by Pablo Escobar.

The animals, now numbering in the dozens, have spread along the Magdalena river basin and are considered an invasive species.

Colombian authorities have struggled to control the population and have considered culling.

Ambani’s Vantara zoo in Gujarat has offered to house the animals, saying it can provide long term care, though Colombian officials have yet to respond.

Elderly gunman arrested after athens shooting spree

Greek police have arrested an 89 year old man following a shooting in Athens that left five people injured.

Authorities say the suspect opened fire inside a social security office before moving to a nearby court building, where more people were hurt. He was later detained after a manhunt.

Officials are still investigating the motive, with early reports suggesting the attacker targeted government institutions.

AFRICA

Ruto clarifies remarks after backlash over Nigerian English

William Ruto, the president of Kenya has sought to clarify comments about Nigerian accents after backlash from across Africa.

Speaking at a conference in Nairobi, Ruto said his remarks had been taken out of context and were intended to highlight the strength of English spoken across the continent.

He also extended greetings to Bola Tinubu, emphasising ties between the two countries.

Mali leader vows response after deadly insurgent attacks

Assimi Goita, Mali leader has pledged to “neutralise” armed groups following coordinated attacks that killed senior officials and targeted key military positions.

The assaults, carried out by jihadist and separatist fighters, mark a significant escalation in Mali’s security crisis and raise concerns about stability across the Sahel region.

Ghana army hunts attackers after deadly convoy ambush

Ghana’s military is searching for suspects behind a deadly ambush on a convoy in the country’s North East.

At least seven gunmen and three civilians were killed in the exchange of fire, with authorities linking the violence to longstanding chieftaincy disputes in the region.

Security operations have been intensified amid fears of further unrest.

Russia calls for stability in mali after clashes

Russia has called for a swift return to stability in Mali after clashes involving its affiliated Africa Corps.

Officials said the situation remains volatile following recent attacks, with reports of casualties among allied forces and shifting control in northern regions.

Uganda to launch new oil exploration round

Uganda plans to open a new oil exploration licensing round in the 2026 to 2027 financial year as it seeks to expand its resource base.

Ruth Nankabirwa, the Energy minister said new blocks would be offered in the Albertine Graben and other frontier areas, building on existing reserves estimated at 6.5 billion barrels.

The move reflects Uganda’s ambition to boost production and attract further investment in its energy sector.