DRC & UAE Sign Major Economic Deal

February 2, 2026 - President Félix Tshisekedi has arrived in Abu Dhabi for the signing of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between the DRC and the United Arab Emirates. The agreement, finalized after two years of negotiations, will be signed at Qasr Al Watan in the presence of UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed and President Tshisekedi. It aims to expand trade across key sectors and strengthen bilateral economic ties. Niger: ISIS-Sahel Claims Attack on Niamey Air Base February 1, 2026 - ISIS-Sahel has released images claiming the destruction of at least one drone and one helicopter at Air Base 101 in Niamey. The group says several aircraft were destroyed and that fighters breached the base, contradicting official statements. Local sources report 27 killed, including three Russian soldiers and 24 Nigerien troops, with 18 wounded evacuated to military and civilian hospitals.