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U.S to Ukraine: Lower Conscription Age, Bolster Military Forces

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By Faith Adama

In a strategic move to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities, the outgoing U.S. administration under President Joe Biden has recommended that Kyiv lower its conscription age from 25 to 18.

The call comes amid escalating Russian military aggression and growing concerns over Ukraine’s manpower shortages as it struggles to keep pace with Moscow’s expanding military forces.

A senior Biden administration official, speaking on condition of anonymity, called the situation “existential” for Ukraine, stressing that the country’s current recruitment efforts are insufficient to offset the devastating battlefield losses.

“Ukraine is not mobilizing enough soldiers to match Russia’s increasingly advanced military resources,” the official explained.

Ukraine had already reduced its conscription age from 27 to 25 in response to the ongoing war, which began in February 2022.

However, the U.S. believes that further lowering the age threshold could be crucial for maintaining a robust fighting force, particularly as Russia continues to escalate its offensive.

While the Biden administration has clarified that U.S. military aid to Ukraine is not contingent on this policy change, National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby stressed the importance of manpower in the ongoing conflict.

“Weapons and equipment are vital, but training and reinforcing Ukraine’s ranks are equally critical,” he said.

This recommendation comes at a time when President-elect Donald Trump is hinting at a possible shift in U.S. policy toward Ukraine.

Trump, who has previously claimed he could broker a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia within 24 hours, has nominated retired General Keith Kellogg as his special envoy for Ukraine.

Kellogg has been vocal in advocating for peace talks with Moscow and has suggested that NATO should delay offering membership to Ukraine in exchange for Russian security guarantees.

With the Biden administration’s focus on reinforcing Ukraine’s military, and Trump’s potential change in course, the next few months will be pivotal in determining the direction of U.S. support for Ukraine amid the ongoing war.

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World News

Trump Imposes Tariffs to Combat Fentanyl Crisis

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By Abaire Bisola

Former President Donald Trump has announced new tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China as part of efforts to curb the fentanyl crisis, the leading cause of death among Americans aged 18 to 45.

The tariffs include a 25% levy on Mexican goods, a 10% tariff on Canadian energy resources, and a 10% duty on Chinese imports, aimed at pressuring these nations to intensify their fight against drug trafficking.

The move targets Mexican cartels, the primary traffickers of fentanyl into the U.S., while also addressing concerns over fentanyl production in Canada.

The Trump administration insists that international cooperation is essential to stemming the flow of dangerous substances into the country.

While the tariffs are framed as a national security measure, they have sparked concerns over potential economic repercussions and increased consumer costs.

The administration has warned that non-compliance by these countries could result in escalating tariffs, raising fears of global trade tensions.

Supporters argue that Trump’s tariff policies have historically bolstered the U.S. economy, citing a 2024 study linking them to increased domestic manufacturing.

However, the economic impact remains debated, with experts divided on whether tariffs ultimately benefit or burden American consumers.

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Fear Grips US-Based Nigerians as Trump’s Deportation Crackdown Intensifies

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By Our Correspondent 

Amid a sweeping deportation crackdown ordered by former U.S. President Donald Trump, many Nigerians residing in the United States have reportedly gone into hiding, fearing arrest and forced removal.

The crackdown, which targets undocumented immigrants and those with expired visas, has triggered panic among Nigerian communities, especially those without proper documentation.

Reports indicate that immigration raids have increased in several states, leading to heightened anxiety and reduced public movement among affected individuals.

Many Nigerians have turned to legal experts and community organizations for advice on their immigration status, while others have reportedly stopped going to work or public gatherings to avoid detection.

Trump, who has maintained a tough stance on immigration, has emphasized that his administration is focused on removing illegal immigrants as part of a broader effort to enforce U.S. immigration laws.

As deportations escalate, Nigerian authorities have yet to release an official statement addressing the impact on their citizens.

Meanwhile, human rights activists have called for a fair and humane approach to the enforcement process, urging the U.S. government to consider pathways for legal residency instead of mass deportations.

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Meet First Nigerian-Woman Brigadier General in US Army

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By Ade Iyamoye 

Amanda Azubuike has made history as the first Nigerian woman to be promoted to Brigadier General in the United States Army.

Born in London to Nigerian and Zimbabwean parents, Azubuike relocated to the United States as a teenager.

Her military journey began with the Air Force Junior ROTC program, fostering her passion for service.

She earned a degree in Communications from the University of Central Arkansas and joined the U.S. Army in 1994 as an aviator.

Throughout her distinguished 30-year career, Azubuike served in various leadership roles, including Deputy Commanding Officer at the U.S. Army Cadet Command, Chief of Public Affairs for the U.S. Southern Command, and Senior Military Advisor at the Pentagon.

Her strategic expertise is further highlighted by her Master’s degree in Public Relations and Corporate Communications from Georgetown University.

Azubuike’s promotion to Brigadier General not only marks a personal achievement but also serves as a powerful inspiration for women, particularly those of African descent, aspiring to leadership in the military.

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