Simon Ateba
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Chief White House Correspondent and Founder of "The Daily Letter"
Articles by Simon Ateba
“The Last Thing the World Needs Right Now Is Another War”: Rubio Warns Ethiopia and Eritrea as Troops Surge on Both Sides of the Border, and Defends Ending U.S. Sanctions on Asmara
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Trump Extends the U.S. National Emergency on Congo for Another Year, Citing “Widespread Violence and Atrocities”
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Trump Keeps the U.S. National Emergency on Sudan in Force, Saying the Crisis Behind It “Has Not Been Resolved”
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U.S. Trade Rep Calls Out Angola, Kenya, Nigeria, and Others for Costing Billions in American Exports, Spotlights 10 Areas of Economic Sabotage
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President Biden Visits Africa to Strengthen Ties
President Biden is visiting Africa for the first time in his presidency, aiming to strengthen ties with key nations on the continent. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby told reporters aboard Air Force One that the visit underscores the administration’s commitment to deepening partnerships across Africa, with a particular focus on Angola. “Angola plays a critical role not just in regional stability but also as a growing economic partner,” Kirby said.
Judge Sentences Susan Lorincz to 25 Years for Killing Nigerian-American Mother of Four Ajike Owens in Florida
A Florida judge has sentenced Susan Lorincz to 25 years in prison for the fatal shooting of Ajike “AJ” Owens, a Nigerian-American mother of four, during a dispute in Ocala, Florida, in June 2023. The incident began when Lorincz, 58, confronted Owens’ children, who were playing near her home. Lorincz allegedly threw a roller skate at Owens’ 10-year-old son, injuring him.
IN FULL - AUDIO: Read and Listen To the Jury Instructions in the Trump Manhattan Criminal Trial Ahead of Verdict
Judge Juan Merchan provided detailed instructions to the jury on Wednesday in a high-profile case involving former President Donald Trump on charges of falsifying business records. These instructions guide the jury through the legal principles and definitions necessary for deliberations. The document covers key topics such as the presumption of innocence, the burden of proof, the evaluation of evidence, and the specific elements of the crimes charged.
Biden Hosts Historic State Visit for Kenyan President Amid Renewed Focus on Africa
President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden hosted a state visit for Kenyan President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto, culminating in a state dinner at the White House on Thursday night. The visit, the first by an African president in more than 15 years, underscores the Biden administration’s renewed focus on engaging with Africa amid growing influence from rivals like Russia and China. The state visit began on Wednesday, with Biden hosting Ruto in the Oval Office.
Republican Congressman Matt Gaetz Demands Oversight of U.S. Military Withdrawal from Chad
U.S. Congressman Matt Gaetz has requested information from Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin regarding the recent withdrawal of American troops from Chad. Gaetz’s inquiry follows reports that the Chadian government demanded the U.S. forces leave the country. On April 25, 2024, the New York Times reported that the Pentagon planned to withdraw around 75 Green Berets from N’djamena, Chad.
Michael Cohen Testifies on Trump's Alleged Directives and Campaign Actions
In a gripping courtroom testimony, Michael Cohen, former personal attorney and fixer for Donald Trump, laid bare a series of explosive revelations about the alleged inner workings of Trump’s business and presidential campaign. Over the course of his detailed account, Cohen described his role in handling sensitive and sometimes illicit matters for Trump, including negotiating payments to suppress damaging stories and threatening legal action to protect Trump’s interests.
CNN to Host Biden-Trump Presidential Debate on June 27
CNN announced on Wednesday it will host a presidential debate between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump on June 27, 2024. The debate, broadcast live from CNN’s Atlanta studios, came after Biden challenged Trump to the debate, and Trump accepted. Trump had months ago also challenged Biden to debate him. BREAKING IN WASHINGTON: Biden ERUPTS in anger, attacks Trump, says, “Donald Trump lost two debates to me in 2020. Since then, he hasn’t shown up for a debate.
USS Hershel “Woody” Williams Arrives in Gabon to Launch Multinational Naval Exercise
The Gold military crew (MILCREW) of the Lewis B. Puller-class expeditionary sea base USS Hershel “Woody” Williams (ESB 4) and the ship’s Military Sealift Command Civilian Mariners (CIVMARs) have docked in Libreville, Gabon, commencing a scheduled port visit to inaugurate the multinational naval exercise Obangame Express 2024.
Namibia Mourns as President Hage Geingob, 82, Passes Away Following Cancer Battle; Vice President Nangolo Mbumba Assumes Interim Leadership
Namibia has been plunged into mourning after President Hage Geingob, 82, passed away earlier today on Sunday, succumbing to cancer, according to an official statement from the presidency. Geingob, who had been at the helm of the sparsely populated southern African country since 2015, faced his first bout with cancer in the same year but successfully overcame prostate cancer.
Blinken Set to Meet Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, Aiming to Bolster and Strengthen Bilateral Ties
Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken is slated to embark on a diplomatic mission to Nigeria, with visits planned in Abuja and Lagos on January 23-24, signaling a strategic effort to enhance the longstanding U.S.-Nigeria bilateral relationship. During his stay, Secretary Blinken is scheduled to engage in discussions with key figures, including President Bola Tinubu, Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar, and representatives from civil society.
President Biden and Angolan President Lourenço Forge Stronger Ties, Unveil Billion-Dollar Investments
On Thursday, President Joe Biden hosted Angolan President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço in the Oval Office to reaffirm his dedication to Africa. In a readout, the White House said the two leaders discussed opportunities to deepen their partnership, highlighted significant economic investments, and tackled pressing regional and global challenges.
Biden Set to Host Angolan President At White House for Landmark Diplomatic Talks
President Joe Biden will host Angolan President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço at the White House on Thursday, November 30, Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said in a statement on Sunday. The meeting is poised to commemorate 30 years of diplomatic ties between the United States and Angola and is expected to delve into a broad spectrum of issues aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation.
Sudanese Armed Forces and Rapid Support Forces Commit to Humanitarian Measures in Jeddah Talks
The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have committed to crucial steps aimed at enhancing humanitarian assistance and fostering confidence-building measures (CBMs). The announcement comes following recent talks in Jeddah, facilitated by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), with representation from the African Union, and the United States.
President Biden Stresses Strong Support for AGOA Reauthorization
President Joe Biden on Wednesday expressed strong support for the reauthorization of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a pivotal bipartisan law that has been a cornerstone of U.S. trade relations with sub-Saharan Africa for over two decades. In a statement, President Biden encouraged Congress to promptly reauthorize AGOA and modernize this vital Act to harness the economic opportunities of the coming decade.
Katherine Tai, U.S. Trade Representative, to Attend 20th U.S.-Sub-Saharan Africa Trade and Economic Cooperation Forum in Johannesburg
The Office of the United States Trade Representative has confirmed that Katherine Tai, the United States Trade Representative, will be embarking on a significant journey to Johannesburg, South Africa, from October 31, 2023, to November 4, 2023. Her visit is in connection with the 20th U.S.-Sub-Saharan Africa Trade and Economic Cooperation (AGOA) Forum.
Prominent Zimbabwean Opposition Figure, Job Sikhala, Languishes in Detention for Over 500 Days
Job Sikhala, a prominent political figure in Zimbabwe and former Member of Parliament for the opposition CCC, has been languishing behind bars for over 500 days while awaiting trial. The extended detention has sparked serious concerns about the integrity of Zimbabwe’s judicial system, with Amnesty International’s Deputy Director for East and Southern Africa, Khanyo Farisè, condemning the situation as an abuse of power.
The United States Expresses Deep Concern Over Escalation of Violence in Sudan
The United States government on Wednesday expressed grave concern over the escalating violence in Sudan, particularly in the regions of Nyala, South Darfur, and Karari, Omdurman. In a statement, the State Department said that credible reports have emerged indicating that the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has intensified shelling in these areas, further exacerbating the hardships endured by the Sudanese people.
US and South African National Security Advisors Discuss Key Priorities and Partnerships
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan of the United States engaged in a productive phone call on Monday with his South African counterpart, National Security Advisor Sydney Mufamadi. One of the central points of discussion was South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s firm stance on addressing concerns related to the activities of the Lady R, an issue that had raised eyebrows last year.
President Biden Announces Inaugural Members of Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement
In a move aimed at strengthening ties between the United States and the African Diaspora, President Joseph R. Biden Jr. on Tuesday unveiled the first-ever members of the President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement. The historic initiative was formally announced by Vice President Harris on behalf of the Biden-Harris Administration during the 2022 U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit.
President Biden Offers Condolences and Reaffirms Strong Partnership with Morocco
U.S. President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. reached out to King Mohammed VI of Morocco on Monday, extending his heartfelt condolences for the tragic loss of life resulting from the devastating earthquake that struck the North African nation on September 8. During the call, the two leaders reaffirmed the unwavering partnership between Morocco and the United States, underscoring their commitment to work together in times of crisis, the White House said in a statement.
U.S. Advances Global Goals, Provides Aid Amid Crises
Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield Spotlights U.S. Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, U.S. Representative to the United Nations, is gearing up for the 2023 SDG Summit with a visual display in the lobby of the U.S. Mission to the United Nations spotlighting U.S. initiatives that advance the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
President Biden Meets Nigerian President Bola Tinubu at G20 Summit in New Delhi
U.S. President Joe Biden met with Nigerian President Bola Tinubu on Sunday during the G20 Summit in New Delhi. The interaction aimed to underline the enduring commitment between the U.S. and Nigeria and to celebrate the deep-rooted friendship between the nations and their citizens. In a statement, the White House said that President Biden expressed his appreciation for the efforts undertaken by the Tinubu Administration in the economic reforms in Nigeria.
IMF and World Bank Highlight Climate Change, Debt, and Digital Transition as Key Global Challenges
In a joint statement released Thursday, Kristalina Georgieva of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and Ajay Banga of the World Bank identified pressing global challenges, emphasizing climate change, elevated debt vulnerabilities, and the ongoing digital transition. The duo outlined the current global economic landscape, marked by rising geopolitical tensions and an ever-accelerating digital shift.
U.S. Officials Strengthen Ties with African Nations through Series of Visits
In a series of coordinated trips to reinforce ties with African nations, high-ranking U.S. officials are visiting various countries on the continent to discuss multiple issues, from climate change to humanitarian assistance. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate, John Kerry, has traveled to Nairobi, Kenya, where he will be from September 4-7.
U.S.-Trained Soldiers Behind Recent African Coups: American Congressman Matt Gaetz Demands Accountability
Florida Republican Congressman Matt Gaetz has raised concerns over a pattern of African military coups executed by soldiers trained or funded by the U.S. Responding to the coups in Niger and Gabon, Gaetz is now pushing for more accountability from the Pentagon. In July, Niger experienced a coup, followed by Gabon at the close of August. Both formerly colonized by France, Niger is rich in uranium, while Gabon boasts oil and gas reserves.
President Bola Tinubu Expresses Concern Over Gabon's Political Instability
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has voiced his concern regarding the recent political developments in Gabon and the growing trend of autocratic governance in Africa.
White House Says U.S. Monitoring Developments in Gabon Amid Coup
On Wednesday, the White House confirmed that it is closely observing events in Gabon, the central African nation, following reports of a military coup. John Kirby, the Coordinator for Strategic Communications at the National Security Council, relayed in a teleconference with reporters that there are indications of a military faction assuming control in Gabon after incumbent President Ali Bongo Ondimba was announced as the winner of the recent elections.
Military Coup Rocks Gabon After Contested Election Victory of President Ali Bongo Ondimba
A faction of military officers has taken control in Gabon, a country in central Africa located next to Cameroon, following the declaration of incumbent President Ali Bongo Ondimba as the election winner. The soldiers announced on television their intention to dismantle the current regime. Ali Bongo Ondimba’s father governed Gabon from 1967 until his passing in 2009. He succeeded him and had recently secured a contested third 7-year term.
U.S. Expresses Concern Over Zimbabwe's Presidential Elections and Democracy in Africa
As Zimbabwe braces for its presidential elections on August 23, the United States has sounded the alarm over possible electoral malpractices and undemocratic actions. In a press statement on Tuesday, U.S. Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller urged all involved parties to ensure a fair and peaceful election, highlighting Zimbabweans’ right to a democratic future.
Human Rights Watch Says Saudi Forces Killed Hundreds of Ethiopians at Yemen Border
Human Rights Watch said in a disturbing report on Monday that Saudi border guards killed hundreds of Ethiopian migrants and asylum seekers from March 2022 to June 2023 at the Yemen-Saudi border. Titled “‘They Fired on Us Like Rain’: Saudi Arabian Mass Killings of Ethiopian Migrants at the Yemen-Saudi Border,” the 73-page investigative document dives deep into the profound and systematic abuses migrants have endured.
Nigerian President Sends Envoys to Niger Republic, Informs National Assembly of Potential Military Action in Response to Political Crisis
Simon Ateba is Chief White House Correspondent for Today News Africa covering President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, U.S. government, UN, IMF, World Bank and other financial and international institutions in Washington and New York. Nigerian President and Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has taken decisive action to resolve the current political crisis in Niger Republic by dispatching envoys to Niamey.
White House Says Diplomatic Window in Niger Remains Open, but in Niamey, the Coup is Complete with No Turning Back
Simon Ateba is Chief White House Correspondent for Today News Africa covering President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, U.S. government, UN, IMF, World Bank and other financial and international institutions in Washington and New York. The White House said on Thursday that a diplomatic window was still open for the reinstatement of the deposed president of Niger, Mohamed Bazoum.
U.S. Supports Niger's Ousted President Mohamed Bazoum as Neighboring Nations Burkina Faso and Mali Threaten War
Simon Ateba is Chief White House Correspondent for Today News Africa covering President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, U.S. government, UN, IMF, World Bank and other financial and international institutions in Washington and New York. A profoundly concerning escalation of tensions has arisen in West Africa, with U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken expressing unwavering support for Niger’s deposed President Mohamed Bazoum during a phone call on Tuesday, August 1, 2023.
Secret Service Closes Investigation into White House Cocaine Discovery Without Identifying Any Suspect
Simon Ateba is Chief White House Correspondent for Today News Africa covering President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, U.S. government, UN, IMF, World Bank and other financial and international institutions in Washington and New York. In a perplexing turn of events, the U.S. Secret Service announced on Thursday that it had concluded its investigation into the discovery of cocaine in the West Wing of the White House, citing a lack of physical evidence to identify a suspect.
Simon Ateba: Why The Washington Post was Ordered to do a Hit Job on me
Simon Ateba is Chief White House Correspondent for Today News Africa covering President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, U.S. government, UN, IMF, World Bank and other financial and international institutions in Washington and New York. I believe The Washington Post was ordered to do a hit piece on me because on July 31, all White House hard passes would expire, and the White House would need a reason not to renew mine.
Judge Prohibits Biden Administration from Enforcing Content Restrictions on Social Media Platforms
On Tuesday, Judge Terry A. Doughty from the US District Court for the Western District of Louisiana issued a ruling prohibiting the Joe Biden administration from engaging in broad content restrictions and communication with social media platforms.
Discovery of Cocaine in White House Library Raises Concerns Among President Biden's Staff
A substance found in the White House library on Sunday night has tested positive for cocaine, as stated in a dispatch call made during the incident. The white powdery substance was discovered during a routine sweep. President Joseph R. Biden Jr. was not present at the White House during the incident but was at Camp David.
Discovery of Cocaine in White House Raises Concerns Among President Biden's Staff and Visitors
Simon Ateba is Chief White House Correspondent for Today News Africa covering President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, U.S. government, UN, IMF, World Bank and other financial and international institutions in Washington and New York. A substance found in the White House on Sunday night has tested positive for cocaine, as stated in a dispatch call made during the incident. The white powdery substance was discovered during a routine sweep. President Joseph R.
Outrage Mounts as US Withdraws Atrocity Determination for Ethiopia, Drawing Criticism from Rights Groups
Simon Ateba is Chief White House Correspondent for Today News Africa covering President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, U.S. government, UN, IMF, World Bank and other financial and international institutions in Washington and New York. The recent decision by the US Treasury Department to backtrack on its determination of gross human rights violations in Ethiopia has sparked outrage among human rights advocates and international organizations.
Trump's Lead Surges in New Hampshire as DeSantis Loses Ground, New Candidates Gain Support: Poll
Former President Donald Trump is widening his lead over Ron DeSantis in New Hampshire, while new candidates are gaining support in the 2024 Republican primary. Trump holds 47% support, compared to DeSantis’ 19% in the latest Saint Anselm College poll released Tuesday. Other contenders like Chris Christie, Nikki Haley, and Tim Scott also see some backing. DeSantis has experienced a 10-point drop in support, while Trump’s support has increased by seven points since a previous poll.
US Justice Department Releases Report, Concluding Epstein's Death as Suicide Despite Inexcusable Negligence and Mismanagement at Manhattan Jail
The Justice Department’s inspector general on Tuesday released a report on the death of Jeffrey Epstein, concluding that he died by suicide in 2019 in his cell at the Metropolitan Correctional Center in Manhattan, but highlighting significant negligence and mismanagement at the jail, stating that the leadership and staff created an environment where Epstein had ample opportunity to take his own life.
Jesse Watters Fills Tucker Carlson's Slot Amid Rating Challenge
Simon Ateba is Chief White House Correspondent for Today News Africa covering President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, U.S. government, UN, IMF, World Bank and other financial and international institutions in Washington and New York. Fox News Channel on Monday announced a reshuffling of their evening lineup that will take effect starting July 17, according to the network’s CEO, Suzanne Scott.
GOP Presidential Candidate Vivek Ramaswamy Sets Sights on Defeating Trump, Addresses Transgenderism, and Outlines Vision for 2024 Election
Simon Ateba is Chief White House Correspondent for Today News Africa covering President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, U.S. government, UN, IMF, World Bank and other financial and international institutions in Washington and New York. Entrepreneur and 2024 Republican Party presidential primaries candidate, Vivek Ganapathy Ramaswamy, has expressed confidence in his campaign, stating that he is surpassing the position held by former President Donald Trump at the same point in 2015.
Kenyan President William Ruto Champions New Global Financial Architecture at Global Summit
Simon Ateba is Chief White House Correspondent for Today News Africa covering President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, U.S. government, UN, IMF, World Bank and other financial and international institutions in Washington and New York. Kenyan President William Ruto made a compelling case for a new global financial architecture during his remarks at the New Global Financial Pack Summit in France on Friday, June 23.
Declassified COVID-19 Origins Report: US Government Agencies Diverge, Debating Genetic Engineering as a Possibility
Simon Ateba is Chief White House Correspondent for Today News Africa covering President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, U.S. government, UN, IMF, World Bank and other financial and international institutions in Washington and New York.
President Biden's Son, Hunter Biden, to Plead Guilty to Tax Charges, Avoid Prosecution on Gun Charge: Court Filing
Simon Ateba is Chief White House Correspondent for Today News Africa covering President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, U.S. government, UN, IMF, World Bank and other financial and international institutions in Washington and New York. Hunter Biden, the son of President Joe Biden, is set to plead guilty to two misdemeanor tax charges while avoiding prosecution for a separate gun charge, as stated in a court filing on Tuesday.
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