Diplomatic Crisis Between Algeria and France
The Expulsion of Twelve French Agents
On April 14, 2025, Algeria demanded the departure of twelve agents from the French Embassy in Algiers, giving them a 48-hour deadline to leave the country. This measure, announced by the Algerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is part of an increasingly tense diplomatic climate between the two nations, reflecting persistent mistrust and irritation.
Origins of Tensions This decision comes as relations between Algiers and Paris are already strained due to a series of disputes. A key issue involves the case of an Algerian opposition figure residing in France, whose disappearance under unclear circumstances led to the indictment of three individuals, including a member of the Algerian consular staff. Algiers strongly reacted, viewing this incident as interference in its internal affairs and a violation of its sovereignty.
Further tensions have arisen over geopolitical disagreements, notably regarding the Western Sahara. France’s support for Morocco’s autonomy plan has drawn sharp criticism from Algeria, a long-standing advocate of Sahrawi self-determination. This disagreement led Algeria to recall its ambassador to Paris in 2024, a significant blow to diplomatic relations.
Additionally, the Algerian authorities have repeatedly accused French intelligence services of engaging in destabilizing activities. These allegations have been accompanied by multiple official summonses of the French ambassador in Algiers, highlighting the sensitivity of the issue.
Consequences and Stakes Despite occasional gestures of goodwill, such as exchanges of messages during religious holidays, trust between the two nations seems severely eroded. The expulsion of the twelve French agents is an unprecedented act since Algeria's independence, reflecting the severity of the current crisis. This decision could have lasting repercussions on diplomatic and economic relations, further complicating any reconciliation process in the near future.
In response, Jean-Noël Barrot, the French Foreign Minister, expressed regret and urged Algeria to reconsider its stance. He also hinted at the possibility of reciprocal measures, signaling a potential escalation in tensions.
An Uncertain Stalemate This latest episode underscores the precarious state of relations between Algiers and Paris, exacerbated by disputes over issues of security, sovereignty, and geopolitics. Both sides now appear locked in a stalemate, making the future of their bilateral relations increasingly uncertain.
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A Fragile Ceasefire in Eastern DRC
Amid ongoing violence in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), two nearly identical statements released on April 23, 2025, announced an immediate ceasefire. One was signed in Goma by a member of the rebel group AFC/M23—someone not even officially part of the delegation—and the other was issued by the Congolese government in Kinshasa.
Ituri Under Surveillance
Rising Security Concerns The political fragmentation in eastern DRC continues to threaten the fragile stability of Ituri. The failure of the Doha process and the breakdown of the republican pact could pave the way for a new wave of unrest in the region. On April 22, 2025, Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, met with leaders of the Lendu militia CODECO (Cooperative for the Development of the Congo) in Entebbe. Officially, the meeting was convened to address CODECO’s attack on Ugandan military positions in Ituri, a confrontation that adds to past clashes between the group and the Ugandan People’s Defence Forces (UPDF). Key Figures and Discussions The CODECO delegation, led by Dunji Kulukpa Etienne (Vice President of the Lendu community), included political and militant representatives. On the Ugandan side, top-ranking officials participated: • General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, CDF • Lieutenant General Kayanja Muhanga, Land Forces Commander • Major General Felix Busizoori, Commander of the 4th Infantry Division • Brigadier General Oscar Munanura, Deputy Assistant Chief of Intelligence and Security Earlier in the week, CODECO leaders had already engaged with Ugandan military commanders. During the Entebbe meeting, Mr. Dunji expressed gratitude for Uganda’s reception and apologized for the Fataki clashes between CODECO and the UPDF. He claimed the militia had been influenced by external forces and emphasized that the Lendu, Balega, and Bahema communities do not view Uganda as an adversary. Dunji also highlighted Ituri’s worsening humanitarian crisis, attributing it to political divisions, while praising Uganda’s contributions in healthcare, refugee assistance, and economic aid. Uganda’s Expanding Influence in Ituri General Kainerugaba reaffirmed Uganda’s historical presence in North Kivu and Ituri, citing counter-insurgency operations dating back to the early 2000s. He urged CODECO leaders to collaborate with the UPDF in pursuit of a lasting peace. As a demonstration of goodwill, Ugandan forces provided free medical care to wounded CODECO fighters. Strategic Implications: A Larger Agenda? While Uganda frames this meeting as a step toward reconciliation, analysts at African Security Analysis suggest a deeper motive. They argue that the gathering was part of a broader effort to integrate CODECO into the militant coalition led by Thomas Lubanga, potentially setting the stage for coordinated offensives in Ituri, particularly targeting Bunia. If confirmed, this would signal a significant shift in the security landscape, with Uganda deepening its influence in Ituri under the guise of conflict resolution. The region remains under scrutiny as stakeholders assess the evolving dynamics.
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