Leonid SavinAmong the critical minerals, some occupy a special place. For example, it is difficult to imagine the normal functioning of a large metropolis without salt. In the Middle Ages, in many countries, due to interruptions in salt or an increase in the tax on it, so-called salt riots arose. …

China’s “friendship without limits” with Russia may be tested in Africa, where Beijing’s long-established economic interests are at risk of clashing with the growing footprint of Moscow’s paramilitary Wagner Group. The most recent point of potential friction is Niger, where leaders of a July 26 military coup are reported by …

France’s relations in Africa have been strained. The setback in Niger jeopardizes the country’s entire positioning in West Africa, both militarily and politically. Unfortunately, for French President Emmanuel Macron, this is not the only place where his administration is facing failure. We might even dare to ask: Is France about …