South Africa is bracing for anti-immigration protests as authorities deploy police units nationwide to prevent violence. In Monaco, a bombing targeting a Ukrainian businessman has left three injured, prompting an investigation into an attempted assassination. Meanwhile, the EU has reduced duty-free steel quotas for non-member countries, and the US and Europe face a diplomatic rift over Bosnia's future leadership.

South Africa Faces Anti-Immigration Protests

In anticipation of planned demonstrations against undocumented immigrants, South African police have increased their presence in major cities, including Johannesburg. The protests, organized by vigilante groups, have set a deadline for undocumented foreigners to leave the country by June 30. While the organizers claim their intentions are peaceful, there have been reports of harassment and violence against migrants, leading to concerns about potential unrest similar to the deadly riots of 2008. The South African government has faced criticism for its lack of decisive action against xenophobia, with President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasizing the need for tolerance. Meanwhile, several African nations are repatriating their citizens from South Africa amid rising tensions.

Monaco Bombing Investigated as Attempted Assassination

Monaco's tranquility was shattered by a parcel bomb explosion that injured Ukrainian-born businessman Vadym Iermolaiev, his wife, and their child. The explosion, which occurred in a residential building lobby, has been classified as an attempted assassination rather than a terrorist attack. Authorities are currently searching for the suspect, who fled to France. The Monaco government condemned the act, calling it unprecedented in the principality, where violent crime is rare. Iermolaiev, a prominent property developer, has faced scrutiny due to his past business ties with Russia but was not known for pro-Russian sentiments. The investigation continues as Monaco's security services mobilize to ensure public safety.

EU Reduces Duty-Free Steel Quotas Amid Trade Tensions

The European Union has halved its duty-free steel import quotas as part of efforts to curb the influx of cheap Chinese steel. However, countries with existing free trade agreements, including the UK, will see only a one-third reduction in their quotas. The new regulations, effective from July 1, 2026, aim to provide predictability in the market while allowing certain nations to maintain higher trade levels. This development marks a significant shift in EU-UK trade relations post-Brexit and reflects ongoing concerns over foreign imports. The EU's measures are designed to protect domestic industries while addressing the challenges posed by international trade dynamics.

Diplomatic Strains Emerge Over Bosnia's High Representative

Diplomats from various nations are convening in Sarajevo to address a growing rift between the US and Europe regarding the appointment of the next high representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Trump administration's push for the removal of the current representative, Christian Schmidt, has raised concerns among European officials about the implications for Bosnia's political stability. The US is reportedly advocating for Antonio Zanardi Landi, an Italian diplomat with limited experience in the region, as a replacement. This move has been perceived as part of a broader strategy to prioritize American business interests in the Balkans, potentially undermining the delicate postwar balance in Bosnia.

Wrap-up

The international landscape is marked by rising tensions over immigration in South Africa, a shocking bombing incident in Monaco, and a diplomatic impasse regarding Bosnia's leadership. As nations grapple with these challenges, the implications for regional stability and international relations remain significant.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team