The Sunday Subject – December 11, 2022

Lawmakers in Peru voted to oust Pedro Castillo as president shortly after he attempted a coup.

Attempting to block a vote of no-confidence and consolidate power, Castillo announced he would close Congress, convene a new one with powers to write a new constitution, and “reorganize” the judiciary and the prosecutor’s office. The effort collapsed within hours, and he was detained by police. He has been replaced by his vice president, Dina Boluarte.

South Africa’s ruling party, the ANC, announced it would block attempts to impeach President Cyril Ramaphosa.

The decision comes after an independent panel found that Ramaphosa likely abused his powers. He currently stands accused of violating anti-corruption laws in association with theft of at least $4m from his cattle farm.

U.S. officials warned that Iran and Russia are entering a “full-fledged defense partnership” that may include the joint production of drones.

According to the National Security Council, Russia will provide fighter jets to Iran and is training pilots. In turn, it is believed that Iran has sent armed drones for Russia’s use in Ukraine.