Somalia–EU Visa Dispute: Mogadishu’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs Ali Mohamed Omar rejected claims that EU visa restrictions are tied to Somalia’s eVisa system, saying the EU move is about migration management and return cooperation, not judging Somalia’s administrative capacity. AUSSOM Funding Crisis: The AU warned that U.S. moves to block UN logistical support for AUSSOM in 2027 could endanger gains against al-Shabaab, with AU leadership urging more predictable African financing. Security & State Capacity: President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud inaugurated a rebuilt 77th Brigade headquarters for protecting the presidency, highlighting improved facilities and honoring troops killed in operations against al-Shabaab. Maritime Cooperation: Somalia’s Council of Ministers approved an MoU with Egypt to boost maritime transport and port development, aimed at modernizing infrastructure and expanding regional cooperation. Piracy Pressure: International maritime officials urged vigilance as piracy risk persists off Somalia and the Gulf of Aden, with 44 seafarers still held after recent hijackings. Regional Politics & Mediation: Reports say Türkiye is facilitating Somalia government-opposition dialogue, while Puntland and Jubaland boycott Ankara’s mediation over perceived tilt toward Mogadishu. Anti-Terror Legal Fallout: A U.S. court sentenced a Maryland man to 15 years for attempting to join ISIS and plotting an attack, with authorities noting he hoped to travel to Somalia. Public Health Note: A new Somalia-focused review flags antimicrobial resistance as a growing threat in a fragile health system, pointing to major healthcare gaps.