Riley is a writer and reporter for GZERO. When she isn’t writing about global politics, you can find her making GZERO’s crossword puzzles, conducting research on American politics, or persisting in her lifelong quest to learn French. Riley spends her time outside of work grilling, dancing, and wearing many hats (both literally and figuratively).
30: Congo’s government and Rwanda-backed M23 rebels blew past a 30-day deadline for a peace deal to stop the fighting in the DRC, raising fears of renewed violence. Despite signing a July 19 declaration of principles, disputes — particularly over prisoner releases — have stalled talks.
50: Lesotho is scrambling for new textile markets in Asia, Africa, and Europe after Trump tariffs kneecapped its largest export sector. Orders from US buyers, which were among Lesotho’s top importers, collapsed after an initial 50% levy (later cut to 15%) that forced factory closures. Maseru now wants Washington to cut duties to 10% or less to compete with Eswatini and Kenya.
30: Donald Trump says he’ll ban mail-in ballots and some voting machines by executive order before the 2026 midterms. Problem: Elections are run by states and Congress, not the White House. Mail-in ballots made up roughly 30% of votes cast in 2024.