Carib Scope

博客

  • US congressman threatens ‘consequences’ against Jamaica for PM’s Cuba statement

    US congressman threatens ‘consequences’ against Jamaica for PM’s Cuba statement

    A significant diplomatic confrontation has emerged between the United States and Jamaica following critical remarks made by U.S. Congressman Carlos Gimenez regarding Jamaica’s stance on Cuba. The controversy originated during the CARICOM Heads of Government meeting in St. Kitts and Nevis, where Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness addressed Cuba’s ongoing economic difficulties, energy shortages, and humanitarian challenges.

    Prime Minister Holness, concluding his term as CARICOM chairman, articulated Jamaica’s commitment to democratic principles, human rights protections, governmental accountability, and market-oriented economic systems. He emphasized Jamaica’s continued solidarity with the Cuban population while advocating for concrete measures that would foster regional stability and mutual economic prosperity.

    The situation escalated when Congressman Gimenez, representing Florida’s 28th congressional district and himself a Cuban immigrant, issued a sharp rebuke via social media. Gimenez accused Jamaica’s ruling Labour Party of providing political cover for what he termed Cuba’s ‘moribund dictatorship.’ He referenced historical tensions by alleging that the Castro administration had previously interfered in Jamaican internal affairs to intensify political divisions and undermine the Jamaica Labour Party.

    Gimenez, who holds positions on the influential House Armed Services and Homeland Security Committees, issued unspecified consequences for Jamaica’s position. While the nature of these potential repercussions remains undefined, the warning carries significant weight given the congressman’s committee assignments and political influence.

    The exchange highlights the ongoing geopolitical tensions surrounding U.S.-Cuba relations and demonstrates how Caribbean nations’ diplomatic positions can trigger strong reactions from U.S. policymakers, particularly those with personal connections to the Cuban diaspora community.

  • Chiquibul Targeted Again as Illegal Loggers Shift to Sapodilla

    Chiquibul Targeted Again as Illegal Loggers Shift to Sapodilla

    Environmental authorities in Belize are reporting a concerning resurgence of illegal logging activities along the nation’s western border with Guatemala. Rafael Manzanero, Executive Director of Friends for Conservation and Development (FCD), has issued warnings about renewed incursions into protected forest areas after several years of declining activity.

    According to historical data, the period between 2010 and 2014 represented the peak of illegal logging operations, with estimated timber losses exceeding $50 million from the ecologically significant Chiquibul jungle. During this intense phase, Guatemalan loggers penetrated up to 17 kilometers deep into Belizean territory.

    While enforcement efforts had successfully reduced these incursions over recent years, monitoring agencies have now detected a disturbing reversal of this positive trend. “We are seeing back again a resurgence of illegal activity in terms of illegal logging right now,” Manzanero confirmed during a recent assessment.

    The nature of the logging operations has undergone a significant shift in targeting strategy. Previously focused on high-value timber species including mahogany and cedar, illegal loggers are now predominantly harvesting sapodilla trees. This change reflects adaptation to market demands, with the timber being utilized primarily for construction of cattle posts to support ranching operations across the border.

    The FCD organization is implementing coordinated response measures in partnership with Belize’s Ministry of Border Security to prevent a return to the severe depletion levels witnessed a decade ago. The Chiquibul Forest remains one of Belize’s most critical protected areas, continuously vulnerable to cross-border threats including not only illegal logging but also poaching and unauthorized mineral extraction activities that collectively endanger both biodiversity and national resources.

  • Dominica Cadet Corps hosts intensive training camp to prepare over 20 potential officers for leadership roles

    Dominica Cadet Corps hosts intensive training camp to prepare over 20 potential officers for leadership roles

    The Dominica Cadet Corps (DCC) has launched an intensive weekend training initiative to bolster its leadership capabilities. From February 27th to March 1st, 2026, over twenty Potential Cadet Officers (PCOs) will participate in a comprehensive camp alongside commissioned and non-commissioned officers at the Office of Disaster Management facility in Jimmit.

    This strategic training camp represents a critical phase in the DCC’s ongoing expansion efforts, designed to equip future officers with essential skills for assuming command positions and various operational roles within the organization. The program bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge acquired through virtual sessions since November and practical field application.

    Senior DCC officers will lead the three-day immersive training, focusing on hands-on exercises that complement previous digital instruction on cadet corps operations. The camp simultaneously serves as a professional development opportunity for existing officers to refresh their expertise and leadership competencies.

    As a paramilitary youth organization operating through secondary schools nationwide, the DCC plays a vital role in fostering discipline, civic responsibility, and leadership qualities among Dominica’s youth population. This current recruitment and training drive reflects the organization’s commitment to strengthening its institutional framework and expanding its positive influence across the island.

    Media representatives have been extended a formal invitation to observe and document the training activities, highlighting the program’s transparency and community engagement objectives.

  • Essentiële bijdrage vrouwen in landbouw blijft onderbelicht

    Essentiële bijdrage vrouwen in landbouw blijft onderbelicht

    In Suriname’s agricultural sector, women have historically formed the backbone of food production and rural economies while receiving minimal recognition for their substantial contributions. Despite their pervasive involvement across the entire agricultural value chain—from crop cultivation and livestock rearing to aquaculture, food processing, and entrepreneurial ventures—female farmers continue to face systemic marginalization in public discourse and policy-making arenas.

    These women significantly enhance national food security, bolster rural livelihoods, and strengthen economic resilience through their diverse roles. Particularly in rural communities, female-led agricultural activities are intrinsically linked to household income stability and overall community welfare. Beyond economic contributions, women also bear critical responsibilities in household nutrition and family well-being.

    However, structural barriers persistently hinder women’s full participation and productivity. Challenges including limited access to land ownership, financial resources, modern technologies, specialized training, and market opportunities constrain their potential and impede sector-wide innovation. Addressing these obstacles is not merely a gender equality issue but a strategic imperative for sustainable development and long-term food security.

    In a transformative step toward recognition and empowerment, Suriname will host the Women in Agriculture Fair on International Women’s Day, March 8th. This landmark event—organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries with support from the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture and funding from the Inter-American Development Bank—will provide a platform for female farmers, processors, entrepreneurs, and researchers to showcase their products, services, and innovations.

    The fair will facilitate crucial connections between women producers and consumers, potential partners, and policy makers, thereby enhancing visibility and creating new opportunities. By celebrating women’s achievements and fostering collaborative networks, Suriname aims to strengthen its agricultural sector while building a more inclusive and resilient future for generations to come.

  • Winners in Massy Wheels for Deals competition announced

    Winners in Massy Wheels for Deals competition announced

    Massy Stores culminated its customer appreciation initiative with a ceremonial prize distribution on Saturday at its Warrens, St. Michael location. The event marked the conclusion of the ‘Win Wheels for Deals’ promotion, which ran from November through January to honor shopper loyalty.

    Kim Stoute emerged as the grand prize recipient, securing a 2025 Proton X90 mild hybrid SUV through the retailer’s partnership with ANSA Motors. The seven-seater vehicle addresses practical transportation needs while incorporating hybrid technology. In secondary honors, Kelly Nicholls received an entertainment package from Flow, featuring a Samsung S24 Ultra smartphone and television. Peter Yearwood completed the top winners by earning a Whirlpool-sponsored kitchen appliance bundle.

    Recipients conveyed profound appreciation for their awards, with Stoute characterizing her win as emotionally significant. She emphasized the vehicle’s transformative impact on her family’s mobility, particularly noting the spacious interior that accommodates their three-member household with additional seating capacity.

    The promotion mechanics automatically enrolled customers upon achieving a $50 minimum purchase during the campaign period. Massy Stores representatives framed the initiative as component of their broader corporate strategy to acknowledge and reciprocate continued consumer patronage through experiential rewards programs.

  • PM Browne condemns Middle East escalation and urges restraint amid Iran missile attacks

    PM Browne condemns Middle East escalation and urges restraint amid Iran missile attacks

    The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has issued a stern condemnation of recent military escalations in the Middle East, expressing profound concern over Iran’s reported missile strikes against the United Arab Emirates and other sovereign nations in the Gulf region. Prime Minister Hon. Gaston A. Browne characterized these developments as a dangerous deterioration of regional stability that threatens international peace.

    In an official statement, the Caribbean nation denounced attacks targeting states not directly involved in existing conflicts as serious violations of international law. The government emphasized that such actions undermine territorial integrity and exacerbate instability in an already volatile region.

    Antigua and Barbuda aligned with international consensus urging Iranian leadership to pursue good-faith negotiations regarding regional security concerns. The statement emphasized that diplomatic engagement remains the only viable path to reduce tensions and restore stability, rather than military confrontation.

    The administration reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the sovereignty of all nations and the foundational principles of the United Nations Charter. At this critical juncture, Antigua and Barbuda joined global calls for maximum restraint from all parties involved and immediate de-escalation of hostilities.

    The government expressed particular concern about the risks to civilian populations from expanding cross-border military operations. Prime Minister Browne’s administration endorsed the United Nations Secretary-General’s appeal for renewed diplomatic efforts to prevent further deterioration and uphold international law.

    Concluding the statement, Antigua and Barbuda expressed solidarity with affected populations across the region and voiced hope that dialogue and diplomacy would ultimately prevail over armed conflict.

  • 75 People From Around the World Became Belizean Citizens

    75 People From Around the World Became Belizean Citizens

    In a significant national event on Thursday, Belize formally embraced 75 individuals from diverse global backgrounds as its newest citizens. The ceremony, attended by government dignitaries, relatives, and community members, marked the culmination of these candidates’ journeys to full Belizean nationality through the traditional Oath of Allegiance.

    The newly sworn citizens represent a remarkable geographic diversity, with origins spanning Honduras, El Salvador, Germany, the United States, Jamaica, Bolivia, Ukraine, Bangladesh, Lebanon, Cuba, Mexico, Canada, and Venezuela. This multicultural gathering underscores Belize’s continuing appeal as a destination for those seeking new beginnings.

    Minister of Immigration Kareem Musa delivered the keynote address, framing the occasion within Belize’s historical context as a nation shaped by migration patterns. “Citizenship affirms that belonging to Belize is defined by participation, responsibility, and contribution,” Minister Musa stated, emphasizing that national identity extends beyond mere legal status.

    The Minister highlighted that many of the new citizens have already established themselves as valuable contributors to Belizean society across multiple sectors including agricultural development, tourism infrastructure, construction projects, educational institutions, healthcare services, small business enterprises, and community organizations.

    Musa further articulated Belize’s unique perspective on migration, noting that within the country’s 8,867 square miles, many choose to “remain, to settle, and to build a life grounded in community rather than transit”—a philosophy that distinguishes Belize’s approach to integration.

    Following the ministerial address, the Supreme Court formally administered the Oath of Allegiance, legally conferring citizenship upon all 75 candidates. The ceremony concluded with Minister Musa’s heartfelt declaration: “Welcome home, my fellow Belizeans,” signaling their official incorporation into the national family.

  • U.S. and Israel Attack Iran, Trump Says “Bombs Will be Dropping Everywhere”

    U.S. and Israel Attack Iran, Trump Says “Bombs Will be Dropping Everywhere”

    In a dramatic escalation of Middle East tensions, the United States and Israel launched coordinated military operations against Iranian targets on February 28, 2026. The strikes, targeting senior Iranian military leadership, prompted immediate retaliatory missile attacks across the region, creating one of the most perilous security situations in recent years.

    According to Reuters reports, Iranian defense systems engaged incoming projectiles as explosions were documented in multiple countries. Iranian state media claimed at least 40 casualties from an airstrike on a school facility, though these figures remain unverified through independent channels. Three confidential sources confirmed the deaths of Iran’s defense minister and a high-ranking Revolutionary Guards commander in Israeli operations.

    The operation, codenamed “Operation Epic Fury” by the Pentagon, specifically targeted Iranian leadership following the collapse of nuclear negotiations earlier this week. In a video address via Truth Social, U.S. President Donald Trump characterized the mission as necessary to prevent Iranian nuclear weapon development and eliminate “immediate threats.”

    “Bombs will be dropping everywhere,” President Trump declared, advising Iranian citizens to seek shelter while simultaneously encouraging them to overthrow their governing authorities. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu similarly suggested the military action might empower Iranian citizens to “take their destiny into their own hands.”

    Iran’s Revolutionary Guards issued a stern warning that all U.S. bases and regional interests remain vulnerable to continued retaliation, condemning the initial strikes as unlawful aggression. Defense systems reportedly intercepted numerous missiles directed toward Israel and several Gulf nations hosting U.S. military installations.

  • Iran vuurt raketten af op Golfstaten: dode in Abu Dhabi, internationale reacties op escalatie

    Iran vuurt raketten af op Golfstaten: dode in Abu Dhabi, internationale reacties op escalatie

    The Middle East witnessed a significant escalation in regional tensions on Saturday as Iran launched coordinated rocket attacks against multiple Gulf states in retaliation for previous American and Israeli airstrikes. The offensive marks a dangerous expansion of conflict into a region traditionally known for its relative stability and security.

    Abu Dhabi confirmed at least one fatality from the attacks, with officials reporting powerful explosions and thick plumes of smoke across multiple neighborhoods. Bahrain announced that a service center belonging to the US Fifth Fleet had been directly hit, while eyewitnesses described scenes of gray smoke rising amid blaring sirens.

    Several nations successfully intercepted incoming rockets before they reached their territories. Kuwait, Qatar, and Jordan activated defense systems to neutralize threats, while residents in Doha reported multiple explosions throughout the capital. Initially, many citizens continued daily activities until official warnings urged sheltering indoors, resulting in dramatically reduced street presence and traffic flow.

    International aviation authorities responded by closing airspace across the Middle East, with flight tracking data revealing virtually empty skies above Iran and surrounding nations.

    The international community expressed grave concerns through multiple channels. The European Union described the situation as “deeply worrying” and called for maximum restraint from all parties, emphasizing civilian protection and adherence to international law. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa jointly stressed the critical importance of calm and diplomatic engagement.

    The International Red Cross Committee warned of a “dangerous chain reaction” of military violence potentially devastating civilian populations. President Mirjana Spoljaric urged nations to respect rules of engagement and demonstrate political will to prevent further casualties and destruction.

    Oman, serving as primary mediator in US-Iran negotiations, expressed concern about the violence, with Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi warning that escalation serves neither US interests nor global peace, urging Washington to avoid deeper entanglement.

    France announced plans to convene an emergency UN Security Council meeting, with President Emmanuel Macron labeling the escalation dangerous and calling on Iran to negotiate “in good faith” regarding nuclear and ballistic missile programs to prevent regional destabilization.

    Qatar condemned the attacks on its territory—where the US Al Udeid Air Base is located—as a flagrant violation of sovereignty and direct threat to national security, reserving its right to respond under international law.

    The UAE denounced the attacks in “the strongest terms,” characterizing them as “dangerous escalation” and “cowardly acts” threatening civilian safety. Bahrain similarly described the Fifth Fleet attack as “treacherous,” while Kuwait warned that further escalation would deepen regional instability.

    Saudi Arabia issued its strongest condemnation of the attacks and warned of serious consequences. Pakistan joined in condemning the violence while calling for immediate de-escalation through resumed diplomatic negotiations.

    Russia accused the US of masking military actions behind nuclear talks and urged the international community to objectively assess “irresponsible actions” further destabilizing the region.

    Ukraine held Iran responsible for the escalation, referencing Tehran’s harsh crackdown on protests earlier this year. Norway stated that Israel’s preventive attack violated international law without demonstrating immediate threat requirements.

    Belgium lamented that diplomatic efforts failed to achieve earlier resolution, emphasizing that the Iranian people should not bear the cost of their government’s policies.

  • Five arrested for stealing cheese from supermarket- police

    Five arrested for stealing cheese from supermarket- police

    In a peculiar law enforcement operation, Guyanese authorities apprehended five individuals connected to an audacious cheese theft at a La Bonne Intention supermarket. The incident unfolded on Friday afternoon, February 27, 2026, when surveillance systems captured two men entering the establishment and allegedly concealing eight cheese packages valued at GY$8,640.

    The Guyana Police Force detailed that the suspects attempted to flee the scene in a motor vehicle shortly after the alleged theft occurred at approximately 1:25 PM. Law enforcement officers responded promptly to the security alert and successfully intercepted the vehicle along Triumph Public Road on the East Coast Demerara corridor.

    Those detained include a 48-year-old Campbellville construction worker who operated the getaway vehicle, alongside two Georgetown construction workers aged 35 and 28 respectively. The group also comprised a 35-year-old gold miner from Princess Street, Lodge, and a 19-year-old stevedore from South Ruimveldt. Authorities confirmed the recovery of a cutlass from the intercepted vehicle, which has been secured as evidence.

    Police officials have classified the offense as simple larceny, indicating the case involves property theft without aggravating circumstances. The investigation continues as authorities examine the evidence and determine appropriate charges for the alleged supermarket cheese operation.