PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) – General Dan Caine, Chairman of the United States Joint Chiefs of Staff, engaged in high-level discussions with Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and her cabinet on Tuesday. The talks underscored the robust bilateral relationship between the two nations, with a focus on regional security, stability, and combating transnational crime. The US Embassy highlighted that Caine’s visit aimed to strengthen regional unity and address the critical issue of illicit trafficking and criminal organizations. Joint Staff spokesperson Joseph Holstead noted that the discussions centered on challenges such as narcotics, arms, and human trafficking, emphasizing the importance of US-Trinidad cooperation in safeguarding regional security. Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar described the talks as “excellent,” reaffirming the enduring partnership between the two countries. The visit coincides with increased US military presence in the Caribbean, including the deployment of a nuclear-powered submarine, reconnaissance aircraft, and warships, as part of efforts to counter Latin American drug cartels. However, this military buildup has drawn criticism, with the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights condemning US airstrikes on alleged drug trafficking vessels as violations of international law. The Organization of American States (OAS) Secretary General Albert Ramdin urged Venezuela and the US to prioritize diplomacy over conflict, emphasizing the need for peace in the hemisphere. Meanwhile, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro accused the US of seeking regime change through military threats and criticized Trinidad and Tobago for allegedly supporting US plans.
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Chelsea dominate Barca in Champions League, Man City lose
In a thrilling Champions League showdown on Tuesday, Chelsea delivered a commanding 3-0 victory over 10-man Barcelona at Stamford Bridge, while Manchester City faced their first defeat of the campaign under Pep Guardiola’s experimental lineup against Bayer Leverkusen. The match between the Premier League and La Liga contenders saw Chelsea seize control early, with an own goal by Jules Kounde in the 27th minute setting the tone. Barcelona’s hopes dwindled further when captain Ronald Araujo was sent off just before halftime for a second bookable offense. Chelsea’s 18-year-old sensation Estevao stole the spotlight with a stunning solo effort in the 55th minute, followed by Liam Delap’s decisive strike in the 73rd minute. The win propelled Chelsea to fifth in the league phase standings with 10 points. Meanwhile, Manchester City’s decision to rest key players like Erling Haaland and Ruben Dias backfired as they fell 2-0 to Leverkusen, marking their first loss of the season. Guardiola admitted full responsibility for the defeat, acknowledging the challenges of managing a packed schedule. Elsewhere, Marseille staged a comeback to defeat Newcastle 2-1, Juventus edged Bodo/Glimt 3-2, and Borussia Dortmund thrashed Villarreal 4-0 despite missing two penalties.
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Army whip Cibao 3-0, near Concacaf Champions Cup berth
In a commanding display of skill and strategy, Defence Force FC triumphed over Cibao FC with a decisive 3-0 victory in the first leg of the Concacaf Caribbean Cup third-place playoff. The match, held on November 25 at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Mucurapo, saw Defence Force’s seasoned players, Sheldon Bateau and captain Kevin Molino, lead the charge. This win positions the Trinidadian club favorably as they aim to secure a spot in the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup. The return leg is scheduled for December 2 in Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic, where Cibao FC will attempt to overturn the deficit. The game was marked by contentious refereeing decisions, including a disallowed goal for Cibao in stoppage time, which added to the visitors’ frustrations. Defence Force’s goalkeeper, Isaiah Williams, delivered a stellar performance, ensuring a clean sheet with several crucial saves. The team’s tactical approach, leveraging deep midfield passes and clinical finishing, proved effective against Cibao’s defense. Molino’s leadership was evident as he contributed both a penalty goal and an assist, while Bateau’s early header set the tone for the match. Despite Cibao’s efforts, Defence Force’s defensive solidity and efficient midfield play ensured their dominance throughout the game.
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Westmoreland residents urged to be vigilant when purchasing water
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, the Westmoreland Public Health Department has issued a stern warning to residents about the potential dangers of purchasing trucked water from unverified sources. Gerald Miller, the parish’s health promotion and education officer, emphasized that water should only be sourced from the department’s three authorized loading bays located in Petersfield, Grange Hill, and Spring Garden. These sites, operated by the National Water Commission (NWC), are the sole approved locations for obtaining safe, potable water. Miller cautioned that water procured from unauthorized sources could lead to severe health risks, including diarrhoeal and other waterborne diseases. He urged the public to demand proof of purchase from truck operators, ensuring the water’s origin is legitimate. Historical incidents of truckers sourcing water from unsafe locations have heightened concerns, particularly during periods of emergency and water scarcity. Miller reiterated the importance of vigilance to safeguard public health, stressing that unsafe water remains a significant threat in such challenging times.
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Pentagon boss to visit Dominican Republic amid US-Venezuela row
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic — U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is set to visit the Dominican Republic on Wednesday, marking a significant diplomatic move in the Caribbean region. The visit underscores the United States’ commitment to bolstering defense ties with its Caribbean ally, particularly in the context of escalating tensions with Venezuela. The Pentagon confirmed the trip, which coincides with heightened pressure from the Trump administration on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, whom Washington accuses of leading a drug cartel.
Hegseth’s itinerary includes meetings with Dominican President Luis Abinader, the country’s defense minister, and other key cabinet members. The discussions are expected to focus on strengthening bilateral defense cooperation, reaffirming U.S. support for regional security, and addressing the growing threat of drug trafficking in the Americas. This visit follows the recent designation of Venezuela’s alleged Cartel de los Soles (Cartel of the Suns) as a foreign terrorist organization by the U.S. government, a move that grants legal authority for further actions against Venezuelan authorities.
In response to the designation, the Venezuelan government organized an anti-U.S. protest in Caracas, with participants accusing Washington of fabricating scenarios to justify intervention. Meanwhile, the U.S. has intensified military pressure on Venezuela, deploying its largest aircraft carrier and a fleet of warships to the region. The Dominican Republic has been a key partner in U.S.-led anti-drug operations, with recent joint efforts resulting in the seizure of 500 kilograms of cocaine. President Abinader emphasized the importance of continued collaboration, citing the rising production of cocaine in South America as a critical challenge.
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Estevao dazzles for rampant Chelsea as 10-man Barcelona fold
In a thrilling Champions League clash at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday, Chelsea delivered a commanding 3-0 victory against a 10-man Barcelona, with teenage sensation Estevao stealing the spotlight. The match, billed as a showdown between two 18-year-old prodigies—Estevao and Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal—lived up to its hype, as Chelsea’s dominance was evident from the outset.
Estevao’s moment of brilliance came in the 55th minute when he embarked on a mesmerizing solo run, evading two defenders before unleashing a powerful strike into the top corner of Joan Garcia’s net. This marked his 10th goal of the season for both club and country, solidifying his rising star status. Reflecting on his achievement, Estevao described it as the pinnacle of his career, expressing gratitude for the support of his family and fans.
Chelsea’s relentless pressure paid off early when a defensive error by Barcelona’s Jules Kounde resulted in an own goal in the 27th minute. The situation worsened for Barcelona just before halftime as captain Ronald Araujo was sent off after receiving a second yellow card. Substitute Liam Delap sealed the victory in the 73rd minute with a clinical finish, leaving Barcelona with no chance of a comeback.
The match showcased Chelsea’s superiority, with Enzo Fernandez and Pedro Neto coming close to adding to the scoreline. Barcelona, despite their storied history in the competition, appeared lackluster and struggled to create meaningful opportunities. Chelsea’s fans reveled in the triumph, taunting Yamal and celebrating their team’s resurgence in the Champions League after a two-year absence.
With three wins in their first five Champions League matches, Chelsea are well-positioned to secure a top-eight finish, which would guarantee automatic qualification for the last 16. The club’s momentum extends to the Premier League, where they sit second ahead of a crucial showdown with league leaders Arsenal this Sunday.
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Gov’t to lend JPS US$150m for restoration work; rejects request for extension to licence
The Jamaican Government has pledged a $150 million loan to the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) to aid in the reconstruction of its power grid, severely damaged by Hurricane Melissa. However, the Andrew Holness Administration has declined JPS’s request to extend its current licence, set to expire in 2027, which the company sought to secure additional funding for the restoration efforts. Energy Minister Daryl Vaz announced the decision during a House of Representatives session, emphasizing the need to address two critical issues separately: the immediate funding for grid restoration and the ongoing negotiations for a new electricity licence. The Government has approved a conditional bridging loan to JPS, ensuring the company can proceed with restoration without extending its licence. This move will enable 300 overseas line workers and specialized equipment to arrive in Jamaica by December, aiming for full customer restoration by early 2026. Vaz highlighted that the Government has safeguarded its interests, with provisions ensuring repayment of the loan if a new licence is not agreed upon. The Government has also finalized a consultancy contract to support negotiations with JPS, ensuring a structured and protected approach to the process.
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Jamaica’s economy was surging before Hurricane Melissa – survey
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s economy was on a robust upward trajectory in the third quarter of 2025, as revealed by the latest JCC/GK Capital Management Business and Consumer Confidence Indices. The data, collected before Hurricane Melissa struck, highlights a significant surge in both consumer and business confidence, marking the strongest economic performance in over two decades.
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Guardiola gamble backfires in Man City loss to Leverkusen
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola shouldered the blame after his experimental lineup faltered in a surprising 2-0 loss to Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League on Tuesday. Guardiola opted to rest key players, including Erling Haaland, Ruben Dias, Bernardo Silva, and Gianluigi Donnarumma, a decision that proved costly as Leverkusen capitalized on City’s lackluster performance. Alex Grimaldo opened the scoring in the first half, followed by Patrik Schick’s second-half goal, leaving City fans disgruntled at the final whistle. This marked City’s first home defeat in the Champions League group stage since 2018, ending a 24-game unbeaten run. The loss compounded City’s recent struggles, coming just days after a 2-1 Premier League defeat to Newcastle. Guardiola admitted responsibility, acknowledging that his rotation strategy may have been excessive. Despite dominating possession, City lacked precision and defensive solidity, with Leverkusen exploiting their vulnerabilities. Guardiola’s 100th Champions League match as City boss ended in disappointment, a stark contrast to his previous successes, including the club’s 2023 European triumph. The defeat raises questions about City’s depth and form as they face a packed December schedule, including a crucial clash with Real Madrid. Guardiola emphasized the need to regroup and fight for redemption in upcoming fixtures.
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McKay Security Limited delivers tarpaulins to hurricane victims in St Elizabeth, Westmoreland
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a proactive move to support communities devastated by Hurricane Melissa, McKay Security Limited has collaborated with local councillors to ensure the transparent distribution of high-quality tarpaulins to affected residents in St Elizabeth and Westmoreland. Drawing inspiration from international aid organizations like USAID, McKay Security has taken additional measures to safeguard the integrity of the relief process. Each tarpaulin unit has been labeled ‘Not For Sale’ to prevent any potential misuse or corruption. Jason McKay, CEO of McKay Security, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, ‘While we are confident in the councillors’ commitment to equitable distribution, we want to make it clear that these donations are strictly for relief purposes and should not be monetized in any form.’ Since Hurricane Melissa’s catastrophic impact, which left hundreds homeless across St Elizabeth, St James, Hanover, and Trelawny, McKay Security has distributed 230 heavy-duty tarpaulins. The majority of these supplies have been allocated to South West St Elizabeth, with 80 tarpaulins delivered to Black River. Councillor Amorkard Brown of the Westmoreland Municipal Corporation is set to receive an additional 100 units for further distribution. McKay highlighted the company’s broader mission, noting, ‘Though our headquarters in Kingston was largely unaffected, many of our security guards and clients’ employees have been severely displaced. This effort is part of our commitment to alleviating the homeless crisis in these parishes.’