Carib Scope

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  • United Nations praises US$2 Billion US pledge to support Global Relief Efforts Human-impact focused

    United Nations praises US$2 Billion US pledge to support Global Relief Efforts Human-impact focused

    In a significant diplomatic development, the United Nations has formally welcomed the United States’ commitment of US$2 billion to bolster worldwide humanitarian operations. The announcement marks a notable shift from the Trump administration’s historically cautious approach to foreign aid under its “America First” policy framework.

    UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres applauded the substantial financial injection, emphasizing that these resources will dramatically enhance the organization’s capacity to execute critical, life-preserving missions across multiple crisis zones. The funding arrives amid increasingly complex global challenges that have stretched humanitarian resources to their limits.

    UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher, speaking during a signing ceremony in Geneva, characterized the past operational year as exceptionally demanding for relief workers worldwide. He noted that the memorandum of understanding (MOU) covering 17 specifically identified nations—including Ukraine, Syria, South Sudan, and Mozambique—represents a pragmatic collaboration focused squarely on human welfare outcomes rather than comprehensive political alignment.

    The contribution includes robust accountability mechanisms to ensure transparent utilization of funds, with Fletcher stressing that every dollar will be meticulously tracked to verify life-saving impact. Beyond immediate relief, the agreement acknowledges the intrinsic connection between humanitarian action and diplomatic efforts, with Fletcher advocating for 2026 to emerge as a year dedicated to peacemaking and conflict resolution—the most sustainable method for reducing global humanitarian demands.

  • Olietankers bereiken Venezuela nog steeds ondanks Amerikaanse blokkade

    Olietankers bereiken Venezuela nog steeds ondanks Amerikaanse blokkade

    Venezuela’s state-run oil company PDVSA is mounting a bold challenge against U.S. sanctions by welcoming sanctioned vessels and expanding floating storage capacity despite an American maritime blockade that has crippled the nation’s crude exports. At least two oil tankers have recently entered Venezuelan waters while additional vessels approach the coastline, signaling Caracas’ determination to maintain oil sales despite mounting international pressure.

    The Trump administration’s recent blockade announcement targeting all sanctioned vessels in Venezuelan waters has effectively halved the country’s oil exports compared to November levels. U.S. authorities have already seized two fully-loaded Venezuelan crude shipments and intensified Caribbean patrols, causing widespread apprehension among shipowners that has resulted in numerous diversions and U-turns away from the OPEC nation.

    According to monitoring service TankerTrackers.com, the arriving vessels include sanctioned tankers alongside non-sanctioned ships approaching Venezuela’s coast. This maritime activity forms part of complex swap agreements and arrangements established since 2019 when Venezuela first faced U.S. energy sanctions. The Maduro government continues to settle extensive purchase orders and service debts through oil payments, including substantial obligations to China.

    Two approaching vessels belong to a specialized fleet utilized by China and Venezuela to repay debts through crude oil shipments destined for Chinese ports. The critical question remains whether China will seek U.S. exemptions to guarantee these deliveries proceed unimpeded.

    PDVSA has responded to the crisis by negotiating price reductions and contract modifications with clients to prevent cargo returns or production cuts. However, company sources indicate growing impatience among buyers who lack viable alternatives for moving oil shipments out of Venezuela, even when using non-sanctioned vessels.

    Compounding these challenges, a recent cyberattack forced PDVSA to disable its centralized administrative system, significantly slowing port loading operations. The company now works to meet export loading windows while simultaneously storing crude and fuel aboard vessels to expand storage capacity.

    The only vessels currently departing Venezuelan waters are Chevron-operated tankers operating under Washington’s authorization and smaller ships transporting oil byproducts and petrochemical products, according to shipping data and PDVSA documents.

    This situation echoes the 2020 crisis when Washington intensified pressure on Maduro by sanctioning PDVSA’s primary trading partners, forcing Venezuela to rely on little-known intermediaries to maintain oil sales to Chinese buyers. Those previous measures triggered production declines, oil field closures, and severe motor fuel shortages that took years to partially overcome.

    Currently, nearly two dozen tankers cluster near José port awaiting loading opportunities or departure instructions. The volume of oil stranded aboard idled tankers has surged to approximately 16 million barrels from 11 million barrels in mid-December, creating an increasingly precarious situation for Venezuela’s energy sector.

  • National Day : 222nd anniversary of Haiti’s independence, first messages

    National Day : 222nd anniversary of Haiti’s independence, first messages

    As Haiti commemorated the 222nd anniversary of its independence on January 1, 2026, diplomatic messages from international partners and diaspora consulates highlighted both the nation’s historic resilience and contemporary struggles. The occasion marked the world’s first independent Black republic, established in 1804 after a successful slave rebellion.

    U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio conveyed America’s continued commitment to supporting Haiti’s security and democratic processes. “We stand with the people of Haiti on your Independence Day,” Rubio stated, emphasizing ongoing efforts to establish a Gang Suppression Force to combat violent groups designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations by the U.S. government. The Secretary also acknowledged progress by Haiti’s transitional government toward conducting the country’s first national elections in a decade.

    Across the Haitian diaspora, consular officials struck a balance between celebration and solemn reflection. The Consulate General in Chicago evoked the legacy of revolutionary leaders Jean-Jacques Dessalines and the Indigenous Army, calling for national unity amid ongoing challenges. “Building a stable and prosperous Haiti is a daily endeavor that demands the patriotism and commitment of each and every one of us,” their message read.

    From Montreal, consular officials emphasized that “peace remains the essential condition for building a prosperous and sustainable future,” while the Santiago Consulate in the Dominican Republic highlighted how Haiti’s national identity was “built on the rejection of injustice and arbitrary rule.”

    The messages collectively acknowledged Haiti’s profound historical significance while addressing current security concerns and governance challenges. Despite political instability and security crises, the international community reaffirmed its support for Haiti’s sovereignty and democratic development as the nation enters its 223rd year of independence.

  • Four on cocaine trafficking charges remanded

    Four on cocaine trafficking charges remanded

    In a significant narcotics enforcement operation, a Guyanese court has ordered four individuals to be held in custody following their arrest in connection with a major cocaine seizure this week. The suspects are facing serious charges related to the alleged possession and trafficking of over 31 kilograms of cocaine discovered in Montrose, East Coast Demerara.

    According to the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), the substantial drug cache was intercepted in a vehicle on Broad Street, Montrose, consisting of 27 brick-like parcels of the illicit substance. The anti-narcotics agency conducted the operation that led to the discovery and subsequent arrests.

    During proceedings before Sparendaam Magistrate Clive Nurse, defendants Andre Moonilall and Sherwin Laundry entered not guilty pleas to charges of narcotics possession with intent to traffic. The court denied bail to both individuals, ordering their remand to prison until February 9, 2026, when their cases will be heard.

    Two additional suspects, Jermin Adams and Amanda Lam, similarly pleaded not guilty to charges of facilitating cocaine trafficking operations. Magistrate Nurse issued identical remand orders for both defendants, who will remain in custody until the February court date.

    The case represents one of the more substantial narcotics interdictions recently reported by Guyanese authorities, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in the region. CANU officials continue to investigate the matter while the judicial process moves forward for the four accused individuals.

  • Families opt for a quiet close to 2025

    Families opt for a quiet close to 2025

    As 2025 concluded, Brandon’s Beach in Barbados offered a serene alternative to boisterous celebrations, with families and visitors choosing peaceful reflection over festive revelry. The picturesque shoreline became a backdrop for intimate gatherings emphasizing familial bonds and tranquil contemplation.

    Among those savoring the year’s final hours was the Gill family, who established a beachside encampment for an evening of culinary delights and traditional entertainment. Their celebration featured a repertoire of activities including modified dodgeball, creative sand-drawn games, and racquet sports blending modern and Bajan traditions. The family orchestrated a color-coordinated gift exchange before anticipating a symbolic sea immersion to ceremoniously conclude the year.

    “Our picnic embodies our celebratory spirit,” a family representative explained. “We’ve prepared macaroni pie, seasoned chicken with rice, and assorted sandwiches. This communal gathering represents our dedication to preserving connections through shared experiences.”

    This year-end beach gathering has evolved into an cherished family ritual, complementing their Christmas reunions. “We intentionally converge during these transitional moments,” they noted. “After celebrating Christmas collectively, we determined to reconvene for the year’s culmination.”

    Nearby, Horace Bailey, a septuagenarian taxi operator with decades of service, articulated a philosophy of cautious celebration. The 76-year-old transportation veteran elected for domestic tranquility over nocturnal activities, citing safety concerns and visual limitations from modern vehicle headlights.

    “By eight this evening, I’ll be securely retired to my residence,” Bailey stated. “At my age, prudence supersedes celebration. My daughter will represent our family’s celebratory spirit abroad tonight.”

    Despite increasing competition from ride-sharing services like Uber, Bailey reported consistent annual earnings. “Business remains satisfactory amid transportation evolution,” he commented. “I maintain gratitude for daily provisions whenever cruise ships dock. Divine appreciation accompanies every fare.”

    An American first-time visitor simultaneously absorbed the beach’s calming ambiance, expressing immediate affinity for Barbadian hospitality. “The population radiates exceptional warmth,” the tourist observed. “My inaugural Barbados visit continues exceeding expectations with each passing moment.”

  • Religion : Pope Leo XIV’s message of peace rekindles hope in Haiti

    Religion : Pope Leo XIV’s message of peace rekindles hope in Haiti

    In a profound address marking World Peace Day, Pope Leo XIV has issued a resonant call for a “disarmed and disarming peace” specifically addressing the protracted crisis in Haiti. This theological framework presents a dual approach to resolving the nation’s violent turmoil, offering a spiritual counterpoint to ongoing security preparations.

    Bishop Gontrand Décoste of Jérémie provided authoritative interpretation of the papal message, clarifying its practical implications for the Caribbean nation. He explained that “disarmed peace” necessitates the total elimination of firearms and complete cessation of armed hostilities across Haitian territory. Simultaneously, “disarming peace” represents a diplomatic process encouraging armed factions to voluntarily relinquish weapons, thereby facilitating the restoration of state authority and national security infrastructure.

    The pontiff’s intervention arrives amid escalating gang dominance that continues to paralyze Haiti’s economy through systematic road blockades and regional narcotics trafficking. Bishop Décoste condemned how certain entities “profit from insecurity and ammunition sales while the population endures abject poverty,” highlighting the economic dimensions of the security crisis.

    Despite these challenges, the Haitian church demonstrates remarkable resilience. Four decades after Pope John Paul II’s historic visitation, the prophetic declaration that “Haiti will live” continues to inspire spiritual resistance through Marian pilgrimages in Port-au-Prince. These processions have evolved into acts of collective faith against overwhelming darkness, embodying the conviction that “evil will not prevail” as emphasized in Leo XIV’s message.

    For marginalized communities bearing the brunt of violence, this papal communication reaffirms that the current crisis represents a conquerable challenge rather than an inevitable fate, emphasizing unity and faith as foundational to national recovery. The spiritual appeal coincides with practical preparations for the anticipated April 2026 deployment of an international security force aimed at suppressing gang operations.

  • FLASH : Assassination of Inspector Jean Sterlin Hold in Fort-Jacques : what we know

    FLASH : Assassination of Inspector Jean Sterlin Hold in Fort-Jacques : what we know

    Haiti’s deepening security crisis has been tragically underscored by the targeted assassination of Chief Inspector Jean Sterlin Hold, a dedicated law enforcement officer known by his aliases ‘Blan’ and ‘San Souci.’ The incident occurred on the evening of December 30, 2025, in Fort-Jacques within the Kenscoff commune, where Inspector Hold commanded the Lotin sub-police station in the Fermathe area.

    The fatal shooting transpired approximately at 7:00 p.m. outside the ‘Sheeshee’s Food’ Club. According to official reports from the Haitian National Police (PNH), Inspector Hold sustained two gunshot wounds. While his bulletproof vest intercepted one projectile, the second proved lethal.

    Preliminary investigations conducted by PNH have identified Louis Marcus, alias ’50,’ proprietor of the establishment where the attack occurred, as the prime suspect. Law enforcement operations resulted in the apprehension of Johnny Roseus, believed to be Marcus’s brother-in-law, during coordinated searches at both the suspect’s residence and the club. Critical evidence, including surveillance footage, has been secured for forensic examination.

    The General Directorate of PNH has mandated the Inspector General’s Office (IGPNH) and the Central Directorate of Judicial Police (DCPJ) to conduct an exhaustive investigation aimed at apprehending all individuals complicit in this homicide and ensuring their prosecution.

    Inspector Hold, a native of Jérémie, had earned recognition for his unwavering opposition to the notorious ‘Kraze Baryè’ criminal faction and his protective stance toward Fort-Jacques residents. His career exemplified professional dedication and selfless community service.

    Official responses to the tragedy have been swift and unanimous. The PNH expressed profound condolences to Inspector Hold’s family, colleagues, and associates while reaffirming their determination to pursue justice. The Presidential Transitional Council (CPT) honored the inspector as a ‘valiant servant of the State’ and pledged continued institutional support for national security operations. Kenscoff Municipal Authority, led by Mayor Jean Massillon, condemned the killing as an assault on republican values and civic safety, extending sympathies to the entire community grieving this significant loss.

  • FSC Orders Travis Smith to Cease Activities

    FSC Orders Travis Smith to Cease Activities

    The Financial Services Commission of Belize (FSC) has issued an official public advisory warning against conducting financial business with Travis Smith, an individual found operating without proper regulatory authorization. According to a formal notice released on December 30, 2025, Smith lacks the mandatory licensing required under both the Financial Services Commission Act and the Securities Industry Act to legally provide any financial or securities services within Belize’s jurisdiction.

    The FSC’s statement explicitly clarifies that Smith is neither licensed nor registered to “provide, carry on, transact, or hold itself out as providing” regulated financial activities. The Commission emphasized that any financial engagements with Smith are undertaken entirely at the public’s own risk, as he operates outside Belize’s regulatory protection framework.

    In addition to the public warning, the regulator has issued a formal cease and desist directive ordering Smith to immediately terminate all unlicensed financial operations. The FSC noted that continuing such activities constitutes a legal offense under Belizean law.

    The Commission stated that this regulatory action serves as a protective measure to safeguard both the public and the integrity of Belize’s financial services sector from potential harm. The warning specifically urges “all persons concerned to take note and exercise extreme caution.”

    In response to the regulatory notice, Smith addressed the matter through a personal online statement, characterizing the FSC’s warning as “not serious.” He claimed the notice merely prohibits him from charging fees for purchasing cryptocurrency on others’ behalf, stating: “I can still invest in crypto. Talk about it. But I simply cannot charge pple to buy crypto for them.”

  • FLASH : Major seizure of weapons and ammunition in Bel-Air

    FLASH : Major seizure of weapons and ammunition in Bel-Air

    In a decisive blow against organized crime, Haitian National Police (PNH) forces conducted a major tactical operation in the Bel-Air neighborhood on December 30, 2025. The targeted raid focused on the stronghold of notorious gang leader Jamesley, resulting in the neutralization of multiple armed combatants and the confiscation of a substantial weapons cache. Despite these successes, authorities confirmed that Jamesley himself evaded capture during the operation.

    The seized contraband included sophisticated military-grade equipment: a Mavic surveillance drone, multiple handguns (9mm and .22mm pistols), high-caliber assault weapons including an M16 rifle, Kalashnikov rifle, and 9mm submachine guns, complemented by three 12-gauge shotguns. Law enforcement also recovered critical logistical support equipment including weapon magazines, communication radios, power batteries, and various bladed weapons such as machetes and axes.

    Most notably, the operation intercepted a massive ammunition stockpile totaling several thousand rounds. The haul included 4,094 rounds of 5.56mm caliber and 867 rounds of 7.62mm caliber ammunition, indicating substantial offensive capabilities. All confiscated materials underwent formal registration and certification by the Weapons Service of the PNH’s Logistics Directorate.

    The operation marks a strategic victory for Haitian authorities, with specialized units successfully degrading the armed group’s logistical infrastructure. While Jamesley remains at large, police officials emphasized that his operational capacity has been severely compromised through the equipment seizure. In a symbolic conclusion, PNH’s heavy equipment unit completely demolished Jamesley’s residential compound.

    PNH leadership reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to pursuing, dismantling, and permanently eradicating criminal enterprises to restore national security, public order, and state authority for the benefit of all Haitian citizens.

  • De wereld neemt afscheid van 2025 met vuurwerk en ijskoude duiken

    De wereld neemt afscheid van 2025 met vuurwerk en ijskoude duiken

    As the world transitioned from Wednesday to Thursday, global citizens bid farewell to the challenging year 2025 and embraced 2026 with renewed optimism through diverse cultural celebrations across continents.

    Sydney inaugurated the new year with its traditional spectacular fireworks display, featuring approximately 40,000 pyrotechnic effects spanning 7 kilometers across harbor buildings and vessels. The celebration occurred under enhanced security measures following recent violence, with organizers holding a minute’s silence at 11 PM local time for victims of the armed attack at a Jewish event. Mayor Clover Moore expressed hope that the occasion would unite the city in looking forward to “a peaceful and happy 2026.”

    Across Asia, distinctive traditions marked the transition. In Singapore, spectators gathered at Marina Bay Sands to witness dazzling fireworks, while Seoul witnessed thousands congregating at the Bosingak Bell Pavilion for the symbolic ringing of a bronze bell 33 times—a Buddhist-rooted tradition believed to ward off misfortune. China’s Juyong Pass at the Great Wall hosted drum performances and festivities featuring horse symbolism, anticipating the upcoming Year of the Horse in February.

    Hong Kong replaced its typical fireworks with a themed light show displaying ‘New Hope, New Beginnings’ following November’s tragic apartment fire. Croatia’s town of Fuzine continued its unique tradition of midday countdowns since 2000, with celebrations featuring champagne toasts and even brave ice-swimmers in Bajer Lake.

    Preparations intensified for Western hemisphere celebrations, with New York organizers setting up barriers and stages for Times Square’s ball drop amid sub-zero temperatures. Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana beach prepared for its massive “Reveillon” music and fireworks festival, aiming to break its own Guinness World Record for largest New Year’s celebration.

    In snow-covered Kyiv and Moscow, citizens prepared for celebrations while expressing hopes for peace after nearly four years of conflict. While many Ukrainians expressed skepticism about imminent peace, 9-year-old Olesia in Kyiv remained optimistic, stating her belief that peace would come in the new year as she admired the Christmas tree before St. Sophia Cathedral.