MEXICO CITY—Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has issued a forceful condemnation regarding the deaths of three Mexican nationals while in the custody of U.S. immigration authorities this year, demanding comprehensive investigations into each case. The statement came in response to the recent death of a 19-year-old, Royer Perez Jimenez, at the Glades County Detention Center in Florida, which U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has preliminarily classified as a presumed suicide. President Sheinbaum expressed profound dismay, stating, “This can’t be happening,” and emphasized that while initial reports suggest suicide, her government insists on a transparent and thorough probe to ascertain the full circumstances. The fatalities also include a 48-year-old man who died in a California facility in March and a 34-year-old in Georgia in January, both occurring during heightened enforcement actions. The Mexican government declared these recurring incidents “unacceptable” and vowed to employ all available legal and diplomatic mechanisms to protect its citizens’ rights abroad. This development occurs amidst a backdrop of intensifying U.S. immigration enforcement, with ICE reporting at least 30 migrant deaths in detention centers last year—the highest figure since the agency’s establishment in 2003—and former President Donald Trump promising an unprecedented deportation campaign.
分类： politics
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Costa Rican ex-security minister extradited to US for drug trafficking
In an unprecedented judicial development, former Costa Rican Security Minister Celso Gamboa has been extradited to the United States to confront serious narcotics trafficking allegations. The 49-year-old former official, whose extensive government tenure included roles as deputy attorney general and Supreme Court justice, was transferred to U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration custody alongside alleged accomplice Edwin Lopez Vega, known by the alias “Pecho de Rata” (Rat’s Chest).
The extradition operation unfolded under stringent security protocols at Juan Santamaria International Airport outside San Jose, marking the first application of Costa Rica’s 2025 constitutional reforms permitting extradition of nationals. Gamboa, who previously headed national intelligence operations between 2013-2014, represents the highest-ranking former official in Costa Rican history to face drug trafficking charges.
Attorney General Carlo Diaz characterized the transfer as “a historic day” during press remarks, emphasizing the defendants’ “high-profile” status. The former security minister, who served during President Luis Guillermo Solis’ administration (2014-2018), boarded a Texas-bound flight handcuffed and wearing civilian attire despite last-minute legal challenges to block his transfer.
U.S. prosecutors allege Gamboa facilitated international drug cartels in “manufacturing, distributing, and transporting significant quantities of cocaine” through Costa Rican territory en route to American markets. While denying allegations of money laundering through a second-division soccer team, Gamboa has threatened to implicate current government officials in his forthcoming testimony.
In early March television appearances, the former minister cryptically referenced individuals within the executive branch who “should be in jail…with me,” though he provided no specific names or alleged crimes. This development occurs against a troubling backdrop of Costa Rica’s evolving role in regional narcotics flows, having transitioned from transit point to operational hub while experiencing record homicide rates of 17.2 per 100,000 inhabitants.
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Netanyahu denies denigrating Jesus by comparing him to Genghis Khan
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vehemently denied allegations of disrespecting Christian beliefs following his controversial comparison between Jesus Christ and Mongol conqueror Genghis Khan. The remarks, made during a Thursday evening press conference with foreign journalists, triggered immediate backlash across social media platforms.
Netanyahu took to X (formerly Twitter) on Friday to clarify his position in English, stating: ‘More fake news about my attitude towards Christians, who are protected and flourish in Israel. Let me be clear: I did not denigrate Jesus Christ at my news conference.’ The Prime Minister attributed the historical reference to American historian Will Durant, describing him as ‘a fervent admirer of Jesus Christ.’
The original controversial statement saw Netanyahu asserting that ‘history proves that, unfortunately and unhappily, Jesus Christ has no advantage over Genghis Khan because if you are strong enough, ruthless enough, powerful enough, evil will overcome good.’ This philosophical argument was deployed to justify Israel’s recent military actions against Iran, characterizing the February 28 joint Israeli-US strike as necessary defense against Tehran’s nuclear ambitions.
Christian leaders, particularly from the Holy Land, expressed profound offense at the comparison. Munther Isaac, a Palestinian Lutheran pastor from Bethlehem—recognized as Jesus’s birthplace—denounced the statement as ‘offensive on multiple levels’ via social media. Pastor Isaac criticized the underlying implication that ‘the way of Jesus is naive, while a ruthless, might makes right approach… is what ultimately allows good to overcome evil.’
The incident highlights the delicate intersection of religious sensitivity and geopolitical justification as Netanyahu continues to navigate international relations amid ongoing regional conflicts.
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Toronto mayor seeks to block US immigration agents at city’s World Cup matches
TORONTO, Canada – In a decisive move highlighting international tensions over immigration enforcement, Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow has formally proposed banning US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents from the city during the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. The motion, presented on Friday and titled “No ICE in Toronto,” argues that the agency’s recent conduct demonstrates it brings “fear and disorder” rather than security.
The proposal contends that the visible presence of ICE agents would undermine the city’s objective of creating a welcoming and secure environment for global visitors. This initiative emerges as Toronto, alongside Vancouver, prepares to host matches for the first-ever World Cup co-hosted by three nations: the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Background information reveals that ICE maintains a permanent presence in five major Canadian cities, including Toronto, as listed on its official website. The mayor’s motion specifically references two recent incidents to justify the ban: a large-scale operation in Minnesota where federal immigration agents shot and killed two US citizen protesters, and prior protests during the Milan Winter Olympics against the inclusion of ICE agents in the US delegation’s security detail.
Organizers have previously anticipated that Toronto might see an influx of international fans who could be hesitant to travel to US host cities due to President Donald Trump’s stringent immigration policies. Mayor Chow’s motion explicitly states, “Unfortunately, the actions of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement have cast doubt on the ability of many to visit or live in the United States and beyond safely.” The proposal is now set for deliberation by the city council, placing a spotlight on cross-border law enforcement cooperation and public safety perceptions.
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PM charts rebuild
In a landmark address to Parliament during the 2026/27 Budget Debate, Jamaican Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness unveiled a comprehensive national strategy to confront escalating climate vulnerabilities. The policy pivot, catalyzed by the devastation of last October’s Category 5 Hurricane Melissa, signifies a profound reorientation in how the island nation approaches development, infrastructure, and economic security.
The centerpiece of this new vision is the planned relocation of critical government facilities and services in the historic coastal town of Black River. Citing the area’s extreme exposure to storm surges and rising sea levels, Holness declared intentions to develop a new, resilient urban center further inland, explicitly designed to withstand future climatic extremes. This move away from the coastline represents a significant acknowledgment of the existential threat posed by a changing climate.
Beyond physical reconstruction, the Prime Minister outlined sweeping institutional reforms. A new oversight committee will be established to guide the National Reconstruction and Resilience Authority, ensuring coordinated and effective execution of the massive post-Melissa rebuilding effort. Furthermore, Holness signaled a radical transformation of Jamaica’s skills-training apparatus, aiming to align the national workforce with the demands of a climate-resilient and technologically advanced economy.
To accelerate this economic transformation, the government will implement a fast-track approval pathway for strategic investment projects deemed vital to national recovery and long-term growth. This multi-faceted announcement frames climate adaptation not merely as a recovery effort, but as a catalyst for comprehensive modernization of Jamaican infrastructure, governance, and economic planning.
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Cuban ambassador says US policies are ‘starving’ Cuba
Cuba’s ambassador to The Bahamas, Juan Carlos Marcof Sánchez, has delivered a stark assessment of the island nation’s deteriorating conditions, attributing severe fuel shortages, prolonged blackouts, and widespread societal disruption directly to United States policies. In an exclusive interview with The Tribune, the diplomat detailed how American measures have created cascading effects across all sectors of Cuban society.
The healthcare system faces particularly critical challenges, with tens of thousands of patients—including significant numbers of children—unable to receive necessary surgeries due to persistent electricity shortages. Ambassador Marcof Sánchez identified a January executive order signed by President Donald Trump as significantly intensifying the decades-long economic blockade. This order, which declares a national emergency and enables tariffs on countries supplying fuel to Cuba, represents a strategic effort to cut off the island’s vital energy imports.
According to the ambassador, Cuba has endured more than three months without fuel shipments, creating what he described as ‘very adverse conditions’ affecting the entire population. The energy crisis has resulted in power outages exceeding 30 hours in some communities, disrupting water supply systems, halting industrial production, and crippling essential services. The communications infrastructure suffers when radio base stations lose power, while medical services, education, and transportation systems struggle to maintain normal operations.
Despite these challenges, Marcof Sánchez emphasized Cuba’s resilience, noting that schools remain open, hospitals continue providing care, and essential services persist through government crisis management. He reported expanded domestic oil production that has exceeded early-year targets, though he acknowledged this covers only approximately 30 percent of national needs.
The ambassador condemned US pressure on third countries regarding trade with Cuba as coercive and dismissed claims that Cuba poses a national security threat as unfounded. He simultaneously pointed to ongoing diplomatic engagement between Cuban and US officials aimed at addressing bilateral differences, while highlighting international support from governments and organizations across Latin America, the Caribbean, and Europe.
In response to these allegations, the US Embassy in Nassau directed attention to comments by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who asserted that Cuba’s economic troubles stem from systemic failures rather than US policy, claiming the regime has historically depended on foreign subsidies that are no longer available.
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Antigua PM Gaston Browne honoured for global peace advocacy
In a significant diplomatic recognition, Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has been presented with a prestigious international accolade by the International Association of World Peace Advocates. The award specifically acknowledges his persistent advocacy for global peace and diplomatic solutions to international conflicts.
The honor celebrates Prime Minister Browne’s firm position that the Caribbean region should maintain its status as a “Zone of Peace” and his ongoing appeals for the cessation of hostilities worldwide. During the ceremony, Dr. Martin Kofi Danso, representing the peace organization, commended Browne’s consistent stance against military conflicts, emphasizing that his messaging accurately reflects the profound human toll of warfare.
Beyond the ceremonial aspects, the visit facilitated substantive discussions regarding enhanced cooperation between Antigua and Barbuda and the international peace organization. Key proposals emerged, including the establishment of direct air connectivity between Caribbean nations and African countries, alongside the expansion of bilateral trade relationships, with particular focus on strengthening economic ties with Ghana.
In a gesture symbolizing cultural solidarity, Dr. Danso presented Prime Minister Browne with traditional Ghanaian attire, highlighting the shared heritage and ongoing efforts to fortify relations between African nations and Caribbean communities. This diplomatic exchange underscores Antigua and Barbuda’s increasingly influential role in international peace advocacy and regional collaboration initiatives, positioning the small island nation as a significant voice in global diplomatic discourse.
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Caddle defends budget focus amid criticism
Barbados’ Minister of Economic Affairs and Planning, Marsha Caddle, has firmly rebutted assertions that the nation’s 2026 Budget lacks a coherent growth or transformation agenda. Speaking at a post-Budget forum held at the Hilton Barbados Resort, the Minister addressed critiques head-on, clarifying the budget’s intended role within a larger, multifaceted economic framework.
Minister Caddle articulated that the annual budget should not be misconstrued as the sole vessel for the government’s entire transformational strategy. Instead, she emphasized its synergistic relationship with established programs like the Barbados Economic Recovery and Transformation (BERT) plan. These overarching frameworks, she contended, collectively articulate the strategic direction and intent of the Government of Barbados in collaboration with its partners.
Highlighting the evolution to ‘BERT 3.0’ following the conclusion of the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) Extended Facility, Caddle pinpointed the program’s first pillar—enhancing productivity and competitiveness—as a paramount priority for her ministry and the business community. This pillar is structured around three inclusive workstreams: boosting economy-wide productivity, developing robust export engines, and fortifying institutional capacity to accelerate reforms. In a practical move acknowledging the link between infrastructure and efficiency, the Minister revealed she has initiated discussions with the Transport Minister to address productivity hurdles related to transportation.
Addressing concerns over the prevalence of short-term measures, Caddle attributed this focus to prevailing global economic uncertainties, notably exacerbated by military conflicts in the Middle East. While some budgetary proposals extend into the subsequent year, the strategy was deliberately crafted to navigate immediate challenges, leading the Minister to characterize the fiscal plan as unequivocally “one for such a time as this.”
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St Kitts and Nevis PM: Country united with region on humanitarian aid for Cuba, soon to see fruition
In a significant demonstration of regional solidarity, St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew has declared his nation’s commitment to providing substantial humanitarian assistance to Cuba. The announcement came during his March 17 appearance on Freedom FM’s Issues program, where he revealed coordinated efforts with Caribbean Community (CARICOM) partners to support the island nation currently facing economic restrictions.
As the sitting CARICOM Chair, Dr. Drew emphasized the unified regional stance on offering humanitarian support to Cuba. “CARICOM was united in our decision to support Cuba from a humanitarian perspective,” the Prime Minister stated, highlighting the collective nature of the initiative that already includes Dominica and other regional partners.
The Federation has established an operational framework through collaboration with Mexican and international partners to facilitate the aid distribution. Dr. Drew confirmed that St. Kitts and Nevis will execute its first major contribution within the next fortnight, marking a concrete implementation of the regional commitment.
This humanitarian effort reflects St. Kitts and Nevis’ enduring dedication to regional cooperation principles and mutual support among Caribbean nations. The Prime Minister further noted the existing professional partnerships with Cuban experts working within the Federation and assured that robust systems are in place to maintain transparency and comply with international standards throughout the aid process.
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Bradshaw praises ‘Mottley effect’, focus on people
In a significant address during the third day of the Budget debate, Deputy Prime Minister Santia Bradshaw articulated a fundamental shift in the Barbados government’s fiscal strategy. She asserted that the current administration, led by Prime Minister Mia Mottley, is deliberately moving the tax burden away from individuals and onto corporations, thereby challenging the long-held perception that the Barbados Labour Party (BLP) favors big business over the welfare of ordinary citizens.
Bradshaw, who also heads the Ministry of Environment, National Beautification and Fisheries, detailed that the economic team’s focus has pivoted towards accumulating the majority of state revenues through corporation taxes. This strategic reallocation, she explained, is designed to generate the necessary funds to robustly finance the nation’s social service programs. The core philosophy is to utilize corporate contributions to directly benefit the populace, rather than repeatedly taxing individuals.
Central to this economic vision is the administration’s dual commitment to maintaining macroeconomic stability and enhancing social conditions across the island. Bradshaw emphasized that these efforts are strategically aimed at making Barbados a premier destination for foreign investment. She highlighted the role of agencies like Business Barbados in promoting the country’s advantages, noting that investors are increasingly viewing the jurisdiction as a safe, stable, and business-friendly hub, preferable to many other territories for relocating main offices and establishing operations.
Bradshaw lavished praise on Prime Minister Mia Mottley’s leadership, crediting her with elevating Barbados’s stature on the global stage. She described an international ‘Mottley effect,’ where the Prime Minister’s advocacy has secured an influential voice not just for Barbados, but for small island states worldwide. This enhanced diplomatic clout, Bradshaw connected, has directly translated into tangible economic benefits. She pointed to increased cooperation with international funding agencies, which has funneled millions of dollars into the local economy through critical infrastructural projects, including coastal rehabilitation and road rebuilding programs.
However, the Deputy Prime Minister did voice a specific area of criticism amidst her overall endorsement of the budget. She identified a legislative gap concerning the film industry, calling for the implementation of rebates to incentivize and support the millions of dollars invested in international film productions on the island, suggesting this is a necessary step for further economic diversification.