分类: politics

  • Gen Caine, Kamla discuss regional crime

    Gen Caine, Kamla discuss regional crime

    In a significant diplomatic engagement, General Dan Caine, Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, made a brief but impactful visit to Trinidad and Tobago on November 25. The high-profile meeting with Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar underscored the enduring alliance between the two nations, particularly in addressing regional security challenges. Caine, who had initially planned to visit Puerto Rico to engage with US troops stationed there, altered his itinerary to include a stop in Port of Spain. The meeting, held at the Diplomatic Centre in St Ann’s, also included key Trinidadian officials such as Attorney General John Jeremie, Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander, and Defence Minister Wayne Sturge. Lasting less than two hours, the discussions focused on combating narco-trafficking, human trafficking, and transnational crime, reaffirming both nations’ commitment to regional stability. Following the meeting, Caine departed in a heavily guarded convoy, emphasizing the high-security nature of the visit. Meanwhile, Suriname has voiced concerns over US aggression towards Venezuela, with Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yván Gil and Surinamese President Jennifer Geerlings-Simons jointly condemning US military actions in the Caribbean. This development highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics in the region, as nations navigate alliances and tensions.

  • Maduro Gives Airlines 48 Hours to Resume Flights

    Maduro Gives Airlines 48 Hours to Resume Flights

    Venezuela’s aviation authority has imposed a stringent 48-hour deadline on international airlines to resume flights to the country, threatening to revoke their traffic rights if they fail to comply. This directive follows the suspension of services by several carriers, including Iberia, Turkish Airlines, and Avianca, in response to a U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) safety alert. The FAA’s warning highlighted escalating security risks and increased military activity in Venezuela’s Maiquetía Flight Information Region, urging pilots to exercise extreme caution during all phases of flight, including overflights, arrivals, and departures. While local carriers such as Caribbean Airlines have temporarily halted operations to evaluate risks, Venezuelan airlines continue to operate unaffected. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has emphasized the need for improved coordination between authorities and airlines, cautioning that Venezuela’s ultimatum could exacerbate the already critical reduction in air connectivity. Meanwhile, the U.S. has escalated tensions by designating Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his allies as members of a foreign terrorist organization, paving the way for stricter sanctions and potential military actions. Maduro has vehemently denied all allegations.

  • DRC calls for more balanced and progressive AU-EU partnership

    DRC calls for more balanced and progressive AU-EU partnership

    During his participation in the debate on Peace, Security, Governance, and Multilateralism, President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) emphasized the critical need to address pressing issues that hinder prosperity and development. Speaking at the AU-EU Summit, Tshisekedi highlighted that peace and security are foundational to any discussion on trade, investment, and human mobility. He described the current situation in the DRC as a ‘critical emergency,’ marked by massacres, sexual violence, forced displacement, and persistent insecurity. Tshisekedi argued that sustainable economic agendas and migration projects cannot succeed if they overlook these human tragedies. He called for a renewed commitment to multilateralism, stressing the importance of transparency, cooperation, and genuine solidarity in addressing global challenges. The president expressed optimism that the summit would mark a turning point in AU-EU relations, fostering concrete actions that prioritize peace, human dignity, and shared prosperity in their collaborative efforts.

  • Venezuela-Cuba Friendship Movement pays tribute to Fidel Castro

    Venezuela-Cuba Friendship Movement pays tribute to Fidel Castro

    In a heartfelt tribute to the late Cuban Commander-in-Chief, Fidel Castro, a prominent solidarity organization hailed him as a ‘universal reference of dignity, justice, and resistance.’ The statement emphasized Castro’s pivotal role not only in spearheading a revolution that reshaped the lives of millions in Cuba but also in serving as a guiding light for dignity across Latin America and the globe. His unwavering commitment to sovereignty and independence, the organization noted, demonstrated that unity, consciousness, and solidarity can achieve monumental victories. Castro’s influence transcended national boundaries, inspiring movements against imperialism, exploitation, and inequality worldwide. In Venezuela, his legacy endures through collaborative projects, life-saving medical brigades, youth education programs rooted in liberation principles, and the enduring bond of brotherhood between Cuba and Venezuela. Nine years after his passing, the organization reaffirmed its dedication to preserving his vision and advancing the creation of a more just, humane, and united world. The Movement underscored that Castro’s teachings on genuine friendship and solidarity remain inseparable from the fight for emancipation, sovereignty, and dignity.

  • US plan for Ukraine recognizes Russian victory, says MEP

    US plan for Ukraine recognizes Russian victory, says MEP

    In a significant development, Sahra Wagenknecht, a representative of the alliance Reason and Justice, has called on the European Union (EU) to initiate direct diplomatic talks with Russia. This comes after years of the EU rejecting such engagements. Wagenknecht emphasized that Russia is nearing victory in the ongoing conflict, a sentiment echoed in the US’s recent strategic plans. She criticized the EU for its inconsistent approach, accusing it of attempting to ‘dictate terms’ despite years of obstructing meaningful negotiations. Wagenknecht also highlighted the need for European sovereignty, advocating for independence from US directives on continental security.

    Geopolitical analysts across Europe have interpreted the US’s latest document as a tacit acknowledgment of the failure of the Ukrainian strategy and its Western backers. After four years of unproductive confrontation, the document underscores the exhaustion of the Western hegemonic project in Ukraine. This has prompted European capitals to reconsider their strategic relationship with Moscow, especially in light of increasing unilateralism.

    This parliamentary assessment marks an unprecedented recognition of the ineffectiveness of sanctions and military escalation. It opens the door for independent European policies that prioritize collective security over transatlantic warmongering interests.

    The US administration has previously announced the development of a plan for a negotiated resolution to the Ukraine conflict. However, it stated that the details of the plan are not yet ready for disclosure, as the work is still in progress.

    On Monday, Russia confirmed that it has not received any official information about potential negotiations involving the United States, Ukraine, and European countries in Geneva. Nonetheless, Moscow reiterated its openness to maintaining contacts and engaging in talks with the US.

  • Panamanian social organizations pay tribute to Fidel Castro

    Panamanian social organizations pay tribute to Fidel Castro

    Various organizations and individuals worldwide have recently commemorated the enduring legacy of Fidel Castro, the revolutionary leader who shaped Cuba’s history. Through social media platforms, groups have shared videos and messages emphasizing the solidarity movement with Cuba, a nation that has faced a U.S. blockade for over six decades with unwavering resistance and dignity. Among these groups, the Broad Front for Democracy (FAD), the National Solidarity Coordination, and the Asociación Martiana de Cubanos Residentes en Panama have highlighted the continued relevance of Castro’s work and ideology. In Panama, the Cuban embassy is set to host a photographic exhibition showcasing the profound impact of this iconic statesman. Fidel Castro, born on August 13, 1926, and passing on November 25, 2016, is celebrated for his pivotal role in advancing Cuba’s revolutionary process, steering the nation toward socialism, and fostering unity among its people. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel, along with other high-ranking officials, has reiterated the vitality of Castro’s revolutionary ideals and the enduring influence of his leadership. On social media platform X, Díaz-Canel emphasized the immortality of Castro’s ideas, urging skeptics to witness the ongoing resonance of his legacy. The hashtag #FidelViveEntreNos (Fidel Lives Among Us) has become a rallying cry, symbolizing the lasting impact of Castro’s vision on Cuba and the world.

  • Spain condemns Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon

    Spain condemns Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon

    The Spanish Government has issued a strong condemnation of the recent attacks on United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) positions, particularly highlighting the threat to the physical safety of the Spanish contingent. These incidents, described as a severe escalation, have raised significant concerns. Additionally, Spain expressed deep unease over Israel’s unilateral decision to construct a wall within Lebanese territory, which breaches the Blue Line demarcation established by the United Nations. This action is seen as a violation of Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. In its statement, Spain urged Israel to adhere to its obligations under international law and the ceasefire agreement reached in November 2024. The government emphasized that the effective implementation of the two-state solution for Palestine and Israel is crucial for ensuring lasting peace and security in the Middle East. Furthermore, Spain reaffirmed its commitment to Lebanon’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and stability, as well as its support for the full implementation of Security Council Resolution 1701. Spain also reiterated its backing for the UNIFIL mandate, underscoring its vital role in achieving these objectives.

  • US military personnel from Guyana conduct medical skills exchange with RGPF

    US military personnel from Guyana conduct medical skills exchange with RGPF

    In a significant demonstration of bilateral cooperation, US military personnel stationed at the US Embassy in Guyana recently conducted specialized training sessions for officers from the Royal Grenada Police Force (RGPF). The training, held from November 17 to 19, 2025, focused on enhancing first-response capabilities and improving emergency medical care for injured individuals before they reach medical facilities. The initiative involved 28 RGPF officers from various departments, alongside US military trainers, underscoring the shared commitment to public safety and professional development. On the final day of the training, RGPF Commissioner Randy Connaught and US Embassy Grenada Principal Officer Cindy Diouf observed the sessions and interacted with participants, including new RGPF recruits. Diouf expressed her gratitude for the collaboration, highlighting the achievements made possible through joint efforts. This training is part of ongoing cooperation agreements between Grenada and the US, which focus on national and regional security. However, the collaboration comes amidst unresolved discussions regarding a request from the Trump Administration to install radar equipment and technical personnel at Grenada’s Maurice Bishop International Airport (MBIA). Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell, also the Minister for National Security and Civil Aviation, emphasized that technical and safety considerations are still being evaluated, with no decision yet made. Mitchell assured that any agreement would comply with both domestic and international laws, reflecting Grenada’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty while fostering international partnerships.

  • Gonsalves names Trinis lawyers allegedly interfering in SVG’s election campaign

    Gonsalves names Trinis lawyers allegedly interfering in SVG’s election campaign

    KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent — Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves has raised concerns over the presence of eight Trinidadian lawyers and activists in St. Vincent, accusing them of attempting to interfere in the upcoming general election. Gonsalves, leader of the ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP), made these allegations during a youth rally, emphasizing that the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) had brought these individuals to influence the electoral process. He warned that their activities could undermine the nation’s democratic integrity. Gonsalves highlighted that these lawyers must obtain proper work permits or CARICOM Skills National Certificates to operate legally in St. Vincent, labeling their current involvement as a criminal offense. He further criticized the NDP for what he described as ‘low-down worthlessness’ and attempts to disrupt the ULP’s campaign efforts. Gonsalves also expressed gratitude to Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar for clarifying that her party had not sanctioned any involvement in St. Vincent’s elections. However, he speculated that UNC financiers might be seeking to ‘buy this election’ for their own interests. The ULP, which has held power since 2001, is aiming for a sixth consecutive term in the December 1 poll.

  • SVG’s political circus

    SVG’s political circus

    As St. Vincent and the Grenadines approaches another election, the nation’s political culture has devolved into a spectacle of noise, distraction, and emotional manipulation. What should be a time for serious national reflection has been overshadowed by a festival of hype, handouts, and showmanship. The transformation of politics into entertainment has not only cheapened the electoral process but also jeopardized the country’s future.