In a dramatic escalation of his campaign against perceived adversaries, former US President Donald Trump has publicly labeled James Comey, the former FBI director, as ‘a dirty cop.’ This accusation follows Comey’s indictment on two criminal counts related to the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election, which Trump won. The charges, announced on Thursday, include making false statements and obstruction of justice. Trump’s inflammatory remarks were made on his Truth Social platform, where he accused Comey of longstanding misconduct. The indictment comes shortly after Trump urged Attorney General Pam Bondi to take action against Comey and other political foes, a move that critics argue undermines the independence of the Justice Department. This marks the latest and most significant instance of Trump’s aggressive targeting of opponents during his second term. In response, Comey, in a video posted on Instagram, denied any wrongdoing and stated, ‘I’m not afraid.’ If convicted, Comey could face up to five years in prison, according to federal prosecutor Lindsey Halligan, a Trump appointee with no prior prosecutorial experience. Trump’s relationship with Comey has been fraught since 2017, when he fired Comey amid the Russia probe. Comey has since been a vocal critic of Trump’s alleged use of the justice system for political purposes. Trump’s return to power this year has seen him swiftly leverage his authority to challenge the legitimacy of the 2016 election investigation, reigniting debates over Russian interference and his own ties to Moscow.
分类： politics
-
US to deport Haitian for engaging in ‘campaign of violence, gang support’
The United States government has initiated steps to deport a Haitian national accused of orchestrating a campaign of violence and supporting gang activities, according to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The individual, whose identity remains undisclosed, is alleged to have undermined US foreign policy objectives and posed a threat to national security. Rubio emphasized that the Department of State has determined the individual’s presence in the US could have severe adverse consequences for foreign policy. Under the Immigration and Naturalization Act, the Department of Homeland Security will proceed with removal charges. Rubio stated, ‘The era of impunity in Haiti is over. This action reflects the Trump administration’s commitment to safeguarding American citizens, advancing national security, and promoting regional stability.’ Earlier this week, the US Department of State also publicly designated two former Haitian officials, Arnel Belizaire and Antonio Cheramy, for their involvement in significant corruption during their tenure. These designations render them and their immediate family members ineligible for entry into the US. Principal Deputy Spokesperson Thomas Pigott highlighted that their corrupt actions destabilized Haiti’s institutions, adversely affecting US national interests. These measures underscore the US government’s dedication to holding individuals accountable for undermining Haiti’s stability.
-
Venezuela at UN seeks support against US ‘threat’
Venezuela’s Foreign Minister Yvan Gil Pinto delivered a scathing critique of the United States during a speech at the United Nations General Assembly on Friday, denouncing what he described as an unjustified military threat. Pinto accused the US of fabricating baseless allegations to justify its aggressive actions in the Caribbean, including the deployment of warships and a nuclear-powered submarine under the guise of combating drug trafficking. He emphasized that Venezuela lacks weapons of mass destruction or nuclear capabilities, rendering the US claims as “vulgar and perverse lies.” Pinto also expressed gratitude to global governments and citizens, including those in the US, for opposing what he termed an attempt to provoke war. Recent US military operations in the Caribbean have resulted in the destruction of at least three suspected drug boats and the deaths of over a dozen individuals, actions condemned by UN experts as “extrajudicial executions.” The US has further rejected calls for dialogue from Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, whose legitimacy remains unrecognized by Washington due to allegations of electoral irregularities. Maduro, a prominent leftist leader, has not attended this year’s UN meetings, with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio labeling him a fugitive following a US indictment on drug-trafficking charges.
-
Trinidad PM reiterates support for US military presence in the Caribbean
Trinidad and Tobago has reaffirmed its support for the United States’ military operations in the southern Caribbean, emphasizing their effectiveness in curbing the activities of drug cartels. Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar, addressing the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), highlighted the necessity of aggressive measures to combat these cartels, which she described as a destructive force undermining societal stability. She expressed her country’s endorsement of the international security alliance proposed by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, aimed at tackling drug trafficking across the hemisphere.
-
CABINET NOTES: WEDNESDAY 24th September 2025
The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda convened on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, addressing a range of critical issues aimed at enhancing national infrastructure, public safety, and environmental sustainability. The meeting began with a prayer led by a pastor from the Zion Church of God, who drew inspiration from Psalm 31, emphasizing trust and resilience in challenging times. The pastor urged Cabinet members to remain patient and committed to their roles, likening their efforts to planting seeds that will yield future benefits. A significant highlight of the meeting was the Attorney General’s briefing on the arrival of a state-of-the-art Liebherr LHM 420 mobile harbor crane at the St. John’s Port. Costing US$6.2 million, this advanced crane is expected to revolutionize port operations, boosting efficiency and positioning Antigua and Barbuda as a leading logistics hub in the Eastern Caribbean. The crane, capable of handling up to 60 containers per hour, is currently being assembled by a team of German engineers, with local operators undergoing hands-on training to ensure seamless integration. In other developments, the Acting Prime Minister informed Cabinet about discussions with the Airport Taxi Association and other stakeholders to improve service standards at V.C. Bird International Airport. A Select Committee has been established to recommend regulatory and operational enhancements. Additionally, the Minister for Public Safety addressed rising concerns over motorized bicycles and scooters, which have been linked to increased traffic accidents. Stakeholders are drafting legislative measures to mitigate these issues. On the environmental front, Cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to beautification initiatives, including tree planting along highways and the establishment of a supervised inmate work team to support community clean-up efforts. The Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force will lead the October National Clean-Up Campaign under the theme ‘Love Where You Live,’ furthering the government’s vision for a cleaner, greener nation.
-
Kuwait FM meets Antigua and Barbuda’s peer in New York
Kuwait’s Foreign Minister, Abdullah Al-Yahya, held a significant meeting with Antigua and Barbuda’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Barbuda Affairs, Everly Paul Chet Greene, during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The high-level discussion, which took place on Wednesday, centered on enhancing bilateral relations across multiple sectors, as confirmed by a statement from Kuwait’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Both ministers explored avenues for deeper cooperation and exchanged views on pressing regional and international issues of mutual interest. This diplomatic engagement underscores the commitment of both nations to fostering stronger ties and addressing global challenges collaboratively. The meeting also highlighted the importance of multilateral platforms like the UN General Assembly in facilitating dialogue and partnership between geographically distant but diplomatically aligned countries.
-
UPP Town-Hall to Tackle Crime and State Fund Mismanagement
The United Progressive Party (UPP) has announced a town-hall meeting scheduled for September 30 at Freedom Hall on Lower Newgate Street in Antigua and Barbuda. The event, set to commence at 7 p.m., aims to address escalating concerns over crime and government accountability. The panel will be led by Deputy Political Leader and criminal defense attorney Hon. Sherfield Bowen, alongside financial consultant Kem Warner and former Royal Police Force member Nuffield Burnett. The UPP has emphasized that the meeting will focus on the recent surge in crime, alleged mismanagement of state funds, and the government’s perceived inadequate response to these issues. In a pre-event statement, the party expressed that citizens are increasingly frustrated with violent crime, extrajudicial killings, and a lack of transparency in public spending. The town-hall will serve as a platform for citizens to voice their grievances and propose solutions to these pressing national concerns. The event will be broadcast live on Progressive 107.3 FM and streamed via the UPP’s official Facebook page, ensuring widespread accessibility for the public.
-
Antigua and Barbuda and United Kingdom Deepen Collaboration Ahead of CHOGM 2026
On the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly, Antigua and Barbuda’s Foreign Minister, E.P. Chet Greene, held a pivotal meeting with UK Minister Chris Elmore to discuss preparations for the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), set to be hosted in Antigua and Barbuda. The meeting underscored the robust collaboration between the two nations as they intensify planning for this landmark event. Minister Greene expressed pride in Antigua and Barbuda’s role as host and highlighted the productive partnership with the UK, emphasizing the importance of joint efforts in ensuring the summit’s success. The discussions also focused on the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Centre of Excellence, a cornerstone initiative of the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS). This center aims to foster innovation and sustainable development solutions tailored to the unique challenges faced by SIDS. Minister Greene urged the UK to fully support this initiative, which aligns with the broader goals of advancing shared Commonwealth values and achieving sustainable development. Both ministers reaffirmed their commitment to supporting island nations in overcoming their distinct challenges and advancing global development priorities. Minister Greene’s packed schedule at the UN General Assembly included additional bilateral discussions with other nations, expected to yield significant benefits for Antigua and Barbuda. The meeting marks a significant step in strengthening international cooperation and advancing the interests of small island states on the global stage.
-
Gibbs pledges new focus on housing efficiency, upkeep
In one of his first public addresses as the newly appointed Housing Minister, Chris Gibbs outlined a significant reset in housing policy, emphasizing reforms for the troubled HOPE programme and a new maintenance-focused mandate for the National Housing Corporation (NHC). Speaking at the Barbados Annual Construction and Design Conference (BACDC) held at Sandals Royal Barbados, Gibbs addressed critical issues plaguing the housing sector, including the inefficiencies of the HOPE initiative and the NHC’s dual role in construction and maintenance. Gibbs, who replaced Dwight Sutherland following his resignation for personal reasons, pledged to transform HOPE into a project management-focused institution, leveraging public-private partnerships to deliver affordable housing solutions. He acknowledged the programme’s challenges, including delays and financing issues, but expressed optimism about its future. Gibbs also announced a strategic shift for the NHC, prioritizing maintenance over new construction to address long-standing inefficiencies. He proposed a two-tiered building strategy: an industrial model for planning and design, supported by innovative techniques, and an artisanal model for routine maintenance, engaging small contractors and artisans. This approach aims to streamline operations and ensure sustainable housing solutions for Barbados.
-
President Ali urges bold action on global crises at UN General Assembly
In a compelling address at the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York, Guyana’s President Dr. Irfaan Ali emphasized the urgent need for bold and decisive action to tackle the multifaceted crises gripping the world. Against the backdrop of a rapidly shifting geopolitical landscape, President Ali highlighted the Caribbean’s vulnerability to climate change, alongside the broader global challenges of armed conflicts, food insecurity, and economic instability. He called for introspection within the UN, questioning its effectiveness in addressing escalating geopolitical tensions and humanitarian disasters. ‘Where are we at 80?’ Ali asked, pointing to the intensification of conflicts, worsening food insecurity, growing displacement, and the existential threat of climate change. He expressed deep concern over the erosion of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) due to shrinking development aid and reduced peacekeeping budgets. Ali also condemned the ongoing humanitarian crises in Gaza, Sudan, and Haiti, labeling the situation in Gaza as ‘mass extermination’ and urging immediate action to halt the violence and advance a two-state solution. Additionally, he warned of emerging threats such as cybercrime, misinformation, and transnational organized crime. As the UN commemorates its 80th anniversary, President Ali joined a growing number of leaders voicing frustration over the organization’s inability to maintain global peace and security in an increasingly volatile world.