Carib Scope

分类： politics

  • Caracas : Venezuela and Haiti commemorate the 222nd anniversary of the Battle of Vertières

    Caracas : Venezuela and Haiti commemorate the 222nd anniversary of the Battle of Vertières

    Caracas witnessed a significant diplomatic ceremony on January 1st, 2026, as Venezuelan and Haitian officials jointly commemorated the 222nd anniversary of the Battle of Vertières—a pivotal historical event that secured Haiti’s independence from French colonial rule. The solemn floral tribute to Liberator Simón Bolívar at Venezuela’s National Pantheon symbolized the enduring solidarity between the two nations.

    The ceremony was presided over by Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs for the Caribbean Raúl Li Causi and Haitian Ambassador to Venezuela Jean Mary Vaval, with attendance from numerous diplomatic representatives accredited to the country. This event honored the legendary armed confrontation initiated on November 18, 1803, under the leadership of independence hero Jean-Jacques Dessalines, with crucial support from Generals Christoph Pétion, Clervaeus, Romain, and the courageous Capois La Mort.

    Historical records indicate this uprising represented the first major revolutionary movement in colonial America, occurring in a territory characterized by extreme inequality where approximately 88% of the 570,000 population were enslaved individuals. The battle’s outcome permanently dismantled French colonial dominance and established Haiti as the first independent republic led by people of African descent.

    The bilateral relationship between Caracas and Port-au-Prince spans centuries of cooperation and mutual support, beginning with Alexandre Pétion’s historic assistance to Bolívar and continuing through contemporary initiatives including Petrocaribe energy agreements and Venezuela’s humanitarian response to Haiti’s 2010 earthquake. Venezuelan support has extended to critical projects in health, education, infrastructure, and energy development.

    Venezuelan Minister of Foreign Affairs Yván Gil marked Haiti’s 222nd Independence Day with a solidarity message reaffirming Venezuela’s support for Haiti’s ongoing struggle against foreign interference. The diplomatic communication celebrated Haiti as the ‘Mother Nation of Liberties’ in Latin America and the Caribbean, honoring revolutionary leader Toussaint Louverture and his enduring legacy in anti-colonial movements. Venezuela emphasized that Haiti’s fundamental strength resides in the unwavering dignity of its people.

  • Breaking: US captures Maduro after launching attack on Venezuela

    Breaking: US captures Maduro after launching attack on Venezuela

    In an unprecedented military operation, United States forces have captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores following a predawn strike on multiple locations in Caracas. President Donald Trump confirmed the operation through his Truth Social platform, announcing that both individuals are being transported to the United States to face drug trafficking charges pursuant to an existing indictment.

    The operation, described as a ‘large-scale strike’ by the U.S. administration, was conducted in coordination with American law enforcement agencies. Initial reports indicate the military action resulted in civilian injuries and widespread power outages across portions of Venezuela, though official casualty figures remain unconfirmed.

    International response has been swift and critical, with multiple nations characterizing the operation as a violation of international law. The Caribbean Community (CARICOM), which has consistently advocated for regional neutrality, expressed grave concern about potential implications for neighboring countries. In an emergency meeting convened following reports of the military action, CARICOM leadership pledged continued monitoring of the rapidly evolving situation.

    The capture culminates months of escalating tensions between Washington and Caracas. The Trump administration had significantly increased its security presence in the Caribbean region earlier this year, a move widely interpreted as preparation for potential action against Maduro’s government. Recent U.S. airstrikes on Venezuelan port facilities had further signaled Washington’s willingness to conduct direct operations within the country.

    Russia and other Venezuelan allies have strongly condemned the operation, while U.S. officials indicate no additional military actions are anticipated in the immediate future. The development leaves Venezuela’s political future uncertain, with questions emerging about transitional governance and the potential for further regional instability.

  • Ancestors’ Day : The Nation bows before the memory of its founding heroes (video)…

    Ancestors’ Day : The Nation bows before the memory of its founding heroes (video)…

    Port-au-Prince, Haiti – January 2, 2026: In a powerful display of national reverence, Haiti’s transitional government leadership gathered at the Museum of the Haitian National Pantheon (MUPANAH) to commemorate Ancestors’ Day, honoring the revolutionary figures who secured the nation’s independence 222 years ago.

    Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé led the solemn wreath-laying ceremony alongside Laurent Saint-Cyr, President pro tempore and Coordinator of the Transitional Council, accompanied by presidential advisors Smith Augustin, Frinel Joseph, Edgard Leblanc Fils, and Emmanuel Vertilaire. The event drew prominent military and civil officials including Lieutenant General Derby Guerrier, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, and Vladimir Paraison, Acting Director General of the Haitian National Police.

    The ceremony represented more than symbolic remembrance—it served as a reaffirmation of Haiti’s foundational principles of liberty, sovereignty, and historical continuity. In his address, Prime Minister Fils-Aimé characterized the event as “a political act of remembrance” that demonstrates the state’s “unwavering commitment to the cardinal values of liberty, national sovereignty, justice, and human dignity.”

    A significant development in this year’s commemoration was the unprecedented recognition of female independence fighters. Laurent Saint-Cyr specifically highlighted women’s contributions to the liberation struggle, marking the first official January 2nd tribute to heroines including Abdaraya Toya (Victoria Montou), Sanite Bélair, Catherine Flon, Suzanne Simone Baptiste Louverture, and Marie-Jeanne Lamartinière. This initiative, championed by Secretary General Marie Élisabeth Régine Joseph Haddad, reflects the administration’s commitment to advancing women’s leadership roles.

    The ceremony transitioned to Villa d’Accueil for formal honors, featuring culturally significant performances and photographic exhibitions showcasing emblematic figures of Haiti’s emancipation struggle. Minister of National Education Antoine Augustin provided historical context, detailing the achievements of both celebrated and lesser-known independence heroes.

    Against the backdrop of contemporary challenges, the government framed this tribute as both a moral compass and a call to collective action, urging citizens to draw inspiration from their ancestors’ sacrifice for national reconstruction and a more prosperous future.

  • GRA officials to be arrested for allegedly aiding Azruddin Mohamed in transfer of vehicles

    GRA officials to be arrested for allegedly aiding Azruddin Mohamed in transfer of vehicles

    Multiple officials from the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) are facing imminent arrest for their alleged involvement in facilitating illegal vehicle transfers for prominent businessman and political figure Azruddin Mohamed. The tax authority announced on Friday, January 2, 2026, that several employees conspired to illegally process 11 vehicle transfers between November 27 and December 5, 2025.

    The investigation uncovered systematic violations of both vehicle transfer protocols and Anti-Money Laundering regulations. According to GRA’s statement, the same employees conducted off-premises vehicle examinations, approved transfer documents, and processed payments while bypassing standard procedures. The scheme showed patterns of coordination, with many transferees sharing addresses in Republic Park, Atlantic Gardens, and Hill Top, Timehri regions.

    The scandal involves luxury vehicles and represents a significant breach of public trust. GRA has warned that all participants in these alleged illegal activities will face full prosecution under the law. International partners have been notified as investigations continue to unfold.

    This development compounds the legal troubles for Mohamed, who leads the main opposition party We Invest in Nationhood (WIN). He is currently contesting a United States extradition request related to an 11-count Grand Jury indictment for alleged mail fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering. Previous domestic cases against Mohamed regarding tax evasion on imported luxury vehicles, including a Lamborghini, were discontinued in Guyanese courts.

    The Revenue Authority has encouraged public reporting of illicit activities through dedicated hotlines, promising confidentiality and potential rewards under the Customs Act provisions.

  • ABLP St John’s Rural East branch pledges support for government leadership in New Year message

    ABLP St John’s Rural East branch pledges support for government leadership in New Year message

    In a significant show of political solidarity, the St John’s Rural East division of Antigua and Barbuda’s ruling Labour Party has publicly reinforced its endorsement of the nation’s leadership cadre. The declaration emphasizes continued confidence in the administration’s governance despite confronting substantial economic headwinds and external pressures affecting the Caribbean region.

    Carl A. Christopher, presiding chairman of the SJRE ABLP branch, articulated this position through a New Year’s communiqué addressed to party constituents. His message highlighted the nation’s forward momentum despite prevailing conditions of economic volatility, escalating living expenses, and broader regional challenges.

    Christopher specifically reiterated unwavering organizational support for both local parliamentary representative Maria Browne and Prime Minister Gaston Browne. He credited their leadership with consistently safeguarding the interests of the working population and maintaining stability during uncertain times.

    The chairman’s correspondence additionally served as a rallying cry for continued political engagement, urging party members to maintain discipline and unity throughout the coming year. Christopher extended personal wishes for health and prosperity to all members and their families.

    This reaffirmation of support occurs as the governing ABLP administration continues to prioritize economic resilience and social development programs. These initiatives are being advanced against a complex backdrop of international financial instability and regional economic difficulties that have characterized the post-pandemic recovery period.

  • Antiguan Diplomat Conrod C. Hunte elected to chair prestigious United Nations body

    Antiguan Diplomat Conrod C. Hunte elected to chair prestigious United Nations body

    In a significant development for international governance, veteran Antiguan diplomat Conrod C. Hunte has been elected to chair the United Nations Joint Inspection Unit (JIU), the organization’s sole independent external oversight body. The election occurred during the Unit’s Winter Session on December 3rd in Geneva, where Inspector Hunte assumed leadership alongside Vice-Chair Mohanad Al-Musawi of Iraq.

    This appointment marks a pivotal moment for the JIU as it approaches its 60th anniversary. Ambassador Hunte brings nearly forty years of multilateral experience to the position, including previous roles as Antigua and Barbuda’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN in New York and Permanent Representative to the International Renewable Energy Agency. His extensive background includes chairing both the Group of 77 and China in the UN Fifth Committee and the Alliance of Small Island States at UNFCCC conferences.

    Since joining the JIU in 2023, Inspector Hunte has already made substantial contributions through focused reviews of major UN agencies including the Food and Agriculture Organization and the UN Environment Programme. He has authored critical reports on governance structures within UNDP/UNFPA/UNOPS, UNICEF, and UN-Women, while co-authoring groundbreaking research on preventing sexual exploitation across the UN system.

    The JIU’s mandate under Hunte’s leadership will continue to focus on optimizing resource allocation, enhancing administrative efficiency, and identifying best practices throughout the UN system. Ambassador Walton Webson, Antigua and Barbuda’s Permanent Representative to the UN, celebrated the election as both a national pride and regional achievement, highlighting Hunte’s career-long dedication to strengthening accountability within international institutions.

  • Socialist Party of Peru celebrates Cuban Revolutionary anniversary

    Socialist Party of Peru celebrates Cuban Revolutionary anniversary

    The People’s Socialist Party (PSP) of Cuba has issued a stark assessment of Latin America’s political climate, characterizing the region as experiencing profoundly dark times marked by intensified imperial measures. According to the party’s anniversary statement, these actions aim to encircle not just physical territories but also the ideological spheres of popular thought, hope, and collective consciousness.

    The statement, released to commemorate another year of the Cuban Revolution, framed the occasion not merely as a historical milestone but as a testament to sustained resistance and moral victory. It emphasized that the Cuban people continue to demonstrate unwavering resolve in the face of unprecedented challenges.

    While acknowledging that Cuba’s journey has never been without difficulty, the PSP highlighted that current conditions present uniquely formidable obstacles. Despite this, the revolutionary fervor that ignited 67 years ago remains undiminished, serving as a continuous pulse driving present-day struggles.

    The party invoked Che Guevara’s vision, asserting that the revolutionary dream actively fuels the development of a new societal model built upon ethics, solidarity, and historical commitment. Cuba stands resilient, the statement affirmed, maintaining its dignity while resisting what it described as an inhumane economic blockade and a coordinated media campaign designed to isolate the nation globally.

    Countering this isolation, the PSP highlighted Cuba’s internationalist legacy—sharing revolutionary gains through education, healthcare, and scientific advancement dedicated to public welfare. This solidarity, characterized as substantive action rather than empty rhetoric, was crystallized in Fidel Castro’s principle: ‘Homeland is Humanity.’

  • Dominican organizations reiterate support for Cuba

    Dominican organizations reiterate support for Cuba

    International leftist organizations have issued coordinated statements commemorating the anniversary of the Cuban Revolution while simultaneously condemning United States foreign policy toward several Latin American nations. The United Left Movement (MIU) delivered a formal communication to Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel recognizing January 1, 1959, as a historically significant date that represents political liberation and independence achievements.

    The message coincides with the centennial celebration of Fidel Castro’s birth (1926-2016), whose legacy was characterized as fundamentally humanist, integrationist, and anti-imperialist. The MIU statement emphasized that Castro’s ideological principles continue to direct Cuba’s contemporary resistance movements and innovative approaches to national sovereignty challenges.

    A substantial portion of the communication addressed the ongoing U.S. economic, commercial, and financial embargo against Cuba, which the movement labeled as both inhumane and inconsistent with prevailing international opinion. The statement noted that the blockade contradicts the expressed will of most United Nations member states who have repeatedly voted against its continuation.

    The MIU further acknowledged the considerable sacrifices made by the Cuban population in defending national sovereignty and reaffirmed its “friendship and fraternal relations” with Cuba’s Communist Party, government institutions, and citizens.

    Separately, the Central Coordination of the Caamanista Movement endorsed these sentiments while expanding its criticism to include U.S. policies toward Venezuela, Nicaragua, Mexico, and Colombia. The Dominican Popular Movement separately characterized the Cuban Revolution as the most consequential revolutionary movement within the region and arguably across the global stage.

  • Maduro Says He’s Ready to Talk With the U.S. “Wherever and Whenever”

    Maduro Says He’s Ready to Talk With the U.S. “Wherever and Whenever”

    Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has publicly declared his readiness to engage in diplomatic discussions with United States officials “wherever and whenever” they choose. This unexpected overture was delivered during a nationally televised address on Venezuelan state media this Thursday.

    The announcement arrives amidst escalating tensions between the two nations. According to a New York Times report, Venezuelan authorities have taken at least five American citizens into custody in recent months. U.S. officials under the Trump administration interpret these detentions as strategic maneuvers to gain diplomatic leverage.

    Maduro’s conciliatory statement follows unconfirmed reports of a military incident involving U.S. forces. President Donald Trump previously asserted that American military assets targeted a Venezuelan dock facility allegedly connected to narcotics trafficking. Subsequent intelligence suggests the operation may have been conducted by the Central Intelligence Agency utilizing drone technology, which—if verified—would represent the first acknowledged U.S. military action within Venezuelan territory.

    When questioned about the alleged strike, Maduro remained noncommittal, indicating the matter “could be discussed in a few days.”

    This diplomatic development occurs against the backdrop of intensified U.S. naval operations in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific regions. Over the past quarter, American forces have interdicted multiple vessels suspected of transporting illicit narcotics.

    Maduro has consistently rejected allegations of his government’s involvement in drug trafficking operations, characterizing the U.S. anti-narcotics campaign as a pretext for regime change and attempted control over Venezuela’s substantial petroleum reserves. The situation further deteriorated in December when U.S. authorities seized two oil tankers and pursued another, citing violations of international sanctions. Venezuela’s government has condemned these actions as acts of “international piracy.”

  • Regime change by force in Venezuela

    Regime change by force in Venezuela

    In a dramatic escalation of tensions, United States military forces initiated a covert operation in Venezuela during the early hours of Saturday, resulting in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro. The intervention began with precision airstrikes targeting key Venezuelan military installations including La Guaira port, Higuerote airport, La Cariota airport, and the Fuerte Tiuna military complex. Notably, the country’s critical oil infrastructure remained untouched throughout the operation.

    Eyewitnesses reported explosions illuminating the night sky over Caracas as military helicopters patrolled the capital. The strategic strikes appear to have served as a diversion for the primary objective: the extraction and detention of President Maduro, who was transported with his wife, Cilia Flores, to the USS Iwo Jima naval vessel.

    The operation culminates years of mounting pressure on Maduro’s administration, which faced indictment by U.S. authorities in 2020 on multiple charges including corruption and drug trafficking. The State Department had previously offered a $50 million reward for information leading to his arrest or conviction.

    Following the military incursion, Attorney General Pam Bondi declared that Maduro would face ‘American justice on American soil in American courts.’ With Maduro’s capture, constitutional power has transferred to Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, who was swiftly sworn in as interim leader.

    The action represents a significant evolution from previous U.S. military interventions in the region, notably the 1989 Operation Just Cause in Panama which required several days to capture General Manuel Noriega. That operation drew widespread international condemnation and resulted in substantial civilian casualties.

    This intervention occurs against the backdrop of a newly articulated ‘Trump Corollary’ to the Monroe Doctrine, which advances a doctrine of American preeminence and flexible realism as pillars of foreign policy. During a recent press conference, President Trump explicitly connected the operation to Venezuela’s substantial oil reserves, suggesting the newly installed leadership would cooperate with U.S. economic interests.