In a significant move to address the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, Caribbean Community (Caricom) leaders, alongside international stakeholders, embarked on a comprehensive tour of Jamaica on Monday morning. The initiative, spearheaded by Jamaica’s Information Minister, Senator Dr. Dana Morris-Dixon, aims to provide a firsthand assessment of the widespread devastation caused by the hurricane, particularly in hard-hit regions such as Westmoreland and St. Elizabeth. Dr. Morris-Dixon emphasized the importance of this visit, stating, ‘It’s crucial for them to witness the situation on the ground and understand the challenges we face.’ She further highlighted that the tour would serve as a foundation for forging partnerships to aid Jamaica’s recovery and rebuilding efforts. Jamaica has already received substantial support from its Caricom neighbors and international allies, with many nations sending aid in solidarity. Dr. Morris-Dixon expressed gratitude for this assistance, noting, ‘It’s heartening to see sister countries standing with us during this difficult time.’ The tour also includes representatives from key international development organizations, such as the Inter-American Development Bank, whose support is deemed vital for the recovery phase. Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness, the current Caricom chair, welcomed his regional counterparts, underscoring the collective commitment to addressing the crisis. Dr. Morris-Dixon added that the relief efforts have been ongoing, with a focus on ensuring access to food and essential supplies for all affected communities, including those in remote areas. As Jamaica transitions from immediate relief to long-term recovery, the involvement of international partners is expected to play a pivotal role in rebuilding the nation’s infrastructure and economy.
分类： world
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Haitian gang leader ‘Barbecue’ warns citizens to stay indoors
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – Jimmy Chérizier, the notorious leader of the “Viv Ansanm” gang coalition, has issued a stark warning to residents of Haiti’s capital, urging them to remain indoors as his group prepares to engage in a violent confrontation with law enforcement. Known by his alias “Barbecue,” Chérizier released a video message on Sunday, demanding that the Haitian National Police (PNH) cancel all leave and vacations for officers immediately.
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Haitian gangs getting rich off murky market for baby eels
In Haiti, criminal gangs are capitalizing on a highly profitable trade in baby eels, locally known as ‘Zangi,’ which are harvested from the nation’s rivers and estuaries and exported abroad for thousands of dollars. These glass eels, which drift annually from the Sargasso Sea to Haiti’s coastal waters, are in high demand, particularly in Asia, where they are considered a delicacy. This trade is enriching the very gangs that have plunged Haiti into chaos, according to experts.
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US Announces that Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group Enters Caribbean Sea
The Caribbean Sea witnessed a significant military presence on November 16, 2025, as the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group, spearheaded by the USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), the world’s largest aircraft carrier, navigated through the Anegada Passage and entered the region. This deployment, under the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), follows directives from Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to dismantle Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs) and counter narco-terrorism, aligning with the President’s priorities to safeguard the Homeland. Admiral Alvin Holsey, Commander of SOUTHCOM, emphasized the group’s readiness to combat transnational threats, stating, ‘The USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group’s deployment reinforces our resolve to protect the security of the Western Hemisphere and the safety of the American Homeland.’ The strike group will join the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and other joint forces as part of Joint Task Force Southern Spear, a mission designed to dismantle criminal networks exploiting shared borders and maritime domains. Rear Admiral Paul Lanzilotta, commander of Carrier Strike Group 12, highlighted the USS Gerald R. Ford’s capabilities as ‘the most capable, adaptable, and lethal platform in the world,’ ensuring its deployment where and when it matters most. With over 4,000 Sailors and dozens of tactical aircraft, the carrier enhances the U.S. military’s ability to project power through sustained operations. The strike group’s deployment began on June 24, 2025, with operations in the Atlantic Ocean, Arctic Circle, and Mediterranean Sea, including participation in NATO’s Neptune Strike 25-2 and 25-3 exercises. The group’s arrival in the Caribbean follows a transoceanic voyage through the Strait of Gibraltar. Accompanying the USS Gerald R. Ford are Carrier Air Wing Eight, Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Bainbridge and USS Mahan, and the integrated air and missile defense command ship USS Winston S. Churchill. Operation Southern Spear, a Department of War initiative, aims to enhance security and stability across the Western Hemisphere by disrupting and degrading transnational criminal networks, reflecting the U.S. commitment to a safe and secure hemisphere.
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COP30: Klimaatdemonstranten eisen gehoord te worden
Thousands of activists from diverse environmental and social movements took to the streets of Belém, Brazil, during the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30), marking the largest protest day of the annual summit. Demonstrators, clad in symbolic attire, marched approximately 4 kilometers along a route passing the conference’s main venue. Some wore black dresses to symbolize a funeral for fossil fuels, while others donned red shirts representing the blood of environmental defenders. Chants, massive flags, and protest signs filled the air as activists called for urgent climate action.
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Haitian gang members exchange fire with Marines protecting US Embassy in Port-au-Prince
In a stark reminder of Haiti’s escalating security crisis, suspected gang members opened fire on American forces guarding the US Embassy in Port-au-Prince earlier this week, according to a spokesperson. The incident underscores the precarious situation in the Caribbean nation, where gangs now control 90% of the capital, extorting businesses and battling for territory with heavy weaponry. Haitian police have yet to comment on the exchange of fire. The US continues to maintain its embassy in Haiti, but the State Department has repeatedly warned American citizens against traveling to the country due to rampant kidnappings, crime, terrorist activity, and civil unrest. The United Nations reports that gang violence has displaced over 1.3 million Haitians in recent years. The security situation has worsened significantly since the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moise, which created a power vacuum that remains unresolved, with no elections held to replace him. In late September, the UN Security Council approved the deployment of a 5,500-strong international force to combat Haiti’s heavily armed criminal groups. However, a smaller Kenyan police contingent has struggled to contain the violence, which claimed 5,600 lives last year, according to the UN Human Rights Office.
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Argentinians friends of Cuba paid tribute to Fidel Castro
The House of Friendship, a hub for the Argentine Movement of Solidarity with Cuba (MASCuba) in Buenos Aires, hosted a significant commemoration event that attracted a large and attentive audience. The gathering was a powerful reminder of unwavering support for Cuba’s revolutionary legacy and its people, who are currently grappling with multiple crises, including the aftermath of a devastating hurricane, the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the persistent U.S. embargo. The event featured a series of influential speakers who highlighted the enduring spirit of solidarity between Argentina and Cuba. Ruben Zaccaro, a prominent leader of MASCuba, inaugurated the proceedings, followed by Hugo Fontana, an Argentine architect who contributed to Cuba’s early development post-revolution. Stella Calloni, a respected Argentine political scientist, and Esteban Luchetta also shared their insights. Jorge Marti, head of the Cuban Mission, and Erenia Garcia, president of the Union of Cuban Residents in Argentina (URCA), concluded the event. Zaccaro reflected on Fidel Castro’s revival of Jose Marti’s emancipatory ideals, which inspired the historic attack on the Moncada Barracks—a pivotal moment that ignited the Cuban Revolution.
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Nearly three million Dominicans live outside the Dominican Republic. Where are they?
The Dominican diaspora has grown significantly, with nearly three million Dominicans now residing outside their homeland. According to the 2024 Sociodemographic Registry Report of Dominicans Abroad, published by the Institute of Dominicans Abroad (Index), the total number of Dominicans living abroad has reached 2,874,124. This marks an increase of 27,408 individuals compared to the previous year, reflecting a growth rate of nearly 1%. The registry, updated until December 2024, spans 119 regions, including 95 sovereign states and 24 dependent territories, with new additions such as Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar. Women constitute the majority of the diaspora, accounting for 53.5% (1,480,252), while men represent 46.5% (1,284,882). The youth demographic, aged 25 or younger, makes up 37.2% of the total, whereas those aged 55 and older account for 19.1%. Geographically, the Americas host the largest share of the diaspora, with 89.9% (2,580,924) of Dominicans residing there, followed by Europe with 10% (288,515). The United States remains the top destination, home to 2,398,009 Dominicans, followed by Spain (201,162), Italy (29,791), Chile (22,836), Canada (22,125), the Netherlands (17,979), and Venezuela (11,399). Other countries with notable Dominican populations include Mexico (10,539), Panama (8,785), France (8,699), the United Kingdom (8,149), Argentina (7,817), and Germany (6,580). Within the United States, New York has the highest concentration of Dominicans (848,560), followed by New Jersey (380,143) and Florida (312,604). In Spain, Madrid (68,448) and Barcelona (40,353) are the primary hubs for the Dominican community.
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Insecurity : U.S. Marines exchanged fire with gang members
U.S. Marines stationed in Haiti to safeguard the American Embassy were involved in a firefight with suspected gang members earlier this week, according to military officials. The incident, which took place on Thursday evening in Port-au-Prince, saw Marines returning fire after being attacked. Captain Steven Keenan, a Marine Corps spokesperson, confirmed that no Marines were injured during the exchange. Keenan emphasized the Marines’ dedication to protecting U.S. embassies globally, stating they respond to threats with precision and professionalism. The U.S. State Department, Embassy in Haiti, and U.S. Southern Command have yet to comment on the incident. This clash follows heightened security measures implemented at the Embassy last year in response to escalating gang violence. In August, the Embassy announced the arrival of additional Marines to bolster security and support ongoing diplomatic efforts, including collaboration with Haitian police and a multinational security mission. Despite the volatile environment, the Embassy remains operational for emergency services, though it has reported nearby gunfire incidents earlier this year. The State Department had previously evacuated non-essential personnel in March 2024 and issued a travel advisory in July, declaring Haiti in a state of emergency.
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Antigua Cruise Port Nominated for Caribbean’s Best Cruise Terminal
Antigua Cruise Port has achieved a significant milestone by being nominated for the prestigious title of Caribbean’s Best Cruise Terminal at the 5th Annual World Cruise Awards 2025. This recognition underscores the port’s exceptional operational standards and commitment to delivering top-tier service. Port authorities have attributed this achievement to the unwavering dedication of their staff, the collaboration of industry partners, and the support of the local community. The nomination highlights the port’s growing influence in regional cruise tourism, as it continues to expand its infrastructure and services. The award, determined by public voting, is open for submissions until November 16, 2025. This nomination aligns with Antigua and Barbuda’s strategic goals to enhance homeporting activities and solidify St. John’s as a premier hub for Caribbean cruise itineraries. The public is encouraged to participate in the voting process to support this remarkable achievement.