In a significant escalation of its counternarcotics operations, the United States conducted a nighttime strike on an alleged drug vessel in Caribbean territorial waters, resulting in the deaths of six suspected ‘narco-terrorists.’ This marks the ninth such operation in recent weeks, with reports indicating that two Trinidadians were among those killed. The strike, announced by US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on October 24, is part of a broader campaign initiated in September under President Donald Trump’s directive to combat drug trafficking in the region, particularly targeting Venezuela. The operation has seen the deployment of advanced US military assets, including guided-missile destroyers, F-35 fighter jets, a nuclear submarine, and thousands of troops. Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar has publicly supported the campaign, while CARICOM has reiterated its commitment to maintaining the Caribbean as a ‘Zone of Peace,’ emphasizing dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution. A brief video released by the US military shows the vessel being struck by a projectile, though no evidence of its cargo was provided. Meanwhile, the US Navy continues to expand its presence in the region, with a versatile warship scheduled to arrive in Port of Spain for joint training with Trinidad and Tobago’s Defense Force. The newly established Counternarcotics Task Force, led by the US Marine Corps, underscores the Trump administration’s intensified focus on combating criminal networks in Latin America and the Caribbean.
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UK Sees Climate Action Firsthand in Belize & Guatemala
From October 11 to 22, 2025, UK officials embarked on a significant visit to Belize and Guatemala to observe and support local initiatives aimed at forest conservation and climate-resilient livelihoods. The delegation engaged in a series of field trips and meetings, gaining firsthand insights into the challenges and successes of these efforts. In Belize, the team explored community forest management projects and cross-border conservation initiatives in the Maya Forest. Notably, they visited the Vaca Forest Reserve, where they witnessed the tangible impacts of the Biodiverse Landscapes Fund (BLF) in fostering climate resilience. The Friends for Conservation and Development highlighted the delegation’s visit, emphasizing the importance of such collaborations. In Guatemala, the officials toured the Maya Biosphere Reserve in Petén, stopping at communities like Paso Caballos, Uaxactún, and the Árbol Verde Forest Concession. Their itinerary included forest restoration, biodiversity monitoring, and water resource management projects. The BLF, a global initiative, focuses on poverty reduction, biodiversity protection, and climate change mitigation across six critical landscapes. By working closely with local authorities and communities, the fund ensures that projects are tailored to meet local needs and deliver sustainable outcomes. This visit underscores the UK’s commitment to international climate action and the importance of global partnerships in addressing environmental challenges.
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Former Caribbean leaders call for US military pullback
A coalition of former Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Heads of Government has issued a joint statement urging a reduction in military escalation in the region, citing threats to peace, stability, and development. The signatories include prominent figures such as Kenny Anthony of Saint Lucia, Baldwin Spencer of Antigua and Barbuda, and Bruce Golding of Jamaica, among others. The statement highlights concerns over the increased presence of nuclear vessels and aircraft in the Caribbean, warning that such actions could drag the region into conflicts not of its making. The leaders specifically addressed the escalating tensions between the United States and Venezuela, with the US deploying naval assets and conducting military exercises in Caribbean waters, while Venezuela has mobilized forces along its coastline in response. The former leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining the Caribbean as a zone of peace, upholding national sovereignty, and resolving disputes through diplomacy rather than force. They also referenced past US requests to station military assets in the region, which Caribbean states have historically resisted. Trinidad and Tobago’s former Prime Minister Keith Rowley endorsed the statement, criticizing current regional actions that deviate from long-standing principles of unity and diplomacy. His stance contrasts with that of current Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, who has supported US military deployments in the fight against drug cartels but denied formal involvement in operations against Venezuela.
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Diarree-uitbraak in Kwamalasamutu legt kwetsbaarheid basiszorg bloot
A concerning spike in diarrhea cases has been reported in the Indigenous village of Kwamalasamutu, following the failure of the local water purification plant due to a lightning strike. The plant remains unrepaired, forcing residents to rely on untreated river water, which poses a direct threat to public health. Maureen Wijngaarde-van Dijk, Deputy Director of the Medical Mission Primary Health Care (MZ PHC), confirmed that the head of the local clinic has observed a daily increase in cases. “Our staff are advising residents to boil river water before use,” she stated. The National Water Supply Service is responsible for restoring the plant, but the situation has persisted for months. MZ PHC highlighted that chronic underfunding severely limits its ability to respond to emergencies. Rachel Ten-A-Sang-Beerensteyn, Deputy Director of Financial Affairs at MZ PHC, revealed that the organization has received no feedback on funding requests for the second and third quarters, with the last payment covering only 15% of required resources. She added, “We submitted another request for the fourth quarter at the end of September.” The delay in funding jeopardizes the continuity of basic healthcare in the region. MZ PHC urgently calls on authorities to allocate necessary resources immediately to prevent further health risks in Kwamalasamutu and other villages.
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Latest Creole HeartBeat issue released just in time for World Creole Music Festival 2025
In a momentous celebration of cultural heritage, Creole HeartBeat has launched its 25th Anniversary Special Edition Magazine, coinciding with the opening night of the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF25). This commemorative publication is a heartfelt tribute to the festival’s rich history, which has played a pivotal role in shaping Dominica’s cultural identity and fostering unity within the Creole community over the past quarter-century. The magazine serves as a bridge, connecting the past, present, and future of the Creole world, emphasizing that the festival is more than an event—it is a shared vision celebrating Creole heritage. Leroy “Wadix” Charles, the Creole Ambassador, remarked, “This publication reminds us that the World Creole Music Festival was not just an event, but a vision that celebrated who we are as Creole people.” The issue takes readers on a journey through the festival’s evolution, honoring its founders, artists, and cultural icons who have infused it with its unique spirit. It also chronicles the festival’s resilience through global challenges and its role in strengthening regional unity and Dominica’s tourism and creative economy. As WCMF25 kicks off, Creole HeartBeat urges all participants to reflect on the festival’s deeper significance, highlighting its role as a celebration of the Creole spirit. The 25th Anniversary Special Edition is available online, with limited printed copies offered during the festival weekend for those seeking a tangible keepsake of this historic milestone.
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Norton blisters US over military airstrikes of alleged narco-traffickers in Caribbean sea
Aubrey Norton, leader of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), has strongly criticized the United States military for conducting airstrikes on vessels allegedly involved in drug trafficking in the Caribbean Sea. Norton, a former Foreign Service Officer and Political Scientist, expressed his disapproval during a press conference on Friday, October 24, 2025. He argued that the US has the capability to apprehend suspected traffickers and bring them to trial rather than resorting to lethal force. Norton emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law both domestically and internationally, stating that the PNCR opposes drug trafficking but insists on legal measures to combat it. His remarks followed a statement by 11 former Caribbean Community (CARICOM) leaders, who suggested that the Ship-Rider Agreement with the US should be utilized to pursue drug traffickers through legal channels. The US has conducted 10 airstrikes so far, resulting in 43 fatalities, including two Trinidad and Tobago nationals. While the Trinidad and Tobago government has supported US actions, Guyana has advocated for the Caribbean to remain a zone of peace, endorsing efforts to combat narco-trafficking while preserving sovereignty. The deployment of the USS Gerald Ford and additional military assets to the region has raised concerns about potential US intentions to influence regime change in Venezuela.
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APNU’s parliamentary leader is a PNCR member; not foisted on party- Norton
Dr. Terrence Campbell, the leader of A Partnership for National Unity’s (APNU) 12 parliamentarians, has been confirmed as a member of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR). However, PNCR leader Aubrey Norton declined to specify when Dr. Campbell joined the party, stating that such details were irrelevant. Norton also dismissed claims that Dr. Campbell, a city businessman, was imposed on the party as a senior parliamentary figure despite being a newcomer compared to long-standing members. Norton emphasized that Dr. Campbell’s selection was based on his business acumen and commitment to the party’s cause, noting that he had been actively engaged with the PNCR for over two years. Norton further explained that the APNU parliamentary group comprises a balanced mix of six newcomers and six experienced individuals, a strategic decision aimed at fostering effective leadership. Dr. Campbell’s political journey includes his departure from A New and United Guyana (ANUG) and the civic group Reform, Inform, Sustain, Educate (RISE) in 2019, following calls to boycott his fast food business. He was also considered as a consensus presidential candidate by the Alliance For Change (AFC) and claimed to have been invited by Dr. Irfaan Ali to be his prime ministerial running mate in the 2020 elections, a claim Ali denied. Norton revealed that, except for Dr. David Hinds of the Working People’s Alliance, all other APNU parliamentarians are PNCR members. Reflecting on the recent general elections, Norton attributed APNU’s poor performance to alleged voter bribery by an unnamed political party. The People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPPC) secured 36 seats, while APNU won 12. Norton chose not to return to the National Assembly, opting instead to focus on his role as PNCR leader and prepare for the party’s upcoming internal elections.
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Kaylei John-Baptiste Of Baptist Academy Named Top CSEC Student 2025
In a momentous announcement, Clare Browne, the Director of Education, revealed the names of the top three performers in the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations for June 2025. These exceptional students, recognized for their academic excellence, were assessed by the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC).
Leading the pack is Kaylei John-Baptiste from Baptist Academy of Antigua, who achieved remarkable results across 20 subjects, securing 18 Grade I distinctions, alongside one Grade II and one Grade III. Close behind is Kha-lique Harris of Saint Joseph’s Academy, who excelled in 22 subjects, earning 17 Grade I distinctions, four Grade II, and one Grade III. Nayima Lewis, also from Baptist Academy of Antigua, demonstrated outstanding performance in 21 subjects, with 16 Grade I distinctions and five Grade II results. However, one of Nayima’s subjects remains under review by CXC due to an unresolved query.
The selection of the top CSEC student is based on the number of Grade I distinctions attained, highlighting the candidates’ academic prowess. Director Clare Browne extended heartfelt congratulations to the trio, their families, and their respective schools for the unwavering support that contributed to their scholastic success. This recognition underscores the dedication and hard work of these students, setting a benchmark for future scholars.
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Top Three CSEC 2025 Students Named
Clare Browne, the Director of Education, has proudly revealed the names of the top three achievers in the June 2025 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate Examinations (CSEC), conducted by the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC). The standout students are Kaylei John-Baptiste from Baptist Academy of Antigua, Kha-lique Harris from Saint Joseph’s Academy, and Nayima Lewis, also from Baptist Academy of Antigua. Kaylei excelled in 20 subjects, securing Grade I in 18, Grade II in one, and Grade III in another. Kha-lique tackled 22 subjects, achieving Grade I in 17, Grade II in four, and Grade III in one. Nayima demonstrated remarkable performance in 21 subjects, with Grade I in 16 and Grade II in five, though one of her results is currently under review by CXC due to an ongoing query. The selection of the top CSEC student is based on the number of Grade Ones attained. Director Browne extended heartfelt congratulations to the students, their parents, and their respective schools for the unwavering support that contributed to their academic success.
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Mother Comes Forward to Reveal Domestic Abuse and Trauma
In Belize, domestic violence remains a pervasive issue, with women bearing the brunt of this societal scourge. According to the Belize Crime Observatory, 90% of domestic violence victims are women, with 1,715 cases reported so far this year—a staggering increase of over 400 cases compared to 2024. Intimate partner violence accounts for more than 60% of these incidents, highlighting a deeply entrenched problem. Recent tragedies, such as the death of Angelita Magaña and her two children, have reignited public outrage and exposed the systemic failures in protecting victims. For one mother, home was far from a sanctuary. She recounted the terror of being assaulted by her partner while her children watched helplessly. ‘I begged him to stop, but he kept pushing me to the ground. My kids were crying and banging on the door,’ she shared. Her 7-year-old son even intervened by taking a knife from the abuser and throwing it out a window to protect her. Beyond physical abuse, the emotional torment was equally devastating. Her abuser repeatedly demeaned her, saying, ‘Nobody will want you with all those kids; you’re fat and ugly,’ leaving her feeling worthless and trapped. Experts emphasize that psychological abuse often reinforces victims’ sense of entrapment, making it harder for them to seek help. This mother admitted, ‘I was naive and dependent on him; I had no friends and was too ashamed to tell my family.’ Globally, the World Health Organization estimates that 30% of women experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetime, with profound impacts on their health and well-being. These harrowing stories and alarming statistics underscore the urgent need for systemic reforms to protect women and children and address the lasting trauma of domestic violence.