标签： Cuba

Prominent Italian economist Luciano Vasapollo, serving as leader of Italy’s Network of Communists, has issued a strong condemnation of what he characterizes as American “acts of piracy” targeting Venezuelan oil tankers. In statements published by Il Faro di Roma newspaper, Vasapollo denounced recent actions authorized by former U.S. President Donald Trump against Venezuelan maritime assets as manifestations of “pure colonialism.”

Vasapollo, who also co-founded the Italian chapter of the Network of Intellectuals in Defense of Humanity, highlighted several solidarity initiatives supporting the Bolivarian Republic government. He specifically referenced a significant gathering in Rome that attracted hundreds of young activists expressing support for Venezuela.

The December 19th event, organized at the Patriotic Action Group headquarters through a collaboration between the Network of Communists and left-wing youth organizations Cambiare Rotta and Alternative Student Opposition (OSA), served as a platform for criticizing American foreign policy. During the meeting, Vasapollo articulated his perspective that these actions represent “an attempt to dominate Global South countries, treating them as slaves.”

The gathering featured notable diplomatic presence, including María Elena Uzzo, head of Venezuela’s diplomatic mission in Italy, who participated in the solidarity event. Vasapollo’s comments reflect growing international criticism of U.S. sanctions policy toward Venezuela and increasing European left-wing opposition to American intervention in South American affairs.

In a comprehensive analytical piece, retired career diplomat Jorge Castaneda has called for a crucial national dialogue regarding Peru’s potential designation as a Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA) of the United States. The seasoned ambassador’s assessment, published on Efectividat Consultores’ digital platform, presents a balanced examination of the strategic partnership recently proposed by the Trump administration.

Castaneda emphasizes that any definitive decision must be predicated on a fundamental national discourse that clarifies Peru’s aspirations as an international actor. He insists this deliberation must objectively weigh the tangible benefits against the established principles of autonomy and alliance diversification that have traditionally guided Peruvian foreign policy.

The diplomatic expert issues a significant cautionary note, stating that only through a coherent, long-term state strategy can Peru determine whether MNNA status would serve as a valuable instrument for national objectives or instead represent an unnecessary and potentially counterproductive commitment. He underscores that the effectiveness of such designation critically depends on the recipient nation’s strength, cohesion, and strategic clarity.

Central to Castaneda’s argument is the assertion that Peruvian foreign policy—not the partnering nation—must unequivocally define the utilization parameters and limitations of any diplomatic or security arrangement. This positioning reaffirms the necessity of maintaining sovereign control over international engagements while considering enhanced cooperation frameworks.

Syrian security authorities have successfully neutralized a significant terrorist cell in Damascus-County Province following an extensive intelligence operation. Internal Security Chief Ahmed Al-Dalati confirmed that security forces targeted and dismantled a hideout utilized by extremist organization members, culminating in the arrest of the network’s leader and six additional operatives.

The meticulously planned operation, which involved sustained surveillance of the cell’s activities, resulted in the confiscation of substantial weaponry and ammunition. Official statements indicate this successful mission represents a critical component of Syria’s broader counterterrorism strategy, which aims to eliminate terrorist infrastructure and safeguard national security interests.

This development occurs within the context of an expanded security initiative launched by Syria’s Ministry of Interior in early November. The nationwide campaign, conducted in coordination with the General Directorate of Intelligence, targets extremist cells operating across multiple provinces.

Recent operations under this security umbrella include the November 26 dismantling of a Daesh-affiliated cell in Afrin (Aleppo province), which allegedly planned destabilization operations in northern regions. Earlier in November, security forces eliminated another Daesh-linked network in Kanaker, located west of Damascus, demonstrating the ongoing intensity of Syria’s counterterrorism efforts.

The Kremlin has expressed cautious optimism regarding potential diplomatic engagement between Russian President Vladimir Putin and his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed to journalists that both leaders have demonstrated reciprocal interest in establishing communication channels, though he emphasized that any meaningful dialogue must be founded on mutual political willingness rather than confrontational posturing.

Peskov elaborated that productive discussions require both parties to move beyond didactic approaches and instead strive for genuine comprehension of each other’s positions. The spokesperson characterized Putin as consistently prepared to provide detailed, coherent, and sincere explanations of Russia’s standpoint to international counterparts when engaged in proper diplomatic discourse.

This development follows a period of diplomatic silence between the two nations’ leadership, with the most recent telephone conversation between Putin and Macron having occurred on July 1st. The Kremlin’s statements suggest a potential thaw in communication channels while maintaining that substantive dialogue requires constructive engagement from both sides rather than unilateral concessions or predetermined conditions.