标签： Dominican Republic

In a public address, José Ignacio Paliza, President of the PRM and Minister of the Presidency, acknowledged the public’s outrage over recent drug trafficking cases involving political figures. He emphasized the government’s commitment to allowing justice to operate independently, which has led to significant advancements in investigations, prosecutions, and extraditions. Paliza highlighted that the exposure of new cases reflects a profound institutional transformation, driven by an independent Public Prosecutor’s Office and President Luis Abinader’s decision to refrain from interfering in judicial matters. He clarified that the emergence of additional cases is not indicative of worsening conditions but rather a result of the government’s intolerance for impunity. Paliza criticized previous administrations for failing to prevent organized crime from infiltrating political and social spheres. He expressed regret that individuals from other political groups sought refuge within the PRM but affirmed that all implicated members have been suspended or expelled to face justice. Paliza announced forthcoming reforms to strengthen internal controls and proposed amendments to Law 155-17 to include political parties as obligated subjects under anti-money laundering regulations. Stressing that the fight against crime is a moral, not political, responsibility, he urged all parties to act with integrity and encouraged those involved in illicit activities to surrender. Paliza concluded by assuring citizens that the PRM and the current administration will remain steadfast in their commitment to justice.

SANTO DOMINGO – In a significant move to bolster hemispheric security cooperation, U.S. Secretary of War Peter Hegseth is scheduled to undertake an official visit to the Dominican Republic this week. The announcement was made by Dominican President Luis Abinader, who framed the high-level engagement as a pivotal step in deepening the bilateral partnership against transnational drug trafficking networks.

The upcoming strategic dialogue comes against a backdrop of escalating cocaine production across several South American nations, a trend that has intensified concerns within both governments. President Abinader underscored the robust and proven history of security collaboration between the two nations, attributing the strengthened alliance to the Dominican Republic’s demonstrable successes in recent counter-narcotics operations. This operational effectiveness, he noted, has significantly elevated Washington’s confidence in Santo Domingo as a reliable regional partner.

Further solidifying the nation’s standing on the global stage, President Abinader revealed the historic nomination of Dominican counter-drug expert Leandro Villanueva for the top position at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). If appointed, Villanueva would become the first Dominican national to lead the influential international body.

The president also extended commendations to Vice Admiral José Cabrera Ulloa, head of the National Drug Control Directorate (DNCD), who is recognized by U.S. authorities as an indispensable figure in the regional campaign against the proliferation of fentanyl.

Secretary Hegseth’s diplomatic mission aligns with a broader U.S. strategy to increase pressure on the Venezuelan government. This policy was recently manifested through the designation of the Cartel of the Suns as a foreign terrorist organization—a decision that provides American agencies with enhanced legal instruments to dismantle the network. U.S. officials have alleged extensive connections between the cartel, President Nicolás Maduro, and senior members of Venezuela’s military command. The State Department has concurrently issued bounty offers totaling up to $50 million for information leading to the capture of Maduro and other accused operatives.

While the full agenda for the Hegseth-Abinader meeting remains under development, the Dominican leader confirmed that central talks will concentrate on refining tactical coordination and sustaining the current momentum in joint interdiction efforts. Additional details regarding the collaborative roadmap are anticipated to be disclosed in the coming days.

Santo Domingo – José Ignacio Paliza, President of the Modern Revolutionary Party (PRM) and Minister of the Presidency, is set to deliver a pivotal national address on Monday, November 24, at 8:00 p.m. The speech, which will be broadcast live on major television networks including Teleantillas, Telesistema, Coral, Color Visión, and CDN, will also be streamed across Paliza’s official social media channels on X, Instagram, and Facebook, as well as the PRM’s digital platforms. Promoted under the slogan “What you deserve to know, straight up,” Paliza emphasized that his message will be direct, transparent, and focused on critical matters of national importance. The PRM leadership has urged the public to tune in to hear the minister’s announcement, which is expected to address pressing issues impacting the nation.

Santo Domingo – President Luis Abinader has unveiled a series of cutting-edge military infrastructure projects at the Ministry of Defense headquarters, underscoring the government’s unwavering commitment to modernizing the Armed Forces over the past five years. During the inauguration ceremony, Abinader highlighted significant investments in vehicles, operational equipment, and advanced technology aimed at strengthening national security. He also announced plans to expand the country’s fleet of drones and unmanned aerial systems, ensuring the military remains equipped to address contemporary challenges. The President reaffirmed that resources will continue to be allocated to enhance the capabilities of the Armed Forces. Among the newly inaugurated projects are the complete renovation of the Presidential Guard Regiment, upgraded administrative and service areas, and modernized barracks for enlisted soldiers, officers, and military police. These facilities now boast increased capacity, air-conditioned spaces, new bathrooms, lockers, beds, and enhanced rest areas. Additionally, recreational spaces at the Officers’ Club, including the restaurant, cafeteria, pool, and gazebos, have been revitalized to support the well-being of military families. Further advancements include the establishment of the General Directorate of Unmanned Vehicles under the C5i, equipped with state-of-the-art surveillance technology, and the upgraded Special Counterterrorism Command Unit with modernized barracks and equipment. The Ministry of Defense also relaunched the cultural radio station “The Voice of the Armed Forces,” expanding its coverage with support from INDOTEL. To conclude the day’s events, authorities inaugurated a pharmacy exclusively for retired military personnel and expanded service areas for medical consultations, certifications, and social programs.