Venezuelan lawyer and politician, long-time PSUV figure
Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega has announced there will be no more elections and his congress has begun drafting constitutional changes to extend the presidential term and block opposition candidates. The proposal would make terms seven years and bar those labeled "traitors" or "coup plotters" from office; the UN and the US have condemned the moves.
Maduro and his wife Flores have been moved to New York and face drug-trafficking charges tied to decades-long alleged cocaine shipments. A trial is scheduled for June 2027, with sovereign-immunity motions likely to shape proceedings.
A framework for talks between Venezuela’s government and opposition has been agreed, focusing on reforming the judiciary, transparency in the use of frozen assets, and a potential path to elections. High-level discussions include bringing in reforms to the Supreme Tribunal of Justice and the National Electoral Council, while addressing post-earthquake relief and disaster recovery.
The Edinburgh International Festival spotlight has showcased a mix of traditional and experimental concerts as leading ensembles and performers adapt to economic pressures and changing audiences. Notable moments include high-profile collaborators, large-scale works, and debates about funding and the role of patronage.
The United States has removed Syria from its state sponsor of terrorism list, and has also delisted the al-Nusrah Front. Damascus says the move unlocks investment and accelerates reconstruction as it seeks to reintegrate with the global economy. Washington frames the step as a path to stability, while analysts caution continued regional risks.
The materials show Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, in a gray tracksuit; they have been captured in Caracas and transported to the United States. Authorities say they face drug-trafficking and firearms charges; a June 25 photo date coincides with a Venezuela earthquake and intense oil-deal headlines.