Guatemala has been making headlines due to the controversial presidential election held on August 20, which saw Bernardo Arévalo declared as the president-elect. However, his victory has been marred by legal challenges and allegations of fraud, leading to mounting tensions and divisions within the country. The situation escalated when the Attorney General's office conducted raids on electoral tribunal facilities, prompting Arévalo to halt the transition process.
Guatemala, officially known as the Republic of Guatemala, is a country located in Central America, bordered by Mexico to the north and west, Belize and the Caribbean to the northeast, Honduras to the east, El Salvador to the southeast, and the Pacific Ocean to the south. With a population of over 17 million people, Guatemala is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural landscapes, including volcanoes, rainforests, and ancient Mayan ruins. The country has faced challenges such as political instability, corruption, and high levels of poverty, but it also boasts a vibrant indigenous heritage and a growing tourism industry.
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On December 20, 2024, Guatemalan authorities raided the Lev Tahor sect in Santa Rosa, rescuing 160 minors and 40 women amid allegations of human trafficking, abuse, and forced marriages. The operation followed complaints from escaped children and uncovered potential evidence of serious crimes, including buried bodies suspected to be minors.
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A woman was set on fire while aboard a stationary F train at Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue subway station in Brooklyn on December 22, 2024. The suspect, who has been arrested, allegedly approached the victim and ignited her clothing with a lighter. The woman was pronounced dead at the scene.
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Edmundo González, recognized as Venezuela's president-elect, has returned to Guatemala ahead of his planned inauguration. His return follows a tumultuous election where he claims victory over Nicolás Maduro, who is set to be sworn in for another term. The situation escalates with the kidnapping of González's son-in-law and a $100,000 bounty on his head.
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As President-elect Donald Trump prepares for his second term, Mexico's immigration policy faces scrutiny amid rising tensions over mass deportations and tariffs. President Claudia Sheinbaum's administration is implementing strategies to manage migrant caravans and respond to U.S. pressures, while also addressing the humanitarian needs of migrants stranded in cities like Acapulco.
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Haiti experienced over 5,600 killings in 2024, a 20% increase from the previous year, as gang violence escalates. The UN calls for more support for an international mission led by Kenya, while the country struggles with humanitarian crises and a lack of security.
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Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, 33, has been arraigned on murder and arson charges for allegedly setting Debrina Kawam, 57, on fire while she slept on a subway train in Brooklyn. The incident, which occurred on December 22, 2024, has raised concerns about subway safety despite a decrease in overall transit crime in New York City.
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In response to fears surrounding immigration policy changes, several U.S. school systems are reaffirming their commitment to protect immigrant students. Districts in Chicago, New York, and California are training staff on legal protections and refusing to assist ICE, aiming to reassure families amid rising anxiety about deportation as the Trump administration prepares for aggressive immigration enforcement.