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Since September, the US has conducted at least 18 strikes on suspected drug trafficking vessels in the Caribbean and Pacific, killing over 60 people. The operations, authorized by President Trump, aim to target narcotics but face legal and international criticism for potential extrajudicial killings.
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The US has deployed the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford and additional military assets to the Caribbean amid escalating tensions with Venezuela. The US claims the deployment aims to combat drug trafficking, but Venezuela and regional allies see it as a threat to sovereignty. Diplomatic and military tensions are rising.
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The FIFA Arab Cup 2025 begins in Qatar with 16 teams competing across six venues, including Lusail Stadium. Algeria defends their title, while Iraq and Tunisia aim for World Cup qualification. The tournament runs until December 18, with regional stars and qualifiers shaping the region's football landscape.
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Recent US military strikes on alleged drug-smuggling boats in Venezuela's Paria Peninsula have resulted in the deaths of nine men. Residents dispute US claims, stating the victims were local laborers and criminals, not terrorists. The Venezuelan government remains silent, heightening fears and complicating mourning efforts.
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The US has conducted at least 19 military strikes against vessels in the Caribbean and Pacific, claiming they are drug trafficking narco-terrorists. The campaign, justified by the US as a conflict with drug cartels, faces widespread legal and regional opposition, with critics calling the strikes illegal extrajudicial killings.
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As of November 9, 2025, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov faces speculation about his standing after the U.S. canceled a planned summit with Russia following a tense call with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Lavrov was absent from key Kremlin meetings and replaced at the upcoming G20 summit, though Kremlin officials deny he has been sidelined. Meanwhile, Russia is reportedly enhancing Venezuela's air defenses amid rising U.S. tensions in the Caribbean.
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Iran dismisses US and Israeli accusations of plotting to assassinate Israel's ambassador in Mexico, calling it a 'big lie.' US officials allege the plot was initiated by Iran's Quds Force in late 2024 and disrupted this year, involving operatives from Iran's embassy in Venezuela. Mexico and Iran deny involvement amid heightened tensions.
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The USS Gerald R. Ford and other warships arrived in Latin America as part of a US military build-up, claiming to target drug trafficking but seen by many as a pressure tactic against Venezuela's Maduro. Since September, US strikes have killed at least 80 people in suspected drug operations.
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Recent data shows a 17% drop in first-time international students entering US colleges this fall, the sharpest decline since COVID-19. Overall enrollment fell slightly, but many universities face revenue shortfalls. Visa processing delays and restrictive policies are key factors, raising concerns about future international education trends.
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The US announced Operation Southern Spear, a military effort targeting narco-terrorists in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific. The move follows increased US naval presence and potential land strikes in Venezuela, amid regional tensions and concerns over drug trafficking and regime change efforts. Details remain limited.
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Marjorie Taylor Greene announced her resignation from Congress, citing her desire to avoid a Trump-backed primary and potential impeachment battles. The move follows her feud with Trump and reflects ongoing political shifts within the Republican Party ahead of next year's elections.
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Camilo Castro, a Colombian resident, was released after being detained in Venezuela since June. French diplomacy, credited by officials, facilitated his return to France amid concerns over enforced disappearances by Venezuelan authorities following disputed elections.
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British officials have publicly reaffirmed ongoing intelligence sharing with the US amid reports of halted cooperation over US military actions in Venezuela. UK ministers avoid endorsing US military strikes, emphasizing adherence to international law. British personnel remain onboard US warships in the Caribbean, with no plans to participate in attacks.
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As of early December 2025, US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has paused green card, citizenship, and asylum applications from nationals of 19 countries previously designated as high-risk under a 2025 travel ban. This follows a November attack in Washington by an Afghan national granted asylum. USCIS will conduct comprehensive reviews and interviews for immigrants from these countries who entered since January 2021, with no set date to lift the pause.
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President Trump has indicated he has not ruled out deploying US forces to Venezuela amid ongoing tensions. He expressed willingness to speak with Maduro and highlighted the US's focus on drug trafficking and resource-rich Venezuela. The US has increased military presence in the region, raising concerns of escalation.
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The US has officially designated the so-called Cartel de los Soles, linked to Venezuela's military and accused of drug trafficking, as a foreign terrorist organization. The move escalates US pressure on Maduro amid military buildups and potential talks, though Venezuela denies the allegations. The designation could enable further sanctions and military options.
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The US has issued a warning about risks to civil aircraft over Venezuela amid increased military activity and interference with navigation systems. This follows a significant US military deployment, including the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford, and reports of potential plans for military action against Nicolás Maduro's government.
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As of early December 2025, the US has intensified military pressure on Venezuela, conducting over 20 strikes on alleged drug trafficking vessels, killing at least 83 people. President Trump announced plans to extend operations from sea to land while maintaining openness to dialogue with Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. The US military buildup in the Caribbean includes an aircraft carrier group and thousands of troops amid accusations of regime change motives.
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Venezuela has revoked permits for six international airlines, accusing them of joining US-led actions of 'state terrorism' after they suspended flights due to security concerns. The US warned of hazardous airspace amid increased military activity, prompting cancellations. Tensions between the US and Venezuela have escalated, with US military deployments and accusations of drug trafficking.
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Gen. Dan Caine visited Puerto Rico and a Navy ship amid US military buildup in the Caribbean. The US is increasing pressure on Venezuela through naval operations, designations of criminal groups as terrorists, and potential military options, as Trump considers further actions against Maduro.
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Since early September, the US has conducted at least 21 strikes on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean and Pacific, killing over 87 people. Admiral Holsey, who led the Southern Command, retired early amid tensions over the strikes and US plans for possible land operations. The US also designated the Venezuelan 'Cartel de los Soles' as a terrorist organization, though Venezuela denies the allegations.
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Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro delivered a speech in Caracas, brandishing a sword and warning of 'imperialist threats' as the US conducts military operations against vessels suspected of drug trafficking. The US has killed at least 80 people in recent strikes, which Maduro and allies condemn as violations of sovereignty.
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On December 2, 2025, former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernández was released from a US prison after receiving a full pardon from former US President Donald Trump. Hernández was convicted in 2024 of drug trafficking and sentenced to 45 years. Trump justified the pardon citing claims of political bias and support from Hondurans. The move coincides with Honduras's tight presidential election, where Trump backs candidate Nasry Asfura.
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Recent reports suggest the US and Venezuela are close to a historic first contact, with indications that a phone call between President Trump and Maduro has already occurred. The US continues military and covert operations amid ongoing tensions and threats of escalation.
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On November 30, 2025, President Donald Trump declared the airspace above and surrounding Venezuela closed, escalating tensions with Nicolás Maduro's government. The U.S. cites drug trafficking concerns amid a military buildup in the Caribbean. Venezuela condemned the move as illegal aggression. Airlines suspended flights following FAA warnings, and Venezuela revoked their operating rights. Trump hinted at imminent land operations against drug traffickers.
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Pope Leo XIV arrived in Lebanon on Sunday for a three-day visit aimed at promoting peace and unity amid ongoing regional conflicts and Lebanon's internal crises. He met with political and religious leaders, called for reconciliation, and emphasized the importance of dialogue, especially regarding the Israeli-Hezbollah conflict and regional stability.
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The US has increased military pressure on Venezuela, including threats of airstrikes and regime change efforts, amid ongoing diplomatic talks and military buildup. Maduro claims the call with Trump was respectful, while the US accuses his government of drug trafficking and threats to regional stability. Tensions remain high.
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The U.S. has intensified efforts against Venezuela, including a call with Maduro offering safe passage if he leaves power, amid ongoing sanctions, military threats, and accusations of drug trafficking. Maduro denies all charges, claiming U.S. regime change motives.
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Venezuelan President Maduro is taking extensive security measures due to US military pressure, including relocating his sleeping locations, increasing Cuban security support, and publicly maintaining a defiant image. The US has escalated its military presence, aiming for regime change, while Maduro seeks outside help to stay in power.
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A widespread blackout affected western Cuba on December 3, caused by transmission line failure amid ongoing infrastructure issues and storm damage. Power is being restored gradually, but outages persist across the island, impacting water and business sectors. The crisis highlights Cuba's aging energy system and economic struggles.
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UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned Israel's military operations in Gaza, citing potential war crimes and flawed conduct. He highlighted ongoing violations of a fragile ceasefire, praised US aid efforts, and called for a reassessment of strategies amid rising civilian casualties and destruction. The story is current as of December 7, 2025.
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Pope Leo announced a new book, 'Peace Be with You!', featuring sermons since his election in May. Scheduled for release on Feb. 26, it promotes peace, unity, and reconciliation, referencing his first public remarks as pope and his spiritual influences. The book aims to deepen understanding of his message.
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On December 4, the US military launched a strike against a vessel in international waters, believed to be operated by a terrorist organization and carrying narcotics. Four individuals were killed. The strike is part of ongoing US efforts against drug trafficking and terrorism, amid renewed scrutiny over previous operations.
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Recent revelations show that social media platform X has made user geolocations public, exposing foreign accounts pretending to be American. This raises concerns about foreign interference, misinformation, and the integrity of online political debates, with accounts from Pakistan, Nigeria, and Cambodia posing as Americans to sway opinions.
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The Vatican has officially dissolved its 'Commission on Donations,' which was created by Pope Francis to improve financial transparency. The move, announced by Pope Leo, aims to address credibility issues and start fresh with a new working group. The decision follows ongoing financial challenges and efforts to reform Vatican finances.
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On December 5, 2025, the US released a 33-page National Security Strategy (NSS) outlining a major shift in foreign policy. It prioritizes American dominance in the Western Hemisphere, military strength in the Indo-Pacific, and adopts a critical stance on Europe’s future, warning of "civilizational erasure" due to migration and political trends. The strategy downplays ideological promotion abroad, focusing on pragmatic trade and alliances, and signals a distancing from traditional European partnerships.
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On December 6-8, 2025, the US released a National Security Strategy under President Trump, sharply criticizing Europe’s self-confidence and immigration policies, warning of 'civilizational erasure,' and signaling a pivot to the Indo-Pacific and Latin America. The strategy calls for ending the Ukraine war and restoring strategic stability with Russia, which Moscow welcomed. European leaders strongly rebuked the document, emphasizing alliance shifts and defending European sovereignty.
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On December 14, 2025, JetBlue Flight 1112 from Curaçao to New York narrowly avoided a midair collision with a US Air Force air-to-air refueling tanker flying without its transponder near Venezuelan airspace. The JetBlue pilot reported the incident to Curaçao air traffic control, highlighting safety concerns amid increased US military activity in the Caribbean targeting drug trafficking and pressuring Venezuela.
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The 2026 National Defense Authorization Act includes provisions demanding unedited videos of US military strikes and increased accountability, amid scrutiny of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's handling of strikes off Venezuela. The bill also addresses troop levels, Ukraine aid, and social policies, reflecting bipartisan concerns over transparency and military commitments.
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On December 11, 2025, Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado arrived in Oslo after over a year in hiding, defying a travel ban. Machado, barred from last year's presidential election, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in October for her peaceful challenge to Nicolás Maduro's regime. Her daughter accepted the prize on her behalf in Oslo. Machado supports international action against Maduro and plans to return to Venezuela when security allows.
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U.S. Navy F/A-18 jets flew over the Gulf for over 30 minutes in a routine training exercise, remaining in international airspace. The move follows increased U.S. military activity in the region amid ongoing tensions with Venezuela and recent strikes on alleged drug-smuggling boats. The jets' proximity to Venezuela's coast has raised regional concerns.
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Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, in hiding since January, arrived in Oslo to accept the Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts to promote democracy. She was detained last year after protests and remains a symbol of resistance against Maduro's government. She plans to return to Venezuela soon.
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On December 10, 2025, the US Coast Guard, supported by the Navy, seized the largest oil tanker ever captured off Venezuela's coast in international waters. This operation is part of the Trump administration's intensified campaign against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, accused of narcoterrorism. The US has increased military presence in the region and conducted multiple strikes on alleged drug-smuggling vessels.
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The US has intercepted and seized a large oil tanker off Venezuela's coast, marking a rare military action in international waters. The vessel, linked to sanctions and illicit oil trade, was boarded by US forces amid ongoing regional tensions. The move escalates US efforts against Venezuela's oil exports.
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Venezuelan opposition figure María Machado, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, appeared in Oslo after escaping her country's travel ban. She was recognized for challenging President Maduro's regime and called for continued fight for democracy amid ongoing repression in Venezuela.
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Recent US immigration enforcement has led to prolonged detention and family separations, with thousands of migrants detained or deported, causing deep pain and uncertainty for families, amid record-low border crossings and increased deportation efforts.
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Vladimir Putin reaffirmed support for Venezuela's Maduro during a call, amid US military actions including seizing a Venezuelan oil tanker. Russia and Venezuela emphasize their strategic partnership, opposing US pressure and military presence in the region. The US accuses Maduro of narcoterrorism, while Russia pledges continued backing.
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The US has seized the Venezuelan supertanker Skipper off its coast, marking the first interdiction of Venezuelan oil since sanctions began in 2019. The move targets a shadow fleet transporting sanctioned oil to China and Iran, amid increased US military presence and sanctions efforts against Maduro's regime. Venezuelan officials condemn the action as piracy.
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The US has expanded sanctions on Venezuela, targeting Maduro's family, shipping companies, and oil tankers, amid ongoing efforts to pressure Maduro's regime. The measures follow recent US seizures of oil vessels and threats of land strikes, intensifying economic and diplomatic pressure on Caracas.
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The US intercepted the Skipper tanker off Venezuela, marking the first seizure of Venezuelan oil cargo since sanctions in 2019. The move comes amid a military buildup in the Caribbean and regional support for Maduro, raising regional tensions and affecting Venezuelan oil exports and Cuba's power supply.