President Donald Trump expressed a reluctance to include ExxonMobil in Venezuela’s oil ventures, citing dissatisfaction with the company’s response to investment opportunities. Trump had previously met with oil executives to reassure them about direct dealings with the U.S., but ExxonMobil’s CEO, Darren Woods, deemed the current commercial framework in Venezuela “uninvestable.” Furthermore, Trump signed an executive order safeguarding Venezuelan oil revenue from judicial proceedings to promote economic stability. The administration prioritizes U.S. oil companies’ investment in Venezuela to rebuild the country’s infrastructure.
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The chairman of the German Reservists Association, Patrick Sensburg, has proposed the establishment of a European brigade stationed in Greenland, citing concerns over US intentions in the strategically important Arctic region. He suggested the brigade be under Danish command, with Germany taking a leading role in the effort, thereby enhancing European unity and security independence. This move, which would involve training soldiers in challenging Arctic conditions, aims to signal Europe’s ability to defend its interests and is supported by discussions between the British government and European allies.
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The New York Times reported that a US military aircraft was allegedly disguised as a civilian plane during a September strike on a suspected drug smuggling boat. This action raises concerns of a potential war crime, as the concealment of military insignia and weaponry could constitute an act of “perfidy” under international law. The report suggests the aircraft lacked military markings and swooped low enough for the targets to see it. The article further details the September 2nd attack, including the possibility of a “double tap” strike, and discusses subsequent boat strikes that were conducted with clearly marked military aircraft.
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Speaking in Copenhagen with the Danish Prime Minister, Nielsen emphasized the importance of unity ahead of White House talks. Frederiksen acknowledged the historical difficulties of withstanding pressure from allies, suggesting more challenges lie ahead. Trump’s renewed interest in Greenland, fueled by previous military actions, aims to prevent Russia and China from gaining influence in the Arctic region. Trump has stated the U.S. would acquire the territory.
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According to a senior U.S. official, meaningful action regarding Greenland could occur within “weeks or months” as President Trump remains keen on acquiring the Arctic territory. The official, Trump’s Arctic commissioner, Thomas Dans, suggested the process could accelerate, potentially bypassing some steps. While a full acquisition might take longer, the administration is considering various approaches, including a direct purchase or potentially incentivizing Greenland’s independence from Denmark through financial means. The U.S. continues to express urgency, with discussions involving Danish and Greenlandic officials.
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German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil emphasized that international law applies to all nations, including the United States, in response to potential actions regarding Greenland. He stated that the future of Greenland should be decided by Denmark and Greenland, respecting their territorial sovereignty. Klingbeil’s comments came before the G7 meeting, where discussions would revolve around securing access to critical minerals to reduce dependence on China. Germany aims to enhance international cooperation to ensure a reliable supply and economic stability.
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According to Iran International, an opposition news source operating outside of Iran, the death toll from recent protests has surpassed 12,000, significantly higher than previous estimates. The outlet’s investigation, conducted covertly within Iran, gathered data from various sources, indicating the massacre was organized and ordered by the Supreme Leader. The report alleges the Revolutionary Guards and Basij forces were primarily responsible for the killings. Meanwhile, an Iranian official has reported approximately 2,000 fatalities, blaming “terrorists” for the deaths of civilians and security forces.
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President Trump has announced the cancellation of all meetings with Iranian officials. This decision follows a violent crackdown on protestors, with Trump also expressing support for the Iranian people by stating that “help is on its way.” The President’s change of stance comes after previously indicating a willingness to negotiate. The White House is also considering options ranging from diplomacy to military action.
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After attending an ICE recruitment expo, the author, despite an obvious lack of support for ICE, was surprisingly offered a job. Although the author’s background indicated a clear misalignment with ICE’s goals, they were seemingly overlooked during the application process. This suggests serious flaws in ICE’s recruitment process. The author declined the offer, but the incident raises serious questions about the agency’s ability to properly screen potential employees and its overall effectiveness.
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Today marks the deadline for the Smithsonian Institution to submit documents regarding current and upcoming exhibitions to the White House for review, as mandated by an executive order. The White House is scrutinizing the museums’ offerings to ensure they do not express “improper ideology,” and the institution’s federal funding is contingent on compliance. Initial correspondence was initiated in August with a call for a comprehensive review, and despite some initial submissions, the White House is now demanding further documentation. Concerns regarding the Smithsonian’s portrayal of American history and its potential impact on the upcoming 250th-anniversary celebrations are also highlighted in the December letter.
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John Q. Hosedrinker