The Justice Department’s revised indictment of Nicolás Maduro, while still accusing him of “narco-terrorism” and drug trafficking, now describes the Cártel de los Soles as a “patronage system” rather than a literal organization. This shift contrasts with the original 2020 indictment and highlights inconsistencies within the government, as the Treasury and State Departments continue to designate Cártel de los Soles as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. This designation is key for Trump, who has been using it rhetorically to justify policies, like the summary execution of suspected drug smugglers, blurring the lines between drug trafficking and violent aggression. Critics argue that the FTO label is being applied loosely, even when it lacks a strong legal or factual basis, particularly in cases like Cártel de los Soles.
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Former President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to Cuba, asserting that the island nation would receive “NO MORE OIL OR MONEY” and urging them to negotiate a deal with the United States. This warning follows recent U.S. military action in Venezuela, including the capture of Nicolas Maduro, which has significantly impacted Cuba’s oil supply. Trump suggested that the Venezuelan oil, a critical resource for Cuba, would now be diverted. This has led to the potential collapse of the Cuban economy due to the financial implications.
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Following threats from US President Donald Trump to take control of Greenland, the United Kingdom is reportedly in discussions with European partners to station troops on the island. This move is intended to deter Trump and safeguard Greenland from potential influence by Russia or China. British officials have met with Germany and France to begin preparations for the deployment of troops, warships, and aircraft. Simultaneously, the US is reportedly considering offering financial incentives to Greenland residents as part of its annexation bid.
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Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has called for state agencies to be included in the investigation of an ICE officer’s fatal shooting of a woman, citing a lack of trust in federal agencies. Frey stated that a joint investigation involving the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension would ensure a fair review of the evidence. He noted that federal officials, including President Trump, have spread misinformation, creating a biased narrative from the beginning. Furthermore, Frey acknowledged his responsibility in lowering community tensions, while also emphasizing that federal officials’ actions are primarily responsible for the escalating situation.
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So, here’s the deal: Amazon Pharmacy is now offering Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy, the weight-loss medication. Honestly, it’s not that shocking in today’s world, considering Amazon’s vast reach. They already delve into groceries with Whole Foods and even have a medical clinic arm called One Medical. But, you know, seeing this massive online retailer step into the pharmaceutical game does raise a few eyebrows.
From what I gather, a lot of folks seem to have a pretty decent experience using Amazon Pharmacy. They take insurance, deliver right to your door, and often help navigate manufacturer coupons to bring down the price. This can be a significant advantage compared to brick-and-mortar pharmacies, which sometimes struggle with discounts or have inconsistent pricing.… Continue reading
French President Emmanuel Macron has discussed the potential deployment of approximately 10,000 soldiers to Ukraine. The deployment would involve two multinational brigades, forming part of a European Union “deterrence force” with a command center near Paris. Discussions included the weapons these brigades would utilize, with parliament set to be involved in the decision-making process within the coming weeks. The composition is likely to lean toward mechanized infantry due to limited tank availability. This initiative is part of a broader coalition supporting Ukraine with logistics, weapons, military training, and air defense, including efforts to secure the Black Sea.
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States move to rein in ICE after fatal Minnesota shooting, it appears, is sparking a much-needed re-evaluation of the agency’s power and tactics. The recent incident in Minnesota, where an ICE operation resulted in a fatality, has seemingly acted as a catalyst, prompting various states to consider measures that would curb ICE’s activities within their borders.
The core of the issue, as people see it, is the very role ICE plays in enforcing immigration laws. Many feel that the agency’s focus on what are essentially misdemeanor crimes—immigration violations—is disproportionate and leads to unwarranted intrusion into communities. The calls for Congress to intervene and regulate or even remove ICE from neighborhoods are loud and clear.… Continue reading
On Sunday, police discovered five human heads displayed on a beach in Puerto Lopez, Ecuador, a popular tourist destination. The gruesome display included a threatening message aimed at gang members involved in extortion. This incident adds to Ecuador’s escalating gang violence, which made 2023 the country’s most violent year on record. Despite President Daniel Noboa’s efforts to combat these criminal organizations, violence continues to plague the country, fueled by its strategic location in the international drug trade.
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Following President Trump’s statements of support for Iranian protestors, Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf warned the US against any attack, stating that any such action would result in Tehran targeting Israel and US military bases. This warning comes amidst reports of preliminary discussions within the Trump administration about potential attacks on Iranian military targets, though officials stress no imminent strike is planned. A senior US intelligence official views the situation as an “endurance game,” with the opposition attempting to maintain pressure on the government. Israel is on high alert, but has not signaled a desire to intervene in the escalating tensions between the two nations.
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As protests escalate in Iran over rising inflation and calls for an end to clerical rule, the Iranian government has warned of retaliation if the U.S. attacks. Reports from BBC sources and activists suggest hundreds of protesters have been killed in a government crackdown, with the U.S. considering intervention. Amidst the unrest, Iran’s parliament speaker warned that if the U.S. attacked, targets in the region would become legitimate targets, as authorities impose internet shutdowns. Videos show clashes between protesters and security forces and mass body bags, as well as the exiled son of Iran’s last shah pledging to soon join demonstrators.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood
States Consider Actions to Curb ICE Operations After Minnesota Shooting
States move to rein in ICE after fatal Minnesota shooting, it appears, is sparking a much-needed re-evaluation of the agency’s power and tactics. The recent incident in Minnesota, where an ICE operation resulted in a fatality, has seemingly acted as a catalyst, prompting various states to consider measures that would curb ICE’s activities within their borders.
The core of the issue, as people see it, is the very role ICE plays in enforcing immigration laws. Many feel that the agency’s focus on what are essentially misdemeanor crimes—immigration violations—is disproportionate and leads to unwarranted intrusion into communities. The calls for Congress to intervene and regulate or even remove ICE from neighborhoods are loud and clear.… Continue reading