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In its statement sent to the Ethiopian News Agency, the Commission reported that internally displaced persons in the northwestern part of the Tigray Region, specifically in the Asgede district where the Hitsats temporary shelter is located, are receiving “full and uninterrupted humanitarian food assistance.”

The statement emphasized that claims circulating on social media about a lack of attention at that facility are inaccurate and do not reflect the reality on the ground. It stressed that food distribution has been carried out continuously throughout the year.

He pointed out that 14,413 displaced citizens received assistance at the shelter over the past four months, adding that in September alone, 16,775 people, including those in neighboring shelters, received food support.

This figure rose to 18,290 in October, 17,813 in November, and 14,413 in December, he noted.

The Commission revealed that a total of 11,406 quintals of food, including wheat, sorghum, pulses, and cooking oil, were distributed during the four-month period. The overall support is valued at over 257 million birr (US$1,651,621).

jdt/arm/jcm/nmr

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“It is important that we have succeeded in ensuring the systematic implementation of the provisions of the historic treaty.

This has contributed to a significant expansion of productive bilateral cooperation in the political, economic-trade, humanitarian, and other spheres,” the president noted in a congratulatory telegram to DPRK leader Kim Jong Un.

The Russian president also described the heroic participation of Korean People’s Army troops in the liberation of the territory of the Russian Kursk region, and the subsequent demining work carried out by North Korean sappers on Russian soil, as a “visible confirmation of the unwavering friendship and brotherhood in combat” between the two countries.

Russia and North Korea signed a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty on June 19, 2024, during Putin’s official visit to Pyongyang.

The new document has no set duration and replaces a bilateral agreement on friendship, good neighborliness, and cooperation from 2000.

jdt/arm/jcm/gfa

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“Dmitriev has already had the opportunity to brief President Vladimir Putin on the results of his trip in detail.

Based on the information received by the head of State, we will formulate our further position and continue to maintain contact in the near future through the available channels,” Peskov explained.

Last week in Miami, talks were held between Dmitriev, US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, and President Donald Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner.

A Ukrainian delegation was also in Miami during that time, including Rustem Umerov, Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine, and Andriy Gnatov, Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Meanwhile, Russian presidential advisor Yuri Ushakov stated on Sunday that there are currently no plans for a trilateral meeting between representatives of the United States, Russia, and Ukraine.

jdt/arm/jcm/gfa

The post Russia: Position on peace agreement based on information gathered first appeared on Prensa Latina.

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Restricting kid’s access to platforms is more than justified, Wildberger said.

On Friday, news agency DPA reported that German Minister for Digital Affairs Karsten Wildberger has expressed openness to introducing a ban on social media use for children, similar to recent measures adopted in Australia.

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Macron Seeks Law to Ban Social Media Access for Children Under 16

Wildberger said that restricting children’s access to social media platforms was “more than justified,” pointing to growing evidence of the profound impact social media has on young people’s development.

He said policymakers needed to consider how to ensure children could grow up in a healthy way, comparable to earlier generations who developed without social media, adding that the appropriate minimum age would require careful discussion.

Wildberger also advocated a stricter approach in educational settings, arguing that the ability to focus for one or two hours without being distracted was a basic prerequisite for children’s development.

The terrifying ways that social media is altering teenage brains | Full Interview with Clare Morell @ClareMorellEPPC

0:00 Hijacking our children’s brains
0:42 Smartphones are hurting our children
2:27 Social reward wiring
3:25 Dopamine deficit
4:00 Desensitization
5:34 A… pic.twitter.com/YmtbwfL8y1

— Big Think (@bigthink) December 25, 2025

Providing young people with regular periods free from distractions was not only reasonable but something society owed to them, he said, adding that teachers’ views should play a central role in the debate.

The German government has set up an expert commission on Child and Youth Protection in the Digital Age, which is expected to present recommendations by the summer. Its work includes proposals on age limits for social media use and the debated issue of banning mobile phones in schools.

A survey conducted by the institute INSA on behalf of the Bild newspaper earlier this month found that 60 percent of Germans support banning social media use for children under the age of 16, while around a quarter of respondents opposed such a move.

#FromTheSouth News Bits | Denmark is considering following Australia’s footsteps after securing an agreement to ban social media access for anyone under 15 years old. pic.twitter.com/hqZ1SQcGPT

— teleSUR English (@telesurenglish) December 12, 2025

teleSUR/ JF

Source: Xinhua

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Peskov says dialogue will continue after Ukraine and European allies modify Zelensky’s 20-point proposal.

On Friday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia has resumed contacts with the United States after reviewing a revised 20-point peace plan modified by Ukraine and its European allies.

RELATED:

Europe Shows No Intention of Peace for Ukraine: Zakharova

“On instructions from President Vladimir Putin, contact took place between representatives of the Russian and U.S. governments,” Peskov said, adding that Kremlin foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov took part in the talks.

Peskov said the Kremlin’s envoy for Ukraine, Kirill Dmitriev, briefed Putin on the results of his trip to the U.S. and said the parties agreed to continue the dialogue.

So far, however, neither Putin nor any senior Russian official has made public comments on the 20-point peace proposal presented this week by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. In fact, Peskov again insisted that any comments to the press could “negatively affect the progress of the negotiating process.”

A week ago, during his annual news conference, Putin said he had never rejected the plan presented by U.S. President Donald Trump and added that “the ball is in the court” of Kiev and its allies. He demanded the Ukrainian withdrawal from Donbas and said that respect for Russian security interests is the only way to avoid future special military operations in Europe.

🇷🇺🇺🇦⚡️ — Russian President Vladimir Putin told business leaders that Russia could consider limited territorial exchanges in Ukraine but remains firm on demanding full control of the Donbas, according to Kommersant. pic.twitter.com/TqsW3J42of

— tivania ✞ ✨🍉 (@itxkucell) December 26, 2025

On Friday, Axios reported that Trump is preparing to receive Zelensky on Sunday at his Florida residence. Previously, the Ukrainian president said earlier that “a lot can be decided well before the New Year.”

According to the Zelensky, the 20-point plan proposes a nonaggression pact between Russia and Ukraine, which would be overseen by a monitoring mechanism and grounded in a series of security guarantees.

These would include a Ukrainian army of 800,000 troops and binding agreements under which the United States and other allies would commit to providing defense equivalent to NATO’s Article 5.

Regarding the territorial concessions demanded by Russia, Zelensky acknowledged that there are currently two options on the table, with Kiev favoring the first one, which would involve freezing the current front line.

The second option would involve the creation of one or more economic zones in the part of the Donetsk region still controlled by Ukraine but claimed by Russia, an idea that would only be considered after Kiev has received sufficient security guarantees.

#FromTheSouth News Bits | Russia: The Eurasian Economic Union consolidated its status as one of the self-sufficient centers of the emerging multipolar world. pic.twitter.com/OdQq1AV0qK

— teleSUR English (@telesurenglish) December 24, 2025

teleSUR/ JF

Source: EFE

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Records reinforce findings that he was inadequately supervised despite suicide risk.

On Friday, The Washington Post published an article showing that newly released files from the U.S. Department of Justice on Jeffrey Epstein add details about his death in prison and underscore that the convicted sex offender was not under sufficient supervision, despite being considered at risk of suicide.

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Newly Released Epstein Files Cite Multiple Flights With Trump in the 1990

Epstein died in prison on Aug. 10, 2019, after being charged with multiple counts of sex trafficking and sexual crimes that could have resulted in a sentence of up to 45 years. His death occurred one day before thousands of documents were to be released containing evidence supporting allegations of sexual abuse of girls and young women.

An autopsy determined that he hanged himself in his cell, although many people — including members of the U.S. Congress and supporters of U.S. President Donald Trump — claimed without evidence that Epstein was murdered.

The documents released by the Justice Department — pursuant to a law passed by Congress last month — also include no evidence of a possible homicide and instead further support the theory that prison authorities failed to adequately monitor Epstein, despite the fact that he was under supervision for suicide risk.

Who was Ghislaine Maxwell trafficking children to? How could she be in jail if there were no buyers? Release the Epstein list https://t.co/70OlbAxTfq Repost and share! 12

— Trump is a pimp (@Tomorrow_File) December 26, 2025

The records provide, above all, more details about a previous suicide attempt by the financier. On July 23, 2019, a couple of weeks after he entered prison, Epstein was found semiconscious on the floor of his cell with a noose around his neck.

“After struggling to get him to his feet, staff restrained Epstein’s hands and legs and removed him on a stretcher, according to the report. A medical evaluation revealed redness and abrasions on his neck. Photos in the report, time-stamped 1:45 a.m. and labeled ‘possible suicide attempt,’ show a disheveled Epstein wearing a blue anti-suicide gown and with skin slightly reddened above the collarbone,” The Washington Post reported.

After that incident, Epstein was placed under watch for a possible new suicide attempt, and the documents include handwritten notes by staff taken at 15-minute intervals.

One of the notes states that Epstein said a cellmate had tried to kill him, and the investigative report also includes testimony from an officer who made the same claim. However, investigators did not corroborate that the cellmate at the time, former police officer Nicholas Tartaglione, had assaulted him.

Another document includes notes from an interview with a prison psychologist who observed Epstein over the following two weeks, during which the financier said that “committing suicide went against his religion” and that he did not like pain.

But three days later, as officials were considering removing him from the special unit for inmates with psychiatric issues where he had been placed after the suicide attempt — which he left on July 30 — the prison’s chief psychologist wrote an email expressing concern “because I had reduced him to psychological observation rather than keeping him on suicide watch.”

#FromTheSouth News Bits | United States: The Department of Justice released the first batch of files of the case of sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, under a new law signed by President Donald Trump. pic.twitter.com/Bzh6dgbfGg

— teleSUR English (@telesurenglish) December 23, 2025

teleSUR/ JF

Source: EFE

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Mexico granted former PM Betssy Chavez diplomatic asylum.

On Thursday, Peruvian authorities reinforced security outside the Mexican embassy in Lima to prevent the alleged escape of former Prime Minister Betssy Chavez, who has been granted diplomatic asylum since November.

RELATED:

Mexico Warns Peru of Violation of International Law if It Storms Its Embassy

Peruvian National Police (PNP) commander Oscar Arriola informed that the number of police officers at the Embassy entrances in the San Isidro district tripled in the early morning of December 25.

Chavez was sentenced in November to 11 years, 5 months, and 15 days in prison for alleged conspiracy to commit rebellion, along with former President Pedro Castillo and other collaborators.

The Mexican government granted her diplomatic asylum, but the Peruvian government has not issued the safe-conduct pass that would allow Chavez to leave the country without being arrested, thus maintaining bilateral political tensions.

The day before, Chavez resigned from Castillo’s “Everything with the People” party. Through a public letter, she cited personal reasons, democratic principles, and political consistency.

💥La policía de la dictadura monta un show frente a la embajada de México en donde está asilada Betssy Chávez.
Mientras el pueblo sufre extorsión, sicariato, asesinatos, este es el burdo papel de comandante Oscar Arriola.
No más payasos, no más corruptos!

UNIDOS SÍ PODEMOS 🇵🇪 pic.twitter.com/o44V4ZSDrZ

— Raúl Noblecilla Olaechea (@raul_olaechea) December 25, 2025

The text reads, “The dictatorship’s police stage a show in front of the Mexican embassy where Betssy Chavez is seeking asylum. While the people suffer extortion, contract killings, and murders, this is the pathetic role played by Commander Oscar Arriola. No more clowns, no more corrupt officials! United we can.”

Chavez’s lawyer, Raul Noblecilla, shared the resignation letter on social media and affirmed that his client would remain steadfast “on the path to the recovery of the nation.”

The case has generated diplomatic tensions between the countries and led to Peru severing diplomatic relations with Mexico in November 2025, which marks one of the most serious crises in decades.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has defended the right to asylum and declared that it would be a violation of international law if Peruvian forces were to enter the Mexican embassy to capture Chavez.

Previously, Peruvian interim President Jose Jeri stated he was open to “all kinds of possibilities” to capture the former Prime Minister. The Peruvian judiciary issued an international arrest warrant for Chavez and accused her of participating in Castillo’s attempted coup in December 2022.

#FromTheSouth News Bits | Ecuador and Peru pledged to work together to combat organized crime and illegal mining, particularly along their shared border. pic.twitter.com/sfl1lJNysm

— teleSUR English (@telesurenglish) December 16, 2025

teleSUR: JP

Source: La Jornada – DW

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Russia has resumed talks with the U.S. after analyzing the revised 20-point peace plan.

On Thursday, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said that Europe continues to bet on the prolonged conflict in Ukraine and the escalation of tensions, showing no consideration for peace.

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“The Kiev regime’s European backers, primarily those from the European Union (EU) and Britain, have no intention whatsoever of pursuing peace. Their only preoccupation is with the funds they will ostensibly transfer to the Kiev regime and then get back,” she pointed out.

“They continue to bet on the escalation of tensions, and it is precisely for this reason that they want the hostilities to drag on until the last Ukrainian,” the Russian diplomat stated.

Zakharova further stressed that Russia has always maintained an open stance toward cooperation with the West, adding that the Russian side has only one condition: full respect for international law.

🚨⚡️ President Putin awards Zakharova the "Order of Merit for the Fatherland" in recognition of her significant contributions to the implementation of Russian foreign policy and her long diplomatic service!

Zakharova expressed her gratitude to her parents:

"My parents taught me… pic.twitter.com/Sw3TwwJBMH

— RussiaNews 🇷🇺 (@mog_russEN) December 25, 2025

Russia’s readiness to formally confirm that it has no aggressive plans against NATO and EU countries on a reciprocal basis is a natural and logical continuation of its consistent and principled stance, she said.

“Russia is prepared to formalize such commitments in the form of a written, legally binding document. The specific format can be determined during negotiations, but it must be a comprehensive international legal instrument,” Zakharova added.

On Friday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov announced that Russia had resumed talks with the United States after analyzing the revised 20-point peace plan proposed by Ukraine and its European allies.

“At the request of President Vladimir Putin, contact was made between representatives of the Russian and US administrations,” Peskov said, indicating that Kremlin international policy advisor Yuri Ushakov participated in the discussions.

#FromTheSouth News Bits | Russia: The Eurasian Economic Union consolidated its status as one of the self-sufficient centers of the emerging multipolar world. pic.twitter.com/OdQq1AV0qK

— teleSUR English (@telesurenglish) December 24, 2025

teleSUR/ JF

Sources: Xinhua – EFE

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US President Donald Trump’s claim over Venezuela's oil resources exposes a colonialist and supremacist US agenda, says an analyst.

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Social activists cite fraud, rights abuses, and past violence linked to the National Party.

On Thursday, social activists and human rights defenders in Honduras expressed concern over the National Party’s return to power, after what they described as an electoral coup was finalized with the proclamation by the National Electoral Council (or CNE) of Nasry Asfura as the winner of the Nov. 30 presidential election.

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Several Honduran grassroots movements recalled that the National Party carried out the 2009 coup against then-President Manuel Zelaya and remained in power unconstitutionally until 2021.

As a result, the victory of Asfura, who received explicit support from U.S. President Donald Trump, is viewed as a cause for concern by Honduran social organizations.

“They are killers! And they do not care at all about violating human rights,” said Ermin Lopez, a member of the Independent Lenca Indigenous Movement of La Paz, Honduras, known as MILPAH.

To illustrate how catastrophic the return of the right to power would be, Lopez recalled that about 90 environmental activists were killed by criminal groups during National Party governments. He also emphasized that Honduran Indigenous movements have denounced the National Party’s complicity with armed paramilitary groups that support extractive business activities.

“During its 12 years in power, the National Party authorized geological, hydroelectric and photovoltaic concessions. It also invaded Indigenous territories. We are witnessing a dangerous regression for our society and for our people,” the MILPAH activist said.

#FromTheSouth News Bits | Honduras: “This is the least transparent and most dishonest election in history.” pic.twitter.com/Q9Kj2wqXbO

— teleSUR English (@telesurenglish) December 24, 2025

Concern over Asfura’s rise to power was also expressed by feminist movements and by organizations representing lesbians, gays and transgender people.

“We are going to be affected because party members have clearly spoken out against the rights we are seeking. As organizations, we will have to prepare for the next four years, because the political situation in the country will be unstable,” said Florenz Carranza, a spokesperson for the LGBTQI Center of Tegucigalpa.

On Dec. 24, CNE members Ana Hall and Cossette Lopez finalized what critics called the electoral coup and declared National Party candidate Nasry Asfura president-elect for the 2026–2030 term.

Asfura’s recognition comes amid serious allegations of irregularities during the vote-counting process, strong foreign interference and a plot orchestrated ahead of the Nov. 30 elections.

Allegations of fraud were raised by both the ruling Liberty and Refoundation Party, known as Libre, and the opposition Liberal Party. CNE member Marlon Ochoa also denounced the irregularities and the refusal by Hall and Lopez to conduct a vote-by-vote recount.

In an unexpected turn, Nasry Asfura has been declared president-elect of Honduras by the National Electoral Council, despite the lack of completion in the ballot. This action, supported by two CNE councilors, has raised alarms about the integrity of the electoral process. pic.twitter.com/xRmWhB5ndp

— teleSUR English (@telesurenglish) December 26, 2025

teleSUR/ JF

Sources: COPINH – LGTB Noticias – teleSUR

From teleSUR English via This RSS Feed.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Friday that he is set to meet soon with US President Donald Trump, pointing to renewed high-level engagement between Kyiv and Washington in the coming days.

RELATED:

Ukraine and Europe to Work on Amendments to Peace Plan: Zelensky

In a statement published on his official Telegram channel, Zelensky said: “We have agreed on a meeting at the highest level with President Trump in the coming days. Many things can be decided before the New Year.”

Zelensky also reported that Rustem Umerov, secretary of Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council and head of the Ukrainian delegation in negotiations with the United States, briefed him on his latest contacts with US representatives.

❗️ Zelensky CONFIRMS his meeting with Trump 'IN THE NEAREST FUTURE'

'A lot could be resolved before the new year' pic.twitter.com/1luONGe0TT

— RT (@RT_com) December 26, 2025

Diplomatic sources cited by the Ukrainian outlet Kyiv Post said Zelensky plans to travel to Florida in the coming days to hold talks with Trump at his Mar-a-Lago residence. One of the sources told the newspaper that the visit could take place on Sunday, December 28, “if everything goes according to plan.”

The announcement follows a phone call held last Thursday between Zelensky and White House envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, during which the parties discussed what were described as “new ideas” regarding upcoming meetings.

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Israel ranked last for a second consecutive year in the Nation Brands Index (NBI), amid deepening global disapproval linked to its ongoing military offensive in Gaza, according to results released on Thursday by the BrandIL initiative.

RELATED:

Israeli Attacks Leave 1.5 Million People Homeless in Gaza

The survey, conducted between August and September 2025, recorded Israel’s sharpest decline since the index was launched nearly two decades ago. The country’s overall score fell by 6.1 percent compared with the previous year, placing it at the bottom of the global ranking.

According to the Hebrew daily Yedioth Ahronoth, Israelis are increasingly perceived abroad as unwelcome. The report underscored a broader shift in global attitudes, showing that a growing number of respondents now view Israel as “illegitimate” and “colonial,” marking a significant change between 2024 and 2025. BrandIL linked this negative perception primarily to Israel’s war in Gaza.

Israel ranks LAST (again) in global Nation Brands Index

NBI designed as a snapshot of intl opinion, evaluating national reputation in exports, governance, culture, people, tourism, and immigration pic.twitter.com/7D0ASzteeF

— RT (@RT_com) December 26, 2025

The assessment also pointed to a sharp rise in incidents related to hostility toward Israel. A separate report cited by BrandIL documented a 340 percent increase in such incidents between 2022 and 2024, largely attributed to the escalation of the war in Gaza and the resulting global backlash.

BrandIL warned that the reputational decline carries wider economic risks, including falling global confidence, reduced foreign investment, damage to tourism, and the erosion of Israel’s standing in the international community. Israel also ranked last in perceptions related to exports and products, reflecting growing reluctance among consumers to purchase goods and services associated with Israeli-occupied territories.

Israel again ranked last in the Nation Brands Index, posting its steepest drop since the survey began nearly 20 years ago, according to BrandIL.

The 2025 results show Israel’s image falling 6.1%, the largest single-year decline on record. Thus, Israel’s standing eroded since its… pic.twitter.com/XZenqxUuGY

— Quds News Network (@QudsNen) December 25, 2025

Products labeled “Made in Israel” have been directly affected, the report noted, as boycott campaigns continue to expand worldwide. Israel’s global standing in opinion polls and research surveys has deteriorated sharply since October 2023, when it launched its military offensive against the occupied Palestinian territory.

Additional polling data reinforce this trend. A recent YouGov survey found that public support for Israel in Europe reached its lowest level in 2025, with fewer than one in five respondents in the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Denmark, Spain and Italy expressing a favorable opinion. In the United States, a Pew Research Center survey published in April showed that 53 percent of Americans now hold an unfavorable view of Israel, up from 42 percent in March 2022, before October 7, 2023. Another Pew survey found that a majority of people worldwide hold negative views of Israel and its prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu.

Israel’s military offensive against Gaza since October 2023 has been widely denounced by international organizations as genocide, following the killing of more than 70,000 Palestinians in the enclave.

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Niger has enforced a total ban on the issuance of visas to United States citizens, framing the move as a reciprocal response to Washington’s recent entry restrictions on Nigerien nationals.

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According to a report published Thursday by the Nigerien Press Agency (ANP), the country has “completely and definitively halted the issuance of visas to all United States citizens and imposed an indefinite ban on their entry into the country.” Citing a Nigerien diplomatic source, ANP said the decision is grounded in the principle of reciprocity, reflects a diplomatic posture aimed at safeguarding national sovereignty, and signals an evolution in Niamey’s foreign policy.

The measure follows a U.S. decision to include Niger on a list of countries whose citizens are no longer eligible for U.S. entry visas. U.S. President Donald Trump signed a proclamation on December 16 expanding the list of countries subject to full or partial entry restrictions to around 40 states, with the measures set to take effect on January 1, 2026. Niger is among the countries facing full restrictions.

Niger has announced a complete, indefinite ban on US citizens entering the country after the US added Niger to the list of countries subject to a total travel ban. pic.twitter.com/VTzy2qa16y

— Sprinter Press (@SprinterPress) December 26, 2025

Niger’s response mirrors the U.S. action and indicates that Niamey will no longer accept unilateral restrictions imposed on its citizens without a corresponding response. Officials and commentators in Niger have framed the visa ban as a matter of dignity and equal treatment, arguing that freedom of movement should not be politicized or used as leverage against countries already facing conflict, sanctions, and external pressure.

The dispute unfolds amid a broader deterioration in relations between the two countries following Niger’s political transition in 2023. Since then, Nigerien authorities have recalibrated external partnerships, including ending long-standing military agreements with Washington and completing the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Nigerien territory in 2024. The shift has been presented domestically as part of a wider effort to restore national decision-making and reduce reliance on Western security frameworks.

Niger announces ban on US citizens from entering the country in response to the Trump administration adding Niger to its travel ban list.

Follow Press TV on Telegram: https://t.co/LWoNSpkJSh pic.twitter.com/ha2iTLOBiu

— Press TV 🔻 (@PressTV) December 25, 2025

Within this context, the visa ban aligns with Niger’s broader drive to assert sovereignty in the Sahel, the region south of the Sahara Desert encompassing Niger, Mali, Chad, Burkina Faso, Mauritania, and parts of neighboring countries. The decision underscores Niamey’s position that international relations should be based on reciprocity and respect rather than unilateral measures.

From teleSUR English via This RSS Feed.

The United States carried out missile strikes against camps linked to ISIS in northwestern Nigeria, President Donald Trump announced on Thursday, saying the operation targeted militants accused of attacking Christian communities.

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Suicide Bombing at Mosque in Nigeria Leaves 5 Killed and 35 Wounded

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the strikes were ordered under his authority as commander in chief. “Tonight, under my direction as Commander in Chief, the United States launched a powerful and deadly attack against the ISIS terrorist scum in northwestern Nigeria,” he wrote.

Trump said the operation followed prior warnings to the group. “I previously warned these terrorists that if they did not stop the massacre of Christians, hell would break loose, and tonight it did,” he added. According to the president, the action involved “numerous perfect strikes, like only the United States is capable of carrying out,” and was directed by the Department of War.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the US delivered a "deadly and powerful" strike against ISIS in Nigeria, which he personally authorized, reiterating the claim that Nigerian Christians are being targeted by the group.https://t.co/EgO8eeeCgc

— Al Mayadeen English (@MayadeenEnglish) December 26, 2025

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth voiced support for the strikes, confirming that about ten Tomahawk missiles were launched from a U.S. Navy vessel deployed in the Gulf of Guinea. In a message on X, Hegseth said the president had made clear in recent weeks that “the murder of innocent Christians in Nigeria (and elsewhere) must end.” He added that the Department of War “is always ready,” thanked the Nigerian government for its cooperation, and referred to the timing of the operation on Christmas.

The U.S. Africa Command (Africom) reported that the strikes hit camps of alleged ISIS-affiliated militias in Sokoto state, near the border with Niger, and resulted in “multiple” casualties. Africom commander General Dagvin Anderson said in a statement that the command was working with Nigerian and regional partners to strengthen counterterrorism cooperation and efforts to address threats to civilian lives.

The #UnitedStates, under Trump's direction, has launched fatal strikes allegedly against ISIS in northwest Nigeria, the president announced in a post on Truth Social. #Trump has previously warned of military action in Nigeria amid claims of the "mass slaughter of Christians,"… pic.twitter.com/gvrZnlg6Tg

— Al Mayadeen English (@MayadeenEnglish) December 25, 2025

In recent months, the U.S. administration has highlighted efforts to weaken ISIS operations in Nigeria, where the group has been linked to attacks on Christian communities. A report by the International Society for Civil Liberties and the Rule of Law (Intersociety) stated that during the first 220 days of 2025, Islamist militants killed an estimated 7,087 Christians and abducted about 7,800 others.

Trump closed his remarks by reiterating his position on what he described as radical Islamist terrorism. “Under my leadership, our country will not allow radical Islamic terrorism to thrive,” he wrote, while praising U.S. armed forces and again referring to the killings of Christians in Nigeria.

From teleSUR English via This RSS Feed.

Following the initiative of the Movement of Excluded Workers of Argentina (MTE), other organizations organized Christmas dinners for people experiencing homelessness and those in vulnerable situations.

In this vein, the Classist and Combative Current (CCC) organized a celebration for Thursday, December 25, starting at 12:00 PM local time, for families in La Plata who lack food on their tables.

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Meanwhile, other solidarity Christmas dinners took place in the City of Buenos Aires, such as at the San Cayetano Sanctuary in the Liniers neighborhood. During the invitation to one of the gatherings on Wednesday, they stated, “We hope to see you on December 24 so that Christmas finds us united, in peace, and with joy in our hearts.”

To make the dinner possible, empanadas and soft drinks were donated by people. In this instance, a total of approximately 500 people dined both inside the church and in the outdoor courtyard.

El Centro de Economía Política Argentina (CEPA) alertó que el Presupuesto 2026 impulsado por el Gobierno de Javier Milei profundiza un proceso de desfinanciación estructural del sistema educativo, científico y universitariohttps://t.co/zg7vF5HA33

— teleSUR TV (@teleSURtv) December 23, 2025

Another location was the Virgen de Caacupé Parish in Barracas. This event was organized by Father Toto de Vedia. The priest explained that “it’s a different kind of Christmas because we also need to provide support to all those suffering from addiction.”

An effort was made to organize a space where anyone needing to celebrate Christmas in company could do so at the Parish. Additionally, an outing to a property belonging to the congregation was arranged for those undergoing addiction recovery treatment to celebrate there.

Similarly, a fundraising dinner was held in the city of Córdoba, specifically in the Alberdi neighborhood. The Alberdi Neighborhood Center and the Alberdi People Network jointly organized a dinner starting at 9:00 PM at the Cervecería Córdoba venue.

On the other hand, Christmas took on a different meaning for workers at the Ledesma sugar mill, who completed almost 50 days of struggle to demand the reinstatement of more than 350 dismissed workers.

From teleSUR English via This RSS Feed.

The state of Yaracuy broke records this Christmas: the city of Cocorote hosted the world’s largest Christmas dinner, with 7,000 people gathered. This initiative was made possible thanks to the efforts of more than 150 volunteers and the “Cocineras de la Patria” (Cooks of the Homeland), who worked from dawn to ensure the success of the community event.

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Popular Traditions Keep the Heart of Christmas in Venezuela Alive

“The people of Cocorote enjoyed a family Christmas. With all our love and commitment, we prepared 7,000 Christmas dishes, which we distributed completely free of charge amidst a grand celebration for everyone who joined us for the sixth edition of the world’s largest Christmas dinner, made possible thanks to the unwavering support of President Nicolás Maduro and Governor Leonardo Intoci,” emphasized Pedro Bolaño, the mayor of Cocorote.

He also stressed that “together we made a great effort to improve year after year despite all the difficulties, and we are already committed to serving even more Cocorote families in 2026.”

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Una publicación compartida por Leonardo Intoci (@leonardo.intoci)

Bolaño oversaw the distribution of the dishes to each of the 700 tables spread along the nearly two-kilometer stretch of the avenue.

“I feel deeply honored.” Organizing this dinner involved months of planning and the commitment of nearly 120 people directly involved in preparing the dishes and handling the logistics, all of whom believed in the project. “Seeing 7,000 people sitting at the same table is the best gift we can give to our community,” he said.

Meanwhile, Elena Martínez, a resident of the Las Crecedoras sector, who attended the dinner with her three children and grandchildren, commented that the event was unforgettable, not only because of the delicious food, but also because of the joy and solidarity of the people.

For his part, the Governor of Yaracuy, Leonardo Intoci, emphasized that “this initiative grows every year; today there are 7,000 people, but it sets us the challenge to have many more next year.” “We are out in the streets with our people.”

Mother Teresa of Calcutta Avenue was chosen as the location for the Christmas celebration in the state of Yaracuy, which has an approximate population of 859,474. Meanwhile, the population of Cocorote in 2011 was estimated at 52,610.

From teleSUR English via This RSS Feed.

The Bolivian Workers’ Central (COB) reaffirmed on Thursday its indefinite and phased general strike across the country, with unions holding daily demonstrations in La Paz, in rejection of Supreme Decree 5503 issued by the government of Rodrigo Paz due to its negative impact on the economy and the population.

Mario Argollo, executive secretary of the COB, stated that the organization maintains a firm stance in denouncing the government measures. They denounce that the government initiative, which eliminates fuel subsidies, shifts the burden of the adjustment onto the working class and lower-income sectors.

“We have decided to continue the mobilization despite the holidays. Our position is firm, and we will further disseminate information about this decree so that citizens can understand it. There will be marches in different departments of the country, so the mobilization will be nationwide,” Argollo stated.

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Since Monday, various unions, primarily from the mining sector, have been holding continuous demonstrations in La Paz, the seat of the Bolivian government. These unions will remain in the city, maintaining their protests “despite the end-of-year holidays,” Argollo emphasized, highlighting the determination of those mobilized.

Last Tuesday, the Bolivian government ordered the repression of a union demonstration around Plaza Murillo, and uniformed officers used tear gas to disperse the protesters.

En Bolivia se realizaron protestas contra el aumento del precio de la gasolina, conocido como “gasolinazo”. Diversos sectores sociales salieron a las calles para expresar su rechazo a la medida, señalando que afecta directamente la economía de la población. pic.twitter.com/N5B5fdwD00

— teleSUR TV (@teleSURtv) December 25, 2025

Supreme Decree 5503 is the central issue in the conflict, implemented by the government of Rodrigo Paz under the pretext of addressing the fiscal crisis. It includes reductions in fuel subsidies and other adjustments that directly impact the cost of transportation and the basic food basket.

Union and community groups denounce that the decree shifts the burden of economic adjustment onto the working class and lower-income sectors, inevitably leading to an increase in the cost of living and a consequent loss of purchasing power. Furthermore, various social organizations warn that the decree lacks effective protection or compensation mechanisms for the most vulnerable sectors of society, which foreshadows a deepening of social inequalities in the country.

The COB (Bolivian Workers’ Center) has resolved not only to continue with nationwide mobilizations but also to disseminate information about the scope of this decree. Delegates from multiple departments have arrived in La Paz, and marches are being planned in other regions, thus ensuring a nationwide mobilization so that all citizens understand the substance and impact of this government measure.

From teleSUR English via This RSS Feed.

Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yván Gil expressed the Bolivarian Government’s “most sincere gratitude” to the Russian Federation for its “unwavering support” in defending national sovereignty against what he described as “belligerent and illegal actions” by the US administration in the Caribbean.

This statement by the Latin American diplomat underscores the deep level of trust and cooperation that characterizes the bilateral relationship, strengthened in the current context of external pressures.

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This expression of gratitude is not accidental; it comes as Venezuela faces constant threats to its maritime and air sovereignty, as well as, in recent days, the blatant theft of an oil tanker. Furthermore, the US government has repeatedly expressed its intentions to seize the South American country’s natural resources and wealth.

In her latest statements, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova accused Washington of attempting to destabilize Venezuela and create “anarchy” in the region, with practices she likened to “piracy.” She condemned these actions and demanded respect for international law.

According to Zakharova, the US actions violate the principles of the UN Charter and the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, affecting the freedom of navigation and sovereignty of the South American country.

“We are witnessing the resurgence of piracy, assaults, and the appropriation of foreign property in international waters,” Zakharova stated, describing the situation as a direct threat to the global legal order.

Moscow, she noted, maintains a position in favor of détente, diplomacy, and regional stability, warning that a military escalation would affect all of Latin America.

Russia Highlights Majority Condemnation at Security Council

The Russian spokesperson’s statements come after the UN Security Council session, convened to discuss the US military buildup in the Caribbean.

The diplomat noted that “the overwhelming majority of countries condemned the unilateral nature of the restrictions, which seriously violate current international law, principles, and norms, namely, the sovereign equality of states, non-interference in internal affairs, freedom of navigation, and economic rights.”

💬 #Zakharova: #LatinAmerica and the #Caribbean must remain a zone of peace.

We reaffirm our support for the efforts of the Government of @NicolasMaduro.

☝️ @EmbajadaRusaVen is operating as usual.#RussiaVenezuela pic.twitter.com/3cIeCDl7mt

— MFA Russia 🇷🇺 (@mfa_russia) December 25, 2025

“Latin America and the Caribbean must remain a Zone of Peace, as proclaimed in 2014. An attack on Venezuela would be an attack on regional stability,” the spokesperson stated, warning of the geopolitical effects that such an intervention would have across the continent.

Venezuela and Russia are strengthening their actions in forums such as the United Nations (UN), the Security Council and the Group of Friends in Defense of the Charter of the United Nations, among others, in order to guarantee respect for the sovereignty of peoples in the global arena.

From teleSUR English via This RSS Feed.

Sudan’s Prime Minister Kamel Idris presented a comprehensive initiative to the UN Security Council aimed at halting the war that has ravaged the African nation since 2023 and has been described by the United Nations as “the world’s worst humanitarian crisis.”

The plan envisions a ceasefire monitored by the UN, the African Union, and the Arab League, accompanied by the complete withdrawal and disarmament of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) from all areas they currently occupy.

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Idris indicated that the proposal includes Sudanese-Sudanese dialogue during the transition period to establish the foundations of a new system of government and move toward general elections under international supervision. The Prime Minister stated he expects “unconditional support” from the Security Council member states, emphasizing that the initiative complements ongoing Saudi, American, and Egyptian diplomatic efforts.

Prime Minister Kamil Idris on Monday presented an initiative to the United Nations Security Council to settle the conflict in Sudan, based on a ceasefire, the disarmament of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), and the achievement of justice and reconciliation.https://t.co/MJ5bq5XIhP pic.twitter.com/Rf6o0XUyAl

— Sudan Tribune (@SudanTribune_EN) December 23, 2025

Even so, diplomatic sources acknowledge that the plan faces resistance, particularly because it would imply a political and military victory for the Sudanese government, making it difficult for the FAR to accept negotiations that would disarm them and reduce their influence on the domestic stage. Idris maintained that a truce “has no chance of success” without confining the insurgent forces to camps monitored and verified internationally.

Before Idris’s intervention, the US Deputy Ambassador to the UN, Jeffrey Bartos, stated that Washington proposed an immediate humanitarian truce, urging the parties to accept it “without preconditions.” However, negotiations by the so-called Quartet—the United States, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates—have remained stalled since November.

The war in Sudan began on April 15, 2023, pitting the army under Abdel-Fattah al-Burhan against the FAR led by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo.

Conexión Digital 23-12 La OMS alerta una crisis sanitaria en Sudán https://t.co/pfWUeCBf9Z

— teleSUR TV (@teleSURtv) December 23, 2025

The conflict has left tens of thousands dead, nearly 12 million displaced, and an institutional collapse that has paralyzed the country. The UN warns that, without a verifiable agreement, Sudan could enter a phase of prolonged territorial fragmentation, with the risk of regional destabilization.

The Sudanese government maintains that the initiative presented to the Security Council is the last viable option before a scenario of protracted war and irreversible consequences.

From teleSUR English via This RSS Feed.

By Caitlin Johnstone – Dec 21, 2025

If the right to free speech does not include the right to oppose an active genocide using strong and unmitigated language, then there is no freedom of speech.

This is exactly the sort of thing that freedom of speech is intended for: times when the government is doing something wrong which needs to be ferociously opposed. That’s the primary reason it’s an enshrined value in our society. Freedom of speech is for holding the powerful to account.

If you only have freedom of speech when you’re agreeing with your government and saying nothing which inconveniences the powerful, then Saudi Arabia has free speech. Every tyrannical regime that has ever existed has had freedom of speech by those standards. You don’t measure a society’s freedom by how much its citizenry are allowed to agree with their government, you measure it by how much they’re allowed to disagree.

UK police made their first arrests on Wednesday since announcing officers will detain people who publicly chant pro-Palestinian calls to "globalise the intifada", in a change prompted by Australia's Bondi Beach attack. pic.twitter.com/VBFjod7CV1

— Middle East Eye (@MiddleEastEye) December 18, 2025

And right now we are being told we’re not allowed to disagree. We’re being told the protests need to stop, the anti-genocide chants need to be criminalized, and everyone needs to shut up and obey — all justified by the completely baseless narrative that the words and actions of pro-Palestinian activists were somehow responsible a terrible massacre that was committed in Sydney last week.

Dozens Arrested in London as Protests Against Ban of Palestine Action Sweep UK

And these policies just so happen to serve the interests of the very same western powers whose genocide-enabling actions were being forcefully opposed these last two years. Government officials constantly being protested and questioned about their facilitation of Israel’s genocidal atrocities. Politicians who are consistently confronted by anti-genocide demonstrators during their public appearances. Wealthy arms manufacturers whose profit margins are being harmed by direct action from activist groups. Plutocratic media institutions who are becoming more and more discredited in the public eye as the Gaza holocaust exposes them all. Billionaires whose empires are built upon the political status quo that gave rise to the genocide in question.

If the powerful are shutting down speech rights to advance their own interests in your society, then your society is not meaningfully different than the dictatorships the western world tries to contrast itself with. All our stories about living in a free society have been just that: stories. Fairy tales.

Tell NSW MPs that Minns' ban on protest is dangerous. Customize the subject line and first sentence in our template, and add your voice to protect civil liberties. Don't be silent when basic rights are under threat. https://t.co/dUUsI05bAR pic.twitter.com/lPSYn0A18x

— Nick Riemer (@NickRiemer1) December 19, 2025

That’s what they’re telling us with this mad rush to stomp out freedom of speech this past week. They are telling us that we do not live in the kind of society we were taught about in school. They are telling us that the only reason we were allowed to speak as we pleased in the years leading up to the Gaza genocide is because we were a bunch of compliant sheep who were not meaningfully challenging the interests of the powerful, and now that we are meaningfully challenging them the facade of freedom and democracy is falling away.

As Frank Zappa once said, “The illusion of freedom will continue as long as it’s profitable to continue the illusion. At the point where the illusion becomes too expensive to maintain, they will just take down the scenery, they will pull back the curtains, they will move the tables and chairs out of the way and you will see the brick wall at the back of the theater.”

(Caitlin Johnstone)

From Orinoco Tribune – News and opinion pieces about Venezuela and beyond via This RSS Feed.

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva announced Wednesday his commitment to eliminating the work schedule known as 6×1, which mandates six consecutive days of work followed by one day of rest.

The president stated that advancing this reform is urgent to “confront the privileges of a few” and guarantee basic rights for the majority of the population, including rest and family life.

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In a nationally televised address, Lula asserted that it is unfair for workers to have to work intense hours for almost the entire week and have only one day to recover, spend time with their families, attend to domestic responsibilities, or be present for their children’s development.

In this context, he emphasized that ending the 6×1 schedule without affecting wages is a popular demand that the State has an obligation to listen to and transform into concrete policies.

O Brasil voltou a ser respeitado e admirado pelo mundo. Nove milhões de turistas estrangeiros nos visitaram este ano, um recorde histórico. E recebemos no coração da Amazônia, em Belém do Pará, o maior evento climático do mundo. A COP30 foi um sucesso e consolidou o Brasil como…

— Lula (@LulaOficial) December 24, 2025

During his speech, the head of state also reviewed the international agenda and highlighted that, through diplomatic channels, Brazil managed to reverse the tariff increases implemented by US President Donald Trump and open nearly 500 new markets for Brazilian exports.

Lula also called on men to take an active role in eradicating violence against women and emphasized the progress made in 2025 in the fight against organized crime.

In this regard, he noted that the Federal Police led the largest operation in its history against criminal organizations and asserted that no economic power or political influence would hinder this action.

Another milestone highlighted by the president was the elimination of income tax for those earning up to 5,000 reais per month. Starting in January, millions of workers will no longer have this salary deduction, which—he explained—will increase family income, alleviate economic pressure, and stimulate the country’s growth.

Seguiremos combatendo privilégios de poucos para garantir direitos de muitos. E nenhum direito é tão urgente, hoje, quanto o direito ao tempo. Não é justo que uma pessoa seja obrigada a trabalhar duro durante seis dias e que tenha apenas um dia para descansar o corpo e a cabeça,…

— Lula (@LulaOficial) December 24, 2025

The president also listed the relaunch of housing programs such as Minha Casa Minha Vida (My House, My Life), now expanded to include middle-class sectors, and Reforma Casa Brasil (Brazil House Reform). He added that the São Francisco River Transposition, considered the world’s largest water infrastructure project, will bring water to millions of families in northeastern Brazil.

Lula emphasized that the country is experiencing strong growth in public works, with projects underway in every state thanks to the New Growth Acceleration Program (PAC), which is boosting employment and development in thousands of municipalities.

He stated that these advances are reflected in historic economic indicators: Brazil will end the year with the lowest unemployment rate ever recorded, record levels of formal employment, the highest average wage in its history, and the lowest accumulated inflation over the past four years.

From teleSUR English via This RSS Feed.

The Republic of Korea donated 24,600 tons of rice to Cuba to support food assistance programs aimed at people in situations of greatest socioeconomic vulnerability on the island.

The delivery was confirmed by the Ministry of Agriculture of the Asian nation and will be carried out through the United Nations System in Cuba, specifically through the World Food Programme (WFP).

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The first part of the shipment has already been unloaded at the port of Santiago de Cuba, in the eastern part of the country, a region identified by its high levels of social vulnerability and limited access to basic goods. This delivery will allow the WFP to double its rice quotas in that area for five months.

The distribution will be carried out using the usual mechanisms of the humanitarian program, prioritizing groups previously identified by United Nations agencies and focusing on households with urgent food needs.

Ya en puerto de Santiago de Cuba 24 mil 600 TM de arroz donadas por el Ministerio de Agricultura de Corea a #WFPCuba, que permitirán duplicar la entrega de este alimento en las provincias orientales y alcanzar a personas vulnerables y embarazadas en todo el país durante 1 año. pic.twitter.com/mu9sgO4aG3

— WFP Cuba (@WFP_Cuba) December 24, 2025

The remaining volume of the donation will arrive through the port of Havana and will be distributed gradually to the rest of Cuba’s provinces. According to the authorities involved, this portion will be delivered every two months for a year, with the aim of doubling deliveries to the beneficiary population outside of eastern Cuba.

To date, the volumes allocated per province and the exact distribution schedules have not been specified, as these will depend on internal logistics and transportation availability in each region.

📹 🇨🇺 | Avanza la descarga en el puerto Guillermón Moncada de Santiago de #Cuba del barco, procedente de #Venezuela, el cual traslada ayuda solidaria para la recuperación de la zona oriental cubana tras el paso del huracán Melissa. pic.twitter.com/4oa32WCL0U

— teleSUR TV (@teleSURtv) December 19, 2025

This aid also addresses the need to strengthen the response to recent emergencies, including the damage caused by weather events such as Hurricane Melissa, which resulted in the loss of homes, disruptions to the supply chain, and impacts on local food production.

From teleSUR English via This RSS Feed.

Pope Leo XIV delivered his Christmas Message on Thursday, urging a responsible pursuit of global peace through dialogue and reconciliation. His words, delivered before the traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing before thousands of people in St. Peter’s Square, emphasized that “this is the path to peace: responsibility.”

The Holy Father affirmed that the world would experience a significant change if every individual, at every level, “instead of accusing others, were to first acknowledge their own faults and at the same time put themselves in the place of those who suffer, and show solidarity with the weakest and most oppressed.” In this regard, he emphasized that “each of us can and must do our part to reject hatred, violence, and confrontation, and to practice dialogue, peace, and reconciliation.”

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Within the framework of his address, the Holy Father referred specifically to the complex situation in the Middle East, imploring “justice, peace, and stability” for the region. Leo XIV denounced the critical conditions faced by the Palestinian population in the Gaza Strip, expressing his concern for the thousands of people who remained in tents exposed to the rain, wind, and cold.

During his address, the leader of the Catholic Church recalled the obligation established by international law to protect the civilian population and emphasized that collective punishment, the indiscriminate use of force, and the forced displacement of people are prohibited. In this context, he urged the faithful to promote reconciliation and peace in their communities.

In this context, the Pope reiterated his call for an end to the war in Gaza and for the safe entry of humanitarian aid, amid the already worsening humanitarian situation in the enclave with the arrival of winter.

Catholics fired Pope Francis, the first Jesuit and Latin American in the history of the Church, in 2025. The conclave chose the American Robert Francis Prevost as its successor. He chose the name of Leo XVI. pic.twitter.com/9sS856swAk

— teleSUR English (@telesurenglish) December 25, 2025

The Bishop of Rome also lamented the bloody clashes in Sudan, South Sudan, Mali, Burkina Faso, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. He extended his concern for the serious problems afflicting “the beloved people of Haiti,” demanding an end to “all forms of violence” in that country. He called on political leaders in Latin America to prioritize dialogue for the common good when facing numerous challenges.

Doctors in the besieged Gaza Strip have long warned that they are struggling to save lives as Israel continues to block the entry of essential medical supplies. Throughout Israel’s genocide, now spanning more than two years, Gaza’s healthcare system has been systematically… pic.twitter.com/l4fRinD8D1

— WearThePeace (@WearThePeaceCo) December 25, 2025

The Pope expressed his support for restoring hope to young generations in Myanmar through the path of peace. In his Christmas message, he also wished for “the revival of the long-standing friendship between Thailand and Cambodia, and for the parties involved to continue striving for reconciliation and peace.” The Pope lamented the devastating recent natural disasters that severely affected entire populations in South Asia and Oceania, inviting everyone “to renew with conviction the common commitment to help those who suffer.”

Leo XIV expressed his solidarity with the inhabitants of Gaza, where more than 70,000 Palestinians have died as a result of Israeli attacks. He also expressed his support for “those who suffer from hunger and poverty, such as the Yemeni people,” and for “the many refugees and migrants crossing the Mediterranean or traveling through the Americas.”

Earlier, during the Christmas Mass celebrated at 10:00 a.m. local time in St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV had stated that “when the fragility of others pierces our hearts, when the pain of others shatters our unwavering certainties, then peace begins.” He emphasized that “peace is born amidst ruins that cry out for a new solidarity; it is born of dreams and visions.”

From teleSUR English via This RSS Feed.

During his address at the first National Congress of Nuclear Medicine, Radiotherapy, and Oncology, the president of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI), Mohammad Eslami, stated that the United States uses the rhetoric of nuclear security not to prevent the proliferation of weapons, but to obstruct the progress of sovereign nations.

Eslami emphasized that US administrations seek to maintain hegemony based on force by restricting other countries’ access to strategic technologies.

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In this regard, he cited the US National Security Strategic Document, which identifies artificial intelligence, nuclear technology, and quantum physics as pillars of future progress, and noted that “these should be available to all countries and not monopolized by a single nation.”

Iranian officials say investment in research and nuclear medicine reflects a broader strategy to strengthen national resilience.#Iran https://t.co/rSqRfxcpKL

— Al Mayadeen English (@MayadeenEnglish) December 25, 2025

According to Eslami, the Iranian nuclear program has essential civilian applications, especially in nuclear medicine and cancer treatment, sectors affected by sanctions and international pressure. At the end of November, the head of the AEOI reiterated that the program represents an “inexhaustible path of scientific innovation” aimed at Iran’s social prosperity and technological leadership.

He also denounced Western powers for attempting to hinder Iran’s autonomous capabilities, reaffirming the country’s commitment to expanding its strategic nuclear industry and positioning itself at the forefront of global development.

From teleSUR English via This RSS Feed.

On October 19, the Venezuelan people celebrated the sanctification of José Gregorio Hernández, the “doctor of the poor.”

With his beatification process launched under Pope Francis, the first Venezuelan to hold this honor was in a way an “exception” to the Catholic Church’s rules: the threshold is two “miracles” attributed to the candidate, and Hernández only has one.

Now, during the holiday season and with the year drawing to a close, a second miracle comes to mind: halting a foreign military operation against our country and staving off the collapse of the Venezuelan economy in the wake of the US naval blockade.

Why turn to José Gregorio for this? It actually makes perfect sense. In December 1902, German, British and Italian ships joined forces to blockade Venezuela’s coasts. It was a tactic to force the Cipriano Castro government to pay back exorbitant debts accrued by its predecessors.

In response, Castro issued his famous proclamation, “The foreigner’s insolent boots have desecrated the sacred soil of the Homeland!”, and called for national unity. His call was overwhelmingly backed, even by his adversaries.

Students, professionals and even doctors like José Gregorio Hernández were quick to enlist in a voluntary militia. Nationalist fervor, inspired by the memories of the independence struggle and figures like Bolívar and Ayacucho, contrasted with Venezuela’s military shortcomings in facing the powerful foreign fleets. History does have a way of repeating itself.

In spite of his pacifism, commitment to medicine and strong religious beliefs, Hernández did not waver for a second in answering the nation’s call.

After a lot of “gunboat diplomacy,” the Venezuelan government held its ground and ensured that the debts were subjected to international mediation.

The doctor of the poor, fortunately, did not have to change his stethoscope for a rifle. In contrast, he managed to do what we all want to do today: continue working for our country and its people.

Hernández studied in Europe and was a pioneer of experimental medical research in Venezuela. He created the histology, experimental physiology and bacteriology branch in the Central University of Venezuela. He introduced the use of the microscope and promoted modern scientific methods in the country.

Still, it’s not so much these achievements that have him worshiped by Venezuelans. Rather, it was his immense generosity, which included seeing patients free of charge and even leaving a little bag with money outside his office so that the poorest patients could buy medicines and food. Hernández saw medicine as a tool at the service of the majority.

Therefore, after his death in 1919, former president and writer Rómulo Gallegos wrote: “It wasn’t the common pain of losing a dedicated and eminent citizen, but a deeper, nobler feeling, something that poured in generous torrents.”

As time went on, this feeling would only grow. Thousands of faithful began to attribute “impossible” medical feats to Hernández; they printed out prayer cards with his face, built little statues to put on bedside tables, placed him on personal altars and filled churches with plaques and candles to acknowledge the “divine favors” bestowed.

The myth began to spread amongst the people. In contrast, Catholic authorities spent decades grappling with the phenomenon. But he was already a saint for the masses. Unlike the Church, he actually delivered…

In fact, Venezuelan religious authorities tried to undermine their believers’ wishes by claiming that Hernández could not be a saint. They claimed his figure was used by “sorcerers,” they disparaged him by claiming he was gay, forbade priests from naming him in public events, and even attempted to censor a song by Puerto Rican musician Daniel Santos dedicated to him.

But Venezuelans don’t really care that José Gregorio had no known love relationships, that he liked to dye his grey hairs or that he dressed outlandishly. On the contrary, we think that is awesome. There is nothing more Venezuelan than ignoring the norms!

The Venezuelan people looked at his virtues and, just in case, made up new ones, until he was consolidated as a religious, kind and serene myth, one who was dedicated to the common good. In the “popular pantheon” he stands alongside figures like independence hero Simón Bolívar, a military genius who traveled the entire continent on horseback several times.

Some historians posit that the peoples create myths that work as role models and express their inner beliefs. I think that’s a correct and very inspired conclusion. In that light, we have quite a spectrum of heroes. It goes from Bolívar, a republican warrior, all the way to José Gregorio Hernández, the pacifist healer. On one hand, a man who fought to liberate people from colonialism, and on the other, a man who heals them; one who proffered great victory speeches and one who triumphed quietly in a laboratory. But one thing they, and all our other heroes, have in common is that they never hesitated to defend the homeland against outside threats.

It is worth clarifying that the peoples, and not “miracles,” are responsible for turning the wheels of history. But with a bloodthirsty maniac like Trump in the White House, there is no harm in reaching out to divine entities as well…

José Gregorio Hernández, like Bolívar and so many others, bequeathed us a lot more than statues and official celebrations. They left us the example of fighting for something bigger than us, a nation that belongs to everyone. And facing a real imperialist threat, resistance is not optional. The struggle continues.

Jessica Dos Santos is a Venezuelan university professor, journalist and writer whose work has appeared in outlets such as RT, Épale CCS magazine and Investig’Action. She is the author of the book “Caracas en Alpargatas” (2018). She’s won the Aníbal Nazoa Journalism Prize in 2014 and received honorable mentions in the Simón Bolívar National Journalism prize in 2016 and 2018.

The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Venezuelanalysis editorial staff.

The post Venezuela Hopes for a New José Gregorio Hernández Miracle appeared first on Venezuelanalysis.

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