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Every day, President Claudia Sheinbaum gives a morning presidential press conference and Mexico Solidarity Media posts English language summaries, translated by Mexico Solidarity’s Pedro Gellert Frank. Previous press conference summaries are available here.

Mexico Embraces You: Progress Report

The Interior Ministry (SEGOB) reported that in 2025, the Mexico Embraces You program received 145,537 repatriated citizens. The country has 9 attention centers and has provided over 846,000 services to ensure a dignified return for those being repatriated.

Dignified Return and Support for Mexican Nationals

The National Immigration Institute (INAMI) reported that, under instructions from the President, it is attending to returning Mexican nationals with a humanitarian approach. It highlighted progress in the Winter Heroes and Heroines Operation 2025 program and highway monitoring, in coordination with the National Guard and state governments, providing support and protection for fellow citizens.

Strengthened Consular Protection and More Efficient Services

The Foreign Relations Ministry reported that the “Mexico with an M for Migrant” raffle raised 115 million pesos (US$6.39 million). The funds will be allocated to strengthen legal representation, consular protection, visits to detention centers, and humanitarian assistance for Mexican migrants in the United States.

The Consular Attention Protocol guarantees uniform services and reduces waiting times at consulates. In 2025, over 5.3 million paperwork procedures were carried out in the consular network, mostly in the United States, strengthening protection for Mexican nationals.

Secure Remittances and Strong Finances

Sheinbaum emphasized that FINABIEN ensures that remittances arrive complete, secure, and without excessive commission fees. In 2025, over 91,000 FINABIEN Paisano cards were distributed. She pointed out that it is the best option for sending remittances: for US$400, FINABIEN delivers 7,936.30 pesos.

Migrating is Not a Crime

Sheinbaum declared that criminalizing migration is inhumane and does not solve the problem; the solution lies in combating poverty and inequality. She rejected Donald Trump’s statements and emphasized that the United States was built by immigrants, noting that during President Andrés Manuel López Obrador’s administration, the migration of Mexicans to that country decreased.

Foreign Policy: No to Intervention

The President said it would be very serious if Mexico were to support any foreign intervention, as this would violate the Constitution. She reiterated that the country does not agree with interventions or interference, independently of President Nicolás Maduro or the Venezuelan government. She added that Mexico will always defend peaceful conflict resolution through UN mechanisms.

Dialogue Prevents Road Blockades

The Mexican government reached agreements with truckers following dialogue roundtables that allowed for a peaceful and constructive exchange, preventing blockades on roads. Minutes of the meetings detailing the commitments adopted were signed and it was reiterated that the Government is attentive to the protesters’ demands. Authorities called for not relaunching the highway blockades and always prioritizing dialogue.

• 

  Mañanera

  People’s Mañanera December 18

  December 18, 2025December 18, 2025

  President Sheinbaum’s daily press conference, with comments on repatriation program, consular protection, remittances, and opposing US intervention.

• 

  Analysis

  Towards a Revolution of Consciousness in 4th Transformation Diplomacy

  December 18, 2025

  The pending task is to build a revolutionary international diplomacy that breaks with neoliberal inertia, imperialist interference, and is far from silent obedience to organizations captured by private interests, and the reproduction of a geopolitics based on dispossession, lies, and the systemic violence of transnational capital.

• 

  Labor | News Briefs

  Cananea Strike Against Tycoon Germán Larrea Ends After 18 Years on the Picket Line

  December 18, 2025December 18, 2025

  Severance pay, social security, and pensions for unemployment and widowhood are guaranteed for the miners in Sonora.

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The province, which hosts more than 20 percent of Cuban beaches, shows a sustained recovery of foreign visitors, highlighting the notable presence of Russian travelers and the expectation for new flows.

The infrastructure is being prepared in conjunction with the Ignacio Agramonte International Airport, which will resume direct commercial operations from December, crucial for tourists to step directly into the territory.

Specialized training is a pillar: the Formatur School annually graduates about 125 professionals in cooking, reception and gastronomy, with 62 percent of teachers master and based at the beach poles.

The strategy includes a strong command of languages and a diploma in administration for young people, ensuring the service standards demanded by international tourism.

In investments, the Cubanacan chain operates five hotels with foreign brands such as Resonant and Sanctuary, after investments of more than 300 million pesos since 2024.

The reopening of the Hotel Costa Blanca in Santa Lucía and the reactivation of 35 percent of the Tararaco hotel plant, consolidating this pole of sun and beach.

The province extends its offer beyond the sun and beach, integrating city tourism -with its World Heritage Historic Center-, rural and events.

Science and innovation projects such as the sustainable tourism product “Blue Client” and the transition to renewable energy matrices set the standard.

The territorial delegation of Tourism works with the University of Camagüey to exploit the potential, identifying estates for new product designs.

With this comprehensive strategy, Camagüey consolidates its profile as a diverse destination, prepared for a high season that prioritizes quality and international insertion.

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Prime Minister Manuel Marrero informed the deputies of the progress of the Macroeconomic Stabilization Program.

On this topic, he stated that the consumer price index closed in November with a year-on-year variation of 14.5 percent, a result that, although slowing, is still considered high.

B He also affirmed that the money supply has increased by 135 million compared to last year, demonstrating an excess of money in the economy. V Marrero reaffirmed the approval of the new mechanism for controlling and allocating foreign currency, published on December 11 in the Official Gazette. “Partial dollarization is a temporary but necessary measure to stimulate economic activity, foster supply chains, and increase foreign currency earnings,” he stated.

He also reported the approval of 45 closed schemes, of which 31 are currently operational, and the consolidation of fiscal control measures. This latter activity resulted in identified debts of 9,833,774,000 pesos (4,159,000,000 pesos higher than reported in July); the collection of 53.4 percent of the tax debt; and the temporary or permanent closure of more than 23,000 establishments.

“We are creating the right conditions to move to a higher stage in the implementation of the country’s Macroeconomic Stabilization Program,” he concluded.

jdt/arc/bbb

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To this end, Prime Minister Manuel Marrero informed the deputies of the progress of the Macroeconomic Stabilization Program.

On this subject, he stated that the consumer price index closed in November with an annual change of 14.5 percent, a result that, although it slows down, is still considered high.

He also stated that the money in circulation grew by 135 million compared to last year, which shows an excess of money in the economy.

Marrero ratified the approval of the new mechanism for control and allocation of foreign exchange, published on December 11 in the Official Gazette.

“Partial dollarization is a temporary but necessary measure to boost economic activity, promote linkages and increase foreign currency revenues,” he said.

Similarly reported the approval of 45 closed schemes, of which 31 are operating and consolidation of fiscal control actions.

The results of this last activity produced 9.833 774 billion pesos debt (4.159 billion pesos higher than reported in July); the collection of 53.4 percent of the tax debt and the temporary or permanent closure of more than 23 000 establishments.

“We are creating the favorable conditions for moving to a higher stage in the implementation of the country’s Macroeconomic Stabilization Program,” he concluded.

abo/arc/bbb

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With this act, the assembly has 464 of 470 seats occupied, with a composition of 267 women; 135 of the total are between 19 and 40 years old.

At the meeting, MP Litza Elena Gonzalez expressed her commitment to the country and population of the new members: Vivian de Guadalupe Leal, Yipsy Romo, Oscar Perez-Oliva, Yasel Toledo, Niurka Garcia, Ana Maria Baro and Roberto Javier Manuel.

At the opening of the meeting, which will discuss core issues for society during the day, the president of ANPP, Esteban Lazo, highlighted the complex national scenario in which this session is held, aggravated by the intensification of the US blockade.

In plenary session, the deputies adopted a declaration condemning the escalation of aggression by the United States against Venezuela, and ratified the defense of Latin America and the Caribbean as zone of peace.

abo/evm Zone

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The National Assembly of People’s Power of the Republic of Cuba issued a statement strongly condemning “the recent act of piracy and maritime terrorism carried out by the United States government in international waters of the Caribbean Sea” on December 10, when US military forces attacked an oil tanker near the Venezuelan coast.

RELATED:

Cuba Rejects EU Extension of Sanctions Against Venezuela

In the statement, Cuban deputies reject the imposition of a “so-called naval blockade against the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela,” a measure that, according to the text, “constitutes a very serious violation of International Law and the Charter of the United Nations,” as well as representing a direct threat to regional peace.

The #US president declares a naval #blockade on oil exports from #Venezuela. The announcement has been rejected by the Venezuelan government and other countries. pic.twitter.com/NnHTidZU8U

— teleSUR English (@telesurenglish) December 18, 2025

The statement emphasizes that these actions are part of an “escalation of aggression by the United States government against the sister Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela,” within the framework of a military deployment that, according to Havana, is “disproportionate and unjustified” and jeopardizes the stability of the Caribbean.

The document also states that the assault on the vessel, the seizure of its cargo, and the pretexts used to obstruct Venezuelan oil trade demonstrate “Washington’s true objective: to seize control of its immense natural resources.”

For Cuba, this strategy is part of the so-called “new National Security Strategy” of the United States and what it describes as the “Trump Corollary,” which reaffirms the nefarious Monroe Doctrine.

🔴🇨🇺Cuba respalda al Gobierno de Maduro frente al bloqueo naval de EEUU🇺🇸

🔹El presidente de Cuba, Miguel Díaz-Canel, ha repudiado el “bloqueo naval” impuesto por EE.UU. contra Venezuela🇻🇪 y expresado apoyo al Gobierno del país bolivariano.

🔗https://t.co/l5YOaEksH2 pic.twitter.com/H4zh4QdMbR

— HispanTV (@Nexo_Latino) December 17, 2025

The Cuban National Assembly emphasizes that the reported acts flagrantly violate the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and the Convention for the Suppression of Unlawful Acts against the Safety of Maritime Navigation, setting a “very negative precedent for free international trade and freedom of navigation between sovereign nations.”

Recalling that Latin America and the Caribbean was proclaimed a “Zone of Peace” at the Second CELAC Summit held in Havana in 2014, the Cuban Parliament urges the peoples and parliaments of the world to “firmly condemn this escalation of aggression against the Bolivarian nation” and to mobilize against “these practices of modern piracy.”

From teleSUR English via This RSS Feed.

The confiscation of those assets may lead to a financial snowball effect.

On Thursday, Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever stated that guarantees proposed by the European Union (EU) for using frozen Russian assets to finance Ukraine were “still insufficient.” He warned that Belgium would not bear the risks alone.

RELATED:

EU Leaders Weigh Use of Frozen Russian Assets to Finance Ukraine

Addressing the Belgian parliament ahead of an EU summit, De Wever said he had not seen a final text from the EU on guarantees that could persuade Belgium to agree on, and expected that clearer documents would be presented later in the day.

EU leaders will meet in Brussels on Thursday and Friday to mull plans to use frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine. The bloc has immobilized around 210 billion euros (US$246 billion) in assets belonging to Russia’s central bank, with about 90 percent held within the EU by Belgium-based Euroclear.

De Wever told Belgian lawmakers that the confiscation of Russia’s assets within the EU may “lead to a snowball effect, when Euroclear will no longer be able to meet the expectations of its customers, and the stability of the institution will be jeopardized. And that would be a financial nightmare.”

EU divided over Russian assets

Leaders meet in Brussels for decision on Russian frozen assets

William Denselow joins @Mohammed11Saleh for more on this pic.twitter.com/nF14fBLNui

— WION (@WIONews) December 18, 2025

De Wever noted that the current EU proposal may risk damaging Euroclear’s reputation, undermining financial market confidence in Europe and violating international law, Politico Europe reported.

He acknowledged that there was a group of EU countries backing the reparation loan idea, including Germany, Poland, and the Baltic and Nordic states, describing them as a “large and powerful bloc,” and the European Commission was also inclined in that direction.

At an EU summit in October, leaders failed to reach an agreement on a “reparation loan” scheme due to objections from Belgium and other countries.

#FromTheSouth News Bits | Russia: An apartment building was damaged after a nighttime drone attack in the province of Tver, less than 200 kilometers northwest of Moscow. pic.twitter.com/CfTYyz5KSl

— teleSUR English (@telesurenglish) December 15, 2025

teleSUR/ JF

Source: Xinhua – Politico

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The report stated that the representatives of both countries will meet as part of the efforts by the administration of US President Donald Trump to end the nearly four-year war between Kiev and Moscow.

White House Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, entrepreneur Jared Kushner (Trump’s son-in-law), and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held talks in Berlin on Sunday to reach an agreement on the conflict in the Slavic country.

Witkoff and Kushner visited Moscow on December 2 to debate with Russian President Vladimir Putin several issues, but primarily the conflict in Ukraine, focusing on a proposal promoted by the United States since mid-November.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Witkoff met in Florida with Zelensky’s envoys on November 30 to discuss a possible end to hostilities.

Russia has been conducting a special military operation in Ukraine since February 24, 2022, to protect the population from “the Kiev government’s genocide,” according to President Vladimir Putin.

It also aims to counter national security risks posed by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)’s eastward expansion.

abo/iff/npg/gfa

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“We are observing an escalation of tensions in the region, which we consider potentially very dangerous,” the spokesman declared this Thursday at his usual press briefing.

The high-ranking Kremlin official urged caution to prevent the situation from spiraling out of control.

“We call on all countries in the region to exercise restraint to avoid an unpredictable development,” he said.

Peskov noted that Venezuela is “an ally, a partner” with whom Russia “maintains constant contact, particularly at the highest level.”

The United States continues its deployment of military forces near Venezuela and a campaign of attacks against vessels allegedly originating from this South American country and involved in drug trafficking.

It has also ordered the complete closure of airspace around Venezuela.

abo/arm/mem/gfa

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Electricity was restored in both provinces, which had been without power since Tuesday afternoon due to the dismantling of five transmission towers belonging to the National Electricity Distribution Company (ENDE) on the Sumbe/Benguela line.

The incident, described as sabotage, affected the local population, public services, and businesses, but the efforts of ENDE and National Electricity Transmission Network (RNT) technicians allowed them to restore power in a relatively short time, considering the extent of the damage.

The investigation is ongoing, and the act has generated strong public condemnation.

According to ENDE, these actions resulted in a loss exceeding 400 million kwanzas (more than $438,000), while so far this year the company has suffered losses exceeding $50 million for the same reason.

jdt/arm/mem/kmg

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Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun reiterated a statement made earlier by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to his Venezuelan counterpart in a telephone conversation the previous day.

“China opposes all acts of unilateralism and bullying, and supports countries in defending their sovereignty and national dignity. Venezuela has the right to independently develop mutually beneficial cooperation with other countries,” he said.

The spokesman added that the international community “can understand and support Venezuela’s position of protecting its legitimate rights and interests.”

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro warned UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres about the escalating threats against his country by the United States and their serious implications for regional peace.

Numerous organizations and countries have denounced the naval blockade and the forced appropriation of Venezuelan resources, announced by US President Donald Trump, as an act of international aggression.

Beijing has repeatedly reiterated its categorical opposition to interference by external forces in Venezuela’s internal affairs under any pretext, while also rejecting the use or threat of force against the South American country.

jdt/mem/idm

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The NGO also reported that the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are holding 73 doctors and healthcare workers in Nyala, the capital of South Darfur, in violation of their rights.

The Sudan Doctors’ Network demanded that the warring forces cease these violations, release those being held, and protect healthcare personnel.

It also urged international organizations to take measures to contribute to the protection of healthcare professionals.

Since mid-April 2023, this African nation has been engulfed in civil war, following escalating power struggles between Army Chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and Rapid Support Forces leader Mohamed Hamdan Daglo.

The fighting has already destroyed countless livelihoods, plunging the country into a complex spiral of hunger and death.

jdt/arm/mem/fvt

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According to reports from the state news agency SANA, a force consisting of seven military vehicles entered the village of Al-Hiran, searched a house, and arrested a young man, whose whereabouts are currently unknown.

Simultaneously, another unit composed of two tanks, two bulldozers, and an armored vehicle infiltrated Al-Daraiya Hill, west of the village of Al-Muallaqa, where it carried out demolition work at an abandoned military post.

During the operation, Israeli soldiers fired shots into the air to intimidate residents, generating fear among the civilian population, local sources said.

On the same day, Israeli forces attacked Tel Ahmar al-Sharqi, south of Quneitra, with three artillery shells, according to a correspondent for Syria TV.

The shelling followed a similar attack on the Saisoun site, in the western part of the neighboring province of Daraa.

Tel Ahmar al-Sharqi is located next to the Tel Ahmar al-Gharbi base, where Israeli troops have been stationed for months following previous incursions into Syrian territory, that is why,

Syrian authorities have denounced Israel’s policy of systematic aggression.

arm/mem/fm

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The parlamentarians expressed their disagreement with the recent act of piracy and maritime terrorism carried out by the US government in international waters, as well as the decision to impose a naval blockade against the Bolivarian nation in order to prevent the free trade of hydrocarbons. These events “constitute a very serious violation of international law and the United Nations Charter, while disrupting peace in the region,” said the statement.

The actions are in keeping with provocations and aggressions against the South American nation, which have escalated with a disproportionate and unjustified military deployment in the Caribbean, acts which also violate the Convention for the Suppression of Unlawful Acts against the Safety of Maritime Navigation.

They also create a negative precedent for free international trade and freedom of navigation.

“The seizure of the ship, the theft of its cargo and the pretexts used to block oil shipments reveal the true objective that Washington pursues in its action, which is no other than taking control of its immense natural resources, through an increase in the military presence of the United States in the region and with the use of instruments of force, as part of its new strategy of National Security and the Trump Corollary that claims the disastrous Monroe Doctrine”, dictates the document.

Parliament remembered the declaration of Latin America and the Caribbean as a zone of peace, proclaiming that it is still in force and should be respected.

They also called on the peoples of the world to join this condemnation, since it is a duty to mobilize against the threat and use of force against Venezuela in defense of the peace, security and stability of Our America.

abo/mem/bbb

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The Government reached preliminary approval for the 2026 Budget, the first of the Milei era, but suffered a key defeat: the opposition managed to completely overturn Chapter 11, which revoked university funding and the disability emergency declaration, two laws that the ruling party insists on violating.

After a session that began at 2:00 p.m. local time on Tuesday and concluded early this morning, the executive’s allied leaders offered concessions of all kinds to governors and allied blocs to protect the entire chapter.

However, at the time of the vote, they only garnered 117 affirmative votes, while the opposition obtained 123 rejections and also added two abstentions.

This is the third time in six months that the government has lost on university funding and the disability emergency, counting the original passage of the laws, the legislative revocation of the presidential veto, and now the attempted repeal via the budget.

A majority of deputies also rejected eliminating the automatic adjustments to the Universal Child Allowance and other family allowances.

Deputy Cecilia Moreu celebrated this opposition victory on X. “They tried to play dirty, and it backfired.”

jdt/arm/mem/mh

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The session is monitored by videoconference by the leader of the Revolution, Raul Castro, and more than 470 members of parliament in their respective provinces.

The agenda of the meeting includes the evaluation of the achievement of the measures of the Government Program to correct distortions and give a new boost to the economy, as well as the election of new members of the State Council.

The deputies will analyze the bills: General of Science, Technology and Innovation and Exceptional Reduction of the Current Term of Delegates to the Municipal Assemblies of People’s Power.

During the day will also be submitted the goals and targets for the economy of 2026; the bill of the State Budget for next year, among other issues.

Yesterday, President Miguel Diaz-Canel urged deputies to discuss the country’s problems transparently during the regular session.

“We continue to encourage the open, frank and constant debate, from the point of view of revolutionary ethics, to build among all the country that we dream,” said the head of state on social network X.

abo/mem/mks

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The news website El 19 published a statement from the Ministry of Health (MINSA), which highlights that a total of 1,865,213 people, including children, adolescents, and young adults, received care during this period.

MINSA specified that 50,215 of these individuals were identified as having risk factors, such as obesity and a family history of diabetes.

It added that, as a result of the evaluations carried out, 128 cases of children with the disease were confirmed, and these children are guaranteed timely medical attention and specialized follow-up for disease management.

The institution emphasized that the campaign’s fundamental objective is the early detection of diabetes and its risk factors, as well as the promotion of healthy lifestyle habits from an early age.

“With firm commitment, we will continue developing the National Diabetes-Free Campaign to guarantee early detection and provide comprehensive healthcare for our people,” it stressed.

The Ministry of Health’s campaign aims to reach 2.5 million children and adolescents up to 20 years of age, as part of the Sandinista government’s commitment to preventive healthcare and the well-being of future generations.

jdt/arm/mem/ybv

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Industry showed little interest, citing sanctions and political risk tied to regime-change strategy.

Politico reported that President Donald Trump’s administration has initiated direct contacts with major U.S. oil companies to explore a possible return to Venezuela once President Nicolas Maduro is removed from power.

RELATED:

Russia Warns Trump Against ‘Fatal Mistake’ in Venezuela

The Trump administration has sounded out companies such as ExxonMobil and ConocoPhillips about their willingness to resume operations in Venezuelan territory in a “post-Maduro” scenario. However, the industry’s response has been negative, due to low crude prices, instability created by sanctions and the political risk associated with Washington’s regime-change strategy.

Led by the State Department, the initiative constitutes new evidence that the escalation of diplomatic, military, and economic pressure against Venezuela is directly linked to control of the world’s largest proven oil reserves.

Currently, low crude prices give Trump unusual leeway to intensify pressure on Caracas without immediate fear of higher fuel prices in the U.S. market. At the same time, those prices discourage companies from investing in a Venezuelan industry battered by years of sanctions and financial blockade.

It's pathetic. Only 3 Republicans–Massie, Bacon and MTG–dared to vote with the Constitution to stop Trump's unauthorized attacks on Venezuela. 70% of Americans don't want war w/ Venezuela. So who are these 213 members representing? Trump? Oil companies? Weapons industry? pic.twitter.com/pQaCJQkuD2

— Medea Benjamin (@medeabenjamin) December 17, 2025

“There isn’t much interest from the industry,” a source cited by the U.S. outlet acknowledged, noting that there are more profitable and less risky options in other countries, while Venezuela remains the target of an aggressive policy of containment and threats.

In late November, U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright and other officials also facilitated a meeting in Washington with the participation of representatives of U.S. oil companies and sectors of the Venezuelan far-right opposition, aimed at discussing a possible corporate return under new political conditions.

In parallel with these contacts, Trump publicly announced a naval blockade against vessels transporting Venezuelan oil, stating that the United States “will not allow a hostile regime to keep our oil,” a declaration that Caracas and various countries have described as a direct threat to sovereignty and an act of modern piracy.

The timing of the tanker blockade, U.S. military operations in regional waters and contacts with energy corporations reinforces the thesis that policy toward Venezuela reflects a comprehensive pressure strategy designed to force a change of government favorable to Washington’s energy interests.

Donald Trump imposed a naval blockade on Venezuela and admitted that he wants to take the country's oil and give it to US corporations:

"They took our oil rights. We had a lot of oil there. They threw our companies out, and we want it back". pic.twitter.com/JQhJRNFeIy

— Ben Norton (@BenjaminNorton) December 18, 2025

Although companies such as Chevron maintain limited operations under special licenses, most U.S. oil companies recall the expropriations that occurred during the government of the late Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez. They express caution about reinvesting in a country subject to sanctions, military threats and a persistent narrative of destabilization.

Experts cited by the U.S. outlet warn that there is a significant gap between the White House’s desires and economic and geopolitical reality.

From Caracas, the Venezuelan government has repeatedly denounced the blockade and sanctions as part of a strategy to seize its natural resources, while reiterating its decision to maintain crude exports, defend freedom of navigation and uphold international law.

The disclosure of these corporate contacts adds to recent international condemnations, including those from Russia and other countries, warning of the danger of a broader escalation in Latin America.

It's not just US piracy against Venezuela that has people in South America worried. The Trump administration's announcement that it's bringing back the bloody Monroe Doctrine has set off alarms across the continent. My story @telesurenglish pic.twitter.com/wudMYrzvdM

— BrianMier (@BrianMteleSUR) December 18, 2025

teleSUR/ JF

Source: Politico – teleSUR

From teleSUR English via This RSS Feed.

Kremlin spokesman Peskov urges the U.S. to be cautious.

On Thursday, Russian Army Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov said the U.S. blockade against Venezuela violates international law.

RELATED:

Russia Warns Trump Against ‘Fatal Mistake’ in Venezuela

“The most alarming situation is unfolding around Venezuela, where Washington has set as its goal the removal of the country’s president, who was legitimately elected. At the same time, steps are being taken to block maritime traffic and air flights in the region, which violate international law,” Gerasimov commented during a meeting with foreign military attaches.

Also on Thursday, the Kremlin urged the United States to exercise caution regarding the situation surrounding Venezuela, warning it could have serious implications for the entire Western Hemisphere.

“We are observing an escalation of tensions in the region and consider this potentially very dangerous. Venezuela is our ally and partner,” said Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov, adding that Moscow maintains regular, high-level contacts with Caracas.

Donald Trump imposed a naval blockade on Venezuela and admitted that he wants to take the country's oil and give it to US corporations:

"They took our oil rights. We had a lot of oil there. They threw our companies out, and we want it back". pic.twitter.com/JQhJRNFeIy

— Ben Norton (@BenjaminNorton) December 18, 2025

Since August, U.S. President Donald Trump has deployed a strong U.S. military presence in the Caribbean under the pretext of combating international drug trafficking. On Tuesday, he announced a “total blockade” against sanctioned oil tankers entering and leaving Venezuela.

The following day, the U.S. president went further, claiming that Venezuela had stripped U.S. companies of oil rights and saying he wants them back.

In response to these acts of aggression and harassment, Venezuela requested an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council. The date for the meeting, however, has not yet been set.

It's not just US piracy against Venezuela that has people in South America worried. The Trump administration's announcement that it's bringing back the bloody Monroe Doctrine has set off alarms across the continent. My story @telesurenglish pic.twitter.com/wudMYrzvdM

— BrianMier (@BrianMteleSUR) December 18, 2025

teleSUR/ JF

Source: EFE

From teleSUR English via This RSS Feed.

There is no longer any room for interpretation. Recent events have confirmed, beyond doubt, that the United States intends to dominate Latin America and the Caribbean and to crush opposition, even by using military means.

Honduras offers a clear example. Days before the November 30 vote, US President Trump’s flagrant intervention indisputably altered the outcome, leaving the election unresolved weeks later. My colleague Kurt Hackbarth aptly coined the term “preemptive fraud.”

“The method?” writes Hackbarth. “Blackmailing voters at their weakest points — debt, migration, violence — to force the desired electoral outcome. Cleaner, without the need to get one’s hands dirty with ballot stuffers, armies or clandestine operations.”

Given its success in Honduras and Argentina and the lack of any serious regional or institutional pushback, rest assured that, moving forward, Washington will deploy this tactic widely.

The best way to inoculate a population against Washington’s latest method of deception is through deep, widespread political consciousness — so that the people will recognize attempts to deny their right to choose their own destiny and reject those attempts forthright.

But even a conscious and mobilized population doesn’t guarantee a country’s sovereignty. US imperialism has repeatedly shown that it won’t tolerate counter-hegemonic governments winning at the ballot box, which brings us to Venezuela.

For decades, the US has sought to oust Venezuela’s leftist Bolivarian Revolution, using every tactic in the playbook — from coups, illegal sanctions, and now to outright piracy on the high seas. This week, the US seized an oil tanker off Venezuela’s coast carrying roughly $78 million in crude oil, a wanton act of piracy. Furthermore, Trump threatened to impose a de facto US Navy-backed oil blockade on Venezuela.

Make no mistake, a blockade not sanctioned by the UN Security Council or imposed outside an armed conflict is illegal under international law, as are the executions through drone strikes on small boats carried out by the US. Washington openly flouts international law, aided by US media efforts to manufacture consent through barefaced lies, claiming that unilateral US coercive measures constitute “international sanctions.”

A US naval blockade on Venezuela would constitute collective punishment, another crime against humanity. Venezuelan economist Francisco Rodríguez warns a blockade would trigger another massive economic crisis. Venezuela already has to jump through US-imposed hurdles to sell its most important export, oil. Following Wednesday’s seizure, Asian buyers are demanding deeper discounts on Venezuelan crude. By cutting off oil revenues, Trump is increasing pressure to remove elected President Nicolás Maduro from office.

Washington loves to label countries that defy it as “rogue states,” but the country posing a threat to its neighbors is the United States — and the danger is rising. The National Security Strategy for 2025, published earlier this month, confirms a renewed US focus on the so-called Western Hemisphere, aimed at rebuilding US capacity to contest global hegemony amid its rivalry with China. Read in tandem with the “Trump Corollary” to the Monroe Doctrine, the strategy represents a massive threat to the sovereignty of Latin American and Caribbean countries.

The US, this “rogue state,” has used every possible means to interfere in the internal affairs of Latin American countries and now threatens direct land invasions. Yet, the region remains woefully unprepared. Time is running out to forge a coherent regional response to the threat the US poses to all.

José Luis Granados Ceja is a journalist and political analyst based in Mexico City. He is co-host of the Mexican public television show Sin Muros, was staff writer with Venezuela Analysis, contributor to Drop Site News, and writes a monthly opinion column for the Mexico Solidarity Project and also co-hosts the Mexico Solidarity Project’s weekly podcast, Soberanía.

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  Culture | News Briefs

  Mexican Cinema, Receiving Increased Incentives, on the Rise at the Box Office

  December 18, 2025

  Mexican cinema represented 35 percent of the total films shown and accounted for 16 percent of annual attendance last year.

• 

  Analysis

  Rogue States & Pirates

  December 18, 2025December 18, 2025

  The US has used every possible means to interfere in the internal affairs of Latin American countries & now threatens direct land invasions. Yet, the region remains woefully unprepared. Time is running out to forge a coherent regional response.

• 

  News Briefs

  FIFA, Flush with Government Subsidies, Will Distribute Only 5% of 2026 World Cup Profits

  December 18, 2025

  The international criminal consortium FIFA, which debased itself even further by awarding genocide manager Donald Trump a “peace prize”, is expected to make upwards of $11 to $14 billion from the trinational spectacle, whose matches are priced beyond the means of most Mexicans.

The post Rogue States & Pirates appeared first on Mexico Solidarity Media.

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This article by Jorge Caballero originally appeared in the December 18, 2025 edition of La Jornada, Mexico’s premier left wing daily newspaper.

Led by the Ministry of Culture of the Mexican government, the press conference for the 2025 Film Balance was held yesterday, where the Mexican Institute of Cinematography (IMCINE), National Film Archive, Center for Cinematographic Training (CCC) and Studios Churubusco shared the achievements and progress of each agency in this past year, as well as the plans for the immediate future that have been projected to improve domestic cinematography.

With a positive assessment, the announcement by the Secretary of Culture, Claudia Curiel de Icaza, that the new Federal Film Law will be presented to the Congress of the Union next February, was highlighted. Curiel de Icaza mentioned that “it is a priority law, which has been lobbied for and will be enacted in February.” She also emphasized the figures showing an increase in box office revenue for Mexican films, the increased support for the film industry through education, creation, exhibition, and preservation of Mexican cinema, among other topics.

It is worth mentioning that for the first time in a decade, the amounts for Eficine increased; in August, the Chapultepec National Film Archive fully reopened; the CCC signed an agreement with the SEP to achieve certification of its entire academic offering; Studios Churubusco strengthened and generated new collaborative relationships, for example.

Stop-motion film, Soy Frankelda

Changing Narratives

When asked directly about the transformation of narratives in the Mexican film industry and the discontent among some sectors regarding how things have been done, Curiel de Icaza responded: “It’s too early to say whether there’s a complete change in the film narrative… not everyone will ever be happy. But we’re here to talk and to say that support has been expanded, that the law is coming, that work is underway to democratize and improve the application process. There’s still work to be done, and everything can be improved…” She emphasized: “We know there’s a long road ahead, but there is support and political will that begins with President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo.”

For her part, Marina Stavenhagen, head of the National Film Archive, reaffirmed her commitment to the promotion, preservation, and expansion of film culture. She stated that 31,321 screenings were held, attracting 1,351,116 attendees. A total of 218 films premiered, 77 of which were Mexican, strengthening the presence of Mexican cinema within a diverse and international program.

It should be emphasized that Mexican cinema represented 35 percent of the total films shown and accounted for 16 percent of annual attendance.

Estudios Churubusco

Among the titles with the largest audience, Soy Frankelda, by brothers Arturo and Rodolfo Ambriz, stood out, becoming the most watched Mexican film, with 45,742 attendees.

Daniela Alatorre, head of the Mexican Film Institute (IMCINE), stated that for the first time in a decade, the amounts for the Tax Incentive for Investment Projects for National Film Production and Distribution (EFICINE) have increased. For the 2026 call for proposals, an increase in the maximum amounts per project was approved: from 20 to 25 million pesos for production and from two to three million pesos for distribution.

He also mentioned that “support for filmmaking by indigenous and Afro-descendant communities was maintained through the Incentive for Audiovisual Creation in Mexico and Central America for Indigenous and Afro-descendant Communities (ECAMC). In 2025, the highest number of projects received support since the incentive’s inception.”

The director of the CCC, Dinorah Ramírez, highlighted that 50 years after its founding, the film school has consolidated itself as the space for training new perspectives on Mexican cinema, since “in 2025 an agreement was signed with the Ministry of Public Education to achieve the certification of the entire academic offering; online training was increased, with the objective that learning and making films is an accessible right for all communities in the country.”

Finally, Cristian Calónico, director of Estudios Churubusco, highlighted the unveiling of a commemorative National Lottery ticket; the cancellation of a postage stamp; three live musical concerts with the support of the Society of Authors and Composers of Mexico (SACM); the publication of two books dedicated to the memory and history of the workers of Estudios Churubusco; and the Coral of Honor awarded by the 46th edition of the Havana Film Festival in Cuba.

• 

  Culture | News Briefs

  Mexican Cinema, Receiving Increased Incentives, on the Rise at the Box Office

  December 18, 2025

  Mexican cinema represented 35 percent of the total films shown and accounted for 16 percent of annual attendance last year.

• 

  Analysis

  Rogue States & Pirates

  December 18, 2025December 18, 2025

  The US has used every possible means to interfere in the internal affairs of Latin American countries & now threatens direct land invasions. Yet, the region remains woefully unprepared. Time is running out to forge a coherent regional response.

• 

  News Briefs

  FIFA, Flush with Government Subsidies, Will Distribute Only 5% of 2026 World Cup Profits

  December 18, 2025

  The international criminal consortium FIFA, which debased itself even further by awarding genocide manager Donald Trump a “peace prize”, is expected to make upwards of $11 to $14 billion from the trinational spectacle, whose matches are priced beyond the means of most Mexicans.

The post Mexican Cinema, Receiving Increased Incentives, on the Rise at the Box Office appeared first on Mexico Solidarity Media.

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In this year-end episode of Soberanía: The Mexican Politics Podcast, co-hosts José Luis Granados Ceja and Kurt Hackbarth close out the year with an in-depth analysis of Mexico’s newly announced tariff package, examining the policy debate behind it and the pros and cons of this strategy.

The conversation then turns to the U.S. move to frame fentanyl as a “weapon of mass destruction,” exploring what that designation could mean for bilateral relations and why Mexico has reason to be wary given how similar declarations have been used in the past.

In the third segment, the hosts look ahead to 2026. What’s in store for Sheinbaum’s government? The episode wraps up with the return of Losers and Haters, where this week’s target is—once again—the New York Times.

Support Soberanía’s Holiday Fundraising Drive

• 

  Analysis

  Tariffs & Industrial Sabotage

  December 16, 2025December 16, 2025

  The government’s stated reasoning for anti-China tariffs rings hollow when considering the flood of cheap US imports destroying the Mexican countryside and production dominated by US corporations exploiting Mexican labour.

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  News Briefs

  China Calls on Mexico to Reconsider Tariffs on its Products

  December 11, 2025December 11, 2025

  Under Article 32.10 of the USMCA, Mexico can only pursue a free trade agreement with a non-market economy like the People’s Republic of China if the US government approves.

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  News Briefs

  Mexico’s Tariff Hikes on China Will Cause Major Disruptions for Key Mexican Industries

  December 11, 2025

  Manufacturers reliant on Chinese inputs warned of rising costs, and lawmakers, including some from Morena, sought to avoid a dispute with a nation many consider crucial to Mexico’s trade diversification.

The post To Tariff or Not to Tariff? Soberanía 89 appeared first on Mexico Solidarity Media.

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This article by Erendira Palma Hernández originally appeared in the December 18, 2025 edition of La Jornada, Mexico’s premier left wing daily newspaper.

Mexico City. A record $727 million will be distributed as part of the prize money for the 2026 World Cup. Each team is guaranteed at least $10.5 million just for participating in the first round, while the champion will receive $50 million. The announcement comes on the heels of a wave of criticism against FIFA from fans due to the high cost of tickets for the first 48-team tournament.

While FIFA boasts of the record-breaking prize money, the figures are far from the $11 to $14 billion that the organization expects to generate from the World Cup in Mexico, the United States, and Canada – which the organization will retain almost entirely – double the $5.7 billion it earned in Qatar 2022, according to reports from the organization itself.

The projected profits of the organization led by Gianni Infantino are based on payments for television rights, sponsorships, and ticket sales, which have been noted for their high costs, ranging from $60 (1,077 pesos) for the group stage to $6,730 (125,960 pesos) for the final, although these figures have changed due to dynamic pricing.

Despite the record figure, the amount of prizes to be awarded in the 2026 Cup falls short of what was awarded in the 2025 Club World Cup, where one billion dollars were distributed and Chelsea took home 125 million as champion of the tournament.

However, the amount to be awarded next year is much higher than the $110 million that was distributed at the 2023 Australia-New Zealand Women’s World Cup.

The governing body of football detailed that of the $727 million approved by the FIFA Council, $655 million will be distributed as prize money among the 48 participating teams. This figure represents a 50 percent increase compared to the $440 million awarded at Qatar 2022, where champions Argentina took home $42 million, while $9 million was given to the teams in the group stage, plus $10,000 for each player per day.

Now, just for qualifying for the World Cup, FIFA will give each federation $1.5 million to cover preparation costs, while countries finishing between 33rd and 48th place will receive $9 million. This means that all participating federations are guaranteed at least $10.5 million.

Teams finishing between 17th and 32nd place will receive $11 million, while those finishing 9th through 16th will earn $15 million. FIFA, the world governing body of football, will also award $19 million to teams finishing between 5th and 8th place.

The semifinalists will receive $27 million, while third place will take $29 million, and the runner-up will get $33 million.

The Mexican national team will seek a minimum of 19 million dollars

Thus, if the Mexican national team reaches at least the round of 16, their previous best before the last World Cup where they were eliminated in the group stage, they could receive at least $15 million. If they advance to the quarterfinals, the round that has been El Tri’s goal since 1986, they could earn around $19 million.

“Hopefully the national team will have a good showing and invest the resources it earns in its youth academy, looking towards the future,” said Rafael Lebrija, former Mexican soccer executive.

“With the prices they are charging, at least the teams benefit a little; the important thing is that this money is used wisely and invested in youth development, facilities, and good salaries for the coaches,” added Emilio Maurer, a former member of the Mexican Football Federation.

• 

  News Briefs

  FIFA, Flush with Government Subsidies, Will Distribute Only 5% of 2026 World Cup Profits

  December 18, 2025

  The international criminal consortium FIFA, which debased itself even further by awarding genocide manager Donald Trump a “peace prize”, is expected to make upwards of $11 to $14 billion from the trinational spectacle, whose matches are priced beyond the means of most Mexicans.

• 

  Soberanía

  To Tariff or Not to Tariff? Soberanía 89

  December 17, 2025December 18, 2025

  An in-depth analysis of Mexico’s newly announced tariff package, examining the policy debate behind it and the pros and cons of this strategy.

• 

  News Briefs

  President Sheinbaum Calls for “Non-intervention” in Face of Trump’s Aggression Against Venezuela

  December 17, 2025December 17, 2025

  The Mexican President criticized the United Nations for its “absence”, calling on the international organization to assume its role in preventing conflict and bloodshed.

The post FIFA, Flush with Government Subsidies, Will Distribute Only 5% of 2026 World Cup Profits appeared first on Mexico Solidarity Media.

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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates denounced, in a statement, a Knesset (Parliament) initiative that would cut off electricity and water to the facilities owned or operated by UNRWA in the occupied territories.

The new legislation would also allow the Government to confiscate properties in East Jerusalem leased to the agency “without the need to initiate legal or administrative proceedings.”

The Ministry warned that this measure is a direct attack on a UN humanitarian agency that enjoys international legal immunity and whose vital and irreplaceable role is internationally recognized.

The diplomatic institution recalled that Israel has no sovereignty over Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, nor over UNRWA.

The Foreign Ministry affirmed that the continued attacks on the institution not only affect it but also are a serious blow to the entire international humanitarian system and a deliberate attempt to criminalize aid to the Palestinians.

The Ministry called on the world to take urgent measures to protect UNRWA and its staff.

jdt/iff/npg/rob

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“We are preparing certain contacts with our American colleagues to obtain information on the results of the work that the Americans have carried out with the Europeans and with Ukraine,” Peskov told reporters.

Previously, the newspaper Politico, citing sources, reported that Russian and American representatives could hold talks in Miami this weekend on a peaceful solution to the conflict in Ukraine.

On December 14, talks were held in Berlin involving Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, White House Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, and businessman Jared Kushner, son-in-law of US President Donald Trump, with the aim of reaching an agreement on the conflict in Ukraine.

A 20-point plan was debated for five hours, and Witkoff later reported that some progress had been made.

On December 2, Witkoff and Kushner visited Moscow for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The meeting covered several topics, but primarily the conflict in Ukraine, focusing on a proposal promoted by the US since mid-November.

Days earlier, on November 30, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Witkoff met in Florida with Zelensky’s envoys to discuss a possible end to hostilities.

jdt/arm/mem/gfa

The post Russia to contact US regarding results of work with Ukraine first appeared on Prensa Latina.

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