作者: admin

  • From Caracas ‘fort’ to New York court: Maduro’s capture in pictures and maps

    From Caracas ‘fort’ to New York court: Maduro’s capture in pictures and maps

    In an unprecedented military operation codenamed “Operation Absolute Resolve,” United States forces successfully captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores during a meticulously planned dawn raid on Saturday. The operation, which culminated months of strategic planning, lasted approximately 150 minutes from execution to extraction.

    The assault commenced at approximately 02:00 local time (06:00 GMT) with coordinated airstrikes targeting key military installations in Caracas, including Fuerte Tiuna—Venezuela’s largest military complex and residential compound for high-ranking officials. US forces implemented a citywide power blackout described by former President Donald Trump as “dark and deadly,” effectively disabling Venezuelan air defenses and creating optimal conditions for the insertion of special operations units.

    Elite Delta Force troops penetrated the fortified compound at 02:01 local time, encountering minimal resistance during the apprehension. According to General Dan Caine, the nation’s highest-ranking military officer, the Maduros “gave up” without struggle as they attempted to reach a secured safe room characterized by Trump as a military “fortress” with “very thick, very heavy” steel doors.

    Visual documentation from the operation reveals extensive structural damage at Fuerte Tiuna, with bombed-out buildings and charred vehicles visible throughout the complex. Military helicopters faced anti-aircraft fire during the insertion but sustained no critical damage according to official reports.

    The captured leaders were immediately transported via helicopter to the USS Iwo Jima stationed in the Caribbean, achieving extraction “over the water” by 04:29 local time. Distributed images show Maduro in custody wearing handcuffs, ear protection, and specialized eyewear resembling darkened sunglasses.

    Following initial processing at Guantánamo Bay’s naval facility, the detainees were transferred to Stewart Air National Guard Base in New York before concluding their journey via helicopter to Manhattan. The couple now faces multiple federal charges including conspiracy to commit narco-terrorism, cocaine importation, and weapons violations. They remain held at a New York detention facility adjacent to Federal Bureau of Prisons headquarters under maximum security protocols.

    Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed the detainees will “face the full wrath of American justice on American soil in American courts” as Venezuela declares a national emergency following the unprecedented cross-border military action.

  • UAE: Barbecue banned in some areas of Al Ain’s Jebel Hafeet; up to Dh4,000 fine

    UAE: Barbecue banned in some areas of Al Ain’s Jebel Hafeet; up to Dh4,000 fine

    Al Ain municipal authorities have implemented a comprehensive prohibition on barbecue activities across Jebel Hafeet’s parking areas, imposing substantial financial penalties for violations. The Department of Municipalities and Transport, in collaboration with Al Ain City Municipality, has erected explicit warning notices throughout the mountain’s parking facilities indicating that “Barbecue/BBQ is strictly prohibited in this area. Violation may result in a penalty.”

    This regulatory measure coincides with Al Ain’s recent designation as the 2026 Arab Tourism Capital, awarded in December 2025 by the Arab Ministerial Council for Tourism’s Executive Office. The prestigious recognition underscores the growing regional prominence of Emirati tourist destinations and highlights the need to preserve environmental integrity.

    Jebel Hafeet represents one of the UAE’s most frequented natural attractions, drawing hundreds of thousands of residents and international visitors annually during cooler months. The site has undergone significant development featuring diverse food and beverage establishments alongside family-oriented recreational facilities.

    The enforcement action derives legal authority from Abu Dhabi Law No. (2) of 2012 concerning the Preservation of Public Appearance, Health and Tranquillity. Initial violations carry a Dh1,000 fine, escalating to Dh2,000 for second offenses and reaching Dh4,000 for third transgressions. Supplementary warning signage has been installed throughout Green Mubazzarah Park’s non-designated zones to maintain aesthetic standards.

    Residents have expressed mixed reactions to the implementation. Dubai inhabitant Ahmed Malik noted the recent appearance of prohibition signage during a weekend visit, contrasting with his previous experience during National Day celebrations when no restrictions were visibly communicated. Sharjah resident Samina Khan emphasized the location’s popularity for family gatherings, citing both Green Mubazzarah’s children-friendly facilities and the mountain summit’s appealing climate for social activities.

  • ‘One Battle After Another’ wins Best Picture at National Society of Film Critics Awards

    ‘One Battle After Another’ wins Best Picture at National Society of Film Critics Awards

    In a decisive victory at the 2025 National Society of Film Critics Awards, Paul Thomas Anderson’s ‘One Battle After Another’ emerged as the ceremony’s most honored film, capturing four prestigious awards including Best Picture. The critically acclaimed work also secured Best Director for Anderson, while Teyana Taylor and Benicio del Toro received Best Supporting Actress and Actor honors respectively.

    The awards ceremony, however, delivered a surprising omission as Leonardo DiCaprio, the film’s lead actor, was notably absent from the winner’s circle. The Best Actor distinction instead went to Ethan Hawke for his transformative performance as lyricist Lorenz Hart in Richard Linklater’s ‘Blue Moon’. Wagner Moura (‘The Secret Agent’) and Michael B. Jordan (‘Sinners’) were recognized as runners-up in the category.

    International cinema received significant recognition with ‘The Secret Agent’ winning Best Non-English Language Film, while ‘Sinners’ earned accolades for Best Cinematography. The documentary category was won by ‘My Undesirable Friends: Part I—Last Air in Moscow’ for Best Nonfiction Film, and Kathleen Chalfant claimed Best Actress for her work in ‘Familiar Touch’.

    NSFC Chair Justin Chang characterized 2025 as an exceptional year for cinema, particularly noting the thematic resonance of films exploring revolution and solidarity. ‘Following a difficult year for journalism and filmmaking, it’s thrilling to salute these brilliant films that represent the highest achievements in our industry,’ Chang remarked, highlighting the cultural significance of this year’s selections amid broader industry challenges.

  • US intervention in Venezuela could test Trump’s ability to hold GOP together in an election year

    US intervention in Venezuela could test Trump’s ability to hold GOP together in an election year

    WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump’s military operation in Venezuela has emerged as a critical test of his capacity to maintain cohesion within an increasingly restive Republican coalition during a challenging election cycle. Although most party members initially rallied behind the administration following the audacious capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, discernible fractures have begun to surface across the GOP spectrum.

    The president’s remarks regarding potential U.S. management of Venezuela have triggered particular concern among lawmakers, appearing to contradict the “America First” doctrine that has fundamentally defined Trump’s political identity. Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.), a former Trump ally, expressed sharp criticism on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” characterizing the intervention as part of a “Washington playbook that serves big corporations, banks, and oil executives rather than American citizens.”

    These reservations extend beyond the party’s far-right faction. Moderate Representative Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.), facing a competitive reelection battle, emphasized that “the only country the United States of America should be ‘running’ is the United States of America.”

    The Venezuela operation highlights delicate political dynamics as Republicans confront the possibility of losing congressional control in November. While Trump remains the dominant force within the GOP, his previously unassailable influence has encountered unusual resistance in recent months regarding various issues including the Jeffrey Epstein files and affordability concerns.

    This intervention strikes at the core of Trump’s political brand, which has consistently emphasized avoiding foreign entanglements that divert attention from domestic priorities. The president’s recent declaration that he is “not afraid of boots on the ground” and his framing of the Venezuela mission as essential for American security mark a significant evolution from his previous critiques of the Iraq War as a “big, fat mistake.”

    Secretary of State Marco Rubio attempted to moderate expectations by suggesting a more limited U.S. role, specifically denying Washington would handle day-to-day governance while enforcing existing oil sanctions.

    Despite these concerns, no organized opposition to Trump’s Venezuela policy has materialized within Republican ranks. Lawmakers including Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine), Rand Paul (R-Ky.), and Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) have offered measured support while advocating for congressional oversight and expressing cautious optimism regarding the operation’s eventual outcome.

  • Former senior provincial political advisor of Hubei expelled from CPC, public office

    Former senior provincial political advisor of Hubei expelled from CPC, public office

    In a significant move against corruption, Chinese authorities have announced the expulsion of Zhou Xianwang, a former high-ranking political advisor from Hubei province, from both the Communist Party of China and public office. The decision follows an extensive investigation into serious disciplinary and legal violations conducted by China’s top anti-graft bodies.

    Zhou previously served as a key member of the leading Party members group within Hubei’s provincial committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and held the position of vice chairperson. The investigation, authorized by the CPC Central Committee and executed by the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) and the National Commission of Supervision (NCS), uncovered multiple breaches of Party regulations.

    The comprehensive probe revealed that Zhou had committed severe infractions against political and organizational discipline, in addition to violating standards of integrity in both professional and personal conduct. The official statement indicated that Zhou engaged in serious job-related misconduct and is suspected of accepting bribes, constituting criminal offenses under Chinese law.

    In accordance with established Party protocols and legal statutes, authorities have determined to strip Zhou of his Party membership and governmental position. The ruling includes confiscation of all illicit assets acquired through his unlawful activities and refers his case to judicial authorities for criminal prosecution. This development represents another milestone in China’s ongoing campaign against corruption within its political system.

  • Four Indians killed in Saudi road accident: Media reports

    Four Indians killed in Saudi road accident: Media reports

    A Kerala family’s spiritual journey to Saudi Arabia ended in tragedy on Saturday evening when a fatal road accident claimed four lives. The incident occurred at approximately 6 PM local time as the family traveled from Makkah to Madinah following their completion of the Umrah pilgrimage.

    According to multiple Indian media reports, the deceased have been identified as Abdul Jaleel, a resident of Manjeri in Kerala’s Malappuram district; his wife Tasna Thodengal; their young son; and Jaleel’s mother Maimunath Kakkengal. The family had undertaken the religious pilgrimage as part of their spiritual obligations.

    Two daughters of Abdul Jaleel survived the catastrophic collision but sustained significant injuries. They are currently receiving medical treatment at undisclosed healthcare facilities in Saudi Arabia. Local authorities have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident, though specific details regarding the cause remain unclear.

    The Indian community in Saudi Arabia and diplomatic representatives have been alerted to provide necessary assistance to the surviving family members. Such incidents highlight the risks faced by international pilgrims traveling along Saudi Arabia’s extensive road networks, particularly during peak religious seasons when millions visit the holy cities.

  • US says ready to work with new Venezuelan authorities

    US says ready to work with new Venezuelan authorities

    In the wake of a dramatic military operation that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, the United States has moved to clarify its strategic objectives in the Latin American nation. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on Sunday that the Trump administration is prepared to work with the existing Venezuelan leadership under acting President Delcy Rodriguez, contingent upon their adherence to U.S. demands, signaling a more nuanced approach than initial statements suggested.

    The operation, which unfolded on Saturday, involved U.S. commandos supported by aerial and naval assets conducting a precision raid in Caracas. Maduro was subsequently transported to New York, where he is detained awaiting a court hearing on narcotrafficking charges. Video footage released by the White House showed the deposed leader in custody, handcuffed and offering a casual ‘Good night, happy new year’ in English.

    Despite the successful extraction, the mission has sparked both domestic and international scrutiny. While exiled Venezuelans celebrated in global plazas from Madrid to Santiago, Democratic leaders in Congress questioned the operation’s legality. Senate leader Chuck Schumer expressed that Americans were left ‘scratching their heads in wonderment and in fear,’ and House Representative Hakeem Jeffries characterized the raid as an act of war requiring congressional authorization.

    The administration’s broader motivations appear centered on Venezuela’s massive crude reserves—the world’s largest proven oil deposits. President Trump has vowed substantial U.S. investments to revitalize the crippled industry, which has suffered under international sanctions and chronic underinvestment. Secretary Rubio emphasized that future development would likely involve Western companies rather than Russian or Chinese interests, provided appropriate guarantees are established.

    Meanwhile, Caracas has remained unexpectedly calm, with residents queuing for groceries and police presence diminished. The Venezuelan military has recognized Rodriguez’s interim leadership and urged a return to normalcy. The U.S. has maintained pressure through an ongoing oil export embargo enforced by Navy ships in the Caribbean, which Rubio described as providing ‘tremendous leverage’ in shaping Venezuela’s political and economic future.

  • US strike on Venezuela sets ‘troubling precedent’, say UAE experts

    US strike on Venezuela sets ‘troubling precedent’, say UAE experts

    Political analysts from the United Arab Emirates have characterized the United States’ military operation resulting in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro as establishing a profoundly ‘troubling precedent’ that degrades the established framework of international law. The action, confirmed by US President Donald Trump via a post on Truth Social, involved large-scale strikes on Venezuelan territory and culminated in the detention of Maduro and his wife, who were subsequently transported to a New York detention facility to face drug and weapons charges.

    This dramatic escalation follows months of heightened tensions between the two nations, during which President Trump repeatedly advocated for regime change in Venezuela and issued an ultimatum in November for Maduro to relinquish power. Experts assert that while the US has a history of unilateral military interventions, directly targeting and extracting a sitting head of state from a sovereign nation marks an unprecedented evolution in foreign policy.

    Jesse Marks, CEO of Rihla Research & Advisory LLC, condemned the maneuver as a descent into ‘mafia-style politics,’ ushering in a ‘new era of Godfather-style foreign policy.’ He emphasized that the operation was conducted without congressional approval, a UN Security Council mandate, or any recognized legal framework, thereby constituting a ‘persistent degradation of international law.’

    Emirati columnist Eisa Eisa Abdalla AlZarooni noted the strategic use of language by the Trump administration, which framed the operation not as a conventional intervention but as a ‘national security’ and judicial action by linking the Venezuelan leadership to organized crime. This narrative, AlZarooni argues, is a tactical tool to justify the use of military force outside a UN mandate, effectively redefining sovereignty not as a guaranteed right but as a state’s ability to protect itself—a shift he labeled ‘dangerous’ for the global order.

    The aftermath presents significant challenges. Dr. Paulo Botta of TRENDS Research & Advisory drew parallels to the 1990 capture of Panamanian leader Manuel Noriega, suggesting the impact will resonate most profoundly on the rules of the international system itself, where ‘pure realism reigns supreme.’ Internally, Venezuela faces a critical power vacuum concerning control over its armed forces, intelligence services, and financial flows. Kristian Alexander of Rabdan Academy warned that ensuing chaos could empower drug traffickers and criminal elements to expand their influence, exploiting a lack of governance. Alexander concluded that regardless of its branding as law enforcement, the forceful capture of a sitting leader to oversee governance constitutes de facto regime change.

  • ‘Eko’ Review: A slightly convoluted but brilliant thriller

    ‘Eko’ Review: A slightly convoluted but brilliant thriller

    The Malayalam film industry continues its remarkable streak of producing exceptional thrillers with ‘Eko,’ now available for streaming on Netflix following its November theatrical release. Directed by Dinjith Ayyathan and written by Bahul Ramesh—the creative duo behind the acclaimed 2024 film ‘Kishkinda Kandam’—this atmospheric thriller demonstrates Kerala’s unparalleled mastery of layered storytelling.

    Set against the misty mountains of Kerala, the narrative centers around the enigmatic dog breeder Kuriachan (Saurabh Sachdeva of ‘Animal’ fame), a shadowy figure who has accumulated numerous enemies through questionable business dealings and legal entanglements. The plot unfolds through multiple perspectives as various parties—including law enforcement officers, former associates, and personal connections—seek answers about his mysterious Malaysian wife, Mlathy Chetathi (Biana Momin), who resides in isolation surrounded by fierce guard dogs and rumors of practicing black magic.

    The film distinguishes itself through its sophisticated visual language, with evocative cinematography capturing both the haunting landscape and the secrets permeating the atmosphere. Mujeeb Majeed’s powerful score enhances the tension throughout, particularly during the meticulously staged climax that delivers a satisfying payoff for attentive viewers.

    While the narrative demands complete audience engagement to navigate its complex character motivations and occasionally convoluted plotlines, the investment proves worthwhile. The film explores themes of control, ownership, and patriarchy through the unconventional lens of human-animal relationships, challenging viewers to reconsider conventional notions of protection and restriction.

    Performance highlights include Sandeep Pradeep’s chameleonic portrayal of caretaker Peeyoos and Biana Momin’s compelling depiction of Mlathy, whose grace and resilience leave a lasting impression. Though Sachdeva’s portrayal of the central character occasionally feels mismatched for the role of a Malayali alpha male, the overall ensemble delivers strong performances that maintain narrative tension throughout this unconventional cat-and-mouse thriller.

  • Raw emotions as mourners attend Mass for Swiss bar fire victims

    Raw emotions as mourners attend Mass for Swiss bar fire victims

    The picturesque Swiss Alpine town of Saint Christopher remains shrouded in grief as hundreds gathered for a solemn memorial Mass honoring victims of the catastrophic New Year’s Eve blaze at Le Constellation nightclub. Amid snow-covered streets and the continuous operation of tourist cable cars in the background, the community confronted the devastating reality that claimed dozens of young lives.

    Forensic teams continue the painstaking process of identifying victims through DNA analysis and dental records, as many remains were severely damaged in the intense fire. Families who had clung to hope for days now receive the most tragic confirmation, with police having identified over 20 victims despite the challenges posed by the fire’s destruction.

    Laetitia Brodard, whose teenage son Arthur perished in the incident, attended the service surrounded by supportive friends. Having previously circulated his photograph online in desperate searches, she confirmed his passing with the heartbreaking tribute: ‘He died that first day’ and later expressed on social media that Arthur had ‘gone to party in paradise.’

    The emotional service witnessed multiple attendees collapsing from overwhelming grief as the community remembered those lost and those still hospitalized with critical burns. Following the Mass, a silent procession advanced toward the fire site, now concealed behind white screening but surrounded by an expanding shrine of flowers, candles, and handwritten notes bearing photographs of victims.

    In a poignant moment, uniformed rescue workers received spontaneous applause as they arrived at the memorial site arm-in-arm. One emotional first responder, who contemplated leaving his profession after the tragedy, revealed that the experience had forged an unbreakable bond among emergency personnel: ‘I need them, and they need me. All my thoughts are for the victims and their families.’

    Criminal investigators have launched proceedings against the French couple operating the establishment, suspecting them of negligent homicide, arson, and bodily harm. Video evidence appears to show staff delivering champagne bottles with ignited sparklers while elevated on shoulders, with sparks subsequently igniting soundproofing foam ceiling materials that accelerated the fire’s spread.

    Authorities are examining multiple safety considerations including compliance with material flammability standards, potential overcrowding, emergency exit accessibility from the basement venue, and the availability of functional fire extinguishers. Additional footage reveals tragic attempts by patrons to extinguish flames using clothing items, while others initially continued dancing and recording rather than evacuating.

    Despite the profound sorrow, community members expressed determination for accountability rather than anger. ‘We believe the police will do their work well and we hope there is justice,’ stated Diana, who attended the memorial while friends remain hospitalized fighting for survival.