In a bid to alleviate escalating U.S. pressure, Venezuelan government officials have reportedly proposed a plan for President Nicolás Maduro to step down from power within three years, according to a former Trump administration official. The plan, which was swiftly rejected by the White House, suggests Maduro would hand over authority to Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, who would complete his current term until January 2031 without seeking re-election. The U.S. administration dismissed the proposal, citing ongoing concerns over the legitimacy of Maduro’s rule and accusations of Venezuela operating as a narco-terrorist state.
博客
-
Ayushmann Khurrana bites into horror, comedy, and chaos in ‘Thamma’
Ayushmann Khurrana, known for his grounded performances, is venturing into uncharted territory with his upcoming film ‘Thamma’. The actor, who has built a reputation for realistic roles, is now diving headfirst into the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe (MHU). ‘Thamma’, set to release on October 21, blends horror, comedy, and romance, offering a fresh take on Indian folklore. The film centers around a regular man who unexpectedly gains supernatural powers, inspired by the Betals of Indian mythology. Khurrana describes the project as a ‘genesis story’ and a departure from his previous work. The film also features an eclectic cast, including Rashmika Mandanna and Nawazuddin Siddiqui, who bring their unique energy to the screen. Khurrana reveals that the shoot, completed in just 55 days, felt like a ‘boot camp’ but was a thrilling experience. The film also incorporates contemporary cultural references, such as the viral track ‘Dame Un Grrr’, to connect with younger audiences. Khurrana, who remains a rationalist, shares a personal anecdote about a spooky encounter during a shoot in Himachal Pradesh. Reflecting on the film, he emphasizes the importance of self-expression and imagination when acting opposite imaginary entities. With ‘Thamma’, Khurrana solidifies his place in the MHU, hinting at future sequels and cameos. The film promises to be a rollercoaster of emotions, blending the absurd with the supernatural.
-
Trump administration sued over $100K fee for skilled worker visas
The US Chamber of Commerce has initiated legal action against the Trump administration’s newly imposed $100,000 fee on H-1B visas, a program designed for skilled foreign workers. Neil Bradley, Chief Policy Officer of the Chamber, criticized the fee, stating it would render the program financially unfeasible for American employers. The fee was introduced via an executive order signed by President Trump last month, who claimed the visa program had been misused and detrimental to the American workforce. The H-1B visa is particularly vital for the US tech industry, utilized extensively by both large corporations and small startups. The White House defended the fee, labeling it as a lawful and essential step towards reforming the visa program. This fee applies exclusively to new visa applications and mandates payment for entry. The decision has sparked criticism from tech leaders, including Elon Musk, Satya Nadella, and Sundar Pichai, who themselves began their careers in the US on H-1B visas. They argue that the program is crucial for attracting global talent. Concurrently, Trump introduced a ‘gold card’ initiative, offering expedited visas to certain immigrants in exchange for fees starting at £1 million. The Chamber of Commerce contends that the fee would severely harm American businesses, potentially leading to increased labor costs or reduced hiring of skilled workers. Despite this, the Chamber acknowledged Trump’s broader economic agenda positively. US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick supported the fee, suggesting companies should assess the value of retaining foreign workers against the cost. The majority of H-1B visa holders originate from India and China. Tech companies assert that these workers are not easily replaceable by American labor. White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers emphasized that the administration’s measures aim to prevent the suppression of American wages.
-
China has found Trump’s pain point – rare earths
China’s Ministry of Commerce recently issued ‘Announcement No. 62 of 2025,’ a seemingly innocuous document that has significantly disrupted the fragile tariff truce between China and the United States. The announcement introduces stringent new restrictions on rare earth exports, tightening Beijing’s control over these critical minerals essential for technologies ranging from smartphones to fighter jets. Under the new regulations, foreign companies must obtain Chinese government approval to export products containing even minimal amounts of rare earths and declare their intended use. This move underscores China’s near-monopoly in rare earth processing, which accounts for approximately 70% of global supply. In response, US President Donald Trump threatened to impose an additional 100% tariff on Chinese goods and implement export controls on key software. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent criticized the measures, stating, ‘This is China versus the world. They have pointed a bazooka at the supply chains and the industrial base of the entire free world.’ A Chinese Commerce Ministry spokesperson countered, accusing the US of introducing 20 measures to suppress China shortly after September’s economic talks in Madrid. The escalation has also seen both nations impose new port fees on each other’s ships, marking the end of months of relative calm since a May truce. Experts predict that China’s rare earth restrictions will give it the upper hand in upcoming negotiations between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Analysts note that while rare earths constitute a small fraction of China’s $18.7 trillion economy, their strategic value is immense, providing Beijing with significant leverage. Despite the tensions, both sides have left the door open for negotiations, with Bessent expressing optimism about de-escalation. However, China’s recent actions are seen as a strategic move to strengthen its position ahead of trade talks, leveraging its dominance in rare earths to pressure Washington for a favorable deal.
-
No crackers, only lights: Dubai homes sparkle as Indian families celebrate Diwali
As the sun sets over Dubai, the city transforms into a radiant spectacle of lights and warmth, marking the celebration of Diwali, the festival of lights, by Indian families across the Emirates. From the bustling lanes of Karama and Bur Dubai to the serene villa communities of Arabian Ranches, homes are adorned with twinkling string lights, flickering LED lamps, and shimmering candles, creating a festive ambiance that bridges the distance from India to the UAE. Diwali, also known as Deepavali, holds profound significance for Indian communities worldwide, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. In Dubai, the festival is not just about illumination but also about preserving cultural heritage and fostering a sense of community. Geetanjali Kumar, a long-time UAE resident, emphasizes the importance of giving during Diwali. Her family prepares hampers of essential items for community helpers, teaching their children empathy and the spirit of sharing. Similarly, Sheetal Sablepatil from Arabian Ranches revives childhood memories by preparing traditional Maharashtrian sweets and decorating her villa with lights, celebrating the festival with close friends. Yoga instructor Ritu Agarwal from The Springs balances her professional commitments with the five-day Diwali celebrations, highlighting the significance of integrating tradition into daily life. Across Dubai, Diwali serves as a reminder of cultural roots, bringing families together through prayers, feasts, and the warmth of shared traditions. The festival’s essence of spreading light and joy resonates deeply, making Dubai a home away from home for the Indian diaspora.
-
Sber joins global tech leaders at GITEX GLOBAL 2025, showcasing breakthrough technologies
Sber, a leading technology company, made a significant impact at GITEX GLOBAL 2025, held in Dubai from October 13–17, 2025. The event, renowned for bringing together global tech innovators, saw Sber unveil its latest AI-driven solutions and announce the upcoming AI Journey conference in Moscow. The exhibition featured Sber’s cutting-edge technologies, including GigaChat, a neural network model; GigaStudio, a website and landing page generator; and Smile and Pay technology. Attendees also experienced interactive image creation with the Kandinsky neural network and music track generation using the SymFormer AI service, which included Arabic vocals. The AIRI Institute, a partner of Sber, showcased eight advanced solutions, such as CADrille for 3D model restoration and LLM Microscope for evaluating language models. The Speech Technology Center introduced AI-powered B2B and B2G solutions, including GridID and Smart Tracker FRS. Andrey Belevtsev, Sberbank’s senior vice president, emphasized the importance of GITEX in promoting Russian technological advancements globally and highlighted Sber’s role in shaping the future of AI. The AI Journey conference, scheduled for November 19–21, 2025, will further explore AI’s impact on science, economy, and society.
-
US commander overseeing fatal strikes against alleged drug boats off Venezuela will retire
Admiral Alvin Holsey, the head of U.S. Southern Command, has announced his retirement, set for December, following a tenure marked by contentious military operations in the Caribbean and off the coast of South America. Holsey, who assumed leadership in November, oversees a region that includes the Caribbean Sea and South American waters. His departure comes just two days after the U.S. military conducted its fifth deadly strike in the Caribbean against a small vessel accused of drug trafficking. The Trump administration has labeled alleged drug traffickers as ‘unlawful combatants,’ justifying the use of military force. This approach has sparked growing frustration on Capitol Hill, with Republicans demanding more information on the legal basis for the strikes, while Democrats argue they violate both U.S. and international law. In a statement on the command’s Facebook page, Holsey expressed pride in his 37 years of service, emphasizing the contributions of the SOUTHCOM team to national defense. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also praised Holsey’s dedication in a social media post, thanking him for his decades of service. The Pentagon has not provided further details, referring inquiries to Hegseth’s statement. The New York Times first reported Holsey’s retirement plans.
-
What could the CIA do on Trump’s orders in Venezuela?
In a rare public acknowledgment, U.S. President Donald Trump has confirmed his authorization of covert CIA operations in Venezuela, a move typically shrouded in secrecy. This presidential finding grants the CIA broad authority to conduct activities in the region, including targeted strikes against suspected drug traffickers and efforts to destabilize or overthrow the regime of Nicolás Maduro. Such authorizations, historically used to support foreign policy objectives and national security, have previously led to drone strikes, funding for insurgencies, and even regime changes in other countries. While these operations must be reported to congressional intelligence committees, they do not require legislative approval, leaving significant discretion to the president. Former CIA officials note that the scope of these actions can vary widely, from targeted killings to covert influence campaigns, with historical precedents in Latin America and beyond. Critics, however, caution against the potential risks and ethical dilemmas posed by such interventions, citing past U.S. actions in countries like Nicaragua, Afghanistan, and Syria. The specifics of the current authorization remain unclear, leaving open questions about its implementation and long-term implications.
-
US prosecutors charge Smartmatic in alleged $1M Philippines bribery case
Federal prosecutors in Miami have leveled serious charges against voting technology firm Smartmatic, accusing the company of money laundering and other crimes tied to alleged bribery schemes in the Philippines. According to a superseding indictment filed in a Florida federal court, several Smartmatic executives, including co-founder Roger Pinate, are accused of paying over $1 million in bribes to Philippine election officials between 2015 and 2018. The payments were allegedly made to secure a government contract for managing the 2016 presidential election and ensuring timely payment for services rendered. Pinate, who no longer works for Smartmatic but remains a shareholder, has pleaded not guilty to the charges. This criminal case emerges as Smartmatic is embroiled in a separate $2.7 billion defamation lawsuit against Fox News, alleging the network falsely accused the company of rigging the 2020 U.S. presidential election. Smartmatic has vehemently denied the allegations, claiming the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Miami has been misled and influenced by unnamed powerful interests. The company stated, ‘This is again, targeted, political, and unjust. Smartmatic will continue to stand by its people and principles. We will not be intimidated by those pulling the strings of power.’ Prosecutors have also sought to introduce evidence suggesting that revenue from a $300 million contract with Los Angeles County was diverted into a ‘slush fund’ controlled by Pinate through offshore shell companies and fake invoices. Additionally, Pinate is accused of bribing Venezuela’s former election chief with a luxury home in Caracas, allegedly to mend relations after Smartmatic’s abrupt exit from Venezuela in 2017. A hearing on these allegations is scheduled for next month. Founded over two decades ago in Venezuela, Smartmatic gained prominence under the late President Hugo Chavez and expanded globally, providing election technology in 25 countries. However, the company claims its business suffered significantly following Fox News’ coverage of the 2020 election controversy.
-
Giga Computing and KERNO Enterprises announce regional service partnership at GITEX Dubai 2025
At the prestigious GITEX Dubai 2025 event, Giga Computing Technology Co., Ltd., a leading Taiwanese technology firm, and KERNO Enterprises FZE, a prominent UAE-based company, unveiled a groundbreaking regional service partnership. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in their shared mission to enhance technological and service excellence across the GCC region. Under the newly signed agreement, KERNO has been appointed as the official service center for GIGABYTE server products in the GCC, solidifying its role as a trusted partner for Giga Computing. This partnership reflects both companies’ commitment to delivering world-class professional support and advancing regional technology independence. KERNO’s local Arabic-speaking team of engineers, trained and certified by Giga Computing, will manage all after-sales, RMA, and mission-critical service requests. Customers can now access 24/7 support through a dedicated web platform, ensuring faster turnaround times and flexible service options, including remote troubleshooting and on-site interventions. The collaboration aligns with the UAE’s “Make it in the Emirates” strategy, promoting local manufacturing and service ecosystem growth. Paul Smirnov, deputy COO at KERNO Enterprises, emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating that it underscores KERNO’s capability to provide world-class services with local expertise. Jay Lee, managing director for the Middle East at Giga Computing, highlighted the benefits of faster and more reliable customer support through this alliance.