标签: North America

北美洲

  • US becomes major source of gun violence in Caribbean: report

    US becomes major source of gun violence in Caribbean: report

    A comprehensive regional investigation has revealed the United States as the dominant supplier of illicit firearms driving escalating violence across Caribbean nations. The landmark report, collaboratively produced by multiple international agencies, documents systematic weapons trafficking operations primarily originating from American sources.

    The study titled “Pathway to Policy: Firearms Trafficking and Public Health in the Caribbean” was jointly released on December 2nd by the Caribbean Community Implementation Agency for Crime and Security, the Caribbean Public Health Agency, and the Small Arms Survey research organization. Their findings present compelling evidence linking the region’s worsening security situation directly to firearms proliferation from US channels.

    According to empirical data collected between 2017 and early 2025, law enforcement agencies in Caribbean countries intercepted at least 29 illegal weapons shipments, with 27 tracing directly back to United States origins. The report highlights that maritime shipping routes serve as the primary conduit for transporting weapons from US ports to Caribbean destinations.

    Geographic analysis identifies Florida and Georgia as particularly significant source regions, accounting for nearly 70% of firearms seized in six Caribbean nations including the Bahamas and Jamaica. The document characterizes American gun stores, illegal weapons traffickers, and port transportation systems as integral components of this cross-border smuggling network.

    The proliferation has catalyzed multiple public health crises across the region, including increased recruitment of minors into armed gangs, hospital shootings, and intensified gang violence. Researchers conclude with urgent policy recommendations for US authorities to strengthen firearms export supervision and enhance port inspection protocols to combat the deteriorating security situation.

  • Legacy of Flying Tigers honored in California

    Legacy of Flying Tigers honored in California

    YORBA LINDA, California – Descendants of WWII veterans, community leaders, and officials convened at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum this week to commemorate the 80th anniversary of World War II’s conclusion and celebrate pivotal milestones in Sino-American relations. The gathering served as a powerful reminder of the shared wartime history that continues to inspire cross-cultural exchanges between the two nations.

    Nell Chennault Calloway, granddaughter of General Claire Lee Chennault who commanded the legendary Flying Tigers squadron, emphasized history’s role as a reliable guide for future diplomacy. “History records our past and offers inspiration for the future,” Calloway stated, recalling President Nixon’s groundbreaking 1972 China visit as a transformative moment after decades of estrangement. She reiterated Nixon’s toast to Premier Zhou Enlai: “We have great differences today. What brings us together is that we have common interests which transcend those differences.”

    Jeffrey Greene, chairman of the Sino-American Aviation Heritage Foundation, highlighted the extraordinary significance of the Flying Tigers’ operations in China. “For the Chinese people and American pilots, this represents the most important chapter in our bilateral history—it brought our nations together in an unprecedented way,” Greene explained. He recounted how American volunteer pilots collaborated with Chinese forces against Japanese bombing campaigns, with Chinese civilians courageously rescuing downed US airmen despite facing lethal retaliation.

    California State Senator Bob Archuleta framed the Flying Tigers’ legacy as a living lesson for contemporary global challenges. “History proves we accomplish more through cooperation than conflict, and through mutual respect rather than division,” Archuleta noted. “This story demonstrates the power of building bridges instead of barriers, and seeking understanding rather than suspicion.”

    The commemoration also honored centenarian Flying Tigers veteran Mel McMullen and Zhang Sujiu, daughter of China’s renowned “peace general” Zhang Zhizhong, recognizing them as living connections between historical cooperation and present-day diplomacy. The event underscored how wartime collaboration established foundations for subsequent diplomatic breakthroughs, with Jane Zhang of the Nixon library observing that the Flying Tigers’ friendship helped enable Nixon’s “icebreaking” journey that opened a new chapter in US-China relations.

  • More Americans choose China as destination amid travel rebound

    More Americans choose China as destination amid travel rebound

    China is experiencing a significant resurgence in American tourism as global travel patterns normalize, with industry leaders highlighting the country’s strategic initiatives to position itself as a premier destination. The recovery marks a notable turnaround from pandemic-era restrictions and geopolitical tensions that previously limited travel between the nations.

    At the recent United States Tour Operators Association Annual Conference in Maryland, Chinese tourism officials unveiled comprehensive measures designed to attract international visitors. These include an expanded visa-free transit program that now permits citizens from 55 countries, including the United States, to stay for up to 240 hours (10 days) when transiting through designated ports across more than 20 Chinese regions. The policy requires only valid travel documents and confirmed onward tickets.

    Tourism statistics reveal impressive recovery metrics, with China welcoming 132 million international visits in 2024 generating approximately $94.2 billion in tourism revenue—reaching nearly 97% of pre-pandemic levels. Industry professionals attribute this rebound to China’s multi-faceted approach combining streamlined entry procedures, enhanced digital payment infrastructure, and a renewed emphasis on experiential tourism.

    Terry Dale, President and CEO of USTOA, noted that American travelers increasingly view China as “a unique opportunity—an experience of a lifetime.” This sentiment is echoed by tour operators reporting measurable increases in bookings, particularly for cultural immersion experiences that extend beyond traditional destinations like Beijing and Shanghai.

    The tourism revival encompasses diverse attractions ranging from ancient cultural sites to contemporary technological showcases like the World Robot Contest and seasonal spectacles such as the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival. Educational travel has emerged as a particularly strong segment, with growing numbers of American students and adults seeking authentic cultural immersion experiences.

    Brian Hoyt of EF World Journeys observed that “China represents a massive opportunity for more North Americans” seeking meaningful educational exchanges. The industry-wide consensus indicates that recent policy adjustments have successfully reopened channels for people-to-people connections that transcend mere economic transactions, fostering deeper cross-cultural understanding between the two nations.

  • Heading to Abu Dhabi Grand Prix? How driverless cars, buses and 3,000 taxis will help

    Heading to Abu Dhabi Grand Prix? How driverless cars, buses and 3,000 taxis will help

    Abu Dhabi has activated an advanced intelligent transportation network for the 2025 Formula 1 Grand Prix, showcasing the emirate’s technological capabilities during the December 4-7 event. The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) is implementing a multi-layered mobility strategy featuring autonomous vehicles, AI surveillance, and enhanced public transport services.

    A fleet of 15 driverless vehicles will operate on predetermined Yas Island routes from 3pm to 10pm daily, providing seamless transfers between key circuit locations. Additionally, over 30 existing autonomous vehicles remain available for travel between Yas Island, Al Saadiyat Island, Zayed International Airport, Al Reem Island and Al Maryah Island via TXAI and Uber applications.

    The traffic management system employs AI-powered drones for real-time congestion monitoring and illegal parking detection. These drones automatically capture license plate information and transmit violations directly to control centers. Road Service Patrol teams will assist motorists with emergency support including fuel delivery, tire changes, and battery recharging services.

    Public transportation enhancements include 82 dedicated buses operating circular routes from Yas Mall and Warner Bros. car parks to circuit gates, hotels, and entertainment zones. Approximately 3,000 taxis—including ride-hailing services through Uber and Careem—will operate under special event tariffs with designated pickup/drop-off zones established throughout the venue.

    ITC supervisors and inspectors will coordinate directly with Abu Dhabi Police and Formula 1 management to monitor high-traffic areas and address operational challenges. The comprehensive plan demonstrates Abu Dhabi’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge transportation technology while ensuring spectator safety and mobility during major international events.

  • US and Ukraine negotiators say ‘real progress’ toward peace depends on Russia

    US and Ukraine negotiators say ‘real progress’ toward peace depends on Russia

    Senior American and Ukrainian officials concluded a sixth round of high-level discussions on Friday, characterizing the dialogue as constructive while emphasizing that any sustainable peace resolution remains contingent on Russia’s genuine commitment to de-escalation. The bilateral meeting featured US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, former senior advisor to President Donald Trump, engaging with Ukraine’s negotiation team led by National Security Secretary Rustem Umerov and Brigadier General Andriy Hnatov.

    The joint statement issued post-negotiations outlined significant progress in establishing security arrangement frameworks and deterrence mechanisms. Both delegations concurred that achieving ceasefire conditions and tension reduction are prerequisite to implementing Ukraine’s comprehensive redevelopment strategy, designed to rebuild the nation into a more prosperous state than its pre-war condition.

    Despite these advancements, the path toward resolution faces substantial hurdles. Tuesday’s five-hour Moscow negotiations between Witkoff and Russian President Vladimir Putin yielded no compromise, according to Kremlin assessments. Two primary contentious issues persist: the status of Russian-occupied Ukrainian territories and concrete security guarantees for Ukraine’s sovereignty.

    The discussions also addressed Ukraine’s post-conflict reconstruction and economic cooperation initiatives with the United States. Ukrainian representatives reiterated that any settlement must prioritize protecting national independence, ensuring citizen safety, and establishing foundations for a democratic future.

    The negotiating teams are scheduled to reconvene in Florida on Saturday for further deliberations, continuing the intensive diplomatic process that has now entered its sixth session within a fortnight.

  • Watch: Moment officers wrangle 600lb alligator from Florida road

    Watch: Moment officers wrangle 600lb alligator from Florida road

    In a remarkable display of wildlife management, law enforcement officers in Florida collaborated with a professional trapper to safely remove a colossal alligator measuring 14 feet (4.2 meters) and weighing approximately 600 pounds from a public roadway. The operation required the coordinated efforts of at least seven sheriff’s deputies alongside the specialized trapper to secure the massive reptile. Using professional restraint equipment and techniques, the team successfully subdued the animal without causing harm to either the alligator or themselves. Following the successful capture, the animal was transported to a designated alligator farm where it was released into a controlled habitat. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges Florida communities face regarding human-wildlife interactions in rapidly developing regions. Local authorities have reiterated safety protocols for residents encountering dangerous wildlife, emphasizing immediate notification of professional trappers rather than personal intervention.

  • UAE: Tourist arrested in Dubai for performing dangerous car stunts

    UAE: Tourist arrested in Dubai for performing dangerous car stunts

    Dubai authorities have taken decisive action against dangerous driving behavior by apprehending a tourist who performed high-risk stunts with a rented vehicle on the city’s major thoroughfare. The incident came to light after viral social media footage captured the individual engaging in reckless maneuvers, including drifting techniques while navigating a loop on Sheikh Zayed Road, potentially causing catastrophic accidents.

    Brigadier Juma Salem bin Suwaidan, Director of Dubai Police’s General Department of Traffic, disclosed that coordinated efforts between traffic enforcement units and the Cyber Investigation Department led to the identification and seizure of the vehicle. The driver was reportedly showcasing his driving skills while endangering both his life and those of other road users.

    This case represents a serious traffic violation category that poses immediate threats to motorists and pedestrians alike. Investigations revealed the perpetrator had entered the United Arab Emirates as a tourist and utilized a rental vehicle for the dangerous demonstrations.

    The arrest coincides with heightened traffic enforcement measures during the 54th UAE National Day celebrations, where authorities impounded 49 vehicles and 25 motorcycles while issuing 3,153 traffic violations. Documented infractions included passengers leaning from windows and sunroofs, along with unauthorized windshield modifications using stickers and spray paint.

    Dubai Police have reiterated that such violations carry substantial penalties, including AED 2,000 fines, 23 black points on driving licenses, and 60-day vehicle impoundment. The force continues to prioritize community safety through rigorous traffic monitoring and enforcement protocols.

  • Dubai’s RTA distributes over 500 child car seats to families with newborns

    Dubai’s RTA distributes over 500 child car seats to families with newborns

    Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has successfully concluded a significant child safety campaign, distributing more than 500 certified child car seats to families with newborns across the emirate. The initiative, conducted from December 1-5, 2025, coincided with the UAE’s 54th National Day celebrations and involved 26 participating hospitals throughout Dubai.

    This comprehensive road safety program represents a strategic effort to instill safety consciousness from the earliest stages of childhood. According to Ahmed Al Khzaimy, Director of Traffic at RTA’s Traffic and Roads Agency, scientific evidence from the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration demonstrates that proper child seat usage reduces fatal incident risks by 71% for infants and 54% for children aged one to four years.

    The authority has established detailed safety guidelines for parents, emphasizing proper seat selection based on age and weight, verification of international safety certifications, and pre-purchase compatibility testing with vehicle anchoring systems. Additional recommendations include limiting continuous seat usage to 30 minutes, regular inspection of harness systems, and strict adherence to manufacturer installation instructions.

    Crucially, the RTA mandates immediate seat replacement following any collision and provides specialized restraint systems for Children of Determination in accordance with medical recommendations. The initiative aligns with World Health Organization guidelines that recognize vehicle restraint systems as among the most effective life-saving measures in traffic accidents.

    This program has demonstrated remarkable growth since its inception five years ago, expanding from 200 distributed seats in its inaugural year to the current 500 units, while participating hospitals have increased from 17 to 26 facilities across Dubai. The campaign reflects Dubai’s ongoing commitment to creating safer road environments through proactive safety education and practical resource distribution.

  • North American leaders take stage together for the first time

    North American leaders take stage together for the first time

    In a display of diplomatic theater, the leaders of the United States, Mexico, and Canada shared the stage at Washington DC’s Kennedy Centre for the 2026 World Cup draw, projecting unity while navigating complex trade negotiations behind the scenes. President Donald Trump, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney participated in the ceremonial selection of tournament groups, marking their first trilateral appearance since their respective administrations began.

    The event facilitated the inaugural meeting between President Trump and President Sheinbaum, who leads Mexico as America’s largest trading partner. While Prime Minister Carney had previously engaged with Trump on multiple occasions, substantive trade discussions between the nations have remained suspended pending policy reviews.

    Beneath the cordial public interactions lies significant uncertainty regarding the future of the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which faces a mandatory review in 2026. The Trump administration has signaled potential dramatic changes to North American trade architecture, including possibly separating the trilateral pact into distinct bilateral agreements. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer publicly questioned the economic rationale behind maintaining a unified trade framework, noting the fundamentally different relationships America maintains with each neighbor.

    Despite these underlying tensions, the leaders maintained warm public decorum throughout the event. They collectively posed for photographs with FIFA President Gianni Infantino and engaged in limited sideline discussions about trade matters, particularly concerning steel, aluminum, and automobile tariffs. President Sheinbaum confirmed brief bilateral engagement with President Trump to address these specific trade issues.

    The event also featured President Trump receiving the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize, which he described as “one of the honours” of his life. Infantino presented the award in recognition of Trump’s “exceptional and extraordinary actions to promote peace and unity around the world.”

    Meanwhile, American business interests have overwhelmingly advocated for maintaining the current trade framework. During recent public hearings on the USMCA review, representatives from agricultural, business, and policy groups testified about the agreement’s critical role in facilitating access to Canadian and Mexican markets.

    The World Cup draw provided a temporary respite from trade negotiations, but the fundamental questions regarding North American economic integration remain unresolved as the 2026 review deadline approaches.

  • Five takeaways from the blockbuster Netflix Warner Brothers deal

    Five takeaways from the blockbuster Netflix Warner Brothers deal

    In a landmark transaction poised to redefine the entertainment industry, Netflix has announced its intention to acquire Warner Brothers Discovery’s streaming assets, including the prestigious HBO network and its legendary film studio. This colossal merger represents the most significant industry consolidation in recent years, combining Netflix’s dominant streaming platform with nearly a century’s worth of iconic entertainment content.

    The acquisition would unite Netflix’s extensive original programming, including Stranger Things and KPop Demon Hunters, with Warner Bros’ legendary franchises such as Harry Potter, Looney Tunes, Friends, and HBO’s critically acclaimed series including Succession, Sex and the City, and Game of Thrones. The deal additionally encompasses TNT Sports’ international operations outside the United States.

    Netflix’s subscriber base, already exceeding 300 million globally, stands to gain approximately 128 million additional subscribers from HBO’s existing audience. According to Mike Proulx, Vice President at research firm Forrester, this consolidation would render Netflix “arguably untouchable” in the streaming marketplace.

    Despite Netflix’s expressed confidence in regulatory approval, the deal faces substantial hurdles. Competition regulators in both the United States and Europe are scrutinizing the transaction, with bipartisan concerns in Washington regarding potential consumer price increases and reduced market choice. The acquisition’s completion remains uncertain, with Warner Brothers Discovery first required to spin off non-included assets such as CNN, Discovery, and Eurosport.

    Industry traditionalists have expressed dismay at the merger, with Titanic director James Cameron warning it could prove “disastrous” for the entertainment sector. The consolidation reflects the ongoing transition from traditional cinema to streaming dominance, a trend that Forrester’s Proulx describes as marking the official end of “legacy media.”

    Netflix executives have indicated the HBO brand will likely be preserved given its “very powerful” market presence, though specific integration plans remain undisclosed. The company has committed to maintaining theatrical releases for acquired properties, including the DC superhero franchise, despite co-CEO Ted Sarandos previously characterizing movie-going as an “outdated concept.”