Global Pulse

标签： Oceania

大洋洲

  • Delcy Rodriguez: From Maduro’s ‘tigress’ to acting Venezuelan president

    Delcy Rodriguez: From Maduro’s ‘tigress’ to acting Venezuelan president

    Following the dramatic capture of Nicolás Maduro by US forces, Delcy Rodríguez has ascended to the role of Acting President of Venezuela, marking an unprecedented moment as the first woman to hold executive power in the nation. The Venezuelan Supreme Court formally authorized her assumption of presidential duties in an acting capacity, a move subsequently endorsed by the country’s military establishment.

    Rodríguez, a 56-year-old lawyer by training, has been a central figure in successive administrations led by both Maduro and his predecessor, Hugo Chávez. Her political trajectory includes significant roles as Foreign Minister, Vice President since 2018, and most recently, Minister of Hydrocarbons—a position of critical importance in an economy fundamentally reliant on oil exports.

    Known for her staunch anti-imperialist stance and once dubbed ‘the tigress’ by Maduro himself, Rodríguez now faces the complex task of navigating Venezuela’s political transition while maintaining cohesion within the Chavista movement. Her immediate response to Maduro’s capture was to assert that he remains the ‘only president’ and to demand his unconditional release, simultaneously positioning herself as a stabilizing force.

    Her political lineage is deeply intertwined with Venezuela’s socialist movement. Her brother, Jorge Rodríguez, currently leads the National Assembly, and their family history is marked by political activism—their father, a Marxist activist, died in government custody in 1976. Analysts suggest this personal history has profoundly influenced her political motivations and leadership style.

    In recent years, Rodríguez demonstrated pragmatic governance by moderating her rhetoric and engaging with Venezuela’s business community—a sector historically criticized by socialist leadership. As Economy Minister from 2020 to 2024, she implemented eased trade controls and accommodated dollarization, earning cautious approval from economic stakeholders despite facing international sanctions herself for alleged democratic undermining and human rights violations.

    The international response remains cautiously observant. Former US President Donald Trump indicated that Rodríguez had expressed willingness to collaborate with Washington, though he issued stern warnings should she fail to meet US demands regarding policy reforms and oil access. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the US would evaluate potential cooperation based on actions rather than declarations, explicitly downplaying the prospects of opposition leader María Corina Machado.

    Political analysts note that while Rodríguez requires formal swearing-in, she effectively operates as de facto president. Her challenge lies in balancing internal party expectations, international pressures, and the management of the world’s largest proven oil reserves amidst profound national and geopolitical uncertainty.

  • France, UK conduct joint strikes against IS in Syria

    France, UK conduct joint strikes against IS in Syria

    In a significant display of multinational military cooperation, British and French armed forces executed coordinated airstrikes against Islamic State positions in northeastern Syria on Saturday night. The joint operation targeted a subterranean weapons storage facility utilized by the terrorist organization in the sparsely populated desert region north of Palmyra.

    The UK Ministry of Defence released video documentation showing Royal Air Force Typhoon aircraft conducting aerial refueling maneuvers during the mission. Military authorities from both nations confirmed the operation was conducted under the umbrella of Operation Inherent Resolve, the United States-led international coalition against Islamic State forces across Iraq and Syria.

    According to official statements, the targeted complex was situated in an area devoid of civilian population, with no indications of collateral damage or civilian casualties reported. The strategic strikes aimed to disrupt ISIS’s logistical capabilities and prevent the terrorist organization from regrouping and reestablishing operational strength in the region.

    The operation comes amid heightened security concerns following last month’s attack in Palmyra, where an ISIS gunman killed two American soldiers and a civilian contractor. This incident prompted retaliatory strikes by US forces against dozens of ISIS targets throughout Syria.

    The historic city of Palmyra, home to UNESCO World Heritage archaeological sites, previously served as a stronghold for jihadist fighters before being liberated from ISIS control. The recent military action underscores ongoing international efforts to maintain security stability under the administration of President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who assumed power following the ouster of former leader Bashar al-Assad approximately one year ago.

  • 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.

  • Tyson Fury comes out of retirement again

    Tyson Fury comes out of retirement again

    In a move that surprises few within the boxing community, British heavyweight icon Tyson Fury has officially declared his intention to return to the ring in 2026, reversing his retirement stance yet again. The 37-year-old pugilist, known as the ‘Gypsy King,’ made the announcement via his Instagram account on Sunday, signaling an end to his brief hiatus following a controversial defeat to Oleksandr Usyk in December 2024.

    Fury’s career has been characterized by dramatic retirements and unexpected comebacks. His latest Instagram post captured his characteristic bravado: ‘2026 is that year. Return of the mac. Been away for a while but I’m back now, 37 years old and still punching. Nothing better to do than punch men in the face and get paid for it.’

    The British boxer’s history of retirement U-turns began after his April 2022 victory over Dillian Whyte, when he initially claimed to be leaving the sport, only to return months later. His most recent retirement announcement after the Usyk loss was met with skepticism from boxing analysts, given his pattern of behavior.

    Fury’s comeback plans face complications due to recent tragedies in the boxing world. A anticipated all-British showdown against Anthony Joshua appears unlikely following a devastating car crash in Nigeria that killed two of Joshua’s team members and left the former champion injured. With Joshua potentially sidelined, Fury may pursue a trilogy fight against reigning champion Usyk or challenge WBO titleholder Fabio Wardley.

    A victory against either champion would cement Fury’s legacy alongside Muhammad Ali as only the second three-time world heavyweight champion in boxing history. The announcement comes after Fury expressed outrage over judges’ decisions in his two losses to Usyk, his only professional defeats in 37 contests.

  • New clashes in Iran as protests enter second week: rights groups

    New clashes in Iran as protests enter second week: rights groups

    Iran has entered a critical phase of civil unrest as nationwide protests triggered by economic grievances continue into their second consecutive week. According to documentation by international human rights organizations, fresh violent confrontations erupted over the weekend between demonstrators and state security forces across multiple provinces.

    The protest movement, initially catalyzed by merchant strikes in Tehran’s historic bazaar on December 28, has now expanded to affect at least 40 urban centers across 23 of Iran’s 31 provinces. Current estimates indicate a minimum of 12 fatalities, including both protesters and security personnel, since the demonstrations began.

    Significant unrest has been documented in western regions with substantial Kurdish and Lor minority populations. The Norway-based Hengaw rights organization reported Revolutionary Guards opening fire on protesters in Ilam province’s Malekshahi county on Saturday, resulting in four confirmed deaths among the Kurdish minority. Parallel reports from Iran Human Rights NGO corroborated these figures while indicating approximately 30 additional casualties.

    Verified footage circulated by monitoring groups shows disturbing images of bloodied casualties and aggressive security responses. Iranian state media has presented alternative narratives, with Fars news agency characterizing events as ‘riot suppression’ and reporting two assailants killed during attempted police station stormings.

    This represents the most substantial challenge to Tehran’s authority since the 2022-2023 Mahsa Amini protests, though current demonstrations haven’t yet achieved comparable scale. The unrest presents particular concerns for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s administration, coming shortly after June’s direct military exchanges with Israel that damaged nuclear infrastructure.

    International responses have emerged alongside the escalating domestic situation. United Nations special rapporteur Mai Sato warned against repeating the violent suppression witnessed during previous protests. The United States issued statements through former President Trump suggesting readiness to respond if protesters are harmed, while Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu expressed solidarity with Iranian demonstrators.

    Tehran has responded to international comments with defiance, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi labeling external statements as ‘reckless’ and emphasizing military readiness against potential intervention. Domestically, officials have acknowledged economic concerns while simultaneously warning against destabilization, reflecting the government’s attempt to balance conciliation with control.

  • 114 killed in week of attacks in Sudan’s Darfur: medical sources

    114 killed in week of attacks in Sudan’s Darfur: medical sources

    Medical sources report that a devastating series of attacks across Sudan’s western Darfur region has resulted in 114 fatalities over the past week, marking a significant escalation in the country’s ongoing civil conflict. The violence, involving both the national army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has targeted civilian areas with devastating consequences.

    In the North Darfur town of Al-Zuruq, drone strikes attributed to the army killed 51 people on Saturday, hitting a local market and residential zones. The area, under RSF control, is notably home to family members of RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, with two relatives confirmed among the dead.

    Simultaneously, RSF fighters advancing toward the Chad border killed 63 people in and around the town of Kernoi, according to medical personnel who spoke anonymously for security reasons. An additional 57 individuals sustained injuries, while 17 remain missing following these assaults.

    The Darfur region remains largely inaccessible to journalists due to a years-long communications blackout, forcing local volunteers and medical staff to rely on satellite internet to convey information to the outside world. The United Nations reports that over 7,000 people were displaced from Kernoi and the adjacent village of Um Baru in just two days last month, many belonging to the Zaghawa ethnic group specifically targeted by RSF forces.

    This resurgence of violence evokes traumatic memories of the mass ethnic atrocities committed in Darfur during the 2000s by the Janjaweed militia, the RSF’s predecessor organization. The conflict has now expanded into Kordofan, Sudan’s oil-rich southern region that connects Darfur to the capital Khartoum.

    In North Kordofan’s capital El-Obeid, drone strikes targeted the city’s power station, causing extensive fires in machinery buildings and triggering a complete blackout in the army-controlled urban center. The national electricity company confirmed the attack disrupted the entire electricity supply system.

    The humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate dramatically, with hundreds of thousands facing starvation across the region. According to UN estimates, the war has displaced more than 11 million people both internally and across Sudan’s borders, with many refugees seeking shelter in underdeveloped areas lacking basic nutrition, medicine, and clean water.

  • Cunha rescues Man Utd in draw with rivals Leeds

    Cunha rescues Man Utd in draw with rivals Leeds

    In a fiercely contested Premier League clash at Elland Road, Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha emerged as Manchester United’s savior, securing a 1-1 draw against historic rivals Leeds United on Sunday. The dramatic Yorkshire derby saw Brenden Aaronson break the deadlock for the hosts in the 62nd minute before Cunha’s swift response three minutes later preserved United’s unbeaten streak against their old foes.

    The match marked another chapter in English football’s most intense rivalry, with Leeds extending their winless run against United to eight matches since their last victory in 2010. The result carries significant implications for both clubs’ Premier League campaigns, with United missing a crucial opportunity to break into the top four while Leeds extended their impressive unbeaten run to seven matches.

    Under manager Rubem Amorim’s tactical direction, United deployed a 3-4-2-1 formation despite continuing to miss injured captain Bruno Fernandes. The match began with characteristic intensity as Leeds launched into a series of aggressive challenges, seeking to capitalize on their home advantage and break their Elland Road hoodoo against United dating back to 2002.

    Both teams created numerous scoring opportunities throughout the contest. United’s Benjamin Sesko wasted a golden chance from Casemiro’s precision pass, while Leeds striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin saw his glancing header cannon off the far post. The match turned when teenage defender Ayden Heaven’s positional error allowed Aaronson to break through and slot home past goalkeeper Senne Lammens.

    Amorim’s strategic substitution of Joshua Zirkzee proved decisive, with the replacement providing the assist for Cunha’s equalizer. The Brazilian’s composed finish from 12 yards marked his third goal in five appearances, signaling his growing influence after a slow start to his United career following his summer transfer from Wolves. Both teams had late opportunities to claim victory, with Noah Okafor’s overhead kick being saved and Sesko missing another promising chance from close range.

  • Crans-Montana’s ski tourism continues, in shadow of Swiss tragedy

    Crans-Montana’s ski tourism continues, in shadow of Swiss tragedy

    The Alpine resort of Crans-Montana faces a delicate equilibrium between collective grief and economic necessity following a devastating fire that claimed 40 lives and injured 119 revelers during New Year’s celebrations. While the community remains immersed in profound sorrow, tourism officials and visitors alike emphasize the importance of maintaining normal operations for the survival of this tourism-dependent region.

    In response to the tragedy at Le Constellation bar, the resort has implemented subdued entertainment protocols—canceling concerts, muting music, and eliminating DJ performances at slope-side establishments. This conscious modulation of atmosphere reflects the community’s desire to honor victims while preserving essential social spaces for human connection during difficult times.

    Tourism CEO Bruno Huggler articulated the challenge of striking appropriate tonal balance, noting that while the resort remains fully operational, the ambiance has shifted toward respectful solemnity. ‘Especially in such hard times, personal contact exchange is crucial,’ Huggler explained. ‘We provide gathering places without party atmosphere—slower and respectful toward all victims.’

    International visitors demonstrated nuanced responses to the tragedy. Australian tourist Mark, 39, visiting from London, argued that mass cancellations would create a ‘double whammy’ for the local economy. Swiss-American Isabelle Herstine, 58, emphasized the universal nature of such accidents while reaffirming her lifelong connection to the resort. Canadian visitor Sofiane, 31, described the disaster scene as ‘heartbreaking’ but noted the importance of following the local community’s lead in continuing daily life.

    The geographical distribution of emotions within the resort reveals contrasting realities: while main tourist areas maintain functional normalcy, the vicinity of Le Constellation remains immersed in palpable grief. Some visitors, like an anonymous first-time traveler from the Dominican Republic, consciously avoid the tragedy site, describing the atmosphere as ‘eerie.’

    Despite the catastrophe, booking cancellations remain minimal according to tourism officials, indicating visitors’ collective decision to support the community through both presence and respectful behavior during its period of mourning and recovery.

  • Swiss identify 24 victims of New Year fire at ski resort

    Swiss identify 24 victims of New Year fire at ski resort

    Swiss authorities have made significant progress in identifying victims of the catastrophic New Year’s Eve fire that ravaged a popular bar in the luxury ski resort of Crans-Montana, with 24 of the 40 deceased individuals now formally identified. The devastating blaze, which also left 119 people injured with severe burns, has plunged Switzerland into a state of collective mourning.

    Among the confirmed victims are 11 minors and six foreign nationals, including two 16-year-old Italians, a 39-year-old French citizen, and teenagers holding dual Italian-Emirati, Romanian, and Turkish citizenship. Swiss nationals accounted for the majority of those identified, with victims ranging from 14 to 31 years old. The international scope of the tragedy became evident as injured parties included citizens from France, Italy, Serbia, Belgium, Bosnia, Luxembourg, Poland, and Portugal.

    Investigative authorities have launched a criminal probe against the bar’s French owners, Jacques and Jessica Moretti, charging them with negligent manslaughter, negligent bodily harm, and negligent arson. Preliminary investigations suggest the fire originated from sparklers attached to champagne bottles that ignited highly flammable soundproofing foam on the ceiling, potentially causing a flashover that rapidly engulfed the crowded basement venue.

    The resort community has been enveloped in grief as hundreds of mourners participated in memorial services, braving subzero temperatures to pay respects at a chapel near the disaster site. Religious leaders including Bishop Jean-Marie Lovey of Sion and Pastor Gilles Cavin emphasized the need for compassion and solidarity with affected families, many of whom lost young apprentices, students, and children in their prime.

    Switzerland has declared January 9 a national day of mourning, with church bells scheduled to ring across the country followed by a moment of silence. The tragedy has raised serious questions about safety compliance in entertainment venues, with video evidence showing partygoers desperately attempting to escape through windows as flames spread with alarming speed. Despite the owners’ claims of adhering to safety norms, the investigation will thoroughly examine whether proper safety standards were maintained at the establishment, which reportedly had a capacity of 300 people plus additional terrace seating.

  • French owners of Swiss bar under scrutiny after New Year blaze

    French owners of Swiss bar under scrutiny after New Year blaze

    A devastating fire that erupted during New Year’s celebrations at Le Constellation bar in the Swiss alpine resort of Crans-Montana has resulted in 40 fatalities and 119 injuries, prompting a criminal investigation into the French proprietors. Jacques and Jessica Moretti, initially questioned as witnesses, now face formal scrutiny for alleged negligence following the catastrophic incident.

    Preliminary findings suggest the blaze originated in the establishment’s basement where smoldering candles affixed to champagne bottles were positioned dangerously close to the ceiling. The rapid ignition of acoustic insulating foam covering the basement ceiling exacerbated the tragedy, while chaotic scenes of crowding and pushing on stairwells hampered evacuation efforts.

    The Valais cantonal prosecutor has launched a criminal inquiry for negligent homicide, negligent bodily harm, and negligent arson. Investigators will examine renovation work conducted in 2015, materials used throughout the property, operational permits, and compliance with Swiss safety regulations requiring clearly marked exit routes and doors that open outward.

    The Morettis, who acquired Le Constellation in 2015 after previously operating a bar in Corsica’s port town of Bonifacio, expanded their business portfolio with two additional establishments in the region. Despite character references describing Jacques Moretti as a ‘hard worker’ and ‘friend of the resort,’ the couple now confronts intense legal examination.

    Prosecutor Beatrice Pilloud emphasized that while suspicions warranted investigation, the presumption of innocence remains paramount until conclusive evidence emerges. The investigation will determine whether the case proceeds to trial or is dismissed, with no pretrial detention currently imposed on the owners.