Washington, USA:--- President Donald Trump has issued a series of warnings to multiple countries following a U.S. military operation that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. The operation, which took place over the weekend, involved a coordinated strike in Caracas and resulted in Maduro's extradition to the United States to face charges of narco-conspiracy.

Regional Implications

During a press briefing, Trump suggested that the U.S. might not stop with Venezuela, issuing pointed remarks toward Cuba, Colombia, and Mexico. He accused Colombian President Gustavo Petro of facilitating drug trafficking and warned that the U.S. might take further action. Trump also criticized Mexico for its handling of drug cartels, offering U.S. military assistance to combat the issue.

Cuba was another target of Trump's comments, with the president predicting the economic collapse of the communist nation due to its reliance on Venezuelan oil. He stated, "Cuba is ready to fall," citing the country's financial struggles following the disruption of oil supplies from Venezuela.

Military Operation Details

The operation to capture Maduro, named "Absolute Resolve," was described as one of the most complex and high-profile U.S. military actions in recent history. It involved disabling Venezuela's air defense systems and deploying over 150 aircraft. The mission was executed with precision, lasting less than 30 minutes, and resulted in Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, being taken into U.S. custody.

While the U.S. has not released an official casualty count, reports suggest that at least 40 people were killed during the strikes. The operation has drawn criticism from international leaders, including Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who called it a violation of the United Nations Charter.

International Reactions

The operation has sparked widespread condemnation across Latin America. Colombian President Petro mobilized troops along the border with Venezuela, citing concerns over a potential refugee crisis. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva criticized the U.S. action as reminiscent of historical interference in the region.

In contrast, some U.S. lawmakers and communities in South Florida have expressed support for the operation, viewing it as a step toward promoting democracy in the region.

Greenland Controversy

In a separate development, Trump reiterated his interest in annexing Greenland, citing national security concerns. Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen condemned the remarks, calling them "unacceptable" and urging the U.S. to respect international law. Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen also dismissed the idea, emphasizing Greenland's autonomy.

Future Outlook

Trump has indicated that the U.S. will oversee Venezuela's transition to a new government, stating, "We’re going to make sure that country is run properly." However, the administration faces challenges in stabilizing the region and addressing the broader geopolitical implications of its actions.

The situation remains fluid, with international observers closely monitoring the U.S.'s next moves in Latin America and beyond.

NEW YORK:--- Ousted Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro appeared in a New York federal court today to face charges of drug trafficking and weapons conspiracy. His appearance follows a dramatic US military operation in Caracas over the weekend that resulted in his capture and has sent shockwaves through the international community.

Maduro, along with his wife Cilia Flores, was transported under heavy guard by Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents from the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn to the Manhattan courthouse. He was seen in handcuffs, wearing a tan-colored uniform.

During the court proceedings, both Nicolás Maduro and Cilia Flores pleaded not guilty to all charges. Maduro asserted to the court that he remains the President of Venezuela, while his wife, Cilia Flores, maintained her position as the First Lady of the Republic of Venezuela. Flores also informed the judge that she sustained injuries during their capture and requested medical treatment. Maduro's next court date has been scheduled for March 17. He did not request bail, but the judge informed him that he could still submit a bail application at a later date. Maduro was also seen taking notes during the proceedings, which he asked the judge to keep.

The court proceedings mark a significant escalation in US foreign policy under President Donald Trump, who declared that the United States is now "in charge" of Venezuela. The administration is reportedly working to establish an interim government, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio stating the focus is on policy-setting and maintaining "leverage" over the nation's future. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez has signaled a shift in tone, calling for "cooperation" with the US.

The operation has sparked varied reactions globally. Key Latin American leaders have condemned. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum rejected the intervention, stating, "Intervention has never brought democracy." Colombian President Gustavo Petro warned he would "take up arms again" if the US were to target him or his country, following remarks from President Trump critical of Colombia's anti-drug efforts.

China and several European allies of the US have also condemned the action. A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson called the seizure a violation of international law and demanded Maduro's immediate release. European nations, including Germany, France, and the UK, voiced their opposition to changing borders by force and expressed support for Denmark after President Trump renewed his calls for the US to acquire Greenland for strategic purposes. In contrast, Switzerland has moved to freeze any assets held by Maduro and his associates within its borders.

The developments have also impacted financial markets. Shares in Chevron, the last major US oil company operating in Venezuela, saw a significant jump in premarket trading. The rise followed President Trump's statements about making American investment in Venezuela's vast oil reserves a key objective. However, broader market reactions have been muted, with analysts pointing to ample global oil supply and significant uncertainties surrounding the situation.

The case against Maduro is being overseen by 92-year-old federal judge Alvin K. Hellerstein. Legal experts draw parallels to the 1990s case of Panamanian dictator Manuel Noriega, who was also tried in the US on drug charges. Maduro's defense is expected to raise arguments of head-of-state immunity, a defense that was ultimately unsuccessful for Noriega.

As Venezuelans face an uncertain future, the streets of Caracas have remained largely quiet. Meanwhile, top Trump administration officials, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Attorney General Pam Bondi, are scheduled to brief a bipartisan group of US lawmakers on the Venezuela operation later today.

PHILIPSBURG:--- NAPB - Sint Maarten acknowledges the steps taken by the Ministry of Justice to address long-standing issues affecting Justice personnel. However, while these actions represent progress, they remain incomplete and insufficient in resolving the full scope of obligations owed to Justice workers.
Moreover, the Union took note of the Ministry’s “Justice Fruit” video, released on the 29th of December 2025. In this video, the honorable Minister of Justice, Ms. N. Tackling, outlined the Ministry's accomplishments. While the video might have been made with good intentions, it felt like a slap to the face to those members of the Union who are still awaiting what their National Decrees.

Despite repeated commitments, critical matters remain unresolved, most notably retroactive overtime payments, jubilee payments, and the full and proper finalization of Phase One of the placement process. These delays have had a direct and unacceptable impact on the financial security and morale of justice personnel who have faithfully served the country of Sint Maarten.
NAPB- Sint Maarten stresses that the completion of phase one and the commencement of Phase Two of the placement process is of utmost importance as phase 2 directly address the correction of national decrees. These corrections are essential to facilitate retroactive payments for active personnel covering the period from October 10, 2010, through December 31, 2022.

Justice workers have upheld their duties with professionalism and dedication throughout this entire period, often without proper compensation and recognition. Continued delays are unjustifiable and undermine trust in the reform process. NAPB- Sint Maarten therefore urges decisive action, clear timelines, and full transparency from the Ministry of Justice and all responsible authorities.

NAPB- Sint Maarten remains prepared to engage constructively; however, our members expect results—not assurances. The completion of outstanding payments and placement corrections is a matter of fairness, legality, and respect for service rendered. The Union will continue to advocate forcefully until all commitments are fully honored.

Buddhist Compassion Relief Tzu Chi Foundation provided food and essential items to 160 families, which is expected to benefit approximately 480 individuals, during its 27th and final Cul De Sac relief distribution of 2025 on December 28.

This marks over two years and four months of continuous monthly support to the Cul De Sac community. The distribution took place at the Tzu Chi Center in Cul De Sac, where families received 160 bags of Love Rice (10 kg each), 160 bottles of cooking oil (1 liter each), 320 packs of dry peas (1 lb each), 320 packs of pasta (1 lb each), and 160 cans of Christmas butter cookies. Twenty-eight volunteers participated, including two Commissioners, six training Commissioners, seven training volunteers, and thirteen community volunteers, reflecting strong teamwork, training outcomes, and community involvement.

Despite personal hardships, recipients returned US $266.70 in Bamboo Bank donations, demonstrating gratitude and a spirit of giving back. Several recipients shared personal stories, including a Haitian woman whose husband recently underwent a foot amputation, leaving the family without income, and local seniors who expressed appreciation for Tzu Chi’s long-term service. A Spanish recipient shared that he had been receiving assistance for several months and hoped Tzu Chi could continue helping him and others in St. Maarten.

New volunteer Ms. Susana, inspired during a Tzu Chi reunion on December 14, joined the relief activity as a photographer and videographer. She reflected that giving back nourishes the soul and was deeply moved by the gratitude and generosity shown by recipients despite their own hardships.

Volunteers also shared personal reflections during the programme. Sister Carolina spoke about the teaching of Master Cheng Yen, explaining that obstacles are like rocks being thrown at us and that moving forward with purpose prevents repeated suffering. Sister Lorene shared that before encountering Tzu Chi, she often felt hungry, and through Dharma teachings, she realized her hunger was spiritual rather than physical, learning to understand what she truly needed in life.

In 2025, Tzu Chi distributed a total of 1,775 bags of rice, 1,775 bottles of cooking oil, 2,188 packs of pasta, 2,188 packs of dry peas, and 160 cans of Christmas butter cookies. Over the year, 306 volunteers assisted 1,934 families, reaching 6,135 individuals.
As the final Cul De Sac relief distribution of 2025 concluded, many recipients expressed hope that Tzu Chi would continue supporting the community in 2026. The foundation reaffirmed its commitment to carefully evaluate and continue providing compassionate and meaningful assistance in the coming year.