Eswatini's Deportations and US Funding
The Eswatini government has acknowledged receiving $5.1 million from the US to accept deportees as part of a controversial third-country deportation program. This program, initiated during the Trump administration, has faced criticism from human rights organizations. Finance Minister Neal Rijkenberg confirmed the funds, intended for improving border and migration management, were received after inquiries were made. Since July, Eswatini has accepted 15 deportees, some of whom have serious criminal convictions. Lawyers are challenging the legality of their detention in Eswatini's maximum-security prison.
UK Intelligence Sharing Under Scrutiny
British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has addressed reports suggesting the UK has ceased intelligence sharing with the US regarding drug traffickers in the Caribbean. Cooper emphasized the continuity of longstanding intelligence frameworks as the US escalates military operations against alleged narco-traffickers linked to Venezuela. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio dismissed the reports as false. The UK has been monitoring drug trafficking in the Caribbean, where the US has intensified its military presence amid concerns over legality and humanitarian law.
US Targets Venezuelan Drug Cartel
The US has announced plans to designate the Cartel de los Soles, allegedly led by Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, as a foreign terrorist organization. This announcement coincides with increased military operations against drug trafficking in the Caribbean. While the US government has ramped up pressure on Maduro, including a substantial reward for information leading to his arrest, there are mixed signals regarding potential negotiations with his representatives. Experts are skeptical about the existence of the cartel in the same capacity as Mexican drug organizations.
Mass Protests in Manila
In Manila, an estimated 650,000 people have gathered to protest against corruption in flood management funds. The demonstration, organized by the Iglesia ni Cristo, has drawn attention to the disappearance of billions of dollars meant for flood protection projects. Protesters have camped out in Rizal Park, demanding accountability from government officials and highlighting the dire consequences of corruption amid frequent typhoons that have devastated the country. The rally has disrupted daily life, with schools and offices closed as citizens call for transparency and reform.
Ariana Grande Incident Leads to Jail Time
Johnson Wen, an Australian man, has been sentenced to nine days in jail for disrupting the red-carpet premiere of "Wicked: For Good" in Singapore by grabbing singer Ariana Grande. Wen's actions, captured on video, led to a backlash on social media, with many condemning his behavior as a public nuisance. This incident raises concerns about security at public events, as such invasions have become increasingly rare due to heightened safety measures.
Wrap-up
Recent global events reflect a growing discontent with political and social issues ranging from human rights violations in Eswatini to widespread protests in the Philippines over corruption. As international tensions rise, particularly regarding drug trafficking and governance, the need for accountability and reform is becoming increasingly urgent.
Sources
theguardian.com
@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team
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