The United States has ended temporary legal status for Ethiopian citizens, while the UK has imposed sanctions on Sudanese military leaders amid ongoing violence. In Canada, a Conservative lawmaker's defection has brought the ruling Liberals closer to a majority, and severe flooding continues to threaten the Pacific Northwest. Meanwhile, Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado narrowly escaped the country to receive her Nobel Prize.

US Immigration Policy Changes
The US Department of Homeland Security announced the termination of Temporary Protected Status for Ethiopian citizens, stating that the country no longer meets the criteria due to improved conditions. Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized the administration's commitment to controlling immigration, a central focus of President Trump's second term. This decision is part of a broader pattern of revoking TPS for citizens from various countries, including Haiti and Venezuela, as the administration seeks to streamline immigration policies. Legal challenges are anticipated as affected individuals seek to maintain their status.

UK Sanctions on Sudanese Leaders
The UK government has sanctioned four senior commanders of Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF) for their involvement in mass killings and violence against civilians in El Fasher. British officials expressed concerns about the ongoing civil war, which has escalated since April 2023, leading to what the UN describes as the world's worst humanitarian crisis. The sanctions come amid fears of the conflict spreading to neighboring countries, and while the UK refrains from sanctioning the UAE, which backs the RSF, it signals a potential shift in diplomatic strategy.

Political Shifts in Canada
In Canada, the ruling Liberal Party has gained momentum following the defection of Conservative lawmaker Michael Ma, who cited the government's focus on affordability and economic stability as his reasons for joining the Liberals. This shift brings the party closer to a majority in Parliament, with some officials suggesting more Conservative members may consider crossing the floor. However, Prime Minister Mark Carney faces internal dissent after a cabinet minister resigned over environmental concerns regarding an oil pipeline project.

Severe Flooding in the Pacific Northwest
The Pacific Northwest is grappling with severe flooding, prompting Washington Governor Bob Ferguson to declare a statewide emergency. Torrential rains have led to widespread evacuations, with approximately 100,000 residents under evacuation warnings as rivers swell to dangerous levels. First responders are actively rescuing individuals, and authorities are preparing shelters for displaced residents. The region is expected to face additional rainfall over the weekend, exacerbating the already critical situation.

Venezuelan Opposition Leader's Escape
María Corina Machado, a prominent Venezuelan opposition leader and Nobel laureate, successfully escaped the country after a perilous journey organized by a US veteran. Machado's escape involved navigating through multiple checkpoints and evading potential military strikes. She expressed relief at her arrival in Norway, where she is set to receive her Nobel Prize. The escape highlights the risks faced by political dissidents in Venezuela under Nicolás Maduro's regime, which has been marked by repression and economic turmoil.

Wrap-up
These developments reflect a complex interplay of international politics, humanitarian crises, and domestic challenges. As the US tightens immigration policies, Sudan faces escalating violence, Canada experiences political realignment, the Pacific Northwest deals with natural disasters, and Venezuelan leaders navigate dangerous political landscapes, the global community remains on alert.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team