Venezuela's president says country is ready to defend itself as US considers potential land attack

The White House has distanced itself from U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth regarding allegations that he ordered military strikes on alleged drug-trafficking boats in the Caribbean, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of all individuals on board. A spokesperson clarified that while Hegseth gave the order for strikes, he did not instruct to 'kill everybody.'

The Trump administration has paused all asylum decisions and halted visa issuance for Afghan nationals following a shooting incident in Washington, D.C., which critically injured two members of the National Guard. This decision has left many asylum seekers, including those from Afghanistan, in a state of uncertainty regarding their immigration status and future in the U.S.

An industrial boom in Monterrey, Mexico, which has strong ties to the US, is leading to severe air pollution as factories emit toxic heavy metals, posing significant health risks to local residents. Research by The Guardian and Quinto Elemento Lab highlights the alarming situation in this manufacturing hub that primarily exports goods to the US.

House Republican leaders are set to address reporters amid growing scrutiny over Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's military orders regarding strikes on alleged drug-trafficking boats in the Caribbean. The Trump administration has maintained that congressional approval is not necessary for these operations, particularly as tensions with Venezuela escalate.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth instructed soldiers in Iraq to disregard legal advice regarding rules of engagement, particularly concerning the use of lethal force against enemy combatants. This directive is detailed in Hegseth's recent book, where he criticizes the constraints imposed by international laws of war and the Geneva Conventions.

In 2025, the United States recorded 17 mass killings, marking the lowest number since 2006. This statistic reflects a significant decrease in such tragic events over the years, indicating potential improvements in safety measures and community responses to violence.

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem has called for a 'full travel ban' on countries she claims are 'flooding' the United States, emphasizing the need for stricter immigration controls. This statement reflects her ongoing focus on immigration policy and national security, which has been a significant topic in U.S. political discourse.

President Trump convened a meeting with his advisors to discuss the next steps regarding Venezuela, amid rising concerns from lawmakers about the administration's military strikes on vessels in the Caribbean Sea. This comes after reports of a second military strike targeting a boat accused of drug trafficking, raising alarms about potential war crimes.