Trump casts long shadow over Honduran politics ahead of vote

Donald Trump has granted clemency to David Gentile, a private equity executive convicted for his involvement in a $1.6 billion fraud scheme that defrauded thousands of investors. Gentile had recently begun serving a seven-year prison sentence following his conviction in May. This decision has drawn significant attention due to the nature of the crime and the timing of the clemency.

Polls have opened in Honduras for a presidential election characterized by accusations of fraud and manipulation, with the right-wing candidate Nasry Asfura receiving backing from the United States. The election occurs in a highly polarized environment, raising concerns about the integrity of the voting process.

Hondurans are voting in a presidential election amidst threats from former U.S. President Donald Trump to cut aid if his favored candidate, Nasry 'Tito' Asfura of the National Party, does not win. Polls indicate a tight race among three candidates, raising concerns about the election's integrity and potential foreign influence.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has requested a formal pardon amid an ongoing corruption trial, following support from former President Donald Trump, who suggested Netanyahu should be pardoned. In a video address, Netanyahu expressed that the trial is causing significant internal divisions within the country.

Benjamin Netanyahu has formally requested a pardon from Israel's president, Isaac Herzog, regarding bribery and fraud charges, seeking to end a lengthy corruption trial. This request comes shortly after former U.S. President Donald Trump urged Herzog to consider a pardon for Netanyahu, emphasizing its potential alignment with public interest.

Ukrainian negotiators are set to meet with U.S. officials in Florida to discuss a proposed framework aimed at ending the ongoing war with Russia, following a weekend marked by deadly attacks in Ukraine. Key figures in the meeting include Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner, who will engage with the Kyiv delegation ahead of U.S. talks with Vladimir Putin in Moscow.

Hondurans are set to elect a new president in a closely contested race, with three candidates emerging as frontrunners. The election is taking place against the backdrop of former U.S. President Donald Trump's recent involvement, which has added a layer of complexity to the political landscape. Polls indicate a tight competition, highlighting the significance of this electoral event.

Top U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, are meeting with Ukrainian negotiators in Florida to discuss a potential peace framework aimed at ending the ongoing conflict with Russia. This meeting is part of a broader diplomatic effort leading up to key talks planned in Moscow with Russian President Vladimir Putin.