With new U.S. threat looming, how will Venezuela's leader keep his grip on power?

In August, Donald Trump initiated a campaign against Venezuela, starting with airstrikes on alleged drug boats, which faced criticism as extrajudicial killings. The U.S. president subsequently deployed naval assets in the Caribbean. The Guardian's Tom Phillips questions the validity of claims regarding drug trafficking and discusses the implications for Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

A 22-year-old Indian national wanted for murder was arrested at an Ontario-U.S. border crossing after being denied entry into Canada over the weekend. The individual was sought by authorities in India for his alleged involvement in a homicide.

Kyiv has confirmed the use of the Atacms missile system, which relies on American intelligence for targeting, marking the first deployment since the U.S. lifted restrictions on its use. This development signifies a notable escalation in Ukraine's military capabilities amid ongoing conflict with Russia.

A Russian missile and drone attack on a residential tower block in Ternopil, Ukraine, has resulted in at least 10 fatalities, according to Ukrainian officials. This incident is part of a broader escalation of violence, with recent reports indicating that at least 25 people have died in similar strikes across western Ukraine. The U.S. delegation has arrived in Ukraine for discussions aimed at ending the ongoing conflict.

The joint statement from Canada, the U.S., and Finland reaffirms the Icebreaker Collaboration Effort, known as the ICE Pact, which was originally signed under President Joe Biden. U.S. President Donald Trump continues to support this initiative despite ongoing trade discussions remaining stalled. The ICE Pact aims to enhance cooperation in Arctic navigation and icebreaker capabilities among the three nations.

Venezuela's leading opposition figure, María Corina Machado, has announced that the country is on the brink of a 'new era' as she continues to advocate for the ousting of President Nicolás Maduro. Machado, who has been in hiding since her movement's candidate was believed to have won the last presidential election, published a 'freedom manifesto' outlining her vision. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated a willingness to engage in dialogue with Maduro, amidst discussions of potential military action and the designation of a Venezuelan drug cartel as a terrorist organization.

A recent report to Congress indicates that U.S. supply chains are vulnerable to exploitation by Beijing, particularly in critical sectors such as pharmaceuticals and electrical equipment. This dependence on Chinese supply chains raises concerns about national security and economic stability, prompting calls for reassessment of trade policies and supply chain management.

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has expressed readiness to engage in talks with the United States amid increasing pressure from the US government. This development comes as both sides indicate a willingness to negotiate, potentially signaling a shift in diplomatic relations. The US has been intensifying its stance against Maduro's administration, which has faced significant criticism for its handling of the country's ongoing crisis.