Greetings from high up in Colombia's Andes, where 'prairie-style meat' is a delicacy

In a controversial move, the US military has launched strikes on four alleged drug-trafficking vessels off the coast of Colombia, resulting in the deaths of 14 individuals. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the operation as part of President Donald Trump's ongoing anti-drug campaign. However, the lack of evidence supporting claims that these vessels were involved in narcotics smuggling raises serious concerns about the justification for such lethal actions. This incident highlights the complexities and potential consequences of US foreign policy in combating drug trafficking.

In a recent conversation with NPR's Leila Fadel, Sudanese-American poet Emi Mahmoud reflects on the fall of her hometown, Al-Fashir, to the Rapid Support Forces in Sudan. This discussion sheds light on the personal impact of political turmoil and highlights the role of art in expressing the struggles faced by communities in conflict. Mahmoud's insights not only provide a poignant perspective on the situation in Sudan but also emphasize the importance of storytelling in times of crisis.

In a recent discussion, NPR's Michel Martin spoke with Dana Sacchetti, the head of the World Food Programme in Jamaica, about the ongoing efforts of aid organizations to support residents recovering from Hurricane Melissa. This conversation highlights the crucial role these organizations play in providing food and resources to those affected, showcasing the resilience of communities in the face of natural disasters. It's a reminder of the importance of humanitarian aid in rebuilding lives and restoring hope.

The U.S. military has conducted strikes on boats off the coast of Colombia, resulting in the deaths of 14 individuals linked to drug trafficking. This operation marks a significant escalation in the ongoing battle against drug smuggling in South America, highlighting the complexities and dangers of the region's drug trade. The strikes, announced by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, reflect the U.S. government's commitment to combating drug-related crime, but they also raise questions about the impact on local communities and the effectiveness of such military actions.

The recent US military strikes off the coast of Colombia have resulted in the deaths of 14 individuals linked to suspected drug-running activities. This brings the total death toll from similar operations since early September to at least 57. These actions highlight the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in the region, raising concerns about the humanitarian impact and the effectiveness of military interventions.

In a recent interview with NPR, former U.S. ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel discussed President Trump's visit to Japan and his priorities during the meeting with the new prime minister. This conversation sheds light on the evolving diplomatic relationship between the U.S. and Japan, highlighting the importance of such visits in fostering international ties and addressing mutual concerns.

In a significant development, Trump announced that the trade deal with South Korea is nearly finalized, marking a breakthrough after months of challenging negotiations. This deal, which involves $350 billion in investments that Seoul has committed to the U.S., is expected to strengthen economic ties between the two nations and boost trade opportunities. It matters because it reflects a positive shift in international relations and could lead to increased economic growth.

A recent report by Rentals.ca highlights a significant drop in rental prices in cities with large student populations, following Ottawa's decision to cap the number of international students. This easing of rents is great news for both current and prospective students, making housing more affordable and accessible in these areas. It reflects a shift in the housing market that could benefit many families and individuals looking for budget-friendly options.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has disclosed new technical details about the Burevestnik cruise missile, which features a nuclear engine and boasts unlimited range capabilities. This development is significant as it highlights Russia's advancements in military technology and raises concerns about global security dynamics. The Burevestnik's capabilities could alter the balance of power, prompting discussions among international leaders about defense strategies.

The community is mourning the loss of Wayne Broadhurst, a 49-year-old employee of Greener Ealing Ltd, who was tragically killed in a stabbing incident in Uxbridge. This event highlights the increasing concerns about safety in public spaces and the impact of violence on local workers. Tributes have poured in, reflecting the respect and admiration he garnered during his time with the company.

The Women's Cricket World Cup semi-final between England and South Africa is underway, with live updates starting at 9.30am GMT. This match is significant as it showcases the growing popularity and competitiveness of women's cricket, drawing attention to the sport and its athletes. With England being statistically the best team in the tournament, fans are eager to see if they can secure a spot in the final against a strong South African side.

An 80-year-old Australian woman tragically died after being left behind by the Coral Adventurer cruise ship on Lizard Island in the Great Barrier Reef. The crew only discovered her absence hours after departing, raising serious concerns about passenger safety and crew protocols. This incident highlights the critical need for improved measures to ensure that all passengers are accounted for before a ship sets sail.