Here in Venezuela, People Are More Afraid of Runaway Inflation Than Trump

Tensions between the United States and Venezuela have escalated significantly, particularly following President Donald Trump's declaration that the airspace above and around Venezuela is now considered closed. This announcement has been met with strong condemnation from the Venezuelan government, which views it as a violation of their sovereignty.

Colombia's President Gustavo Petro has issued a warning to U.S. President Donald Trump, cautioning against military threats aimed at Colombia in response to drug trafficking. This statement follows Trump's suggestion that military strikes could target countries producing narcotics, specifically mentioning Colombia and Venezuela during a cabinet meeting.

President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defended two military strikes on an alleged drug boat in the Caribbean, which resulted in the deaths of two individuals. Hegseth attributed the oversight of survivors to the 'fog of war,' raising concerns about potential violations of international law.

Ana María Arévalo Gosen's portraits from the Poli-Valencia detention centre in Venezuela depict the frustration of women awaiting news from their lawyers and families. The facility, previously an investigation office, was repurposed into a cell, and upon her return a year later, it was adorned with personal touches reflecting the women's identities amidst their confinement.

Ullapool, a Scottish village, has celebrated the countdown to Christmas for a decade with a unique festive display featuring a Christmas tree made from fishing creels. This year, the tree continues to symbolize community spirit and creativity as it lights up the village during the holiday season.

Pope Leo XIV, during his return from a visit to Lebanon, cautioned against U.S. military intervention in Venezuela, advocating for diplomatic and economic solutions instead. This statement came after his engagement with local Catholic communities and prayers at the site of the Beirut port explosion, which claimed over 220 lives in 2020.

Pope Leo has urged the Trump administration to refrain from using military threats against Venezuela, advocating instead for peaceful means to instigate change in the country. This call comes amid escalating tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela, with the Trump administration considering various options, including military action, to address the situation.

A group of Democratic senators announced plans to use a congressional vote to prevent President Trump from initiating military action against Venezuela, citing concerns that such an action would be a significant error. They emphasized the need to rein in the administration's aggressive stance towards the South American nation.