Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has appeared before a court in New York, marking a significant development in a long-running US legal case against him. The hearing relates to charges first announced by US authorities in 2020, accusing Maduro of conspiring with armed groups to traffic cocaine into the United States.

According to US prosecutors, Maduro is alleged to have worked with Colombia’s now-defunct FARC guerrilla group to “flood” the US with drugs, using cocaine as a weapon against American society. The charges include narcotics trafficking, conspiracy, and weapons offences. Maduro has consistently denied all allegations, describing them as politically motivated.

The court ...

US President Donald Trump has invoked what he described as a modernised interpretation of the Monroe Doctrine in the aftermath of US military action in Venezuela, signalling a more assertive approach to US influence in the Western Hemisphere.

Trump referred to the policy as the “Donroe Doctrine,” framing it as a warning against foreign powers expanding their presence in the Americas. He said the United States would act decisively to protect its strategic interests and regional security, particularly in response to perceived threats close to its borders.

The remarks have drawn attention to a broader shift in US foreign policy tone, with ...

Venezuela’s opposition groups are reassessing their position following reports that President Nicolás Maduro was captured during recent events involving the United States. The developments have prompted renewed debate over leadership, governance, and the path forward for the country.

Opposition leader María Corina Machado released a public message calling for calm, unity, and a peaceful transition rooted in democratic principles. In her statement, she urged Venezuelans to avoid violence and emphasised the need for institutional stability during a period of uncertainty.

Analysts say the opposition faces complex challenges, including internal divisions, questions over legitimacy, and the role of international actors. While some see ...

Israel’s military has been ordered to intensify preparations for a possible conflict across several fronts, according to senior defence officials. The directive follows growing regional uncertainty and ongoing unrest in Iran.

Military leaders have instructed the Israel Defense Forces to accelerate readiness measures, including operational planning, troop preparedness, and coordination across branches. Officials said the move is aimed at ensuring the military can respond quickly to a range of potential threats.

Israeli officials have voiced concern that instability in Iran could lead to actions by allied groups in neighbouring regions, increasing the risk of escalation along Israel’s borders. Some reports have suggested ...

Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov held a telephone conversation with Delcy Rodríguez as tensions surrounding Venezuela continued to escalate. The call focused on the security situation and recent developments affecting the country.

During the discussion, Lavrov expressed Russia’s support for Venezuela’s sovereignty and political independence, according to official statements. The two sides also addressed ongoing bilateral cooperation and coordination on international platforms.

Venezuelan officials briefed Moscow on the domestic situation following reported foreign military actions, while stressing the government’s position on defending national interests. Russia reiterated its opposition to the use of force and external pressure against Venezuela.

The talks form part of ...