NICOLAS MADURO

Democratic victory in midterm elections adds a new twist to stock markets' Iran war, AI, and debt worries

Investors are watching the implications of the recent Democratic win in the US midterm elections. Geopolitical tensions, particularly the Iran war, continue to elevate oil prices and market risks. Regulatory scrutiny on the rapidly growing AI sector is expected following the election outcomes. Market volatility is anticipated to persist due to fiscal policy debates and increasing debt concerns. The market response so far has shown modest gains despite heightened uncertainties.

US allies see a chastened Trump but they’re wary of the backlash

US election results are viewed as a potential limit on Donald Trump's power regarding foreign policies. Foreign officials remain cautious, predicting that Trump may continue to act unpredictably despite the political changes. The president's approach toward Iran may signal his handling of Congress's constraints on his authority. European leaders express concern over the implications for international relations amid ongoing conflicts.

US intelligence sharing has fractured under Trump, officials say

US intelligence sharing on Iran and other global threats has slowed or temporarily stopped under President Donald Trump, raising concerns about gaps in policymakers' understanding of national security risks. Tensions between the CIA and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, staffing cuts and political interference have further weakened coordination across intelligence agencies.

Turhan Mildon, Trump ally Alina Habba's Turkish husband, is much younger than his reported age of 29 and has reportedly been married twice before

Alina Habba married Turhan Mildon in September, who is reported to be much younger than he claims. Their marriage has drawn attention, particularly over a disputed donation to the Kennedy Center. Mildon is also said to have ties with controversial leaders and has previously had marriages that ended within short spans of time. Reports suggest that Mildon is actually 25 years old and not the 29 he claims.

Venezuela's Maria Corina Machado hopeful for 2027 presidential election

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, in her first public remarks since returning from 10 months in exile, said the country is moving irreversibly towards presidential elections in 2027. She called for the dismantling of the repressive system and the release of political prisoners, while denying any contact with interim President Delcy Rodriguez or Washington over a possible meeting.

Does White House ask AI to decide policy? Democrats want the receipts

In a letter dated Wednesday and first obtained by Politico, congressmen Jamie Raskin and Robert Garcia said questions submitted by Trump and White House aides -- and the chatbots' answers -- constituted presidential records that must be preserved under federal law.

Alvin K. Hellerstein, a federal judge who handled Trump, Maduro and 9/11 cases, dies at 92

Alvin K. Hellerstein, a prominent federal judge in Manhattan, has died at the age of 92. He presided over notable cases involving public figures like Donald Trump and Nicolas Maduro. Judge Hellerstein served on the federal bench for nearly three decades after his appointment by Bill Clinton in 1998. He was remembered for his commitment, empathetic approach, and significant rulings regarding 9/11-related lawsuits.

Trump says he will accept US midterm results if elections are 'honest'

Donald Trump declared he would accept the US midterm election results if they are viewed as honest and valid. Yet, he raised alarms about possible Republican setbacks fueled by renewed allegations of voter fraud. To rally his supporters, Trump has engaged in multiple rallies and announced a cash incentive for information that leads to voter fraud prosecutions.

Marco Rubio calls on Cubans to partner with CIA as Trump vows to 'take care of Cuba'; Cuba mocks US 'desperation'

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has called on Cubans to partner with the CIA for change. President Donald Trump mentioned taking care of Cuba after dealing with Iran. Their administration continues to apply pressure on Cuba regarding its communist government. The US has imposed an oil blockade, causing severe strains on Cuba's economy. Cuba's foreign minister expressed openness to dialogue while human rights experts condemned the blockade as unlawful.

Trump says US will 'take care of Cuba' on its way back from Iran

President Donald Trump mentioned plans to deal with Cuba following discussions about Iran. He expressed confidence that the US would reach an agreement with Cuba. The Trump administration aims to alter the current communist government in Cuba. Recently imposed oil blockades have triggered severe energy shortages in Cuba. Cuba's foreign minister indicated an openness to dialogue with the United States amidst these tensions.

Alina Habba-Ric Grenell feud: How $5.6 million Kennedy Center donation claim and Venezuela business ties sparked Trump’s probe

Alina Habba has accused Ric Grenell of failing to deposit a $5.6 million Kennedy Center donation from her husband, Turkish businessman Turhan Mildon. As the White House examines the allegations, Kennedy Center records show a $270,000 pledged donation but no contribution close to $5.6 million. Here’s how the dispute connects to a $17.6 million business deal and their shared Venezuela ties.

Ex-Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro says new torture allegations are 'false'

Nicolas Maduro and Cilia Flores are accused of leading a torture campaign against numerous victims, including Americans. They appeared in court while denying the charges and insisting they are innocent. The revised indictment includes accusations of overseeing torture methods and using psychological threats. Their trial date was set for June 14, 2027, and additional hearings are scheduled. Maduro has consistently denied all allegations related to his presidency and governance.

Judge orders the Trump administration to cancel taxpayer-funded promotional TV ads

A federal judge ruled that President Donald Trump must cancel remaining television commercials funded by taxpayer money. The ads were challenged as an illegal use of funds for political propaganda, which violates federal law. The judge's restraining order prevents further development or airing of these advertisements during the order's duration. The Department of Homeland Security had used $20 million in appropriated funds for this ad campaign.

New US indictment charges former Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro with torture

Former Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has been charged with torture and human rights abuses in the US. He had already been facing drug trafficking charges before this new indictment was unsealed. Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were taken into custody in New York earlier this year. Both have pleaded not guilty to their charges and could face severe penalties if convicted.

‘Unthinkable torture’: US attorney details new charges against Venezuela's Maduro, wife Flores

Democrats sue Trump to halt taxpayer-funded TV ads that praised him

Democratic National Committee has filed a lawsuit against Donald Trump regarding taxpayer-funded election-related television ads. The lawsuit claims that Trump violated laws prohibiting appropriations for propaganda purposes, which has sparked bipartisan criticism. Recent ads praising Trump have been airing during various programs, including football games. The White House has stated that Trump's political action committee will take over funding for these ads. The government-funded ads are expected to cease shortly.

Nobel Peace Prize haunted by the 'spectre' of Trump

Donald Trump's pursuit of the Nobel Peace Prize continues, despite minimal chances of being awarded. The Norwegian Nobel Committee faces scrutiny in choosing this year's laureate amidst Trump's actions and policies. While some speculate the prize may go to humanitarian efforts, others suggest a more controversial choice could emerge. The committee is also aware of the potential backlash from awarding the prize.

Trump doesn't commit to repaying federal funds spent on TV ads that praised him

US President Trump indicated he would cover future ad expenses from his campaign account while federal taxpayer funds remain unrefunded. Criticism has emerged from both political parties regarding the appropriateness of using taxpayer money for these ads. Legal experts are examining potential violations of federal laws concerning publicity and propaganda funded by appropriated money. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer called for an investigation into the use of taxpayer resources.

US jails Marco Rubio ally David Rivera for secret Venezuela lobbying

David Rivera, a former congressman, received a 10-year prison sentence for unregistered lobbying for Venezuela. He was convicted for money laundering and failing to register as a foreign agent. During his trial, Marco Rubio stated they were once close friends but he knew nothing about the contract. Rivera claims his lobbying efforts aimed to undermine President Maduro rather than assist him.

A galactic Nobel? Experts float the International Space Station among contenders for the Peace Prize

The International Space Station, global humanitarian groups and international courts are among the names being discussed ahead of the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize announcement on October 9, while Donald Trump and Canada’s Mark Carney are also seen as contenders. Analysts caution that predictions are highly speculative, with the committee typically favouring durable peace efforts and international cooperation.

Hegseth confirms that the US military will cut 20% of its generals and admirals

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a significant plan to cut 20% of the military's generals and admirals. This decision comes during ongoing military engagements with Iran and Venezuela, adding pressure to U.S. forces. Hegseth's focus includes eliminating perceived 'woke' culture and diversity programs within the military. Senators expressed concerns regarding these cuts and their long-term impact on military leadership. The cuts are expected to be implemented by January 1, 2027.

Donald Trump says he spoke with Venezuela's Delcy Rodriguez about elections

Donald Trump spoke with Venezuela's interim President Delcy Rodriguez this week about upcoming elections in the country. The conversation took place on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, where Rodriguez met Trump. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that debt restructuring and political change were also discussed. Rodriguez asserted that elections would occur in Venezuela after taking office recently.

Venezuela president returns from US visit with no deals, no firm election date

Delcy Rodriguez, Venezuela's interim President, attended the UN General Assembly in search of business deals. Her visit aimed to showcase Venezuela's potential for financial recovery after US sanctions were imposed. Despite high visibility, no concrete agreements were reached, illustrating deep US influence over her administration. Opposition parties are pressing for election timelines, emphasizing the need for political change. Rodriguez's meeting with US officials included discussions on restructuring Venezuela's sovereign debt.