Democracy Now

Report from Havana as Trump Threatens to "Take" Cuba & Pushes for Ouster of Cuban Leader
Amidst a nationwide blackout and severe fuel shortages caused by US sanctions, former President Trump declared his intent to 'take' Cuba and demanded the removal of its current leader, sparking outrage and deepening a humanitarian crisis.

Iranian American Scholar Narges Bajoghli on the History of U.S.-Iran Relations
An Iranian American scholar details how escalating US-Israel military actions and Trump-era sanctions have fueled extreme polarization within Iran, strengthened nationalism, and led to a global economic counter-strategy focused on oil markets.

Cuba's U.N. Ambassador Denounces U.S. Oil Blockade, Push to Topple Government
Cuba's UN Ambassador details the severe humanitarian crisis caused by the US oil blockade and economic embargo, highlighting widespread international condemnation and the US's historical efforts to destabilize the island.

"Hostile Takeovers": As U.S. Claims Venezuela's Oil, Trump Seeks "Vassal States" Across the World
The Trump administration implemented aggressive geopolitical and economic strategies in Latin America, transforming Venezuela into a 'vassal state' and pressuring Cuba through oil sanctions, raising concerns about international law and national sovereignty.

Iran Escalates Deadly Crackdown on Mass Protests as Trump Threatens to Launch Military Attack
Amidst a deadly crackdown on anti-government protests in Iran, the US and Israel issue military threats and support for protesters, while experts warn such foreign intervention exacerbates internal repression and endangers activists.

Top U.S. & World Headlines — January 7, 2026
A US military raid leads to the abduction of Venezuelan President Maduro, with President Trump claiming control over Venezuelan oil, while globally, the US pledges security to Ukraine and Israel faces accusations over hindering Gaza aid.

"It's All About the Oil, Stupid!": Mehdi Hasan on Trump Attacking Venezuela & Kidnapping Maduro
Mehdi Hassan argues that the US intervention in Venezuela, including the detention of President Maduro, was explicitly driven by oil interests, with President Trump openly admitting this motivation and briefing oil executives before Congress.
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