France Hosts Landmark Ukraine Talks With Marco Rubio, Ukrainian and European Leaders Amid Rising Tensions

0

Paris, France — France played host to pivotal high-level talks on Ukraine’s security Thursday, marking the first time since President Donald Trump’s inauguration that top U.S., Ukrainian, and European officials have met together to discuss the ongoing war. The talks, which took place at the French presidential palace, came at a time of mounting concerns about Trump’s stance toward Russia and the stalled efforts to broker a ceasefire in Ukraine.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and presidential envoy Steve Witkoff, along with senior Ukrainian and European officials, participated in hours of separate discussions before French President Emmanuel Macron brought them together for a final round of talks. Macron characterized the discussions as an essential “convergence” and announced that the same format would continue next week in London.

French President Emmanuel Macron, left, welcomes US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, center, and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio for a meeting at the Elysee Palace in Paris, Thursday April 17, 2025. Photo : Ludovic Marin, Pool Photo via AP

The gathering occurred amid rising frustrations in Europe over Trump’s foreign policy decisions, including his rhetoric surrounding NATO, tariffs on key allies, and his attempts to engage with Russia. There is increasing anxiety about Trump’s perceived readiness to align more closely with Moscow, further complicating efforts to end the war.

The American Perspective

Rubio shared on X that the American delegation’s primary goal in Paris was to “secure real, practical solutions to end the Russia-Ukraine war.” He also spoke by phone with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to convey the same message. According to U.S. State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce, Rubio relayed that “President Trump and the United States want this war to end, and have now presented to all parties the outlines of a durable and lasting peace.” The U.S. emphasized that the encouraging reception in Paris for their peace framework shows that a resolution is within reach if all parties are committed.

Until now, U.S. efforts have focused on separate negotiations with Ukraine and Russia, with European diplomats largely excluded from the talks. Experts view this meeting as a major shift, particularly since it is believed to be the first time Witkoff, Trump’s chief envoy for Russia, has met with senior Ukrainian officials.

Alina Polyakova, president of the Center for European Policy Analysis, highlighted the importance of involving Europe in the peace process, noting that “this is not just about a swath of territory in Ukraine… this is about broader questions of European security.”

Ukraine’s Priorities

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in a statement, emphasized the need for security guarantees and said his delegation was tasked with discussing both full and partial ceasefire proposals, though not touching on Ukraine’s territorial integrity. French officials later confirmed that U.S. negotiators were open to discussing security guarantees but offered few details.

Ukrainian presidential adviser Andrii Yermak stated that the discussions centered on the next steps toward achieving a “just and lasting peace,” including plans for a full ceasefire, the deployment of a multinational military force, and the establishment of an effective security architecture for Ukraine.

A Coalition for Peace

A significant topic was the formation of a coalition of nations, led by the UK and France, to help enforce any future peace agreement with Russia. However, the coalition’s success would require strong U.S. support, particularly in terms of airpower or military assistance, which the Trump administration has yet to publicly commit to.

Polyakova pointed out that peace efforts have so far faltered because Russian President Vladimir Putin seems unwilling to agree to a ceasefire, opting instead to stall negotiations. The Trump administration has mainly offered Moscow incentives, or “carrots,” but has been criticized for lacking sufficient leverage, or “sticks,” to force meaningful change.

The question now is whether these talks will prompt a shift in the U.S. strategy, Polyakova said.

Diplomatic Success for Macron

French President Macron, who has been in frequent communication with both Zelenskyy and Trump, spoke twice with the Ukrainian leader during the day’s talks. Macron’s involvement in these diplomatic efforts has been praised as instrumental in facilitating the convergence of U.S., Ukrainian, and European officials. France heralded Thursday’s discussions as a diplomatic success, reflecting the strength of Macron’s relationships with both Trump and Zelenskyy.

The ongoing meetings are seen as a crucial step in shaping the future of Ukraine and Europe’s security in the wake of the ongoing conflict.


SOURCE : AGENCIES |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube |

Kazakhstan Unveils Ambitious Science and Education Vision: Minister Sayasat Nurbek Charts Path to Global Innovation Leadership

0

Astana, Kazakhstan — Kazakh Minister of Science and Higher Education Sayasat Nurbek delivered a landmark address outlining Kazakhstan’s sweeping plans to transform its science and higher education landscape, positioning the nation as a rising global hub for academic excellence, innovation, and technological leadership.

RELATED NEWS : Kazakhstan Champions Regional Media Cooperation and EU Partnership at Central Asia Media Forum

In a comprehensive lecture attended by international stakeholders, Nurbek detailed Kazakhstan’s national strategy for science and education reform through 2029, centered on global integration, AI-driven development, and youth empowerment.

From Resource Wealth to Innovation Powerhouse

Highlighting Kazakhstan’s rich reserves of 99 mineral elements—60 of which are actively mined—the Minister emphasized the nation’s role as a top global producer of uranium, chromium, and barite. Coupled with significant investments in renewable energy—wind (820 MWh), hydro (62 MWh), and solar (2.5 MWh)—Kazakhstan is anchoring its development on both sustainability and technological advancement.

“Kazakhstan is strategically positioned to become the Eurasian center of gravity,” Nurbek declared. “We are building bridges between East and West, connecting ideas, people, and technologies.”

The 2023–2029 National Strategy: Four Pillars of Progress

Kazakhstan’s science and education development plan, launched in 2023, features four key outcomes, 58 specific initiatives, and eight measurable indicators:

  • New Model of Science Administration: A legislative overhaul in July 2024 introduced a modern Science and Technology Policy focused on reducing bureaucracy, incentivizing research, and aligning with international standards.
  • Strengthening Human Capital: The Zhas Galym program will support 250 global internships and 1,000 research grants. Employment models are shifting to prioritize practical science roles with new scientist-engineer-technician ratios.
  • University Innovation Hubs: With 16 billion tenge invested, science parks and engineering centers will emerge at top universities including ENU, KazNRTU, and KazATU, focusing on sustainable technologies, energy, and agri-tech.
  • Commercialization and Digitalization: Enhanced funding models, tax incentives, and digital tools aim to stimulate private-sector collaboration and accelerate the commercialization of research.

AI-SANA: Kazakhstan’s Leap into Deeptech and AI Leadership

A highlight of the lecture was the unveiling of the AI-SANA initiative—“The Springboard of Technology”—which will train 100,000 students in AI and entrepreneurship by 2025. Backed by global partners such as Google, NVIDIA, Huawei, and Coursera, and academic leaders like Stanford University, the initiative aims to place Kazakhstan at the forefront of deeptech innovation.

The country’s new AI Academic Cluster, featuring 2 PFLOPS of computing power across major universities, will anchor Kazakhstan’s role in regional AI leadership. A partnership with Huawei will further develop smart campuses and R&D infrastructure.

To fuel this innovation, a $100 million Deep Tech Fund—in collaboration with Saudi Arabia’s NDTP—will support startups across Central Asia and the MENA region.

Global Partnerships and Academic Excellence

Kazakhstan’s education system is undergoing a bold transformation, marked by high-profile partnerships with:

  • Coventry University (UK) – With a $50M investment and capacity for 3,200 students
  • University of Arizona (USA) – Joint programs with Kozybayev University
  • Université de Lorraine (France) – Specialized degrees in social sciences and business
  • Arizona State University – Globally ranked for innovation and inclusion
  • MEPhI (Russia) – A leading institution in nuclear engineering and physics

These collaborations reflect Kazakhstan’s commitment to internationalization and excellence in education.

Strategic Location and Infrastructure

Kazakhstan’s geographic position at the crossroads of Europe and Asia is bolstered by expansive infrastructure:

  • 5 rail corridors (17,000 km), 135,000 freight wagons
  • 8 road corridors (95,000 km), 27 border checkpoints
  • 25 airports, including 18 international hubs
  • 2 seaports (Aktau, Kuryk) with 27 million tons capacity

Handling over 1.5 million tons of transit cargo annually, Kazakhstan is a vital link in the Middle Corridor, transporting 80% of Central Asia’s trade.

Cultural Ties and Global Outlook

Nurbek also celebrated Kazakhstan’s diplomatic and cultural bonds, especially with India, recalling the historic 1955 visit of Prime Minister Nehru and Indira Gandhi. These ties are now evolving into dynamic educational and technological partnerships.

A Platform for Reform and Dialogue

The Forum of Strategic Partners, held during the CONNECTED-2024 conference in Astana, gathered over 300 experts to discuss academic quality, AI integration, sustainability, and digital transformation. The newly established International Council under the Ministry will oversee reforms to align Kazakhstan’s system with global competitiveness.

Looking Ahead: Science as a National Engine

Minister Nurbek concluded with a powerful message:

“Only science that is organically connected with production can truly drive a nation forward. Kazakhstan is not just adapting to the AI revolution — we are shaping it.”

With over 31,500 international students and 30+ foreign university programs already active, Kazakhstan is emerging as a beacon for innovation, higher learning, and global scientific progress.

The vision laid out by Minister Sayasat Nurbek reflects a confident, forward-looking Kazakhstan ready to lead Central Asia—and beyond—into a future defined by knowledge, technology, and sustainable growth.


SOURCE : DS |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube

Argentine Court Upholds Gender Violence Charges Against Former President Alberto Fernández

Buenos Aires, Argentine – An Argentine appeals court has upheld the indictment of former President Alberto Fernández (2019–2023) on gender-based violence charges, advancing a landmark case that could see the ex-head of state stand trial for the alleged abuse of his former partner, Fabiola Yáñez.

RELATED NEWS : U.S. Sanctions Former Argentine President and Ex-Minister Over Corruption Allegations

The decision, issued Tuesday by the National Criminal and Correctional Appeals Court, confirms a February 17 ruling by Federal Judge Julián Ercolini, which accuses Fernández of committing both physical and psychological abuse against Yáñez between 2016 and August 2024 — a relationship the court described as shaped by a “notorious power imbalance.”

Judges Cite “Marked Power Asymmetry” and Pattern of Abuse

The majority decision by Judges Martín Irurzun and Eduardo Farah, with a dissent from Judge Roberto Boico, affirms that the alleged abuse occurred within a context of gender-based violence, in which Fernández is said to have exploited Yáñez’s vulnerability during their relationship.

The court cited a “marked power imbalance, isolation, psychological abuse, and repeated physical aggression,” noting that several incidents allegedly took place at the presidential residence under conditions of forced isolation.

Judge Farah dismissed the defense’s claim that the charges lacked clarity, stating the allegations were “meticulously described” from the beginning of the relationship to the formal complaint filed in 2024.

Defense Denies Abuse, Asserts Counterclaim

Fernández’s legal counsel, Silvina Carreira, has appealed the indictment, arguing that the former president was not the abuser but rather suffered mistreatment himself at the hands of Yáñez. The court, however, dismissed this claim and upheld charges including minor and serious injuries, coercive threats, and abuse of power — all aggravated by the intimate relationship between the two.

The ruling emphasized that Fernández’s status as both President and a public figure with symbolic authority intensified the imbalance of power, stating he was “not only the President of the Nation, but also a public actor with symbolic power.”

A Legal and Political First

This marks the first time in Argentine history that a sitting or former head of state has been criminally indicted for gender-based violence. If convicted, Fernández faces a potential prison sentence of 3 to 18 years.

The indictment details a sustained pattern of verbal humiliation, threats, guilt manipulation, and physical assault across multiple years — raising broader questions about accountability at the highest levels of government.

With the indictment now upheld, Fernández is just one step away from a public oral trial that could set a significant precedent in Latin American political and judicial history.


SOURCE : EFE. |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube

Peru’s Ex-First Lady Flees to Brazil, Requests Asylum to Escape Prison Sentence

Brasília, Brazil — Nadine Heredia, Peru’s former First Lady and wife of ex-President Ollanta Humala (2011–2016), arrived in Brazil on Wednesday under diplomatic asylum, mere hours after being sentenced to 15 years in prison for her role in a major corruption scandal involving Brazilian construction conglomerate Odebrecht and funding from Venezuela.

RELATED NEWS : Former Peruvian President Humala sentenced to 15 years in prison for money laundering

Heredia, accompanied by her youngest son, Samir, who was also granted asylum, landed in Brasília aboard a Brazilian Air Force jet, following a swift approval of her asylum request and the issuance of a safe-conduct pass by Peruvian authorities.

A Regional Scandal Reignited

Heredia and Humala were convicted Tuesday on charges of aggravated money laundering, accused of receiving illegal campaign donations from Odebrecht and late Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez during Peru’s 2006 and 2011 elections.

While Humala was arrested and sent to Barbadillo prison in Lima — where former presidents Alejandro Toledo and Pedro Castillo are also detained — Heredia fled to the Brazilian Embassy in Lima immediately after the verdict, invoking diplomatic protection under the 1954 Caracas Convention on Diplomatic Asylum.

Diplomatic Ripples Across Latin America

The case has triggered heated political debate in Peru, where Foreign Minister Elmer Schialer has been summoned to explain the government’s decision to allow Heredia’s departure. Congressional President Eduardo Salhuana acknowledged the country’s treaty obligations, emphasizing the need to avoid a diplomatic standoff with Brazil, Peru’s top Latin American trade partner.

“The government had no choice under international law,” Salhuana stated. “Refusal could have escalated into a full diplomatic crisis.”

Brazil, invoking the 1954 Caracas Convention, defended its decision despite Peru’s objections concerning Heredia’s conviction on serious financial crimes. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who himself was imprisoned over charges later annulled, signed off on the asylum — reigniting conversations about the region’s history of politicized justice and Brazil’s legacy of offering refuge to embattled leaders.

Brazil’s Legacy of Political Asylum

Brazil has a long-standing tradition of granting asylum to controversial political figures. Among the most notable were Paraguayan dictator Alfredo Stroessner, ex-President Raúl Cubas, and Ecuador’s Lucio Gutiérrez.

Heredia’s legal team confirmed that her exit from Peru was executed in the early hours of Wednesday morning under military protection. Her future in Brazil remains uncertain — it is still unclear whether she and her son will remain in Brasília or relocate elsewhere within the country.

Meanwhile, Heredia’s conviction remains under appeal, potentially opening another chapter in a saga that continues to entangle power, politics, and justice across Latin America.


SOURCE : EFE. |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube

Kazakhstan Champions Regional Media Cooperation and EU Partnership at Central Asia Media Forum

0

Astana, Kazakhstan – At the Central Asia Media Forum held in Astana, Roman Vassilenko, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, sat down with Derya Soysal from Diplomat Times (EUROPE) for an exclusive interview.

He outlined Kazakhstan’s vision for fostering regional media collaboration, elaborated on President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s initiative for enhanced Central Asian dialogue, and emphasized the growing strategic partnership with the European Union (EU).

Strengthening Bilateral Relations with the EU

Marking 32 years of diplomatic ties, Kazakhstan and the EU have cultivated a robust partnership grounded in shared values such as democracy, human rights, and support for the United Nations. Deputy Minister Vassilenko highlighted the resilience of this relationship amid global changes, underpinned by strong trade, significant investments, and cooperation in transport, logistics, and critical raw materials (CRM).

RELATED NEWS : Kazakh President Meets Chevron CEO to Discuss Expanding Energy Cooperation

A pivotal moment came in October 2022, when President Tokayev hosted European Council President Charles Michel in Astana, followed by discussions at the Samarkand Summit with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. These engagements culminated in a joint agreement with an EU investment potential of €12 billion, signaling a new era of cooperation. Kazakhstan, the only Central Asian nation with a ratified Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA) since 2015, is poised to deepen ties as Brussels increasingly recognizes its strategic importance. Recent visits by EU Commissioners Kaja Kallas and Josef Síkela underscore the momentum for future collaborations.

Bolstering Bilateral Trade and New Opportunities

Kazakhstan is actively enhancing trade with the EU, its key partner, with bilateral trade soaring to a record $50 billion in 2024—a 17% increase from 2023, accounting for 80% of EU-Central Asia trade. Under the EPCA framework, Kazakhstan is streamlining trade barriers, upgrading logistics, and advancing digital connectivity to drive further growth. The EU’s recognition of Kazakhstan as a honey-exporting country on February 24, 2025, marks a milestone, paving the way for expanded agricultural exports, including aquaculture products.

Looking forward, Kazakhstan aims to attract European investment in energy, industry, and agriculture, fostering mutual economic benefits. Over 3,000 EU companies, including Eni, Total, Siemens, and Carlsberg, thrive in Kazakhstan, reflecting the country’s investor-friendly environment and potential for new cooperative ventures.

Outcomes of the EU-Central Asia Summit in Samarkand

The inaugural EU-Central Asia Summit in Samarkand was a landmark event, elevating regional cooperation to a strategic partnership. With high-level participation from Central Asian heads of state and EU leaders, the summit reinforced mutual trust and a shared commitment to a resilient, long-term partnership. It highlighted Kazakhstan’s role as a regional leader in fostering dialogue and collaboration, setting the stage for deeper economic, cultural, and geopolitical ties between Central Asia and the EU.

Deputy Minister Vassilenko emphasized that the forum and summit reflect President Tokayev’s vision of a connected, cooperative Central Asia, with Kazakhstan at the forefront of building bridges through media, trade, and diplomacy. As the nation continues to strengthen its partnership with the EU, it remains committed to fostering understanding and unity across the region.

Derya Soysal : Mr. Vassilenko, what steps is Kazakhstan taking to strengthen bilateral relations with the European Union?

Roman Vassilenko:
This year, we mark 32 years of diplomatic relations with the European Union. Over these decades, our partnership has remained strong and resilient — even amid global upheavals. Our cooperation is built on shared values such as democracy and the protection of human rights, and is further strengthened by robust trade, investment, and collaboration in transport and logistics.

We are now at a critical juncture. At our most recent summit, Kazakhstan emphasized the strategic importance of economic and commercial cooperation with the EU. This aligns with President Tokayev’s 2022 initiative to enhance regional cooperation. That same year, President Tokayev welcomed European Council President Charles Michel to Astana — a testament to the depth of our ties.

Moreover, during the Samarkand Summit, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen highlighted the significance of closer collaboration. This resulted in a joint agreement, paving the way for new initiatives, including €12 billion in EU investment potential. We’re particularly aligned on shared interests like Critical Raw Materials (CRM).

Derya Soysal : Kazakhstan has seen impressive growth in trade with the EU. What are the prospects for further development?

Roman Vassilenko:
Indeed, our trade with the EU reached a record $50 billion last year — a 17% increase from 2023 — making up 80% of EU trade with Central Asia. Under the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA), we’re focused on removing trade barriers, improving infrastructure, and boosting digital connectivity.

We’re now moving into new sectors. For instance, as of February 24, 2025, the EU officially recognized Kazakhstan as a honey-exporting country. This milestone paves the way for the export of additional agricultural products. We’re also working on enabling aquaculture exports to the EU.

Energy, industry, and logistics remain key areas for attracting European investment. Over 3,000 EU companies — including Eni, Total, Siemens, Alstom, and Carlsberg — have a strong presence in Kazakhstan, and we aim to expand this engagement.


Derya Soysal : Let’s talk about the first EU–Central Asia Summit held in Samarkand. How do you assess its significance?

Roman Vassilenko:
The Samarkand Summit was a landmark event that elevated our cooperation with the EU to a strategic partnership. It demonstrated strong mutual trust and a clear vision for a long-term, resilient alliance between Europe and Central Asia.

High-level participation from Central Asian Heads of State and EU leaders showed the seriousness of our shared ambitions. For Kazakhstan, it reinforced the importance of President Tokayev’s regional vision — one that promotes dialogue, stability, and mutual prosperity across Central Asia.


Derya Soysal : And finally, how does media cooperation fit into Kazakhstan’s broader diplomatic strategy?

Roman Vassilenko:
Media plays a crucial role in fostering regional understanding. The Central Asia Media Forum serves as a platform to strengthen dialogue among our nations. By deepening media cooperation, we promote transparency, build trust, and enhance the global image of Central Asia as a region of peace, connectivity, and opportunity.


Interview by Derya Soysal | DIPLOMAT TIMES EUROPE DIPLOMACY HEAD
Location: Astana, Kazakhstan | April 16, 2025


SOURCE : DS |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube

Russian Court Jailed 4 Journalists to 5.5 Years for Alleged Ties to Navalny’s Anti-Corruption Foundation

Moscow, Russia – In a verdict widely condemned by press freedom advocates, a Moscow court on Tuesday sentenced four journalists to five and a half years in prison for allegedly collaborating with the Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK), the banned organization founded by the late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny.

The journalists — Antonina Favorskaya, Sergei Karelin, Konstantin Gabov, and Artyom Kriguer — were convicted of “extremism” for their alleged involvement in producing journalistic content for YouTube channels associated with Navalny’s movement.

The sentencing took place at Nagatinsky Zaton District Court, where the defendants listened to the ruling from inside a glass courtroom cell. Initially, prosecutors had sought five years and 11 months of imprisonment for each.

Despite the closed nature of much of the trial, dozens of family members, friends, and fellow journalists were permitted to attend the final hearing — many of whom gathered outside the courthouse to show their support.

“To Be Honest Is a Crime in Putin’s Russia”

Following the sentencing, Artyom Kriguer, speaking defiantly through the courtroom glass, told supporters:
“Everything will be fine, guys. Don’t despair. Sooner or later, all this will be over — and those who convicted me will go to jail.”
He added last week that “to be an honest and professional journalist — and not a pitiful propagandist — is a crime and an act of extremism in Putin’s Russia.”

Kriguer’s girlfriend told reporters the verdict would be appealed, affirming that “the struggle is not over.”

Targeted for Covering Navalny’s Work

None of the four journalists were official members of the FBK, which has been labeled an extremist organization by Russian authorities. They were arrested between March and June 2024, accused of producing material covering FBK’s investigations and public campaigns.

Despite their limited journalistic involvement — mostly covering rallies, legal proceedings, and political commentary — prosecutors argued that their reporting alone constituted participation in extremist activities.

Favorskaya, a correspondent for SOTAvision, was the first to be detained in March. In April, Karelin (Associated Press) and Gabov (Reuters) were arrested, followed by Kriguer in June, also from SOTAvision.

Gabov, speaking before the verdict, said, “Even from behind bars, you have to talk about Russian events and problems from Russia. It’s difficult to work in such extreme conditions, but it’s possible.”

Navalny’s Shadow Still Looms

The ruling is the latest chapter in the Russian government’s sustained crackdown on dissenting voices in the wake of Alexei Navalny’s death in February 2024, under murky circumstances while imprisoned in a remote Arctic penal colony. His family, supporters, and Western governments have blamed the Kremlin for his death and accused President Vladimir Putin of thwarting a possible prisoner exchange that might have saved his life.

Tuesday’s sentencing reinforces fears that journalistic activity critical of the Kremlin is now treated as a criminal act under Russian law, particularly if associated with opposition figures.

As the four journalists prepare to begin their sentences, press freedom organizations worldwide have condemned the verdict and called for their immediate release, warning of an increasingly dangerous climate for independent journalism in Russia.


SOURCE : AGENCIES |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube

Former Peruvian President Humala sentenced to 15 years in prison for money laundering

Lima, Peru – Former Peruvian President Ollanta Humala (2011-2016) was sentenced Tuesday to 15 years in prison for money laundering over illegal contributions from former Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez and the Brazilian company Odebrecht to finance his electoral campaigns in 2006 and 2011.

RELATED NEWS U.S. Sanctions Former Argentine President and Ex-Minister Over Corruption Allegations

Humala’s wife, Nadine Heredia, who directed both campaigns, was also found guilty of the same crime and sentenced to 15 years. Heredia’s brother, Ilán, was sentenced to 12 years in prison.

Humala, Heredia and her brother will be sent to a prison to be determined by the National Penitentiary Institute.

Agents of the Peruvian National Police entered the courtroom and arrested the former president.

The court will read the sentence on Apr. 29, but said “we have seen the elements that would constitute the existence of a criminal organization.

The court set the reparations for the case at 10 million soles (about 2.67 million dollars).

The judge said Humala’s 2006 campaign received “contributions for about one and a half million soles” and that “there is an attribution to the country of Venezuela, the Venezuelan embassy is pinpointed as where this money came from.”

“From our point of view of evidence, there is an illegal origin, non-existent and false contributions that have tried to be legitimized through different mechanisms,” he added, noting that “these are typical and characteristic facts of money laundering.”

He added that in the 2011 campaign, which allowed Humala to enter the presidency, “a similar situation” is seen, but with “money coming from Brazil, through the company Odebrecht”, for “almost 3 million dollars.”

“In our conclusion, aggravated money laundering has been committed and in the criminal responsibility of the accused,” he stressed.

Humala assured inFebruary in an interview with EFE that if Odebrecht came to send money to Lima to finance his campaign, it was stolen by the then head of the company in Peru, Jorge Barata.

“If Marcelo (Odebrecht) had arranged for Barata (to send money to his campaign), (…) I don’t think this happened, but, if it happened, Barata stole the money,” he said.

Heredia was prosecuted for her participation in the activities of the Peruvian Nationalist Part, including alleged fundraising, and later for involvement beyond her duties as first lady.

Humala’s wife declared during the trial that she had never received money from the Chávez government, “nor from President Lula in Brazil, nor any Brazilian company”. 


SOURCE : EFE. |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube

El Salvador’s President Bukele Meets Trump in Oval Office to Discuss Deportation and Security Ties

Washington, D.C. – El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele met with U.S. President Donald Trump in the Oval Office today, marking a high-profile visit focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation on immigration enforcement, gang crackdowns, and regional security. The meeting, which drew significant attention, underscored the growing alliance between the two leaders amid controversial deportation policies.

The discussions centered on El Salvador’s role in housing migrants deported from the U.S., particularly in its notorious CECOT mega-prison, which has been used to detain alleged gang members, including those sent from the United States. Trump praised Bukele’s tough-on-crime approach, calling him a “fantastic leader” who is “helping us solve problems at a low cost.” Bukele, in turn, highlighted his country’s transformation into the “safest in the Western Hemisphere” due to his aggressive anti-gang policies.

A key point of contention during the meeting was the case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland man mistakenly deported to El Salvador despite a U.S. Supreme Court order to facilitate his return. Bukele firmly stated he had no intention of releasing Garcia, describing the request as “preposterous” and asserting that El Salvador would not “smuggle terrorists” into the U.S. Trump appeared to deflect responsibility, emphasizing Bukele’s autonomy in the matter while expressing support for deporting “as many criminals as possible” to El Salvador.

The leaders also touched on trade, tariffs, and El Salvador’s embrace of Bitcoin, with Trump expressing interest in exploring similar financial innovations. Outside the White House, demonstrators, including Garcia’s family, protested, demanding his return and criticizing the lack of due process in recent deportations.

The meeting, which included a handshake and brief remarks to the press, highlighted the deepening partnership between the Trump administration and Bukele’s government, though it raised concerns among human rights groups about the implications of El Salvador’s prison system and mass deportation policies. As Bukele departed, Trump called the talks “tremendously productive,” signaling further collaboration ahead.


SOURCE : AGENCIES |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube

Kazakh President Meets Chevron CEO to Discuss Expanding Energy Cooperation

0

Astana, Kazakhstan – President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met on Monday with Chevron Chairman and CEO Michael Wirth to discuss the implementation of major investment projects in Kazakhstan’s energy sector, according to an official statement from the president’s office.

During the meeting, President Tokayev acknowledged Chevron’s vital role in the sustainable development of Kazakhstan’s energy industry and congratulated Wirth on the successful completion of the Tengiz field expansion project.

“Particular attention was paid to the further implementation of major investment projects, including those related to gas production and petrochemical development,” the presidential press service reported.

Tokayev also emphasized the need to boost the involvement of domestic companies in the oil and gas sector and reiterated Kazakhstan’s commitment to deepening its long-standing partnership with Chevron.

Michael Wirth, in turn, reaffirmed the company’s strong relationship with Kazakhstan, describing the country as a strategic partner. He highlighted that the Tengizchevroil joint venture, which has operated in Kazakhstan since 1993, has made substantial contributions to the national economy over the past three decades.

The meeting underscores Kazakhstan’s ongoing efforts to attract foreign investment and solidify its role as a key energy player in Central Asia.


SOURCE : EFE. |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube

Deadly Russian Missile Attack on Sumy Claims Dozens of Lives on Palm Sunday

Kyiv, Ukraine — More than 30 people were killed and over 80 injured when Russian ballistic missiles struck the northeastern Ukrainian city of Sumy on Palm Sunday, marking one of the deadliest attacks in recent weeks.

“As of now, 31 people are known to have been killed in Sumy by the Russian ballistic missile strike. Among those killed were two children,” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy wrote on X.

RELATED NEWS : Ukraine claims that over 150 Chinese fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine

Expressing condolences to the families, Zelenskyy said at least 84 people have been wounded, including 10 children.

The president condemned the attack, urging the world not to stay silent or indifferent.

“Russian strikes deserve nothing but condemnation. There must be pressure on Russia to end the war and guarantee security for people. Without truly strong pressure, without sufficient support for Ukraine, Russia will continue dragging this war out.”

Zelenskyy recalled how Putin has been ignoring the US proposal for a full and unconditional ceasefire initiated by President Donald Trump.

“Unfortunately, Moscow remains convinced it can continue killing with impunity. Action must be taken to put an end to this,” said Ukrainian officials, urging the international community to respond to the latest deadly assault.

Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko confirmed that the casualties from the Russian missile strike occurred in residential areas. “People were injured in the street, inside vehicles, on public transport, and within their own homes,” he stated.

According to Volodymyr Artiukh, head of the Sumy Regional Military Administration, the city center was struck by two ballistic missiles, launched by Russian forces.

Emergency crews and forensic teams remained at the site, conducting rescue operations and gathering evidence. Authorities described the attack as “a brutal war crime committed by the Russian Federation against civilians.”

“On this bright Palm Sunday, our community suffered a terrible tragedy. The enemy launched a missile attack on civilians,” Sumy’s acting mayor, Artem Kobzar, wrote on Telegram.

Palm Sunday is widely observed in Ukraine, with many residents attending church services.

Moscow intensifies offensive The attack comes amid a renewed Russian spring offensive targeting Ukraine’s northeastern regions, including Sumy and neighboring Kharkiv.

Sumy shares a border with Russia’s Kursk province, where Ukrainian forces advanced in August 2024.

On Apr. 9, Ukraine’s military chief, Oleksandr Sirski, said Russia had intensified operations in the area.

According to Zelenskyy, more than 67,000 Russian troops are now positioned in the Kursk direction, signaling a full-scale buildup for an attack on Sumy.

The escalation comes as the United States attempts to broker a ceasefire between the two sides. While Kyiv accepted a proposed 30-day truce a month ago, Moscow has refused, and partial agreements on maritime and energy ceasefires have so far failed to hold.

The deadly strike in Sumy occurred just a day after President Trump struck an optimistic tone on the conflict.

“I think Ukraine-Russia might be going OK, and you are going to be finding out pretty soon,” Trump told reporters on Air Force One.

“There’s a point at which you just have to either put up or shut up, and we will see what happens, but I think it’s going fine.”


SOURCE : EFE. |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube |