All articles tagged with #united states department of state
The U.S. Department of State has designated Barrio 18 as a Foreign Terrorist Organization and a Specially Designated Global Terrorist due to its involvement in violence and criminal activities across Central America, reflecting ongoing efforts to dismantle gangs and disrupt their funding sources.
Former U.S. Ambassador to Bolivia, Victor Manuel Rocha, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to spying for Cuba's intelligence agency for over 40 years. The 73-year-old, who held various senior positions in the U.S. government, was accused of acting as a foreign agent and was not charged with espionage. The case has raised concerns about the potential damage to national security, with ongoing assessments by the State Department and the intelligence community. Rocha's cooperation with the government and the possibility of denaturalization as a civil action were also addressed in the plea deal.
Victoria Nuland, the Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, is retiring after three and a half decades of public service, during which she played a crucial role in shaping America's foreign policy. Known for her fierce passion for freedom, democracy, and human rights, Nuland's leadership on Ukraine and efforts to confront Putin's invasion will be studied for years to come. She is praised for her diplomatic skill, mentorship of diplomats, and ability to find light in dark moments. John Bass will serve as Acting Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs until Nuland's replacement is confirmed.
Floridalma Roque, a U.S. citizen, disappeared after undergoing plastic surgery at the Perfektima clinic in Guatemala City. Despite efforts by her family to locate her, including involvement of U.S. authorities, there has been no sign of her since her disappearance. Surveillance footage and changing stories from the clinic staff have raised suspicions, leading to the arrest of the doctor and clinic staff on charges of kidnapping and obstruction of criminal action. However, there has been no conclusive evidence of a crime, leaving Roque's family caught between two countries as they continue to seek answers.
Former U.S. ambassador to Bolivia, Victor Manuel Rocha, pleaded not guilty to charges of spying for Cuba's intelligence agency for four decades. The indictment alleges that Rocha, who held high-level security clearances, was recruited by Cuba's spy agency in 1973 and had been meeting with undercover FBI agents, believing them to be representatives of Cuba's spy agency. The case has shed light on Cuba's effective spy agency, with comparisons drawn to the case of Ana Montes, a former Defense Intelligence Agency employee who spied for Cuba.
The United States Department of State has issued a Level 2 travel advisory for the Bahamas, warning travelers to exercise increased caution due to crime, particularly in Nassau and Freeport. The advisory cites a high homicide rate and warns of violent crimes, including at tourist areas. Additionally, the department cautioned against activities involving commercial recreational watercraft and advised being cautious of sharks in the water. Travelers are urged to exercise extreme caution, keep a low profile, and review personal security plans if visiting the Bahamas.
The United States Department of State expressed concern over the Venezuelan Supreme Court's decision to disqualify opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, stating that it contradicts the commitment to hold a competitive presidential election in 2024. The decision is seen as inconsistent with the Barbados electoral roadmap agreement and has prompted the US to review its sanctions policy towards Venezuela.
The United States congratulates Félix Tshisekedi on his re-election as President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo but expresses concerns about delays, barriers, fraud, and corruption during the electoral process. They urge the Independent National Electoral Commission to ensure transparency in tabulating remaining results and call for a comprehensive review of the electoral process to improve future elections.
The Biden administration has approved the emergency sale of nearly 14,000 rounds of tank ammunition worth over $106 million to Israel as it intensifies military operations in the southern Gaza Strip. This circumvents Congress, where President Biden's request for a $106 billion aid package for Ukraine, Israel, and other national security issues is currently stalled. Some Democratic lawmakers have suggested tying the proposed $14.3 billion in American assistance to Israel to concrete steps by the Israeli government to reduce civilian casualties in Gaza. The State Department justified the sale by stating that it is in the U.S. national security interest to assist Israel in maintaining a strong self-defense capability.
The United States Department of State welcomes the release of two Azerbaijani and thirty-two Armenian detainees by Armenia and Azerbaijan, considering it an important step towards building confidence and finalizing a peace agreement. The United States commends the joint efforts of Azerbaijani President Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan in laying the groundwork for a more peaceful and prosperous future in the South Caucasus, and pledges continued support for achieving a durable and dignified peace.
The United States Department of State has determined that members of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have committed war crimes, while members of the RSF and allied militias have committed crimes against humanity and ethnic cleansing. The conflict in Sudan has caused immense suffering, with civilians being targeted and abused. The SAF and RSF are urged to comply with international law, hold those responsible for atrocities accountable, and allow unhindered humanitarian assistance. The determination aims to bring renewed urgency to efforts to end the violence and achieve justice for victims.
The United States Department of State has implemented a new visa restriction policy targeting charter flight operators facilitating irregular migration into Nicaragua. These operators charge exorbitant prices to migrants, putting them at risk on dangerous overland routes to the U.S. border. The U.S. government aims to impose visa restrictions on owners and executives of these companies, while also engaging with regional governments and the private sector to eliminate this exploitative practice. The administration encourages migrants to explore safe and lawful pathways to migrate to the United States.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken testified before the Senate Appropriations Committee on the National Security Supplemental Request, emphasizing the need for urgent resources to continue leading in the face of Russia's aggression against Ukraine and intensifying strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific and around the world. The funding request includes support for Israel and Ukraine, addressing humanitarian needs, outcompeting strategic rivals, and protecting the security of Americans at home. Blinken stressed the importance of standing with allies and partners while also protecting civilian life.
The United States has imposed sanctions on eight individuals and five entities that enable the Lukashenka regime's repression and human rights abuses in Belarus. The State Department is also imposing visa restrictions on 101 regime officials and their affiliates for undermining democratic institutions. The U.S. expresses appreciation for the safe release of two Americans in Haiti and remains concerned about the health and safety of Niger's President Bazoum. The State Department believes the withdrawal from Afghanistan was the correct policy choice but refrains from characterizing it as a success. The U.S. is monitoring the presence of Wagner fighters in Belarus and expresses confidence in Poland's actions. The U.S. has taken various actions over the past three years to support the Belarusian people and hold Belarusian officials accountable. The U.S. has not waived Iraq's obligation to pay bills owed to Russia and continues to implement sanctions on Russia.