International
Chevron cleared to pump oil in Venezuela again, but Maduro won’t see the profits
The U.S. government restored Chevron’s operations in Venezuela on Thursday, though under certain restrictions. The move marks a significant shift from the hardline pressure strategy adopted earlier this year by President Donald Trump’s administration against Nicolás Maduro’s regime.
The decision comes just days after both governments negotiated a prisoner and detainee swap: Caracas released 10 U.S. citizens, while Washington authorized the return of 252 deported migrants detained in El Salvador.
Although full details of the agreement remain undisclosed, U.S. officials confirmed that Maduro’s administration will not financially benefit from the oil sales. The key condition of the deal ensures that no royalties or taxes will flow to the socialist leader’s government.
The announcement had an immediate impact on the market. Oil futures pared earlier gains after news broke, reflecting concerns that increased supply could pressure prices in an already fragile market. Meanwhile, Venezuela’s defaulted sovereign bonds extended recent gains, boosted by optimism surrounding Washington’s softer stance.
The new license allows the Houston-based energy giant to resume production in Venezuela, following a previous order in May to scale down operations. This could help inject much-needed U.S. dollars into Venezuela’s struggling economy.
Supporters of Chevron’s return argued that without U.S. involvement, Venezuelan oil would largely benefit China. Oil prices and American leadership in energy production also weighed heavily on Trump’s decision. However, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, a long-time opponent of commercial engagement with Caracas, could still attempt to block or limit the scope of the new authorization.
It is still unclear whether similar concessions will be granted to Italian oil major Eni or Spain’s Repsol, which have requested U.S. approval to swap fuel for Venezuelan crude.
“Chevron conducts its business globally in compliance with applicable laws and regulations governing its operations, as well as U.S. sanctions frameworks, including in Venezuela,” said Chevron spokesperson Bill Turenne in a statement.
The U.S. had previously revoked Chevron’s license earlier this year as part of Trump’s pressure campaign on Maduro. Now, the reinstatement could mark a critical turning point—reintroducing a vital American oil presence in Venezuela and delivering much-needed cash flow to an economy in deep decline.
Chevron remains the only major U.S. oil company still operating in Venezuela, underscoring its strategic importance for both nations.
International
U.S. strike in Caribbean kills three suspected drug traffickers
A U.S. strike on a suspected drug-smuggling vessel in the Caribbean killed three people on Saturday, according to Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth, marking the latest in a series of attacks in international waters.
The United States has deployed ships to the Caribbean and sent fighter jets to Puerto Rico as part of a large military force that Washington says is aimed at curbing drug trafficking.
“This vessel, like all the others, was known to our intelligence for being involved in illicit narcotics smuggling,” Hegseth stated on X. “Three narcoterrorists were aboard the vessel during the attack, which took place in international waters,” he added.
Experts argue that the attacks, which began in early September, amount to extrajudicial executions, even if the targets are known traffickers.
Washington has yet to publicly provide evidence that the targeted individuals were actively smuggling drugs or posed a threat to the United States.
Hegseth said the U.S. would continue “hunting… and killing” suspected traffickers. He also shared video footage of the strike, showing the vessel being hit and engulfed in flames. As in previous videos, sections of the ship were blurred, making it impossible to verify the number of people on board.
The United Nations called on Friday for Washington to halt its attacks.
International
At least 23 killed in Sonora supermarket blast, including minors
At least 23 people were killed and 11 others injured in an explosion at a supermarket in Hermosillo, in the northern Mexican state of Sonora, local authorities reported on Saturday.
“So far, there are 23 confirmed deaths and 11 injured, including minors,” said Sonora Governor Alfonso Durazo in a video message. He added that the injured are receiving treatment in various hospitals across the city.
“I have ordered a thorough and transparent investigation to determine the causes of the incident and assign responsibility where appropriate,” Durazo said.
The explosion occurred at a Waldo’s store in downtown Hermosillo. Local authorities confirmed that the incident was not an attack nor related to any violent act against civilians.
Meanwhile, Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum expressed her condolences on X, offering sympathy to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives.
International
Floods in Central Vietnam leave 28 dead, thousands displaced
The death toll from heavy rains and flooding in central Vietnam has risen to 28, with six people reported missing and 43 injured, local newspaper VnExpress reported Friday night.
More than 22,100 homes remain flooded, primarily in the cities of Hue and Da Nang. Floods and landslides have destroyed or swept away 91 houses and damaged another 181, the report added.
Around 245,000 households are still without electricity, particularly in Da Nang, where over 225,000 homes are affected.
Additionally, 80 stretches of national highways are blocked or disrupted due to landslides. Authorities expect the flooding to continue for another day or two in the region.
U.S. strike in Caribbean kills three suspected drug traffickers
At least 23 killed in Sonora supermarket blast, including minors
Floods in Central Vietnam leave 28 dead, thousands displaced
Tec de Monterrey honors one of its students for his contribution to nanotechnology in medicine
Defense Minister commends salvadoran soldier for Central American Cross Country victory
Extension of the state of emergency approved in southern Chile
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