New York governor wants Trump to take action on drone attack risks
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has urged the White House to take immediate steps to address the growing threat of drone attacks on the United States, ...
Fresh allegations have emerged accusing El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele of having struck clandestine agreements with the country’s most notorious gangs to advance his political ambitions — claims his administration vehemently denies.
In an interview with investigative outlet El Faro, Carlos Cartagena Lopez, alias “Charli de IVU,” a leader of the Barrio 18 gang, alleged that Bukele entered into covert arrangements with gang leaders beginning in 2014, during his tenure as mayor of San Salvador. Cartagena claimed these dealings continued up to his successful presidential campaign in 2019.
Similar claims were echoed by Elmer Canales Rivera, known as “El Crook,” a high-ranking figure in the MS-13 (Mara Salvatrucha) gang, who told El Faro that the gangs supported Bukele’s political rise.
The allegations have reignited scrutiny over Bukele’s approach to security, which has drawn both international condemnation for alleged human rights abuses and praise domestically for reducing violent crime.
Controversial release raises questions
The controversy deepened following reports that Cartagena was released from custody shortly after being detained at a police checkpoint in April 2022. His unexpected release raised concerns among local media and critics of the administration, with some pointing to it as potential evidence of political favoritism or clandestine cooperation.
In response, the Salvadoran government issued a firm denial, rejecting the claims as baseless. Officials emphasized the administration’s aggressive campaign against organized crime, which Bukele launched through a state of emergency declared on March 27, 2022.
Under this crackdown, more than 85,000 individuals accused of gang involvement or related crimes have been arrested. The measure, which suspends certain constitutional rights, has been extended multiple times and remains in effect.
National and international reactions
While the allegations remain unproven, they have further polarized public opinion in El Salvador. Bukele’s supporters argue that the accusations are politically motivated and aimed at undermining the country’s security progress, while human rights organizations and opposition figures have called for an independent investigation.
International observers have previously voiced concern about the democratic backsliding and transparency issues under Bukele’s government, particularly following his consolidation of power in the judiciary and legislature.
As El Salvador prepares for its next general elections, the new claims threaten to cast a long shadow over Bukele’s administration and its controversial anti-gang policies, which have defined his presidency to date.
A series of earthquakes have struck Guatemala on Tuesday afternoon, leading authorities to advise residents to evacuate from buildings as a precaution against possible aftershocks.
A deadly mass shooting early on Monday (7 July) in Philadelphia's Grays Ferry neighbourhood left three men dead and nine others wounded, including teenagers, as more than 100 shots were fired.
Australian researchers have created a groundbreaking “biological AI” platform that could revolutionise drug discovery by rapidly evolving molecules within mammalian cells.
Dozens of international and domestic flights were cancelled or delayed after Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki erupted on Monday, but Bali’s main airport remains operational.
French member of parliament Olivier Marleix was found dead at his home on Monday, with suicide being considered a possible cause.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has urged the White House to take immediate steps to address the growing threat of drone attacks on the United States, citing past incidents and their increasing use in global military operations.
U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that Washington has successfully contributed to resolving the long-standing conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia.
The Financial Stability Board (FSB), the G20’s financial regulator, has paused further climate policy work as the United States distances itself from key initiatives.
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico says Bratislava will only back the EU’s 18th sanctions package on Russia if it secures guarantees for future gas supplies, citing national energy interests.
European Commission Vice President Teresa Ribera called on China and the EU to reaffirm their full commitment to the Paris Agreement during climate talks in Beijing.
You can download the AnewZ application from Play Store and the App Store.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment