Suriname – Talks Planned Over Reported Gold Mining Layoffs
Suriname’s Deputy Minister of Health, Welfare, and Labour has announced plans to meet with representatives of the U.S.-owned gold mining company Newmont Suriname following reports that the multinational intends to lay off between 10% and 15% of its workforce, potentially impacting at least 200 employees.
The company currently employs 1,550 people at its Merian site. Singh said that Suriname’s Dismissal Committee has not yet received a formal request and emphasized that the company will have to justify any redundancies convincingly. Both the employer and the workers’ union will be heard before any decision is made.
Venezuela – U.S. Increases Reward for Maduro’s Capture
The Donald Trump administration has announced an increase in the reward for information leading to the arrest or conviction of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro to US$50 million.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio accused Maduro of leading the Cartel de los Soles, which he said has trafficked drugs into the United States for over a decade. The cartel was designated as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist group in July 2024.
Washington has refused to recognize Maduro’s claimed victory in Venezuela’s July 28, 2024, presidential election, citing a lack of evidence and accusing him of undermining democracy. The U.S. is urging anyone with credible information to contact the DEA or the nearest American embassy, assuring that all identities will remain strictly confidential.
International – Israel Faces Criticism Over Gaza City Takeover Plan
In Israel, the government’s plan to take control of Gaza City has sparked criticism both domestically and internationally.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s far-right coalition allies have pushed for the complete takeover as part of his vow to eradicate Hamas, whose 2023 attack on Israel ignited the ongoing war. However, the military has warned that this could endanger hostages still held by militants.
The decision has drawn backlash from hostage families, opposition leaders, and global allies. Germany announced it will halt military equipment exports to Israel that could be used in Gaza, while Britain urged Israel to reconsider its escalation. The war has now stretched into its second year, with humanitarian concerns mounting.
