By| Antonio Dey | HGP Nightly News|
Suriname: Former President Chandrikapersad Santokhi Dead at 67
PARAMARIBO, SURINAME — The Caribbean community is in mourning following the sudden passing of Suriname’s former President, Chandrikapersad Santokhi, on Monday. The news was officially confirmed by his successor, President Jennifer Simons, in a statement that praised his extensive years of public service.
- A Complex Legacy: Santokhi, who led the Progressive Reform Party (VHP), governed from 2020 to 2025. His tenure was defined by rigorous IMF-backed economic reforms aimed at stabilizing Suriname’s economy, though he faced domestic criticism for the impact these measures had on the nation’s most vulnerable groups.
- Final Acts: After leaving the presidency following the 2025 elections, Santokhi remained active in Parliament. He notably dedicated his final months to investigating the 1982 killings of government critics, seeking a legacy defined by accountability and commitment to justice.
Caribbean: CARICOM Humanitarian Aid for Cuba “Fully on the Way”
BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS — CARICOM Chairman and Prime Minister of St. Kitts & Nevis, Dr. Terrance Drew, has announced that the regional mechanism to provide emergency aid to Cuba is now in full motion.
- The Crisis: Cuba is currently grappling with severe, widespread blackouts exacerbated by U.S. oil supply cuts and the ongoing embargo.
- Regional Solidarity: The initiative is receiving significant logistical backing from Mexico, which has pledged to provide suppliers and free shipping.
- Financial Commitment: Dr. Drew’s government has committed US$500,000 to the cause, with the first US$100,000 already delivered to the CARICOM Secretariat to jumpstart the relief efforts.
International: Trump Issues Ultimatum on Strait of Hormuz as Tanker Hit
WASHINGTON D.C. / THE PERSIAN GULF — Tensions in the Middle East have reached a boiling point as the war enters its fifth week, prompting a sharp rebuke from U.S. President Donald Trump toward traditional allies.
- “Go Get Your Own Oil”: In a scathing Truth Social post, President Trump told the UK and other nations to secure their own energy supplies from the Strait of Hormuz, stating, “The USA won’t be there to help you anymore.”
- Escalating Violence: U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned that the coming days will be “decisive” as a Kuwaiti oil tanker was recently hit near Dubai. While all 24 crew members are safe, the U.S. has pointed the finger at Iran for the strike.
- Regional Fallout: Missile strikes and drone interceptions continue across Israel, Iran, and the UAE. In Dubai, falling debris has resulted in several injuries, as the conflict—which has already claimed thousands of lives primarily in Iran and Lebanon—shows no signs of abating.
