At least 800,000 people demonstrate nationwide as police make 135 arrests. A protester suffers multiple finger amputations.

Massive protests against the administration of President Emmanuel Macron proceeded peacefully for much of Saturday in several French cities.

RELATED:

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Police brutality, however, changed the atmosphere of the day as security forces began cracking down on demonstrators. By 1 p.m., French police had made 135 arrests amid beatings of citizens.

At least 800,000 people demonstrated across France on Oct. 24. However, tensions erupted in Paris and Marseille “during the dispersal of demonstrations,” TF1 Info reported.

The Haute-Garonne prefecture reported that a young man suffered a serious hand injury at the end of a demonstration in the Arenes neighborhood.

🔴️️ À Bordeaux, des manifestants lèvent les mains pour montrer leur caractère inoffensif, la police les charge et les gaze sauvagement

Partout en France, le mouvement populaire s'est amplifié. Les mêmes foules massives ont défilé pour exiger le blocage des prix, l'abrogation… pic.twitter.com/C9Cvuy2MB5

— L'insoumission (@L_insoumission) October 24, 2026

The text reads, “In Bordeaux, protesters raise their hands to show they pose no threat; the police charge at them and brutally gas them. Across France, the grassroots movement has gained further momentum. Massive crowds have taken to the streets to demand a price freeze, the repeal of the Parcoursup system, wage increases, and the inclusion in the budget of the 10 billion euros requested by high school and university students to address their demands.”

The protester was evacuated by firefighters after several of his fingers were amputated. Videos show that a grenade thrown by police caused the young man’s injuries. Authorities said they would conduct an investigation to determine what happened.

At a news briefing, Interior Minister Laurent Nunez said 136 public order incidents had been recorded nationwide during Saturday’s demonstrations, which have drawn tens of thousands of French people into public spaces across the country so far.

“In Nantes, a police officer chokes a young man and slams his head against a wall, while his partner threatens to fire a less-lethal rubber-ball launcher at residents protesting… the Macron administration continues its repression through police brutality,” L’insoumission reported.

À Grenoble, la sauvagerie policière frappe une fois de plus. La préfète de l’Isère devra rendre des comptes après avoir modifié le tracé du cortège et imposé des couvre-feux à Grenoble.

Désormais, la police du ministre de la Violence, Laurent Nuñez, balance des gaz lacrymogènes… pic.twitter.com/jMPdskG8rP

— Allan Brunon (@allanbrunon) October 24, 2026

The text reads, “In Grenoble, police brutality has struck once again. The Isere prefect will have to answer for her actions, having altered the route of the demonstration and imposed curfews in Grenoble. Now, the police force under the ‘Minister of Violence’—Laurent Nuñez—is deploying tear gas and sowing chaos at a sanctioned demonstration. This government of incompetents is in its death throes.”

The security forces’ aggression against citizens occurred despite several cities authorizing demonstrations for Saturday, including Lille, Strasbourg, Mulhouse, Grenoble, Marseille, Toulouse, Amiens and Paris.

In Lyon, where demonstrations have been banned across a large part of the city center, law enforcement officers dispersed small gatherings using tear gas grenades.

On Friday, Nunez said that 70,000 police officers and gendarmes would be deployed nationwide for the demonstrations. Soldiers from the French army’s Operation Sentinelle would also be mobilized during the protests.

teleSUR/ JF

Source: Xinhua – TF1 Info

People take to streets of Orleans as far-right National Rally party holds its congress.

On Saturday, under a gray sky threatening rain, thousands of people took to the streets of Orleans to say “NO” to fascism in France.

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They sought to counter far-right leader Marine Le Pen, who is officially launching her bid for the presidency of the Republic from the city this weekend as the front-runner.

“I’m protesting against Le Pen, the thief. She stole 3 million euros from European taxpayers and is still running as a candidate. She should go to prison. It’s a disgrace,” said Bruno, a resident of Orleans, a city of 116,000 people.

The retiree recalled the corruption case involving Le Pen and her party, the National Rally (RN), which diverted 2.8 million euros from the European Parliament to fund party expenses, as courts ruled in the first and second instances. Nevertheless, Le Pen avoided prison because she appealed to the Supreme Court, the third and final level of judicial review in France.

« La France n'est pas résignée ».

Nous avons marché à Orléans pour une France antiraciste, antifasciste, anticapitaliste, résolument humaniste.

Mes pensées vont d’abord à la famille du défunt et aux blessés de l’attentat raciste, islamophobe et négrophobe de Trappes. Nous… pic.twitter.com/7R9GLTC5Z6

— Bally Bagayoko (@BallyBagayoko) October 24, 2026

Bally Bagayoko’s text reads, “France does not resign. We march in Orleans for an anti-racist, anti-fascist, anti-capitalist and decidedly humanist France.

My thoughts go first to the family of the deceased and to those injured in the racist, Islamophobic and negrophobic attack of Trappes. We also work for you.

We were 26,000 people in the streets to say it loud and clear: the extreme right has no place in the Republic. 26,000 people in addition to the large crowds mobilized today throughout France against the high cost of living.

The same people, the same fight: for dignity, equality and social justice. We should have been more. The comrades who arrived by bus were blocked and parked at the motorway toll, preventing them from joining a peaceful meeting. What a shame for the prefect. silenced. They will not make us retreat.”

The march, organized by about 50 groups, including the General Confederation of Labor (CGT), proceeded peacefully through the northern part of the city along a route imposed by authorities, who kept left-wing demonstrators as far as possible from far-right activists gathered in the southern part of the city.

Thousands of people marched peacefully in a festive atmosphere despite the cold and restrictions imposed by authorities, who have banned Sunday’s demonstration, a move criticized by human rights organizations.

“Macron resign, Le Pen to prison” was one of the most frequently chanted slogans on Saturday morning, along with “The people united will never be defeated” and the national anthem, “La Marseillaise.”

French authorities deployed 3,000 police officers to Orleans to ensure the orderly conduct of the protest and the National Rally congress. The march organizers also kept watch throughout the event to ensure no one caused damage.

“I’m fed up with the far right being normalized. Things go much better when the left is in power,” said Fanny, who came out to protest despite being ill.

🇫🇷 Thousands of anti-fascist protesters took to the streets of Orléans to demonstrate against a congress held by Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally party. pic.twitter.com/9R2zhEXuBZ

— Gianl1974 (@Gianl1974) October 24, 2026

The march lasted nearly three hours, accompanied by electronic music, Brazilian-style percussion groups and political messages. Participants ranged from children to older adults and came from all backgrounds.

Among those attending the demonstration was Bally Bakayoko, the mayor of Saint-Denis and a member of the left-wing party La France Insoumise (LFI). Dozens of people approached him to greet him, hug him and ask for selfies.

Over the past month, Bakayoko has become a symbol of the marches, particularly because of his support for young people’s demands and his efforts to position himself between them and police during baton and tear gas assaults at one of the mass protests that have put Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu under pressure.

The march was attended by Socialist Party leader Olivier Faure and CGT Secretary Sophie Binet. Although left-wing demonstrators mobilized peacefully, bars and restaurants in Orleans remained closed. Few businesses were open, even in Martroi Square. Those that were closed had covered their glass windows with boards and wooden panels.

“I trusted the left, and I know very well that we are capable of demonstrating calmly. What I was actually afraid of today was the far right,” said Juliette, a young doctor who took to the streets.

teleSUR/ JF

Source: EFE

The progressive leader seeks a fourth nonconsecutive term as Brazil heads to its tightest election in recent history.

On Saturday, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gathered millions of supporters in Rio de Janeiro and said he was convinced of his victory over far-right Senator Flavio Bolsonaro.

RELATED:

Brazil Faces Pivotal Presidential Runoff Between Lula and Bolsonaro

“I am sure we are going to win the elections. You can write it down: tomorrow I will be elected president of the Republic again,” the progressive leader declared to journalists just before setting off on a march along the Copacabana beach promenade.

The Workers’ Party (PT) leader and the son of former ruler Jair Bolsonaro will face off this Sunday for the presidency in the tightest election in Brazil’s recent history.

Lula, seeking his fourth nonconsecutive term at 80 years of age, began this last day of campaigning with a massive event in Rio, where his supporters dressed in red and unfurled a huge Brazilian flag.

Bora Rio de Janeiro! Bora Lula!
Os cariocas já estão nas ruas iniciando os atos por de a opoio a Lula que vão ocorrer em todo o Brasil todo.
Em Porto Alegre, nos encontramos às 17h, no Largo Zumbi dos Palmares.
Até breve.#Lula13 pic.twitter.com/dcVaYPu134

— Fernanda Melchionna (@fernandapsol) October 24, 2026

The text reads, “Let’s go Rio de Janeiro! Let’s go Lula! Cariocas are already in the streets starting the acts of support for Lula that will be held throughout Brazil. In Porto Alegre we meet at five in the afternoon, at Largo Zumbi dos Palmares. See you soon. Lula 13”

“We are going to win the elections, it is true that the people want change but a change for the better, forward. The people do not want to go backward,” said the former lathe operator who has become an indelible figure in South American history.

The Workers’ Party candidate accused Flavio Bolsonaro of being a “militiaman” in an allusion to the far-right candidate’s ties to relatives of Rio paramilitary groups.

“It is not possible that we fail to convince Brazilian society of the risk that democracy, freedom and people of good will face in this country,” Lula warned, and thanked the militancy for taking on the responsibility of the campaign after the first round with massive events in the streets and a strong mobilization on social networks.

“I have an army bigger than the Chinese and the American. It is the army of Lula,” the Brazilian president said in an allusion to a public WhatsApp channel that has gathered more than 10 million users who define themselves as soldiers of democracy in the fight against fascism.

On Saturday afternoon, Lula will travel to Sao Paulo, the country’s largest electoral district, to close his campaign. Meanwhile, Flavio Bolsonaro marched through the city of Belo Horizonte and will then move to Rio de Janeiro, the political cradle of bolsonarismo.

teleSUR/ JF

Source: EFE

The Spanish president warns of potential cuts to social and economic rights under far-right governments.

On Saturday, Pedro Sanchez, Spain’s President and secretary of the Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party (PSOE), pledged that if his party governs in the next legislative term, he will strengthen the right to abortion and enshrine its protection in the Constitution.

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During a pre-campaign rally in Granada, he also said he would keep euthanasia “standing as an achievement” and warned of cuts to social and economic rights that could be implemented by governments led by the conservative People’s Party (PP) or the far-right Vox party.

He began his speech by reading the poem “New Songs” by Spanish poet Federico Garcia Lorca in front of a special guest, singer Miguel Rios. The reading was a nod to the poet’s hometown, as Hispanist Ian Gibson had sent Sanchez an email asking him to include Lorca in his speech, coinciding with the 90th anniversary of the poet’s death.

Sanchez was particularly harsh on Alberto Nuñez-Feijoo, leader of the People’s Party, accusing him of trivializing and bargaining over women’s rights.

DIRECTO | Pedro Sánchez lee el poema 'Cantos nuevos' de Lorca en el mitin de Granada: "Esta es la España que no tiene miedo a su cultura, que no borra su cultura para vivir confortablemente" https://t.co/VWsIfGJLg7 pic.twitter.com/HNJKrfnjG3

— elDiario.es (@eldiarioes) October 24, 2026

The text reads, “Pedro Sanchez reads Lorca’s poem ‘New Songs’ at a rally in Granada: ‘This is the Spain that is not afraid of its culture, that does not erase its culture in order to live comfortably.’

“I don’t know whether Feijoo’s position stems from insolence or sectarianism,” Sanchez said, before criticizing the PP leader for calling himself a feminist because he grew up surrounded by women. He was referring to a statement the opposition leader made in an interview on Friday.

“Being a feminist does not mean growing up surrounded by women. Being a feminist does not mean cutting women’s rights. No man will ever again have a say in or control women’s rights and bodies,” the Spanish president said.

Sanchez also asked why all far-right politicians, such as Argentine President Javier Milei and U.S. President Donald Trump, “look to Spain.”

He answered his own question: “I’m very clear about that. They come because this government and this nation, Spain, are living proof that hope is far more effective than the hatred they spread.”

teleSUR/ JF

Source: EFE

French leftist leader warns of weekly demonstrations and an impending general strike.

On Saturday, French radical left leader Jean-Luc Melenchon urged French President Emmanuel Macron to yield to protesters’ demands before leaving office in May 2027.

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Two French Protesters Arrested for the Burning of the Limoges Town Hall

“You still have time to give in; afterward, you will have no choice but to leave. Give in and stop wasting our time,” Melenchon, a four-time presidential candidate, said as he marched in the Paris demonstration, which proceeded between Porte d’Italie and Porte de Vincennes.

Melenchon, leader of France Unbowed (LFI), warned Macron that if social demands go unanswered, mobilizations such as the one taking place in France for the second consecutive Saturday “will be repeated every week.”

“This is a very important moment in the history of popular movements in our country,” Melenchon said, convinced that “a general strike is coming” for the authorities.

Victoire totale du mouvement social. La marche s'est rassemblée au nouveau point autorisé et déferle dans le calme sur plus de quatre kilomètres. Les provocations aux désordres du préfet de police et de Lecornu sont un échec total. Pour les autorités, il est temps de céder, sinon… pic.twitter.com/S3d6k2DWf3

— Jean-Luc Mélenchon (@JLMelenchon) October 24, 2026

Jean-Luc Mélenchon’s text states: “A total victory for the social movement. The march has gathered at the newly authorized location and is proceeding calmly along a route over four kilometers long. The provocations intended to incite disorder—orchestrated by the police prefect and Lecornu—have failed completely. It is time for the authorities to yield; otherwise, they will soon have no choice but to head for the exit.”

Macron must decide whether to yield to the demands now or do so later under much more unpredictable circumstances, Melenchon said. He also accused the French president of adopting an attitude characteristic of an “absolute monarchy” by claiming to be “always right” in his dealings with others.

Melenchon said Macron had taken advantage of the state of shock caused by the racist terrorist attack in Trappes, on the outskirts of Paris, to change the route of the protest through the French capital, creating confusion among demonstrators.

“Everything is being prepared to provoke an explosion” and spark unrest, he said. He questioned the deployment of military personnel to protect public buildings and authorities’ recommendations that business owners turn to private security services, arguing that both measures contribute to rising tensions.

“They are doing absolutely everything to provoke an incident,” Melenchon insisted, urging demonstrators to remain calm, follow union instructions and maintain collective discipline “so that everything goes smoothly.”

Immense cortège à Paris pour demander l’abrogation de parcoursup, 10 milliards pour les lycéens, la hausse du SMIC et des salaires.

Et pour défendre notre liberté de manifester !

Les manœuvres de Nunez et Lecornu ont échoué. pic.twitter.com/eGJIiVKkH8

— Paul Vannier (@PaulVannierFI) October 24, 2026

The text reads, “A massive procession in Paris calling for the repeal of Parcoursup, 10 billion euros for high school students, and an increase in the minimum wage and salaries—as well as the defense of our right to protest! The maneuvers by Nunez and Lecornu have failed.”

For all these reasons, the leftist leader called on the French government to “stop provoking” demonstrators and “adding fuel to the fire,” and to listen to “demands that are not so difficult to meet.”

Melenchon also criticized meetings held during the week between the Macron administration and political parties, describing them as useless and theatrical.

“They live in a bubble, make decisions that have no connection to reality and are not even coordinated among themselves. That is why they are dangerous,” he said.

On Saturday, France faced a second day of nationwide demonstrations called by unions, students and the Yellow Vests movement to protest the rising cost of living and demand more public funding for education.

Following serious incidents on Saturday, Oct. 17, authorities deployed a major security operation on Saturday and banned demonstrations in several French cities, particularly those not organized by unions.

teleSUR/ JF

Source: EFE

Nearly 159 million voters are expected to cast ballots in a closely contested election, with polls showing the two candidates tied.

On Sunday, Oct. 25, Brazil will decide its future in the presidential runoff election, pitting President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva against far-right Sen. Flavio Bolsonaro.

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Nearly 159 million Brazilians are eligible to elect their next president, who will take office on Jan. 5, 2027. Polling stations will be open for nine hours, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. local time. Results will be known on Sunday, thanks to the country’s efficient electronic voting system.

The eldest son of former President Jair Bolsonaro enters the runoff with an advantage after receiving the most votes in the first round on Oct. 4, winning 47% of the vote, two percentage points more than the progressive leader. However, polls conducted in recent days have shown an upward trend for the Workers’ Party leader, who, at 80, is seeking his fourth nonconsecutive term.

According to the latest poll, released Thursday by polling firm Datafolha, the two candidates are tied at 50% of the valid votes. The outcome of the race is shaping up to be extremely close, even more so than in 2022, when Lula defeated Jair Bolsonaro by just over 2 million votes.

The leftist leader faces the difficult challenge of winning the election after finishing second in the first round. In the nine presidential elections held since the end of the military dictatorship (1964-1985), no one has managed such a feat. To make history, Lula will have to overcome the 2.2 million-vote gap separating him from Bolsonaro after the first round.

“I would like to ask for your vote because either we keep democracy functioning or we will have a militiaman governing this country,” Lula said on Friday night during the final televised debate before the runoff.

Este es Lula liderando con el sindicato del metal a los 33 años la huelga que desafió a la dictadura militar en Brasil. Logró aumentos salariales y fue encarcelado. Mientras, la única profesión del ultraderechista Flávio Bolsonaro ha sido la de político desde que tiene 21 años. pic.twitter.com/pp7YHexIqf

— Fonsi Loaiza (@FonsiLoaiza) October 23, 2026

The text reads, “Here is Lula, at age 33, leading the metalworkers’ union in a strike that defied Brazil’s military dictatorship. He secured wage increases and was subsequently imprisoned. Meanwhile, the far-right figure Flávio Bolsonaro has had only one profession—that of a politician—since the age of 21.”

Lula Changes Strategy

Over the past three weeks, Lula has radically shifted his campaign strategy. He has immersed himself in social media and energized his supporters with massive rallies in cities such as Belo Horizonte and Sao Paulo.

He has also stepped up announcements from the presidency: he obtained congressional approval for the reduction of the workweek, forgave the debts of millions of self-employed workers, and introduced incentive measures for the video game industry.

Lula also sent Parliament a proposal to make public transportation free on weekends and holidays in the country’s nearly 6,000 municipalities.

In recent weeks, the far-right Liberal Party (PL) senator has been significantly affected by the possible consequences of his own proposals. Among them is his intention to cut public spending by US$40 billion, although Flavio insists he does not intend to take a single cent from the most vulnerable.

In recent days, the Brazilian press has also revealed new suspicions about Flavio’s involvement in a money-laundering scheme linked to online betting.

📊 PESQUISA DATA FOLHA – NACIONAL
✅ VOTOS VÁLIDOS | 2º TURNO

🔴 Lula (PT): 50% (+1) ⬆️
🔵 Flávio Bolsonaro (PL): 50% (-1) ⬇️

CONTINUEM EMPENHADOS VIRANDO VOTOS PRO LULA, AGORA É GUERRA! pic.twitter.com/vEqZ2Yp3Le

— Nordeste é 13 (@thiegocomenta) October 22, 2026

The text reads: “Datafolha poll – valid votes nationwide | Runoff. Lula (Workers’ Party): 50% (+1). Flavio Bolsonaro (Liberal Party): 50% (-1). Keep working hard to secure votes for Lula—it’s all-out war now!”

Zuckerberg’s Meta Under Scrutiny for Aiding the Far Right

The 2026 presidential campaign has become embroiled in legal disputes on an unprecedented scale. The Superior Electoral Court has received more than 800 complaints throughout the election campaign.

One of those disputes has centered on the controversial conduct of Meta, the owner of WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook.

Lula’s supporters have requested the annulment of Bolsonaro’s candidacy over alleged interference by Mark Zuckerberg’s company, which they accuse of favoring the circulation of far-right content while restricting progressive content.

teleSUR/ JF

Source: EFE

Mayor Guerin attributes the incidents to activists from the Millevaches Plateau, which is home to anti-capitalist communities.

On Saturday, Prosecutor Emilie Abrantes confirmed that two men had been remanded in custody over their alleged involvement in the fire at Limoges City Hall during unrest accompanying protests against the rising cost of living in France.

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The suspects, ages 34 and 66, are under investigation in a judicial proceeding opened on several charges, including attempted murder of a police officer and destruction of the municipal building. Abrantes, however, did not specify the exact charges attributed to each man.

The first suspect, a 34-year-old man from the Creuse department, was arrested on Tuesday in Bussière-Boffy, in the Haute-Vienne department, with support from RAID, France’s elite police unit.

The construction industry temporary worker and environmental advocate is listed in police records for his alleged links to far-left organizations. He was convicted of an incident involving violence against an officer during an earlier demonstration in Creuse. The second suspect, 66, was arrested on Thursday in Gentioux-Pigerolles, a town in the same department.

On Oct. 17, an arson attack severely damaged Limoges City Hall, a historic building inaugurated in 1883. Videos show individuals breaking windows and forcing open the entrance to the municipal building before entering and setting fire to its interior.

🇫🇷 Multiple cities across France including #Lyon, Grenoble, Nice, Montpellier, Limoges, Tours, Rennes, Brest, Rouen, Lille and Nancy banned all public gatherings this weekend.

In some cities like #Marseille, trade unions received authorisation from the local prefecture to… pic.twitter.com/n5YnMHLQlI

— Mahalaxmi Ramanathan (@MahalaxmiRaman) October 24, 2026

Limoges Mayor Guillaume Guerin described the 34-year-old suspect as the likely mastermind behind the operation and accused far-left factions of being behind the act.

He specifically accused activists based on the Millevaches Plateau, a rural area of about 10,000 inhabitants located between the departments of Corrèze, Creuse and Haute-Vienne.

The area has been known for decades for attracting environmentalist, anarchist, and anti-capitalist communities. The region has been the scene of other acts of sabotage claimed in the past, including the burning of vehicles belonging to electricity company Enedis in Limoges in 2020 and the destruction of a telecommunications antenna in Haute-Vienne in 2021.

In April, the courts convicted the father of the younger of the two men jailed over the Limoges City Hall fire for those acts. The man, about 70, is known for his ties to anarchist circles and his past as a Basque independence activist in the 1980s.

teleSUR/ JF

Source: EFE

She deployed 500 paratroopers in the city center following last weekend’s riots and looting.

On Saturday, the city of Milan woke up under a heavy security presence as Italian security forces prepared for possible social unrest.

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The situation is being monitored constantly, but authorities remain calm because no major demonstrations have been detected so far. Surveillance efforts also extend to social media, where such events are often organized.

Authorities fear a repeat of events from the previous weekend, when a demonstration against the high cost of living degenerated into violent riots and looting carried out by young people, including minors.

The “October 17 Movement,” a group that emerged after those clashes, had initially called for another demonstration this Saturday in Duomo Square. In response, Milan has significantly increased security, particularly in its historic center.

I negozi del centro di Milano sono totalmente blindati per timore di una nuova guerriglia urbana. Le immagini in camminata tra le boutique di Via Montenapoleone. pic.twitter.com/xTIR7BUvPX

— Local Team (@localteamit) October 24, 2026

The text reads, “Commercial premises in downtown Milan are completely boarded up for fear of a new outbreak of urban unrest. A look at the scene among the boutiques on Via Montenapoleone.”

Some shops in the area have covered their storefronts with wooden panels to prevent them from being smashed, as happened a week ago.

The increased security presence is particularly visible, with officers receiving support from 500 paratroopers from the Folgore Brigade, whom the government of far-right Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni deployed to the city.

The soldiers are patrolling Duomo Square, where about 10 police vans are parked, and also moving through tunnels in the subway network and along commercial streets such as Corso Buenos Aires, among other areas of the city.

The military’s mission is to reinforce the “Safe Streets Operation,” which has deployed personnel in the country’s busiest and most tourist-heavy areas since 2008.

Preciso che ci ho fatto il servizio militare, quindi so bene di cosa parlo.
E dico che sono la summa del fanatismo e dell’obbedienza ottusa.
Per carità, i parà sono unità di élite.
Unità da combattimento, addestrate per scenari di pic.twitter.com/HAcPEP4Bao

— Participio Partenopeo🌋🇵🇸 (@ParticipioPart) October 24, 2026

The text reads, “I should point out that I completed my military service, so I know exactly what I’m talking about. And I maintain that they are the epitome of fanaticism and mindless obedience. For God’s sake! Paratroopers are elite units—combat units, trained for combat scenarios.”

On Saturday morning, Deputy Prime Minister and Infrastructure Minister Matteo Salvini toured downtown Milan to monitor the situation, as the day represents a test of the Italian government’s security strategy.

Last week, Meloni also approved a decree introducing deterrent legal measures, ranging from requiring parents to pay for damage caused by their children to the preventive detention of underage protesters.

So far, authorities have identified 273 demonstrators who took part in violent protests in Milan a week ago. Most are teenagers, and the youngest is 11. Forty have already been arrested.

On Friday, authorities monitored social media users in 18 cities in northern Italy and managed to identify about 100 demonstrators, half of whom are minors.

teleSUR/ JF

Source: EFE

Attack Damages Power Substation and 21 Buses in Rostov Region. Ukraine Reports Strikes on Two Russian Factories and an Airfield.

From Friday night to Saturday morning, Russian air defense systems intercepted and destroyed 616 Ukrainian drones over Russian regions and the waters of the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea.

RELATED:

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Fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles were destroyed over the territories of Belgorod, Bryansk, Volgograd, Voronezh, Kaluga, Kirov, Kursk, Lipetsk, Oryol, Penza, Rostov, Ryazan, Samara, Saratov, Smolensk, Tambov, Tula, and Ulyanovsk.

Air defense systems also destroyed drones in the Moscow region, the Republic of Crimea, the Republic of Tatarstan and Krasnodar region, as well as over the waters of the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea, the Russian Defense Ministry reported.

One of the most serious attacks took place in the Rostov region. Gov. Yuri Slyusar reported that 80 drones had been shot down in his region. The Ukrainian attack damaged an electrical substation, leaving about 170 homes without electricity.

In addition, Ukrainian drones damaged 21 buses parked at the premises of a local transportation company. “There were no casualties,” the Rostov governor confirmed.

Russia drops mines from drones, to the horror of Ukrainian soldiers.

Russia has millions of TM-62 anti-tank mines, but they are useless because Ukraine has no tanks.

With a small conversion they can now be dropped by an FPV drone. This way the drone can return unharmed.… pic.twitter.com/ZMtCSPKnZB

— Alternative News (@AlternatNews) October 22, 2026

Ukraine Attacks Two Russian Factories and an Airfield

On Saturday, the Ukrainian military announced that it had attacked two factories in Oryol and Togliatti and an airfield in Yeisk, on the shores of the Sea of Azov, overnight.

One of the targets in Oryol was the Proton-Electrotex plant, a company that manufactures optoelectronic equipment and components for S-71 cruise missiles, Iskander-M ballistic missiles and Pantsir-S1 combat vehicles.

The factory attacked in Togliatti produces synthetic rubber and other materials that are also used in the manufacture of fuels for tactical and ballistic missiles.

teleSUR/ JF

Sources: TASS – RT – EFE

Representatives from the Goias State Health Secretariat in Brazil met with Mexican specialists.

On Friday, Brazil and Mexico strengthened their cooperation on safe and resilient hospitals through a technical visit to Mexico City, with support from the Pan American Health Organization and the World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO).

RELATED: Amazon Fires Push Brazil Air Pollution to Very Unhealthy Levels

The visit brought together representatives from the Goias State Health Secretariat in Brazil with Mexican specialists to exchange experiences on the response of health services to emergencies and disasters.

The Brazilian delegation was headed by the Secretary of Health of Goias, Rasivel dos Reis Santos, and the Undersecretary of Health Surveillance, Fluvia Pereira, accompanied by representatives from PAHO/WHO in Brazil.

The meetings facilitated the sharing of experiences related to governance, inter-institutional coordination, evaluation and monitoring systems, as well as certification and continuous improvement mechanisms for healthcare facilities.

Senador Canedo recebeu 162 novos equipamentos para as UBSs, em investimento de cerca de R$ 1,7 milhão. Os aparelhos serão distribuídos conforme a necessidade de cada unidade.#JornalOhoje #SenadorCanedo #Saude #Goias pic.twitter.com/0HuMNzJTGd

— O Hoje (@jornalohoje) October 20, 2026

The text reads, “Senator Canedo received 162 new pieces of equipment for its primary health care units (UBSs), representing an investment of approximately US$340,000. The equipment will be distributed according to the needs of each unit.”

Authorities highlighted the existing cooperation model between the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) and the State Committee of the Safe Hospital Program in Mexico City, considered an example of institutional collaboration.

As part of the agenda, the Brazilian delegation visited the Central North Hospital of Petroleos Mexicanos (PEMEX), where they learned about civil protection, operational continuity, and hospital security protocols implemented in the event of emergencies.

Representatives from Goias emphasized the level of preparedness of the healthcare and management staff, as well as the practices developed to ensure the continued operation of medical services in critical situations.

#FromTheSouth News Bits | Brazil is heading into a crucial presidential runoff that could shape the country's future. pic.twitter.com/yRniIliD4r

— teleSUR English (@telesurenglish) October 23, 2026

teleSUR: JP

Source: OPS

The film honors generations of dancers, choreographers, and artists.

On Wednesday, the documentary “Afternoon Echoes,” directed by Cuban filmmaker Lourdes de los Santos, was presented at the Yara Cinema in Havana as part of the activities organized during Cuban Culture Week.

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The film explores the history and significance of the ballet “Afternoon Echoes,” created by choreographer Alberto Mendez in 1973 and considered one of the most important pieces in the repertoire of the National Ballet of Cuba (BNC).

It shows the links between dance, painting, and cinema, taking as a reference point the influence attributed to the painting “The Noon,” by Cuban painter Guillermo Collazo, on the conception of the choreographic work.

According to its director, the documentary constitutes a tribute to generations of dancers, choreographers, and artists who contributed to the formation and consolidation of the Cuban School of Ballet.

El Ballet Contemporáneo de Camagüey, en el marco de la Jornada por la Cultura Cubana, presentó la Peña “Escape”, la cual es una ventana de creación donde los bailarines, reafirman que la entrega artística va más allá de cualquier obstáculo. #PorCamagüeyTodo#CubaEsCultura pic.twitter.com/XMm52u12xz

— Osva Beta (@OsvaBeta) October 17, 2026

The text reads, “The Camaguey Contemporary Ballet, within the framework of the Cuban Culture Week, presented the ‘Escape’ event, which is a window of creation where the dancers reaffirm that artistic dedication goes beyond any obstacle.”

The production also highlights the historic collaborative relationship between the BNC and the Cuban Institute of Cinematographic Art and Industry (ICAIC), reflected in numerous audiovisual works dedicated to dance.

Among the central elements of the narrative are the testimonies of prominent figures associated with ballet, including Maria Elena Llorente, one of the most renowned performers of “Afternoon Echoes,” to whose memory the documentary is dedicated.

ICAIC president Alexis Triana emphasized that this production inaugurates a new line of work within the institution’s Documentary Department, focused on exploring topics related to Cuban culture and history.

#FromTheSouth News Bits | In Cuba, over a million students return to school, marking an achievement for the nation's education system amid ongoing United States aggression. pic.twitter.com/oMCCt8jRPD

— teleSUR English (@telesurenglish) September 4, 2026

teleSUR: JP

Source: Prensa Latina

They criticize the far-right candidate’s positions on labor rights, national sovereignty, poverty, violence, the environment, and human rights.

On Friday, Folha de Sao Paulo published the contents of a letter in which 54 Brazilian Catholic bishops warn that far-right presidential candidate Flavio Bolsonaro threatens the church’s social doctrine, democracy, national sovereignty and the practice of the common good.

RELATED:

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“We cannot remain neutral, lest our conscience or history condemn us in the future. Those who remained silent in the face of totalitarian threats that materialized in 20th-century Europe left a shameful legacy for future generations,” stated the “Letter from Catholic Bishops to the People of God Ahead of the Second Round of the 2026 Presidential Election.”

The signatories say they are in communion with the National Conference of Bishops of Brazil (CNBB) and aligned with the message issued by the organization’s Permanent Council, which defended the constitution and respect for the vote.

Besides urging voters to evaluate the records of the two candidates facing off in the Oct. 25 runoff, the bishops list the main positions through which Bolsonaro contradicts church teachings.

Labor Issues

The far-right candidate has consistently opposed eliminating the six-days-on, one-day-off work schedule and has proposed hourly pay, which “does not recognize the dignity of the worker and could bring this issue back to the forefront.”

National Sovereignty

Flavio Bolsonaro “promises Brazil’s submission to the United States, participated in a conspiracy to impose tariffs on Brazilian products, advocates foreign interference in elections, and promises to hand over our rare earth resources for U.S. exploitation.”

Poverty

The bishops cite the apostolic exhortation Dilexi Te and say the Liberal Party “has always publicly opposed social programs and the fight against poverty,” even though Flavio Bolsonaro now says he will maintain some of those programs.

🇧🇷⛪️ Creencias y política chocan en Brasil: crece la polémica por la promesa religiosa de Bolsonaro

✝️ Miles de fieles conmemoraron el aniversario de Nuestra Señora Aparecida, patrona del país sudamericano, en medio de la controversia por la promesa de campaña del candidato a la… pic.twitter.com/5AgyIQGEzv

— Sputnik Mundo (@SputnikMundo) October 14, 2026

The text reads, “Beliefs and politics collide in Brazil: controversy grows over a religious pledge made by Bolsonaro. Thousands of the faithful commemorated the anniversary of Our Lady of Aparecida—the patron saint of the South American nation—amidst controversy surrounding a campaign promise by presidential candidate Flavio Bolsonaro to declare that the nation belongs to Jesus Christ.

Catholics and representatives of Afro-Brazilian religions have warned of potential risks of exclusion and discrimination. Although the campaign asserted that this is merely a symbolic expression of faith, the debate has reignited questions regarding religious freedom and respect for the diversity of beliefs within Brazil.”

Violence

The bishops criticize Bolsonaro’s promise to expand access to firearms, “as his father did during his administration.” The issue had already been criticized in the homily delivered by the archbishop of Aparecida, who preached a message of “unarmed peace” during Mass on the Feast of Our Lady.

Environment

The bishops accuse Flavio Bolsonaro of denying the climate crisis and seeking to continue the “devastating policies” of his father, Jair Bolsonaro. They cite the environmental licensing law approved in 2025, known as the “Devastation Law.”

Human Rights and Democracy

The bishops recalled that the far-right candidate “publicly expresses support for torture” and that his family honored Col. Carlos Alberto Brilhante Ustra, a torturer during the military dictatorship.

Flavio Bolsonaro “made several statements that threaten the constitutional order” and, if elected, would govern with a majority in Congress and the Supreme Federal Court (STF), “creating the conditions for a usurpation of power,” the bishops warned.

The Brazilian Situation

Without mentioning Lula, the letter states that the Workers’ Party candidate, “although he has also been the subject of criticism, has always demonstrated responsibility toward the poor and our Common Home, and has acted within the limits of the democratic order, respecting the Constitution.”

“Whether one likes the current government or not cannot be a reason to hand the country over to someone who demonstrates such a contradiction with the teachings of our church,” the bishops say. They also urge Catholics not to abstain from voting.

Among the signatories are Bishop Jose Ionilton Lisboa de Oliveira, president of the Pastoral Land Commission, and the archbishops of Porto Velho, Roque Paloschi; Feira de Santana, Zanoni Demettino Castro; and Uberaba, Paulo Mendes Peixoto. The list includes bishops from Brazil’s Amazon, Northeast, Southeast, Central-West, and South regions.

The letter adds to the existing rivalry between Flavio Bolsonaro and the Catholic Church during the 2026 presidential campaign. In September, the Brazilian Commission for Justice and Peace delivered a report to the bishops detailing 58 attacks by the far right against Catholics and their church since 2018.

teleSUR/ JF

Sources: Folha de Sao Paulo – Brasil de Fato

Including Messi in the Sports category reinforces Latin America’s presence in the awards.

On Friday, Argentine footballer Lionel Messi joined the list of Latin American personalities recognized with the Princess of Asturias Award, expanding a regional presence that now includes 45 prominent figures.

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Since 1981, Latin America has played a significant role in these awards, accumulating 64 prizes awarded to individuals and institutions from fifteen countries in the region.

Mexico leads the list with 21 awards, followed by Argentina, Colombia, and Brazil, with eight each. Venezuela, Peru, Guatemala, Cuba, Chile, Honduras, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Panama, Uruguay, and Puerto Rico are also represented.

Among the honored institutions are the National Museum of Anthropology of Mexico, the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), the Caro y Cuervo Institute of Colombia, the People of Puerto Rico, and the Brazilian National Football Team.

Leo Messi, Premio Princesa de Asturias de los Deportes 2026. #PremiosPrincesadeAsturias pic.twitter.com/nsL2sctvqR

— Fundación Princesa de Asturias (@fpa) October 23, 2026

The text reads, “Leo Messi, Princess of Asturias Award for Sports 2026.”

In literature, figures such as Mexican Juan Rulfo and Peruvian writer Mario Vargas Llosa stand out, while in communication and popular culture, the Argentine Quino, creator of Mafalda, was recognized.

The region’s political and social dimension has also been recognized, with figures such as Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, distinguished for his contribution to international cooperation.

These personalities represent contributions to human rights, literature, journalism, science, politics, and art. Including Messi in the Sports category reinforces Latin America’s presence in the awards and adds one of the most influential footballers of all time.

#Argentina | Students and university workers held their fifth Federal University March, demanding funding and unpaid wages amid Milei's austerity cuts.
Police used tear gas and water cannons against protesters.#PublicEducation #UniversityProtests #teleSUREnglish pic.twitter.com/ZX7IAqk1XR

— teleSUR English (@telesurenglish) October 16, 2026

teleSUR: JP

Source: EFE

Persian official also warned that energy markets not to find calm for next 3 years if anti-Iran situation continues.

On Friday, Fada Hossein Maleki, a member of the Iranian parliament’s National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, warned regional countries that any support for the United States in the event of a renewed armed conflict would be regarded as a hostile act toward the Persian nation.

RELATED:

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“Iran would be able to identify which regional states are prepared to back American forces if military action resumes,” he told RIA Novosti in an interview.

“In that case, the decisions taken by Iran may go beyond strikes on the military bases of those countries, and those countries themselves will be classified as hostile states,” he added.

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said that the United States has spent US$11 billion in taxpayers’ money on missile defense for Israel within the past three years.

“It has fired more interceptors defending Israel than Israel has. That is not a symbiotic relationship. It is a parasitic one,” he pointed out.

‼️ WE ARE ABOUT TO WITNESS THE BIGGEST WAR IN HISTORY FOR THE SURVIVAL OF PETRODOLLAR

US military has quietly been scaling back its troop presence at bases across the Middle East.

US Embassies in the Middle East have been ordered evacuation of non-emergency staff members and… https://t.co/GjHPzYo5Ot pic.twitter.com/iSo1j8yd58

— Casimir von Falkenhayn (@Falkenhayn_) October 22, 2026

Energy markets not to find calm for next 3 years if anti-Iran situation continues

On Thursday, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council Mohsen Rezaei warned that global energy markets will remain volatile “for the next three years” if the U.S. continues its current pressure campaign against Iran.

“Perpetuating the current situation will carry strategic consequences, not least that the energy markets will not find calm for the next three years,” he stated in an interview with U.S.-based news outlet Drop Site News.

Rezaei said that if another war is imposed on Iran, Tehran still has the capacity to launch missiles and drones at various U.S. assets across the region and will expand its target list to include “cables, data centers and artificial intelligence facilities.”

The official stressed that Iran will neither reopen the Strait of Hormuz nor return to negotiations, unless its seven new conditions, presented to the United States through mediators, are met.

He also said Gulf states “are rapidly redefining their relationship with Iran” as they realized that “the U.S. military is incapable of defending its own bases.”

teleSUR/ JF

Source: Xinhua – RIA Novosti

He has achieved twelve European Tour titles and three PGA Tour victories.

On Friday, English golfer Ian Poulter announced his departure from LIV Golf and confirmed he will not participate in the new project being considered after the withdrawal of Saudi funding that had supported the tour since its inception in 2022.

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Poulter joins other players who have also opted not to participate in the so-called new phase of the competition, including Jon Rahm, David Puig, Bubba Watson, and Louis Oosthuizen.

The Briton explained that the decision was made after discussing it with his family and team, particularly valuing the “possibility of reducing” travel and dedicating more time to his personal life.

Poulter leaves behind a distinguished career in international golf, with twelve European Tour titles and three PGA Tour victories. However, he shared his interest in competing more frequently in senior tournaments.

Life update…✍🏼 pic.twitter.com/kdSQIOmxZ0

— Ian Poulter (@IanJamesPoulter) October 23, 2026

He plans to enhance his activity on social media and digital platforms, especially through his YouTube channel, where he shares golf-related content. The player will also dedicate time to supporting his son Luke Poulter, who is taking his first steps on the competitive circuit.

The player stated that, despite the controversy surrounding LIV Golf since its inception, he is proud to have been part of the project and to have competed with the Majesticks team.

In his message, he highlighted the numerous changes professional golf has undergone in recent years and expressed his conviction that these transformations can open new opportunities for players and organizers.

#Venezuela | National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez called for the return of Venezuelan gold held at the Bank of England to support earthquake recovery efforts.#JorgeRodriguez #teleSUREnglish pic.twitter.com/YDz3PDJVVC

— teleSUR English (@telesurenglish) October 22, 2026

teleSUR: JP

Source: EFE

The former presidential candidate was arrested over alleged irregularities in the handling of funds during the 2023 campaign.

On Friday, Prosecutor General’s Office requested preventive detention for leftist former presidential candidate Luisa Gonzalez, who was arrested on Thursday over the alleged irregular handling of funds from the 2023 election campaign.

RELATED:

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Prosecutors requested that she be provisionally held in prison while proceedings against Gonzalez continue. She is accused of the alleged crime of money laundering.

The case comes five weeks before subnational elections in Ecuador, an Andean country where Citizens Revolution, the main opposition force to the U.S.-backed President Daniel Noboa, has denounced judicial persecution of progressive politicians and activists.

The hearing to present charges against Gonzalez is taking place while the leftist leader remains detained at Model Barracks in Guayaquil. She was transferred there after being arrested in the early hours of Thursday at her home in Canuto, a rural locality in the province of Manabi.

During the same hearing, the Public Prosecutor’s Office also requested preventive detention for two other defendants in the case: former lawmaker Santiago Diaz, a Correista whose testimony prompted the investigation, and Wendy Onofre, a former official with the Municipality of Guayaquil under the administration of now-imprisoned Mayor Aquiles Alvarez.

The initial investigation into Gonzalez gained momentum in March following unsubstantiated testimony from Diaz, who was arrested and accused of raping a minor. He was sentenced to 29 years in prison in that case.

Diaz said he had allegedly brought cash from Venezuela on the orders of former President Rafael Correa (2007-2017) to finance Gonzalez’s campaign in the 2023 snap presidential election.

The Prosecutor General’s Office is seeking to establish whether the campaign also received money from a company owned by Aquiles Alvarez, another opponent of Noboa who became mayor of Guayaquil in 2023 with the support of Citizens Revolution, Correa’s party.

Alvarez is currently imprisoned and faces two convictions, one of them for the illegal sale of fuel through service stations he owns with his family.

Luisa Gonzalez was the Correismo candidate in the 2023 and 2025 presidential elections, losing to Noboa in the runoff in both contests.

Investigations targeting Citizens Revolution have led to the party’s suspension, barring it from participating in local elections scheduled for Nov. 29.

The US-backed right-wing narco-dictatorship in Ecuador has arrested presidential candidate Luisa González, from the leftist Correísta movement, on fabricated charges.

This came after Ecuador's narco-regime banned the main left-wing opposition party.

Ecuador is run by dictator… pic.twitter.com/h4Hzkmc2aX

— Ben Norton (@BenjaminNorton) October 23, 2026

FDIM Demands Gonzalez’s Release

On Thursday night, the Women’s International Democratic Federation (FDIM) demanded the immediate release of Ecuadorian former presidential candidate Luisa Gonzalez.

“We denounce before the international community the kidnapping of our comrade Luisa Gonzalez, former candidate for the Presidency of Ecuador, by the fascist regime of Daniel Noboa,” the FDIM said.

“The capture of Luisa is part of the repressive plans of the Ecuadorian government, which intends to subdue, through repression, imprisonment, and kidnapping, all those who demonstrate against corruption and the government’s submission to Trump’s dictates.

“We demand respect for their physical and moral integrity. We demand the immediate release of Luisa Gonzalez, Jorge Glass, and all political prisoners,” the FDIM stated.

The legal proceedings against Gonzalez come weeks after the Electoral Disputes Tribunal upheld her political disqualification, preventing her from registering as a candidate for the Manabi provincial prefecture.

Before these events, the former presidential candidate herself had denounced foreign pressure and the recurring use of lawfare as methods to silence progressive social and political leaders.

Following her arrest, Gonzalez addressed the public, rejecting the allegations made by the Prosecutor General’s Office, describing the accusation against her as absurd and asserting that her case was part of a political persecution campaign driven by the Noboa administration.

In her statement, the opposition leader called on progressive organizations and the Citizens Revolution movement to unite to restore democracy in the country. She also thanked those who had expressed support for her nationwide.

“Sooner or later, the silence will explode in every corner of the country, and we will achieve the long-awaited democracy,” she said.

teleSUR/ JF

Source: EFE – FDIM

Treasury Department says the reasons for Venezuela’s inclusion no longer exist.

On Thursday, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) removed Venezuela from the list of countries subject to restrictions on U.S. investment.

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Established under the 2025 Comprehensive Outbound Investment National Security Act (COINS Act), the list still includes countries such as China, Russia, Cuba, Iran and North Korea.

To justify Venezuela’s removal from the list, the Treasury Department said the reasons that led to the country’s inclusion no longer exist and that the current government does not meet the definition established by the COINS Act.

However, the OFAC announcement included a warning: The rule could still apply to certain investments in Venezuelan entities, although no details were provided.

“The COINS law significantly expanded the scope of U.S. controls on capital flowing abroad. The proposal requires notification in six sectors and five designated countries, and imposes a total ban on artificial intelligence. The public can submit comments through Dec. 7; the final rule will follow,” the financial website PitBullChain explained.

“The key distinction that must not be overlooked is that this is a mechanism for scrutinizing outbound investments. It is not a lifting of the OFAC sanctions regime. Removal from the COINS list does not mean that existing restrictions on specific individuals and entities disappear.”

“Venezuela’s removal from the COINS list can be interpreted as a sign of reduced friction: less friction for a U.S.-based exchange, a payment processor or a small fund to consider operating with Venezuelan counterparties without automatically falling into the category of a country under scrutiny,” the financial website added.

The list of countries included under the COINS Act was originally advanced with bipartisan support. Its goal was to expand oversight of capital flows into sectors considered sensitive to U.S. national security.

Regarding the scope of the policy, Treasury Undersecretary Chris Pilkerton explained that the program’s purpose “is to ensure that we have the ability to monitor and potentially prohibit those types of investments” that could pose risks to U.S. national security.

teleSUR/ JF

Sources: PitBullChain – OFAC

From a hard-line security agenda to a cultural battle, he is adopting tactics used by Trump, Bukele and Milei.

Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella is following the playbook that other far-right leaders, such as U.S. President Donald Trump, Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele and Argentine President Javier Milei, have implemented in recent years.

RELATED:

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The Colombian politician is touting his commitment to the “cultural battle,” along with a hard-line approach to crime and migration, attacks on the opposition, appeals to religion, personalized communications and government actions that threaten to erode democracy and limit rights.

Emphasis on Security

Since taking office in August, De la Espriella has focused on security. Almost every morning, he announces a new operation on social media involving drug and weapons seizures, arrests and the killing of suspected guerrillas and criminals.

The president has emphasized his order to act with an “iron fist” and use the full force of “the weapons and laws of the Republic.” This show of force has led him, not without controversy, to film himself walking among bodies in bags or wearing a pistol on his belt during a police raid in the Caribbean city of Santa Marta. In addition, inspired by Bukele, he has expressed interest in building as many as six mega-prisons.

Colombia has a new far-right multimillionaire president, Abelardo de la Espriella.

He is a US citizen who voted for Trump.

He wants Colombia to adopt the US dollar.

He worked for years as a lawyer in Miami, defending drug traffickers.

He also loves Israel.

Neocolonialism. pic.twitter.com/1USSdD1xld

— Ben Norton (@BenjaminNorton) August 19, 2026

Attacks on the Opposition

Like Trump and Milei, De la Espriella targets the opposition, led by the leftist Historic Pact party and former President Gustavo Petro (2022-2026). He accuses Petro’s administration of having left public finances in their “most critical situation” because of “wasteful spending” and “corruption.”

Centralization of Communications

Similar to Bukele, De la Espriella has become the first and almost sole source of information about his government, whether regarding security operations, infrastructure meetings or talks with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). He has also prohibited all senior officials from making statements without his authorization.

De la Espriella’s approach to communications is one-way: During the 11 weeks of his presidency, he has held no news conferences at which journalists could ask questions and has granted no interviews, limiting accountability.

Alignment With the U.S. and Israel

Like Chilean politician Jose Antonio Kast, Peruvian politician Keiko Fujimori and Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa, De la Espriella was quick to align himself with Washington, joining the Shield of the Americas, a security alliance promoted by the United States, and advancing his country’s withdrawal from the International Criminal Court.

In his rapprochement with Israel, he has gone further than Milei. The Colombian far-right leader has recognized Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights and moved Colombia’s embassy to Jerusalem.

Budget Cuts

De la Espriella promised during his campaign to cut government spending by 40%, following Milei’s chainsaw approach, and has already moved in this direction with his first general budget, approved by decree this week.

In addition to reducing allocations for the Special Jurisdiction for Peace (JEP) and the Ministry of Equality and Equity, the Colombian president is cutting spending on contractors, bureaucracy, subsidies and social assistance.

Colombia has opened an embassy in West Jerusalem under new far-right President Abelardo de la Espriella, who is reversing his predecessor's ‌break with Israel by also restoring a free trade agreement. pic.twitter.com/LnZ4uufnaC

— Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) October 14, 2026

Use of Religion

The Colombian president has surrounded himself with Christian symbols since his inauguration and adopted the practice of ending his speeches by shouting, “Long live Christ the King!” This has led to lawsuits accusing him of violating the state’s secular character.

De la Espriella, who has included a significant number of evangelicals in his Cabinet, recalls Milei and Brazil’s Bolsonaro family in these practices, including former President Jair Bolsonaro and his son and presidential candidate, Flavio.

Cultural Battle

The far-right politician has announced a “cultural counterrevolution” to eliminate “wokism,” which he believes entered Colombian institutions under his predecessor.

The most high-profile controversy in this area has been his government’s decision to remove more than 30 works from the National Museum. The move has drawn criticism over “censorship” and sparked protests outside the cultural institution for several days, recalling Trump’s moves involving the Smithsonian and the Kennedy Center.

Irregular Migration

A few days after taking office, the Colombian president announced that immigrants in irregular situations would be “identified and deported.” Although police have conducted some raids in cities such as Cartagena, Cucuta, Bucaramanga and Medellin, the issue does not appear to be a priority for the authorities.

An Outsider to the System

Like Trump, Bukele and Milei, De la Espriella denies being a politician and rejects being like other politicians, whom he disparages in general terms and frequently accuses of corruption and backroom deals. He explains his government in terms of a break with the past and a process of purging the system.

This stance goes hand in hand with behavior that departs from traditional norms, as when he accused two regional leaders of corruption in front of the cameras.

The External Enemy

De la Espriella has just announced that his government will detail, in just one month, what it considers its territories in the Caribbean Sea, including all the islets and reefs of the San Andres archipelago. The move could reignite a decades-old conflict with Nicaragua. The situation, in some ways, though with clear caveats, recalls the Falklands campaign launched by Milei.

teleSUR/ JF

Source: EFE

Neil Bush and Wayne Thorburn back Talarico over Ken Paxton less than two weeks before midterm elections.

Two prominent Republican voices in Texas have announced their support in recent days for Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico over Republican Ken Paxton, less than two weeks before the midterm elections, in which Donald Trump’s party risks losing control of Congress.

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Neil Bush, son of former President George H.W. Bush (1989-1993) and brother of former President George W. Bush (2001-2009), and Wayne Thorburn, former executive director of the Texas Republican Party, publicly said Talarico, a Presbyterian seminarian and former teacher, is a figure with the right values to represent Texas in the Senate.

Bush even said he had already cast his early vote for Talarico. Both cited the Democrat’s “character,” and Bush went further, directly attacking Paxton and expressing his “concern” about his conduct and track record.

Paxton, the state’s current attorney general, has a lengthy history of corruption and fraud allegations that even led him to face an impeachment trial in 2023, initiated by his own party in the state Legislature, where he was acquitted. Bush also criticized Paxton’s close ties to Trump, whom he accused of causing “enormous damage” to the Republican Party.

Neil Bush, brother of George W. Bush and Jeb Bush, has broken his longstanding silence on politics to back Democrat James Talarico over Ken Paxton.@Timodc reacts: "Hopefully there are going to be a lot of Neil Bushes out there over the next two weeks." pic.twitter.com/T27wUmJXpw

— The Bulwark (@BulwarkOnline) October 22, 2026

“I am concerned about a political culture in which loyalty to one person takes precedence over loyalty to principles and in which those in power begin to believe they no longer have to be held accountable,” said Bush, an energy industry businessman.

In 2015, a Collin County grand jury formally indicted Paxton on securities fraud charges. The case was closed in 2024 with a pretrial intervention agreement, without Paxton pleading guilty.

In addition, the Justice Department investigated him over allegations of corruption and abuse of power. The investigations did not result in charges and were closed in the final weeks of Joe Biden’s administration (2021-2025).

BREAKING: George W. Bush's brother Neil just dropped a BOMB on MAGA by proudly announcing that he voted for James Talarico in the Texas Senate race.

This just gave Republicans a flashing green light to vote blue…

"I have never posted a political message on Facebook not… pic.twitter.com/iLi6UsfJqa

— Occupy Democrats (@OccupyDemocrats) October 21, 2026

Trump’s decision to endorse Paxton over Sen. John Cornyn in the Republican primary drew widespread criticism from lawmakers and party strategists. The race for Texas’ Senate seat, which the state has not awarded to a Democrat since 1988, has become one of the most important contests of this election cycle.

More than US$500 million has been spent on advertising in the race overall, according to data from the firm AdImpact cited by U.S. media outlets.

Polls, which for weeks showed Talarico leading Paxton by a few percentage points, have shown the gap narrowing in recent days and now put the Democrat 1.5 points ahead of the attorney general, according to RealClearPolitics.

teleSUR/ JF

Source: EFE

Brazilian president mobilizes supporters online ahead of Sunday’s runoff, as a new poll shows the two candidates tied at 50%.

On Thursday, Brazilian President and reelection candidate Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva called on the country’s young and elderly people to “defeat” opposition Sen. Flavio Bolsonaro to build a society that “distributes books and culture, not weapons and hate.”

RELATED:

Datafolha Poll Shows Lula and Bolsonaro Tied at 50% Ahead of Runoff

“Our army is much bigger, full of enthusiasm and heart, where nobody wants to kill anybody,” said the Workers’ Party (PT) candidate during his first digital event of this kind.

Lula spent an hour and a half participating in a livestream on social media alongside lawmaker Andre Janones, who created a public WhatsApp channel in support of the progressive leader called “Lula’s Army.” The channel has already attracted 8.5 million users ahead of Sunday’s presidential runoff.

Shortly before the digital event, polling firm Datafolha released a survey showing both candidates tied at 50% of the valid vote, three days before voters head to the polls.

🚨 PESSOAL, URGENTE!!!

Preparados pra ver a história acontecendo AO VIVO diante dos olhos?!

Vamos encerrar a campanha mais importante da história do Brasil!

Um ato que ficará para sempre marcado na memória das lutas do povo brasileiro! 🇧🇷

É sábado, dia 24, às 14h, na Av.… pic.twitter.com/aslsI3WZPw

— Lula (@LulaOficial) October 22, 2026

The text reads, “Folks, urgent!!! Are you ready to watch history unfold live before your very eyes?! We are bringing the most important campaign in the history of Brazil to a close! It will be an event that remains forever etched in the memory of the Brazilian people’s struggles! Join us this Saturday, the 24th, at 2:00 pm, on Avenida Paulista, in Sao Paulo!”

In the first round of the election, the eldest son of far-right former President Jair Bolsonaro won 47% of the vote, two percentage points more than Lula, who appears to have drawn even in the final days of the campaign.

Part of the Brazilian president’s strategy has involved mobilizing his supporters in the streets and on social media, with an emphasis on young people and those over 70. The latter are exempt from voting in a country where voting is mandatory.

Introduced as “Marshal Lula,” the Workers’ Party leader acknowledged feeling “like a fish out of water” during his first livestream, where he listened to accounts from young and elderly people.

“I have to talk with my army; we have a great battle ahead of us,” Lula said, adding that his candidacy represents “democracy,” “the fight against femicide” and a “life focused on health, culture” and education.

Estas eleições serão um divisor de águas para o Brasil. É hora de transformar essa esperança e mobilização das ruas em mais participação e compromissos.

Seguiremos firmes na luta por um país mais justo, com oportunidades para todos e políticas voltadas às necessidades da… pic.twitter.com/TzOkr47RH8

— Lula (@LulaOficial) October 23, 2026

Lula da SIlva’s text reads, “These elections will be a watershed moment for Brazil. It is time to transform this hope and the mobilization seen in the streets into greater participation and concrete commitments. We will remain steadfast in the fight for a fairer country—one with opportunities for all and policies geared toward the needs of the population. Our ‘army’ consists of more than just soldiers; it is driven by reason, motivation, and a cause. And our cause is the best in the world, because it is the Brazilian people. Let us work together to secure another victory!”

“Our army fights to build a harmonious, loving society that builds rather than destroys, that distributes books and culture, not weapons and hate,” said the Workers’ Party leader, who also referred to Sunday’s runoff election as a “war.”

“Brazil cannot fall into the hands of a militiaman,” Lula said, alluding to the Bolsonaro family’s ties to relatives of members of paramilitary groups in Rio de Janeiro.

Lula also recalled that Flavio Bolsonaro had served as the lawyer for a police officer accused of killing a 5-year-old girl during an operation against suspected drug traffickers.

The Workers’ Party also urged those who abstained from voting — who accounted for 21% of voters in the first round, or about 33.5 million Brazilians — to vote for Lula on Sunday.

“You who did not go to vote because you didn’t like the candidates or because you are over 70, that is your right; but not now. Now you have to think about Brazil, about your homeland,” he said.

teleSUR/ JF

Source: EFE