International News - Channel 5 Belize

Spain’s Unprecedented National Blackout Caused by “Rare Atmospheric Phenomenon”

According to Al Jazeera, Spain and Portugal experienced one of Europe’s worst blackouts, affecting tens of millions of people and disrupting transport, communications, and medical procedures.

The blackout lasted from Monday to early Tuesday, plunging major cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Lisbon into darkness. Emergency meetings were convened by the Spanish and Portuguese governments, and a state of emergency was declared in Madrid.

Portugal’s electricity provider, Redes Energeticas Nacionais (REN), attributed the outage to a rare atmospheric phenomenon causing severe temperature imbalances.

However, Spain’s national meteorological office, Aemet, ruled out weather as the cause. Investigations are ongoing, with experts suggesting multiple factors might be involved.

Despite the restoration of power, transport systems remain affected, and the exact cause of the blackout is still unknown. Authorities have not ruled out any possibilities, including cyberattacks, although there is no evidence to support this theory at present.

U.S. Secretary of State Rubio Commends PM Briceño in Key Call

Secretary of State Marco Rubio didn’t make it to Belize during his recent whirlwind visit to the Caribbean, but he called Prime Minister John Briceño this morning. Rubio wanted to emphasize the importance of the U.S.-Belize partnership and congratulate Briceño on his March 12th election victory. He recognized Belize’s significant efforts to counter illegal immigration, support Haitian security efforts, and combat transnational organized crime. Secretary Rubio and Prime Minister Briceño discussed tariffs and Belizean commitment and engagement with both the ICJ and Guatemala regarding the Sarstoon River. Secretary Rubio thanked Belize for its efforts as part of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission to Haiti. Additionally, Secretary Rubio committed to working with Prime Minister Briceño to strengthen the investment climate for U.S. firms in Belize. The call concluded with both leaders expressing their commitment to deepen the strong and cooperative relationship between the United States and Belize.

IOM Chief Calls for Urgent Global Support as Haiti’s Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

As Haiti faces a rapidly escalating humanitarian crisis, Director General of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), Amy Pope, is calling on the global community to urgently increase support for displaced families struggling amid violence and instability.

During a recent high-level visit to Port-au-Prince, Pope met with families displaced by gang violence, many of whom have fled their homes multiple times. Over 1 million people are now displaced inside Haiti—three times more than last year—while nearly 200,000 were deported from neighbouring countries in 2024, placing immense strain on already overwhelmed services.

“This is one of the most complex and urgent crises in the world,” said Pope. “When we invest in humanitarian aid, we don’t just save lives—we build the foundations for stability and resilience.”

Pope described meeting a mother who had fled her home three times in two months, now sheltering under a tarp with her children. “These are not just numbers. These are real lives caught in a cycle of crisis.”

While in Haiti, Pope met with government officials to explore solutions for improving migration governance, expanding access to legal documentation, and strengthening reintegration efforts.

IOM is currently leading humanitarian operations at more than 50 displacement sites, providing emergency shelter, water and sanitation, protection services, and support for rebuilding infrastructure and livelihoods in affected communities.

IDU Raises Alarm Over Arrests and Democratic Backsliding in Dominica

The International Democracy Union (IDU) has expressed deep concern over recent events in the Commonwealth of Dominica, warning that the country’s democratic principles, transparency, and rule of law are under serious threat following the March 19, 2025, protests.

Several individuals, including Ronald Charles, a prominent attorney and member of the opposition United Workers Party (UWP) were arrested. Charles was arrested on April 9, weeks after leading efforts to legally represent peaceful protesters detained during the demonstrations. He has since been granted bail, but his arrest has raised alarms both locally and abroad.

In a strongly worded statement, the IDU said, “The protection of fundamental freedoms and rights is paramount to the health of any democracy.” The group stressed that freedom of speech, expression, and peaceful assembly must be upheld, even in politically tense environments.

The March 19 protests stemmed from growing public frustration over economic hardship, rising unemployment, and demands for greater transparency and accountability in the use of public funds. Citizens also called for social justice and meaningful reforms, particularly in light of Dominica’s long-standing electoral reform process.

The IDU called for greater transparency and judicial independence, stating that the arrest of legal professionals like Charles may signal an overreach by police and a troubling politicization of justice. “It is essential that the judiciary operates independently, free from any political influence, to uphold the rule of law and protect the rights of all citizens,” the statement read.

US Deports 17 Alleged Gang Members to El Salvador Amid Legal Challenges

The United States has deported 17 alleged gang members to El Salvador despite ongoing legal disputes over the removal process, according to the U.S. State Department.

As reported by the BBC, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the deportees included individuals linked to the Tren de Aragua and MS-13 gangs. Salvadoran officials confirmed to the BBC that the group consisted of both Venezuelans and Salvadorans.

The deportations come amid a legal battle over the Alien Enemies Act, a law from 1798 historically used in wartime. Earlier this month, a federal court temporarily halted deportations under this law. However, it remains unclear under what legal basis the latest deportations were carried out.

Rubio described the deportees as “murderers and rapists” but did not provide specific details regarding their alleged crimes or any prior convictions.

El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele posted a video on social media showing the individuals being escorted from a plane into prison cells.

Rubio Warns Venezuela Against Aggression Toward Guyana

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio vowed Thursday that the United States would respond forcefully if Venezuela attacks Guyana amid an escalating territorial dispute involving vast oil and gas reserves, the Associated Press reported.

Rubio, on a three-nation tour of the Caribbean, made a brief stop in Guyana’s capital, where he met with President Irfaan Ali and other officials. Speaking at a joint news conference, Rubio warned that any Venezuelan aggression would have serious consequences.

“The regional threats are based on illegitimate territorial claims by a narco-trafficking regime,” Rubio said. “And I want to be frank, there will be consequences for adventurism. There will be consequences for aggressive actions.”

Guyana, home to significant offshore oil deposits, has become a key player in U.S. efforts to promote energy independence in the region. Earlier this month, the country accused Venezuela of sending an armed naval vessel into disputed waters near ExxonMobil’s massive oil fields.

Rubio made clear that any further incursions would not be tolerated. “It would be a very bad day for the Venezuelan regime if they were to attack Guyana or attack ExxonMobil or anything like it,” he said. “It would not end well for them.”

In Caracas, Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez dismissed Rubio’s remarks, saying Venezuela would not abandon its claim to the Essequibo region and accusing the U.S. of destabilizing the region.

The territorial dispute between Venezuela and Guyana has intensified since ExxonMobil’s 2015 oil discovery in the Stabroek Block, which holds an estimated 11 billion barrels of oil. The Maduro government has repeatedly condemned Guyana’s development of the fields, calling it “illegal.”

Trump Weighs New Travel Ban for 40+ Countries

The Trump administration is considering a new travel ban that could impose restrictions on citizens from 43 countries, including several in the Caribbean and Latin America, according to The New York Times.

A draft list divides nations into three categories of restrictions. Cuba and Venezuela are among 11 countries that could face a full visa suspension. Another 10 nations, including Haiti, would see partial suspensions affecting tourist and student visas. A further 22 countries—including Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Saint Lucia, and St. Kitts and Nevis—have been warned they could face restrictions if they fail to meet US security requirements within 60 days.

The report suggests concerns over passport security, insufficient traveller data sharing, and citizenship-by-investment programs may have influenced the categorisations. The Trump administration argues the restrictions are necessary for national security, echoing the controversial travel bans imposed during his first term.

While the proposal is not yet final, its potential impact on regional mobility and economic ties has raised concerns.

Reggae Legend Cocoa Tea Passes Away at 65

Reggae icon Colvin ‘Cocoa Tea’ Scott has passed away at the age of 65. His wife, Malvia Scott, confirmed that he died early Tuesday morning at a hospital in Broward, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, following a cardiac arrest.

Cocoa Tea had been battling lymphoma since his diagnosis in 2019. In recent months, he also struggled with pneumonia. His wife recalled that despite his illness, he remained optimistic until the end.

Born in Rocky Point, Clarendon, on September 3, 1959, Cocoa Tea rose to fame in the mid-1980s with hits such as I Lost My Sonia and Sweet Sweet Cocoa Tea. His smooth yet powerful delivery made him a beloved figure in reggae, with classics like Israel’s King, Weh Dem A Go Do, Holy Mount Zion, and Rikers Island.

His influence extended beyond music. In 2008, he made headlines with Barack Obama, a song celebrating the then-U.S. presidential candidate. He also founded the Dancehall Jam Jam event, which ran from 2003 to 2009.

Cocoa Tea’s final performance was three years ago on the Welcome to Jamrock Cruise. In 2018, he famously introduced Koffee to the world by inviting her onstage at Rebel Salute.

He is survived by his wife, Malvia Scott, and their eight children.

U.S. Announces Visa Restrictions on Foreign Officials Aiding Illegal Immigration

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced a new visa restriction policy targeting foreign government officials who knowingly facilitate the transit of undocumented migrants into the United States. The policy, unveiled on March 5, 2025, will apply to immigration and customs officers, airport and port authorities, and other officials accused of failing to enforce immigration laws or implementing policies that enable illegal migration, particularly through the U.S. southwest border.

Rubio said that securing America’s borders is essential for national security and economic stability. He called on countries along migratory routes to take greater responsibility in preventing unlawful transit. The new policy will complement the expanded 3C policy, which was revised in 2024 to impose restrictions on private sector actors providing travel and transportation services to illegal migrants.

According to the U.S. government, these visa restrictions will remain in place until affected officials enforce stricter immigration policies. The measure falls under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which grants the Secretary of State authority to deny entry to individuals whose presence in the U.S. could have serious foreign policy implications. Family members of sanctioned individuals may also be impacted by the restrictions.

Decision 2025: Show Out or Blowout

Channel 5 Belize is gearing up for comprehensive coverage of Belize’s general elections on March 12, 2025, with the theme “Decision 2025: Show Out or Blowout.” The programming will offer pre-election features, voter perspectives, expert commentary, and live updates during Election Day. Viewers can expect in-depth analysis of key issues like the economy, governance, and national security, as well as real-time election results and post-election breakdowns. Channel 5 promises to deliver the most trusted and engaging election coverage. Join us on Facebook and Youtube. Coverage begins at 6 a.m.

Cora Richardson-Hodge Becomes Anguilla’s First Female Premier

Cora Richardson-Hodge is set to be sworn in as Anguilla’s first female Premier on Thursday after leading the Anguilla United Front (AUF) to a decisive victory in the general elections. The AUF secured eight of the eleven contested seats, unseating the incumbent Anguilla Progressive Movement (APM) led by outgoing Premier Dr. Ellis Webster, who retained his seat along with two other APM members, Haydn Hughes and Merrick Richardson.

The AUF swept all four “at-large” seats and four district constituencies. Key issues in the campaign included economic concerns, taxation, crime, and the management of Anguilla’s lucrative ‘.ai’ domain. A proposal to revoke voting rights for Anguillians abroad was abandoned after public backlash.

Richardson-Hodge’s historic win marks a milestone for gender representation, as she will serve alongside British-appointed Governor Julia Crouch. With high expectations, the new administration faces the challenge of addressing pressing economic and social issues.