News from the U.S. today, February 3, 2025: Government responds to Selena Gomez; USAID now under State Department control; Trump insists on reclaiming the Panama Canal

The U.S. Government responds to Selena Gomez's video about deportations. Trump transfers control of USAID to the Department of State and seeks to regain the Panama Canal, creating tensions.


Related videos:

Lunes 3 de febrero de 2025

En un día lleno de acontecimientos, el Gobierno de EE.UU. responde al video emotivo de Selena Gómez en Instagram sobre inmigración. La USAID queda bajo control del Departamento de Estado tras recibir una fuerte reestructuración. Mientras tanto, Trump reitera su intención de "recuperar el Canal de Panamá" en medio de tensiones internacionales. A continuación, las noticias más importantes del día.

Reaction of the White House to Selena Gomez's emotional video about deportations

The administration of Donald Trump has issued a strong response to the video in which Selena Gomez expresses her sadness over the ICE raids. The White House released its own video featuring testimonials from three mothers who challenge the artist's message, emphasizing the suffering caused by the murders of their daughters at the hands of undocumented immigrants. Gomez's controversial video, initially shared on Instagram, was taken down after facing criticism for allegedly downplaying national security and losing followers on social media.

The U.S. State Department takes full control of USAID

The Trump administration has dismantled USAID, integrating it into the Department of State, which significantly affects independent media and NGOs that promoted democracy in Cuba and received funding from USAID. Journalist Walter Curt confirmed on the social network X that USAID has been absorbed and that the official website is now out of service. The executive order also freezes foreign aid for 90 days, jeopardizing key projects on the island. This restructuring aims to align international assistance with U.S. interests, raising concerns due to its impact on Cuban organizations.

Trump warns of consequences for the U.S. if the Panama Canal is not reclaimed.

The President of the United States, Donald Trump, reiterates his intention to recover the Panama Canal, warning of possible repercussions if this is not achieved. He accuses Panama of violating historical agreements and points out the influence of the Chinese Communist Party in managing the canal, a claim that has been denied by Panamanian authorities. The visit of Secretary of State Marco Rubio to Panama aims to ensure the protection of U.S. interests in light of the growing Chinese presence. Trump emphasizes the importance of the canal for the national and economic security of the U.S.

Trump revokes Temporary Protected Status for 300,000 Venezuelans in the U.S.

The Donald Trump administration has decided to revoke the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for over 300,000 Venezuelans in the United States, exposing them to potential deportation. This change, reported by the New York Times, affects those who obtained protection in 2023. TPS allows individuals to reside and work legally in the U.S., but it does not lead to citizenship. The measure reflects the immigration policies of Trump's previous administration and creates uncertainty within the Venezuelan community, many of whom have fled the crisis in their country. Although Joe Biden had previously extended TPS for an additional 18 months, this revocation marks a significant shift in current immigration policy. Furthermore, Venezuela has agreed to accept its deported citizens, facilitating the repatriation process.

Three Cubans from Miami arrested for million-dollar luxury sunglasses heist in U.S. stores.

Three Cubans residing in Miami, identified as Alexander Trujillo Gómez, Xavier Pérez, and Lázaro Salazar Hechavarría, were arrested in Tennessee for their alleged involvement in a network stealing luxury glasses valued at over a million dollars. Accused of robbing Sunglass Hut locations in several states, they face charges such as burglary robbery, and the use of a 2022 Pacifica minivan, tracked through cooperation among various police departments. They are currently held with a one million dollar bail each in Rutherford County.

United States deploys Marines in Guantanamo for migrant center under Trump administration

A contingent of United States marines has arrived at the Guantanamo Naval Base in Cuba, as part of President Donald Trump's administration's preparations to establish a migrant detention center. This measure aims to support the Department of Defense and Homeland Security in the expansion of the Migrant Operations Center. This plan, which includes up to 30,000 beds, aims to protect Americans and address illegal immigration. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized the strategic advantage of these facilities in an interview, while the operation poses unprecedented logistical and legal challenges.

Mexico deploys 10,000 soldiers to the border after a month-long pause on Trump’s tariffs

In response to migratory pressure and trade threats, Mexico has deployed 10,000 soldiers to its northern border. The agreement was announced following a conversation between President Claudia Sheinbaum and Donald Trump, who stated on Truth Social that new tariffs will be suspended for one month. Both nations are focused on stopping the flow of fentanyl and migrants into the United States while negotiating on security and trade. Sheinbaum emphasized respect for sovereignty in the dialogue, and Trump also directed criticism at Canada, underscoring the fight against drugs as a priority.

Emergency evacuation on a United Airlines flight due to engine failure

A flight from United Airlines destined for New York from Houston was evacuated in an emergency this Sunday following a engine failure before takeoff. The incident, recorded by the Federal Aviation Administration, occurred at 8:35 a.m. and necessitated the use of slides and emergency stairs to disembark 104 passengers and 5 crew members, with no injuries reported. The Houston Fire Department assisted in the evacuation, while passengers were relocated to another flight. A video showed smoke and flames on the wing of the aircraft.

Trump imposes tariffs on oil from Canada and Mexico: Will gasoline prices rise?

The decision by Donald Trump to impose tariffs on oil imports from Canada and Mexico could drive up the price of gasoline in the U.S. Analysts warn that the new levies of 10% on Canadian energy products and 25% on Mexican ones will increase production costs, impacting consumers. The structure of oil trade in North America may experience significant disruptions, while refineries in the Midwest and the East Coast could face varying impacts due to their reliance on Canadian crude. Volatility in the crude market remains a challenge, highlighting the reactions of players like OPEC+ and the potential global economic consequences.

The U.S. Secretary of Security supports strict immigration measures and the arrival of Marines in Guantánamo

The U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, defends the hardline policy of the Trump administration, emphasizing the expansion of the Guantanamo naval base to accommodate up to 30,000 undocumented immigrants deemed dangerous. The arrival of a contingent of Marines at the Cuban base reinforces this measure, framed within the president's objective to protect Americans. Noem assured that suitable facilities will be used for each individual and detailed that the priority is the detention of foreign criminals. Democratic Senator Mark Kelly has described the decision as "alarming."

Frequently asked questions about Donald Trump's recent political decisions

What changes has the Trump administration made regarding USAID?

The administration of Donald Trump has dismantled the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and integrated it under the control of the Department of State. This entails a restructuring that significantly impacts independent media and NGOs promoting democracy in Cuba, as they received funding from USAID, jeopardizing the continuity of their projects.

Why does Donald Trump want to reclaim the Panama Canal?

Donald Trump has expressed his intention to regain control of the Panama Canal due to his concerns about China's influence over its management and his belief that Panama has violated historical agreements. Trump accuses China of having an increasing influence and emphasizes the canal's importance for the security and economy of the United States.

What was the White House's reaction to Selena Gomez's video about immigration?

The White House responded to Selena Gomez's video, in which she expressed her sadness over the ICE raids, with its own video that included testimonies from mothers whose daughters were murdered by undocumented immigrants. The White House video questions Gomez's message, suggesting that it downplays national security and the suffering of victims of crimes committed by illegal immigrants.

How does the revocation of TPS affect Venezuelans in the U.S.?

The revocation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) affects over 300,000 Venezuelans in the United States, exposing them to potential deportations. This measure reflects Trump’s immigration policies and signifies a significant shift from the previous administration that had extended TPS. Venezuela has agreed to accept its deported citizens, facilitating the repatriation process.

Filed under:

CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.