World
Caribbean officials search for 2 people aboard a yacht they say was hijacked by 3 escaped prisoners
Published
10 months agoon
By
FNN SPORTSSAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) — Authorities in the eastern Caribbean said they were trying to locate two people believed to be U.S. citizens who were aboard a yacht that was hijacked by three escaped prisoners from Grenada.
The Royal Grenada Police Force said in a statement released on Friday that they were working on leads “that suggest” the two occupants of the yacht may have been killed.
“This investigation is in its infancy stage,” police said.
The nonprofit Salty Dawg Sailing Association identified the owners as Ralph Hendry and Kathy Brandel. It said they are “veteran cruisers” and longtime members of the association, calling them “warmhearted and capable.” A relative of Hendry didn’t immediately return a message seeking comment on Saturday.
The association said that a cruising skipper had contacted the association about a member’s yacht, Simplicity, that was found “anchored and abandoned” off a beach on the island of St. Vincent.
“The good Samaritan had boarded the boat and noted that the owners … were not onboard and found evidence of apparent violence,” the association said in a statement Thursday.
The association said Hendry and Brandel had sailed the yacht in last year’s Caribbean Rally from Hampton, Virginia, to Antigua, and were spending the winter cruising in the eastern Caribbean.
“This is a very upsetting event and details are still unconfirmed by the authorities, but this does appear to be a tragic event,” said Bob Osborn, the association’s president. “In all my years of cruising the Caribbean, I have never heard of anything like this.”
Authorities in Grenada said they have dispatched senior investigators and a forensic specialist to the nearby island of St. Vincent, where the escaped prisoners were arrested on Wednesday.
The prisoners, ages 19, 25 and 30, were charged a couple of months ago with one count of robbery with violence. The eldest inmate also was charged with one count of rape, three counts of attempted rape and two counts of indecent assault and causing harm, police in Grenada said.
The three men escaped from their holding cell on Feb. 18, according to police.
Authorities said a preliminary investigation suggests that the three men seized the yacht from Grenada’s capital, St. George’s, and traveled to St. Vincent. The owners of the yacht haven’t been identified.
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World
President Biden Reaffirms U.S. Commitment to Ukraine After Devastating Russian Strike
Published
1 week agoon
November 29, 2024By
FNN NEWSWASHINGTON, D.C. (FNN NEWS) – President Joe Biden issued a strong condemnation following Russia’s overnight missile and drone attack against Ukraine. Ukrainian authorities reported that nearly 200 missiles and drones targeted cities and critical energy infrastructure, leaving civilians without electricity as winter approaches.
“This attack is outrageous and serves as yet another reminder of the urgency and importance of supporting the Ukrainian people in their defense against Russian aggression,” said President Biden.
U.S. Support in Action
President Biden underscored the United States’ unwavering support for Ukraine, highlighting key actions taken earlier this year:
- “At my direction, the United States began prioritizing air defense exports so they go to Ukraine first,” Biden stated. The Department of Defense has already delivered hundreds of additional air defense missiles to Ukraine, with more shipments on the way.
- In anticipation of increased Russian strikes during the winter months, the U.S. has been actively assisting Ukraine in strengthening its energy grid.
- Additional critical military resources, including artillery, rockets, and armored vehicles, are being provided to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
Global Solidarity
President Biden reaffirmed the solidarity of the international community. “The United States stands with more than 50 countries in support of Ukraine and its fight for freedom,” he emphasized.
Despite relentless Russian aggression, Biden praised the courage of the Ukrainian people. “Russia continues to underestimate the bravery, resilience, and determination of the Ukrainian people,” he declared, vowing continued U.S. and allied support in Ukraine’s struggle for sovereignty.
What’s Next for Ukraine and U.S. Support?
- Air Defense Priority: The U.S. will expedite the delivery of additional air defense systems to protect Ukrainian cities and infrastructure.
- Winter Preparedness: Efforts to enhance Ukraine’s energy grid resilience will remain a key focus as winter intensifies.
- Allied Support Expansion: The Biden administration will work with its coalition of over 50 countries to deliver coordinated military and humanitarian aid.
- Pressure on Russia: The U.S. will continue economic and diplomatic measures to isolate Russia and hold it accountable for its aggression.
World
President Biden Declares Major Disaster in Puerto Rico After Tropical Storm Ernesto
Published
1 week agoon
November 28, 2024By
FNN NEWSWASHINGTON, D.C. (FNN) – President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. has declared a major disaster in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico following the devastating impacts of Tropical Storm Ernesto from August 13 to August 16, 2024. Federal assistance has been authorized to aid recovery efforts in over 25 municipalities, addressing emergency work and the repair or replacement of damaged infrastructure.
Puerto Rican Heritage Network Praises Federal Disaster Declaration for Storm Ernesto Relief
The announcement comes as a relief to many Puerto Rican families on the island and the mainland. Former Florida State Representative Daisy Morales, President of the Puerto Rican Heritage Network (PRHN), commended the Biden Administration for its prompt response and support.
“Families in the mainland are relieved Puerto Ricans in the motherland are getting federal assistance from the Biden Administration,” Morales stated. “We will continue to monitor the recovery efforts.”
Federal Assistance Overview
The declaration provides federal funding on a cost-sharing basis for:
- Emergency Work: Clearing debris, restoring critical services, and temporary housing.
- Repair or Replacement: Addressing damage to public facilities, roads, bridges, and utilities.
- Hazard Mitigation: Efforts to reduce future disaster risks across the entire Commonwealth.
David Miller, Jr. of FEMA has been appointed to coordinate federal recovery operations in the affected areas. FEMA will work closely with commonwealth and local governments, as well as nonprofit organizations, to ensure swift and effective aid delivery.
Impact of Tropical Storm Ernesto
The storm wreaked havoc across Puerto Rico, causing:
- Severe flooding and landslides in several municipalities.
- Damage to homes, public facilities, and critical infrastructure.
- Economic disruption in both urban and rural areas.
The municipalities most affected include Aguas Buenas, Aibonito, Añasco, Barranquitas, Canóvanas, Ceiba, Coamo, Comerío, Corozal, Hormigueros, Jayuya, Las Marías, Loíza, Manatí, Maricao, Maunabo, Mayagüez, Naguabo, Orocovis, San Lorenzo, San Sebastián, Santa Isabel, Vega Alta, Vieques, Villalba, and Yabucoa.
What’s Next?
- Further Assessments: FEMA will conduct additional damage evaluations, and new designations may follow.
- Long-Term Recovery: Reconstruction of homes, roads, and facilities while implementing hazard mitigation projects.
- Community Support: Nonprofit organizations and local governments will play a vital role in supporting affected families.
For inquiries or updates, the FEMA News Desk can be contacted at (202) 646-3272 or FEMA-NEWS-DESK@FEMA.DHS.GOV.
World
General Keith Kellogg Nominated as Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia
Published
1 week agoon
November 28, 2024By
FNN NEWSWEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (FNN) – Former President Donald Trump has announced the nomination of General Keith Kellogg to serve as Assistant to the President and Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia. General Kellogg, a seasoned military leader and national security expert, brings decades of experience in military and diplomatic roles to the forefront of the U.S.’s evolving strategy in Eastern Europe.
In a statement, Trump praised Kellogg’s distinguished career and dedication to public service, noting that the general has been with him “right from the beginning.” Kellogg previously served as National Security Advisor to Vice President Mike Pence and held senior roles during the Trump Administration’s first term, earning a reputation for his strategic approach to complex global issues.
Trump emphasized that this nomination reflects his commitment to “Peace Through Strength,” a cornerstone of his foreign policy agenda. The appointment aims to bolster the U.S.’s role in resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine while managing strained relations with Russia.
The Mission: Securing Peace and Stability
General Kellogg’s role as Special Envoy places him at the helm of delicate negotiations and strategy implementation in one of the world’s most volatile regions. His task will include mediating disputes, ensuring U.S. support aligns with strategic goals, and strengthening alliances with NATO partners.
With global tensions heightened by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Kellogg’s leadership is expected to contribute significantly to stabilizing the region. His nomination sends a clear message of America’s intent to regain influence and foster peace on the global stage.
A History of Excellence
Throughout his military career, Kellogg has commanded key units and provided leadership in critical operations, including deployments during the Gulf War. His transition to the private sector brought additional expertise, where he worked on defense and business initiatives.
Trump’s announcement reinforces his broader campaign narrative of restoring America’s strength and prioritizing global security. “Together, we will secure peace through strength and make America, and the world, safe again!” the former president declared.
The Global Impact
Kellogg’s nomination comes at a critical time, as the U.S. balances military aid to Ukraine with efforts to de-escalate tensions with Russia. His appointment is anticipated to influence ongoing policy decisions in Washington and signal a renewed focus on diplomacy under Trump’s leadership.
Observers highlight that this move could galvanize support among voters concerned about foreign policy and national security, while also rallying allies worldwide to address shared challenges.
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