

Scientists Identify Genetic Alterations in Brains of Individuals with Alcoholism
Researchers from the Miguel Hernández University of Alicante have identified significant genetic alterations in the brains of individuals with chronic alcoholism. The study, which analyzed post-mortem brain tissue, found changes in regions responsible for reward, impulse control, and decision-making, which could pave the way for new therapies.
Bad Bunny's Super Bowl Halftime Show Draws Praise and Scrutiny
Puerto Rican artist Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime performance became a cultural phenomenon, celebrated for its tribute to Latin identity and music. The show featured surprise appearances by Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin and drew praise for its cultural references, but also criticism from figures like former President Donald Trump.
Migration Colombia 'Turtle Plan' Protest Causes Airport Delays; Avianca Warns of Impact
A 'turtle plan' protest by Migration Colombia officials is causing significant delays of up to two hours at the country's major international airports. In response, authorities have deployed a contingency plan with additional officers, while Avianca has warned of potential disruptions to international flights and implemented a passenger protection plan.
Airlines Announce Resumption of Flights to Venezuela
Following a period of reduced air connectivity, several airlines including Air Europa, Plus Ultra, and Laser are gradually resuming flights to Venezuela in February and March. The news comes amid a shifting political climate in the country.
Nicaraguan Man Waves National Flag During Super Bowl Halftime Show
William René Surian Ortiz, a 27-year-old Nicaraguan man, appeared on stage during Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime performance, where he prominently waved the blue and white flag of Nicaragua. The gesture was a moment of pride for many in the Nicaraguan diaspora watching the globally televised event.
Bad Bunny's Super Bowl Halftime Show Draws Praise and Scrutiny
Puerto Rican artist Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime performance became a cultural phenomenon, celebrated for its tribute to Latin identity and music. The show featured surprise appearances by Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin and drew praise for its cultural references, but also criticism from figures like former President Donald Trump.
Inameh Forecasts Sahara Dust Arrival in Venezuela
Venezuela's National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (Inameh) announced that mild to moderate concentrations of Sahara dust are expected to arrive in the country starting February 10, 2026. The phenomenon, which originates in North Africa, is predicted to move from east to west across the nation, reducing air quality and visibility.
Attack on Military Battalion in Ocaña, Colombia Leaves One Attacker Dead
An explosive attack on an advanced combat post of the 15th Infantry Battalion in Ocaña, Norte de Santander, resulted in the death of one attacker and injuries to two soldiers. Authorities allege the ELN was behind the attack, which involved explosives launched from a truck, and that a minor was captured after allegedly attempting to help the attacker flee.
Nicaraguan Government Appoints Yaosca Calderón as Presidential Advisor
The Nicaraguan government has appointed Yaosca Calderón Martín, the former ambassador to Venezuela and co-director of the Nicaraguan Tourism Institute, as a minister advisor to the Presidency. The appointment is part of a series of recent changes within the country's diplomatic service.
US Intercepts Oil Tanker 'Aquila II' in Indian Ocean
The U.S. Department of War announced the interception of the oil tanker Aquila II in the Indian Ocean. The vessel was tracked from the Caribbean and accused of violating U.S. sanctions related to the transport of crude oil from Venezuela and to Cuba.
Costa Rican Court Rejects Extradition of Opposition Figure Pedro Fernández to Nicaragua
A Costa Rican appeals court has rejected an extradition request from Nicaragua for opposition figure Pedro Fernández Sandoval. The court ordered that his case be prosecuted in Costa Rica instead. Fernández has been detained in Costa Rica for nearly a year on murder charges leveled by the Nicaraguan government.
Large Fire Consumes La Curacao and Other Stores in León, Nicaragua
A large fire broke out at the La Curacao store in downtown León, Nicaragua, spreading to adjacent businesses including Radio Shack and Ópticas La Curacao. Firefighters from multiple municipalities responded to the blaze, which caused significant material damage but no reported injuries.
US Senate Introduces Bill Targeting Illicit Gold Trade, Citing Nicaragua
U.S. senators have introduced the "United States Legal Gold and Mining Companies Act" (S.3496) to combat the illicit gold trade that funds authoritarian regimes. The bipartisan bill specifically mentions the government of Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo in Nicaragua as a key target.
Russian Journalist Sergey Brilev Arrives in Nicaragua
Russian journalist and communicator Sergey Brilev has arrived in Nicaragua to collaborate with state-controlled media. Brilev, who has been sanctioned by the United Kingdom for his role as a Kremlin propagandist, was welcomed by Nicaraguan officials and plans to produce a documentary.
Nicaraguan Police Seize Cocaine After Deadly Confrontation in Nandaime
A police operation in Nandaime, Granada, resulted in a deadly confrontation with suspected drug traffickers. One suspect was killed, five were arrested, and police seized approximately 252-253 kilograms of cocaine. The individuals captured were identified by authorities.
Costa Rican Court Rejects Extradition of Opposition Figure Pedro Fernández to Nicaragua
A Costa Rican appeals court has rejected an extradition request from Nicaragua for opposition figure Pedro Fernández Sandoval. The court ordered that his case be prosecuted in Costa Rica instead. Fernández has been detained in Costa Rica for nearly a year on murder charges leveled by the Nicaraguan government.
Venezuelan National Assembly Debates Amnesty Law Amid Controversy
Venezuela's National Assembly is debating a proposed Amnesty Law intended to release political prisoners. The bill has drawn mixed reactions, with the UN mission and Catholic Church cautiously welcoming it while demanding transparency, and groups like the SNTP pushing for the inclusion of journalists. The debate has been complicated by postponements and government statements that the law will have significant limitations.
Venezuelan Opposition Leader Juan Pablo Guanipa Released and Re-Arrested
Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Pablo Guanipa was detained again just hours after being released from prison. Government official Diosdado Cabello and the Public Ministry claimed Guanipa violated the conditions of his release, while opposition figures, including María Corina Machado and Edmundo González, condemned the act as a "kidnapping" and a forced disappearance.
Nicaragua Grants Nearly 40,000 Hectares in Mining Concessions to Chinese Firm
The Nicaraguan government has granted two mining concessions totaling nearly 40,000 hectares to the Chinese company Nicaragua Xinxin Linze Minería Group S.A. The concessions are for the exploitation of metallic and non-metallic minerals in the North and South Caribbean Autonomous Regions for a period of 25 years.
Nicaragua Grants Nearly 40,000 Hectares in Mining Concessions to Chinese Firm
The Nicaraguan government has granted two mining concessions totaling nearly 40,000 hectares to the Chinese company Nicaragua Xinxin Linze Minería Group S.A. The concessions are for the exploitation of metallic and non-metallic minerals in the North and South Caribbean Autonomous Regions for a period of 25 years.
Nicaragua Ends Visa-Free Travel for Cuban Citizens
Nicaragua has officially ended its visa-free travel policy for Cuban citizens, a measure that had been in place since 2021. The decision closes a major migration route for Cubans heading to the United States and comes amid pressure from Washington. Following the announcement, dozens of Cubans with existing plane tickets gathered at the Nicaraguan embassy in Havana seeking clarity.