US military strikes on Iran appeared imminent after President Donald Trump held a late-night Situation Room meeting with top aides. Sources said Trump was shaken by videos of past executions and briefed on the planned execution of 26-year-old protester Erfan Soltani. Though no decision was made, Trump urged Iranians to protest, saying “help is on its way,” raising expectations of a limited strike. A day later, he said sources claimed the killing had stopped, easing tensions. US intelligence had not confirmed this, even as evacuations began at a major US airbase. Officials say options remain on the table.
#USIran #Trump #MiddleEast #GlobalPolitics

Some US military personnel told to leave Middle East bases, US official confirms

Wahala Don Burst: US Drops Massive Airstrikes on ISIS in Syria, Sokoto Also Hit!

Na so e be! The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) don carry out big airstrikes against ISIS targets across Syria, and Nigerians won’t forget the connection at home—Sokoto was hit too!

CENTCOM revealed on X that the strikes happened Saturday around 12:30 p.m. Eastern Time, alongside partner forces. This operation, called Operation Hawkeye Strike, started December 19, 2025, after a deadly ISIS attack near Palmyra, Syria, that killed two American soldiers and one civilian interpreter.

The US military made it clear: “If you harm our warfighters, we will find you and kill you anywhere in the world.” No shaking!

Interestingly, in December 2025, the US also conducted airstrikes in northwest Nigeria, specifically in Sokoto State, targeting ISIS-linked militants of the Islamic State-Sahel Province (ISSP) and local affiliate Lakurawa. Tomahawk missiles were reportedly used in collaboration with the Nigerian government to dismantle terrorist camps.

These operations show that the fight against terrorism is now global and local, and both the US and Nigeria are keeping the pressure on ISIS wherever they pop up.

For Nigerians, the Sokoto strike is a reminder that terrorism is a real threat, and the government is working with international partners to try to keep citizens safe.

Wahala don burst, but the fight no go stop!

26 EU States Urge Calm, Respect For International Law After US Military Captures Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro

Twenty-six member states of the European Union have called for calm, restraint and strict adherence to international law following the United States’ military action in Venezuela, which reportedly led to the capture of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. In a joint statement issued by EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, the bloc warned against actions that could escalate tensions or derail prospects for a peaceful resolution of the Venezuelan crisis.

The EU stressed that the principles of international law and the United Nations Charter must be upheld at all times, noting that members of the UN Security Council bear a special responsibility in safeguarding these norms as a foundation of global security. While reiterating its long-standing position that Maduro lacks the legitimacy of a democratically elected president, the EU emphasized support for a Venezuelan-led, peaceful and democratic transition that respects the country’s sovereignty.

The statement also highlighted the need for sustained international cooperation to combat transnational organised crime and drug trafficking, but only in full respect of territorial integrity and international law. The bloc said it remains in close contact with the United States, regional actors and international partners to facilitate dialogue aimed at a negotiated, inclusive and peaceful solution driven by Venezuelans themselves.

Additionally, the EU called for the unconditional release of all political prisoners in Venezuela and confirmed that EU member states’ consular authorities are working together to protect EU citizens, including those allegedly detained unlawfully. The intervention comes amid heightened global concern over Venezuela’s political deadlock and regional stability following President Donald Trump’s announcement that Maduro had been captured and transferred to the United States to face federal charges related to drug trafficking and alleged links to designated terrorist organisations.

‘US Crossed An Unacceptable Line’ — Brazil Condemns American Military Attacks On Venezuela, Slams Capture Of President Maduro, Monitors Potential Refugee Influx

Brazil has strongly condemned the United States’ military attack on Venezuela and the capture of President Nicolás Maduro, describing the action as a grave violation of international law and a dangerous precedent for global stability. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva said the US had crossed “an unacceptable line,” warning that the bombings and arrest of Venezuela’s leader undermine national sovereignty and threaten multilateralism.

In a statement posted on X on January 3, 2026, Lula stressed that attacking countries in blatant disregard for international norms risks plunging the world into violence, chaos, and instability, where power overrides the rule of law. He called for a “vigorous” response from the United Nations while reaffirming Brazil’s long-standing opposition to the use of force and its commitment to dialogue and diplomacy.

The condemnation followed coordinated US military operations that led to the removal of President Maduro, marking Washington’s most direct intervention in Latin America since the 1989 invasion of Panama. US President Donald Trump hailed the operation as a major success, praising it as a powerful demonstration of American military strength.

Amid fears of regional fallout, Brazilian authorities convened an emergency cabinet meeting to assess the situation, with particular concern over a possible surge of Venezuelan refugees. Brazil’s foreign ministry said there had been no unusual movement along the border so far, noting that the country has hosted over 150,000 Venezuelan migrants since 2018 through ongoing humanitarian programmes.

President Lula, who joined the emergency meeting virtually, reiterated that military intervention in Venezuela could trigger a humanitarian catastrophe and renewed Brazil’s offer to act as a mediator. Brazilian officials said they remain on high alert, closely monitoring developments while engaging diplomatically with Venezuelan authorities to prevent further escalation.

Amid Global Outcry, Trump Declares US Will ‘Run’ Venezuela After Military Strikes, Arrest Of President Nicolás Maduro

United States President Donald Trump has announced that Washington will temporarily “run” Venezuela until a political transition is completed, following coordinated US military strikes on Caracas and the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Trump made the declaration during a news conference on Saturday, hours after US forces bombed key locations in the Venezuelan capital and took Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, into custody.

According to Trump, the United States will assume control of Venezuela’s affairs to ensure what he described as a “safe, proper and judicious transition,” though he did not provide a clear timeline. The move marks a major escalation in US actions against Maduro’s government, which have included seizures of Venezuelan oil tankers and deadly anti-narcotics operations in the Caribbean—steps that have drawn condemnation from human rights groups and foreign governments.

Trump defended the intervention by citing longstanding US drug-trafficking charges against Maduro, allegations the Venezuelan leader has repeatedly denied. The US president also said major American oil companies would soon enter Venezuela to repair its damaged oil infrastructure, claiming the intervention would make Venezuelans “rich, independent and safe.”

Maduro, who has ruled Venezuela since 2013, has long accused the United States of seeking regime change to gain control of the country’s vast oil reserves. His transfer to New York to face US charges has intensified international backlash, with critics warning that the declaration of US control over Venezuela threatens sovereignty, international law, and regional stability.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres Condemns US Military Action In Venezuela, Warns It Sets Dangerous Precedent And Threatens Regional Stability

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has strongly criticised the United States over its reported military action in Venezuela, warning that the escalation poses serious risks to regional stability and undermines international law. In a statement delivered by UN spokesman Stéphane Dujarric on January 3, 2026, Guterres said he was deeply alarmed by the worsening crisis, describing the US action as a “dangerous precedent” with potentially far-reaching implications for Latin America and beyond.

The UN chief stressed that regardless of Venezuela’s internal political situation, all parties are obligated to respect international law, including the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter. He expressed grave concern that the established rules governing the use of force may not have been adhered to, cautioning that such actions could weaken the global legal order.

Guterres urged Venezuelan stakeholders to de-escalate tensions and pursue inclusive dialogue rooted in respect for human rights and the rule of law. Meanwhile, reactions in the United States remained divided, with Congressman Riley M. Moore defending the military action by accusing President Nicolás Maduro’s government of narcotics trafficking and enabling strategic influence by China, Russia, and Iran in the Western Hemisphere. The developments have further intensified international debate over the legality, consequences, and long-term impact of US intervention in Venezuela.

China Condemns US Military Attack on Venezuela, Slams Capture of President Nicolás Maduro as Violation of Sovereignty and International Law

China has strongly condemned the United States over its reported military action against Venezuela and the alleged capture of President Nicolás Maduro, describing the move as a blatant violation of international law and an attack on a sovereign nation. In an official statement issued on January 3, 2026, the Chinese government warned that such actions threaten peace and security across Latin America and the Caribbean.

Beijing accused Washington of hegemonic behavior, stressing that the use of force undermines Venezuela’s sovereignty and contravenes the principles of the United Nations Charter. China urged the United States to immediately cease actions that violate other countries’ security and independence and to resolve disputes through lawful and diplomatic means.

The condemnation follows claims by former U.S. President Donald Trump that American forces carried out a large-scale military operation in Venezuela, allegedly capturing President Maduro and his wife and flying them out of the country—claims made without supporting evidence. Reports of multiple explosions and blackouts in Caracas, particularly near key military installations, have further heightened tensions, fuelling speculation of a coordinated U.S.-linked operation amid an escalating standoff between Washington and Caracas.

Nigeria-Based Venezuela Solidarity Group Condemns US Military Strikes, Demands Disclosure of President Nicolás Maduro’s Whereabouts

The Venezuela Solidarity Campaign in Nigeria (VSCN) has strongly condemned recent U.S. military strikes against Venezuela, describing them as acts of imperialist aggression and violations of international law. In a statement issued on January 3, 2026, the group expressed deep concern over the safety and whereabouts of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro following the reported attacks.

VSCN rejected claims that the strikes were aimed at promoting democracy or human rights, arguing instead that they were driven by economic and strategic interests, particularly control over resources. Drawing parallels with past U.S. interventions in countries such as Iraq, Libya, and Afghanistan, the group warned that such actions often result in instability and civilian suffering.

The campaign demanded an immediate halt to U.S. military actions, full transparency on President Maduro’s condition and location, the lifting of sanctions on Venezuela, and accountability for alleged breaches of international law. It also called on the Nigerian government, the African Union, and progressive governments worldwide to speak out against the strikes and urged global solidarity movements to stand with Venezuela’s right to sovereignty and self-determination.

Russia Condemns US Military Strike on Venezuela, Calls for UN Security Council Meeting

The Russian Federation has strongly condemned the United States’ military action against Venezuela, calling it unjustified and warning against further escalation. Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticized Washington’s justification as “untenable” and said ideological animosity has overridden pragmatic engagement.

Moscow emphasized that Venezuela must determine its own future without foreign interference and urged dialogue-based resolution of disputes. The ministry expressed solidarity with the Venezuelan people and support for the Bolivarian government, while backing calls for an urgent UN Security Council meeting to address the crisis. Russian authorities confirmed that their embassy in Caracas remains operational and no Russian citizens have been reported injured.

Omoyele Sowore Condemns UN Over Venezuela Crisis, Calls for Dissolution Amid US Military Strikes

Nigerian human rights activist Omoyele Sowore condemned the United Nations for its perceived failure to address the crisis in Venezuela and U.S. military actions, including the alleged capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. Describing the UN as ineffective and compromised, Sowore called for its dissolution and the creation of a new global body to uphold justice and prevent abuses of power by influential nations.

Sowore accused U.S. President Donald Trump of pursuing an illegal regime change agenda in Venezuela. The comments follow reports of explosions in Caracas, near key military installations, amid heightened tensions with the United States. Trump claimed on Truth Social that Maduro and his wife were captured in a “large-scale” operation, though no evidence has been provided.

The situation has drawn international scrutiny and intensified debates on unilateral military interventions and the UN’s role in maintaining global peace.

Debris from US airstrike hit Kwara hotel and injured some staff, hotel owner claims.

A Nigerian hotel owner said that three of his staff were hospitalised with injuries after debris from munitions fell on his hotel following US airstrikes targeting militants in northwest Nigeria.

The surprise US raid on Christmas Day targeted militants linked to the Islamic State group, according to sources in Abuja and Washington.

The federal government had acknowledged that debris from the munitions fell in various locations, including “in Offa, Kwara State, near the premises of a hotel,” but stated that there were no civilian casualties.

However, the owner of the Solid Worth Hotel in Offa, approximately 800 kilometres from the strike targets in Sokoto’s Tangaza district, told AFP that three workers were injured after what appeared to be a missile hit the hotel.

“Suddenly on Christmas Day, around late evening past 10 pm, a bomb missile allegedly shot by the US military—maybe it misrode and hit my hotel,” said Taofeek Bello.

“It landed inside the hotel building, caused a little bit of damage, injured three staff,” he added.

Bello said one worker suffered what he described as a “traumatic” injury and was rushed to a psychiatric hospital. Another sustained a severe head injury, while a third was injured in the legs and lap; all three remain hospitalised.

Bello explained that the debris hit an unoccupied room of the 22-room, two-star hotel before landing outside.

Photographs he shared with AFP appeared to show a missile head being examined and collected by security forces. Only two rooms were occupied at the time, and no guests were injured.

Kwara State police told AFP that “as of this moment, there are no details yet. Investigations are ongoing.”

Daniel Bwala, a spokesman for President Bola Tinubu, told AFP on Monday, Dec. 29, that “there were no casualties except the terrorist(s).”

Deji Adeyanju Identifies Four Groups Unhappy About US Bombing Terrorists in Nigeria

Human rights activist and lawyer Deji Adeyanju has identified four categories of people reportedly unhappy about the US airstrikes on ISIS-linked militants in Sokoto, Nigeria. In a Facebook post on December 28, 2025, Adeyanju listed the groups as: members of the Nigerian Army allegedly benefiting from insecurity, terrorists themselves, terrorist sympathizers, and politicians exploiting opposition politics. The US military action, carried out at Nigeria’s request, has sparked varied reactions across the country, with some praising the intervention while others express concern over its implications.

Borno South Senator Ndume Calls for Nigeria-US Military Strikes Against Boko Haram, ISWAP in North-East

Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, has urged the Nigerian government to expand its ongoing military collaboration with the United States to the North-East, following a US airstrike targeting ISIS militants in Sokoto State. Ndume, a former Senate Committee on Army chairman, highlighted that extending joint operations to Boko Haram and ISWAP strongholds—including Lake Chad, the Mandara Mountains, and Sambisa Forest—would significantly weaken terrorist groups. He also called for deeper intelligence sharing and logistical support, including attack helicopters, while commending President Bola Tinubu’s record defence budget for 2026 and emphasizing transparency in its execution. The remarks come amid rising concerns over sovereignty and the legality of foreign military action in Nigeria.

US Soldier Reveals Multiple Airstrikes on ISIS in Sokoto, Sends Christmas Message to Terrorists

A Nigerian serving in the US military has gone viral after revealing details about multiple airstrikes carried out against ISIS terrorists in Sokoto, Nigeria, on orders from President Donald Trump. The soldier, who shared the information on social media, wished Nigerians a Merry Boxing Day while cheekily calling it “Happy Bombing Day” for the terrorists. Responding to followers, he confirmed that the strikes involved multiple missile attacks, not just a single strike. The revelation has sparked a range of reactions online, with some praising the action and others questioning verification.

Sokoto Government Confirms Nigeria–US Airstrikes Destroy Terrorist Camps In Tangaza, Says No Civilian Casualties Recorded

The Sokoto State Government has confirmed that a joint air operation conducted by the Nigerian military in collaboration with the United States targeted terrorist enclaves in Tangaza Local Government Area, resulting in the destruction of identified camps without any civilian casualties. In a statement issued by the Director-General of Media and Publicity, Abubakar Bawa, the government said investigations and post-strike assessments are still ongoing to determine the full impact of the operation. The state also addressed public concerns over suspicious objects discovered near Jabo town, noting that detailed analysis by Nigeria–US military authorities is underway. Reaffirming its support for security agencies, the Sokoto Government welcomed international collaboration against terrorism and urged residents to remain calm, cooperative and prayerful as efforts continue to combat banditry and cross-border crimes in the state.

ADC Accuses Tinubu Of Incompetence Over US Military Airstrikes In Sokoto, Demands Clarity On Terrorists Killed

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration over the United States AFRICOM airstrikes on alleged terrorist locations in Sokoto State, describing the operation as evidence of failure in Nigeria’s security leadership. In a statement by its spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi, the opposition party warned that allowing foreign military forces to conduct operations on Nigerian soil raises serious sovereignty concerns. While acknowledging the need to combat terrorism, the ADC questioned why Nigeria did not lead the operation despite years of heavy security spending and demanded full disclosure on the terms of engagement with the US, Nigeria’s level of operational control, and the number of terrorists killed in the strike.

Afenifere Faction Backs Trump, Hails US–Nigeria Christmas Day Airstrikes On ISIS Terrorists In Sokoto

A faction of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has thrown its weight behind former US President Donald Trump and the United States military over the Christmas Day airstrikes carried out against ISIS-linked terrorists in North-West Nigeria. In a statement signed by its Organising Secretary, Kole Omololu, the group described the joint US–Nigerian military operation in Sokoto as timely and necessary, arguing that years of insecurity and ineffective governance justified foreign assistance. Afenifere said true sovereignty lies in the ability of a government to protect its citizens and urged Nigerians to support, rather than criticise, the counter-terrorism operation. The endorsement followed confirmations by both the Nigerian government and Defence Headquarters that the strikes were approved and marked one of the most significant US military interventions on Nigerian soil in the fight against terrorism.

China Imposes Sanctions on 20 US Companies and 10 Executives Over Taiwan Arms Sales

China has announced sanctions against 20 US military-linked companies and 10 senior executives in response to recent large-scale arms sales to Taiwan. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that the Taiwan issue is a core Chinese interest and warned that any provocations would trigger firm consequences. Beijing urged the US to adhere to the one-China principle and stop actions undermining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, asserting its determination to protect national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Ex-Governor Tambuwal Urges Calm After US Counterterrorism Strikes in Sokoto, Says Operation Targeted Terrorists, Not Civilians

Former Sokoto State Governor and Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal has called on residents to remain calm following recent US military airstrikes in parts of Sokoto State. In a statement, Tambuwal said the operation was part of ongoing counterterrorism cooperation between Nigeria and the United States and was strictly aimed at terrorist elements, not civilians. He assured constituents that he is in active engagement with security agencies to clarify the circumstances surrounding the strikes and ensure civilian protection. Tambuwal also urged community leaders and residents to avoid misinformation, support security agencies with credible intelligence, and remain united in efforts to restore peace and stability in Sokoto State and Nigeria at large.