Actualidad

NTSB Recovers Flight Data Recorder in LaGuardia Airport Collision Investigation

New York, NY – U.S. authorities have recovered the flight data recorder from the Air Canada aircraft involved in a collision with a fire truck Sunday night at LaGuardia Airport in Queens, New York. The incident resulted in the deaths of the pilots, officials confirmed Monday.

Jennifer Homendy, Chair of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), detailed the recovery process during a press conference, explaining that investigators had to create an opening in the aircraft’s fuselage to access the recorder. The recorder, containing both cockpit voice recordings and flight data, was transported to the NTSB’s laboratory in Washington, D.C., and has been confirmed undamaged.

“We anticipate being able to share some information tomorrow,” Homendy stated, adding that the NTSB plans to deploy a team of 25 specialists to the crash site.

The investigation will encompass a thorough examination of the aircraft’s components, including hydraulic systems and tires, as well as a review of air traffic control procedures and emergency response operations.

The collision occurred around 11:37 p.m. local time. The Air Canada flight was carrying 72 passengers and four crew members. Two firefighters were in the truck. Flight tracking data from Flightradar24 shows the aircraft was traveling approximately 130 miles per hour (210 kilometers per hour) moments before impact. Images of the scene reveal significant damage to the front of the plane.

The incident has prompted scrutiny of air traffic control. Shortly after the collision, the air traffic controller who authorized the fire truck to cross the runway reportedly told a pilot, “I messed up.” Homendy indicated that standard procedure in such cases is to remove the controller from their duties.

“It’s quite traumatic for that air traffic controller,” Homendy said. “We want to interview him and others who were in the tower, or perhaps even weren’t there.”

The affected runway will remain closed for an undetermined period as investigators meticulously document the scene and collect evidence. “We have to review everything to determine what we need to take to the labs, what we need to collect, and above all, what we need to photograph to document that evidence,” Homendy explained.

The NTSB’s investigation is ongoing. The agency is an independent federal body tasked by Congress with investigating civil aviation accidents. Updates will be provided via the NTSB’s social media channels, including X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/NTSB_Newsroom/status/2035975727762256307.

Colombia Accuses Ecuador of Bombing, Tensions Escalate Amid Trade War

BOGOTÁ, Colombia (AP) — Colombian President Gustavo Petro accused Ecuador on Monday of bombing Colombian territory, alleging a bomb was dropped from an aircraft near the border. The accusation further escalates tensions between the two nations already embroiled in a deepening trade dispute.

“A bomb has appeared, dropped from a plane. It will be thoroughly investigated, very close to the border with Ecuador,” Petro said during a cabinet meeting, according to a statement released by his office. He added that he suspects the attacks are not originating from armed groups, but from Ecuador itself. Petro stated that “many explosions” have occurred and promised to release a recording related to the incident soon.

The allegations come as Colombia and Ecuador are locked in a trade war initiated by Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa in January. Noboa imposed a 30% “security” tariff on Colombian imports, citing concerns over Colombia’s efforts to combat drug trafficking along their shared border. Colombia retaliated with tariffs on 73 products and cut off electricity supply to Ecuador. Noboa subsequently increased the tariff to 50% on March 1st, and also raised fees for transporting Colombian crude oil through its pipelines.

Petro revealed he contacted U.S. President Donald Trump last week, requesting his intervention. “I asked him to act and call the president of Ecuador because we do not want to go to war,” Petro said. He emphasized the importance of respecting national sovereignty, noting the bomb is “active and dangerous” and requires a decisive response.

The escalating conflict unfolds as Ecuador strengthens security ties with the United States. Last week, Ecuador and the U.S. formalized the opening of the first FBI office in Ecuador, aimed at combating international organized crime. This includes joint military operations launched earlier this month targeting terrorist organizations, with both countries conducting airstrikes against a training camp belonging to a dissident faction of the former FARC guerrilla group, the Comandos de la Frontera.

The situation remains fluid, with potential implications for regional stability and trade. The trade dispute alone has already significantly impacted economic relations between the two countries. Further escalation could have broader consequences for South America.

[Reporting by nouvelles-du-monde.com, based on statements from the Colombian Presidential Office and reports from 20minutos.es, CNN Español, and news.google.com.]

Oil Prices Surge Past $100 a Barrel as US-Iran Conflict Escalates

WASHINGTON (AP) — Oil prices soared Sunday, breaching the $100-a-barrel mark for the first time since 2022, fueled by escalating tensions following a week of conflict between the United States and Iran. The price of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude climbed to nearly $110 a barrel, while Brent crude, the global benchmark, exceeded $105.

The surge reflects growing concerns about potential disruptions to supply through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil transport, handling roughly 20% of the world’s crude. Trading Economics reported that Brent prices jumped as much as 15% after leading Middle Eastern producers curtailed production due to the closure of the strait.

U.S. President Donald Trump downplayed the impact of rising oil prices, calling it “a small price to pay” for security and peace, both for the United States and the world. In a post on TruthSocial, Trump stated that prices would “fall rapidly” once the perceived nuclear threat from Iran is neutralized, adding, “ONLY FOOLS WOULD THINK DIFFERENT!” He initially described the increase as “a minor inconvenience” in an interview with ABC News.

The rising cost of oil is already being felt by American consumers. The national average price of gasoline has increased by 16% – 47 cents – in the past week, reaching $3.45 per gallon.

Despite the escalating conflict, U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright assured CNN that the U.S. has no plans to target Iran’s oil industry or energy infrastructure, distancing the U.S. from recent Israeli strikes against fuel depots within Iranian territory.

Wall Street also reacted negatively to the developments, with the S&P 500, Nasdaq Composite, and Dow Jones indexes all experiencing a decline of approximately 1.5%.

The situation remains fluid, and further escalation could lead to even more significant disruptions in the global oil market. The conflict’s impact extends beyond energy prices, raising broader concerns about regional stability and the potential for wider geopolitical ramifications.

(20 Minutos reported initial details of the price surge and Trump’s comments.)

Cuba Extends Jet Fuel Shortage Notice as U.S. Pressure Mounts, Tourism Suffers

HAVANA – Cuban authorities have extended a notice advising pilots of a jet fuel shortage at all Cuban airports until April 10, a situation stemming from what they describe as a U.S. economic blockade. The initial notice, issued February 10, has now been prolonged for another month, impacting international travel to the island nation.

The official notice to air missions (NOTAM) specifies a deficit of Jet A-1 fuel at all international airports in Cuba, including José Martí in Havana, Juan Gualberto Gómez in Varadero, and others across the country. The message, codified for the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration’s database, simply states: “JET A1 FUEL NOT AVBL.”

The fuel shortage is a direct consequence of escalating pressure from the United States. In late January, President Donald Trump signed an executive order threatening tariffs on countries supplying oil to Cuba, citing national security concerns. This followed the cessation of Venezuelan oil shipments to Cuba after a change in leadership in Venezuela. Trump has called on Havana to negotiate, but the Cuban government maintains its openness to dialogue while denying current negotiations are underway.

The crisis is already impacting airlines. Canadian and Russian carriers have temporarily suspended service to Cuba, while Spanish, Mexican, and Panamanian airlines have implemented technical stops or reduced flight frequencies.

Cuba relies heavily on imported fuel, producing only about a third of its energy needs. Venezuela previously supplied around 30% of Cuba’s fuel, with smaller contributions from Mexico and Russia. The tourism sector, a key economic driver for Cuba, is particularly vulnerable, especially given that Canada and Russia are two of its largest sources of international visitors.

Economic Reforms Amidst Crisis

Amidst the fuel crisis, the Cuban government has moved to allow the creation of mixed-capital companies – partnerships between state-owned enterprises and Cuban private businesses. These new entities will have “autonomy” and the ability to directly import and export.

Decree-Law 114, published this week, establishes the “Sociedad de Responsabilidad Limitada mixta” (mixed limited liability company). The law requires these companies to be self-financing and profitable, operating within the country’s existing foreign exchange controls. The Ministry of Economy and Planning has the authority to approve or deny the creation of these companies within ten days.

The legislation permits a wide range of lawful activities, excluding health and education services, and activities related to the armed forces. Recently, the government also authorized the private sector to open assisted living facilities for the elderly and people with disabilities, requiring compliance with public health standards.

Economists view these reforms as a necessary step following the 2021 decree that allowed for the creation of private small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and anticipated the possibility of state-private partnerships.

Jalisco Cartel Leader Buried Amid Heavy Security in Mexico

Zapopan, Mexico – Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” the leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), was buried Monday in a gold-plated casket in a cemetery near Guadalajara, Mexico, following a weekend of heightened security and public anxiety.

The funeral procession, held at the Recinto de La Paz cemetery in Zapopan, was heavily guarded by federal, state, and municipal security forces. A brass band played regional Mexican music, including the song “El muchacho alegre,” as the casket was carried into the chapel. The procession included three flatbed trucks transporting dozens of floral arrangements.

The burial comes after a military operation last week in Tapalpa, 130 kilometers south of Guadalajara, resulted in the death of Oseguera, 59. The operation triggered a wave of violence across Mexico, including road blockades, business fires, flight cancellations, and attacks on security forces. Authorities reported 25 members of the National Guard and more than 30 CJNG members were killed in the ensuing clashes, primarily in Jalisco state.

The presence of the body in Guadalajara prompted a significant security deployment by the Mexican Army, National Guard, and state police, causing tension and fear among residents. Jalisco is still recovering from disturbances on February 22, when Governor Pablo Lemus declared a “Red Code” alert for two days following the initial reports of Oseguera’s death and a violent response from cartel allies.

Floral tributes arrived at the funeral home throughout the weekend, including arrangements bearing the initials “CJNG” and one depicting a rooster, a reference to Oseguera’s nickname, “El Señor de los Gallos” (The Lord of the Roosters). Most arrangements arrived without sender identification.

The situation is particularly sensitive as Guadalajara is slated to be one of three Mexican cities hosting the FIFA World Cup in just 100 days. The recent unrest raises concerns about security during the international event.

The CJNG, under Oseguera’s leadership, has grown to become one of the most powerful and violent drug cartels in Mexico, challenging the dominance of more established organizations. Oseguera was also one of the most wanted drug traffickers by both Mexico and the United States.

Lula au cœur de la polémique lors du carnaval de Rio

RIO DE JANEIRO – Le carnaval de Rio de Janeiro, l’un des plus grands spectacles du monde, a été marqué par une controverse dimanche soir, avec un hommage spectaculaire mais politiquement chargé au président brésilien Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva par l’école de samba Acadêmicos de Niteroi. Le défilé, qui a ouvert les festivités du Groupe Spécial, a retracé la vie de Lula, de son enfance modeste dans le nord-est du Brésil à son ascension politique, suscitant à la fois l’enthousiasme des partisans et l’indignation de l’opposition.

Des milliers de danseurs et musiciens, vêtus de costumes élaborés, ont dépeint les différentes étapes de la vie de Lula, son parcours syndical et son élection en tant que premier président ouvrier du Brésil. Lula lui-même a assisté au défilé depuis le palco de la mairie, accompagné de sept ministres et de nombreux autres politiciens.

L’hommage a été précédé de vives critiques de la part de l’opposition, qui y voit une tentative de campagne électorale anticipée à sept mois des prochaines élections présidentielles. Des détracteurs ont dénoncé l’utilisation de fonds publics par une organisation bénéficiant de subventions gouvernementales pour promouvoir un candidat. Bien que la justice n’ait pas interdit le défilé, le Tribunal Électoral a laissé entendre qu’il pourrait faire l’objet d’une enquête.

Le gouvernement a tenté de prendre ses distances avec l’événement, interdisant aux ministres et aux hauts fonctionnaires de participer activement. Des inquiétudes ont également été exprimées quant à la possibilité de sanctions pour Lula, notamment une amende ou une disqualification, en raison de sa représentation dans le défilé par une statue de 18 mètres de haut. La Première Dame, Rosângela Lula da Silva, initialement prévue pour apparaître sur la dernière char, a finalement renoncé à participer.

L’atmosphère était électrique dans le Sambodrome. Avant même le début du défilé, le public a entonné des chants de soutien à Lula, reprenant un slogan de campagne bien connu : “Olé, olé, olá, Lula, Lula”. Des drapeaux et des pancartes ont également témoigné du soutien populaire au président.

Le défilé a inclus des scènes symboliques, comme une représentation du président Michel Temer “volant” la bande présidentielle à Dilma Rousseff, la prédécesseure de Lula, et la remettant à un clown dépeignant l’ancien président d’extrême droite Jair Bolsonaro. L’école de samba a également rendu hommage aux victimes de la dictature brésilienne, un thème particulièrement poignant pour de nombreux spectateurs.

Une char particulièrement remarquée, intitulée “sans mythes faux, sans amnistie”, était une claire allusion à Bolsonaro, actuellement sous enquête pour tentative de coup d’État et dont les alliés au Congrès tentent d’obtenir une amnistie.

Igor Ricardo, le scénariste du défilé, a défendu le choix de Lula comme sujet, affirmant qu’il s’agissait d’une “histoire de victoire” qui résonne auprès des Brésiliens. “Nous ne demandons pas de votes pour Lula. Nous racontons simplement sa vie, mais nous ne pouvons pas raconter son histoire sans parler de politique”, a-t-il déclaré, ajoutant que le président avait été ému aux larmes en découvrant les détails du projet.

Le carnaval de Rio, qui attire chaque année des millions de touristes et génère des revenus considérables pour la ville, est plus qu’une simple fête. C’est une expression culturelle profonde et un baromètre de l’opinion publique. L’incident de dimanche souligne la polarisation politique persistante au Brésil, alors que le pays se prépare à une nouvelle élection présidentielle. Les défilés des douze écoles de samba du Groupe Spécial se poursuivent jusqu’mardi, promettant d’autres moments spectaculaires et, potentiellement, d’autres controverses.

[Insérer ici un lien vers une vidéo YouTube du défilé, si disponible]

[Insérer ici un lien vers un post Instagram pertinent sur le carnaval de Rio, si disponible]

[Insérer ici un lien vers un tweet pertinent sur la polémique, si disponible]

Obama admet que les extraterrestres sont “réels”, démystifie les théories du complot sur la Zone 51

WASHINGTON – L’ancien président américain Barack Obama a déclaré qu’il croyait que la vie extraterrestre était “réelle”, tout en balayant les spéculations persistantes sur des programmes gouvernementaux secrets cachant des preuves de contact. Ses remarques, faites lors d’une interview dans un podcast et clarifiées plus tard sur Instagram, interviennent à un moment où l’intérêt public pour les phénomènes aériens non identifiés (PAN) – communément appelés ovnis – est en hausse, alimenté par des rapports gouvernementaux et des témoignages de pilotes militaires.

L’ancien président a abordé la question lors d’une session de questions-réponses rapides avec le journaliste Brian Tyler Cohen. “Ils sont réels, mais je ne les ai pas vus”, a-t-il répondu avec un sourire, selon des extraits de l’interview largement diffusés. Il a ensuite nié l’existence de bases souterraines cachées dans la tristement célèbre Zone 51 du Nevada, ajoutant avec une pointe d’humour : “Il n’y a pas d’installations souterraines, à moins qu’il n’y ait une énorme conspiration et qu’elle soit cachée au président des États-Unis.”

La Zone 51, dont l’existence a été officiellement reconnue par la CIA en 2013, a longtemps été au centre de théories du complot. Initialement créée dans les années 1950 pour tester des avions espions comme le U-2, sa nature secrète a alimenté les rumeurs selon lesquelles elle abritait des technologies extraterrestres récupérées et des informations classifiées sur les ovnis. Les documents déclassifiés de la CIA confirment que la base était dédiée au développement d’avions de reconnaissance de pointe, mais n’ont pas étayé les affirmations plus sensationnelles.

Dans un message Instagram publié dimanche, Obama a précisé qu’il n’avait vu aucune “preuve” de contact extraterrestre pendant sa présidence. Il a cependant maintenu sa conviction que la vie existe probablement ailleurs dans l’univers, en raison de son “immensité”.

L’intérêt pour les PAN a connu une résurgence ces dernières années. En 2021, le gouvernement américain a publié un rapport déclassifié sur les PAN, documentant des centaines d’observations inexpliquées par des pilotes militaires. Le rapport n’a pas offert d’explication définitive pour ces phénomènes, mais a reconnu qu’ils représentaient un défi pour la sécurité nationale et méritaient une enquête plus approfondie.

En avril 2024, la NASA a annoncé la création d’un groupe d’étude indépendant pour enquêter sur les PAN, soulignant l’importance de l’étude scientifique de ces phénomènes. Selon un sondage Gallup de 2023, 51% des Américains croient que des ovnis ont déjà visité la Terre, un chiffre en hausse par rapport aux décennies précédentes.

La déclaration d’Obama, bien que décontractée, ajoute du poids à la discussion croissante sur la possibilité de la vie extraterrestre et la nécessité d’une transparence gouvernementale accrue concernant les PAN. Son admission, combinée aux efforts en cours du gouvernement américain pour étudier ces phénomènes, pourrait bien marquer un tournant dans la façon dont le monde aborde la question de savoir si nous sommes seuls dans l’univers.