Global News Catch-Up: Venezuela, Sweden, DR Congo, Cuba, UAE and Switzerland

The United States is quietly expanding its influence in Venezuela, with CNN reporting that the CIA is moving to establish a permanent American presence inside the country. Also: Sweden plans to lower the age of criminal responsibility from 15 to 13 for the most serious crimes, as criminal networks increasingly recruit minors. France is set to ban public officials from using U.S. videoconferencing platforms. More than 200 people have been killed in a coltan mine collapse in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, in territory controlled by the Rwanda-backed M23 militia. In Cuba, oil supplies are running critically low after Mexico cancelled shipments under U.S. pressure, raising fears of a humanitarian crisis. A Wall Street Journal investigation reveals a $500 million investment by a UAE royal into a Trump-linked crypto business shortly before inauguration, followed months later by U.S. approval of advanced AI chip exports to the UAE. Switzerland, meanwhile, plans to raise sales taxes to fund higher defence spending, signalling a shift even among traditionally neutral states. Global Politics with Leo brings you the international stories that matter, with clear explanations and evidence-based context. New episodes cover geopolitics, power struggles, and global affairs - without the noise. Get in touch: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.