At least 15,000 people demonstrated in Rome against war and the war economy, demanding an industrial policy centered on workers’ needs and dignity.

Financed by surpluses generated when international mineral prices rise above the state-set benchmark, the fund will not be used for short-term budgetary expenditure, but ring-fenced for long-term, strategic infrastructural and industrial projects.

Social and political movements in South Asia also reiterated their solidarity with the Cuban people amidst the prolonged energy blockade imposed by the US and its threats of military aggression.

While Western media continues to describe hit-and-run attacks on civilian fuel tankers by Al-Qaeda fighters who cannot hold positions as a “blockade”, a much more complex struggle for and against Mali’s sovereignty unfolds on the ground.

The protests have prompted various response strategies from the government. Now, mounting pressure has led the Paz administration to reshuffle the cabinet in an attempt to defuse calls for resignations. At the same time, it has opened another front of conflict with Colombia by expelling the ambassador from Bogotá.

Over 400 flotilla activists are expected to be transferred to their countries after days of abuse in Israeli imprisonment.

The US Department of Justice has indicted the historic leader of the Revolution for an event that took place nearly 30 years ago. Havana maintains that this is a ploy to justify military aggression against Cuba.