Russia once floated Venezuela-Ukraine swap: Report

IANS | January 6, 2026 7:58 AM

Washington, Jan 6 (IANS) Russia at one point signaled a willingness to allow the United States latitude in Venezuela in exchange for Washington easing its position on Ukraine, according to seven-year-old congressional testimony by Fiona Hill, a former senior National Security Council official, an account that has resurfaced amid renewed scrutiny of great-power bargaining.

CDC adopts revised childhood immunization schedule, reducing recommended vaccines

IANS | January 6, 2026 7:18 AM

Washington, Jan 6 (IANS) The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention adopted a revised US childhood immunization schedule that reduces the number of vaccines recommended for all children, following a federal review comparing American practices with those of other developed nations, a move President Donald Trump described as a major overhaul of public health policy.

Trump says US not at war with Venezuela, rules out early polls

IANS | January 6, 2026 7:10 AM

Washington, Jan 6 (IANS) US President Donald Trump said the United States is not at war with Venezuela and will not push for elections there in the near term, arguing that the country must first be stabilised and its infrastructure rebuilt following the capture of its leader, Nicolas Maduro.

Rubio tasked to lead US post-operation strategy in Venezuela: White House

IANS | January 6, 2026 6:26 AM

Washington, Jan 6 (IANS) US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has been designated by President Donald Trump to lead implementation of Washington’s post-operation strategy in Venezuela, the White House said, outlining a whole-of-government effort that spans diplomatic, economic, financial, and military tools.

Indian nationals held in US cocaine trafficking case

IANS | January 6, 2026 6:21 AM

Washington, Jan 6 (IANS) Two Indian nationals have been arrested in the United States after authorities discovered more than 300 pounds of cocaine hidden inside a semi-truck in Indiana, according to the US Department of Homeland Security.

US weighs embassy reopening as Venezuela risk persists

IANS | January 5, 2026 11:03 PM

Washington, Jan 5 (IANS) The Trump administration is preparing for a possible reopening of the U.S. Embassy in Caracas, even as American officials warn that the security situation in Venezuela remains “fluid” and continues to pose severe risks to U.S. citizens.

My family was away during Ohio home attack: Vance

IANS | January 5, 2026 9:53 PM

Washington, Jan 5 (IANS) US Vice President JD Vance Monday said his family was not at home when an intruder attempted to break into his Ohio residence, thanking the US Secret Service and Cincinnati police for a swift response, as local authorities charged a 26-year-old man in connection with the incident.