North Korea is reportedly preparing to send as many as 30,000 troops to reinforce Russia’s war with Ukraine, according to a Ukrainian intelligence assessment confirmed by Western intelligence sources.
The move would significantly expand Pyongyang’s role in the conflict, following the deployment of 11,000 North Korean soldiers last November. Of those, about 4,000 were reportedly killed or injured, yet cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang has strengthened.
The two countries said the cooperation is based on the treaty signed by their leaders in June last year that includes a mutual defence pact.
Ukrainian intelligence says the additional troops may arrive within months and are expected to be integrated into Russian combat units occupying parts of Ukraine.
CNN reported that Ukraine’s Defence Minister Rustem Umerov said the move reveals Russia’s growing reliance on authoritarian allies amid strained mobilisation efforts.
North Korea’s support includes more than 10 million artillery rounds and at least 100 ballistic missiles, some of which were used in deadly strikes on civilian areas like Pokrovsk.
The Belize Fisheries Department has officially opened the application process for export licences for the 2025–2026 sea cucumber fishing season, which will run from August 1st, 2025, to January 31st, 2026.
As part of a new policy focused on strengthening conservation and the sustainable management of sea cucumber stocks, the department is now requiring all prospective exporters to submit a detailed project proposal alongside their export licence application.
Applicants must demonstrate operational capacity to purchase sea cucumbers at designated landing sites and must adhere to the established Total Allowable Catch (TAC) quota of 175,000 pounds of gutted weight. The quota applies exclusively to the Holothuria mexicana species, commonly known as “donkey dung.”
“Completed application forms and project proposals must be submitted to the Fisheries Administrator no later than July 16, 2025. Any application form or project proposal that is incomplete or is received after the aforesaid deadline will not be accepted for consideration,” the department said in its statement.
The Ministry of Health & Wellness has responded to a viral social media post claiming that a rat was found in food served at a local establishment. MOHW called the post misinformation and clarified that the incident did not occur in Belize.
According to the ministry, the alarming image, shared by a member of the public and then by a self-described citizen journalist, was not from any location within the country.
“After thorough review, the Ministry can confirm that the incident referenced in the post did not occur in Belize but rather in another country,” the official release stated. “There is no current evidence of any such event happening locally.”
The MOHW expressed concern over the spread of unverified information and its potential to incite public fear. “We strongly urge all individuals in the media,, whether traditional or independent, to verify the accuracy of information before publishing it.”
The Ministry reassured that Public Health Inspectors continue to conduct regular inspections of food establishments across Belize to ensure compliance with national
Rifts within the United Democratic Party show no signs of healing, and tonight, a familiar face is stepping back into the political spotlight, but this time, with a message of both hope and frustration. U.D.P. Chairman Michael Peyrefitte officially re-entered the political arena last week, following what he described as a “unified agreement” among key party leaders, including Shyne Barrow, Hugo Patt, and Alberto August. The idea is to chart a clear and cohesive path forward for a party that has faced internal divisions in recent months. But that unity, it seems, may have been short-lived. Despite what Peyrefitte calls “significant concessions” made by senior members to foster reconciliation, he now says recent developments suggest the party remains fractured and elusive in its direction. So, what’s next for the U.D.P.? Peyrefitte tells us that discussions are underway to implement a new framework aimed at restoring party stability and rebuilding public trust. While details remain under wraps, he emphasized the urgency of the moment and the need for decisive leadership.
Michael Peyrefitte
Michael Peyreffite, Chairman, U.D.P.
“Well as I said last week or the week before when I came back as Chairman that we would be charting a way forward to bring about unity and peace within the UDP. As Chairman I called a leadership meeting, myself, Shyne Barrow, Hugo Patt, Alberto August, Omar Figuerroa, Tony Hererra and Aldo Salazar, those are the respective regional leaders and executives of the UDP. We decided we’d have a healthy, meaningful discussion and I am happy to report that things are looking very very very positive. There were people in that meeting who it would be fair for the public to say they were “pro-Shyne” and some were “Pro-Tracy”, it’s fair to say that and both sides had sober conversations with the first priority and only priority being the welfare of the UDP. We will be releasing to the media the terms of what we came to and to indicate the way forward what we will be presenting to the central executive and to the national party council but I think that we made great great progress together a lot of it has been miscommunication and I just thought that we have people in the room who can communicate properly and then disseminate that information to the rest of the party but as I said there will be more information coming out later on today.”
Just when it seemed the waters couldn’t get any murkier within the United Democratic Party, Chairman Michael Peyrefitte is stepping in to clear the air, both in the courtroom and within party ranks. In an interview with News Five, Peyrefitte broke down the legal interpretation behind Tracy Panton’s controversial expulsion, offering much-needed clarity on a ruling that’s sparked plenty of debate. But he didn’t stop there. The Chairman also addressed what he called ongoing “miscommunication” within the U.D.P., stressing the need for better internal dialogue to prevent further division.
Michael Peyreffite, Chairman, U.D.P.
“We had a ruling, a clarification ruling if you will, by Justice Hondora last week, in my view, in every respectable lawyer’s view, he did nothing more than just further explain his judgement and what the expulsion meant for Tracy Panton in particular. He just said that he gave a further definition of what void and no land void meant but it did not change the fact that he reiterated that for Mrs. Panton to be brought back into the UDP there has to be a vote, that part of the judgement was not changed and that part of the judgement in my view was even amplified and it’s not strange, it’s not strange That of course at the next NPC that will be coming up very shortly will be item one in the agenda, do you vote to bring back the honorable Panton from expulsion? Do you vote to have those members not in good standing be in good standing and I can tell you from my perspective I will be voting yes and have them come back, join back the UDP be a part of the UDP family so we can move on.”
In the world of politics, private conversations don’t always stay private, and this week, U.D.P. Chairman Michael Peyrefitte found himself at the center of just that. Following the leak of a private exchange with Opposition Leader Tracy Panton, Peyrefitte is speaking out. He’s not denying it happened; instead, he’s acknowledging that in political life, these things can and do occur. But more importantly, he’s using the moment to call for something bigger: transparency and unity within the United Democratic Party. Peyrefitte says it’s time to stop the distractions and start focusing on what really matters, bringing the party together.
Michael Peyreffite
Michael Peyreffite, Chairman, U.D.P.
“A piece of communication was leaked between myself and Tracy Panton it gotinto the media, I don’t put myself on some pedestal you know, not even presidents of big countries can stop leaks, leaks will happen but in the spirit of transparency and in the spirit of trying to get to a place where the UDP can be the UDP again if it leaks it leaks you know it’s not secret we are a mass party and I would love for the media to know and for the people to know every step that we are taking to get back to that place of unity and strength so there was a communication, was it ever my desire for it to become public? No. We’re communicating between two party people, but it leaked, it happens but nothing in there was ignitious nothing in there was a lie and hopefully the public can see that it was an attempt to try and make peace in the party, so it is what it is.”
Well, that’s where things stand tonight, calls for unity, clarity, and a fresh start from within the United Democratic Party. Chairman Michael Peyrefitte is urging members to put the past behind them and focus on reconciliation and renewed purpose. But whether those efforts will truly heal the party’s internal rifts? That remains to be seen. Still, the U.D.P. is laying out a roadmap. The National Party Council is set to meet right here in Belize City on July twelfth, where they’ll consider reinstating expelled members and those previously not in good standing. It signals a clear intent to rebuild trust. And that’s not all, plans are also in motion for a national convention on October fifth, with special constituency conventions happening across fifteen areas throughout July.
The following story is from Caye Caulker, where the newly re-elected village council has issued a powerful and emotional press release addressing growing concerns about police conduct on the island. In a statement released earlier today, the Caye Caulker Village Council expressed deep concern over what they describe as a ‘slowly escalating level of violence and abuse of authority’ by local police officers, particularly toward the island’s youth. The Council emphasized that law enforcement should be a shield for all citizens, not just a select few. The release recalls a troubling pattern, cycles of abuse that have, tragically, ended in the deaths of young men from the community. A decade ago, a similar incident sparked national outrage. Now, the council is calling for action once again, urging that this latest tragedy be met not with retaliation, but with resolve. “We cannot remain committed against violence if we respond with violence,” the council stated. Instead, they are advocating for accountability, de-escalation, and a renewed focus on what community policing should truly mean, protection for every citizen, regardless of background or behavior. It leaves no room for doubt: breaking the law should not mean forfeiting one’s right to life, safety, or dignity. The council is urging that officers who serve must do so with integrity, restraint, and a commitment to justice, not brutality. The statement ends with a reminder that wearing a badge is not just a job, it’s a solemn duty to uphold the law to the highest standard. And in these difficult times, they are calling on the community to stand together, to demand better, and to ensure that Caye Caulker remains a safe haven for all. We’ll continue to follow this story closely and bring you updates as they unfold.
Tonight, a chilling case of blackmail takes center stage in the High Court. Elijah Buller, the man accused of threatening to kill his own uncle and family unless he was paid two thousand dollars, has officially pleaded guilty. The incident, which dates back to July 2023, shook a quiet neighborhood in Belize City, and now, nearly two years later, Buller is facing the consequences. This morning, before Justice Nigel Pilgrim, Buller was reindicted and once again heard the charge of blackmail read aloud. He accepted the agreed facts of the case and entered a guilty plea as part of a plea bargain with the Crown. The court confirmed that Buller’s plea was made voluntarily, without pressure or promises. The details are disturbing: a loud knock at the door, a firearm raised, and a terrifying threat: ‘You, your wife, and daughter will die if you don’t give me two thousand dollars by Sunday.’ That’s what Jason Reneau and his wife Sheila say they endured at the hands of a man they once called family. Now out on bail, Buller is set to be sentenced this Friday, July fourth, at nine a.m. He’s expected to receive a non-custodial sentence and will be ordered to pay compensation to his victims. We’ll be following this story closely and will bring you updates as they unfold.
Forty-nine-year-old Ervin Middleton has learned his fate after being convicted earlier this year for the rape of a thirteen-year-old girl. His sentence? Seventeen years, ten months, and twenty-seven days behind bars. Justice Nigel Pilgrim handed down the sentence today, calling Middleton a predator who abused trust and inflicted deep psychological harm on his young victim. The court heard that Middleton, more than thirty years older than the child, waited until she was alone before attacking her, an act the judge described as premeditated and deeply disturbing. The victim, now eighteen, bravely testified in court, recounting how her life was upended, not just by the assault, but by the emotional fallout, including being separated from her siblings and struggling academically. Her words painted a heartbreaking picture of trauma and isolation. Justice Pilgrim made it clear: the court has a duty to protect children and send a strong message, those who exploit positions of trust to harm minors will face serious consequences. Middleton’s sentence was increased due to aggravating factors, including his prior convictions and lack of remorse. He will also undergo mandatory counseling and psychiatric treatment while incarcerated. This case, dating back to 2020, has now reached its legal conclusion, but the impact on the victim, and the message to society will resonate far beyond the courtroom.
In the fight against crime and the illegal flow of firearms across Belize, a new tool is now in the hands of law enforcement, thanks to a continued partnership with the Organization of American States. Today, the OAS officially handed over a third firearm marking machine to the Ministry of Home Affairs during a ceremony at its Belize City headquarters. Belize first received one of these machines back in 2011, followed by a second in 2023. Both are currently used by the Belize Police Department to mark police-issued weapons. But this third machine? It’s expected to play a broader role in tracking and controlling firearms across the country. News Five’s Paul Lopez has more on how this latest addition could help tighten the net on illegal gun trafficking. Here’s that report.
Paul Lopez, Reporting
The Organization of American States (OAS) donated a third firearm marking machine to Belize today, aimed at helping track and control guns. The machine will be used by the Firearms and Ammunition Control Board as part of ongoing efforts to fight gun violence. Minister of Home Affairs Kareem Musa accepted the donation on behalf of the government.
Kareem Musa
Kareem Musa, Minister of Home Affairs
“This firearm marking machine we are receiving today, thanks to the OAS, has been used in automative, aerospace, medical and by heavy and light industries. It will allow the FACB to permanently mark firearms with unique Identification details, such as country code, serial numbers, model information and other identifying marks. Once a firearm is marked, it will enable the FACB and other relevant authorities to trace the origin and movement of firearms which is crucial in criminal investigations and will also serve as a tool to prevent arm trafficking and to hold gun owners and licensed gun dealers accountable who are in possession, sale or the use of firearms.”
When it comes to fighting gun crime, every detail matters and according to Belize’s Deputy Commissioner of Police, Bart Jones, that includes the tiny markings on a firearm. Speaking on the importance of firearm marking, Jones says each unique stamp tells a story, from the weapon’s legal origin to whoever ends up holding it. It’s a powerful tool for law enforcement, helping trace guns used in crimes and holding the right people accountable.
Bart Jones
Bart Jones, Deputy Commissioner of Police
“Why do markings matter? The unique markings in etched in weapons tell a story. It enables us to trace firearms from its lawful origins to the last point of possession. In practical terms this donation strengthens our investigative reach, reduces time to solve gang related crimes and most important save lives.”
OAS Country Representative, Doctor Luiz Coimbra emphasized the organization’s support for member states like Belize in combatting gun violence. He explained that this support begins with capacity building or ensuring that countries are in possession of the right tools to trace firearms and identify those being used in illicit activities.
Luiz Coimbra
Dr. Luiz Coimbra, Country Representative, OAS
“Today the Organization of the American States through the Program of Assistance on the Control of Firearm and Ammunition is donating a third firearm machine to the Government of Belize. PACAM is a comprehensive strategy of the OAS to support the efforts of its member states to reduce armed violence through the prevention and control of the illicit trafficking of firearms and ammunition. One of PACAM’s components focuses on the strengthening of state capacities to control and authorize access to arms and ammunition, considering the obligations of the Interamerican convention against illicit manufacturing and of trafficking in firearms, ammunition, explosive and other related materials.”
Magistrate Mannon Dennison, who serves on the Firearms and Ammunition Control Board, took a moment to thank the OAS for its continued support. He also reaffirmed the board’s commitment to doing its part, making sure the mandate to regulate and monitor firearms in Belize stays on track.
Mannon Dennison
Mannon Dennison, Member, Firearms Control Board
“We are grateful for the assistance that has been given to us by OAS. Whenever we ask they reach out, whether it is for machinery, tools to assist in the fulfillment of our mandate or for training, they are always there. We are grateful.”
The machine will support the ministry and the Firearms and Ammunition Control Board in enhancing firearms traceability and strengthening controls against the illicit trafficking of these items in Belize. Reporting for News Five, I am Paul Lopez.
