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Germany’s political shift: A New Course for US-Europe Relations

Indira Zaldivar
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Germany’s political shift: A New Course for US-Europe Relations

As Germany’s election results settled, CDU leader Friedrich Merz, set to become chancellor, promised a major realignment in transatlantic ties. His priority: strengthening Europe’s security independence amid shifting U.S. policies under Trump.

Merz warned that the U.S. administration’s stance signals a retreat from traditional European security commitments.

“Step by step, we must achieve independence from the USA,” he stated according to ABC News, highlighting concerns over Trump’s comments on NATO. He further emphasized, “Europe can no longer assume that the U.S. will always be there to guarantee our security. We must take responsibility for our own defense.”

CDU won 28.6% of the vote, while the incumbent SPD trailed in third place. The far-right Alternative for Germany celebrated its strongest-ever performance, bolstered by Elon Musk’s endorsement.

Trump officials, including National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, reaffirmed NATO’s importance but insisted Europe should bear more defense costs. Meanwhile, Merz suggested the need for a new European security structure ahead of June’s NATO summit. “We must work closely with our European partners to build a defense strategy that is not dependent on Washington’s shifting policies,” he stated.

Adding to tensions, U.S. Vice President JD Vance downplayed external threats, urging European nations to focus on domestic stability.

AfD, now Germany’s second-strongest party, declared its success historic. Co-chair Alice Weidel celebrated the party’s rise, while Musk predicted an AfD electoral victory in the near future.

Germany now faces a critical crossroads—redefining its role in global security and reshaping U.S.-European relations in the process.

Keep up with U.S.-Europe relations with us on Que Onda Magazine.

What Happens Next After the U.S. Labels Mexican Cartels as Terrorist Organizations?

Indira Zaldivar
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0
What Happens Next After the U.S. Labels Mexican Cartels as Terrorist Organizations?

The Trump administration’s decision to designate six Mexican cartels as foreign terrorist organizations (FTOs) has sparked debate among experts and policymakers.

While the move is positioned as a step toward safeguarding the U.S. and the Western Hemisphere from violent criminal enterprises, critics argue that the classification may do little to disrupt cartel operations and could create unforeseen legal and diplomatic challenges.

A Shift in Strategy or a Misguided Approach?

Proponents of the designation, such as Senator Marco Rubio, emphasize its role in strengthening counterterrorism efforts and applying additional legal tools to combat cartel influence. The designation enables stiffer penalties, expanded surveillance capabilities, and the potential to freeze assets linked to these organizations. However, security analysts warn that the classification oversimplifies the nature of cartel violence and could strain U.S.-Mexico cooperation in fighting organized crime.

Unlike traditional terrorist groups that pursue ideological or political objectives, Mexican cartels operate with financial motivations, using extreme violence to control drug trafficking, extortion, and human smuggling.

Stephanie Brewer, director for Mexico at the Washington Office on Latin America, contends that “the starting point to combat these organizations effectively is to recognize them for what they are—highly sophisticated criminal enterprises driven by profit rather than ideology.”

Diplomatic and Legal Implications

The designation introduces a complex set of legal ramifications, potentially broadening the scope of criminal prosecution under terrorism-related statutes. This could lead to severe consequences for individuals and businesses that unknowingly engage in transactions linked to cartel-affiliated entities.

Cecilia Farfán-Méndez, an expert on organized crime, warns that “this approach fundamentally misunderstands the structure of cartel operations, which rely on extensive networks within the United States.”

She argues that labeling them as external terrorist threats ignores the domestic factors that contribute to their power, including demand for narcotics and illicit financial flows that sustain their activities.

Moreover, the designation risks complicating diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Mexico. Mexican officials have historically opposed the classification of cartels as terrorist organizations, fearing it could justify unilateral U.S. military intervention. Past Mexican administrations have prioritized joint law enforcement efforts over confrontational policies, and this shift may strain future security collaborations.

The Road Ahead: Enforcement and Consequences

With the U.S. Attorney General’s memorandum on “Total Elimination of Cartels and Transnational Criminal Organizations,” federal agencies are now tasked with implementing aggressive counter-cartel strategies. This includes intensified prosecutions, resource reallocation, and enhanced interagency coordination. The broader implications of this shift remain uncertain, as legal challenges and geopolitical tensions could hinder its effectiveness.

While the administration aims for a decisive blow against cartels, experts caution that the move may have unintended effects, from mass arrests to disruptions in legitimate cross-border trade. Whether this strategy will lead to meaningful reductions in cartel power or exacerbate existing challenges remains to be seen.

Keep up with updates from the federal government with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Warmer seasonal temperatures return this week

ABC13 Houston
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Warmer seasonal temperatures return this week

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — While the week is going to start off on a cool and gloomy note with some morning fog, it’s definitely not going to end that way with warmer, seasonal temperatures returning this week.

Areas of dense fog have developed. A dense fog advisory in effect until 9 am Monday. This fog will be present for the morning commute and could be slow to lift during the day. Temperatures Monday will start in the low-mid 40s and how much they climb will depend on how quickly the fog lifts. Generally, highs will reach the upper 60s or low 70s with more sunshine finally breaking through alter in the afternoon.

Are we done with freezes after this cold snap?

While we cannot 100% rule out a late season freeze just yet, more than likely we are done with freezes. On average, Houston’s last night in the 30s occurs around mid March. If we see any signs of a light freeze or frost on the horizon, we’ll be sure to let you know!

How about some good news, any nice weather coming?

Next week looks gorgeous! We’ll see plenty of sunshine and high temperatures mostly in the 70s for the work-week. Hold on just a little longer, we’re almost there!

Any big storms in the near future?

At this point, no. We are expecting a cold front to move in Wednesday night into Thursday, but it looks like this cold front should pass through with minimal impact. Right now we have a small chance for rain and a small dip in temperatures for Thursday. It’s not until the first full week of March when the forecast looks to trend a little more stormy.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Keep up with all things Houston with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Apple set to open massive AI server in Houston as part of $500 billion U.S. investment

Edward Saenz
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Apple set to open massive AI server in Houston as part of $500 billion U.S. investment

Summary:

  • Apple said it will work with partners to open a 250,000-square-foot AI server manufacturing facility in Houston, Texas.
  • The new factory, which is slated to open in 2026, will form part of a $500 billion in the U.S. over the next four years.
  • In addition to the new Texas facility, Apple said it also plans to hire around 20,000 employees across the U.S. over the period.

Early Monday morning (2/24), Apple announced plans to establish a new artificial intelligence server factory in Texas as part of a $500 billion investment in the U.S. The technology giant will collaborate with partners to build a 250,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Houston, which will produce servers for Apple Intelligence, its AI-powered personal assistant for iPhone, iPad, and Mac devices.

Scheduled to open in 2026, the Texas facility is a key component of Apple’s broader investment strategy over the next four years. Alongside the new factory, the company plans to hire approximately 20,000 employees across the country, with a focus on research and development, silicon engineering, software development, and AI and machine learning.

“We are optimistic about the future of American innovation and proud to expand our long-standing U.S. investments with this $500 billion commitment,” Apple CEO Tim Cook said in a statement.

The announcement follows a recent meeting between Cook and President Donald Trump. Apple has faced pressure from the Trump administration regarding its manufacturing operations, as the company assembles most of its products in China. Earlier this month, Trump imposed an additional 10% tariff on Chinese goods, adding to existing tariffs of up to 25% from his first term.

Apple’s investment plan includes partnerships with U.S. suppliers, content production for Apple TV+ in 20 states, and expanded research and development initiatives. The company also said it remains one of the country’s largest taxpayers, having paid over $75 billion in U.S. taxes in the past five years, including $19 billion in 2024 alone.

Additionally, Apple also announced it will double its U.S. Advanced Manufacturing Fund to $10 billion, launch a new manufacturing academy in Michigan, and expand its domestic R&D efforts, particularly in areas such as silicon engineering.

Mexico Moves to Strengthen Sovereignty Amid U.S. Cartel Designations

Indira Zaldivar
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0
Mexico Moves to Strengthen Sovereignty Amid U.S. Cartel Designations

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has unveiled a series of constitutional reforms aimed at reinforcing the nation’s sovereignty, following the U.S. government’s move to classify certain drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations. This initiative, reported by The Washington Post, underscores Mexico’s stance on maintaining autonomy while combating organized crime.

“This cannot serve as an excuse for the United States to violate our sovereignty,” Sheinbaum stated, emphasizing that while Mexico remains committed to addressing cartel violence, it will not tolerate any actions that undermine its independence.

Under U.S. law, the foreign terrorist organization (FTO) designation allows for heightened sanctions, increased intelligence operations, and expanded legal authority to target individuals affiliated with these groups. While some American lawmakers have long pushed for this classification, Mexican officials have resisted it, warning that it could pave the way for U.S. military intervention and tarnish Mexico’s international standing.

Constitutional amendments occur more frequently in Mexico compared to the United States. Since taking office on October 1, 2024, Sheinbaum has already enacted at least 12 reforms as of January 30. Her latest proposals reflect a broader effort to shield Mexico from potential foreign interference.

Meanwhile, the U.S. State Department has formally designated eight Mexican cartels as FTOs and Specially Designated Global Terrorists (SDGTs), citing their threats to national security and economic stability. These include Tren de Aragua, Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13), Cártel de Sinaloa, Cártel de Jalisco Nueva Generación, Cártel del Noreste (formerly Los Zetas), La Nueva Familia Michoacana, Cártel del Golfo (Gulf Cartel), and Cárteles Unidos.

The situation continues to fuel tensions between the two nations, as Mexico seeks to balance international cooperation with its commitment to self-governance.

Keep up with the Mexican government with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Update on Pope Francis respiratory complications

Indira Zaldivar
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0
Update on Pope Francis respiratory complications

Pope Francis remains in critical condition as he continues receiving high levels of supplemental oxygen following a severe respiratory crisis, the Vatican confirmed Sunday. The 88-year-old pontiff, who has struggled with lung issues since his youth, has been undergoing treatment at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital for pneumonia and a complex lung infection.

A Vatican statement early Sunday reported that Francis had rested through the night, but unlike previous updates, it did not mention whether he was out of bed or eating. Later in the day, officials reassured that he remained conscious and under medical supervision, with additional clinical tests underway. A more detailed update on his condition was expected soon.

A Worsening Health Crisis

On Saturday, doctors revealed that the pope’s condition had taken a concerning turn after he suffered an extended asthmatic respiratory episode. Having had part of one lung removed in his youth, Francis is considered high-risk for complications. Medical staff have been administering oxygen therapy via a nasal tube to aid his breathing, while blood transfusions were also required due to a drop in platelet levels—an issue that can impact blood clotting and recovery.

Despite the severity of his condition, Vatican sources noted that Francis remained alert and spent part of Saturday seated in an armchair, though he was experiencing more discomfort than the day before. His prognosis remains “reserved,” doctors said, highlighting the unpredictable nature of his recovery given his age and pre-existing lung disease.

Vatican Prayers and Mass in Pope’s Absence

Francis had been scheduled to preside over a Sunday Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, where he was set to ordain deacons as part of the Vatican’s Holy Year celebrations. In his absence, Archbishop Rino Fisichella stepped in to lead the service and offered prayers for the pope’s recovery.

“Even from a hospital bed, we feel Pope Francis close to us,” Fisichella told the congregation, urging continued prayers for the pontiff’s strength. A pre-written message prepared by Francis, though not read by him, reassured the faithful that he was continuing his hospitalization with confidence, balancing treatment with much-needed rest.

The message also acknowledged the upcoming anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, calling it a “painful and shameful occasion for humanity.”

Concerns Over Sepsis and Speculation on Resignation

Medical experts warn that one of the greatest risks Pope Francis faces is the potential onset of sepsis—a life-threatening condition that can develop as a complication of pneumonia. However, as of Friday, no signs of sepsis had been detected, and doctors reported that Francis was responding to treatment.

His recent health struggles have reignited discussions about the future of the papacy should he become incapacitated. While there is no formal Vatican procedure for handling such a situation, Francis has previously revealed that he signed a resignation letter in case he ever became medically unable to fulfill his duties.

Addressing growing speculation, Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin dismissed rumors of an imminent resignation, emphasizing that the primary focus should be on the pope’s health and recovery. The Vatican also denied reports that senior officials had secretly met with Francis at the hospital to discuss his potential resignation, calling such claims unfounded.

For now, as Pope Francis remains under close medical supervision, the Catholic world watches and prays for his strength, hoping for his swift return to the Vatican.

Keep up with updates on Pope Francis with us on QueOndaMagazine.com

Baby Born Without Eyes Inspires Parents to Raise Awareness Through Marathon Fundraiser

Indira Zaldivar
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0
Baby Born Without Eyes Inspires Parents to Raise Awareness Through Marathon Fundraiser

When Darrah O’Sullivan and her fiancé Vince Greenaway welcomed their twin daughters, Maeve and Orla, into the world on April 8, 2024, they believed everything was as expected.

However, within hours of their birth at 36 weeks, a pediatrician noticed that Maeve had yet to open her eyes. What seemed like a minor delay soon led to a life-changing diagnosis: bilateral anophthalmia, a rare condition where a baby is born without eyes.

According to the NHS, this condition affects roughly one in 100,000 births. For Darrah and Vince, the news was both shocking and overwhelming.

“It was the best and the worst week of our lives wrapped up into one,” Darrah recalled. An MRI scan performed when Maeve was just five days old confirmed that she had no other underlying health issues. Despite the initial uncertainty, the couple embraced their new reality with resilience and positivity.

Maeve and her twin Orla

Today, at 10 months old, Maeve is thriving. She has been fitted with conformers, small plastic shells that assist in the development of her eye sockets. Eventually, she will receive prosthetic eyes, matched in color to her twin sister Orla’s blue eyes. “Maeve is the most beautiful, happy, thriving little girl… so what if she can’t see?” Darrah said. “She experiences the world differently, but that doesn’t mean it’s a bad thing.”

Determined to make Maeve’s blindness a normal part of their family’s life, Darrah and Vince have committed to learning braille alongside their daughter. They have also received support from organizations like Guide Dogs and Macs, a charity supporting individuals with microphthalmia, anophthalmia, and coloboma. “There’s been a huge learning curve,” Vince admitted. “Before Maeve, we had never heard of bilateral anophthalmia, and most people haven’t either.”

As Maeve grows, she is being guided by three specialists who help her with mobility and tactile learning. Teaching her to crawl and explore the world without vision requires alternative methods, but her parents remain confident in her abilities. “We don’t want her to ever feel like her condition will stop her from doing anything,” Darrah emphasized.

To raise awareness and funds for Macs, Vince, along with Darrah’s sisters Maddie and Chloe, will be running the 2025 London Marathon on April 27. The idea came during an emotional moment shortly after Maeve’s birth.

“We saw the London Marathon on TV and thought, ‘Why not do something meaningful?’” Vince said. Since then, the trio has raised over $12,500 for the charity. Vince trains rigorously, waking up at 5 a.m. to run before heading to work.

“It’ll be such a huge achievement,” he said. “More than anything, we just want to spread awareness and show that being blind doesn’t mean being limited.”

The family doesn’t feel like Maeve’s condition will hold her back

Maeve’s journey has already touched many lives, inspiring conversations about inclusivity and accessibility. As her family continues to learn and adapt, they hope to foster greater understanding of anophthalmia and the potential of those living without sight. “Her specific condition is rare, but blindness isn’t,” Darrah noted. “There are so many resources out there to help a blind person navigate the world. We feel confident that Maeve will do just that.”

Rain clearing today ahead of a nice warmup this week

ABC13 Houston
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0
Rain clearing today ahead of a nice warmup this week

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — There’s still some ongoing rain this Sunday morning, with the heavier downpours along the coast and just some light sprinkles inland. These showers and storms will move by noon, with a partly to mostly cloudy sky leftover and damp and cool conditions with temperatures only climbing into the mid 50s later in the day.

Are we done with freezes after this cold snap?

While we cannot 100% rule out a late season freeze just yet, more than likely we are done with freezes. On average, Houston’s last night in the 30s occurs around mid March. If we see any signs of a light freeze or frost on the horizon, we’ll be sure to let you know!

How about some good news, any nice weather coming?

Next week looks gorgeous! We’ll see plenty of sunshine and high temperatures mostly in the 70s for the work-week. Hold on just a little longer, we’re almost there!

Any big storms in the near future?

At this point, no. We are expecting a cold front to move in Wednesday night into Thursday, but it looks like this cold front should pass through with minimal impact. Right now we have a small chance for rain and a small dip in temperatures for Thursday. It’s not until the first full week of March when the forecast looks to trend a little more stormy.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Keep up with Houston local news with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Shakira Teams Up with Papatinho for “Estoy Aquí” Remix and Releases Vibrant New Music Video

Indira Zaldivar
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0
Shakira Teams Up with Papatinho for “Estoy Aquí” Remix and Releases Vibrant New Music Video

Shakira has collaborated with Brazilian producer Papatinho to release a fresh remix of her classic hit Estoy Aquí. The track became available on January 30, just ahead of her arrival in Brazil for the highly anticipated debut of her Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour.

On YouTube for the American audience, it became available on Friday.

This new version of the 1995 hit, originally featured on her Pies Descalzos album, takes on a funk-inspired twist and now has an official music video. Filmed in the Maré community of Rio de Janeiro, the video features choreographer and dancer Raphael Vicente alongside performers from the Dança Maré dance group. Released under Sony Music, the track is now available on all digital platforms.

A Celebration of Funk and Brazilian Culture

The choreography for the remix was first introduced to Shakira during her appearance on the Brazilian television show Domingão com Huck, which aired on February 9. Inspired by the energy and rhythm of the performance, Shakira decided to bring the visual concept to life in the vibrant streets of Maré. The video, featuring 25 dancers and dynamic cinematography, is a colorful display of dance, music, and Brazilian culture.

“I never expected any of this—it was completely surreal,” said Raphael Vicente. “We were already living a dream just by performing the song for her. I never imagined that the next day she would ask us to film the official music video for the remix here in Brazil.”

For Vicente, the project is more than just a music video; it’s an opportunity to showcase the reality and artistic spirit of his community. “Our work allows people to see what life is really like here through our eyes. It’s amazing to think that my goal—to share my world—reached an artist as globally renowned as Shakira. When creating the concept for the video, I wanted to capture the same essence as the clip we made for the World Cup, the one that first got her attention. It felt only right to bring that energy back, highlighting our streets, our people, and our culture.”

“This video truly represents who we are. The favela breathes art—it’s full of talented people. The favela is music, dance, creativity. These are the beautiful things that define our home,” he concluded.

Shakira’s Latest Album: Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran

Shakira recently released her 12th studio album, Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran, which has received widespread acclaim. The project stands as a testament to her resilience and strength, transforming personal struggles into powerful musical moments.

The album features 16 tracks, including chart-topping collaborations such as Music Sessions Vol. 53 with Bizarrap, TQG with Karol G, Monotonía with Ozuna, Te Felicito with Rauw Alejandro, and Copa Vacía with Manuel Turizo.

With the release of the Estoy Aquí (Remix) video, Shakira continues to bridge cultures, celebrating the universal power of music while shining a spotlight on the artistic vibrancy of Brazil.

Keep up with Entertainment news with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Pope Francis Faces Critical Health Crisis Amid Respiratory Complications

Que Onda Editorial
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Pope Francis Faces Critical Health Crisis Amid Respiratory Complications

Pope Francis experienced a severe asthmatic respiratory crisis on Saturday morning, requiring oxygen support as doctors worked to stabilize his condition, according to a Vatican statement.

The pope remains in critical condition as medical staff closely monitor his health. The Vatican reported that additional tests revealed plateletopenia, a condition characterized by low platelet levels, along with anemia. As a result, he required hemotransfusions to support his recovery.

“Today’s blood tests also showed plateletopenia, associated with anemia, which required the administration of hemotransfusions,” the Vatican stated. “The Holy Father continues to be alert and spent the day in an armchair, although in more pain than yesterday.”

Understanding the Pope’s Health Complications

Medical experts explain that an asthmatic respiratory crisis indicates difficulty in maintaining sufficient oxygen levels without medical intervention. This condition can be life-threatening, especially for elderly individuals with preexisting respiratory issues.

Additionally, plateletopenia—also known as thrombocytopenia—can result from infections, medication side effects, or disruptions in normal platelet production. Platelets play a crucial role in blood clotting, and a drop in their levels can increase the risk of excessive bleeding or other complications.

Despite his worsening condition, Pope Francis remains conscious and engaged. However, concerns about his overall health continue to grow as the Vatican provides ongoing updates.

This is a developing story. More details will be provided as they become available on Que Onda Magazine.

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