First, links to three reports: from the Associated Press and National Public Radio; others are accessible by clicking on their initials below. (Scroll down for VENEZUELA 2-15-26.) — MCM

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FROM FEB. 17  Strikes on 3 more alleged drug boats kill 11 people, U.S. military says, by Ben Finley and Konstantin Toropin | AP  WASHINGTON — The U.S. military said Tuesday that it carried out strikes on three boats accused of smuggling drugs in Latin American waters, killing 11 people in one of the deadliest days of the Trump administration’s monthslong campaign against alleged traffickers. READ MORE . . . Click HERE for same AP report in Spanish, and HERE for others.

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FROM FEB. 4  What U.S. history with Iraq’s oil can tell us about what could happen in Venezuela. Reported by Julia Simon | NPR  Since the U.S. ousted Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro last month, oil analysts have been remembering the U.S. removal of another foreign leader more than twenty years ago. In 2003, the U.S. removed Iraqi President Saddam Hussein and occupied the country until 2011. Click HERE for report including graph.

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FROM FEB. 17  Venezuela’s oil revival brings hope — but little relief for workers. Reported by Manuel Rueda | NPR  As U.S. sanctions ease and oil money begins to trickle back after Nicolás Maduro’s removal, Venezuelans weigh hopes for recovery against the harsh reality of surviving on wages that barely cover food. Click HERE to listen and read.

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MAY BE CONTINUED