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A major prisoner release agreement between the United States and Cuba has resulted in the freedom of prominent dissident Jose Daniel Ferrer, who spent over three years in prison following Cuba's 2021 anti-government protests. The agreement, mediated by the Catholic Church, involves outgoing President Joe Biden removing Cuba from the US state sponsors of terrorism list during his final days in office, while Cuba commits to releasing 553 individuals, many of whom were detained during the protests. The initial phase of releases began Wednesday, with approximately 20 people freed according to local NGO reports. Among them was Ferrer, the 54-year-old leader of the opposition group Cuba's Patriotic Union (Unpacu), who was imprisoned on public disorder charges after the 2021 demonstrations. Speaking to Reuters by phone, Ferrer stated, "I am at home, in fair health, but with the courage to continue […]

A new cooperation pact has been signed between Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Russian President Vladimir Putin, strengthening ties between two nations heavily impacted by international sanctions. The "comprehensive strategic partnership treaty" encompasses multiple domains including trade, military cooperation, science, culture, and education, according to officials from both countries. During a joint press conference in Moscow on Friday, Putin characterized the agreement as a "real breakthrough" that would foster stable development for Russia, Iran, and the broader region. The Kremlin indicated the treaty would enhance "military-political and trade-economic" relations, though specific details remain private. Both leaders emphasized expanded cooperation across various sectors including politics, security, trade, transport, and energy. Pezeshkian highlighted this as a new chapter in bilateral relations, particularly regarding trade. The two nations have increased their economic engagement in response to Western sanctions. Iran has supplied Russia with […]