military – Author Carlo Carrasco

A Look Back at The Kindred #2 (1994)

March 16, 2026March 10, 2026carlocarrasco

Disclaimer: This is my original work with details sourced from reading the comic book and doing personal research. Anyone who wants to use this article, in part or in whole, needs to secure first my permission and agree to cite me as the source and author. Let it be known that any unauthorized use of this article will constrain the author to pursue the remedies under R.A. No. 8293, the Revised Penal Code, and/or all applicable legal actions under the laws of the Philippines.

Welcome back, superhero fans, 1990s arts and culture enthusiasts, Image Comics and comic book collectors! Today we go back to the mid-1990s to examine one of the many tales of the WildStorm universe through The Kindred mini-series.

The Kindred #1 was an entertaining piece of work by Jim Lee’s team. It was a build-up comic book that smoothly sets the stage for the inevitable reuniting of Grifter and Backlash – two former teammates of Team 7 who are also among the most defining heroes of the WildStorm universe – and the dangerous mission to find and rescue IO director John Lynch (who was also part of Team 7) and his assistant in South America. As the story of issue #1 went on, it was clear that elements from the past are creeping up on the characters and IO itself.

With those details laid down, here is a look back at The Kindred #2, published by Image Comics in 1994 with a story written by Jim Lee, Brandon Choi, Sean Ruffner and Brett Booth. Booth illustrated the comic book.

Early story

The story begins with a high-tech aircraft speeding off the coast of South America. Inside, the temporary leader Backlash (supported by deputy Colby) talks with members of the Black Razor team about what the mission is about and what their objectives are. Their goal is to find IO superior John Lynch and his assistant Alica Turner who have been held captive by a mysterious and dangerous bunch called the Kindred.

Upon arrival at their destination, Backlash, Colby and the Black Razors land to start their operation. Moments later, the stowaway Grifter emerges from inside the aircraft and gets spotted by a corporal. Grifter fires at an ugly, human-like monster of the Kindred saving the corporal’s life. Grifter then descends to follow Backlash and the Black Razors…

Quality

*Backlash and Grifter (Marc Slayton and Cole Cash) together after so many years apart. They are former teammates of Team 7.*

This early, I can say that the entertainment value of this comic book went up really high. It is clearly a nice pay-off to the build-up that happened in issue #1 and it has some notable moments as the storytelling went on.

Without spoiling the plot, the core concept of this series became clearer to me as the story progressed. Apart from the creative idea of having the former Team 7 teammates reunited, there are believable reasons as to why Backlash is leading a team of IO’s armed operative and why Grifter tagged along. Both of them are searching for answers while having different agendas or personal goals. There is also animosity between them which strongly implies something bad happened during their time together with Team 7. John Lynch, who often has been a background or supporting character in previous WildStorm tales (but eventually got a stronger role in Team 7 comics), finds himself cornered by the Kindred whose leader is very aware of what IO has been doing all along. At the same time, IO’s legacy of indiscriminate genetic testing on animal fetuses created a force of not only evil but vengeance. What the Kindred leader mentions effectively blurred the boundary that separates good and evil, and even that of abusers and victims.

By the time I reached the end of the comic book, the stakes and the suspense were raised. The same can be said about the overall fun factor.

Conclusion

*The leader of the Kindred is not only evil. He is driven by vengeance and he knows a lot about IO.*

Thanks to strong creative writing, The Kindred #2 (1994) is indeed a more engaging and more intriguing comic book. It consistently paid off the build-up that happened in the previous issue, and the creative team managed to keep on building up the suspense and tension as the story went on. Those who love spectacle will enjoy the high amount of action here and artist Brett Booth proved himself to be capable of showing dynamic visuals. Booth has an inspired take on showing Backlash and Grifter in action. I am looking forward to the next issue.

Overall, The Kindred #2 (1994) is recommended.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. If you want to support my website, please consider making a donation. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco/.

Trump Says War With Iran To End “Very Soon”

March 11, 2026March 10, 2026carlocarrasco

Since the first strikes happened on February 28, the joint military operations of the United States and Israel have heavily damaged the military, energy and government sites of the Islamic terrorist state of Iran. As the war with Iran has impacted the global economy and a new so-called supreme leader of Iran was selected, US President Donald Trump stated that the war is expected to end “very soon” but not at the end of this week, according to a news report by Kyodo News.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the Kyodo News report. Some parts in boldface…

U.S. President Donald Trump said Monday the ongoing war with Iran is expected to be over “very soon” but ruled out the possibility of it coming to an end this week.

“We’re winning very decisively. We’re way ahead of schedule,” Trump, who had initially predicted the conflict could last four to five weeks, claimed during a press conference in Florida.

Trump’s remarks came after Iran selected Mojtaba Khamenei as its new supreme leader after his father was killed in the first wave of U.S.-Israeli strikes.

Khamenei, the late leader’s second son, is known for his close ties with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. His rise to power has raised concern among many countries that the war, entering its second week, could further destabilize the Middle East and quickly ripple through the global economy.

While insisting that the United States has achieved an “unprecedented” military success, Trump said he was “disappointed” with Iran’s choice of supreme leader.

“We think it’s going to lead to just more of the same problem for the country,” he said.

Sending conflicting messages, Trump also warned that the United States will aggressively attack Iran if it attempts to block the world’s energy supply.

“We will hit them so hard that it will not be possible for them or anybody else helping them to ever recover that section of the world,” he said.

But he struck an optimistic note on oil prices, saying they would be much lower after the war ends. On disruption to oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, Trump said the United States was less affected than China.

It seems that the joint Israel-America operations have achieved more than what was previously expected. The Islamic regime’s navy has been demolished, the air force crushed, and the oil refineries destroyed. It has also been reported that more military personnel of the regime have left their posts and moved out of the country using fake passports. The oppressed Iranians, meanwhile, should get more motivated to go out and protest as the regime’s military and police forces weaken.

Looking at the bigger picture, the massive devastation on the Islamic terrorist state made the leaders of Russia and Communist China worried. China needs oil from Iran while Russia needs Iranian-made weapons. Geopolitically, it’s like Trump’s America stuck two birds with one stone. In the case of Israel, Islamic terrorist groups are weakening now that the Islamic regime of Iran cannot support them. Going back to Iran, there are opportunities for the affected Iranians to move out of the country and enter Armenia as refugees. Already there are groups at the Armenian side of the border who intend to help Iranian refugees.

For more updates about what happened lately, watch the videos below.

Let me ending this post by asking you readers to pray to the Lord for victory, for the protection of the American and Israeli forces, for the safety of civilians everywhere, for the end of the Islamic terrorist regime of Iran to happen soon, and for the liberation of the oppressed Iranian people. Pray to Him to also bless US President Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as well as their respective administrations. Pray to God for more peace and stability in the Middle East and for the stability of the global economy.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Israel And Trump’s America Hit Islamic Terrorist State Iran

March 1, 2026March 1, 2026carlocarrasco

A lot has happened so much over the past several hours. Israel and the United States attacked the Islamic terrorist state of Iran destroying several government and military sites. This was the result of the wicked Iranian government constantly refusing to make a deal with America during the rounds of negotiations they had. The Iranian government never intended to make a deal at all and all they did was wasting everyone’s time which they (and their cowardly Ayatollah) thought they were buying time for themselves.

The “no deal” tactic of the Islamic terrorist regime led to the combined Israel-America military operations against Iran. I am sure the Ayatollah and his officers are regretting their moves.

For insight, watch the speech of US President Donald Trump in the YouTube video posted below. Watch it entirely and pay close attention to the details.

Now, watch the YouTube videos below for a clear view of what happened over the past several hours. Don’t rely on the corrupted mainstream news media. You can trust TBN Israel and CBN News.

For insight, the joint US-Israeli military operations against Iran is not about total annihilation at all. It’s about crippling the wicked Islamic terrorist regime (in power since 1979) and liberating the millions of Iranian people who have long been brutalized by their own government. It is also about holding the regime accountable for its decades-long record of sponsoring terrorists, murdering people, causing regional instability, extensive human rights violations and more.

The Islamic terrorist regime has to fall down and it will be up to the freedom-hungry Iranians to band together to set up a new government and take part in reforming or modernizing their society and economy.

As mentioned earlier, so much has happened over the past several hours. The compound of Ayatollah Khameni got destroyed and according to The Jerusalem Post, the so-called supreme leader of Iran has been cut off from contact. It remains to be seen if the evil Ayatollah survived as of this writing. At the same time. It has been reported that Iran’s Defense Minister Amir Nasirzadeh and Revolutionary Guards commander Mohammed Pakpour are believed to have been killed in Israeli attacks. The headquarters of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps was hit hard as well. Already, the people of Iran are celebrating the joint Israel-America strikes against the regime.

Of course, the evil regime retaliated by launching a heavy missile barrage across Israel. According to The Jerusalem Post report, there was a total of 125 missiles launched against Israel in the first barrage. 35 of those missiles entered Israel airspace while the rest were intercepted.

Going back to the pure evil of the Iranian regime, Iranian missiles were fired at Gulf Arab states in retaliation. Even Qatar – which has a government and the Islamic terrorist news network Al Jazeera – was a target of Iran. Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Kingdom of Bahrain were also Iranian missile targets!

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from The Jerusalem Post news report. Some parts in boldface…

Several Gulf Arab states said they were targeted by Iranian missiles on Saturday after Tehran pledged to retaliate against strikes by the United States and Israel, bringing conflict to a part of the Arab world that prides itself on relative safety.

State media in the United Arab Emirates said one person had been killed in Abu Dhabi, but gave no details.

In Qatar, a video circulating online showed the moment of impact of an Iranian missile on the Al Udeid Air Base.

Earlier, the Qatari military said in a statement that it had intercepted incoming Iranian missiles before they reached Qatari territory after “joint coordination.” Several successive waves of blasts were heard in the Qatari capital Doha.

Earlier, Kuwait, the UAE, and Jordan, all of which also have a US military presence, said they had intercepted Iranian missiles targeting their territory.

The terrorist regime of Iran did not really care about the Gulf Arab states at all! They wanted to retaliate against the Americans so much, they launched missiles at US military facilities in the Gulf Arab states completely disregarding each nation’s citizens. Not even the Islamist Qatar was spared.

With the joint American-Israeli operations against Iran ongoing, a lot could happen over the next 72 hours. Was the Ayatollah eliminated? Will the government of Iran surrender and give in to Trump’s demands to make the deal? Could Russia and China be feeling nervous as their ally Iran is crumbling under the might of America and Israel? A lot of possibilities could happen over the next few days, and I would not be surprised to see the Iranian people get liberated once the Islamic terrorist regime falls down.

Let me ending this piece by asking you readers to pray to the Lord for victory, for the protection of the American and Israeli forces, for the safety of civilians everywhere, for the fall of the Islamic terrorist regime of Iran, and for the liberation of the oppressed Iranian people.

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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America and Japan Confirm Strong Alliance

January 17, 2026January 16, 2026carlocarrasco

As America prioritized its position in the Western Hemisphere, there is concern in Asia that a decline of American military presence in the Indo-Pacific could follow and allow Communist China to be an even bigger threat. That, however, is not the case at all as US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi confirmed that their alliance remains strong and it will be backed up with action, according to a report by Kyodo News.

For the newcomers reading this, Japan is currently dealing with the aggression of Communist China. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, Japan officially set its fiscal 2026 defense budget at 9 trillion Yen. Recently, Japan signed new agreements with the Philippines related to security and logistics support between their respective military forces. Prime Minister Takaichi will soon meet US President Trump in America.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the Kyodo News report. Some parts in boldface…

The defense chiefs of Japan and the United States on Thursday agreed to reinforce the deterrence and response capabilities of the bilateral alliance amid concerns in Asia that Washington’s focus is drifting from the region.

“We confirmed that the Japan-U.S. alliance remains completely unshaken and that both countries are cooperating closely,” Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi told reporters following his meeting with U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth at the Pentagon near Washington.

Koizumi said he was reassured that the United States remains committed to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific, even as President Donald Trump’s administration has designated the Western Hemisphere its top priority.

While Trump has downplayed Chinese military activities around Taiwan, his administration is seeking to strengthen its position in North and South America and the surrounding waters, as evidenced by its recent intervention in Venezuela and designs on Greenland.

In some Asian capitals, Trump’s increased focus on the Western Hemisphere has prompted concerns about a potential decline in U.S. engagement in the Indo-Pacific, creating a security vacuum in the region as China accelerates its military buildup.

“Our job and our goal here is to continue…to strengthen that in every way possible,” Hegseth said as they began talks, referring to the decades-old security alliance.

After welcoming Koizumi in an honor cordon ceremony, Hegseth hailed Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s resolve to increase Tokyo’s defense spending.

According to Koizumi, Hegseth did not call on Japan to raise its defense spending during their meeting, which lasted about 50 minutes.

Koizumi said he told Hegseth that Japan will do its utmost to beef up its defense capabilities and the alliance.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think the United States has something planned to enhance its alliance with Japan which could create a bigger challenge towards China in the Indo-Pacific region? What do you think will be announced once Trump and Takaichi meet in America?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Venezuela To Turn Over 30 Million to 50 Million Oil Barrels To America

January 8, 2026January 7, 2026carlocarrasco

Following the capture of socialist dictator Nicolas Maduro, US President Donald Trump announced that Venezuela will turn over to America thirty million to fifty million barrels of oil which will benefit people of both nations, according to a news report by Newsmax.

For the newcomers reading this, Maduro ruled Venezuela for more than a decade and his predecessor was none other than the demon Hugo Chavez. Maduro brutalized his fellow Venezuelans and is responsible with the intense deterioration of their national economy. Under Maduro, Venezuela cooperated with the terrorist state of Iran, Communist China and Putin’s Russia. Maduro is also involved in drug trafficking and narco-terrorism.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from a Newsmax report. Some parts in boldface…

President Donald Trump said Tuesday that Venezuela is turning over 30 million to 50 million barrels of oil to the United States, with proceeds he said will benefit both the Venezuelan people and Americans.

Trump made the announcement in a post on Truth Social, just days after he authorized U.S. military action to remove socialist strongman Nicolas Maduro from power in Venezuela.

“I am pleased to announce that the Interim Authorities in Venezuela will be turning over between 30 and 50 MILLION Barrels of High Quality, Sanctioned Oil, to the United States of America,” Trump said in the post.

“This Oil will be sold at its Market Price, and that money will be controlled by me, as President of the United States of America, to ensure it is used to benefit the people of Venezuela and the United States!” he added.

Delcy Rodriguez was sworn in as Venezuela’s interim president Monday. Rodriguez indicated she would cooperate with Washington.

“I have asked Energy Secretary Chris Wright to execute this plan, immediately. It will be taken by storage ships, and brought directly to unloading docks in the United States,” Trump concluded his post.

Before the arrest of Maduro, Venezuela’s oil sector was a shadow of its former self despite holding the world’s largest proven oil reserves — estimated at over 300 billion barrels.

Decades of socialist mismanagement, expropriation of foreign assets, and U.S. sanctions decimated output, which fell from over 3 million barrels per day in the early 2000s to roughly 1 million barrels per day by 2025.

Sanctions forced much of the crude trade underground and shifted exports mainly to China, with Petróleos de Venezuela, S.A. (PDVSA) struggling to generate cash revenue. Production bottlenecks, lack of investment, and aging infrastructure kept Venezuela’s oil influence weak on global markets.

For additional insight about Venezuelan oil and what it means to America and the world, watch the selected videos below.

In other developments, Venezuelans are celebrating the capture and downfall of Maduro. Switzerland announced that it has frozen Maduro’s assets and will redistribute the funds to the people of Venezuela after the dictator’s trial.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? With Maduro on trial in America, are you confident that he will be found guilty on each and every charge against him? Do you think the announced high amount of barrels of Venezuelan oil will be a big economic boost for America? Do you think China, Russia and terrorist state Iran are panicking now that they lost their access to Venezuela’s oil? Do you think it is a matter of time before the military hardware of Russia, China and Iran in Venezuela will get dismantled?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Venezuela’s Dictator Maduro Captured By Trump’s America, Will Be Tried In Court

January 5, 2026January 7, 2026carlocarrasco

What happened this past weekend was very surprising, was executed very efficiently and the result is the fall and capture of Venezuela’s dictator Nicolas Maduro. This is the latest US military operation executed by President Donald Trump and his administration. Maduro is now in America and will be tried in court. The justice that the people of Venezuela have been dreaming of will eventually manifest. Trump also announced that America will run Venezuela until a transition of power can occur.

For the newcomers reading this, Maduro and his very wicked predecessor Hugo Chavez are collectively responsible for the downfall of Venezuela. Having ruled Venezuela for more than a decade, Maduro brutalized his fellow Venezuelans and is responsible with the intense deterioration of their national economy. Under Maduro, Venezuela cooperated with the terrorist state of Iran, Communist China and Putin’s Russia. Maduro is also involved in drug trafficking and narco-terrorism. Months ago, America started encountering vessels from Venezuela filled with illegal drugs. The dangerous gang Tren de Aragua was eliminated at sea.

To put things in perspective, watch the YouTube videos posted below and pay close attention to the details.

Already Venezuelans are cheerful and relieved with the fall of the dictator. It easily the most positive turn of events in their lives. Venezuelans are also thankful to President Trump. Watch and learn from the video below.

With Maduro and his wife in US custody, the effort for justice will begin soon. For insight, posted below is an excerpt from a Newsmax report. Some parts in boldface…

President Donald Trump said Saturday that U.S. forces captured Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro and his wife during a military operation, announcing they are being transported to the United States to face criminal prosecution in what he described as a decisive blow against international drug trafficking and regional instability.

Speaking at a Saturday afternoon press conference aired live on Newsmax and Newsmax2, Trump accused Maduro of overseeing a massive criminal enterprise responsible for drug trafficking, violence and instability affecting the United States.

“The illegitimate dictator, Maduro was the kingpin of a vast criminal network responsible for trafficking colossal amounts of deadly and illicit drugs into the United States, as alleged in the indictment, he personally oversaw the vicious cartel known as cartel de las Olas, which flooded our nation with lethal poison, responsible for the deaths of countless Americans, the many, many Americans, hundreds of thousands over the years of Americans died because of him,” Trump said.

Trump said Maduro and his wife were taken into custody during a U.S. operation in Venezuela and are currently being transported by ship.

“Maduro and his wife will soon face the full might of American justice and stand trial on American soil.”

In the same Newsmax report, Trump also mentioned that there is overwhelming evidence of Maduro’s crimes which will be presented in court.

Overseas, Israel commended America for the successful operation that led to Maduro’s capture. This is not surprising as Venezuela is allied with the terrorist regime of Iran and other Islamic terrorists. To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of The Jerusalem Post. Some parts in boldface…

Israel lauded the American operation that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Saturday.

In a post on X/Twitter, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar wrote, “Israel commends the United States’ operation, led by President Trump, which acted as the leader of the free world. At this historic moment, Israel stands alongside the freedom-loving Venezuelan people, who have suffered under Maduro’s illegal tyranny.“

Sa’ar added that the Jewish state “welcomes the removal of the dictator who led a network of drugs and terror” and that it hopes democracy would return to Venezuela and that the two countries would be able to resume friendly relations.

“The people of Venezuela deserve to exercise their democratic rights. South America deserves a future free from the axis of terror and drugs,” Sa’ar concluded.

Netanyahu congratulates Trump on capture of Maduro – Later, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also congratulated US President Donald Trump.

“Congratulations, President [Donald Trump] for your bold and historic leadership on behalf of freedom and justice. I salute your decisive resolve and the brilliant action of your brave soldiers,” the Prime Minister’s Office quoted Netanyahu as saying in a post to X.

Israeli NGO of retired senior security officials see Venezuela op. as warning to Iran’s regime – Earlier, the Commanders for Israel’s Security, an NGO of more than 550 retired senior officials from the IDF, the Mossad, the Shin Bet, the police, and the Foreign Service, also welcomed the operation, seeing it as a warning to the Iranian regime, Israeli outlet Maariv reported.

Indeed, the capture of Maduro is a clear threat to the terrorist regime of Iran and is also a blow to the axis of evil we have today. Without Venezuela, China, Iran and Russia have suffered losses in terms of resources and global influence.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? What is your reaction to the American military operation in Venezuela that resulted in the capture of dictator Maduro? Do you think it is only a matter of time before the remnants of Maduro’s administration will collapse and get overwhelmed by the Venezuelans who have long been hungry for freedom and the return of democracy? What do you think Iran, Russia and China will do now that their ally Maduro has fallen?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Japan Sets Fiscal 2026 Defense Budget At Record 9 Trillion Yen

January 3, 2026December 26, 2025carlocarrasco

In light of the aggression of Communist China in the Pacific and security challenges coming from North Korea, the government of Japan set its draft defense budget for fiscal 2026 at a record figure of 9 trillion yen (estimated at $58 billion), according to a news article published by Kyodo News.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news release of Kyodo News. Some parts in boldface…

Japan’s draft defense budget was set at a record 9.04 trillion yen ($58 billion) for fiscal 2026, the government said Friday, as the country faces increasing security challenges from China and North Korea.

The figure, including outlays linked to hosting U.S. military bases, eclipses the then record 8.7 trillion yen in the initial budget for the current fiscal year to March 2026. Fiscal 2026 marks the fourth year of Japan’s five-year 43-trillion-yen defense buildup plan.

The Cabinet of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi approved the same day a draft initial state budget for the year starting next April worth 122.3 trillion yen, also a record high, including defense and other expenditures.

Under the defense budget, 100.1 billion yen has been earmarked for building the “Shield” layered coastal defense system, which requires numerous aerial, surface and underwater vehicles. The spending on Shield comes at a time when many countries have been rapidly developing drone technology since the Russia-Ukraine war changed the nature of warfare.

With China in mind, 1.1 billion yen has been set aside to assess the use of long-endurance drones as a measure against airspace violations.

Japan plans to rebrand the Air Self-Defense Force as the Air and Space Self-Defense Force to enhance the country’s space capabilities.

Another 1.1 billion yen has been earmarked for acquiring equipment to monitor satellite interference.

The country has secured 30.1 billion yen to procure hypersonic guided missiles, which travel at above five times the speed of sound and are considered hard to intercept, as a means of counterattack.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think the record defense budget of 9 trillion yen is sufficient to keep Japan secured from the threats of China and North Korea?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Trump’s America Hits Islamic Terrorists In Nigeria

December 27, 2025December 26, 2025carlocarrasco

When US President Donald Trump declared Islamic terrorists in Nigeria a target, his administration backed it up with real action as America struck the evil ones in the African nation in coordination with the government there, according to a news report by The Jerusalem Post. Specifically, the US Africa Command (AFRICOM) executed Trump’s order.

For the newcomers reading this, Islamic terrorists have been killing Christians there in Nigeria for a long time already. This newest development proves that Trump’s America really means business when it comes to fighting the terrorists.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of The Jerusalem Post. Some parts in boldface…

The US Africa Command (AFRICOM) launched a strike against Islamic State terrorists in Nigeria, US President Donald Trump announced on social media early on Friday.

AFRICOM stated that the strike in Sokoto was carried out “in coordination with Nigerian authorities” and killed multiple terrorists.

The strike was ordered due to “the persistent threat of terrorism and violent extremism,” the Nigerian Foreign Ministry confirmed in a statement.

“The Department of War executed numerous perfect strikes, as only the United States is capable of doing,” Trump said, adding that he wishes a “MERRY CHRISTMAS to all, including the dead Terrorists, of which there will be many more if their slaughter of Christians continues.“

The Defense Department additionally published declassified footage of at least one projectile launched from a warship.

Following the strike, the Nigerian Foreign Ministry stated that they would continue to work with the US and international partners to “weaken terrorist networks, disrupt their financing and logistics, and prevent cross-border threats.”

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, in a Christmas statement released on Wednesday, affirmed that he is “committed to doing everything within [his] power to enshrine religious freedom in Nigeria and to protect Christians, Muslims, and all Nigerians from violence.”

“No one, regardless of ethnicity or belief, should be made to suffer for professing or practicing his faith,” Tinubu added.

Islamic State terrorists carry out several mass kidnappings, church attacks in Nigeria –Islamic State attacks on Christian Nigerians, including mass kidnappings and attacks on churches, have risen in recent months.

On December 17, an attack on a church in Kogi, Nigeria, resulted in at least 13 worshippers being abducted by gunmen, according to state officials.

On November 21, over 300 schoolchildren were abducted from a Catholic school by terrorists, according to Tinubu’s spokesperson.

As of Monday, all of the children had been released, with 130 of them having been held in captivity for nearly a month.

In early November, Nigeria said it was open to US help in combating the rise of violent Islamic State terrorism.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Are you glad that the Trump administration struck the many Islamic terrorists in Nigeria quickly and decisively? Do you think this new development will enable the Nigerian government to effectively fight the Islamic terrorists in their country?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Trump Announces $1,776 Christmas Bonus For American Troops

December 19, 2025December 18, 2025carlocarrasco

I believe that every nation has to reward its armed forces in return for the extensive services they rendered for the citizens and the government throughout the year. Just today, I learned via a Newsmax news report that US President Donald Trump announced that every active-duty member of the United States Armed Forces will receive a Christmas bonus worth $1,776 – called the Warrior Dividend – and already the checks are on their way to them (1.45 million service members).

Before proceeding with the news and details, let me remind you all that Christmas is all about Lord Jesus, and never about the character called Santa Claus. Lord Jesus is our Savior and the Hope of ALL nations! Wherever you are, celebrate Christmas with your family remembering Lord Jesus and living on with His peace. All the praise, honor and thanks to the Lord!

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of Newsmax. Some parts in boldface…

President Donald Trump announced Wednesday night that every active-duty member of the U.S. armed forces will receive a $1,776 Christmas bonus, unveiling what he called the “Warrior Dividend” during a nationally televised prime-time address from the White House.

Trump said the one-time payment would go to roughly 1.45 million service members and is already being distributed, with checks scheduled to arrive before Christmas. The amount, Trump said, was deliberately chosen to honor America’s founding in 1776. That’s just ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary, to be celebrate (throughout) the coming year.

“I am also proud to announce that 1,450,000 military service members will receive a special — we call Warrior Dividend — before Christmas, a Warrior Dividend in honor of our nation’s founding in 1776,” Trump said during the address, which was carried live by Newsmax from the White House Diplomatic Room.

“We are sending every soldier $1,776. The checks are already on the way,” Trump said. “Nobody deserves it more than our military. And I say congratulations to everybody.”

The Warrior Dividend emerged as a highlight of Trump’s year-end prime-time address, which the White House framed as a review of economic gains and fiscal changes achieved during his second term and promised gains in the (coming) years of the president’s second term. The speech focused heavily on revenue growth, job creation, and what Trump described as a reshaping of federal finances.

Trump tied the military bonus directly to increased government revenue generated through tariffs and recent legislation, arguing that stronger trade enforcement and changes in economic policy produced results that exceeded projections.

“We made a lot more money than anybody thought because of tariffs, and the bill helped us along,” Trump said.

The president cast the dividend as both a tangible reward and a symbolic gesture, presenting it as recognition of service members’ sacrifices while reinforcing claims of economic revival. Trump said the payment reflects an administration that prioritizes military families and uses economic strength to deliver direct benefits rather than expanding federal debt.

The prime-time address marked Trump’s final nationally televised speech of the year and served as a capstone to a broader messaging effort focused on economic performance. Trump used the speech to highlight tariff revenue, domestic manufacturing investment, and wage growth, arguing that those factors allowed the administration to deliver what he described as meaningful, immediate relief.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you find the Warrior Dividend a nice bonus for the active members of the United States Armed Forces? Are you looking forward to the 250^th Independence Day of the America? What are your current feelings or opinions about the US Armed Forces right now?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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What to watch on YouTube right now – Part 114

December 15, 2025December 16, 2025carlocarrasco

Welcome back my readers, YouTube viewers and all others who followed this series of articles focused on YouTube videos worth watching. Have you been searching for something fun or interesting to watch on YouTube? Do you feel bored right now and you crave for something to see on the world’s most popular online video destination?

I recommend you check out the following videos I found.

#1 Demolition Man Revisited – Way back in 1993, I completely missed out on Demolition Man in the local cinemas. The first time I saw it was on a rented laserdisc in 1995 and the film (starring Sylvester Stallone and Wesley Snipes) turned out to be entertaining in a unique way. By today’s standards, Demolition Man is considered by many as a film ahead of its time as it accidentally predicted self-driving cars, video conferencing, heavy dependence on computers for solutions and more. As such, it is not surprising that a lot of retrospective and reaction videos of Demolition Man have filled YouTube. Posted below are the more entertaining videos to watch about the 1993 movie.

#2 Soy Milk Becomes More Popular In Japan – Soy milk is a dairy-free, plant-based drink made from water and ground soybeans. In recent times, soy milk has gotten tremendously more popular in Japan. Not only is it being consumed by the Japanese in its beverage form, soy milk also made its way into food items and snacks. There is a lot to learn about soy milk’s popularity in Japan in the video below.

#3 Resident Evil Illustrated Tales – Believe it or not, there was a time when comic books and illustrated tales about the Resident Evil games were published from the late 1990s to the early 2000s. Back then, WildStorm (WildCATs, StormWatch, Wetworks) was licensed to make comic adaptations of Resident Evil starting with the Resident Evil: The Official Comic Magazine (published through Image Comics, 1998-1999) which featured varied short stories that expanded the lore but not necessarily counted as canon with the games. YouTube ScorePN posted a video showcasing the Resident Evil illustrated tales so you don’t have to go to all the trouble of finding the comic books and magazines. Watch and enjoy the video below.

#4 Zaxxon Revisited – In the early 1980s, Sega made a huge splash in the arcades and game consoles with Zaxxon which is now considered a classic by many gamers. I only played it on the personal computer back in the 1980s. While my enjoyment of the game was very limited because of the not-so-friendly keyboard controls, I found Zaxxon an intriguing experience due to its isometric visual design and the illusion of 3D space that came with it. Sometimes I wished that Zaxxon would get remastered for the current console generation. That said, it’s now a good time to look back at the game in the two retrospective videos below.

#5 Ashleigh Burton Reacts To Lethal Weapon – Among all the Lethal Weapon movies released by Hollywood, the first film from 1987 is still the best in my view. Apart from having a strong script, the directing by Richard Donner got fine performances from Mel Gibson and Danny Glover, and the spectacle was executed with a lot of power while never feeling outlandish. That said, it is fun to replay the movie from time to time. To see how it impacts YouTuber Ashleigh Burton, watch her reaction video below.

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