AGP Executive Report

Colombia–US Security Pivot: President Abelardo de la Espriella is accelerating a “war on drugs” partnership with Washington, including $1B in security help and renewed coca eradication, as critics say the move turns Colombia into a U.S. foothold. Disaster Politics: After Colombia’s Aug. 10 earthquake, allegations of politicized aid surfaced as Mexican rescue teams faced administrative delays. El Niño Response: The U.S. will send a hospital ship to Peru’s Pacific coast in Feb. 2027 to prepare for El Niño impacts. Regional Trade Policy: OECS, UNCTAD and ECLAC advanced evidence-based policymaking for trade in services, using TiSSTAT to close data gaps. Haiti Elections & Security: The OAS urged faster support for Haiti’s gang suppression force and urgent preparations for Dec. 13 elections. Shakira’s Schools Push: Shakira pledged $1.25M to rebuild at least 10 schools in Colombia’s Chocó after the quake. Tragedy in Kenya: Ecuador’s intelligence chief and five Americans died in a tourist helicopter crash in Samburu County. Human Stories Beyond Crime: Colombia’s drug-coverage mentorship initiative is pushing journalists to report on women affected by coca crackdowns beyond trafficking narratives. Sports/Travel: Nicaragua’s Little League team will play without two players due to visa documentation issues.

Humanitarian Diplomacy: UAE leaders marked World Humanitarian Day, stressing humanitarianism as a core legacy of “impact” rather than headlines. Latin America Energy Transition: Syzygy Plasmonics and IFC agreed to back SAF projects across Latin America, with Uruguay’s NovaSAF-1 flagged as a commercial-scale test using renewable electricity and biogas. Colombia Earthquake Relief: Shakira made a surprise trip to Chocó, pledging $1.25M to rebuild schools and a technological university, with partners including Howard Buffett’s foundation, Global Citizen and CAF. Drug Enforcement Cooperation: The U.S. DEA opened a major drug-fighting summit in Buenos Aires, calling for faster, broader international coordination against cartels. Fintech Expansion: Interlace opened in Brazil to expand stablecoin payment infrastructure for banks and cross-border trade platforms. Tech & Hiring Bias: A new guide warns AI-driven hiring can widen CV bias across countries due to different résumé norms. Regional Politics: Peru’s new protests erupted over fuel-price spikes and transport disruptions, with a temporary subsidy announced. Sports (Global): Little League World Series coverage ramps up in Williamsport, with ESPN/ABC broadcasting and ESPN+ streaming.

Colombia Earthquake Relief: Shakira visited Chocó after the Aug. 10 quake, pledging over $1.25M to rebuild schools and backing relief with partners including Fundación Pies Descalzos, Global Citizen’s FIFA Education Fund and Live Nation. Peru Fuel Protests: Peru’s new Fujimori administration faces early unrest as transport workers strike and block roads over diesel and gasoline price spikes tied to regional shocks and domestic supply problems. Bolivia Political Violence: Bolivia arrested Argentine consultant Fernando Cerimedo after an attack on lawyer Nadia Beller, with authorities alleging a plot to murder her. Energy & Trade Infrastructure: Bermuda praised Google’s new Canoa subsea cable linking Bermuda to the Dominican Republic, Panama and Chile, while Colombia’s Amazónica LNG moves to expand Caribbean LNG bunkering capacity. Security & Governance: Turks and Caicos premier pushes constitutional reform talks to expand the number of ministries, arguing the current cabinet is “stretched too thin.” Regional Politics: China’s Xi met Ecuador’s Noboa, urging alignment of development strategies and deeper cooperation across energy, minerals, digital and green sectors.

Colombia Earthquake Relief: Shakira made a surprise trip to Quibdó, Chocó, pledging $1.25 million through her Fundación Pies Descalzos to rebuild at least 10 schools and restore a technological university, with partners including Live Nation, Global Citizen and CAF. Brazil Election Legal Fight: Brazil’s Superior Electoral Court accepted an opposition complaint against Lula over a Carnival parade themed around him, with Novo alleging unlawful use of public funds; Lula has five days to respond. U.S. Anti-Drug Push Expands: The Trump administration says it wants to extend anti-drug strikes from sea to land, seeking deals for joint operations in countries including Colombia, Guatemala and Honduras. Tech & Security in LATAM: Digital Encode launched DEPAS AI, an autonomous platform aimed at detecting AI-driven cyber threats, citing rising costs of AI-enabled breaches. Regional Education Model in Mexico: UNESCO and Mexico’s TVET partners are piloting a network of Centers of Excellence to improve training and youth employment across Latin America.

Colombia–U.S. Security Push: President Abelardo de la Espriella moves to expand joint U.S.-backed operations against ELN guerrillas under the “Shield of the Americas,” after ELN threats tied to new troop activity. Brazil Online Safety: Discord suspended livestreams in Brazil after regulators cited child-safety failures following a suicide case, as the company says it’s seeking a fix with policymakers. Chile Energy Storage Deal: Sungrow will supply a 152 MW / 606 MWh four-hour battery system for Verano Energy’s Observatorio project in Chile, with a 25-year service agreement. Venezuela Legal Relief: Gold Reserve says its attorney José Ignacio Moreno Suárez was released from a Venezuelan prison after more than three years of detention. Peru Aviation Competition: Indecopi conditionally approved Abra Group’s acquisition of SKY Airline, limiting non-compete clauses to protect route competition. Wall Street Watch: U.S. indexes slipped as oil rose on Iran-deal uncertainty and investors waited for major retailer earnings. Latin Culture & Exchange: Qatar’s “Years of Culture” highlighted summer programming across Mexico, Chile and China, using film, football and heritage to build long-term ties. Mexico Crime Update: Families displaced by the Ardillos group in Guerrero have begun returning home after months of violence and displacement. Jamaica UN Leadership: Rebeca Grynspan emerges as a frontrunner to become the UN’s first female secretary-general, with a December election timeline. Tech/Payments: Bitget Wallet says stablecoins and blockchain can speed cross-border payments in Latin America where instant transfers like Brazil’s Pix are already common.

U.S. Security Expansion: The Trump administration is looking to extend its anti-drug campaign from bombing boats to joint land operations, with deals reportedly discussed with Colombia, Guatemala and Honduras (Guatemala denies an agreement), raising concerns about civilian harm. Russia-Drug Cartel Narrative: Russia’s foreign intelligence alleges the West plans a provocation to blame Moscow for supplying weapons to drug gangs in Venezuela, Colombia and Mexico, using seized arms and forged materials. Haiti Security Push: Haiti’s UN-backed Gang Suppression Force is set to scale up in phases—aiming for 2,000–2,500 troops by August, broader deployment in September, and reaching 5,500 by October. Venezuela Elite Under Scrutiny: A Venezuelan businessman under investigation for PDVSA embezzlement is linked to discreet private-jet trips that surfaced as a scandal, spotlighting ongoing corruption probes. Dominican Republic Public Payroll: A CREES/ILO analysis says the Dominican Republic has the 5th-highest share of public-sector workers in the region (14.2% of employment), with state payroll projected to weigh on GDP and budgets. Energy & Industry: Brazil’s Belo Monte UHVDC Phase II is hailed as a “green artery” for clean power transmission, while XRG (ADNOC) enters Venezuela via the Loran offshore gas licence.

Cuba-U.S. Tensions: Argentina’s U.S. ambassador Peter Lamelas said Cuba could see political change “before the end of the year,” echoing other Trump-era Cuban-American officials who’ve repeatedly predicted 2026 shifts. Brazil Election: Lula kicked off his campaign for a fourth term, warning against a “shameless” right-wing return and pointing to Bolsonaro’s son, Flávio, as his key obstacle as polls tighten. Colombia Earthquake + Tariffs: Colombia’s new president Abelardo de la Espriella asked Trump to temporarily suspend higher U.S. tariffs after a deadly 7.4 quake, arguing businesses need relief. Diplomacy Shock in the Caribbean: The Dominican Republic’s expulsion of nine Cuban diplomats is playing out with a tense embassy move-out ahead of the deadline. Argentina Transparency Fight: A stalled fisheries bill would force public disclosure of commercial fleet data, highlighting long-running opacity concerns. Business/Impact: Argentina hit 300 certified B Corporations, reinforcing its regional lead in “triple impact.” Culture: Camagüey launched a poetry project dedicated to Fidel Castro’s centennial.

Colombia Earthquake Aftermath: President Abelardo de la Espriella asked Donald Trump to temporarily suspend tariffs on Colombian goods, saying the higher duties (from 10% to 12.5% in late July) are adding pressure as the country rebuilds after the 7.4 quake that has killed hundreds and left many missing. Local Politics & Regional Trend: A new wave of right-wing leaders is reshaping Latin America’s political map, with Colombia’s “El Tigre” de la Espriella framed as part of a broader, Trump-aligned, tough-on-crime and pro-order shift. Energy Reform in Paraguay: Paraguay’s government plans major electricity-sector restructuring, including a new Ministry of Mines and Energy and an independent electricity regulator, after decades without a structural overhaul. Venezuela Energy Deals: Trinidad and Tobago’s PM praised Venezuela’s progress on Loran Phase 2 and Plataforma Deltana licenses, highlighting renewed cross-border gas cooperation. Argentina Energy Investment: Peter Thiel bought a 1% stake in Vista Energy, betting on Vaca Muerta’s shale oil and gas scale. Brazil Election Campaign: Lula and Flavio Bolsonaro kick off their race for October 4, with voters frustrated and polarization under Trump’s shadow. Guatemala Community Action: Rural villagers in Jalapa are tackling plastic waste through community cleanups and workshops led by local environmental health leaders. Tech & Geopolitics: Reuters reports the US is pressuring countries to “choose sides” in the AI race with China, warning it could fracture global cooperation. Disaster Response Contrast: Coverage compares Colombia’s faster official rescue coordination with Venezuela’s more civilian-led, delayed response after separate quakes.

Colombia-US Tariffs: Colombia’s new president Abelardo de la Espriella asked President Trump to temporarily suspend higher tariffs on Colombian goods after the 7.4 earthquake, saying the move would give relief to businesses hit by the disaster. Venezuela Gas Push: Venezuela advanced offshore gas development with new Loran Phase 2 and Plataforma Deltana licences, with bp and Abu Dhabi’s XRG among partners, aiming to unlock major regional energy cooperation. Food Security Warning: JPMorgan warned a potential next global food crisis is building, driven by war, weather, fertilizer strains, and waste—while El Niño risks intensifying pressure into 2027. El Niño Alert: NOAA forecasts a very strong El Niño later in 2026, raising risks for rainfall, farming, and water across Latin America. Colombia-Israel Rapprochement: Colombia and Venezuela are moving toward renewed ties with Israel, reversing earlier breaks and aligning with broader US security and economic interests. Brazil Election Tension: A new Brazil poll shows Lula leading (38%) versus Flávio Bolsonaro (31%), as diplomacy with the US faces friction over election oversight. Cuba-Dominican Diplomatic Spat: Cuba’s ambassador in the Dominican Republic downplayed the expulsion of nine Cuban diplomats, framing it as resilience amid heightened criticism. ECLAC Survey Due: ECLAC will release its 2026 economic survey on Aug. 20, focusing on growth, productivity, and informality across the region.

Disaster Response: Mexican volunteer rescuers from Topos Azteca spent 40 days in Venezuela, then rushed to Colombia after new earthquakes, with teams now racing to find survivors in Cali’s rubble. UN Reform Debate: A fresh push for UN Security Council reform spotlights the clash between entrenched power and broader representation for Africa and Latin America. Argentina–China Finance: Argentina renewed a $19B currency swap with China through 2031, preserving a key yuan lifeline despite US pressure. Cuba at 100: Cuba marked Fidel Castro’s centenary in Havana with major state events, as the island faces a worsening US energy blockade. Ecuador–China Diplomacy: President Daniel Noboa heads to Beijing for talks with Xi Jinping and China’s leadership to deepen trade, investment, energy and tech ties. Trade & Tariffs Watch: China’s imports from Nigeria jumped 80% to $2.3B in the first half, following Beijing’s zero-tariff policy for eligible African countries. Energy in the Region: BP and partners secured Venezuela’s Loran Phase 2 gas license, while Trinidad and Tobago moves to monetize cross-border gas fields. Travel & Tourism: Mexico doubled its cruise passenger fee to $10, with further increases planned through 2028.

Mexico–U.S. Tensions: President Claudia Sheinbaum hit back at Washington after the State Department revoked the visa of Andrés Manuel López Obrador’s son, calling it “meddling” in Mexican politics and warning she won’t “bow” while defending sovereignty. Venezuela–Cuba Diplomacy: Delcy Rodríguez’s Castro centenary tribute drew a sharp rebuke from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, underscoring Caracas’ tightrope between U.S. pressure and China’s growing role. Colombia Security Pivot: Colombia’s new president is pushing deeper U.S.-backed anti-cartel cooperation, with Colombia joining the “Shield of the Americas” coalition as Washington expands its war-on-drugs footprint. Disaster Relief: Pope Leo XIV sent €100,000 in humanitarian aid to earthquake-hit Colombia as the death toll and missing figures climb. Markets & Policy: Brazil’s Lula triggered a reciprocity process against U.S. tariffs, while Nubank reported record quarterly income as it accelerates bank-building across the Americas. Business/Tech: United Airlines plans to remove 35 seats from select 787-9s to boost premium revenue on key long-haul routes.

Colombia Earthquake Response: Solidarity messages from across Latin America’s bishops’ council (CELAM) poured in as rescue teams raced to save survivors after the 7.4 quake killed at least 250 and left thousands trapped under rubble. US-LatAm Security Push: Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Colombia’s new government approved U.S. troop operations on Colombian soil, while broader debate grows over Washington’s expanding military reach in the region. Venezuela Energy Opening: BP returned to Venezuela with a license for the Loran phase two offshore gas project, partnering with Abu Dhabi’s XRG and Qatar’s UCC—another sign foreign capital is accelerating post-Maduro. Diplomatic Tensions: The Dominican Republic expelled nine Cuban embassy diplomats and families without explanation, escalating geopolitical friction. Trade & Tariffs: A White House report flagged Mexico, Panama and Colombia as higher-risk for Chinese goods routed through third countries to dodge U.S. tariffs. Peru Tourism Bet: Peru is pitching a new faith-based tourism product around Pope Leo XIV’s “Paths,” aiming to turn a papal visit into a multi-stop pilgrimage economy.

Colombia Earthquake Response: China pledged $1M plus $2M in emergency supplies for Colombia after the 7.4 quake, as Sweden also boosted aid by $525,000. Security & U.S.-Led Coalition: In Panama, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Colombia has authorized joint ground anti-drug operations under the “Shield of the Americas,” expanding U.S. pressure on cartel networks. Chile Security Crackdown: Chile transferred nearly 300 high-risk inmates to a new mega-prison as President José Antonio Kast pushes harder against organized crime. Argentina Politics: Thousands protested in Buenos Aires against Milei’s bill that would loosen land ownership rules for foreigners and speed evictions, with the slogan “The homeland is not for sale.” Culture & Entertainment: LOS40 Primavera Pop is set for its first Latin American edition in Buenos Aires on Oct. 28, bringing Luis Fonsi and local acts. Business & Logistics: Maersk raised full-year guidance after a strong Q2, while Hapag-Lloyd cited Hormuz-related cost headwinds. Transport Tech (Brazil): Rio launched a sensor-driven bus pay system that links safety and driver monitoring data to operator performance.

Colombia–U.S. Security Push: U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth says Colombia’s new President Abelardo de la Espriella has requested U.S. help for joint military operations against “narco-terrorism,” with Colombia joining the Shield of the Americas and the Americas Counter-Cartel Coalition. Colombia Earthquake Response: After a 7.4 quake, Colombia’s search-and-rescue enters a critical phase as the death toll climbs and aid groups warn the true scale of damage is still emerging. Cuba at 100: Cuba marked Fidel Castro’s centenary amid a deepening economic and political crisis, with Washington’s tightened sanctions and fuel embargo blamed for worsening shortages and daily life. El Niño Food Risks: Reuters reports Latin America is bracing for what could be the strongest El Niño on record, with knock-on effects for rainfall, drought risk, and the region’s major food exports. Tech in LatAm Telecom: Ericsson says its AI-powered network automation will be deployed in Costa Rica through ICE’s nationwide 5G rollout. Energy Access in the Andes/Amazon: IRENA and partners highlight how solar and micro-hydro can expand rural electricity access, but stress the need to link power to local livelihoods. Culture & Community: Puerto Rico’s Worcester, Massachusetts, hosts the Somos Boricuas festival celebrating island heritage through music, food, and dance.

Colombia Earthquake Response: Rescue teams in Cali and Pereira are racing against time after the 7.4 quake, with officials warning the “critical 72-hour window” is nearly over; at least 250 are confirmed dead and thousands are injured, while aid groups say the full scale is still emerging as roads and communications are damaged. U.S.-Backed Security Push: U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth says Colombia’s new government has requested joint military operations against “narcoterrorism,” and Colombia is set to join the Americas Counter-Cartel Coalition; Hegseth also warned the ICC could investigate U.S. actions in Latin America. Israel–Colombia Ties: Colombia asked Israel for an aid delegation after the quake, as relations warm following Colombia’s recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights. Venezuela Aid & Diplomacy: The Caribbean Development Bank approved a $1M contribution to CAF’s Venezuela recovery fund after June earthquakes, while Venezuela continues multilateral engagement to strengthen reconstruction efforts. Culture & Solidarity: A star-studded benefit concert livestreamed from Miami will raise funds for earthquake relief in Venezuela and Colombia.

Colombia Earthquake Response: Colombia’s new president, Abelardo de la Espriella, says the 7.4 quake has killed at least 181, with about 195 missing and thousands injured, as rescue efforts continue and civilians help search amid fears for rural areas. Venezuela–Israel Rapprochement: Venezuela has resumed consular services with Israel after a 17-year break, restoring technical cooperation tied to earthquake recovery and setting up a mechanism for consular access. Argentina Protests & Land Bill: Thousands of Argentines rallied against Milei’s government, opposing a bill that would raise the share of land foreigners can own and streamline eviction and limit expropriation powers. Digital Identity & Age Checks: A new study finds strong public support for age assurance online, with consumers backing age verification and pushing platforms and governments to do more to protect minors. Streaming Rights in LatAm: Disney+ and ESPN+ secured Formula E rights, bringing all races to the platforms in most international markets starting 2026/27, including stops in Mexico City. Tech/Trade: Google announced new subsea cable links across the Americas under its “Americas Connect” push, aiming to boost connectivity for the region.