AGP Executive Report

Peru Defense Upgrade: Peru has selected L3Harris’ Viper Shield electronic warfare suite for its future F-16 Block 70 fleet, boosting radar-guided threat protection as Lima ties its air power closer to U.S. support networks. Brazil-U.S. Tensions: President Lula is seeking a call with Donald Trump over UN Security Council priorities, while also worrying about possible foreign interference in Brazil’s October election. Venezuela Oil Revival: Venezuela’s oil output is rising fast again, with U.S. companies pushing new production deals and exports after the post-Maduro shift. Colombia Earthquake Aftermath: Recovery continues after the deadly quake, with officials updating damage estimates and aid efforts as thousands still face housing gaps. Cuba Under Pressure: A new report highlights how U.S. fuel blockades are worsening Cuba’s arts scene, driving emigration and shrinking audiences. Peru Archaeology: Peru’s culture ministry says skeletal remains from about 650 AD were found at Huaca Pucllana, believed to be a ritual offering. Trade & Smuggling Watch: Peru is moving to modernize customs to curb used clothing smuggling linked to an international chain.

Rescue Miracle in Mexico: A Mexican fisherman was found alive after 15 days trapped in a flooded Veracruz cenote, pulled from a dark air pocket by an international team; he’s now being treated for dehydration and malnutrition. Industrial Safety Spotlight: Reuters reports three Stellantis workplace deaths in two years, renewing scrutiny of factory safety practices. Corporate Power Play: Brazil’s JBS has offered to buy the remaining shares of Pilgrim’s Pride to take full control of the U.S. poultry giant. Venezuela Economy Update: The central bank says GDP rose 7.14% in Q2 2026, led by hydrocarbons, alongside new subsidy programs for entrepreneurs in La Guaira and the rollout of Renace 2026 sports games. Colombia Quake Toll: Colombia’s earthquake death toll climbed to 304, with hundreds injured and missing, as reconstruction and aid ramp up. Peru Politics Meets Protests: Peru’s new Fujimori administration faces early fuel-price protests as transport workers block roads. Mexico-U.S. Tensions: Sheinbaum says U.S. visa revocations for Mexican politicians are political interference. Trade Pressure Watch: Mexico is weighing tougher trade rules on China as U.S. talks continue.

Colombia Earthquake Response: Colombia’s quake recovery is colliding with politics as President Abelardo de la Espriella pushes a tightly controlled communications line, while housing minister Jaime Beltrán faces backlash after being seen relaxing on a beach and handing out branded soccer balls amid thousands still homeless. Humanitarian Aid & Losses: The death toll is reported around the high-200s with hundreds missing, as WFP scales up food support and reconstruction planning ramps up. Venezuela Reconstruction Finance: Venezuela’s gold held at the Bank of England is set to be routed through US Treasury accounts under an agreement tied to earthquake reconstruction, with international audits planned. Brazil-Election Stakes: Commentaries and reporting frame Brazil’s October race as a major geopolitical test, with trade and security tensions with the US adding pressure. Business & Investment: Peru secured Egypt market access for blueberries, expanding exports to 76 markets; Argentina’s renewable push gets a boost from FinDev Canada and Germany’s DEG via green bond purchases. Tech & AI Expansion: OpenAI formally launches in Brazil, while Quaest eyes AI-driven growth beyond polling into broader intelligence services.

MLB Business: San Diego Padres owners unanimously approved the $3.9B sale to José E. Feliciano and Kwanza Jones, with day-to-day control staying with CEO Erik Greupner and GM A.J. Preller while the deal heads to closing. Brazil Energy & Politics: Lula called new Petrobras oil finds near the Amazon “a passport to Brazil’s future,” as environmental and Indigenous groups continue legal challenges over licensing and spill risks. Colombia Earthquake Response: With survival hopes fading, Colombia is shifting from rescue to recovery, while business leaders pledge over US$160M for hospitals, schools, housing, and rebuilding in quake-hit regions. Venezuela Prisoner Releases: Venezuela released nearly 80 political prisoners, including torture survivors, though many still face court reporting and “alternative detention” conditions. U.S.-Mexico Border Tension: The Trump administration paused border security construction in Big Bend National Park after backlash over impacts on wildlife and the landscape. Venezuela PSUV Mobilization: Diosdado Cabello pushed weekly party meetings and house-to-house visits tied to the energy crisis, claiming broad community deployment.

Colombia Earthquake Response: Colombia revised its quake toll to 289 dead and 143 missing as rescue teams focus on rubble in the Chocó epicenter and Cali region, with tens of thousands affected and thousands of homes damaged. U.S.-Mexico Security Reset: Despite a visa spat involving Andy López Beltrán, Mexico and Washington signaled renewed coordination on security, including Mexico’s access to U.S. drone procurement. Venezuela Energy Push: U.S. industry attention is rising ahead of a Houston summit as Venezuelan crude shipments to the U.S. jump and OFAC rules continue to evolve. Brazil Election Campaign: Lula and Bolsonaro returned to strongholds to kick off presidential runs, with the race tightening in polls and campaign scrutiny growing. Argentina Property Protest: Thousands protested Milei’s bill that would raise the share of land foreigners can own and streamline evictions, under the slogan “The homeland is not for sale.” Mining & Fertilizer Business: Brazil’s Senate advanced incentives to boost domestic fertilizer production, while Argentina’s LNG project seeks RIGI approval and Peru’s broadband expansion adds fiber to schools and clinics.

Colombia Earthquake Aftermath: Colombia’s new president Abelardo de la Espriella asked Donald Trump to temporarily suspend high tariffs to help businesses recover after the 7.4 quake killed at least 289 people, as U.S. aid of $26.5 million starts flowing. Venezuela Prisoner Dispute: A Venezuela-based rights group Foro Penal says the government released 73 political prisoners, not 131, challenging official claims amid U.S.-linked talks. Brazil Election Kickoff: Lula and Flávio Bolsonaro launched campaigns from their strongholds, both leaning on themes of foreign interference and rare-mineral control as October’s race tightens. Cuba Under Pressure: Cuba’s president Miguel Díaz-Canel said dialogue with the U.S. is possible “without pressure,” while Cuban officials and families continue to highlight daily hardships and medical access gaps. Mexico Indigenous Consultation: Mexico’s Indigenous Peoples’ law consultation begins amid protests over rushed timelines and concerns about who controls permits and cultural-heritage regulation. Culture & Heritage: Peru opened a photographic exhibition on the Great Inca Trail, celebrating the Qhapaq Ñan as a living legacy.

Earthquake Aftermath in Colombia: President Abelardo de la Espriella asked Donald Trump to temporarily suspend U.S. tariffs on Colombian goods, saying the higher duties (from 10% to 12.5%) are piling onto earthquake-hit businesses as Colombia counts nearly 300 deaths and thousands injured and missing. Disaster Response Contrast: Witnesses and aid workers say Colombia’s early coordination helped rescue more people in the critical first days, while Venezuela’s later response was hampered by confusion, equipment gaps, and delayed orders after quakes weeks apart. Regional Politics Shift: A new wave of Latin American right-wing leaders is taking shape, with Colombia’s “El Tigre” de la Espriella joining Argentina’s Javier Milei and others who blend tough-on-crime messaging with close alignment to Washington. Business & Investment: LG Electronics began operating a second refrigerator plant in Brazil (Paraná), boosting local capacity and positioning exports for neighboring markets. Tech & Privacy: OpenAI expanded ChatGPT ad personalization to more countries and updated its privacy policy, letting users opt in or out of targeted ads.

Colombia Earthquake Aftermath: President Abelardo de la Espriella asked Donald Trump to temporarily suspend U.S. tariffs on Colombian goods as the country reels from a 7.4 quake that has killed about 294 people, left hundreds missing, and devastated thousands of homes; the request comes as U.S. tariff rates rose to 12.5% in late July. Crisis Response & Controls: In Colombia, rescue hopes are fading as teams shift toward recovery and debris clearing, while in Cuba local authorities in Sancti Spíritus are ramping up inspections of private businesses over prices and payment rules. Venezuela Prison Releases: Acting President Delcy Rodríguez says 1,046 detainees have returned home since she took office, and the government also released 131 political prisoners via alternative detention measures, though independent verification remains disputed. Cuba Hardship & Politics: Cuba’s government faces widespread public distrust over economic management, and opposition hunger striker Guillermo del Sol remains in critical condition after nearly 60 days without food. Bolivia Security Crackdown: “Mano Dura” style policies are back as La Paz authorities move against protests and blockades. Mexico-US Tensions: Mexico’s López Beltrán says the U.S. revoked his visa in a politically motivated move, while the U.S. frames visa decisions as national security calls. Energy & Diplomacy: Venezuela and Trinidad and Tobago advance cross-border gas plans, and Cuba continues to receive food aid from China.

Colombia Earthquake Response: Rescuers in Pereira kept searching for survivors after the 7.5 quake, with the death toll reported at 287 and hundreds still unaccounted for as teams used silence drills and sniffer dogs amid collapsing infrastructure. Venezuela Disaster Capacity: A Reuters comparison found Venezuela’s earlier back-to-back quakes in late June saw slower official coordination and confusion, while Colombia’s response drew faster help from multiple government entities in the first critical days. Political Prisoners in Venezuela: Venezuela released 131 political detainees under “alternative measures” following U.S.-mediated talks, with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio calling it a step toward reconciliation. Israel Rapprochement: Venezuela and Colombia moved toward renewed ties with Israel, including consular steps and Colombia’s Jerusalem/recognition moves, framed by analysts as part of a broader regional rightward shift. Trade & Tariffs: Brazil launched retaliatory procedures under its Economic Reciprocity Law after new U.S. tariff measures, escalating a fresh round of trade pressure. Energy Business: BP secured a Venezuela offshore gas drilling licence for the Loran field, signaling a pivot after exiting the North Sea. Brazil Politics & Economy: A new poll puts Lula narrowly ahead of Flavio Bolsonaro ahead of October’s election runoff.

Colombia Earthquake Aftermath: A 7.4 quake’s toll keeps climbing as families try to rebuild from the rubble; in Pereira, a groom-to-be was found dead days before his wedding, while officials report hundreds missing and widespread damage across Cali, Pereira, Manizales and more. Humanitarian Mobilization: Colombia’s recovery is drawing international and celebrity support, including major Latin music fundraisers for relief in Colombia and Venezuela. Venezuela Prison Releases: Venezuela freed 131 people under “alternative liberty restriction measures,” part of reconciliation talks; rights groups say more releases are expected. U.S.-Caracas Tensions: Marco Rubio praised the prisoner releases but clashed with Delcy Rodríguez over a Fidel Castro centennial tribute, underscoring Venezuela’s balancing act with Washington and China. Mexico-U.S. Visa Fight: Claudia Sheinbaum condemned U.S. visa revocations of Mexican political figures as “meddling,” while Mexico’s Indigenous chief justice said he faces daily discrimination. Cuba Centenary & Sanctions Pressure: Cuba marked Fidel Castro’s 100th birthday amid renewed calls for an end to the U.S. embargo, including from Namibia. Business/Trade: Mexico approved Paramount’s Warner Bros. merger, leaving a remaining legal fight with U.S. state attorneys general.

Colombia Earthquake Response: A 7.4 quake has killed more than 280 people, with thousands injured and hundreds still missing as rescue efforts enter a grim “final phase,” while the government declares an economic emergency and limits foreign rescue teams. Mexico-US Trade Pressure: Mexico is pushing the US in USMCA talks for a discount on auto tariffs and more flexibility on steel duties, warning the current approach could hit major sectors. Chile Salmon Expansion in Court: Chile’s constitutional court is weighing challenges to rules that would let salmon farms relocate with limited concessions, raising uncertainty for planned growth. Bolivia Payments Shift: Peso has integrated with Yango Food so Bolivians can pay for food delivery using USDT via the Peso app, reflecting ongoing dollar liquidity constraints. Cuba Solidarity & Sanctions: A Bohemian FC jersey co-designed with Massive Attack is raising medical-aid funds for Cuba amid the US blockade, while Namibia renews its call to end the embargo. Argentina Politics & Land Rules: As elections near, Argentina’s governing party and opposition begin alliance talks, while protests erupt against a bill that would expand foreign land ownership and tighten eviction rules.

Colombia Earthquake Aftermath: Colombia’s 7.4 quake response is shifting from rescue to debris removal as hopes fade; UNGRD says at least 273 died and 377 remain missing, with hospitals and infrastructure hit hard and President Abelardo de la Espriella declaring an economic emergency to speed rebuilding. Mexico-Rescue Row: Claudia Sheinbaum says Colombia blocked a Mexican defense rescue brigade, citing extra certification demands, while Colombia says it accepted Mexico’s aid and denies political bias. Cuba at 100: Cuba marked Fidel Castro’s centenary with book fairs and cultural events as the island faces a deepening economic squeeze amid renewed U.S. pressure. Argentina Migration & Economy: Argentina ended free routine care for non-resident foreigners in public hospitals and moved to expel migrants tied to hate messages, while inflation ticked up to 2.1% in July. Energy & Investment: YPF filed to bring its $51B “Argentina LNG” plan under RIGI to export Vaca Muerta gas; Venezuela’s Loran field got a BP license for a second phase with partners XRG and UCC. Tourism Costs: Mexico doubled a cruise “no-resident duty” fee to $10, with further increases scheduled. Cybersecurity: Mexico’s ransomware task force urged public-private steps to disrupt criminal infrastructure and build a national resource repository.

Colombia Quake Response: Colombia’s 7.4 earthquake rescue effort entered a “final phase” as the 72-hour window neared its end, with the death toll rising to 265 and nearly 500 still missing; crews in Cali and Pereira used cranes, sniffer dogs and even vibration-detecting tools while President Abelardo de la Espriella declared an “economic emergency” and announced rent, utility and tax relief for affected families and small businesses. Disaster Politics: Colombia also denied rejecting quake help on ideological grounds after controversy over which foreign rescue teams were allowed in, saying selections were based on qualifications. Mexico AML Crackdown: Mexico expanded anti-money laundering oversight, tightening rules for crypto platforms, casinos and real estate, with stronger client tracing and monitoring. Cuba at 100: Cuba marked Fidel Castro’s centenary amid deepening crisis and intensified U.S. pressure, with Havana framing the anniversary as a test of resilience. Chile Business Finance: BBVA’s Chile unit launched a fleet-financing solution for SMEs and large firms, backed by state guarantees.

Colombia Earthquake Response: Colombia’s new president, Abelardo de la Espriella, says the death toll from the 7.4 quake has climbed to 265, with nearly 500 missing and thousands affected, as rescuers warn the 72-hour survival window is nearly closing and aid deliveries begin to pour in. Humanitarian Funding: The Red Cross/Red Crescent network has appealed for $30 million to support 24,000 people over two years, with an initial emergency disbursement already approved. Diplomatic Shock: Colombia’s decision to recognize Israel’s sovereignty over the Golan Heights has triggered a fast backlash from Arab states, with the Arab League rejecting the move and Syria, Egypt and Saudi Arabia condemning it. Cuba Under Pressure: Washington is reportedly expanding its Cuba campaign via a new CIA task force aimed at monitoring finances and pushing political change as Cuba marks Fidel Castro’s centenary amid deep economic strain. Brazil Inequality Watch: A new report finds Brazil improved on many inequality indicators but warns historical gaps in income, race and region remain stubborn. Brazil Tech Regulation: Brazil’s data protection authority orders Discord to suspend livestreaming after child-safety concerns tied to self-harm and suicide content.

Colombia Earthquake Aftermath: Rescuers in Colombia are racing against a narrowing window to find survivors after a powerful 7.4 quake, with the death toll reported above 250 and thousands still missing, while the new government scrambles to deliver aid amid relentless aftershocks. Regional Security & Diplomacy: Arab states condemned Colombia’s recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the occupied Golan Heights, calling it a violation of UN resolutions and international law. Venezuela Disaster Context: Experts say Venezuela’s earlier twin quakes were worsened by loose soils and poor construction, leaving thousands displaced and highlighting weak building standards. Peru Energy Shake-Up: Chevron told Peru it plans to exit offshore blocks Z-61, Z-62 and Z-63, a major test for Peru’s upstream plans as politics shifts. Brazil Economy & Courts: Brazil’s Supreme Court is set to hear cases that could reshape Amazon protections, as inflation cools and corporate activity continues. Mexico Policy Watch: A Mexico-based surrogacy firm reiterated it won’t send Mexican surrogates to the U.S. amid new U.S. measures targeting birth tourism.

Colombia Earthquake Response: A 7.4-magnitude quake has killed at least 224 people, with hundreds injured and thousands missing as rescue teams race to find survivors in hard-hit cities like Pereira and Cali; Pope Leo XIV and Colombia’s bishops urged unity and support as aftershocks continue. Diplomacy & Aid: India’s foreign minister sent condolences and offered assistance, while the U.S. pledged $15.5 million in relief and Venezuela activated aid efforts for Colombia. Security & Labor Fallout: A Florida-based healthcare firm faced backlash after a manager’s video warning staff not to leave during the quake sparked calls for labor intervention. Regional Politics: Former President Gustavo Petro asked Colombia’s Senate for permission to stay abroad for a year, citing commitments. Venezuela-Israel Rapprochement: Caracas announced a consular services coordination mechanism with “Israel,” a move critics say could precede wider normalization. Business & Trade: Brazil’s central bank signaled caution as rates weigh on the economy, while pork exports to the Philippines are expected to stay strong as African swine fever recovery continues.