Economist Rafael Salvador Espinoza estimates rents around the stadium could rise by as much as 45% during the tournament period. However, he argues that prioritising one month of high returns over stable year-long leases may not be economically sound. The opening match of the tournament will take place at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, marking the start of a month-long global event whose local impact is already being felt.

“Today, the Trump administration repealed the endangerment finding: the ruling that served as the basis for limits on tailpipe emissions and power plant rules,” he wrote. “Without it, we’ll be less safe, less healthy and less able to fight climate change, all so the fossil fuel industry can make even more money,” Obama added.

The repeal, announced Thursday by President Donald Trump and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), also eliminates federal tailpipe emissions standards for cars and trucks. It marks the most sweeping climate policy rollback by the administration so far, following a series of measures aimed at expanding fossil fuel production and slowing clean energy initiatives.

Speaking alongside EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin and White House budget director Russ Vought, Trump described the decision as “the biggest deregulatory action in U.S. history .”

“We are officially terminating the so-called endangerment finding, a disastrous Obama-era policy that severely damaged the American auto industry and drove up prices for American consumers,” Trump said .

The EPA said the original finding relied on what it called an incorrect interpretation of the Clean Air Act, arguing the law was intended to address pollutants that cause local or regional harm, not global climate change.

According to investigators, U.S. service members were offered payments to enter into fake marriages. The arrangement typically involved an upfront cash payment, a second payment once the Chinese national secured legal residency, and a final payment after the couple divorced.

Fox News reported that suspects staged photographs and created documents to make the marriages appear genuine when presenting applications to immigration officials.

“This investigation underscores the critical role that Homeland Security Investigations plays in protecting our nation from transnational criminal organisations that seek to exploit our customs and immigration laws and threaten our national security ,” said HSI Tampa acting Special Agent in Charge Michael Cochran. 

The alleged sham marriages took place in several states, including Florida, New York , Connecticut and Nevada.

Five individuals were charged with conspiracy to commit marriage fraud between March 2024 and February 2025. Some of them also face additional charges, including bribery conspiracy.

Federal prosecutors allege that three of the suspects attempted to bribe a public official connected to Naval Air Station Jacksonville in Florida. One U.S. Navy reservist allegedly asked whether an insider could issue real but unauthorised military identification cards in exchange for payment. The plan was reported to the authorities, leading to further investigation.

Four former U.S. Navy service members have pleaded guilty to charges linked to the scheme.

The six men he named are Les Wexner, founder of Victoria’s Secret; Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, CEO of Dubai-based DP World ; Salvatore Nuara; Zurab Mikeladze; Leonic Leonov; and Nicola Caputo.

Khanna said he and Republican Congressman Thomas Massie reviewed unredacted Epstein records during a visit to the US Department of Justice . He claimed that between 70 and 80 percent of the files remain blacked out, despite a law requiring most of the material to be released.

“Why did it take us going to the Justice Department to get these names public?” Khanna asked during his remarks, suggesting more information may still be hidden.

The files were released under the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which was signed into law last year. The law allows redactions mainly to protect the identities of victims.

Massie later said that appearing in the files does not prove anyone committed a crime . He noted that inclusion in investigative documents does not automatically mean guilt.

The Justice Department has defended its handling of the records. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche said the department has unredacted all non-victim names and is committed to transparency.

Jeffrey Epstein was convicted in 2008 of procuring a minor for prostitution and was later arrested again in 2019 on federal sex trafficking charges. He died in a New York jail while awaiting trial.

Bad Bunny’s use of the word “Americans” reflects a broader cultural and geographic identity that includes people across the entire American continent, not just citizens of the United States . In many parts of Latin America, “America” is understood as the landmass stretching from Canada to Argentina and Chile, a perspective that sees Latinos and others from the hemisphere as part of a shared continental identity. This contrasts with the narrower US usage of “American” to mean citizens of the United States .

His remarks resonated at a time when immigration, identity and national belonging are central issues in political and public debate in the United States. Discussions around border enforcement, deportations and the treatment of migrant communities have intensified in recent years, often accompanied by polarising language. By stressing shared humanity and a broader, continental sense of belonging, Bad Bunny positioned his message against narratives that frame immigrants as outsiders.

His appeal to love over hatred, which he described as the most powerful response to division, reflected an attempt to shift the conversation away from fear and confrontation towards empathy and inclusion.

The moment gained widespread attention not only because it was part of a historic night for Latin music, with a Spanish-language album winning major awards, but also because it highlighted how cultural platforms can intersect with social and political issues. For many viewers in Latin America and beyond, his words underscored a sense of belonging that transcends national borders and reflects deep historical and cultural connections across the Americas.

According to the president, Wedding voluntarily presented himself at the United States embassy in Mexico City before being transferred to US authorities. Sheinbaum underlined that Mexico’s constitution and national security laws prohibit joint operations by foreign investigative agencies, allowing only cooperation through the exchange of information between governments.

Sheinbaum added that this position has been clearly communicated to Washington, noting that while Mexico maintains security cooperation with the US, it does so strictly within its legal framework. Her remarks come amid heightened international scrutiny of cross-border security coordination between the two countries, particularly in cases involving organised crime and extradition.

The petition reflects a wider atmosphere of discontent in parts of Europe over a string of Trump-era diplomatic tensions. A flashpoint has been the US President ’s persistent rhetoric about Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, which has alarmed European capitals and fuelled speculation about whether politics and sport can truly be kept apart.

Yet despite the heightened rhetoric, official positions remain cautious. National football associations and governments across Europe have so far ruled out formal boycotts. France’s Sports Minister has reiterated that the French team intends to participate, stressing the importance of keeping international sport separate from political disputes. Likewise, Belgium has dismissed boycott talk “at this stage”, with its federation focused instead on preparation for the tournament.

The German Football Federation (DFB) has provided perhaps the most high-profile spark in the debate. A senior DFB official, Oke Göttlich, has publicly called for a serious discussion about the possibility of withdrawal, arguing that Trump’s actions, including foreign policy and immigration stances, warrant a firm stance from Europe’s football community. However, this view is not official DFB policy, and the federation’s leadership has stopped short of committing to any boycott.

Football’s governing bodies themselves, such as UEFA and FIFA, have signalled reluctance to let political disputes disrupt the sport . FIFA president Gianni Infantino has maintained that the tournament should go ahead with full participation, and European football leaders are reportedly discussing responses within existing structures rather than pledging boycotts.

In short, while grassroots campaigns and political voices in Europe are pushing the idea of a boycott, the consensus among governing bodies and executives in several major footballing nations is that withdrawing from the 2026 World Cup remains unlikely. The debate highlights the growing tension between sports diplomacy and geopolitical realities, but as of early 2026, participation by UEFA teams still appears highly probable.

These remarks coincided with reports of targeted immigration enforcement operations that were focusing on the Somali community in Minnesota. Nearly 58% of Somalis in Minnesota were born in the United States, and 87% of the foreign-born population are naturalised U.S. citizens, according to reports .

The notion that Somalis contribute nothing is strongly refuted by those who see their efforts on the ground, both in their homeland and abroad. 

U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar, who is Somali-born and immigrated to the U.S. at age 12, responded to the "vile" remarks by highlighting that Somali Americans make considerable contributions to the U.S. and are actively working to improve the country. 

Ahmed Soliman, a Horn of Africa researcher, affirmed this view, noting that the Somali population, both in the diaspora and within Somalia, has made "huge contributions to their communities".

In the capital city of Mogadishu, individuals and civil society organisations are stepping into the dangerous gaps left by decades of conflict. 

Somalia has faced ongoing instability since the 1991 fall of the Siad Barre regime, leading to civil conflict and the rise of extremist groups like al-Shabab. 

This has displaced millions, with an estimated 10 million Somalis living in neighbouring countries and nearly 2 million in the global diaspora — about 10% of whom are in North America.

Dr Abdulkadir Abdirahman Adan, a dentist and founder of the country's sole free ambulance service, said Trump “doesn’t know much about Somalis.”

“In every nation, there is some bad people… but not all of them. Somalis, I do believe there are very good people, in generosity, helping others,” he added. 

Adan’s ambulance service is a vital lifeline in a city that regularly endures terror attacks by al-Shabab. He and his staff often risk their lives, arriving at blast scenes shortly after explosions, believing that every life has an equal value. 

With an estimated population of 19.1 million residing within its borders, 10 million in neighbouring countries, and nearly 2 million in the global diaspora, Somalia is far from being a country lacking heritage. 

Despite challenges from climate change and international aid cuts, Somalia’s economic growth of 4.1% in 2024 and projected 3.3% in 2025 is higher than that of the US, which managed 2.8% in 2024 and a projected 2.0% in 2025.

The Horn of Africa nation is recognised as one of the oldest trading nations in the world, with a history dating back many centuries. 

Somalia boasts the longest coastline on continental Africa, touching the Indian Ocean, the Red Sea, and bordering the Gulf of Aden. 

Historically, Somalia houses some of the wealthiest trading ports, including the Mogadishu port, which is now over a thousand years old, along with notable ports such as Kismayo, Berbera, and Zeila.

Somali culture also boasts deep intellectual roots, earning the nation the title “Nation of Poets”. This widespread practice of poetry originated from the nomadic nature of the Somali tradition, where lyrical words were easier for messengers to remember when sending communications.

Somalia played a critical role in early animal domestication, pioneering the domestication of the camel between the third and second millennia BC. This practice, crucial for nomadic life, subsequently spread throughout North Africa and into ancient Egypt. 

Today, Somalia maintains this legacy, possessing the largest population of camels of any single country, with a growing population estimated at 14 million.

The county’s economy is heavily reliant on livestock, which accounts for upwards of 40% of the GDP and 50% of the country’s export earnings. Chief exports include camels and other livestock, hides, fish, frankincense, and a variety of fruits and vegetables.

While the country faces significant challenges, including decades of clan-based conflict and the ongoing fight against al-Shabab, it is actively supported by international partners, such as the  World Bank , which is engaged in initiatives aimed at creating jobs, providing social protection, and enhancing climate resilience, benefiting over 738,000 Somalis.

Authorities have charged an Afghan national in connection with Wednesday’s shooting, which has escalated political tensions around national security and migration.

In response, Trump confirmed a newly announced “pause” on immigration from what he called “third-world countries,” saying the administration would conduct a broader review of U.S. entry policies following the attack.

The shooting has sparked widespread grief and renewed debate over security, immigration , and the protection of service members stationed in the capital.

Speaking from the Casa Grande del Pueblo in La Paz, Arce reflected on his administration’s achievements and offered an apology to the Bolivian people for the difficulties faced under his government. He insisted that every effort had been made to confront the challenges of recent years “with determination and honesty”.

The president said the internal rifts within MAS began when Morales sought to maintain control of the party and prevent its democratisation, asserting that Bolivia’s left needed to “return power to social organisations” rather than allow it to revolve around a single figure. Arce also recalled the June 2024 coup attempt, saying he leaves office “through the main door and with his head held high”.

His speech marks the end of an era: nearly two decades of MAS dominance in Bolivian politics . The party suffered a historic defeat in the August election, with its candidate winning just over three per cent of the vote — a result that analysts see as a reflection of the deep divisions within Bolivia’s once-unified left.

In an official statement, the foreign ministry said the move was made after consultations with key partners, including the Organisation of American States (OAS) and the Inter‑American Development Bank (IDB), to ensure the event remains inclusive and representative of all Latin American governments.

The postponement comes amid criticism over the exclusion of nations such as Venezuela , Cuba and Nicaragua from the forum, a move that has undermined participation and raised fears of a weakened regional dialogue.

Additionally, regional observers point to other underlying pressures: increased military and security operations in the Caribbean and broader hemispheric rivalry, which the Dominican government cited as factors complicating productive engagement.

For global stakeholders, the postponement signals that multilateral mechanisms in the Americas are under strain. The decision underscores the challenge of achieving consensus in a landscape increasingly shaped by geopolitical competition and ideological divides.

The spill has spread across approximately eight kilometres of the river, affecting surrounding communities, including El Caballal in the Alamotemapache municipality. Already hit by severe flooding, residents now face a growing water crisis.

“We need water, and with the contamination, we know it’s going to take time. I don’t know how long, and it’s going to be even harder for us,” said Mario Garcia Osorio, a local resident. 

In response, the Mexican Navy has activated a Regional Contingency Plan with the support of the National Agency for Industrial Safety and Environmental Protection (ASEA). Around 300 personnel, aircraft, drones , and oil containment equipment have been deployed to the area to mitigate the damage.

Pressed by a reporter about congressional briefings and whether the U.S. would seek a formal declaration of war , Trump replied that Washington would act without necessarily asking Congress for a declaration. “I think we're just going to kill people that are bringing drugs into our country… we're gonna kill them, you know, they're gonna be like, dead, okay?” he said.

The president also suggested plans for the United States to take steps against narco-groups operating in the region and defended recent operations that he said had weakened criminal networks. He framed the actions as necessary to protect U.S. communities from the harms of illicit drugs, citing mass deaths tied to synthetic opioids in recent years.

The U.S. Constitution vests war powers in Congress, and international law generally requires that the use of lethal force comply with strict rules on necessity, proportionality and accountability.

“The U.S. federal government does not allow Colombian cannabis to be exported, which could have been a great opportunity to reduce these ‘red zones’,” he said, referring to regions hit hardest by drug-related violence .

Petro contrasted Washington’s stance with the scale of its domestic opioid crisis, saying, “They are essentially supporting a mafia inside the United States that produces fentanyl… consumed within the U.S. with an effect that multiplies by 30 the deaths that cocaine used to cause, reaching 100,000 deaths a year.”

The Colombian leader, who has sought to redefine his country’s relations with the U.S., framed the issue as one of double standards, arguing that the same nations calling for drug reform continue to impose trade barriers that hurt developing economies. “Look at what happens with the ‘green,’ the cannabis product hasn’t been produced for three years; it has been abandoned,” Petro said.

At the heart of the collaboration is a joint project targeting key regions such as the Maribaroux Plain, Saint Raphael Valley and the Cayes–Torbeck area. Through the initiative, Haitian farmers will receive modern seeds, affordable fertilisers and access to collecting and processing machinery — upgrades that aim to triple output in fertile zones impacted by decades of instability.

Beyond immediate gains in productivity, Taiwan’s involvement underscores a broader diplomatic strategy. With Haiti one of the few Caribbean nations formally recognising Taiwan, this partnership reinforces Taipei’s role in international development and global agricultural innovation. Taiwan is not only providing equipment and training but also advancing its global standing as a partner of choice for sustainable growth.

For Haiti, the stakes are high. The country has long been challenged by political turbulence, natural disasters and chronic underinvestment in farming infrastructure. By aligning with a technologically sophisticated partner like Taiwan, Haiti hopes to break this cycle, enhance food sovereignty and reduce reliance on imports and emergency relief.

The alliance sets a precedent for how small nations and mid-sized states can collaborate to tackle global issues such as hunger, climate resilience and equitable trade. As Taiwan and Haiti move forward, their relationship sends a message: agricultural development is not simply local, but an integral part of international diplomacy and economic stability.

The president’s remarks come amid heightened US operations near Venezuelan waters, which have sparked concern in Colombia over the safety of small fishing communities. Petro called on international human rights organisations to investigate.

“We know that two fishermen from Trinidad and Tobago were killed by a missile,” Petro said. “This is a war crime — an act of international aggression against a peace zone, the Caribbean.”

Linking the incident to broader geopolitical violence , Petro compared the situation in the Caribbean to the devastation in Gaza, asserting that “today’s struggles are struggles for life, and they are revolutionary.” He reiterated his government’s decision to suspend coal exports to Israel in protest of what he has called a “genocidal regime.”

Petro concluded his address with an appeal for vigilance among Caribbean governments and human rights defenders, urging them to “monitor and set alerts” against any future acts of foreign aggression, and to protect vulnerable coastal and island communities that remain without effective defence systems.

The Brazilian president also came to Cuba’s defence, calling it “a nation of dignity” and pushing back against claims that the island supports terrorism. “Cuba is not a country that exports terrorists,” Lula stated, as attendees applauded and chanted his name.

Lula’s remarks come amid renewed geopolitical tensions in the region, as Brazil seeks to position itself as a mediator rather than a follower of Washington’s or Caracas’s agendas. His comments reflect a broader effort to assert Latin American autonomy on the global stage while reinforcing Brazil’s traditional foreign policy principle of non-intervention.

The event, attended by party members and supporters, underscored Lula’s ongoing attempt to unite Brazil’s left-wing base ahead of a challenging economic and political year, balancing domestic priorities with a message of regional solidarity.

“We have told them we want to disarm, and they will disarm. And if they don’t disarm, we will disarm them,” Trump said. “And it will happen quickly and perhaps violently,” he said.

The remarks came just a day after a key milestone in the Gaza peace deal, with Hamas releasing the final 20 living Israeli hostages in exchange for around 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. The first phase of the agreement, brokered with international mediation, also includes a temporary ceasefire, scaled-back Israeli military presence in Gaza, and increased humanitarian aid shipments into the battered enclave.

On Monday, Trump made a historic address to the Israeli Knesset. Hours later, world leaders gathered in Egypt’s Sharm El Sheikh for the Peace Summit, where the ceasefire was formally acknowledged.

At the summit, Trump described the moment as “a new and beautiful day… rising, and now the rebuilding begins.”

However, despite the diplomatic progress, Trump’s comments on Hamas indicate that Washington is prepared to take a harder line in future stages of the agreement, which are yet to be fully negotiated.

The remarks followed a phone conversation between Trump and Lula earlier this week, marking the first direct contact between the two since Trump returned to office. “He’s going to come here, and I’ll go to Brazil at some point,” Trump told journalists, signalling plans for reciprocal visits that could revive long-stalled cooperation between the two countries.

Relations between the United States and Brazil have been strained since Trump imposed steep tariffs on Brazilian goods in August. The move came after Brazil’s Supreme Court sentenced former president Jair Bolsonaro — one of Trump’s closest allies in Latin America — to more than 27 years in prison for his alleged role in the 2023 coup attempt.

Lula, who has repeatedly condemned foreign interference in Brazil’s judicial affairs, previously warned Washington to “respect Brazil’s sovereignty.” Despite the sharp rhetoric, both leaders now appear open to rebuilding economic and diplomatic ties, a shift that could reshape the regional balance of power in the Americas.

The new fee, officially called the Integrity Visa Payment, is intended as a guarantee that travellers will return to their home country, according to U.S. officials. 

“They call it Integrity Visa, which is a payment that has to be made as a kind of guarantee that you are going to return to your country,” explained Roberto Ortigoza, an immigration attorney at Anderson Immigration Law Group. He further told Viory, “What is the misuse [the U.S. is targeting]? People staying beyond their allowed time or working without authorisation. This is a measure to stop that from happening.”

However, Ortigoza warned that the combined cost, now $435 total ($185 for the regular B1/B2 visa plus $250 for the new fee), will inevitably reduce the number of people able to afford travel to the U.S. 

“It is high, and yes, it will affect many. But the need is a priority, people will look for ways and means to obtain this resource and process the visa,” he said.

Meanwhile, the U.S. embassy in Mexico has not commented on whether the fee could be refunded if travellers comply with their visa terms.

“Donald Trump and Republicans have barreled us into a shutdown because they refuse to protect Americans’ health care,” Schumer said. “It’s clear that the way out of this shutdown is to sit down and negotiate with Democrats to address the looming health care crisis that faces tens of millions of American families.”

“Donald Trump, instead of acting like an adult, is threatening to hurt countless hardworking Americans,” Schumer said. “Republicans need to roll up their sleeves, negotiate something real, and reopen the government ,” he added.

The Democratic leader said the GOP-backed continuing resolution (CR), meant to keep the government running, had failed twice in the Senate because it ignored health care needs and refused to fix what he called “the mess Republicans created.” 

“Why are we here on October 1st? Because Republicans have tried to stick us with a partisan CR that fails to protect Americans’ health care and does nothing, nothing, to fix the health care mess they created,” Schumer said.

He also took aim at House Speaker Mike Johnson, saying Republicans were “not even keeping the House in session” as the shutdown hit.

President Bernardo Arévalo has begun implementing Guatemala’s Departmental Governments mechanism as part of his A Tu Tierra working tour, with the latest stop in Petén. The initiative aims to decentralise governance by empowering governors to coordinate executive offices and municipal governments, creating localised networks to deliver services more effectively. Arévalo said the model will prioritise territorial needs through strategic agendas focused on social and productive development. The programme seeks to extend state presence beyond central departments and strengthen collaboration between national institutions and local authorities. By 2025, the government plans to establish departmental governments in seven regions, including Chiquimula, San Marcos, Retalhuleu and Alta Verapaz, in a bid to bring decision-making closer to remote communities.

Guatemala Congress advances bill to classify gangs as terrorists

Guatemala’s Congress has advanced Bill 5692, which would declare gang members terrorists , moving it to a second reading with final approval expected in a future session. The initiative proposes reforms to the Penal Code and the Law Against Organized Crime to treat all crimes committed by maras as high-risk offences. It would double penalties for gang-related crimes and impose three to 10 years in prison for threats made by gang members. Lawmakers say the reforms aim to strengthen the state’s ability to combat organised crime by mandating resources for enforcement. 

Arévalo accuses Congress of blocking executive’s work

President Bernardo Arévalo has criticised Guatemala’s Congress for what he called an unprecedented campaign of obstruction against his government. He said lawmakers have abused their oversight role, citing more than 260 citations this year directed at the Ministry of Communications alone, with 11 of 14 ministers facing interpellation requests. Arévalo argued that such pressure amounts to harassment rather than accountability, warning it prevents ministries from functioning. He also condemned attempts by legislators to intimidate officials, including an incident involving Communications Minister Miguel Ángel Díaz. Political analyst Renzo Rosal backed Arévalo’s concerns, saying congressional tactics have undermined the separation of powers and created the appearance of Congress overriding the Executive.

Guatemala moves toward maximum-security prison for gangs

Guatemala’s Congress is advancing plans to build a maximum-security prison for gang members as part of a wider security reform. Lawmakers are revisiting Initiative 5692, first introduced in 2020, which sought to label gangs as terrorist groups. A technical committee met this week to draft a proposal that could amend at least ten laws covering security and justice within six weeks. The plan will combine repression with prevention, focusing on child recruitment and victim protection. Proposals include tougher penalties for extortion, money laundering and criminal association, alongside greater powers for prosecutors and police. Officials argue isolating gang leaders is key, as more than 7,000 extortion cases are reported annually.

Arévalo backs Petén communities in forest protection pacts

President Bernardo Arévalo, on his A Tu Tierra tour in Petén, oversaw the signing of cooperation agreements between the National Council of Protected Areas (CONAP) and four local settlements to safeguard the Great Mayan Forest. The communities of Corral Pek, San Agustín and El Pato in Poptún, along with Nacimiento Nuevo Paraíso La Rejoya in Melchor de Mencos, committed to sustainable development practices that balance livelihoods with conservation. Arévalo highlighted the long-standing role of communities as stewards of natural resources, noting the forest “repays” with water, oxygen and opportunities for agriculture and tourism. He stressed that ensuring harmony between people and environment requires coordination across state institutions and local actors alike.

South America actually stretches farther from north to south than its northern counterpart, 5,100 kilometres compared to North America’s 4,300 kilometres.

South America’s sheer length, from the Caribbean coast of Colombia to the windswept southern tip of Chile and Argentina, makes it one of the most geographically diverse regions on Earth.

Within its span lie the dense Amazon rainforest, the soaring Andes mountains, and the icy reaches of Patagonia. This unique diversity has positioned South America as a central player in environmental and economic debates.

The Amazon, often referred to as the “lungs of the planet,” is crucial in the fight against climate change, yet it faces escalating threats from deforestation and rising global temperatures.

Meanwhile, the continent’s natural resources, particularly lithium reserves in the Andes, have placed it at the heart of the renewable energy transition and the race for green technology supply chains.

North America, while shorter in length, holds its own place of prominence. From the Arctic archipelagos of Canada down to the tropical lowlands of Panama, it encompasses a vast array of ecosystems in its 4,300 kilometres.

Its influence, however, extends far beyond geography. The continent remains central to global trade and politics, with U.S. elections and policy decisions echoing across the world .

The economic and political weight of North America complements its diverse landscapes, from boreal forests to deserts and tropical regions.

At the centre of the plan is Mission Firewall , designed to disrupt the illicit movement of weapons into Mexico. Officials announced stepped-up inspections, expanded use of the firearm tracing system known as eTrace, and the introduction of ballistic identification technology across all 32 Mexican states. Both governments also pledged to deepen intelligence sharing and strengthen investigations and prosecutions linked to arms trafficking.

The US State Department described the agreement as an “unprecedented” level of cooperation. Washington confirmed it has created a secure platform for real-time information exchange on suspicious air cargo and packages, a tool that will allow authorities to track not only firearms but also drugs, precursor chemicals and illicit fuels. Mexico, meanwhile, noted that US authorities have already opened more than 125 firearms trafficking cases since Donald Trump returned to the presidency, leading to seizures and the dismantling of suspected networks.

The political backdrop remains contentious. Mexico has long argued that US-sourced weapons fuel violence within its borders, while Trump has repeatedly accused Mexican authorities of failing to confront powerful drug cartels. Speaking in Sinaloa, President Claudia Sheinbaum hailed the new agreement as a turning point: “For the first time, the priority issue discussed is the weapons flowing from the United States into Mexico. We achieved an agreement that the US will strengthen operations on its own soil to control the flow of arms.” She added that sovereignty would never be up for negotiation.

The agreement builds on US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s recent visit to Mexico City, where he met with Sheinbaum to reinforce bilateral security cooperation. Both governments presented the plan as a rare moment of alignment in the fight against organised crime , even as disputes over responsibility and strategy continue to loom in the background.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney hailed the pact as “game-changing,” stressing its role in securing investment in critical minerals, clean technology, and financial services. In 2024, merchandise trade between the two countries totalled US$5.6 billion, with Canadian exports reaching US$2.3 billion, making Indonesia Canada’s largest export market in Southeast Asia (Government of Canada trade data).

The deal comes alongside a new defence cooperation agreement covering maritime security, cyber defence, and peacekeeping, a move Carney called a “critical step” in Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy.

Canada is also backing Indonesia’s sovereign wealth fund, with Export Development Canada pledging up to CAD$825 million (US$594 million) in financing for infrastructure, renewable energy , and agriculture projects.

The agreement positions Canada as a deeper player in Asia’s economic networks, while Indonesia, projected by PwC to be among the world’s five largest economies by 2050, gains a powerful Western partner beyond Washington.

“We are optimistic despite the circumstances”, Sheinbaum said, pointing to the depth of economic integration between the three nations. “This plan of action opens a new stage in which we strengthen even further the economic, social and cultural ties that unite us”. Carney echoed her stance, stressing that the joint initiative would complement the upcoming treaty review and help bolster regional competitiveness.

The timing of the announcement comes amid heightened tensions with Washington. U.S. President Donald Trump has reintroduced tariff measures and questioned whether the trade deal truly benefits his country. In response, Sheinbaum insisted Mexico would defend its sovereignty while keeping a “cool head” in negotiations. Critics at home, however, argue that her government has already given too much ground to the White House, particularly on security cooperation.

Analysts note that Sheinbaum faces a delicate balancing act: maintaining Mexico’s most important commercial partnership with its northern neighbour while avoiding domestic backlash. With the consultation process for the 2026 renegotiation now formally under way, all three governments will soon face the challenge of updating a trade deal that underpins nearly £1.2 trillion in annual regional trade.

“People are scared to death in this building,” said Rep. Jared Moskowitz, D-Fla., who has had police stationed outside his home since a constituent tried to kill him last year, Semafor reports . “Not many of them will say it publicly, but they’re running to [House Speaker Mike Johnson] talking about security.”

Here are a few security measures lawmakers are undertaking to ensure their personal safety:

Cancelled rallies and indoor-only events

Several lawmakers have already begun scaling back their public appearances. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., postponed a planned rally in Raleigh, North Carolina, citing safety concerns.

Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., also said she will no longer hold outdoor events “anytime soon” after Kirk was killed while speaking outdoors at Utah Valley University.

Arming themselves

Mace revealed she now plans to carry a gun “at all times,” indicating some level of anxiety among elected officials. She is also reconsidering whether to drive her own car and has requested additional security guidance from the House Sergeant at Arms for her Washington office.

“Any elected official across the country, if you are vocal, your life is at risk,” Mace said. “I have to deal with children who think they’re going to be murdered at school; I have to deal with employees right now who are afraid to come to work,” she is quoted.

Police presence and heightened protocols

Police are already visible outside multiple lawmakers’ homes and offices. For some, that has become the new normal. Security protocols, from access checks to staff safety drills, are being tightened. Behind closed doors, members from both sides of the aisle are urging leadership for more resources, surveillance, and protective details.

Debate over US troops

Opposition senators accused the ruling Morena party of allowing Washington to increase its influence over national security , while Morena lawmakers accused the opposition of using the issue to score political points.

Moreno said he was silenced when trying to speak on behalf of his party about the risks of Mexico following Venezuela’s path.

“I claimed my right to speak on behalf of the people we represent… But Morena and this coward Fernández Noroña changed the agenda to silence us,” Moreno said. “We cannot allow in Mexico what happened in Venezuela: a corrupt narco dictatorship with foreign backing.”

Accusations of violence

Fernández Noroña, for his part, accused Moreno of provoking him and even threatening his life.

“He grazed me, hit my arms, and said, ‘I am going to beat you, I am going to kill you,’” Fernández Noroña alleged. “My colleague Emiliano González, who was filming with a 360° camera, was attacked, his equipment destroyed, and then Moreno went to finish him off with punches,” he told the press.

Videos from the chamber show senators pushing each other as staff tried to intervene.

Fernández Noroña said complaints would be filed and called for Moreno’s immunity to be lifted. “What happened today is very serious; regardless of the political force, this should never happen under any circumstances. None is none,” he told reporters.

According to the latest data, Asia accounts for 37% of global GDP, making it the largest contributor to the world economy. North America follows with 30%, Europe holds 24%, South America contributes 4%, Africa just 3%, and Oceania rounds out the list at 2%.

Asia

Asia dominates global GDP with a 37% share, driven by major economies such as China, India, Japan, and South Korea. The continent has become the world’s largest economy in both nominal and purchasing power parity (PPP) terms, underpinned by rapid industrialisation, booming technology sectors, and rising consumer markets

North America

North America contributes 30% of global GDP, largely powered by the United States and Canada. The region remains a hub of high productivity, technological innovation, and financial stability, making it one of the most influential economic regions worldwide.

Europe

Europe holds 24% of global GDP, led by Germany, the United Kingdom, and France. While its share has declined relative to Asia, Europe continues to play a central role in global trade, finance, and advanced manufacturing.

South America, Africa, and Oceania: Smaller shares

Together, Asia, North America, and Europe account for more than 90% of global GDP, leaving the rest of the world with a marginal share.

These figures, drawn from data from Millionaire Migrant , paint a vivid picture of how money and opportunity are concentrated in certain regions while others continue to lag.

Confirming the numbers

In total, the global millionaire population has climbed to nearly 58 million , representing only about 1.5% of the world ’s adults . Yet, this small group controls an outsized share of global assets.

North America : Wealth powerhouse

North America dominates the global wealth map, with nearly 27 million millionaires, amounting to roughly 42% of the world’s total.

Asia-Pacific: The rising giant

The Asia-Pacific region is home to about 10.75 million millionaires and has experienced explosive growth.

Europe: Stable but slower growth

Europe hosts around 16.7 million millionaires, or roughly 27% of the global share.

Latin America and Africa: Stalled growth

While Latin America counts 915,000 millionaires and Africa just 352,000, both regions have struggled to see meaningful increases in recent years.

Since 2016, growth in millionaire numbers across these regions has plateaued, reflecting economic instability, limited capital markets, and political uncertainty.

Globally, the millionaire population now stands at 58 million, but where these wealthy individuals live is shifting:

The Denver Fire Department confirmed that all 173 passengers and six crew members were safely evacuated and the fire was extinguished by 5:10 pm local time (11:10 pm GMT). Five individuals received on-site medical treatment, while one was transported for further care.

American Airlines reported that the aircraft had a maintenance issue involving one of its tires before takeoff and has since been removed from service for inspection. This is the second fire-related incident involving an American Airlines Boeing 737 at Denver Airport in five months, following an engine fire on a Dallas-bound flight in March 2025.

  What they said

The State Department explained the move as a national security measure, stating , “This will ensure we are properly screening every single person attempting to visit our country.”. Jameel Jaffer of the Knight First Amendment Institute criticised the policy, likening it to cold war-era ideological vetting. “It will inevitably chill legitimate political speech both inside and outside the United States,” he said.

The incident occurred when the vessel, with a 147-foot (45-metre) mast, attempted to pass under the Brooklyn Bridge.

The ship’s masts exceeded the clearance of the arched structure, causing them to break upon impact. The damaged vessel was later seen near the Manhattan Bridge with all three of its masts down.

“We were saying goodbye to all the guys who were already leaving, the boat had already left, a few seconds after it had left the dock where it was, suddenly we saw all the lights crashing, hitting the bridge and then everyone fell down,” an eyewitness told AFP.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams provided further details in a statement on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday. He disclosed that the Cuauhtémoc “lost power and crashed into the Brooklyn Bridge.” 

He added that among the 277 people on board, 19 were injured, two remained in critical condition, and two others had died as a result of their injuries.

However, the Mexican Navy also reported that 22 individuals aboard the vessel sustained injuries. Of those, 19 were transported to local hospitals for medical treatment, including three in serious condition.

Mayor Adams noted that the Brooklyn Bridge did not sustain any structural damage and has since reopened to the public.

Locals recall the pope’s working-class roots and how the neighborhood church served as a cornerstone of community life. “It’s just mind-blowing to think that it started here in our humble little town,” Sally Rock, 65, who grew up in Dolton told the AFP.

Others, like former resident Lea Morgan, expressed concern about the area’s decline, describing it as “dangerous” today. Still, she holds onto hope: “Now that the Pope is here and he’s from this neighborhood, maybe our prayer for peace is being answered.”

“Senator Diaz-Balart, you know it very well; you are not only trying to overthrow the President of Colombia through parliamentary means, in alliance with the Colombian far right but also to silence me so that I am not in the electoral campaign”, he said.

Díaz-Balart responded sharply by stating, “Gustavo Petro seems to be once again under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or both. He has reached the point where he can’t even spell common names.”

Petro did not offer evidence to support his claims against Díaz-Balart, a Cuban-American who has long criticised Petro’s administration, particularly over its drug policy, security strategy, and diplomatic ties with Venezuela, Anadolu Ajansi reports.

Asher Proeger, a contender in the race, told the AFP, "It's a 100 percent serious, despite the name, despite some of the costs and people are going to wear. At the end of the day, that's all to raise awareness with 100 percent seriousness of racing sperm and how it truly is the best biomarker. You can truly tell who's living the best lifestyle by their sperm and how fast it is."

While some attendees questioned the race’s authenticity, many agreed it delivered strong entertainment value and sparked important conversations about men's reproductive health.

"For sperm, in the last 50 years, it's decreased by half, but the problem is it's still decreasing because no one's able to talk about it because it's a topic that everyone avoids," the event organiser, Eric Zhu said.

“If you have to protect the economy , you're not winning. You're in defence. The U.S. is afraid of China because China is so productive, low-cost, hyper competitive,” Sachs said.

The remarks come amid a renewed Trump-led campaign for the White House, during which he has doubled down on his “America First” trade agenda. Trump has frequently claimed that the U.S. is “winning” against foreign competitors, particularly China, through tariffs and reshoring initiatives.

But Sachs dismisses this as superficial showmanship, arguing that the numbers and the global demand for Chinese goods tell a different story.

Sachs also took aim at U.S. claims that China suffers from “overcapacity,” a term used by American officials to describe what they view as China producing more than global markets can absorb. In contributing to the debate, Sachs stated, “That just means America has undercapacity. That’s all it means. The world needs what China can produce, and it wants it.”

“Trump is a good showman. He's filled with bluster,” Sachs added. “He says, ‘I'm a winner, we’re a winner,’ but what does it really mean when you have to win by imposing barriers against China?”

Meanwhile, Trump has hinted at a possible softening of his trade war stance with China, stating that the steep tariffs currently in place, some exceeding 145%, “will come down substantially, but it won’t be zero.”

The United States tops the chart with an impressive 33,082 museums, an overwhelming lead compared to its global counterparts. Trailing behind are Germany (6,257), Japan (5,738), and Russia (5,415), with France, Brazil, Italy, and the UK also landing in the top ten.

Though smaller in size, countries like Austria (741 museums) and Hungary (810) also make the list, highlighting their dedication to cultural preservation.

While Western nations dominate the list, countries such as China (1,030 museums) and South Korea (1,102) are rapidly expanding their cultural infrastructure . This surge is part of broader national efforts to reclaim cultural artefacts, promote tourism, and shape global narratives.

What does this tell us?

The tragedy which ocurred at the Jet Set nightclub in the early hours of April 8, sending shockwaves through the nation. Relatives of missing people were still waiting desperately for news Wednesday of their loved ones outside the ruined club, at hospitals and at the local morgue.

Over 300 rescue workers, aided by sniffer dogs, had spent two days combing through mounds of fallen bricks, steel bars and tin sheets, supported by firefighters from Puerto Rico and Israel.

“In the case of Mexico, there are no additional tariffs, nor for Canada, although there are some specifications in Canada’s case. That is good for the country. Although some may not want to admit it, this is due to the good relationship we’ve built with the United States government,” Sheinbaum said.

On Wednesday, President Trump announced sweeping new tariffs — including a base 10% rate on all imports and elevated rates for key regions, such as 20% for the European Union and 34% for China. However, countries within the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA or T-MEC) bloc were largely spared.

While certain Mexican exports, such as steel, aluminium, and vehicles containing non-U.S. components, will still face a 25% tariff under existing measures, Mexico was excluded from the newly introduced "reciprocal tariffs" that target non-USMCA trading partners.

President Sheinbaum attributed this favourable treatment to what she described as a respectful and coordinated relationship with Washington.

"This is a relationship based on sovereignty, cooperation, and mutual respect. It’s not just about governments, it’s also about the unity of the Mexican people,” she added.

“Today, Mexico is highly respected - not only by the United States but by the world ,” Sheinbaum said. “This relationship of respect and open dialogue with President Trump has allowed us to secure a preferential position.”

The president reaffirmed Mexico’s commitment to ongoing dialogue with the U.S., adding that Economy Secretary Marcelo Ebrard has cultivated a close working relationship with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.

"It is a reminder to the president that we all want to arrive free, alive, and with our rights," said one demonstrator.

Activists are urging the new leader to take decisive action on gender violence, equality, and justice for women across Mexico.

Howard Hu, NASA Orion Program Manager, provided details about the capsule’s capabilities. “This is our Artemis II spaceship, Orion. The capsule is over 16 feet wide, designed for a four-person crew with a 21-day mission capacity. The crew module houses the astronauts and ensures their safe return, while the service module contains essential systems, including power, propulsion, and the main engine,” he told the AFP.

Hu also highlighted the mission’s progress, stating that the installation of solar arrays was completed ahead of schedule. “We’re on track for our end-of-April 2026 launch window. Our European team did a fantastic job installing the solar arrays ahead of schedule, which keeps us moving forward.”

Kirk Shireman, another Orion program manager, emphasised the human aspect of Artemis II. “Artemis I tested the rocket and spacecraft, but Artemis II is all about humans. It will have four astronauts on board, with life-support systems ensuring they can breathe, drink water , and even use a toilet. The spacecraft also features control panels for manual operation.”

Artemis II will be NASA’s first crewed lunar mission in over 50 years.

Max Bergmann, director of the Europe, Russia, and Eurasia program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, described the meeting as "the worst public Oval Office meeting that I have ever witnessed." He called it a "dark day for the transatlantic alliance," warning that it could jeopardize NATO’s stability and Ukraine’s future.

"I think it's the worst public Oval Office meeting that I have ever witnessed or can ever remember. I think it's a dark day for the transatlantic alliance, and the transatlantic alliance may not recover. I think it's in some ways very much about Ukraine. So it obviously really puts the future of Ukraine, I think, in doubt, but also puts the future of the NATO alliance in doubt," he told the AFP.

Bergmann accused Trump and his ally, JD Vance, of adopting a confrontational stance, adding that the transatlantic alliance "may not recover" from the fallout. The tense exchange has further fueled geopolitical uncertainty as Ukraine continues to resist Russian aggression.

Some parents have nothing to give their children, and many families can only afford to eat every other day.

The problem is not a lack of food in the markets but the rising prices, which most people cannot afford. Armed gangs are making things worse by blocking roads and demanding bribes from truck drivers, causing food prices to go even higher. Many families have no income at all and are now in heavy debt.

A survey of nearly 200 families in two towns found that almost 90 percent had gone a full day without food in the past month. Some had gone 24 hours without eating more than 10 times.

Parents say it is heartbreaking to see their children go hungry, and some people are now forced to ask friends and relatives for food.

The situation is especially dangerous for women and girls. Some are being forced into unsafe situations just to get food.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women are also at risk, as malnutrition is making childbirth even more dangerous.

Haiti needs almost $900 million in aid, but so far, very little has been raised. Experts warn that if nothing is done soon, more people will starve to death.

Maria Salinas, who works in the Virginia school system, expresses concern. “I fear for the people. It's just a scary time right now, so I hope things will be okay,” she says. Despite her concerns, she acknowledges Trump’s proactive approach. “I don’t agree with everything, but I’d rather have a president who tries to do something than one who does nothing.”

For some, Trump’s attendance carries political implications. Daante Bowman, a professional dancer and creative director in Los Angeles, sees a potential link between the event and Black History Month.

“Why come to this one? And in Black History Month?” he asks, speculating that Trump's presence could be a strategic move regarding the Black vote or a reaction to Kendrick Lamar’s performance.

Bowman also wonders how Trump’s presence will shape the event. “Is he going to be hyping it up or looking down on it? Either way, this is the first time a president has attended the Super Bowl, and it gives Kendrick a platform to say what he has to say,” he told the AFP.

Michel Platini, a prominent LGBTQ+ rights activist and head of a rights group in Brasilia, highlighted the harmful impact of Trump's statements. “What Trump said carries a pedagogical narrative. His words reach people, and they have a significant impact,” Platini stated.

“The discourse of hate doesn't end when he stops speaking; it leaves a profound and lasting effect on society. In this particular case, its repercussions are felt worldwide,” he told the AFP.

Platini further warned about the increase in violence against the LGBTQ+ community linked to such rhetoric. “The greatest setback we see when this discourse is voiced is the rise in violence against the community, particularly the increase in deaths,” he said.

Fainny Mendes, a member of the LGBTQ+ rights group, shared similar concerns, emphasizing the potential ripple effects in Brazil. “This setback happening in the United States will have repercussions here in Brazil,” Mendes warned. “It will give a voice to the fascists, to those who want regression and who want the trans community to be erased from our society.”

Cristiany Beatriz, a representative from Rede Trans Brasil NGO, voiced solidarity with LGBTQ+ individuals in the U.S., particularly trans and cross-dresser populations facing discrimination. “We are here in front of the US embassy in solidarity with the entire LGBTQ+ population, especially the trans and cross-dresser population, which is experiencing a setback with the new government,” Beatriz said.

Among other measures targeting the community, Trump announced that the federal government would cease funding, supporting, or promoting gender transitions, also known as gender-affirming care, for individuals under 19.

Violence has escalated in the country, with gangs now controlling 85% of Port-au-Prince. More than 5,000 people have been killed this year in gang-related attacks alone.

A recent incident at Toussaint Louverture International Airport involved gunfire that injured a U.S. flight attendant. Although the airport has reopened, the U.S. has extended its flight ban to Haiti until March 2025.

JetBlue has also suspended flights to Haiti until April 30, 2025, after several aircraft, including those from Spirit and American Airlines, were hit by bullets in November.

 Gang violence has also led to other tragedies, such as the burning of Bernard Mevs Hospital and the killing of over 100 people, including elderly Vodou leaders, in Cité-Soleil.

The government has since created a National Security Council to help stabilise the country.

“We are taking all necessary steps to restore order and ensure the safety of our people,” Haitian officials were quoted in a statement .