America

An oil spill off northern Peru is threatening marine biodiversity near the Tropical Sea Reserve of Grau; cleanup efforts are facing criticism as the spill spreads, raising concerns for one of the world’s richest marine ecosystems

The surge in online shopping driven by the "Temu effect" has overwhelmed Uruguay's customs operations, doubling package volumes; the National Customs Directorate has enacted new measures to streamline processes

Five Venezuelan opposition members taking refuge in the Argentine embassy in Caracas to avoid arrest say it has become a “prison”; as the residence has been without power for over a month, an adviser to opposition leader María Corina Machado said on X

The Fire Department Suriname did not come across any illegal fireworks during routine inspections that were carried out in Paramaribo; only one of the retailers whose stores were inspected was caught violating rules for selling mini crackers to minors

Six cruise ships docked simultaneously on 26 December bringing a total of 11.334 passengers to the island that was bustling with activity as it welcomed one of the largest influxes of visitors in its history

The number of migrants passing through Honduras dropped by 30,1% in 2024, mainly due to stricter measures in Panama as well as the country itself

General Julio César Avilés' term as Army Chief has been extended for six more years, ensuring his leadership until 2031; despite US sanctions for alleged corruption and silencing pro-democracy voices, President Daniel Ortega confirmed the choice

Barbuda faces growing security concerns amid population boom and influx of foreigners, fueled by bettering infrastructure and solidity; the Commissioner of Police said this is not currently a major challenge but officers have been alerted

Carnival 2025 has been launched by Tourism Minister speaking to State-Owned Radio DBS and the grand parade is set for 18 January; the 2024 Dominica Carnival season saw +20% visitors, bringing revenues and opportunities for local small entrepreneurs

Jimmy Carter, serving as US President from 1977 to 1981, has died at 100 at his home in Plains, Georgia; in 2002 he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his humanitarian work as he brokered peace between Israel and Egypt amid Iraq hostages crisis

Congress has approved a law that would end the country's seven-year-old ban on mining for metals: president Nayib Bukele pushed to lift the ban, imposed in 2017 due to environmental concerns, claiming the country has vast gold deposits

A 6% minimum wage increase for textile factories and 10% for other sectors has been announced, based on technical analysis and sector consultations

G$100.000 (around 480 USD) cash grants have been distributed to the first 50.000 public sector workers, including teachers and health staff; with this move, the government aims to promote lasting wealth and boost the local economy