Venezuela–U.S. Oil Deal: Interim President Delcy Rodríguez says Caracas will keep “ownership and sovereignty” even as the U.S. moves toward majority control of 65 billion barrels under a 25-year pact, targeting 1.5 million barrels per day and $209 billion in state revenue. U.S. Strategic Reserves: Trump says Venezuelan crude will be used to refill the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve, but timelines and real gas-price impact remain unclear. Political Fallout in Venezuela: Maduro posted new prison photos from Brooklyn, while critics warn the deal could deepen U.S.-backed political entrenchment. Colombia Security: President Abelardo de la Espriella says soldiers killed a key dissident leader (“Felipe/Arcadio”) tied to drone attacks and explosives in Valle del Cauca. Mexico Trade & Safety: Avocado exports to the U.S. restart after a security alert in Michoacán, though workers and producers still fear cartel violence. Caribbean Travel: Curaçao announces its first-ever Aerolíneas Argentinas flights from Buenos Aires starting Jan. 2, 2027. Regional Weather: Forecasters track two tropical disturbances in the Gulf and Caribbean, with heavy rain the main near-term risk.