AGP Executive Report

USMCA Uncertainty: The Trump administration declined to renew the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement, triggering an annual review and renewed talks, with Washington citing trade imbalances and regulatory gaps. World Cup Upset Watch: Argentina face Cape Verde in the Round of 32 in Miami, with Messi back and Scaloni warning against complacency as the debutants stay unbeaten. World Cup Preview (Colombia-Ghana): Colombia are favourites but Ghana, led by Carlos Queiroz, chase a Round of 16 spot after an injury ruled out defender Kojo Peprah. Venezuela Earthquake Aftermath: Venezuela’s interim president Delcy Rodriguez defended the response as the death toll reached about 2,595 and thousands remain missing, while rescues still pull survivors from rubble. Humanitarian Response: American Airlines delivered 9,000+ pounds of supplies to Caracas, and international aid continues amid shortages and aftershocks. Brazil Minerals Push: Brazil unveiled targets to raise its share of critical minerals output to 12.2% by 2050. Mexico Security: An active-duty police officer was arrested in Mexicali Valley after authorities found meth and alleged cartel links.

Venezuela Earthquake Response: The death toll from the June 24 twin quakes has climbed past 2,300 as rescuers shift toward recovery and urgent humanitarian needs; amid the rubble, a security guard was pulled out alive after eight days, while La Guaira’s nights remain grim with thousands displaced in tents and shelters. International Aid & Diplomacy: Spain sent medical supplies and emergency kits; Luxembourg delivered 13.3 tons of solidarity aid; Portugal declared a national day of mourning; Saudi Arabia pledged solidarity; and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints began distributing thousands of assistance kits. Humanitarian Warnings: Actor Édgar Ramírez urged protection for children, warning that chaos can fuel human trafficking risks. World Cup, Mexico City: England’s Round of 16 at the Azteca faces altitude and history, with Mexico undefeated at home; England’s Harry Kane powered the setup, and pubs in the UK will stay open until 5am for the 1am kickoff. Sports Culture: Mexico’s team went viral with Haaland masks and a “Viking row” chant ahead of the clash.

Venezuela Earthquake Aftermath: Venezuela’s twin quakes have killed at least 2,295 people, with 11,267 injured and 12,841 affected, as rescuers race on amid aftershocks and a growing medical crisis. Doctors warn of infections and outbreaks in overcrowded shelters with poor water access, while UN agencies say needs are “skyrocketing.” Human Stories From the Rubble: A toddler was pulled out alive after six days, and rescuers continue searching for survivors, including a man trapped for eight days. Mexico World Cup Celebrations Turn Deadly: Mexico’s win over Ecuador sparked massive street celebrations, but four people died in Mexico City from asphyxiation and a medical emergency. USMCA Trade Shock: The US says it won’t renew USMCA “in its current form,” keeping talks with Mexico and Canada going while negotiations focus on rules of origin and economic security. Mexico-England Build-Up: Harry Kane says Mexico has a huge altitude advantage at the Azteca ahead of the round of 16. Peru Election: Keiko Fujimori won Peru’s presidential runoff by fewer than 50,000 votes, with formal certification still pending.

World Cup, Mexico: Mexico’s 2-0 win over Ecuador sent it into the Round of 16 and set up a July 5 clash at Estadio Azteca vs England, but celebrations turned deadly in Mexico City as health officials reported three deaths from asphyxiation and a fourth fatality after a medical emergency during crowds near Paseo de la Reforma/El Ángel. Venezuela Earthquakes: The death toll from twin quakes keeps climbing, with reports putting it above 2,200 as rescue shifts toward recovery; volunteers and international teams continue searching La Guaira while survivors face food and shelter shortages. USMCA Trade: The U.S. says it won’t renew USMCA in its current form, keeping the pact in force while launching annual reviews and pushing talks with Mexico and Canada to address “shortcomings” and trade deficits—raising uncertainty for automakers. Humanitarian Aid, Caribbean: The Dominican Republic sent a new shipment of earthquake relief to Venezuela by sea, joining broader regional support efforts. Regional Business: Jordan and Brazil discussed expanding trade and investment ties ahead of a São Paulo economic forum, while Royal Caribbean said Mexico’s private-island plan may need changes to hit a 2027 opening.

World Cup Shock & Relief: Mexico ended a 40-year knockout drought, beating Ecuador 2-0 at the Azteca with goals from Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez, then set up a last-16 home clash vs. England or DR Congo after a storm delayed kickoff. Knockout Night Across the Region: France cruised past Sweden 3-0 with Kylian Mbappé scoring twice; Norway edged Ivory Coast 2-1 to face Brazil; and Paraguay stunned Germany on penalties, prompting a national holiday. Venezuela Earthquake Aftermath: Twin quakes have killed about 1,943 and left tens of thousands missing; rescuers pulled a 3-year-old boy alive after six days, but survivors say they urgently need food, shelter, and medical care. Humanitarian Response: The U.S. deployed more than 900 troops to support relief, while India’s “Operation Amistad” continues medical help and UN agencies warn of disease risks. Mexico Security & Justice: In Jalisco, police say a viral “Batman” vigilante case involves men treated as victims while authorities investigate suspected motorcycle theft ties. Mexico Earthquake Watch: A magnitude-6.0 quake was reported in Mexico’s Gulf of California with no immediate damage reports.

World Cup Shock & Knockout Stakes: Paraguay stunned Germany on penalties, with goalkeeper Orlando Gill outshining Manuel Neuer, and the win sparked a national holiday as La Albirroja booked a Round of 16 spot. Brazil’s Late Escape: Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil rallied past Japan 2-1, with Casemiro and a 95th-minute Gabriel Martinelli strike sending them through and keeping doubts in check. Norway Breakthrough: Erling Haaland scored late as Norway beat Ivory Coast 2-1 to set up a Round of 16 clash with Brazil. Mexico at Home, Ecuador Next: Mexico hosts Ecuador in the Round of 32, aiming to turn crowd energy into a knockout push. Venezuela Earthquake Response: After twin quakes, satellite estimates point to nearly 58,870 damaged or destroyed buildings and about 1.2 million tons of debris; UN and health officials warn of disease risks while rescue teams and new aid shipments keep arriving. Regional Aid & Diplomacy: Bolivia sent 20 rescuers and six tons of supplies; Israel dispatched a humanitarian mission despite no diplomatic ties; the U.S. pledged a $150 million lifeline and deployed search-and-rescue support. Peru Political Shift: Keiko Fujimori won Peru’s presidency in a razor-thin runoff, edging Roberto Sanchez by fewer than 50,000 votes. Chile Rights Protest: A massive Pride march in Santiago doubled as a pushback against the direction of President José Antonio Kast’s administration.

World Cup Shock: Brazil reached the last 16 with a 2-1 comeback over Japan, capped by Gabriel Martinelli’s stoppage-time winner, while Paraguay stunned Germany 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw, with Orlando Gill saving two kicks and VAR overturning a late German goal. Venezuela Earthquake Response: Venezuela’s quake death toll rose to 1,719 as rescue teams battled aftershocks; NASA satellite data suggests nearly 58,870 buildings were damaged or destroyed, and the UN is sending 10,000 body bags amid fears fatalities could climb. Humanitarian Pressure: Survivors and families described slow, uneven aid, while the US reopened the Port of La Guaira to speed supplies. Peru Politics: Keiko Fujimori won Peru’s presidency in a tight runoff, promising “order and hope” as she takes office July 28. Mexico World Cup Build-Up: Co-host Mexico hosts Ecuador at the Azteca, with Javier Aguirre saying they’ll need an “almost perfect” match.

Venezuela Earthquake Response: Venezuela’s twin quakes have killed at least 1,719 people, with more than 5,000 injured and over 15,000 displaced, as aftershocks continue and rescuers report mounting obstacles—while the U.S. rushes to reopen a key port to speed aid deliveries. Humanitarian Funding: The CAF/Andean Development Bank is channeling third-party donations through a new “Fund for the Recovery and Reconstruction of Venezuela,” accepting transfers in dollars or euros. Rescue Access Tensions: Volunteers say government restrictions on entering La Guaira are slowing searches during the most critical hours. World Cup Knockout Drama (Brazil): Brazil survived a scare to beat Japan 2-1 in Houston, with Casemiro equalizing and Gabriel Martinelli scoring a stoppage-time winner to send the Selecao into the round of 16. Labor Organizing (Mexico): App-based gig workers in Mexico staged a stoppage demanding fair rates and easier access to benefits under a 2024 labor reform.

Venezuela Earthquake Response: The death toll from Wednesday’s twin quakes has climbed to 1,450, with tens of thousands still missing as rescue teams race against time in La Guaira; hope persists with dramatic rescues, including two 11-year-olds pulled alive and a father-son saved after days under rubble. International Aid Mobilization: The U.S. Southern Command says Marines and airfield specialists are moving in to expand airport capacity and reopen the port of La Guaira, while LATAM launched a humanitarian airlift and the Netherlands sent a navy ship from Curaçao with supplies. Faith and Politics: Pope Leo XIV offered prayers and initial aid, and Venezuela’s interim leadership says electricity and water are gradually returning in the hardest-hit areas. World Cup 2026 (Round of 32): Brazil vs. Japan headlines Monday in Houston, with Brazil aiming to keep momentum under Ancelotti and Japan betting on an underdog mindset; Germany vs. Paraguay and Netherlands vs. Morocco round out the knockout slate. Caribbean Crime: A Scottish man was found shot dead on a luxury island in Canouan, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, as police investigate.

Venezuela Earthquake Response: Venezuela’s quake toll climbed to 1,450 dead as rescue teams kept searching for survivors after the twin 7.2 and 7.5 blasts, with more than 50,000 missing and thousands displaced; in La Guaira, shelters like a converted sports hall are packed, while international teams and dogs continue digging through collapsed buildings. International Aid: India’s Operation Amistad delivered 66 tonnes of medical supplies and a field hospital unit, and other rescue units—including from Jordan and U.S. teams—have arrived to help with search-and-rescue. Family Tragedies: Reports also highlighted the deaths of soccer player Lucas Trejo’s wife and two children after a 72-hour search, underscoring the scale of personal loss. World Cup Round of 32: In football, Colombia topped Group K after a 0-0 draw with Portugal and will face Ghana, while Argentina finished Group J perfect with a 3-1 win over Jordan as Messi extended his record streak; Uruguay’s Manuel Ugarte suffered a serious knee ligament injury and is expected to miss significant time. Caribbean Wellness: JACANA announced an expansion into the Caribbean with a new wellness platform, betting on booming wellness tourism.

Venezuela Earthquake Response: Venezuela’s death toll climbed to 1,430 with 3,238 injured and tens of thousands missing after twin quakes, as rescue teams race against dwindling survival odds and aftershocks keep complicating access to La Guaira and parts of Caracas. Humanitarian Aid Mobilization: 24 countries sent 521 tons of aid and 2,741 rescuers have arrived, while India’s “Operation Amistad” dispatched C-17 flights carrying a field hospital and medical supplies; communities abroad, including in the US, are also organizing donations. Argentina World Cup Run: Lionel Messi came off the bench to score again as Argentina beat Jordan 3-1, finishing Group J with a perfect record and setting up the Round of 32 vs Cape Verde. Colombia vs Portugal: Colombia topped Group K after a 0-0 draw with Portugal, with a late VAR call denying a winner; Portugal advances to face Croatia. Argentina Politics: Argentina’s Cabinet chief Manuel Adorni resigned amid a corruption scandal, adding pressure to President Javier Milei as prosecutors investigate alleged illicit enrichment. Brazil Crypto Rule: Brazil proposed a 24-hour hold on large stablecoin transfers (over $10,000) for screening, a move that could affect cross-border payments and remittances.

Venezuela Earthquake Crisis: Venezuela’s twin quakes have killed 1,430 people, with 3,238 injured and tens of thousands still missing, as families in La Guaira dig through rubble and frustration grows over the pace of the official response. International Aid Ramps Up: The UN says up to 6.76 million people may be affected, while search-and-rescue teams from at least 17 countries mobilize and the first US aid flights begin landing in Caracas. Humanitarian Needs: Officials warn millions could face shortages of shelter, water, sanitation and healthcare, with the “first 72 hours” rescue window narrowing. World Cup Focus: In Miami, Colombia and Portugal play a Group K decider, with both teams already qualified but the winner set for a potentially smoother Round of 32 path. Argentina Rest Strategy: Lionel Messi is expected to start on the bench as Argentina rotates for the final group match, prioritizing knockout readiness. Sports Diplomacy: Argentina’s ambassador visited the Kuwait Volleyball Federation, highlighting growing sporting ties.

Venezuela Earthquake Response: Venezuela’s twin quakes have killed at least 920 people, with 3,360 injured and more than 50,000 reported missing as rescuers race against a narrowing window for survivors; La Guaira remains the hardest hit, with authorities restricting access and families digging by hand amid shortages. Humanitarian Aid Surge: The world is mobilizing fast—India’s “Operation Amistad” is sending a field hospital and medical supplies, while the US is coordinating major military-backed relief and pledging $150 million through the UN and partners. Aftershocks Raise Fears: A 4.7 aftershock rattled communities overnight, adding to anxiety as survivors shelter outdoors. Global Solidarity: Celebrities and governments are urging donations and support, including Natti Natasha’s appeal and condolences from abroad. World Cup, Latin America Focus: Spain beat Uruguay 1-0 to top Group H and Uruguay are out; Messi will start from the bench for Argentina’s final group match vs Jordan, while Cape Verde stunned everyone by reaching the Round of 32 and will face Argentina.

Venezuela Earthquake Aftermath: The death toll from twin quakes has climbed to at least 920, with about 3,360 injured, as rescue teams race to pull people from rubble and UN officials warn tens of thousands may still be missing. Humanitarian Response: Foreign search-and-rescue teams and aid are arriving, while Canada says the situation is “horrific” and is looking to expand support; the U.S. is also sending military help and waiving some sanctions to keep relief transactions moving. Displacement Crisis: Survivors in Caracas and La Guaira are sleeping in cars, parks and under trees, unsure where they’ll be able to live after damaged buildings are inspected. Politics Under Pressure: The disaster is becoming a test of legitimacy for acting President Delcy Rodríguez, with rival efforts emerging to coordinate aid and track missing people. Diplomacy & Sports: Spain and Mexico move to mend ties after years of tension, and World Cup focus continues as Portugal prepares for a crucial Colombia match.

Venezuela Earthquake Aftermath: Twin quakes near Caracas—7.2 and 7.5—have killed at least 235 people and left about 4,300 injured, with thousands still missing as rescuers dig through collapsed buildings in La Guaira and beyond; hospitals report patients arriving without vital signs, while families wait for news and international teams rush in. Global Response & Diplomacy: The U.S. is deploying specialized teams and aid, and countries including Spain, France, Switzerland, Portugal and others are sending rescue support; Spain also confirms two Spaniards dead and 80 unaccounted for. World Cup, Latin America Focus: Brazil topped its group with a 3-0 win over Scotland powered by Vinícius Jr., while Mexico finished perfect in Group A with a 3-0 over Czechia; Australia advanced after a 0-0 draw with Paraguay, and Japan booked a last-32 clash with Brazil after a 1-1 draw with Sweden.

Venezuela Earthquake Response: Twin quakes of magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 have devastated northern Venezuela, with officials reporting at least 188 dead and hundreds injured, while thousands are still missing and trapped under rubble; the interim government declared a state of emergency, closed the main airport, and says a rebuilding fund is being set up with IMF participation and $200 million earmarked. International Aid & Diplomacy: The U.S. is sending elite search-and-rescue teams and coordinating relief, while the UN, World Bank, and multiple countries—including China, the Philippines, and CARICOM—have offered condolences and support. Caribbean Risk Warning: A WWII shipwreck threat in Saint Lucia is raising alarms about potential oil spills in the Caribbean, adding pressure on regional disaster readiness. World Cup 2026 — Mexico & Brazil: Mexico capped a historic group run with three straight wins, and Brazil sealed last-32 qualification by beating Scotland 3-0, with Vinícius Jr scoring again and Neymar returning as a late substitute. Colombia Security: Colombia’s president-elect Abelardo de la Espriella has given guerrilla groups one month to surrender, signaling a tougher security line ahead.