Colombia Election Watch: Trump-backed outsider Abelardo de la Espriella (“The Tiger”) appears to have won Colombia’s presidential runoff, narrowly beating Iván Cepeda as the country swings back to the right—an outcome already drawing fast U.S. reaction and raising stakes for security and peace talks. USAID & Politics Across Latin America: A report links Trump’s restructuring and cancellation of most USAID programs to a rapid, region-wide shift toward conservative victories, with democracy and governance funding dramatically reduced. Guatemala Civil War Justice: Guatemala launched a new humanitarian search mechanism to locate about 45,000 people disappeared during the 36-year internal armed conflict, aiming to support families and advance truth, memory, and reparations. Human Rights Under Pressure: Front Line Defenders says environmental and Indigenous rights defenders remain among the world’s most targeted activists, documenting 358 killings in 28 countries in 2025, including cases in Guatemala. Culture & Community Spotlight: East Bay artist Esteban Samayoa, of Mexican and Guatemalan heritage, is profiled for work shaped by spiritual themes, survival, and community connection. Volcano Adventure (Guatemala): A Trinidadian entrepreneur recounts her trek up Guatemala’s Volcán de Fuego, framing the climb as a life-changing test of courage.