The International Monetary Fund approved a disbursement of US$ 7.5 billion for Argentina after completing the fifth and sixth reviews of the Extended Fund Facility. This brings the total disbursements to Argentina under the agreement to approximately US$ 36 billion. Argentina's Economy Minister, Sergio Massa, confirmed the information and mentioned that the funds will help Argentina settle debts with the Andean Development Corporation and the Qatar Fund, among other commitments. The approval was unanimous, and the disbursement will be made immediately.

The Ombudsman of Peru has called on the Prosecutor's Office and the National Police to investigate reported attacks on journalists during protests in Lima, which left two journalists injured. The protests were against President Dina Boluarte, who was addressing Congress on Peru's Independence Day. The Ombudsman reported six injuries in total, including four civilians and two police officers. América TV's team was among those attacked. CNN is awaiting responses from the Prosecutor's Office and the Police regarding these incidents.

Alejandro Soto of the Alianza para el Progreso party was elected as the new president of the Congress of Peru for the 2023-2024 term, receiving 77 votes. He replaces José Williams Zapata of Avanza País. Hernando Guerra (Fuerza Popular), Waldemar Cerrón (Perú Libre), and Rosselli Amuruz (Avanza País) were elected as the first, second, and third vice presidents, respectively. Soto aims to restore the Congress's reputation and continue the fight against corruption. The Congress of Peru consists of 130 legislators.

Venezuelan National Assembly members approved an agreement condemning a European Parliament resolution that criticizes the disqualification of several presidential candidates. In response, Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez announced that European election observers would not be allowed during the 2024 presidential elections. Legislator Rodolfo Sanz urged European parliamentarians to respect Venezuela's sovereignty and independence.

Peru has declared a health emergency due to a significant increase in Guillain-Barré syndrome cases. The government issued a decree following an unusual rise in cases of this autoimmune disease, which causes muscle weakness or paralysis. As of June 23, 103 cases were reported nationwide, with a notable increase detected in mid-June. The 90-day emergency will allow the government to allocate necessary resources to protect at-risk populations.

Mexico has increased the security of the Peruvian diplomatic delegation following death threats reported by Peruvian authorities. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mexico stated that they are conducting investigations to clarify these regrettable events. Earlier on Friday, the president of the Council of Ministers of Peru, Alberto Otárola, condemned the alleged death threats received by the Peruvian embassy in Mexico, which were denounced by the Peruvian foreign ministry. The threats were reportedly sent via WhatsApp messages to the charge d'affaires of the Peruvian delegation on Wednesday, prompting a diplomatic note to Mexico's foreign ministry requesting investigations and assurances for their officials.

The Judicial Power of Peru has imposed a 36-month travel ban on Keiko Fujimori and seven others as part of an investigation into money laundering. The measure also restricts the former presidential candidate from changing her fiscal address. Keiko Fujimori, daughter of former President Alberto Fujimori, has been under investigation by the Peruvian Prosecutor's Office since 2018 for allegedly receiving irregular contributions from Odebrecht for her presidential campaigns. She has denied the accusations and asserted her innocence.

The Supreme Federal Court of Brazil sentenced former president and senator Fernando Collor de Mello to eight years and ten months in prison for passive corruption and money laundering. The conviction is linked to the Lava Jato investigation, revealing that Collor de Mello received 20 million reais to facilitate irregular state contracts in exchange for political support. As a former leader of the Brazilian Labour Party, he directed political actions at BR Distribuidora, a Petrobras subsidiary, receiving illicit payments through numerous bank deposits. Collor de Mello remains free while appealing the sentence.

Mexican authorities are investigating an incident in Tamaulipas where members of the National Guard allegedly shot at a vehicle, resulting in the deaths of two people, including a pregnant woman. The incident, which also left three others injured, is being investigated by both federal and state prosecutors. The Human Rights Committee of Nuevo Laredo reported the event, and local officials are awaiting further investigation to determine the exact circumstances.

At least three inmates died and another was injured during clashes on Tuesday inside La Roca prison in Guayaquil, according to a statement from Ecuador's National Service for Comprehensive Attention to Persons Deprived of Liberty (SNAI).

The Supreme Court of Peru rejected a new appeal by former President Pedro Castillo's defense and ratified his 36-month preventive detention. Castillo, who is under investigation for corruption, argued there was no flight risk, but Judge César San Martín Castro dismissed the request. Castillo claimed the preventive detention was politically motivated. He was detained on December 7 after Congress declared the presidency vacant following his unconstitutional attempt to dissolve Parliament. Castillo is being investigated for rebellion, abuse of authority, and severe public order disruption. His wife and children are in Mexico, where they have been granted asylum.

Peru's Supreme Court has upheld a 36-month preventive detention order for former President Pedro Castillo, rejecting an appeal from his defense. Castillo, who faces charges of rebellion, conspiracy, abuse of authority, and disturbing public order, claims the detention is politically motivated. His family has been granted asylum in Mexico.

The Constitutional Court of Peru has mandated the Ministry of Health to distribute the emergency oral contraceptive pill, also known as the 'morning-after pill,' free of charge. This ruling is a victory for Violeta Gómez Hinostroza, who filed a lawsuit in 2014 demanding the state provide the pill at no cost. The court found no reason to prevent the state from providing the medication and cited the World Health Organization, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and the Pan American Health Organization, which do not consider the emergency contraceptive as abortive. The Ministry of Health is instructed to accompany the pill distribution with information and specifications about the medication.

A foiled multimillion-dollar heist at Santiago's Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport resulted in the deaths of a DGAC airport security official and one of the robbers. The attempted robbery involved around 10 people targeting an armored vehicle carrying $32.5 million from a LATAM Airlines plane. The heist was thwarted by security officials, and no passengers were at risk during the incident. The investigation is ongoing.

A security official from the airport security died during a confrontation with a group attempting to rob an armored truck inside the Arturo Merino Benítez Airport in Santiago, Chile. The official was identified as Claudio Alejandro Villar Rodríguez. Chilean President Gabriel Boric confirmed that a criminal also died in the incident. The attempted robbery involved 10 individuals with high firepower and planning, targeting a truck carrying about $32 million from Miami to various banks in Chile. The DGAC's training and armament helped thwart the robbery, although it resulted in the death of their official. The investigation is ongoing, and the Chilean Minister of Defense, Maya Fernández, highlighted the improved training and armament of security forces while noting that such an armed attack should not occur at an airport.

A commercial establishment owned by the parents of Antonela Roccuzzo, Lionel Messi's wife, was shot at by several men on motorcycles in Rosario, Argentina. The incident, which occurred early Thursday, resulted in 14 bullet impacts and a handwritten note with threats against the footballer. Rosario's superintendent Pablo Javkin confirmed the ownership and the threats. Authorities are reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses to identify the perpetrators. Rosario has been known for high violence rates and drug trafficking gang presence in recent years.

The Colombian Minister of Transport, Guillermo Reyes, announced that the government is considering all necessary measures, including market intervention, to ensure aviation market actors continue operating for the benefit of users. This follows the suspension of operations by Viva Air, which has affected 460,000 passengers. The government is prioritizing the protection of workers' and passengers' rights, with LATAM Airlines Colombia stepping in to transport affected passengers.

The Colombian government, led by Gustavo Petro, has offered citizenship to Nicaraguans who were stripped of their nationality by Daniel Ortega's regime. This includes 222 opposition members expelled from Nicaragua and 94 exiled individuals. The Colombian government condemned the Nicaraguan government's actions as arbitrary and dictatorial. Other countries, including Argentina, Chile, Mexico, and Spain, have also offered citizenship to the affected individuals. The article highlights the case of Sergio Ramírez, a prominent Nicaraguan novelist and former vice president, who was among those stripped of their nationality.

The Colombian government, led by Gustavo Petro, has offered citizenship to Nicaraguans who were stripped of their nationality by Daniel Ortega's regime. This includes 222 opposition members expelled to the United States and 94 exiled individuals. The Colombian government condemned the actions of the Nicaraguan government, likening them to past dictatorial regimes. Other countries, including Argentina, Chile, Mexico, and Spain, have also offered citizenship to the affected individuals. The article highlights the case of Sergio Ramírez, a prominent Nicaraguan writer and former vice president, who was among those stripped of their nationality.

Taxi drivers in Colombia ended their strike after reaching a 17-point agreement with the government, including discussions on service regulations and fuel prices. Key demands from the taxi sector include better enforcement of existing regulations on ride-hailing apps like Uber, addressing high fuel costs, and fulfilling promises of social security for workers. Government officials, including President Gustavo Petro, have expressed commitment to addressing these issues.

Miguel Insfrán, also known as 'Uncle Rich,' a prominent drug trafficker sought by Paraguayan justice, was arrested in Brazil. Paraguayan authorities, who are conducting 'Operation A Ultranza Py' to dismantle international drug trafficking schemes, have announced plans to request his extradition from Brazil. The arrest was confirmed by Brazilian authorities, and Paraguay's Attorney General Sandra Quiñónez discussed the matter on Radio Monumental.

More than 200 political prisoners have been deported from Nicaragua to the United States, as confirmed by the Nicaraguan justice system. The deportees, including Felix Maradiaga, were labeled as traitors and stripped of their citizen rights. The article also highlights the sentencing of two La Prensa workers to 10 years in prison and questions the legitimacy of President Daniel Ortega's government, which has been criticized for arresting opposition leaders and suppressing dissent.

The Vatican and the Cuban government discussed the issue of protesters detained since 2021 during a meeting in Havana between Cardinal Beniamino Stella and Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel. Cardinal Stella emphasized the Pope's desire for a positive response, potentially in the form of amnesty or clemency, for the detained protesters. The Cuban authorities are yet to respond to these requests. The Communist Party of Cuba's newspaper, Granma, reported on the meeting but did not explicitly mention the detained protesters.

Carolina Ribera, daughter of former interim president of Bolivia Jeanine Áñez, claims the government is using an investigation to intimidate her for her international denunciations of human rights abuses against political prisoners. Ribera asserts she has nothing to hide and is not afraid of the investigation. The Bolivian Ministry of Justice denies any political persecution, urging Ribera to cooperate with the investigation. The investigation reportedly involves multiple institutions and is related to alleged illicit gains. Jeanine Áñez, currently imprisoned, maintains her innocence and claims her presidency was constitutional, rejecting accusations of a coup against former president Evo Morales.

Former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori has been admitted to Hospital II de Vitarte in Lima due to an irregular heart rate, according to a statement from Peru's Social Security (EsSalud). He was transferred to the hospital on Monday night and stabilized by the medical staff. Fujimori is currently under observation and will undergo further medical examinations.

The Chilean Ministry of Justice and Human Rights confirmed the existence of 89 boxes with unexamined remains that may belong to victims of enforced disappearance. The remains were in the custody of the Servicio Médico Legal after being transferred from the University of Chile's Department of Legal Medicine in 2019. The discovery was described as 'very serious' by the Agrupación de Familiares de Detenidos Desaparecidos de Chile, who demanded an investigation. The University of Chile stated they had returned the remains in 2019 and remain committed to truth and justice in cases of human rights violations. During the military dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet, at least 1,469 victims of enforced disappearance were recorded.

A 10-year-old girl was killed in Pitalito, Huila, Colombia, by a man who attacked her with a knife in her home. The assailant also critically injured the girl's grandmother and killed their dog. Authorities arrested the suspect, who had recently been released from prison after serving a sentence for a violent sexual crime. The Fiscalía has charged him with aggravated homicide, attempted aggravated homicide, and aggravated animal abuse, but he has not accepted the charges.

Facundo Jones Huala, leader of the Resistencia Ancestral Mapuche (RAM), was arrested in El Bolsón, Río Negro, Argentina. He was wanted by Interpol and had been a fugitive from Chilean justice since 2022. Jones Huala had been convicted in Chile for arson and illegal possession of a firearm. The Chilean government seeks his extradition. The arrest followed months of investigation and witness reports. CNN is seeking comments from RAM and Jones Huala's legal representation.

The Nicaraguan government has announced restrictions on tourists bringing certain audiovisual equipment into the country, including night vision binoculars and specific types of cameras. The directive, signed by Eddy Medrano Soto, specifies that tourists may only bring one camera and one pair of binoculars. Violators may face fines and equipment confiscation. The government requires special permission from the Cinemateca Nacional for additional recording equipment, and night vision binoculars are entirely prohibited as they are reserved for military and police use.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro has directed a commission from the Colombian Family Welfare Institute (ICBF) and the presidency to the Guaviare department to address allegations of child abuse, particularly among the Nukak and Jiw indigenous communities. The Ombudsman's Office of Colombia has called on the national government to pay attention to the rights violations of communities in Guaviare. The Ombudsman, Carlos Camargo, reported that a team visited San José del Guaviare to verify complaints and will report to state institutions. ICBF Director Concepción Baracaldo Aldana stated they are mobilizing to the area and condemned the abuse. In 2020, a similar case in Risaralda involving the rape of an indigenous girl by soldiers resulted in convictions.

The Second Criminal Chamber of the Departmental Court of Justice of La Paz, Bolivia, suspended the appeal hearing of the governor of Santa Cruz, Luis Fernando Camacho, who was detained on December 28 for his alleged involvement in crimes investigated in the 'Golpe de Estado I' case, which he claims innocence. Camacho's defense requested that he be tried while free, but the hearing was halted due to a challenge by the plaintiffs. Camacho, who is being held at the Chonchocoro prison in La Paz, has called for the defense of democracy and warned against Bolivia becoming a dictatorship like Venezuela and Cuba.

Colombian Vice President Francia Márquez reported an alleged assassination attempt via Twitter, stating that her security team found explosives on the road leading to her home in Suárez, Cauca. The Colombian police successfully destroyed the device. The region is known for armed groups, and President Gustavo Petro has been taking measures to combat violence affecting civilians and military personnel.

A Mexico City federal judge halted the extradition of Ovidio Guzmán, son of Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzmán, to the US following his arrest in an operation that resulted in 29 deaths. The US seeks his extradition for drug trafficking, but legal formalities in Mexico delay the process. Guzmán's arrest, days before a summit involving US President Joe Biden and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, led to violent clashes in Culiacán, Sinaloa. Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador denied any link between the arrest and Biden's visit, emphasizing autonomous action by Mexican authorities. Security at Altiplano prison, where Guzmán is held, has been increased.

A Mexico City federal judge halted the extradition of Ovidio Guzmán, son of 'El Chapo', to the US following his arrest in an operation that resulted in 29 deaths. The US seeks his extradition for drug trafficking. Guzmán's previous 2019 arrest was also noted, along with his father's history and escape from Altiplano prison. The arrest occurred days before a summit in Mexico City with US President Joe Biden and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The aftermath of the arrest saw violent clashes in Culiacán, Sinaloa, leading to 19 suspected gang member and 10 military fatalities, with no civilian casualties reported. Security has been increased at Altiplano prison, and the Sinaloa Cartel, which the Guzmán family is associated with, is under scrutiny for narcotics trafficking and methamphetamine production.

A Mexico City federal judge halted the extradition of Ovidio Guzmán, son of Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzmán, to the US following his arrest in an operation that resulted in 29 deaths. The US seeks his extradition for drug trafficking, but legal formalities in Mexico delay the process. Guzmán's arrest led to violent clashes in Culiacán, causing 29 deaths, including 19 suspected gang members and 10 military personnel. The arrest occurred ahead of the North American Leaders Summit in Mexico City. Mexican President López Obrador denied any link between the arrest and US President Biden's visit, emphasizing autonomous action by Mexican authorities.

A Mexico City federal judge halted the extradition of Ovidio Guzmán, son of Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzmán, to the US following his arrest in a violent operation that resulted in 29 deaths. The US seeks his extradition for drug trafficking, but legal formalities in Mexico delay the process. Guzmán's arrest, involving 200 special forces, led to clashes in Culiacán, causing 19 gang member and 10 military personnel deaths. The arrest occurred ahead of the North American Leaders Summit in Mexico City. Mexican President López Obrador denied any link between the arrest and US President Biden's visit, emphasizing autonomous action by Mexican authorities.

A federal judge in Mexico City halted the extradition of Ovidio Guzmán, son of 'El Chapo', to the US following his arrest, which resulted in 29 deaths. The US seeks Guzmán for drug trafficking, offering a $5 million reward. Mexico's Foreign Minister stated extradition will not be immediate due to legal formalities and ongoing proceedings in Mexico. Guzmán's previous 2019 arrest ended in his release to prevent further violence. His latest capture precedes a North American Leaders Summit in Mexico City, with President López Obrador denying any link to President Biden's visit. The arrest in Culiacán led to clashes, resulting in 19 suspected gang member and 10 military fatalities, with no civilian casualties. Security at Altiplano prison, where Guzmán is held, has been increased.

A Mexico City federal judge halted the extradition of Ovidio Guzmán, son of Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzmán, to the US following his arrest in a violent operation that resulted in 29 deaths. The US seeks Guzmán's extradition for drug trafficking, but legal formalities in Mexico delay the process. Guzmán's arrest, days before a summit involving US President Joe Biden and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, is seen as a move by Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador to demonstrate control over security. The operation involved 200 special forces, and the aftermath saw violent clashes in Culiacán, resulting in increased security at Altiplano prison where Guzmán is held.

A Mexico City federal judge halted the extradition of Ovidio Guzmán, son of Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzmán, to the US following his arrest in a violent operation that resulted in 29 deaths. The US seeks Guzmán's extradition for drug trafficking, but legal formalities in Mexico delay the process. Guzmán's arrest, days before a summit involving US President Joe Biden and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, is seen as a move by Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador to demonstrate control over security. The arrest led to violent clashes in Culiacán, with 19 gang members and 10 military personnel killed. Security at the Altiplano prison, where Guzmán is held, has been increased.

Mexican authorities arrested Ovidio Guzmán, son of drug lord Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzmán, in a dramatic operation in Sinaloa, leading to violent clashes in Culiacán. The arrest, days before a summit with US President Joe Biden and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, is seen as a move by President López Obrador to demonstrate control over Mexico's security. The Sinaloa Cartel, led by 'El Chapo' before his imprisonment, remains a powerful narcotics trafficking organization. The US State Department had offered a $5 million reward for Ovidio Guzmán's capture, highlighting his involvement in drug trafficking and methamphetamine production.

Mexican authorities have arrested Ovidio Guzmán, son of the infamous drug lord Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzmán, in a significant operation in Sinaloa that led to violent clashes in Culiacán. The arrest, which comes just before a summit involving US President Joe Biden and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, is seen as a move by President Andrés Manuel López Obrador to demonstrate control over Mexico's security situation. The Sinaloa Cartel, one of the world's most powerful narcotics trafficking organizations, is heavily implicated, with Guzmán and his brother involved in extensive drug operations. The arrest has led to significant disruptions, including the closure of Culiacán International Airport and the suspension of local activities.

Mexican authorities have arrested Ovidio Guzmán, son of the infamous drug lord Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzmán, in a significant operation in Sinaloa that led to violent clashes in Culiacán. The arrest, which comes just before a visit by US President Joe Biden and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, is seen as a move by President López Obrador to demonstrate control over Mexico's security situation. The Sinaloa Cartel, one of the world's most powerful narcotics trafficking organizations, is heavily involved in drug production and trafficking. The arrest has led to significant disruptions, including the closure of Culiacán International Airport and the suspension of local activities.

The Venezuelan National Assembly, controlled by the government, reaffirmed Jorge Rodríguez as its president for the 2023-2024 term. Rodríguez criticized the opposition for causing suffering to the Venezuelan people. Former opposition deputies, whose terms ended in 2021, elected Dinorah Figuera as their leader and voted to eliminate the interim government led by Juan Guaidó, replacing it with a commission to protect national assets abroad. The U.S. Department of State continues to recognize the 2015 National Assembly as the only democratically elected institution in Venezuela. The Venezuelan opposition does not recognize President Nicolás Maduro or the current legislative body as legitimate.

Ovidio Guzmán, son of Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzmán, was arrested by Mexican authorities in Culiacán, Sinaloa, leading to violent clashes and disruptions in the city. Guzmán, a high-ranking member of the Sinaloa Cartel, had been previously arrested in 2019 but was released to avoid further violence. The arrest occurred days before a North American Leaders Summit in Mexico City and could demonstrate President López Obrador's control over security. The U.S. State Department had offered a $5 million reward for information leading to Guzmán's arrest and has accused him and his brother of investing in narcotics and overseeing methamphetamine labs.

Mexican authorities have arrested Ovidio Guzmán, son of the infamous drug lord Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzmán, in a dramatic operation in Sinaloa that led to violent clashes in Culiacán. The arrest, which comes just before a summit involving US President Joe Biden and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, is seen as a move by President López Obrador to demonstrate control over Mexico's security situation. The Sinaloa Cartel, one of the world's most powerful narcotics trafficking organizations, is heavily involved in drug production and trafficking. The US State Department had offered a $5 million reward for information leading to Guzmán's arrest.

Mexican authorities have arrested Ovidio Guzmán, son of notorious drug lord Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzmán, in a dramatic operation in Sinaloa that led to violent clashes in Culiacán. The arrest, which comes just before a visit by US President Joe Biden and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, is seen as a move by President Andrés Manuel López Obrador to demonstrate control over Mexico's security situation. The Sinaloa Cartel, one of the world's most powerful narcotics trafficking organizations, is heavily involved in drug production and trafficking. The arrest has led to significant disruptions, including the closure of Culiacán International Airport and the suspension of school and administrative activities in the city.

Uruguay's summer season has started with record numbers of tourists, according to Remo Monzeglio, the Deputy Minister of Tourism. The number of visitors has reached pre-pandemic levels, with Argentinians leading the influx to Punta del Este. Tourism is crucial for Uruguay's economy, previously accounting for up to 8% of the GDP. Over 332,000 tourists, 850 private boats, and 439 private flights have been recorded so far. Monzeglio is optimistic about the season's continuation and hopes for positive numbers by March.

In Bolivia, supporters and opponents of the detained Santa Cruz governor, Luis Fernando Camacho, gathered outside Chonchocoro prison in La Paz. Simón Amado, president of the government-allied Coordinadora Nacional en Defensa de la Democracia, stated they are maintaining a vigil to prevent Camacho from escaping. Efraín Suárez, an advisor from the Santa Cruz Governor's Office, argued that Camacho's detention is unjust, claiming there was no coup but rather electoral fraud. Camacho, the only opposition governor in Bolivia, was detained on December 28 on terrorism charges related to the 'Golpe de Estado I' case, sparking protests mainly in Santa Cruz.

The ELN has denied reaching a bilateral ceasefire agreement with the Colombian government, contradicting President Gustavo Petro's announcement of a six-month ceasefire starting January 1, 2023. The ELN stated that no such agreement has been discussed and that the proposal will be examined in the next dialogue cycle in Mexico. Petro's announcement included other groups such as Segunda Marquetalia and Autodefensas Gaitanistas de Colombia, aiming to suspend humanitarian impacts and offensive actions, with the possibility of extending the agreement based on negotiation progress.

Alex Saab, a Colombian businessman and ally of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, appealed a Florida judge's decision to reject the dismissal of a money laundering conspiracy charge. The appeal argues that Saab's diplomatic immunity at the time of his arrest in Cape Verde was not adequately considered. In 2021, seven out of eight money laundering charges against Saab were dismissed, but he still faces one charge, to which he pleaded not guilty.

A group of former deputies from Venezuela's National Assembly voted to withdraw support from opposition leader Juan Guaidó, who is recognized by the United States as the interim president of Venezuela. With 72 votes against, 23 in favor, and nine abstentions, the majority agreed to approve the reform of the Statute Law governing the Transition to Democracy and end Guaidó's interim status. The decision will be finalized in a second session on December 29. Guaidó responded by saying the vote would only benefit the dictatorship. National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez called Guaidó's interim presidency a 'political mirage.' Presidential elections in Venezuela are scheduled for 2024.

Gabriel Carlos Salinas Mendoza, a Venezuelan national, was detained in Caracas as the suspected perpetrator of the murder of Paraguayan anti-corruption prosecutor Marcelo Pecci. The arrest occurred during a routine security operation, and Salinas Mendoza was identified through Interpol databases. Colombian authorities, who consider him a suspect in the May murder, are coordinating with Venezuelan officials to ensure he faces justice, despite the constitutional prohibition on extraditing Venezuelan nationals. The case highlights ongoing international cooperation in law enforcement.

A Mexican opposition senator, Xóchitl Gálvez, protested against President Andrés Manuel López Obrador's electoral reform proposal by dressing as a dinosaur in the Senate. The protest, which included a sign reading 'Jurassic Plan,' interrupted the session briefly. Senate President Alejandro Armenta requested Gálvez to return to her seat, citing procedural violations. The reform proposal, known as 'Plan B,' follows a previous failed attempt to pass a constitutional electoral reform. The incident highlights ongoing political tensions surrounding electoral changes in Mexico.

Former Guatemalan President Otto Pérez Molina and former Vice President Roxana Baldetti were sentenced to 16 years in prison for illicit association and a special case of tax fraud. The Tribunal de Mayor Riesgo B of Guatemala imposed an eight-year sentence for each crime and ordered them to return over $1 million to the state. They were acquitted of illicit enrichment charges. Both have been in prison since 2015 and have denied the accusations throughout the trial. Pérez Molina expressed frustration and disappointment with the verdict, claiming he was convicted without evidence, and plans to appeal. Baldetti also announced her intention to appeal. The judges criticized the investigation by the now-dissolved International Commission Against Impunity in Guatemala (CICIG) and the Public Ministry for being deficient and incomplete, respectively.

Two firefighters died after a LATAM Airlines plane collided with a fire truck on the runway of Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima. The incident occurred during the plane's takeoff, causing it to catch fire. The airport will remain closed until 1 p.m. ET on Saturday for further investigation. LATAM Airlines confirmed no passenger fatalities, and Lima Airport Partners expressed condolences to the families of the deceased firefighters.

Two firefighters died after a LATAM Airlines plane collided with a fire truck on the runway of Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima. The incident occurred during the plane's takeoff, causing it to catch fire. The airport will remain closed until 1 p.m. ET on Saturday for further investigation. LATAM Airlines confirmed no passenger fatalities, and Lima Airport Partners expressed condolences to the firefighters' families.

At least 9 people were confirmed dead during riots at El Inca prison in Quito, Ecuador, as reported by the Fiscalía de Ecuador. President Guillermo Lasso announced the transfer of an organized crime gang leader from El Inca to a high-security prison in Guayaquil. The situation is still developing.

The Colombian Prosecutor's Office announced the suspension of arrest and extradition orders against 17 ELN representatives to facilitate their participation in peace negotiations with the Colombian government. The decision aims to support the resumption of talks in Caracas, Venezuela, following a three-year hiatus. The Prosecutor's Office has communicated this resolution to national and international judicial authorities, including Interpol.

The Permanent Council of the Organization of American States (OAS) has authorized an investigation into Secretary General Luis Almagro following anonymous allegations of ethical violations related to a romantic relationship with an employee. Almagro has confirmed the relationship but denies any ethical breaches, emphasizing his cooperation for a transparent investigation.

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro urged his supporters to clear road blockades across the country, which began after his defeat in the presidential runoff against Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Bolsonaro emphasized the importance of respecting others' rights and the economy, while acknowledging the protesters' frustrations. He encouraged continued demonstrations in public squares and clarified his non-involvement in organizing the protests. The Brazilian Federal Highway Police reported a reduction in blockades following a Supreme Court order to dissolve them.

ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan has requested to restart the investigation into alleged crimes against humanity in Venezuela after Venezuela asked the court to defer the inquiry. Khan stated that the deferral is not justified at this stage. Despite acknowledging some positive legal changes by Venezuelan authorities, he deemed them insufficient or without tangible outcomes. The investigation follows indications of crimes against humanity in Venezuela since at least April 2017. The Venezuelan government, led by President Nicolás Maduro, has consistently denied the allegations and signed a cooperation agreement in March to allow an ICC office in Caracas. CNN has reached out to Venezuela's Ministry for Communication and Information for comments but has not received a response.

The Jurisdicción Especial para la Paz (JEP) in Colombia granted amnesty to Rodrigo Granda, a former member of the FARC secretariat, for the crime of rebellion. The amnesty extinguishes penal and accessory sanctions and removes disciplinary, penal, or fiscal records related to the rebellion charge. Granda, sentenced to 70 months in prison in 2006, cannot leave Colombia without JEP authorization and must sign a commitment act to complete his amnesty. The decision does not cover other pending charges against Granda, who remains subject to the Sistema Integral de Verdad, Justicia, Reparación y No Repetición (SIVJRNR). Granda was part of the FARC delegation that signed a peace agreement with the Colombian government in 2016.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro condemned the violence during a protest in Bogotá led by the Embera indigenous community, which resulted in injuries to police, civilians, and city officials. The protest, demanding relocation and other issues, escalated when security forces intervened. Bogotá's mayor, Claudia López, called for legal action against those responsible, while national official Patricia Tobón expressed regret over the events and pledged continued support for the displaced Embera community.

Images have surfaced showing the arrest of Flor Abigail Hay Urrutia, who was found dead shortly after her detention by Mexican authorities. The video, obtained by her sister Margarita Hay Urrutia, shows Abigail being handled by police officers at the Comandancia de Policía de Salina Cruz. The official cause of death is reported as suicide, but her family disputes this, alleging police involvement. The Oaxaca state prosecutor's office is investigating the incident, while the family demands clarity and justice.

Chilean President Gabriel Boric announced a 4.2% increase in the fiscal budget for 2023, focusing on economic reactivation, job creation, public safety, and social security. The budget aims to counteract economic downturns without increasing inflation and plans to create over 200,000 new jobs. The proposal will be submitted to Congress for approval.

Nicolás Maduro, the president of Venezuela, has agreed to act as a guarantor in the peace negotiations between the Colombian government and the National Liberation Army (ELN). This decision follows a request from Colombian President Gustavo Petro, who aims to restart peace talks with the guerrilla group. The negotiations have been stalled since 2019 after an ELN attack killed 22 cadets. The involvement of Venezuela as a guarantor is seen as a step towards resuming dialogue and seeking peace.

The Guatemalan Public Ministry has issued an arrest warrant against Juan Francisco Sandoval, former head of the Special Prosecutor's Office Against Impunity, for alleged crimes of denial of justice and influence peddling. Sandoval claims this is part of a state-led effort to criminalize and stigmatize him. He was dismissed in July 2021 by Attorney General Consuelo Porras, who cited alleged abuses by Sandoval. Sandoval views these accusations as persecution against justice operators in Guatemala.

The Colombian government, through Justice Minister Néstor Osuna, has approved the extradition of Alvaro Fredy Córdoba, brother of Senator Piedad Córdoba, to the United States. Córdoba, who has ten days to appeal, is wanted by the Southern District of New York court for alleged drug trafficking offenses. He was arrested in Medellín on February 2. The Colombian Supreme Court authorized the extradition based on drug trafficking charges, despite defense arguments against it. Piedad Córdoba has maintained her brother's innocence since his arrest.

The Peruvian Congress Oversight Commission has approved an investigation into an alleged criminal organization operating from the Government Palace, pending full congressional approval. President Pedro Castillo faces six investigations by the Fiscalía de la Nación, five related to his term starting July 28, 2021. Castillo, accused of leading a criminal organization within the Peruvian state to manipulate public works contracts, denies the allegations through his lawyers Benji Espinoza and Eduardo Pachas. The investigation aims to ensure due process, as stated by commission president Héctor Ventura.

The Dominican Republic government has launched a tender for the construction of the second phase of a border wall, extending 110 kilometers, aimed at controlling cross-border movement. The first phase, initiated in February, covers 54 kilometers and is in advanced execution. The second phase aims to regulate the movement of people, vehicles, and commerce along the 391.6-kilometer border with Haiti. Recently, the government announced increased military presence at a border crossing following an incident involving the death of a Haitian national, which led to disturbances.

During a public event in Leticia, Colombia, President Gustavo Petro was struck by a Colombian flag after a person behind him fell, causing the flagpole to hit him on the back. The incident was recorded, and Petro was heard saying 'don't let Colombia fall' before assisting the fallen individual. The president was not injured, and further details about the person who fell are still awaited from the Presidency of Colombia.