Venezuela-US Oil Deal: Acting President Delcy Rodríguez defended Trump’s “biggest oil deal in history,” saying Venezuela keeps ownership and sovereignty while a U.S.-linked venture targets 17 strategic fields for 25 years, aiming for 1.5 million barrels per day and about $19 per barrel to Caracas, with projected state taxes near $209 billion. Sovereignty Backlash: Venezuelans and critics across the political spectrum are questioning transparency and legality, warning the arrangement could deepen U.S. leverage despite Rodríguez’s promises of welfare, jobs, and infrastructure. U.S. Strategic Reserves: Trump also said Venezuelan crude will be used to “top out” the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve, which has fallen to multi-decade lows—though details on timing and feasibility remain contested. Colombia Security: Colombia’s President Abelardo de la Espriella said a dissident FARС leader (“Felipe”/“Arcadio”) was killed in a military operation, describing it as a major blow to the “Iván Mordisco” network. Cross-border Justice: The Dominican Republic and Colombia agreed to create a Joint Investigation Team to strengthen international cooperation against organized crime. Local Recovery in Venezuela: The Venezuela Renace plan delivered 100 rehabilitated apartments in Caracas after the June earthquakes, including repairs to housing plus community facilities like a preschool and sports court. Trade/Mapping Flashpoint: Ontario launched a review after some provincial sites showed “Lake America” on maps following Google updates tied to U.S. naming changes.