Venezuela: Government sends troops to stop illegal mining in Las Claritas region
On 10 June, Reuters reported that the Venezuelan government has sent troops to Las Claritas region, an area in Bolívar state known for illegal gold mining, to crack down on illegal mining activities. Local residents reported hearing explosions and gunfire, and drones were seen flying over the area. Many people stayed inside their homes while some shops and businesses temporarily closed due to security concerns. Human rights groups said that illegal mining in the region is often controlled by criminal and armed groups. They also expressed concern about possible human rights abuses including arbitrary arrests and unlawful killings. This operation was undertaken as the Venezuelan government seeks to attract more foreign investment into the mining sector. Officials believe that improving security in mining areas will help increase gold production and encourage investment in the country’s mining industry.
(“Venezuela deploys troops against illegal miners in key gold belt,” Reuters, 10 June 2026)
https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/venezuela-deploys-troops-against-illegal-miners-key-gold-belt-2026-06-10/  

Peru: Final election results may depend on disputed ballots
On 10 June, Reuters reported that Peru’s presidential election remained too close to determine a winner as vote counting continued for a fourth day. Left-wing candidate Roberto Sanchez held a very narrow lead over conservative candidate Keiko Fujimori after 97.9 per cent of the votes had been counted as of now. Most of the remaining votes are from Peruvians living abroad where Fujimori has received stronger support. Officials said that around 400,000 votes are disputed and will need to be reviewed by election authorities and courts before a final result can be announced. Election observers said that the outcome of the election may depend on these contested votes. Both candidates asked their supporters to remain calm and patient while the counting process continues. Authorities said it could take several weeks before a final winner is officially declared. The close race reflects the political divisions and ongoing uncertainty in Peru.
(“Count slows in Peru as presidency likely hinges on contested votes,” Reuters, 10 June 2026) https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/count-slows-peru-presidency-likely-hinges-contested-votes-2026-06-10/  

Colombia: De la Espriella leads Cepeda in new runoff poll amid the upcoming elections
On 11 June, Reuters reported that Colombian presidential candidate Abelardo de la Espriella is leading his rival Ivan Cepeda in a new opinion poll ahead of the 21 June runoff election. The survey showed De la Espriella receiving 52.6 per cent of the vote while Cepeda received 44.8 per cent. The poll suggests that Cepeda, an ally of President Gustavo Petro, faces a difficult challenge in the final stage of the election. De la Espriella has campaigned on promises to improve security, support businesses, and promote economic growth. Meanwhile, Cepeda has focused on continuing peace talks with armed groups and expanding social welfare programmes. The runoff election is expected to give voters a choice between two different visions for Colombia’s future. The poll was released less than two weeks before the election and indicates that De la Espriella currently has an advantage. However, analysts said that voter turnout and the choices of undecided voters could still affect the final result.
(“Colombia’s De la Espriella leads Cepeda in runoff poll,” Reuters, 11 June 2026)
https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/colombias-de-la-espriella-leads-cepeda-runoff-poll-2026-06-11/ 

Mexico: Central bank says financial system remains strong despite risks
On 10 June, Reuters reported that the Banxico (Central Bank of Mexico) stated that the country’s financial system remains strong and stable. It stated that the financial sector is capable of handling economic difficulties and unexpected shocks. The bank said that risks to the financial system have increased slightly since its previous report. However, Mexican banks continue to have strong financial reserves and enough funds to meet their obligations. The report identified global conflicts, cyberattacks, and climate-related disasters as major external risks. It also highlighted domestic challenges such as slower economic growth, higher inflation, and possible pressure on Mexico’s credit rating. Despite these concerns, the Bank of Mexico said the financial system remains resilient and well-prepared to face economic challenges. Officials also expressed hope that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will boost tourism and support economic activity in the country.
(“Bank of Mexico says Mexican financial system maintains solid position,” Reuters, 10 June 2026)
https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/bank-mexico-says-mexican-financial-system-maintains-solid-position-2026-06-10/ 

Brazil: Senate committee approves proposal to increase central bank autonomy
On 10 June, Reuters reported that a Brazilian Senate committee approved a proposal to give the country’s central bank greater financial independence. The proposal would allow the central bank to manage its own budget, including spending on salaries, investments, other expenses, and using its own financial resources. The proposal is opposed by President Lula da Silva’s government as they believe it would reduce the government’s influence over the central bank. The measure will now be considered by the full Senate and, if approved, it will also need support from the lower house of Congress. Central Bank Governor Gabriel Galípolo supported the proposal stating that it would help the institution manage its finances more effectively, address staff shortages, and invest in new technology. Supporters say the reform would make the central bank more independent and efficient. However, critics argue that it would reduce government oversight of an important public institution.
(“Brazil Senate committee approves central bank financial autonomy,” Reuters, 10 June 2026)
https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/brazil-senate-committee-approves-central-bank-financial-autonomy-2026-06-10/  

Argentina: Opinion article challenges the idea of a “white Argentina”
On 10 June, Al Jazeera published an opinion article that questioned the idea of Argentina as a mainly “white” country. The author argued that past governments encouraged European immigration and promoted European culture as a symbol of progress and development. According to the article, this reduced the visibility and recognition of Afro-Argentine and Indigenous communities. The article linked Argentina’s recent decision to vote against a United Nations resolution on slavery reparations to this historical background. The author also argued that the government of President Javier Milei continues to support ideas that give greater importance to a European identity than to the country’s diverse cultural heritage. The article called for greater recognition of the history, contributions, and experiences of Afro-descendants and indigenous communities in Argentina. It argued that acknowledging this diversity is important for building a more inclusive society.
(“The myth of white Argentina still shapes the nation,” Al Jazeera, 10 June 2026)
https://www.aljazeera.com/opinions/2026/6/10/the-myth-of-white-argentina-still-shapes-the-nation  

Mexico: World Cup celebrations begin amid protests and social tensions
On 11 June, Al Jazeera reported that Mexico is preparing to host the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The tournament has created excitement across the country with fan events, cultural programmes, and large crowds expected in host cities. At the same time, teachers’ unions and other groups have organised protests to highlight issues such as low wages, pensions, the rising cost of living, violence, and the problem of missing persons. Protesters say the government is giving too much attention to the World Cup while important social issues remain unresolved. Authorities have deployed thousands of security personnel to maintain order and ensure the safety of visitors and participants. Despite the protests, many Mexicans hope the World Cup will increase tourism, support economic growth, and strengthen national pride.
(“Mexico braced for celebrations, protests as World Cup opens amid tensions,” Al Jazeera, 11 June 2026)
https://www.aljazeera.com/sports/2026/6/11/mexico-braced-for-celebrations-protests-as-world-cup-opens-amid-tensions  

Argentina: Police seize Nazi weapons and memorabilia from online seller’s home
On 10 June, Reuters reported that Argentine police seized a collection of Nazi-related weapons and items from the home of a man near Buenos Aires. The collection included weapons, uniforms, ammunition, and other objects linked to Nazi Germany. Police began the investigation after finding an online advertisement selling military uniforms and accessories. During a court-approved search of the house, officers found items with Nazi symbols, daggers marked with swastikas, and a copy of Adolf Hitler’s book Mein Kampf. Authorities identified the suspect as Diego Fernando Martinez and linked him to the online sales account under investigation. Police have not yet announced what charges he may face. Argentine law prohibits the promotion of ideas based on racial superiority. The case is one of several recent discoveries involving Nazi-era objects in Argentina, a country that became home to both Holocaust survivors and some Nazi officials after World War II.
(“Nazi arsenal seized from Argentine vendor’s home,” Reuters, 10 June 2026) 
https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/nazi-arsenal-seized-argentine-vendors-home-2026-06-10/  

Uruguay and China: Montevideo signs agreement with CAU university to support agricultural development
On 11 June, CGTN reported that Uruguay signed an agreement with a China Agricultural University (CAU) in Beijing to support agricultural development. The agreement aims to increase cooperation in agricultural research, technology, education, and training. Officials said the partnership will help improve farming methods and support sustainable agricultural growth in Uruguay. It will also encourage the exchange of knowledge between researchers, students, and agricultural experts from both countries. The agreement reflects the growing cooperation between Uruguay and China in the fields of agriculture, science, and education. Both sides expressed hope that the partnership would help increase productivity, promote technological innovation, and support long-term agricultural development.
(“Uruguay signs agreement with Chinese university to drive farming,” CGTN, 11 June 2026)
https://newsus.cgtn.com/news/2026-06-11/Uruguay-signs-agreement-with-Chinese-university-to-drive-farming-1NSxsuZ602A/share_amp.html   

Peru and China: Young Peruvians participate in Chinese arts and culture competition
On 11 June, CGTN reported that young people from Peru participated in a Chinese arts and culture competition. The event was organised to promote cultural exchange and strengthen ties between Peru and China. Participants showcased their knowledge of Chinese language, culture, history, and traditions through different speeches, performances, and activities. The competition brought together students from various educational institutions and encouraged them to learn more about China. Organisers said the event helps strengthen cultural understanding and people-to-people connections between the two countries. Many participants expressed interest in learning more about Chinese culture and building closer links through education and cultural exchanges. The event reflects the growing cultural and educational cooperation between Peru and China and efforts to promote mutual understanding between their people.
(“Young Peruvians take part in Chinese arts and culture competition,” CGTN, 11 June 2026) https://newsus.cgtn.com/news/2026-06-11/Young-Peruvians-take-part-in-Chinese-arts-and-culture-competition-1NSwH4N8ItW/p.html