Biofuels & food pressure: Rising oil prices tied to the Iran conflict and Strait of Hormuz disruptions are pushing governments to expand ethanol blending, with experts warning demand could surge and squeeze food and fertilizer markets. Cuba fuel access: The U.S. authorized a shipment of 250,000 barrels of diesel and gasoline to Cuba, a major commercial shift that could ease shortages but also highlights how fragile the island’s energy system remains. Cuba transition politics: Analysts say any U.S.-driven opening for Cuba could bring hard tradeoffs that won’t sit well with parts of the Cuban-American exile community. Venezuela mining crackdown: Venezuela deployed troops against illegal miners in the Orinoco gold belt, underscoring the security and human-rights risks around extractive zones. El Niño risk: NOAA and other forecasters warn El Niño could intensify coastal flooding and heat impacts in 2026, with exposure flagged for parts of Latin America. Brazil-Korea energy ties: Brazil and POSCO’s partnership deepens, but a reported POSCO debt hole in Brazil is casting a shadow over the relationship. EVs & ethanol momentum: India’s E85 launch and flex-fuel push show how fuel policy is being used to reduce oil import dependence—an approach echoing across the region. OPEC oil squeeze: Reuters reports OPEC output fell to the lowest since 2000, driven by Iran export cuts and U.S. blockade effects, feeding broader price volatility. Solar & smart infrastructure: Market reports point to continued growth in solar lighting and smart ports, reflecting ongoing investment in grid-light solutions and port modernization.