Bolivia

This LabourList opinion piece analyzes reports that UK politician Andy Burnham is exploring mutualisation, cooperatives, and non-profit models for English water utilities, particularly Thames Water. The author argues that these terms describe distinct legal structures and should not be used interchangeably. While acknowledging that any shift away from privatisation would be a victory for campaigners, the piece criticises mutualisation as an insufficient solution. It notes that Welsh Water, a non-profit, still loses 41% of revenue to debt servicing. The author calls for Thames Water to enter Special Administration Regime (SAR) to stabilise finances and assess infrastructure before deciding on long-term ownership. The article warns that mutuals can be vulnerable to private equity takeover, citing the MyCSP example, and argues that public ownership remains the more proven model globally, with 90% of the world's water systems publicly owned.

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In this literary review for Dagens Nyheter, critic Nina Björk analyzes Canadian author Miriam Toews' latest work, an autobiography titled 'A ceasefire that is not peace.' Björk reflects on her previous mixed experiences with Toews' fiction, noting that while 'Women who talk' was impressive, subsequent novels lacked stylistic rigor. However, she finds the new autobiography compelling despite its rejection of traditional chronological narration. The book is structured as a fragmented collection of letters, emails, quotes, and personal anecdotes rather than a linear narrative. Björk critiques some of Toews' existential phrasing as pseudo-profound but praises the book's form, particularly the inclusion of letters written to her sister Marjorie, who later committed suicide. These letters capture a youthful vitality and serve as the core answer to why Toews writes. Ultimately, Björk concludes that while the book does not satisfy her curiosity about the motivation behind Toews' writing, the unique method and emotional resonance of the narrative ensure she will continue to read the author's work.

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Bolivia is experiencing a nationwide shutdown as an indefinite general strike enters its second week, driven by widespread opposition to President Rodrigo Paz Pereira’s neoliberal economic reforms. The strike, organized by the country’s largest labor union federation, involves teachers, farmers, indigenous groups, and miners protesting against stagnating wages, austerity measures, and the privatization of state assets. Tensions escalated in La Paz where police used tear gas against demonstrators attempting to breach the presidential palace. Protesters demand the president's resignation, a 20% wage increase, and the repeal of Law 1720, a controversial agrarian reform law feared to facilitate corporate takeover of indigenous lands. President Paz, who assumed office in November 2025 after two decades of socialist rule by the Movement Toward Socialism (MAS), promised 'capitalism for all' but faces intense backlash over soaring inflation and the removal of fuel subsidies. The unrest highlights deep societal divisions regarding economic direction and indigenous rights in the South American nation.

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Credicorp reported strong performance in its Q1 2026 earnings call, maintaining a 2026 GDP growth forecast of approximately 3.5% for Peru, despite a slight downside skew to 3.2%. The bank highlighted resilient macroeconomic fundamentals, driven by favorable export prices, with copper trading near $66.5 per pound, and dynamic domestic demand growing above 4%. However, the outlook is tempered by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East affecting energy prices and inflation, which rose to 4% year-over-year. Politically, the upcoming presidential runoff introduces uncertainty due to differing economic visions, including potential state interventionism. Nevertheless, Credicorp expresses confidence in institutional stability, citing the Senate's role as a counterweight to radical policy shifts. The bank also announced board refreshments, adding directors with expertise in technology and AI. Regionally, operations in Colombia remain resilient, while Chile faces softened growth. Credicorp plans to execute its decoupling strategy through differentiated growth anchors, relying on robust governance and structural safeguards to navigate the mixed operating environment.

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In La Paz, Bolivia, security forces deployed tear gas to disperse large groups of protesting miners, leading to riots and heightened tensions. The demonstration was organized by mining sector workers who are pressing the government for several key concessions. Their primary demands include improved access to fuel supplies, which are critical for their operations, as well as revisions to existing labor and operational contracts. Additionally, the protesters are calling for stricter regulatory frameworks within the mining industry. The use of force by authorities indicates a significant escalation in the dispute between the mining unions and the state. This event highlights ongoing socio-economic challenges and labor disputes in Bolivia's resource sector. The confrontation underscores the volatility of current relations between industrial workers and the government, with potential implications for national stability and resource management policies. The incident was reported by international news agencies, citing local developments in the capital city.

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This collection of photographs from May 15, 2026, captures diverse global events. In Australia, passengers from the MV Hondius were quarantined in Perth following a hantavirus outbreak. Italy hosted stage seven of the 109th Giro d’Italia, featuring a challenging climb to the Blockhaus summit, while Florence opened an immersive Dante Alighieri experience. In France, the Cannes Film Festival continued with screenings including Paweł Pawlikowski’s Fatherland, and French Foreign Legion paratroopers conducted urban assault exercises. Political and social unrest was depicted in Venezuela’s Petare slum and through violent clashes between miners and police in La Paz, Bolivia. Meanwhile, a prisoner of war exchange between Ukraine and Russia resulted in emotional reunions. Natural phenomena included a massive butterfly emergence in Jinping, China, and the return of flamingos to Turkey’s Lake Palas Tuzla after significant winter rains. These images collectively highlight ongoing health crises, sporting competitions, cultural festivals, military activities, civil unrest, and environmental changes across multiple continents.

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Violent clashes occurred in Bolivia's capital on Thursday as police deployed tear gas to repel a group of miners attempting to storm the government palace. The protesters utilized small dynamite charges, a tactic that has become increasingly prevalent during the second week of nationwide unrest. This incident marks a significant escalation in social turmoil challenging the administration of President Rodrigo Paz. Paz, who was sworn in late last year, represents a political shift for the Andean nation, ending nearly two decades of one-party rule. The use of explosives by miners highlights the intensity of the opposition facing the new government. As the unrest continues into its second week, the situation underscores the fragility of the current political transition and the growing dissatisfaction among key social sectors. The confrontation in the capital serves as the latest flashpoint in a broader crisis that threatens the stability of Paz's presidency and the new political era he ushered in.

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On May 15, 2026, the U.S. House of Representatives narrowly rejected a War Powers Resolution aimed at ending President Trump's military attacks on Iran, marking the third failed attempt by Democrats to curb executive war powers. Tensions remain high as the CENTCOM commander denied civilian casualties in Iran, while Iran's Foreign Minister urged BRICS nations to unite against U.S. actions. Internationally, President Trump left China without reaching agreements on Taiwan or the Strait of Hormuz. In other developments, the CIA Chief visited Havana amid Cuba's fuel crisis caused by U.S. blockades. Violence continued in the Middle East and Europe, with UNICEF reporting significant child casualties in Israeli attacks despite a ceasefire, and a Russian missile strike killing 24 in Kyiv. Domestically, the Supreme Court preserved access to abortion medication Mifepristone, while Border Patrol Chief Michael Banks resigned abruptly. Additionally, Boeing agreed to a nearly $50 million settlement with the family of a 737 MAX crash victim, and Oklahoma death row inmate Richard Glossip was freed on bond after thirty years.

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Serious clashes occurred in La Paz, Bolivia, between protesting miners and police forces on Thursday. Demonstrators attempted to storm the government palace and threw dynamite sticks at officers, prompting police to deploy tear gas to protect central squares and parliamentary buildings. The unrest, part of over a week of nationwide protests, was initially driven by demands for labor reforms and fuel subsidies amid a deepening economic crisis. However, grievances quickly expanded to include calls for the resignation of President Rodrigo Paz. Paz, a Christian Democrat who has been in office for six months following the end of the long-standing Movement towards Socialism (MAS) rule, faces intense opposition from professional groups affected by his economic opening measures. Although the government repealed a controversial land pledge law by decree to appease initial farmer protests, demonstrations escalated. Government officials have blamed former President Evo Morales and the opposition for inciting violence and maintaining road blockades. In response to the intensifying crisis, the administration has announced plans for dialogue while preparing police and military forces to clear ongoing blockades across the capital.

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Serious clashes have erupted in La Paz, Bolivia, between protesting miners and police forces. Demonstrators attempted to storm the government palace and threw sticks of dynamite at security personnel, prompting the police to deploy tear gas to disperse the crowds and protect central square areas near Parliament. Thousands of miners participated in the protests, initially demanding labor reforms and fuel subsidies. However, as tensions escalated, the demonstrators increasingly called for the resignation of President Rodrigo Paz. This unrest marks the latest incident in over a week of nationwide instability following a significant political shift. After nearly two decades of rule by the Movement towards Socialism (MAS), Christian Democrat Rodrigo Paz has governed for six months, implementing economic opening measures. These policies have sparked intense backlash from professional groups and sectors that previously benefited from MAS social policies. The conflict highlights deepening societal divisions regarding economic direction and governance in Bolivia, with calls for the president's departure growing louder amidst the violent confrontations in the capital.

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This curated collection of photographs captures diverse global events and scenes from the past week. In India, lesser flamingos gathered in Navi Mumbai, while a farmer navigated algal blooms on Dal Lake in Srinagar. Political and social tensions were highlighted in Bolivia, where a riot policeman assisted an elderly woman during a demonstration in La Paz, and in the West Bank, where Palestinian men rested among ruins in al-Eizariya. Cultural and religious traditions were showcased in El Salvador during the Flowers And Palms festival and in Afghanistan with farmers threshing barley. Significant institutional moments included midshipmen climbing the Herndon Monument at the U.S. Naval Academy and President Donald Trump meeting President Xi Jinping in Beijing. Meanwhile, infrastructure development was visible in Switzerland with the transport of a massive wind turbine blade. Sports fans in Rome watched a rain-suspended tennis match at the Italian Open, and cinema enthusiasts attended screenings at the Cannes Film Festival in France. Additionally, supporters awaited the release of former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra in Bangkok. These images collectively illustrate a wide spectrum of human activity, environmental conditions, and geopolitical interactions across multiple continents.

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On May 15, 2026, significant developments unfolded across Latin America. Argentina reported a monthly inflation rate of 2.6% for April, the first sub-3% reading in eleven months, reinforcing President Milei’s disinflation thesis despite previous external shocks. Annual inflation slowed to 32.4%. In Brazil, a major political scandal emerged as Intercept Brasil published evidence linking Senator Flávio Bolsonaro to R$134 million in transfers from jailed banker Daniel Vorcaro. The Federal Police arrested the banker’s father, impacting market sentiment and political polling. Meanwhile, Cuba faced its worst energy crisis in years, with 70% of the island disconnected from the grid during peak demand, triggering widespread protests and cacerolazos in Havana. Elsewhere, Bolivia recorded its first death during an ongoing general strike, and S&P downgraded the sovereign outlook for Mexico, along with state-owned entities PEMEX and CFE. Financial markets showed mixed reactions, with the Ibovespa rising while Mexico’s IPC fell. These events highlight growing political volatility and economic challenges in the region, ranging from successful monetary tightening in Argentina to severe infrastructure failures in Cuba and corruption allegations in Brazil.

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Violent clashes erupted in La Paz, Bolivia, as thousands of miners marched against President Rodrigo Paz, demanding his resignation amid the nation's severe economic crisis. The protests, which began two weeks ago with farmers opposing a land mortgage law, have expanded to include teachers, transport workers, and indigenous groups citing wage disputes and fuel shortages. Despite President Paz annulling the controversial law and holding emergency talks with miner delegations, unrest has intensified. Demonstrators used dynamite and blockades, paralyzing the capital and causing critical shortages of food and medicine due to 67 highway blockades. Police responded with tear gas to control the violent confrontations. The economic downturn, driven by a US dollar shortage and declining energy production, has fueled widespread discontent just six months after Paz took office on promises of free-market reforms. The situation represents the worst social unrest in Bolivia in a generation, challenging the government's stability and ability to manage the deepening financial emergency.

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Anti-government protests have escalated in Bolivia, particularly in the capital city of La Paz, as mining groups, rural unions, farmers, and teachers clash with law enforcement. Demonstrators are demanding the resignation of President Rodrigo Paz, citing severe economic mismanagement. The unrest involves the use of dynamite by miners and tear gas by riot police, with protesters attempting to reach the presidential palace. This mobilization marks the third day of a general strike that has blocked major highways and sparked an indigenous long march gaining momentum across towns. The country is grappling with its worst economic crisis in decades, characterized by dwindling natural gas reserves, fuel shortages, high inflation, and scarcity of essential medical supplies like oxygen. While government officials engaged in dialogue with miner delegations, they firmly rejected calls for the president's resignation, pledging to stabilize the economy instead. Political tensions are further complicated by accusations involving former President Evo Morales, who denies orchestrating the unrest but blames the current administration for failing to address basic needs. Security forces remain deployed in central La Paz as authorities monitor the situation, warning that demonstrations may persist if economic grievances remain unresolved.

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Thousands of miners paralyzed the center of La Paz, Bolivia, on May 14, 2026, clashing with police in a massive demonstration demanding the resignation of President Rodrigo Paz. The protesters, marching from El Alto amidst explosions and gunpowder smells, confronted security forces with slingshots while police responded with tear gas. The miners cite urgent needs for fuel supplies, expanded mining areas, explosives, and access to US dollars, claiming their grievances have been ignored by the center-right government. This mobilization occurs against the backdrop of a severe economic crisis characterized by a foreign currency shortage and 14% annual inflation. The unrest has expanded beyond the mining sector, with the Bolivian Workers' Central (COB) announcing a radicalization of demands, calling exclusively for the president's departure. Various other groups, including farmers, teachers, and transport employees, have joined the protests, blocking nearly all access roads to the administrative capital. The government faces widespread opposition as dialogue is deemed exhausted by union leaders, marking a significant escalation in political tension and social unrest within the country.

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Violent clashes erupted in La Paz, Bolivia, on May 14, 2026, as mining groups and rural unions staged anti-government protests demanding the resignation of President Rodrigo Paz. Demonstrators utilized small dynamite explosions and attempted to breach the presidential palace, prompting riot police to deploy tear gas. The unrest stems from Bolivia's severe economic crisis, characterized by soaring inflation, fuel shortages, and a collapse in natural gas exports, which has turned the nation into a net importer. Although President Paz, elected on a platform of economic reform, engaged in dialogue with miner representatives regarding fuel subsidies and agrarian laws, his administration firmly rejected calls for his resignation. The political turmoil also involves former President Evo Morales, who faces an arrest warrant for statutory rape and contempt of court. While government allies blame Morales for inciting the unrest, he denies these accusations, claiming he is being scapegoated. This event marks a significant escalation in weeks of road blockades and highlights the fragility of Paz's centre-right government amidst the country's worst economic downturn in decades.

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Violent clashes erupted in La Paz, Bolivia, on May 14, 2026, as miners confronted police during demonstrations demanding the resignation of President Rodrigo Paz. Protesters attempted to enter Plaza Murillo, throwing explosive devices, while law enforcement responded with tear gas and stun bombs. The unrest stems from deepening economic crises, including fuel shortages and a lack of US dollars, alongside specific demands for better mining regulations and contract revisions. Although a delegation of miners held emergency talks with the president earlier that day, tensions escalated into street violence. The protests have caused significant disruptions, including roadblocks that hindered the transport of food and medical supplies. Government officials accused former left-wing leader Evo Morales of inciting the unrest, a claim supported by Morales's public endorsement of the protesters' structural demands. This event marks a significant challenge to Paz's administration just six months after his inauguration, highlighting the fragility of the country's political and economic stability amidst ongoing social discontent.

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Violent clashes erupted in La Paz, Bolivia, on May 14, 2026, as mining groups marched to demand the resignation of President Rodrigo Paz. Witnesses reported hearing explosions and seeing demonstrators throw what appeared to be dynamite sticks while confronting police forces attempting to block their entry into Plaza Murillo, the city's central square. The miners are protesting for greater access to explosives and fuel, alongside revisions to contracts and the implementation of specific mining regulations. This unrest occurs six months after President Paz took office following a significant electoral victory. The country is currently grappling with a deepening economic and fuel crisis, exacerbated by a shortage of U.S. dollars and declining domestic energy production. Social tensions are mounting, involving not only miners but also farming and other union-aligned groups. While government officials have accused the opposition of instigating the protests, the situation reflects broader dissatisfaction with the current administration's handling of economic challenges. The incident highlights the fragile political and social stability in Bolivia as various sectors express their grievances through direct action and confrontation with state security forces.

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Marcelo Claure, Bolivia’s wealthiest individual and vice chairman of Shein, has unveiled the 'Bolivia 360' plan, a 15-month structural reform program developed with Harvard University’s Growth Lab. The initiative aims to prevent what Claure describes as an imminent economic collapse in Bolivia, characterized by exhausted international reserves, a fiscal deficit potentially reaching 13% of GDP, and rising inflation. The plan, led by economist Ricardo Hausmann, involves three phases: comprehensive economic diagnosis, socialization with political and business leaders, and implementation support for the next government. Claure warns that Bolivia risks becoming the 'next Venezuela' due to semi-hyperinflationary dynamics stemming from lost hydrocarbon revenues since 2014. He has pledged to channel international institutional capital into the country only if pro-market reforms are adopted. Notably, Claure has not visited Bolivia for over a year due to security threats. The proposal includes establishing a $10 million SME investment fund and a political leadership institute, targeting critical areas such as fiscal deficit reduction, central bank independence, and fuel subsidy liberalization amidst a fractured political landscape.

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Diego Cifarelli, President of the Argentine Federation of the Milling Industry (FAIM), announced at the A todo trigo congress that local millers are preparing to import wheat due to domestic shortages of high-quality grain. Despite this, the sector aims to significantly increase flour exports, currently operating at only 50% of its 13.2 million ton annual capacity. Cifarelli highlighted that structural inefficiencies, including excessive logistics, port, and tax costs, render Argentine products uncompetitive globally. He noted that exporting costs are triple those of Brazilian or Chilean competitors, limiting market access primarily to neighboring countries. The industry emphasizes the economic benefits of exporting value-added products like flour, pasta, and baked goods, which generate substantially higher revenue than raw wheat. To boost competitiveness and lower domestic prices through economies of scale, FAIM is calling for the removal of export withholdings on flour. Cifarelli argued that increasing production volume would reduce fixed costs and improve overall chain efficiency. While international demand for flour remains strong, high internal transport costs and regulatory burdens continue to hinder Argentina's potential to capture a larger share of the global market, causing significant frustration among industry leaders regarding idle industrial capacity.

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The Brazilian eFootball Console National Team, known as eBrasil, has successfully concluded the group stage of the FIFAe Nations League Qualifiers with a flawless record. During the second week of competition, the duo of HenrykinhO and JVictorPRO secured decisive victories against Paraguay (4-1), Bolivia (8-0), and Chile (7-2). These results placed them at the top of their group, demonstrating strong adaptability to various opponent strategies. Head coach Thiago Avaré praised the team's ability to impose their gameplay style from the start and adjust to different tactical approaches. Following this dominant performance, eBrasil is set to face Colombia in the upcoming playoff stage on Thursday, May 14, 2026. The match will be broadcast on CBF TV starting at 9 p.m. If victorious, Brazil will advance to play against the winner of the Peru versus Paraguay matchup. Other concurrent playoff fixtures include Venezuela against Bolivia and Chile against Argentina. This achievement highlights Brazil's continued prominence in the competitive esports landscape, specifically within the eFootball console division.

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CONMEBOL has officially announced the refereeing assignments, dates, and kick-off times for Matchday 5 of the Copa Sudamericana, a critical stage determining group classifications. The schedule features prominent Argentine clubs including River Plate, Racing Club, San Lorenzo, Tigre, Deportivo Riestra, and Barracas Central. Key matches include Barracas Central visiting Audax Italiano on Tuesday, May 19, officiated by Bolivian referee Gery Vargas. On the same day, Tigre faces América de Cali in Colombia under Brazilian referee Bruno Arleu. Wednesday’s fixtures see San Lorenzo travel to Brazil to play against Santos, with Venezuelan Alexis Herrera as the referee, while River Plate hosts Bragantino with Uruguayan Gustavo Tejera officiating. The round concludes on Thursday, May 21, with Racing Club hosting Caracas in a closed-door match led by Colombian referee Jhon Ospina. The announcement provides clarity for fans and teams regarding the officials who will manage these decisive encounters across South America. VAR officials have also been assigned for each match, ensuring comprehensive oversight. This information is vital for stakeholders tracking the progress of Argentine teams in the continental competition.

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Hydropower remains the backbone of South America's energy system, currently satisfying 45% of the continent's electricity demand despite only 30% of its potential being exploited. However, development has plateaued due to falling investor confidence in Colombia and political volatility in Argentina, Peru, and Chile. Climate change poses significant risks, with El Nino-intensified droughts impacting generation and extreme weather events threatening infrastructure reliability. Governments are increasingly seeking to diversify energy sources and improve water management strategies. Recent studies highlight vulnerabilities in key hydrological basins, particularly in northern Argentina, the La Plata Basin, and eastern Brazil. Meanwhile, Bolivia is expanding its hydropower capacity, with the Rositas dam project aiming to boost energy production and agricultural land while mitigating flooding. The International Hydropower Association notes that while total installed capacity reached 183GW in 2024, adaptive management strategies are crucial to balance generation efficiency with climate-related risks. The integration of AI and advanced assessment models is becoming essential for navigating these complex challenges and ensuring long-term energy security in the region.

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Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz Pereira has firmly rejected demands to resign as the country faces a severe political and economic crisis. Over 67 roadblocks have been established across Bolivia, crippling trade and transport, while a 'March for Life to Save Bolivia' caravan advances from Caracollo to La Paz. The protests are led by a coalition including the Bolivian Workers’ Confederation (COB), teachers, peasants, and groups aligned with former President Evo Morales. They oppose Paz’s conservative reform agenda, which includes cutting fuel subsidies and joining the 'Escudo de las Américas' defense framework. In response, Paz framed the unrest as a destabilization attempt, abrogated the controversial Law 1720 on land rights, and called for dialogue. The backdrop features Bolivia’s worst economic crisis in four decades, with 14% inflation, scarce foreign currency, and fuel shortages. Meanwhile, Morales remains under an arrest warrant for alleged minor trafficking. The confrontation represents a structural clash between the new administration’s orthodox stabilization efforts and the mobilized leftist opposition.

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Santiago Emmanuel and Juan Cruz Borras, known as 'Los Borras,' were arrested by the Argentine National Gendarmerie in Funes, Santa Fe, ending a manhunt that began with a violent incident in Villa Eloísa. The brothers are accused of owning a drug plane that landed on Tuesday carrying 321 kilograms of Bolivian cocaine. When authorities attempted to intercept the aircraft, the suspects opened fire, burned two vehicles, and ran over a gendarme, who was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. While the pilots were captured shortly after landing, the Borras brothers evaded initial capture by fleeing the scene. Investigators linked them to a previous seizure of 60 kilograms of cocaine in Arequito six months prior. The operation reveals their role as independent logistics providers for international drug gangs transporting cocaine from Bolivia to Europe via Argentine ports. The arrest marks a significant blow to their small-scale enterprise, distinct from other local cartels like that of Brian Bilbao. The brothers were found hiding at a girlfriend's residence without further resistance.

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On May 14, 2026, Latin America confronted significant economic and social challenges across multiple nations. Argentina awaited its April CPI data, with a consensus of 2.6%; a sub-3% figure would mark the first such occurrence in twelve months, potentially validating President Milei’s disinflation efforts. In Brazil, Banco do Brasil reported its worst quarterly performance of the cycle, cutting full-year profit guidance to R$18-22 billion after a 53.5% drop in Q1 net income, driven by soaring agro non-performing loans. Meanwhile, Bolivia escalated its response to widespread road blockades, authorizing police intervention against protesters opposing high inflation, which has stranded thousands of trucks and caused significant economic losses. Cuba faced a severe energy crisis, recording an annual deficit record of 2,113 MW, leaving much of the island without power and sparking public unrest. Additionally, Peru’s electoral authority confirmed the opponents for the upcoming June runoff election. These events highlight diverse institutional stresses, ranging from monetary pressures in Argentina to energy failures in Cuba and social unrest in Bolivia.

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Bolivian prosecutors have issued an arrest warrant for former President Evo Morales, seeking a 20-year prison sentence. The charges stem from allegations that Morales engaged in a romantic relationship with a minor, Cindy Vargas, in 2015, resulting in a child. However, the case is marked by significant controversy and legal disputes. Vargas has publicly stated that the incident did not occur and requested the case be dismissed, denying any exploitation. Morales denies all accusations, characterizing the proceedings as political persecution and lawfare intended to destroy his reputation and physical integrity. He claims the current government is using fabricated cases to cover up its own failures. Morales has refused to attend hearings, citing safety concerns and a lack of due process, which prosecutors argue constitutes contempt of court. His defense team asserts the trial is illegal because he was not personally notified. Meanwhile, tensions are rising as supporters threaten nationwide protests and potential insurgency if Morales is arrested, with reports suggesting he is currently in hiding in Cochabamba under the protection of loyalists.

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Argentine federal authorities are hunting for Santiago Emmanuel and Juan Cruz Borras, two brothers from Rosario implicated in international drug trafficking. The suspects escaped a law enforcement operation in Villa Eloísa, Santa Fe, after a plane carrying 321 kilograms of cocaine landed forcibly. During their flight, the brothers opened fire on National Gendarmerie agents and ran over one officer, who was hospitalized with head injuries but is out of danger. Two Bolivian pilots were arrested nearby. The investigation, led by the Narcocrime Prosecutor's Office and Judge Eduardo Rodríguez De Cruz, linked the Borras brothers to a previous incident in Arequito involving 60 kilos of cocaine. Unlike local drug lord Brian Bilbao, the brothers operate an independent logistics network connecting Bolivian producers to European markets via Buenos Aires ports. This raid follows a major seizure of 400 kilos of cocaine in Vera just one week prior. Health centers in the region have been alerted to monitor for injured fugitives as searches continue in surrounding towns.

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Bolivian photographer Marisol Mendez discusses her award-winning photograph 'Bull,' part of her series 'Madre,' which explores the depiction of womanhood. The image features actress Marta Salinas wearing a sculptural bull costume, symbolizing masculine energy and strength. Mendez explains that the concept originated from a dream and aims to challenge traditional media portrayals in Bolivia, where women displaying masculine attributes are often narrowly labeled. By incorporating nudity, she seeks to desexualize the female body, presenting it as a tool for self-expression rather than an object of desire. The project also examines archetypes of femininity, asking subjects whether they identify more with Mary Magdalene or the Virgin Mary. Mendez highlights the collaborative nature of the shoot, supported by her mother, and emphasizes the subject's comfort and power. The article provides insight into Mendez's artistic process, her personal history with gender expression, and her critique of societal norms regarding gender and sexuality in Latin America.

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Everlert (USOTC:EVLI) has successfully closed a reverse merger with American Copper & Gold Inc., effective May 12, 2026. The transaction transforms Everlert into a mining-focused public entity, now operating under the legal name American Gold & Copper Inc. Through this deal, the company acquired 100% ownership of subsidiaries controlling the Ascensión de Guarayos gold, copper, and silver project in eastern Bolivia. This asset spans approximately 42,175 hectares across multiple volcanogenic massive sulfide zones, supported by historical geological reports and prior investments. Management has outlined a strategic roadmap to enhance corporate governance and market access, including filing a Form 10 with the SEC, completing PCAOB audits, and pursuing an uplisting to a senior U.S. exchange. Additionally, the company plans to raise up to $10 million in equity financing to support development and listing initiatives. While existing resource estimates are preliminary and not yet NI 43-101 compliant, the merger marks a significant shift from a legacy OTC shell to a development-stage mining vehicle. Investors are now focusing on upcoming geological validation and the company's ability to transition toward broader capital market access through regulatory compliance and potential dual listings.

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