Panama

On August 3, 2026, the U.S. Army approved service-wide wear of the Jungle Tab for soldiers completing the Jungle Operations Training Course, reviving jungle warfare expertise after the course was shut down in 1999. The grueling training, conducted jointly with Panamanian forces at Base Aeronaval Cristóbal Colón in Panama, covers survival, tactics, and waterborne operations. The move aligns with the Army’s shift toward the Western Hemisphere and the creation of Western Hemisphere Command.

6 reports · 2 sources · Updated Aug 3, 05:35 PM UTC

The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has temporarily suspended auction processes for close-in transit slots (offered 48 to 96 hours before transit) and reduced daily crossings from 36 to 34, effective July 25. Major carriers have responded by announcing surcharges of at least US$100 per twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU) due to anticipated operational constraints and higher canal pricing. These measures come against the backdrop of a US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecast indicating a 91% probability of a strong or very strong El Niño weather pattern during the last quarter of 2026 and into early 2027. The restrictions aim to manage water levels and transit efficiency amid drought concerns linked to the El Niño event.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 29, 04:45 AM UTC

Portuguese second-division club Chaves defeated Amarante 2-1 in a pre-season friendly, with new signing Marquinhos contributing a goal and an assist. The 23-year-old striker, who joined on loan from an undisclosed club with a purchase option, has already integrated into the squad. Additionally, Chaves reinforced their defense by signing Panamanian international central defender Antony Herbert from Conquense. The match served as an early showcase for the team's new acquisitions ahead of the upcoming season.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 12:44 PM UTC

On July 22, the sports statistics website Squawka released a ranking of the most tackles in a single match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The group stage match between Jordan and Algeria recorded the highest number with 55 tackles, placing first. Brazil vs Morocco and DR Congo vs Uzbekistan tied for second with 49 tackles each. The list includes several group stage matches and one Round of 32 game (Germany vs Paraguay), all featuring 45 or more tackles. The data was sourced from X (formerly Twitter) and reported by Hupu Soccer, a Chinese sports media outlet. The ranking highlights the physical intensity and defensive effort in various World Cup matches.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 09:43 AM UTC

On July 22, the statistics website Squawka released a ranking of the most shots off target (wide or missed) in a single match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The list is topped by the Round of 32 match between Belgium and Senegal, which recorded 20 off-target shots. Following are Turkey vs Paraguay and Colombia vs Portugal, each with 18 off-target shots. Other matches on the list include Ivory Coast vs Ecuador, New Zealand vs Belgium, DR Congo vs Uzbekistan, Panama vs England, Spain vs Cape Verde, Haiti vs Scotland, and Australia vs Turkey, with totals ranging from 14 to 16. The data was sourced from Squawka and published by Hupu Football News.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 08:24 AM UTC

The World Cup has concluded, and data website Squawka has compiled a list of the matches with the most fouls per game during the tournament. The final between Spain and Argentina leads the list with 46 fouls. Other high-foul matches include Haiti vs Scotland (44 fouls) in the group stage, Switzerland vs Colombia (43 fouls) in the Round of 16, and England vs Ghana (38 fouls) also in the group stage. The list features ten matches in total, spanning group stages to the final, highlighting the physical intensity of the competition. The data was sourced from X and reported by Hupu Football News.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 06:00 AM UTC

Portuguese second-division club Chaves has announced the signing of Panamanian center-back Antony Herbert. The young international defender joins from Spanish club Conquense to bolster the team's defensive line. The article also mentions other recent signings for Chaves, including striker Marquinhos on loan with a purchase option, and right-back Léo Alaba from AVS SAD, indicating an active transfer window for the club.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 05:34 PM UTC

In the World Cup third-place match between England and France, Declan Rice scored a goal and provided an assist in the first half. According to statistics from a data website, Rice became the sixth English player in history to both score and assist in a single World Cup match. The previous five players to achieve this feat are Roger Hunt (1966 vs Mexico), Joe Cole (2006 vs Sweden), Raheem Sterling (2022 vs Iran), Jude Bellingham (2026 vs Panama), and Harry Kane (2026 vs Mexico). The article notes that Rice achieved this in the 2026 match against France. The report originates from Hupu Football News, a Chinese sports community platform.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 10:05 PM UTC

This opinion piece from Die Welt reflects on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which was initially criticized for its expansion to 48 teams, hosting in the United States under Donald Trump, and FIFA President Gianni Infantino's influence. Despite fears of commercialism and low-quality matches, the author concludes the tournament was surprisingly positive. Stars like Messi, Mbappé, and Haaland delivered, and smaller teams such as Cape Verde and Panama impressed. Germany was eliminated early by Paraguay. The article criticizes German self-perception in football and suggests that fans should reconsider their biases about ticket prices and atmosphere. It warns that when the Bundesliga resumes amid familiar problems (symbolized by 'masked mobs firing rockets'), the World Cup's vibrant, diverse atmosphere will be missed.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 11:34 AM UTC

A BILD reporter recounts his experience watching all 102 games of the 2026 FIFA World Cup over 144 hours (six days) as part of BILD's World Cup WG (shared living/working space) in Dallas and New York. The article describes the intense schedule, including adjusting to time zone differences, rearranging furniture for optimal TV viewing, and the physical toll of prolonged sitting (a chair rod bent from overuse). The reporter attended eight games in person at AT&T Stadium in Dallas, including Germany's opener against Curaçao and England's 4-2 win over Croatia, which BILD called the best game of the tournament. The remaining 94 games were watched on TV. The piece highlights the reporter's dedication and the all-consuming nature of covering a major sporting event, noting that even during a one-and-a-half-hour wait at 35°C at the stadium entrance, they watched games on their phones.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 02:03 AM UTC

The article profiles Martha Bustillo, a 65-year-old housekeeper at a New York hotel, and other hotel workers who experienced the 2026 FIFA World Cup from a unique perspective. Initially priced out of attending matches due to high ticket costs (averaging $900 for group-stage games), Bustillo and 23 other union-represented hotel employees from New York and New Jersey were selected by the Hotel & Gaming Trades Council to attend England's group-stage win over Panama at MetLife Stadium. The initiative was part of a broader effort by state and city officials to distribute over 2,500 tickets to local residents. The story highlights how these workers, who served as unofficial ambassadors to global fans during the tournament, finally got to become fans themselves, with Bustillo receiving a Brazil jersey from grateful guests before her own matchday experience.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 10:00 AM UTC

Martha Bustillo, a 65-year-old housekeeper at a New York hotel, was among 24 hotel employees from New York and New Jersey selected by their union, the Hotel & Gaming Trades Council, to attend a World Cup match at MetLife Stadium. The initiative is part of a broader effort by local officials to make tickets available to residents priced out of the tournament, with over 2,500 tickets distributed. Bustillo, a Honduran immigrant and soccer fan, had resigned herself to experiencing the World Cup only through the guests she served, cleaning rooms of fans from Brazil, England, and Panama. When she learned she would attend the England vs. Panama group-stage match, she was overjoyed. The story highlights the contrast between the global spectacle of the World Cup and the economic realities for working-class New Yorkers, who often serve the event but cannot afford to attend.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 10:00 AM UTC

The article profiles Martha Bustillo, a 65-year-old housekeeper at the Lexington Hotel in New York, and 23 other hotel employees from New York and New Jersey who were selected by their union (Hotel & Gaming Trades Council) to attend a World Cup match at MetLife Stadium. Bustillo, a Honduran immigrant and soccer fan, had been priced out of attending games due to high ticket costs (around $900 for group-stage matches). The union initiative, part of broader state and city programs distributing over 2,500 tickets to residents, allowed these workers to experience the tournament firsthand. Bustillo attended England's group-stage win over Panama, having previously interacted with fans from Brazil, England, and Panama while working at the hotel. The story highlights the contrast between serving World Cup guests and finally being able to participate as a fan.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 10:00 AM UTC

This analysis, part of a series by TA reporter David Ornstein, examines England's World Cup campaign under coach Thomas Tuchel. Jude Bellingham emerged as a key player, scoring six goals and showing versatility, despite initial doubts about his role. Tuchel pushed for high-intensity, dominant football, but England's performance drifted from this ideal as the tournament advanced. Bellingham publicly criticized Tuchel's comments about team performance after a match in Miami, the only sign of disunity. Tuchel, inspired by a documentary on Rafael Nadal, acknowledged the inevitability of failure. England started strong with a 4-2 win over Croatia but struggled to maintain form, leading to a semifinal exit. The article highlights the tension between Tuchel's demands and the team's actual execution.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 08:28 AM UTC

As of late June 2026, the 2026 FIFA World Cup—hosted across North America—has seen 44 of 48 teams eliminated through the quarter-finals. Early exits included group-stage bottom-finishers (e.g., Czech Republic, Qatar, Haiti) and worst third-placed teams (Iran, South Korea, Scotland, Uruguay). Knockout rounds eliminated major teams like Germany, Brazil, Portugal, and the United States. The tournament continues with four remaining nations competing for the title.

7 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 16, 07:29 AM UTC

At an event organized by the liberal think tank Cato Institute, former World Bank President David Malpass and Argentine economist Emilio Ocampo strongly advocated for the full dollarization of Argentina's economy. Malpass, who served under Donald Trump, argued that eliminating the Argentine peso is crucial to restoring investor confidence and attracting massive capital inflows. He claimed that 90% of Argentina's economic deterioration stems from the existence of the local currency, asserting that formal dollarization would trigger an immediate surge in investment without requiring significant prior reserves. Emilio Ocampo, a former advisor to President Javier Milei, supported this view by highlighting the success of dollarized economies like Ecuador and Panama. He noted that Argentines already hold significantly more dollars than pesos, indicating a de facto preference for the US currency. Ocampo criticized the current system as inefficient and stagnant, arguing that dollarization would provide long-term credibility and protect citizens' wealth from political interference. Although dollarization was a central promise in Milei's 2023 campaign, it was later discarded by his administration. The speakers contended that international institutions resist dollarization because they benefit from the current monetary order.

1 reports · 1 sources

The Panama Canal Authority has announced that it does not plan to impose vessel passage restrictions for the remainder of 2026, even if a predicted El Niño weather pattern triggers drought conditions in Central America. This decision contrasts with the severe restrictions implemented during the 2023-2024 El Niño event, which caused significant shipping delays. Currently, the canal allows 38 ships to transit daily, experiencing increased demand as geopolitical conflicts, specifically the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran, disrupt alternative routes like the Suez Canal. To mitigate potential water shortages, the authority has implemented conservation measures since 2025 and successfully maintained historically high water levels in the Gatun reservoir. The U.S. National Weather Service forecasts that El Niño is likely to emerge between May and July 2026, potentially reducing rainfall in the region. The canal's management is closely monitoring early rainy season weather patterns to adjust strategies proactively, ensuring continued operational stability despite the climatic threats facing the critical global trade artery linking the Pacific and Atlantic oceans.

1 reports · 1 sources

Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader has returned to Santo Domingo following official state visits to Panama and Guyana, aimed at strengthening regional economic ties and attracting foreign investment. In Panama, President Abinader served as the keynote speaker at the World Free Zones Congress, where he highlighted the Dominican Republic's competitive advantages for manufacturing and technology sectors. He also held bilateral discussions with Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino and local business leaders to enhance trade and export opportunities between the two nations. Subsequently, the President traveled to Georgetown, Guyana, where he was received by Prime Minister Mark Phillips and Foreign Minister Hugh Todd before meeting with President Mohamed Irfaan Ali. The visit culminated in the signing of a significant bilateral agreement focused on advancing cooperation in oil exploration. Upon his return, President Abinader resumed duties at the National Palace. This diplomatic trip underscores the Dominican government's strategic efforts to deepen partnerships in energy, trade, and economic development, positioning the country as a key player in regional investment landscapes.

1 reports · 1 sources

Mariana Betsa, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, has firmly stated that Russian-occupied Ukrainian children must be returned unconditionally and cannot be included in any prisoner exchange lists. In an interview with Ukrinform, Betsa emphasized that treating children as bargaining chips is unacceptable and constitutes a violation of humanitarian principles. She accused Russia of attempting to leverage the return of children to secure the release of individuals labeled as traitors by Kyiv. Betsa highlighted that international organizations have classified the abduction and indoctrination of Ukrainian children as war crimes and crimes against humanity. She underscored the urgent need for the establishment of a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine, headquartered in The Hague, to ensure accountability for Russian leadership. Betsa described the issue as a 'red line' for the Ukrainian government, asserting that no just peace is possible without holding authoritarian regimes accountable for such violations. The statement reinforces Ukraine's diplomatic stance that the return of children is a non-negotiable humanitarian imperative, distinct from military or political negotiations.

1 reports · 1 sources

Panama has joined the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children, marking a significant expansion of support from the Global South for this humanitarian issue. Mariana Betsa, Ukraine’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, highlighted that Panama’s accession, alongside Switzerland and Cyprus, brings the Coalition’s membership to 49 countries and international organizations. This development underscores that the return of deported children is a universal responsibility rather than merely a regional concern. During a recent high-level meeting in Brussels, participants announced substantial practical assistance, including sanctions by the UK, EU, and Canada against Russian officials involved in deportations. Financial commitments include €50 million from the EU for child protection systems, €10 million from Lithuania, £1.2 million from the UK for identification efforts, and $3.4 million from Canada for UN monitoring. Additionally, Canada announced it will host a high-level summit on the matter in late September. Betsa emphasized the critical next step of effectively implementing the UN General Assembly resolution on the return of Ukrainian children, which received unprecedented support despite difficult adoption conditions.

1 reports · 1 sources

With the 2026 World Cup approaching, speculation surrounds Vinícius Júnior's inclusion in the Brazilian national team following his recent breakup with influencer Virginia Fonseca. The couple ended their seven-month relationship, with Fonseca citing a need for maturity and respect for individual paths. Despite personal developments, Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has emphasized Vini Jr.'s critical role in the squad, stating his intention to manage pressure so the player can perform with his characteristic joy. Ancelotti clarified that while Vini Jr. is vital, the team operates as a unit rather than relying on a single star. The official squad list will be announced on Monday, May 18, at the Museum of Tomorrow in Rio de Janeiro, broadcast across major sports networks. Following the announcement, the team will convene in Teresópolis for final training before a friendly against Panama at Maracanã Stadium. The delegation is scheduled to depart for the United States on June 1, establishing their base in New Jersey for further preparation and a final friendly against Egypt before the tournament begins.

1 reports · 1 sources

The Jamaica women's national football team, widely known as the Reggae Girlz, is preparing to face Panama in an upcoming match that renews a significant regional rivalry. This sporting event highlights the growing competitiveness of women's football within the CONCACAF region. The matchup is anticipated to be a crucial test for both teams as they seek to establish dominance and improve their standing in international rankings. The Reggae Girlz have been working diligently to enhance their performance on the global stage, and this fixture against Panama offers a valuable opportunity to gauge their progress against a familiar opponent. Historical encounters between these two nations have often been intense and closely contested, adding extra significance to this renewal of hostilities on the pitch. Fans and analysts alike are expecting a high-energy game that will showcase the talent and determination of both squads. The outcome of this match could have implications for future tournament qualifications and regional bragging rights, underscoring the importance of this fixture in the calendar of Caribbean and Central American women's football.

1 reports · 1 sources

The Panamanian government has expressed willingness to engage in discussions with Costa Rica regarding long-standing restrictions on agricultural imports, including beef, dairy, poultry, fruits, and vegetables. Minister of Commerce Julio Moltó stated that President José Raúl Mulino’s administration is ready to hold talks with Costa Rican President Laura Fernández Delgado, provided the negotiations adhere to rules ensuring equal opportunities for producers in both nations. However, Panamanian cattle ranchers have firmly opposed any potential imports, asserting that no meat or dairy products should enter Panama until sanitary and reciprocity issues are fully resolved. The trade dispute dates back to June 2020, when Panama blocked imports from approximately 26 Costa Rican processing plants citing health concerns. Although a World Trade Organization panel ruled in December 2024 that Panama’s actions violated international sanitary agreements, Panama appealed the decision in January 2025, keeping the restrictions in place. This diplomatic exchange represents an early foreign policy challenge for President Fernández, highlighting persistent bilateral tensions. While both governments remain open to dialogue, Panamanian industry leaders insist that technical sanitary standards must take precedence over political agreements, maintaining that the ban will persist until the WTO appeal concludes or a mutually acceptable bilateral understanding is reached.

1 reports · 1 sources

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has officially announced that head coach Carlo Ancelotti has extended his contract with the Brazil national football team through the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Although the agreement was reportedly finalized earlier in the year, the formal confirmation came on Thursday, May 14, 2026. Ancelotti, who joined the squad a year ago, expressed his delight at continuing the partnership, emphasizing a shared desire for more victories and time to restore Brazil to the pinnacle of world football. He thanked the CBF for their trust and the Brazilian people for their warm welcome. Since taking charge, the 66-year-old Italian manager has overseen ten matches, achieving five wins, two draws, and three defeats. This extension marks his preparation for his first World Cup as an international manager. Ahead of the tournament, Ancelotti is set to announce the 26-man squad soon. Brazil will begin their campaign with warm-up friendlies against Morocco, Panama, and Egypt in June, before competing in the main event. The deal solidifies Ancelotti's long-term commitment to leading the five-time world champions.

1 reports · 1 sources

First Quantum Minerals Ltd. has published its 2025 sustainability reports, including its primary ESG Report, Tax Transparency Report, and TCFD-aligned Climate Change Report. The company announced a significant commitment to align all its tailings storage facilities with the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM) by the end of 2030, prioritizing higher-risk sites for accelerated compliance. CEO Tristan Pascall highlighted 2025 as a year of progress in safety, environmental stewardship, and community relations. Key operational highlights include achieving commercial production at the Kansanshi S3 Expansion in Zambia, which involved substantial local employment and procurement. In Panama, the company continued its Cobre Conecta outreach program, engaging over 246,000 people despite the Cobre Panamá mine being in preservation mode. First Quantum reported a total direct economic contribution of approximately $4.1 billion across its operating countries, comprising taxes, wages, community investments, and supplier spend. The reports underscore the company's strategy to responsibly produce critical minerals like copper while delivering economic value to host communities in Zambia, Mauritania, and other regions where it maintains active projects or exploration interests.

1 reports · 1 sources

First Quantum Minerals Ltd. has published its 2025 sustainability reports, including its primary Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Report, Tax Transparency Report, and TCFD-aligned Climate Change Report. The company announced a significant commitment to align all its tailings storage facilities with the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM) by the end of 2030, prioritizing higher-risk sites for accelerated compliance. CEO Tristan Pascall highlighted 2025 as a year of progress in safety and community relations, emphasizing responsible production amid growing global demand for critical minerals. The report details substantial economic contributions, totaling approximately $4.1 billion across operating countries, including taxes, wages, and supplier spend. Key operational highlights include achieving commercial production at the Kansanshi S3 Expansion in Zambia, which involved significant local employment and procurement. In Panama, the company continued its Cobre Conecta outreach program, engaging over 246,000 people to foster dialogue on responsible mining. These initiatives underscore First Quantum’s strategy to balance mineral production with environmental stewardship and strong host community relationships.

1 reports · 1 sources

Richard Werstine, a fugitive wanted for the 1993 murder of his roommate, punk rock singer Rodney Barger, in Detroit, has been arrested in Panama City after evading authorities for over three decades. Described as a 'ghost' for his ability to remain hidden, Werstine was captured by the U.S. Marshals Service with assistance from Panamanian officials at a local dog park on April 29. Despite previous encounters with law enforcement, including being shot in Arizona in 1999, Werstine successfully used aliases and exploited limited pre-internet investigative capabilities to stay free. Chief Deputy U.S. Marshal Jimmy Allen noted that modern forensic techniques and fingerprint databases were crucial in finally identifying and locating the suspect. Upon arrest, Werstine possessed fraudulent identification, but fingerprint analysis confirmed his identity. Now 56 years old, he has been returned to the United States and is awaiting court proceedings in Detroit. The case highlights the persistence of federal marshals and the impact of technological advancements in solving long-standing cold cases.

1 reports · 1 sources

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has officially renewed the contract of head coach Carlo Ancelotti, securing his leadership of the national team through the 2030 World Cup. This decision represents a significant vote of confidence in the 66-year-old Italian manager, who assumed the role last year. Under Ancelotti’s guidance, Brazil successfully qualified for the upcoming 2026 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Ancelotti expressed his deep understanding of the cultural significance of football in Brazil and his commitment to restoring the five-time champions to the pinnacle of global football. CBF President Samir Xaud emphasized that the extension aligns with the federation's strategic goal of maintaining Brazil's elite status in international sports. As part of immediate preparations, Ancelotti is set to announce his final squad for the 2026 tournament on May 18. The team will play a warm-up match against Panama at the Maracana Stadium on May 31 before traveling to their base in New Jersey. During the group stage of the World Cup, Brazil is drawn to face Morocco, Scotland, and Haiti in Group C.

1 reports · 1 sources

Copa Holdings announced strong first-quarter 2026 financial results, reporting a record net profit of $212 million, representing a 20.5% year-over-year increase in earnings per share to $5.16. The airline achieved an industry-leading operating margin of 24.6% and maintained robust operational performance with a 91.6% on-time rate. Capacity grew by 14% while passenger traffic rose 15%, driving the load factor to 87.2%. Despite higher fuel prices increasing unit costs slightly, non-fuel costs declined due to strict discipline. Strategically, Copa took delivery of two Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, bringing its fleet to 127, and announced a new order for 40 firm aircraft plus 20 options for delivery between 2030 and 2034. The carrier also expanded its network by resuming service to Valencia and Barquisimeto, Venezuela, with plans to restart Barcelona services, totaling five Venezuelan destinations. Executives emphasized the resilience of their business model and the strategic advantage of their Panama hub amidst volatile fuel markets, reaffirming confidence in delivering continued profitability and growth throughout the decade.

1 reports · 1 sources

The Arizona Wildcats baseball team is wrapping up their regular season with a series against Oklahoma State, facing slim chances of qualifying for the upcoming Big 12 Tournament. Although not mathematically eliminated, Arizona (18-32, 8-19 Big 12) requires at least two wins this weekend and favorable results from Kansas State or Texas Tech to secure a spot. Head coach Chip Hale emphasizes the importance of maintaining competitive intensity despite the unlikely postseason prospects, aiming to set a positive tone for the 2027 roster. The team has struggled throughout the conference season, winning only one series against TCU. This weekend also serves as an audition for players hoping to remain on the squad next year, with significant roster changes expected. Notable mention is made of reliever Maclain Roberts, who has posted a team-best 3.67 ERA. The Cowboys, conversely, are playing well and contending for a regional host bid. The series marks the potential final college games for several seniors while highlighting the transition toward the next season.

1 reports · 1 sources