Fuel Protests & Security: Guatemala President Bernardo Arévalo blamed drug traffickers, gangs and organized crime for financing roadblocks and violence during last week’s protests over higher gasoline and diesel prices, while Congress approved temporary maximum consumer prices to cushion the impact. Regional Diplomacy: Guatemala and other Central American countries reaffirmed deeper ties with Qatar, highlighting trade, investment, tourism, food security and infrastructure cooperation. Border Tensions: Belize formally protested a Sarstoon Island incident, saying Guatemalan vessels obstructed Belizean nationals’ customary passage, escalating a sensitive boundary dispute. Energy Policy: Guatemala’s E10 ethanol push is gaining attention after imports and market expectations point to growing demand for U.S. ethanol as Guatemala prepares the program’s rollout. Digital Trade Rules: A new critique warns that U.S. reciprocal trade agreements (including with Guatemala) may restrict countries’ choice of ICT suppliers, raising concerns for internet access and digital development. Remittances Watch: A report says remittances to families nearly doubled over a decade, with migrants sending larger amounts—yet economies remain vulnerable to deportations and labor shocks. Business & Finance: Wells Fargo launched ExpressSend 1 Mobile in its app for international money transfers to 12 countries, signaling continued digitization of remittance services. Culture & Heritage: Guatemala marked Central American independence celebrations, while Hispanic Heritage Month themes continued to spotlight community contributions and local entrepreneurship.