AGP Executive Report

Peru Runoff: Peru heads to a presidential runoff this Sunday, with Keiko Fujimori facing Roberto Sánchez amid a tense political crisis and rising security fears tied to organized crime. World Cup Warm-Up (El Salvador): South Korea beat El Salvador 1-0 in the final World Cup tune-up, as coaches focus on tightening tactics and lineups ahead of the tournament. Qatar vs. El Salvador: Qatar is set to face El Salvador in a friendly tonight as part of final preparations, with both sides using the match to test squad balance and momentum. Agriculture Threat (Screwworm): USDA confirmed a New World screwworm case in Texas, triggering quarantine steps and renewed concern for the cattle industry. MS-13 Convictions: A federal jury convicted four MS-13 members in gruesome Angeles National Forest murders, including a case involving dismemberment and heart carving. El Salvador Development: El Salvador announced major expansions in public healthcare and higher education scholarships, alongside tech moves like a sovereign AI dataset partnership.

World Cup Warm-Up: Qatar faces El Salvador tonight at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles as Julen Lopetegui uses the final friendly to lock in his starting XI ahead of the June 13 opener vs Switzerland. Immigration Courts Strain: As deportations accelerate, a skyrocketing caseload is overwhelming U.S. immigration courts, with officials citing backlog-clearing efforts and faster processing. Media Turmoil at CBS: Former colleagues are criticizing the new “60 Minutes” executive producer Nick Bilton, saying he lacks broadcast-management experience, while the broader CBS shakeup continues to draw harsh reviews. MS-13 Convictions: A federal jury convicted four MS-13 members over a 2017 triple murder in the Angeles National Forest, including a killing described as especially brutal. US Livestock Threat: USDA confirmed a New World screwworm case near the U.S.-Mexico border and set a quarantine zone, warning the pest could spread beyond the single detection. El Salvador in the Spotlight: A Salvadoran-born ESPN broadcaster Andrew Palomo will call Honduras vs Argentina from Kyle Field, tying local pride to the tournament build-up.

World Cup Build-Up: Qatar and El Salvador meet in a final warm-up in Los Angeles as Julen Lopetegui fine-tunes his squad ahead of the June 11 tournament. Korea Camp Update: South Korea arrived in Guadalajara for World Cup base camp, after beating El Salvador 1-0 in a U.S. friendly. El Salvador Tech Push: El Salvador launched Nemotron-Personas-El-Salvador, a synthetic “virtual citizens” dataset of about 1 million personas built with ANIA and NVIDIA to support privacy-first AI. Education Boost: The government expanded higher-ed scholarships by adding 1,750 new university spots for the 2027 cycle, including 1,000 fully virtual options. Finance Watch: El Salvador’s stock market jumped 52.1% year-over-year in April, with repo trading driving much of the growth. Trade Policy: The U.S. proposed Section 301 forced-labor tariffs that include El Salvador, with rates of 10% or 12.5% depending on country findings. Animal Health Alert: Texas officials warned the new sterile screwworm fly factory will take over a year to ramp up as a confirmed case raises regional livestock risk.

World Cup Warm-Up: Qatar closes its pre-tournament slate with a June 6 friendly vs El Salvador at BMO Stadium, with coach Julen Lopetegui using the match to lock in his starting XI ahead of Group B. Football Results: South Korea also finished strong in tune-ups, edging El Salvador 1-0 in their final warm-up before the tournament. Foreign Affairs: Serbia’s foreign ministry condemned the June 3 shelling that killed a Serbian UNIFIL peacekeeper and injured two others, including personnel from Spain and El Salvador, calling for a transparent investigation. Trade Policy: The U.S. is proposing new forced-labor tariffs affecting El Salvador and other partners, with countries pushing back over the plan’s fairness and impact on supply chains. Public Health/Ag: Texas officials are preparing an update on the New World screwworm response after USDA confirmed the flesh-eating parasite in a calf in South Texas, prompting quarantines and border-area controls. Media Watch: CBS News’ “60 Minutes” turmoil continues after Scott Pelley’s firing, as staff and media critics debate leadership changes and the show’s direction.

Healthcare Tech Push: El Salvador says it has hit 100% digital connectivity across all public health centers, rolling out tablets, laptops and network power at hospitals like Dr. Juan José Fernández under the Social Digital Connectivity Program, backed by the IDB and the EU. World Cup Culture: Salvadoran dancers recreated Shakira’s “Dai Dai” challenge at Estadio Cuscatlán, tying local pride to the FIFA 2026 buzz. Football Results: South Korea edged El Salvador 1-0 in a final World Cup warm-up, with Lee Dong-gyeong scoring early in the second half. Trade Pressure: The U.S. proposed Section 301 tariffs tied to forced-labor findings, naming El Salvador among economies facing potential 10% duties. Biosecurity Alert: The New World screwworm was confirmed in a 3-week-old calf in south Texas, prompting quarantine and surveillance to protect livestock and wildlife—an issue that also resonates for the region’s cross-border animal health. Security Update: A UNIFIL attack in Lebanon killed a Serbian peacekeeper and injured two others, including one from El Salvador.

World Cup Spotlight: South Korea edged El Salvador 1-0 in their final pre-tournament friendly in Provo, Utah, with Lee Dong-gyeong scoring from a free kick as El Salvador pressed hard and limited Korea’s chances. Human Rights Pressure: One year after her arrest, advocates are renewing calls on the Salvadoran government to free anti-corruption attorney Ruth López, citing prolonged pretrial detention and shifting charges. Regional Security: Qatar condemned an attack on a UNIFIL post in Lebanon that killed a Serbian peacekeeper and injured two others, including a soldier from El Salvador. Agriculture Watch: The USDA confirmed a New World screwworm case in south Texas, raising fears for cattle—an issue that also matters for Central America where the pest has been spreading. Local Economy & Tech: El Salvador’s growth and investment narrative continues, including a push into AI with a sovereign dataset partnership with NVIDIA.

World Cup Warmup: South Korea edged El Salvador 1-0 in their final friendly in Provo, Utah, with Lee Dong-gyeong scoring early in the second half and Son Heung-min coming off the bench. US Trade Pressure: The Trump administration proposed Section 301 tariffs of 10% to 12.5% on imports from 60 economies, including El Salvador, citing weak enforcement against “forced labour” goods; public comments and hearings are set to follow. Deportation Fight: DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin told a Senate hearing he’d be “happy to send” Salvadoran Kilmar Abrego Garcia to Costa Rica, a potential twist in his long-running removal case. Media Turmoil: CBS fired “60 Minutes” correspondent Scott Pelley after a clash with new executive producer Nick Bilton, deepening the show’s leadership shakeup. Health Alert: PAHO warned measles could spread faster ahead of the World Cup as travel ramps up.

U.S.-El Salvador Trade Shock: The Trump administration proposed new Section 301 tariffs tied to “forced labor” findings, including a 10% additional duty on imports from El Salvador, as part of a plan covering 60 economies; hearings are set for July 7 and the move follows Supreme Court limits on earlier emergency tariffs. Health Watch for World Cup: PAHO warned that measles is surging across the Americas, with El Salvador among countries reporting cases linked to outbreaks or imported infections, urging stronger surveillance and vaccination checks ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Immigration Crackdown With Local Links: U.S. Border Patrol’s “Operation Checkmate” in Arizona arrested 52 people, including 30 Indian nationals and others from El Salvador, targeting undocumented commercial vehicle operators. Media Turmoil: CBS fired “60 Minutes” veteran Scott Pelley after a clash with new producer Nick Bilton, deepening a leadership shakeup at the show.

Healthcare & Economy in El Salvador: The Central Reserve Bank says El Salvador’s economic activity grew 4.2% in March, with financial services and professional/technical activities leading the expansion, while construction cooled to 4.3%. Foreign Investment Signal: IHOP is set to open its first El Salvador location at Centro Comercial Santa Rosa in Santa Tecla, a move local officials frame as proof of improving business conditions. Regional Health Watch: PAHO warns measles cases are rising across the Americas ahead of the 2026 World Cup, noting El Salvador is among countries reporting outbreak-linked cases. US Policy Impact on Salvadorans: DHS/ICE actions highlighted in the US include arrests involving Salvadorans and renewed pressure on sanctuary jurisdictions, while broader reporting alleges medical neglect in ICE detention systems. US Trade & Tariffs: The Trump administration proposes new 10%–12.5% tariffs on imports from 60 economies over forced-labor enforcement failures, explicitly naming El Salvador among those facing 10% duties.

Media Shake-Up: CBS News named tech journalist Nick Bilton as the new executive producer of “60 Minutes,” but veteran correspondent Scott Pelley says the changes are “murdering” the show, escalating a bitter fight over Bari Weiss’s overhaul. Immigration Crackdown: U.S. prosecutors in Texas filed 350 new immigration cases, including 172 in Del Rio; meanwhile, CBP says “Operation Checkmate” in Arizona arrested 52 undocumented people driving semi-trucks, including 30 Indians, with deportations expected. Health in Detention: A KFF Health News/AP investigation reports detainees across at least 33 states allege serious medical neglect in ICE custody, from missed medications to untreated infections and cancers. Regional Politics: Colombia’s far-right outsider Abelardo de la Espriella topped the first round and will face Petro ally Iván Cepeda in a June 21 runoff, as both sides dispute the vote count. El Salvador Angle: Brokerslink added RAS in El Salvador to its international insurance network, expanding local coverage for property, life, cargo, and aviation risks.

US Immigration Crackdown: U.S. Border Patrol in Arizona’s Yuma Sector arrested 52 people during “Operation Checkmate,” including 36 commercial truck drivers; about 30 were Indian nationals and the rest included people from Mexico, El Salvador, and Russia, with officials saying many had expired work authorizations and will be deported. Healthcare Upgrade in El Salvador: President Nayib Bukele inaugurated the New Rosales Hospital, restoring historic parts while adding a modern tower with advanced surgical and hybrid operating rooms, aiming to expand specialized care nationwide. Emergency Care Expansion: El Salvador also opened a $7 million emergency center at Soyapango National Hospital to boost services for 230,000 residents, including pediatric and surgical units. Digital Health Growth: DoctorSV, the AI-assisted public health platform, surpassed 1.5 million users, adding tools for consultations, prescriptions, labs, imaging, and chronic care. Sports Spotlight: South Korea will play El Salvador in a World Cup tuneup in Provo, Utah, after a 5-0 win over Trinidad and Tobago.

Colombia Runoff Set: Right-wing outsider Abelardo de la Espriella won Colombia’s presidential first round with about 43.7% and will face leftist Sen. Iván Cepeda (about 40.9%) in a June 21 runoff after neither cleared 50%. Election Tensions: Petro and Cepeda immediately questioned the preliminary count, alleging irregularities without evidence, while electoral authorities rejected widespread fraud claims. Security vs. Peace: De la Espriella’s pitch centers on a hard crackdown on armed groups and crime, with proposals likened to El Salvador’s Bukele-era approach, while Cepeda promises to continue Petro’s “total peace” path through negotiations. El Salvador Link: The campaign rhetoric and comparisons to Bukele’s security model are drawing extra attention in the region as Colombians head into a high-stakes second round. US Immigration Pressure: Separate reporting highlights rising ICE transfers that can disrupt legal access and intensify hardship for detainees and families.

Colombia Election Shock With El Salvador Echo: Far-right outsider Abelardo de la Espriella surged to first place in Colombia’s presidential vote with about 43.7%, setting up a June 21 runoff against leftist senator Iván Cepeda at about 40.9%, after President Gustavo Petro and Cepeda publicly questioned the preliminary results and alleged irregularities. The race is being watched across Latin America for its security-first, Trump- and Bukele-style messaging versus “total peace” negotiations, with Paloma Valencia collapsing to under 7% and likely becoming key to the runoff math. World Cup Prep Hits El Salvador Link: South Korea’s Cho Yu-min is ruled out of the World Cup after a foot injury in a 5-0 friendly over Trinidad and Tobago, and the team is still scheduled to play El Salvador in a friendly on June 3. El Salvador in the Spotlight Abroad: A California judge ordered a Milwaukee teacher’s aide facing deportation to El Salvador to be allowed to return to the U.S. while her trafficking-victim visa case is reviewed.

Colombia Election: Colombians began voting Sunday in a high-stakes presidential race that could steer the country away from “total peace” talks and toward a hard-right military crackdown, with leftist senator Iván Cepeda leading polls but hard-right outsider Abelardo de la Espriella closing fast amid a campaign shadowed by car bombs, drone attacks, and assassinations. World Cup Build-Up (El Salvador connection): South Korea crushed Trinidad and Tobago 5-0 in a pre-World Cup friendly in Utah and will next face El Salvador at BYU South Field, setting up a direct tune-up for both teams ahead of the June 11 tournament opener. Public Health: Africa CDC confirmed a new Ebola outbreak in Congo’s Ituri province, reporting 246 suspected cases and 65 deaths, with spread risks heightened by conflict and cross-border movement. Sports (Local): Bermuda’s Kyle Hamilton and Brandon Sousa lost in straight sets in NORCECA beach volleyball in San Salvador, finishing the day in a lower playoff bracket.

Education Push: El Salvador says it hit 100% coverage for school supply kits, delivering materials to students nationwide as Bukele’s government doubles down on education as a development pillar. Economy & Migration: The Central Reserve Bank reports remittances rose 6.8% in the first four months of 2026, topping $3.28 billion, with the U.S. still the main source. Environment: The #MOPVerde reforestation drive moves into a new phase, with tree-planting and volunteer events scheduled for May 30-31, including at Bicentennial Park. Business & Tourism: Pollo Campero opened a new flagship in San Salvador’s historic center, a $2.5 million investment tied to the area’s renewed safety and private-sector comeback. Regional Spotlight: A NORCECA beach volleyball stop in San Salvador got underway with Bermuda’s Kyle Hamilton and Brandon Sousa facing tough early losses. Sports & Culture: Rafael “Pollo” Brito released “Una Nueva Vida,” part of a Salvadoran music reimagining project aimed at modernizing tradition.

Remittances Watch: El Salvador’s remittances rose 6.8% in the first four months of 2026, reaching $3.2867 billion, with the U.S. still the main source. Local Economy & Jobs: Pollo Campero opened a new flagship in San Salvador’s Historic Center, a $2.5 million investment expected to create 50 jobs and signal renewed private activity in the area. Environment: The government is pushing ahead with #MOPVerde, adding tree-planting events this weekend, including at Bicentennial Park, with volunteers and state nurseries supplying seedlings. Regional Education: Nayib Bukele’s personal bitcoin donation is helping build a school in Honduras, with organizers saying it could open as early as September. Public Safety & Rights: A mass trial in El Salvador has started for 486 alleged gang members, tied to more than 47,000 crimes, raising fresh human-rights concerns over the long-running emergency crackdown.