Ecuador Spotlight—El Niño: Ecuador has declared a nationwide “red alert” emergency as El Niño conditions evolve, with knock-on impacts for communities, travel, and public planning. Ecuador Politics & Accountability: A judge is weighing whether to send seven people to trial over the 2023 assassination of presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio in Quito, a case seen as a major test of whether Ecuador can hold powerful networks accountable. Ecuador Arts & Culture: Inti Raymi in Otavalo is celebrated as a living Kichwa tradition—music, textiles, and community memory tied to the sun and harvest. Music—Latin Pop: Camilo adds a second Bogota date at Movistar Arena after strong demand, extending his Worldwide Tour 2026 in Colombia. Sports—Ecuador Talent Abroad: Chelsea’s Kendry Paez is reportedly being considered for a sale after loan options fell through, while Sunderland signs Ecuador striker Juan Riquelme Angulo from Independiente del Valle. Tech & Marketing: Ecuador-based Universidad Espíritu Santo hosts the DYNAMIND Neuromarketing Summit 2026, bringing neuromarketing and consumer behavior research to Latin America. Human Rights—Media Safety: Guatemala’s RSF and partners call for guarantees for journalists in exile to safely return, following a report on criminalisation and persecution.