Bolivia erupts again as protests surge over fuel subsidy cut; miners clash with police near the government palace. Plurinational State of Bolivia.
Latin American countries Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Mexico are increasing cooperation with the US on anti-narcotics efforts. Bolivia has resumed DEA operations after nearly 20 years, Colombia has intensified military actions, and Mexico has stepped up efforts following the death of cartel leader El Mencho. These shifts mark a regional security realignment.
A Bolivian Air Force Hercules aircraft crashed in El Alto while transporting newly printed banknotes, killing at least 15 people. The plane skidded off the runway, struck vehicles, and scattered currency, prompting flight suspensions and chaos at the crash site. The cause is under investigation.
A Bolivian Air Force Hercules plane crashed in El Alto while transporting newly printed banknotes, killing 22 and injuring 30. Crowds gathered to collect the scattered money, prompting police to burn the bills, which had no legal tender status. The crash is under investigation.
Iraq's World Cup playoff faces postponement amid escalating US-Iran conflict. Logistical issues, airspace closures, and visa problems hinder team preparations. Coach Arnold urges FIFA to delay the match, which is scheduled for March 31 in Mexico, to ensure Iraq can field its best team.
Spain's Holy Week processions continue across the country, with traditional roles for women and men. Controversy arose in Sagunto over excluding women, but many villages defend inclusive participation. The processions, deeply rooted in regional culture, involve elaborate floats and religious observances, with growing interest despite increasing secularism.
Clowns in Bolivia marched to the Ministry of Education to oppose a new decree requiring 200 school days annually, which bans school festivals where they are hired. The protest highlights economic struggles amid Bolivia's worst crisis in decades, affecting cultural and entertainment sectors.
On April 1, 2026, Bosnia and Herzegovina defeated four-time World Cup champions Italy in a dramatic penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw, ending Italy's streak of World Cup appearances and securing Bosnia's place in the 2026 tournament. Italy's coach Gennaro Gattuso resigned following the loss. The 2026 World Cup will feature 48 teams across North America, with Bosnia placed in Group B.
Iraq's national football team secured its first FIFA World Cup appearance since 1986 with a 2-1 victory over Bolivia. The win was celebrated across Iraq and by the Iraqi community in Australia, despite logistical challenges caused by regional conflicts. Coach Graham Arnold received widespread praise for leading the team through adversity.
A Colombia‑ and Netherlands‑hosted summit in Santa Marta has convened more than 50 countries (April 24–29) to open political debate on phasing out oil, gas and coal. Organisers are focusing on renewable energy, energy security and finance while major producers such as Saudi Arabia and some large economies are not attending.
Labor unions, community groups and democratic organisations have been organising a nationwide May Day "economic blackout" for 1 May, calling for "no school, no work, no shopping". Organisers say events have more than doubled from last year and that city-wide actions are being planned in Los Angeles, Chicago and elsewhere to press immigration, voting and workers' rights.
Tens of thousands in Argentina have taken to streets to protest funding shortfalls for public universities. The demonstrations come as Milei’s government has challenged a funded-operating-cost law and faces rising inflation and a corruption probe into allies.
Rallies and roadblocks across Bolivia have intensified, with miners, farmers and teachers demanding labor reforms and fuel relief. Security forces have cleared some blockades in La Paz to maintain humanitarian corridors, while international governments call for stability. Morales supporters continue to call for President Paz’s resignation amid an ongoing economic crisis that has seen shortages and rising prices.