Panama Canal Watch: The Panama Canal Authority says its Neopanamax locks started operating with a reduced draft of 49.5 feet as a preventative measure against a strong El Niño expected to last until 2027, affecting less than 1.7% of Neopanamax vessels and potentially shifting cargo loads and logistics. Regional Trade & Security: U.S. President Donald Trump renewed claims that China is trying to take over the Panama Canal, tying it to broader geopolitical threats and pointing to vessel detention patterns at Chinese ports involving Panama-flagged ships. Humanitarian & Connectivity: In Venezuela, CANTV teams are restoring telecom access in quake-hit areas, prioritizing connectivity for shelters and key institutions, including Panama’s Maritime University of the Caribbean and other coastal bases. Venezuela Politics After Quakes: The twin earthquakes are becoming a political stress test for acting leader Delcy Rodríguez as opposition leader María Corina Machado argues the response exposed state weaknesses and calls for her return. Shipping Markets: Clarksons Research reports first-half 2026 shipping conditions were heavily shaped by Strait of Hormuz disruption, with the ClarkSea Index up 61% year-on-year amid strong charter markets and active newbuild ordering.