Global News Highlights – March 23, 2026

Caribbean

Royal Caribbean: record bookings in 2026 but rising fuel risks

Royal Caribbean has already sold two-thirds of its 2026 capacity at record prices after posting $4.27 billion in net profit in 2025 (+48%). The company forecasts an adjusted EPS of $18 for 2026 and plans to launch Legend of the Seas in Q2. However, oil prices nearing $100 per barrel are increasing fuel cost risks. Fuel hedging is expected to drop to 16% by 2028. Meanwhile, the company faces $3.2 billion in debt due in 2026 and $5 billion in projected spending.

Antigua and Barbuda: general elections announced within 90 days

Prime Minister Gaston Browne announced that general elections will be held within 90 days. The decision follows the victory of ABLP candidate Randy Baltimore in a recent by-election, strengthening the ruling party’s position.

Latin America

Honduras: strengthened cooperation with the U.S. on security and migration

President Nasry Asfura met with Kristi Noem to discuss investment, migration, and security. Talks focused on strengthening armed forces and combating organized crime within the “Escudo de las Américas” initiative.

Cuba: military preparedness amid potential U.S. tensions

Cuba stated its armed forces are prepared for a potential U.S. attack, though unlikely. The country faces a severe energy crisis affecting key sectors, while maintaining openness to diplomatic dialogue.

United States

Washington: Columbus statue sparks political debate

A Christopher Columbus statue was installed near the White House under Donald Trump’s initiative, reigniting debates over history and racial tensions.

New York: deadly collision at LaGuardia Airport

An Air Canada Express plane collided with a vehicle, killing two pilots and injuring 41 passengers. The airport was temporarily closed as investigations continue.

U.S.: key Homeland Security nomination advances

The Senate advanced Markwayne Mullin’s nomination as Secretary of Homeland Security amid political tensions and ongoing immigration challenges.

Europe

London: antisemitic attack on Jewish ambulances

Four ambulances were set on fire in what authorities described as an antisemitic attack. No casualties were reported, but the incident sparked strong political reactions.

Energy crisis: Hormuz Strait at the center of global tensions

The UK and U.S. emphasized the need to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to stabilize global trade and oil markets.

Italy: constitutional referendum under pressure

Giorgia Meloni’s judicial reform faces strong opposition, turning the vote into a major political test.

France: socialists maintain control of major cities

Municipal elections confirmed socialist dominance in major cities, reinforcing traditional parties ahead of 2027 elections.

Middle East

Iran threatens Gulf energy infrastructure

Iran warned it could target power plants in the Gulf if attacked by the U.S., escalating a conflict that has already killed over 2,000 people.

Trump delays strikes on Iran

Donald Trump postponed planned strikes on Iranian infrastructure, citing ongoing diplomatic discussions.

Asia-Pacific

China calls to halt military escalation

China urged the U.S. and Israel to stop military actions, warning of a dangerous cycle with global economic consequences.

Africa

Ghana pushes to recognize slavery as a crime against humanity

Ghana proposed recognizing the transatlantic slave trade as a crime against humanity, reviving global debates on reparations.

Cherline Ades.