U.S.-Venezuela Energy Deal: The Trump administration’s plan to secure control of 65 billion barrels of Venezuelan oil reserves would give the federal government a majority stake in a new joint venture, reshaping how Washington holds exposure to the world’s biggest crude basin. Religious Funding Ruling: The U.S. Department of Justice says the government can’t restrict federal funding based on an organization’s religious status or how funds are used, calling such limits presumptively unconstitutional. Public Service Tech Glitch: Karnataka’s Central Judicial Collection Agency shut down its online system after a technical problem linked fines and violations to the wrong people, raising concerns about digital accountability. Local Governance Clash (Albania): Albania’s government backed Tirana Mayor Erion Veliaj in a City Hall power dispute, arguing his mandate remains in force even as he stays in custody. Health System Accountability (South Africa): Gauteng officials faced questions after 41 Johannesburg ambulances sat idle for years due to approval and provincialisation gaps. Infrastructure & Safety (India): Delhi amended fire safety rules with new minimum standards for buildings, while Karnataka moved to turn government sites into EV charging hubs under a national scheme. Labor & Pay Pressure (Sri Lanka): Sri Lanka’s development officers plan protests after IMF/ILO-linked claims about low salaries and delays in promised cabinet action. Welfare Commitments (Ghana): Ghana’s new Local Government minister Ayariga pledged to deliver on government promises to Ghanaians alongside the environment minister.