Executive Summary 

This weekly report provides a comprehensive analysis of critical events, emerging threats, and significant developments across our global watchlist countries. Our Geopolitical & Security Analysis Teams continuously monitor and assess incidents affecting regional stability, security, and business operations.

Key Global Concerns:

This week's GlobalPULSE report covers significant developments across all five regions, with four events rising to critical priority level requiring immediate attention from security stakeholders.

In the Americas, Guatemala experienced its most severe prison crisis in recent history when coordinated gang riots erupted across three maximum-security facilities, resulting in 46 hostages taken and seven police officers killed in retaliatory attacks. Government forces have regained partial control, but operations continue and nationwide school closures remain in effect. Elsewhere in the region, Bolivia declared an energy and social emergency amid fuel shortages and 20% inflation, Argentina's President Milei accepted an invitation to join President Trump's "Board of Peace," and Mexico has now replaced Venezuela as Cuba's primary oil supplier following the disruption of Venezuelan exports.

Europe and Eurasia remain dominated by the Ukraine conflict, where President Zelenskyy declared an energy sector emergency following 256 Russian strikes on critical infrastructure since October. Severe winter conditions have compounded the impact, with widespread blackouts affecting major population centers. The U.S. State Department announced suspension of immigrant visa processing for 75 countries effective January 21, a policy shift with significant implications for global mobility and workforce planning.

In the Middle East and North Africa, Iran's protest movement has exacted a heavy toll, with officials confirming over 5,000 deaths since unrest began in late December. The heaviest casualties occurred in Kurdish regions, and while protests have subsided following an internet blackout, underlying tensions persist. Regional dynamics continue shifting around the Trump administration's Gaza peace framework, with Netanyahu publicly criticizing the appointment of Turkish FM Hakan Fidan to the Gaza Executive Board.

Sub-Saharan Africa faces a deteriorating humanitarian situation in South Sudan, where renewed fighting between government and opposition forces has displaced up to 180,000 civilians in Jonglei State. The UN condemned the escalation as a violation of the 2018 peace agreement, and humanitarian access remains severely restricted.

The Asia-Pacific region saw elevated India-Pakistan tensions following drone intrusion warnings, while continued Afghan refugee repatriation pressures strain regional resources.

Organizations operating in affected areas should review contingency plans, monitor travel advisories, and ensure communication protocols are current. The convergence of infrastructure targeting, migration policy shifts, and active conflict zones presents a complex risk environment requiring proactive security postures across all regions.

Strategic Overview