Jan 29–Feb 5: The Trump administration kept up pressure on Cuba, made resource deals with Mexico, and hosted the presidents of Colombia and El Salvador.

Laura Fernández, President Rodrigo Chaves’ former chief-of-staff, is polling high enough to potentially avoid a runoff. Ticos vote on February 1.

Laura Fernández, running to continue President Rodrigo Chaves’ agenda, may win in the first round of a February 1 election marked by insecurity woes.