Philippines Power Crunch: The DOE is facing heat over Pax Silica’s “embedded power” pitch, while the Visayas grid has been flashing yellow/red for months—yet the agency hasn’t clearly used tools like the Interruptible Load Program, raising fears businesses can’t wait for 2040 plans. Bangladesh Energy Security: Industry leaders warn the country must fix unreliable power for existing factories first, arguing costly outages are eroding competitiveness and calling for a long-term, stable 20-year energy strategy. Nepal–China Flood Response: Rescuers in Nepal and China are racing to find nearly 3,000 missing after Himalayan flash floods; Nepal’s army has begun tunneling work at Trishuli 3A hydropower sites. India–Uzbekistan Nuclear & Minerals: PM Modi and President Mirziyoyev upgraded ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, targeting $5bn trade by 2030 and pushing long-term uranium supply plus critical minerals, AI, and digital cooperation. US–Venezuela Oil Deal: Venezuelans and US lawmakers are split as Washington gains majority control over major oil fields, with critics warning of political entrenchment and uncertainty over promised investment. Pacific Islands Forum: Leaders meet in Palau amid Taiwan–China tensions, while civil society urges stronger stances on missile testing and Fukushima wastewater. US Gas for Data Centers: A US gas buildout is accelerating as AI data centers drive new gas-fired power capacity, reshaping energy demand and emissions debates.