MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency
Stories for February 18th 2026
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Wednesday, February 18th 2026 - 12:04 UTC
Marco Rubio holds discreet contacts with Raúl Castro’s grandson, Axios reports
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has held discreet talks with Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro, the grandson and caretaker of former Cuban leader Raúl Castro, bypassing official Cuban government channels, Axios reported, citing sources familiar with the outreach.
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Wednesday, February 18th 2026 - 03:38 UTC
Senate commission to review Cardama contract after Uruguay cancels ocean patrol vessel deal
A pre-investigative commission will begin work on Wednesday in Uruguay’s Senate to examine the contract with Spanish shipbuilder Cardama for two ocean patrol vessels (OPVs), recently cancelled by President Yamandú Orsi’s government.
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Wednesday, February 18th 2026 - 03:27 UTC
Can Latin America's regulatory framework keep pace with digital finance?
The rapid acceleration of financial technology in South America has created a distinct friction between market innovation and legislative capability. As 2026 unfolds, the region finds itself at a critical juncture where the speed of digital adoption is significantly outpacing the bureaucratic machinery designed to oversee it. While consumers and fintech unicorns push for instantaneous global connectivity, legislative bodies within the Mercosur bloc are grappling with the arduous task of harmonizing antiquated banking laws with the demands of a borderless digital economy.
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Wednesday, February 18th 2026 - 03:12 UTC
Argentina clears US oceanographic cruise in the South Atlantic as debate grows over “dual-use” data
Argentina’s Federal Fisheries Council (CFP) recorded that it had “no objections,” within its remit, to a United States request for a marine scientific research cruise by the R/V Roger Revelle inside Argentina’s Exclusive Economic Zone between March 5 and March 30, 2026. In the same document, the council asked for “all basic data” plus “preliminary and final reports” to be submitted to Argentine authorities prior to any publication of results.
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Wednesday, February 18th 2026 - 02:01 UTC
Why Free Slot Games Are Discussed on Casino Review and Information Platforms
Casino review and information platforms often explain how free-to-play versions of slot games work, even when they do not host the games themselves. In the UK, this approach exists primarily for educational and transparency purposes rather than direct gameplay. Understanding why these free versions are referenced helps clarify the role of review sites and how they differ from licensed casino operators. This article explores why free slot formats are discussed across review platforms, what informational value they provide, and how UK-focused sites approach this topic responsibly.
