U.S.-Palau Partnership: U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Josh Lasky reaffirmed Washington’s defense commitment to Palau during a visit, meeting President Surangel Whipps Jr. and security officials and touring ongoing joint-use construction projects, with a focus on listening to community impacts. EU Food Safety: Pacific Island-flagged freezer vessels face new EU rules after an EU Delegated Regulation entered into force, with training in Suva for Fiji, Kiribati, Solomon Islands and Tuvalu aimed at keeping access to the EU seafood market. El Niño Watch: NASA and Sentinel-6 satellite data show a warm Kelvin wave moving east from the Pacific, while the WMO signals an 80% chance of El Niño by June–August 2026—prompting calls for Pacific communities to prepare. Weather Update (Marianas): The NWS says a drier pattern is holding across the Marianas with spotty light showers, easing winds mid-to-late week, and a moderate risk of rip currents. Guam Recognition: Carolyn Haruo of Pulo Anna was named Guam Teacher of the Year 2027, highlighting advocacy for students, island culture, and land and ocean protection. Palau Governance: Palau’s Senate rejected a House-amended Elite Visa bill after added budget riders of more than $8 million, sending it to conference negotiations. Diplomacy: Azerbaijan and the Federated States of Micronesia established diplomatic relations via a UN-signed joint communiqué.