Chlordecone Compensation Push: France has formally recognized the State’s responsibility for long-term chlordecone pollution in Guadeloupe and Martinique, opening the door to broader compensation talks for victims and setting a one-year deadline for a parliamentary report on extending existing schemes, with funding linked to an added levy on tobacco. Marine Protection in Guadeloupe: On World Oceans Day, France announced three new strictly protected marine zones, lifting the share of protected waters to 14.68%; one of the new areas targets coral reefs in Guadeloupe that shelter sea turtles, with strict limits on fishing, extraction and some tourism. EU Carbon Border Fee Rules: EU economy ministers agreed to narrow when the bloc can suspend the carbon emissions fee on imports, requiring tougher conditions like a 50% price jump over six months, as lawmakers aim to reduce or remove the suspension clause—an issue that will shape costs for regional exporters. Saint Martin Beach Resort Labor Crisis: In Anse Marcel, the hotel workers’ union says the closure of the former Secrets Hotel is worsening into a “social scandal,” alleging owners used safety claims to justify cutting over 90% of jobs, while the Préfecture reportedly confirmed no administrative closure order was issued. Travel Security Alert: The US Embassy in Nassau issued a Bahamas jet-ski warning after reports of sexual assaults by operators, advising extra caution and noting US government staff are prohibited from renting jet skis on key islands.