U.S. Launches New Security Strategy in Latin America
The United States is rolling out an extensive security strategy aimed at tackling cross-border crime and countering the influence of geopolitical rivals in Latin America. Joseph M. Humire, the acting assistant secretary of war for homeland defense and Americas security affairs, announced details about this plan, known as the “Shield of the Americas.”
This initiative focuses on uniting military, intelligence, and law enforcement resources among partner countries in the region. Humire stated, “The Shield of the Americas is a presidential initiative to create alliances throughout the Western Hemisphere. The Americas Counter Cartel Coalition is part of this but is not limited to it. We currently have 18 members in this coalition and 13 countries involved in the Shield.”
Humire highlighted a recent proclamation by President Trump, which aims to encourage Latin American nations to undertake operations against drug cartels on their own land and waters.
In the past, the U.S. primarily trained partner nations to combat cartels. However, Humire emphasized, “This administration is different because we are now actively supporting our partners against common threats. For example, in Ecuador, we have permission to accompany its military in counter-narcotics operations.”
Humire mentioned, “We’re focusing more on using a strong approach, which means we’re encouraging our partners to take decisive action to warn the cartels. We’re not just seizing drugs; we’re also dismantling cartel infrastructures and, when necessary, taking out cartel members.”
Regarding Mexico, while it is not part of the coalition yet, Humire expressed optimism about Mexico’s recent operations against high-profile cartel leaders. He reinforced that Mexico has a strong military relationship with the U.S., but noted that American forces are not currently accompanying Mexican troops in their territory.
Humire remarked, “Mexico now sees the U.S. as a preferred partner over countries like China and Russia.”
The U.S. Pentagon is implementing actions under this strategy, including deploying more surveillance tools, enhancing maritime patrols, and integrating cyber capabilities. The focus will also be on building long-term support for partner nations to effectively tackle cartel operations.
Humire commented, “This is a historic effort to make the Western Hemisphere a priority for U.S. security. President Trump is reshaping U.S. national security policies significantly.”
Beyond combating drug trafficking, the strategy also addresses concerns over the increasing influence of countries like China, Russia, and Iran in the region. Concerns include Chinese infrastructure investments that could have dual purposes and Iranian networks involved in illicit finance.
Panama has seen a reduction in Chinese influence since U.S. officials visited last year. Humire noted that Panama withdrew from the Belt and Road Initiative and is partnering with the U.S. to enhance security at the Panama Canal.
In Venezuela, stabilization efforts are reportedly progressing despite the government’s close ties with adversarial countries. Humire pointed out that these nations were unable to maintain Maduro’s power against U.S. actions.
Looking ahead, the U.S. is also recalibrating its strategy towards Cuba, which remains a security concern due to its connections with adversarial countries.
Humire concluded, “The Western Hemisphere is closely linked to U.S. homeland defense. That’s why it is now a primary focus for the Trump administration and the Department of War.”
