U.S. Supports Bolivia Amid Ongoing Unrest
U.S. War Secretary Pete Hegseth recently reaffirmed America’s commitment to supporting Bolivia’s government, which is currently under threat from protests and potential coup concerns. Hegseth made these statements on social media, highlighting the priority of safeguarding the government of President Rodrigo Paz Pereira, who has been in office for just six months.
“The United States is closely monitoring the situation,” Hegseth explained. “Bolivia must not fall into the hands of narco-terrorists.” He added that the U.S. will collaborate with the Americas Counter Cartel Coalition (A3C) to protect the region from criminal influences.
The political climate in Bolivia has become increasingly volatile due to rising economic pressures. Cities like La Paz have seen sustained protests fueled by inflation and skyrocketing fuel prices. In a significant development, Defense Minister Marcelo Salinas resigned amidst the turmoil.
President Paz’s recent policy changes, including the introduction of a land reform bill aimed at boosting agribusiness and the removal of fuel subsidies, have been met with backlash. This has led to a surge in fuel costs by nearly 90%, with complaints from motorists over the quality of gasoline.
U.S. officials argue that drug traffickers are a key factor in stirring unrest in Bolivia. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated, “The United States stands firmly behind Bolivia’s constitutional government and will not let criminals disrupt democratically chosen leaders.”
Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau echoed these sentiments, describing the protests as part of a larger coup attempt influenced by a mix of political and organized crime.
In the midst of the chaos, former President Evo Morales, who previously led the country for 14 years, has called for early elections. He believes President Paz should either consider militarization or schedule elections within 90 days.
Morales has been living in hiding to evade an arrest warrant related to serious allegations, which he denies as politically motivated.
The situation in Bolivia continues to evolve, and the international community is keeping a close watch on the developments.
