US Military Escalates Latin America Campaign: Land Operations Begin!
US Military Escalates Latin America Campaign: Land Operations Begin!
The Trump administration expands its 'lethal campaign' against criminal groups, moving from bombing boats to land operations in Latin America. Critics warn of risks and an 'asymmetrical relationship'.
The United States military, under the Trump administration, is dramatically expanding its operations against criminal groups in Latin America. After a year of bombing drug-ferrying boats in the Caribbean and Pacific, the focus is now shifting to land-based joint military operations with allied nations across the region.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced last week during a visit to Panama that Colombia, Guatemala, and Honduras had reportedly agreed to allow U.S. forces on their soil for joint missions. This follows similar initiatives with Ecuador, which began in March. However, Guatemala has since denied reaching such an agreement. Hegseth explicitly stated the intent: "like you saw with the strikes on the drug boats... Same effect on land." He emphasized cooperation with partners to "bring the fight to the (designated terrorist organizations) on land."
This expansion marks a significant new phase in the Trump administration’s strategy to align Latin American governments with its security priorities and assert what it terms "American dominance over the Western Hemisphere." The administration views the increasing number of Trump-aligned leaders in the region as a green light for more willing partnerships.
Despite the administration's stated goals, critics are voicing serious concerns. Michael Shifter, a Latin America expert, warned that the widening U.S. military campaign risks civilian casualties and could provoke a backlash against the U.S. that might long outlast the Republican administration. Shifter described the situation as "an attempt to legitimize the increased use of the U.S. military in the region," highlighting that it "projects power, demonstrates military superiority and enables Washington to impose its agenda." He concluded that this is not true cooperation but rather "a very asymmetrical relationship."
