Pete Hegseth Announces Expansion of U.S. Military Operations to Latin American Landmasses
The administration announced that U.S. military forces will expand their anti-drug campaign from the sea to the land of allied nations in Latin America. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that Colombia, Guatemala, and Honduras have agreed to allow U.S. forces to conduct joint military operations against criminal groups on their soil. This expansion follows a successful maritime campaign where the U.S. military targeted drug boats, resulting in the deaths of hundreds of people. President Trump's defense secretary aims to project American dominance over the Western Hemisphere by equating drug traffickers with global terrorist organizations. While Ecuador has already launched joint raids with the U.S., Guatemala's President Bernardo Arévalo has denied reaching a formal agreement, noting that congressional approval is required. The administration seeks to make a show of pursuing 'bad guys' to ensure regional security. However, critics warn that the increased military presence may risk civilian casualties and test the limits of national sovereignty for partner nations.
Sources
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After killing hundreds in boat strikes, US military expands campaign on land in Latin America
AP News
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Southcom Mission Shifts to Protecting Sovereignty of U.S., Partner Nations
U.S. Department of War (.gov)
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US floats prospect of joint strikes on Colombian armed groups
Reuters
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Colombia’s new president asks Trump to bring militarized antidrug campaign to the country
The Washington Post
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Hegseth Says Anti-Cartel Coalition Will Do ‘Bad Things to Bad People’
The New York Times