New U.S. Strategy Against Cartels in Latin America

Joseph M. Humia, the Acting Assistant Secretary of the Army for Homeland Defense and Inter-American Security Affairs, shared that the United States is implementing a comprehensive security strategy in Latin America. The goal? To dismantle transnational criminal organizations and counter the increasing influence of geopolitical rivals.

At the center of this initiative is the “Shield of the Americas,” which seeks to integrate military, intelligence, and law enforcement efforts across partner nations in the Western Hemisphere.

“The Shield of the Americas represents the President’s framework for building alliances in this region. It includes the Alliance of Anti-Cartels in the Americas, with 18 member nations currently and 13 countries actively in the shield,” Humia explained.

New Approaches to Counter Cartel Activity

Humia noted that a declaration signed by President Trump on March 7 emphasizes collaboration with willing partners in Latin America to conduct deterrent operations against cartel activities within their territories. “Previously, we primarily provided training and support to our allies. What’s different now is that we’re actively accompanying our partners in confronting these collective threats,” he said. For instance, in Ecuador, U.S. forces are now engaged in military support operations against narco-terrorism.

According to Humia, “This shift is significant. We are encouraging partners to utilize hard power, sending clear signals to cartels while still maintaining seizure and arrest efforts. We are even dismantling cartel infrastructure and, at times, targeting cartel members directly.”

Focus on Mexico and Its Relationship with the U.S.

While Mexico isn’t currently part of the coalition, Humia expressed encouragement about their recent operations against notable cartel figures, like El Mencho. He emphasized the longstanding military relationship between the U.S. and Mexico, although U.S. troops are not yet operating within Mexican territory.

He further noted, “Mexico has observed situations like Venezuela’s and recognizes that its strongest partner in the Western Hemisphere is the United States, not countries like China or Russia.”

The Department of Defense is ramping up activities, including deploying surveillance assets and enhancing maritime patrols to disrupt illegal networks. Additionally, they aim to strengthen the capabilities of partner nations for sustained anti-cartel operations.

Cross-Border Cooperation Against Cartels

Humia mentioned that this historical strategy prioritizes the Western Hemisphere’s security in U.S. national defense, highlighting a significant foreign policy shift under the Trump administration. This broader framework addresses concerns about external influences from China, Russia, and Iran in the region.

Moreover, the U.S. is increasing intelligence-sharing with allied governments, expanding cybersecurity efforts, and enhancing military cooperation to bolster regional stability and address threats to critical infrastructure.

Influence of China Declines in Panama

Humia pointed out a notable decline in Chinese influence in Panama following recent U.S. engagements. He noted that Panama has withdrawn from the Belt and Road Initiative, showcasing a turning point in their foreign relations.

Further, the U.S. is partnering with Panama to establish a permanent presence around the Panama Canal, which includes various operational schools to enhance security.

Venezuelan Stability and Cuban Relations

Discussing Venezuela, Humia indicated that stabilization efforts are in motion, despite Maduro’s past ties with adversaries like Iran and China failing to provide adequate support. He stated that external players were unable to protect Venezuela from U.S. operations that significantly disrupted Maduro’s regime.

Humia remarked that the situation serves as a warning to other Latin American countries about aligning with these nations.

As for Cuba, the U.S. is reassessing its policy in light of the island’s connections with adversarial nations. The administration is actively discussing diplomatic relations, especially given Cuba’s past dependence on Venezuela.

Overall, Humia emphasized that the security strategy in the Western Hemisphere is not just about countering cartels but also safeguarding U.S. national interests and responding to growing foreign threats.