U.S. Reaffirms Support for Bolivia Amid Protests
On Wednesday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed strong support for Bolivia and its democratically elected President Rodrigo Paz. This comes as the country faces widespread protests and blockades, which are leading to shortages of essential goods including medicine, food, and fuel.
Rubio stated on social media, “To be clear, the United States fully supports Bolivia’s legitimate constitutional government.” He added that the U.S. would not stand by while criminals and drug traffickers attempt to overturn democratic leaders in the region.
In response to the unrest, the Bolivian government banned the left-leaning Bolivian Union of Trade Unions (COB) and other groups, some of which allegedly sympathize with Evo Morales, the former socialist president who is currently evading justice on serious charges.
The protesters are demanding President Paz’s resignation and changes to austerity measures aimed at addressing a severe economic crisis stemming from nearly two decades of challenging socialist policies. The ongoing unrest has resulted in at least four fatalities and numerous injuries, particularly impacting supply chains in the capital, La Paz.
Interestingly, Morales defended the protests, describing them as a “popular uprising” against the government. His comments have drawn attention as protests intensified.
Bolivian media reports indicate that by Thursday morning, there were around 45 blockades established across the nation, with a significant number around La Paz. Meanwhile, various pro-democracy and civil society organizations planned peaceful demonstrations to support Paz’s government.
On Wednesday, President Paz announced the creation of an “Economic and Social Council” aimed at engaging the public in addressing the country’s challenges. He mentioned a potential cabinet reshuffle to include individuals who are more responsive to the needs of the people.
During this tumultuous period, Bolivia’s Foreign Minister Fernando Aramayo condemned the violent actions before the Organization of American States (OAS), deeming them a threat to the democratic structure of the nation. He called for an OAS ambassador to examine Bolivia’s evolving situation.
Paz is set to assume office in November 2025, marking the end of two decades of dominant rule by the Movement for Socialism (MAS) party. He has since re-established ties with the U.S. after Morales and his successor allowed Iranian influence to flourish in the region.
U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau reiterated support for Paz’s administration, stating that those who lost in the previous election are now inciting violence in collaboration with organized crime to destabilize the government.
The protests have also contributed to tensions between Bolivia and Colombia, exacerbated further by remarks from Colombia’s leftist president, Gustavo Petro, who labeled the backlash as a “popular revolt.” This led to Bolivia expelling Colombia’s ambassador in response to perceived interference in its domestic affairs.
