President Trump's 'Shield of the Americas' Initiative Gains Support from Latin American Right-Wing Governments
President Trump's administration launched the 'Shield of the Americas' initiative in March 2026, a program designed to combat drug cartels, organized crime, and irregular migration, while also aiming to reduce China's influence in Latin America. This alliance has attracted several right-wing governments in the region. Among the nations that have joined are Argentina, Chile, Ecuador under Daniel Noboa, and El Salvador under Nayib Bukele. Colombia also became a member after the right-wing politician Abelardo de la Espriella won elections in May and June. The initiative was discussed at the Foro de Madrid, a gathering of ultra-right politicians from Europe, Latin America, and the U.S., held in Santiago, Chile. During this forum, U.S. representatives, including Sarah Rogers, a U.S. lawyer and Undersecretary of State, expressed support for securing borders against migration and emphasized the importance of the alliance. The Heritage Foundation, a U.S. think tank, also had a prominent presence, with its presiden...