Trump Forges Anti-Cartel Alliance with Latin American Leaders Amidst Global Crises

Doral, Florida – President Donald Trump convened the “Shield of the Americas” Summit on Saturday, March 7, 2026, rallying Latin American leaders to collaboratively combat violent cartels. This initiative unfolds as the administration navigates multiple international challenges, including a recent military operation in Venezuela and escalating tensions in the Middle East following a joint military campaign with Israel against Iran.

Focus on Regional Security

President Trump urged regional leaders to employ military force against drug trafficking organizations and transnational gangs, characterizing them as a significant threat to hemispheric security. “The only way to defeat these enemies is by unleashing the power of our militaries,” Trump stated, drawing parallels to the U.S.-led coalition against the Islamic State group. “We have to use our military. You have to use your military.”

Recent Actions and Summit Origins

The summit followed a U.S. Military operation conducted two months prior, resulting in the capture of Venezuela’s then-president, Nicolás Maduro and his wife, who now face drug conspiracy charges in the United States. The “Shield of the Americas” Summit emerged as an alternative to the postponed X Summit of the Americas, which was initially slated for December but faced challenges due to disagreements over participation and a lack of commitment from President Trump.

Attendees and Notable Absences

Leaders from Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guyana, Honduras, Panama, Paraguay, and Trinidad and Tobago participated in the summit at Trump National Doral Miami. Notably absent were representatives from Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia – key players in regional anti-narcotics efforts and major powers within Latin America. Trump publicly criticized Mexico as the “epicenter of cartel violence,” asserting that cartels are “running Mexico” and pose a direct threat to the United States.

Countering Chinese Influence

Whereas the primary focus was on combating cartels, the administration also aims to counter China’s growing influence in the region. The Trump administration’s national security strategy promotes a “Trump Corollary” to the Monroe Doctrine, targeting Chinese infrastructure projects and investment in Latin American resource industries. Recent actions include pressuring Panama to withdraw from China’s Belt and Road Initiative and reviewing port contracts held by Chinese companies. The U.S. Capture of Maduro also threatens to disrupt oil shipments to China, a major purchaser of Venezuelan crude.

Future Plans and Cuba

President Trump indicated a future focus on Cuba, suggesting potential negotiations with Havana following the resolution of the conflict in Iran. He predicted “great change” for Cuba, stating the country is “highly much at the end of the line.” Cuban officials have previously expressed openness to dialogue with the U.S., contingent on respect for Cuban sovereignty.

Military Cooperation

Ecuador and the United States recently conducted joint military operations against organized crime groups, hailed by Gen. Francis Donovan, who oversees U.S. Southern Command, as a “strategic success.” Details of the operation remain limited.

Challenges and Divergent Perspectives

Despite the demonstrate of unity, challenges remain. Experts like Evan Ellis at the Center for Strategic and International Studies note that many Latin American countries are hesitant to fully sever ties with China, recognizing the economic benefits of Chinese trade and investment. Kevin Gallagher, director of Boston University’s Global Development Policy Center, points out that the U.S. Is offering “tariffs, deportations and militarization” while China provides “trade and investment,” leading some regional leaders to adopt a neutral stance.

Rebecca Blackwell / AP contributed to this report.