Is the US Renewing Its Commitment to Western Hemisphere Security?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- US prioritizes Western Hemisphere security.
- Collaboration with regional partners is key.
- Focus on combating transnational crime.
- Venezuela remains a significant challenge.
- Security assistance from multiple countries pledged.
Washington, Dec 20 (NationPress) US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the United States is renewing its focus on the security and stability of the Western Hemisphere, emphasizing collaboration with regional allies to tackle transnational crime.
“The aim here is to establish security and stability throughout the hemisphere,” Rubio stated during a year-end press briefing.
He noted that numerous nations are joining forces with Washington.
“These are countries that are cooperating with us in a transparent manner to seek stability in the region,” Rubio remarked, mentioning Central America and the Caribbean.
He underscored the commitment to combat organized crime.
“The most significant threat to the United States from the Western Hemisphere stems from transnational criminal organizations, primarily involved in narco-trafficking,” he stated.
He indicated that collaboration has increased. “The positive news is that many countries in the region are openly working with us to address these challenges,” Rubio explained.
Rubio pointed out that Venezuela stands as an exception. “There is one nation that does not cooperate, which is the illegitimate regime in Venezuela,” he mentioned, also referencing Haiti.
“We were seeking 5,500 troops. We have already received commitments for up to 7,500 forces from various countries,” Rubio said, referring to ongoing security assistance initiatives.
He described the strategy as all-encompassing, stating, “That’s our objective, and it is comprehensive, involving more than just one location.”
The United States has increasingly structured its Western Hemisphere policy around security cooperation, migration management, and counter-narcotics as instability leads to displacement towards the US border.
Washington has aimed for deeper collaboration with Latin American and Caribbean governments while maintaining pressure on regimes accused of undermining democracy.