HEADLINE: Trump’s Victory in Mexico City, Latin America Expresses Fears About Shifts in U.S. Foreign Policy
MEXICO CITY – Following the projected win by Donald Trump, U.S. foes in Latin America are expressing concerns about potential shifts in U.S. foreign policy that may negatively impact their national interests. Trump’s tariff policies have already unsettled Mexico’s socialist president, who offered an olive branch to the incoming administration regarding tariffs and migration.
Joseph Humire, Executive Director of the Center for a Secure Free Society, stated that authoritarian regimes in the region, including Cuba, Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Bolivia, will likely think twice before engaging in provocative behavior, given the new U.S. government’s projection of strength. He believes that the United States will enforce its position, and adversaries and autocratic countries will respect U.S. power, knowing that any attempts to provoke conflicts or war will come with consequences.
Experts anticipate a return to the nation-state sovereignty and burden-sharing as key pillars of Trump’s foreign policy, which will lead to a stronger, more influential U.S. presence in the world. This, in turn, will draw closer to Latin American right-wing, conservative, and libertarian leaders, who may see the new administration as a potential source of support and help.
Mexico is particularly concerned about the potential changes in immigration and trade policies, which could significantly impact its economy and citizens. President Claudia Sheinbaum’s administration is wary of stricter immigration controls and potential renegotiation of trade agreements.
Colombia and other countries in the region are also concerned about potential shifts in U.S. policy, including drug use and security cooperation. The Trump administration’s appointment of Marco Rubio as Secretary of State signals a more hardline stance against the “troika of tyranny” – Cuba, Nicaragua, and Venezuela – which may lead to increased sanctions and diplomatic pressure.
According to experts, a more conservative U.S. government could benefit leaders like Argentina’s Javier Milei, who shares a similar libertarian and pro-market outlook, as well as leaders in Brazil, Chile, and Colombia who may see Trump’s victory as an opportunity for greater support and collaboration.
