Donald Trump's right-wing network in Latin America

A wave of right-leaning leaders, closely allied with former U.S. President Donald Trump, has taken power across Latin America, suggesting a significant political realignment in the region. This trend, observed since Trump's presidency, is interpreted by some as a strategic effort by the United States to consolidate its influence in the Western Hemisphere, viewing it as a vital resource depot and a buffer against growing Chinese influence.

The recent election of Abelardo de la Espriella as Colombia's new president exemplifies this shift. His inauguration was attended by key allies from Argentina, Chile, and Ecuador, including Javier Milei and Daniel Noboa. Trump was represented by his former lawyer and current U.S. Attorney General, Todd Blanche. De la Espriella, a lawyer with no prior political experience, won narrowly on a platform of radical policies including shrinking the state, reviving oil and gas production, and combating drug cartels with force, all with stated U.S. backing.

This political maneuvering is not solely reliant on overt threats. The U.S. ambassador to Argentina, Peter Lamelas, a close associate of Trump, intervened in a deal between the local electricity cooperative CALF and China's Huawei for a data center project. Lamelas reportedly threatened to block visas for CALF management if the deal proceeded, framing it as a security concern related to China's intelligence services and the protection of Argentina's oil and gas resources.

The U.S. strategy appears to involve leveraging economic tools, such as visa restrictions and potential embargoes, alongside security and technological partnerships. The message is clear: control over strategic resources and technological infrastructure in Latin America is paramount for U.S. interests, influencing who benefits from energy supplies, data storage, and regional development. This approach aims to secure the region as a U.S. sphere of influence, distinct from volatile regions like the Middle East.