Peru seeks to join U.S.-backed 'Americas Shield' alliance against organized crime

Peru is keen to join the 'Americas Shield,' a U.S.-led alliance aimed at combating organized crime across the region, President Keiko Fujimori announced Saturday. She conveyed this interest to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio during a phone call.

Fujimori stated that Peru's participation in the alliance would allow for unified efforts and information sharing to tackle the pervasive issue of organized crime. "These kinds of scourges do not respect borders, they invade continents," Fujimori remarked, emphasizing the transnational reach of criminal networks. She added, "We would like to participate, it is convenient for us to participate, and the countries will also be interested in Peru participating."

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These kinds of scourges do not respect borders, they invade continents.

The decision comes as insecurity, fueled by the rise of organized crime, has become the primary concern for Peruvians. Extortion rackets targeting individuals and businesses are rampant, with criminal gangs demanding protection money under threat of violence. Urban transport buses in the capital, Lima, have been particularly hard-hit, experiencing over a hundred attacks since the beginning of the year.

The 'Americas Shield' initiative, promoted by U.S. President Donald Trump, held its inaugural summit in Florida in March. Several regional leaders attended, including presidents from Argentina, Bolivia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guyana, Honduras, Panama, Paraguay, and the Dominican Republic. Additionally, Chile's president-elect, José Antonio Kast, was present. Peru's incoming president, Abelardo de la Espriella, has also signaled his intention to join the alliance upon taking office.

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We would like to participate, it is convenient for us to participate, and the countries will also be interested in Peru participating.