Caribbean Buildup: A Renewed Focus on Counternarcotics and Hemispheric Security?

October 27, 2025 • 10:00 – 11:00 am EDT

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The Trump administration has overseen one of the largest U.S. Navy buildups in the Caribbean in recent memory. The administration says that this activity is meant to counter the security threats in the region, especially drug trafficking from recently designated foreign terrorist organizations. Some of these activities blur traditional law enforcement and counterterrorism operations, shifting U.S. policy towards a new paradigm. On top of everything, the soon-to-be-released National Defense Strategy document will likely place heavy emphasis on homeland security and security within the Western Hemisphere.

This event will explore how these new dynamics are reshaping Latin America’s security environment and explore U.S. strategic objectives under the Trump administration. It will also examine the implications for the region of a renewed U.S. focus on the Western Hemisphere. 

This event is made possible through general support to the Americas Program.

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Juan Cruz
Senior Adviser (Non-resident), Americas Program and Director, Argentina-U.S. Strategic Forum