- Peru will join the U.S.-led 'Shield of the Americas' coalition against drug cartels, President Keiko Fujimori announced during U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio's visit.
- Fujimori stated that Peru's participation in the coalition would speed intelligence-sharing and bolster joint action against criminal groups operating across borders.
- Rubio welcomed Lima's decision, stating the initiative is meant to 'shield the region' from organizations that threaten the sovereignty of countries across the hemisphere.
- Protesters gathered outside the government house during the meeting, carrying signs that read 'Marco Rubio out of Peru, no to Shield of the Americas.'
- In January, the United States designated Peru a major non-NATO ally and approved a possible $1.5 billion foreign military sale for design and construction work at Callao Naval Base.
- In late July, Trump raised tariffs on imports from Peru to 12.5% from 10%, impacting Peru's agricultural exports.
- In February, the Trump administration criticized Peru for allowing China to construct a mega-port in Chancay, warning that 'cheap Chinese money costs sovereignty.'
Peru's decision to join the 'Shield of the Americas' coalition comes as part of a broader strategy to enhance security cooperation with the United States. President Fujimori emphasized the importance of intelligence-sharing in combating drug cartels and transnational crime, stating, "We appreciate this opportunity [to join the initiative], because for us, having previously had to tackle terrorism, [we] know how difficult it is to confront criminality today."
During a joint press conference, Rubio highlighted that the coalition aims to "shield the region" from threats to sovereignty, asserting that U.S. involvement is crucial for both American and regional security. He stated, "It is a shield against these threats to the sovereignty of these independent nations."
Peru, the world's second-largest cocaine producer, has seen a rise in crime, including extortion, making this partnership timely. The U.S. has previously designated Peru as a major non-NATO ally and approved a potential $1.5 billion military sale to bolster its naval capabilities.
Despite the positive reception from officials, the U.S. presence in the region is met with skepticism due to historical interventions and support for controversial leaders. Protests against Rubio's visit included signs reading, “Marco Rubio out of Peru, no to Shield of the Americas.” Fujimori's government also awarded Rubio the Order of the Sun, reflecting the strengthening ties between the two nations.
“The move deepens security ties with Washington, but protesters in Lima chanted 'Marco Rubio out of Peru, no to Shield of the Americas.' Rubio stressed the US will only intervene with local permission, while China's growing influence, including a mega-port near Lima, remains a backdrop.”
