Marco Rubio Begins Latin America Tour To Push Trump's Anti Drug Priorities

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio began a three nation tour of Latin America on Tuesday, visiting Colombia, Ecuador and Peru as the Trump administration seeks to strengthen ties with Trump friendly governments, combat drug trafficking and illegal migration, secure strategic resources and counter Chinese influence in the Western Hemisphere.

Rubio began in Barranquilla, Colombia, meeting President Abelardo de la Espriella, who took office last month and has embraced Trump's hardline approach to drugs, migration and security. The two sides signed agreements on critical minerals and civil nuclear cooperation. Colombia has also joined Trump's Shield of the Americas anti cartel coalition.

De la Espriella proposed the “Plan Patriota Siglo XXI”, seeking US help with aircraft, drones, radar, helicopters, air defence, intelligence and cyber capabilities. Rubio said Washington was prepared to provide equipment, intelligence and training, but not US troops. Colombia plans to intensify coca eradication, destroy cocaine laboratories and target drug bosses.

Rubio also said Washington hopes to complete “good, solid” trade deals with Colombia, Ecuador and Peru soon. Colombia is seeking relief from a 12.5 per cent US tariff imposed in July, after a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck the country in August. The disaster killed hundreds and caused widespread damage.

De la Espriella has also adopted tougher immigration policies, including plans to deport undocumented migrants, mainly Venezuelans. His military campaign against armed groups has faced criticism after minors were killed in bombing operations and opposition figures accused his government of threatening national sovereignty.

Rubio defended the recent Venezuela oil deal, saying US control of oil fields could eventually generate royalties for Venezuelans under a democratically elected government. Washington is also seeking greater access to Venezuela's mineral wealth.

The tour continues in Ecuador, where Rubio is meeting President Daniel Noboa over counter narcotics cooperation, before travelling to Peru to meet President Keiko Fujimori. Peru has joined the Shield of the Americas, while Washington is seeking closer economic ties and pushing back against China's growing influence, including through major infrastructure investments.