Narayan AmmachchiU.S. President Donald Trump is intensifying pressure on Latin American nations to limit China’s strategic presence in the region, according to a report by Associated Press.
In recent weeks, the United States imposed travel bans on three Chilean officials over a proposed submarine fiber-optic cable project involving China. Washington has also warned Peru against handing operational control of a Chinese-built mega port in Chancay to Beijing-linked firms, citing security concerns.
The United States has also exerted pressure on the government of Panama, which moved to take over two key ports near the Panama Canal that had been operated by a Hong Kong-based company after Washington raised concerns over Chinese influence.
According to the report, curbing Beijing’s reach was also a factor behind Washington’s actions against Nicolás Maduro, the Venezuelan leader whose country hosts significant Chinese investments in infrastructure and energy.
Trump also hosted dozens of regional leaders in Miami for a summit dubbed the “Shield of the Americas,” aimed at strengthening hemispheric cooperation and countering external influence, particularly from China.
Washington’s concerns stem from China’s growing economic footprint in Latin America. Over the past two decades, Chinese loans, investments and trade have expanded rapidly across the region, particularly in infrastructure, logistics and technology.
Analysts warn that Trump’s assertive strategy could push Latin American countries to choose sides between the two global powers. While some governments may move closer to Washington, others could deepen economic ties with Beijing, reflecting China’s entrenched role in the region’s development.
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