President Keiko Fujimori Aligns Peru with United States

Newly inaugurated President Keiko Fujimori took office on July 28, 2026, signaling a shift toward conservatism in South America. Shortly after her swearing-in, Fujimori and Foreign Minister Carlos Espá announced plans to deepen ties with the United States, designating Washington as a strategic partner.

Peru intends to join the Shield of the Americas, a U.S.-backed initiative focused on combating cartels and transnational crime. To resolve trade disputes, the Peruvian government submitted a bill to Congress addressing forced labor. This legislative move aims to secure a review of 10% and 12.5% tariffs imposed by the Donald Trump administration on 60 trading partners, including Peru, for failing to enforce forced labor prohibitions.

Beyond its partnership with the U.S., the new administration seeks to restore diplomatic relations with Mexico and Colombia and begin rebuilding ties with Venezuela. These strategic shifts occur as the United States works to counter Chinese influence in Peru, a primary global producer of copper.