Peru Begins Process to Join Trump Anti-Cartel Alliance

Foreign Minister Carlos Espa announced Friday that Peru is initiating steps to join the Shield of the Americas, an anti-cartel alliance established by U.S. President Donald Trump. The move follows the Tuesday inauguration of conservative President Keiko Fujimori, who campaigned on addressing the nation's soaring security concerns and the influence of international drug trafficking gangs within the cocaine-producing country.

The alliance currently comprises Argentina, Ecuador, and El Salvador. Its primary functions include coordinating security and judicial forces and exchanging intelligence to dismantle transnational criminal networks. Minister Espa stated that the government intends to deepen relations with the United States, characterizing the country as a strategic partner and ally.

Regional expansion of the initiative is expected to continue shortly. Minister Espa indicated that Colombia is likely to join the alliance in August following the inauguration of president-elect Abelardo de la Espriella.