The concept of “America for Americans” has been revived in the second term of President Donald Trump. This famous American foreign policy slogan was first introduced by President James Monroe over 200 years ago, with the goal of preventing European powers from colonizing Latin American countries. However, the current geopolitical context is different, and Trump’s focus on Latin America is driven by his desire to impose American influence and leadership, as well as protect US interests from China’s economic expansion in the region.
Trump’s interest in Latin America is not a gesture of solidarity with the continent, but rather a reflection of his nationalist and protectionist policies. During his first term, international events forced Trump to focus on the Middle East and Russia, but now he is turning his attention to his southern neighbors. The appointment of Marco Rubio, a Cuban-American who speaks Spanish fluently, as Secretary of State is a significant indication of this shift. Other measures, such as changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America and threatening to resume control of the Panama Canal, demonstrate a 180-degree turn in Trump’s foreign policy.
Marco Rubio’s first trip as Secretary of State was a diplomatic tour of Guatemala, El Salvador, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, and Panama, aimed at neutralizing China’s influence in the region. Panama is a key location, as a significant percentage of US maritime traffic passes through the Panama Canal, and the canal’s main ports are operated by a Chinese subsidiary. While the US is unlikely to recover control of the canal by force, Trump’s expansionist rhetoric is likely to lead to negotiations that benefit American interests.
In response to Trump’s policies, Latin American leaders are defining their positions and setting the tone for a new era of coexistence. Colombian President Gustavo Petro initially spoke out against Trump, but later reversed his stance. Petro’s positioning has taken the US by surprise, as well as political sectors within Colombia. In contrast, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has taken a more conciliatory approach, maintaining a “cold head” despite Mexico being a key target of Trump’s intimidation.
Other leaders, such as Argentine Javier Milei and Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele, have been invited to Trump’s inauguration and are seen as close allies. However, their influence is largely personal rather than regional. As Trump continues to impose his will on Latin America, the question remains: what does the future hold for Latin Americans in this new era of US dominance?