In a significant pivot towards Latin America, former President Donald Trump convened a summit on 7 March 2026, dubbed the “Shield of the Americas,” at his golf club in Doral, Florida. The gathering aimed to establish a coalition among twelve Latin American leaders to address regional security issues and counter the growing influence of drug cartels, particularly those based in Mexico. This initiative underscores an emergent strategy to foster cooperation against what Trump describes as escalating cartel violence and a broader challenge posed by foreign adversaries like China.
A Call for Unity Against Cartel Violence
At the heart of the summit was Trump’s assertion that a united front is vital in combating the rampant cartel activity that he claims is destabilising the region. “Just as we formed a coalition to eradicate ISIS, we now need a coalition to eradicate the cartels,” he declared, highlighting the urgency of the situation. The former president pointedly remarked that Mexico stands at the epicentre of cartel violence, which he asserts is responsible for significant bloodshed across the hemisphere.
Joining Trump at the summit were leaders from across Latin America, including Kamla Persad-Bissessa of Trinidad and Tobago and Santiago Peña of Paraguay. The White House characterised this gathering as a pivotal moment in regional diplomacy aimed at reinforcing sovereignty and security among the nations involved.
New Leadership, New Strategies
Kristi Noem, who recently transitioned from her role as the Secretary of Homeland Security to become the US special envoy for the coalition, also addressed the attendees. She emphasised the importance of collaboration in securing borders and enhancing economic prosperity. “This is intended to be a group that works together to ensure we’re defending our own sovereignty,” Noem stated, framing the coalition as a powerful example of what regional partnerships can achieve.
Her rapid shift in roles marks a notable move within the Trump administration, one that reflects a strategic focus on fostering ties with neighbouring countries to collectively tackle security challenges. Noem’s background in border security positions her as a key figure in what the administration aims to achieve in Latin America.
Addressing Broader Geopolitical Concerns
The summit comes in the wake of a US military operation that resulted in the capture of Nicolás Maduro, Venezuela’s former president, on drug and weapons conspiracy charges. This backdrop of heightened security concerns has led to closer cooperation between the US and its southern neighbours, particularly in the fight against drug trafficking.
Trump extended his praise to Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, despite her absence from the summit. He acknowledged the deteriorating situation in Mexico, stating, “The cartels are running Mexico. We can’t have that.” This rhetoric underscores a commitment to addressing the influence of cartels, which Trump argues have increasingly destabilised not just Mexico, but the entire region.
In an interesting turn, Trump also highlighted the potential for collaboration with Venezuela’s interim president, Delcy Rodríguez, indicating a willingness to engage with a government that has been largely isolated internationally. “She’s doing a great job working with us,” he remarked, signalling a shift in how the US might approach Venezuela under the new administration.
The ‘Donroe Doctrine’ and Countering Foreign Influence
Trump’s remarks suggested an overarching framework for US policy towards Latin America, which he termed the “Donroe doctrine.” This concept, aiming to bolster regional alliances, includes a clear stance against foreign adversaries, particularly China, which Trump claims is attempting to gain a foothold in the region. “We will not allow hostile foreign influence to gain a foothold in this hemisphere,” he asserted, framing the summit as a critical step in safeguarding regional interests.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed Trump’s sentiments, thanking the leaders for prioritising their relationships with the US. He took a swipe at the UK’s perceived lack of support during recent international conflicts, asserting that the nations gathered in Doral have consistently stood by the US in times of need.
Why it Matters
The “Shield of the Americas” summit signals a strategic shift in US foreign policy towards Latin America, emphasising regional cooperation against drug cartels and foreign influence. By galvanising support among Latin American leaders, Trump aims to create a unified front that not only addresses immediate security threats but also reshapes the geopolitical landscape in the Western Hemisphere. This initiative reflects a broader recognition of the interconnectedness of regional security and economic stability, positioning the US as a proactive partner in addressing shared challenges. As the dynamics of influence evolve in Latin America, the implications of this summit could resonate far beyond the immediate issues of drug trafficking and cartel violence, potentially altering the region’s approach to international relations and security cooperation.
