18 Nations Launch Americas Counter-Cartel Coalition

The 'Americas Counter-Cartel Coalition,' involving 18 countries, has been launched. U.S. Assistant Secretary of Defense for Homeland Defense and Americas' Security Joseph M. Humire stated that the coalition is part of a strategy to strengthen hemispheric security. This initiative is incorporated within the 'Shield of the Americas' concept, a multi-layered plan designed to integrate the military, intelligence, and law enforcement capabilities of Western Hemisphere partner nations. The 'Americas Counter-Cartel Coalition' currently has 18 member states, while 13 countries are participating in the 'Shield of the Americas' concept.

Humire explained that the coalition focuses on enabling Latin American partner nations to conduct deterrence-focused operations against cartel infrastructure and targets within their own sovereign territories. This move is based on a U.S. security strategy aimed at dismantling transnational criminal organizations and countering the influence of geopolitical rivals across Latin America.

Former President Trump signed a proclamation centered on the coalition on March 7, 2026. Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa has authorized U.S. forces to advise and support military force in counter-narco terror operations, as well as accompany such operations. Mexico has not formally joined the coalition to date. While the U.S. side recently positively assessed Mexican military operations targeting cartel leaders, it drew a line, stating it is not yet at the stage of U.S. forces accompanying operations within Mexican sovereign territory. Humire added that the U.S. is maintaining military relations with Mexico and continuing capacity building.