The Return of America First: US Power and Influence in Latin America

Trump's revived 'America First' policy is reshaping US-Latin America ties, testing regional stability, governance and the balance between Washington, Beijing, and Moscow.

Nearly a year into his second term, President Trump has revived the 'America First' doctrine with a renewed focus on the Western Hemisphere. As Washington prioritises border security, transactional diplomacy and strategic competition with China and Russia, Latin American governments are reassessing how to navigate a more conditional and bilateral US approach.

In this episode of Global Security Briefing, Neil Melvin is joined by Dr Carlos Solar, Senior Research Fellow for Latin American Security at RUSI.

The discussion explores:

· How the Trump Administration is reshaping US engagement with Latin America.

· The effects of aid cuts, tariff threats and bilateral deals on regional governance.

· Shifts in defence and security cooperation under the new US strategy.

· How Latin American governments are responding to a tougher, more transactional Washington.

· The challenge of balancing US pressure with growing Chinese and Russian influence.