May 28th, 2026 - Guatemala Agrees to Joint U.S. Military Operations Against Drug Gangs

Guatemala has reportedly agreed to conduct joint military operations with the United States against drug trafficking groups inside its territory. The agreement would allow U.S. involvement in airstrikes and other actions led by Guatemalan security forces, with operations potentially beginning as soon as next month.

The arrangement would make Guatemala the second country in the region, after Ecuador, to permit this kind of joint military action against criminal organizations. U.S. officials have been expanding counterdrug efforts across Latin America, including through a regional coalition aimed at targeting cartels and organized crime.

The move is part of a broader strategy by the Trump administration to increase military cooperation in the region and pressure other governments, especially Mexico, to accept similar operations. Mexico’s president, Claudia Sheinbaum, has so far rejected requests for U.S. troops or drone strikes on Mexican soil.

Supporters of the strategy argue that stronger military action is needed to confront drug gangs and reduce violence. But many Latin American governments remain cautious because of the region’s history with U.S. intervention and fears of domestic backlash.

Legal experts have also warned that expanded strikes could create serious legal risks, especially if suspects are killed outside a recognized armed conflict. Critics argue that the campaign marks a major shift away from traditional law enforcement approaches focused on arrests and investigations.

The planned operations in Guatemala reflect Washington’s growing reliance on military tools in its fight against drug trafficking. But the approach remains controversial, with questions about legality, effectiveness and the consequences of expanding U.S. military action deeper into Latin America.

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