Chile considers rejecting US-led anti-cartel military coalition

The government of President José Antonio Kast is evaluating whether to decline signing the Americas Counter Cartel Coalition, a US-led military cooperation initiative. This potential decision comes ahead of a summit in the Dominican Republic scheduled for Tuesday, October 27, which will be led by US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.

While Chile recently joined the political Shield of the Americas, officials are reportedly weighing the political costs and concerns regarding national sovereignty. There are internal fears regarding the potential for foreign military force to be used on national or regional territory.

A refusal to sign would mark a significant diplomatic break with Washington, potentially leaving Chile as the only member of the group not to sign the agreement. Chilean Defense Minister Fernando Barros has been invited to the meeting, which includes approximately 19 member countries and observers.