Guatemala: President Arévalo clarifies – No US military operations against drug cartels
The President of Guatemala, Bernardo Arévalo, has made an important statement on national security. He clarified that there is currently no agreement allowing the US military to fight drug cartels on Guatemalan soil. This statement is a response to questions about military cooperation between the two countries.
In his message, Arévalo emphasized that his government has not granted permission for such operations. Although the US and Guatemala are partners in many areas, there is no legal basis for direct military action by the US Army in the country. The president aims to protect his state's sovereignty and clear up misunderstandings.
The fight against international drug trafficking is a very prominent issue in Central America. Many countries in the region suffer from cartel violence and often work with international partners to stop smuggling. However, Guatemala primarily uses its own security forces and national police for this purpose.
For the government in Guatemala, it is politically important to maintain control over its own territory. The presence of foreign troops is often viewed critically by the population. With his clear rejection of US military operations, Arévalo is also responding to the concerns of many citizens who fear excessive outside interference.
In summary, the situation remains clear: Guatemala wants to continue fighting organized crime internationally, but under its own rules. Diplomatic relations with the US remain stable, but military operations on Guatemalan soil are not planned without a specific agreement.