Why the U.S. Should Engage with Venezuela
The Trump administration is holding talks with Iran and turning its back on Maduro. Continued isolation will deepen Caracas’ reliance on U.S. adversaries.
U.S. Policy
How U.S. Policy Toward Latin America May Backfire
Tariffs will squeeze the region’s economies and trade, and could drive deeper engagement with China, an expert writes.
Stopping Venezuela’s Exodus Hinges on Restoring Hope
The nation’s problem is still there, and appeasing Maduro will not stem the flow of migrants, two experts write.
Trump Always Wanted Tariffs on Mexico
Mexico’s efforts to appease the White House through cooperation may have been doomed from the start, writes AQ’s editor-in-chief.
Latin America’s China Ties Won’t Be Easily Severed
Trump scored early as Panama is realigning with Washington. Convincing others to leave Beijing’s orbit may be more challenging.
EVENT: Trump and Latin America: What Happens Next?
On March 11, 2025, Americas Quarterly hosted a conversation in New York about the rapidly evolving relationships between Latin America and the Trump administration.
Will Trump 2.0 Play Tougher on Nicaragua’s Dictatorship?
Initial actions by the White House, such as cutting USAID programs, undermine the country’s struggling opposition.
USAID Changes Reflect Short-Term, Transactional U.S. Policy
Latin America can expect U.S. assistance to focus on narrow policy goals, which will have wide-reaching effects.
As Maduro Goes Rogue, Trump Has Choices to Make
The U.S. can still go beyond pragmatic deals, countering Maduro by using oil as the ultimate leverage.
Trump and Lula Think Differently. Will They Find Common Ground?
The two leaders have diverging views on the future of BRICS and climate change. What can bridge the gap?
Latin America Is an Opportunity for Trump
The region is eager for greater U.S. attention, writes AS/COA’s CEO.
Why a Normalization Strategy With Venezuela Is Not Viable
Normalization will only strengthen the ruling elites, endanger human rights, and create conditions that boost migration flow, an expert writes.
What Marco Rubio Has Said About Latin America
Trump’s nominee for Secretary of State is known for his hardline stances on dictatorships and China’s activity in the region.
REACTION: What Trump’s Victory Means for Latin America
After an unexpectedly large victory, analysts examine the likely impact for the region.
It’s Time to Rethink U.S.-Colombia Relations
The old Plan Colombia formula no longer works. Policymakers should embrace a more holistic approach, writes a former U.S. diplomat.
