Written by: William Hekman
After Biden’s disaster withdrawal in Afghanistan, the administration may use Latin America to showcase its strength, particularly in nations such as Nicaragua, Cuba, and Venezuela. Many say the botched withdrawal in Afghanistan and the criticism and backlash that followed show an image of weakness on behalf of the United States and adversaries worldwide. The perceived weakness could encourage China, Russia, Iran, and their allies in Latin America.
John Bolton, the former National Security Advisor in the Trump administration and former Ambassador to the U.N in the George W. Bush administration believes that these nations will “take to heart” the events in Afghanistan. Bolton said, “They will believe they have greater freedom of action, certainly greater freedom of action within their own countries, against their own people.” Bolton predicted that Peru might be the first nation to attempt to subjugate its people.
Political leaders in Cuba and Venezuela disagree that the debacle in Afghanistan will strengthen American enemies and force the United States to step up operations and push more sanctions. Seth Jones with the Center of Strategic and International Studies told the Miami Herald, “Biden is viewed as weak right now, and he knows it. In particular, he is worried about being seen as weak with China, but that could also extend to Latin America.” Despite a letter sent by 80 democrats back in March to lift sanctions on Cuba, Biden announced travel bans on three Cuban officials. Biden is also expected to ramp up sanctions on Venezuela as a negotiating tool as the two will meet in September in Mexico.
However, it may be some time until the United States attempts to flex its power in Latin America. Many State Department personnel have been occupied with getting visas for the thousands of Afghans who aided troops. But the situation in Afghanistan and the fallout will linger for some time, which may make Biden eager to show the strength of the United States.
Image From: Soohee Cho/The Intercept, Getty Images
