Peru Joins US-Led Shield of the Americas Security Coalition
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that Peru has become a Major Non-NATO Ally and entered the Shield of the Americas coalition aimed at fighting drug trafficking.
On September 8, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that Peru has been admitted to the Shield of the Americas coalition, receiving Major Non-NATO Ally status. The coalition, launched in March 2026, unites a dozen American nations to counter transnational and regional threats, primarily targeting drug cartels and the illicit drug market. President Keiko Fujimori, who assumed office in July, endorsed Peru’s participation.
Existing members span from Argentina to Trinidad and Tobago, covering much of the Western Hemisphere. Rubio emphasized that the United States is aligning its efforts with partner nations to secure the region. The addition of Peru is intended to strengthen collective security and enhance cooperation against narcotics trafficking. The move reflects a broader US strategy to bolster alliances in the Americas.
How this story developed
- Sep 7 Rubio visits Colombia, Ecuador and Peru to cement ties with new Trump-aligned leaders
- Sep 8 U.S. Joint Task Force Western Hemisphere sank a floating refueling vessel used by the Los Choneros criminal group in the Eastern Pacific, and the crew will be turned over to Ecuadorian authorities.
- Sep 8 The latest sinking adds to four prior sinkings in the past two weeks.
- Sep 9 Rubio has begun the tour with a stop in Colombia, meeting President Abelardo de la Espriella.
- Sep 9 Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the United States will now work with regional allies on drug-interdiction, while still reserving the right to sink suspect ships if necessary.
- Sep 10 Washington announced a shift to joint interdiction missions with Colombia and Ecuador while keeping authority to destroy suspect boats.
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