Marco Rubio Criticises Left Over Political Decline In Latin America
Rubio criticises the Left over Latin America’s political decline.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has accused left-wing movements of damaging countries across Latin America and alleged that some groups have aligned with criminal organisations involved in drug trafficking. Rubio made the remarks during an interaction with reporters at the US Embassy in Quito on Wednesday, while defending Washington’s approach towards governments in the region.
Responding to a question about whether US policies based on the Monroe Doctrine could contribute to the rise of left-wing movements in Latin America, Rubio rejected the suggestion and sharply criticised the political left. He specifically cited Venezuela, Cuba and Nicaragua, alleging that left-wing governments had “destroyed” those countries. His comments reflected his broader criticism of left-wing political influence across the Western Hemisphere.
Rubio also criticised previous governments in Ecuador and Colombia, alleging that some left-wing groups had worked with criminal organisations involved in narcotics trafficking. He claimed these groups had formed alliances that allowed criminal organisations to continue their activities. Rubio linked the issue to wider concerns about drug trafficking and the security challenges facing governments across the region.
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The US secretary of state also defended Washington’s cooperation with regional leaders despite allegations involving human rights abuses and disappearances. He argued that transnational criminal organisations were responsible for serious crimes, including murder, extortion and attacks on small businesses. Rubio said the US would support leaders prepared to confront such organisations and work towards eliminating the threat.
Rubio warned that powerful criminal networks operating across borders could eventually become a direct threat to US national security and interests. He said Washington would address emerging threats in the region and welcomed cooperation with presidents and other leaders who shared its concerns. He stressed that the US wanted to work with governments in the region rather than address the challenges alone.
Rubio also singled out Mexico as a major challenge because of its size and the strength of its drug cartels. He acknowledged that Mexico had taken greater steps to confront the organisations but maintained that more needed to be done. Rubio said Washington preferred to confront the threat in partnership with Mexico, while warning that the issue would ultimately have to be addressed.
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