News Americas, FORT LAUDERDALE, FL, Mon. April 10, 2023: Russia and China are expanding their reach into Latin America and the Caribbean, according to a recent article in the Miami Herald. The article highlights concerns that the increasing presence of these global powers could have geopolitical implications for the region.
“China and Russia are flexing their muscles in the Western Hemisphere, and we need to pay attention to what they are doing,” said Sen. Rick Scott of Florida in a statement to the Miami Herald.
In recent years, Russia and China have strengthened their ties with a number of countries in the region, including Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua. They have provided loans, investments, and military support in exchange for access to natural resources and political influence.
“Russia and China have both found in Latin America and the Caribbean a terrain for a strategic dispute with the United States,” said former Mexican ambassador to China, Jorge Guajardo.
According to the article, China has become the largest trading partner of many countries in the region, surpassing the United States in terms of trade volume. China has also invested heavily in infrastructure projects, such as ports and railways, which could further expand its economic and political influence in the region.
Meanwhile, Russia has also been strengthening its ties with countries in the region, particularly those with left-leaning governments. In addition to providing military support to Venezuela, Russia has also invested in energy projects in several countries, including Cuba and Nicaragua.
“Some Latin American countries see China and Russia as a way to counterbalance the influence of the United States,” said Eric Farnsworth, vice president of the Americas Society/Council of the Americas.
Some analysts are concerned that the growing influence of Russia and China in the region could have geopolitical implications, particularly if it leads to a further deterioration of U.S. influence. Others argue that increased competition could benefit the region by providing additional sources of investment and trade.
Regardless of the potential implications, it is clear that Russia and China are increasingly looking to expand their reach in Latin America and the Caribbean, which could have significant consequences for the region and beyond.
