US to redirect $52 million in military aid to countries in the Americas — Euronews
The United States will redirect $52 million in military aid from Iraq, Tunisia, Slovakia and North Macedonia to Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Panama. The US State Department notified Congress of this decision on Tuesday, Euronews reports.
Reallocation of aid
The funds will be redirected from aid to Iraq, Tunisia and two NATO members — Slovakia and North Macedonia. At the same time, these countries are expected to continue receiving some US support, according to the outlet, but its exact amount after the change in fund allocation has not been specified.
The State Department said the funding would be directed toward countering narco-terrorism, further ensuring the security of the Panama Canal, and preventing US adversaries from establishing strategic positions in the Western Hemisphere.
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Rubio’s visit to South America
The reallocation of funds comes after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s trip to South America last week. There, he met with the conservative leaders of Peru, Colombia and Ecuador and promised continued support and cooperation.
In August, the State Department also reported plans to announce a $1 billion security assistance package for Colombia for the administration of new President Abelardo de la Espriella. The department’s spokesperson’s office stated that the package is intended to help Washington and Bogotá achieve shared goals.
US President Donald Trump has repeatedly criticized European NATO allies over their defense spending and threatened to withdraw US troops from Europe.
