27th Parliamentary-Intelligence Security Forum – Countering Hybrid Threats From China and Russia in the Americas

Ambassador. Carla Sands addressed the growing influence of China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea in the Western Hemisphere, describing the current period as one of the most dangerous in modern history. She argued that weak U.S. leadership in recent years allowed adversaries to expand their reach, particularly through China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which now includes numerous Latin American and Caribbean nations and strategic infrastructure projects such as major ports with potential military use.

She highlighted concerns about Venezuela’s ties to China and Russia, linking regional instability to increased migration, crime, drug trafficking, and the fentanyl crisis in the United States. Sands emphasized that Chinese financial networks and precursor chemical exports play a significant role in enabling cartel operations and drug flows into the U.S.

She stated that under President Trump’s renewed leadership, the United States would prioritize border security, reciprocal trade, and stronger security cooperation. She stressed that allies should contribute more to their own defense, ensure fair trade practices, and cooperate on immigration enforcement. The U.S., she said, seeks strong economic partnerships in the region but expects level playing fields, reduced dependence on China, and alignment on security priorities. She concluded that U.S. and Latin American security and prosperity are closely linked and require decisive action.