U.S. Army Troops Deployed to Latin America for Anti-Drug Training Operations

The U.S. military is sending several hundred soldiers from the 10th Mountain Division, based at Fort Drum, New York, to Latin America to engage in training and joint exercises aimed at combating drug-trafficking networks. The initial group of troops, part of a battalion of about 600 soldiers, is scheduled to arrive in Panama, where they will utilize a new jungle training facility.

Additionally, these soldiers may collaborate with local forces in Colombia and Honduras and support U.S. special operations personnel who are advising regional militaries on tactical operations against suspected drug trafficking activities. This deployment is part of the Trump administration’s ongoing military efforts in Latin America targeting drug traffickers, following a series of strikes resulting in numerous fatalities.