US Defence Secretary Compares Bolivia Protests to Government 'Overthrow'

The US Stance on Bolivia Protests

The administration of United States President Donald Trump has issued a statement appearing to characterise the anti-government protests in Bolivia as an attempted coup against the country’s right-wing president.

On Thursday, US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth posted on social media that the US military establishment would “reject all attempts to overthrow the legitimate government” of Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz.

The Protests in Bolivia

Since May, protesters have filled streets across Bolivia, blockading roadways and clashing with law enforcement. Some demonstrators have called for Paz’s resignation, citing popular discontent, though officials in his administration have rejected the possibility outright.

Facing public unrest, Paz has reshuffled his cabinet and pledged to take a 50-percent pay cut.

The US Involvement in Latin America

The Trump administration has encouraged Latin American governments to take more hardline measures to confront drug trafficking. The administration has also designated multiple criminal networks in Latin America as “terrorist” organisations.

Earlier this year, Trump established a security initiative called the Americas Counter Cartel Coalition (A3C), under the umbrella of the Shield of the Americas, to bring together right-wing governments from across the region to collaborate on issues like crime and security.

The Future Outlook

The situation in Bolivia remains uncertain, with protests continuing to grind on. The Trump administration's support for Paz's government may escalate tensions in the region, and it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold.