U.S. and Allies Condemn Efforts to Overthrow Bolivian Government

The United States and other members of Shield of the Americas have denounced attempts to overthrow Bolivia’s democratically elected President Rodrigo Paz. A statement emphasized support for Paz’s government, highlighting efforts to prevent essential supplies from reaching Bolivians through fake blockades.

The statement warned against replacing the majority’s electoral decision with mob rule and urged accountability for protests funded by illicit means. It encouraged dialogue for legitimate grievances and criticized misuse of protests for power gain.

The State Department, alongside several countries like Argentina, Chile, and Panama, released the statement amid weeks of unrest in Bolivia’s capital, La Paz. Protests have demanded Paz’s resignation over economic and fuel crises. Defense Minister Marcelo Salinas resigned amidst the turmoil.

President Paz championed agribusiness-friendly land reform, risking Indigenous farmers’ eviction, and scrapped fuel subsidies, resulting in price hikes. Motorists reported contaminated gasoline affecting vehicles.

Ex-President Evo Morales, calling for early elections, suggested Paz faces militarization or elections soon. Morales evades arrest on human trafficking charges, claiming political motives behind them.

War Secretary Pete Hegseth, on a recent post, asserted U.S. commitment to support Bolivia against narco-terrorist threats. The Americas Counter Cartel Coalition backs Paz’s government against destabilizing forces.

This complex situation illustrates regional challenges in maintaining democratic governance amidst socio-economic pressures and criminal activities.