Latin americaSheinbaum Leads, Trump Returns: A New Scenario for the Region
The first quarter of 2025 placed Claudia Sheinbaum (Mexico) as the Latin American president with the best public image, with a 61 percent approval rating. In second place, despite losing some points, is Javier Milei (Argentina) with 45 percent. They are followed by Santiago Peña (Paraguay), Daniel Noboa (Ecuador), and Lula da Silva (Brazil), with positive ratings ranging between 43 and 41 percent.
Gustavo Petro (Colombia) and Gabriel Boric (Chile) follow in the ranking with 34 and 33 percent approval, respectively. On the opposite end, Dina Boluarte (Peru) has an 86 percent disapproval rating.
Continuity and Changes in U.S. Policy Toward Latin America
The change of government in the United States redefines the political landscape in the region. With Joe Biden’s departure and Donald Trump’s return, Latin America closely watches how relations with the northern country will evolve.
Throughout history, U.S.-Latin America relations have been marked by abrupt policy shifts, varying in terms of regional interest, activities undertaken, and the areas involved—whether Central America, South America, or the Caribbean. However, certain fundamental objectives, such as economic interests in the region and the protection of military and political security, have remained constant.
In this context, the pursuit of regional stability has fluctuated in both strategies and priority issues. Currently, the fight against drug trafficking and immigration stand as the main points on the agenda.
The transition from Joe Biden to Donald Trump appears to be no exception.