By Zoila Palma: US senators have raised alarms over China’s growing political, economic, and security presence in South America, saying it threatens US interests and undermines Taiwan’s international standing.
During a recent Senate Armed Services Committee hearing, Chairman Roger Wicker warned that Beijing is controlling critical infrastructure, telecommunications systems, and ports, while leveraging strategic investments in resources like copper, oil, and lithium to increase regional dependence on China.
“Across South America, the Chinese influence threatens US interests, by controlling critical infrastructure, telecommunications systems, and ports,” Wicker said.
The hearing also highlighted that China is not acting alone, with Russia and Iran coordinating efforts to counter US influence.
Wicker accused Moscow of expanding security ties with Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Cuba through arms sales, military advisers, and intelligence operations, while Tehran allegedly uses Hezbollah-linked networks for illicit activities that fund global terrorism.
Lawmakers emphasized that China’s presence extends beyond economics, with defense cooperation, police training, and cyber partnerships furthering its strategic competition with the US.
The discussion coincided with the Senate review of Lieutenant General Francis Donovan’s nomination to lead US Southern Command, which oversees military operations in South America and the Caribbean.
Donovan acknowledged China’s entrenchment in key ports, airfields, and transportation networks, warning that countering this influence will require a mix of military, economic, and diplomatic tools.
Senators from both parties expressed concern that China’s campaign is reshaping alliances, weakening Taiwan diplomatically, and creating long-term strategic challenges for the United States.
The post International News: U.S. Senators warn of China’s expanding influence in Americas appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Zoila Palma: US senators have raised alarms over China’s growing political, economic, and security presence in South America, saying it threatens US interests and undermines Taiwan’s international standing. During a recent Senate Armed Services Committee hearing, Chairman Roger Wicker warned that Beijing is controlling critical infrastructure, telecommunications systems, and ports, while leveraging strategic investments
The post International News: U.S. Senators warn of China’s expanding influence in Americas appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.