Guatemalan Leader Refutes U.S. Drug Operations Agreement

President Bernardo Arevalo of Guatemala has dismissed claims of a new deal with the United States to launch anti-drug trafficking operations on Guatemalan land. His denial follows a report by The New York Times suggesting that Guatemala had consented to join forces with the U.S. for such operations.

During a news conference, Arevalo clarified that while there are requests within established agreements for maritime interdictions, there is no new agreement that permits operations involving foreign soldiers in Guatemala without congressional approval. He emphasized that the nation's actions comply with Guatemalan law, highlighting that any cooperation continues within existing frameworks, particularly for training and equipment provision.

In response to the allegations, the U.S. Department of Defense has refrained from detailing future operations but affirmed its broader regional commitment to combat drug trafficking. The Guatemalan government released documents confirming discussions around joint military operations, albeit under pre-existing agreements, to counter drug-related activities.

(With inputs from agencies.)